Me & My Thoughts

Imaginisce Design Team

2012-01-27T06:50:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to be a part of the Imaginisce 2012 Design Team and thrilled to be leading the team as DT Coordinator! I'd love for you to pop on over to the Imaginisce blog today as I'm sharing a few things about me that you may not know.

Our team this year is filled with many new faces and it's been fun to get to know them this past month. They are a talented bunch and I'm looking forward to seeing all what they will create over the next few months.

I hope that you'll join us on the Imaginisce blog in February as we've got some fun projects to share. Next week we'll be posting our Monthly challenge - hope you'll play along!

Here's a little peek of my project for the new monthly challenge.

Have a super weekend!

Sole Sisters by Imaginisce

2012-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Have you seen it yet? I mentioned this collection at the beginning of the week here on my blog so I hope that you've been able to hop on over to the Imaginisce blog to check it out! It's a fabulous new collection called SOLE SISTERS. It's a give-in that girls just love it!!

Here's a look at what I created with this collection.

First off is this layout about my mom & me.

I altered a little wooden frame for my daughter to add a photo later.

I made a mini album for my daughter to add pictures of all of her school friends.

Here's a look at the inside pages. It has 2 sides with accordian styled pages.

And this little wooden purse I found at Michaels and covered it with paper after painting it first.

And last of all, a couple of simple designed cards. Easy & fun to make!

Please make sure to pop by the Imaginisce blog as you will definitely be inspired by all of the wonderful projects that the Design Team have created!

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

New Sketchy Challenge

2012-01-17T02:00:00.000-08:00

Canadian Scrapbooker has a new sketch up for January for the Sketchy Challenge. Have you seen it? You can see it HERE on their website. It's a fabulous one!

Here's my take on the sketch.

I used pics from this past weekend when we got our 1st snowfall in a couple of years. The kids woke up & were so delighted that they could hardly wait to get outside and play in it.

As you can see I didn't have an "s" or a "w". So I took the number 8 and cut an 's' shape from it. Then I took two letter "v's" and put the together to make a "w".

It's not perfect but it does the job!

Supplies: Harmonie (patterned paper, peel off stickons), American Crafts Thickers, Paper Trunk (white alpha stickers), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, Colorbox Fluid chalk ink pad, white snowflake (Michaels), Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L

We'd love to see what you come up with using the sketch for inspiration.

Remember if you use one Canadian manufacturer on your layout you can have the chance to get your layout published in an upcoming issue! How fun is that?

Thanks for stopping by!

Sole Sisters - Release Week (Day 1)

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

This is reveal week over at Imaginisce and it's time to share the new collection called Sole Sisters.

You can check out the full collection HERE but here's a look at some of the product in the collection.

A couple of the patterned papers - they're so pretty.

Purse Snag e'm Stamp

Sticker Stackers

... and some Chipboard Stickers.

Make sure to stop by the blog today & the rest of the week as the design team shares many wonderful projects.

Next week ...

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

So excited that it's Friday and the weekend is here!! Oh, ... and my birthday on Saturday!! I find it hard to believe that I'm turning 43. Wow! I'm feeling very blessed, happy and doing great health-wise. Looking forward to a family celebration on Saturday here at our place!

Ok, just a quick note about next week on the Imaginisce blog.

There's a new release - Sole Sisters! It's so awesome!

Think of hanging out with your girlfriends, all those crops you've been to, the long hours chatting, going shopping, etc .... well this is the perfect collection to scrapbook all those memories & photos!

Join Imaginisce next week as the Design Team shares a ton of amazing projects! Trust me ... you'll love them!

Have a super weekend!

My Little Bit of Whimsy

2012-01-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I shared a post on MLBOW. I just love those adorable embellishments. They just add the perfect touch to my layouts and cards.

I made 2 spring cards and here they are.

"Spring Fever"

Isn't that bumblebee the cutest thing?

"Birds are Singing"

I tied a piece of seam binding ribbon around the

pin/stick and then tucked that behind the papers.

Supplies: Imaginisce (patterned papers), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock,

My Little Bit of Whimsy (bumble bee and bird stick pin), EK Success (punch)

Fiskars (border punch), Seam Binding Ribbon, rub-ons (American Crafts)

Thanks for stopping by my blog today.

I hope that you've also been enjoying getting to know the new members of the

2012 Design Team members for Imaginisce.

Each day during the month of January

they've been introducing a new member. The Designers are sharing fun facts about themselves and it's been fun getting to know a bit about each one.

You should really check it out!

Got Sketch #137

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

Valerie has got another awesome sketch to share with you today on the Got Sketch blog. And it's a 2-pager!!! Boy! I really struggle with those ones ... and to think I did 2 pages all the time when I first started scrapbooking!

Thanks Val for a great challenge again.

Here's my take on the sketch #137.

Supplies used: October Afternoon (patterned papers), Core'dinations cardstock, Cuttlebug embossing folder, K&Co chipboard accents, Fiskars (Border punch), My Little Bit of Whimsy (buttons), closepins (SteamTrunk), Divine Twine, Basic Grey (brown alpha stickers), My Little Shoebox (red alpha stickers)

The pictures are from a fun little weekend trip that we took with my folks

and my brother & SIL. We had a great time!!

Make sure to pop on over to Got Sketch to check out all

the fabulous layouts from the Design Team!

Have a super day!

All done! (Cleaning Scraproom Post 2)

2012-01-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

Phew! I really didn't think that it would take me 2 days to clean out my closet ... but it did!! I purged a ton of stuff and could open up a store!!

It's such an incredible feeling to have cleaned so much out, re-organized and tidied things up. I really needed to clean my scraproom up because it always serves as my piano studio. I hate having it a mess when my students come so I really felt the need to re-organize and clean up!

Here's the closet BEFORE:

I had tall paper racks - 1 1/2 for Canadian Scrapbooker stuff

and the other was Manufacturer/Design Team products. It was just getting too hard for me to search

for a certain collection/paper when I needed it for an assignment.

It wasn't horrible but it was just too full and my paper was getting wrecked and was so disorganized & hard to find certain papers when I was working on assignments. Plus to the left of the paper racks I had hidden tons of 'schtuff' that just needed to be put away & cleaned up (or even thrown out!)

Here's the mess after I emptied the closet completely!

Lovely, huh?

... and here it is AFTER.

My hubby added 2 new shelves (one high up where I put all my photo boxes)

and then another shelf lower down where I was able to put all of my paper.

My patterned paper for Canadian Scrapbooker (is all on the shelf) ...

... and various manufacturers (in the racks below), misc.tools and machines.

As you can see ... I really did purge quite a lot.

I organized my patterned papers by manufacturer because that works well for me.

I put some magazine boxes in my closet and the boxes contain

Embossing folders, dies, chipboard shapes & alphas, fabric, felts, etc.

The shelf in my room needed a bit of rearranging and purging as well

so I moved some of my magazine boxes into the closet to make room for my Cricut E2.

Here's the BEFORE:

(it's not horrible but it needed some cleaning)

... and here's the AFTER:

Well, that's it! I'm exhausted ... but definitely ready to SCRAPBOOK now!!

Busy cleaning!

2012-01-07T08:46:00.000-08:00

Another rainy day today - that's been our entire week actually. Grass is certainly staying green.

Well, yesterday I spent the entire day cleaning out my closet in my scrapbook room. This is where I store all of my patterned paper, some tools, photo boxes (older stuff), diecut stuff, etc. Anyways, it was a mess and getting way to cluttered for my liking. Plus it was time to get rid of some paper as I will never use it all in my life time.

My hubby put in some more shelves for me which I'm thankful for. As I certainly couldn't have done it! I purged my paper, re-organized it still keeping my Canadian Scrapbooker stuff separate and I'm really happy with how it turned out. Now I just need to clean up the mess that I made with the rest of my room!! Hoping to get that done today.

I'll post some pictures later once I'm all done.

Plus I may have some boxes of goodies for sale so make sure to check back again!

New monthly challenge

2012-01-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

Wow! 2012 - I can't believe it. We took down the tree and the rest of the Christmas decorations yesterday. I admit I'm always a bit sad when it happens but I truly do love the neatness and less clutter once it's all put away.

Imaginisce has a new monthly challenge for January. Check it out HERE.

The theme is "Winter Wonderland".

Just head on over to the blog to find out more details.

We'd love for you to take part in the challenge.

Also throughout the month of January we will be introducing the new Design Team members so make sure to pop over there and get to know the members a bit better.

New Year's Inspiration

2011-12-29T08:52:00.001-08:00

Today on the Imaginisce blog a few gals are sharing some New Years Inspiration ideas.

I decided to add my idea of a new calendar - so I made a pocket-book sized one.

I created the template for the calendar myself and printed one month and the lines on one 7" x 7" sheet of cardstock.
I repeated this 5 more times.
Then flipped them over and printed the rest of the months on the backside of those sheets.
Folded them all and placed them in a 7" x 7" piece of Geek is Chic patterned paper.
I stapled them all together down the center.
Then I just embellished the cover.

Supplies: Imaginisce (Geek is Chic papers and die-cut), American Crafts (Thickers), bias ribbon, white cardstock (Staples), calendar template (my own design)

If you'd like a copy of the template please just email me - it's not perfect but it works! ;)

You can also try THIS LINK (to the Canon site) and use this calendar template.

It's quite similar.

Thanks for stopping by! And Happy New Year!

(I know I'm a bit early but I will be taking a few days break here)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that it's over already. I must admit that the excitement of Christmas Eve is my most favorite time of the year. I do love Christmas Day too but in the back of my mind I know that the day, the excitement, etc will soon be over.

