The Inspired Soul

School Picture Re-takes

2011-12-09T00:30:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that I love my mother-in-law, I really do. However, a few of her traits that have been passed on to my daughter can be frustrating. And the worst one.....smiling with her mouth closed and her chin tucked down. My mother-in-law HATES getting her picture taken, and rarely smiles big in photos and my daughter tends to be the same way. Her first set of 3rd grade pictures were not cute (or flattering), so we opted for re-takes. Now that can be a scary situation because you are then stuck with whatever comes homes. So, to up the odds of a good photo, I coached and nagged Emily to "smile and show your teeth!" For whatever reason, this type of smile does not come with a tucked chin, and I sent her off on re-take day with a hopeful heart.............

And today she brought them home & I am one happy momma! My "not-so-baby girl anymore" is just adorable and this picture really shows her personality. I like it so much, I might actually get one hung up this year!!

Unexpected Visit to the Doctor

2011-12-07T16:44:00.000-08:00

Em & I had an unexpected day at home today--well, we actually spent a good chunk of the day waiting at the doctor's office because we think she might have a bladder infection. No antibiotics, yet. We have to wait for the culture to come back--should be by Friday. Poor baby!

Her appointment was at 11:10am and we were told to arrive early & go to the lab, so we got there at about 10:30am. The lab was quick, so then it was off to wait for the doctor. And wait. And wait. Thank goodness for the iPod! Em played games for a while to pass the time, while Brownie & Elfie kept her company. I happened to have the small camera in my purse, so I snapped a few pictures to pass the time.

It was pretty close to 12:00pm before the nurse took us back, and luckily it wasn't too long before the doctor came in. She was new to us, a bit brusque, but efficient, and before we knew it she was gone. Then we waited for the paperwork. And waited. And waited. She finally brought it to us and we left the doctor's office at about 12:50pm. Almost two and a half hours later!

By then we were starving, so I offered to stop at McD's to pick up some lunch. Of course, that idea was met with great delight, and as an extra treat, we went to the Red Box and picked up a movie for the afternoon. After that some homework was done (by Em), a little on-line shopping (thank you, Amazon--Project Life 2012 is on it's way to me!), some dinner started (by me), and "poof," the day is almost over.

I had hoped to get upstairs and spend some time in the studio today working on my December Daily album......maybe later tonight. Perhaps I can at least get some pictures of my base pages finally posted, but don't hold your breath!!

I Did It!!

2011-12-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

I participated my first 5k this morning, and I actually ran the entire way!! Not bad for a chubby, 44 year old woman who just started running in September!! My goals were to run the entire race and to make it under 45 minutes (though I knew this would be pushing it, as I have not been running that pace at the gym.) Regardless of not quite meeting my second goal, I am VERY proud of myself!!

My in-laws (and our nephew, Andrew) were in town this weekend, so they all come downtown with us. We didn't get too many pictures, as we got there just a few minutes before the race started. However, Mel did snap this shot of Emily & I right before the race.

When I crossed the finish line, Mel & Em were cheering me on and waiting for me with a dozen beautiful pink & red roses. I was so surprised! Mel also gave me a sweet card, telling me how proud he is of me. I am lucky to have such a supportive family! Unfortunately, they didn't get a picture of me crossing the finish line, but Mel took this photo of me as I was warming down afterwards. As you can see, it was a bit cloudy (and it was cold!) but at least it wasn't raining. For that I am extremely grateful!

Now to decide if I want to do another race and try to beat my record.........so cool that I actually have a record to beat now!!!

It's December!!

2011-12-02T02:21:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that December is finally here. Even though this month is always terribly busy and somewhat stressful, Christmas really is my favorite time of the year.

I love planning and shopping for Christmas gifts for my friends and family. I love listening to and singing Christmas songs. I love trying new recipes for our annual Cookie Exchange with friends. I love doing Holiday activities & projects with my 4th graders. I love seeing our tree lit up at night. I love seeing Emily's reaction to Elfie's antics every morning. I love watching her anticipation grow as Christmas draws closer each day.

And this year I get to add something else I love...watching my oldest nephew perform with his high school choir in an adaptation of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2720155721106
(hopefully my sister-in-law will get this posted on YouTube so I can embed it here!) It is one of the cutest Christmas shows I've seen in a long time!

Being December 1st (or the 2nd by the time this posts), you may be wondering about progress on my December Daily album. I have to admit that I do not have my foundation pages all finished, but I do have about half of them done and I am very happy with how they are looking so far. I hope to get pictures posted sometime this weekend between the art workshop I am attending most of the day on Saturday, my first 5k run on Sunday, and my in-laws being here for the weekend. If it doesn't end up happening, I'm sure you can understand why! LOL!

For this project I plan to use my blog as a daily (or so) journal to write about the events of the day and/or our family's Christmas traditions, and maybe even a memory of Christmases past here and there. Hopefully that will make it easier for me when I am ready to journal on each day's page. I am incorporating some of Shimelle's Journal Your Christmas ideas, as well, and I am focusing on this piece from her as my starting point and frame of mind for this holiday season:

I hope you are having a wonderful start to your holiday season!

Where Have I Been?!?

2011-11-23T01:27:00.000-08:00

I have been away from Blog Land for some time now, but it has been for a good reason. I took a break from blogging because life was becoming a bit overwhelming and I needed to take some time to re-evaluate and re-prioritize. Being a full-time wife, mother, 4th grade teacher and Close to My Heart consultant was leaving me with no time to do the things I needed & wanted to do for myself. Things like eat healthier and exercise. Things like create things I want to create, when I want to create them, using whatever supplies I want. So over the last few months I have made some changes in my life:

1. I decided to step back from Close to My Heart. I am still a consultant (Jr. status at this point), but I am no longer sending newsletters, offering classes & workshops, or hosting crops. I am still taking orders, if anyone is interested, but I am not seeking out business. If there comes a time when I do not have enough sales to keep my Jr. status, I will say good-bye to CTMH (at least for a while.) However, I still love Close to My Heart & their products!

2. In light of stepping back from CTMH, I have allowed myself to start using and enjoying products from other companies again. I have found a love for Paper Trey Ink stamps & dies, and have had fun *collecting* 6x6 paper pads for card-making. I am planning on trying out Project Life when the new collections are released, and I am in the middle of making a December Daily album to document the upcoming holiday season. Another favorite I have stumbled upon is the Super Sketch Club from Scrapbook Generation and Allison Davis' books, Sketches for Scrapbooking. With these 2 resources I have done more scrapbook pages in the last few months than I have in the lase few years combined!

3. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY.....I have started taking the time to exercise on a regular basis. Right after school started in September I decided to try running again. Quite a while ago I had downloaded a C25K app on my ipod, called Interval Run, and tried starting, but I didn't get much farther than the first couple of runs. However, something clicked with me this time, and I am happy to say that I am now a C25K "graduate" who runs 2+ miles (albeit very slowly) at least 3 times a week. As crazy as it sounds, I actually enjoy running most of the time now and I am looking forward to December 4th, when I will achieve my goal of running my first 5K at the Portland Jingle Bell Run & Walk!!

I am hoping with these changes I can get back to blogging on a more regular basis again, as well. However, since Thanksgiving is upon us, I won't be posting again until some time next week. I plan on spending several days with the people I am most thankful for--my family!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Long Time, No Blog!

2011-08-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

I hope to have some fun projects to post in the next couple of weeks--YAY!!

In the meantime--I have posted LOTS of new stuff for sale on my SALE BLOG!! Be sure to scroll through all the posts!!

CTMH Goodies for Sale

2011-05-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

New CTMH goodies for sale on my sale blog!! Click on the Virtual Yard Sale tab above.

Happy Mother’s Day!!

2011-05-08T14:58:00.001-07:00

I hope all my friends out there in Blog-Land are having a wonderful day!! My in-laws were here this weekend, so we took mom-in-law out for breakfast this morning and later on today we are going to go spend some time with my mom. In the meantime, I get some coveted quiet time just hanging out at home!

Thought I would share the card I made for my mom…….

I finally inked up my Button Boutique set from Papertrey Ink. It is soooo fun to create with!! I also used the coordinating dies for the buttons and the button card.

I also finally broke out the seam binding and used my Copic markers to get perfectly matched colors. Not too bad for my first try, I think!

And to follow another current trend I have been seeing, I decided to really decorate up the inside of the card. Pretty cute, no?? The great thing was, I had those buttons left over from making the card front, and they worked perfectly for the inside!

As you may or may not know, cards this bulky have a hard time going into a regular envelope. However, I planned ahead for this and decorated a clear box (that PTI stamps come in) for it instead.

Since the box is a bit bigger than the card, I used some of the extra seam binding I colored to use as a filler. I really like the way it looks!! I am so happy with the way it turned out, and I’m sure Mom will love it as well!!!

STAMPS: Button Boutique, Tag Its #2, Tag Its #3, Signature Series: Dress Form, Love Lives Here (Papertrey Ink); Eclectic Edges, Sans Alphabet (CTMH)
PAPER: Nana’s Nursery: Baby Boy (DCWV); colonial white, creme brulee, sweet leaf, twilight cardstock (CTMH)
INK: bamboo, creme brulee, petal, sweet leaf, twilight (CTMH); EMBELLISHMENTS: hemp, adhesive pearls (CTMH); Spica glitter pen (Copic); seam binding (colored with Copic markers), flowers (from my stash)
TOOLS: Button Up #1, Buttoned Up #2, Button Card, Collection, Parisian doily, butterfly, Signature Series butterfly, Limitless Layers: 1 3/4” circle collection dies (PTI); rectangle label die (Spellbinders), heart punch (Martha Stewart), label punch, word window punch (Stampin’ Up), border punch (Fiskars)
SIZE: card approx. 4 1/4” x 5 1/2”; box approx 6” x 6”

National Scrapbooking Month Promotion

2011-04-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

Another PTI Anniversary Contest

2011-02-12T00:13:00.001-08:00

And again, I am happy to have a card that I already had done that fits the bill. Today’s peek over on Nichole’s blog showcases the first of a new (available February 15th) stamp set series for this year, Think Big Favorites. It is going to be an AWESOME series, I am sure!

And here are the guidelines for the contest:

We want to see YOU take things BIG! Really BIG Your challenge today is to create a project that incorporates something unexpectedly mega-sized! this could be a super-sized tag, a gigantic embellishment, a huge flower, really big buttons or even a BIG focal point that takes center stage.

I think my big rainbow on this card fits the bill. Again, there is no PTI product on this card as it was for a CTMH consultant swap, and made before I had much, if any, PTI stuff. However, I know there are similar PTI products that could be used to make a similar card!

More PTI Fun!!

2011-02-09T22:11:00.001-08:00

Well, PTI is continuing to blow us away with the sneak peeks at this Anniversary release. Nichole just showed us peeks at a great new set involving making your own buttons. It is soooooo cute!! And with the sneak, of course, is a contest. This time she wants us to show a unique way to use buttons. No problemo! My February Workshop card does just that. So here is a closer look at it…….

Since this was created for my Close to My Heart workshop, there are not any PTI products used here. But I’m sure all you PTIers out there can envision a PTI version =)

It’s almost bedtime, so I will update with the products used tomorrow!

