scrappy one

Back in the saddle again.

2010-04-09T09:15:00.005-05:00

Well, that was a dry spell! Here are a few layouts I've done recently. The digital layout was created using a kit by Marci Parmeley called "A Time to Love."

Since I've seemed to have vanished...

2008-10-09T13:35:00.008-05:00

I really haven't but just been busy. Does anyone have a magic pill that makes kids organized, clean, respectful, and loves homework by any chance? If you do, I'll pay thousands for it. Just email me. :)

Anyway, since I haven't been posting I thought I'd atleast post a few of my favorite layouts I've done over the past few years since believe it or not, I've not scrapped in MONTHS. I will though. I'm thinking while my son is in Saturday detention at school for four hours, I'll get a chance to finally. Oy.

Click on any image for a larger version. Have a great weekend all!

Digi/Hybrid class success!

2008-06-27T18:58:00.008-05:00

A quick shout out to everyone who came to my Digital/Hybrid Scrapbooking 101 class on Tuesday night. It was terrific! You all were so enthusiastic and full of questions. I loved it. It was so much fun to see the excitement you have about branching out into hybrid. Thanks for coming out. :) Oh, and I am thinking about teaching a software class now. You were quite convincing.

Also, I just wanted to let everyone know that my Summer Sparkle kit is available at Scrapbook Mania. I think she may only have a couple extras but give them a call to find out... 205-424-4246. I was able to create a cute little acrylic mini-album with the kit. It includes Cloud 9 products, velvet ric-rac, paint, Stickles, and some other fun goodies.

I enjoyed creating the sparkly frame you see in the close up. I painted it first with the acrylic paint included in the kit. (The chipboard frames are part of it, too.) After drying, I put some Stickles on it and smeared it with my finger for even coverage and that was it. Very cute.

On a side note, I am happy to say I survived a 3000-mile trip from Alabama through Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, and Georgia for a fun visit with some family. The drive was so worth it. I had almost perfect driving weather and gosh, there's nothing like hanging out with people you love. Especially when you only get to see them every couple of years.

Have a great weekend everyone! I can't believe summer is about half over. Wow.

I {heart] Stickles.

2008-05-22T09:24:00.006-05:00

I love love love Stickles. I know I'm not the only one either. You know who you are. :)

They're my favorite accent to use on acrylic and paper. I'm experimenting with it on all kinds of mediums. If I come up with anything revolutionary, I'll be sure to share. Until then, I'm posting this recent layout called "Wild Man." I used some old pics I've been saving and designed this with Basic Grey and Bazzill papers. I used a Crafters Workshop doodling template for the scalloped outline of the brown paper and cut it out, and also for the leaves which I drew using the template then traced with Stickles. I cut one leaf out of brown paper and stickled the edges, too.

And of course, I used my Sakura pens to add a little doodling. The glitter alphas are made by Doodlebug. (You can see more detail by clicking on the images below.)

I've put together a fun kit using Cloud 9 products, Stickles, paint, and acrylic that will be on sale at Scrapbook Mania in a month or two. I can't wait to play!

Hope all is well with everyone. Have a wonderful holiday weekend.

Bling for a buck

2008-04-08T21:23:00.002-05:00

Browsing through Michael's arts & crafts store tonight I ran across the bin with all the cutsie-pie flip flops ready for decorating and I looked up and there was the rhinestone bling! For $1.00 I got a 48-pc pack of clear rhinestones. They also had pastels and primary colors. Of course, I bought a few of each. Oh, and by the way, they're self-adhesive! I haven't tried them yet to see how well they stick but I think they were meant for the plastic straps on flip flops so I'm thinking they may work really well. I'll let you know. :)

Anyway, thought I'd share this find. Yummy. :)

spring cleaning, organizing, purging...

2008-03-25T22:27:00.003-05:00

Has that mood hit you yet? I'm all about it right now. It seems like every year I get more comfortable with just getting rid of STUFF. Stuff I've collected and saved over the years, papers, cute little chotchkes (sp?), just all kinds of stuff... I'm sorting and organizing and cleaning (REALLY cleaning!) and best of all making tons of donations to whoever wants to take it on. :)

So I bought four Scraponizers from my LSS, Scrapbook Mania, and am very happy with them. I stored all the little bits and items and embellies that I have a lot of and my inks and chalks and blooms and glitters and chipboard... aaahhhhhhhhhhhhh. Feels good.

So, are you in that mood yet? Getting there? Been there?

An acrylic album... FINALLY!

2008-03-21T01:50:00.007-05:00

Am I the last person to have ventured into the world of acrylic albums? I see them a lot and just think they're so cool. I bought one about two months ago and honestly, had so many things I wanted to try, I didn't know where to start. But with my son sick with mono (eeek!) and a little time to clean my scraproom, I was ready to go.

Finally, two days later, it's done. I created an album I titled "The First Ten" referencing the first 10 years of my son's life. Not exactly a chronicle of the past decade but more of a quick visual reference in photos.

I used a lot of Stickles. I realized once I started using them on the acrylic that they look so SO great from both sides of the pages. I've included a slide show of the pages here. Just click on an image for a larger version. Hope you like it!

Oh, and HAPPY EASTER!!!

Tough Weekend

2008-02-04T05:48:00.000-06:00

My son got a haircut. A BIG TIME haircut. I suggested we get it trimmed a little because for heavens sake, he couldn't even see. So we went to his usual place, they trimmed it and he HATED it. Honestly, I did, too. It looked like an adult woman's hair cut. Then realizing he had a basketball game later that afternoon, he just HAD to get it cut again before anyone saw him like that. Which I was completely okay with. I understood. So he decided - yes HE decided - to get his hair cut short. He asked me to pull out photos from a few years ago when his hair was short so he could see how he wanted it cut. We took the photo to the hairstylist, and they cut it just as we asked. He said he liked it.

Two hours later, after the basketball game, he broke down in tears. He hated it. I think it finally hit him that one of the things that always made him stand out - his long crazy hair - was now gone. It really was a part of him and a reflection of his personality. Of course, he has a lot of wonderful things that make him stand out but he loved that hair. Oh well. So it was a tough weekend and he wore a hoodie all day yesterday and to school Monday. I think it'll just take a little getting used to. Right??? :)

So chalk it up to another moment worthy of scrapping. It'll grow back.

Have a great week everyone!

How sweet!

2008-01-30T05:37:00.000-06:00

I just noticed this review of my book online:
D*I*Y Planner
Love that!

So how is your week going? I'm crazy busy at work and loving it. The work day just flies by. It got me thinking. I've NEVER scrapped a page about my career. Whether you're a bank teller, stay-at-home parent, real estate salesperson, personal chef, or magazine editor (like me), it's a big part of your life, I'm sure. Have you ever scrapped about it?

I've scrapped a lot about family and events but have somehow ignored this part of my life which takes up more than 8 hours a day most days! That's so weird! :)

So that's my goal for February (yes, I need a whole month to accomplish this!) I'm going to scrap about my job or career or career path or whatever. And if you've already done so, I'd love to see what you've done. I'm sure I'd be absolutely inspired!

Until I post that creation, I'm sharing an oldie but goodie. It's one of my first layouts. I remember when I first started 12x12 layouts, they took me FOREVER so I tried scrapping 8x8. It seemed a little less intimidating at the time. Check out all that yarn! And all the HANDCUT circles. LOL

Favorite Techniques

2008-01-24T18:57:00.000-06:00

I recently looked back at some of my older pages and realized there are some techniques that I adopted over the years that I like so much, they just never die. Doodling is one, of course. Another is using different liquid mediums on my pages. Paints, dyes, inks, and in this example shown here, liquid "glass". There are several brands out there but I used Aleene's Paper Glaze here.

It's kinda the consistency of white glue but it's clear. I apply it right from the tip directly to my layout. I like it because it adds a little more texture or dimension but it's not too bulky and is rather subtle. I like the highlights you get when you move the page around and the light hits the clear lines and dots in different ways. It dries rather quickly and can also be painted on with a paintbrush for larger coverage areas.

I have tried it on glossy photos and don't like the way it looks so I tend to stick to applications on paper and embellishments only. While it's wet or tacky, you can also drop some beads or glitter into it and they'll stay put. You can tint it with paint but I've not tried that yet. Hmmmm... something to do this weekend. :)

Anyway, thought I'd share this closeup photo of this medium on paper. Enjoy!

Prima wonderfulness

2008-01-23T05:35:00.000-06:00

Is that a word?

Scrapbook Mania asked me to design a few layouts to promote their January page(s) kit which was full of Prima papers, flowers, cardstock embellishments, rub-ons, Bazzill, and more. Sounds yummy, doesn't it? Anyway, here is one that I put together. It's a simple layout but really takes advantage of those awesome flowers to add that extra something. (Click on image for close-up view.)