We did however, have a wonderful time with Tim's family on Christmas Eve and enjoyed spending time together. We had turkey dinner #1 here and after opening presents and playing we took a long awaited family picture.

Christmas Day was with my side of the family and laughed lots and enjoyed one another. After many months of us keeping a secret my folks finally were able to surprise all the grandkids with an awesome Christmas present of .... a trip to Disneyland!!!

I must admit that we're all very excited to be going ... even the adults! (thus our facial expressions!)

What a crazy bunch huh?

Hope you had a great Christmas.

Wishing you all the best for 2012!

Final day

2011-12-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

... for the Holiday Blog Hop between Imaginisce & Clearsnap is today. Hopefully you've had a chance to check it out. Both companies are having a giveaway - so make sure to check out the blogs to find out how you can enter to win!!

I'm sharing another project today on the blog - a Christmas frame. I kept it simple in design so that I could focus on the sentiment.

I used the Design Adhesives again. Just cut out the words "merry" & "christmas". I adhered them to a strip of cream cardstock then sprinkled the red glitter overtop. I then sprayed the strip with some Smooth Spritz (ginger ale color) to give the Core'dinations cardstock some shimmer. It's a perfect touch

I also used the Smooth Spritz on the punched out snowflakes. The snowflakes were originally white cardstock but after spraying them they ended up creamier and warmer in tone - matching perfectly with the rest of the papers.

Supplies: Imaginise (Santa's Little Helper paper & Diecuts), Core'dinations cardstock, Clearsnap (Glitter: Ruby Slippers), Design Adhesives), Divine Twine (green), frame (Ikea), Glue Arts (Tape runner Pro and adhesive squares)

Thanks for stopping by today!!

Have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Holiday Blog Hop

2011-12-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

I hope that you've been enjoying the blog hop between Imaginisce & Clearsnap.

Today one of my projects is posted on the Imaginisce blog.

I made a Christmas card using the Design Adhesives - love those things. And Glitter. Now, I like the way glitter looks but I honestly can say that I don't love working with glitter. It just gets everywhere - but it looks pretty. No doubt about that!

Here's my card.

Supplies:Imaginisce Santa' s Little Helper (paper) and i-rock tool to adhere some Glam Rocks; Clearsnap (Design Adhesives, Glitter (Ruby Slippers); Other: Ribbon, button

Please make sure to check out the creations by the rest of the team on BOTH blogs.

Check back tomorrow for one more project and then I'll be taking a break from blogging during the holidays.

Holiday Blog Hop

2011-12-19T09:40:00.001-08:00

Imaginisce & Clearsnap are teaming up for a week-long blog hop!!!

I hope you'll check it out!! So many wonderful projects & inspiration PLUS prizes!! I know you like those!

******

And remember Got Sketch has been sharing wonderful holiday projects as well with the 12 Days of Christmas.

Make sure to check out that blog too!

I'm so excited to finally announce ....

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

... the 2012 Imaginisce Design Team!!!!

I can't wait to get started with this fantastic group of talented scrapbookers. 2012 will be so much fun!!!

Congrats to all of you!

And congratulations to everyone that applied. It was not an easy task going through so many amazing applications/submissions. Everyone was so talented which made the decision for Imaginisce so difficult.

Make sure to hop on over to the blog to congratulate these ladies!

Hippity Hop!!

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I realize that we haven't even had Christmas yet but for some of us we've had to think spring & Easter already because Imaginisce is releasing a new collection this week on their blog called Hippity Hop. It's just darling.

Make sure to check the blog as there's a big giveaway happening this week .... PLUS the new 2012 Design Team will be announced on Friday!! Woohoo!!!

Here's some projects that I came up using the new Hippity Hop.

I made a mini album of some of my favorite spring memories.

"Bloom & Grow" Layout

A "Welcome Spring" door hanger

"Happy Spring" Layout

Thanks for popping by!

Please check out Imaginisce blog and see all of the wonderful creations by the Design Team - they are always so full of inspiration!

12 Days of Christmas - Got Sketch style

2011-12-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

I hope that you've been following along with the Got Sketch blog as we've been sharing christmas projects based on the many sketches that Valerie has created.

Her sketches are all linked HERE.

The sketch that I chose to work with is #69. Here's my take on it.

My photo had quite a bit of green in it as did my choice of patterned papers so I used a red piece of cardstock to add a vibrant punch of color. I also picked up on the turquoise in the background paper and used that a few times to add visual interest.

I changed up the journaling strips that were on the sketch for a tag.

I used a stylus and scored lines on the backside of the cardstock then sanded the embossed image. Threading twine through the hole of the tags adds texture as well.

To add dimension to my layout so that it's not so 'flat' looking I used foam/pop dots to some of the die-cuts while others I adhered flat.

In the sketch there's a row of dots above the photo. I replaced that by using an embossing template across the red piece of cardstock on my layout. I actually debossed instead of embossing (which is when the image is indented rather than raised).Supplies: Patterned papers, die-cuts, red Glam Rocks (Imaginisce); Cardsotck (Core'dinations Colorcore); embossing folders (Cuttlebug, Provo Craft), letter stickers (My Little Shoebox), pop dots (Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L), circle punches (Ek Success), twine (Divine Twine)

Make sure to check the blog as there's a ton of amazing projects! You won't be disappointed!

Deck the Halls with Home Decor

2011-12-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Have you been to Imaginisce blog lately? Well, this past week we've been sharing a ton of holiday inspiration with you from cards, layouts, to home decor. You'll have to check it out.

Today is the last day and the design team are sharing some Home Decor, Gift wrapping, Hostess gift ideas.

I created this little gift bags or stocking stuffers. They're very simple to make.

Supplies: Imaginisce (Santa's Little Helper: papers, die-cuts), Divine Twine (green), Double sided adhesive (Scotch), paper crimper

Thanks for stopping by! Now off to do some christmas shopping!

Whimsy goodness

2011-12-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sharing a post on the blog for My Little Bit of Whimsy.

I'm sharing a few layouts on the blog but wanted to share one with you here. I just loved that little bumblebee and thought he was an absolutely perfect addition for my title.

Thanks for stopping by.

Don't forget to stop by the Got Sketch & Imaginisce blogs for wonderful Christmas inspiration.

Inspiration week @ Imaginisce

2011-12-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

That's right. Don't forget that this week over at Imaginisce there are many wonderful ideas for Christmas. Make sure to check it out!

Today there's a brief post about mini albums.

Here's the one I created - I collected all of my fav holiday recipes and made an album.

As you can see there's an elastic cord that wraps around the cover of the album.

Instructions: I covered the back cover with patterned paper; punched 2 holes & attached the eyelets; threaded some elastic through the holes leaving the ends on the inside of the back cover; then covered the inside of the back cover with patterned paper making sure to have the ends lay as flat as possible. Voila!

I used some Imginisce foam squares to add some dimension to the die-cut along with a few red Glam Rocks adhered to the die-cut with my i-rock tool.

I kept each page in the mini album the same : one side a photo of the recipe and the other side the actual receipe. Simple but I like the look.

Supplies: Imaginisce (Santa's Little Helper collection; d-stress tool; i-top tool and large button), Bazzill Cardstock, ribbon (Offrays), red burlap (The Robin's Nest), Scrapbook Adhesives 3 L, elastic cord (Paper Salon - very old ), Colorbox ink, eyelets (We R Memory Keepers)

Thanks for stopping by!

Don't forget to stop by the Imaginisce blog - and check out the giveaway!!

12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to be a part of the Got Sketch team as Val & the rest of the girls continue to come up with great ideas!

Over the next couple of weeks the Design Team will be sharing a variety of creations with you using the sketches that you find on Got Sketch. The fun begins on Monday, Dec. 5th. We hope that you can join us!!

Christmas is coming!!!

2011-12-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

And I am SO not ready!!!! We're planning on putting up decorations today & tomorrow and I would love to do some baking. Still have to do my christmas cards!!

But maybe I'll be inspired after I see all the wonderful projects from

the Imaginisce Design Team this coming week.

Four days of beautiful christmas projects. I hope you'll join us!

To help get in the festive giving mood Canadian Scrapbooker

is having 16 days of amazing prize giveaways!!!!

The fun begins December 5th so make sure to stop by their blog HERE

and their facebook page HERE.

December already!!! ... and a New Monthly Challenge

2011-12-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that it's December 1st already. I haven't done a stitch of shopping yet and now I'm starting to worry. But I'm hoping to get most of the decorations up this weekend. I've put a few 'red' things up but nothing really christmasy yet. However, ... I did pull out my Christmas dishes tonight because I just love them!! Can't wait for breakfast tomorrow morning!!

Well, onto the Imaginisce monthly challenge.

It's a COLOR challenge this time. All you have to do is use the colors from the piece as inspiration in creating a layout, card or any type of project you want. Check the blog for more details on the challenge.

Here's the inspiration piece.

And here's my layout that I created from it.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Santa's Little Helper collection), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, My Little Shoebox (alpha stickers), Ek Success label punch

Hope you're able to take part in the challenge.

Winter issue of CS

2011-11-25T15:48:00.001-08:00

Well, today was the last day to get you applications in for the 2012 Imaginisce Design Team. So if you're reading this right now and it's still Friday then you have until midnight PST TODAY!!!! Hurry! (click HERE for details)

**********

I just wanted to share with you some layouts that I had published in the most recent issue of Canadian Scrapbooker.

