TERESA COLLINS

Drill TEAM & Bridal Showers

This is the photos from DC Snaps Sports action shots from the girls drill team. Gentry and McKay are both on the MHS drill team. I WISH I could do the moves that these girls can do. Truth be known, I was not the most coordinated cheerleader in school. I was always clumsy and a not did not get the gift of singing or dancing. The top photo is McKay...

 

Gentry's are so cool too BUT she does not like them. It seems from dancing ONLY she has lost quite a bit of weight since the photos were taken...so I promised not to post them. 

So I can show ONE but you know teenagers...they never like their photos. ha! The photos were taken in August at the very beginning of the dance season. Gentry is busy now getting her college applications filled out and she wants to go to Brigham Young University. It is actually quite hard to get into the University, so she is working hard. I am so proud of her. She got a part time job a week ago (she so wants to be independent!) at a kiosk in the mall that sells baby clothes. Her first job!!!!! She is a hard worker and takes classes that I never took. I admire her drive and determination. How crazy it is that we can have children and they can be so similar yet so different from us???? I love these girls like crazy.....

I slept in until (8:30am) and then went to the gym. I am no longer sore but my back seems to hurt more. I am thinking I am doing some of the machines incorrectly. Anyway, I am getting ready to get ready...I am looking gross in my baggy sweats and sweaty...to go to Taylor's first bridal shower. I will post a photo tomorrow of what I got her. (yes, you know it involves photos!!!!)

Have a great Saturday!!!!

SOMETHING is UP....

I have thoughts racing in my mind. So many wonderful things are going on...so many things that I am apart of that are making me feel so ALIVE and EXCITED. I have been going to Curves EVERY morning now for a little over 3 weeks. I think the biggest difference in myself is my ATTITUDE. I just feel so much better. I have MORE energy and a little FIRMER (ha!).

Yesterday, I took McKay to the DMV to her to drivers permit. She is 15 years old now and in Utah you can take the test and if you pass you can drive with your parents. Then you have to complete 40 hours driving in order to get your license (in 6 months) or when you turn 16 years old.Well, SHE passed the test and now can drive with HER dad...ha! My girls have always driven with their dad, because I am the WORST back seat driver. It scares me  and I get so uptight. My girls say I "freak out!" I agree... so watch out Utah drivers.

After dropping McKay back off at the high school (note she did not want to drive with ME!), taking the boys to school, and a session at the gym... it was only 9 am. I then went grocery shopping- I am trying to incorporate WHOLE WHEAT into our diets more. (whole wheat spaghetti last night was a SUCCESS!)

FINALLY, I was able to slow down a bit and my friend Heidi Swapp came over to my house. As many of you know, Heidi recently moved to Utah. Can you believe she is only 10 minutes from my house? We had lunch earlier this week and the time FLEW so fast that we had to get together again. The reason why I am mentioning this is a couple of things. First, some people may not realize that Heidi and I are friends. I think  HEIDI SWAPP is amazing!!!! People assume sometimes that we are not friends because we in fact are so similar. By the way, I take this as a huge compliment because SHE is OVER THE TOP talented, success, beautiful, sweet.... I could go on and on. I am NOT saying I am these things, but when people mention how similar we are- how could I not see it as a compliment. So the reason WHY I am mentioning this is because HEIDI and TERESA are up to something. It is something that we are working on TOGETHER and it is going to be over the TOP amazing! We are working on what I think is something that YOU will LOVE too. It's BIG, It's COOL, It's MEANINGFUL, It's CREATIVE...and well, shortly we will announce it. We are aiming for December 1st. WE are getting together next week to work on our project. I could hardly sleep last night THINKING about what WE are up too. 

So I want to share a REAL simple way that I decorate for November. I took a couple of photos this week of my table before we had dinner.
I think all things in life should SPARKLE...(yes, it's kind of gold)

That is one of my clear T-Drops hanging from the candle holder. I purchased the candle and garland and METAL word (making memories) all from Michael's craft store last week. I super glued the word to the candle- fyi.

Each dinner we are reminded of the GRATITUDE and thankfulness that we have in our home and life. I LOVE NOVEMBER......

Heartfelt CREATIONS has my class GRATITUDE book at the store NOW. Utah girls come and take a peek. Now, you can see why it's a DAY to create...a long 6 hour workshop. I was so touched yesterday, I got a call from the store. They had a lady call and say she was driving from ELKO, Nevada RIGHT THEN to come and buy all my TC products to recreate the project. That is about a 3 hour drive (i think)...to Utah. I asked the store to have her wait and I wanted to meet her and her friends. I went to drop my book off yesterday and met her and her darling friend. I instantly bonded with both of them. I told them about my favorite places to shop and things to do. I WISH I could have went with them and hung out. They looked at my project and then decided she would STAY in Utah for another week just to take my workshop. I was and am really touched. We made a connection- for THIS  I am thankful. So if you are thinking of coming- COME- it is going to be magical. I am so passionate about THIS project, THIS message and so I am over the top looking forward to sharing it.

I wrote a book- yikes.... time to get kids to school and to the gym. Lots of creative goodness going on today in my home. They are saying it is going to snow today-

Happy FRIDAY everyone!!!!!

GOOD THINGS UTAH PROJECT

UPDATED with WINNERS:1. Laurie Martin-Cohn 11/10/09 7:05pm2. Mary T 11/10/09 2:52pm3. Peggy Lee Baker  11/11/09  3:52 pm

Please email me your address-thanks!!!!

Okay- You can STILL watch the SPORTS EDITION video at www.scrappytv.com and enter to win the contest. I will pick and post THREE winners later TONIGHT. So check back-

NOW... showing the project that I did on GOOD THINGS UTAH yesterday-

There is so many more pages. I did this on Halloween night, in between SO many cute Trick or Treating kids. I have it filled with photos of my family and things that I am grateful for this year...NOW... and guess what?

I will be teaching this project- as a 6 hour workshop in UTAH.  I wanted a day of heartfelt creation and we will be getting VERY freestyle with stamping, journaling and special treats from ME!