The photos of my neices were actually from the family Christmas card. I hate throwing those cards away because the photos are always so pretty. (My big bro is a photographer.) So I cut the photos out and put them to use on this layout to create a kind of bouquet of flowers, photos, and ribbon.

It's a happy little layout. :)

Three Months Later...

2008-01-22T05:52:00.000-06:00

Time has flown. Teaching the Big Picture Scrapbooking class, Thanksgiving, Christmas, 2008, minor illnesses, torn ligaments (my son), and a small case of burnout has kept me from my blog. But I am back. Life is still busy, my son's ankle and knee are wrapped, but I'm rejuvenated and ready to scrap.

Another edition of my Doodle All Day class will be coming up on Big Picture Scrapbooking soon. I've started a fun acrylic album that I will be sure to share with you. I'm working on some fun projects for Frances Meyer, too. I may also be teaching a class in March at Scrapbook Mania!

So for all those who have stopped by the store and asked if I was okay because I was curiously absent from my blog, thank you so much. I appreciate that you even stopped by to check on me. :)

Until my next scrappy post, here's a photo of my son (yes, I know he needs a haircut) on the first day of snow he's seen since he was a baby. Alabama snow doesn't fall too often.

It's not cheating!

2007-10-13T21:16:00.000-05:00

I've been asked a few times during my doodling classes - in person and now online - if I use doodling templates and if I think it's cheating. Cheating at doodling, that is. Well, I say absolutely not! I've used Crafters Workshop templates a few times and really like them. I also like to take them and add my own touches to them.

Here's one I made for my LSS. I used the template for the basis of the swirls and foliage and most of the dots. I moved the template around and just used bits of it here and there to create my own pattern of swirls. Same with the dots.

I used a Sakura black Permapaque marker for the black because it was going to be on both paper and the slick photo paper. Then I outlined some of them with white to give them a little more depth.

The second layout I used a different template and changed pens depending on what color I wanted to stencil in. I'd color it in, lift it carefully, and let the ink dry. I'd then reposition it and repeat the process with a different color. I put some of the design over the photo and some beneath.

So, for you doodlers out there, use those templates! It's still doodling, just doodling with help. :) Who couldn't use a little help every now and then?

Online Class has Begun!

2007-10-05T05:53:00.000-05:00

Hello to all my Doodle All Day students on Big Picture Scrapbooking! I'm very excited that class has started. It's Day Two and I'm already having a blast. For those of you who missed registration, the class may be offered again and I'll make sure to let you know if it is. The creative team at BPS has done a fantastic job pulling the class together. A huge special thank you to all of them for helping this class be as great as it looks like it's going to be.

I'll see you in the classroom!

Class near Atlanta this Saturday 10/6/07

2007-10-04T01:52:00.000-05:00

First, I apologize for not being around lately. I've been teaching and traveling and just crazy with work. Bad blogger bad. :(

Anyway, just a quick note to all those in the Atlanta area.
I'll be teaching my doodling class at EMI Scrapbooking Store in Cumming, GA this Saturday from 1:00 - 3:00.
Can't wait to meet all of you already registered!
Call the store for more info. Their website: EMI Scrapbooking

Under the category of Inspiration

2007-09-10T06:06:00.000-05:00

I don't normally just post links for y'all to go visit if they aren't scrappy related. However, someone shared this page with me and it is so inspiring, I thought I'd share with you, too.

Librophiliac Love Letter: A Compendium of Beautiful Libraries

Don't be intimidated by the title. It's basically a collection of images of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Just gorgeous.

My favorite - about one-third of the way down the page: Handelingenkamer Tweede Kamer Der Staten-Generaal Den Haag, the Hague, Netherlands Surprise, surprise. It's a gorgeous red color. And that spiral staircase? Gorgeous.

What's your favorite?

Oct. 6th - Book Signing and Class Near Atlanta

2007-09-07T22:28:00.001-05:00

Look at this cute ad that Kimberly Archer designed for my upcoming class and book signing on October 6th! Kimberly is so talented, I'm proud I was able to include her work in my book!

Anyway, the image (click on it for a larger version) has some of the details but if you'd like more information, check in with the store, EMI Scrapbook Store in Cumming, Georgia. I think they're selling spots quickly but check anyway. I'd LOVE to see some of my bloggy friends there!

Registration is OPEN!

2007-09-05T21:55:00.001-05:00

Hey all. Very quick post to let you know that registration for my Big Picture Scrapbooking workshop, Doodle All Day, is now open! Registration lasts about a month and then the class begins October 4th and lasts four weeks. Check out BPS for the who, what, where, when, and why! Hope to see you on there!

One of my favorite techniques

2007-09-02T10:40:00.001-05:00

This is by far, one of my favorite techniques. Doodle a little something, color it in, and cut it out. Then, make a bunch of them in different sizes and adhere some flat, and some with 3-D.

For this layout I used only one piece of Frances Meyer paper, white cardstock to doodle on, and a little black Stickles to dot all the "i's" and other little dots for a tiny bit of blingyness. And of course, my Sakura Pigma Micron in .08. I used a Sakura yellow Glaze pen and a teeny bit of black Stickles to dot the i's. And you just gotta love those micro-tip scissors, huh?

Anyway, this is a FUN and EASY and INEXPENSIVE way to scrap. Try it. And then share!

Have a good one.

Doodle All Day at Big Picture Scrapbooking

2007-09-01T22:39:00.000-05:00

FINALLY! Finally, I've got it together. Let me tell you. Those awesome gals over there at Big Picture Scrapbooking work like crazy pulling classes together. They're not as easy as they look to get together either. I'm working my butt off and am SUPER excited about the class. Registration will start in the next couple of weeks. Once you register, you'll even get a copy of my book, Doodling for Papercrafters. I'll let you know as soon as registration is up and ready.

Anyone else in a rut right now? I was in a BIG rut until today. THANK HEAVENS! I felt like I would never get a page done ever again! But I did. I scrapped three pages today - which is a lot for one day for me. Now, if I can only find the time to take pictures of them to share on my blog.... hmmm... maybe tomorrow.

I hope everyone is having a great weekend. Have a safe and wonderful Labor Day. :)

Chat at Creative Scrap Shack

2007-08-25T04:45:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. If you've got a few minutes to spare, I'll be chatting with the ladies over at Creative Scrap Shack at 7:00 P.M. Eastern today (Saturday the 25th). (Click on the Catch of the Seas forum.)

Stop by and say hello!

Oh, and I'll post a fun challenge in their honor right afterwards here on my blog.

Hope to see you there!

Shameless plug

2007-08-03T23:35:00.000-05:00

I realize that most of you who read my blog know me because of my scrapbooking habits. :)

Stacy Julian wrote on the Big Picture Scrapbooking blog a "Did You Know?" about my "real" job. So, in honor of my very cool day job, and the fact that it is what actually allows me the ability to fund my scrapbooking life, I thought I'd share a little about that part of my world with y'all.

I am the Managing Editor of Cooking Light magazine. It's an awesome publication, with about 11 to 12 million readers nationally. Next time you're near a newsstand, pick one up and take a look. It's not just cooking, and it's not diet food, either. The Cooking Light web site is very useful too when trying to figure out what you're having for dinner or planning a menu, too.

Thanks, Stacy for bringing out that little known fact about me. You've outed my other life. :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

Big Picture Class

2007-08-01T05:57:00.000-05:00

I know some of you are awaiting my Doodling class on Big Picture Scrapbooking, and I promise, it's coming soon. But in the mean time, BPS is running a FREE series called A Colorful Summer. A bunch of BPS instructors have created layouts based on our favorite colors and they're all up there to inspire you!

My color is called Independent Red. You can listen to my audio file on their site to hear why I call it that and check out a fun layout featuring my favorite color, too.

Enjoy!

What a week

2007-07-27T19:05:00.000-05:00

I've been out of town for a couple of weeks now and am finally adjusting back to my normal life and central standard time. :)

Two big events this week though I just have to share.

The first was my celeb chat at EBBCreations.com. EBB was one of the first design teams I had the privilege to serve on so it was very sweet for me to be invited as a guest chatter. The chat started nicely and we talked about my book and doodling and THEN, they told me to check out the photo gallery. So I did. I couldn't believe it. What an amazing bunch of women. They had used an old doodled layout of mine as inspiration and created their own layouts based on mine. I'm putting them here to share. It was quite a moment and very touching. Thanks EBB friends. You made my night for sure.

The second big event was my book signing last night at Scrapbook Mania. What a wonderful reception I got from such terrific people. Thanks to everyone who came out, and hung out with me for a while. Scrapbooking is truly full of some of the sweetest kindest people in the world. Thanks to India and Nonna, too for pulling the signing together.

Super classes

2007-07-12T02:20:00.001-05:00

I love teaching doodling. I always start the class wondering what the students' expectations are. Some come in not even understanding what doodling is all about. And then today, after teaching two back-to-back classes, I was once again reminded why I love teaching this class. People seem truly excited about what they learned, excited to try the doodling techniques.