I just love the cover of this issue. Don't you?

Ok, here are my layouts.

"Snowy Grins"

Supplies: Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Upsy Daisy Designs patterned paper, Fancy Pants Designs buttons & brads, American Crafts Thickers, Raner Industries Glossy Accents, The Robin's Nest Dew drops, Divine Twine, Ek Success corner rounder punch, Kasiercraft rhinestones

Supplies: Fancy Pants Designs (patterned paper, stickers & rub-ons), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Ek Success border punch, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Stampin' Up buttons, My Little Bit of Whimsy heart button, Divine Twine, Cosmo Cricket chipboard alpha, Making Memories & SEI alpha stickers, Basic Grey brad, Dymo Label Maker, Scrapbooker Adhesives by 3L

These were the ones for the Color Corner article - the color was GOLD. Definitely not my choice of colors that I'm drawn to so it was a bit of a challenge . A good one though.

"You Are Cherished"

Supplies: Quick Quotes & Pink Paislee patterned papers, Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Scrapbook Sally brads, Magenta gold Peel Off's, Prima (flowers), Kaisercraft & Sassafras alpha stickers, Kaisercraft pearls, Provo Craft (embossing folder), Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L gold photo corners

"Family 4ever"

Supplies: Crate Paper (patterned paper, stickers & chipboard), Ranger Industries Stickles, Twiddlebitz chipboard, American Crafts marker, Delta paint, Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist, Melissa Frances rub-ons, Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L

"Our Pretty Tree"

Supplies: Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Studio Calico & WRMK patterned papers, Rose Moka alpha stickers, American Crafts alpha stickers and marker, Harmonie button & ribbon, Divine Twine, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Ek Success border punch, Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L

Well, off to make pizza for dinner and then enjoy the pumpkin pie that I made today (in honor of my US friends & family! )

Have a great weekend!

Got Sketch #134 & It's a Sketchy Challenge

2011-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

Got Sketch has posted a new sketch and it's a fun one!!

You can see Valerie's sketch HERE.

Here's my take on her sketch.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (patterned paper, die-cuts and stickers), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Ek Success border punch, Scenic Route alpha stickers, Coluzzle circle template, Colorbox Fluid Chalk inkpad, American Crafts (brown marker)

I've got another sketch for you. Canadian Scrapbooker's "It's a Sketchy Challenge" November sketch is a fun one. You can see that sketch HERE.

This is the layout that I created from the sketch.

Supplies used: Lucky 7 Factor (patterned papers), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, Rose Moka (alpha stickers), Pink Paislee (foam alphas), Kaisercraft (rhinestone butterfly), Ek Success (border punch & label punch)

If you're ever in a scrapbooking rut & having a hard time getting started then check out both of these sites - you'll find inspiration and wonderful sketches to choose from!

Day 2 of the new i-top 2.0

2011-11-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

Well, today is Day 2 over on the Imaginisce blog revealing projects using the new i-top 2.0 tool. If you haven't checked it out you must head on over there to the blog because there's some great projects posted yesterday & today. There will be more the rest of the week as well.

Here's what I created with my tool. They are Thanksgiving napkin rings.

Step 1

Take a strip of patterned paper (approx. 2" x 9") and accordian fold the paper.

Step 2

Cut a piece of cardstock (1 1/2" x 7 1/2") or whatever width you'd like, make some scored lines along the outside edges. Sand those scored lines (I'm using Core'dinations cardstock so this leaves a wonderful finished look). Then gently bend the cardstock into a 'ring' shape and adhere the ends together slightly overlapping about 1 1/2-2" of cardstock.

Step 3

Adhere the accordian folded piece of patterned paper to the cardstock napkin 'ring'. You may need to use a little bit of adhesive in the center to keep that part down as well.

Step 4

Use the i-top 2.0 to cover and extra large brad (34mm) and a slightly smaller sized brad (22mm). Cover with patterned paper.

Step 5

I took a pair of pliers and snipped off the brad 'prongs' or whatever you want to call them. What was left I bent in and then used some Glue Arts Adhesive squares to adhere the brad to the center of the accordian folded piece of paper.

Step 6

To make the head of the turkey I punched out 2 small white cardstock circles (regular hole punch (1/4"), a heart shape punch from patterned paper and 2 small black Glam Rocks. I adhered the black Glam Rocks to the white circles using my i-rock. I adhered the 'eyes' to the orange covered brad & then I cut out a triangle shaped piece of cardstock which I adhered below the eyes. The heart I turned upside down and adhered that behind the bottom edge of the orange covered brad.

The finished product.

After created the face of the turkey I used a couple Glue Arts Adhesive Squares to adhere the 'head' to the 'body' of the turkey.

And there you have it - turkey napkin rings! Voila!

Now remember to stop by the Imaginisce blog to check out what some of the other design team members have created.

Thanks for stopping by!

The new i-top 2.0

2011-11-21T11:11:00.000-08:00

Every day this week Imaginisce is sharing some fabulous projects created by the design team using the new & improved i-top tool!! I love this tool and it is so easy to use. It's lighter in weight and easier to hold. The new rubber pads on it keep those brads in place when you are working them and covering them with paper, fabric, burlap or whatever you choose! It's wonderful!!

Plus, as always, there's a giveaway happening on the Imaginisce blog - you could win your very own i-top 2.0 tool!!! So make sure to head on over to the blog to check out the projects.

I'll be sharing my project tomorrow on the Imaginisce blog and I'll post a little tutorial here on my blog.

Oh ... by the way ... have you seen the new collection that Imaginisce has coming out in December?? CLICK HERE to see more!

Well, that's it for today. Off to do some laundry - ah, what fun!

Imaginisce & Glue Arts

2011-11-15T08:37:00.000-08:00

Imaginisce is having a blog hop this week with Glue Arts.

Pop on over to the blogs to see the wonderful projects that everyone has been busy creating.

Plus there's always giveaways to be won!

My project is posted today and here's what I made.

(more photos are on the Imaginisce blog)

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Happy Harvest collection), Glue Arts (Glue Glider PRO, Raise n's, U Cut It 3D Adhesive), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock

So hop on over to both the blogs and check things out.

Game on!!

2011-11-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

If you haven't checked out the Little Yellow Bicycle blog yet then you may not have seen this. Yesterday I posted on my blog about this. But today I'll share with you my project that I created for them.

I had a blast using GET YOUR GAME ON collection and decided to create a mini album for my daughter from her school soccer tournament. She was thrilled with how it turned out (and so was I! ;))

For full details on how I created it please check the MLYB blog.

I folded 6x6 pieces of patterned paper, punched holes and

bound the album together with twine & ribbon.

A view of the back.

A view of the inside pages.

A closer look at some inside pages.

Supplies used: MLYB (papers, chipboard, stickers), Core'dinations cardstock, ribbon (Offray), Twine (The Twiner), Adhesives (3L tape runner & foam squares)

Well, that's it for now. Have a super weekend!

My Little Yellow Bicycle

2011-11-11T00:01:00.001-08:00

Please make sure to check their blog tomorrow (Sat., November 12th)!

A while back I was chosen to be on a Cycling Team. I was thrilled!!

They sent me some product & I had to create something with it. You'll have to check their blog though to see what it is. ;)

Here's a peek!

Winner, winner, chicken dinner!!!

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Alrighty!!! We have a winner from my post about the Imaginisce DT Co-ordinator position. Sorry I'm a bit late on this .... but things have been quite busy around here.

This will be a quick post so without any more chatter from me ... the winner is ...

Cristine said...

Congratulations on becoming the DT Coordinator! I am such a huge fan of your work and it's wonderful to know that we'll be seeing your Imaginisce projects for the next year! Congrats again!

I love the Happy Camper and Geek is Chic lines!

cnighs at yahoo dot com

7:40 PM

CONGRATULATIONS CHRISTINE!!

Please email me with you mailing address and I will get those goodies sent out to you!!

Out of Shape

2011-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Today, over at the Imaginisce blog, a few designers are sharing some layouts that are not your typical shape. We were challenged to really think outside the "box" ... literally!!

Here's what I came up with.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Happy Harvest collection: papers, sticker stackers, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore cardtsock, My Little Shoebox (alpha stickers), My Little Bit of Whimsy (Button), Twine (Creative Imaginations), Cricut Expression, House design is cut from the "Spring Bouquet" Cartridge

Hope you have a wonderful day! And don't forget to stop by the Imaginisce blog and read about how you could win an i-rock & accessories!!

Got Sketch #132

2011-11-08T07:08:00.001-08:00

Well, my first layout as a member of the Got Sketch team has been posted. I absolutely love what the rest of the team created using Val's sketch. They are beautiful & such a talented bunch don't ya think?

If you hop on over to the blog you'll see Val's sketch.

Here's my take on it. I shifted it clock-wise 1 turn.

Supplies used: Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, Imaginisce (paper, sticker, Glam Rocks), American Crafts (brads, Maya Road (Kraft journal block), Paper Trunk (alpha stickers), Fiskars (border punch), My Little Shoebox (small alpha stickers)

Thanks for stopping by!

Design Team Call & Inspired Scrapbooker

2011-11-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's that time again.

Imaginisce has posted the call for a new design team for 2012. If you are interested, have always loved Imaginisce and have always wanted to be a part of this amazing company then now is your chance to give it a try.

All of the details are posted on the Imaginisce blog today - CLICK HERE to read about. I for one am excited who our new team will be and I'm looking forward to working with each one of them.