So Utah girls...sign up now and be prepared to have a CREATIVE Saturday making a project you can share with your family and loved ones on Thanksgiving day.

DETAILS:

Heartfelt CREATIONS

9318 S 700 E
Sandy, UT 84070-6203
(801) 233-9028

Saturday November 21st

Time: 10:00am- 4:00 pm

*Keep posting about the SPORTS KITS...I am giving away THREE of them!

Want to see the kit upclose- watch SCRAPPY TV with TERESA COLLINS

a PRIZE....

*UPDATE:Note that you can't link direct to the video, you can only link to the website www.scrappytv.com . Once they get there, on the home page they can click on the video.There are two parts to the Sports video. So today I will give away one more kit today (to make 3 total, 2 yesterday, 1 today.)

I just rushed home from filming Good Things Utah this morning. I was up at 6 am at the gym, and so I am feeling GREAT about all that I've done so far. I am headed to help in Zach's classroom and then lunch with my friend. BUSY day- oh, so I just heard GREAT NEWS....

My SPORTS EDITION kits are SHIPPING NOW!!!!!!

You can see me talking about the kit on www.scrappytv.com. For some crazy reason- I can't get the link to work (I will work on it later PROMISE!!!!) so look for an update.

THIS album... I designed it to make it EASIER for you to document ANY sport!!!!! It's a complete kit with full instructions, visuals and products.

I am GIVING away TWO kits TODAY!!!!!

Post anything you wish....

oh NEWS....

I will be teaching at HEARTFELT CREATIONS

Saturday November 21st 2009 from 10:00-4:00 pm...my GRATITUDE project that I showed on TV today. COME... sign ups are happening now...

Okay...who wants a SPORTS EDITION kit????

it was FANTASTIC...

I had the BEST time...

all FOUR of the workshops were SOLD OUT...

and The Red Bee and EVER AFTER...well- they ROCK!!!!!!!!

I am having a hard time talking about how wonderful it was....

here is some photos to share-

First stop- The RED BEE....thank you thank you...it was so wonderful. Randy and Karen are the best and their store is over the top wonderful. Yes, I shopped!!!!

  We did lots of stamping!!!! Lots of being creative... it was just so much FUN!!!!!!

THANK YOU Stephanie for HELPING me so much! She came and brought cookies for EVERY student. YUMMY!!!! She is truly the best...I love and appreciate her. She did this for Ty-

This was his OWN bag full of yummy cookies. THANK YOU for your sweetness!

Photos at almost midnight...so excited to see Shannon again. She is fabulous and just a sweet person. I love her!

Then I went to EVER AFTER on Saturday. I was just so in love with their new store. I felt so inspired by being in the workshop with such wonderful woman. I shared from my heart and it was magical. It is WHY I do what I do. I just loved it!

Camille and I- she went above and beyond to make the day special. We were treated with yummy fruits, treats, food, and lots of good company. ( I love your new workshop area- LOVE!!!!)

These TWO crazy girls flew in from Portland to take my classes at both locations. I LOVED them...and was touched that they did this. They were fun, spunky and oh- so SWEET! THANK YOU girls- I am LUCKY to have met you. You are darling!!!!

So many more photos that I wish that I had... when I am in the teaching zone-

well I forget to take photos. I came home yesterday very tired but so HAPPY from meeting so many wonderful woman. I love you girls....

I got a call when I landed on Friday from one of the producers at Channel 4- Good Things Utah. They wanted to know if I could come on TV on Tuesday INSTEAD of next week. So guess what -

I will be going on TV tomorrow at 10:00am. I am doing a GRATITUDE PROJECT that I will be teaching in Utah on SATURDAY November 21st. I will post MORE and VISUALS tomorrow.

Crazy day tomorrow-

gym, get kids to school, TV appearance, help in Zach's class for an hour,  lunch with my friends Heidi S. (love her!), hair appointment, carpool for dance, take Ty to guitar lessons, get Zach to Scouts.... now I have to admit... tomorrow will be CRAZY busy and I LOVE IT...every moment of it!!!! So I plan to blog later in the day...stay tuned.

headed to CALIFORNIA

I have so much to share. So much I want to share. So many GREAT things are going on...and well, I wish I could SHARE more...but of course, I have to be patient and WAIT. Soon promise...soon- let's just say, I feel like the time is NOW and it's so GOOD!!!!

Today, I printed out LARGE pictures of Taylor's photo shot...
This girl- is getting married in 27 days.  Taylor came over today and helped me "organize" and clean my studio. Yes, she has helped me before. How can we create without being messy, right? Well, I make a mess. Thankfully, she wanted to earn some extra money and I needed and appreciated the help. I think the wedding planning is a bit stressful and she has had headaches everyday for the last two months..every day and it is intense. Poor thing, she is really worried about the headaches. They don't seem to go away and they are making her feel sick.  You would never know she isn't feeling well, because she is still so sweet about it. I admire that about her! I love spending time with her. Tomorrow, she will come over and take care of the family while I go teach. I can't express how much this means to me. Peace of mind...  photos by Joanna Taylor Photography-

I'm not sure what photos I shared yet, but this is one of my faves...and well...can you tell, I am a very emotional mother???? I just am so happy for her, and yes- it's just a dream to see her grown up and happy. I love that she reads my blog. I love that she is "one of my best friends in the entire world." I love that she calls me every day. I love that she values my opinion. I love that she cares for others deeply. I love HER... and well, be prepared for more posts like this. SHE is on my mind a lot lately.

I am LOVING working out at CURVES. I mean, it is not at all like anything I have EVER done before. I have not missed a day. I will go at 6am tomorrow so I can get home-shower and head to the airport. I feel WONDERFUL... It is exactly the type of workout that works for me. I like that it's intense for 30 minutes and then I'm done. You have a card that you put in the machines and they tell you after your workout how many calories you burned. I did 558 calories today!!!! I am working it hard. I don't stop and I jump rope and do all the machines at full steam. I am pouring sweat when I leave. However, the workouts are geared to YOU. You can go crazy and go full force or you can go at a slower pace. They recommend you go 3 times a week. I go six days. I did not think I would really like it, but I was wrong. I do cheat a bit. I have my own music playing in my ear. I listen to my playlist- great workout music with one earplug in and listen for the overhead to tell me to switch stations. I figure I have to enjoy it...and well, I like really FAST work out music to keep me motivated.

