TERESA COLLINS

HOME FROM NYC... photos from Inspired Journey

I got home yesterday and am catching up. So thankful for Memorial Day weekend. So much is going on right now in our family and I know that I need to focus on them. A week away has been hard for me... it's so good to be home.

I wanted to share the photos from INSPIRED JOURNEY... sorry it took so long to post!

We arrived at LAX airport. So thankful that Gentry was able to go and help me!

We knew it would be really busy so we went to the beach on Thursday. It was a little overcast and windy but it was so nice to be there.

This is the where the event was held- Manhattan Beach Marriott in CA.

This was my first workshop on Friday morning. I designed wood pieces that we assembled and  created a display stand.

So thankful for Ginger and everything that she does!!! She is truly so organized and the best event coordinator. 

The girls loved painting and creating their own display stands. These girls are always so much fun!

I really enjoy and gain so much from EACH of the woman who come. 

Friday night we had a manufactured sponsored night of card make n takes. Here is Shannon with Provo Craft. So thankful for the HUGE support of the companies that make IJ and IU happen!!!!!!

Here is Tami B. from Fiskars. They are always so generous!!!!!!!

Gentry did the sweet card from Bella Blvd, Julie with the accordion card book for TCD, and Brenda did the My Mind's Eye card.

Bo Bunny did a really great card kit that did EIGHT cards!!!!!

Thanks Xyron for giving the mega tape runners to help us!!!!!

I am blessed to have my sweet daughter Gentry with me. It's nice since my girls KNOW my routine, my flow and how I like to run my workshops, etc. They just know what I need and help me out. 

Julie is the sweetest too! I can't thank her enough for coming. You could not ask for a nicer friend. I am so thankful to know her.

The crazy table. Oh yes... I love how no matter what WE LAUGH and HAVE SO MUCH FUN at these events. I truly love them all and am thankful that I KNOW them. It is a blessed beyond words in my life. 

Cute Melannie and our her love of "self-portraits!!!!!!" It is really just "predictably AWESOME!!!!!"

Ginger runs her store at all the events. Always carrying the latest and greatest too! If she does not have it, she will get it. I love how to really goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is happy!!!

Saturday night was prizes, and goodbyes.....

THANK YOU GENEROUS sponsors.... I spy BAZZILL, CRICUT MINI MACHINES & Cartridges, 7 Gypsies, Fiskars, etc.

I had thought for WEEKS what I wanted to say and share. I went to my hotel room alone and changed my clothes. I prayed and asked for help. I instantly KNEW what I wanted to share as I said goodbye. It was from my heart and I knew it was just what HE wanted me to share. I wanted them all to know that they MATTER, what we are doing to DOCUMENT our story and life.... it matters. It is worth it! I won't share it all, but to say that I felt strongly to share WHY I do what I do. It is important. Yes, crafting is beautiful, fun and well costs money BUT it the results are worth it. The memories documented... worth it... It does matter to leave your heart, YOUR STORY, yourself for you and your loved ones. I am so thankful for reminders of this!!!!

Yes, there was a few tears shed. I know it is because we all can identify with the emotions and meaning of what Scrapbooking is REALLY about. We know that what we do matters to not only us, but to others.

Isn't SHE the cutest? Rebecca Cross with Pink Paislee did the most amazing memory keeper project. EVERYONE loved her and her class. I was so thankful that she could come and teach. THANK YOU Rebecca for being YOU and for sharing your beautiful spirit and products at the event!!!!!

I also wanted to thank Sande Kreiger for coming and teaching her OVER THE TOP 7 gypsie travel journey. Oh, it was beyond spectacular and it was FULL of the most beautiful pages. Paula Cheney and Sande went above and beyond to make sure everyone got their project done. It was a big one!!! So thank you Sande and Paula for being so giving to everyone this weekend. It will not be forgotten.

I want to personally thank Sande for saying something to me on Saturday night privately that made my ENTIRE weekend. Well, it will live in my heart forever. She probably has no idea how what she said will only grow in my heart and be with me as I do what I do as a person. I was beyond touched and uplifted...

THANK YOU Sande... you gave me a gift!!!!

THANK YOU to all of you who came. It was a fast paced, non stop weekend of memories and creating!!!! I loved it with all my heart. I am truly fortunate for the conversations shared, the uplifting and encouraging spirit of those that attended, the funny comments and laughs (oh, yes EARLEEN!!!!!!), and the spirit of friendship that was THERE so strong. I love you all so much. THANY YOU!!!!!!

I am home this morning working on a clean house and laundry. Thankful for a weekend with my kids! 

HOME FROM CALIFORNIA...

 I am had a wonderful time and enjoyed good times with everyone. I realize that I gain so much more from the woman and always feel they give to me in heart and soul. There was much laughter, some tears, and loves of creativity. Sande Kreiger, Paula Cheney and Rebecca Cross did amazing- over the top projects that EVERYONE raved about. It was just a REALLY nice weekend.

I have to much more to share but I am needing FAMILY TIME today. In a couple of hours McKay graduates from Seminary. I am headed to the NYC Stationery show TONIGHT. So forgive the short post. Gentry will be sharing posts on my blog for me this week.

I thought I would share a "inspirational" post from Julie Jacob. I LOVED her JUNK book with my FABRICATIONS line.  

Hope you enjoy it!

Junk Mini Book - by Julie Jacob

Every year our family visits this huge tulip garden.  I love going and taking pictures.  :)
For the rest of the family, it's pretty much referred to as 'the dreaded trip to the tulips'.
Heavy on the dreaded.  They know there's going to be tons of pictures, and it takes an hour to get there.
In fact, my oldest, who is going off to college this fall....ranks 'not having to go to the tulips' pretty high on his list of  'advantages of going to school 2,000 miles away'.

I wanted to make a little mini book of my 2012 tulip pictures...especially since they won't have Luke in them anymore after this year. :(
I call this book my junk book, because I literally used whatever junk was at hand to make it.

The cover is approximately 5x7(ish)...and is made out of corrugated cardboard.  I think it was a piece that came with a box in the mail.  You could totally just use the box itself.  I peeled most of the smooth part off, to expose the corrugated area.  I added the patterned paper (Fabrications Canvas) and doo-dads...and then gave the edges a quick messy layer of paint.

For the inside pages...again, I just grabbed whatever I had handy.  This first page is actually 5 pages torn out of an old book (make sure it's not a smelly old book).

I folded over 3 of the pages and sewed the edges.  The photo is tucked into the pocket.



The family picture page is a piece of thin chipboard that came with a box of goodies in the mail.
I covered it with Fabrications paper, and added the photo.  Also tape.  I am LOVING washi tape lately.

The next page is a shipping tag covered in paper.  I love that big fat bird punch (he's also on the cover). 

This next page is a manilla file folder cut down to fit the book.  I misted it & added dictionary paper.

Then the photo & doo dads.  The stamp is a custom one I made with my TC Stampmaker.  Love that thing! :) 

This blurry photo shows the file folder opened up.  I misted it first...and then again with the washi tape on the right side.

On the back of the folder page, I used an embossing folder & my Cuttlebug.  Then I sanded it so you can see the numbers.  The right page is another set of book paper...this time folded straight down.  It's hard to see but the photo sticks up over the pocket.  I could slide goodies in behind the picture if I wanted.  

The last page is another piece of thin chipboard.  And the back cover is another corrugated cardboard piece.  Ta-da!!  Junk book. :)

Thanks Julie!!!! You are absolutely amazing. I will be posting LOTS of photos from Inspired Journey this week too. 

Time to go...

I am packed up and have too many boxes to count now shipped with product, prizes, etc. for the event. I love CA and it is such a quick flight  from Utah. I think I am now a PRO at packing. I know just what I need and what I don't need. I plan my outfits prior to the trip and then I have "an idea" of what I will wear. I even take lots of my own food. If I don't take fruit and snacks then I have to eat what is available and that sometimes can set me up for failure. That reminds me- I have actually not lost any more weight. I am maintaining the 32 lbs gone exactly. I have shocked myself. ha! I have found what works for me, although a few of my friends think I'm crazy to do it the way I do. Basically, I do SIX days of no sugar, no carbs, no processed foods, and am 100% strict. One day a week- I eat without limits. Yes, I know that sounds crazy but it's working for me. It is the day that I will go out to eat with my family, and eat ice cream (my fave!), and things that I don't eat the other 6 days. The key is that the very next day I go back to my regular food plan. Anyway, this is just what I knew that I needed to do for me to be able to maintain and not live a live of feeling "always on a diet.

Okay... off to the airport. So love that Gentry is with me. We are meeting up with my friend Shannon from Provo Craft. I'm sure today will be very busy. A good busy! 

 

In ONE day...

I am off to Manhattan Beach, CA in the morning. It is the first INSPIRED JOURNEY (MINI event) that I am doing with Ginger. She has been the event coordinator for Inspiration Unlimited - for FIVE YEARS!!!  This is our first SMALLER event. We decided to host the event in California to change things up a bit. It makes me super happy that it's finally here and that it sold out as well. We actually OVERSOLD out and then normally you have a few cancellations due to life and circumstances, so we are good now. We were stressed trying to figure out how to fit in 8 extra bodies. Things always have a way of working out!

My heart is very full for this opportunity. It's truly what I love. I enjoy spending time with other's (my friends) who love crafting and documenting as much as I do. It helps me feel inspired in so many ways. I only slept one hour last night. So many things on my mind and I could not wind down and go to sleep. Too many new lines in my head. This is always a problem with me. ha! I had to be up at 5 am anyway. I am going once a week to the Salt Lake Temple to do sessions. I go early so that I can get home before it's time to take the kids to school. It is just what I need each week in my crazy  busy life!!!! 

Today I have a meeting with Provo Craft and shopping for last minute trip necessities. I love my Spanx tights but I ripped them. I love the support. If you have not tried Spanx- I love them. I love the support and they are great for my veins- aka- they hide them! I have my little vein surgery NEXT MONTH. Yes, I am on the fence with this one- excited to take care of the "little problem vein" but not looking forward to having the surgery again.  I am nervous to do it again. 

So for the next few days until Sunday- I will be with Gentry ( she is a great helper!) in Calfornia. 

The event will take place here.

This looks nice! However, I never have time to swim or relax too much at the events. 

Tomorrow once we land we are headed to the beach...

Gentry really wanted to go to the ocean before the event starts and it gets busy. Maybe we will even get to shop a little tomorrow. You never know what to expect and how things will run so often there is no sightseeing. 

I have to thank GINGER for once again coordinating and keeping me organized. She is so focused on details and get's things done. I love her and am thankful that she is so good at what she does. It's kind of scary to do a new event. It's a new "baby" for us. I am so appreciative for those of you who signed up- thankful for a sold out event. That reminds me- we do not advertise either event. In order to come, you would email Ginger or I to be put on the list for Inspiration Unlimited  or Inspired Journey. We added this second mini event, because Inspiration Unlimited has been SOLD OUT for five straight years upon sign up day. I know so crazy!!!! It's a crazy good and we try hard to get as many in as we can.  If you would like to come someday email me at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com and we will contact you and make sure you are added to the list.  

To me these events are much more than crafting... it's a time for girls (or men) to come and RELAX, enjoy GIRL TIME, connect, SHOP, be inspired and make new friends. Okay... time to get busy. 

 

SENIOR mini album... guest post by Cheri Piles

Elisha's Senior mini album using Teresa Collins Fabrications and Teresa Collins Stampmaker

I get it now, SENIOR YEAR. I was not prepared for it, for all of the emotions. I understand now what my friends have been going through before me. Hectic but GOOD all at the same time. 

It has flown by so fast!! Listen to your friends and family when they tell you that, it's so true! I still remember the very first day of school and E in her "Mary Janes" and a dress, pretty much the only dress she wore up until this year! I have snapped so many photo's this year!

                                        

This album will be one of my very most treasured albums, so many fun memories!  I cut one of the 10x10 chipboard albums in half and used it as the front and back cover. The entire album measures 

5 x 10. Each page that I used was cut 10 x 10 and folded in half to create "pocket" pages for additional photo's! Those would be the pages with ribbon or tabs on the edges to be able to pull the extra photo's out.

 

When creating the album I wanted tons of layers on everything. I layered buttons on top of buttons and rhinestone gems on top of buttons and embellishments. 

 

  

I created "TOKENS" using the Teresa Collins STAMPMAKER. I love how they help finish off the senior theme of the album. Please check out the Stampmaker blog today for instructions on how to create your own! 

                                        

Supplies - 

FABRICATIONS LINEN: Papers - Green Brocade side B, Green Fleur De Lis side B, Ornate Brackets, Pretty Flowers & side B, Red Brocade side B, Red Flowers side B, Red Quatrefoil side B, Tan Damask. Embellishments from the collection: Stickers, Stamps, Die Cut Sheet, Chipboard Elements, Chipboard Album Covers, Rhinestones, Decorative Brads, Flower, Buttons, Trinkets.

FABRICATIONS CANVAS: Trinkets (large silver photo corners).

Other: Crepe paper, Teresa Collins Stampmaker, cream ribbons and cream beads, black and cream cardstock. Black photo corners. 

Wow! Senior Year!! WOO HOO!!

Thank you Cheri Piles for this FANTASTIC blog post. I am so inspired and I love what you designed and created!!!!

Everyday Moments- My Craft Channel Today....

 

What do you want to remember? It truly is the day to day... those simple but profound moments that are the ones that  "truly" matters most. Today's show is how to realize and document the things that matter most to you. I wanted to show and talk about what motivates me to document and share those things that mean the most to me.