Got Sketch has a new sketch that was posted on Monday but I forgot to mention it here. You can check out the new sketch and see what the other designers created by going to the Got Sketch blog. Once again, Valerie has created a wonderful sketch.

Here's my take on it. I kept pretty much to the original design.

Supplies used: Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, October Afternoon (patterned paper & stickers), My Little Bit of Whimsy (button and fish stick pin), Cuttlebug embossing folder, American Crafts Thickers, 3L (foam squares), Scenic Route (chipboard circle)

Another sketch challenge is happening at Canadian Scrapbooker. The November one has been posted and it's fabulous!! Please join in on the fun and create a layout with this sketch.

We'd love to see what you come up with. CLICK HERE to see the new sketch.

Make sure to check out all the wonderful entires from the October sketch. Everyone did an amazing job!

Wow!! Big shoes & a Giveaway

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

This post today is rather bittersweet.

To begin with the sad news : My good & dear friend and teammate, Melinda Spinks is stepping down from her position of DT co-ordinator for Imaginisce. She has been the most awesome leader and our team shines because of her! She's still sticking around until the end of the DT term, which I'm so thankful for but nonetheless she will be greatly missed.

The exciting & thrilling news (yet scarey because of the big shoes I need to fill) is that I was asked to take over the position of Imaginisce DT co-ordinator for the remaining 2 months and then for 2012 with a brand new Imaginisce team. I'm thrilled about it and have been working on a lot of behind the scenes stuff already and I can't wait to get started. Well, officially I begin today! So let the party get started!!!!!

And in honor of this fun news I'm going to have a little giveaway. How about some papers & embellishments from the Geek is Chic collection??? Who knows I'm sure they'll be some other things added into there as well - you just never know! (i.e. Happy Harvest, Santa's Little Helper, or ...... )

All you have to do is leave a comment here on my blog and tell me one of your favorite releases by Imaginisce.

(this little contest closes Friday, November 4th , midnight PST.

Winner will be announced next week.)

Make sure to check the Imaginisce blog too because we're having an awesome giveaway over there!! Plus tomorrow the new Design Team application info will be announced.

2 Peas Stamping Class & Imaginisce Monthly Challenge

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well, before I get into all the "scrappy talk" in my post I wanted to share some pics of my kiddos from last night's Halloween fun. They were so excited all day long and I was just so thankful that it had been a sunny day and no rain! It was still rather chilly but it didn't seem to phase them one bit!

So here's my little gorilla!

My grim reaper. I really struggled with him getting this costume because I don't like the evil, scarey stuff - I like the fun, cute & creative costumes! But I figured there was no blood & gore on this one so he was happy that I let him do this.

And then here's my cowgirl/deputy.

Ok Halloween stuff aside ... off to the rest of the post.

I've got some fun news to share with you today. A few months ago I was asked by Nichol Magourik to participate in her 2 Peas in a Bucket November Monthly Stamping class. The projects are revealed today for this class so I hope that you'll check it out.

My assignment was to paper piece with stamps. I chose some an Imaginisce stamp to work with - the little santa penquin. Isn't he cute? I stamped the image several times on different papers & cardstock (from white to black and patterned papers as well). Let's just say ... I did a LOT of layering!

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Santa's Little Helper collection: papers, stamps, snowflakes, die-cuts, sticker), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, My LIttle Shoebox black alpha stickers, 3L (foam squares), American Crafts chipboard Thickers, ribbons (Making Memories)

Now another fun thing to share!!

It's time to share with you the new monthly challenge hosted by Imaginisce.

I was asked to design the sketch for this month - so I hope that you like it. I can't wait to see what everyone creates from it.

Here's my sketch.

And here's my layout.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (patterned papers, die-cuts, chipboard, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations cardstock, Divine Twine (twine), My Little Bit of Whimsy (mushroom button)

Thanks for stopping by today and please make sure to hop on over to the Imaginisce blog to see what some of the Design Team members created using the sketch. They have all done a fantastic job. I love the creativity!

Just a note ... I'm going to have some more exciting news to share with you tomorrow and on Wednesday! Yes, it's a very exciting 1st week of November!!! Woohoo!!!!

A good weekend

2011-10-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

Spent Friday night driving back & forth because my daughter had 2 events to go to but in between I was able to do a bit of scrapbooking. Yeah!

Saturday did a bit more scrapbooking working on my color article for the spring issue of Canadian Scrapbooker . Took my middle child shopping for a Halloween costume. There's so much out there to choose from but I have to say that I really don't like all those scary and gross costumes. I'm not into that kind of thing. I like the fun & cute ones so my son & I had a difference of opinion and we had to compromise a bit.

That evening we had my family over for a pizza dinner that my wonderful hubby made. I love it when he makes pizza 'cause it's just so yummy!

Sunday we went to church and later in the afternoon we went to look at my dad's paintings as he had a special gallery showing. So exciting for him and I hope that after we left there were many interested buyers. He does such beautiful work. If you've never seen his work here on my blog (because I've posted some of it) here is a link to his gallery. Ron Unruh's Gallery

This is one of the paintings that I have on my wall - a birthday present and I love it!

Now, on to some scrapping stuff - I promised that I would share some layouts that I had posted on My Little Bit of Whimsy blog last week. So here they are.

Tomorrow don't forget to check out the Imaginisce blog for the new Monthly challenge. It's always fun to see what the viewers create.

Now off I go on a field trip with my youngest to the Bird Sanctuary.

Got Sketch?

2011-10-27T07:07:00.001-07:00

For the past several years Valerie Salmon has occasionally asked me to contribute to her sketches on Got Sketch. She has wonderful sketches and will often push me to use more than 2 or 3 photos and the double page spread are always such a great challenge for me.

Today I am thrilled to share with you that she has asked me to be a part of the Got Sketch Team!! I am honored and very excited! I will be joining this group of amazing & talented scrapbookers.

I'm looking forward to creating more layouts with her amazing sketches. If you haven't seen the Got Sketch blog then please check it out for wonderful inspiration & sketches that will jump start your creativity. GOT SKETCH BLOG.

Some Whimsy Goodies

2011-10-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Well, today I'm sharing a post on the Whimsy blog - some of my projects.

I'll just quickly share some peeks here with you but I'd love it if you popped on over to the Whimsy blog to see them in full and read the blog post.

I know that they're small ... but that's the point right? ;) I really want you to hop on over there and check it out in full. As I can guarantee you'll want to check out the new goodies in the shop too!!!

Thanks for making a quick stop at my blog. Hope you'll pop by again later! Lots is going on right now and I'll have lots to share soon!!!

Cards with dimension

2011-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Hope you're having a great day on this fine Monday morning.

I'm not sure if you've seen it yet but Imaginisce has come out with some Foam Tape. They have it in rolls and then on a sheet in 2 different sized squares. They come in 3 different colors (white, black, brown and red).

I love this stuff! But then again, I use foam dots/squares on pretty much everything that I create. I like adding that little bit of 3D dimension to my projects.

Here's the 3 cards that I created using the Foam Tape.

For this first card I used the foam tape on the white cardstock panel (after I punched a circle in the upper section) than I adhered it to the front of the card.

On the inside of the card I added another white panel (like the front) and then the chipboard sentiment which can be seen through the front circle shaped window.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Patterned paper, chipboard, die-cut), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, ribbon (May Arts), Cuttlebug embossing folder

For this next card I used a small circle punch and punched out various snowflake designs and then used the small foam squares to adhere them overtop of the same patterned paper. I also added dimension to the die-cut title using foam squares.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (patterned paper, die-cuts, Glam Rocks (white & red), Foam Squares), Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock

For the last card I "popped up" the orange polka dot circles and the die-cut leaves as well as the title over the ribbon using the foam sqaures. The added dimension just brings some interest to the card.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (patterned papers, die-cut, canvas sticker, Glam Rocks), Circle Punch, Colorbox ink, ribbon, My Little Bit of Whimsy (bird stick pin)

Thanks for stopping by. If you're interested in seeing more ideas using the Foam Tape make sure to stop by the Imaginisce blog today because the DT has created some wonderful cards.

Canadian Scrapbooker October Sketch

2011-10-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if you've seen the new CS "It's a Sketchy" Challenge. It's another great one!

Here's the sketch that Jill created.

And here's my take on it.

I used my Cricut to cut most of the designs on this page.

Supplies used: Core'dinations cardstock, Upsy Daisy Designs (patterned paper), Robin's Nest (gems), Harmonie (alpha stickers, label sticker, gold sticker on shirt), Rose Moka (alpha stickers - red & green), 3l (Foam squares), Cricut Expression and All Sports cartridge.

We'd love to see what you create using this sketch. For more details on this CLICK HERE.

Thanks Jill for another great sketch!

Another new sketch

2011-10-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

So how is everyone doing?? I hope things are going well for you and you're enjoying your weekend.

I've got a new sketch to share and hope that you like it. You can also find some more sketches by clicking on the tab just below my blog banner. I've only got a few because I just started this but soon I'll have a little collection that you can use for inspiration!

Please remember if you do use my sketch to make sure you mention where you got the inspiration from when posting it online. (please note: that you may NOT use my sketch for submission to magazines or any kind of publications. Thanks for understanding.)

Here's my layout.

Supplies used: October Afternoon (papers, stickers), Core'dinations cardstock, Ek Success border punch, Queen & Co (pearls), My Little Bit of Whimsy ( buttons & pins), Divine Twine (turquoise), alpha stickers (My Little Shoebox and Jillibean Soup)

Hope you like it!

Happy Scrapping!

A big day!