I love the woman who go. It's all women...so I pull my hair up, put on my PINK sweatpants and go! I love how everyone is so friendly. Everyone always like to ask me about scrap booking. So many people do not realize how BIG and EXCITING the craft and scrapbook world is. I try to explain it and then I usually end up saying...google me- then you will see what I do. TRUE!!!! Maybe, my new Curve friends will become new scrapbookers-

I know I did not answer all of the questions- but you can check out their site if you like. It's for me now...and so it's good. I now must get my bags packed... see you Southern Cali girls tomorrow. Did you hear Stephanie is bringing cookies tomorrow night? The Red BEE- (stop by...I know the classes are sold out...but COME by...anyway!!!!) and Saturday- EVER AFTER, we are going to have so much FUN!

Wedding Plans

I am BIG TIME wedding mode now. We are on the wedding countdown. In the next 31 days we have bridal showers, wedding dinners, etc. and nonstop last minute details to attend. I wanted Taylor do the details and pick out her items, design her invitations, etc. without feeling I was "imposing" my desires on her. It is HER wedding and I have tried to stay very "supportive" but not try to have her do like I would.  I love her sense of classic but simple style.

They want the wedding reception to be FUN... the DJ will play "their" song. How will I manage to NOT cry???? Spencer will dance with her to "THEN" by Brad Paisley followed by Taylor dancing with her dad. I think I will be a puddle on the floor. We hired a company to come in and decorate the church cultural hall. Taylor really wanted to do things that were simple but HER. We went today and looked at the books of photos...and THE decor is just beautiful. I need addresses still from many of you. Taylor is missing so many. YOU know who you are....please email me. I need ALL of my baseball family to email me your addresses. Taylor is so concerned that someone gets left out and so we are trying to make sure we have not missed anyone.

I have to ask a special request, my dear sister in law is going in for open heart surgery tomorrow. I would ask that you keep her and her family in your thoughts and say a prayer in her behalf. I truly believe in the power of prayer and how it helps others.

Thanks Janet for lunch today. I love and appreciate the LIGHT that you have brought into my life. I am so thankful Taylor has YOU for her mother in law and friend. 

THANK YOU

I have been feeling so thankful-

I have been reading messages from BRAVE GIRLS to myself EACH day-

today I focused on the following:

"God is aware. He sees, He watches over YOU.

He has you in the palm of HIS hand.

He has big plans for you, dear sweet girl."

and this one-

"Don't be AFRAID to own your unique truths-

they are critical ingredients to an extraordinary life."

and LAST-

"Everything about YOU is unique and miraculous...it is impossible to compare yourself

with others. Celebrate the miracle of YOU."

I know each of you can say these things to YOU!!!

Let's each make this world a better place.

I am so excited I have a new church calling. I am teaching the FOUR and FIVE year old children now. It is called Primary and I love it. I only have four beautiful children in my class. They were adorable today. The prayers of a child are so dear, sweet and tender. Their attention span is about 1 minute. HA! I was teaching today  and they kept talking... " I am taller than HIM"...to the boy sitting beside him. The girl in my class ABBY is a little cutie. She informed me she was going to close her mouth and never speak another word again. CUTENESS... it lasted about 20 seconds. I did get them to be a little quiet by giving them each a sugar cookie to eat. So be prepared to hear more about my sweet times with my new class. Kids do say the "funniest things!"

This week- well on Friday I head to California. I have to say- I can hardly wait!!!! I have so many wonderful friends and I have some big things in store. So heads up- The Red Bee classes are all SOLD OUT. However, you can come by and say HI!!!!! (please do)...and then on Saturday November 7th- Ever After- I am so excited  because these classes are VERY me and well, we are going to be doing lots of CREATIVE tips and tricks. Plus, I love to see my dear EA friends. Ty and I feel like we are visiting family when we go. The AFTERNOON class- the 6x12 album workshop is SOLD OUT!!!! but I just found out tonight that we do have ONLY 8 spots left in the morning class. This is the HUGE book- it is the GRATITUDE book-and if you sign up for both classes then EA provides a light lunch for them. So Saturday morning- there was confusion- THE CLASS is NOT full...so HURRY and come join Ty and I at Ever AFTER.... (also, this is the project that I will be showing on my next TV appearance on Good Things Utah in two weeks)

Here is the GRATITUDE

cover...
 

Information for EVER AFTER:

Vista Location and Store Hours
1954 Hacienda Dr.
Vista, CA 92081
Tel: 760-630-2767
It is quite the book. If you would like the kit and cannot attend the class- please contact EVER AFTER directly. THANKS!!!!!!!

Update: I have not missed ONE day of working out since I joined Curves. (well, I do take Sunday's off). I have been OVERWHELMED with emails asking about the gym. I have not been able to personally respond to all of them...so this week- watch for a special blog post about what I'm doing. Again...this is ONLY my experience. Stay tuned and thanks for the emails.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

It's FINALLY almost time for my door to be ringing...we get LOTS of cute TRICK OR TREATERS.

 I love this-

 I love to be the one opening the doors and

seeing all the cute ones.

We have been having lots of our dinners on these cute "plastic" plates that I found at Target-

HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all of you!!!!

I wanted to mention that I got a comment on my last two posts from a "fake" poster. The comment was really mean and judgmental. PLEASE know that if you ask me NOT TO DELETE the comment than by all means USE your real name- and don't post through a fake email address. At least I can see that the "hate" comes from Lehi... so "BRITNEY" thanks for the positive love.
I believe that we should always take the high road and focus on the positive.

I will remind myself NOW....

JUST BE WHO YOU ARE-

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!