PTI Anniversary Celebration

2011-02-04T21:51:00.001-08:00

One of my all-time favorite stamp companies, Papertrey Ink, is celebrating their 4th anniversary this month. And with it is lots of reminiscing about this last year, the great products that they have created, the awesome design team, and just celebrating everything PTI!

One thing the owners do is have LOTS of great contests!! In fact, I won a give-away just last month! For their anniversary they are giving away a HUGE list of their AWESOME products, and to enter, you are supposed to post (or re-post) your favorite project from the last year that uses a PTI product. So here’s mine…….

I made these tags using the Mat Stack 1 die and the round image is from Tiny Treats: Valentines. They went on these fun goodie buckets I made for Halloween

Want more info, or wanna join the fun?? Check out the blog of one of the owners—Nichole Heady!

“Be Mine” Treat Holder

2011-01-30T01:10:00.001-08:00

I have been eyeing this die from SU for a long time. As soon as it came out, I knew I wanted it, but I resisted. Then school started this year and I met my new students, and then I met the parents. Well, one of my parents happens to be a SU rep, and I no longer had an excuse NOT to place an order. So of course, this die was the first thing on my list!!

I love how this little box goes together. It is really neat how it closes without needing any ribbon or adhesive!! A bunch of these may end up in the staff room this February!!

Project: Be Mine Treat Holder
All supplies are Close to My Heart unless noted
STAMPS: C1403 In the Month of February, D1222 Tiny Typewriter Alphabet
PAPER: X7134B Sweetheart Level 2
INK: Z2166 Exclusive Inks Tulip, Z2102 Exclusive Inks Baby Pink
EMBELLISHMENTS: Z1393 Mini-Medley: Black brads
TOOLS: Candy Wrapper Bigz Die—Stampin’ Up, Designer Label Punch—Stampin’ Up, Modern Label Punch—Stampin’ Up
SIZE: Approx. 2” x 1 3/8” x 1 3/8”

Hershey Kisses Treat

2011-01-25T20:17:00.001-08:00

This quick and easy project is fun to make and maybe even get the kids involved! In fact, I may Help Em make them for her classmates this year (but with only 3 Kisses—this one holds 5.)

You need a 4 inch piece of cardstock that is long enough to hold however many Kisses you want to include lined up. On the 4” side, score at 1/2”, then at 1 3/4”, and then at 2 3/4”. Glue the kisses to the one inch section (I just used my ATG). Then adhere the 1 1/4” flap to the 1/2” flap and embellish as desired.

See? Easy-peasy!!

Project: Hershey Kisses Holder
All supplies are Close to My Heart unless noted
STAMPS: D1283 Say It in Style, D1408 A Little Everything
PAPER: X7134B Sweetheart Level 2
INK: EZ2105 Exclusive Inks Black
TOOLS: Heart Punches—Martha Stewart
ETC: Hershey Kisses
SIZE: Approx. 1” x 1” x 4 1/2”

Valentine’s Workshop

2011-01-25T00:38:00.001-08:00

What: Make these adorable goodies for the Sweethearts in your life and see the NEW SPRING/SUMMER 2011 IDEA BOOK

When: Tuesday, February 8th at 7 p.m. or Thursday,
February 10th at 7 p.m.

Where: Shannon's home in Damascus

Bring: scissors, paper piercer, adhesive (tape runner, glue dots, foam tape)

Cost: $6 for 3 treat holders and one card (contact me for cost if you would like to make multiples of any item)

RSVP: by Thursday, February 3rd to reserve your spot

CHECK BACK OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS TO SEE MORE DETAILED PICTURES & GET MORE INFO ON EACH PROJECT!!

January Wings Workshop

2011-01-07T16:34:00.001-08:00

Join me on Thursday, January 20 at 7 p.m. or Saturday, January 22 at 11:30 a.m. to make this beautiful layout and the 4 cards shown below. Cost is only $10!! Or take advantage of the January Special in the Inspirations brochure. (see below for details)

Bring your own adhesive (tape runner, glue dots & foam tape), scissors and paper piercer. Also bring a glue stick if making the BONUS banner, (see below for details)

RSVP, payment , and order (if applicable), due by Thursday, January 13th (this is a firm deadline, as I must order supplies).

Please call or e-mail me ASAP if you wish to take advantage of the Wings WOTG/Inspirations Special!! Inspirations special is available only until January 31.

JANUARY SPECIAL: Upgrade to Workshop on the Go Kit for $29.95 and in addition to the layouts and cards you also get :
*a full Level 2 Wings paper pack (minus what is used for the workshop)
*the exclusive Wings WOTG stamp set (used on the layout and 2 of the cards)
*a package of black Mini-Medleys (minus what is used for the workshop)
*one Spray Pen (I am so excited to show you the fun new tool!!)
*a full-color workshop guide for these projects and a BONUS banner project which can also be created at the workshop with the purchase of a My Creations Banner (SCROLL DOWN FOR AN EXAMPLE)**
*the opportunity to purchase the 5 stamps sets from the Inspirations Brochure at a great discount (including the GORGEOUS Bohemian Alphabet, used on the layout above, for only $25--it retails for $34.95!!)
*the opportunity to get the January Stamp of the Month at a discount or free (and you don't have to spend $100 to get it free this month!!)
**regular shipping charges also apply to all purchases

Here is an example of what you can do with the Wings kit & My Creations Banner. This banner was created by my talented Close to My Heart sister, Lisa Stenz.

Mark Your Calendars!!

2011-01-04T23:16:00.001-08:00

In an effort to be more organized and on top of things this year, I have posted a list of all upcoming workshops and crops through June 2011 here on my blog (look in the sidebar under "inspiring events.") I hope none of you drop dead from the shock!!! Just be sure to mark your calendars, and join me for some fun this year!

Here is a sneak peek at a couple of the projects for the upcoming Wings Workshop in January. More details to come later this week. Hope to see you there!!

Inspirations & Find Your Style

2011-01-03T01:27:00.001-08:00

During the month of January purchase the NEW Wings Workshop on the Go and receive special discounts on selected NEW stamps and the beautiful January Stamp of the Month—Find Your Style!

Wings Workshop on the Go Kit Includes:

1 – Workshop Guide
1 – Wings Level 2 Paper Packet
1 – My Acrylix^® Wings Workshop Stamp Set
1 – Mini-Medley Accents Black Collection
1 – Spray Pen (this is a new product for Spring/Summer but only available early as part of this kit!)

Contact me to get your own copy of the Inspirations Brochure to view the Wings kit and the select stamps you can buy at a discount with the purchase of the kit!! Offer ends January 31, 2011.

Get the January Stamp of the Month set, Find Your Style, at a discount or free by purchasing new Inspirations products as follows:

Purchase a Wings Workshops on the Go™ kit and...

1 item from the Inspirations brochure &
Get the Stamp of the Month for 25% off

2 different items** from the Inspirations brochure &
Get the Stamp of the Month for 50% off

3 different items** from the Inspirations brochure &
Get the Stamp of the Month for 75% off

4+ different items** from the Inspirations brochure &
Get the Stamp of the Month for FREE!

(**must be different products—multiples of the same product do not count toward the SOTM discount)

CHECK BACK LATER THIS WEEK FOR INFORMATION ON A WINGS WORKSHOP I AM OFFERING LATER IN JANUARY!!

That’s Amore & Plenty for Twenty

2010-12-01T20:22:00.001-08:00

Can you believe December is here already??? And you know what that means—a brand-spankin’ new Stamp of the Month!! The gorgeous That’s Amore stamp set is so versatile. I have seen it used with several different papers and they are all beautiful! I paired it here with the Olivia paper pack, and the pink and red in it make for some lovely Valentine’s projects.

And just look at that yummy new Shimmer Brad. They come in 2 great sizes (this is the larger size) and 3 shimmery colors (gold, silver & bronze). They come in a package of 27 for only $4.95!!!

This gift bag showcases a few more of the beautiful stamps included in this great set. Just so pretty!!

You can get this stamp set during the month of December only, and retails for $22.95. But better yet, place an order with me and get it at a reduced price or even FREE!!! Just ask me how.

AND NOW FOR THE REALLY GREAT NEWS…………….

PLENTY FOR TWENTY

For the month of December, place an order for just $20 on my website and get a free D-sized stamp set. CTMH will choose one of our great stamp sets that are now retired, and include it absolutely FREE—even shipping is FREE!!! This is such a great deal—spend only $20 and get an item worth $23 for FREE. You just can’t go wrong.

And if you are lovin’ the Stamp of the Month, place an order for $25 and get 25% off the SOTM + the free D-size set; or spend $50 and get the SOTM 50% off AND get the free D-size set; a $75 order will get you 75% off the SOTM and the free D set; and the best deal of all—spend $100 and get the SOTM FREE AND THE EXTRA D-SIZED SET FREE!!! That’s $46 of free product!!!

So, be sure to visit my website to get these great deals. Order soon to get your items before Christmas! Or give that special someone your wish list and direct them to my website. That way you know you’ll get what you want under the tree!!!

New Items Available on Sale Blog

2010-11-10T18:39:00.000-08:00

I have posted a bunch of new goodies on my sale blog. Be sure to scroll down--there is one post for Close to My Heart and one post for other stuff!!

Do You Love Cosmo Cricket?

2010-11-02T21:27:00.001-07:00

Then hop on over to Lou’s blog for a chance to win some serious Cosmo Cricket goodness—over $100 worth!!!

1 Material Girl Kit
1 Togetherness Kit
1 Joyride Kit
1 Pixieliscious Kit
1 Garden Variety Kit
1 Circa 1934 Kit

Winners will be chosen on her birthday, November 6th (the day after mine!)

More Thanks

2010-11-02T00:22:00.000-07:00

I love the versatility of the November Stamp of the Month, A Little Thanks. Even if you don’t have thank you cards to create, it is still a great set!! I made this notepad holder using one of the stamps from this set—so cute!

This notebook is the perfect size to keep in your purse. I know I am constantly looking for a piece of paper to write on when I am out and about!

Just a Little Note notepad holder supplies

Magnifique Level 2 paper pack
November Stamp of the Month A Little Thanks
Sparkles: Blue & Green Assortment
Exclusive Inks: Lagoon & Chocolate
3-D Foam Tape
notepad from Papertrey Ink

So Many Thanks!!

2010-11-01T04:35:00.000-07:00

The month of November is the time we often stop to be thankful for the blessings in our lives. Perhaps you will take a moment to make a list and scrapbook about it, or maybe you will send a card to tell someone how much you appreciate them. However you choose to be thankful, CTMH has a way to make it a little easier and a lot more fun! This month’s Stamp of the Month is called A Little Thanks and it packs a whole lotta punch!

Purchase this set outright for just $22.95, get it at a discount or even FREE with a qualifying purchase. Just ask me how!!!!

Thanks for Everything card supplies:

Magnifique Level 2 paper pack
A Little Thanks stamp set
Sparkles: Blue & Green Assortment
Exclusive Inks: Lagoon, Pacifica, Bamboo
3-D Foam Tape

Boo to You!!!

2010-10-31T21:12:00.001-07:00

Almost Halloween

2010-10-29T23:27:00.001-07:00

Last weekend at the crop I hosted, I worked on some fun little Halloween treats to give to a few of my friends at work. I think they turned out pretty cute!!

