Creative Critterz

CRICUT CLASS: Cutting Magnet Material with SENTIMENTALS

2010-07-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

CLASS:
Cutting Magnet Material with SENTIMENTALS

WHEN:
Wednesday August 4, 2010
10am - noon

WHERE:
World Cup Room
Comfort Suites Frisco
9700 Dallas Parkway
Frisco, Texas 75034

REGISTER HERE

CLASS SUMMARY:

LEVEL - Beginner to Advanced
MACHINE - Personal Cricut/Cricut Create/Cricut Expression/Gypsy

OBJECT:
PERSONAL CRICUT owners will learn how to manually MULTI CUT.

CREATE & EXPRESSION owners will learn how to use FIT TO PAGE and MULIT CUT features on your machine.

GYPSY owners will learn how to ROTATE, HIDE CONTOUR and MULTI CUT (must have SENTIMENTALS linked in your gypsy to use it in this class).

EVERYONE will learn how to (1) use the DEEP CUT BLADE. (2) Handle & effectively cut magnet material. (3) Layer vinyl over magnet material. (4) Use transfer paper/tape

SUPPLIES: All supplies provided

TOOLS:
- Cricut Machine
- DEEP CUT BLADE (if you have it)
- Sentimentals (not required)
- 2 Cricut Cutting Mats (1 new & 1 conditioned)
- Bone Folder
- Tweezers or Spatula
- Transfer Tape
- Scissors
- Adhesive

COST: $35

Register HERE or go to http://www.creativecritterz.com/ for a complete schedule of all classes and retreats!

Autographed Photo Frames

2010-05-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone to a concert or event and wanted to get someone you admire's autograph? Sometimes it is on a t-shirt or a napkin... or maybe inside a book or magazine. Last year, I had the pleasure of sponsoring the tool center at a couple of Creating Keepsakes Conventions. I knew that Lisa Bearnson was attending the one in Houston, so I painted this inexpensive unfinished frame and asked her to sign it. I also had someone take our picture together, with the plans of putting that picture in the autographed frame. Something so simple... so inexpensive... yet it is one my most treasured souvenirs. I keep this frame and a few others on a shelf above my desk as inspiration and a reminder to chase my dreams.

Another one that I love was also taken in Houston... with Lain Ehmann, a contributing editor for Simple Scrapbooks.... she has the cutest, funniest, most energetic blogs around. Check her out HERE!

Don't be afraid to 'think outside the box'! I love unfinished wood... it just screams 'paint me' and
'cover me with embellishments!' LOL! And make sure to surround yourself with inspiration pieces while you are scrapbooking, stamping or just plan creating. It will really help... I promise!

Wine Bottle Wrappers: Gypsy Cut File included

2009-12-17T23:36:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!! Wow! I've been so busy with the CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRICUT blog that I have neglected my original Ladybug Blog! I am excited about 2010, because I will be hosting the Ladybug Retreats on a monthly basis again! You can see the schedule at http://www.cropallday.com/

I thought I would share my WINE BOTTLE WRAPPERS that I made using TAGS, BAGS, BOXES & MORE (TBBM) cricut cartridge and the WILD CARD cricut cartridge with my Gypsy. You can purchase the TBBM cartridge on Hallmark Scrapbook HERE for only $27.99 and the WILD CARD cartridge HERE for only $34.99! Now THAT is such a deal and let me tell you... if you don't have these two cartridges yet, they are a MUST HAVE for your cricut collection. And HERE is all the Gypsy stuff for those who are making out those Christmas lists! Just send this link to family & friends when they ask you what you want for Christmas this year!!

I am giving bottles of wine from a local winery to our dinner guests on Thanksgiving Day and instead of gluing a crafty label onto my bottle (and hiding the winery label) I made these wrappers that tie on with a beautiful bow in the back (like an apron).

First, let me show you how I designed this project using my Gypsy:

Click HERE if you do not see the video above.

I used Core'dinations cardstock for layers 2-4 and double sided patterned cardstock for the wrapper itself.

I liked the look of different frames, but this one was my favorite. The frames, Happy Thanksgiving & oval shadow are all from the WILD CARD cartridge.

The wrapper itself is from the TAGS, BAGS, BOXES & MORE cartridge

They will all look beautiful sitting on my Thanksgiving Dinner table as favors for our guests.

And because they are tied on instead of glued on, they can be re-used for future gifts of wine or saved as souvenirs for a scrapbook.

Here is a real short little video on how the wrappers are actually tied onto the bottles:

Click HERE if you cannot see the video above.

Hope you liked my project today! I love using some of the older cartridges for cool projects like this and this can be adapted for any holiday or gift just by changing the colors and sentiment! It would make a great gift for an anniversary or Christmas too!

You can download the cut file for your gypsy HERE.

Thank YOU for visiting! My 'partners in crime', Joy & Melanie will be hosting a LIVE USTREAM event this Sunday night (12-20-09) from 8pm-9pm cst. You don't want to miss this one because we have more goodies to give away... so make sure you come back for a link to the Ustream Channel on Sunday!!

Scrappingly Yours,

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Video Blog Hop!

2009-11-20T03:01:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone and welcome to my little creative corner of the world! I am so excited to be participating in the Cuttlebug Challenge's FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS video blog hop! There are five of us participating in the video blog hop today... so make sure to stop by each blog and leave a comment because TWO cricut cartridges will be given away today... the beautiful WINTER WOODLAND and the new awesome DINOSAUR TRACKS! Here's the list:

1) HappyHappyJoyJoy over at CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRICUT
2) Betty Bee over at CUTTING ABOVE
3) Cassie over at FOR THE ART OF IT
4) Me! And you are already here!
5) Last stop... Maggie at the CUTTLEBUG CHALLENGE

Now for my Festival of Lights project...

This was a very detailed project that I have broken down into 2 parts. The first part was the actual design which I did using my Gypsy & the FROM MY KITCHEN cricut cartridge. I will feature a video with step-by-step instructions on the CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRICUT blog tomorrow. But, today, you get the second part (which is the easiest!) which teaches you how to make these cute little sour cream containers and adding the final touches. You can actually skip the first part if you just use punched tags with sticker numbers... that makes this project even easier! Lastly, I tied the containers onto a pre-lit Christmas tree purchased from Hobby Lobby.

Now... let me tell you that this is not a new technique by any means. I found tons of tutorials on how to make these cute little containers on the internet ages ago. But, I haven't seen anyone use them as an advent calendar yet!

If you haven't seen how these cute little guys are made, then you definitely need to check out my video!

Click HERE if you cannot see the video above.

Oh... and I forgot to mention that my tree star was cut from DON JUAN (Joy & Melanie's favorite cart!) at 7.5"... I printed my sentiment on my computer using the GRINCHED font and also cut the star out of a cereal box to give it more substance.

Well, that's my FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS project... I hope you like it as much as I liked making it! Don't forget to finish the video blog hop back over at the CUTTLEBUG CHALLENGE blog and you are suppose to tell them what each of our favorite Cuttlebug Challenge tutorial is... mine is: June's Cupcake Holder! I LOVED how she used the rolling pin!! Seriously, you should check that post out too! Click HERE to see it. But, please leave me a comment before leaving... I LOVE comments, too!

Scrappingly Yours,
Tammy

CUTTLEBUG CHALLENGE Design Team!

2009-11-16T02:10:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows that I LOVE my cricut! But, did ya know that I also love my Cuttlebug too! Well, I get to combine those loves by participating on the wonderful Cuttlebug Challenge blog as a design team member! I am so excited and very humbled at the same time... those ladies are so creative! If you haven't seen the blog, you have to click HERE to check it out!

BLOG CANDY! Martha Stewart Punches!

2009-10-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Have you joined the craze surrounding the new Martha Stewart punches yet? Michaels has been exclusively carrying most of them, but several 'sets' made a short appearance in Walmarts all over America recently! They are flying off the shelves so fast, that nobody can keep them in stock. Why... you ask? Because they are soooo cool! Here is the spider web border AND (this is what makes them so cool!) a coordinating corner punch!

Isn't that just adorable! And so easy to do! Now last year, the 'Drippy Goo' punch was so popular it sold out in no time. I know, because I moved too slow on that one and looked everywhere to buy one, but never could find it. Oh... there were several being sold on Ebay for 5x what they originally cost!!! And people were buying them too!! But, I waited... and my patience won out, because not only did they release it again this year, but they improved it by making the sides fold up for storage!!! LOVE THAT!

Well, you are going to LOVE it too!! Because you can click HERE to go to my BFF Joy's blog (http://www.obsessedwithscrapbooking.com/) and enter to win one of these punches!! Tell her I sent ya and browse around while you are there, because her blog ROCKS with information! She truly is obsessed! LOL!

CUTTING ABOVE DESIGN TEAM!

2009-10-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

I've been selected to join the Design Team over at the Cutting Above blog! I'm so excited because this will be another opportunity for me to share my passion for crafting with the cricut!

Here's what the blog is all about:

Cutting above is your one stop shop for all things die cutting related. Our goals are to provide you with all the latest industry news. We'll cover the latest tips, tricks and techniques for scrapbooking, card making, home decor and even altered art projects. We want to become your #1 news source for all types of automated cutting tools such as the Cricut, Silhouette, Wishblade as well as other scrapbooking tools. Visit often to see the latest product reviews, tutorials, videos, cutting files and so much more.

And click HERE to go check it out!!!

Bday Croppin at the Creative Cottage

2009-08-03T05:46:00.000-07:00

Wow... I've been so busy this month! Where did July go? Between church mission trip and church camp... quick vacation down in Galveston and launching the GREATEST BLOG in the world... I've been a bit busy!! The month of July started out with the best birthday crop ever! Here are a few of the ones who attended...

... we had a blanket theme going on because we were hot and then we were cold... we are all great friends, but our body temperatures definitely do not match! LOL!

We divided up all the weekend meals so that everyone only had to cook one meal all weekend! Joy started us out with some delicious yummies on Thursday night! It was great!

School Projects can be fun!

2009-06-24T13:00:00.001-07:00

My youngest son just finished his sophmore year of High School. I used to love to help him with class projects, but he no longer needs my help.... but he does need my scrapbook supplies/tools from time to time! Even all his friends know where to go when working on a project that might require the cricut or stamp pads... yep, my scrappin studio!

So, Matt's best friend Derrick had to do a scrapbook page for his science class at the end of the school year. The teacher wanted a page from each student for her scrapbook and they had to answer certain questions on the page. Smart teacher!

I taught him how to mat the picture and ink around the edges.

Then he got to use my cricut (his favorite part!) and make a nametag with PLANTIN SCHOOLBOOK using the endcaps and he used LOCKER TALK to cut a black microscope to represent the science class.

Didn't he do a great job!? And he did it... I only gave him the tools to do it with. What a cutie!

ATO Charity Crop SUCCESS!

2009-06-19T06:39:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun!

Great goodie bags and fun activities! The Scrapbook Kit Silent Auction was great... a big thanks goes out to Emily at The Scrappin Bunny in McKinney, Texas for donating the kits (U Rock Emily!).

DOOR PRIZES GALORE!

And lots of winners!

Several Demonstrators...

Jodie George with Debbie Gunion & Associates

They were embossing acrylic shapes with the cuttlebug!

Erin Schlosser with Schlosser Designs

Stephanie demonstrates the BIND-IT-ALL (thx Stephanie!)

Deb demos grungeboard...

Don't forget the food!

Alonti Cafe, Chick-fila and Dickey's BBQ all donated some wonderful food! We ate all day! Yum!

Detective BJ put up with all us crazy cropping gals all day! LOL!