In addition, I was interested to see what people thought of the book. I know there is a ton of inspiration in there for scrapbookers, doodlers or not. It's a great idea book even without the doodling instruction. I'm so pleased with everyone's comments. Thank you students, and other folks who have already ordered the book.

Here, I'll share some of the comments I've already received. Keep 'em comin'!

"I got your book yesterday! It is even better than I imagined it would be--you rock!!!"

"I just wanted to drop you a note and tell you how much I enjoyed your class and your book. It’s very unique and I know this will be something I use all the time."

"WOW!!! I received the book today & it is incredible!!! Your layouts are amazing & it is SO FUN to look at :)"

Doodling Class - Next Wednesday in Simi Valley, CA

2007-07-03T05:47:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to remind all my scrappy friends in California that I will be teaching a Doodling class next week.

Here are the details:

Wednesday, July 11
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. with book signing afterwards

$35
Cost includes a copy of my book, Doodling for Papercrafters (retail cost $19.95),
and 3 awesome pens courtesy of Sakura/Gelly Roll.

Location: EBB Creations Scrapbooking Center
4437 Alpine St.
Simi Valley, California
805-582-9150

Call the store to save your spot. Classes are pre-paid.
This is a new scrapbooking store and ladies, you'll just have to go to see how cool it is. The class area is top-rate and I'm pretty sure I'll have chocolate with me too. :) Two guys run this store (with some help from some local scrappers -- you know who you are) and they're all super fun.

I hope to see you there!

Oh, and if you're already signed up or planning to attend, post a comment here so I know who you all are! Can't wait to meet you.

Local book signing

2007-06-28T05:10:00.000-05:00

The date for my local book signing has been set!

Scrapbook Mania
Thursday July 26th
7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

There will be beverages and appetizers. The book will also be 10% off that night.

If you comment on this post and then attend the signing, I'll have a little gift for you, too.

Have a great day everyone!

What inspires you?

2007-06-26T17:44:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of scrapbookers out there are like me in that you see inspiration everywhere you look. But there are those things, too, that just make you go a little silly inside that not only inspire you but make you feel good. Of course nothing can make me feel as incredible as my son does, and I also have a well-known affinity for techie gadgets and cool graphic software and all things Apple. Oh, and Chocolate Therapy ice cream from Ben & Jerry's also makes me a little swoony.

For me though, an awesome red purse, handbag, tote, whatever, just stops me in my tracks. So today, I was checking something out at work (all work-related believe it or not) and I happened upon this red Furla Dharma shopper bag. I'm still thinking about it and it's been hours. What the heck is wrong with me? Now, I'll never buy it because I'm too cheap to fork over $200 for it. The guilt would kill me. I don't think of myself as being materialistic AT ALL but don't we all have something like that? Right? You do, don't you? (Please say you do so I don't feel like a dork.)

Speaking of inspiration, check out Stacy Julian's blog from yesterday. Scroll to the bottom. :)

Have a good one!

So you may have noticed...

2007-06-22T21:51:00.000-05:00

that I changed my blog... again. I have realized that I just cannot keep the design the same for very long. I get tired of looking at the same thing over and over. Maybe it's because I just didn't like the last design very much. It was doodle-y but maybe a little too girly and flowery for me. So I'm giving it another shot. Maybe someday I'll settle on one. Maybe not.

So no new updates on the book. It's printed. I just don't have it in my hands. I've received a bunch of orders already! Get your order in soon. Of course, I can always get more. :)

Here's some fun though...

so I'm sitting at my desk and my cell phone rings. It's Stacy.

Stacy JULIAN!!!!

Ok, it's not the first time she's called me. However, I get all excited when I see her name come up on my caller I.D. I'm not one to get star-struck so easily either but come on, she's so darned creative and motivating and inspiring. So that's pretty cool.

We're working on my class for Big Picture Scrapbooking. I've canceled my classed at the Simply Southern Scrapbook Convention in October. It looks like it's going to be a great line-up but I just can't swing it for lotsa reasons unfortunately.

I will be teaching another doodling class at Scrapbook Mania though in the Fall, at EBB Creations Scrapbooking Center in Simi Valley in California on July 11th, and then online in Sept at Big Picture.

That's all for now. Let me know what you think of the new blog look. Have a great weekend!

The book!

2007-06-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

I have pre-ordered a whole bunch of the Doodling for Papercrafters book and I am pretty sure I'll have them first!

So, if you live in the contiguous U.S., and would like to order one from me, just send me an email to maelynnc@gmail.com. Put BOOK ORDER in the subject line. I'll reply with my address to where you can send a check. I'll hold all checks until the book is shipped to you.

Each book will be $17.95 plus $1.00 shipping per book. (They'll be retailing for $19.95 in stores.)

Put these things in the email: Quantity Name Shipping Address

Now, if you live in the Birmingham, Alabama area, the store where I teach - Scrapbook Mania in Bessemer - will actually be the first store to get them in and will have them available right about the same time I would ship them so locals, you may want to just get them there.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Thanks TEXTURES class attendees!

2007-06-17T09:33:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who attended my Techniques in Textures and Dimension class yesterday at Scrapbook Mania. I think I'd be perfectly correct in saying that these ladies really enjoyed the glazing techniques and embossing techniques! Oh, and the hand-stitching seemed to be popular, too!

I laughed a lot and was completely inspired by their creativity! Everyone did such a great job.

Thanks again. Hope to see you next time!

Sorry for not posting!

2007-06-12T18:07:00.000-05:00

As much as summer should be about taking it easy and kicking back a bit, it actually gets busier for me. This past weekend though, my son left for the majority of summer - SEVEN weeks! Oh, how my heart breaks every time he leaves me for that long.

I cry like a blubbering fool for a day, then I start to look around the house in the morning light the next day and I realize how much cleaning I need to do and how once I clean it, it MAY actually stay like that for a short while! Of course, I'd rather have a messy house with him home than a spotless house with him gone. I have to look on the bright side though.

And it's just so darned quiet. Anyone ever notice how strange it is when you're so used to the noise that comes along with children that when the noise is gone, you miss it?

Don't worry about me. I've got plenty to distract me this summer. Traveling, teaching, book signings, scrapping. I may even allow myself to kick back and relax some. :)

Super super cool.

2007-05-31T02:20:00.000-05:00

Most people who know me even a little, know that I'm pretty quiet about my successes, with the exception of my son, who I have no shame in declaring as my most incredible success so far. :)

But I have to say, even this is too big for me to hold back on. The first OFFICIAL public announcement of my book by Deb, the Director of Craft Publications at Leisure Arts, the publisher of my book, Doodling for Papercrafters. She writes a pretty succinct and kind review on her blog (CLICK HERE).

It's real to me now. Someone said it out loud for the world to hear. I have a book and it's really coming out and people really can buy it. I'm not sure where, and not exactly sure when, but I promise to post as soon as possible.

Sometimes you just have to pat yourself on the back and give yourself a little credit for working your butt off. So, pat-pat-pat. That's it. Moving on.

(And thanks to Debra, Christina, and Deb and the behind-the-scenes folks at Leisure Arts who have worked to get this book out. Thanks so much. Leisure Arts has been a joy to work with!)

Thinking of switching...

2007-05-24T19:08:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking of switching blogs for some time now. Not sure why. Maybe it's my need for change... I don't like things stagnant for a long time. Even though I changed the design on here, I'm kind of liking my other version a little better... take a look and let me know what you think. http://maelynn.wordpress.com Should I stay here? or should I switch over?

Technique Challenge - May 20, 2007

2007-05-20T16:57:00.000-05:00

I'm challenging myself to try new techniques or trying variations on old techniques or just using tried-and-true techniques that I just have never tried.

I'm getting ready to teach a class on creating dimension and depth on layouts. I was thinking through some of the techniques that create a wonderful, tactile sensation. One is stitching. I use my sewing machine occasionally to stitch on layouts but I really love the feel of embroidery and the thicker floss and string that can be used with hand-stitching. So that's the technique for this layout challenge.

I started with the supplies in photo 1. (Click images for larger photos.) Floss, needle, paper piercer, paper, paint, etc. You of course should use whatever you want that suits your style. Use waxy string or twine even if you'd like. I then used the paper piercer to add holes where I wanted to stitch. Around the photo I used a ruler to punch even holes along the outside of the brown mat (photo #2) but then eyeballed the inside holes. I didn't want it to be "perfect" though. If you want a less messy look than by all means, use the ruler and pencil to mark for all the holes before piercing.

Next, I use black floss to stitch. Don't worry what the back looks like. Mine was a mess. As long as the front looks good, that's all that matters.

I also handwrote in pencil, the title "Artwork" and then pierced holes about 1/3" apart directly on the pencil lines. I stitched those with the same floss.

After stitching, I covered the stitches on the back with tape to make sure they stayed in place and didn't snag on anything. What's really nice about this is how it feels. It feels soft and textured to the touch. Very cool.

