TERESA COLLINS

Workshop in Portugal

I have been de-cluttering for the past two days and finalizing a home decor project for my visit to Stamper's Ink in April. I can't express how great it feels to have better organization. I am taking a pink suitcase full of items to give my students next week in Georgia.Yes, I'm going to EMI Scrapbooking in ONE WEEK. I am planning to shop at CHARMING CHARLIES with Susan (I can't wait!). I have so much crafty stuff and I know that I need to GIVE my abudance to other crafters. I am not done purging yet, but I am making progress.

I am so fortunate to be going to teach in Portugal at the end of April. This is a little peek at what I will be teaching. The event asked if I would teach with Everyday Moments. 

This is a jam packed 8x8 chipboard album and I used the buttons, die-cuts sheets, and papers from the collection. This is my good friend Tammy Mitchell's beautiful daughter Ashley. Her mother is a great photographer!!!!

Upclose of  the cover-

The inside pages- it's a large project for a two hour workshop.

The event that I will be teaching is 

the club called Chocolate Quente (Hot Chocolate) and you can view it here http://www.clubechocolatequente.blogspot.com/.

This year event will take place in Lisbon, on the 28^th and 29^th of April. 

I am looking forward to my visit. I have been trying hard to get to more stores and events. It's all about finding BALANCE. I am fortunate in that I have HUGE family support. 

Time to watch a movie with my family- love Friday nights!!!!

Inspiration Wednesday...

Today I want to share some tags and cards projects from the design team. You can find them all on the TC design team blog and much more:

SPRING FLING COLLECTION-

EVERYDAY MOMENTS COLLECTION-

FABRICATIONS COLLECTION-

This beautiful Fabrications layout was posted on my Teresa Collins Designs facebook page and designed by Lisa Houpt.  

Loving this Spring Fling layout by Dedra Long. I love the design team girls!!!! I so appreciate all that they do.

I'm home editing photos and working on instructions for my trips to teach in Kansas and Portugal. I'm going through a little slump. Yesterday was the end of TEN weeks of no sugar, processed foods and carbs. I am a little bored with my food choices. It is a really strict program and I have 13 days left and then I start adding some things back into my diet (if I choose!). I think I am finding this a little stressful. It's a lot of pressure when you lose weight. It's harder to keep it off then to lose it- (for me). I am scared to start adding food back into my life. I know it will be a hard transition for me. Anyway, it's weighing on my mind. It's always going to be a battle with me. ALWAYS!!!!!

Video from TV segment-

 I have to say you NEVER know what is going to happen when you are doing live TV. At Good Things Utah they have a live studio audience. Someone had come with a young child and while I was doing my segment the child started to SCREAM really loud. I decided to ignore it and keep going. Ha!

I didn't really get time to talk about closures for mini book. I love using the small round pieces of hook and loop. Another great way is to use a rubberband or ribbon to keep the book closed. I used the Westcott trimmer that both scores and trims paper- love it!

It was so nice to have Gentry home with us for a day. We had a great holiday yesterday together. I went to Cafe Rio with my kids. The first time in 10 weeks! The man preparing my salad could not believe all I wanted on my salad was chicken, lettuce, guacomole, and pico. Yes, I said no to the tortilla, rice, beans, cheese, chips and the WONDERFUL dressing. ha! It was good but I admit, I missed the dressing the most. It definitely takes some discipline to change. This is for sure my favorite restaurant and I was so happy that I changed my normal to something "more healthy." The kids are back in school today and the house is WAY too quiet. I'm finishing up my projects for some upcoming visits. I can tell you that in JUNE- I am headed to HOUSTON TEXAS!!!!! I'll post the store, dates and MORE this week.

Have a great day!

Today on Good Things Utah and My Craft Channel- simple matchbook mini album

Today I am filming a segment on Good Things Utah Channel 4 TV at 10:00am. I am showing how to make a very cute mini matchbook made from ONE sheet of 12x12 paper. 

I also filmed it for TODAY's SHOW at www.mycraftchannel.com.

These  mini books are super cute, easy and you can download a step by step free instruction sheet here on the blog to create your own.

Download 1-1.simple matchbook mini _INSTRUCTIONS on how to create.

Creating MINI has never been so fun!!!!

I used my lines World Traveler to make the one of the left and the Everyday Moments flower paper to create the other one. You can use any paper! 

• Lisa Johnson actually came up with the concept... one of her original ideas that she developed over the years.  Here is the original post on her blog...http://www.poppypaperie.com/poppy_paperie/2010/10/mini-fold-book.html
  
  

I love the SPRING FLING (big dots) one with a big Fabrications flower on the cover. A big thank you to Sesil Cratin for sharing this book technique! They were very popular make n take at CHA. I wanted everyone else to get a chance to create their own.  

I also filmed this mini matchbook for TODAYS TC segment on www.mycraftchannel.com

I know many of you cannot see our Utah TV stations. So go there and enjoy the video how to.

Good times... thank you Scrapbook ISLAND

This weekend at the ISLAND was truly JUST the best. I have had the best time. I love talking to the girls. I truly am blessed to have such great friends. I did not take ONE photo! We were just too busy. ha! I did get two photos sent to me-

I loved meeting Janet's niece and that she brought her daughter to come meet me! 

This is the "rowdy" gang. Okay... there are not really rowdy. They are great friends and I love them. Veronica, Florence, Janet and Michelle. It was just an honor to me that they keep WANTING to take my classes and come to my events.

I can't thank everyone in my workshops enough. I love the HUGE new workshop room that Scrapbook Island has. It's beautiful. Laurie, Karen, Lucy.... the girls make you feel so welcomed and I am truly blessed to know these girls. They are truly my friends!

I stayed at the Hayes Mansion during my weekend visit and I had a beautiful room. I even finished up my projects in the hotel room for my upcoming visit to Portugal and Stampers INK in Kansas. Did I mention this visit yet? I will be sharing all about the visit THIS WEEK! 

Where am I headed next???? Oh, my happy heart is headed to my "roots!" Yes, I'm going back to Georgia. I am one HAPPY HAPPY... joyous girl. It makes my heart happy to hear those southern drawls and I'm happy just thinking about it. I LOVE what I do. Can you tell?

This is the gang from my visit to the store last year! 

This is EMI SCRAPBOOKING. It's the most gorgeous store. Look at my TC section in their store. Susan is such a huge supporter in all that I do. THANK YOU girls!

Want to join us????  March 2nd and 3rd. We moved to a nearby hotel to fit MORE of you into the workshops. ha! I'm not sure about space in the workshops (please call the store) but I did send extra kits for those who wanted a kit only. 

EMI SCRAPBOOKING

3670 Hutchinson Road Suite C-1 Cumming Georgia 30040

770-888-2417

emiscrapbooking@aol.com

Guess who will be going to CHARMING CHARLES?????? 

Tonight- we are having a low key family dinner at my house. Gentry is coming up from BYU for the night to help celebrate McKay. We love these simple times to support each other and you can bet I will be taking some photos. These EVERYDAY MOMENTS are what truly are the most special times. My "cute"- yes, I think he's cute...husband and Zach are in NV playing baseball. Zach's team is playing SHOWCASE games. That means they are playing games and baseball scouts are watching all the boys. They then select them for the special teams that they put together to travel and play... like in NC, AZ etc. Ty informed me that Zach has done great (even though he was really not feeling well this week). I love that Zach told me that "he loves these trips with just his dad." I asked him why and "he said he loves that dad will spoil him more!." 

Tomorrow... I am going on Good Things Utah CHANNEL 4 TV at 10:00 am. I'm posting the free pdf on the blog tomorrow morning. Have a great Sunday!

BIG MOMENTS....

I am here in San Jose teaching. I had the BEST workshop last night with the girls at Scrapbook Island. I did not take ONE photo. I was so busy with the girls in the class. I had the best time! I am always GRATEFUL to be surrounded by such wonderful, creative and inspiring women. I love spending time with my good friend Laurie who owns the store. She is a "good egg." I always use this term for girls who are just GOOD, the type of people who inspire me by the way they live their life. She has the best store and boy did I shop. Hello- I have the new Tim Holtz set of DISTRESS INK PENS!!!! Oh, they are YUMMY and they make my creative heart happy. RUSH to get them- I'm telling you that they are fabulous!!!! I will be using these in my upcoming workshops. 

I was teaching last night and I keep my phone on vibrate only. My kids know to call the store directly when I'm teaching if they need me and dads not available. ha! I get done teaching last night and I see that my daughter McKay had called me THREE times. My heart sinks. I knew something was "going on." It's Friday night and she is a social girl- normally, not calling to chat with me that many times. wink!

I call her back (dialing as fast as I can!) and she said..."Mommy, I did not get into BYU." I knew that she wanted so much to get into Brigham Young University for college, but it's very hard to get accepted. I said, "I'm so sorry, and then she stops me and said- I'm kidding... MOM, I got accepted... I AM SO HAPPY!!!!!"

I want to share with you that she was such a great example to me over this. She wanted to go to BYU, but worried she would not make it in. She has great grades, but they have so many applicants and they take the top GPAS and SATS. For months, she did not want to even "hope" that she would get in. She instructed us at home to not "talk about it." She just did not want to be "let down!"

I had talked to her and told her that I truly felt that she would find out what God wanted her to do next year and just WAIT and it would work out EXACTLY as it should. I prayed for her to feel peace these last couple of months of WAITING. I knew that no matter what... the direction she needed to go would be made known. Going to college is a BIG MOMENT- a special time in your life. I knew that she just needed to know that it would all work out.

So this VERY happy girl- will be going to Provo, Utah next year for college-

 I am floating today because I am so HAPPY for her. This was her dream. She worked very hard in school and on the drill team to make this possible. Gentry and McKay will once again be together next year at school. So thankful Gentry will be there to watch after her baby sister. Matt will be graduating in April from BYU. These moments make my heart overflowing with joy!!!!!

Headed to the ISLAND today two more all day workshops. I love TODAY!

Filming today....

I am filming this morning for SEASON 3 of www.mycraftchannel.com. It takes a lot of time to prepare the shows, but I love doing them. I love to go and actually film them and know that they are ready to become "a real show." So this week, it's been crazy with finalizing CHA S products, Valentines and today's filming. Oh, and I'm packing up and getting ready for my trip on Friday to Scrapbook Island in San Jose, CA. I take it day by day and not let my enormous to do list weigh on me. 

I have so many photos to share, but today I needed to announce two things- I plan to blog later with photos from Valentines.

I have forgot to mention something that I should have let everyone know. 

My second event in Manhatten Beach, CA... Inspired JOURNEY is (OVER) sold out!!!!! Yes, we do have a wait list going. Ginger (the most fabulous event director EVER!!!) and I are thrilled. This event is going to be amazing. If you want to be on the wait list please email Ginger. If you don't have her email- email me at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com and we can make sure to get you on the waitlist for Inspired Journey or for our event in September- Inspiration Unlimited (*sold out as well). I want to thank Ginger for all her hard work in keeping both events so organized and I love her! This is our 5th year- I'm just so grateful and thankful for the huge support and interest in coming to BOTH events. 

Now, I wanted to announce I am headed to PORTUGAL to teach- April 2012. 

Check it out here http://www.clubechocolatequente.blogspot.com/.

This event will take place in Lisbon, Portugal  on the 28^th and 29^th of April. I am thrilled to go since I have never visited here and I can't wait to met all the women attending the event.

This weekend in California....Scrapbook Island girls- if you are taking the workshops this weekend- please bring your own bind it all or Cinch machine if you have one. This way you will not have to wait for a machine to bind all your projects!!!! I can't wait. I'm bringing some fun prizes to share.

Have a fabulous day!

My Craft Channel- Coffee Filter Flowers & I'm headed to the ISLAND

 Today on My Craft Channel I am showing how I make flowers from coffee filters.

Coffee Filter Flowers- creating your own flowers has never been easier and affordable! Go to www.mycraftchannel.com to watch my new show today.

Todays show will be showing you how you can create your own coffee filter flowers. They are so affordable, simple and beautiful! 

Watch today as I shows project examples with my CAROLINA BREEZE collection. This week you will be able to download my free PDF of journaling labels that I used on my projects.

HERE:

Download Tcgratitudetreeblank-4

In just 4 days... I will visit Scrapbook Island in San Jose, CA. I shipped the kits today. I am so excited to teach for the FIRST time with my three new collections. I am teaching these projects:

It is a big 27 PLUS page 8x8 album!!!!

 

I am so in love with this book! I can't wait to see the ISLAND girls. Laurie is the owner and we just have been friends for YEARS- I love her!

This mini book is 6x9 and I love the color from Spring Fling!!!! 

Yes, we will be stamping and using all my NEW buttons, die cuts, papers, and more!

*this book can be ANY theme!!!!! I have had so much fun with this line.

This is a large 10x10 chipboard album with my new fabrications collection. Can't wait for you to feel the flowers!!!!! I am a little too in love with them- ha! This plum brocade is just my love!!!!

So if you are coming... make sure you check the "class supply list" and be prepared for a fun weekend. You know I'm bringing some fun things to share with you! I mailed a couple extra kits so call and see if there is any spots left in the workshops. 

1375 Blossom Hill Rd # 46  San Jose, CA 95118-3806 (408) 978-8900

Hope it's WARM in California! 

Dare to be Different...

Yesterday my husband gave me a early Valentines gift. He sent me to the nail salon to get my nails done. I have to say that it was bad in that my nails really look horrible. I know I should have said something but I felt sorry for the girl doing my nails. I could tell she was nervous herself. However, I know for some reason that yesterdays conversation with her was something maybe we both needed. I came home and shared it with Ty.