Charity Crop for the Dallas Police ATO

2009-06-10T05:47:00.001-07:00

We are so excited!! I am sponsoring a charity crop this Saturday (June 13, 2009) that will benefit the ASSIST THE OFFICER (ATO) Foundation of the Dallas Police Department! Chairperson of the event, Deb is an officer's wife herself and she has worked her buns off getting donations for door prizes! So far... tons of scrapbook supplies, a beautiful Pandora bracelet (valued $250!), cricut cartridges, and our big prize.... a CRICUT EXPRESSION! Yep! Someone is going to go home with a brand new cricut... now THAT is exciting! And dinner has been donated by Dickey's Barbeque... yummy!

So... it's still not too late to attend... seats are available and you can register HERE. The cost is only $35 per person and police spouses attend for only $25 (just a small way to say THX to them for their sacrifices!). Lunch & Dinner are provided and you automatically get 10 door prize tickets! You can also earn or buy more tickets throughout the day to increase your chances of winning!

More details are on the website... so hop on over and check it out at www.cropallday.com!

The Pioneer Woman

2009-05-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

Okay... this is a little off the subject of scrapbooking... but I have to share! My favoriteist (is that a word?) blog to read doesn't even have anything to do with scrapbooking... it's the CONFESSIONS OF A PIONEER WOMAN. Have you ever read it? It is better than any best selling novel... because it goes on and on and on. I don't have alot of time to read books anymore... love to read, but just don't have the time. But I will hop over to this blog a couple of times a week and read her posts... they are hilarious and full of pictures. She is a great photographer and also has a wonderful cooking section where she shares recipes and stuff. Take a look at this POST... it is short and yet summarizes her sense of humor in just a few words and a couple of photos.

Enjoy!

New Scrapbook Store in the DFW metroplex!

2009-05-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

Wow! Just got word that there is a new LSS (local scrapbook store) opening here in the DFW area! North Richland Hills to be exact! The owner's name is Cherie and if her website and blog are any indication of what her store will look like... I can't wait! Cause it is cute, cute, cute! Jump on over to check it out!

National Scrapbook Day 2009

2009-05-05T06:49:00.001-07:00

All I can say is, "Wow!"

National Scrapbook Day Retreat 2009 was the best ever! We had a blast at the Hilton Garden Inn in Frisco, Texas! We were greeted with the welcome sign in the lobby of the hotel upon arrival. And the Ladybug Bellhops were eager to help you bring ALL your stuff into the crop room AND they even delivered several suitcases up to the sleeping rooms too!

I am already receiving emails from the ladies that went telling me that it was the best retreat so far! And people are signing up for our August AND October retreat already! I fully expect those retreats to sell out like this past weekend did. Our max capacity (and still leave lots of space for all our stuff!) is 36 seats, so if you are planning on attending one of the fall retreats, you should go to the WEBSITE and register right away. You can always put a deposit down and make payments if that works better for you.

Lizzy and I made these cute fans (from Cricut ACCENT ESSENTIALS) that welcomed everyone to the retreat and our nametags matched them.

And of course, the Ladybug Welcome banner (made with Cricut Celebrations & Mickey Font!)

We kept the Friday night dinner light because everyone arrives at different times, but the pizza and bread sticks were yummy!

The breakfast buffet the next morning was delicious! Cooked to order eggs or omelets... waffles... fresh fruit and much more!

We had the entire dining area reserved for our group, so all of our meals were up and away from our crop tables. That way everyone got a chance to stand up and stretch and you didn't have to eat where you crop!

Lunch was even included on Saturday this time because it was National Scrapbook Day. It turned out to be a good thing since it rained all weekend long and nobody wanted to venture out in messy weather!

James... the banquet director at the Hilton made us the best chicken salad for lunch and the chef, Andre's homemade potato chips were really yummy... especially served warm! If you are looking to schedule an event in the Frisco area... I highly recommend the Hilton Garden Inn! Tell them that Ladybug sent ya!

The theme for the weekend was "Garden Party" since we were staying at the Hilton Garden Inn. Everyone was challenged to 'create' a garden hat to wear on Saturday. Those who did it received an extra door prize ticket and we all voted on the best garden hat and she got TEN extra door prize tickets!

Lizzy and I even put ladybugs on our hats! We are, after all Mother & Daughter Ladybugs!

What a terrible picture of me! LOL! Okay... I cheated... I decorated a visor, not a hat! But I'm just a visor-kinda gal! And of course, the camera caught Lizzy with her mouth open! Hehee... she just LOVES to talk!

I love the miniature garden tools that Dona Lee put on her hat!

The Three Cricuteers!

Bonnie flew all the way from Tracy, California to join us! This was her second Ladybug retreat!

Deeann even transformed her new ball cap into a garden hat!

This was Beth's (above) & Michelle's (below) first time at a Ladybug & Co retreat! Michelle flew in from Maryland and we were so happy to meet them both and want them to come back! I wish I had taken pictures of Michelle's labels for the spines of strapbound scrapbooks! They are awesome! She prints them on cloth and sews them onto the spine... Michelle! Please send me pics and I will post them here for people to see and order from you! I am sending you some of mine as soon as I can!

And here was our Garden Hat Winner! Rita did a spectacular job making tissue paper flowers to adorn her garden hat! It was just great and isn't she the cutest?! This was her first Ladybug retreat too! Her good friend Dixie organized their little group to all meetup here in Frisco, they are all from different cities here in Texas.

We had fun with make-n-takes!

Connie, with Tickle Me Pink Designs had the cutest layout as a make-n-take! For some reason, my pictures did not all turn out, so I can't show it to you... but trust me! It was a cutie!

She taught everyone how to embellish chipboard using Tattered Angels paint sprays.

Next came Saturday night's dinner...

This was a special recipe of James'... chicken with a dill demi glace sauce! It was accompanied

It was all so yummy!

Don't forget the dessert!

We even offered a little National Scrapbook Day Happy Hour! Of course, the featured drink was our favorite "Tropical Ladybugs" (coconut rum & pineapple juice). Lizzy made the cutest little ladybug picks for the drinks from the cricut DOODLECHARMS cartridge! Oh!... the things you can make with your cricut!

One for Heather and one for a friend...

Okay... so some of us got a little silly after dinner! All of us have been looking forward to this retreat for quite some time... and as we were all getting ready for it this past week, the headlines around the world was "SWINE FLU"! Made ya take notice... it's a very serious threat. First death in the US takes place in Texas (uh oh)... then Wednesday night, the entire Fort Worth Independent School District closes all it's campuses for 10 days! Made more that a few of us a little nervous... especially the ladies who were flying into Texas from other states! So, I sent an email out to everyone attending on Thursday, to let them know what precautions I was taking for our safety throughout the weekend. I provided those little hand sanitizers and we even had surgical masks (proven to be ineffective however) for those who really felt the need to wear them. While we (36 ladies) were together all weekend long... our exposure to the general public was kept to a minimum (if you don't count the football team from New York who were also staying in the hotel! LOL!). And not to make light of a serious situation, as scrapbookers you just have to smile and take a picture:

Jennifer & Delana...

That's Beth hiding behind Delana with a mask over Delana's belly for the baby's protection! Lol!

Brandy and I were practicing 'Swine Flu' safety too!

We even talked about decorating the masks... Theresa's sense of humor really came out with her mask above.

We gave away 11 door prizes! Some were baskets filled with scrappin' goodies and we also gave away a Lyrical Letters Cricut cartridge and some Ladybug polo shirts.

Everyone earned door prize tickets and got to put their tickets in the door prize bowl of their choice! That way nobody won something they couldn't use or want! Connie, from Tickle Me Pink helped me draw the names of the winners.

Kim and Heather both got Ladybug shirts! They looked great on them too!

A good time was had by all! Sorry this post was so long, but I didn't even upload ALL the pictures I have! I will post the group picture once I get it. I appreciate everyone who came... I just love you all and hope to see you again next year (or sooner)!

Mod Podge - Photo Carousel

2009-04-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

My sscrubby (that means a 'supportive scrapbook hubby') was promoted to a new position at the hospital that he works at... and with that position came a nice, brand new, corner-with-windows office and new furniture too! So, I wanted to make something that he would like to have on the corner of his desk... a carousel of family photos from our daughter's wedding.

It spins around and the top will open so you can store stuff inside.

It was a piece of unfinished wood that I bought at Hobby Lobby.

It was actually a very simple project. I painted the wood all black and cut a scrolled heart from the WEDDING Cricut cartridge for the top and used my favorite Martha Stewart border punch for the bottom. I used a glossy mod podge to apply the paper accents and to seal the whole thing. Put the glass and pictures in and added the strand of rhinestones at the bottom of the paper border for a touch of bling.

National Scrapbook Day Retreat!

2009-04-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

I am getting sooo excited about this retreat! I will get to see many familiar faces (I love you gals!) and have several newbies who have signed up (can't wait to meet ya'll!)! And the best thing about it is our new location! The HILTON GARDEN INN in Frisco, Texas. As I walked into the lobby, I was greeted with the sign in the picture above.... it truly is a 'sign'!

I have booked all three of the large meeting rooms (which opens up into one huge 2100 sq' room) Frisco I, II & III for us to crop in allll weekend longggggg!

Here is how the tables will be set up for our cropping...

Everyone is welcome to bring their own cricuts, electricity will be set up for every table. The tables are 6' long and while the chairs are not computer desk chairs, they are very comfortable, very padded and brand new conference chairs. There will be a limited supply of Memory Mats, Ott lights and side tables available for check out... those will be on a 'first come, first serve' basis.

I really am excited about this retreat! It begins on Friday... includes all your meals and ends Sunday evening.

Breakfast is provided in the hotel courtyard at your convenience both Saturday morning and Sunday morning.

Yummy!

I will post the menus for the rest of the meals next week, once we have finalized them.

What about the sleeping rooms, you ask? OMG! This hotel has only been open for 3 months as of this post... when you come out of the elevator you are instantly greeted with that nice smell of new carpet... nice and clean. I have booked the rooms with two queen beds, featuring white duvets. Each room has a large work desk is featured with Herman Miller ergonomic desk chair, complimentary high-speed internet access, microwave and refrigerator, coffee, coffee makers, irons and ironing boards.

And you just won't believe the beds! They call them the "Garden Sleep System", but it reminds me of the 'Sleep Number' beds. You can adjust the beds to be really soft or extra firm... your choice. Notice the mattress cover... it is made of 100% New Zealand virgin wool (I'm thinking that there's alot of naked sheep in New Zealand! LOL!) My only worry is that everyone will sleep in too long and miss quality crop time! Hehehee!

There are mini fridges and microwaves in every room.

Flat screen TVs... (yes... I know Vanna has no fear of losing her job to me! Lol!)

Comfy chairs to relax in... (Hi Marianne!)

Did I say that I was excited about this retreat?! Hehehee

Oh... and not only is the parking FREE!... it is very close to the crop room and the Ladybug Bellhops will be on duty that weekend!

So, if you want more information on this retreat... go to www.cropallday.com... but hurry because there aren't many seats left!

Creative Critter Notebooks & Renumbering Handbooks

2009-03-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the CREATIVE CRITTERS BLOG! You will see the details on the notebooks that are provided to the Creative Critter Club members at classes and maybe get some ideas on how to set one up for yourself!

Many cricuteers already know how to 'renumber' the handbooks to coorelate to the keypad overlay... but if you don't, you can see some examples of that too, on the BLOG.

Obsessed With Scrapbooking!

2009-03-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Wow! I love to scrapbook! You could even say that I was obsessed with it! LOL! Just like my new BFF Joy! She is the author of http://www.obsessedwithscrapbooking.blogspot.com/ ... it's a great blog... she does a wonderful job of keeping up with the sales and trends and whatnots. I have been a subscriber for quite awhile and she came to my cricut class last week! We had so much fun that we all went out to lunch together and then managed a quick stop at Hobby Lobby afterwards!

Then Joy joined us again to crop all day on Saturday... she is the first scrapper I have come across who can challenge me in CRICUT TRIVIAL PURSUIT!! lol! Now, she has written the nicest review of my cricut classes on her blog... go read it and then subscribe to her blog so that you get the email notices about what's on sale where and when! She's the best!