OCTOBER 30th

My kids have been home all day. I have a tradition to make them each cute "TREAT" bags of their fave candy...and make or BUY (wink!) them each a HALLOWEEN card. Any excuse I can find to tell them how much I love them. I so LOVE the house decorated, the HALLOWEEN parties...well, it's FUN!

I will post photos tomorrow from HALLOWEEN and this past week. Tonight, all the kids have HALLOWEEN parties to go too, and Zach starts his Basketball season. FIRST game tonight...so date night tonight for Ty and I is going to Zach's game. Then we will head to pick up Sushi from the BEST place in SLC... (Teru Sushi). I am "kinda a sushi eater"... I get the VEGGIE ROLLS. Ty loves the Philadelphia Rolls. Then we will head home for a MOVIE NIGHT. Ty wants to watch the newest Wolverine movie..and I am thinking "CHICK FLICK." ha-

Here is ONE of my ALL time FAVORITE projects from my dear friend Stephanie Ackerman. I love how she puts her heART into her art. She is homespun, heartfelt and brings such meaning into her work-

 

I love the collage, the FEEL of this. She used a huge MIXTURE of TC products from SO many of my various lines. This is called USING your stash....and wow...it turned out amazing. She is amazing and I so fortunate to have her on my team. You will be seeing lots more of her work and if your coming to my classes next week at THE RED BEE, you will see Ty, Stephanie and Tammy. I have the best TEAM.

Off to baseball. Have a SAFE & HAPPY HALLOWEEN weekend.

Mid WEEK

Oh, I am so SORE. It's a week now and I am still hurting in my upper shoulder/back and the bottom area.  WINK! I have had MANY emails about the program that I do. I just want to say...do what WORKS for you. With my lifestyle- I know if I don't have it planned out, it will never happen. I take my boys to elementary school and head straight to the CURVES gym. I listen to my own music (playlist) and I am WORK it hard for 30 minutes. I then do about 5 minutes of stretching on the ballet bar and I leave the gym TIRED.  Oh, how much I enjoy Sundays....the day of rest!  I wish I could say that I LOVE exercise. I don't. In fact, I dread going, but I LOVE how I feel afterward. I feel so much happier by starting my day with a workout.

So it is almost HALLOWEEN. So we covered the kitchen table and I got each of us a PUMPKIN to carve.  I tied this cute PUMPKIN bags behind each of my chairs.

 



I love to watch them create. I am a big believer in letting them do it themselves. I LOVE that their personalities reflect their pumpkins.

Gentry is a painter and LOVES color. She painted her's BLUE...
Many more to share.
BUT it's short day and my boys will be home SOON.

TONIGHT- my family is excited. I am doing my HALLOWEEN dinner. Yes, it's SPOOKTACULAR. I decorate the table with FUN plates, goblets, etc. and serve WITCHES blood (aka RED kool-aid)...nothing too fancy. I will post photos.... because I love HALLOWEEN and the NON SCARY side of it. (a little FYI about me...I hate scary movies/books and I refuse to watch them) I am so into decorating for the holidays and events. It just is what I do- I love the feeling that it brings to my home. I love these black glitter candelabra's. *sorry, I got them last year and they are no longer available. (BALLARD DESIGNS had them and they have wonderful home decor online)

Oh, if you are looking for my SPOOKTACULAR chipboard covers (not the kit) go to: TC HALLOWEEN COVER. 

Most important...take LOTS of photos... You want to remember. The grow up so fast and get to a point where they don't want to go Trick or Treating anymore. Last year, Zach was 11 and said he was too old. This year, well- again...he wants to hand out the candy. I should have taken MORE photos when he was TEN.

Taylor and Spencer are mailing out the wedding invitations this week. It's around the corner...I can't believe it. She is scared she has forgot someone. I love that she worries about other people's feelings. I love that she is thoughtful. She makes me a happy mom!!!!

MONDAY-

I love MONDAYS...a fresh start. I took the boys to elementary school and then headed straight to the gym. I'm home a little sore but THANKFUL I went early and can now FOCUS on many deadlines.

I had Ty take some photos of me last week- just ME.... RIGHT now....

How lucky am I that he will take photos for me???? I feel at ease with HIM and he makes me feel comfortable. This is something I struggle with when I do a photo shot. However, I wanted NEW photos for ME to use in a new "journal" I am designing. It's a daily book of thoughts, reflections and GRATITUDE.

November is the PERFECT month to START!!!!!  (how about you????)

I have some INFORMATION to share. I have been overwhelmed with emails about my SPOOKTACULAR TC KIT. Where can you buy it online????  Here is ONE source: SPOOKTACULAR TERESA COLLINS KIT and another TC HALLOWEEN KIT

If you carry the kits please let me know and I will try to update and give out the information. Many stores that had the kits are completely sold out. THANK YOU for those of you who make these kits so successful. I have new kits coming out with EVERY new line that I release. I promise- you have not seen anything yet!!!!!

Have a FABULOUS Monday....live TODAY with Passion!!!!!! 

FOCUS

I have to say...ever since I came home from Brave Girls, I have felt a HUGE difference within me. I am still floating on the goodness that I felt. I am thinking EVERYDAY about what I discovered about myself. It has NOT went away. I am so HAPPY- much happier than I have been for years. I have lived for many years in FEAR. I fear too much. I often let this HOLD ME BACK. Brave Girls- I have learned that I need to MEND the interior of my HOUSE. It is going to happen...and NO I am not talking about my house residence. Wink!

One of my first orders of business was FACING the truth. I have not wanted to do this. I have lived in denial about some important issues in my life and family. I have just accepted too much. One of the things that I have done was STOP doing what I love and helps ME feel good about myself.

I admit, I was addicted to working out for several years. I was the girl who would work out at least 1.5 hours everyday- INTENSE and would NEVER miss a day. The day before I had a stroke ( I was 7 months pregnant with Ty, who is 10 years old now) I had RAN 4 plus miles. I was extreme but I loved it and I loved that I could eat lots of food and still stay slim.

Was that what was most important???? I realize it was the good happy feelings from exercise that I loved and that made me very happy. I was a happy girl...