I have had these cute buckets for a year or two. I am pretty sure I picked them up at the Target Dollar Spot.

I broke out some of my new PaperTrey Ink goodies (yes, I use products other than CTMH once in a while!) to make the tags—Tiny Treats: Valentines stamp set, and Mat Stack 1 die. PTI’s dies are to die for—LOL!! But seriously, they are the best dies I have ever used. Now I want them all!!!!!

Each bucket held a couple of Halloween pencils (Michaels), a Halloween band-aid (Michaels), a test tube (PTI) filled with skull & bones candy (Target), a cello bag (clearbags.com) filled with orange, green & purple M&Ms (Michaels), a sheet of monster stickers (Learning Palace), and……………..

a coffin (Michaels) filled with these cuties…………………….

Nutter Butter ghosts and…………….

Oreo mummies!!!! Aren’t these just adorable!!!! I have seen both of these cookie ideas several places on the internet and decided I had to try them out this year. I think they were a hit!

Have a safe & happy Halloween!!

October Rewind

2010-10-16T21:40:00.001-07:00

On the eve of my second year of blogging, I thought it would be fun to revisit some of my favorite projects posted in Octobers past. I have seen this done on other blogs and I thought it was a fun idea! So without further ado:

October 2009—Happy Haunting card

October 2008—Boo! box with a *surprise* inside

A Cute Halloween Banner

2010-10-11T20:34:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite websites is Two Peas in a Bucket. It is a great scrapbooking message board and gallery. I always find tons of inspiration there. I was looking through Halloween projects the other day and found this AWESOME banner (and since I don't have any new Halloween projects of my own to post, I thought I would share this one)....

It was made by this gal: Lori. Check out her blog--it is great! She has tons of fun project ideas and some great photography tips!!

On another note…..I have changed the date of the All-Day Crop and Grace Album Workshop to Saturday, October 23rd. Please register soon, as spaces are limited!!

More Christmas Goodness

2010-10-03T00:10:00.000-07:00

Here is another little gem I made for my Quality Swap Group. I learned how to make this cute gift card holder from my CTMH sister, Amanda Moore, at our team retreat in August.

I used the October Stamp of the Month again, and the Mistletoe Creative Basics paper. Bitty Sparkles and Mocha Opaques add the finishing touches.

The small flap inside is a pocket to hold a gift card.

For the first one of these I made I used the new Magnifique paper pack, and it is GORGEOUS!!! I will share it later on—I don’t have it embellished yet, but plan to use it for a birthday gift. This little project is so versatile & great for any occasion!

October Stamp of the Month

2010-10-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to start thinking about Christmas yet? I find it hard to focus on it until after Halloween most years. However, Christmas and papercrafting are ALWAYS a good combination. And the new CTMH Christmas line, Mistletoe, is too gorgeous to ignore!

I had fun with this paper set for my quality swap group. When I completed this card, I wasn’t sure I was happy with it. It seemed too plain. However, I have learned over the years to walk away from a project I am not happy with for a few hours and come back to it later, and I often find I actually like it as is. Once again, this proved true. When I came back and looked at this card the following day, it had a vintage (50s?) look to it to me. This snowman from the October SOTM is just too cute!!

You can also see used on this card the new Licorice Opaques (pearls) Z1335, the decorative brad is form the Mistletoe Level 2 embellishment pack Z1330 (which is GORGEOUS!), and the colored Sparkles Z1326. The sentiment is from the set Father Christmas D1449.

Halloween Blog Hop

2010-09-30T23:42:00.000-07:00

Want to see lots of fun Halloween projects?? Just follow this blog hop!! If you would like to join, just click on the link at the bottom to add your project. It is soooo easy--just follow the directions as they appear on the screen, and your project will automatically be added!!

Grace Album Workshop

2010-09-25T23:23:00.001-07:00

WHEN: Saturday, October 16th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.—held during the All-Day Crop (or make it anytime on your own with the included cutting directions & color photos)

BRING: paper trimmer & adhesives

COST: $25 (includes 9"x9" accordion album and all papers & embellishments)

***RSVP & payment due by Tuesday 10/12***

This project uses:

9” x 9” My Creations Memory Showcase
Grace Level 2 paper packet (1/2 of pack)
Grace My Stickease Assortment
Opaques Pearl Adhesive Gems

Even More Hooligans

2010-09-20T22:24:00.001-07:00

Here are a few more projects made by my good friend, Dawn Ross. I just love how her projects show the versatility of this paper pack is. I can’t wait to make some birthday cards with it!!

Love this card!! And I especially love how Dawn used one of the new Shimmer Designer Brads for the moon! How clever!!!

I just love the colors in this new paper pack—including Lagoon (blue), Pear (green) and Sunset (orange). They are so bright and cheery!!

And look at the great new Mini-Medleys available in those same new colors! Buttons and ribbons and brads, oh my!!!

Isn’t that little monster from the Party Animal stamp set just adorable??

Thanks, Dawn, for sharing your BEAUTIFUL projects with us!!!

Another Look at Hooligans

2010-09-15T23:15:00.001-07:00

Look at these cute little guys!! I just love them! They are part of the exclusive stamp set that comes with the Hooligans Workshop on the Go. The best thing about these little critters is that the body parts are all separate stamps so you can mix and match to make all sorts of them!

My good friend and fellow CTMH sister, Dawn Ross, made this cute card and the one below. Check out all her amazing work on her blog, I am a Happy Stamper.

Do you see that cute felt fellow? He is from the new Hooligans Level 2 Assortment. I love how he coordinates so perfectly with the stamped critters. This is such a FUN set to work with!!

Oooh, and if you look carefully you will see that Dawn used some of the new Opaques (colored adhesive pearls). I am sooooo excited that CTMH is finally carrying these. They add the perfect touch to so many projects!!

Be sure to check back in the next day or two. I am going to share a couple more projects that Dawn made with Hooligans!!

Back Into the School Routine

2010-09-12T21:54:00.001-07:00

As much as I love the freedom summer brings me, I do have to admit that it is sort of nice to be back into the old routine. Don’t get me wrong—I would take retirement in a second if someone offered me enough money—but the routine of school is nice!

On another note, I am getting a little bit excited about Halloween already!! Perhaps it is because of the cute stamps and papers that CTMH just released. It could also be because of the fun things I got to make for my Quality Swap group.

I used the new Hooligans paper pack and the September Stamp of the Month for these two projects. Look carefully and you will see goodies from the new color Mini-Medleys—Pear (green) and Sunset (orange). You can also see two other YUMMY new colors used—Lagoon (blue) and Gypsy (purple).

6” x 6” card

Take a look at this cool skull from the September SOTM. The new colored Sparkles make a great addition! (This may date me, but it reminds me of “One-Eyed Willie” from the 80s movie, Goonies!)

This fun little treat holder is made with one of our 4” x 6” Flip Flap protectors. It is glued directly to the front of the Pear cardstock and the Gypsy paper is just slipped right inside the Flip-Flap. I attached the half-oval to the adhesive flap to make the “lid” and secured it with a piece of velcro. This would be cute with a gift card or movie tickets in it, too!

Oh, and I found this PERFECT skulls & bones candy at Target. They come in a really cute “beaker” that will be part of my Halloween decor this year. I may even have to go back and get another one!

I just love this paper, and even though I wasn’t sure about the SOTM when I first saw it, I do love it now that I’ve played with it and plan to make a few more things to use to decorate for Halloween. I’ll share more when I get them done!

I know I keep promising to post a schedule of upcoming workshops and events. Right now our schedule is C-R-A-Z-Y, but I do hope to sit down and look a the calendar sometime this week and get things planned out. So keep checking back!!

Plus, I will be posting other projects made by my swap group over the coming weeks! The girls made some amazing things you won’t want to miss!!

Olivia

2010-08-15T12:11:00.001-07:00

Here is a peek at another beautiful new paper set from the Autumn/Winter Idea Book. This gorgeous paper uses three of the new colors being released—Smoothie (pink), Pear (green) and Sunset (orange).

Check back later in the week for information on a workshop using this amazing paper!!

A Sneak Peek

2010-08-12T20:12:00.001-07:00

I have the new CTMH Autumn/Winter Idea Book in my hot little hands and all I can say is WOW!! The new papers are amazing, the new colors are luscious, and the new pattern book, Magic, is just AWESOME! I can hardly wait to share it ALL with you!!!

Here is a little peek at some of the new stuff:

This is the new paper set called Magnifique, which incorporates a few of the new colors—Lagoon, Pacifica and Sky.

And here is a sneak peek a the new Hooligans papers and embellishments—adorable Halloween goodies, but great for other kids layouts and cards, too. You can get everything pictured here for HALF PRICE!! Just contact me to find out how!

And keep checking back for my Fall & Winter Workshop schedule. I hope to have the first few events scheduled and posted within the next week or so!

Close to My Heart HUGE Clearance Sale!

2010-08-03T18:39:00.001-07:00

$2, $4, $6 for 8! It's YOU That We Appreciate! Amazing deals on select MyStickease Assortments ($2), Level 1 Scrapbook Kits ($4), Level 2 Scrapbook Kits ($6) are yours for 8 days only (or while supplies last, whichever comes first).

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, August 4 - Wednesday, August 11 (or while supplies last) and don't miss this HUGE sale. All items are over 50% off.

To take advantage of this sale, head to my website (http://shannonmurdock.myctmh.com) and click on 'Shop Online' and starting August 4 there will be a link for the sale.

STOCK UP NOW as all of these products will retire December 31, 2010 and are available only while supplies last!!!!

Convention Excitement!!!

2010-07-10T21:46:00.001-07:00

I am so excited about all the news that came from convention-goers this last weekend!! There are lots of great things in store with Close to My Heart this next season and I can hardly wait to share them with you all.

Here are a few key changes: 1. We are bringing out 8 new colors in the Summer palettes, and retiring eight. 2. Hostess Plus rewards now start at $250 instead of $350. 3. Four beautiful new paper packs. 4. Colored sparkles and adhesive pearls!!!!

There are lots more exciting things in store that I will share in the next month or so. The Autumn/Winter Idea Book goes live on September 1st!!!

Now for something special from convention…….I was honored to be asked by corporate office to create something for the silent auction that is held at every convention. The proceeds from the auction benefit our charity—Operation Smile. It took me several weeks to decide what to make, but finally came up with this:

This office set uses the adorable Splendor paper pack and accessories. I don’t know how much it ended up going for, but I do know that at one point it was up to $70!!

Prices Lowered on Sale Blog

2010-07-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

Check out the lower prices on my virtual yard sale blog!!

Purging My Scrapbook Supplies

2010-07-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, it feels so good the clean out the ol' scrapbook room. It took me a couple of days to get through it all, but now I have a little more room in there. The upside for everyone else is that I now have a TON of stuff for sale at VERY CHEAP PRICES!!!

Just go to my SALE BLOG to see what I am getting rid of. Be sure to scroll through, as there are 4 separate posts of items!!

I have papers and kits from Basic Grey, SEI, & Chatterbox, just to name a few. I have stamps, chipboard, alterable items and tons of other stuff. So be sure to stop by my sale blog and check it all out!!!

Here are just a few pictures of some of the stuff I am selling:

Another Jackpot Goodie Box!