I was talking to Gentry on the phone and then McKay as she did my nails. She mentioned it sounded like I had a great relationship with my daughters. It proceeded to a converation about kids and how we raise our children. I told her that as a parent I have felt very lucky in that all my kids are growing up to truly do good things. They are not perfect, but they have honorable goals to be to make a difference in the world.  

She asked... WHY do you think they did make those "good" choices in a world that we are seeing so many kids not turning out well?  The first thought and what I said was- " I know you may not like to hear this but my husband and I believe in being stricter in our rules and expectations from our children." 

Now let me say NOW... I am learning as I go. I am not a perfect parent by any means. I question myself ALL the time. I was NOT planning on sharing any of this. I went to church today and I kept feeling like I needed to blog about my conversation. It is not as a way to suggest anything than other than what is working for "my family."  I will share with you the things that we have done with our children. I think all children are different and truthfully we have parented a little different with each of our children.

That being said- I have taught my kids from a very young age the following: Be a leader not a follower. What does that mean? I have always felt that we should follow our heart and not be tempted to do what ever one else is doing. Be strong in your own personal values, convictions and act accordingly. Be strong enough in who you are to be willing to be alone. Even if it means your unpopular or lose a friend. I always wanted my children to make good choices and not feel pressured to do something because someone told them that they should.

I saw this today. It is in the NEW ERA magazine that McKay was reading today:

I loved it! Why do we all have to be like everyone else? We should be just who God made us and be happy about it. 

The next thing I think I have tried very hard to instill in my kids is RESPECT. As soon as they could speak if they wanted something they were taught to say PLEASE and THANK YOU each time they needed or got something. I feel like gratitude for what you have is life is important and leads to appreciate for WHAT you do have and not what you don't have. When my kids get snappy to me... backtalk, etc. I remind them that it is not allowed in our home. I have a saying that I remind them from Dr. Phil- "People will treat you the WAY you allow them to treat you." So I tell them... "I will not allow you to talk to me (or someone else) that way." We have house rules... things you cannot (or should not say). I hate you and shut up, your stupid, etc. Now, I would be a big liar if I told you it NEVER has been said. It has and we work on it. I will say that it's a rare situation to hear it, because the kids know I will not allow it. 

The last thing that I want to share is RULES. Oh yes, we are more strict with our parenting rules. We decided that our children would not solo date in high school. They go on group dates or double dates and they have a strict curfew. We felt they are just too young to be involved in a closer relationship when they are still so young. I have encouraged our kids to be very academic and do sports (drill) to occupy those times when they would be tempted to say..." I'm so bored!." Ty and I are so close with our kids. I love them so much, but I am their mother first and friend next. The truth is I feel like they are my best friends. However, I make decisions as a mother foremost. We have house rules that we feel will help them when they leave our home and realize in life, we have rules that we all must follow in life and society. 

I have to be honest, I did not want to even blog this. I actually fought it. I am not a parenting expert by any means. I struggle every day to parent my kids. It is hard to follow through at time, but I try hard to. I am still on this journey called parenting. I am just sharing what I'm trying to do. I just wish all my kids came with a owners manual. ha!

 

SNAPSHOTS from the week-

I love this photo from Sunday. Azalea's blessing day. I love how big she is getting. I was lucky to get to watch her and Maxson this week on Kayla's 24th birthday. 

Yes, she has a double chin. She is a great eater. Gentry lives close to them and loves to babysit the kids.

Kayla did this beautiful set up. Oops- I took the photo AFTER our family ate most of the food. The favorite was a zuchini cupcake that she found on pinterest (the recipe). 

Love how Kayla labeled the food. It was so pretty!

Last night, Gentry went to a Black Tie Affair- fundraiser at college. Two of her closest friends at BYU started the fundraising event for Pennies for Presents charity. I was so touched that these young adults cared enough to help raise money for charity. They collected $700.00 last night. 

This is Gentry with Carlee. This is her friend that planned and started the program. The world needs more people like her.

They had a great turn out! I can't help but be a happy mom when I see my daughter doing worthy causes with her friends.

This is the cutest dog- nope not her's! I wanted to share that Gentry is now training for a 5 K run. We spoke today about it and I love that wanted to train properly for it. I love that Taylor is going to run it with Gentry next month. I can't because of my "numb" foot. Maybe next time!

Okay... Gentry is not seriously dating anyone. I have to say that she is just 100% loving her second year at college. She even changed her major from Art to Elementary Education last semester. 

The fundraiser event.

I have to tell the story "behind" Gentry's black dress. Her Senoir year of high school she was going to a dance. I saw this black dress and LOVED it. I told her that she should get it because EVERY girl needs a black dress that is classic and always in style. Gentry did not really like the dress and I had to talk her into wearing it for the dance. When I saw that she wore it last night- I laughed. Maybe's mother's do know best! I asked her if I could have it since I love it and she did tell me NO! ha-

I love that Gentry took 41 photos last night. Her friends thought she was the event photographer and she laughed. She told me that she loves that I have always taken so many photos through the years of our family and she guessed it has rubbed off on her too. I really love this!!!!!!

FRIDAY...FRIDAY... FRIDAY!!!!

I admit it- I love Fridays! I love having my kids home on the weekend. We always have a lot of family time. It what makes me most happy. This weekend Ty is taking me to see the new movie THE VOW...yes, it is a total chick flick. I am such a fan of romantic, true love...make you cry...stories! I am sure it is not something he is REALLY wanting to see, but he goes and I think he may secretly enjoy them. Shh...don't tell!

I was excited when I heard about this-

http://www.scrapbookupdate.com/2012/02/09/cha-winter-2012-top-ten-hot-picks/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Thank you SCRAPBOOK UPDATE (Nancy and Melissa) for picking me as one of CHA WINTER 2012 TOP TEN HOT PICKS!!!!!!!!

I am in very good company. The other nine listed well they are FABULOUS!!!!!!! What a complete honor to make the list and be in such talented company. 

 Fabrications is truly a beautiful collection. I heard over and over that some people thought the paper was fabric and had to feel it. 

This is SEVERAL of the papers mixed together! This is designed by Cheri Piles. I loved the flowers she created and the beautiful layers.

The Fabrications flowers were a huge hit. I am sad in that they were so popular and we are going to sell out of them much faster than we wanted. No worries, we have a reorder. I can't stop using them myself-ha!

I did this layout using Everyday Moments and gasp...I used THREE of white fabrications flowers. Some one needs to stop me!!!!! 

Okay...hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!!!!! 

more from CHA

TODAY has been such a great day. Those days were you can hardly contain the happiness in your soul. I am so thankful for days like today. I finally got my CHA stuff unpacked and so "in my mind" it is all good. I am taping new shows next week for My Craft Channel and I cannot get crafty if I'm surrounded by clutter. ha! 

I will be going on Good Things Utah again on Monday February 20th. I took a month off so I could focus on CHA. I am now ready to create now and "MESS" up my creative space again. 

I wanted to share some photos from CHA that I did not post yet. This is Jillian. She designs her own stamps- I love that she is following her dreams at such a young age. She is delightful and I love that she comes to see me with her mother at the shows.

I am always thrilled to see my products world wide. I am featured in this issue Simply Cards. It is an Australian magazine. I did a special TC free set of images/die cut sheets that is featured in this issue.

Family is FIRST and I am always grateful to have Gentry at the shows. Next time, I hope that McKay will be able to go. We missed Taylor so much this time!!!!! 

This was so funny. This is Julie Jacob. She is on my design team. This is a Japanese magazine, Love My Memories- and I had forgot to tell her that they had asked to publish her Carolina Breeze layout. She was so HAPPY and surprised!!!! 

I feel so bad- often I get so many emails that I answer them "in my head" and I had an email from a girl in my December class at Ever After. She wanted to know the RED paint color that I used in the project- I can't find her email to respond. I hope you read my blog....wink! The acrylic paint we used on the album cover is by FOLK ART- shiny- #2702 Fire Engine Red. 

Off to feed my family and then bling my TC Xyron X Sticker Maker- actually four of them! hmmmm... what could that be for?????  Watch my blog next week. 

Have a great night!

Did you see- TC Embossing Folders!!!!!

Cuttlebug Embossing Folder Set - Teresa Collins TIMELESS 4pc Set [Item # 2001218]

Cuttlebug Teresa Collins TIMELESS 4pc set Explore your sophisticated side with the Timeless Set by Teresa Collins! This collection of four embossing folders features beautiful and intricate designs for any occasion. You will absolutely love using these folders for your cards, home décor, scrapbook layouts, and other creative projects. Use the latest Cuttlebug® embossing folders to create unique and engaging designs for every occasion. Being creative has never been easier! Includes two 5" x 7" and two A2 embossing folders Features exclusive designs by Teresa Collins Perfect for scrapbook layouts, cards, and home décor Model : 2001218

 Yes, they are NOW AVAILABLE!!!!!!! I absolutely love the way they turned out. 

Also, I have NEW TC Cricut IMAGES... images that make me want to create. New at www.cricut.com in the Cricut Craft Room.

I love the doily. I love the card shape and envelope ...oh and the honeycomb design. Yes, I LOVE what I do! I am always needing cut envelope and cards so this was a essential basic to design. I hope you like them!!!!

http://main.cricut.com/shopping/detail-Cricut-Craft-Room-Exclusives-Cricut-Craft-Roomtrade%3b-Exclusives-Teresa-Collins-Basics-291-2049.aspx

I had so many questions about my food program that I am doing. I know that MANY of you want to know and just as many probably don't. ha! So for those of you who want to know...keep reading. I know I cannot personally respong to the many emails that I got yesterday so  I will answer the questions here. If you have more- please post them and I will address them.

I am not doing Weight Watcher's, Jenni Craig, Nutri System, etc. This program doesn't even have a name. It is really a very basic food plan. I keep a food journal that I write down EVERY thing that goes into my mouth. It has been key to keep me on track. I eat 1,200 calories every day. I never go under that amount. If I exerise and work off 200 calories than I then EAT 200 more calories that day. There are doctors and clinics throughout the USA that do the same program that I am doing. The plan is basic. You eat vegetables, lean protein, fruit, brown rice, edamane, eggs etc. (*fruit- not in first 3 weeks!) in any combination each day. I weigh in once a week. 

There is food that is NOT ALLOWED- no exceptions. I do not eat any sugar (I get my sugar from fruit!), carbs (yes, no bread, white rice, tortillas, ice cream, cookies, etc.)  and no processed foods- Frozed meals etc. or dairy. No soda or juice. I drink water throughout the day.

This is my TYPICAL DAY- I tend to eat the SAME thing- over and over!!!!!

Breakfast- 2 eggs, tomato, 1/2 avacodo

Snack Large Apple

Lunch Lettuce, 4 oz grilled chicken, tomato, grilled onion (love the flavor!), red pepper- SALAD

Snack- Shake (Herbalogica 90 Cal protein shake- blend with water in blender!)

Dinner- Grilled Asparagus, 1 cup brown rice, tomato slices, 1/2 Avacodo

Snack- Kiwi or Orange

I drink 100 oz. of water each day and I take supplements (organic) that ensure I am getting all the nutrients and vitamins that I need. 

This way of eating is similar to the Paleo diet and the PINK Method. It is considered a lifestyle more than a diet. They have me doing a cleanse every three weeks and it's purely to cleanse the body. It is your basic cleanse- pure lemon juice, pure maple syrup and distilled water for 3 to 5 days MAX. 

If I did not answer your question- please post in the comments and I will answer them. Thank you!

Azalea now....

 Kayla got her photos taken by her good friend- Merrick White. She is 

so precious. She just turned 2 months old.

 She is a BIG eater. She is such a calm and happy baby. Just like Maxson was!

She looks so much like Maxson-

What a blessing she is- I know Kayla loves having her little girl!!!!!

Can you believe how much hair she has? Matt blessed her at church this past Sunday.

It was beautiful. The words were touching.

Matt is graduating from BYU this April. I know that might mean that they will move. I can't even think about it. It would be so hard. Maxson has a very special relationship with his PaPa (Ty). I've never seen a child so cute with a grandparent. I hope they stay close because I think Ty and Maxson have a very special bond. I suppose all parents wish this. Right?

So many good changes in our family. McKay is deciding where to go to college. She has been accepted to UVU, SUU and Westminister. She got full ride scholarship to UVU and partial scholarships to the other two schools. She is waiting to hear from one more college and then she will make her decision. 

Kits are being prepared for my visit NEXT WEEK to Scrapbook Island in San Jose and EMI SCRAPBOOKING in March. I am so blessed to have Taylor and Spencer who help me kit. Taylor knows how I do the kits and kits them beautifully. This way I can focus on designing instead of kitting for days. ha!

TODAY is a big day for me. It has been 8 WEEKS today of no sugar, carbs or processed food. I have not deviated one time. It is MUCH easier now. I weighed today and I have lost 25 lbs. Okay...that is crazy!!! I have been very consistent in losing about 2-3 lbs. each week. I ran into a lady today who asked me about the program that I am doing. She said she could NEVER do it! I know where she is at. I was there. I know how it feels to think I can't CONTROL this one thing in my life. It has ME! I did not have the motivation to truly make the CHANGE in my life. I had settled. I was just as happy 8 weeks ago as I am today. I honestly knew my health issues would get better if I made some serious changes. I wish I had done it sooner, but the reality is that I was not ready. Motivation is so important. How in the world do you "get" motivated when you don't feel it? I am now...but I have to be honest I wasn't for a very long time. I think for me, it's always forever going to be a battle. The key is to love yourself EVERY single step of the way. 