The final layout is in photo #3.

Make sure to post if you decide to try this technique, too. I'd love to see what you come up with! :)

Sharing some fun... and scrappy challenge later!

2007-05-19T09:35:00.001-05:00

I mentioned a few posts ago that I got my new Adobe applications. I blame them for my absence on my blog. I apologize! I'm addicted to Photoshop. I've always loved it. In art school, I would use it for silly things like superimposing my friend's head into the drivers side window of a Porsche or removing blemishes from photos. I've evolved a bit since then -- I think. :)

I'm going to share some of my creations. I've been frequenting the boards for photoshop aficionados and they offer up a great weekly challenge where they post a photo and you have to use it as inspiration for something, anything, using photoshop.

This week's photo from stock.xchange inspired me to add a little bit of alien/lizard-like look to my handsome son. He thinks it's cool. :) (Click on the images for larger versions.)

A little spooky but of course, I'd think he was beautiful no matter what.

I used a few layers, layer masks, warping, lots of opacity adjustments, airbrushing, and color adjustments to create this image.

Oh, and I have a scrappy challenge coming up later today!

Have a great weekend y'all!

NSD Challenge!

2007-05-05T15:04:00.000-05:00

What a day it's been! Other than a soccer game this morning, a bday party this afternoon, it's NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY! Woohoo!

I'm finishing up a very VERY fun chat with the ladies over at Scrapbook Chalet. What a great group! To celebrate the day, I'm dedicating a scrappy challenge to my new friends at ScrapbookChalet.com. But anyone can take the challenge and participate! The more, the merrier I say.

All you have to do is post a comment to this thread with a link to your challenge layout and I'll have a random drawing to win a little prize pack!

So, here's the challenge.

Download this PDF, or JPG, or PNG. (It's all the same file, just in different formats in case you can't read PDF documents.)

Then, use one or all of the doodling techniques to create a new layout. No other rules! Oh, except, you MUST have fun doodling today. That's the only rule. :)

Take a look at this layout I did with ALL doodling. I used Sakura Pigma pens, colored pencils, Sakura Souffle pens, and chalks. (click image for larger version)

Have fun with the challenge! I can't wait to see what you come up with!

One hour!

2007-05-05T13:01:00.000-05:00

At 3:00 Eastern, I'll be chatting away at Scrapbook Chalet! Hope to see you there. :)

Don'cha wish your girlfriend was a geek like me...

2007-05-03T19:57:00.000-05:00

I apologize for the post title. I'm a little emotional right now. Some girls dream of owning Jimmy Choo shoes or a Marc Jacobs handbag. Some have hopes of a new car for Christmas or a kitchen remodel. Me? I was shaking when I got home today and saw that precious package at my door. It feels like it's been eternity since I placed that order.

I quickly, but carefully, opened the box. There it was. There was my new Adobe Creative Suite 3 Web Premium software. Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, Flash, Dreamweaver, and more. All in a tidy little box. I didn't know you could fit dreams in a little box like that.

Okay. I know. I'm being silly. But I really was shaking. :)

Please stop by!

2007-05-02T21:49:00.000-05:00

This Saturday, May 5th - National Scrapbooking Day, I'll be a guest "chatter" at The Scrapbook Chalet. It begins at 3:00 EST. Don't forget to stop by. I'll be giving away a fun prize!

Also, I'm going to start my challenges here on my blog on Saturday, too. Hope to see you there!

Also, I hope Stacy Julian doesn't mind that I post this but check this image out closely! >>>>>>>>>
I didn't even know she was going to put it up there yet but I guess it's official and I can announce it, too!

I'll be teaching a doodling class on Big Picture Scrapbooking. No final date set yet but I'll update you here when I know. And thanks to my wonderful friend Sharon L. for alerting me to this on BPS. I had NO idea!

Have a great week peeps! :)

Coming soon...

2007-04-26T21:30:00.000-05:00

Lots going on. Quick notes...

On National Scrapbook Day (May 5th), I'll be the guest "chatter" at The Scrapbook Chalet web site at 3:00 p.m. Eastern. I'll be answering all those super important questions about doodling! :) Seriously, stop on by to say hello! I'll also be offering up a challenge with a prize! heehee!

After my book comes out - mid June - there will be a book signing party at Scrapbook Mania. You HAVE to come to this. If they have a big party and no one comes to hang out, I'll have to eat all those chocolate dipped strawberries by myself. (Sounds like torture, huh?) More info to come.

I'll be teaching at the Simply Southern Scrapbook Convention, October 4-6, 2007, at the Von Braun Center in downtown Huntsville, AL. I'll be teaching Doodling and maybe another fun class. Details later!

I'm also teaching one night at the EBB Creations scrapbooking center in Simi Valley, California either July 10th or 11th, 2007.

I'll have more information on all of these events over the next month so check back for updates. :)

Keeping things fresh

2007-04-25T19:19:00.000-05:00

Do you have a formula for your pages? Two papers, one photo, ribbon, a metal embellie, and a journaling block? I love formulas. Especially when I'm creating a full album and what some continuity or consistency througout. But sometimes, it squelches my creativity and makes the layouts look, well, formulaic.

I'm going to challenge myself to try a different technique each week for the next several months. Starting May 1st, each week (except for the 4 scattered weeks I'll be out of town) through the end of July, I'm going to try something different. I'm going to post the technique here and see what I come up with.

Want to play? If you comment on this post that you're interested in joining me in the challenges, then I'll go ahead and get some prizes for some fun giveaways for people who join in. Sound fun?

If no one comments, well then, phooey. I'll still do it anyway so people can witness my "experimentation". Oh, and I promise to post my big goofs too. That'll be fun. :)

long time, no post

2007-04-14T19:54:00.000-05:00

I'd love to say that I've been away on an exotic, tropical, vacation somewhere since my birthday and that's why I haven't posted in so long but neh. I've just been busy. :)

I've been working on my book - getting the little straggler things taken care of. The scheduled release date is June 12th. No concrete info yet as to where it will be but I'm pretty sure Joanns, and maybe Michaels or Hobby Lobby. I'll be sure to post when I know for sure.

For all the designers who have shared their work with me to use in the book, you'll be getting your work back in June with a copy of the book! If you'd like your stuff back sooner, let me know and they can send your work back the end of May and your copy of the book in June.

One of the ladies at Scrapbook Mania gave me a Crafters Workshop doodling template to play with, so I put this page together. (That page ^^^^^^^ up there.) I used Sakura Moonlight pens and a white Souffle pen, black cardstock and that's about it! Click on the image for the full picture.

My son, Cory scored a giant goal today in his soccer game. I'm proud of him every day. Not because he scored a goal but because he's just such a great kid. Not perfect, but really wonderful anyway. What an awesome feeling it is to be a mom. :)

If you live near me in Alabama, I hope you found something fun to do today inside the house on this gloomy, rainy day. If you don't, I hope you had sunshine and got outside to do something fun!

Today is my BIRTHDAY!

2007-03-28T06:43:00.000-05:00

If you live not so far from where I do, in celebration of my 38th BIRTHDAY today, my local scrapbook store, Scrapbook Mania, is offering 38% OFF any one item in the store (except the Clip It Up or AMM totes) but anything else! All you have to do is take in a card or note for me wishing me a Happy Birthday. :) That discount is valid today and tomorrow!

I'll be in the dentist chair today and recovering from goofy numbness this afternoon but will let you know what I get from the store myself.

And by the way, 38 IS GREAT! I feel like I'm just the best I've ever been and getting better. Have a great day everyone!

New article!

2007-03-27T22:05:00.000-05:00

There's a new issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine out and on page 17, is my recent article on Doodling!!! They did a beautiful job with the design of it. Very pretty! If you have trouble locating the actual issue, they also have it available as a PDF on their website- Scrapbook & Cards Today Looks like a great issue all around. Take a look!

More font fun...

2007-03-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Ok. I'm going nuts with those Doodlebat fonts at ScrapNfonts.com. See that amazingly cute flourish on this layout? That is a FONT!!!! I printed them out and filled them with color to coordinate with the paper (chatterbox). The flourish font is called Fancy Flourishes and the other font I used is called LDJ Sneezes. I also printed out some of those pretty flourishes and colored them in with watercolor pencil and then used a watered-down brush on it. I'll take a pic next time I have my camera out. It's a neat look I'm going to have to play with some more.

I used black Pigma Microns for the wavy lines around the edges and ribbon (from Prima I think?) and ricrac and a button. Colored pencils for borders around the journaling. Oh, white craft paint around the edges, and orange photo corners by American Crafts.

Click on the image for a full version.

Anyone else scrapping?

Have a great weekend everyone.

A little something for the wall.

2007-03-19T22:04:00.000-05:00

Several months ago for a challenge on EBBCreations.com I altered a papier mache letter "C".with pretty papers and rub-ons from Frances Meyer. I had purchased the "R-E-A-T-E" at the same time but only got to them a month ago.