Scotch ATG 714

2009-03-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

My friend, Marianne, affectionately named the Scotch ATG 714... "Big Bertha". We all love Big Bertha within my circle of scrapping pals, including my mom. But for some reason, my mom has a hard time remembering which direction the tape is suppose to go! LOL! I think it is just her way to make me feel needed! Hehee

Well, she is going out of town for two weeks and was worried about changing the tape in her gun... so I simply took a sharpie and drew arrows and made notes. There actually are arrows there, but they are the same color as the gun... so hard to see.

It's the simple things in life that make it easier.

So... there you go. Even my mom can change the tape in her Big Bertha now! LOL!

File Folder Mini Book

2009-03-21T21:39:00.000-07:00

Would you believe that this adorable mini album was made from a $2 - 12x12 File Folder?

It is a little complicated to explain how to fold it, but once demonstrated... it is very very easy to do!

There are four tags that slide out of the pockets formed when folding the file folder together.

This is the back of the mini album... that is my daughter and youngest son... aren't they cute?

I could send directions on how to make this mini album to anyone who leaves a comment with an email address... seriously... its easy to do and makes a great gift for someone.

Cricut Card Crazy!!

2009-03-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

Hop on over to my Creative Critter blog and see all the cards that I have been creating with the cricut lately!! I've been busy!

I've been using WILD CARD, HOME DECOR, INDIE ART and more... details for each card and cut size are located on the Creative Critter blog

Let me know what you think! Is it too green? LOL!

Shadow Box Frame

2009-03-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

I just love these shadow box frames from Hobby Lobby!

This one was so simple... my base was a 12x12 photo (Costco for $2.99) of my youngest son with a strip of paper from K&Co on the right side. The chipboard words "Sweet" and "Cherish" are also from K&Co, but the corner swirl is a diecut from Home Accents cricut cartridge (cut at 3"). I also cut the white base frame from Home Accents and layered his name from the BASE CAMP cartridge.

Here's how it looks on my wall... right above another shadow box of us seeing the play "Camelot".

I love how the black and white photo just jumps out at you!

March Scrapbook Retreat

2009-03-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I was very disappointed that we didn't have enough croppers signed up to attend the Rockin'R this past weekend. So, we went to plan B (having a plan B is always good... doncha think?) and attended the ScrapShack in Frisco, Texas. It turned out great!! Eight friends attended... two from Houston, two from Austin, one from Ft Worth and the rest from Frisco. We rearranged the tables a bit to give everyone more space and EVERYONE got a cricut next to their seat on a separate folding table!

Everyone's goodie bags turned out so cute! I had so much fun making them... they included a flower chipboard album, rub-ons, unfinished birdhouse, flower coaster, luggage tag, nametag (made with the Plantin Schoolbook cricut cartridge!) and of course chocolate candy!

Cropping late into the night... Sonia & Shirley (the two on the right) were our all-nighters, cropping until 4:15am one night! LOL!

Nelda was a 'cricut-virgin' when she arrived. But, having the cricut right there at her table at her disposal for the whole weekend gave her the chance to really explore it! Before the weekend was over she was cricuting her little heart out and even ventured into paper piecing Disney pieces and made the cutest little Tiggers bouncing around on her pages! Way to go Nelda!

Along with scrapbooking, I love to cook and I got to do both this past weekend. There was tons of food all weekend long, starting with dinner at my favorite mexican restaurant, Mattitos, on Friday night. The 'Waffle Man' made a surprise visit on Saturday morning to fix yummy fresh fruit waffles for everyone and grilled the best tasting moist chicken for our Chicken & Ravioli dinner on Saturday night.

Cutest pajamas goes to Marianne!!! Her doggy pjs remind her of her adorable little pug, Max... awww.

We gave away lots of doorprizes... everyone won something... but the big doorprize of the weekend was the new and much-talked-about Cricut WILD CARD cartridge from Provocraft! Deeann was our big winner! She was so excited because she loves to do projects and cards and trust me this cartridge will keep her plenty busy!! I have started playing with the Wild Card cartridge and have decided to make one of every card on the cartridge... go to my CREATIVE CRITTERS blog to see them!

Sonia is a cricuteer... but this weekend she got to play with the bigger Cricut Expression the whole time... AND she even gave the Jukebox a spin too! Comes in handy when you have several cuts from different cartridges on the same page! No turning the machine off and on... paper going in and out... you just push a button and away you go!

Brandy is not only a Ladybug customer & friend... she's also our family photographer! She took my oldest son's graduation pictures, my daughter's birthday pics and prom pics, our annual family photos and most importantly and most recently... she was the photographer at my daughter's wedding! Below is a picture she took of her own beautiful daughter... SEE! She's a great photographer! And her daughter is just adorable! Think about it too... as a scrapbooker, you want your photographer to think like a scrapbooker too... and she does because she is! LOL!

I believe a good time was had by all (especially me!) and everyone is planning on registering for the next Ladybug Crop All Day Retreat because it is on National Scrapbook Day... May 1-3, 2009! You can get more details at http://www.cropallday.com/ and there's still plenty of room... so come join us! You will love what I have planned for this event!

Butterfly Task

2009-02-27T21:40:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I worked on the Butterfly project together. She is a natural born artist and she painted me the most beautiful butterflies when she was still in high school. So, when I read the task... I just had to have her recreate them for it! What do you think?

The pictures just do not do the colors justice... they are so vivid and bright. My daughter designed and drew them and I mounted them onto foam board and cut them out... team effort.

Hope you like them!

Cricut Club

2009-02-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

We had our first Creative Critters Cricut Club last night! It was great! The Plantin Schoolbook cartridge was the feature cartridge for that class and we worked on 'Fit To Page', 'Quantity' and 'Set Paper Size' features on the Expression Cricut. For more details and the instructions for one of the projects (the Easter bag below) made go to the Creative Critter BLOG.

We will be meeting again in just two weeks! Next time we will feature the STORYBOOK cartridge! I LOVE that one!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

2009-02-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

I just love Valentine's Day!! It is such a great excuse to make cards and do such cutesy little things for the ones you love!! I love to make special lunches for my kids & hubby and it is probably the only day of the year that they would ever carry a cute little lunch sack that I made with filigree hearts and such!! LOL! Hubby and I avoid the crowds at all the local restaurants and always plan a nice romantic dinner for 12 (family & friends of course! LOL!). This year is no different... I am in heaven today planning the menu and decorations for our tables for tomorrow night! I can't show you what I'm doing cause that would ruin the surprise for those coming... but I can show you what we did last year! And whatever YOU are doing... make it special and have fun!!!

Each placesetting included a little stuffed animal gift and a special card that I had made. For some reason, I was a bad scrapbooker and didn't get pics of the cards. I won't forget them this year though!

Happy Valentine's to everyone!

Die Cut Machine Comparisons

2009-02-09T08:20:00.000-08:00

To Cricut or not to Cricut! That is the question!! With all the different die cutting machines out there... HOW do you know which one is the right one for you! I am always being asked this question. So, I decided to do a little online research and put it all together in one place for you. Oh... and I tried to be as unbiased as I could!

First and foremost, I must disclose that I am definitely a 'Cricuteer'. I have had this debate more than once with many people (are you reading Denise? lol!) and after comparing the cricut to other machines out there, I just don't understand why anyone would want to buy anything else. If you are a fan of something else, PLEASE comment and tell us all why! Here is a list of what is readily available:

Original Provocraft Cricut (also referred to as the Baby Bug)

Provocraft Cricut Expression

Provocraft Cricut Create

QuicKutz Silhouette

QuicKutz Revolution Love

Making Memories Slice

Xyron Wishblade

Xyron Personal Cutting System

Pazzles

ORIGINAL PROVOCRAFT CRICUT

Overview:

This VIDEO says it all...

Features/Strengths:

People say they like this smaller cricut better because it is easier to carry to crops... but I drag my expression around with me everywhere and I really don't notice the additional 5 inches in size. The original Cricut is more affordable than it's big brother and was even being sold at several stores during the holidays for only $99, but will cost ya $149.99 at Oh My Crafts right now.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

Size... the largest cut is only 12"x5.5"! That's okay for lettering, but really limits your possibilities.

Recommendations:

Remember that this is my personal opinion (MPO)... but I would bypass this machine and go straight to the Cricut Expression. You will not regret the additional cost... I promise! It will pay for itself in no time!

PROVOCRAFT CRICUT EXPRESSION

Overview:

Another VIDEO with all the details...
I actually watched this video all the way thru and enjoyed the 'refresher' on the features even though I have owned and used the Cricut Expression for almost a year now. It's about a 5min video. The sticky mats come in packages of 2 and usually retail for $10-12 for the 12"x12" and $12-14 for the 12"x24". The mats are on sale for only $5.99 and $7.49 at CUSTOMCROP right now! It uses the same replacement blades that the original cricut does and retail for $7.99 at Walmart.

Features/Strengths:

Again, this is MPO... but this is the way to go. Provocraft has done a great job releasing a wide variety of cartridges to use with the Cricut machines (they are interchangeable). But, if you are like a friend of mine and don't want to 'have' to buy cartridges, then you can purchase software (SURE CUTS ALOT) that will allow you to use the trutype fonts and clipart that are already on your computer! The options are endless and the size is wonderful. Largest cut size is 12"x24" with the use of the large mat. Provocraft has done a great job on releasing new cartridges and accessories and basically keeping the Cricut on top of the market. There are 7 new cartridges being released this spring and some of the cool accessories available include pens, deep cut blade, stamp set, vinyl rolls, sheets of magnet paper, the Cricut Jukebox and the way cool Cricut Design Software. All of these things can be found at http://www.cricut.com/.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

While I think that Provocraft made some major improvements with the design of this machine, I wish that they had kept the same handle design. It is difficult to pick the machine up with only one hand because it has a two handholds (one on both ends). Other than that, I personally think that the biggest mistake made by Provocraft is the lack of instruction. This is easily corrected though by visiting one of the many cricut messageboards, blogs and youtube videos. There are also cricut clubs and Swarms popping up everywhere. We are in the beginning stages of a CREATIVE CRITTERS CLUB right here in Frisco, Texas.

Recommendations:

Definitely buy this machine. I paid $199 for my second Cricut Expression at Walmart on black friday and it came with two cartridges! Shop around and keep an eye on EBAY.

PROVOCRAFT CRICUT CREATE

Overview:

This machine is the same size as the original Cricut, but has the creative features of the bigger Cricut Expression. That is about it.

Features/Strengths:

It's cute... ummm... thats about it.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

The price and size... why would anyone spend about the same that you would spend for the bigger Cricut Expression? Could someone explain this one to me please? This machine is only available at Michaels and online.

Recommendation:

Buy the Cricut Expression.

QUICKUTZ SILHOUETTE

Overview:

The size of a printer, the Silhouette sits next to your computer and connects through a USB outlet. The Silhouette uses downloaded designs along with the computer to digital transfer it to the machine and cut them out. Basically, you open a program, select the design or font you want, edit it on screen and the Silhouette cuts it out. This is not a stand alone machine, it must be hooked up to your computer in order to use it.

Features/Strengths:

The Silhouette also uses fonts already on your computer. You can use any font as long as it is a "true-type" font, meaning it will end in ".ttf" in your documents and downloads. You can also dowload many true type fonts for free on the internet. You can also cut .GSD files, .GST files, and DXF loaded images.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

Not portable unless you are using it with a laptop. As with all the machines the cutting mats and blades DO have to be replaced. But, Silhouette mats run about $25 for 2, and the blade runs close to $45. They say the blades should last about 6 months, using it often, and cutting mats should last for roughly 100 8.5 x 11 full cut sheets of paper. The system uses 8.5 x 11 paper or smaller, although anything smaller than a 4x6 is not recommended. While the software is not MAC compatible, the hardware is. SarahisCrafty has a tutorial for it on her blog HERE.