 

I used the EVERYDAY MOMENTS collection for all the projects.

The wood stand is the project that I am teaching THIS WEEKEND at my event in Manhatten Beach, CA. We will create the wood stand from scratch- well from WOOD pieces that I had designed and made, assemble, glue and design.

I hope you will watch the show today and feel inspired to document your own moments.

www.mycraftchannel.com

I filmed more episodes for my weekly Monday show this morning. I really enjoy doing these shows!!! Now it's time to go watch Zach play in his baseball game. It's 81 degrees here in Utah and so it's like Summer. I am really enjoying all the outdoor fun.

Birthday & Mother's Day weekend....

This weekend has been NONSTOP on the go...fun times, memories and celebrations!

McKay turned 18 years old this past Friday!!!!!! 

She got a lot of "essentials" for college. She will start in a little over a month at BYU! I wrapped everything in her favorite color- BLUE.

Taylor and Gentry came over and helped me with the BIG surprise party that we were throwing for her on Friday night. She thought she was going on a double date with Gentry and Devan. *YES, McKay does this with her tongue ALL the time. When I was younger...I did too.

Gentry stole her crown and this is kind of a Gentry thing to do at someone else's birthday in our family. So funny!!!!!! 

I am a crazy mom with the camera and I always make sure that I have photos with my kids. It's important!!!!! 

This was taken about an hour after the BIG surprise party started. McKay walked in and was in shock. Lots more of her friends came after this photo. I arranged to have the party at my friends Sesil's business- JUMP AROUND UTAH (1519 S 700 W. SLC). Oh my... the kids loved it and we played fun music and they dimmed the lights too. 

I am so thankful for JOSILYN (center) who hand delivered all the invitations and created a face book post to invite everyone.  Taylor did a little "dress up" station where they would dress up and write messages to McKay on the dry erase board.

Yes, I love the kids having a GREAT TIME!!!!!

Friends came and supported her- she has been blessed with so many good friends.

The huge jumping mat was the BEST!!!!!!!! *thankfully, NO one got hurt. It is the perfect location to have parties. 

So thankful that Taylor took all the photos and helped so much.

Here we are... mom and three daughters!!!!!! *we were in the dark after the party started!

It was truly so much fun!!!!! Oh, and there are a TON more photos on FACEBOOK that you can check out there. 

MOTHER'S DAY... I am truly just having the BEST DAY today with my kids. We went to church and then we have been home all day together. Ty took care of all the cooking and I had a little 45 minute afternoon nap outside (it was a gorgeous day!). My boys made me the sweetest sign and gifts and red roses.

They stayed up past midnight to do the poster and wrap gifts after I went to bed. I was really touched. They did it all by themselves.

Yes, this is what you get from a 13 and 14 year teenage boys!!!! I want to keep it FOREVER.

Zach made this heart accordion garland. It was so well made and cute!

I was a little cold in the house and went outside and fell asleep wrapped with my blanket. Taylor came and took photos. ha!

The cute roses were slumped over that the boys gave me. They got them from the Dollar Store last night. I LOVE THIS so much! I love that my two boys thought to give me flowers. I am wearing my leopard blanket...just up from a nap!!!! It was posted on facebook and my friend Amy thought I was wearing a cape.

Taylor and Spencer gave me the sweetest book on uplifting quotes. Gentry and McKay surprised me with a skirt that I loved that Gentry already has. Gentry is working hard at Black House/White Market and gets a nice discount. It was just so thoughtful and I felt so loved today. More than anything, it is having my kids with me that means MORE to me than anything. 

I hope if you are a mother that you had a wonderful day too!!!!!!

TODAY... I have learned

You think at a certain age that you have it ALL figured out. Well, I am constantly amazed at how much I learn and grow. My daughter Gentry is home from college for the Summer. We had a really nice day together. She went with me to my office, helped me ship boxes to CA for my event next week, and she is not only my daughter, but she is my friend. I think as our children grow and find their independence it's so cool when they ADMIRE you and want to be with you. Today as we drove back home, she told me that she was lucky that I have been a great mom. It felt so good to hear this. Wow, trust me there was times when she was "not a fan" growing up. I remember her telling me that she used to write mean things about me in her journal. ha!

Today we took this photo as  we sat in the car together "chatting" about life. THESE are the important EVERYDAY MOMENTS that I live for. It's crazy that my girls are always coming to me for advice and let's just say it's HARDER as they get older. It's just not... "mom, what should I wear today?" It's WHAT  should I major in college? What do you think of this new boy? ha... you know bigger life decisions. Anyway, I am so thankful that they come to me. We are extremely close. I always wanted this. I was very close with my mother and sister. It was just the three of us. My mom was strict on values and expectations and she parented with such love and true concern for me that I never wanted to disappoint her. 

So this afternoon, Taylor called me. She said, "Mom, please read my blog at 6pm." I was okay... what is going on? She would not tell me. So it was very EXTREMELY touching to read what she wrote from her heart. In my 21 years of parenting- THIS was something that I had NO IDEA that Taylor felt about me. It helped me to realize that Taylor has been watching me for 21 years and she "knows me." Hmmmm... now, I am so not perfect. I am so far from it. However, she overlooked the bad and focused on the positive. THANK YOU TAYLOR!

I debated whether to share it. However, I am going to. I want all of you- as parents to KNOW and realize how much our children gain from us. 

So now I will share Taylor's blog post from today:

Things I Got From My Mom

                                          

Meet my mom Teresa Collins. 

Anyone who knows me really well knows how close me and my mom are. She really is my best friend. I see her a LEAST once a week if not more and talk on the phone with her everyday. She is my best friend and greatest supporter. 

Something was said today to me that really hurt my feelings and embarrassed me. I immediately thought of calling my mom because me and her think the same way. But instead of calling her I starting thinking about all the things I have gotten from her. It made me feel better know I will always have her as a ally. 

So here are a few things I have inherited from this lovely woman. 

1. I got her soft heart. I may seem tough on the outside but you could say something to me joking and I would leave and cry for hours over what was said.

2. I got my tear ducts from her. We cry all the time and over really silly things. TV Shows, books, movies, when were sad. We are also copycat criers. If we see someone crying we tend to start tearing up too.

3. We both hate confrontation. We are people pleasers. I hate saying no and hate standing up to people and telling them what I really feel.

4. She is really creative. I am not nearly as creative as her but luckily some of it has rubbed off on me. 

5. Thinker. We are thinkers which can sometimes be a bad thing. We tend to over think things. 

6. Kindness. I am really proud of my mom in this aspect. It is amazing to me she can be so kind to someone who has done wrong to her. I am still working on this but hope to be as forgiving and kind as her but think I do pretty well.

7. Thank goodness I got her drive. Nothing can stop the two of us when we get our heart into something. 

8. I got my moms temper. I remember when I was little when my mom would get mad and I said I would never act like that. I so do though. Because we think so much alike when we get mad you know it. The few fights we have been in with each other were not pretty. 

9. Courage. Even though I hate confrontation she gave we courage to do other things. Courage to be anything I want. Courage to try new things. Courage to Become the best me possible. Courage to step off my given road and explore what else I can do. 

10. I got something I like to call Mama Bear Syndrome from her. Typically this syndrome is a parent protecting their children. However with me and my mom we need to protect everyone we see. It is funny actually since we hate confrontation but if we see anyone hurt we quickly stand up for them. 

I got so much more from her but here are a few examples.

It is actually funny because Spencer is always saying to me "That is so like your mom." or " Do you know you sound just like your mom?" I am so grateful for My wonderful Mother and everything she does for me. 

Love you tons and glad your my Best Friend.

THANK YOU TAYLOR... I love you very much!!!!!!!!!!

 

 

I'm alive

Yes, I am still here. Just so crazy busy that I have to remind myself to stop and eat. Trust me, if I don't eat I do get a little grumpy and my husband happily makes me a salad to help me. ha! 

I am some things to share today... it's somewhat personal...about my journey to be healthier. It is due. I have some thoughts that I will share later today. 

Headed to my office today to work on my event next week- last boxes shipped TODAY. Wish you all could come! I'll post later today. Hope you will come back-

Have a great Thursday!

 

xoxo

Teresa

GOING TO TEXAS... next month!!!!

I have been a very busy girl. I'm working on so many projects but I am not complaining. I LOVE what I do! I am in full blown design mode right now. Yes, I am even designing a NEW TC Provo Craft Cartridge that will debut this year. I have a big birthday in our home this week- FRIDAY is a McKay's 18th birthday. Oh, and I film MCC new segments on Monday, leave for my event Inspired JOUNRNEY in CA next Thursday and then come home to leave for the NYC Stationery show. BREATHE... yes, it's going to be okay. I even designed a my next RETAILER class kit yesterday. Here is a sneak peek- (stores are encouraged to sell the kits or teach them as a TC class)

This is a TC kit that comes with all the supplies and book and instructions/visuals that you can buy from YOUR retailer. PLEASE ask for TC products and kits at your local scrapbook store. This book is literally 3 inches wide. ha! It is using SWEET AFTERNOON. 

Okay...so I am headed to HOUSTON, TEXAS to teach next month at By Design Scrapbook Boutique. I emailed the store and there are LIMITED SPOTS available. One workshop is already completely sold out. I haven't even showed visuals of the third workshop until TODAY... NOW... and this class is well over 1/2 sold out. Pinch me... I love my Texas friends. They know how to make me feel wanted. THANK YOU girls I know we are going to have a GREAT time.

This is where I am going:

By Design Scrapbook Boutique 

www.bydesignscrapbookboutique.com

1131 Clear Lake City Blvd. * Houston, TX 77062

* Tel: (281)488-9100

This is the THIRD three hour workshop- using my MEMORY KEEPER binder album and SWEET AFTERNOON...

It is a big project and I know that the TEXAS girls love the bling!!!!

I used a lot of TAGS (I'm addicted!!!), and stamps (my new SWEET ones and Pink Paislee- swoon!)

My book is full of photos. This book is about our trip to NATIONALS for drill last month. I think there are 50 photos in my book. I wanted to tell the story!!!!

We will be doing flap pages to add lots of photos too!

Okay Texas girls... sorry it took so long to get the visuals. I hope you will join me at the store that weekend. It's going to be a lot of fun!!!!!!

Have a FABULOUS day!

My CRAFT CHANNEL today...HOME PHOTO FRAME

 

How do you display your favorite photos in your home? Today's show is showing how I display my own photos in our home so that they are not "just" in the scrapbooks but are visible to all that visit my home. Learn a easy way to showcase your family photos! Today's segment shows how I purchased a large frame from a yard sale (spray painted it) and created a frame that displays in my home foyer.

 

Check out my show today at www.mycraftchannel.com

I'm headed to my office now. I am working of so many wonderful projects and I'm on a little "creative" auto pilot. I'm so happy with so many wonderful things going on. I simply LOVE what I do. I love my family. I love living a life that I love and being able to enjoy the journey of documenting it... the good and the bad.  This week is a big one too. McKays birthday is Friday and I'm working on "something" cool. I'll post about this on FRIDAY. Oh, and I''m filming new shows NEXT Monday for My Craft Channel. I am super thrilled with the new shows and would LOVE to hear any of your feedback on WHAT you want to see more of.

HAPPY MONDAY!!!!!!!!

NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY

Yes, there is actually a National Scrapbooking Day!!!!

Last year, I was teaching in Australia. This year, I am home and working on a new cartridge for Provo Craft today (it's going to be a actual TC cartridge and it's SO beautiful. I am going to the movies with my family- The AVENGERS!!!!! later today as well. 

However, my design team is participating in a BLOG HOP today...

They are participating in a blog hop with Swirlydoos on the DT blog.  It will start at noon 

National Scrapbook Day!

http://teresacollinsdesignteam.blogspot.com

I hope you will check it out and bookmark the Design Team blog. They are fabulous and 

always inspiring!!!!!

www.scrappinthedetails.typepad.com

Design team member Suzanne Sergi. I love her projects!!!! I love her style. So thankful to have her on my team.  

So make sure you check out the DT blog... it's work the visit!

 

It's FRIDAY...

I am creating today. I am working on a project that I am teaching next month in HOUSTON, TEXAS. I will be sharing it any day now. I am using SWEET AFTERNOON- my latest collection for the project. I am headed to By Design Scrapbook Boutique June 22nd and 23rd. 

This is the new collection- SWEET AFTERNOON. Have you seen it? 

I just heard that right now if you buy it at www.twopeasinabucket.com (while supplies last!) they are giving away a TC PINK tote bag. A little special for NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY!

I thought I would show some amazing projects with the line today.

Sweet Afternoon projects by KEISHA CAMPBELL....www.abiteast.typepad.com . She is amazing!

I love this one by JULIE JACOB. Visit her blog here- www.juliejac.typepad.com

Project by Jamie Harder- www.ahappyscrappyplace.blogspot.com. I love her stitching around the circles.

Dedra Long always does beautiful projects with stitching...she used the stamps for this collection as well. www.dedralong.blogspot.com.

Hope you have a GREAT weekend too!

PROVO CRAFT Cartridge debut- PRETTY PENNANTS

 Provo Craft has done it again and created the most darling cartridge. I was asked if I woulc design some projects with the BRAND NEW debuting PRETTY PENNANTS cartridge. It is just my style and I love it.