But finally, after a little art room organizing, I have hung them from the wall and taken a photo. I used different papers and pretty bright (but not too bright) bold colors to alter them along with organic rub-ons and doodling with a few Primas sprinkled upon them for good measure.

I'm liking how they turned out and hoping they'll continue to inspire me to CREATE things I enjoy and things I love to look at.

Yummy new doodle fonts!!! Woohoo!

2007-03-03T10:04:00.000-06:00

Anyone like fonts? Anyone LOVE fonts? I know I do. Well, if you're familiar with Scrap'NFonts.com then you already know about the cool fonts they have.

But they just released a new line called DOODLEBATS. They're all doodles instead of letters! And if you know me at all, you know I love doodling and doodles of all sorts. Check out this layout and card I made with the new fonts. (Click on images for larger versions.) For a closeup of the flowers, just click here!

All the flowers, the brackets, and the baby-related doodles all came from the Doodlebats line. The title letters are one of their fonts called LDJ Whimsy Outlines I think.

The Doodlebats are kind of like dingbats. They're all black and white doodles so you can customize them any way you want. On my projects here I printed them and cut them out and colored them in with Glaze pens. I also fiddled with them in Photoshop and was able to fill them with color digitally too. Pretty cool.

Flowers are from the Flower Power Doodlebat. Brackets from Cutsie Doodles. All the doodles on the card are from Baby Of Mine.

Here's the cool part. They're all on sale right now (at least they are right now!) for $1.50 each. Better yet, I have acquired a discount code for 20% off your total at scrapnfonts.com. YAY!

When checking out, just use the code "doodlebook1" to get the 20% off.

I just noticed they've added a few more!!! for Spring and Easter. I'd love to see how you use these in your layouts. Please send me your creations so I can post them here on my blog! I'm feeling a new addiction coming on. hee hee hee.

Color combos

2007-02-26T00:21:00.000-06:00

Some color combinations strike a chord with me. Of course, as taught in my color theory classes in art school, all colors evoke some type of mood or emotion. Light blues often convey a feeling of calm. Yellows and oranges are cheerful and bright. Reds gain attention quickly - and depending on the specific hue of that red can either create feelings of anger or strength.

However, while single colors do have specific emotions tied to them, I think so do color combinations. Have you ever looked at something and thought "Wow, I love those colors!!!"? I do all the time. I am so inspired by color. I've recently seen a couple of layouts that I have fallen in love with that use this color combo - a deep rich red and a robin's egg/turqouise blue-ish color. It's an unlikely combination and maybe that's why I love it so much.

What's your favorite color combination?

I know I know I know.

2007-02-25T22:38:00.000-06:00

I KNOW.

It's been FOREVER since I last posted. Well, I've been a bit busy. I'll make up for it though I promise!

The book is keeping me busy, not to mention another fun doodling class I taught this weekend at Maniac Madness - a 2-day crop event here in Alabama. I had TONS of fun! I hope everyone enjoyed the class and all the FREE GOODIES!

Let's see... those who took my class each got a prize from Sakura - either Souffle or Glaze pens or their fun Sticklers! Plus they each got a cool rubber stamp with about 10 phrases in different themes made by Leisure Arts.

THEN, Frances Meyer also gave me an amazing amount of stickers which we gave to all the attendees for FREE along with great kits from Frances Meyer and their ScrapsAhoy line, too, for the door prizes.

Oh, and Scrap-eze donated several of their vertical storage units and crop totes with hanging folders included!!! Sakura also donated 2 Glaze pens and a Souffle pen for EVERY ONE!!!

I hope everyone had a great time. (I'm pretty sure you did!!!) : ) I can't wait until next year's event! I'll post a few photos later on!

Have a great week!

IM[perfect]ION

2007-01-23T23:26:00.000-06:00

I completed this layout for several reasons.

I wanted to use this paper by A2Z.
I wanted to use my Cricut some more. : )
I wanted to complete a challenge over at EBBCreations
I wanted to use my new soft pastels from Frances Meyer
I wanted to do some doodling! (with my awesome Sakura Souffle pens of course!)

It's called IMperfectION. My dear son took that photo, believe it or not. Click on the closeup for the full picture!

A day early... kind of.

2007-01-23T19:00:00.000-06:00

I know you are waiting so I worked and worked and worked to get some initial results for the Call for Doodlers!!!! My vision is blurry and my head is spinning! I'm not lying when I say that seriously everyone who submitted had something wonderful in their layouts that could have been used! Such talented doodlers we have!

Here's the list of folks with layouts accepted for my new book! Congrats everyone! (Alphabetical by first name I think!)

Alison Lockett
Andrea Gomoll
Andrea Wiebe
Angela Daniels
April Massad
Becky Heisler
Becky Thackston
Bernadette Henderson
Bridget Farrington
Cara Vincens
casey rae
cathi beresford
Cathy Schellenberg
Charrie Shockey
Cheyenne Clark
corinne delis
Davinie Fiero
De Anna Heidmann
Debi Gilarde
Donna Salazar
Emeline Seet-NG
Fleur Broughton
Gina Lideros
Jeanette Brooks
Jen Otto
jenifer ashby
Jenney McAnnally
Jodie Klatt
Julie Ann Shahin
Julie Balzer
Julie Martinez
Kate O'Brien
kate siller
kathleen murphy
Kathleen Taylor
Kimberly Archer
Kriss Cramer
La Tonya Boike
Laina Lamb
lana bisson
Linda Beeson
Linda Peterson
Linda Poldervaart
Maria Burke
Marilyn McKnight
Marnie Bushmole
Maureen Van Dusky
Melanie McFarlin
melissa oliveira
Michelle Cathcart
Mireille Divjak
Nicole Stark
Rebecca Hilleary
Rita Shimniok
Robyn Bedsaul
Rosy Schlitzkus
Sarah Edens
Shana Dilldine
Staci Compher
Sudie Alexander
Susan Coish
tina werner
Tracy Austin
Trisha Peterson

Please keep in mind that some layouts may still be cut once the book gets to production for space. But I'll do my best to keep all of you in there!

If you have any questions, please email me at maelynnc@gmail.com. I'll email you with more information about your layouts soon.

Thanks again to everyone who submitted layouts and projects. I am even more inspired to get this book out there now that I've seen how much you all enjoy doodling on your pages.

Doodled layout call... need more time.

2007-01-14T07:42:00.001-06:00

Okay everyone. I put out the call for doodled layouts simply not expecting that I would receive over 1,000 - yes ONE THOUSAND - layouts and projects. And my gosh, they're all so awesome!

So, I am going to need more time than I thought to get through these. Give me another 10 days. I know that seems like a long time when you're waiting on the results. Trust me. I'VE BEEN THERE! But I don't want to miss something wonderful because I was rushing.

Thank you so much for all the entries and your patience! :)

And the winner of the Sakura celebration giveaway is.....

2007-01-13T10:23:00.000-06:00

Woohoo!!!!

Jeanne from Huntersville, North Carolina!

Congrats Jeanne. Email me your mailing addy at maelynnc@gmail.com so I can get your Souffle pens, Pigma Microns, and Permapaques out to you.

Thanks to all who entered and visited my little space here on the web. And thank you, too, for all the sweet comments! I had a chance to visit your blogs too through the links and wow, you people are talented!!!!

Hope you come back for the next giveaway. I should be posting in the next couple of weeks. Have a great weekend!

Another AWESOME GIVEAWAY!

2007-01-10T21:58:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to let you all know that I'll be having another giveaway soon... can't tell you what it is yet but it is really cool. One hint: Scrap-eze. That's all I'll say. :-)

Celebration Giveaway!

2007-01-06T17:11:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about my new designation with Sakura that I am having a GIVEAWAY right here on my blog!!! And guess what? Anyone can win. I'm going to have a random drawing from all the people who leave a comment on this post.

What can you win? Souffle pens, a 3-pack of very fun Metallic Permapaques, and a 3-pack of my favorite black pens - the Pigma Microns in 3 sizes.

I'll give it one week and I'll draw a winner!!!

By the way - if you leave a comment and you choose Anonymous instead of a username or something where I can identify you, please put something in your comment so I can find you if you win! :)

HUNDREDS of entries so far!

2007-01-06T09:07:00.000-06:00

You all have really pulled through! I've received hundreds of submissions for the book and am LOVING what I'm getting! OMG so many talented people out there!

I haven't received very many PROJECTS though. If you have any cards, altered items, home decor, etc. that you have doodled on, please submit these, as well. I really want to show tons of applications for doodling!

I'd also like to add that I am really wanting to get as mant of my creative papercrafting peers into this book as possible. I know what it is like to submit and submit and submit and get D-NIED! I'd love to give back with this and include as many of you as they'll let me put in the book! :) So, keep those submissions coming!

Woohoo!