I still have NO FEELING in my left foot. Sciatica will not rule my attitude though. I'm still working out and I will do what I can until the feeling comes back. I know it's crazy. I truly think it was a blessing. I know that sounds CRAZY! It slowed me WAY down for an entire month and I decided to make some major changes due to it. I may not have the feeling back but I look at all the GREAT things I do have and I just focus on that. 

Hope you have a FABULOUS day!

My Craft Channl- The Cricut Mini episode

 

On today's show I wanted to show you how to create with the Cricut Mini machine.

Today's show I show you how I  used the Cricut Mini to create home decor projects for my home. You will see how I  used my own TC images with Provo Craft and using the Cricut Craft Room. Today's show will share items that was  designed and proudly displayed in my own home: a flocked key, glitter bird, and a fleur de lis. This will inspire the home decorator inside you. Learn more about the newest machine by Provo Craft that allows you to design on your computer or laptop from anywhere that you have internet connection.

My video at My Craft Channel is at: 

www.mycraftchannel.com/?omedia_id=887

www.mycraftchannel.com

Here is a video with the Xyron TC Sticker Maker at CHA that I did with Noelle with Paperclipping Live-  I love this little cute machine!

 

 

STATE DRILL- crafting with Epiphany Crafts

I came home from CHA and less than 12 hours later I went to STATE DRILL competition at UVU with McKay and the team. McKay informed me the last day of CHA that "WE" needed to do a motivational for the team and coaches. By that it meant ME. ha! It was the last hour of the show and I was right beside my friends at Epiphany Crafts. I love their machines (tools). I am drawn to anything that helps me create with my style and things that I can customize things. Their tools are amazing and I can do that. 

Early Thursday morning, I got CRAFTY using the items they generouly gave to me. I will share the photo and what I did with them now. I printed out STATE DRILL 2012 so that they would fit inside the 1x1 punch. I wanted the girls to have charm necklace with meaning.

This is the custom shape tool taht I used the SQUARE 25- I designed what I wanted to say to fit inside the punch area.

This is the silver charms that I used to make the necklaces. They are DOUBLE SIDED!!!! I love them. I need boxes and boxes.

Next, I printed the girls FIRST initial on my EVERYDAY MOMENTS pattern paper. Again, initials are so "IN" and I wanted the personalization for the girls.

You will take your image or whatever you want to go inside your charm and punch it in the tool with the clear epoxy sticker on top.

When you press down on the tool the clear epoxy will cut out with you image.

This is the FINAL (one side) of our charm. I have to say my husband was IMPRESSED. He thought I had them special ordered. 

Next, it was time to do the next side. 

Yikes- horrible photos- can you tell I was in a hurry????? I wanted to show you how it was double sided.

I put them on a necklace to give to the girls. I can't thank Epiphany Crafts enough for SAVING the day for me. I LOVE their tools and they have the most beautiful charms to go along with them!

As for STATE- it was ALL day Friday. I have to admit, the thought kept coming into my mind. This is her last STATE. I watched her so intently and praised God for allowing me to be there and WATCH her. I have to say that I'm most proud of the way she has lead the team this year. As head Captain this year she made my heart smile as I watched her kindness and encouragement to the team spirit. She never let her "position" go to her head, but used it to build up each team member. I always tell her..."Your a good egg, McKay." 

Here they are getting ready to perform their military dance. (McKay, Jacie, and SAGE- I love these girls)

They did so great. One of the girls made a mistake but we still placed 6th in this dance. We were all excited at how far they came this year.

I need to do an entire post from the day with photos-

At the end of competition they do DRILL DOWN. McKay was the 8 girls of about 200 girls who did it. It was a great way to end the day. Drill downs can be very challenging.

The girls took 6th in Military, 7th in Dance, and 9th in Character. Their final placement was 8th for the entire STATE competition. We were thrilled for them. Bountiful took 1st place and they deserved it! These girls could and should be professional dancers. Everyone stood and applauded when they performed. The did a entire routine on STILTS. 

We still have Nationals in S. Calfornia in March, our year end show and so I'm thankful that they will be dancing some more. The last performance will be very emotional for me!

Yesterday, it was BOY TIME. I took Zach and his best friend Nate to Gongoza Park in Park City to tube down the mountain. They had so much fun. I spent 4 hours in their warming hut watching and waiting. I sometime tube, but yesterday I was still too tired from a crazy busy week at CHA. My other boys headed to Brighton to snowboard. Utah has great cold weather activities. If you ever get a chance to come to Utah- we have great tubing and ski resorts!

Today is Azalea's baby blessing. Our family is getting together at Matt & Kayla's this morning. I know today will be filled with special memories. I will share pictures. Have a great Sunday!

Signature Series- HUGE GIVEAWAYS TODAY!!!!!!!

***IF THE LINK WILL NOT WORK- please cut and paste in your browser. I am away from the computer today and cannot fix the link. Thanks!

www.facebook.com/northridge.signatureseries

www.facebook.com/northridge.signatureseries?ref=ts&sk=app_261776477225301

 

Here is the LINK of the SNEAK PEEK-

www.northridgepublishing.com/forms/sneak-peek-of-the-teresa-collins-signature-series

Yes, there is some HUGE prizes being given away today!!!!!

I am going to be all day at STATE DRILL competition with my daughter, but I knew you would want to be involved in this opportunity.

Have a GREAT FRIDAY!!!!!

 

I'm HOME...

I am so thankful for the most amazing week in CA. I heard such great feedback from the retailers and I am thrilled the new lines were so well recieved. I love the addition of color and new products. It was FABULOUS and encourages me to keep designing. wink! The design process never ends. I love this!!!! I am finalizing CHA Summer right now. I could barely sleep at CHA. I was working on designs in my hotel room. I will tell you that after all of these years, I still am inspired and LOVE what I do. I STILL want to help others to tell their story. PS I am thrilled with the way my idea book came out. On the back of the book-  I wrote...TELL YOUR STORY!!!! That is ONE of my releases for CHA Summer. You heard it here first. I was so inspired that I will be release a full collection to help YOU...TELL YOUR STORY in the Summer. See how life does inspire?????

Today is all about working on some designs and then headed to Provo for STATE DRILL TEAM competition with the team. We stay in a hotel tonight as a team and then competition is ALL DAY tomorrow. I am so excited to go with McKay. She has to do a devotional for 18 girls. She let me know this about 11am yesterday WHILE I was in my booth at CHA. You know LOTS of time to do it. HA!

I was right beside my friends at Epiphany Crafts. I LOVE their products. LOVE!!!!! I asked them if they could HELP me. I saw their beautiful products and wanted to create a necklace for each girl. So today I am working on CHARM (custom made) with the Silver Charms, their square custom shape machine and bubble caps. I am going to show photos of what I am making today. I want to thank Tricia and Brian for their generosity.  THANK YOU so much! I can't wait to share what I create.

Today is weigh in day. Yes, I was 100% while in California. I drank my special protein shakes, ate fruit and had a gorgeous salad every night at the restaurant by our hotel. They were wonderful to make it "just right" for me. I truly am dedicated to my health and it FINALLY clicked for me. I wanted MORE to feel better and I wanted MORE to look better. I admit, when I watched myself in the Provo Craft infomercial- I wished I had lost weight BEFORE. I know this is deeply personal but I given up on ever being "really fit and trim." Traveling kills me and so does emotional eating. I LOVE food. I enjoy the social aspect of it. I did not THINK this program would work. I thought it was just another program that would cost me money and not work. I guess I did not know everything. I realize my mind was the problem. I had settled. SETTLED for less that my potential. Do you ever do this? Don't settle. Believe in yourself. I just felt I needed to share this message today. Make the CHANGE you want to see. I lived way too many years carrying all that excess... excess... excess.... I am reading a book called POWER THOUGHTS and it has helped me to realize that I needed to take my own advice in business- FAILURE is NOT AN OPTION!!!!! Now I implement it in my own message to myself.

I hope you have a GREAT day! Tomorrow check my blog for a FUN ANNOUNCEMENT and chance to win some SCRAPTASTIC prizes. xoxo

CHA day 3- highlights from the day

This is the time when everyone at the show seems to be really tired. Okay...it's probably just me. Tonight we had dinner and packed up so that we did not have to do it in the early morning. We have the show from 9-2pm  tomorrow and then it's booth break down. We are headed back home tomorrow night. I miss my family so much!!!!!

Here are some photos from today-

Nick and I with the sweetest girls from Germany!

 

This is Tanner. He is ONLY 13 years old and he is already a designer of stamps and does his own video shows. He was exceedingly polite. His mother does not even craft. I love his drive and ambition. He traveled all the way from the South. He has a darling accent and was so sweet.

Today I filmed for Paperclipping LIVE with Noelle. Here I am talking about the TC Xyron X Sticker Maker. This is always so much fun to do!

Okay... these two sweet girls and I have an announcment RIGHT NOW... here on the blog. I am happy to announce that I will be going to their store to teach AGAIN. Yes, the DATE is set. I will be headed to Ben Frankin Crafts- 21121 Hwy 410 Bonney Lake, WA PH (253)862-6822 the weekend of November 8-10th. You can call and signup to be on the list!

Oh, and they are actually sharing me that weekend- I will be at Ben Franklin Crafts located at 19505 Hwy 2 Monroe, WA 98272 (360)- 794-6745 that weekend. Stephanie are you excited???? I heard you screamed. *I feel bad I had a photo with the girls from Monroe and it will not upload. I am super thrilled to be going back to WA and I hope you will join us for this weekend.

Okay...I got this send to me tonight:

www.thescrapreview.com/2012/01/my-cha-favorites-complete.html

My CHA Favorites

{Reported by Sharyn Tormanen}

Of the assignments that I get during the year, picking my CHA favorites is definitely one of the most difficult. Just looking through the pages and pages of peeks throws my inspiration into overload and my wallet into a panic. I finally worked up the nerve this morning, sat down with my cup of coffee and these are the ones that jumped to the top of my wish list:

 

And, finally, Teresa Collins Fabrications Linen. I use a lot of reds and greens in my scrapbooks, and these patterns will add just the touch and style that I love."

I have to say that this was truly the best way to end the night to hear she wrote this on www.thescrapreview.com. I am just so thankful for the HUGE amount of love and support that all the collections got at CHA. I am just thankful!!!!! I am in love with Fabrications too.

Time to call it a night...too tired to do anything but SLEEP!!!!!

 

 

DAY 2 CHA - My CRAFT CHANNEL CELEBRATE

Another busy day today at the tradeshow. I definitely feel that the show attendance has been great and the retailers are here to buy. Here are some photos from today-

The girls from the Netherlands. I love seeing them! Yes, I am trying really hard to make it to their event to teach. I have been before to teach at another event and really LOVED my time there.

As always so thankful for the continuous support of my products in their magazine publications. I think the magazines are filled with beautiful designs.

I cannot thank Esmerelda and Kari for being so patient and helping with all of our make n takes. Thanks girls for ALL your time and effort. I so appreciate all of your hard work.

Here is the long line to do the make n takes. Everyone is so nice and patient. 

Spring Fling 6x12 mini book make n take.

 

Kari, Julie and Gentry have been amazing help to me during the show. Julie is also on my design team. I love these girls!

This is Lori. She is the owner of Bling it on- CANADA event! The event is in August and I can't wait. So many fun and wonderful things are happening at the event. 

Here is NICK NASH my sales director. I have heard nothing but positive things about what a great job he is doing for my company. I am blessed that he cares and has the same vision as I do for the company.

This is my dear friend Megan from CK Media. I am in awe of this girl and the "light" that shines from her. Such a sweetheart!

This is my dearest friend Amy Coon. She always makes me laugh and I adore her... words can't express how thankful I am to have her constant support in my life. 

How cute it this beautiful baby Emma? I love her bling headband. 

Today my newest show debuted on www.mycraftchannel.com. The show was on documenting celebrations. I showed how to create your own party themed projects.

I created a birthday monthly chipboard album planner. You will be able to create a similar one with the FREE TC download of the monthly calendar pages here- Download Celebrate4. Watch and learn how to make your own blingage necklace and a pendant banner out of ONE sheet of my Celebrate collection paper. Watch the video here: www.mycraftchannel.com/Shows/Teresa-Collins

More from CHA tomorrow.... 

 

CHA- Day 1 TC booth

TODAY was so much fun. I cannot tell you how much I LOVE meeting with the retailers at the shows. It is important to me to know what they like and to hear feedback. I was so happy and thankful for the wonderful response to my collections. I want to share the photos from the booth today.

This wall is FABRICATIONS. The papers are full of color, non-themed, and with the added textured heavy weight papers  they look and feel similar to fabric. The lines were very popular with the 8x8 paper pads, chipboard covers and metal trinkets and fabric flowers. Everyone loves the new buttons and stamps.

Upclose view-

Love that it can be used for boy, girl, wedding, or ANY THEME.

This is EVERYDAY MOMENTS....

The response to this line was very positive and the comments were that they loved the color combo and the beauty of the line. They liked that I had many skus to support the line.

Love the white FABRICATIONS flowers (photo credit: Tammy Mitchell Photography).

Die-cut sheets, chipboard album, brads, stamps... I really love the meaning behind this line. 

I am absolutely in LOVE with Spring Fling. It was fun to hear that many retailers  LOVED the HAPPY COLORFUL line and felt it  still maintained the TC brand look and feel. 

Carolina Breeze has been well recieved with the textured paper and colors. I think it is the perfect yellow!