Make the perfect banner for any occasion with the Pretty Pennants cartridge! This special cartridge includes layered pennants in five different styles and a variety of themes. Mix and match the layered pennants or customize the blank pennants with letters or other images for even more creative possibilities. With Cricut^®Projects cartridges, you can create unique and customized projects for your home, family, and friends.

Here is the visuals of what I designed. I wanted to do a pennant for McKay. She has a birthday NEXT week and I used the PRETTY PENNANTS cartridge and Cricut Craft Room Basics(for the letters- these are FREE on www.cricut.com. It is the CCR basics. I cut the letters out with my Cricut Mini machine.

I love all the shapes and various die lines on the cartridge. I am in LOVE with the toppers that you can cut for the pennants. 

Supplies:

SWEET AFTERNOON papers by Teresa Collins

Alphabet- Cricut Craft Room Free Basic Images

Stapler, Ribbon.

However, I was inspired to use the pennants in a NEW way. I love mini books and so I created mini note books out of the pennant shapes.

These are darling little 3.25" wide x 4.5" high mini book books. I added bling so that the mini books reflected a little sophistication.

This mini pennant book was created for my daughter McKay. I think they are so cute to personalize and they took me less than 5 minutes to create each book after I cut out the pennants.

This is the mini pennant book opened. I simply cut white paper and adhered inside the book so that I could write inside the book. These would be perfect party favors!!!!

 I love that they can be bigger or smaller depending on your needs. 

Supplies: Sweet Afternoon paper collection- Teresa Collins 

www.teresacollins.typepad.com

Hi...Yvonne Blair here with a project I did using my Cricut Mini!  It is featuring Cricuts new Pretty Pennants Cartridge.  Love this cartridge.  It makes it so easy to add fun little banners and pennants to any project.  I found this 8 x 8 easle stand and immediately knew I wanted to make a little fun piece to have in my living room as a conversation piece. 

I used Teresa Collins Carolina Breeze and Everyday Moments Paper lines to create the background and pennants.  I also used Teresa's Sophisticated Cartridge to cut out "Life's Moments".  I adorned it with a TC Fabrications flower and some blingage. Such a fun, easy project!  Hope you enjoy!  

Visit me here at www.yblair.blogspot.com

This next project was designed by Sesil Cratin. Her daughter is also having a birthday this week. She created this pennant for her. I LOVE the personalization!!!!

Sesil here to share with you a banner I made for my daughter's birthday. She is into princesses and fairy tales, the Pretty Pennants cartridge was the perfect solution for her birthday banner.  I needed to add a little bit of sparkle because what girl does not love glitter?  So I added glitter to the pieces and used foam squares to adhere all the pieces together to make the PERFECT banner for my daughter's 5th birthday. To see more fun projects visit my blog at sesilcratin.blogspot.com.

 

 

Supplies:

Teresa Collins Sweet Afternoon at the Picnic Paper

White Cardstock

Teresa Collins Gentry's Glitter

Iridescent Fine Glitter

Cartridges Used:

Sophisticated- Teresa Collins

Pretty Pennants

Tip: 1.) To make your own chipboard letters. Cut out the letter three times on card stock and layer up the letters to give it more stability like chipboard. I love using the cricut because the letters are cut out perfect each and every time. 

2.) Using foam squares gives your project dimension and more depth to the overall look of your creation. 

 

TC Stampmaker MAY FREE Download

You can go here to get the download and print- www.photocentric-imagepac.blogspot.com

I am often asked if you can stamp on fabric and yes, you can!!!!

These are so pretty. I love the DETAIL of the stamps that were made and used here with the TC Stampmaker. These really cute mini pillows were created by Karin Joan. 
Created using TC Stampmaker. 

More information on Karin Joan and her blog.

Today I am excited to DEBUT a new cartridge for Provo Craft on my blog at 5pm MST. I did not design it- but it is gorgeous and I was excited to get asked to design some projects with it. So check back later today!!!!

Photos that matter...

I was away this past weekend teaching in Portugal. Taylor and her family were walking and raising funds for WALK MS 2012. You see her mother in law Janet has MS. She is the sweetest woman and Taylor loves her dearly. I have watched Taylor as she prepared for the walk. She was trying to raise money and she even make the orange shirts that the entire TAYLOR family and friends wore for the walk.

As a mother, it warms my heart to see my daughter care and want to be a part of helping others. I got home and I saw the photos yesterday from the walk.

This is my daughter Taylor as she is pushing Janet in the wheelchair. I saw this photo and immediately started to cry. I am so lucky to have a daughter who is so caring and kind for others. I know that she has a compassionate heart. My son Ty is on the left of Taylor. I was so touched to see my children. I wish I could have been there with them. 

I am so thankful for these photos. They tell a story to me... they tell their story as a family. 

This is the Taylor family... (Ty is in the center too!). I am truly touched by these photos. I want to thank all of you who supported Taylor in her fundraising and supporting her. It means so much to be able to raise money for Janet and those suffering from MS.

Taylor- I love you and am so fortunate that God gave me YOU! 

Highlights from Portugal

I spent most of the day after getting home with my legs and feet elevated. I don't think I drank enough water and I was so swollen and gained 9 lbs in the time I was gone. It was crazy!!!! I know it was from eating differently too. It was simply amazing and I had memories that I will never forget. I wanted to share just a few photos- You can see ALL of my photos on my facebook page- www.facebook.com/tcdesigns

There was just too many to put on my blog. The country of Portugal is beautiful beyond words. I fell completely in love with the people and the culture. It will forever live in my heart and mind. The people are so genuine, kind and loving. It was simply beautiful to witness. 

 

This is Tiffani Smith. She was my traveling buddy. She lives in Utah too and she was teaching at the event. We were on the go the entire time. We arrived in Lisbon, Portugal and then we went to tour the city. Our first stop was at the most popular pastry shop. We were so tired, but we were thrilled to be in such a beautiful country.

This is Patricia and she hosted the event. I will tell you that she went above and beyond to be the most wonderful host. I was so touched by her kindness and generosity. I will forever be changed in my heart and life from her example. I felt deeply touched by her influence. Her kind heart makes her the most beautiful person. The event was a huge success. She makes everyone feel so special. She has the most beautiful family and watching them together was something I will never forget. 

We visited Sintra and the castles were over the top amazing. The country has the most amazing beautiful sites. I was trying to absorb all the beauty. We spent the entire day on Friday visiting more sites. We did not want to stop since we had a limited time to see everything. 

The weather was BEAUTIFUL and it was more than I could have ever imagined. I would love to go back again. It was paradise and I truly love the people and the opportunity to go there. Thank you Leonor for being a fabulous tour guide and translator. You are a forever friend....

I loved the architecture. 

The teachers at the event- Paula Pasquel (Sizzix), Patricia (teacher and owner), and Tiffani Smith. We had many great conversations and shared much laughter and good memories. We bonded in a beautiful way and I truly consider them my friends. 

This is one of my four classes that I taught at the event. Look at these beautiful women. They were so wonderful and I am thankful that they even laughed at my jokes. It is amazing how many of them speak or understand English. I was so impressed with each of them!

The event started and I was told that the TC X Sticker Makers sold out before the first class began. Then ALL of my idea books sold out too. What a great way to start the event. The book behind the idea books is the project that I taught (Everyday Moments collection) with.

This is Vera and her friends. They are the ULTIMATE fans! They watch my weekly My Craft Channel segments and Vera even has the TC Stampmaker and her own Cricut machine. I so enjoyed meeting the girls. 

Scrapbooking is VERY new in Portugal. I asked and the longest I could find that anyone had been scrapbooking was THREE years. It is just getting started there. It is expensive there as well and I am now going to do everything I can to help foster, develop and help the country to grow in this hobby. It is important and I know they feel the same way.

This is two editors from the magazines (home decor, crafts, etc.) They do not have a scrapbook magazine. I did an interview with them and we posed for photos. It was so wonderful to be apart of this amazing event. I am so THANKFUL to be invited to go and teach. I would go back in a heartbeat. If you ever get the chance to visit Portugal....go go go... you will love it!

 

T

These girls are so fun and I loved meeting every one of them!

So thankful for this beautiful girl. She was my translator for Saturday and I was in a very talkative mood. ha! Thank you.... you made my experience OVER THE TOP amazing.

Okay- there are so many more photos and you can find them here: www.facebook.com/tcdesigns

I will just end by saying that I feel like I was the one was gained from my visit to Portugal. I observed a new culture that inspired me in my life. The love among the people was so strong and real. Watching Patricia's family was something I want to embed in my heart and be like. The kind ways they treat each other and their family first devotion was something that spoke to me. I am one very lucky girl and I am so grateful for this opportunity. 

I wanted to share a beautiful layout today with you.

Designed by Keisha Campbell-

 

Supplies: Sweet Afternoon-Die-cut Accessory sheet 2, Sweet Afternoon brads, Sweet Afternoon Going Downtown , Sweet Afternoon In the Attic 

Instructions: First I cut one sheet of pattern paper to 10x4 then adhere to my cardstock. I then added my 5x3 photo and half of a supply store red label sticker to my page. Lately I like to take a edge punch to random areas on my page-for a bit of a shabby look. Just to let you all know I am big on using butterflies-I stamped & die-cut a few to scatter on my project. Finished with some brads and the die-cut labels.

Have a fabulous day!

 

HOME FROM Portugal....QUICK ACCORDION CARDS

 

I've been home for a couple of hours now. I have some major jet lag and my lower legs and feet are so big and swollen. I am drinking lots of water and am going to take it easy tonight with my family. I have cried a few times since I got home. Yes, I am always so thankful to be home. I missed them and it makes me a better mom knowing how fortunate I am to have them.

I have so much to share about my time in Portugal and photos. However, I am going to rest and just post my episode from today on www.mycraftchannel.com

There is nothing like a hand made card. How about when you make it INTERACTIVE? Today I will show you how to simply make a set of accordion cards that you can recreate time and time again. I created timeless chic cards that from my collection SWEET AFTERNOON. 

 

Go watch the video. I am excited that SWEET AFTERNOON is now available in stores. Yes, they had it in Portugal. More tomorrow.... oh, so happy to be back with my family! 

Here..... Portugal

I am here in a beautiful hotel lobby. I am officially in love with this beautiful country. It was a long flight and we had a scary situation from Paris to Portugal. We were landing and we slightly touched down and we had a micro burst wind that took our plane upward. It was on CNN news last night. The pilot saved us by being a great pilot. We had a blessing big time and I said many prayers of gratitude. Time to get busy! Have a great weekend.

TIME... headed to PORTUGAL

I am leaving in a couple of hours. I am flying to Paris France and then on to Lisbon, Portugal to teach at an amazing event. This is where I will be going...

This is the city of Lisbon, Portugal. This is my first trip to Portugal and I am looking forward to sightseeing tomorrow. Then I will be teaching classes with Everyday Moments over the weekend.

I always get asked how it works when you travel and teach at international locations. It is definitely a different experience. I send over my instructions weeks prior so that they instructions can be translated into their language.  I printed color copies of every page in my projects so that each student has a visual to look at. This is always appreciated and helpful. 

Most events provide a translator when I teach. I will talk and then they will translate it for the class. I admit, this is sometimes harder for ME since I like to talk too much. ha! However, I love teaching and am truly thankful to be able to do what I do. I will say that I have found that EVERYWHERE I go there is always a common thread and similarity. We are all woman (and yes- men) who want to CELEBRATE and LOVE our family and preserve our moments...memories in a creative way!  

Off to finish packing. Long day of traveling ahead...

DIY Embellishments- My Craft Channel

 

Today on my weekly show at www.mycraftchannel.com I am going to open your eyes on the way you look at your crafting embellishments. I share my INSPIRATION & Tips and tricks to add unique & affordable embellishments to your crafting life. Yes, this may change the way you shop!

 

*Sweet Afternoon New- MEMORY KEEPER BINDER ALBUM

*note- this used to be a ring and now it is on the outside of my agenda book.

You can watch the show now at www.mycraftchannel.com.

I wanted to show you what Taylor has been creating this past weekend. I am often asked if my girls scrapbook too. Taylor is now officially a crafter!!!! She loves to get my class kits and she likes to do all kinds of crafty things. She borrowed my YUDU and made shirts for a special MS walk to help raise money for the cause. You see her mother in law has MS. She loves her so much and wanted to do something to help. Taylor wanted to thank all of you who donated. The race is this coming weekend and now the "team" will have custom made shirts designed and created by Taylor.

A huge special thanks to PROVO CRAFT and Shannon for donating all the supplies and materials. 

The shirts drying....

She did double sided shirts-

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?px=10741119&pg=personal&fr_id=18084 

This is the link for Taylor's Team. She asked me to please thank everyone who has donated to help and Shannon Lerner for helping her learn how to use the Yudu machine. 

I am so thankful to see her giving back and wanted so much to help others. 

Gentry...Happy Birthday!!!!

Oh yes, today is Gentry's birthday. She is 20 years old today! Silly me... I am emotional- in a good way. 

She is now done with two years of college and starts her Summer job this week at Black House White Market in the mall. She also works for me and that is something I really love and appreciate. I have seen her grow into a woman in the last year. College seems to have a way of maturing our kids. (or at least we hope!) Gentry's roommate got engaged last night...and she was asked to be a bridesmaid in August.

Danielle (left) is getting married and we are excited for her.

Gentry and Carlee (left) have become great friends this year and I love that she has LOVED her second year at college so much.

Happy Happy Birthday today Gentry... I am so fortunate and blessed that God gave me you!!!!