2011-10-14T06:57:00.001-07:00

My daughter started playing soccer for the past 2 months with her school and she is just loving it! She has always had an interest in it but we never were able to put her into a league. This was a great opportunity for her to find out if she really like it though. She's a great runner and is smaller than most of the kids so she can move around quite quickly.

So after many many weeks of practice they are having a big soccer tournament today! I must admit, I am very excited to watch her play! I can't wait!

I do hope that she has fun and enjoys it today (as she was up very early this morning and it's going to be a long day!) Love you sweetie!

And then later on tonight, .... my son Ryan has his 1st basketball game! He's playing on a school team as well but through a different league. He's been enjoying it so far and I hope that he has fun tonight! I'm really looking forward to watching him play as well as it's just so exciting to see your kids doing things that they enjoy. He always has so much energy and it's fun to see them being so active and smiling!

Love you buddy!

My Little Bit of Whimsy

2011-10-13T08:06:00.001-07:00

Hey there Whimsy fans!!

I absolutely LOVE my embellishments from MLBOW! Love 'em!!! They are so unique and fit my pages perfectly. If you have been admiring these embellishments and have had the chance to use them on your projects then you'll know what I'm talking about.

My Little Bit of Whimsy is having another Design Team call right now. They are looking for 2 more designers so if you're interested now's your chance! CLICK HERE for more info.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-10-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful thanksgiving weekend we've had. Yes, today was just a wee bit soggy and crazy busy for me (cleaning, laundry and making a turkey dinner because my hubby's side of the family came over) but it has been a good weekend.

Today we didn't have a full turkey but rather turkey breast. Some were fillets already but there were 2 big breasts that I stuffed and rolled with turkey stuffing. My first time doing something like that and they turned out pretty good. Everyone seemed to like them so that's a good thing I guess.

Yesterday it was a beautiful sunny day. After baking 2 pumpkin pies the kids enjoyed time outside at the park playing soccer and hanging out with Daddy.

(sorry for the small pics this time)

Kailyn has been busy playing soccer with her school and is really enjoying it. She seems to be doing quite well at it too. I like it when the kids find something that they enjoy doing and can excel at it. She's got a tournament this week too so I'm looking forward to watching her play.

Then we spent the late afternoon & evening at my folks with my family and had a great time - lots of laughs as always! And enjoying the pumpkin pies!!

Hope all of my Canadian friends & family enjoyed being with their family & friends too.

I feel so blessed by all that I have and am so thankful to God for everything!

Happy Sailing!

2011-10-06T07:04:00.000-07:00

This past summer we took our kids to Steveston Harbor and watched the pirate ships in the harbor. They were sailing around and having mock battles. The kids thought it was fun when you could see the smoke from the canons. We had a great time walking around the area too.

Here's the layout that I created from that days' events. (I used a sketch by Valerie Salmon for this layout.)

Supplies used: Paper Trunk (Socialite colection & Benny alpha stickers), Core'dinations Cardstock, Imaginisce Glam Rocks (black), buttons, 3L (foam squares & tape runner), Cricut Expression & Birthday Bash cartridge (for banners), Paper Dolls Dressup (for ship), Divine Twine (turquoise)

Argh!!! Have a super day!

Glue Arts & Core'dinations

2011-10-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

What an exciting week is planned. Core'dinations and Glue Arts have teamed up this week. If you happened to miss the first 2 days of the projects then make sure to head on over to Core'dinations blog RIGHT NOW and check them out!!! Plus today there's even more goodness being revealed!

Plus some winners were announced for the September challenge and the World Card Making Day challenge. So check it out! It might be YOU! Plus Core'dinations is giving away another awesome Core pack to one lucky winner who posts on their blog this week. So go, go, go!!

Glue Arts is also giving away a new Glue Glider PRO Plus and they're doing 10 days of giveaways.

So head on over to these and have a super awesome day!!

New CS Sketch & Sony Printer

2011-10-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

Canadian Scrapbooker has posted their new October "It's a Sketchy Challenge". It's a wonderful sketch and I can't wait to see what you come up with.

Anyone can take part in the sketch challenge!! If you use 1 Canadian Manufacturer on your layout you have a chance at getting published in the next issue of CS!! How fun huh?

A list of the Canadian Manufacturers is on the website.

I'll be working on mine shortly as well. Just need to figure out my pictures first!

Now for some more exciting news.

Sony has a great little Frame/Printer that prints 4x6 photos. Perfect to take with you to a crop or leave on your desk when you need photos to scrap with.

Sony is offering Canadian Scrapbooker readers a fabulous deal! Use this coupon to purchase your very own Sony Frame/Printer. Visit Sony or CLICK HERE to get started!!

Have a super day!!!

Got Sketch Express 2 - Sketch #1

2011-09-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have a few more layouts to share from Got Sketch Express 2. Valerie has been working hard and we've been doing the same!

Here's a layout from sketch #3.

Supplies used: Core'dination Colorcore cardstock, October Afternoon (papers, stickers, journal tag), Ek Success (border punch), 3L (foam squares & tape runner), Cricut Expression and All Sports cartridge

And this layout is from sketch #4.

Supplies used: Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, Jillibean Soup (papers, stickers, die-cuts, alpha stickers), My Little Bit of Whimsy (ladybug stick pin), 3L (foam squares), Queen & Co (red pearls),

Martha Steward (butterfly punch)

Thanks for popping by and have a great day!

Punky Sprouts & Paper Trunk team up!!!

2011-09-27T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if you've been following both the Punky Sprouts & Paper Trunk blogs but last week and this week we've teamed up together to share some fabulous projects. We'd love for you to check them out.

Today I'm sharing my album on Paper Trunk's blog but I'll share some pics here too. (you can check the PT blog though for close up shots and details on the products that I used.)

I love their albums as they've got great designs and add such fun shapes. I bound mine together with my Bind-it-all machine instead of the metal rings.

So please ... make sure to stop over at both of these blogs. I KNOW that they'd love to see your comments! ;)

Have a great Tuesday!

Bon Voyage

2011-09-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I wish I was going on a trip now ... but that will have to wait until next summer (as we've got some exciting adventures in the works!)

For now however, I'd love to share with you some projects that I've created for Imaginisce using the new Bon Voyage collection. The colors are just so rich and masculine. Perfect for vacation pics. However, perfect for any kind of theme really.

Here's a look of some of the wonderful product.

And here's what I created using this fantastic collection.

"Spread Your Wings and Fly"

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Bon Voyage collection, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, My Little Shoebox alphabet stickers

"An Island Bike Excursion"

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Bon Voyage collection, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Divine Twine, Ek Success circle punch, My Little Shoebox (alpha stickers)

"On Vacation to Alberta"

Supplies used: Imaginsice (Bon Voyage collection, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, My Little Shoebox (alpha stickers), dymo labeler

"True North" card

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Bon Voyage collection, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, twine

Please make sure to hop on over to the Imaginisce blog to check out the wonderful projects that the Design Team have created. Make sure to check out each day because new stuff will be posted each day this week.

And here's the cover of a mini album I'm working on with this collection. It's for a cruise that we'll be going on next summer - to Alaska!

Thanks for stopping by my blog today and have a fabulous day!

Whimsy delights!

2011-09-21T02:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be sharing another post on My Little Bit Whimsy blog. Here's the post.

And here's what I created.

"A Perfect Beach Day"

Supplies used: Whimsy cloud buttons, Bella Blvd (patterned papers, stickers), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, Fiskars border punch, My Little Shoebox (large turquoise alpha stickers), Queen & Co. pearls (red)

"A Bunch of Nuts"

Supplies used: Whismy owl stick pin, Bella Blvd (papers, stickers, chipboard), Core'dinations cardstock

Have a super day and thanks for stopping by!

Imaginisce's Bon Voyage Release Party & Got Sketch Express 2 - Sketch #1

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today the Imaginisce blog is having a release party for the new Bon Voyage collection. If you haven't seen it then you need to hop on over to the Imaginisce website and check it out!

It's a fabulous travel line perfect for any vacation - but it's perfect for just about anything as you will clearly see from the variety of projects that the Design Team will be sharing for this entire week.

*****

Valerie Salmon has created a sketch blog called Got Sketch. She provides fantastic sketches that you can use for inspiration when creating your own layouts. I love them!

She has done various classes before and I was thrilled to take part in Club Got Sketch this past summer.

She now has another one called Got Sketch Express 2 and it starts today.

So sketch #1 is up!!

If you've registered you've seen the awesome sketch that Valerie has created.

If you haven't registered you really should!! You will be so happy with the sketches.

Here's my take on Sketch #1.

The black cardstock is from the new Core'dinations Spotted collection and comes pre-embossed with dots everywhere! I love it! I just sanded around the edge of the paper design on some of the dots to create a border effect.

Supplies used: Core'dinations new Spotted cardstock, Paper Trunk (Jellybean collection patterned papers, letter stickers, Maya Road sheer journal circle, some K&Company chipboard pieces, Divine Twine (turquoise), Ek Success border punch

Happy Monday & Hope you have a great week!

Paper Trunk & Punky Sprouts!

2011-09-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Just wanted to share with you that Paper Trunk & Punky Sprouts have teamed up for a week of fabulous projects and inspiration! Make sure to check out both blogs September 19th - 28th, 2011.

I'm excited to share my project with you and hope you'll stop by my blog & the Paper Trunk blog on the 27th.

Got Sketch Express 2 & a brief video to share!