Recommendations: Quickutz is a reputable company. There seems to be only 7 portfolio/cds available, but there are quite a few downloadable images. Again, very limiting and not a stand alone unit. I still have to stand by the Cricut. You can do everything and more with the use of Cricut Design Software or SureCutsAlot software.

QUICKUTZ REVOLUTION LOVE

Overview:

This barely meets the definition of electronic (lol!) But, it does plug into the wall, therefore, I have included it in my comparison. This VIDEO explains all the new "LOVE Machine". LOL! Costs $159.99 and uses all the QuicKutz, Sizzix and Cuttlebug dies, but will have new Revolution dies available that are larger in size.

MAKING MEMORIES SLICE

Overview:

Here is a getting started VIDEO for the Making Memories Slice. WHY SLICE? It's portable... fits in the palm of your hand... measures 5'' square and weighs less than 2 pounds. Runs independently on rechargeable battery or can be plugged in. Easy to use, very user friendly. A 2'' graphics window allows you to preview shapes before cutting. Cuts designs in 8 sizes ranging from 1/2'' to 4''.

Features/Strengths:

Great for crops and is cordless. Uses a glass cutting mat that you brush a repositionable adhesive on and re-use over and over again.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

While this is a really neat gadget and I could so totally see myself using it... you are still spending 'about' the same as you would for other, bigger, can-do-more type machines. The Slice Starter kit is selling for $149.99 on CustomCrops.com and the Design cards cost $36-38 each. And the biggest cut you are going to get from the Slice is only 4"x4"!

Recommendation:

As a scrapbooker, I would never buy the Slice instead of the Cricut Expression... period. However, as a cardmaker... it would be perfect because most cardmakers don't make many cuts bigger than 4". Unless, of course, you have the Wild Card cartridge for the Cricut and you are cutting the cards themselves AND the envelopes! I would buy this machine to take to crops, but only if I had the Cricut waiting for me at home! LOL!

XYRON WISHBLADE

Overview:

The Xyron Wishblade Media Cutter (Wishblade) connects to your computer and uses fonts, shapes and images already loaded on your computer. By using the Wishblade software you can create your own designs to be cut or swap design files with other Wishblade users through a number of Yahoo! Groups. Swapping designs allows you to increase your design library quickly as you learn how to use the software program. The Wishblade software is currently only compatible with Windows-based PC's, however a Mac version of the software is in the works and should be available mid-June 2007.

Features/Strengths:

The software allows you to "weld" the letters together so the letters are literally connected to each other if you choose (rather than individually cut letters). Basic clipart shapes that can be downloaded from the Internet can also be converted into a design-file and cut out with the Wishblade. With the vast amount of free fonts and clipart designs, the possibilities are endless. Another great feature of the Wishblade is the ability to print an image from your computer on your normal printer, and then send that image through the Wishblade machine so it will cut out the image you just printed, you can then mat the printed images. You can even replace the cutting blade with a ballpoint ink pen and let the machine draw for you instead of cut.

Limitations/Weaknesses:

The Wishblade can only cut fonts and images as small as ½-inch and up to 8-inches tall, but can accept banner paper to cut projects up to 3-feet long. One major drawback of the Wishblade is its lack of portability. If you frequently attend crops and want to take along your die-cutting machine, you'll also need to bring along your computer or laptop because the Wishblade does not work without a computer connection. The WISHBLADE sells online right now for a whopping $449.00! Now... in the long run it will pay for itself because there are no cartridges/cds to additionally purchase. Some see that as a PRO for Wishblade, but I see it as a CON because I WANT to use professionally designed images in my projects and I don't mind paying for them. Oh, and two 9"x12" cutting mats are gonna cost ya $22.00!

Recommendations:

Seems like this would be a perfect choice for MAC users. Otherwise, I just couldn't recommend the Wishblade. There were also many many bad reviews online about installation and customer service. Please correct me if I am wrong... but I could not locate the Wishblade or the accessories/supplies at any of my local stores. Everything would always have to be purchased online. For me personally, that would not work. It never fails that I have to run to the local Hobby Lobby for a new blade or mat or something to finish a project with a deadline! If you are like me... keep that in mind.

XYRON PERSONAL CUTTING SYSTEM

Overview:
The Xyron Personal cutting system is a computerized die cutting machine that retails for an average of $100. The system uses font books and shape books that retail for $29.99 and up. HERE you can to see the different books and accessories available. This system allows you to quickly and easily cut out letters and shapes. It is simple to use and seems to be more portable for traveling to crops & retreats.

Features/ Strengths:
It uses simple controls that allow you to choose a shape from your design book and then to choose the size of the shape that you want to cut. There are a huge number of design books available for the Xyron Personal Cutting system. The machine comes with one alphabet font book and one book of basic shapes. These two books provide over 500 cutting options and there are additional cutting books available.

Limitaitons/Weaknesses:

The Xyron personal cutting system LIMITS your cut sizes to a maximum of 4” x 4” in size. Every shape in the design book can be cut in only one of three different sizes (small, medium or large).

Limitations/Weaknesses:
Although the Xyron Personal cutting system offers literally thousands of possibilities for shapes and sizes, it requires the purchase of font books and design books to expand its capabilities. Design books for the system cost around $30. That can add up if you want to collect a lot of shape books. The Personal cutting system uses a special blade to cut the shapes out of your paper. These blades need to be replaced over time especially if you are cutting through thick or fibrous papers. The blades cost $14.99 EACH! It also uses a special cutting mat to hold the paper in place during the cutting process. This mat will also need to be replaced over time and they retail for $9.99 for a package of 5, but remember that they are only 4"x4".

Recommendation:
The Xyron Personal cutting system is probably the most USER FRIENDLY electronic diecutting machine on the market. It is more affordable system and much more portable. There are limitations in sizes and shapes, but initial investment is not bad. Here is an old YouTube VIDEO from HSN that shows you exactly how to use the machine. However, I would recommend the Making Memories SLICE over the Xyron Personal Cutting System... less bulky and probably cost effective over the long haul because of the mats & blades.

PAZZLES CREATIVE CUTTER

Overview:

HSN usually sells the Pazzles machine for $500, but it is now on sale for only $399.97! This is not a stand alone machine, it requires a computer or laptop to operate.

Features/Strengths:

The Pazzles will cut up to 12"x12" and requires cutting mats that sell online for $15.99 per mat. Pazzles also sells a Creative Cutter Pro for only $3,045.00.... seriously for the serious! Lol!

Limitation/Weaknesses:

This is the most expensive machine that is common to crafters. I have several friends who bought the Pazzles and then turned around and bought a Cricut Expression instead. They have either sold their Pazzles online or it is being used as an expensive paperweight. I am told that it is not as user friendly as other machines and just not worth the hassle. If you are a PAZZLES fan... please leave a comment and tell us all why you like it so much.

Recommendations:

Please research very carefully before spending this much money on something when there are other options for much less.

Well, that concludes my very long comparison of die cutting machines. Believe it or not, there are others out there that I haven't even mentioned. I chose to compare only the most popular ones. Leave a comment and tell me what you are using... do you like it? I found the research very interesting and hope that it might help someone else who is looking to buy a die cutting system.

Happy cutting!

Cutest Cricut Cards Ever!!

2009-01-28T18:20:00.000-08:00

Well... Texas got hit by an ice storm and it was beautiful! School was out for 2 days and we loved it! I actually took time to play with my Cricut Design Studio this past week and have had a blast! I learned how to download cut files from the internet and found quite a few blogs with wonderful information & files. But I found some just adorable ones over at Okie Ladybugs . Look at the cutest cards that I have ever made and I did it with cut files from Okie!

I stamped the top of the slider card with a cute "Life is so sweet" stamp...

Okie Ladybug calls the card below a "Flap Fold" card... you can get the cut file for it on her blog HERE. She also has a place to make donations if you like her stuff enough to download it.

She also included the cut file for the envelopes too! I added my own touch to it by cutting an 'S' out of the front so that the patterned paper would show thru!! Cute, huh?! The 'S' actually looks like it is glued on, but it's not!

Well... I'm off to find more CDS cut files!!! I've found and whole nother world out there!! LOL!

My First Award!

2009-01-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hehehee! Don't know if this was just revenge (the wicked laugh gave it away! LOL!) or if my blog is really worthy... but I'll take the award anyway! From my friend, Angie over at Craft Crazy! Thanks Angie!

The rules are:

1) Say one nice thing to the man in your life: My husband is the reason I scrapbook! He makes me want to document everything about our lives, because I am so blessed to have the life I have and to have him as my husband.

2) List 6 ways you measure success in your life: Family/Friends/Family/Church/Family/Work

The Lime Light Design Team

2009-01-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

Guess What!! I am now a member of The Lime Light Design Team! I'm so excited! What a great thing to be a part of... if you haven't seen their blog then you've got to go check it out HERE!

"We are a design team with a unique purpose. We use our crafting skills to help and bring light to others. We invite you to visit the site often to find out whom we are crafting for and what we are planning in the months to come. We have exciting plans that include making cards and bookmarks for our men and women in uniform, making journals for families whose children are in the hospital, making cards for baskets that help raise money for playground equipment....and that's just the beginning. Come back soon for pictures and blog entries giving you even deeper insight in to how the team is bringing light to those in need."

TAGGED! Lol!

2009-01-26T09:44:00.001-08:00

Well, I feel like a school girl who was just picked by her playmates to play dodgeball on their team!! Hehehhe! A fellow scrapper & team member of The Limelight, Lori, has tagged me. Click on her name to jump to her blog... it's great, full of cute ideas! I am suppose to share SEVEN facts about myself and then tag SEVEN other fellow bloggers...

1) I started scrapbooking before scrapbooking was cool... back in 1989. I would put photos in those horrible magnetic photo albums and used index cards to journal on next to each photo! My embellishmenst consisted of little thought bubbles cut out of the index cards placed with funny comments above the photos!

2) I am blessed with the most wonderful Scrubby (Scrapbooker's Hubby) who I have been married to for 23yrs!

3) I am also blessed with three wonderful children who I am extremely proud of... my oldest son who is an Army Ranger stationed in North Carolina... my middle daughter who just got married and is now an Army Wife about to move to Alaska... and my youngest son who dedicates all his time to his high school theater department and our church's youth group.

4) We developed a combined household when we moved my mother in with us after losing my dad 2yrs ago and I am so fortunate to have such a personal relationship with my mom. She is my BSB... Best Scrapbooking Buddy!

5) We have two... yes, two... scrapbook rooms in our home. My mom has the downstairs Scrapbook Room and I claimed the upstairs gameroom as my Scrapbook Studio/Office.

6) Between my mom and myself, we have 3 Cricut Expressions and our one (original) baby bug.

7) We also own 52 Cricut Cartridges... yes, we are not only blessed... we are downright spoiled! LOL!

Okay... now I get to go TAG 7 other fellow bloggers!

1) I will tag my good friend ANGIE, she is the knower of everything technological in scrapbooking and the leader of a local meetup group. And makes the best Cupcake Pops!! Go to Bakerella and you will even see Angie listed in the Texas group!

2) MurphyMoments is a member of that meetup group that I am looking forward to getting to know!

3) KarenB over at Memories Unleashed... she has some totally adorable cards and layouts! Great inspiration there!

4) ObsessedWithScrapbooking... she is totally on top of things! She knows whats on sale and whats new and is great about letting everyone else know!

5) Linda over at Just A Scrappin.... another blog that keeps everyone up to date on what's new!! Linda is full of creative information!!

6) A fellow ladybug!! Okie-Ladybug has some of the best CDS cut files!! I just discovered her blog and am soooo grateful for her talent!! Definitely check her out, especially if you are thinking about purchasing the Cricut Design Software!

7) The Pink Stamper... another new one (to me anyway... lol) with tons of tutorials! She really rocks!

I am just awed by the talent of these ladies! Have a wonderfully creative day!!

Tammy

New Cricut Cartridges!!