I am thankful for you and love you so very much.

Yesterday we went to Matt and Kayla's and had a BIG party for our little 2 year old Maxson. I took over 70 photos and if we are friends on facebook I have them ALL there. I wanted to share my most favorite here. 

Kayla did a yellow color theme since this is Maxsons favorite color.

I thought it was so beautiful! I especially loved how she added the photos with Maxson in the white frames.

Our silly photo... missing McKay and Seth (they both had to work). 

Okay... a more serious photo with the dog in view and Spencer closing his eyes. I LOVE it even more!!!!

Maxson loves CARS, TRUCKS, and BALLS... basketball. Love this!

Gentry holding little Zellie... look at her SWEET legs. Babies are SHEER heaven. Somehow she just gets cuter and cuter.

 Blowing out the birthday candles on his cupcake-

The little boy in blue is Benson.  He is Maxson's best friend. I loved it when he saw one of Maxson's new gifts and he said, " I NEED IT!" in a two year old voice. It was so cute and funny!!!!

They move to CA for SIX MONTHS tomorrow. Saying goodbye to them was so hard. So thankful for FACETIME and SKYPE.

We got him this little basketball hope and he LOVED it!!!!

party...party...party...

 What a great day with my family and friends....

 

Sweet Memories... HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAXSON!

I woke up early this morning with so much comfort. I was lucky enough to have beautiful dreams with mom in them. I did not want to wake up. It is a club you don't want to be in- but if you are- the one that you lost your mom or dad. It brings me peace to be with her again even if it's only in my dreams. I am thankful for those "tender mercies". I think about my mom every day and I know that she is still with me. So today I woke up feeling thankful for dreams with my mom. So thankful!

Yesterday was Matt's graduation. I have so many photos but for now I'll post just a couple:

I am so proud of him. I know it is hard to get through college and do all that he has done at the same time. He is a wonderful father, husband and son. Most importantly he is a very KIND person. Yes, many of you know that Matt is my "step" son. I don't use this term. He is just my son. However, if I have to explain it.. I always say I have "bonus" children. I have loved Matt from the first time I met him. He was 11 years old. He came to live with us when he was in Jr. High School- 12 years old. I never tried to replace his mother. She is a great person. I admire her and I see the goodness that shines in Matt because of her. So with love and acceptance, he came into my life. Matt was always a good kid. We only got into ONE argument in all those years of living together. He was in 12th grade and had a little attitude. Ha! It was so small when I look back at it. I decided early that I was not going to try to be "his mother" and but love him as if I was. He was so easy to love and he has been the BEST role model for our family. We all just got along. Ty and I had two children together- Zach and Ty. Matt could have been jealous or resentful. He was never that way...he loved the boys and would play, tease, and harass (yes, he tortured the girls and boys relentlessly!!!). 

When I teach everyone is always confused about our family situation. Yes, we have SEVEN children. I think it is because they think Matt is mine, but with the age of Matt, I would have had Matt in Jr. High- ha! However, I am so thankful that he is mine now and that our family- our little Brady Bunch family... broken at first...we took all those pieces...his/ mine and ours and we created a beautiful family. I am so fortunate to have both Matt and Seth. I could not ask for more.

I know that Kayla is super excited that FINALLY he has graduated. They have been together for 4.5 years  ++++ and married for 2.5 years++++ now. I had to not cry when we took some of the photos yesterday. Matt, Kayla and the babies. It filled my heart with love for them and realizing how much they have to look forward to.

A few photos that Gentry took on her phone. Matt is in the BIG SCREEN getting his diploma. Watch for a post with lots of photos coming soon.

Today we are headed to celebrate Maxson. He turns 2 at the end of the month but they are moving to CA for the next six months. (matt's job). My heart is sad to see them go. Today we will celebrate. Then again tomorrow because it's Gentry's birthday and she is officially HOME! 

Whew...what a weekend!!!!!

I'll leave today with this darling layout. It makes me smile!!!!

Sweet afternoon by Stacey Michaud

TC Sweet Afternoon papers, die cuts, Fabrications (trinkets- metal pieces), Spring fling (gems and buttons). 

EXCITING announcements... WELCOME!!!!

 

TODAY is a very good day. I am going with my family to see Matt graduate today and then we will go out to Matt's favorite restaurant. Gentry will be coming home today and so that always makes me happy! This weekend is all about family time...the best TIMES!

I am thrilled to announce a new addition to my design team. KEISHA CAMPBELL

I have loved her elegant beautiful style and knew she would be the perfect fit for our team. Here is more information about her.

Keisha Campbell bio:

I started scrapbooking in 2003 after going to a Creative Memories party. I have been married to my retired Navy Seabee(LaVaughn) since 1995 and we have 2 girls(Amira & Mikiela) and a sweet dog Lulu. Finally we were able to settle down in the Virginia-in the "country". I never thought I'd ever say "I need to drive in town to get...” 

It is nice passing the cows & horses as we drive to and from our home.Scrapbooking is just one of my hobbies, I enjoy crocheting, knitting, jewelry making and photography.

I have been very lucky to have been on various dt's and work for some amazing companies. 

http://abiteast.typepad.com/

 

TC SWEET AFTERNOON- new mid-release

TC SWEET AFTERNOON... papers, die-cuts, stickers.

 

I am honored that she is on my team!!!! 

Also, another FRIDAY announcement....

Woohoo, it could be you!

             Announcing...

We are so excited to see what you've been making with Teresa Collins goodness.

Like REALLY excited.

Can you tell I'm excited? :)

It's super simple...

-Leave a link to your project in the comment section of the design team blog-www.teresacollinsdesignteam.blogspot.com.This week the talented girl featured is KRIS BERC.

Each Sunday we'll have a new post for you to link your amazing work to. You can also share your projects on FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/tcdesigns- or both!

-Link to as many projects as you like.

-Every Friday we will feature a fan's work on the TC Design Team Blog (could be you!)
-If it IS you...do the woohoo, it's you! dance. (optional, of course.)

Can't wait to see your work! :)We encourage YOU to show us your work...and leave a link on the Sunday posts on the blog or on facebook...that'd be great!

Also, I am headed to CANADA this SUMMER.

Yes, I am headed to Calgary, Alberta and teaching with Amber Packer and Janet Hopkins, Lynn Thune, and Susan Tutt. Oh, it's going to be amazing! We would love to have YOU come join us for this wonderful event. The hotel is AMAZING too!

Have a fabulous FRIDAY!!!!

 

It's shipping TODAY... SWEET AFTERNOON

layout by Jamie Harder

So excited that my newest collection is shipping starting TODAY!!!!!!

Today is a good day.

VISIT to ART INSPIRED....& BUSY WEEK HIGHLIGHTS!!!!

I had an amazing weekend. I flew into Oakland airport and enjoyed a nice ride with Patti and Diana to Brentwood. I absolutely LOVED the town, and the people. I was able to spent a lot of time with the store owners and their customers this weekend. It was just what I needed. I enjoyed and loved every minute of it. 

 I want to thank Maridette for taking all the beautiful photos for this POST!!!!!

The store had to redo their store to allow for all the students to come and attend the classes. SOLD OUT workshops and I was feeling so humbled and appreciative. The girls had their own CROWN to hold up when they needed to purchase anything and the owners were OVER THE TOP amazing to help everyone!

These crowns are from the TC Cartridge- BABY BOUTIQUE and created by Maridette.

Awww... the store was amazing and beautiful and had the most beautiful samples. Can you see my lines? Posh, Fabrications, and Notations.

I have to laugh at these photos- we arrived to a REALLY breezy windy afternoon. My hair was everywhere and so I embrace the "imperfection" of the hair part. 

My fabulous friends Diana and Patti- I have known them for YEARS and I got to know them on a more personal and deeper way this weekend. I am grateful. I was impressed with their friendship, how they work together, the beautiful store that they have together and most important HOW gracious and kind they were to each and every customer. I think everyone feels so welcome. I know I did. They went above and beyond. They even had a huge fruit edible flower waiting for me in my hotel room. It was so great and I quickly told them I could NOT wait until I come again. Good good times!!!!! 

I have to thank Danelle and Maridette for their amazing support during my visit and a wonderful yummy dinner on Friday night with the girls.

Loved this project with FABRICATIONS and yes, Maridette used Glimmer Mist to change the fabrications flower to purple. GORGEOUS!!!!!!

Class set up prior to students arriving.

I was happy to be asked to sign a lot of my idea books. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to do the book and it's a treasure to me. 

Diana, Patti and I in front of the store. It is so well worth the trip to visit their store. Can you tell I can't wait to visit again? Yes, I enjoyed shopping during my visit. They have items that I had never seen before.

I have MORE photos to post tomorrow from my visit!

However, I wanted to document my family and what the past week in our family. I will start with McKay's photos from Senior Prom. She had a fabulous time with Jake (her friend.)

I know that she has had the best time in high school. Here she is with her besties- Carissa, and Josilyn.

I loved her beautiful blue dress. Here she is with her friend-date, Jake. The background is the city of Salt Lake City.

GIRLFRIENDS at the PROM!!!!

Aubanie and McKay...drill sisters!!!! 

McKay has one more dance this year- Spartonian Ball. Oh, the life of a teenager!

This is the FINAL weeks for Gentry at BYU. She will be coming home this FRIDAY. This year has been wonderful for her. She made so many great friends. I wanted to share some photos from yesterday.

Yes, that is my daughter on Utah Lake in a Kayak. This is her friend Devan. 

Gentry, Carlee and friends spent some fun times at the lake yesterday. I LOVE seeing her enjoy being in college and thankful for the friends that she is making. 

These are sure to be wonderful lifelong memories. 

Now... a BIG BIG thing for our family is this FRIDAY!!!!!

Matt will be graduating with his Business degree from Brigham Young University. We will be there to cheer him on and see him get his well earned diploma. We are so proud of him and how he went to college, served a mission for our church, worked the entire time during college, got married to Kayla and had TWO kids since he graduated from high school.

He is driven and is the most positive person- full of promise and is always happy. You just want to hang out with him!

OKAY... cute PHOTO alert-

Maxson eating spagetti!!!!

Oh, and Gentry has a birthday SUNDAY the big 20!!!!!! Maxson is the following week-  he turns 2!!!!!!!

I have much to be thankful for.

LARGE TAG MINI BOOK- Spring Fling... My Craft Channel

 

A new TC show is up now... I am still taking a little break from being online as much, but wanted to share my latest show.

Tag books are the perfect way to showcase your photos. The tags can be filled with many photos and tell a story just like a mini book. This show will show you how I created a simple tag book using my Spring Fling collection. This project is filled with beautiful rich colors. This is a tag book that you can create time and time again. Also, the papers are just perfect for SPRING!

 

Check out my show... at www.mycraftchannel.com.

Watch it and then come back and leave a comment. I'll pick a winner to WIN the paper pack full collection of SPRING FLING. WINNER picked tomorrow... have a great day!

From my heart...

I came home yesterday from my visit to Art Inspired Studio and had decided to be "offline" more the past few days. I had the best time with the Patti and Diana and the girls in Brentwood. I have photos and much more to share. I wanted to focus today on the feelings that are HIGH GEAR in my heart.

I think my blog is my way to express tender feelings of what is real is my life and heart. I met so many girls this weekend who expressed they read my blog every day. I always hope what I share is something that others will understand and in some way make them feel a connection. I want my kids to know me in a different way from my blog. Often there is things that you write that maybe you would not necessary tell someone else- or at least in the same way. 

I got home and about two hours later it was time to go to my friend's viewing last night. I was nervous to say the wrong thing to her family and children. I was so thankful that Gentry drove up from Provo to be with me. McKay was also there. I FELT her there. They had a beautiful slideshow and photos EVERYWHERE of her family. I was so happy to SEE that she was in ALL the photo. I would say they had 100 photos. It was surrounded by my beautiful friend. I smiled because I meet too many people who will take photos but NOT let themselves be in the PHOTOS. Don't they realize that they are such a IMPORTANT part of the story?????  I loved absorbing the photos in my memory and seeing her full of happiness and life. 

It was beautiful and I watched as her son (who is McKays friend) was crying the entire time. He will graduate from high school this year. He expressed how much he loved his mom. I watched my daughter be there for him. I watched as the line was TWO hours to get to the family and casket. She was so loved. 

I KNOW that because of HER I believe I am a better person forever. I thought of our time on earth and how short it really is. What is our purpose here? Each day is simply a gift. We have trials and we can use to them to help us grow. She had her trials too. We all do. I know for me personally, my friend will live in my heart and memory forever. I need to always live in the moment and really focus on what is most important. Death is not the end. I rejoice in knowing that we can be with our family and those we love forever.

Last night, Zach came into my bedroom (late- past his bedtime) and had just finished a oral report that he needed to practice. It needed to be 5-7 minutes. Ty was upset that he was not in bed and that he had waiting to get his report done. Ty was trying to give him a lesson on procrastination. Zach asked me to listen to him. I closed my book I was reading and gave him my full attention. He read it to me and I listened intently and I could tell he was happy. I knew that those simple moments of just "being there" are so important. To me, my children are most important. They come before my designing...I want them to always know that.

I know I am writing this today for them...for me...

The funeral is this morning. I should be getting dressed. I am going to miss my sweet friend. I will LOVE her forever. I will be a better mother, friend and wife because of knowing her. I am so thankful to know that she is with God again.  

Sometimes....