Since my mother died in 2002- I just  LOST the desire. GONE- GONE- GONE... I just did not care. I lost my passion, my drive and well, I lost the happiness that being fit brought me. It was SO not about the weight I weigh...it was so much more. Years later, I was still struggling with finding the DESIRE to be whole again. I thought I had it but it would dwindle and I would beat myself up...Have you done this?

Well, I was driving home from Brave Girls and I FELT so strongly that I was a NEW me...but the OLD me again. I am probably making NO sense. However, something CLICKED big time within me and I am READY....READY.... READY to FLY again..

I will FLY

I will SOAR

and I will LOVE myself again....

So my gym membership at Excel had expired in July. Can you believe I had not been in about 7 months????  Yes, I was not even closely motivated. So I thought and I prayed about changing myself. I am READY to be WHOLE in every way. So I joined a new gym this week. The cute lady who signed me up thought I was crazy. I promised her that she would see me EVERYDAY for the next year (except for Sundays)...NO matter what. I told her that I had made a promise to myself that I would come EVERY single day. If I am traveling...I can use their gyms across the world. So I joined and paid for the entire first year (saved 10% by doing this) and joined CURVES. You may have heard of it. It is a gym for just woman... sorry guys, the workout is designed for woman. I went FOUR days- Wed, Thurs, Friday and Saturday. I signed up on Wednesday.

I have no time to WAIT... I am so happy- What took me so long to get to this place again?????

I know for me it was BRAVES GIRLS.

I want to say that this is so MUCH more than weight. It is about finding my LIGHT again. Oh, and losing weight is always a great bonus. I feel like I am FLYING AGAIN!!!!!!!!

I am sooo THRILLED for CHA W... BIG BIG BIG things are in store. I have expanded all my lines and well, I am going to FLY like I never have. I am working on a NEW TC  booth...yes, expanded and much bigger. I am decorating it from the heart and being ME... I am LOVING my new lines...all designed from the CENTER of my artistic HEART...and it feels good.

Updates: The Red Bee (all classes are SOLD OUT).... I have not heard from Ever After BUT I think we may have a seat or two left with these two projects:
6x12 glitter album with lots of TRANSPARENCY!!!!!

My gratitude journal class- *two of my all time FAVE classes.... so call if your interested (fast- wink!)

Also, I wanted to let you know that I have added some new dates to my schedule for 2010-

I will be teaching in the UK in Feb. 2010 and in France (Version Scraps) too.

I have many emails about coming and teaching. I am actually BOOKED for the entire 2010 year.  I am working on it THIS week. IF you are a store, please email me again. I am trying to balance it all BUT I am trying to add in a few spots this next year. (so thankful to the best supportive family- I love you so much!!!!) I now have a new assistant who is amazingly organized and will help me keep on track.

HAPPY HAPPY Sunday...

I hope you KNOW you each can FLY too. Sometimes we just forget and need a little reminder!

I love you Melody and Kathy and my
BRAVE GIRL friends!!!!!

Sharing my TV segment-

I thought I would share. You can find the kits at your LSS or online. I LOVE HALLOWEEN!!!!!

MY little girl....

Well, she is not little anymore- she is not a baby...but SHE is my EVERYTHING. She turned 19 in August and come December 3rd, SHE will be married.

I have so many crazy feelings. I worry, but what mother doesn't.

Yesterday she did her bridal photos in Park City, Utah.

Her photographer is now my friend (I love making new friends!!!) and I love her style.

This is my special girl-

**** PS IF you are SPENCER leave my blog NOW...you can't see her dress- wink!

That's my Taylor- I can't believe it but I'm crying as I post this. THIS is what matters most- your dear children growing up and being so HAPPY.

Thanks Kayla for letting Taylor borrow your cowboy boots-

I am so PROUD of you sweet girl. I love you more than words will EVER express. You have a tender heart, a giving soul and I am so THANKFUL God gave me YOU!!!!!

I would LOVE it...if YOU could do me a HUGE favor. If you would PLEASE write a little something for me to make a book to give Taylor (Wedding Words of Wisdom)...I want to hear any thoughts or wisdom (advice) that I can give to her for her bridal shower. I know many of you have met Taylor and know how much she will love this. I would love to hear it all!!!!!!!

Photos taken by Joanna Taylor- JOANNA TAYLOR

I love and thank you for capturing my little girl!!!!!

BRAVE GIRL- that's me...

I have thought over and over how I was going to blog about my weekend at the BRAVE GIRL'S CAMP in Idaho. I don't even know if words can articulate the feelings in my heart. It is almost like my HEART is open...and all I can say if there is OVERFLOWING emotions of love, gratitude, knowledge and much thankfulness.

When Melody asked me to come to the event, I knew it was nearly impossible with my schedule. I have booked myself traveling wise for the next year and 1/2. So as much as I wanted to go...I felt GUILTY leaving my family. I was actually supposed to teach at another event, but for some reason- I was not getting emails from the event organizer and not getting my emails returned, so with all the confusion, I was open to go to Idaho instead.

Melody had told me that this event would be LIFE CHANGING and that she knew I was supposed to be there. I felt in my heart- that I WAS supposed to go. I am so busy right now...but wow...I just KNEW she was right. So many things were going on and I could have easily canceled but I just KNEW...and listened to my heart.

On the first day, I met up with the other BRAVE GIRLS and we got on a shuttle bus up to the CABIN. I was a little nervous. What had I got myself into????? I would have NO computer access, NO cell phone coverage and communication with my family or work for 4 days. (did I mention I have huge work deadlines?) The ride up to the cabin in Garden Valley, IDAHO was wonderful. I could FEEL something big was going to happen. I felt an instant connection to the BRAVE GIRLS...

Melody met us up near the top of the mountain (just before we got to the cabin)  and we agreed to "be there" and leave our concerns, guilt, fears, etc. RIGHT there... (we threw bird seed in the AIR- yes, worrying is for the birds- right?) A short time later...we arrived to beautiful girls who hugged and welcomed us. I felt like I was a sister and that I was returning HOME.
This is where I feel like my life changed.