2011-09-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you have followed my blog you've heard me talk about the Got Sketch blog by the talented Valerie Salmon. She's so great at coming up with sketches and she's offering another great class called Got Sketch Express 2.

It starts up on September 19, 2011. You'll be able to complete 8 layouts in 4 weeks! It's a great idea for the busy scrapbooker because you just download the pdf file and go!

For more information on registering for the class CLICK HERE.

I saw this video on Heart & Stroke foundation - it's something that I want to share with you because it is SO important that we listen to our bodies. I can't stress it enough. Believe me - this past June was my eye opening experience and I don't want to see any of my friends or family go through the same thing. Listen to your bodies.

Hope to see you there!

The Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival!!!

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I so wish that I could be there with the gals in Edmonton & Calgary!!

You ladies are going to have a blast!!! And if you haven't heard of this event or signed up yet PLEASE check out this LINK for more information!!!

This awesome event put on by Canadian Scrapbooker takes place in Calgary Sept 23-24th, 2011 and again in Edmonton Oct 1st-2nd, 2011.

There's an awesome Creative Marketplace where you can walk around & see the latest and greatest crafting products, you can take part in some amazing classes taught by awesome Canadian Scrapbooker teachers and have a fun time working on your projects during the Open Crop time OR you can have fun decorating & eating cupcakes because Jackie's mom has been busy baking over 350 cupcakes!! How fun is that??

I KNOW that you won't be disappointed!!!

So, if you live near either of these places and want to get away to an incredible scrapbooking experience then make sure to check this one out! You'll love it!

A new sketch

2011-09-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the 15th of the month and as I promised earlier I will be releasing a new sketch on the 15th of each month. I have 2 already posted and you can check them out by clicking on the SKETCHES tab near my blog banner.

I hope that you will enjoy using them and be inspired by them.

I would love to see what you create using my sketches so please feel free to email me or leave a comment here on this post with a link to your creation.

Here's this month.

And here's my layout that I created the sketch from.

Supplies used: Core'dinations (Jenni Bowlin Impressions collection), Jenni Bowlin (patterned papers, butterflies, bingo card, buttons and stickers), Fiskars border punch

Thanks for stopping by today!

It's been a while

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well after months of having nothing in there I've finally added some things to my Etsy Shop - Paper Sentiments. There all cards for now (ranging from birthday, friends, thanks to christmas) but I'll add more things later on.

Here's a look at a few that I've added.

If you get a chance please feel free to pop on over to Paper Sentiments.

Imaginisce monthly challenge, First Day of School and B-Day pictures!

2011-09-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

.... is up!!! We've got another sketch up this month by our own Melinda Spinks. It's a wonderful grid design. She has such great sketches and you can check them out on her blog.

To see the sketch go to the Imaginisce blog or click HERE.

Here's my take on this month's sketch.

I used the Geek is Chic collection for my layout and pics of my youngest when he started Kindergarten 2 years ago. Yes, that means he's in Grade Two - starting today!!! I can't believe it!!

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Geek is Chic - patterned papers, diecut, chipboard, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations Colorcore Cardstock, My Little Shoebox (alpha stickers), American Crafts (Slick Writer)

Yesterday we celebrated my daughter's 11th birthday. I can't believe how quickly the years have gone by. She was so excited for this day. We had a family party with all our relatives at a park close by.

She had fun opening her presents and had lots of little helpers. We gave Kailyn her first camera. And she was thrilled - because it was PINK!!!

Another one of the gifts she received was a PINK pocket knife from her grandparents. Another exciting gift for her.

This morning we were busy getting ready for the 1st day of school. The kids were quite excited last night and even this morning when we were heading out to leave. As has been the tradition over the past few years I like to take pictures of them before they leave. Well, I can't say that they were all that co-operative. More on the goofy side I think!

Ok, well I got 1 good one (but they're not really looking at me!)

Thanks for stopping by today!

Got Sketch Express 2 - Sketch #1

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well, Valerie has been whipping out the sketches with this Express version of Got Sketch and I have a couple of layouts to share with you.

This first one I changed just a wee bit because where I have the circles along the bottom of the layout Valerie had put some overlapping scalloped designs.

Supplies used: Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, October Afternoon (papers, stickers and journal tag), Cricut Expression and All Sports cartridge, Imaginisce (Glam Rocks), Ek Success (border punch)

Here's another layout based on the latest sketch. I kept it pretty similiar to the sketch.

Supplies used: Core'dinations Colorcore cardstock, My LIttle Bit of Whimsy (ladybug pin), Jillibean Soup (paper, stickers, die-cuts and alpha stickers), butterfly punch (Martha Stewart), Queen & Co., (Red Pearls), American Crafts (black marker)

Hope you're having a great week!

It's a Sketchy Challenge and Winner Announced!!

2011-09-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so very excited about this! And if you've been following my blog you'll know why. I just LOVE sketches and have started sharing my own with you. On the 15th of each month I will be posting a new sketch. So that means the next sketch will be posted Sept. 15th.

I would love for you to pop by and check it out. I'm not going to make any challenges from them (although I might just for fun ... once in while ... and add some product incentive!! ;))

Click HERE to see my SKETCHES.

Now I'm thrilled to announce that Canadian Scrapbooker is starting a new challenge of their own called "It's a Sketchy Challenge"!!

At the beginning of each month they will post a new sketch. The challenge is to create a layout using that sketch and at least 1 Canadian manufacturer on your design. By doing so and posting a your layout on the site you have a chance at getting PUBLISHED in the Canadian Scrapbooker magazine!!! How cool is that??

Another great thing is that anyone can take part in this challenge whether you're from Canada, Australia or China!! Anyone!

If you decide to not use a Canadian product on your layout that's ok. Your layout will still get posted on the Sketchy Gallery.

Here's some ideas for Canadian companies to choose from:

Local King Rubber Stamps

Upsy Daisy Designs

Now I believe I promised that I would announce a WINNER today from my little Giveaway the other day.

So are you ready to win???

Ok, the lucky winner is ...

cindy said...

Blush Beauty is my favorite. Thanks for the chance to win:)
grohcm@gmail.com

9:37 AM

Congratulations Cindy!! If you could email me at cari_locken@yahoo.ca I will send you the promo code to use when you check out!

ENJOY!

Counting down

2011-08-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when I'm counting down the days until my daughter's birthday and the start of school. I can't believe how quickly the summer has gone by and they'll be off again.

I'm actually looking forward to getting back into routine. I'm also looking forward to a regular exercise routine for myself especially after my health scare this past summer. It's amazing how something like can change your entire perspective on everything!

Anyways, on to a layout that I want to share with you today. I've used a photo that we took this past summer one night at the beach. The sunset was just gorgeous and I will treasure this photo always.

Supplies used: Bella Blvd (patterned paper, stickers), Core'dinations cardstock, 3L (foam squares & tape runner), Ek Success border punch

Thanks for stopping by today and I hope you have a wonderful week.

An Awesome Giveaway!!!!!

2011-08-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

We all love giveaways don't we? Of course we do! Today I have a fun one for you. But first I'm going to tell you a little bit about it.

It's a digital software called My Memories Suite and it is super easy & fun to use. You can create scrapbook layouts and print them off in the traditional way or turn your pages into a professionally printed hard-bound book. Now that would make an awesome gift for family and friends don't you think? You can also make calendars, greeting cards, poster/trading cards, movies of your scrapbooks with interactive elements. All of this can be done with this amazing digital scrapbooking software and can be used both on a PC or a Mac.

It really is super fun to use. To show you just how fun & easy it is I made this layout using the software.

There are so many delightful images and designs on this software that the possibilities are endless.

I'm thrilled today because I get to give away a My Memory Suite software program to one lucky follower from my blog!!! All you have to do is visit the site www.MyMemories.com and choose your favorite digital paper pack or layout then come back here & comment on my blog telling me which one you chose.

And just because you popped by my blog today I have a special deal for you. When you check out use this code STMMMS44448 and you will get $10 off your purchase.

Have a fabulous day and fun creating!

I'll pick a winner and post it on Thursday, Sept. 1st!!! So make sure to check back!!

Sketches

2011-08-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love creating my layouts based on sketches. I've had a sketch book ever since I started scrapbooking and have accumulated quite a few of them now.

I have to jot down my ideas and a rough sketch of my layout before I can even start creating a page. So I decided that I would start sharing some of my layouts in sketch form with you. I only have two posted right now but I'll have more soon. So please check back often.

I've created a new tab at the top of my blog (called Sketches) so please feel free to use these for inspiration. (I've worked hard on these layouts & sketches so please make sure to mention where you got the inspiration & ideas from. So please don't copy and claim as your own. )

Here's sketch #1 to get you started.

Here's my layout that I created from my sketch.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (patterned papers, die-cut, glam rocks), My LIttle Shoebox (alpha stickers), Core'dinations cardstock, Ek Success (border punch)

If you do happen to use my sketches I would love for you to link back to these posts (as I will post every time I have a new sketch.) Or you can always email you work because I would love to see it!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Paper Trunk, Core'dinations and Got Sketch!

2011-08-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Busy post today!!

This is a fabulous match - just perfect for each other. Throughout this past month Paper Trunk and Core'dinations have been sharing layouts from both design teams. Wonderful projects have been shared on both websites.

I'm thrilled to be a part of both of these wonderful companies. Today I'm sharing a post on Paper Trunk. I'll just share a peek because I'd love for you to pop over to the Paper Trunk Blog and check it out in full.

I had so much fun scrapbooking these photos of my son eating watermelon as it is his ultimate favorite fruit ever!! He could probably eat an entire watermelon himself (if I let him!)!