2009-01-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

Okay... everyone (Linda at http://just-a-scrappin.blogspot.com/) (Gracie at http://www.everythingcricut.blogspot.com/) is buzzing about the new cricut cartridges being released by Provo Craft!

Ashlyn's Alphabet reminds me alot of Storybook which is one of my all time favorites... I like the fonts alot! This will definitely be my very next purchase in the cricut line!

A Child's Year looks so cute!! And easy cuts too! No paper piecing required! I love the shadow effects of this cartridge... something totally new for Cricut.

There are three new Solutions Cartridges which means that each one will have about 50 images with no creative features other than shadow and blackout. I am excited to see the Kitchen & Bath Decor... I'm hoping that there will be more than just decor, I need stuff to finish my Family Cookbook with!!

Getting away from the Disney line that we are use to seeing... Hannah Montana and Spongebob. I am not a Hanna Montanna fan, but I like the looks of those fonts!

As for Spongebob... I don't watch this one either and am not that familiar with it. I really like the hamburger pictured here though and hope that means there is more food items... doesn't Spongebob eat Pizza too? LOL! That would catch my interest!

Leave me a comment! Tell me what you think... which one do you like the most? Which one do you want to see in the Ladybug Tool Center for retreats?

Cutie Pie Invitations

2009-01-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

Okay... I was tickled pink when a friend from church asked me to make a 'few' invitations for a Pie Social that we are having this coming Saturday. It's National Pie day. I have a cute little pie stamp and had made this card a while back with it...

But I wanted to do a cute pie diecut if possible. So, I went to my Cricut Design Studio software and did a search for pie... sure enough... hidden behind the female pilgrim in the Paper Dolls cricut cartridge was a cute little pie:

So I used red gingham paper that I got 6 for $.96 at JoAnns this week and also cut red scalloped circles with the Mini Monograms cricut cartridge to assemble the front of my invite. The details were printed inside on my computer. Oh and did I tell that only a 'few' invitations meant one hundred...lol! They filled up my dining room table because I put clear stickles for the heat lines coming up out of the pie... cute!! I really enjoyed making these invitations and the fact that they were for my church family made it even better.

So, I pulled out my little red riding hood basket and lined it with matching red gingham napkins and lined all the invites up in it. That way is was easy to pass them out after church this past Sunday. The pie social is this Saturday at 4pm... anyone wanna come? LOL!

Oh! And I am looking for some good pie recipes... something other than apple.

Back in the land of Scrapbooking!

2009-01-05T21:20:00.000-08:00

Woohoo! I am now back in the scrapbooking saddle again! Hehehee! My daughter, Samantha's wedding was beautiful and kept us busy beyond busy for three months! Now its time to update retreat schedules, finish contracts, catch up with my blogs and organize/scrapbook the over 3000 pictures from the past two weeks! LOL!

My mom, Liz and I snuck away this past weekend to do a little cropping with some friends!

Marianne

Liz & Cheri

Melissa

Deeann, Mary, Jolene and Me!
We took a lunch break at Mattitos in Frisco Square... yum!

I finished a whopping 6 pages this past weekend!! LOL! Here are two of them:

Of course I used the cricut for most of the layout above. The "Mmmmm..." and the jumbled "Delicious" and arrows are all from the 'Graphically Speaking' cartridge. I used the 'Stamped' and 'Doodletype' cartridges for the title.

I used my new most favorite punch... its from Martha Stewart... on the red trim. Love it love it love it!

October Scrapbook Retreat

2008-10-28T20:56:00.001-07:00

Wow! We had so much fun this past weekend! What a great group of ladies! The title for the retreat was "Spooky Christmas" because it is so spooky how close Christmas really is! So, I made these nametags for everyone from the Cricut Paperdolls cartridge...

This retreat sold out, so the crop room was full. Sara took this picture after everyone had FINALLY gone to bed... at 5am on Saturday morning! Yep... they were having fun! Several ladies stayed up until 5:30am the next morning too! LOL!

Dinner on Saturday night consisted of sandwich trays from Subway, chips and a salad. Yum!

And lots of snacks on the Ladybug Snack Bar!

Sara helped me teach a Flip Book class. She did a great job and everyone liked the class...

Cindy did such a great job on her Flip Book! She used it right away for a Thanksgiving layout that she was working on. I loved the colors she used!

Sara used her Flip Book for this Sweet 16 layout:

Beth made the cutest layout of her son jumping in a Johnny Jumper! She used the Pooh Cricut cartridge to make these Tiggers:

Susan is one of my regulars! She and I became friends back when Lisa owned the business and I was just a Crop All Day customer.

Carolyn & Erin were in 'the zone'! They cranked out some awesome Disney pages this past weekend! I was impressed! Both had pre-planned their pages and arrived with cricuts in hand!

I was especially proud of one of my new customers, Ann... she used the cricut Storybook cartridge to make this layout of her daughter wearing a dress that her aunt had worn about 65 years ago!! It's just adorable:

Well, Anne, a good e-pal friend of mine, sent me a great link for some really cool paper trees. I think I am going to try to make one this week... they will be perfect for the wedding in December. Thanks Anne! I'll show you my progress here on my blog!

See ya!

Cricut Wedding Cartridge

2008-10-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

My daughter is getting married and these are the Save-the-Dates that she designed using the cricut cartridges Opposites Attract, Base Camp and Home Accents. We put magnets on the back so that our family & friends can put them on the frig as reminders.

We are decorating glass candle holders with the wedding bells cut from the Wedding Solutions cartridge. The shadow is black paper, the base is in the wedding color (aqua blue) and the bells are white. We stickled white glitter to the bands on the bells. This was a 4" cut.

We plan to make one of these for each table at the reception. Haven't decided if we are going to use white candles or the black ones like in the picture. What do you think?

Haunted Library

2008-10-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday was yet another busy day! My youngest son needed costumes for the Haunted Library that he had volunteered for in our Little Elm Library. So we dug out all the costume boxes from storage and organized them quickly and I took him to the library in time for makeup. He was the dead pirate...

Oooo... spooky! I'm so proud of him. He loves our local library and loves to do community service work there. He's such a good teen!

Hubby and I got the opportunity to have a date night on Saturday night. We attended a charity called "Rock the Red Door" in downtown Dallas. Our two good friends, Jon & Angela went with us and we had a blast! Can't wait to crop those pictures!

Good friends... good times... we had so much fun!

Two Scrapbook Classes in TWO days!!

2008-10-17T20:29:00.000-07:00

Wow! I almost never get the luxury of taking a scrapbook class... but not only did I get to take one... I took TWO... in TWO days! LOL! I had so much fun!

Both classes were at the Scrappin Bunny in McKinney (I just love Emily & Jodi!) Yesterday was with Mr. Pickle himself, Lance Anderson. We made a really fun round book with sliders.

It was cute and Lance was very funny. He told us the story about how they came to name the business Rusty Pickle... cute story. His jokes were a little elementary, but I think he was faking it! LOL!

But today's class was taught by Staci Etheridge. She is a contributing editor for Making Memories magazine and on the design team for KI Memories. She taught us how to make this adorable little HAPPY book from Cosmo Cricket.

It was really great to meet Staci today... she's really cute and bubbly and I like her style alot. The pictures she put in her HAPPY book were so unique! I like the picture of the inside of her new front load washer... it made her happy! I can totally relate to that! And of course the picture of her camera... I think she named it "David"?. I could be wrong... help me out Staci! My memory isn't what it use to be... lol! I haven't named my camera yet. Haven't had a camera long enough to name it! Long story... but let's just say that I am Camera Challenged!

Well... gotta go to bed now. Today was a really nice day. Let me leave you with an email that I got from my baby sister who lives in Tampa... it brought tears to my eyes and gave me a warm fuzzy feeling. Tell me what you think... leave a comment... i know who your lurkers are!! LOL!

This was in response to my earlier blog today:

Tammy,
Wow!! It looked like you girls had so much fun. I know that was exciting looking at all those beautiful dresses. And I liked your blog. I never knew you were a Proverbs 31 lady..read it ..starting with verse 10... A wife of noble character who can find? She is far worth more than rubies..(your birthstone ruby) Her husband is full of confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good not harm all the days of her life. She selects wool (aka scrapbook material) and flax (chicken and dumplings) and works with eager hands. She is like a merchant ships ( The USS Tammy Skinner) bringing her food from afar ( from Walmart) She gets up while it is still dark ( but her mind is not up yet) she provided food for her family ( makes Matt his lunch before school) and portions her servant girls.. ( The numerous people she has had living in her home over the years) She considers a field and buys it (started a business) out of her earnings. She plants a vineyard...( scrapbooks memories of her family to be passed down generation to generation..so they will never forget the love) She sets about her work vigoursly..(up at 6am..being PROUDUCTIVE)..her arms are strong for tasks..(LOL..from moving alot..you get strong)...skip down to verse 23 Her husband is respected at the city gate where he takes his seat amoung the elders of the land...(Baylor ..he has created a good name for himself) she makes linen from garments and sells them. and supplies the merchants with sashes; She is clothed with strength and dignity..she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. (over the years all the artwork you have done..and the pride in that ..and all the heartache you still laugh..cause you know where your strength comes from..nothing will get you down..not for long..that is for sure). She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness...(very seldom does she just sit down and watch her favorite shows)....Her children arise and and call her blessed..her husband also and he praises her..(the kids lean on you..Patch, Samantha, and Matt..and Glenn really respects you). Many women do noble things but you surpass them all. Charm is decepetive and beauty is fleeting but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned. and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. I love you Tammy your little sister Tina

Wasn't that sweet! Thanks Tina! I'm gonna put that in my scrapbook! I love you too!

Me & my little sister

Good night all.

Catch Up on Life in Ladybug Land

2008-10-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

I love to blog...
I love to read other people's blogs...
I love to scrapbook...
I love my cricut...
I love to rubberstamp...
I love to sew...
I love to shop (mostly for scrapbook stuff)...
I love to crop with my scrapping pals...
I love reading the message boards on meetup...
I love water aerobics...
I love to ride my bike...
I love to cook...
Most of all, I love to spend time with my family!

What I don't love... is that I don't have time to do everything I love! Makes me think of that old movie Multiplicity (it's a family favorite)... any one know the one I'm talking about? Michael Keaton plays a contractor who is trying to juggle work, family and fun and decides he needs to clone himself to get it all done. It's hilarious, if you haven't seen it, you should rent it and be prepared to giggle. My family's favorite line... "Steve (which isn't even his name!), she touched my pep pea!"... favorite scene is where the 3rd clone (who is a copy of a copy and not quite right in the head... get it?) is running around with a towel tied around his neck claiming to be Batman.

Anyway... sometimes I think cloning would be the answer to my prayers. Then I wake up and realize that God doesn't give you too much to handle, you just have to be creative sometimes about getting it all done... or learn to say 'no' to some people! Not something I'm good at.

Well, this past week I have been juggling work... family... friends... and personal time. I've done well on just about all of them except the personal time... hence the gap in posts on my blog. The good news though is that I have tons of pictures to post and scrapbook!

Let me start with a few pictures from last Friday. I took my daughter, Samantha and her Maid of Honor, Heather, and one of her bridesmaids, Sara, out for a day of wedding shopping. It was a fun day and we accomplished alot. Here they are:

We started with pedicures... gotta have pretty toes to try on shoes!

We started at LuLu's in downtown Dallas... tons of dresses!

We really like this Maggie Sottero dress... but its not the one!

On to the next store... Whatchmacallits in Dallas!

These dresses were put in the "NO" pile!

All that shopping and trying on dresses made the girls hungry...

...and thirsty! LOL!

Last stop for the day was David's Bridal in Frisco.

Isn't she cute in her undies! LOL! We ended up getting everything we needed at David's Bridal... undies, dress, bridesmaids dresses and flower girl dresses! Woo Hoo! One stop shopping!