Sometimes we just need to allow ourselves to be sad. It's hard for me. I want to be a positive and happy person, and just be grateful every day. However, sometimes things happen that knock us down and make us sad. Sesil came over yesterday and we had a meeting to get to. I was not dressed. Yes, I think she must have thought I was crazy to STILL be in my pink sweatpants. I was just not feeling like my normal self. I felt helpless and sad. I kept thinking of my friend and her family. I then did something dumb and reacted to a situation in the wrong way. I apologized over and over because my heart was heavy thinking I had hurt someone. It was not a good way to start the day.

 I was really beating myself up and was thankful that Sesil just let me talk- over and over about how I was feeling. I was just a mess. Finally, I was alone in the house last night. It was quiet and I prayed for comfort and understanding. I needed peace and I needed direction. I needed to try to apologize to someone again, because it was tearing me up inside. I needed to accept it is absolutely okay to grieve and feel sorrow. It is okay to not be happy right now.  I had something happen that helped me so much. I started to think of the positive and happy times and how much my friend gave me. Her example will be a constant reminder to me to be MORE like her. I know that I must focus of the goodness that she brought into the life of others. I smiled when I thought of her fun personality. Guess what? It is okay to be sad sometimes too.

I am headed to ART INSPIRED STUDIOS on Friday morning. I know this will be just what I need. I am so blessed to be able to travel and teach. I am grateful! I am so thankful that the viewing for my friend is Sunday evening. I will be home and go with my family. I was worried it would be earlier while I am gone. This makes my heart feel so thankful. I will be flying into OAKLAND and I will be reading a new book on the flight there. "Heaven is here" by Stephanie Nielson. I can't wait to read it. I find her inspirational!

So I thought I would share a BEAUTIFUL, HAPPY layout with my new collection- SWEET AFTERNOON.

Layout designed by our international superstar design team member- Amanda Jones. I love her style. 

I really truly appreciate each one of your comments and I read every single one of them. I appreciate hearing from you!

heartbroken...

I should be up and going. I have a meeting in 30 minutes. I am still in my sweats. I found out late last night that my friend had died. I am in shock. I am sad. I am worried for her precious children. She was a young beautiful 44 year old woman. She was my friend. It was unexpected. She died in her sleep. 

I'm trying to not be consumed with sadness...but I am. I have to say that I learned so much from my friend. She made me laugh. She used to make fun of the fact that I had 5,000 friends on facebook and could not add more. She would say..."Who has 5,000 friends people?" and one day she joked that I even had "international friends." She did it to make me laugh and how she wanted to be one of my "international friends." She was a light and she was just so fun to be with.

I have know her for over 20 years. I had lost contact with her and then when our kids went to high school- her daughter and Gentry were on the same team. They were friends at 2 years old. How cool is that? I loved reuniting with her. We often talked about our girls, our children and wanting to raise them to be righteous and good people. She has FIVE beautiful children and a husband that adored her. 

She was the friend that made you feel like YOU were her very best friend. So I always felt so loved. She made everyone feel this way. She was the girl who when she saw you...she would come over and give you a big HUG. She was that girl...the girl you always wanted to be friends with.

I will miss her. It is a reminder to me that EVERY day is truly a gift. LOVE your children, husband, friends and family...EVERY day tell them that you love them. I hope you will pray for her family. I know these children have lost their best friend. I am grateful to know that she is home again with Heavenly Father- this is what gives me comfort at this sad time.

Time... it is time

I have been thinking a lot about McKay graduating in the next few weeks. As a mother, I wonder if I have prepared her enough. She mentioned today that she wanted to have to learn to budget while she is at school. She wants to track her spending and see where her money is going. I was a little shocked and happy to hear this. I have to say watching Gentry "GROW" in the past two years helps me feel more confident in watching her little sister take the same steps. Why do I not feel ready? 

I decided to scrapbook some photos that Gentry took at college. I love the photos from HER perspective!!!! *SWEET AFTERNOON- brads, chipboard, papers. This layout made me realize that as MUCH as I dislike my kids "growing up"- ha... watching them grow and mature makes me happy!

I'm not going to pretend to be ready... for some reason it's made me a little sad to realize that my "baby" girl will be going off to college. I'm sure that is one of the reasons that I'm blogging about it. It's my reality... life... realizing that we work so hard to prepare our children to leave the nest- only to be SAD when the time comes.  It is so important to ENJOY each day with our kids. Wow... trust me if you have little ones- it goes by so fast! 

 

SILVER PLATTER DISPLAYS- MY CRAFT CHANNEL

 

Today on my show segment for MY CRAFT CHANNEL I wanted to show how to take any Silver Platter and turn it into a beautiful home decor display. I am somewhat obsessed with platters right now. I showed how they are perfect to apply Chalkboard paint to or to use as a photo display.

Today's show will show you step by step on how to create your own chalkboard silver platter. In addition, I will also show you how to create a quick and easy magnetic embellishments to attach to a silver platter. Each are stylish home or office displays and VERY affordable. 

The video of the show can be watched here: www.mycraftchannel.com/?omedia_id=1230

To watch the new show please go to www.mycraftchannel.com. I recently filmed the next eight shows and have really enjoyed sharing and "thinking up" new shows.

EASTER Sunday....

I am thankful for a great day with my family. It was so nice that Matt's family and Grandma could come and attend church with us today. The weather was amazing and it was perfect for a egg hunt and a little game of "plastic bat" baseball. I am most grateful for the opportunity to go to church and feel uplifted and hear the messages that I know that I needed to hear. 

McKay made yummy cupcakes for the family. (target cup cake holders)

Azalea is now 4 months old and 16 lbs. Oh, she is the SWEETEST girl. I can't tell you how sad it will be for us when they leave for six months for Matt's job. 

I think I worry that Maxson and Azalea will not know us at all when they come back. Now I know exactly how my mom felt when I was here in Utah and she lived in NC. I now see why she was so sad that we were over 2,000 miles apart when I was started having children. Kayla feels the same way now. Her entire family is in Washington and she really misses them. 

They visited the Easter Bunny yesterday and enjoyed a Easter egg hunt.

I have to say that Maxson and "papa" have the greatest relationship. It is so sweet to watch them together. Maxson loves him and goes right to him. I hope that distance will not change their bond. I think SKYPE and FACETIME is essential. 

The boys LOVE to play with little Maxson. He will be TWO at the end of this month.

So fun to get the "littles" their first Easter basket. I found these cute felt ones from Target (only $2.50 EACH!!!!). Maxson loved in when he REALIZED there was CANDY inside. 

Let's just say the NO SPILL EGG COLORING KIT was not as advertised. It was messy! Still- it was fun.

Maxson is our only little one in the family who found the eggs. Yes, Azalea should be good to go next year! 

It was a great day! I hope you had a wonderful Easter too.

I wanted to show you something very cool and artistic by Cheri Piles. She used the NEW SWEET AFTERNOON paper to show how you can take a paper and with the use of paints and ink- change it up!

I love how she made the LAYOUT very VINTAGE in feel. I really loved this!

She used the die-cuts, chipboard, stamps, brads, and papers with Sweet Afternoon. Thanks Cheri for this cool inspiration!

EASTER- Cricut CARD

Want to explore and buy digital images and themes you can't get anywhere else? Check out Cricut Craft Room™ Exclusives for the latest images needed to take your creativity to the next level. They will release brand-new images regularly for you to instantly buy and cut with. Every Cricut Craft Room™ Exclusives email will showcase exciting new creative possibilities, so that you can give every project, big or small, a spin that's entirely you.

This quick card is perfect for EASTER. 

Sesil designed with the Cricut Craft Room Exclusives- (TC Designs)

Teresa Collins Bunnies

Teresa Collins Basics

Sweet Afternoon Collection

sesilcratin.blogspot.com

We are dying eggs today and preparing for our family dinner dinner. I wish each of you a very Happy Easter!

 

REAL MOMENTS...

I was so looking forward to yesterday. Gentry had a job interview and she came up from school. She wanted to get a Summer job. So she drove up by our home for her interview. Gentry was thrilled when they hired her on the spot. They asked her to put some clothes together as if it was for a customer. She has always had a great sense of style and is very mature for her 19 year old self. 

So now she is working (in a couple of weeks) here-

If you know the store... well, I am a fan and I love that they have modest and chic clothing for any occasion. I also love that she will be home over the Summer. She LOVES BYU and is starting her program next year. She has changed her major from ART to Education. She has decided that she would like to be a teacher. I stand behind her 1,000% and KNOW that she will be a great teacher.

Zach is home for Spring break and loved that Gentry came by. We have this LITTLE problem in our home. You see...Zach HATES to get his hair cut. The problem is that he has THICK hair that grows FAST! He likes Gentry or Taylor to cut his hair. It is "his thing" and excuse not to get his hair cut. Smart boy since both the girls are not living here. He can go longer between haircuts!

I told him I was going to take photos to document his LONG and CRAZY hair.

I loved that he was so excited that Gentry came home for a few hours. He asked her if she would come back home tomorrow. Gentry laughed and said..." I do have to go to my classes, bud."

Zach was being a TOTAL joker and would not pose for photos. So of course, I told him I would take them anyway. 

Yes, these real moments could possibly be GREAT photos for much laughter in the future. I love it!

Gentry offered to take him to the hair salon to get his hair cut. Seriously, he was not having it. He wanted her to cut his hair... just like he always does. So the kids head outside. It was chilly outside. I could not help but take some photos. 

Call me crazy but I love documenting these moments. I love how close my kids are. 

The best investment ever- both my younger boys like my girls to cut their hair. 

Watching my kids grow up. They have grown so close as they grow older. I love that they have such a strong connection. I love that they like to gang up on me and make fun of me in a "loving" way. I guess that is normal. I embrace it!

Here is the NEW short haired look. Zach is now dressed for his baseball game. Shortly after, Sesil came over and hung out with McKay, Gentry and I. We laughed so hard. I love having children and I am most grateful for the opportunity to LOVE and take care of the children God gave us. Wow... it is my greatest achievement.

I am especially thankful for Sesil's friendship too. I worried about working with her and having to worry about that work/friend balance. Our developing relationship  evolved into a deep and close friendship. I think at first, I kept her at a distance. Then I let down my guard and trusted her and trusted our friendship. I am so thankful that I did. I could not let a painful experience from the past keep me from opening my heart and trust again. I think we all need friends who are honest and tell you what you need to hear more than what you may want to hear. Today I am feeling so happy that she is apart of my life. 

Today it is ONE WEEK away from my visit to ART INSPIRED STUDIOS. Thankful for all the students who are coming. I simply love California. I am working on some sweet treats for the students. This is my first visit to their store. If you are coming...just know how much I am looking forward to my visit.

I am also looking forward to my second event... INSPIRED JOURNEY next month. Gentry will be going with me to the event to help out. Julie Jacob will also be going to help. It is always scary to do something new. This is my first MINI event. We limited the event to only 100 students. This one is in Southern California- this makes me happy! II wanted to share a little sneak peek of my book project that I will be teaching. I used my NEW WHITE MEMORY KEEPER BINDER album to create the album. I wanted to use my new mid-release. 

 

 

 I hope you have a WONDERFUL Friday and a great weekend! We woke up to SNOW and it's cold. We definitely have FOUR season in Utah. Often, we go from 70's one day to snow the next...gotta love it.

 

Busy days... more SWEET AFTERNOON

I love this week. Zach is playing nightly baseball games. It is his Spring Break. I love having him home with me. He found out last night that he made the Utah prospect team to go to AZ and play again this June for a week. He is excited. They even asked him to play up- 15U. They felt it was better for him to play up and it will only help him to grow and develop more. We are truly a huge baseball family!!!!

I am working like crazy with year end drill events. I will truly miss this. The year end show is the night before I head to Portugal. It will be a busy next couple of weeks. This weekend I am excited for Easter dinner with the family. Matt will graduate this month from BYU. We are excited for him and his family, but then they are moving away for the Summer. This makes me sad that they will be gone. 

Now I wanted to show more projects with my mid-release.

I have to say... this line reminds me of those SWEET memories of a young child in North Carolina. The line feels like a Spring day, warm weather and sunshine to me. It has been so rewarding to see the designers LOVE the new line.

I have to say that I LOVE this layout that Sesil Cratin designed. I LOVE her attention to detail... the stitching- it is a beautiful line. I love the blue alphabet stickers in the collection. Yes, they are NEW to this line and my sticker collections. I had so many people ask for ALPHABET stickers and so I knew it was the right direction to go.

Isn't her daughter so cute?

Project by Sesil Cratin- www.sesilcratin.blogspot.com

I knew Julie Jacob was going to love the softness of the line. She has such a beautiful vintage/shabby chic style. 

The chipboard element sheets have all the numbers as well.

Julie Jacob- www.juliejac.typepad.com

Then I wanted to share a beautiful card. I am in love with this simple card from Jamie Harder- www.ahappyscrappyplace.blogspot.com

I think this could be the best card- simple to recreate over and over for ANY occasion. 

 

CHANGES... announcing!

I am thrilled to announce some NEW changes within my company and the design team. Due to a wonderful growing company it has been necessary to expand in new directions. Sesil Cratin has been a huge component in our growth. It has truly been an honor and blessing to be able to work each day with her and to gain from her strong business background.  She will now be the director of Social Media and Marketing as a employee. We are thrilled for her new position and have some fabulous things in the works.