Hope you're enjoying your summer. My kids only have a few more weeks left before school starts. I have mixed feelings about all of that however. But it will be good to get back into routine that's for sure.

Now, on to Got Sketch!

If you ever need some good scrappy inspiration then you must check out Valerie Salmon's Got Sketch blog. I'm always thrilled when she asks me to participate because I just love her sketches. They truly inspire me and help me to use a lot of pictures on one layout (something I don't normally do.)

So today she has posted a new sketch - you can check it out HERE.

And here is my take on her fabulous sketch.

Supplies used: Core'dinations cardstock, October Afternoon (striped paper), SRM stickers, Paper Trunk (white alpha stickers), Making Memories (black alpha stickers), American Crafts Thickers, rick rack (black), Cuttlebug embossing folder

So for now, that's all I have to share! Please make sure to pop over to the PT blog for my full reveal and check out all the wonderful sketches over at the Got Sketch blog.

Geek is Chic - Day 2

2011-08-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

So have you been enjoying the projects so far that the Design Team from Imaginisce has been sharing on the blog? Pretty fantastic stuff huh?

Today I'm going to share with you my projects. I actually had worked on some of these for CHA and had a blast working with this collection.

"Back to School"

I created the "alphabet" border with my Cricut using the Graphically Speaking cartridge.

"Love to Read"

I was thrilled when I saw that this layout had been blown up and placed on a huge pillar at CHA! Thanks Imaginisce - I was thrilled! His teachers would have loved that!!

"You & Me" card

A Teacher Gift Set

(includes: altered clipboard, notepad box, card)

A Memory Game

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Geek is Chic collection, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations cardstock, Cuttlebug embossing folder, American Crafts (black marker), 3L (foam squares), Ek Success corner punch, Divine Twine, cork, ribbon

Well, thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to pop on over to the Imaginisce blog and check out what the rest of the Design Team has created.

Geek is Chic

2011-08-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for a new collection from Imaginisce?

Well starting tomorrow the Design Team will be revealing a whack load of amazing projects featuring the Geek is Chic collection!! Trust me ... you won't be disappointed. It's just the perfect collection for all of our kiddos going back to school. Plus I'm sure they'll be a few giveaways you won't want to miss out on! ;)

We've been having some wonderful weather and have been enjoying many bike rides and days at the beach! I love it! Have mixed feelings about my kids going back to school soon though. But it will be good to get back into some kind of routine that's for sure.

I love my twine!!!!

2011-08-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I just love The Twinery - the colors of twine that they have are so much fun and I just love using it on my cards and layouts.

If you love it as much as I do then you won't want to miss out on this!! They are giving away an ULTIMATE BUNDLE of twine - an awesome prize!! And they're giving away 2 full sets!!!! I totally would love to win this!!!! Look at all those amazing colors?!

So, if you're interested too then start spreading the news!! You only have until MIDNIGHT TONIGHT!!! So hurry!!!

And because I love it so much I just thought I'd share some things that I have made in the past using the twine.

Here are some layouts:

And some cards:

Have a great weekend!!

My 1st Whimsy Post

2011-08-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning,

Today I get to share my very first MLBOW (My Little Bit of Whismy) project with you and I have posted it on the blog there too.

I absolutely adore all these amazing little embellishments as they add just the perfect touch to my projects. If you have never seen these buttons and pins before then you MUST go and check out the shop! THE WHIMSY SHOP

Today I'm sharing a layout that I created about a summer night this past month. I used a combination of Core'dinations Cardstock, some Jillibean Soup alphabet stickers, My Little Shoebox alphabet stickers and October Afternoon patterned papers.

Supplies used: MLBOW (all buttons and fish pin), Core'dinations cardstock, October Afternoon (patterned paper and stickers), Queen & Co (pearls), Divine Twine (turquoise twine), EK Success border punch, My Little Shoebox (alphabet stickers)

And some close up shots here.

Isn't that Whimsy fish pin the cutest?!

Please make sure to stop by the Whimsy blog and check things out over there.

Biking & a Little contest

2011-08-13T15:47:00.001-07:00

How's your Saturday going? Ours is going well here. The weather is absolutely fantastic and we've enjoyed a beautiful family bike ride today. A perfect day for it!

A few days ago I took my kids, along with my folks, to a little island close by and we rode our bikes all the way around the island. It was super flat so that kids had no reason to complain about hills, etc. We took a little lunch and enjoyed the scenery as we rode around.

Taking the 2 minute ferry over to the other side. Kids loved that!

Catching up. We always seemed to be at the back (probably 'cause I was busy taking pictures!)

The bikin' gang!

Had some lunch & we're ready to go again!

This past week I was doing a bit of purging and have come across several things that I no longer need, don't have the room for and I would love to do a little give-away!! Now who doesn't love free stuff huh?? You may just get some of this stuff ....

So in order to be eligible to win I'm going to have a little contest. You're going to have to work for this one a little bit however. I want to see if I can get my FOLLOWERS between 375- 400! That's do-able don't ya think?

Here's what you need to do:

*become a follower of my blog if you aren't already

* share this post with your friends (who aren't followers) & ask them to become a follower of my blog

* post back here and let me know what you did

If I get the numbers between 375 - 400 I will then randomly pick a winner. So go on! Get posting & sharing! :) Thanks so much!

Have a great rest of the weekend!!!

A fun day at the beach

2011-08-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Well, we actually didn't spend the day at the beach but rather had a picnic supper one night last week and then stayed 'til the sun set. It was such a beautiful day!

The kids had fun going on a hike with Grandma & Grandpa when we first got to the beach and then we sat & ate some supper. After eating the kids played in the sand and went in the water. They amused themselves for hours doing this and I enjoyed taking pictures throughout the evening.

My dad took a picture of our family and I'm thankful as we don't have many of all 5 of us because I'm usually taking the pictures!

I had fun taking pics of the sunset too - it was beautiful!

Our little vacation

2011-08-03T02:00:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures from our trip as I promised.

We took our family on a drive for 10 days traveling through Alberta. Not all over but to places that we wanted to see and visit friends.

We started our trek early on a Friday morning and drove non-stop for 12 1/2 hours to get to Edmonton. Yes, the kids were antsy and this was a long trip for them. Even though we'd done this trip many times before & they were relatively content this one seemed to take forever! Guess it would have helped if we'd had that adapater cord for the DVD player!!!

I love driving through the mountains. They're just so majestic.

Anyways, we got to Edmonton and had a great time there with friends. The kids & Tim went on our friends ski boat while the older boys wake boarded.

Then we went to West Edmonton Mall, which our kids just love and spent an entire day in the Water park. We had a blast! For Tim's 45th birthday present he wanted to bungy jump again ... so that's what he did!!

The next day was rather cloudy and rainy so we went to the mall again to walk around and the kids had some fun in Galaxy Land too.

After a few days in Edmonton we were on our way to Calgary.

I took this picture while we were driving so it's not the greatest (as there's some glare from my window. But I loved the contrast of colors from the yellow to green fields with the blue sky.)

We stopped first to visit some friends in Lacombe and then another stop in Drumheller to visit the dinosaurs at Royal Tyrrell Museum. Ryan really enjoyed that. I loved seeing the landscape as it's just so unique. That was one of my favorite sights - seeing all the different hills, fields, mountains as we drove through the country.

It was so great to see friends (Katharina and Allison) in Calgary and spend time with them in their homes. While there we took the kids to the Calgary Zoo which was awesome! It was a perfect sunny day and the zoo was fabulous. So many things to see.

The butterfly exhibit was cool - all these butterflies flying around and landing on us was a neat experience. This one landed on Kailyn's hat.

After being in Calgary for a short time we headed to Kelowna on our way home. We visited with friends that used to live in Edmonton and it was great to see them again and for our children to laugh and play together. We all had a fun time in their pool too - it was perfect to be there because it was a beautiful hot day!

(JJ just enjoying himself - he could have stayed in there forever!)

So that's our trip. We asked the kids what their favorite part was and they all said "everything!" I love that answer!

Back home and Registration!

2011-08-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

Hi again!

We're back home after spending a 10-day driving trip to Alberta! We had a great time visiting friends and doing all sorts of activities with the kids.

I'll share some pics later because today I want to remind you that ...

TOMORROW is REGISTRATION DAY for the 4th annual Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival in Edmonton and Calgary.

Here's some info but make sure to go to the website for more info on the classes and other exciting events (ie. 2 day crop and marketplace).

Santa's Little Helper Release

2011-07-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

I hope that you've been enjoying this release so far from Imaginisce! I love it and had so much fun creating with this collection - and that's amazing because I really don't like scrapbooking christmas themed pictures. I have the hardest time but this collection was so easy to work with! I love it!!!

Here are the layouts that I came up with.

Supplies used: Imaginisce (papers, die-cuts, stickers, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations cardstock, Ek Success photo corner punch and border punch, 3L (foam squares)

Supplies used: Imaginisce (papers, Glam Rocks, die-cuts, rhinestone snowflake), Core'dinations cardstock, EK Success (border punch), MLSB (alpha stickers), 3L (foam squares), Cuttlebug embossing folder

I actually took a stab at a double page spread as I usually don't t do double paged layouts because I really struggle with them (which is strange when I used to do them all the time when I first started scrapbooking).

Supplies used: Imaginisce (papers, die-cuts, stickers, Glam Rocks), Core'dinations cardstock, EK Success (Border punch), 3L (foam squares), MLSB (alpha stickers)

Make sure to stop by the Imaginisce blog today and the rest of the week for more fabulous projects from the design team.