I can't show the dress that she did get (because that would be BAD LUCK!), but I can show you another dress we liked... but the train was not long enough.

We really had alot of fun together and I can't wait to scrapbook those pictures!

Aunt Betty's Funeral

2008-10-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Wow... what a weekend! The funeral for my Aunt Betty was so beautiful... there were over 200 family and friends there. My cousin, Kathy and I organized tons of pictures in photo frames and I cropped 3 storyboards of her life. My favorite one was a board of pictures of Aunt Betty with all her grandchildren... they called her MEMAW.

I also loved handling the pictures of Aunt Betty when she was a baby and growing up... and her wedding photos! Everyone said she looked like a princess and she did... those photos were so precious and brought back many memories for her family and friends at the services.

This last storyboard was a combination of pictures that family & friends had donated. I put this board together around 2am the morning of the funeral, so it's not necessarily my best work, but just getting it done was the important thing. Kathy and I both finally climbed into bed around 3am and got up at 7am to go set up at the funeral home. The pictures and the flowers looked wonderful.

Aunt Betty loved Betty Boop stuff, so we displayed some of her favorite pieces. I put together a little 8x8 scrapbook of the Hat Party that was given for Aunt Betty when she lost her hair from the chemo... and that wedding dress of hers... wow!

It was a beautiful service and special time with family.

Good News.... Bad News...

2008-10-01T22:29:00.000-07:00

Bad news first... my Aunt Betty passed away today. She has struggled with cancer and was doing well, but pneumonia attacked her and she just couldn't win the fight. Some of my very earliest childhood memories of my Tennessee family include her. She opened her home to us when we had just moved from California to Tennessee and allowed us to have Samantha's 3rd birthday party in her backyard pool. It was a great day. I leave tomorrow morning to drive to Tennesse (its an 8 hour drive) to help my cousins, Kathy & Sammy, get ready for the funeral. Services will be on Saturday. Please say prayers for my family and for safe travel for me. I'll be back on Sunday.

Good News... Glenn has applied for a new position. Actually he and 73 other people have applied! 26 of the applicants received a telephone interview 2 weeks ago... 5 were given a face-to-face interview last week... and they have now narrowed it down to TWO! And Glenn is one of those two! He got the call today to come back for a final interview... he will meet with several key players in the new facility and be given a tour AND will interview with the president of the hospital system. Normally, we would be very hush hush about something like this for fear of 'jinxing' it. But, we have decided to put it in God's hands and we are asking EVERYONE for prayers. Please pray for God's will and guidance. We are excited about this position for many reasons and would LOVE for Glenn to get it, but we want it to be the right thing too!
{UPDATE: Glenn got the job!! Woohoo! Praise God!}

Bad News... Cris (my daughter's fiance) arrived in Anchorage, Alaska on Monday safely. He is inprocessing at Fort Richardson and found out yesterday that he will indeed be deploying to IRAQ with his detachment in February 2009. They had planned to marry in August 2009, but that is now going to be impossible because his deployment will probably be the standard 15 months. So...

Good News... Cris & Samantha will wed this December 21st! We will be planning a wedding for the Sunday before Christmas. That gives us less than 3 months to throw this thing together! The most important part happened today, Cris got his leave approved for the wedding. Thank you Mr. Army!

Let me end on another bit of good news... the October Spooky Christmas Retreat has officially SOLD OUT!! I am so excited! I have been working on the make-n-takes in my new studio all week! I had planned to send an email out with pictures this weekend, but will do that next week. I have updated the website to reflect the SOLD OUT status and to list the details for the December retreat. It's gonna be a Death-by-Chocolate Christmas retreat. Two, not one, but two chocolate fountains will be going. Everyone will go home with tons of already made gift tags to use on their christmas presents and I will have Christmas card stations set up to make it easy to finish your Christmas cards. Postage stamps will also be available so that all you have to do is slap a stamp on your card and drop it off in the mail first thing Monday morning!

Well, gotta run... I've gotta finish packing. Take care everyone... and don't forget to hug the ones you love today!

Tammy

In a Card-making mood...

2008-09-29T20:29:00.000-07:00

I got alot accomplished today... it was busy... but I got alot accomplished. I worked in my new studio all day and loved it! I would work a little on the computer then go and work a little at my table, load my cricut and go back to my computer. The hum of my big cricut is in the background even as I type this post. I got alot accomplished today and I feel good.

I am in the card-making mood now. Thinking about all the holiday cards I want to make for the upcoming retreats. I started making tons of scalloped cuts today for cards. I like this cute little 'Homemade Memories' stamp... what do you think?

I made this card for my mom... she's in Spain and I miss her.

Shhh... this one is for my neice Sara! Her birthday is one week from today!

Scrap Pink 2008!

2008-09-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Me... Marianne... Deeann...

We had a great time yesterday! I think that I had more fun socializing than scrapping yesterday! Can you believe it?! I have gotten to know several of the ladies that have become my 'regulars' for Ladybug retreats and they are more than just customers... they are friends. Several ladies that attended Scrap Pink were regulars and we had two groups of newbies who just fit right in!! You know who you are Deborah!! LOL!

Cheri...

Kristin... Vicki... Deborah...

Heather... Kim... Teresa...

Angela and Linda did a great job giving away door prizes and the pink goodies at everyone's tables were wonderful. I made everyone nametags with the pink ribbon for breast cancer on them... thanks to the great Sizzix ribbon diecut that my mom bought for me! Oh and the pink goodness that was at the refreshment table was yummy! Did you know that you could mix red food coloring with ranch dip and it turns it PINK! Looks like you are dipping your chips in pink frosting, but tastes just like ranch. Hehehee

I have many more pictures to post, but they are all on Angela's camera... so I am posting what I have now and will post more later. I got a picture of the big door prize for the evening.... it was this cool pink tool box for your embellishments. We also had a raffle for two other pink bags and a pink cutting mat. The rules were... you didn't have to be present to win... we had the drawing at 10pm and guess what! She had already left for the evening, but Mary Powers won BOTH!!! It was so funny because when she bought her raffle tickets, she said that she never won anything and then got called for one of the hourly door prizes... then to later win not one, but both the big prizes... it's gotta be that fella named Murphy intervening again! LOL! Of course, my new friend Deborah had other plans for those tote bags... hehehe...

But don't worry Mary! Angela had to wrestle her to the ground and save those bags for you! What fun we had!

Scrapbook Calendar Pages

2008-09-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

I got to meet some really nice scrappers tonight at a local scrapbooking meetup called SHOTS. Cheryl was our gracious hostess and everyone brought a dish (Kandie's cookies ROCK!) and I probably talked more than I cropped tonight. But it was great, I really enjoyed the social side for a change tonight. I was given homework for tonight though... so, this is for Kandie, Nikki, Nina & Claudia! LOL!

CALENDAR PAGES: Every year, I organize my family albums with Calendar Pages. It takes at least four albums for a year's worth of Skinner Family Photos, so I put three months in each one. I make the calendars ahead of time and journal on the days as the month goes by. The photos that correspond to that month go on the pages behind the calendar. I have never had the luxury of alot of crop time because of work... but this system keeps me organized so that while I am far from 'caught up', I know right where every photo goes. I label photo boxes to correspond with each album... ex: Family Album 2006, Volume One (holds Jan, Feb & Mar of 2006). That makes it easy for me to just grab that album and the photo box that goes with it and I can work on those pages. Here's some samples from the past couple of years, each year has a different theme for the calendar pages... but the photo pages between the calendars do not reflect the 'theme'.

The title page for my family album 2006 volume 1...

January info page is on the left and the calendar is on the right. The theme for 2006 was Seven Gypsies, they were a popular company that year and very trendy. The tags show birthdays for that month and current info and my favorite photo of that month.

Here's my November calendar pages...

I really liked how the December calendars turned out...

Here's my 2005 December Calendar page... I used Anna Griffin papers and ribbons as my theme for my 2005 calendar albums.

Last year's 2007 Family Album was made with all black & white papers & photos. I collaged favorite photos from that month onto a Making Memories large chipboard letter. So, here is January's with the photos on the large J (for january...lol!)...

and February's...

Well, I've got a busy day tomorrow with SCRAP PINK! So, I better go to bed now. Send me an email or leave a comment if you have any questions about my calendar pages. I will be doing a retreat the very first weekend of January (FOUR DAYS LONG! YAHOO!) and will be teaching classes on how to do these. More info will be posted on the website (www.cropallday.com) or you can sign up for the email announcements there too. Goodnight All!

Tammy

New Scrapbook Studio

2008-09-25T22:32:00.000-07:00

Well... I started moving into my new studio last Saturday. I am STILL not done! But it is looking really really good! My studio is originally designed to be the upstairs gameroom of our house. But, it has been a 'dorm' room for my daughter and our last two foreign exchange students (Katta from Germany & Julia from Taiwan). It was cute too... done in a pink & black Paris theme.

Well... we painted the room lime green. I like it! Here's my sewing center:

The white cubes are from Crop-in-Style.

The glasstop of my computer desk was a birthday present from Glenn and the kids last year. It has ladybugs in the design! They got it from IKEA... I love it.

My inspiration... a rug from Target:

My workspace... the tables are from IKEA too, the pink cutting mats are from JoAnns.

The cabinets are also from IKEA... they rock! Well, still more organizing to do! So more pictures later!

My Nephew Elijah arrived today!

2008-09-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

I just had to post one more message before going to bed...

My sister Tracy had her baby boy this afternoon in Spain!! Welcome to Julian Elijah! He weighed 9lbs13oz and was 21" long. Basically, she gave birth to a toddler! LOL! My youngest, Matt, weighed the exact same thing and was the same length! Big babies must run in our family. Mom got to co-coach with Jules and helped with the labor & birth... so cool! She is having a blast and is sooo excited!

I'm an aunt again! Luv it!

Halloween Vase

2008-09-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

I went to the Scrapbook Barn in Dallas on Friday night with Marianne and the SASSY gals. I was pretty pleased that I was able to finish two home decor projects that I wanted for my dining room. The vase above was an unfinished wine bottle box. I took the strap handle off and painted the inside and edges black. I then decoupaged with Mod Podge Daisy D's scrapbook papers on each side. Painted the lid and put it on the bottom as a base and... voila!... my vase is done!

The vase below was an unfinished wood container. It too had a lid that I decided to not use at all. I got it at Hobby Lobby for only $1.99! I wrapped polka dot paper by Paper Studio around the base and cut the skull and crossbones with the Indie Art cricut cartridge. I added Trick or Treat ribbon around the top and bottom and decoupaged the whole thing. I painted some wooden balls green and glued them to the bottom for feet. The roses are the final touch. This is gonna look great with my other Halloween decorations on the buffet in my dining room!

Scrapbook Studio - Moving in!

2008-09-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

The room is ready... ready for me to move into it! I've been busy painting and preparing it for some time now. So Friday morning I disconnected my computer (sad... i know) and started moving my desk and stuff upstairs to my new Scrapbook Studio... I'm calling it (you guessed it!)... Ladybug Land! LOL! My walls are a beautiful lime green... scrubby said, "wow, did you mean to pick that color?!"... LOL! I love it though because all my furniture is either black or white, so the green walls look great! I will post pictures tomorrow night, but right now I am going to go put ice on my sore ankle and go to bed! I'm exhausted! It is probably going to take me all week to completely move in and clean up the mess I will leave behind, but at the end of the week... voila!... I will be in scrapbook heaven! LOL! So, leave me a comment and tell me where YOU scrapbook? What color is it?

Mom Leaves for Spain

2008-09-18T04:15:00.000-07:00

Well... I put my mother on the plane yesterday for Spain. A 16 hour flight into another country... I can only pray that she doesn't end up in Africa instead! She has been so nervous about this flight, I had help her pack! Once she was packed though she got excited! She's going to spend 2 1/2 months with my sister who is about to deliver her third child. Mom has never been out of the country, hence the anxiety over the travel.