2007-01-05T21:50:00.000-06:00

If you've taken one of my classes, or been around me and my scrapbooking long enough, you know how fond I am of several products that Sakura produces... the Souffle pens especially. (I should get commission on these, seriously.) :)

Sakura also makes the very popular Gelly Roll pens that many scrapbookers use.

Well, I am now a Sakura featured designer! So cool.

Just wanted to share my excitement. Thanks for reading!!!! :)

Thanks mom

2006-12-21T23:56:00.000-06:00

I finally took photos of a tin I altered holding a cute little accordian album. A secret pal sent me the tin a while ago. I used WeRMemory Keepers papers, Chatterbox rubon alphas, floral rubons from Scrapworks, and of course pens (Sakura Permapaque and Uniball Signo white).

My mom used to say funny things... that I didn't think were funny when I was little. I often find myself saying the same goofy things to my son. My favorite:You can pick your nose, you can pick you seat, but you can't pick your family.

I'd hear this when my sister, LeeAnn, and I would fight like maniacs.

I also used some photos of myself when I was younger that my sweet mother was thoughtful enough to save all these years.

So thank you secret pal for the cute candy tin, and thank you mom for all the one-liner advice you shared over the years.

Links to more of the album:
Inside the lid
Mini album pages
The bottom

CALLING ALL DOODLERS!

2006-12-21T22:43:00.000-06:00

Do you doodle? Would you like to have your doodled layout or project showcased in a new book? Here's your chance! (by the way, there's a more recent post now with an update... http://thescrappyone.blogspot.com/ )

As the author of a new book being released in 2007, I'm looking for other papercraft projects to showcase that use some type of doodling... swirls, dots, lines, arrows, flourishes, etc...

For a chance to be published in this book (being distributed nationally through major craft stores), please email an image (under 100k please) of your best, previously unpublished, and recent layouts or paper craft projects by January 7th to me at maelynnc@gmail.com.

Also, include a short bio or link to your resume. A resume is NOT mandatory.

Also, if your submission uses any products manufactured by Leisure Arts, please note that with your submission. You'll be notified by Jan. 14th if your project has been chosen for publication. If so, you will need to send a hi-res, high quality photo of your item at that time. Sending the project in for scanning or photography may be necessary. (We'll take great care with your items.) If you have any questions, please email me.

Good luck!

Doodling class on Monday

2006-12-16T22:11:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! Well, I've got my son off to his dad's until 2007. Boo hoo:( He'll be headed to the Mayan Ruins for the holidays. Christmas in Mexico. Not bad! That kid's passport has more stamps than mine! But since he's gone and I have some time to myself... I'm teaching a class on doodling on Monday night from 6-7:30 at Scrapbook Mania. I was thinking since we will probably have a smaller class because of the holidays, if you've already taken my doodling class before and would like a refresher course... I can take some people for half the price of the original class... $7.50. Just call the store and let them know you'll be coming. Make sure to bring your pen and your workbook from the original class.

I'll also have some more time to scrapbook over the next couple of weeks. I altered this cutting board (pictured left) I bought at the dollar store (uh, for a dollar) for my mom for Christmas. The heart is made of cork so she can tack stuff up to it if she wants and there are 2 tiny clothespins holding hearts that can hold notes or whatever, too. I know, my mom and I look exactly alike. hehehe. I used almost all Fancy Pants product for this project. Now, to wrap it and mail it....

Dear Santa

2006-12-10T22:30:00.000-06:00

Yay! I did some scrapbooking today. Man I am under the weather though. I just can't bear to lay on the couch and do nothing. Every once-in-a-while, that's fine, especially when I'm sick. But today, I had to do something.

So, I pulled together some really cute stuff from Fancy Pants and did a few layouts. India at Scrapbook Mania gave me some of her chipboard and I used some of that, too. This layout is entitled "Dear Santa" and it's about Cory being gone for Christmas this year. (click on image for bigger version.) I know, boo hoo. I will miss him like crazy but don't be too sad for me. We'll make up for it when he gets back. Plus, I plan to sleep in. Remember what that's like? hehehe

Have a great week everyone.

Home sick and doodling

2006-12-05T12:10:00.000-06:00

Well, my poor kiddo has bronchitis so I'm home today. I hate that for my baby but while I'm home. and he's resting, I thought I'd might as well post an update....

I have another Doodle-de-do class coming up on December 18th from 6-7:30 pm at Scrapbook Mania. I'm sure there are some spaces left. So if you've not been able to make the last 5 classes because they were sold out, this would be a great time to sign up. I imagine it will be a smaller class with the holidays right around the corner. :) The cost is $15 and you get a great black pigment pen - the Zig Millennium .05 black. You'll learn tons of doodling techniques, all about tools, handwriting, etc. To sign up just call or visit Scrapbook Mania.

Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Dinner by a nine-year-old

2006-11-25T07:45:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Some of you may know my son has decided to stop eating meat and fowl so we didn't have a turkey this year. We had planned on delivering Meals on Wheels again this year but that stomach thing my son had a few days ago... well, unfortunately it was my turn. It's been almost 48 hours and I still feel like crap. What was so sweet though was that my 9-year-old son made T'giving dinner almost completely by himself - with my watchful eye, of course.

He made stuffing (or dressing if you live here in the South) and corn and mashed potatoes and gravy and baked apples. He did such a great job. I'm so proud of my baby. I ate the wonderful dinner he made regardless of my temporary illness and was thankful for every second I was able to sit at the table. Now, it wasn't so much fun about an hour later, but I'd do it over again. Can you imagine how proud he was of himself? It was great to watch.

I regret not being able to deliver meals to those unable to leave their homes this holiday but will do double duty on Christmas Day to make up for it, and hopefully volunteer some between now and then, as well. Anyone want to join me?

Have a great weekend, all. Hope the shopping was fruitful for you if you dared to do so.

Hello around the world!

2006-11-21T12:27:00.000-06:00

I am always amazed at the internet. It links much of the world together in a way not possible not so many years ago. Now, I can chat back and forth with my friend in London in real time for free. :-) Remember letters? I still love letters and still write them occasionally... not often enough. I think I'll write a letter today to someone special.

I was looking at my stats for my web site today. I'm in awe of the people around the world that actually look at my site and then come back to read more! So a big welcome to all my i-friends in the United States, Canada, Denmark, France, United Kingdom, Australia, Philippines, Spain, Germany, Japan, Sweden, Singapore, and Italy. I'd love to know more about you! Leave me a comment and introduce yourself!

Working on a few things around the house today since Cory is home sick. Some stomach thing. Poor baby. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving, if you are indeed celebrating it.

Thank you Freestylers!

2006-11-14T20:23:00.000-06:00

Once again, the class was a blast last night. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has taken the freestyle classes and I will think seriously about teaching more technique classes! Thank you for asking! I get so tickled every time someone says they've enjoyed my classes.

I think the big hit of the night was the technique using frisket and adhesive shelf liner paper. For anyone out there buying all those expensive masks.... this is a more affordable way to mask and you can create all your own shapes and designs and alphas.

The OTHER big hit was of course, the FREE SET OF SOUFFLE PENS from SAKURA!!!!!!!!! For those of you who paid for the series of classes and weren't able to make it, I'm putting together a kit for you (including your Souffle pens!) with supplies and instructions from last night's class. In addition, I will also be putting together an instruction sheet for the first two classes... it may be hard to remember all those cool techniques!

I may be teaching one more doodling class before the end of the year. I wasn't planning on it, and the timing around the holidays is usually not great, but India at Scrapbook Mania said she's had some people asking about the class. So, if you want to take 90 minutes out of your busy holiday schedule to learn some doodling, call the store and let them know. I'll hold the class if there are 6 people who sign up. The date is December 18th - the week before Christmas. It's a Monday night.

Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Freestyle Class - Final Class!

2006-11-13T23:42:00.000-06:00

Well, it's the third class in the Freestyle class series sponsored by Sakura. What a bummer! I've had so much fun!

Anyway, here's a quick list of what you can bring tonight. I will have extras on hand just in case. Oh, and by the way, I can't wait to give you your freebie from Sakura tonight! It's awesome!

1 or 2 craft paints, whatever colors
a paint brush, small-ish
a paper piercer or craft knife (like an X-acto)
black pigment pens (like the ones you got during the first class)
scraps
chalks or ink pad
a few photos to play with - one with a person
colored pencils
scissors

Again, I have extras of everything so if you don't have something from this list, don't worry about it.

Looking forward to it ladies!

Yay! Check out Scrapbook Trends!

2006-11-01T22:43:00.000-06:00

There's always those couple months between the time your layout is requested for publishing and when the actual issue is published when you are curious to see if it actually makes the cut. Working at a magazine, I know how that works. It's never a done deal til the pages are actually at the printer and being printed. And even then, there's a chance we'll have to stop the presses for something crazy. But I'm happy to report I made the cut for Scrapbook Trends' November issue with this layout entitled "Tradition." I created it for a creative alphas class I taught at Scrapbook Mania several months ago. Well, I hope everyone had a great Halloween. I'll be posting pics as soon as they're uploaded.