Release Party coming up!!

2011-07-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Oh yes!!! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! (well, it certainly doesn't feel like summer around here this past month!)

So to celebrate this season (whatever it is!!) I want to remind you that Imaginisce is having a release party this coming week (starting tomorrow) for their new collection called "Santa's Little Helper".

You will definitely want to check out all the gorgeous projects on the blog that the Design Team have been busy creating! They're amazing!!!

New Releases

2011-07-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season when many of the scrapbooking manufacturers are showing sneak peeks of their new releases because CHA is getting very close!

And Core'dinations has one for you today. I must say I LOVE it!!!!

If you are a kraft cardstock fan then I KNOW you will love this new collection. Core & Tim Holtz are at it again!

There are 24 gorgeous colors that you can sand, ink, tear, distress, emboss and kraft!!! It's fabulous!!

Here's a layout from Tim himself showing the yummy goodness!

This collection will be out in September so keep your eyes open!! (and ask your local scrapbook stores to get this in!!)

Happy Travels

2011-07-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Imaginisce is releasing another new collection soon called Bon Voyage and they've got it posted on their website now!

Do you have stacks of vacation photos that need to be scrapped?? Then this will be the perfect collection. I just love the colors. The postcards and compass designs are fabulous and i love the cloud stamp.

I can't wait to get this collection!

Hope you're having a great summer vacation!

Feeling good

2011-07-07T09:15:00.001-07:00

Just want to pop on here and say thanks to everyone for their well wishes and prayers. I'm feeling better every day. Haven't scrapbooked at all and would really like to get back at it but I'm enjoying browsing online and spending LOTS of time with my family.

I don't think I've shared this layout yet (if I have .... sorry).

I created this a while back using some Core'dinations cardstock and Imaginisce (Animal Crackers). Pics are from my daughters cross country meet last fall. I was so proud of her!

I created many several layers of punches strips to give the effect of the finish line ribbon that you cross. I also made little running shoes using my punches (started with a small oval, then used my circle punch to cut out the whole for the foot)

Supplies used: Core'dinations cardstock, Imaginisce (Patterned papers), 3L (foam squares & tape runner), Fiskars (border punch, small oval, corner, circle pucnhes)

Have you seen it???

2011-06-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Imaginisce has some more new collections coming out and you can check it all out on their website.

SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER

GEEK IS CHIC

So hop on over and check them out! I KNOW you will love both of them.

Happy Harvest Release - Day 3

2011-06-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today I get to share with you the projects that I created using Happy Harvest (thankfully I had these done a few weeks ago before my big scare last week). I love fall and this collection is just so rich & warm in colors and patterns. I loved it!

First off is a card. I cut the shape using my Cricut and then embossed the cardstock.

"Happy Fall"

"Fall"

"Pumpkin Picking Memories"

"Simple Joys"

Supplies used: Imaginisce (Happy Harvest:papers, diecuts, Glam Rocks, canvas), Core'dinations cardstock, 3L (Foam squares), Fiskars border punches

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Harvest Release

2011-06-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

I'm still taking it easy here but wanted to let you know that Imaginisce is having a release party this week for the Happy Harvest collection.

You don't want to miss it because the Design Team has created some amazing projects once again and, of course, as usual there's some prizes to be won as well. So make sure to check out the blog posts this week.

I'll have some things to share for you on Wednesday. I had a great time with this collection and I know you will too when it hits the stores near you!

Thanks again to all of you for your prayers. I appreciate it.

Winner ... and a bit of a bumpy week!

2011-06-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for the delay in announcing the winner from My Scrapbook Studio post HERE. It's been a bit of bumpy road for me this past week and I'll share that with you in a moment.

But first I want to share with you the winner of those Imaginisce goodies I posted HERE.

The winner is ......

Danielle said...

Great Scrap Space!

I took over my nursery, its small, but it works!

I love baskets! All my punches are in a huge basket that sits on my floor next to my desk for easy reach

4:41 AM

Congratulations Danielle. If you could email me with your mailing info that would be super!

So on to my story of this past week's events.

This whole experience has come as a HUGE shock!
I took the kids to school on Monday morning, came back home, changed into my running clothes 'cause I was going to go for a run. Went to the bathroom and then realized I forgot something upstairs. All of sudden (and I mean this was just a sudden thing) I had these strange ache in my upper middle chest. And then the ache and pain starting going down the back of my arms. It was strange. It wasn't sharp pains but the intense tension inside. I don't know what it was but something told me that I shouldn't go run. So I decided to have a shower instead and just get dressed for the day. I went out & did some errands 'cause we're planning a b-day party for my middle one (9th b-day) this Saturday. While I was out I still had this wierd ache and it was really uncomfortable. I came back home and the pain had subsided somewhat but was still there but I went about & cleaned off our front porch and swept it then went inside, had some lunch and spent some time on the computer before picking up my kids.

I started to feel the ache and pain seemed to get more intense when we got back home. I phoned my mom to ask her about some things and mentioned my pain to her & she said I should go to the hospital. Well, I hate going to the hospital because I truly thought it would pass. I was even going to wait it out 'til the next day. After getting off the phone I decided to go to a walk-in clinic first so I rounded up my kids and not everyone was being very co-operative so that made it harder. But they eventually realized that mommy wasn't feeling very well at all. I get to the clinic and they're not taking anyone, I mentioned that I was having chest pains and they said go right to the hospital. So I'm beside myself now thinking ok, I've got to drive there with my kids ... Lord please keep us safe. I phone my hubby and tell him where I'm headed. (now I have to admit that I kind of complain to him about pains that I have and his response is usually not all that sympathetic ... and I can't blame him but this time for some reason he felt it was different.) He met me at Emerg and we waited it out. I had several tests done until they realized that something was wrong and told me I was having a heart attack. A HEART ATTACK!!!! I couldn't believe it! Me. I'm only 42 years old!!!

They weren't too sure what the exact problem was and said that I needed to have an angiogram done at another hospital. (this is when they go through your groin with a catheter-type instrument and up to the heart to check out what's wrong I was taken by ambulance the next day. They found out that the left descending anterior artery has spontaneously dissected (torn). They had to put in 2 stents in order for it to open up again and have the blood flowing. I was awake for the procedure (as it wasn't an "operation" where they cut you open) so even though it was painful and uncomfortable it was kind of cool to watch it on the monitor as they were working. Of course, that was in between me sleeping and waking myself up with my snores! Great huh?
I am so grateful to the hospital staff and doctors as everyone was so nice and wonderful. It was amazing. And the response was so quick that I'm so thankful to God for his watchful care over me & my family.
The doctors don't know why this happened as it is a very rare thing - like 1 in a million people have it. Often women who are pregnant or post-menopausal.

But I am doing ok now and resting at home. I will definitely be taking it easy and learning how to manage things that stress me out so much (as I'm not very good at that and let little things really get to me).So I've got some learning to do.

Anyways, thanks to all of you for being patient with me in posting the winner. You never know what can happen in life and this was a reminder to not take any of it for granted. Realize what is MOST important in your life and love & hug them everyday!!

And ladies, if you ever, EVER feel any kind of strange feeling in your chest whatsoever DO NOT IGNORE IT!!!! I was going to that and I'm so glad that I didn't ... because I might not be here today to share my story with you. So please, I encourage each & every one of you to get yourself to the hospital immediately if you ever feel anything out of the ordinary. Don't ignore your body. (yes, as you can see I will definitely be a HUGE advocate for heart disease now.)

Thanks for stopping by my blog today and thanks to so many of you who I know have been praying for me & my family. We truly appreciate it.

Just a reminder ...

2011-06-20T07:53:00.001-07:00

you still have today to leave a comment on my blog post HERE and the Imaginisce blog post HERE. Contest will close tonight and I will announce a winner on Wednesday!!

Thanks for all the great comments so far. I have read each & every one and it's great to read where all of you create.

It's about time!!!

2011-06-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today I'm sharing a post on the Paper Trunk blog. I created a layout about my youngest losing his very first tooth.

Here's some peeks. But for the full view of my layout you'll have to hop on over to the Paper Trunk blog to check it out! :)

Have a great weekend!!!

Thanks for stopping by today and I want to wish a Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there!!

Where I create

2011-06-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Thanks for stopping by my blog. Today I am sharing my scrappy space on the Imaginisce blog. So if you want a peek into my room then hop on over there.

If you've made your way from there already ... then welcome to my blog and thanks for taking a look at my creative space.

ADDED: I had someone ask me about how I organized all my patterned paper in my closet. I orgaznize it all by manufacturer. I'm pretty familiar with what many of the lines look like and what designs they have so I usually know where to look for certain papers. I do, however, have some Christmas themed papers in one section.

I also keep all my Canadian Scrapbooker supplies separate from my own product and that is organized by manufacturer as well. Just makes it easier for me. Hope that helps a bit.

As I mentioned I have a little giveaway ... in honor of all our scrappy spaces!!

All you have to do is a leave a comment here on my blog (and the Imaginisce blog) and tell me 2 things about your scrappy space. (i.e. what's your favorite storage system and where you create (bedroom, basement, etc).

Once you've done that I'll enter your name in a random drawing for a chance to win:

an Imaginisce D-stress tool

Fabric Roly Rosies (pink)

Roly Rosies

Fabric Petal Roller

So .... what are you waiting for??

You have until Mon., June 20th to leave a comment.

Winner will be announced on Wed., June 22nd.