The cabin was so beautiful and invited. They hung personal photos from the green (cute!!!!) drapes. I love the sign- IT'S ALL GOOD!

The decor was BEAUTIFUL. It was the little touches that made the home inviting and the BRAVE GIRLS feel at home.
This is MELODY ROSS. Well, she is the reason why I am having a hard time posting about this event...well, and her sister Kathy too. I have to say that I have known Melody for several years. I like many of you have known of her struggles and her spirit of never giving up. I am blessed to have REALLY gotten to KNOW her in the past year.  SHE is the BEST person and TRUEST friend anyone would ever want. I felt so lucky to be friends... we are very similar in many ways, so we just CONNECT with unspoken words but from the heart. I admire her MORE than words can express. I love her so much. I mean this more than I can articulate. A week or so before the event, we were talking on the phone and I was just a little worried to go to BRAVE GIRLS with so much on my plate. She too has much on her plate. We could be sisters in so many ways. We have so many similiarities- in our beliefs, past experiences, our family (we both have 5 children by birth...and our mom's name is Myrna Jean...and Myrla Jean)....well, but it is so much more than that. SHE knew I needed to come-

She is not only BEAUTIFUL on the outside but this girl SHINES.... you want to be around such light!

  This is where the ART was captured from my soul. The ART TENT was where I focused on myself...in the most TRUE form. This was NOT at all about scrapbooking. It was about finding ONESELF. Look at the tent... on the outside it is not that beautiful...(it would be easy to judge the outside and think...wow, not sure about this!) However, we KNOW that we need to judge what is on the inside-
BEAUTIFUL lights and Green Lanterns were hung... It felt peaceful and inviting. We listened to beautiful playlists of music as we created. To be VERY honest, I just feel like it was so special- I don't know if I should talk about some of what we did. So- I want to SHARE what I got out of it...my experience.

 

This was the first thing we did. A box to put all of our art into. This turned into a message for ME. We all did our own style and expressed from the heart. There was no rules. So no two projects at the entire camp was the same. I learned some things about myself...

I am SO MUCH BRAVER than I think I am. I can soar and FLY. This entire event was needed for me to REFLECT on MY life... and I wrote messages to myself. We made a tin... It was like a letter to ME. My cover is a photo of myself at 3 years old:

Dear Teresa,

You were born to shine.

You have the courage to you need to do this...dig deep! It will be worth it.

I am a big journaler- so I wrote each page to myself. A constant reminder...I know that I need to follow my heart.

I am MUCH stronger than I think I am.

Melody had printed out the most beautiful thought. Lots of them. I choose the ones that spoke to my heart-

Dear Teresa

SOAR FLY...

You will do tremendous things- things that no one else could ever do- because there is no one in the world who is exactly like you.

I love this:

Dear Teresa-

Everything happens EXACTLY when it should, lasts as exactly as long as it's supposed to last, and teaches us exactly what we need to learn.

Can you imagine- WRITING to yourself?  it was like a AH HA. moment. I fought back tears. I was thinking and reflecting on my past- joys, sorrow, pain, lessons learned... and I focused on the positive and I have a tin full of cards/letters to myself that I keep rereading to myself.

We took lots of breaks for FOOD and snacks. Kathy showered us with the most amazing food. I felt like I was at a CELEBRITY retreat. (yes, I gained FOUR pounds in four days- so worth it too!) I know Kathy and the girls put their HEART into the menu and presentation. THANK YOU SO MUCH- I felt so pampered and special.

I made a wad for myself and a GLITTER timer. Yes, so me...and I need to remind myself to take a little TIME for myself EACH day.

I love that my TIMER shines... I want to SHINE and be happy/ sparkly like the timer. TIME is VALUABLE...I don't want to waste my time on earth. I want to make a difference in the world, by example to others and  within the walls of my home. My FAMILY needs ME to SHINE and be an example for them!!!!

This project was based upon a book- The Right Questions by Debbie Ford. I LOVED the questions and want to remember them EVERY day when I make decisions in my life.

One of the questions is:

Is this a act of self love or is it an act of self sabotage? (Mel told the example of when you eat ice cream do you eat a few bites or the entire ice cream carton)...I admit, I have had a hard time with the self love and eating a few bites. I have on countless occasions ate 1/2 a container...that is SELF SABOTAGE. Not a good decision and I always feel HORRIBLE afterwards.

I am now IN LOVE with birds and what they represent. Melody's new line (NEW at Michael's is BEAUTIFUL and full of inspiring messages!!!!) I love this thought- EVERY CHOICE I MAKE LEADS TO THE LIFE THAT I WILL LIVE.

Or- I WANT TO FEEL GOOD ABOUT THIS DECISION 5 YEARS FROM NOW... AM I LISTENING TO MY SPIRIT???? at the end of this book I have... I want to go where the PEACE is. THANK YOU BRAVE GIRLS for helping me LISTEN again...in a deeper sense to myself and to Heavenly Father. I have to remember-

The BEST decisions are not very often the EASIEST ones.

We are BRAVE woman...we connected- we laughed, we cried, we created, and went on little sleep. We are better wifes, mothers, friends by all that we learned. I will NEVER be the same. It was deep and intense and honestly...the ART was merely a vehicle of pure love self expression to each of our souls.  I KNEW I was supposed to be at the event to make friends and to see LOVE in action within the woman there. WE connected...I sat and created with Candice, Connie and Christi each day- I LOVE THEM...we shared so much. I met so many woman that FILLED my heart with love and that I consider FOREVER FRIENDS.
We had many NON scrapbookers at the event. They were there to HEAL, or GAIN a new perspective... it was beautiful to watch. One girl, Gail was stunning. She works with Melody and did not even know what Mod Podge was. She went to a craft store and asked for help. By the end, she was the girl staying in the ART TENT until 2 am. She made BEAUTIFUL ART from her soul. She smiled and was happy. We all walked around with huge grins.

We had morning 1 hour hikes, firesides, and music filled memories. It was PURE MAGIC!!!!