Here is the full view of the two collections:

I loved this photo framed copy of my idea book cover. It was a gift from Northridge Publishing. The idea book was debuted in their booth and my booth today. It was fun to hear positive feedback on the beautiful photography and how well Northridge did the book. I am so thankful for the great attention to quality and detail. It made me feel good when Gentry (she saw it for the first time during CHA) now wants her own copy.

 Gentry also asked today if I could give her the TC X Sticker maker by Xyron. Yes, she tried it and loved it. The sticker maker was used during the make n takes. I can officially say today that MORE good things are debuting soon with Xyron. Stores can order the sticker makers directly from TCD or Xyron. 

Now for some PHOTOS- This is NICK NASH, the sales director for TCD, moi, Gentry and Julie Jacob at the beginning of the day.

A very upclose photo of my daughter and I together-

These cute girls are truly the "QUEENS of YOUTUBE." I met Rina and Gina some time back. They came into the booth and we chatted...laughed and well... I LOVE THESE beautiful girls. I can't thank them enough for their support and how much they promote my products. It really means to much to me! Thank you girls...

I have to say this beautiful girl (Taylor) melted my heart. She came into the booth with her mother. She was adorable and her mom said..." I have to tell you, that I asked Taylor what she wanted to see or do today. She mentioned that there was two people that she wanted to see and take a photo with. She wanted Tim Holtz and Teresa Collins." I was so touched... really, I can understand Tim... he is super star amazing. Pinch myself that she wanted to meet me. It was so cute and I was truly humbled and touched. Thank you Taylor for thinking I am " a little cool." I bet my own kids will not see me in the same way. ha! 

 

Thank you Taylor!!!!!

At 6pm...the show closed. I had never left the booth once...we were too busy. My feet were hurting but I had a huge smile on my face. Today was a great day and I reconnected with so many of my friends. I would be VERY ungrateful if I did not thank those in attendance and those of you at home who read my blog and support my company for allowing me to continue to do what I love to do. I am truly fortunate and blessed... 

 

 

Teresa Collins CHA Tradeshow Booth

I am so happy to say that my booth is now completely ready for the tradeshow to begin tomorrow. I feel at home when I am in my booth. I enjoy decorating the booth and love the process of watching it come together. Today was non-stop busy with finalizing the booth, and teaching a workshop with the TC Stampmaker, meetings, and a wonderful dinner with my friends at She Scrapbooks. I am finding that restaurants are very willing to make special salads to help me stay on my plan. I am so thankful for this!

This is the front view of my booth at 2979-

I love my chandelier. It makes me happy- and guess what? It is made out of PLASTIC. I got it for a steal- around $80.00. 

Love the comfy Zebra chair and the new table. 

Some of the projects being displayed. 

This is the make n take table. This show we did a glittered gray tulle skirt around it!

This is the debut of the TC X Sticker Maker...I love these and we will be using them in our make n takes tomorrow. 

 Tommorrow is a big day and I am going to bed to be prepared. More photos on the blog tomorrow!

Set up & Oh Scrap!

It's 1:03 am and I am just getting to blog for the day. Yesterday was set up and I taught a class last night. I want to share the photos with you. 

The day begins and we start with our booth. Nothing but a sign indicates where we are - Booth 2979.

First thing is to put the mats down on the concrete. If we don't put this under the carpet, our feet will start to really hurt.

This is the new chairs for the booth. I am in love with them! We set up until 5 pm and we have all the walls up now. Tomorrow we will put product and layouts up. *more photos tomorrow!

This is the kits for Oh Scrap workshop. I had so much fun tonight with at Jennifers store.

These two cute girls flew in to take my class from Ohio and Pennsylvania. I truly am so touched that they would come and take my workshop. 

We used the new FABRICATIONS line. Here we are glittering our ruffles. 

Binding our projects....

This is the owners of BY DESIGN in Houston TX.  We did a book signing tonight and they purchased books for their staff. They are so cute and I can't wait to visit their store. SWEETEST Girls!!!!!!

I met Jackie tonight. I have to say I wanted to cry when I met her. She had purchased TWO big bags of all my papers. I was so grateful for what she shared with me and she truly made my night!

This is KWAN. I think she is soooooo cute!

Okay... TONIGHT was so fun. THANK YOU GIRLS for coming! I am going to try to go to sleep so I can get to the convention center early to set up for the show. I will post photos tomorrow!

Here in Anaheim....

Yesterday was so fun. I arrived at 7am and spent the day in sunshine. My friend and I went "inspirational" shopping. I had design meetings and it was fun to get to do them here in CA. Oh, lunch was at Moonshadows in  Malibu. I was loving it. I was worried if there was anything I could eat. The waiter made a special salad for me- easy! The ocean is directly below you and we ate outside. 

The afternoon was spent going to the store to buy healthy food (apples, oranges, water, etc) for the booth and to finalize more upcoming collection directions. 

Today is the BUSY day. This morning I get to met with CRAFTERS HOME, start with booth set up and then this evening teach a workshop at Oh Scrap! It will be a very busy day. These shows are lots of work, but I love it. I woke up this morning to find an email that congratulated me on this- you can find it at www.scrapbookupdate.com

Melissa’s CHA Winter 2012 Sneak Peek Picks

Fabrications Layout by Julie Jacob-

Always happy to know that others like your products too! A GREAT way to start off the day. I will be posting each day on my blog. I hope you will enjoy my CHA posts. Have a wonderful Friday!

Headed to CHA....

It's TIME. I am prepared and very excited. It is like Christmas for me. I love going to the trade show and talking to the retailers. I love seeing my friends in the industry. I always say that online photos of products never do them justice.

I have a fun surprise too for those who place an order in my booth. I have beautiful pink TC tote bags to give away. I love them! 

Also, on TUESDAY we are doing this make n take:

This is my new FABRICATIONS line and stamps. This adorable mini book was designed by Sesil Cratin. Isn't this so CUTE?  Come back the booth at the show and make your own for your store. 

Here are a few more projects that I wanted to share-

This layout was designed by Sesil Cratin. I am in LOVE with how she mixed FABRICATIONS, the buttons, gems and stickers from the collection. LOVE this!

This layout is SUPER happiness and colorfully designed. Cheri Piles did a beautiful project with Spring Fling. I can't wait for you to see this line in person. The colors are beautiful.

Now, I love EVERYDAY MOMENTS. I love that it is really non-themed. It is about LIFE. Here is a boy project designed by Jamie Harder-

Today I packed early, went visiting teaching and even got my hair cut. Then I worked out at my crossfit gym for an hour. I needed to move and it was a hard workout today. Unfortunately, I still have numbness in my left foot. Sciatica is still a problem, BUT I decided that I was not going to quit working out because of it. I just have to modify some things for a while. 

I am 100% committed to my new lifestyle change. I feel GREAT and wish I had done it sooner. I watched the infomercial and can't believe the change in myself since Nov. 20th (the day we filmed). I am down 22 lbs. Wow... I even did it over Christmas. I will share a few things that I have learned- (these things worked for ME!). 1. WRITE down everything you eat - this truly is the key to success 2. Don't weigh yourself every day (as women our weight fluctates and it can be discouraging!) KNOW that no matter what the scale says you are making progress to being a healthier person 3. YOUR diet is what will show you results. (yes, I have worked out faithfully for 10 months- and I did lose weight BUT I lost a lot more when I changed the food I was eating!- I eat 1,200 calories a day and since it's GOOD food I am always FULL) 4. Work out- you can eat more and it's GREAT for mental happiness- I do Crossfit FIVE days a week 5. BELIEVE in yourself. POWER THINKING is key! I know these are basic but they have made a big difference for me.

 

announcing TV PROVO CRAFT INFOMERCIAL

I can finally SPILL THE BEANS!!!! I was asked to take part in the Provo Craft infomercial for the Cricut Mini. Of course, I was thrilled and immediately said yes. Only my family could know about it. It was a great experience and I learned a lot. So I wanted to share the behind the scenes photos and my experience with you. I watched the infomercial for the first time yesterday. I watched it with my husband. Oh, so hard to watch yourself. There are so many other talented crafters in the commercial. I was truly inspired. I have to say that I loved the host Tracy. She is a true professional and so down to earth, kind and made me feel at ease.

The production company was AMAZING! So organized and I worked non-stop with Beau. He is a ROCKSTAR producer with Redmond Entertainment. He helped guide me and prepare me for the shot. It was filmed in a large studio in downtown SLC. I was thankful to NOT have to get on a airplane. I filmed my parts for two days the week before Thanksgiving. They had professional stylist (wardrobe) and make up artist who helped the cast with every attention to detail. 

Everything was done with great attention to detail. There was always a few PROVO CRAFT employees (friends) there at all times to make sure everything was as it needed to be. I was so impressed with everyone involved. 

We spent an entire day to read through the scripts, make necessary changes and do practice. It helped me so much to get to do the read through. I had never done a show where it was scripted. I admit, this was scary at first to me. I kind of freaked myself out the two days before having to show up on set. THEN I arrived and I felt so much peace.

Everyone on the film crew were so helpful and nice. I could not ask for a better experience. I felt that everyone went out of their way to make sure we all felt like we were doing a good job. 

Equipment was EVERYWHERE and when anyone was filming... we had to be quiet. I loved watching the screens and watching the crew at work. Raymond Entertainment does infomercials that we all know and watch and they know HOW to do beautiful shows. I was so impressed with the company and their professionalism. Since I was new at this type of TV- I was very unsure of myself. Thankfully, they encouraged and made me feel like I did well. 

I have to say having a script was a blessing and a stress. ha! I was scared that I would say the wrong thing. I loved that Beau asked me to write what I felt about the machine and then they used my own words. I also did ALL of the projects for my segment. I love that it is authentic. They showcased what I love MOST about the Cricut Mini- making home decor!!!!

This was a rough draft of my script. It was changed a few times so that the wording was me and how I would artriculate it. I still have my parts memorized from saying it over and over in my head, out loud to my family, etc. It was a big fear and I faced it. I was very happy that I did the infomercial.

The cool part was having a telepromter to help keep me going. I had it basically memorized and the telepromter is there to help if you "forget" and cue us on what we should be doing or saying. I am now a HUGE fan of telepromters. 

 

A behind the scenes of all the cameras. So much equipment! 

Food services was beyond fantastic. The food was non-stop and I don't know how movie stars can be so tiny with food like this. Truly amazing!!!! I admit, I ate WAY too much from being nervous. 

This was the BEST experience!!! I met so many wonderful new friends Courtney Toney (wedding planner expert) and BEAU (far left) could be a crafting superstar. Yes, he knows how to work the Cricut Mini!!!!!!! Beau if you ever need a job- TCD would LOVE to have your amazing crafting talent. PS and he is FUNNY too!

I'm so in love with this room. I get to show you "my set." This is the living room that is featured with all the artwork (designed by me). I did all the frames and decor with the Cricut Mini. Yes, I have these all in my various parts of my own home. 

Sorry the studio lights made the photos I took washed out. All the artwork on the wall, tables, etc. are items I made and something you could do too. I used my black flocked paper, glitter paper, etc. for several of the projects. The red fleur de lis is made from my World Traveler collection.

Here is another view- I will say the set designer GOT ME! I loved the set and loved how beautiful this room was. I want to tell you WHAT I love most about the Cricut Mini- it is small and I can take it with me when I travel and ANYWHERE I have internet access and my laptop- I can design on the go. I want to show some of the projects I created upclose:

 

All of the projects shown are created from the TC images that are on my various cartridges. However, there is a SPECIAL with the purchase of the Cricut Mini on the Infomerical. If you pay in full- you get my special 50 set of exclusive TC images FREE at Cricut Craft room. Yes, isn't that cool?????  I picked my top 50 images that YOU can get for FREE. 

This is what I know about the TV air times-

It seems it will be all playing randomly all over the country.  However, nationally it will be on CWTV, Bravo, FX, HGTV, National Geographic, Spike, and Travel.  In SLC it will play on KTVX at 5:30 on Saturday the 28th.  

There are many amazing girls that helped make this infomercial special. I was blown away at the projects!!!! Thank you so much Provo Craft for asking me to be apart of something so OVER THE TOP cool. It was something bucket list worthy!!!! I learned so much and I am forever going to remember this experience. 

Off to pack...I leave for CHA at 3 am in the morning. Yes, lots to get done today. I will be blogging each day (with photos) for those of you who may not be going to the big craft & hobby show. 

Have a FABULOUS day! 

 

 

Oh Scrap- Friday NIGHT workshop

The workshop is OVER "sold out." We tried to fit in as many people as we possibly could. I send the supply list of what to bring to the store owner today and I posted it on my TCD facebook page. If you did not get in- please come by and say hello. We have the new TC idea book there that night too. It's a Friday night girl party! I'm thrilled that Julie Jacob (my friend and DT member) and Gentry will be there with me. *I do not have any extra kits for this workshop- sorry.

I am packing and finalizing a few new changes to the booth for CHA. I purchased a new table and chairs. I am loving the chairs-so me.... I will post photos! I have so much to display that I need a bigger booth. ha! The make n takes are going to be amazing and we always run out so please come early if you want to make one. We have NEW make n takes each day! 

Today I am going to show you some more projects the design team has created:

This is a beautiful 12x12 frame- and Colette Nederhoff used EVERYDAY MOMENTS to create. Isn't this so beautiful? I love her altered projects.

I simply love this title- EVERY DAY matters- designed by Jamie Harder. I love how she mixes the products in the Everyday Moments collection. So pretty! I am a firm believer in that EVERY DAY does matter.

I just realized I am posting THREE projects with the calendar paper as the base. I think my designers loved this paper. Look at three different ways to use the paper. This adorable layout is full of Stacey's personality. This is Stacey Michaud. I love her style and how she incorporates it into her layouts. She is adorable! She used the new buttons, die cuts, gems, and papers.