With this we needed a new design team coordinator. We decided since it is so much work- we decided to have two design team coordinators- each will be equal partners with managing and directing the fabulous design team. It is with happiness that I announce Cheri Piles and Julie Jacobs as the new design team coordinators. They are both so amazing and I know you will love the changes and direction we will be going in the "creative" design areas of the company.

There is MORE. I am also thrilled to announce the ADDITION of a new TC design team member- I would like to welcome  Suzanne Sergi to the team.   She was a guest designer with us a few months back. We loved her work so much and asked her to join the team. So please welcome Suzanne to the Teresa Collins Design Team Family!  Check out her blog here: http://www.scrappinthedetails.typepad.com/ 

This is a adorable tag that she created with SWEET AFTERNOON & Everyday Moments- 

Here is some more DARLING cards designed by Sesil Cratin. I have to say... Sweet Afternoon is perfect for cards for ANY theme or occasion!

You can see more of Sesil's work on the design team and her personal blog at www.sesilcratin.blogspot.com.

Now it is time for the next sneak peek of the beautiful project designed by Rebecca Cross. She is the owner of PINK PAISLEE. When I saw her project visuals I was smitten with how beautiful and interactive the project is. Look at all the detail and the beautiful product that she has included in her workshop. Inspired Journey girls you are in for a treat!

 

I am so excited for the FIRST Inspired JOURNEY event! I am so thankful that both Rebecca Cross and Sande Krieger are teaching along side me. I have loved these two girls styles and they are amazing instructors. I knew they would be the perfect addition to the event. 

Today I am filming EIGHT new segments for My CRAFT CHANNEL. My entire car is full of projects and I'm headed to the studio. Today is going to be a GREAT day. 

Day 2 -Sweet Afternoon & Inspired JOURNEY previews!!!!!

Hello Tuesday!!!!! I read every single one of your comments and I am thrilled that you like the colors and designs. This entire week I will be showcasing lots of projects designed with the collection.

I love to make cards now... I used to dread them. That was until I started designing and doing 6x6 double sided paper pads. I mean it just makes it so much easier! I love the shrunk down images and the scaled down icons that you can find now. Sesil Cratin loves to make cards. I think it is her favorite thing to create. She created this pretty card. I love how she stitched on the card.

I wanted to show another MEMORY KEEPER TC binder project- this was designed by Dedra Long. I am so in love with her originality and beautiful style! I love how the same binder and the same product can look completely different styles. I love this...

Look at the side view to see the dimension that Dedra used on her project. (Fabrications flower) I am so loving how she used the FABRICATIONS buttons inside of the paper for dimension too.

 

Love the brads attached to the page for embellishments. You & ME is die cut circles and love how she used the together. Dedra always does amazing cool stitching and adds her personality to everything that she creates. I love that she journals- she adds what is IMPORTANT to her projects.

Stamping... stamps from TCD. 

Dedra Long blog-http://dedralong.blogspot.com - Go to Dedra's blog for MORE inspiration!

Next is a layout by Jamie Harder. 

Jamie Harder-http://ahappyscrappyplace.blogspot.com. Jamie is such a a fabulous designer. I love her style and often hear others express that they love that they can recreate her projects. She used FOUR papers from the collection of this page, brads, chipboard and die-cuts. 

The next layout is so pretty. It is designed by Julie Jacob. 

I LOVED how she added RED to the pastel colors. GORGEOUS. This layout is so pretty!

Julie Jacob-http://juliejac.typepad.com. Julie loves the typewriter to journal and I love it too. 

NOW.. it's time to debut  SNEAK PEEKS to my second event...INSPIRED JOURNEY. It is NEXT month in Manhatten Beach, CA!!!! We are showing the projects this week. The projects are detailed and big. Each day this week- the projects are highlighted for the crafters coming. However, I wanted to share them with you too. 

I teach TWO projects at this event too. This year I designed and had made a display stand. We will be building the wood display from pieces, painting, getting messy and then creating the calendar pages. 

            DOCUMENT YOUR STORY 

                    HOME DECOR DISPLAY

Class description: WARNING: You will get messy!!! This workshop is hands on. You will assemble a fabulous wood stand from start to finish. This decor stand was designed by Teresa and produced exclusive for YOU and our INSPIRED JOURNEY friends. You will get messy by painting the stand in ANY color that you wish!  Don't let your imagination limit the possibilities that your stand will become. Next, you'll have the exclusive designed calendar pages to help tell your story. This stand can become a photo display, calendar or whatever your heart desires!!!! It's perfect for your home, office or to give away as the perfect gift. Join Teresa as you get your crafty "inner" decorator creating something you will love. 

Now, I want to share with you the project that SANDE KRIEGER will be teaching at the event. It's beyond fabulous and her workshop is sponsored by 7 Gypsies. I know you girls are in for a TREAT!!!!

                                    "Gypsy Journal"

Passport - Check. Airline tickets - Check. i-Pod - Check. Gypsy 
Journal...??? No Gypsy is complete without a vintage-chic travel 
journal that makes all their companions "oooh and awwww" every time 
she pulls it out. Join Sande as she takes you on a tactile journey 
where you'll create a keepsake you can record all your adventurous 
moments in whether it's a trip to the grocery store or a trip around 
the world.

Now if you are wondering HOW you can come to the event???? Simply email me at teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com. You will be put on the list

 and we notify you of any openings. We are currently SOLD OUT but we have find that EVERY event we end up with a few cancelations and we fill

them from our wait list. Sometimes with it being so close to an event, we have gotten people in because they could come and fill a last 

minute spot. Ginger NELSON is the most amazing event coordinator ever and she works hard to keep you updated on the event and any

available openings. We are going to have a blast! 

 The winner from yesterday - the entire NEW SWEET AFTERNOON release and the WHITE MEMORY KEEPER binder album is:

scrapwoman (acskrueger@sbcglobal.net) has left you a comment:

The collection is another terrific example of what a truly great designer you are. When the same papers can be used by different people and each project has such a totally different look and feel is really quite a feat. I love how they can give an elegant look and feel as well as cute and happy, and as soft and simple. I am going to be experiencing two big milestones in my family this year, one being my first wedding of one of my children,and I really want to tell the story and document the occasion. Not only for them but also create a memory book for me documenting all of my feelings and experiences of this momentous milestone in my life. I think this line would work for this as well as my sister's first child(at 40)! She's having a girl and I can see sweet pink and white pages that I can create to tell her little one how welc omed she is! The memory keepers would be fantastic for both projects! Three big projects in store for me, so little time!

Please email teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com with your name and address. CONGRATS!!!!! Thank you EACH of you for posting so many encouraging and kind comments.

I am prepping to FILM more segments tomorrow for MY CRAFT CHANNEL.Today is all about making sure I have all my step outs done. I will be featuring more SWEET AFTERNOON tomorrow and the next Inspired JOurney project by Rebecca Cross (PINK PAISLEE). It is OVER THE TOP beautiful! HOpe you are enjoying all the visual inspiration. 

It's TIME- NEW TC MID-RELEASE debut TODAY!!!!!!

Yes, it's TIME... here is SWEET AFTERNOON!!! 

This line is so pretty. Yes, it is PASTEL. I knew that the prediction for Spring 2012 was a PASTEL trend. So this was right up my alley. There are so many beautiful colors in this collection- blue, creams, tans, white, pink, tan and yellow. It makes my heart swoon!!!!!

I got the papers this past week and I was feeling so creative. Here are a few projects that I created-

I made these accordion cards with the collection- papers, diecut sheets and stickers.

Yes, the FABRICATIONS fabric flowers are beautiful with this new collection!

The papers are all heavy weight and textured and make beautiful sturdy cards, books and pages.

I used my TC X Sticker Maker (XYRON) to make all my die-cut elemnts into stickers. SUPER love this!

This is a accordion card that I used all the die-cuts to decorate and it will be a nice card to give someone! I am in LOVE with the yellow in the line. If you know me personally- I am not a big fan of yellow in general. However, I found the perfect yellow and I am really loving it. It has inspired me!!!!

Now, the color that is POPPING for me is the BLUE! Yes, I know I am a major pink girl but the blue in this line is so "pretty."

I made this mini book- sized 5x7 with a recycled box. Oh, yes- I will be showing it on a segment on My Craft Channel in the next couple of weeks. Notice- the white flower paper too! I left the flowers neutral (which is lovely) but you then can ink, color, etc. if you want more constrast. These elements on the cover are the die-cut pieces. Yes, there are TWO that go with this collection. They retail for .99 cents each. I love this!!!! You can create a book at a bargain. I try hard to offer affordability in my prices so you can create and it's not so hard on the budget.

Here is a peek inside the book- I made lots of envelope pages. All the colors go well together to create a beautiful mini-book!

 I hope you will love the NEW collection as much as I do. I LOVE what I am blessed to do. It is my greatest hope that my lines inspire you to live a creative life. That you feel INSPIRED to create and tell your story, decorate your home, create cards, etc. I think being creative makes me a happier person. It's so fulfilling to create something that we love. I hope you will share my blog and help me share my newest lines- thank you local scrapbook stores (online stores) for carrying my lines for me...if they don't please ask them too. That is how they know you like my products. Let the retailers know!!!! I would not be HERE today doing this if it was not for EACH of you that support my products. I am truly grateful. So I wanted to give back. 

We have a very special guest artist that we asked to design with my newest release- I KNEW this line was HER!!!! Keisha Campbell has such a beautiful style and I was thrilled that she was willing to design with my new line.

I love how she used the neutral papers in the collection. I love how she used the brads (the brads come with the paper pendants too!)

 

Keisha thank you so much for sharing your AMAZING talent and being my SPECIAL guest designer! If you do not follow her work/blog please check her out- http://abiteast.typepad.com. Make sure you follow her blog and I know you will find so much inspiration!

I also am debuting a new MEMORY KEEPER white 3 ring binder album- this is a BEAUTIFUL project that Cheri Piles created this past weekend-

I wanted to sell a binder album that was non-themed and would allow for you to document your memories without having to bind the pages- simply punch the holes with a hole punch!

I love how Cheri used the SWEET AFTERNOON stamps and diecut elements.

This is a view of the INSIDE of her book- I love how pretty her pages are!

Cheri loves to make photo corners and she used the TC X Sticker Maker by Xyron to help in her obsession. ha!

Project by Cheri Piles (Photo of Sisters provided by: Artography By Kami
http://www.artographybykami.com)

Comments by Cheri:

"I love the texture of the paper and how thick the papers are! 

Multiple layering is so in right now and with the white binder it was perfect for the "white space" and layering trends.  On the cover you can see I cut multiple shapes with the paper collection and added them onto chipboard to give "depth". 

The stamp set that comes with the collection is so much fun! You can see how I cut the butterfly and added foam dots underneath it's wings on page 1. I used the large die cut saying "everyday moments" as a tab - don't be afraid to go large with your tabs, it gives your book a new interesting look.

From my scraps I punched matching photo corners for my pages and ran them through the NEW Teresa Collins Sticker maker by Xyron! This was so much easier than gluing them individually - What a dream!!"

Cheri Piles

http://cherinspirations.blogspot.com

 

Today I am going to give away the ENTIRE complete collection to ONE LUCKY winner!!!!! You will get all the new papers, two die-cut sheets, two chipboard elements sheets, stamp sheet, sticker sheet and the NEW TC MEMORY KEEPER White three ring binder!!!!!!! If you would like to win the ENTIRE SWEET AFTERNOON collection please post on the blog. Have a great day!

the kits are ON THEIR WAY... ART INSPIRED STUDIOS!!!!

Thank you for joining in on the chat last night on facebook. It was so fun and wow...nothing like speed typing. There was so many of you on there and I had to keep refreshing the page. The winners will be on the bottom of this post. 

So my kits are headed to ART INSPIRED STUDIOS!!!! I am excited to be going soon. They are located in Northern California, in between Sacramento and San Francisco. There is a “Brentwood” near Santa Monica in Southern California. 

 

The projects are big projects- yes, I'm teaching 3 workshops but I shipped SEVEN boxes. 

I am looking forward to this trip and especially excited about the three workshops that I am teaching there! The projects will be there any day now. You will be able to see them behind the display. 

This is FRIDAY nights photo flip display album. It is sold out! However, due to popular demand- I am teaching it AGAIN one more time in HOUSTON TX...JUNE at By Design. Sign ups start now! Promise this is the last time ever to teach with the World Traveler line. It's sold out and I had to scrap to be able to do this project again. PS... your display does not have to be travel themed. In fact- mine is filled with my favorite family photos.

This workshop is HUGE... seriously a big project! Last I heard there was only two or three spots left in the workshop. It is a three hour workshop and it's really a beautiful project. You will get to use my black damask flocked covers (they are sold out too!) that I have saved some to use for a workshop. Again, I will be teaching this workshop ONE more time at By Design in June again. However, it will be the very last time. This project is all about helping you tell your EVERYDAY moments- your routine...what your life is about. I cherish my book- it has a lot of meaning for me.

The last workshop that I am teaching at ART INSPIRED STUDIOS is full of technique- stamps, embossing, book binding, etc. It CAN be a calendar or it can be a really cool flip up book project. I created exclusive PDF calendar pages for this project. Yes, and I used lots of cool tags for this project to make it more interactive. 

So join me... we are going to have a fun time. I know the owners and they are just the sweetest girls and are so excited. 

 

Here are the winners from the chat/blog post:

PRIZE winners from my blog post- Winners of TC X Sticker Maker- thank you Xyron!!!

1. Christine Slak 2. Shabby Patti 3. Svetlana 4. Cindy Velsaquez 5. Philippa 6. Novelaiba453@gmail.com 7. Cresta Woodruff 8. Jessica Shelton.