Crop-a-dile

2006-11-01T21:51:00.000-06:00

I know some of you already have the Crop-a-dile. Most of you have seen it I think. It 's this pink-handled tool that does all kinds of stuff - can put holes in metal and sets eyelets and grommets and flattens brads.

It seriously cuts through chipboard like buttah!!! I thought there was no way I was going to spend money on ANOTHER tool but I'm glad I did. But be careful with those fingers! It's a powerful little tool. Check it out.

Supply list for Freestyle class

2006-10-23T00:58:00.000-05:00

For all freestyle class attendees for Monday night... You'll need: Photos you don't mind messing up, black pens from last class, and adhesive of your choice (though I'll have lots of glue sticks on hand.) We'll also be using: scrap paper and paint brushes (small and 1") craft paint (not a very dark color) I'll have extras of these for folks to borrow as well so truly, DO NOT worry about gathering all this stuff or running out to buy anything. We'll be trying some different freestyle techniques we can add to our journals and I'll have more freebies for you courtesy of Sakura! Woohoo! If you have any questions, feel free to email me at mcmom1@bellsouth.net.

Cory on The Early Show!

2006-10-15T10:26:00.000-05:00

and I missed it. Can you believe it? I posted in my last post a photo of him being filmed but I HAD NO IDEA it was for The Early Show. Grrrrrr. I could just slap myself! Anyway, someone on TwoPeasInABucket.com found the video of the segment online. It's about 4 minutes long and he's only on for a few seconds near the end but I'm so glad I have it. AND my friend Jenney actually Tivo'd this show and is burning it to a DVD for me! Phew. Of all people to have missed such a thing! :) On a not so fun note... I'm having a wisdom tooth removed tomorrow. Not looking forward to it but it has become necessary. I took my son to his dad's for a week so he's out of town. Works out well since I will most likely be incoherent for a while. I'll be at the market today buying pudding and soup and yogurt and more pudding. Sounds great, huh? To my freestylers... Next Monday is our second class... we'll be doing some fun things. You need to bring your pens you got at the first class, colored pencils, a 2" wide paintbrush if you have one (low-quality is fine), a couple craft paints, your freestyle journal, and your homework assignment from the last class (the one with the "little bits" of journaling.) If you decided to use your altered journal for something other than the freestyle class you also need to bring something similar to practice techniques in... anything with a little heavier paper is fine. If you still need to coat your journal with clearcoat or varnish, I'll have them with me again so you can finish up.

Two-A-Days 2007

2006-10-08T14:25:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the series on MTV entitled Two-a-Days? It's about a high school football team that has been ranked one of the top football teams in the nation most of the past several years. (It's called Two-a-Days because the team practices two times a day - before school and after school.) Well, MTV decided to do a reality series filming the goings-on around the team and the pressures they face both on and off the field (college scouting, girls, winning). Well, it just so happens that's the high school that my son will one day attend. Hoover, Alabama. He currently plays on the local Hoover youth football league and so the kids were invited to talk with the head coach before Friday night's game. MTV was also there filming. Coach said they are the future of Hoover football. It's described as being a religion here. That's not far off. I caught this photo - though very blurry - of my son and a few of his teammates being interviewed by MTV for next year's Two-a-Days series. Hope they don't edit him out. :-) Scrapbooking.... I've got another full doodling class tomorrow night. It's my last doodling class til next year, probably until the big 2-day cropping event in February. Looking forward to doodling tomorrow!

Good morning!

2006-10-01T07:46:00.000-05:00

I love early Sunday mornings. My son is sleeping peacefully with his dog at his feet. I pulled out my french press to treat myself to better-than-usual coffee. The house is quiet. No television or anything. It's only a matter of time though... My son will awaken with a sweet "mom?", the dog will run to get a toy for someone to toss. Cory will get up and start telling me what he dreamt about and ask if he can watch cartoons. I'll make breakfast, take the dog out, then the day goes on from there... Later, I've got football to contend with. That's a whole lot of making sure I've got everything. I carry extra shoulder pads, chin straps, mouth guards, ice packs, gatorades... since as team parent I just have to be prepared for anything. As much as I love the peace and quiet right now, it's the noise, the voice of my son, the bark of my dog, the household goings-on, the running around doing busy things, that I love. It's alive. Have a great Sunday y'all. Hope your days are as wonderfully noisy as mine are. :-)

SUPPLIES for FREESTYLE CLASS on Monday 9/25

2006-09-22T20:48:00.000-05:00

I'm ready for freestyle! For those of you attending my freestyle class on Monday at Scrapbook Mania, here are the supplies you should plan to bring. If you don't have all these things, don't worry. I will have extras with me for you to borrow. Apron or old clothes We may get a bit messy 5-10 Photos If you have both black & white and color photos, that would be best. Bring photos that you don't mind messing up. We will be trying different techniques on these. 3 craft paints Bring a couple that coordinate a little - like light pink and dark pink, or yellow and orange, or light blue and dark blue = amd any other color. Foam brush A "slick" marker or vellum marker If you have black and/or white, please bring those. (These are markers that will write on slick surfaces, like photos) 3 pieces of cardstock Bazzill is not necessary and color doesn't matter Ink pads or Distress inks Browns, dark green, or burgundy-ish colors are good but not required. Black is fine too. Scissors Paper trimmer Adhesive I'm pretty sure that everyone coming has signed up for ALL THREE CLASSES in the freestyle series! So that means you ALL will be getting a FREE JOURNAL/sketch book, goodies from SAKURA, and some items from AUTUMN LEAVES/FOOFALA, too!!!! (By the way, if you'd like to alter your journal with materials different than those in the sample shown below in a previous post or at the store, please feel free to bring some things. It's YOUR journal.) The plan is to get through altering the cover of the journal using some freestyle techniques mixed with some tradition scrapbooking techniques so you can get a feel for how to kind of mix the two styles together. THEN, hopefully, we'll have some more time to get through some more freestyle techniques. We have three classes to get through TONS of techniques! Really looking forward to it, ladies.!

Ready for Christmas?

2006-09-17T19:05:00.000-05:00

Are you? I'm not. Of course I never am. HOWEVER, this year I did a Christmas in July swap at Scrappers Anonymous and now I have several really awesome cards I get to send out. (Yes, I know it's no longer July but the swap started in July and just ended.) I made these pictured and think they turned out nice. I really liked the Sakura glitter gel pen to add just a teeny bit of sparkle to the Merry Christmas card. Mom, if you're reading this (which I doubt you are because you have trouble understanding the whole "internet" thing) don't worry, I'm sending you a different card. Yours is even more special. So if you need to get moving on those cards, now is the time to do it. Before you know it, it will be November, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas will be right around the corner. Maybe I should have a little card crop at the store... hmmmm... that sounds like an idea.... Have a good week y'all! :)

Inspiration

2006-09-14T20:48:00.000-05:00

It's EBBCreations.com ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY. Being that I was on the original design team there, I feel like I've been through a lot with them. Thanks to Enrique and Scott who chose me for my first DT. I was so flattered and excited to be a part of the team. In celebration of their anniversary, they have a whole weekend of great stuff (And tons of prizes!) set up. I created this layout entitled "About Face" (click on image for full layout) for one of the challenges listed in the forums. (Every one who enters gets a chance at a prize!) The challenge was to find a piece of clothing and use it as inspiration for a layout. So, I chose this beautiful red suede jacket a friend of mine bought me last year as a gift. It is deep red with white top stitching. Very pretty. So I used deep red Bazzill cardstock and used my sewing machine to stitch borders and to attach the photos as well. I love how this turned out. And no doodling, believe it or not. I ALMOST used the white pen for some fake stitching too but I didn't. Go take a look at what's going on there this weekend. They seriously, honestly, just give out prizes randomly. Lots of fun!

More with the fun kit!

2006-09-13T21:23:00.000-05:00

Again, as guest designer for Scrapbook Lovers Dream this month, they sent me a very cool kit. I created this fun layout, entitled "Jump", about my son's love for jumping on a trampoline. (Click on image for full layout.) What is so funny is that I was almost 100% sure that I already used these images or similar ones to do a layout but for the life of me, I can't find one anywhere or an image of one either. So, maybe I've just been contemplating scrapping these photos for so long that I thought I had done one? Or maybe, and more likely, I dreamt I used them in a layout. I can't be the only one who dreams about scrapbooking, right?

Guest designer creation

2006-09-09T15:01:00.000-05:00

I am September's guest designer on Scrapbook Lovers Dream - a cool kit club site - and they sent me some awesome stuff to design with. Sassafras Lass papers (already look a little doodled!) and a really cool Maya Road tabbed chipboard album book. I was reading a thread on another site (ScrappersAnonymous.com) about what people do with all their school photos. Got me thinking that the altered book would be a perfect way to get some of those school pics into an album without making an album per se. So, I created this album. Click on the image for a view of the inside pages, too. I am SO glad I got those pics put into this book. I have worried for years that I would somehow misplace them before I ever did something with them. Have a good weekend!