I have so much more to share. I want to GRATEFULLY thank my amazing design team for going above and beyond this time. They are fast, reliable and WONDERFULLY supportive to me. I love each of them. THANK YOU GIRLS.

Oh, and last this is the MAKE N TAKE book that I designed for SUNDAY at the show. We start when the show begins until we run out. 

We are excited to showcase the new TC Xyron Sticker maker with the make n takes. LOVE these cute little machines!!!!!

Have a FABULOUS Tuesday!!!!! 

My Craft Channel- add SPARKLE & SHINE

 

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. We had snow here in Utah and I loved it! I was able to spend the entire weekend enjoying family time. Oh my Azalea, is getting so chubby! She loves to eat. It is amazing how FAST kids change and grow. Taylor and Spencer came over and then Matt & Kayla came with the kids. We made a huge pot of hot chocolate and watched Mr. Poppers Penguins. I packed for CHA and even finished up some projects for the booth. It was a productive weekend!

Church today was just what I needed. I am now able to go to Relief Society. It is where the women over 18 go for one meeting each week. The lessons are directed for us. Today the lesson was on PRAYER. The teacher was so inspiring. I think what stood out to me the most was that WE have to make the effort to PRAY to Heavenly Father. We need to accept the WILL of God in answering our prayers. Often, we think we know what is best and it's so important to know that God does things for us to help us grow and learn. HIS plans sometimes are different then what maybe we want.

I was moved.

I thought of something very personal in my life. My heart started beating faster and I KNEW I needed to share it with the women in the room. I knew that I needed to share it here on my blog. I want my kids to KNOW...my family and my friends to know ME.  So here goes.... Many years ago when I lost my mother, I started to scrapbook to help REMEMBER her and those memories of her. It was THERAPY and a way for me to grieve and come to terms with my broken heart and loss.

When I met Lance (Mr. Rusty Pickle) at a scrapbook store- I was a NEWBIE. I had no idea HOW to design or do anything. I never thought in a million years I would one day be designing craft and scrapbook products and eventually own my own company.  The truth is THIS was NOT in my life plan. I mean, I had SIX kids living with us and I was a full time mommy. I had no desire to work and thankfully we were in a situation that I did not need to work. However, God had other plans.

I was truly lead- God held my hand and I was giving wonderful opportunities to learn and grow. I designed for Rusty Pickle and left when the time was right. Next, I was given the opportunity to design a signature line for Junkitz. That is when it got TOUGH. I was NOT finding balance and I was questioning WHY I was doing this. I felt HUGE guilt every time I left to go teach or attend a event. I found myself being so torn. I loved what I did, but I loved my family MORE. I found myself praying often for guidance. I wanted to do God's WILL for me. I kept feeling that HE did want me to do this. I still felt doubts.

Then something HAPPENED. It was a sacred experience for me. I was at a cross roads. I decided to leave Junkitz. I had to decide... Was I done? Was it time to stop? etc. I remember getting on my knees in prayer. I prayed and cried and was on my knees for an hour or more. THEN it happened- an answer that I will NEVER forget.  I knew with out a doubt exactly what God wanted me to do. In fact, the feeling was so intense. My prayer had been answered. It was not what I thought it would be.  I knew that HE wanted me to keep going and I was not done with this journey. I got the answer that I was only starting. I felt such peace in knowing HE was leading and guiding me.  It was HIS plan and will for me.

I am often asked, "How do you juggle so much?" "Do you ever sleep?", etc. I have to be direct here and tell you that Heavenly Father helps me EVERY single day. I am blessed to be a positive person and I focus on knowing that HE is helping me. I know that my inspiration comes from God and I am being guided by HIM. I am so grateful to know that prayers are answered. I am so grateful for this experience that allows me to grow and learn so much. I believe strongly and have faith that God does listen to us and does answer our heartfelt prayers. I have so much peace now. 

Today on www.mycraftchannel.com you will see some of my favorite things. 

        SPARKLE & SHINE - and how to add it to EMBELLISH your creative  life and projects.

Today I will show you how I add blingage to headbands, shoes, and more. I am also showing the book-

 the SPARKLED box book that is featured in her my new " Teresa Collins" idea book. I hope you will watch my show segment today. The link is www.mycraftchannel.com/?omedia_id=822

Have a wonderful Monday!

 

New TC Fabrications and Everyday Moments Workshop

Finally, I have visuals to share of the TWO new workshops!

We booked my flights today for Scrapbook Island and EMI Scrapbooking. I will be teaching the following with my BRAND new CHA product releases-

FABRICATIONS HOME- 10x10 Chipboard album

My album is all about my family and HOME! I used each page to showcase each of my kids and our growing family. Yes, the book is BIG. *If you are coming to the workshop the large brooch on the right side is not included. I asked students to bring a family piece of jewelry or brooch that has special meaning to you as mine does for me. 

We will be using the NEW Fabrications flowers, stickers, brads, die-cut papers, and MORE!

We did a family photo shot right before Christmas. I knew I wanted to create a book that would showcase my family RIGHT now. 

I will also be teaching a EVERYDAY MOMENTS workshop. This is a BIG- 30 page album using the new release. It is 8x8 in size and I designed this book for Kayla and Matt.

These are my new 8x8 chipboard covers.

Here is some inside views-

I can't wait to teach this project and then give it to Kayla as a gift. 

As of today, EMI Scrapbooking only has SIX spots left. They started signups before I had the projects designed. Ha! So don't hesistate to call. They now have the schedule set and we are going to have a fabulous time in Georgia. I am thrilled to be going back! (March 2nd and 3rd- Cummings, GA)

Also, Scrapbook Island will begin sign ups  TOMORROW for the three workshops that I will be teaching. We booked my flight tonight and I have to say...I feel like I am going home. I have lost count how many times I have been to Laurie's store. I LOVE LOVE LOVE going to visit her and the girls at Scrapbook Island. They are truly my friends. So this is the FIRST store I will be teaching at after CHA. 

Scrapbook Island- February 17th and 18th- San Jose, CA

Scrapbook Island- call 1-408-978-8900 to sign up. They are now set up to sign you up! We are going to have a great weekend of fun times and creating some beautiful projects.  There are also links to both stores on my left side of my blog. I hope you can join us!

 

NEW TC - Spring Fling Workshop

I am fortunate that I am able to travel and teach this year. I love visiting stores and events and sharing what I love so much. I have been designing my workshops for my next several store visits. I will be going to Scrapbook Island- San Jose, CA next month and in March to EMI Scrapbooking in GA. This is the SPRING FLING workshop that I will be teaching. It is truly one of my ALL TIME fave projects. Why? It has special meaning to me to be create a memory book about Maxson and Azalea. *photos credit- Michael Sandberg.

This is my SPRING FLING WORKSHOP- a little sneak peek with my NEW CHA collection:

The album is created with thick chipboard covers. I wanted to have lots of elements of design throughout the project. I even added FABRICATIONS flowers, buttons, stamps, blingage etc. The book is 6x9".

 

This project is non-themed so you can do your book about anything/anyone.

I love the HAPPY colors in the book- Spring Fling is truly a collection I am LOVING to design with!

I have had so many emails about the upcoming classes and so if you are signed up for this workshop- you get a little peek at it. 

I wanted to share a couple more projects today that my talented design team has created.

This layout and all the flowers are so pretty.  Jamie Harder used the brads and buttons inside the flowers from the diecut and papers.

FUN... this is what this layout is about! Stacey Michaud designed this engaging layout. I love the brads, circles, butterflies with the stickers on the layout. 

I will post EVERYDAY MOMENTS projects on my next blog post...the workshop that I will be teaching and some more inspiration from the design team. I am so fortunate to have such a talented design team! My design team is run by Sesil Cratin (she is not only one of my closest friends but has helped me grow TCD). All design team inquiries and interest are to be directed to sesil@teresacollinsdesigns.

The winners from FABRICATIONS are:

Please email teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com with your name and address. Please post in the subject line: Fabrications Blog winner. Thank you!

I thought I would do my weekly update. TODAY has now been FIVE weeks of no sugar, soda and processed foods. I have not cheated or even really been overly tempted. I write down EVERYTHING that I eat in a binder. I am eating fruit more now. I make sure that my vegetables outweigh the fruit. I feel GREAT and I take it day by day. I don't weigh myself except once a week. Yes, I have lost 20 lbs now. I also workout by doing Crossfit. I do not focus on my weight at all. I did this as a way to "feel" better. The weight loss is a very positive side effect. 

Today is REGION for drill competition. This a a big deal for all drill teams. In order to go to STATE competition and compete you must place at Regions. We decorated the girls lockers yesterday. Today I am doing a special lunch for the girls with the other officiers moms. Today will be focusing on "being in the moment" with my daughter. I can't wait to see them perform. This makes me so HAPPY!!!!

DEBUTING- my NEW collection FABRICATIONS

 My last collection is a big collection- FABRICATIONS. I have two different "themes" in the collections: Canvas and Linen.

I wanted to debut a collection that evokes what is a constant source of inspiration in my life. When I was a small girl, I would go from showroom to showroom and home to home with my mother. There were always bolts of fabric in our home. She was always working with a client to design the perfect curtains, bedspread, etc. I remember always LOVING brocade. This line has special meaning to me. It reminds me of being with my mother.  At a very young age, I learned first hand to love style and  that designing a home of beauty and memories had meaning.

I have to tell you that the PLUM damask above (this is the one of the 10x10 chipboard album covers/flowers/stickers/brads) makes me swoon. Oh, yes... I love this purple. *this line was designed on canvas and linen like backgrounds to give the feel of actual fabric.

Yes, this collection was inspired with the thought that I wanted a line that was non-themed and classic. You could use these papers on ANYTHING and they would not get dated by the designs! Plus, they were designed so that you can mix and match all the papers in a project. The flowers in the line (white and cream) are beautiful and I love that they are textured like real fabric. I had to stop myself from using them on EVERYTHING! There are buttons, brads, stamps, jewels, metal trinkets, chipboard, die-cut sheets, and stickers as well. Plus, two different 10x10 chipboard album cover and two different 8x8 paper pads. You could say I got a little crazy "in love" with the collection and kept adding pieces. 

Here are some projects designed with FABRICATIONS:

Jamie Harder did  a beautiful layout showcasing NINE papers, stickers, and buttons from the line.

Jamie H. also designed this beautiful layout. I love how she used the diecut tag (age 3) for the age of Maeve. There is no limits to the looks you can create with this collection. 

This layout by Stacey Michaud and I love how playful and fun she made this beautiful project!

I told you that I love the NEW FLOWERS with Fabrications! They come in both cream and white!!!!

TODAY I will be giving away THREE collections of FABRICATIONS. Please post a comment here on the blog. The winners from Spring fling are:

Please email teresa@teresacollinsdesigns with your name and address. In the subject line please put SPRING FLING WINNER. Thanks so much!

Also, today is my second show this new season at My Craft Channel. You can watch it here at  www.mycraftchannel.com/Shows/Teresa-Collins. Today I was showing how to create your own do it yourself PLANNER/ JOURNAL. If you are like me, you want to keep your memories written down so you will always remember those special times.

Today's show will show you how to create your own personal planner/journal using my NOTATIONS collection. You will be able to download my free Calendar PDF to create your own project here. Also, learn how to create your own magnetic embellishments. Yes, I said magnetic!!!!! 

Here is the Calender to recreate what I showed on today's show-

Download NewCalendar mouse pad

I hope you enjoyed the newest collection and good luck entering to win it here today! 

 

CHA DEBUT- "SPRING FLING"

I have a fun announcement. OH SCRAP! is hosting a special PARTY for my idea book debut on the night I am teaching at their store. The workshop is SOLD OUT but I wanted anyone who wanted to come and celebrate with us to be invited. Since the idea book came in yesterday- OH SCRAP will have my brand new TC Idea books at their store that night.

We are going to celebrate with yummy desserts (I will unfortunately not partake-ha!) and have a book signing starting at 9:00 pm. It is going to be a big party! You are WELCOME to come and shop, eat some yummy food and see my book in person.

OH SCRAP! is going to reserve idea books starting now so that you are assured if you want a book that you will get one. This way if you come you will not have to worry about the books selling out before you get there. The store is located at: 427 E 17th St # B  Costa Mesa, CA 92627-3201  (949) 645-3334.

You are welcome to come and celebrate with us even if you did not make it into the class. It would truly make my night!!!!! The date is Friday January 27th. To purchase online: 

www.northridgepublishing.com/store/subscribe/signature-series/aid:teresacollins

I want to thank you for the kind remarks about my first release. I read every comment on facebook and here on the blog. I design each collection with purpose and if I wouldn't personally use and love it, then I do not do it. Yes, I have lines that did not make the cut! 

Today I am showing you my second collection to be released at CHA- SPRING FLING

This beautiful collection is full of whimsy and color.  It is classy and pretty with the freshness of spring.

 I wanted a line that could be used young or older. A line that the colors were such that they were happy colors and that my best friends little girl would love, but I would love too. I admit, this line has drawn me in! 

 

This is a layout using the papers, buttons (in the center of the flowers), brads (green jewels), die cut and chipboard elements. I honestly have LOVED working with this line.

This is a project that was designed by Jamie Harder. I LOVED her mini album and wanted to show a few pages with you.

I love the damask pendant, the butterfly and wood buttons in teh collection. The line just makes me smile!

This line has lots of die-cut elements for titles and journaling. 

This is the diecut tags, and pink butterflies-

I love the RED in this collection. The combination of colors are vibrant and make creating so much fun!