Marianne, Sammers and Sara all went with us to mom's favorite restaurant, MiMi's in Lewisville. Our favorite waiter wasn't there :-( and our service was crappy... but we still had a good time being together.

Marianne and I got mom to the airport in time... checked her in... gave her instructions like she was 5yo the whole way and regretted not sewing labels with her name and my contact info into her clothing! I did type up a page with her info... my info and my sisters info on it and attached it to copies of her itinerary and put one in each suitcase! Hey! I'm not paranoid! Tracy has problems with them losing her luggage ALL the time!

We said goodbye at security and watched her go through the process. We lucked out though and got to meet the pilot (we was behind her in security) that was going to fly her to Philadelphia... he was sweet and even posed for a picture with mom. LOL! He leaned over and asked us if she was going to be trouble while she was cutting up with the security people about the metal knees she has... the alarms went off and she got to get real intimate with a female TSA agent! Of course we lied and said "No"! She's completely harmless!

I'm gonna leave you with this last photo... it's blurry... but it says it all! LOL! Love you Mom!

Home Safely!

2008-09-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a great weekend! It started out a little bumpy, we actually showed Hurricane Ike how to get to Tennessee and was just ahead of it the whole way there! The drive home last night was much better though and I got us home at 3:30am this morning! Safe & sound. Don't worry... I love night driving... i think up some of my best projects while I drive!

Mom and I had gotten some coupons from Archivers in the mail... so mom convinced me to go scrapbooking at the new Archivers in Memphis on Saturday night! It was so much fun and we met a bunch of new friends! Before the night was over, they had all taken a vote and decided that we were moving back to Memphis! LOL! Shhh... haven't told my scrubby yet... do ya think he will mind?! hehehee

We met so many new friends, but there were two ladies, Ruby & Karen, who were so fun! Girls... you are gonna have to make a roadtrip to Dallas and come crop with us sometime! Anyway, they loved the way I have organized my cricut cartridges (thanks Tonya!) so much that they left the store to go to the Bass Pro Shop (it was only a few miles away... imagine that!) and proceeded to buy the last 5 flip boxes that were there! The sales clerk told them that those boxes are now on backorder... so sorry, my Memphis friends... you will have to wait to get yours! I need to email Bass Pro Shop my address so they can send me a commission check! LOL! Not!

Ruby... Pam... Karen...

Ruby shows off the Flip Box for the cricut cartridges...

Samantha came with us and worked on the title page for her Wedding Planner Scrapbook... yep, she will have a scrapbook on 'planning' the wedding (btw... it's 08/16/2009!) and then a separate one just for the wedding day. She's so organized and I'm so proud!

I worked on a little going away gift for my favorite cousin, Jes! She just graduated from college with a BS in history and is now traveling to Scotland for a whole year for a history masters program... wow! So, I made her a special Travel Journal to keep notes of this year... talk about making history! I love you Jes!

Anyway... we had such a great time meeting everyone and hope to see some of my new Tennessee scrapping friends at a future Texas Ladybug event!

FUN FAMILY

2008-09-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a great weekend! We are so blessed to have a large family who love each other. My mom is one of seven kids and all of her sisters and brothers and children and grandchildren all live in Tennessee. So, when we have a family get-together... it's huge! It has been since last Christmas since I have seen any of the Tenn family, and while that was only 9 months ago, there was alot of 'catching up' to do! And the little ones! My goodness... they grow so fast! Makes me feel old! LOL!

I'm still in Tennessee right now... using my Uncle Bruce's computer to type this. We have a busy schedule today, but will be heading back late tonight. I'm gonna drive through the night and let Sam & Memaw sleep. Sam has college classes tomorrow and Memaw has a very important dental appointment. I've taken tons of pictures and will post some tomorrow night! Happy Monday everyone!

Roundtrip Roadtrip

2008-09-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

ROADTRIP! Memaw, Sam and I are going to Memphis for the weekend! We have my sister, Tracy's baby shower on Sunday and there's a 'Going Away' party for cousin Jes!! Memaw got comfy (see her under the striped blanket?) in the back seat and Sam played navigator... she's a good navigator!

We got to Texarkana and made a U-turn to go back home... 6 hours of driving and $76 in gas... to go nowhere! Mom's van started having some trouble... the odometers were freaking out and the lights were flickering... we were worried that we would end up getting stranded in the middle of nowhere, so we decided to turn around and change into the Durango instead.

Oh well... we enjoyed a beautiful sunset as we hit Denton County and there's always tomorrow.

SCRAP PINK & SPOOKY Christmas

2008-09-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

CHRISTMAS
I sent an email out to all my Ladybug subscribers (850 now!) with all the details of the upcoming SCRAP PINK on September 27th. I'm so excited about participating in this charity event. My webSite (www.cropallday.com) has all the info. I also talked about the SPOOKY Christmas retreat. Weird name, huh? My mom, Liz, actually came up with it. I told her that I was so torn between making the theme for the October retreat about Halloween, since it was the weekend before Halloween. Or making the theme about Christmas, since as crafters... we needed to be planning and working on our Christmas stuff that far in advance! She suggested the SPOOKY Christmas! I liked it, because when you think about it... it sure is spooky how one day it's Halloween and then the next day it's already Christmas! Does that happen to anyone else? I love this time of the year... but I do tend to get so caught up in it that the days just fly by. I ALWAYS have the best intentions about making AND mailing my Christmas cards. And there is a list of homemade gifts that I would love to make for my family and friends at least a mile long... but there never seems to be enough time. This year... I'm starting early and I'm encouraging others to do the same! Stay tuned for more details about the projects that we will be doing during the Spooky Christmas Retreat!

Storing your Cricut Cartridges

2008-09-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed with finding a great group of gals who share my love of scrapbooking. Through Meetup.com, I discovered the Scrap-a-doodles in Keller, Texas. Now it's a good 30-45min drive for me to attend their functions, but worth every mile! I have learned so much from them and I want to share one of those things here on my blog.

Tonya discovered a way to organize her cartridges on the 2Peas website, did it and then shared it with the rest of us. So, I did it too! Let me show you Tonya's picutures:

Isn't that awesome?! Tomorrow, I will show you mine all organized! Tonya has inspired me! Thanks Tonya!

The Pioneer Woman

2008-09-09T21:51:00.001-07:00

I have discovered the most enjoyable blog/website I have ever read. It's called the Pioneer Woman... her name is Ree and she lives up in Tulsa, Oklahoma on a ranch. Her stories of ranch life are just hilarious... she has a true gift for writing. And she cooks!! The recipes she posts are wonderful! Here... go take a peek at her... but be careful, you could get stuck on her website for hours if you don't watch out! http://thepioneerwoman.com/category/pioneer_woman/about_pioneer_woman

THINK PINK & Little girl's bday parties...

2008-09-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was awesome! I got to help one of my best friends, Angela, with her THINK PINK crop. We did it at the Transport Workers Union Hall over in Southlake and it was a perfect spot! We all got 8' tables to work on!

Angela and her mom, Linda gave away some really cute door prizes and had goodies (of course everything was pink!) on everyone's table.

Today was all about Janice's daughter Riley. She had her birthday out at her uncle's ranch with horseback riding and swimming. So, we all just sat around and talked and watched the kids play. It was such a fun day! I got to catch up with old friends and really relax. Here's a picture of Riley, Samantha and Calli (Angela's daughter):

What a CUTE cake!

The DRESS...

2008-09-05T22:04:00.001-07:00

These pictures are from Prom in 2007. I'm so happy that I had not gotten around to cropping them, because I needed the new Storybook Cricut Cartridge to make it look just right. The right side layout was inspired from a template challenge with the Scrap-a-doodles... it was fun! I've never done this before and really enjoyed it. I also used the Home Accents cartridge for the flowers and butterflies. The two cartridges really compliment each other. Tell me what you think!

Back-To-School Retreat

2008-09-05T02:34:00.000-07:00

What a great week this has been! It's early on Friday morning and I am preparing for the weekend... making my lists... checking them twice (lol!). But I as I look back at my week, I realize how blessed I am!!

My Back-To-School Retreat last weekend at the Southfork Hotel was a huge success! It was so much fun! I have developed so many friendships through my business. Several of those friends were present at this past retreat. They make my work FUN! I can't wait until my next retreat in October! The Teacher Tissue Box class was fun and I had 5 students. Everyone's turned out great!

The thing that I am most blessed with in my business is the support of my family! The fact that I can do this with them! My mom... she is always there for me... with me, and I appreciate her so much. Samantha... she worked her tail off this past weekend and unloaded the trailer practically all by herself! I had to reaarrange the room setup and was busy directing that and she just jumped right in and got the trailer unloaded so we could get setup in time. THANKS SAM! She worked on her SAVE THE DATES all weekend and they are turning out great! She was cricuting like a fiend! At one point, she had both machines going and her announcements are so stinking cute!

And lastly, my husband, Glenn! He is a SCRUBBY (Scrapbookers Hubby) extradinaire! He worked all day at the hospital on Sunday and came straight to the hotel at 10pm to help load up the trailer. I am so blessed with him and I love him so much! Who cares if he and Sam get distracted while doing it, I love that they help with a cheerful heart and find a way to have fun while doing it! I'm so grateful they were there!

The BIGGEST LOSER is.....

2008-09-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

.... my husband! Glenn! We finished the first 12 weeks of our WLC (weight loss class) tonight! Glenn and I both won... and lost at the same time!! LOL! Glenn lost 22lbs and 19.5 inches, which gave him an 11.13% total body weight loss!! I lost 23lbs and 21.5 inches, but it only gave me an 8.36% weight loss. So, Glenn got $220 for first place, our friend Demas got $130 for second place and my friend Cheri got $88 for third place and I got $57 for losing the most inches! What a great evening!

Had a great day too! I met Angela over at Amy Click's in Roanoke for a Scrap-a-doodle daycrop. We worked on the projects for this weekend's Think Pink Crop and had a good time. I really enjoy cropping with the 'doodle' ladies! We talked and laughed about a wide variety of topics... from gun control (sorry Angie!! LOL) to American Idol. It's a bit of a drive for me, but totally worth every mile. I have learned more from these ladies than I have from any other scrapbook group/meetup that I am involved with. Angie is such a whiz with the computer, Tonya has convinced me to finally organize my cricut cartridges and Amy's house!!! All I can say is "wow!"... she has such great taste in decor, just being there is inspiring. Katybean is another favorite doodle of mine. She did a photo frame today of a concert she went to... I think it was Bon Jovi... and she used the words to a song on the frame... loved it! Wish I had taken a picture of it!

Well... I am off to bed now. Sorry I've neglected my blog lately... it's been a busy week, as usual! LOL!

Goodnight!

FUNDRAISER SATURDAY

2008-08-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY:
6am - Woke up, showered & got ready for the day.
7am - Made breakfast with hubby, cleaned the kitchen.
8am - Marianne & Deeann came by to use the big cricut. Deeann has cut some of the coolest stuff out for her new classroom (she's a teacher in Coppell).

That's her class rules on the right side. She did everything there on the wall with the cricut... cool, huh? She used the 12x24 mat and papers. I worked on some class projects for upcoming retreats.

10am - Packed a lunch for Sam, she was working a double that at the pool. We signed up for a photo shoot with this photographers group for Sunday. Matt had to be at the library for the FOL (friends of the Library) fundraiser. He was representing the Little Elm Teen Leadership committee with Olivia. And I heated up some leftover Meatball Minestrone Soup for lunch for everyone... yum!

11am - Loaded up mine & Liz's (my mom) scrapbook stuff for an afternoon crop at Mindi's house (SASSY Scrappers) in Dallas.

12noon - Drove to the library first to support Matt at his fundraiser. We bought cold water bottles (i donated them and then bought one...?) and a grape slush for Liz.

1pm - On to our next stop... my neice Sara works at Chili's and they were doing a carwash for St. Judes that day. She too, had used my cricut to make the car wash signs... she did a great job! So, we dropped off our donation for a car wash, took some pictures and jumped back into the van to hit the road again!