2010-06-08T10:07:00.001-07:00

This is a GREAT deal!! Be sure to order one today. Go to my website here to order!!

For COMPARISON ONLY—here is a sample list of what came in the $80 from a few days ago (most of it is current product!!):

Z1274 Designer Brads Colonial White
Z1161 Founry Tabs
Z1096 Embroidery Floss
Z1126 Ribbon Rounds - Colonial White
Z1015 Believe Clear Inspirations
Z1300 Just Blooms White Daisy
Z1165 3x3 Mini album
A1092 Simple Invites
A1093 Genuine Fun
B1299 Spring Equinox
C1206 Whimsy Lowercase Alpha
D1242 Doodle Alpha
X8624 My Originals Card Kit - Bits & Pieces (grr, because I had just bought this!)
X8623 My Originals Card Kit - Around the Holidays
X143 Doorhanger Pouch
Z1265 Rub-ons - Primavera
Z1098 Rub-ons - Love Letters (just bought these too! but I like them alot!)
X5746 My Stickease Journaling Prompts - About Me
Z1223 Dimensional Elements - Booksmart
Z334 Paper Envelope - 3pk
X7100A Level 1 Perfect Day
X7100B Level 2 Perfect Day
Assortment of Cardstock
Mini Garden Green Ink Pad

Jackpot June for Sunday

2010-06-06T10:18:00.001-07:00

What a great deal today!!! If you LOVE the Simply Snapshots, stock up now, as chances are these will be retiring in December. To order these at this great discount, visit my website, and click on the Jackpot June picture!

Jackpot June Goodie Box!!!

2010-06-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today is a Goodie Box day! Get a box filled with popular products at 50% or more off of retail value. Plus you'll get a deal on shipping. Purchase this Goodie Box (retail value $80 US) for only $40 US.

Buy now! This offer is while supplies last and will be snatched up quickly!!!

Click here to order

Jackpot June!!!

2010-06-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

Jackpot June: 50% off Products and FREE Goodies! Hit the jackpot and win FREE products with Jackpot June.

This Close To My Heart special, running through the month of June, provides you with a different deal each day. Be sure to check out my website each day for each new and exciting offer! Once you have landed on my home page, just click "Shop Online" to begin seeing what each day's Jackpot June deals are.

Some days you can grab loaded Goodie Boxes at 50% or more off retail value.
Other days are Jackpot Days. These days give you a list of 5 products offered at special discounted prices--one of which will trigger the Jackpot (a surprise product you'll receive FREE!). Take a chance and hope that you buy the right item that gets you the free product, or play it safe and buy one of each, guaranteeing that you will hit the Jackpot!

Either way you will save money on favorite scrapbooking and stamping supplies by grabbing a different bargain each day in June. Deals include discounted shipping/handling costs too! These special offers are available only online so be ready every day to check out my website and get your deal! New deals are posted each day at 8 am (MDT).

Jackpot June purchases must include ONLY Jackpot June items (the Goodie Box or the discounted items) and nothing else. This will streamline orders and allow CTMH to offer discounted shipping for this exciting promotion.

Scrapbooking Virtual Yard Sale

2010-05-24T22:24:00.001-07:00

I have been cleaning out my studio and am finding lots of goodies I need to make myself get rid of! I started a blog, Scrap Stuff for Sale, where I am posting my sale items. I am starting with CTMH items, so please check it out and contact me if you have any questions!!

**You can access the sale blog any time by clicking on the tab, Virtual Yard Sale, under my header.

How Time Flies……

2010-05-04T00:16:00.001-07:00

I still cannot believe that my baby girl turned 7 last week…7 years old……really, how did that happen so quickly??? It truly feels like it was just a few months ago that she was 7 MONTHS old. Although, honestly I don’t remember very clearly what it was like to have a 7 month old and believe me, I am glad to be done with bottles and diapers. But really, 7??? How did that happen.

We decided to have her party at Build-A-Bear Workshop this year, which limited the guest list to 5. It really wasn’t too hard for her to choose, though—first on the list was her cousin, Mackenzie, quickly followed by her 4 best friends from day care & kindergarten—Roman, Cooper, Mandi & Gavin. Other than Gavin (who she met in kindy), she has known these friends since she was about 2 years old. They have literally grown up together, and even though between the 5 of them they go to 3 different schools for first grade, they remain best friends. I am so grateful she has these sweet kiddoes in her life!!

They all had a TON of fun making their animals & choosing outfits. I highly recommend BABW for a birthday party!! After that we were off to McDonald’s for lunch, opening presents and devouring GIANT birthday cupcakes from Costco. I would say it was one of Em’s best parties ever (although last year’s party at Captain Henry’s Pirate Store was a huge hit, too!)

Here’s looking forward to another year being Momma to this beautiful child. Daddy and I are so blessed to have you in our lives. I love you baby girl!!!

New Product Artwork!!!

2010-05-02T21:41:00.001-07:00

Join me this week at my Tri-Annual Idea Book Reveal Party to make these cute projects!!

When: Thursday, May 6th at 7 p.m. OR Saturday, May 8th at 11 a.m.
Where: Shannon's home in Damascus
Bring: adhesive (tape runner & mini glue dots) and scissors
RSVP: needed by Tuesday, May 4th
Cost: $5 or FREE with a $25 order placed at the party

Splendor card

Cherry-O card

Zippidee gift card holder/box

May Stamp of the Month

2010-05-01T00:24:00.001-07:00

Look at this cute stamp set!!!! I can’t wait to create with this one. As usual, you can buy it for $22.95, or place an order and receive it at a discount, or even for FREE!!! Come to my Idea Book Reveal Party on Thursday, May 6th or Saturday, May 8th to see this stamp set in person, and who knows….we may even make something with it!!!

I don’t personally have any artwork made using this set, but click here to start an AWESOME Blog Hop and see lots of great samples made by other consultants!!

Here is some artwork using this set, provided by the CTMH home office:

Have You Tried Studio J Yet????

2010-04-29T22:08:00.001-07:00

You REALLY need to try it out…..it is so fun and EASY!!! Even if you are not a scrapbooker, I bet you are a photographer at times. Studio J is a great way to showcase the precious photos you take!! Try it, you’ll like it!!!

Here are a couple of layouts I have made with Studio J:

Quick, easy, and beautiful!!! Try it FOR FREE here!!

Studio J from Close to My Heart

2010-04-27T20:44:00.001-07:00

Close to My Heart has something new up it’s sleeve…….Studio scrapbooking!! They have designed an easy-to-use online program that allows you to scrapbook faster than ever, and have TONS of fun while you’re at it!!!!

Today (Tuesday, April 27) is the BIG DAY...Studio J launched at 8 am (MDT). Goody, goody, gum drops! You won't want to miss it. I know you are going to LOVE it as much as I do. Just look at this beautiful layout and you can begin to imagine the possibilities.

For details on this brand new digital (which we call 'studio') scrapbooking program from Close To My Heart, click here. I have also included a few more questions and answers at the end of today's post. Studio scrapbooking is for EVERYONE: those who already love to scrap with papers and embellishments will love adding this to their repertoire, those who already enjoy scrapping digitally will be blown away by this new program, and those who have never scrapbooked now have a great reason to try! See what I mean...EVERYONE!

There is a short and informative video that you can watch here. I have also included several questions and answers at the end of this post that you might want to go over.

You can try out this new program by heading to my website by clicking here and then clicking on the new "Studio J" tab that you'll see on my home page. Feel free to email me with ANY questions (shannon.ctmh@yahoo.com). I am here to help! Also, if you think this is something several of your friend will like, I am more than happy to come and do a demonstration at your home for your group. Just email me for that as well (shannon.ctmh@yahoo.com).

Questions and Answers:

What is Studio J™ Design Software?
Studio J™ is free online scrapbooking design software brought to you by Close To My Heart. Studio J helps you easily create custom-printed two-page layouts using our foundational scrapbook patterns, exclusive color palette, and themed designs all delivered in 12" × 12" custom prints ready for your albums. It’s a snap!

Is Studio J easy to use?
Studio J software is extremely intuitive and easy to use. The program walks you through five steps that include:
1. uploading your photos;
2. choosing your desired themed kit;
3. selecting an exclusive layout pattern;
4. adding photos, embellishments, titles, and journaling;
5. and purchasing custom-printed layouts ready for a cherished album.

I love Close To My Heart products. Will Studio J use the same great papers, patterns, colors, and embellishments?
Of course! If you love Close To My Heart’s scrapbooking philosophy, then you will love Studio J.

Do I need to download any software to my computer to use Studio J?
Not at all! You only need an Internet connection, and then you simply log in to your Consultant’s MyCTMH website to get started. Feel free to design to your heart’s content—you are not required to buy anything or provide any personal information to get started!

Can I save what I am working on and come back to it later?
You bet! You can create a customer profile that allows you to save and return to a project in progress at a later time. Your active projects will be saved for up to 90 days, giving you plenty of time to work on them. You extend that timeline for your active projects by 90 days each time you make a purchase, and your purchased projects will remain archived for one full year after purchase.

Do I need a printer that can print 12" × 12" pages to use Studio J?
No. Your Studio J layouts are not available for you to print from a home computer. In fact, we take care of the printing for you. When you purchase your designed layouts, we print and ship them quickly and directly to you using only top quality printing technology and archival-quality papers.

What is the price?
You are not charged a thing until you order your custom prints. The price per printed two-page layout is $12.95. We also offer some fantastic rewards for larger orders. You can receive FREE Memory Protectors® to protect your layouts in your albums, and FREE shipping/handling based on the number of layout prints you purchase in a single order as follows:
- For 5–9 layout purchases: You’ll receive a pack of 5 Memory Protectors FREE!
- For 10–20 layout purchases: You’ll receive FREE shipping/handling PLUS a FREE pack of 5 Memory Protectors for every 5 layouts in your single order.
When can I begin creating with Studio J?
Right now!

**Check back tomorrow to see some of the Studio J layouts I have made!!

Another Sneak Peek

2010-04-16T15:30:00.001-07:00

Okay, I just can’t control myself. I’ll admit it. I have a problem. I just loooooooooove this new paper pack from the Summer Idea Book and I can’t wait any longer to share what I made!!!

This sweet layout is from one of 4 new Workshop on the Go kits that will be available as of May 1st. If you look carefully you can see a couple of the images from the EXCLUSIVE stamp set and new embellishments that comes with this kit!! It is sooooooo stinkin’ cute!!!

Be sure to sign up to be on my mailing list so you don’t miss an invitation to this workshop (date not set at this time)!!!! The cost will be only $29.95 (plus shipping) and you will have the option to make 1 or 2 layouts and up to 12 cards!! And you will have lots of products left over to create even more beautiful artwork. What a deal!!

Summer Idea Book Sneak Peek

2010-04-14T13:59:00.001-07:00

I can hardly wait to share all the new goodies in the Summer Idea Book. The new papers and stamp sets are sooo fun!!! And just wait until you get a look at some of the new embellishments. This is an AWESOME new Idea Book, I tell ya!!!

Just to tease you, here is a sneak peek at a fun little card I made using some of the new products:

And here is a sneak peek showing my FAVORITE paper pack from the Summer Idea Book:

Doesn’t that look just *YUMMY*?!?!?!?! I can’t wait to show you some of the workshop projects I will be offering in the next few months!!! Keep checking back for other peeks in the next few days. Everything will be available to view on-line and order on May 1!!!