This line is my daughter Taylor's favorite line that I am debuting at the show.

This next project is the FREE make n take that you can make at CHA on MONDAY at my booth:

Yes, the ENTIRE album!!!!!!! It is a large 6x12" h book. 

Today I am giving away three collections of SPRING FLING!!!!! 

This line is very special to me and I have enjoyed working with colors that others would probably not think I would do. ha!  Leave a comment to enter to win. THANK YOU!

Winners from yesterday:

Congrats!!!! Please email your name and address to teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com and include in the subject line: Everyday Moments/Idea Book Winner.  Thanks!!!!!

TODAY I WILL PICK THREE MORE WINNERS TO GET THE NEW TC SPRING FLING COLLECTION!

It's TIME... yes, CHA 2012 TC RELEASES!!!!!!!

This is always a exciting time to show you what I have been designing for the past several months. I have THREE collections that debut at the end of this month. I can't pick a favorite. My office staff thinks this is my best release yet! I love them all and each release is always my favorite until I design a new one. ha!

I have been so blessed this past year. My business is growing and with growth, I felt it was time to expand my design horizon. I wanted to do releases that are still very TC but added more color, maybe a little more whimsical on some of my lines. I also felt it's important to stay true to my own design essence. So I hope you will love my additions and how I am expanding the look of TC Designs. I hope you will enjoy the Spring Fling and how I feel it opened a fresh new look to TC Designs as a company. Today I am showcasing just one.

Before I show the collection...TODAY the PRESS RELEASE from XYRON went out. The press release announced the partnership between TCD and XYRON.  You can read it here: http://www.xyron.com/enUS/PressRelease/Xyron__Partners_with_Teresa_Collins_Designs__to_launch_the_Teresa_Collins_Sticker_Maker.htmlI am so happy that together we will be bring new and exciting products to the market. They are very open to new and as a crafter, I want to design products that truly are needed and wanted in the industry.  I am in love with my TC X sticker maker. I have been making all kinds of stickers. Please come by my booth at CHA and check out the machine in person. We will be demoing with the machine at the show each day and doing our make n takes. Ahhhh.... this has been so exciting! Thank you Xyron for this amazing opportunity to work together. 

Here are the ONE of the new collections- EVERYDAY MOMENTS!!!

This line is everything that I am about. I believe in living each day with gratitude and remembering the everyday moments that truly are the most important!!!!! This line has many new items to the collection- layered stickers, and THREE unique die-cut sheets, stamps, trinkets, stickers, brads and of course 18 beautiful textured patterned papers. Oh, I have to say if you love adding meaning to your projects- I added so many tags, quotes, and designs that allow you to truly tell your story. I am thriled to finally be able to share it with you!

Here are a few samples that I did with the collection-

This is a 6x12 album that is my FREE make n take on DAY 1 at CHA- Yes, come CREATE an entire ALBUM!!!!! It will come with complete instructions and color copies for you to teach at your store.

 This is a layout showcasing the beautiful flower paper and stickers in the collection. I used the brads in the center of the flowers and then adhered them to the page with pop up dots!

 

This is the 8x8 Chipboard covers and chipboard accents, brads, stickers, etc. I am in love with this collection!!!! 

Here is the 6x6 paper pad:

 Theres is so much more!!!! I just got home from two meetings today. I am doing more images with Provo Craft and I met with Northridge to pick up the BRAND NEW TC books today.

So to celebrate- TODAY I am giving away 3 collection sets of my EVERYDAY MOMENTS and I will GIVE each winner a signed copy of the TC Tell YOUR STORY idea book!!!!! 

I am so happy and blessed to do something that I truly love. I wish you all luck in entering. I will pick THREE Winners tomorrow...you get the EVERDAY MOMENTS paper collection and my brand new TC IDEA BOOK. HAPPY DAY!!!!!

This is EXCITING... my second EVENT

I am working on so many things right now that I am in CREATIVE auto-pilot. ha! I wanted to share with you the logo for my SECOND event. Yes, I announced in October that due to Inspiration Unlimited selling out so fast- that I was going to do a SECOND TC event with Ginger. This time it's called Inspired Journey!

I am thrilled to do a second event in Manhatten Beach, CA. I know we have a facebook page up now and I can guarantee the girls coming will be headed to Disneyland. The event is May 18th and 18th. I have asked two AMAZING teachers that will be teaching at the event with me. Sande Krieger will be there teaching with 7 Gypsies and Rebecca Cross the owner of Pink Pasilee as well. I know that they both have great things in store and I can't wait. 

I am working on my projects for the event and have had so many people email and ask about how to get into my events. Well, if you are on the waiting list- you will be contacted by Ginger on a regular basis. If you are wondering if you are on the waiting list or want to get on the waiting list for either or BOTH events PLEASE email Ginger or myself at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns. We are constantly working to make sure we get as many crafters into the event as possible. I have some amazing surprises in store for Friday night too. I can't wait!!!!

Okay...my OH SCRAP workshop event is OVER SOLD OUT! I finally this morning told the store owner that I can only do 2 more spots. We have sold out twice and honestly I can't do anymore. So heads up if your waiting- I just opened 2 more and I promise this is it!!!! We have some big things going on that night that I hope to announce on Friday. I will say that I have some fun prizes!!!!! 

This is the large 10x10 book that I will be teaching with my new line- Fabrications (linen):

Now today I am going to workout (go to the gym everyday again), and keep creating for CHA. Have a great Wednesday!!!!

Debut of SEASON 2- today!!!!!

Rights right- you can watch the Teresa Collins segments for Season 2 starting today with my show!!!

 

This was a FUN one to do. Today's show is about some of my favorite things: glitter, flocked and canvas paper, and LOVE. Oh, and you can watch me debut the TC X Sticker maker. 

Here is a little about todays video segment:

 

Glitter & Flocked- All about LOVE

It's time to design cards, banners and more for those that you love. Teresa is going to show you how to use glitter, canvas and flocked papers in a whole new light. You will see how Teresa decorated her plain 2012 planner to a "glitter" planner that any girl would love. Learn how she created a bling necklace and a canvas banner.Using the free "love inspired" TC PDF available at Teresa's blog, learn how you can use the debuting TC X sticker machine on all your project.

Here is what the free TC PDF that goes with today's show:

If you would like to print it out and design with it for your own personal use- here is the link: 

  Download Valentine Teresa Collins-1

 

Watch the debut segment today at www.mycraftchannel.com.

All the items shown on the show segment today is actually available in a special Glitter & Speciality paper kit. Retailers may contact nick@teresacollinsdesigns.com to order the kits. If you want one, please ask your store or online supplier to order directly from our office. 

Have a FABULOUS Monday!!!!

IT's SUNDAY...

I love Sundays!!!! I am home with my kids enjoying a very relaxing day. After church, McKay made very yummy potatoe soup for the family. She added cheese, corn and a little rice to the potatoe soup. It was a huge hit. I love that my girls love to cook and help me out. My boys are so NOT into cooking. I wish!!!!

I went offline this weekend, so it was a NICE break. I think I'm a better wife and mother when I take the time to UNPLUG from social media and emailing. I went to McKays drill competition yesterday. They placed 4th in military. Only by 2 points- almost 3rd (they had a little error!). I felt bad that during DANCE they got a penalty. It cost them placing at all. One of the girls was doing a flip and went beyond the line. Oh well- it was a GREAT dance. Then they did their CHARACTER dance. Okay... this is the super crazy cool dance that McKay is a guy and she dances with a FULL SIZE mannaquin woman. It's so cool that she can do it! I thought it was fabulous but it was their first time performing it and the judges felt they did not "showcase" the mannaquins enough. McKay does a FLIP with her mannaquin. I need to take a photo, the mannaquin's two feet and McKays two feet are ATTACHED at their dance shoes. McKay said it's CRAZY hard to dance with "her." Actually her name is YaKcm. Yes, McKay's name backward. It was absolutely GREAT to spend over 10 hours at the competition watching the girls dance. 

One of the mother's on the drill team asked HOW is it that your at ALL your daughter's stuff and run all the drill team things this year, run a business, and still have time to take care of the rest of your family? I was dorky and said... "I'm SO LUCKY!!! I love being busy and I find that when you make your family first, EVERYTHING always works out!" Now, I have to credit Ty. When I go to all day drill competitions he has a "BOYS DAY" and girls are not allowed. HA! He is the best dad. Zach is still practicing BASEBALL year round so they do it every Saturday as a team for a few hours. We are always busy and I would not have it any other way.

Yesterday was TORTURE at the event. I sat around the parents eating SUGAR, ICE CREAM, SNACKS and well, I was just sitting there eating my "healthy" salad that I brought with me. I realized once again that eating heathly is REALLY a commitment. I was "missing" joining everyone else as they ate their carmel apples. ha! I came home late last night and needed to have a little POWER THINKING with myself. I thinking dieting and healthy eating is harder for some people. Yes, I am ONE of them. I am doing so great and it's easy when I'm home. I had to cook and prepare my meal on Friday for yesterday. I know that was the KEY for me yesterday. I had my food prepared and I did not have to eat the concession food. Anyway, I have worked hard to get healthier and it's going to always be a constant day by day effort on my part to just do it.

TOMORROW is the START of Season 2 on My CRAFT CHANNEL. I will post tomorrow morning what the show is about. My shows are on Monday's. I LOVE tomorrows show and I hope you will too. 

Later in the SEASON- you will learn how to make these CLAY TAGS using your TC Stampmaker...

These are Christmas themed but you can make them any theme or name- so stay tuned.

tags by Lara Scott

Okay...off to enjoy the rest of today with my family!!!!!!

It's FRIDAY.... FREE TC Stampmaker download- all about LOVE!!!!

I love FRIDAYS!!!!! I am home spending time with Maxson and Azalea and designing new images for the Cricut machines. Oh, these are making me HAPPY!!! I can't tell you how much I truly LOVE what I do. The moment I dread it... then I will be done. ha! 

My new products are coming into my warehouse and I'm loving the REAL products. So much better then seeing on a computer screen. I am busy designing project samples and CHA booth visuals. Are you going to CHA? I have designed BOOKS for my make n takes. Yes, entire books. I can't wait for the show to start (end of this month) in Anaheim. I will post visuals soon and hopefully you will be there  and can make your own project.

I am so sore. I am now working out again. I'm one week back at the gym. I had to change gyms. After I hurt my back and had the sciatia episode, I started to go to another trainer that is skilled with dealing with injured clients. I still have sciatia and I am numb in my entire left foot. So I can't do some "normal" things like running. I am still doing intense cardio with a CROSSFIT trainer. No more kettlebell swings are in my future. I am doing lots of situps (100 each day), push ups, squats, etc. and I am feeling great to at least MOVE and stretch each day. I have to say that I miss my last gym. I just realized that with my back issues that I could not be 110% of what they expect at their gym. I am going five days a week at Crossfit now. 

I am now 3 weeks of NO SUGAR, PROCESSED FOODS and I have NOT cheated once. I am down 15 lbs and still eat like a crazy amount of good food. I eat a lot of salads, avacado's, lean chicken, tomatoes, and eggs. I have a special whey protein shake every day (that I LOVE!!!!!) It's crazy but the food I now eat TASTE so much better. I will be honest, it is not easy to give up so much of the food that I love. I miss Cafe Rio- pork barbacoe salad, Veggie Sushi, and Frozen yogurt the most. However, I love MORE the feeling of going down a pant size and feeling better. 

Now for the darling image sheet that you can download.

It's all about LOVE!

Here is the FREE download to print and make your own stamps with the TC Stampmaker:

 

www.photocentric-imagepac.blogspot.com

You can download the image sheet here: 

Tags by Lara Scott

FIRST SNEAK PEEK- workshop during CHA

Oh, this is exciting. I am teaching the Friday night prior to CHA at Oh Scrap in Costa Mesa, CA. We announced the workshop TODAY. I wanted to show you the album cover and give you the information if you are interested. The workshop will be held ONE TIME and there is limited space. 

So here is the little sneak peek of ONE of my collections that I will use that night in the workshop- it is called FABRICATION: Canvas. 

This is a 10x10 album that we will bind in class. You will learn how to make these flowers. Oh, and I used BLINGAGE. This green brocade paper is one of new papers and I am in LOVE with this line!!!! *stickers used from line as well. 

This really could be ANY theme. Family- wedding- daughter, etc.

Here is the information if you would like to join me that evening:

 

LAUGH EVERY DAY- 

location: OH SCRAP

Teresa Collins Workshop

Friday Jan. 27th 2011

6:30- 9:30 pm

Join Teresa Collins for a evening of friendship, inspiration and creativity. Teresa is once again visiting OH SCRAP and sharing her love and passion for crafting. She will be debuting her brand new release FABRICATIONS,  which is beautiful beyond words. In the workshop, you will create a large 10x10 Chipboard album, learn how to make your own paper flowers, journaling, and creating flaps and enclosures. The book will be bound with a coil spine prior to leaving the class. Of course, you will add BLINGAGE to help your project sparkle.

There is many more surprises in store- trust me... you will not want to miss this amazing workshop. 

 Call today if you want to join in on the fun- 

Oh Scrap

427-B E. 17th Street

Costa Mesa, CA  92627

tel: 949-645-3334

Also, I did a really fun interview recently. It was a little get to know me kind of thing. I wanted to share with you the links to the interview.

·         PaperCrafter’s Corner – http://www.papercrafterscorner.com

·         US Local Scrapbook Stores Map --- http://papercrafterscorner.com/scrapbook-stores/

·         Local Scrapbook Event Listings --  http://papercrafterscorner.com/events/

·        

I hope you enjoy reading it!