I witnessed Melody and Kathy follow their dream! They want to make a difference in the world. The openly shared their spirit and wisdom...They sang songs that moved us to tears. They had 4 generations in attendance helping with great love. Their beautiful mother, her daughters, Kathy's daughters and their babies too. I witnessed a family that LOVES and adores and supports each other.

Melodys husband Marq stayed and protected us- These two are so madly in love...They have been through so much...it's just a testament to me that YOU have to ENDURE it well.

The last project...wow... this one hit home. It was a I PROMISE book.

A book to read to help ME to promise to take what I learned and KNOW in my heart to do. I wrote this to ME...yes, I am in the front of the book as a baby. I promised... I will be brave.

I PROMISE to focus on the GOOD THINGS:

fun, friends, free- time, love, forgiveness... well, you can see the list in the photo.

One of the pages... I PROMISE -

I will go where the PEACE is... in my heart and in my life.

Another: I PROMISE

 I will choose the people who bring out the VERY BEST in me...(thank you kids...I always want to be the very best example for EACH of YOU!)

Here is the list of ...I PROMISE NO MORE.....

Guilt, shame, sadness, overworking, stress, anger, bitterness, sorrow, etc.

I have left OUT so much...so many of the other projects. Well, guess what? The main PROJECT was myself. I gained so much. I am stronger, braver, happier, and well...I have a new perspective on life. I have always been happy, thankful, but THIS event made me a better me. I cried off and on the entire 6 hours home on Saturday. I had talked to Melody...because I KNEW why I was supposed to go. I KNEW it was because this is BIG... I have to be apart of this. I have to spread the message...and support this event. Melody, I am backing you 1000% percent.

I have never done this on my blog...but I will now-

YOU HAVE TO DO THIS too...

I promise you will NEVER be the same.

I hope if you are reading this that you will take the time...make the time...

NOW to sign up and GO... you are worth it!!!! I know I will be going again.

I want my girls to go... this message, this event...

THANK YOU MELODY and KATHY for inviting me... I love you both so much!!!!

I came home and told Ty...can we move to Idaho????

I found myself...and I didn't even know I was lost. Go figure....

I came home to this:

  and this...

Sunday dinner yesterday with my HOUSE... my HEART...BRAVE GIRLS- you know you get it...

Information for Brave Girls is atBRAVE GIRLS or email kathy@bravegirlsclub.com

Next BRAVE GIRLS CAMP- Feb. 17-20th- 2010.

Are you still awake????

I am passionate about THIS...and hope from my post you can feel IT!

BRAVE GIRL...

I have been home for ONE hour...

my family is out- so I wanted to quickly come on...

THIS was LIFE changing for me...

I will NEVER be the same-

PLEASE read my blog post tomorrow,

I want you to all KNOW about this amazing

ART for the SOUL retreat....

TOMORROW... be prepared, it will be LONG!

EAGLE, Idaho

I am in my hotel room in Eagle, Idaho. I have to say...I love the small town feel of this beautiful city.

I had some business this morning and then headed out for my long drive. I drove all by myself- which is something I have NEVER done. It was a SIX hour drive. I stopped THREE times on my way...so that I did not get too tired. I had about 20 CD's on the passenger seat and I listened to lots of music.

I was even singing in the car- and doing everything I could to stay alert. I loved traveling through rural Idaho. It was beautiful. I was THINKING a lot and well, that is always good. I only talked on the cell phone to assure Ty that I was okay, and then when I stopped for gas in TWIN FALLS, Idaho. I wanted to keep my focus on being alert and not distracted on the road.

I got to the hotel, and it was pouring rain. I decided to run to Kohl's and look for an umbrella. (no luck!) Then I grabbed take out at Qdoba's Mexican Grill. (so wish we had them in Utah!~) I met Candice who is amazing at the hotel tonight. She is attending the Braves Girl Camp too. I am feeling so thankful and appreciative of this opportunity... I can't wait! Melody's husband, Marq is meeting all of us at 10 am in the morning to take us up to the retreat  house in the mountains. I can't wait!!!!!

I am going to finish up some deadlines tonight at the hotel, skype my family and TRY to sleep some...

QUESTION:...Why do they keep the hotel lights so dim???? I need more lights to be able to "see" properly. Ha!!!!!

monday monday...

I am running around my house...nonstop....TRYING to tackle a FEW projects. ha!

Yes, I am a little behind on a few things. I guess, I am admitting that I am not packed, nor do I have my kitchen stocked with food for my family, my house clean, etc. However, on the bright side- I am really only one person and it will all work out.

My cute- darling husband Ty- did all the laundry this weekend. Yes, he is AMAZING! I will get most of my to do's done today because that is how I work. I love deadlines because I am very punctual. So by 8:00am in the morning... I will have things done and ready to go. I am READY for this event and all that it entails. I have had so many emails....and yes, I will SHARE all about the retreat next week when I am back. I KNOW it is TIME for me to slow down and enjoy the journey more...  and this is a beginning.

Oh, next Monday. I will be on Good Things Utah- Channel 4 at 10:00 am. I will be giving away on the air 3 of the TC kits that I will be showing on air. WATCH so that you have a chance to win!!!!

I will post visuals before I go on Monday.

For now, I wanted to share a little FRIENDSHIP love that TAMMY MITCHELL designed-




Check out her blog for more visuals...

I love what she did...

More soon...Stay tuned!

BRAVE GIRL- is this me?????

Okay, I am honestly so THRILLED, EXCITED and well, GIDDY about something that I am going to this coming week. My sweet friend, Melody Ross is following her heart and her dream. She is hosting (her partner is her wonderfully sweet sister Kathy) a special workshop for women. I cannot articulate it like they have so read below:


What is Brave Girl Camp?

Brave Girl Camp is four days of life-changing fun for women. Brave Girl Camp is a fabulous all-inclusive retreat nestled in the stunning mountains of Idaho, offering both beautiful cabin accommodations and meaningful art projects and instruction. The brainchild of sisters Melody Ross and Kathy Wilkins, Brave Girl Camp is an extension of their worldwide community, Brave Girls' Club, and is offered to women all over the world who are ready to meaningfully and artfully move forward on their individual paths. In fact, Brave Girl Camp is specifically designed to help women find their own individual path in a fun and lasting and deeply personal way. How would we describe Brave Girl Camp?