We Have a Winner…….

2010-04-12T19:55:00.001-07:00

Thanks for all the feedback. Due to all the positive comments, I guess I’ll keep my blog the way it is for now!!!

That means Stephanie wins the goodies!! I apologize for not getting the picture up this weekend. I will still try to get one posted in the next couple of days. Stephanie, send your snail mail address to shannon.ctmh@yahoo.com and I will get your prize out to you!!!

A Makeover & Some Blog Candy

2010-04-10T01:37:00.001-07:00

I finally decided to figure out how to customize my blog!! Wow, are there a lot of places out there with some great stuff for blogs. It can be a bit overwhelming, but I plowed through and found a couple of helpful blogs/websites. One in particular I liked is My Style Backgrounds. That’s where I found this current background & header, called “Blue Tree.” I think it is very cute, but I am wondering if it is too busy???? What do you think??

Give me your opinion about the new blog style this weekend and I will choose someone at random from all the comments to win some goodies from my stash!! Comments will close at midnight, Sunday, April 11th and I will announce the winner sometime next week.

I will try to get a picture of the goodies posted sometime on Saturday!!

April Stamp of the Month

2010-04-07T22:02:00.001-07:00

It's a new month, which can only mean one thing...a brand new Stamp of the Month at Close To My Heart. April did not disappoint with this darling Flower Pot stamp set (Item #D1409, actual size of carrier sheet is 6" x 6")...just in time for Spring!

This set can be yours in several different ways:

earn it FREE when you spend $100 or more (before shipping and tax)
earn it for 75% off ($5.74) when you spend $75 or more (before shipping and tax)
earn it for 50% off ($11.74) when you spend $50 or more (before shipping and tax)
earn it for 25% off ($17.21) when you spend $25 or more (before shipping and tax)
purchase it for full retail price ($22.95)

Mother’s Day Workshop

2010-04-06T09:45:00.001-07:00

Join me on Thursday, April 22 at 7 p.m. to make this cute card set. It would make a great Mother’s Day gift for someone special in your life (maybe even yourself!)

We will make the case and the 3 cards shown. Cost is ONLY $5!! Please contact me if you are interested in attending!!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Veranda Level 2 paper pack
Veranda Creative Basics
A Tweet stamp set
One of a Kind stamp set
Say it in Style stamp set
sparkles—clear
pearls (non-CTMH)
grosgrain ribbon—olive (from a retired Creative Basics)

colors: juniper, olive, creme brulee, cocoa, tulip

size: 4” x 4” (closed); cards are 3” x 3”

idea from: lifted from Vicki Wizniuk (who got it from this gal)

Felicity Card

2010-04-05T20:03:00.001-07:00

A while back Close to My Heart had the beautiful Felicity kit as the monthly special. Once again, I did not get samples made in time to promote the special, but I did finally manage to make something with it over Spring Break. This kit is BEAUTIFUL, fun, and easy to work with. The card design is from the full-color guide that comes with the kit. I do have a couple of extra kits, so contact me if you are interested in purchasing one!

This card uses papers & stamps from the Felicity kit, bamboo & desert sand cardstock, colonial white brads & bitty brads, colonial white grosgrain ribbon, and a bamboo ribbon slide. The sentiment stamp is from Paper Trey Ink.

The colors are twilight, sorbet, olive, bamboo, desert sand & colonial white.

Card dimensions: 5” x 7”

It’s a Boy!!

2010-03-13T21:58:00.001-08:00

No, I’m not talking about adding to our family—that’s not possible any more—LOL! I’m talking about my cousin Heather’s first grandson. He was actually born last June, and I made this little album to give to her daughter, Skyler, the new mom. I still haven’t seen her to give it to her, but decided it was finally time to post it!!

I started out making this box…..well, actually I made the album first and then made the box to put it in. However, the pictures of the box got uploaded first, so there we start. To make it, I just measured the size of my finished album and followed basic box-making guidelines.

I originally saw this type of album on a Stampin’ Up demo’s blog, but I don’t know her name. If you know who originally created this, PLEASE let me know so I can give proper credit.

The base of this album is made from a Level 1 Animal Cookies kit. I added some of the Creative Basics papers & ribbon. I also used some clear Sparkles and the Sans Alphabet stamp set.

Skyler is a busy, single mom, so I purposely made this album small—6” x 6”. I kept it simple, with a place to put all his birth info and then lots of placed to add pictures and/or journaling. Hopefully she’ll find it easy to fill up with memories of her sweet boy!

I love all the flips and flaps this album has. It is so visually fun and interesting!

Here is where I really put my own twist on this album. The page with the kite on it………

………opens up into an accordion album!

Once the album was put together, it was a snap to embellish. I used the Stickease that came in the Level 1 kit!

This was a very fun album to make, and fairly easy. I created the album in one sitting, and did all the rest in a second sitting. This is definitely a project I’ll make again.

A Very Cool Give Away!!

2010-02-04T00:50:00.001-08:00

Check out Kendra McCracken’s blog for a couple of really neat goodies she is giving away!!

http://kendramccracken.blogspot.com/2010/01/time-for-giveaway.html

I want to win this (she’s giving away one that is 3’ x 4’) :

It would be AWESOME in my studio!!!!!

Sweetheart Goodies

2010-02-02T14:12:00.001-08:00

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and I love to make special treats for the Sweethearts in my life. Join me on Thursday, February 11th at 7pm to make these cute little cards and goodies for the special people in your life!! Please RSVP by Tuesday, February 9th and be sure to bring your scissors and adhesive!

Candy Tube & Card supplies (all CTMH unless noted):
In the Month of February stamp set
Star Power stamp set
Intrinsic Backgrounds stamp set
Connections stamp set
Whoops-a-Daisy Level 2 paper pack (retired)
Textured cardstock—Summer Celebration
white embroidery floss
pink sheer ribbon (Offray)
test tube (PTI)
colors: watermelon, cranberry, black, grey flannel, white daisy
card size: 3” x 3”

Chocolate Heart Card & treat holder (all supplies CTMH unless noted):
In the Month of February stamp set
Say it In Style stamp set
Enjoy the Journey stamp set
That’s Amore Level 2 paper pack
Blush ricrac
Chocolate Mini-Medley
textured cardstock—Winter Cozy
colors: blush, chocolate, tulip
card size: 3” x3”

January Stamp of the Month

2010-01-03T01:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! We had a wonderful Christmas season & I hope you and yours did, too!! After all the hustle and bustle, I have to admit, it will be nice to get back into our regular routine again here at home. I just wish that didn't include me having to go back to work--LOL!!

Well, a new year brings with it a brand new Close to My Heart Idea Book--WOO HOO!! And that means 4 new stamps of the month to look forward to. Here is a peek at the current January 2010 Stamp of the Month--True Friends. I just looooove this set and will be sharing some of my own creations using it in the next few days.

You can buy this set for $22.95** OR place a qualifying order and get it at a reduced price or even FREE**!!! Just contact me for all the details. Oh, and don't forget the great Felicity kit I highlighted in the previous post--add just a bit more to your order and you can have that FREE**, too!!

**shipping charges apply

National Papercrafting Month

2009-12-21T21:09:00.000-08:00

January is National Papercrafting Month, but Close To My Heart is starting the celebration NOW! This year's kit is beautiful! Not only do you get a stamp set that includes a complete alphabet, flourishes, birds, argyle patterns, flowers, leaves, but also twelve 12" x 12" B&T papers in 3 different color schemes along with six coordinating 12" x 12" die cuts perfect for scrapbook layouts or cards, boxes, journals and other papercrafting projects! In addition, you will receive a two-sided, full color brochure giving you project ideas along the recipes for each!

There are FIVE ways to get the Felicity Collection*:

Purchase it at full retail price for $34.95.
Place an order of $60 or more in full-retail priced stamp sets and receive one collection FREE!
Place an order of $125 or more in full-retail priced Close To My Heart products and receive one collection FREE!
Host a home gathering or workshop with a minimum sales of $400 and receive one collection FREE!
Join Close to my Heart between January 1-31 and you will receive the collection FREE in your New Consultant Kit.

*This promotion is while supplies last from December 15, 2009-January 31, 2010.

Click here to place a Close to my Heart order.

A Prize Winning Card

2009-12-04T01:01:00.000-08:00

I have been urged by my good friend and fellow CTMH consultant, Dawn, to post this card, so here goes……… Despite some amazing competition, I managed to win the card contest at our recent CTMH Regional Celebration here in Portland with this little beauty. It was my first CTMH event and my head was already spinning with all the great classes and projects I was lucky enough to enjoy. This win was just the icing on the cake!!! Thanks to all my CTMH sisters who voted for my card!

I have seen versions of this “easel” card all over the blogging world, so I don’t know who the original credit goes to. But whomever you are—THANKS!!!

The funny thing about this card is that I wasn’t even going to buy this stamp set. CTMH has another cute leaf stamp set that also debuted in the recent Autumn/Winter Idea Book and I decided to buy it and told myself I DID NOT need another leaf set. However, one of my customers fell in love with this set and decided to order it. It happened to be delivered right before the All-Day Crop I was holding, and as soon as I saw it in person I wanted to try it out. Luckily, said customer was my mom and, of course, she let me play with it at the crop. Needless to say, I fell in love with it and this card was born (and I bought the set for myself, too). So, thanks also go out to my mom, DiAnne, for buying this set in the first place!

Some of the leaves are embossed with gold on several different colors of cardstock. The other leaves are made with a technique called “stamp rolling.” To achieve this look, ink up your image with the base color (usually a lighter color), then lightly “roll” the edges of your stamp image in a second color (usually a darker color). Then stamp on your paper, as usual.

The acorns are first stamped with colored ink, then stamped again, directly over the image, with VersaMark and embossed with clear embossing powder. (Gotta love the clear stamps!) The leaves and acorns are then layered together with foam tape to give the wreath dimension.

The leaf behind the sentiment is done with the rolling technique, and then stamped “second generation.” In other words, I stamped first on scratch paper to remove most of the ink, and then again on the project. This gives the lighter, sheer look to the image. I stamped the sentiment directly over the leaf image.

Since CTMH only makes the Foundry Bookplates (Z1147) in pewter and I needed something in gold, I tried embossing them. Guess what? It worked!! Press the Bookplate into a VersaMark ink pad then emboss with gold embossing powder. If there are little nooks and crannies that don’t get covered, just touch them up with an embossing pen and more powder. Reheat and you have a gold bookplate!

The stamp set used is called Flourished Blessings (D1379) and the paper is from the set, Back Country (X7110B). I used a wide variety of colors including Outdoor Denim, New England Ivy, Autumn Terracotta, Cocoa, Honey, Goldrush, Barn Red, Chocolate, Desert Sand & Colonial White. Also in the mix are Autumn Terracotta brads & Barn Red Bigger Brads, along with the aforementioned Bookplate.

This card is a little larger than standard, 6 1/2” x 6 1/2”, to accommodate the wreath. The wreath is my own original design.