Have a great night....

 

 

 

Looking back...

Today I got "sucked" into to watching a marathon of "weight focused" shows on OWN. I turned it on and watched way too many women crying about their battle with weight. I felt so bad for them and honestly it really kinda made me depressed. I watched about three one hour episodes as I worked on editing my holiday photos. I decided to turn it off and not get caught up in that feeling. Every show was focused on how to lose weight and there was so much inspiration BUT there was so much sadness. So many women expressing feelings of hate towards themself. It broke my heart. I have battled with those feelings myself. You know feeling like your not worthy if your "not perfect" and skinny. I think getting older has definitely helped me. I no longer dwell on those thoughts. I focus on the good. Like knowing that my family loves me UNCONDITIONALLY. They could care less if I'm a size 14 or a size 6. I know that when you focus on self love and acceptance it makes such a HUGE difference in HOW we see ourselves. We need to be KINDER to ourself. Are we not our own WORST critic? 

Every channel is focused on weight loss. Every magazine is too. I'm not saying it's wrong. It's LIFE...it's what it is. Wouldn't it be funny if all the shows focused on things like CHARACTER and how to be a better person? instead of WHAT we look like. Unfortunatly, society focuses on HOW we look. I fall prey to this like everyone else. Every woman I knows wants to be considered attractive, stylish and accepted. Anyway, I hope if you are struggling with issues with your weight that you will know that NO MATTER what size or shape you are...you are WORTHWHILE, BEAUTIFUL, and that YOU DESERVE to be happy every single day no matter what size you happen to be.

Okay... did not mean to really even go there. Ha! I love blogging. It's a way to share from the heart.

I hope you get a chance to go to my design team's blog. They are posting their favorite projects from 2011 there now. Here is Sesil Cratins. She is my amazing and talented design team leader and more. wink! She is my left hand and keeps me organized and does so much to help me to focus on the design process of my company. Hope you enjoy!!!!!!!

Favorite Projects by Sesil Cratin

Sesil here today to wish you a Happy New Year...we are excited about 2012.  There are many new endeavors that are on the horizon with Teresa Collins Designs.  The big anticipation is the sneak peaks of the new collections that will be released at the end of this month.  I have seen some of the designs...and you are going to LOVE them.  Unfortunately.... I can not show anything just yet...but soon Teresa will be doing some sneak peaks so keep coming back to see what she will unveil.

However, I would like to share a couple of my favorite projects I have made with the current collections.
I have to admit, I love HALLOWEEN.  So here are some projects are featuring Haunted Hallows.

Then my favorite Christmas Home project was:

So overall I LOVED the holiday themed collections. Click the link below to show us your creations. 

We would love to see your creations made with Teresa Collins Designs

Sarah Larson

Christmas wall hanging

(Submissions close in 29d 4h 15m)

Link tool by inlinkz.com

You never know....we could as you to be the next Guest Designer. Make sure to check the blog often, we have some FUN things coming soon.   Hope we inspire you to create something beautiful.

Sesil's Blog: HERE

 

2012- create a "IDEA" planner

Can you believe soon it will be 2012? I always admire people who make New Years Resolutions and keep them. Last year, Gentry decided she would not drink soda for the entire year. She is not a big soda drinker anyway, but she felt it was a good thing to give up. She went the entire year and never once had any soda. I admire her and her follow through. 

Today we are taking down our Christmas tree. I get a little sad to see the end of Christmas Season. I love the giving and kindness that surrounds the celebrations. 

That is why it's so important to me to take lots of photos. This was last week- Christmas Eve at Ty's sisters house. I want to remember our family being together. We had Ty's mom with us this holiday. I am thankful that the kids have their grandmother. She is the only living grandparent. Truth be known, I wish she was closer to our home. I love the spirit and love she brings into our home. Yes, I am lucky in that I have a great relationship with my mother in law- wink! 

Tonight we will be home bringing in 2012 together. My girls are spending time at their dads and I miss them. It is so hard to share them. However, it's my reality and I always have encouraged the vital and important relationship of my girls with their dad. I hope they will know that they have TWO families that love and adore them. Divorce is truly the hardest on the children and I will always feel sadness over this with my family. I doubt I will ever feel differently. So tonight the boys and I will be watching the ball drop from our home and enjoying time together.

Now... I want to share a "idea" planner with you-

One of the things that I do is carry a notebook in my purse (everyday). I want to be prepared so that when random thoughts or ideas come to me I can write them down. I also keep a agenda book in my bag to help me remember what and where I need to be. I am a big believer in "WRITING IT DOWN!"

I love this  project  that Julie Jacob designed for her 2012 ideas. 

 

I love that she stitched the papers!!!!!

The cool part is the Julie made the month and year (2012) images from stamps she created with the Teresa Collin's Stampmaker. I am inspired! 

Here is a how to "recreate" her book from Julie:

 

Instructions:
Trim patterned paper to fit the cover and inside cover of the notebook.  I used October Afternoon - Farmhouse (Sunday Dinner) for the cover, and Teresa Collins - Notations (Music) for the inside cover.  I cut the big glitter label from a sheet of My Mind's Eye - Lost & Found Two (Sunshine Memories Sweet) paper, and then stamped 2012 on it.  Adhere the label.  
On the inside cover, add doilies (cut in half) & month strips.  I stamped some with the December download stamps, and typed some on an old typewriter.  

Next sew around the edges of the notebook.  Add embellishments (flowers, Scrabble tile, bling).   Now you have a fun little notebook all ready for your lists, ideas & thoughts for 2012! :)
~julie

www.juliejac.typepad.com

 

Westcott Winners

Westcott picked TEN random winners to win both the fabulous PINK trimmers and PINK scissors. How generous!!!!

Here is the list of winners that need to email me at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns. Please email your name and address. IMPORTANT: in the subject line add WESTCOTT winner please. I am getting lots of emails from winners. That is a good thing!!!!

1) Tammy Schlinker Lever

I am already a fan of your products! Teresa Collins sent me over just to let you know :)

Like · Comment · Monday at 10:29am ·  

2) Lisa Zajac

Stopping by from Teresa Collins blog. Would love the chance to win.

Like · Comment · December 24 at 8:23am · 

 

3) Carol Douglas

‎Teresa Collins Designs sent me over to say "thanks" for sponsoring some of the prizes in her giveaway. I am in need of a new trimmer, this would be perfect. Thanks and Merry Christmas.

4) Gloria Ashline

The pink scissors are great. Teresa Collins sent me.

Like · Comment · Monday at 6:13pm · 

5) Debbie Hawkins Craine

LOL westcott is the best Would love to win the trimmer and scissor Teresa is showing. thanks for the opportunity.

Like · Comment · Monday at 4:54pm ·  

6) Tiffany Haller

TC sent me...loving the pink scissors!

Like · Comment · December 24 at 11:48am ·  

7) Julie Kerschen

Came from Teresa Collins blog. with your link. Would love to win one of your items which it one of her top 10 items to have. Thank you.

Like · Comment · December 23 at 8:34pm ·  

8) Justina's Crafts

‎Teresa Beal Collins sent me! I love the pink scissors and trimmer, which i desperately need!

Like · Comment · December 23 at 5:30pm ·  

9) Shawn Armstrong Stoen

‎Teresa Beal Collins sent me!!! Love your trimmer!!!!

Like · Comment · December 23 at 4:28pm ·  

10) Dana Davis

Teresa Collins sent me. Love these scissors.

Like · Comment · December 23 at 4:15pm ·

 

Today I filmed more segments for My Craft Channel. Gentry went with me so we could spend more time together. She even took a couple of photos:

Here we are filming a segment. I love doing these shows. It is so fun to be able to share in this way.

I am getting ready to film here and watching Gentry take photos. It was a fun day!

I have to say that I am already getting a little sad to know that Gentry is going back to college soon. I know that I will cry and be an emotional mess. We have spent great quality time during her break. I love having all of my kids home together. 

Okay, UPDATE time. I am now TWO weeks on the NO SUGAR and NO PROCESSED food plan. Yes, I did not give in to ANY of the treats or chips over Christmas. In fact, I did a detox for my body for 5 days during the week of Christmas. Yes, you lose weight but you do gain most of it back once you are eating again. It is really about getting the toxics out of your body. I am truly eating a TON of food and I lost 5 more lbs. this week. I know you may be thinking- Why do this at this time of the year? I thought- WHY NOT? I mean food is food and it's always going to be around. I knew it would keep me in check during the holidays. I am notorious for gaining at least 5 lbs around Christmas and this year I did the reverse. 

Here is the truth- I am not craving sweets and goodies, but my mind still messes with me a bit. I am a very social eater. I love meeting my friends and family for dinner. I miss doing this. However, I have found that I am focusing on DOING more than just going out to eat. We play more games, and watch more movies together and it's actually quite nice. I would be lying if I said I did not MISS the social aspect of food. I do feel much better after two weeks and a 5 day master cleanse. *I am taking Herbalogica vitamins and minerals and they are amazing!

Congrats again to the winners- Thank you WESTCOTT for your generosity!

WINNERS- top TEN

I have so much to share. I am enjoying my family home on break so a longer blog post will come soon. I film 6 new episodes with My Craft Channel in the morning. However, I have heard back from some of the manufacturers with winners picked. I wanted to update my blog with winners. If you have won PLEASE email me at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns with your name and address. IMPORTANT: put what you won in the subject line. Thank you!

Winner of Teresa Collins Top 10 Favorite Things

Congratulations

Dana Davis!!!!

Winner of the Main Base Clip it Up

 Teresa Collin's Stampmaker

Winner: 

Teri Kachler

XYRON WINNERS:

Mega Runner:

Winner #1
Teresa you are such a wonderful and amazing person. You are so kind and generous. 
I love your little pink Xyron!!!!! You have some wonderful must haves; unfortunately 
I think I only have one or two. I would love to win. I only wish to met you one
 day in person! Unfortunately I don;t do facebook so this is my only chance!!! 
I hope I get picked. Thank you for the chance and I hope you and your family
 have a FANTASTIC holiday season!!!! {{{HUGS}}} Lindy
ReplyDecember 23, 2011 at 01:36 PM
Winner #2

Lisa Zajac  Teresa Collins blog sent me. I have several of your 
products and love them all. Would love to try the mega runner.

Xyron TC X Sticker Maker: Houndstooth
Winner #1
Pat Hardiman  WOOHOO!!! Teresa sent me!!! I so love my xyrons, have the x, the 500 and the 900, but as 
a gal who loves PINK "almost" as much as Teresa as well as an ALABAMA girl who loves houndstooth...well, 
I just NEED this pretty pink houndstooth xyron!!!
Winner #2

Syedaq03 said:
Loved seeing the top ten tools. I am happy to say that most of them are on my wishlist. 
I have been checking your blog this whole December because you did great giveaways last year.
 And I am happy to say that you outdid yourself this year also. You will never cease to amaze me Teresa. 
Thank you so much for this amazing giveaways. syeda syeda_lubabah@hotmail.com
CRICUT MINI MACHINE Winner:
Jacie Epperson

CINCH Machine:
Judi Talbot Pearson
CROPODILE:
Lori Thompson Hedges
Winners from Westcott will be picked 
and announced soon. Stay tuned!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I feel so grateful to be spending the day celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ with my family. I hope that you are able to be with your family and friends.

photo: Michael Sandberg

Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 

GIVEAWAY & announcement- Today on Good Things Utah Channel 4

Today I shared my “TOP TEN FAVORITE CRAFTING Machines and Tools for the Crafter in your life." I am asked often from crafters WHAT are my favorite and go to crafting items. Today I want to share with you my favorite MUST HAVE machines and tools that I personally use.

* Blurry photo that Ty took as I am on-air. Brianne and Gretchen hosting the segment. 

 

I shared my TOP TEN for 2011 favorite crafting machines and tools that are a main stay in all my creating!!!!!! Plus, I am going to be giving away TODAY lots of these favorites here on my blog and on my facebook page.

 

  Teresa’s TOP TEN:

(please note- these are in NO PARTICULAR order)

 

1. Xyron Mega Runner:

I love that this tape gun is hand held, has lot’s of adhesive and allows me to scrapbook faster! It is easy to use and I go through a lot of adhesive. 

Like them today on Facebook to win more prizes

 

2. Teresa Collin’s X Machine

I am debuting it today on the show. Yes, it is the coolest little sticker adhesive EVER! I love how easy it is to create your own stickers.It's OFFICIAL that I have some VERY COOL things in the works with XYRON. 

 

Like US both today on Facebook to win more prizes!!!

3. Cricut Mini Machine

This is a must have for me. I love to use my Cricut machines and now when I travel with the smaller and lighter machine it's easy. Using the Cricut Mini along with the online design center at Cricut Craft Room-

I can design and create from my laptop from anywhere I have internet connection. I love it!

 

www.cricut.com

To purchase and learn more about the Provo Craft’s selection of products

 

4. Your Story Binding Machine

This is the best invention. You can bind and create your own hardcover albums with this affordable machine. It will also laminate documents. I am addicted to creating my own books that look professional (at a fraction of the cost).

 

 

www.cricut.com

 

5. Teresa Collin’s Stampmaker

Have you ever wanted your own stamp of your logo, name, company or event? This machine is the solution. You can create your own high quality, extremely detailed stamps, embossing dies and stencils from your own home in 5 MINUTES or less- using your own artwork or jpeg image. It is truly innovative and offers you limitless possibilities! 

 

 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Photocentric/100153179400

for more ideas using your TC Stampmaker
http://photocentric-imagepac.blogspot.com/

 Please post on their facebook page TODAY to win the TC STAMPMAKER!!!!