• a beautiful Idaho experience that we want to share, as 4th Generation Idaho Girls
• a place to rest from everyday life
• a very artsy place, filled with unforgettable surprises
• a place to eat exquisite, handcrafted foods for every meal and snack (made with oh sooo much love)
• a place to make and see and share beautiful things
• a place of belonging
• a safe place
• a place to play
• a place to dig deep
• a place to grow
• a place to learn what it means to be brave (and it means something different to everyone!)
• a place to learn some of the thousands of ways to really live with bravery
• a place to be very well taken care of, in every way
• a place you will constantly crave until the next time you go back!
  
  
A few other ways to describe it:

• a completely unforgettable experience
• a dream come true (for us and for you!)
• worth any price or sacrifice to get there
• a completely life changing experience if you choose to let it be one!

What's included with the tuition fee?

• Sleeping accommodations (first come-first served)
• Guests will be sharing bathrooms, and a few will even share queen/double beds between friends
• Gourmet healthy breakfast buffet each morning (click here for full menu)
• Luscious healthy gourmet lunch each day
• Scrumptious afternoon gourmet snack
• Sit-down formal dinner each night
• Delicious evening gourmet snack
• Assorted soft drinks, juices and water available all day
• Round trip transportation from Eagle, Idaho, to the Lodge at Garden Valley, Idaho (approximately 1 hour drive)
• Three artsy workshops daily (2 on the first day) developed and taught by Melody Ross
• Artfully packaged class kits
• A Brave Girl Camp notebook (for thoughts and ideas)
• A Sketchbook for ideas and sketches
• A hand-illustrated keepsake map of Brave Girl Camp
• A roomy and wonderful hand-made Brave Girl Camp tote-bag
• An Autograph and Photo Book to archive your experience and your new friendships
• A hand-made leather Brave Girls Club bracelet
• Almost all class supplies
• A basket to borrow to hold projects in progress while at Brave Girl Camp
• A CD of professionally shot photographs taken throughout the 4-day event
• Many other treats and surprises!
• The time of your life if you choose to make it so!
  

What will we be doing?

Brave Girl Camp is a combination of art projects and life projects. Each day, our schedule will include a morning mountain hike, three luscious meals together around artfully set tables, two or three art projects, a keynote fireside evening speaker, and lots of downtime and surprises.Brave Girl Camp is the vacation from life that you have been waiting for, and the experience of a lifetime. Our goal is to make sure that you have the time of your life while making lifelong friendships, and especially that you go back to your life a stronger, more joyful woman, feeling on-track and ready to be exactly who you are and to do exactly what is in your heart to do.HOW LUCKY AM I????? I am going to go to this special event.I NEVER get to do things like this...and well, it was something VERY special to me. It was hard for me to decide to go. I really wanted too, but I felt guilty. I did not want to leave my family again for.... dare I say... ME????  I KNEW that I needed THIS. When I first entered the scrapbook world, I had heard of Melody and her amazing company CHATTERBOX. I was in awe of her and her success. I mean, her products are just outstanding and well, she is OVER the TOP in every way a beautiful and successful woman. I remember the first time I spoke with her. I was at home one day and my phone rang... it said CHATTERBOX. I was just starting in my scrapbook journey....I was doing idea books for Ivy Cottage Creations.  I answered and it was Melody Ross and Christy Tomlinson. I remember being VERY excited to talk to them. They were so warm, kind and friendly. They were offering to send me and the designers helping with the idea book, lots of beautiful Chatterbox products to design with. That my friends is how I first came in contact with Melody. Fast forward, several years....and NOW she is my friend. If you know her, you KNOW she has the heart of gold. She has had to face adversity that would KNOCK down the best of us. She is open and honest with how she has overcame some big trials...in not only her business but her personal life. I admire her greatly.  I look at her and I see how BRAVE she really is. Can't we all relate to times when we need to FACE life and be BRAVE?  So I am going....and I can't wait!

We had two baseball games last night....and it was Zach's birthday. He did well, so that made for a great night. They won both games. We are almost done with Fall baseball. I am really dreading this. I will have lots of drill competitions in December and January to keep me plenty busy-wink!Today, we had a great day watching Zach at flag football. He LOVES this...and then we went to a birthday lunch. He finally choose SWEET TOMATOES. Then Ty took Lil' Ty to baseball practice, and I headed to the mall with the girls. Can I just say... I hate trying on clothes???? I needed new jeans and well, I can't think of anything that I really hate...except trying on clothes in those dressing rooms. I tried on about 12 pair of pants. YES, I am picky! I found a pair of shoes for Taylor's wedding, and well...they are my ALL TIME FAVORITE shoes ever. I did find ONE pair of pants....

Tonight, I took a photo of Gentry before she went out with her friends to the corn maze. It was dark and well, I struggle with my indoor night photos. Then I was given the advice to try out www.PICNIK.com....

This is the photo BEFORE I went to PICNIK.COM....and for some crazy reason it will not let me ADD the AFTER of this photo...but let me tell you, it was so much better. So easy to use!!!! Try it out. I am now a FAN!
Check it out- and if you have other wonderful websites like this...please share!

 

happy birthday ZACH....

my son is now 12 years old today....Most people think he is older, because he is taller... (he comes up to my eye level now!) and he does weigh more than his sister McKay. Did I mention his shoe size has surpassed mine?  Ty thinks he will catch up to me in weight soon. Yikes!!!!!

So how has he spent his big birthday???? School- of course.... We took those delicious, but unhealthy sugar cookies with pink frosting for his class. I LOVE this boy....and well HE will always be my baby!Tonight, Zach has two back to back baseball games- so tonight I will be the mom CHEERING and celebrating this special day. Tomorrow, we will have time to do a family dinner. We have a tradition of going out to eat at our favorite restaurant as a family. It looks like he is thinking of Red Robin's- birthday boy choice.

Have a great Friday-