Gift Packaging Workshop

2009-12-03T13:06:00.001-08:00

Just in time for the Holidays!!! Join me next Thursday, December 10th at 7 p.m. to make 5 fun packaging projects (Be sure to read to the bottom of this post for information on a BONUS KIT!!) Cost is only $15!! Included in the workshop are:

Gift bag with matching tag

Decorative tin with 16 gift tags

Gift card tin with 6 coordinating treats

Small gift box with matching tag (box is approx. 4”x 4”x 4”)

Large gift box (approx 5”x 8”x 8”)

Reserve your spot now as spaces are limited!! Your reservation and payment MUST be received NO LATER than Tuesday, December 8 so I can have all materials prepared. With 5 projects to complete in one short evening, all papers will be pre-cut so all you will need to do is stamp and glue!! So bring lots of adhesive (regular and dimensional), glue dots (both regular and mini), and your scissors (just in case you need to trim something).

Can't make it on the 10th? No problem!! Contact me to receive all the materials needed to make these projects on your own. The basic kit of materials (unstamped) is $15. Add $5 if you would like me to stamp everything for you. Add $5 if you would like the kit shipped to you (if you are unable to pick it up in person). All kits will be ready/shipped on Saturday, December 12.

BONUS FOR THOSE ATTENDING ON DECEMBER 10th!!!

As a thank you for your business, all those attending the workshop on December 10 will receive this bonus Tag Kit. Included is an adorable mini stamp set and the materials to make 6 gift tags, all packaged in a cute tin.

You can contact me via e-mail at shannon.ctmh@yahoo.com (or by phone if you have my number). I hope to see you on the 10th!!

NOEL Banner Workshop

2009-11-11T13:51:00.001-08:00

Join me on Thursday evening, November 19th at 7 p.m. to make this fun Christmas decor piece. Bring glue sticks, dimensional adhesive (foam tape/squares), sanding kit (or fine sandpaper/sanding block), scissors, and tweezers. Cost is $10, or only $5 with a $25 order, or FREE with a $50 order.

Don’t forget, it is also STAMPAGANZA month, and stamp sets are all buy 2 get one free!! Now is the time to stock up on all those great CTMH stamps you’ve been wanting. You deserve an early Christmas present!!!

Christmas Card Workshop

2009-10-20T22:12:00.001-07:00

Come and join me on Sunday, November 1st at 1 p.m. to make these fun cards. We will be making 5 of each for a total of 25 cards. Cost is only $30. Registration and payment due by Monday, October 26. Contact me for further details!!

** I will post recipes after the workshop

Just a Tad Late!

2009-10-16T00:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a card I made for my quality swap group using the September Stamp of the Month, Treasures. I made the top card originally and wasn't happy with how it looked at first. After the ink from the sentiment was dry (and darker) I decided I liked it. Unfortunately, I had already changed to the second card and made all I needed. For both cards, I stamped the flower with VersaMark ink and embossed it with clear embossing powder. Then I sponged Sorbet all over the flower and wiped the excess off that the embossing resisted. I also sponged a little bit of Crystal Blue to make it look like sky behind the flower.

On this one I stamped the sentiment with brown Staz-On OVER the embossed image. I think next time I will try stamping the sentiment directly on the card first, and then stamping and embossing OVER it. Not sure it would remain clear (to my satisfaction), but it would be worth a try!

For this version I stamped the sentiment in Chocolate on Colonial White. Then I stamped over it with VersaMark and embossed with clear embossing powder. I think I would have liked it better if I had used Cocoa instead of Chocolate. It would have been darker and stood out more. Oh well!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Twitterpated Level 2 paper pack
Treasures stamp set(September Stamp of the Month)
designer ribbon rounds—sorbet
VersaMark ink
clear embossing powder

colors: sorbet, chocolate, crystal blue, sweet leaf, colonial white

size: 5 1/2” x 4 1/4”

idea from: I'm sure I saw a card with this layout somewhere, at some time............

More from the Grace Workshop

2009-10-15T02:12:00.000-07:00

This is the second layout we did at the Grace Workshop last month. I chose not to do the “bonus” layout listed in the WOTG flyer, but instead chose one of the layouts we are allowed to copy from CTMH’s great ideas books—Reflections, Cherish, and Imagine.

I added a few things to the kit (and I provided them to all the participants, too!), such as the corduroy brads, self-adhesive pearls, and the flowers. For the title I used both Believe alphabets and the Classmate alphabet, and for the journaling block I used the Journaling Jots stamp set.

Below is the second set of card we made. Again I chose not to make the cards shown in the brochure, instead using one of the patterns we are allowed to copy from the CTMH card-making books, Originals and Wishes. The only item not from the kit on these are the self-adhesive pearls. I really hope CTMH adds them to the next catalog as a regular item!!!!

October Stamp of the Month

2009-10-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, Christmas will be here before we know it. Now is the time to start planning and creating for the holidays. Here is a quick and easy card you can make to send to all those special people on your Christmas card list. For this card I used the October Stamp of the Month--Holiday Warmth.

Do you want to know the best things about this stamp set??? You can get it for FREE with a qualifying purchase. Just ask me how!!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):
*Creative Basics--Jingle
*October Stamp of the Month--Holiday Warmth
*Twinkle Brads-Jolly Assortment
*Clear Sparkles

colors: blush, creme brulee, juniper, tulip, white daisy, black

card size: approx. 4 1/4 x 5 1/2

idea from: my original design

Here are some other projects made with this set:

Fabulous Fall Workshop Projects

2009-10-05T23:25:00.001-07:00

Come and join me this Thursday, October 8 at 7 p.m. to make these 3 fabulous fall projects. Cost is only $5 or FREE with a $25 order!! Please RSVP by Wednesday evening. Hope to see you then!!

Project #1: Many Thanks card

Project #2: Boo Box (with a surprise inside)

Project #3: Trick-or-Treat lollipop wrap

(I will post the recipes after the workshop on Thursday)

Short Notice……

2009-09-15T23:43:00.001-07:00

Due to some changes made by Corporate Office, I have changed my scheduled Sweet Home Workshop to the Grace Workshop instead. I will probably offer the other at a later date.

If you would like to join me on Thursday, September 24 at 7 p.m. contact me right away! We will make up to 2 complete two-page layouts and 12 cards!!

I must have your registration by this Thursday, Sept. 17!! Just phone or e-mail me to sign up!!

Here are the details:

Basic Option Cost: $29.95 + shipping
Basic Includes: A Level 2 paper pack, a B-sized stamp set (very cute!), a package of Edge Anchors, a full color guide, and I will be throwing in a few more sheets of paper and extra embellishments

Best Option Cost: $41.85 + FREE SHIPPING!!
Best Includes: Everything listed above plus a package of 100 Basic Buttons and Crystal Blue Waxy Flax

Either way, you will leave with your completed projects, a B-size stamp set, a full-color guide you can use over & over again, and TONS of materials to make even more cute stuff!!

Hope to see you there!!

Cute Card Tote

2009-08-31T23:38:00.001-07:00

This cute little project is another find from a SU consultant’s website. I was unable to trace back to the original post, so if you know who I need to give credit to, please let me know!

The tote is made of cardstock and is secured closed with velcro. The front and back each have a pocket that holds 2 cards, and the inside pocket holds the envelopes. The notepad is attached with velcro so it can be replaced. I think I will add a loop of cardstock to hold a pen, too.

I love these pocket cards! The are so simple and easy to make. The pocket is secured only at the top by the ribbon.

The insert leaves lots of room to write a note, or even add a small photo. I would love to get something like this in the mail!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Boom-Di-Ada Level 2 paper pack
Cottage Floral stamp set
Picture Perfect stamp set
(the sentiments are from a stamp set available to consultants only, but any circular sentiment would work)
sparkles—clear
designer ribbon rounds—hollyhock & ric rac collection
grosgrain ribbon—colonial white

colors: buttercup, hollyhock, olive, sweet leaf,

size: approx. 7” x 6” (closed); cards are standard 5 1/2” x 4 1/4”

idea from: a very creative SU demo—sorry I don’t know who you are!!!

Butterfly Wall Hanging

2009-08-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

This is the project I entered for the July consultant artwork contest that CTMH holds each month. The winners were posted today, and unfortunately, I was not among them. What’s worse, is that I had to send in the original and I don’t get it back (I knew that going in—but it sure is easier to take when you win) I guess I’ll have to make myself another one!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Perfect Day Level 2 paper pack
Key to My Heart paper pack (previous special promo)
Treetops stamp set
Sparkles—clear
Grosgrain ribbon—cocoa
Butterfly punch (Martha Stewart)

colors: cocoa, juniper, sorbet, tulip, colonial white

size: approx. 9” x 11”

idea from: my original design (though I’m sure I’ve seen similar ideas elsewhere)

National Stamping Month

2009-08-18T11:21:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to offer my customers this GREAT card kit for National Stamping Month—Everyday Celebrations!!
To celebrate National Stamping Month in September, CTMH has designed a gorgeous new card (and STAMP) that has all the goodies to make 16 cards!!

detail of stamp set

CELEBRATE NATIONAL STAMPING MONTH!
In September, CTMH is giving you 3 ways to get a FREE Everyday Celebration card kit!!
1) Purchase a minimum of $60 in stamp sets** (includes A, B, C, D, and E-size) between August 18–September 30
2) Host a Home Gathering with minimum sales of $400 between September 1–30
3) Sign up as a new Consultant between September 1–30
**You can also buy as many card kits as you’d like for only $39.95 per kit.

And there’s more fun! Place any order between September 1–30 and you’ll be automatically entered in a daily drawing for a FREE card kit! Winners will be announced on my CTMH website (www.shannonmurdock.myctmh.com) and closetomyheart.com.
Express your passion for stamping with this pretty new card kit today!!

This kit is great for scrapbookers, too! Look at the adorable layout my friend and CTMH sister consultant, Amy Heller, made….

Here’s what is included in each card kit:
1 – My Acrylix® Everyday Celebration Stamp Set
(D-size) (Only available with this kit!)
16 – 4 W" x 5 H" Colonial White Card Bases
16 – 4 W” x 5 H” Colonial White Envelopes
1 – 12" x 12" Dutch Blue Cardstock
1 – 12" x 12" Colonial White Cardstock
4 – 12"x 12" B&T Duos® Paper, 2 sweet leaf with chocolate dots (dutch blue back), 2 mulit-argyle (chocolate argyle on back)
1 – Chocolate Distressing Ink
1 – Dutch Blue Distressing Ink
1 – Mini-Medley Accents Shades of Chocolate Collection - (24 Brads, 24 Bigger Brads, 18 paper flowers, 9 designer square brads, 6 arrow photo clips, 6 oval ribbon slides)
5' – Chocolate Ribbon with Colonial White Stitch
50 – 3-D Foam Squares
1- Sponge
1 – Full Color, 8 page, Step-by-Step Instructional Brochure showing you how to make 8 different cards!!! Featured Colors: Chocolate, Colonial White, Dutch Blue, Sweet Leaf

Contact me today to order yours. And don’t forget—this kit is only available while supplies last!!! Last year’s kit sold out in early September—so don’t delay!!

**much of the text and pics on this post are from Amy Heller's blog: http://amyheller.blogspot.com/

My First Blog Award!!

2009-08-14T01:59:00.001-07:00

Thanks, Deneen and Pamela, for giving me my very first award!!

The rules for this award are:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.

3) Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

I will update in a day or two with who I am going to pass this award on to.