Winner of TC Idea Book- Candace Bunnage.

Winner of HUGE paper pack from TC Designs- Suz Gray. Congrats to the TEN fabulous winners- thank you! PLEASE email with WHAT you won in the subject line and your full name and address to teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com.

Looking forward today to lunch with a girlfriend and then watching Zach play in a baseball game this afternoon. I love Fridays! 

TEN PRIZES... enter NOW!!!!! JOIN ME LIVE on facebook...

I am live on FACEBOOK right NOW... yes, I'm chatting on the facebook page for MY CRAFT CHANNEL. I will be there for the next hour- 8pm-9pm MST. If you are on facebook- please join in on the chat and feel free to chat with me. I would love to hear from you. It is against the rules to do contests directly on FACEBOOK...so if you post HERE tonight YOU can win some awesome prizes. 

This is where I will be chatting.... www.facebook.com/mycraftchannel

Please follow and like my facebook page at... www.facebook.com/tcdesigns 

We have some pretty cool things going on and you won't want to miss all the details. 

So join me now...

Now for the prizes- TONIGHT  my good friends XYRON and I are giving away some SUPER CUTE PINK goodness...  we are giving away EIGHT TC X Sticker Makers!!! Right here on my blog and my facebook page-

www.xyron.com/tcx

XYRON sponsors my craft channel segments at My Craft Room. YOU CAN WIN ONE OF THE 8 Teresa Collins X's. 

However, if you don't win- they have sweetened the pot. Please go to www.xyron.com to buy a great bundle Xyron is featuring TONIGHT.  This bundle is $19.99 and includes the Teresa Collins Sticker Maker and 100' of Permanent Adhesive.  Until Midnight tonight we are also offering FREE Ground Shipping on orders... It's a great deal. Don't miss out  with the FREE shipping!

Here's a direct link to the special:

http://www.xyron.com/enUS/Products/Hot_Deals/Hot_Deals/Teresa_Collins_X_plus_100__of_Adhesive.html 

OF COURSE... we need to add some MORE prizes tonight- ONE person will win the NEW TC IDEA BOOK that I did with Northridge Media. 

NINE chances to win...

Oh, let's make it TEN. I will be sending one LUCKY crafter a BIG box of TC products. Nick will send you a few kits full of product to keep you crafting and busy for a LONG TIME!!!!! 

So post NOW... and you could be ONE of TEN LUCKY winners tonight!!!!! Winners will be announced in tomorrow on my blog. 

PLEASE post if you watch MY CRAFT CHANNEL and anything you want to share about the channel. Good luck!!!!!!

LIVE CHAT TONIGHT... join me

Tonight I am chatting at MY CRAFT ROOM www.facebook.com/mycraftchannel facebook live at 8pm MST (8pm-9 pm). I have my own show each week and I love it. They are having sweeps week- giving away lot of prizes. They asked me today to do a online chat...So in a few hours,  the chat begins.

Also,so does some AMAZING PRIZE giveaways right here on my blog!!!! This post will be updated with more information in a little over 3.5 hours. JOIN in on the fun. 

PERFECTION.... (deep thoughts-warning!)

I have to say that I loved reading the design team blog today. Jamie Harder did a layout and talked about her daughter and the frustrations at not being "perfect" at new things. It really spoke to me. I think all of us have our own unique challenges. As a young girl, I dealt with a father that was not a cheerleader in my world. He was not a normal father in any sense to me growing up. I never could figure out why he could not love and accept me. His remarks were often so cruel and probably was the biggest reason why I have struggled with my weight (always striving to be perfect)...from his comments. I have to say that I am 1,000% not blaming him for this, because NOW I see I have overcame so much from NOT letting his hurtful words ALWAYS stay with me. It did take me years to get over and accepting that he could not treat me and love me like a "normal" father. I don't know why I have never spoken about this before. It used to embarrass me. How could a father not love his own daughter? Well, I am here to tell you that I grew up with this. NOTHING could be perfect enough in his eyes. 

So I started at the age of FIVE trying to be "perfect." I would not ever speak back to him. I would keep my room spotless. Yes, I knew if I did not- he would come into my room and DUMP every single thing from my dressers and create a HUGE mess for me to clean up. I would be crying and not understand why if I had left ONE thing out that he would then create a mess that took me hours to clean. It was a very abusive mental cycle. I guess you could say I was "lucky" that he never beat me. He beat my mother instead. Yes, it was a daily scary warzone in my family. I will tell you that I relied on prayer my entire life to give me peace. I was so confused. 

When I was about ten years old (I was VERY slim!!!) my dad decided to not call me Teresa anymore. He called me OX... yes, like the animal. He said I was BIG and that he had a new name for me. I was CRUSHED. Who wants to have a nickname like this? A small girl who wants to be loved and wants her dad to accept her. So he called me this name ongoing from this point. I remember my mom, tried to make me feel better. She told me he called me OX because I was such a strong girl. So with this information, I thought... I need to lose weight. If I was skinnier then HE would love me. I remember I was 95 lbs at this time.  Yes, 95 lbs. 

This started a very vicious mental cycle for me. In my mind- I struggled with weight because of this. My mother decided a couple of years later, that she would put me in a "beauty pagent." I did not want to do it. My mother told me that I was beautiful, but due to my dad was always telling me "not to gain weight." She was a Southern mother and she was direct in her thoughts. She just wanted me to loss 5 lbs before the pagent and I would be "PERFECT." I did not want to do the pagent. Hello, getting in front of hundreds of people in the center of our BIG MALL and wearing a bathing suit. What had I got myself into???? My dad told me I did not have a chance because I was "too big" - I was 110 lbs at this time. All I could think about was the jiggle and wiggle of wearing a bathing suit and HEELS at the same time and walking the T. 

I will tell you... I am NOT a pagent girl. I did the pageant and a miracle happened. Holy COW... I was crowned the winner. Imagine my surprise. I was really in SHOCK. Right then, I was given a modeling contract and several people wanted to sponsor me. They thought I was "PERFECT." This was a MAJOR changing point in my life. My father and mother decided to divorce that same SUMMER and I was somewhat free from the daily "emotional crap" that he always told me.  

I did not want to do another pageant. I did not want to be critiqued and judged any more. Everyone- especially my mother thought I was crazy. I had learned a big lesson. I was going to work on loving myself as I am. It gave me a big boost in self worth when I needed it most. My world- my HOME...my peace was better after my dad left. The scars were still there. I am a direct result of my past. I still have to battle certain issues because of my past. Don't we all? I choose to listen to God's voice. I know I am HIS child. I know that HE loves me. Even when my own earthly dad could not. It's okay... as I have aged I have become a stronger me due to my experiences. I am a passionate mother. My husband says I am a mother bear and protector. I NEVER want my children to be harmed inside OUR HOME. I can control that. I know that the world is hard, mean and unkind at times, but I can have a home where they feel OVER THE MOON loved and wanted. Yes, wanted. I want them to never doubt the simple but profound truth that they are loved. 

This layout from Jamie Harder is what had me feeling like I should SHARE what I went through. I want my kids to know WHY I love them so much and why I think they are PERFECT just the way they are. Thank you Jamie for inspiring me...

"In my world lately, we are dealing with my sweet girl's frustrations when she is not immediately successful at something she is new to.  She is a bit of a "perfectionist" and I am trying to get her to understand that "perfection" is not the goal.  I want her to know that she should feel safe to try new things and know that with hard work and practice she can do anything!  I want her to know that she is not "perfect" but that she will always be "perfect" to me!

Now I typically have a very clean style but I wanted for the theme of this page to show some "imperfection" if you will.  So I cut out a flower from the Spring Fling collection and I crumpled it up into a ball. And that felt good.  But I didn't stop there.  Nope..I got out my sandpaper and I scratched it all up.   There.  Perfectly imperfect.

I challenged myself on this layout to use bits and pieces I had and I ended up mixing three collections on this layout; Spring Fling, Fabrications and Everyday Poetry.  So let your imaginations run wild and see what you create!- Jamie Harder"

Now I give you a challenge... go find those special people in your life... CHILDREN, HUSBAND, MOM, DAD, FRIEND, SISTER, BROTHER and tell them today how much you love them. Let them know how much they mean to you and you love them just as they are!!!!  Have a great day.

 

TODAY....

Today was a long but fun day. We had a fun day filming videos at my office (I even got Nick to film it with me!), sorted through all the new MID-RELEASE products. I am so HAPPY with the line. I can't wait to share it with you in just a few days. I will be sharing the video in the next couple of days. The release will be up on MONDAY. That is the day retailers may order my latest collection. I packed up the design team boxes with Sesil and I can't wait to see what the girls create. That reminds me... WE want to see what you create with my products. Please link them on FACEBOOK at www.facebook/tcdesigns.com or email them to sesil@teresacollinsdesigns.com. You never know when YOU could be featured. 

Tonight we went to Zach's baseball games and it was windy and started to rain. STILL... I love these games. I love watching the boys perform. This is the LAST two months of superleague and then it's OVER. Zach is going into 9th grade next year and this Summer he will be playing for Cottonwood High School again. I know high school baseball will be great, but I will MISS the parents and the atmosphere that he has had with the baseball academy. Zach caught the entire two days tonight. He is much taller than me now and his voice is "manly" now. ha! 

I wanted to show a really cool Carolina Breeze layout by Julie Jacob. This line was my mid- release and it has been a big hit. I think the yellow, gray combo is just so pretty. I love how Julie altered the papers though to a more mixed media/glimmer mist project. 

Hmmm. I love anything to do with dictionary and stitching. I love this!

She even used some of my TIMELESS brads. Thanks Julie for always inspiring!!!!!!

I am going to be working on new mid-release projects and NEW My Craft Channel segments for the next few days. I even have a very special GUEST DESIGNER who will be helping me to DEBUT the new collection.  Can't wait to reveal who it is!

SPRING BREAK part 1

This is week one of two weeks of SPRING BREAK in our home. My kids go to two diffrent school districts. Yes, Zach will be the rebel and go to Cottonwood HS so he can play baseball for them. Anyway, this week Ty and McKay are home. It's been hard since I can't take the kids on a fun trip. I still have to get Zach to school each day. So today we went to lunch at Chili's. There is a salad there that I eat everytime. (cobb salad- no bacon,cheese or dressing! add Salsa instead and it's no carb and only 350 calories!!!!) It was so fun just being with the kids. Afterwards, I treated by taking them to go get ice cream from COLD STONES. I timed it so that Zach could have a treat too. Did I mention I don't buy ice cream for our home? Yes, it's my WEAKNESS and so I don't buy it ever. My kids are treated occasionally to ice cream, but we go out for it. That way I'm not tempted to eat the ENTIRE container. 

I went today for a check up and I am the EXACT same weight still. I am maintaining. I am so happy! I think this is a huge deal for me. I have once a week allowed myself to eat a "normal meal" and seeing if I can maintain and stablize my weight. I am honestly not worried about losing more weight even though by the charts I should be about 10-15 lbs lighter. I will say that maintaining is a COMMITMENT and it's just as hard or maybe harder than losing it. I'm serious! 

I have some big changes to announce in the next week. As a company I have grown so fast and well with that growth, I had to hire help and readjust some jobs. I feel so blessed to be able to do this- it's truly my passion. I am so fortunate to work with Xyron, Provo Craft and have some wonderful things in store. So watch as I debut my NEW mid-release on MONDAY!!!!!!!! I'm even working on a video too. 

I wanted to share a EVERYDAY MOMENTS mini book and post by Cheri Piles: (posted on Design team blog)

"Everyone is loving the Everyday Moments collection, I too am addicted to this line! I recently helped out a friend in her booth at a local Creating Keepsakes expo and I LOVED hearing all of the comments on the new lines! 

With this new mini book I wanted to show how you could use this line with some pretty bold spring colors and bring in a vintage feel at the same time. To create the overall look I inked all of the edges in "antique linen" which matches the color in the papers perfectly with it's just a hint of tan. Then I sanded everything to give it a really SOFT feel letting some of the chipboard of the book show through on the edges. 

The cover of this page has a scalloped edge with holes and I glittered the edge in a blue color and added the die cut word "today" over the top then added the little clear rhinestones in the center of each hole. I love the blue gem in the center of the clock sticker. I used Therm OWeb 3D foam squares on the "Memory" and "love the everyday" die cuts. Then I slipped the wing of the TC "trinket" bird just under the "love the everyday" banner.  

On the back of the cover I used glossy accents on the "remember this" banner to give it more demension. I also added blue crystals to the blue damask pattern. I cut this piece from the right edge of the "collage" paper and matted it onto a spring green cardstock. I love how the colors go so well.

I used my Provo Craft Cricut Cuttle Bug and ran the papers "yellow dots", the back side of "calendar" and some old lunch sacks through it using a floral die and leaf shaped die. I also used an embossing folder on the leaves. I put the large crown brad in the center and encircled it in the blue scallop rhinestone strip by just cutting the scallops apart, because they are self adhesive they are easy to manipulate.

This is a pocket page, where I used the "collage" paper to cover the chipboard and then added another flower and the "Observations" die cut journal tag. To finish it off I added the "notes" tab on the top left. 

Photographer's credit

I love this little canvas page insert!

I did the same thing here with the die cut bird, I cut the rhinestone scalloped gems and layed them on the inner side of the blue outline. I love the effect!