2pm - After making a quick stop at Costco to get gas and pick up two chocolate cakes and some oatmeal cookies... we finally arrived at Mindi's to scrapbook. One cake and the cookies were for Mindi's and the other cake was for the poker party later that night. It was really nice finally meeting most of the SASSY Scrapper ladies. They are going to be a fun group to crop with. But, can you believe it(?), I didn't take one picture at the crop! The time went by way too fast, because I made a couple of tags and organized my album and then I was packing up to head onto my next activity. DATE NIGHT!

6pm - Got home and freshened up... made some berry sangrias (yum) and off Glenn and I were to our good friends Jon & Angela's house in North Richland Hills. They had invited us to a HOLD'EM FOR HEALTHY HOOTERS fundraiser (see... I told you it was a Fundraiser Day!) We played Texas Holdem and the entry fees were donated to the Susan G. Komen Walk for a Cure. Angela and her mom, Linda are going to be walking as a team.

It was so much fun! We got to catch up with friends we haven't seen in a long time (hi Janice & Les!) and meet some new ones... and of course, we always enjoy the time we get to spend with Jon & Angela!

We didn't get home until 2:30am and we were exhausted. I didn't even look at my computer... I just went straight to bed!

Birthday Lunch

2008-08-22T20:32:00.001-07:00

Wow... where did the time go?! Okay... I know its so cliche, but its so true! He has grown up so quickly! He's so different from Patch & Sam, definitely unique in personality and style. I love that he is passionate about the theater and I am proud that he serves on the Little Elm Teen Advisory Board... he even spoke at the Little Elm Town Council meeting this past Thursday night as a representative of the town's teens in favor of the new library proposal. He's active like that... .

So, today for his birthday... Matt helped a friend of mine out and babysat her 10yo daughter, 5yo son and 2yo son. It was the first time he had babysat a child in a diaper. You should have seen the look on Matt's face when my friend calmly told him that if there was a runny diaper situation, he should just place the child in the shower. I had to put Matt out of his misery and assure him that should that happen I was only a phone call away and would come to the rescue! LOL! Otherwise, he did a great job!

While Matt was babysitting, Memaw and I ran errands... the post office to send a package to my darling nephew, Jake... the dry cleaners with Glenn's clothes... the party store to buy some birthday balloons and to fill up with gas (only $3.38 per gallon! Yea!). Then we picked up Noah, then Matt and went to Chili's for birthday lunch. The lunch was good, company was great... service sucked! I was sooo disappointed. But that's a story for another time. Memaw ordered sprite to drink and the waiter brought her water... which was funny because she took a sip and told the waiter to take it back that the 'sprite' was really (we mean really) flat!!! We all had a chuckle out of that... including the not-so-good waiter. LOL!

2008-08-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

My little sister is having another boy! Yea!! So, the 'McCraw' side of the family is having a babyshower at my Aunt Mary's house in Memphis, Tennessee. Check out the new pictures of Tracy, Jake and Julian!

Make a Smilebox postcard

Cris Proposed to Samantha

2008-08-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

We all went to Fort Benning, Georgia for Cris's Army graduation. It was a very special weekend... but not just because of his graduation... he had other plans on his mind! The pictures are all a little dark, but hey!... we were in a dark theater and people were getting mad at me because of the flash! I took my life in my hands that day!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Creative Cottage - Day TWO & THREE

2008-08-13T04:28:00.000-07:00

New friends (Ellen & Charlotte) & old ones (Mom, Marianne & Myriam)...

I was so tired after getting home from the cottage last night. The first night we stayed until 11pm and scrapbooked, but last night we all left promptly at 10pm. The hours for the Creative Cottage is 9am til 10pm for the weekdays if you aren't an overnight guest. We stayed late on Monday because it was raining cats & dogs and we waited for the rain to lessen before leaving. It's a great place to crop and spend time with old (and new!) friends. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for only $35... what a bargain!

Yesterday I played around with the cricut alot. Getting to know the new Graphically Speaking cartridge some more (which is now my FAVORITE!). I finished a layout with another 12x12 photo on it. It's titled "TOP TEN FAVORITE MEMORIES"...

I was pleased with my final result. But I have to say though... the SKULL STYLE page that I did for Matt on Monday is still by far my favorite.
What do you think?

Today is the last day at the cottage and I don't even get to spend the whole day there! Samantha and I leave this evening for Fort Benning, Georgia with Nalani to go see Cris (Sam's boyfriend) graduate from Army Basic Training. It's gonna be a long drive. And Sara is flying in today and I will be picking her up from the airport right after I leave the cottage. It's gonna be a busy day!

Creative Cottage - Day ONE

2008-08-11T22:27:00.000-07:00

What a great day! My mom (Liz), Marianne, Myriam, Cheri and I all scrapbooked at the Creative Cottage in McKinney, Texas. It was great! A friend that we made there in July happened to be there with her friend, Charlotte. And Donna from the SHOT Meetup group showed up too... totally unplanned, but way cool!

I worked on cutting alot of cricut diecuts with the new cartridge, Graphically Speaking. It is such an awesome cartridge... if you don't have it yet, you definitely need to put it on your list! I made lunch for our group... simple sandwiches and wraps with baked chips. We kept to our low calorie diets today! Myriam provided dinner... it was so yummy... Lime Chicken with rosemary potatoes and a Strawberry Spinach salad! Very healthy! Thanks Myriam!

After dinner, I played with the INDIE ART cartridge and used a 12x12 black & white photo of my youngest son, Matt. I love how it turned out!

Summer Gone By...

2008-08-10T22:20:00.000-07:00

Wow... I have been so neglectful of my blog! It has been two whole months since I posted anything... how did that happen?! The summer has just flown by and now school is starting in two weeks!

Good news is... I have gotten alot of scrapbooking done over the past couple of months. I won't post all of them, but here are a few of my favorite layouts that I have recently done.

Sammer's Apartment

2008-06-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

Well... even though I was against Samantha moving into her own apartment so soon... I have to say that I just love the place that she and Sara picked out. Austin Ranch, it's perfect for two cute young girls. Sam is really trying hard to make it work... she's working two jobs and putting in lots of hours. She worked at the pool all day yesterday and then went straight to Chili's to work as a hostess last night... she worked 14 hours... I'm proud of her.

I went over to her place tonight to take her some clean laundry and some stuff that I had been collecting and buying for her. I bought her a nice set of tea/juice glasses (24 total) and a kitchen rug and a big 4 wick candle for her bathroom. I also got her some bamboo placemats from Target. She and Sara both seem to be into the 'nature' theme... browns/greens/yellows for the kitchen-living areas. She and I are definitely different when it comes to taste in stuff.

I took her out to dinner at Third Base because Sara is working there now and she needed a ride home tonight. Her car is broke down, poor thing.

Well, I am exhausted, so I'm off to bed now. All in all, it was a good day.

A Day with Julia

2008-06-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Well, I devoted all day Monday to Julia. She will be leaving us on Friday and I think we are all (including her) are very sad about that. She and I took Memaw out to Mattitos for lunch, then Julia & I met Glenn at Costco for some shopping. Glenn is so silly, he makes her laugh all the time (he makes me laugh too). Then Julia and I went to Central Market to get some special ingredients for supper. She requested that we make my famous Skinner Meatball Minestrone soup... yum! We had fun. We tasted many things at Central Market... some we liked and some not so much! LOL! But it was fun. We then went to Walmart to get the rest of our ingredients at a more reasonable price. Dinner was very very late tonight because we spent so much time shopping, but it was worth it. We served the soup in these big bread bowls that we bought at Central Market, they were sooo good! And we watched the movie, "Music and Lyrics" with Sara, Memaw and Matt.

Week gone by...

2008-06-09T03:54:00.000-07:00

Okay... it's Monday morning. Wow, how did that week go by so fast? Well, Mom, Marianne and I spent Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday cropping at a great new place called Creative Cottage. It was wonderful! Cheri managed to join us on Tuesday evening, spend the night and cropped all day on Wednesday. She even finished a page! Marianne finished 30 pages (she's out of control!) and I actually finished 7 pages. But I also worked in Sam's graduation book and made about 12 baby tags for Parkland Hospital.

Thursday & Friday were spent catching up on housework. Thursday was the last day of school for Matt, so he had Seth spend the night both Thursday & Friday night. We (Memaw, Matt, Seth, Donna & I) all went out to dinner Friday night at the new Mattitos over on Frisco on the Square... yum! It was so good, I had to take Glenn there for a lunch date on Saturday.

Saturday morning, I got up and went to yard sales... in search of stuff for Sam's new apartment. I found large silk ficus tree, a set of mixing bowls, two glass measuring cups, 12 wine glasses, a rolling pin for Chicken & Dumplings and a nice glass pitcher. I met Glenn over at Sam's apt to drop off my loot and help him hang stuff for the girls. Her apt is really cute. I hope that this works out for her.

Patch is funny... he pulled a good one on me this past week. I always worry about him when he parachutes and he has to do it at least once per month, sometimes more. He was scheduled to jump on Wednesday from a helicopter and I always tell him to call me right after so that I know he is okay (a mother's right). I was a little worried when he hadn't called me by 1pm on Wednesday, so I sent him a text msg. He called and was laughing because he was actually sitting in the doorway of the helicopter with his legs dangling out WHILE he was talking to me! Then he jumped and said he'd call me back... the line went dead. About 6 minutes later, my heart started beating again when he called back to tell me that he landed hard, but was just fine! That boy! He is the KING OF EXTREME!

Recap of the WEEKEND!

2008-06-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

WOW! This past weekend was CRAZY! We had a big family/friend barbeque here at the house for Sam & Julia's graduation on Saturday. Then we all went to the graduation ceremony up at UNT in Denton that evening. Right after the ceremony, Glenn & I dropped Julia & Selina off at Selina's house because Julia is going on a trip to Mt Rushmore with Selina and her host-family. Then we met Sam, Nalani, Amanda, Sara Weller, Sara Skinner and Matt at a Tattoo parlor in Carrollton called Artistic Encounter. A man named Shawn gave Sam a "Big" apple blossom tattoo for her graduation present (okay... he was paid $250 as a graduation present from cousin Sara). It is on her right hip.

Then Sunday... Sam moved into her first apartment with Sara Weller. Dad & I helped all day and then I took Sam out to dinner at Chili's and we shopped at Walmart for thing like towels, shower curtain, baskets, etc. Oh, and she got stuff to make spaghetti. There's hope yet! LOL!

Monday: Memaw & I met Marianne over at the Creative Cottage in McKinney. We had the bestest time and are going back tomorrow!

I'm tired now, so goodnight!

Cheri's 50th Bday

2008-06-02T21:56:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Sam's Last Day of High School

2008-05-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well.... I went to Senior Breakfast with Sammers and Julia. Two down... one to go. Afterwards, Marianne and I got pedicures together then we met mom & Cheri for lunch at Mi Casa in The Colony. Mom & I then embarked on our many errands... pick out jewelry for Sam... buy paper at JoAnn's... pick up the engraved graduation gifts that I ordered weeks ago... gas up the van at $3.85 per gallon! And then finally grocery shopping at Walmart. $200 later, I am tired and ready for bed. Glenn and I are going to get up at 5am so that we can get the briskets in the crockpots and start the final cleaning of the house before our guests arrive for the Graduation BBQ that is scheduled at 2pm. It's gonna be a busy day!

2008-05-29T17:09:00.000-07:00

WOW! My first blog! Not sure I'm ready for this, but here goes!

I went to my second Meetup Crop with the Scrapadoodles from Keller, Texas today! It was great fun! Amy was the hostess with the mostess and her crop space really rocked! Stopped by Costco on the way home for some easy dinner fixins... chicken alfredo and caesar salad... yum! I plan to crop some more tonight until Grey's Anatomy comes on... and maybe some more after that!