Another Purse Gift

2009-08-13T01:44:00.000-07:00

This delightful little purse was inspired by a project on a SU demo’s blog I saw ages ago……but I have no idea who it was. If you know who originally posted this type of project, please let me know so I can give proper credit! I was also greatly inspired by my ever-so-talented CTMH sister, Lisa Stenz!

EDITED TO ADD: I found it!! Here is the original tutorial for this project: Jan’s Stamps, Paper, Scissors

I love this little project and all the surprises it holds inside!

I love the inserts! You could add pictures or extra journaling….

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Bella Level 2 paper pack
Endless Friendship stamp set
Thank You stamp set
Journaling Jots stamp set
Sparkles—clear
Grosgrain ribbon—colonial white
Designer Ribbon Rounds—hollyhock
Connections Club—metal token
standard A2 envelopes (from my stash)
velcro dots (from my stash)

colors: hollyhock, creme brulee, olive, smokey plum, colonial white

size: approx. 4 1/4” x 5 1/2”

idea from: an unknown SU demonstrator & CTMH consultant Lisa Stenz

note: the flap for this purse was cut with my Cricut using the Storybook cartridge at 2 different sizes

Wow! A Rare Layout!

2009-08-05T18:10:00.001-07:00

I am so bad about sitting down and creating layouts. I think it is because I am so “meticulous” and it takes me forever to complete one. Of course, the fact that I am overwhelmed with just about every product Close to My Heart sells wouldn’t be part of the problem, would it???? That’s why I was thrilled when CTMH offered the Tickled Pink scrapbooking kit as the special a few months ago—I do better when I limit my supplies and I love getting an idea from somewhere else and putting my own twist on it.

And for once, I actually got the special ahead of time and made up a sample for my customers. They loved it, and I did sell quite a few of these kits the month they were offered. Of course, it’s taken me until now to post it here, but better late than never, right??? Now I just need to make the other layouts from the kit!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Tickled Pink scrapbooking kit
I Am stamp set from above kit
Sans Alphabet stamp set
Journaling Jots stamp set
Tiny Typewriter stamp set
Bigger brads—key lime
Mini-Medleys—Autumn Garden
Clear Sparkles

colors: blush, hollyhock, sweet leaf, twilight

size: 12”x12” two-page layout

idea from: Tickled Pink scrapbooking kit guide

note: My pictures were not the same size as suggested in the guide, so I added the decorative border underneath the photos. Then to balance that out, I added the extra narrow pink strips. I also changed my background cardstock from white daisy to sweet leaf and added a few extra embellishments.

Another Father’s Day Card

2009-08-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, here is the card I made for Mel this year. I was so excited to get this stamp set in one of the Mystery Boxes I ordered in June. It has been on my wish list for some time now. I went back to an old Idea Book to get inspiration for this card, and I am very happy with how it turned out!

Of course, Emily had to add her own touch to the inside. The little love notes from her made Daddy smile!

supplies used (all CTMH, unless noted):

Back Country Level 2 paper pack
Vintage Father’s Day stamp set
Checklist stamp set
Tiny Typewriter stamp set
Picture Perfect stamp set
Designer Ribbon Rounds—outdoor denim
Bigger Brads—outdoor denim
hemp—white

colors: outdoor denim, olive, barn red, bamboo, colonial white

size: 4 1/4” x 5 1/2”

idea from: inspired by a card in a previous CTMH Idea Book

A Project, As Promised…

2009-07-31T00:48:00.000-07:00

I actually was partly on the ball this year for Father’s Day. I made a card for my husband and a card for my dad (unfortunately, I did not get one done for my father-in-law—sorry Bumpo!) This is the one I made for my dad. Tune in tomorrow for the one I made for Mel!

And here is a picture of it with the cutest card-giver you could ever imagine:

supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Back Country Level 2 paper pack
Treetops stamp set
Say It in Style stamp set
twill ribbon--natural
photo clip—autumn terracotta (retired)
safety pin & brads—outdoor denim (retired)

colors: outdoor denim, autumn terracotta, goldrush, barn red, olive, colonial white

size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2”

idea from: my original design

Gotta Love Summer!

2009-07-30T00:16:00.001-07:00

I know it’s been a while since I last posted, but something has been keeping us VERY busy lately--—namely this…………..

which is just a couple of blocks away from this…………..

Yep, we are now the proud owners of a beautifully renovated 1930’s beach cottage and we love it! We have been spending as much time as possible there lately, especially with the unheard of high temperatures we are having in the Northwest. Today was over 105 degrees back at home (and no air conditioning at our house, so it was 94 degrees inside when Mel got home after 8 p.m. this evening), but a nice comfortable 60-some degrees here at the coast.

Unfortunately, Mel had to head back into town to work for a couple of days, but Em and I opted to stay here the rest of the week and invited one of my best friends down. Mel and my friend’s husband will be back on Friday for the weekend. Hopefully by next Monday the heat wave at home will have calmed down to a bearable temperature, as I really need to get some things done there—like cleaning and creating (in no particular order).

And believe it or not, I do have some projects ready to share over the next few days, so be sure to check back!!!

50% Off--Mystery Box #2

2009-06-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

My CTMH sister, Paige, has a great post about today's deal......... here is what she said:

Yipee! Today is Mystery Box #2 from Close to my Heart with $80 worth of Close to my Heart products for just $40 and reduced shipping of $6! This offer is good through 7AM Pacific Time on Thursday, 11 June OR UNTIL IT SELLS OUT. Mystery Box #1 SOLD OUT before dinner time in my area so don't wait and miss out! I know there were a lot of people who were really bummed out at what they missed when they found out what was in Box #1 so this one might sell out even faster than before! Click here to shop now!

Remember - each of the 6 days of boxes (2 down and 4 to go) have a different product focus so you can get a box on EVERY DAY and not get a bunch of repeats! Order with a friend - even on the same day there are variations in what you get which makes swapping with friends even more fun! Best of all, if you order a box through me you'll be invited to a special SWAP AND CROP PARTY in July where you can swap items you already had or just weren't your cup of tea with other lucky box owners! Its sure to be a fun party!

Click here to see what Paige got in her first box. What a great deal!!!

A Prize Winning Project

2009-06-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

This is a project I created quite a while ago and just realized I never posted it on my blog. I had submitted this to CTMH for the monthly contest for consultants and won 3rd place with it! Yay!!

mini-purse supplies (all CTMH):
Perfect Day paper pack
Annotations stamp set (previous Stamp of the Month)
Small Chocolate Alphabet stamp set
Designer Ribbon Rounds--sorbet
Cocoa bulk grosgrain ribbon
Clear Sparkles
3"x3" envelope flats

colors:
tulip, sorbet, creme brulee, juniper, cocoa, colonial white

size: approx. 3" x 3"

idea from: original idea from a SU consultant, but completely changed to make it my own!

2009-06-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

LOVE A GREAT DEAL? HOW ABOUT 30 GREAT DEALS?

In June you'll find a different deal each day on my website- a product special available only that day and only while supplies last*. Watch for popular products offered FREE with a stamp set purchase (size A, B, C, D, or E only; excludes K-size and Stamp of the Month) and all-the-rage goodie boxes (offered 6 different times throughout the month) filled with enviable items priced well below retail--50% off or more. Irresistible shipping discounts are included!

Check my website every day in June for that day's deal and add to your scrapbooking and cardmaking supplies while saving a bundle. Remember, each special is good only for that day, only while supplies last, and only on my website. Visit often and save!

Please see my website for all the details on this fabulous offer for the month of June!!!

*Tax and shipping/handling may apply. Deals are available for 23 hours beginning on the day announced and while supplies last. New deals are posted at 9:00 am (MT) each day of June.

*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*
EVEN MORE GREAT DEALS IN JUNE!!!!

I will not be holding a June workshop so you can take advantage of the great specials being offered by Close to My Heart this month!!

Here are 2 other great deals to take advantage of:

1. For every Deal-A-Day special you order from my website, your name will go into a drawing for a HUGE PRIZE PACKAGE OF SCRAPBOOKING GOODNESS valued at over $100!!! (Note: the prize package is not Close to My Heart products and will include a variety of items, such as idea books, albums, mini-albums, alterable items, papers and embellishments)

2. I will hold a "Swap Night" for anyone that purchases one or more of the 6 "Great Goodies" boxes being offered. Since the goodie boxes are mysteries, there is a chance you will receive an item or two you already have or don't really want. At the Swap Night we can buy/sell/trade those items with each other!! Date and time in July to be determined.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

August SOTM--It's Your Day

2009-05-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

I saved the best for last..............this SOTM is definitely my favorite of the 4 from the Summer 2009 Idea Book. And this paper set, Animal Cookies, is my fav, too. So fun, bright and colorful! I can't wait to make a baby album with this paper set (along with lots of other projects and layouts)!!

gift bag supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Animal Cookies Level 2 paper pack
Animal Cookies Creative Basics paper pack
It's Your Day stamp set
Red Sparkles (retired)
Prisma Glitter

colors: tulip, dutch blue, clover meadow, sunflower

size: approx. 5" x 8"

idea from: my original design

card supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Animal Cookies Level 2 paper pack
Animal Cookies Creative Basics paper pack
It's Your Day stamp set
white grosgrain ribbon--Animal Cookies Creative Basics
brads--tulip

colors: tulip, dutch blue, clover meadow, sunflower

size: approx. 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

idea from: a fellow blogger (I am trying to find the original!)

July SOTM--You've Got Flair

2009-05-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

This stamp set is so fun and versatile!! All the stamps are outline images, so you can color them in to match any papers/color combo you choose!!

card supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Moon Doggie Level 2 paper pack
You've Got Flair stamp set
grosgrain ribbon--cocoa
Brads--colonial white
Heritage Edge Anchors-- colonial white

colors: garden green, cranberry, indian corn blue, honey, cocoa, desert, sand, colonial white

size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

idea from: my original design

bookmark supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Moon Doggie 2 paper pack
You've Got Flair stamp set

colors: garden green, cranberry, indian corn blue, honey, cocoa, desert, sand, colonial white

size: approx. 1 1/2" x 4"

idea from: my original design

June SOTM--Tender Tags

2009-05-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

Another great stamp set with lots of uses. I love the vines and swirls on all these tags and the cute little sentiments!

card supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Bella Level 2 paper pack
Tender Tags stamp set
Bigger Brads--smokey plum

colors: hollyhock, smokey plum, creme brulee, olive

size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

idea from: my original design

candy holder supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Bella Level 2 paper pack
Tender Tags stamp set
chocolate candy--Hershey's Nuggets

colors: hollyhock, smokey plum, olive, black

size: approx. 1" x 2"

idea from: my original design

special note: top of candy holder is one of the tags folded in half

May SOTM--Be Yourself

2009-05-09T09:55:00.000-07:00

I have to admit--when I first saw this stamp set I thought that I would NEVER be able to make something with it that I really liked. This set is soooooo not my usual style and I was not looking forward to using it on anything. Fortunately, I am in a Quality Swappers group and my chosen assignment was to make a card and an altered item with each of the (sight unseen) new SOTM stamp sets, so I HAD to use this set. I am still not totally sold on it, but as usual, I liked it better the more I used it!