Photographer's credit

 

I love how this came together creating something new, yet with a little of the old vintage charm. I hope this inspires you really play with the line and have fun trying something new!

Thanks Cheri!!!!! I loved her tips and tricks. Enjoy today!

Today on My Craft Channel- Card Making made SIMPLE!!!!!

Today is the debut of my latest show on www.mycraftchannel.com is all about how to use all the paper pads that are so popular! So I showed how I like to create with my paper pad collections.  I showed cards and tags with my 6x6 and 8x8 paper pads. To make it even easier TODAY right here on my blog you can download for free the special TC PDF of card sentiments that I used on the show today. 

I also showed how easy and fun it is to use my new TC Xyron X sticker maker to make each sentiment into a sticker to adhere on the cards.

Here are some photos from today's show.

Here is the free download for you to print and use for your own cards!

Download TC-Card-Sentiments-1

Hope you enjoy todays show segment. I am filming for SEASON 3 soon.

Now I had to share a project that Julie Jacob designed. She is such a source of inspiration on my design team and I hope it inspires you too! This is a post from on the DESIGN TEAM blog. We blog FIVE days a week and so if you get a chance go see all the creative goodness that is found there: www.teresacollinsdesignteam.blogspot.com

31 Days of Lists with Julie Jacob- as told by JULIE....

Hey there...I want to share a fun project I've been working on all month.

I signed up to take 30 Days of Lists...a super fun, super affordable month-long project. Each day a prompt for that day's list is emailed to me...then I make my list and add it to my little book.

I should start off by saying I LOVE to make lists. Always have. :)
I so look forward to those prompts each morning.

I began by making my list book. I found an old, hardback copy of Mutiny on the Bounty at the Thrift Store:

Since March has 31 days...I decided my book would have 31 lists, even though the class is 30 Days of Lists. I'm just an on the edge kind of girl like that.

Turns out Mutiny on the Bounty has more than 31 pages to it. Huh.
I tore out pages (and saved them), and glue sticked pages together until I had 31 sections of pages...make sense?

On the right hand side of each page, I adhered various papers. I used lots of scraps for this. I love using scraps. Makes me feel all justified for keeping them.

Here's my book cover after I dooded it up a little:

You can see all my previous pages/lists on my blog...but here is the last one I completed:

If I had an extra hour, I would....

get more laundry done, take a nap, get more errands run, read more, make more stuff, have wonderful hot meals prepared each night, take a nap, walk on the treadmill faithfully, dust? probably not, take a nap.

For these pages I used:

Fabrications Canvas - Yellow Flower paper

Everyday Moments - Flying Bees paper (for typed journaling strips)
Fabrications Canvas 8x8 pad - blue pennant paper on left side of book

Fabrications Canvas - Stamps (clock), Brads (time), Die Cuts (for the date)

Fabrications Linen - metal key

Letter Stickers - from Notations kit

Antique Dictionary Page for heart - Bazzill

Heart Punch - Recollections, butterfly punch - Martha Stewart

Fabric tape - 7 Gypsies

Small alphabet stamps, date stamp - Ink (Tsukineko)

Ledger paper - Making Memories

Linen fabric - for tab at top

Tiny Attacher - Tim Holtz

Coffee sleeve - for corrugated butterfly

Have a great weekend!

 

TC Provo Craft- digital Easter images

I have been meaning to share my newest design set with Provo Craft for the CRICUT CRAFT ROOM. These are all with the EASTER theme. I am loving the paper basket, cupcake wrapper, Easter phrases, the cute bows, bunnies and chicks...the eggs too. I guess you could say I can't pick a favorite. There are digital images named Bunnies and Chicks and EASTER BASKET. These sets have adorable Easter designs that are perfect for holiday cards and projects. www.cricut.com

 

 

 Here are some projects made with my new digital images-

Easter Card and Basket by Sesil Cratin

This is my new FABRICATIONS paper collection too!

Or you create your own paper Easter baskets... or really an kind of basket.

Here are some more designs by Collette Nederhoff

I love how she cut out the CUTE bunny and then ran it through the Cuttlebug to add the dots!!!!!

This past Thursday was Tyler's birthday. He is always so hard to buy for. I decided to give him some meaningful gifts and some FUNNY gifts. 

Well, the mug was meant to be a funny gift. However, I ordered it in BLACK not pink. However, when I picked it up it was PINK. If you know my husband you will know that he simply is not a fan of having his photo taken. So it is always a struggle to get photos of him. This was our family photo shot in December.

This picture makes me giggle because he WAS NOT smiling or wanting to be doing the shot. So this mug is really a little funny reminder of that day. Now that it is pink...it's even better. 

This is the large photo canvas that I ordered for him. Like I said... he doesn't really want anything, but he did like this.

I am going to find a frame to put the canvas inside. I love having photos around the home and this one is the first thing you will see when you come into our home. *PHOTO CREDIT- Michael Sandberg.

We also went to see Hunger Games at the movie theatre. I cried... I won't talk about it since I don't want to spoil it for anyone.  I did not think I would like it. I definitely do not think this movie is good for younger kids. I did like it very much though. 

We had a big family dinner today at our home today. All the kids came up and Ty's mother made the most beautiful dinner for us. She is amazing! I am doing another cleanse (no food at all) for a few days. It still amazes me how much better I feel when I do this every couple of months. It's really not as hard as you would think. It has been a great weekend!

 

NEW- TC Retailer CLASS KITS... Mixed Media Workshop!!!!

I am so excited to let you know about a new and exciting kit program that we are doing at TCD. We are doing MONTHLY retailer kits now. These are some views of the kits that you can purchase at your local scrapbook stores:

This is the FABRICATIONS kit. It comes will all papers, diecuts, blingage, 10x10 chipoard cover and all the step by step instructions. Shipping now!

This is the SPRING FLING album kit. It is so adorable! You get free PFD sheets to create your projects. I love this album. Some items are not included and will be stated: example GIRLS is a alphabet chipboard. The buttons, twill, papers, diecut, pdf sheet are included along with the instructions.

This is the third kit- EVERYDAY MOMENTS- It comes with all the papers, chipboard cover, blingage (wings, dangle, etc) pdf sheet, and more. *note tulle ribbon is not included. 

You can ask you favorite store if they have them or to order them. Stores please contact: nick@teresacollinsdesigns.com. We are thrilled with this new program. You can teach the projects or you can sell them as a kit that they take home and do. 

Also, this weekend- Nick, Sesil and I will be at the SCRAPBOOK EXPO USA in Sandy UT on Friday. Look for our  booth (we are sharing a booth with MME!!!!) You can find some GREAT deals on my past collections. We have put together some kits with products that we only have very limited quantities left- so come check it out! I am excited to see all my friends and get a chance to walk about the EXPO. Provo Craft is the main sponsor of the big event. Hope to see many of my crafty friends there!

PLUS... this weekend...UTAH mixed media girls- I wanted to share a workshop that is taking place by my friend Candice. 

This is the GORGEOUS kit you will get! It is a ART RETREAT WORKSHOP- Download Art Retreat Invite from Candice Elton It is THIS SATURDAY. You even get a wonderful lunch included. 

Have a fabulous DAY!

 

YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL.... ONE DIRECTION craze

My daughter is so funny. She is 17 years old and in love with the band ONE DIRECTION. Oh, yes...they are HOT...ha! That is what she thinks. She came home today and listened to their music VERY loudly for about an hour. It was blaring. I have to admit, I do like their music too. 

 

If you are not aware of the HUGE craze here for this band. Watch the video. I would imagine quite a few of you reading my blog know their music and might have a BIG FAN in your home too. Don't we all remember those innocent crushes that we each had when we were younger? 

Today I had my 14 week check "in" at my clinic for health & wellness. I am down 32 pounds. Hmmm... I have to say that I am having a huge problem right now. I have ZERO energy and I'm always FREEZING cold. It is really so hard to deal with. I was put on natual supplements- a thyroid natural and DHEA vitamins. I slept 10 HOURS last night. Yes, that is too much for me. I used to sleep 6 hours at the most and now I am sleeping way too much. I took lots of tests today and I was THRILLED with the results. I am so much healthier and I feel great- minus the lack of energy. As for weight loss- I am not ACTIVELY striving to lose anymore. I want to maintain my loss and eat the same way as I have been. I know that eating "clean" has changed me so much and I know that it will help me as I grow older and face ailments that will could potentially arise as the body ages. I had three women come up to me at church Sunday and ask "what is your secret? What are you doing? How did you lose so much weight?" I explained my new way of eating and literally- this is what I heard.... "oh, that is too hard!" I get it. It is not easy and I would be lying if I said this has been "so easy." I made a choice and I took that promise to myself VERY seriously. I wanted to control my "out of control" eating. I wanted to eat food that would be GOOD for me. I want to have a healthy heart. (*my dad died at the age of 52 of a heart attack) I want to exercise more again. I feel so positive about how good I feel now. I wish I had done it sooner!

 

Have a great day!

Creating Charms with Epiphany Crafts- HAPPY MONDAY!!!!!!

 This weekend was so much fun. We had a busy family weekend. Zach was playing in a baseball tournament in Mesquite, NV. I had planned to go and then at the last minute could not go. So I invited all the kids to come over and watch movies and just spend time together. It really was the BEST weekend. Oh, and I love REDBOX!

Here I am with Zellie. She is so big and you should see the ROLLS on this girl. Yes, she has some seriously cute bootie! Can I say that? ha. Anyway, I missed Zach and Ty so much but I decided to occupy the weekend (off line/ no WORK) and make family memories. Kayla and the kids came up and that is always so much fun! I realize I need to ENJOY these moments, these times are special and fleeting. I love having so many kids- yes, I am thankful we decided to have so many children. It is the thing I am MOST thankful for. Ty and I have SEVEN children- his/her's and ours. We love our big family. 

 Today there is a NEW TC  show on MY CRAFT CHANNEL. It is charming! Today I  will show you my favorite way to make personalized and beautiful charms. Learn how to use the Epiphany Crafts

tools ( i am in love!!!), charms and bubble caps to create necklaces. The possibilities are endless as you create with this amazing little tool!

***used TC 6x6 paper pads inside the charms.

Watch the new video today at www.mycraftchannel.com

I want to thank Tricia and Brian for creating some seriously amazing tools that are a "go to" in my crafty world. They have many shapes and styles and I am especially drawn to the charms. I know that every store that I see that carries the tools- they are always sold out! Also, they are a craft sell out favorite at HSN so I wanted to do a show showing you why I love the tools so much.

Oh, and YES this is a beautiful layout using the tool. I love it! You can find the layout at www.scrapstreet.blogspot.com

I loved the FLOWER-

Check out the video- I hope it inspires you to create all your buttons, chipboard accents and gorgeous charms.

 

Take two... second time the charm!

I have a ongoing issue with vein problems. I am not talking spider veins. I am talking the kind of veins that require a vascular surgeon to surgically remove the veins. Yes, they are hereditary. However, my mother did not have an extreme issues with her veins- like I do. I first noticed the problem when I was pregnant with my last baby- Tyler. I was about 5 or 6 months pregnant and I noticed a EXTREMELY large vein that was BULGING down my leg. It was so big and it hurt.  Then I had the stroke when I was 7 months pregnant. They did so many ultrasounds and tests. They had feared a blood clot in my legs had caused the stroke. They never could to this day pinpoint WHY I had a stroke. I went on heparin until I delivered my son.

A month or so after I had my son, I had to go in and have my veins STRIPPED surgically. They literally went in and removed the large vein in my right leg. It seems my RIGHT leg has the biggest issues. All seems to be fine, but a couple of years ago...I noticed the same area in my leg and the vein seems to be "bulging" again just a little bit. I watched it as it grew larger and larger AGAIN. I knew it was not going to get better and larger than ever and so I went in yesterday to visit the same surgeon to see what he thought. 

I guess my condition is as RARE as having 5 wisdom teeth. It is so rare, but my vein bascially "rooted" with other  superficial veins to come back as a big ole mess. I thought about showing you photos but TRUST ME they are not pretty and look horrible. Hence, I never wear shorts (only capris) and dresses have to be long enough to cover the bulging vein in my right leg.  

They did a ultrasound and I find out that behind my RIGHT KNEE is a HUGE bakers cyst. Oh, yes... I guess my body is falling apart. ha! They mentioned it was so large 2.5" wide and could not believe I was not in pain. I had no idea. Well, I did learn good news- I have low blood pressure, my heart sounds great and well I decided to focus on the good news.

Next, I find out I can't have surgery (which I truly need again) for 12 weeks.  Yes, our insurance makes you wait or they will not approve it. The doctor was so frustrated as he explained this to me. He said veins can be VERY serious health risks and does not like that the insurance companies will not allow exceptions for those of us who need it promptly taken care of.  

I am now scheduled for the surgery this June. I am going to the same vein specialist and I am thankful and feel peace about having the surgery AGAIN. Hopefully...the second time is the charm! I know it sounds weird but I think I have had these vein issues to remind me to really appreciate my body and not focus on the imperfections. My legs will always have those reminders of my vein issues and the scars from surgery. I'm so okay with this. 

Is it only a cosmetic concern? For many people, varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) makes them feel less attractive. Yes, mine are so not cute. ha! However, it's important to note that varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition can or may lead to serious problems if not treated. The worst part is now my children are more likely to get them as well. 

Zach is having a fabulous tournament this weekend. They won both of their games yesterday. He is hitting well and really enjoying the HOT weather. It's been perfect weather. Looking forward to a great weekend!