6. Westcott PINK Trimmer with Scoring Blade

I am a big fan of pink. Yes, but that is not really the only reason why I love this trimmer. It not only is very cute, but it is high quality titanium. It is accurate and cuts and score's your paper. This is my go to trimmer EVERY day!

 

 

Visit their FACEBOOK today to enter to win your own PINK trimmer!

 

7. Westcott PINK Scissors

I have scissors everywhere in my house. They are not only pretty, but they are excellent (titanium quality) for trimming papers.

Visit today to enter to win your own PINK Scissors!

 

8. Cropodile

I use my cropodile ALL the time. This tool will punch holes and set eyelets ALL in one fabulous tool. It can punch through thicker chipboard and elements (like a leather belt!!!!)

 

Like them today on Facebook

 

9. CINCH

I love to create my own books. This is the NEWEST Cinch machine on the market. I love that this fabulous tool makes it a CINCH (easy) to use. It will punch my album pages and covers by aligning the pages accurately and then bind the book with coils. You're kids will probably get great grades for turning in book reports that have been bound.

Like them today on Facebook

10. CLIP IT UP

Yes, I love the Clip it Up! It allows me to organize and see all my products. It turns and allows for maximum storage.

Yes, YOU could win your OWN Clip it Up by visiting their facebook too. I use mine not only on my scrapbook supplies, but my jewelry. You will love it! 

So today, in the studio audience, I gave away audience most of these products to the guests. Again, thank you manufacturers for doing this. I loved doing this. GIVING is such a blessing!

Here is photo of me with the winners in the audience- they all won one of my favorites!!!!

 How does this work for those of you at home? Well, we have so many prizes left to give away that you can enter HERE on my blog, on my facebook page, and the manufactures facebook page. Please mention you are coming from my blog. Several companies are giving away MORE PRIZES directly from them- and I will be doing the same. Enter as many times as you wish, since you can win at multiple sites. Yes, you could potentially win more than one prize. I have more Cricut Mini's, Cropodiles, Cinch machines and more to give away myself. The winners will be picked randomly. 

 Here are the links where to enter:  

Teresa Collins Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/tcdesigns (like on FACEBOOK)

www.teresacollinsdesigns.com (website- if you want information only)

 

XYRON: Mega Runner/ TC X Sticker Machine:

http://www.facebook.com/xyroninc

 

CRICUT MINI: Die cut Machine/ Your STORY machine

www.cricut.com

 

WESTCOTT: Pink Trimmer/ Scissors

http://www.facebook.com/WestcottBrand

 

We R Memory Keepers: Cinch and Cropodile

http://www.facebook.com/WeRMemoryKeepers

 

Teresa Collins Stampmaker:

 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Photocentric/100153179400

 

for more ideas using your TC Stampmaker

http://photocentric-imagepac.blogspot.com/

 

CLIP IT UP!

 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Clip-it-Up-by-Simply-Renee-Inc/70954598029

 

It has been so wonderful to finally show my X sticker maker machine and announce my partership with Xyron. I am thrilled. I flew down to Arizona for a quick one day meeting and KNEW they were a great company to work with. I wanted my machine to be PINK and houndstooth...hope you like it! We are debuting it at CHA Winter. 

Have a FABULOUS and MERRY Weekend!!!!!

 

TOMORROW... is a BIG day!!!!

I will be on Good Things Utah Channel 4 tomorrow at 10:00am. I will show my TOP TEN favorite must have machines/tools this year!!!! If you are in the audience, I will be giving away SEVERAL of what I am showing. I will not be taking the product back home with me.

However, IF you are  HOME... you can visit my blog or facebook page TOMORROW to get the chance to win the same machines & tools. THANK YOU so much to the manufactures that are generously GIVING so much. I am now able to SHARE with you my favorites. I wish you all luck! I will be picking winners from the blog, my facebook page, and the manufacturers facebook page. There is MORE than one to give away! 

Here is a hint on ONE of my new favorites- the machine is NEW for 2011 and it was used to die-cut this project here-

Yes, this is Christmas Home and the newest TC Cricut images for Christmas that you can find at www.cricut.com and go to Cricut Craft Room. The entire frame was made from one of my images.

 

Cricut Craft Room™ Exclusives, Christmas Collage
Give your holiday projects a sophisticated look with the Christmas Collage digital images by Teresa Collins! This set includes two Christmas trees and a Christmas themed word collage.
Projects designed by: Sesil Cratin sesilcratin.blogspot.com

So tomorrow morning, join in on the FUN. I will be announcing SOMETHING that I have been doing with my brand. I am thrilled to be joining creative forces with a industry leader. Yes, I will publically debut the first product LIVE on TV tomorrow. 

I'm excited for tomorrow. So fun to give away products that others will love and enjoy!

 

Some things to share...

I am having the BEST day today. I love being able to do fun things that others get to enjoy. On Friday, make sure you watch my TV Segment on Good Things Utah Channel 4. I will be announcing a new product that I will be PREMIERING and announcing for the FIRST time. I am beyond thrilled with what I am doing with another amazing company. I will be giving away lots of products -MY FAVORITE CRAFTING MACHINES/TOOLS- on air and RIGHT HERE on my blog. I know most of you do not get the TV Channel so I wanted everyone to be able to have a chance to win some of my favorite things. FRIDAY is a big day for me!!!!! 

Okay, I mentioned yesterday that I have been doing something new in my life. This has changed my life for the better. I decided to share it with you, because this is something big and ongoing in my life. I made a decision to make a big lifestyle change. I am working on getting a new kind of healthy. I have been doing CROSSFIT and knew that I still was struggling with non-stop headaches, and infections. Bascially, although I am working out, I knew that I was not eating in a way that was truly healthy. 

What do I mean by that? I was eating out WAY too much. I would rationalize with myself that I was still only eating about 1,200 to 1,500 calories a day. I was CHOOSING the wrong calories and it started to catch up with me. When I had the sciatica episode, I knew it was TIME to change some things. 

Last week, I started a new healthier plan. I am no longer eating SUGAR or ANY processed foods- NONE- not even a bite of anything. Yes, that means lots of veggies and lean protein. I am taking supplements to get all my vitamins and minerals. I am 100% committed to feeling better. I have done it for one week. The first few days were horrible!!!!!!!!!! I had headaches, felt weak and was sleeping 10 hours a day. I did not cheat one time. I journal EVERY time I eat anything and I drink about 80 ounces of water a day.  I was having so many issues of feeling "yucky" and I now realize WHAT I was eating was making me feel this way. 

Who knew????? Well, I got a lot of negative comments from my friends on WHY I would do something so drastic and at CHRISTMAS time. I must be nuts!!!!! 

Guess what????? I feel AMAZING. I am so over all the cravings. I look at the sugar filled foods and have NO DESIRE for them. I am not tempted because basically I have been detoxing my body from the foods that TRIGGER me to WANT more and more of those bad foods. I don't know how long I will be doing this. I want to give it TIME. I know two things- in ONE WEEK, I feel great and I lost 7.8 lbs. CRAZY!!! Oh, I am STILL eating lots of food- right around 1,200 calories. You can eat so much MORE food when it's healthy. 

I struggled if I should share, because this is really different. I realize that I am not CRAZY to give up so much "yummy" food. I choose to view it as a healthier lifestyle, with the bonus of natural weightloss. ha! I am only saying this works for me. I wish I had tried this sooner. 

Tomorrow, we are having our FAMILY PHOTOS. We will  be meeting our photographer Michael Sandberg and doing the photos DOWNTOWN SLC. I have to say, this is stressful to get all the kids and spouses, and little ones all in one place (on time) and looking photo ready. We are going for Black, White and Denim dress attire this time. Can't wait to share with you!!!!!

Birthday celebration and family times

I am enjoying have a home full of family this time of year. Gentry is home from school and she is helping me prepare for Christmas. We are tackling the mall today. This is the first time since my sciatica started that I am venturing out for a long stretch of walking. I have not been working out at all- only stretching!!!!! I wish this crazy numbness would go away. I'm trying to think positive and take it a day at a time.

Tomorrow, I have a BIG BLOG post to tell you something that has changed in my life and has changed so many things in my world. It's personal and well...I have a feeling many of you might benefit from what I have been doing in my life.

Friday night, I was cheering on the drill team at the basketball game. They perform at half time. 

Mckay and her besties... she has lots of friends. 

They had a little Christmas Party and exchanged gifts after the ball game.

I love being a mother and watching these girls. I have been very busy this year with coordinating, helping and planings all the things that my role requires of me. McKay is the Head Captain of the team. I am impressed with how she is a team leader and helps this year to be drama free. I love watching her in this role.

 Yesterday, my son Ty turned the big 13 years old! We had the entire family over after church. It was such a GREAT day. Our family is silly and we can laugh at and with each other. Happy Birthday Tyler!!!!

I love that Tyler made the cake for Ty's birthday. It was his favorite chocolate with vanilla icing. I am lucky that Tyler is the type of dad and husband that does everything to help me and our family. Yes, he does laundry and cooks. It seems we are always multi-tasking to get things done.

Ty said the new Bop It was his favorite gift. The entire family played it to see who could reach the highest score. Matt is the leader!

Maxson was moving and dancing to the toy too. He is just a easy going fun little boy.

This is Matt. He is now a new daddy again. Azalea is TWO WEEKS old yesterday. This blanket was given to us from a very generous blog reader. THANK YOU! She made it for Azalea. Kayla picked out the colors and it is one of those SUPER soft blankets. 

Seth is always working and it's always nice when he can find the time to come over to the house. He is 17 years old too and graduates this year.

I love this photo. We are all watched Maxson- crowded on two sofas as a family- being together- MY FAVORITE times!!!!!!!!

Oh yes, McKay did not want her photo taken. I always say to mother's..." MAKE SURE YOU ARE IN THE PHOTOS TOO- YOU ARE PART OF THE STORY!!!!" I took this one myself.

Tyler and Grandma Collins. I think it's so important to have my children take photos (alone) with their grandparents. PRICELESS MEMORIES....

This beauty is two weeks old now. If you would like to have a personalized luxury Minkee baby blanket you can order them from Valery Klassen at www.sun7designs.shawwebspace.ca

This was just last week- when she was ONE week old. They change so FAST!

 Now for a little inspiration-

 I am thrilled to share a layout that Staci Taylor created as this month's guest designer:

She was able to incorporate Christmas Home pattern paper with a lovely die cut paper to help frame out her layout!

Thank you so much Staci for your amazing creations using the Teresa Collins Designs Christmas Home Collection.  To see more of Staci's work check out her blog at creatingmyeveryday.blogspot.com.

For your chance to become a Guest Designer post your favorite layouts to our facebook page at: facebook.com/tcdesigns with a link to your blog or if you are not on facebook e-mail your layouts to sesil@teresacollinsdesigns.com.   You never know, you could be our next GUEST Designer. We love seeing your creations.

 

 

TC IDEA BOOK DEBUT- next month

 I announced yesterday that I have my own idea book coming out with Northridge Media. I wanted to share how it all came about-  a little behind the scenes. This past Summer, I  was at a "work" lunch meeting one day after I had filmed my episodes for My Craft Channel. I was with my good friend Kristine McKay and Stephenson and Colby with Northridge Media. We were having a meeting and they mentioned the idea of doing a idea book with me.  I would design all the projects, etc. I thought it was a great idea. I was very flattered that they wanted me to do it. 

Not too long after that I was asked to go to lunch again with the same group. I was asked if I would design the idea book and was given a VERY short deadline. I knew it would take my complete dedication and hard work to get it done. Okay, THANKFULLY... I was feeling very CREATIVE and I designed non-stop. My entire house turned into a design studio. I had the best time working on the idea book.

I have to say that when I saw the book finalized this week- the tears flowed. Yes, this book is a priceless treasure to me. I included my heartfelt feeling behind each project along with the HOW. It is a book that represents my life and family and how I "tell my story." 

I wanted to include projects that were 100% me. Yes, if you like BLING, SPARKLE, GLITTER, JOURNALING, MINI BOOKS, HOME DECOR, USING YOUR CRICUT... you will find it OVERFLOWING in my book.

So this is the idea book cover-

I even was LUCKY enough to have a FUN  photoshot. I wanted the book to really capture WHO I am. I am wearing ALL WHITE and holding a project that I will be showing on My Craft Channel (Season 2). This was a dream to be able to do this. I hope that I can show you some of the inside of the book soon. I want to thank Northridge Media for putting together this amazing idea book. The details throughout the book are simply stunning. The photography is top notch. I am SO THANKFUL to put my name on this project.  I hope it will inspire others to create and truly remember THEY are their own family historian. ha!

You can order the idea book or order the entire Designer Series here:

http://northridgepublishing.com/store/subscribe/signature-series/aid%3ateresacollins

 

 

IDEA BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT-

Click on the link for the big announcement! 

http://northridgepublishing.com/store/subscribe/signature-series/aid%3ateresacollins

MORE details later!

 

 

Announcement today...

I have not forgot. We are having some technical issues with our links. So hopefully soon...I will post on my blog.

 

THANKS!!!!

 

 

Wednesday- on TV... TC Stampmaker

Teresa Collins Stampmaker on TV for Christmas

Wednesday 14th December 9am we are back on TV at

Ideal World Shopping TV Channel.

 
Extra 2012 negatives & exclusive Spring

design negatives included in this offer!

Buy on Wednesday in time for Christmas.
We hope you watch!

Special Refill offer available too.

 
Find us on:
Sky 644 | Freeview 22 | Virgin 747 | Freesat 812
or www.idealworld.tv