Be Yourself card supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Tinkerin' Level 2 paper pack
Be Yourself stamp set
Clear Sparkles--round

colors: holiday red, clover meadow, black, twilight, sunny yellow, sunflower

size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

idea from: my original design

Mini clipboard supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Tinkerin' Level 2 paper pack
Be Yourself stamp set
Clear Sparkles--round
Designer Ribbon Rounds--white daisy
silver clip (Making Memories)

colors: holiday red, clover meadow, black, twilight, sunny yellow, sunflower

size: 4" x 6"

idea from: my original design

Sympathy Card

2009-05-07T21:23:00.003-07:00

Sympathy cards are so hard for me to make. I realized this a couple of months ago when I had to make this card for a friend of ours who lost her mom. I found that I didn't really have any appropriate stamp sets for this type of occasion and had to really scour my collection to find something that would work. Thank goodness I had this set, Treasure Life, as I think it ended up making a particularly nice card.

I don't usually decorate the insides of cards this much, but I didn't like the look of all the brads from the Edge Anchors on the inside. Usually my philosophy on the brads showing on the inside is--"the recipient will know it is hand-made." However, in this case it just looked tacky, so I covered them up!

supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Notebook Level 2 paper pack
Treasure Life stamp set
For Every Occasion stamp set
Designer Ribbon Rounds--hollyhock (retired)
Brads--black
Heritage Edge Anchors-- colonial white

colors: hollyhock, black, colonial white, bamboo, desert sand

size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

idea from: a swap item from fellow CTMH consultant (name unknown)

Mother's Day Workshop Projects

2009-04-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up soon! Join me this Saturday, April 25th to make these cute projects to give to the special women in your life. Of course, they don't have to be for Mother's Day (you can use different sentiments on them)--they would make great birthday or thank you gifts, too! Pick and choose which items you would like to make or make all 4 for only $15!! Starts at 9am at my home--call or e-mail for details and directions!

($4) Mini-purse album opens up to 9" x 9". You can add pictures and journaling as desired.

($2) Mom card (your choice of sentiment stamped inside) includes a coordinating envelope. You could also stamp JOY or someone's initials to use for a different occasion.

($6) Boxed set of 5 monogrammed note cards. This set will include one card of each color shown, 5 coordinating envelopes and a sturdy clear box (not pictured) decorated to match.

($3) There will also be a decorative hanging sign available to make SIMILAR to this, using the same colors, paper set and stamp set (please note: this is NOT the actual sign we will make). Size of sign to be made is approximately 6"x6".

2009-04-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

Another month gone...........boy, have I been a Blog Slacker!!! March was such a busy month, with lots of things happening around our house. Two of the most exciting things are that Emily lost her first tooth (and has 3 others loose) and we went on a cruise to Mexico for Spring Break. It was Em's first cruise and she loved it! I even have pictures to share, as soon I make time to download (or is it upload??) them!!!

At least I have a project to share today!! I actually made this card a while back, and just never got around to posting it. I am not overly thrilled with how it turned out. I think I would have liked it better with either a color background, or a color flower. As it is, I think it is TOO white--kind of washed out! However, it is made with my FAVORITE paper pack, Emporium, so that alone makes it worth sharing!

supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Emporium Level 2 paper pack
From Me to You stamp set (from promo card kit)
Connections stamp set
Just Blooms--white daisy
Bigger Brads--heavenly blue
ribbon--from my stash

colors: cocoa, sweet leaf, twilight, buttercup, vineyard berry

size: 5 1/2" x 5 1/2"

idea from: another blogger (but I can't find which one--sorry!)

Easter Layout

2009-03-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

We will be making this layout at my next workshop on Tuesday evening, March 17 at 7 p.m. The cost will be $5 for the basic layout (paper, ribbon, stamping) and you can add all the extras (flowers, brads, edge anchors) for only $2 more. Contact me if you would like to come and play with us!!

We will be using:
Paper Garden Level 1 and Level 2 papers
Heritage Letters and Numbers stamp sets (retired)
Big Pinks flowers
Window Charms--circles
Colonial White Edge Anchors
Petal brads
misc. buttons (CTMH and other)
ribbon from my stash

BIG SALE--40% off stamp sets

2009-03-02T15:27:00.000-08:00

Close to My Heart is having a BIG 40% off stamp sale tomorrow. On Tuesday, March 3rd the 10 stamps sets pictured below will be available on my website starting at 7am Pacific Standard time. The only way to get this great discount is by visiting my website. Once there, click on the shopping link and then look for the clearance link. Be sure to shop early, as items tend to sell out quickly during these sales!!

Shop my website: http://shannonmurdock.myctmh.com/

Getting Inspired

2009-03-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

As you can tell by my LONG list of Other Inspired Souls, I love reading and looking at the artwork on other people's blogs. I find much of my creative inspiration from these talented ladies, and am so grateful they are all so willing to share their talents with us!!

I don't usually copy someone's work directly, but I found a GORGEOUS card on Amy Rohl's blog, Ink About Me, and I knew I had to make a similar one. I am quite happy with my creation, and want to thank Amy for her BEAUTIFUL inspiration!!!

Everything about Amy's card inspired me--the design, the colors, the embellishments, the style of paper used. I changed very little of her design in my own creation, which is very unusual for me--a testament to Amy's great design. I guess I need to add her blog to my list!!!

supplies (all CTMH, unless otherwise noted):
Perfect Day Level 2 paper pack
Happy Birthday stamp set
Say it in Style stamp set
Designer Ribbon Rounds--black
Bigger Brads--black
Waxy Flax--white
button (from my stash)
embossed image (Cuttlebug by ProvoCraft)

colors: juniper, petal, black, colonial white, bamboo (distressing on edges)

size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

idea from: Amy Rohl

Surprise!!!

2009-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? Another post already! This is a card I have had in my head for a while, and finally sat down and put it together the other night. I am pretty happy with the way it turned out, though I'm not sure how well I like the Silhouette papers with the Tulip cardstock.

I tried adding a subtle background to the sentiment strip, stamping tone-on-tone with colonial white ink. It looked really cool while it was still wet, but once it dried overnight, the design had completely disappeared. Oh well!

supplies (all CTMH):
Silhouette Level 2 paper pack
From Me to You stamp set (from promo card kit)
Just Blooms paper flower
Bigger Brads--black
Brads--black

colors:
bamboo, black, colonial white, desert sand, tulip, white daisy

size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Hip Hip Hooray

2009-02-27T20:04:00.000-08:00

Now that it's the end of February, I'm finally getting around to posting my card sample made with the super cute Good Times stamp set that was this month's special! Figures, doesn't it?? A day late and a dollar short--HA!

The good news is that I have a few extras of this set, so if you missed out on the special this month, but still want the set, I can hook you up!! Just e-mail or give me a call. It is a B-sized set, so it is only $13.95!! You can see the complete set on my previous post (dated Feb. 4--have I really not posted again all month long?!?!?!?)

supplies (all CTMH):
Emporium Level 2 paper pack
Good Times stamp set
Boutique Borders stamp set
Bigger Brad--Garnet
Liquid Applique
Prisma Glitter

colors: buttercup, cocoa, colonial white, crystal blue, sweet leaf, twilight, vineyard berry

size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

idea from: my original design

note: I added the highlight to the brad with a white Liquid Sharpie pen

Happy 25th Anniversary Close to My Heart!!!

2009-02-04T20:33:00.001-08:00

Let The Good Times Roll!
We’re celebrating an anniversary in 2009—but you get the gifts! That’s right—our founder and CEO Jeanette Lynton marks 25 years as a leader and innovator in the stamping business, and to celebrate, we’re giving all our stamp purchasers a fabulous gift! When you spend $25 in My Acrylix® stamps (K-size customized, Stamp of the Month, and any discounted retired sets excluded), you’ll receive a totally cool, custom-designed B-size stamp set, appropriately titled “Good Times.” It’s a celebration-themed set, with a variety of fun party icons and sentiments like “let’s party” and “hip hip hooray” that are oh, so versatile. Everyone will want one—or more!

More Open House Projects

2009-01-27T22:51:00.000-08:00

Here are 2 more projects that will be available for customers to create on Saturday. The card will cost $1 and the gift bag is a FREE project.

"love" card

supplies:
That's Amore Level 2 paper pack
Just Because stamp set (from promo card kit)
blush polka dot ribbon (retired)
Just Blooms Big Pinks flower
chocolate brads
white hemp
button (from my stash)

colors: tulip, blush, chocolate, colonial white

size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

"Precious" gift bag

supplies:
That's Amore Level 2 paper pack
Priceless Love stamp set
blush organdy ribbon (retired)
small brown paper sack (other)

colors: tulip, blush, chocolate, colonial white

size: approx. 3" x 4 1/2"

Open House Project #1

2009-01-26T01:24:00.000-08:00

My Spring Idea Book Open House is in less than a week! I spent a good chunk of the weekend getting the projects I am offering ready to go. No surprise that this one is my favorite, since it uses Emporium papers!! This cute little tin is actually sold as a gift card holder, but I immediately saw potential for more...........

I turned it into a presentation container for some chocolates and a cute little card. The great thing about this project is that it is pretty enough to give to your best girlfriend, yet masculine enough to give to the guy in your life. And the design is general enough to give for any occasion! I am charging $3 to make this at my Open House.

supplies:
Emporium Level 2 paper pack
Emporium Creative Basics paper
Priceless Love stamp set
So Girly stamp set
Clear sparkles

size: approximately 3" x 4 1/2"

other: the divider is made of scored & folded cardstock

More of My Favorite...Emporium

2009-01-20T20:10:00.000-08:00

These are some items I made for a couple of swaps I was in. I will be using these on a display board highlighting this paper set at my Open House on January 31st.

Emporium Layout

supplies:
Emporium Level 2 paper pack
Dream Wishes stamp set
Pewter Designer Brads
pewter brads
Vineyard Berry grosgrain ribbon from the Emporium Creative Basics pack

colors:
Sweet Leaf, Twilight, Buttercup, Vineyard Berry, Cocoa, Colonial White

size: this layout is 9"x9"

Mini Composition Book

supplies:
Emporium Level 2 paper pack
January Stamp of the Month--Moments in Time
Just Blooms White Daisy flower
Twilight corduroy brad from Winter Cozy Mini-Medley Collection

colors:
Sweet Leaf, Twilight, Buttercup, Vineyard Berry, Cocoa, Colonial White

On the Day You Were Born card

supplies:
Creative Basics Emporium Collection paper and ribbon
January Stamp of the Month--Moments in Time
Pewter Designer Brads
pewter brads

colors:
Sweet Leaf, Twilight, Buttercup, Vineyard Berry, Cocoa, Colonial White

size:
4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

The Cute Things Kids Say

2009-01-15T15:54:00.001-08:00

Emily told me the sweetest thing on the way home the other night. We were listening to the radio and they were talking about the couples on The Biggest Loser. We watch the show here and there, but I didn't realize Emily knew what the show was all about. Apparently she does....she said to me, "Mommy, you and Daddy can't go on The Biggest Loser because I'm not old enough to take care of myself. And you're not big enough to go on that show anyway. Only fat people go on that show and you're not fat!"

Awwwww, that was so sweet! Mel and I have both been working on losing weight and getting in shape, so that was a great ego boost!

Love you baby girl!!