Another health update

2006-09-09T14:58:00.000-05:00

Well, good news on the cyst! I went in for my ultrasound and asked the technician "so what do you see? how big is the cyst?" And she said - after looking for all of 15 seconds - "well, it's gone." It's gone? Yep. It's gone. Not unusual the doctor said and in fact, almost every woman will have a cyst at some point but most of them just go away on their own without pain or symptoms so they never know they had one in the first place. Interesting. So anyway, I guess I didn't need to cancel my Doodling class afterall but better safe than sorry I suppose.

Health update

2006-09-01T18:55:00.000-05:00

I have a diagnosis. It's an ovarian cyst. I have an ultrasound next Thursday and will meet with the doctor immediately after to discuss options. Most likely, I will have a laparoscopy to have the cyst removed because it's causing so much pain. It's a pretty standard procedure but will require a few days bed rest and 2-3 weeks recovery. Unfortunately, that means I am postponing my Sept. 11th Doodle-de-do class until October 9th. I will hopefully be good for my Freestyle class on September 25th, however. I'll be posting an image of the freestyle journal cover next, so keep a lookout for it. It's really going to be an awesome class!

FREESTYLE!

2006-09-01T18:02:00.000-05:00

I am so ready for my FREESTYLE CLASSES! Again, it's a series of 3 classes for only $45, sponsored by Sakura. In class #1, we'll alter a journal with free product contributed by Autumn Leaves (click on the image to see the whole cover), and we'll start with some freestyle techniques. Also, you'll be getting a goodie or two from Sakura. In class #2, we'll dive straight into freestyle techniques, you may see some gesso or alcohol inks or other fun surprise mediums along with another goodie or two from Sakura. In class #3, MORE freestylin', more fun, and more goodies from Sakura. Another secret, one of the goodies from Sakura is worth about $20 all on its own! That's almost half the cost of all three classes put together! Oh, and if you sign up for all 3 classes at once, you get the journal for free, too. Sign up at the store! We do still have space left. Have a great holiday weekend everyone!

Quick hello!

2006-08-29T21:39:00.000-05:00

First, I want to send this virtual thank you card out to everyone who has posted comments and emailed me with so many kind wishes and offered prayers for my good health over the past couple of weeks. Really means a lot. Still no results back on my CTscan but I will update when I find out. (By the way, card created using Scenic Route papers and ink.) Also, last night I taught my advanced doodling class. It was wonderful! We did paisleys and fun swirls (they can be quite intimidating) and dots and circles and florals and even managed to work on doodling layouts! I think most people agreed that the swirls are easier than they look with a little instruction and a nudge or two. Hopefully, some of the ladies will send me their layouts so I can share them here on my blog. WAY TO GO ADVANCED DOODLERS!!! :-) I just wanted to post a quick hello! I'm running out to my son's tackle football game. I'm sure he's going to give me a heart attack soon. It's so hard watching my little baby like that. YIKES!

Quick update

2006-08-24T22:35:00.000-05:00

I've not posted in a while so I thought I'd update... My endoscopy showed no problems in my stomach or esophagus so I went in for a CT scan on Tuesday along with a few other tests. I expect some of the results back Friday or Monday. I'm feeling a little better all around but that's probably because I stopped taking the Prevacid that the original doctor put me on. Before Prevacid, I had pain. During Prevacid, I had pain and dizziness and nausea and just felt like crap. Now that I'm off of it, I'm back to just pain again. I'll update more as I get more results. On a FUN note... I have my ADVANCED DOODLING class this coming Monday night from 6-8. We're going to learn advanced doodling techniques and create a layout that is entirely doodled! No patterned paper. Just a piece of cardstock, a photo, and that's it! It's going to be fun. I'm not sure if there are spaces left but call the store to check just in case! Have a good Thursday everyone. And thanks for all the kind emails. Y'all are just so sweet!!!! :-)

I'm okay!

2006-08-16T21:40:00.000-05:00

Hey there! Just wanted to post quickly that I'm okay and the procedure went as planned. Unfortunately, or fortunately, they found no ulceration. Which means, no stomach ulcer, but that also means they're still not sure what is causing all my pain. So, I'll be headed back for a CT scan (catscan) in a few weeks. Can I also say AMNESIA? I have NO recollection of anything that happened... from the very seconds I asked "are you pumping stuff into my IV now?" and their answer of yes, we started it, til the time I woke up in my own bed, I remember next to nothing. Michael (who so kindly took care of me today) told me the nurse asked if he would come back to the room with me because she "couldn't handle me." Apparently I was being "difficult" ... not abusive just being very bossy with them. LOL I kept trying to get up and pull my IV out and oxygen off and they kept telling me to lay back down and lay still and I kept trying to get up and demanded that they not tell ME what to do. OMG. I can't believe what a nut I was! Best part, I don't remember it. That is so weird to me. I was conscious for the whole procedure, because I had to be able to follow instructions and commands, but I dont' remember a second of it. Once again, that's so weird. It's about 9:45 pm and I am still rather out of it. I'm up and watching TV and talking and now typing but I'm quite groggy. I'm guessing after a good night's sleep, I'll be fine. I'm not supposed to drive until after lunch tomorrow so I may go in to work a little late if I'm still feeling funny. Anyway. That's my update. Hope everyone had a good day too.

My big boy. Breakin' a tackle. Awwwww. :-)

2006-08-14T00:26:00.000-05:00

School has begun, football practice is in full swing, and I'm having an endoscopy on Wednesday. Yes. I know. It's a bit of a big deal but I'm trying to stay low-key in my own mind about the whole thing. It's a big deal, but it isn't. The nurse told me this morning that my gastro doc does 20 of these procedures per day. It really only takes 10-15 minutes. It's the anesthesia that makes it take and extra hour or two. So, don't worry folks. I'll be in and out on Wednesday. I'll post here to let you know how it goes once I get my wits back. On a lighter note, I'm teaching the advanced doodling class, Doodle-de-doo TWO!, on Monday the 28th. I'm SO looking forward to this one! We're going to create a layout with a photo and white cardstock and everything else will be doodled! No paper cutters or embellishments or patterned paper needed! We've also announced my new series of classes starting in September. I'll be teaching a Freestyle Journal class. The classes are sponsored by Sakura! Which means... FREEBIES! The three classes are $45 and you get the journal (and freebies from Sakura) free! Seriously, that's only $15 per class AND trust me, I have the goodies from Sakura, they're wonderful, too. I'm going to teach you how to let go and break some rules and have some freestylin' fun in your new journal. We'll do some doodling and some painting and play with textiles and metallics and .... I'm not going to give it all away. Sign up at Scrapbook Mania. I think these classes may fill fast so hurry!!! I think I'm maxing this class at 15 so get in there! Woohoo! (Can ya tell, I'm excited???) Well, have a great day everyone!

Doodle-de-do

2006-08-10T22:34:00.000-05:00

I really need to post more often. Okay, another doodling class completed on Monday. Again, people have no idea how good they are!!!! There were some great doodlers in the room, including my friend Angela, who would never say she was good at it, but she is. I have so much fun teaching that class! I have an advanced doodling class in a couple of weeks. That'll be a good one, too. I should also mention that I have been sick since Tuesday and haven't been in to work. The doctor said today that I need to have a gastrointestinal scope done. She's pretty darn sure I have a bleeding ulcer but she's not sure how bad it is. Hence, the scope. Ugh. I'll let y'all know how it goes. She did say I'll be put into some weird twilight kinda sleep... sounds niiiiccce. LOL. Kidding, of course. I'm headed to football practice. You should have seen me trying to get all those pads in those tight football pants for Cory. HYSTERICAL! :) Have a good one!

Distressed?

2006-08-05T11:42:00.000-05:00

I'm conducting a FREE CLINIC on DISTRESSING today at Scrapbook Mania from 1:00-4:00. If you're in the area, stop on by and we'll distress some stuff! :) On another note, Cory had a 2-hour Speed & Agility clinic this morning for football - which really means they just did all those drills you see football players doing - lunges, running with their knees way up, side stepping, etc. It's 92 degrees and humid. Those poor kids! Cory worked so hard though, and toughed it out. There were several kids throwing up... I felt so bad for them! It was the hardest he has ever worked so I'm very proud of him for sticking it out. Well, off to distress. Have a good Saturday!

Having fun scrapping!

2006-07-31T22:33:00.000-05:00

I've gotten lots done the past few days. About a dozen cards, 2 layouts, and album cover, and even some scrapbook supply shopping! (Love that last part!) I had some fun with color on the "he thinks that's COOL" layout to the left. That raspberry and blue look so summery together... reminds me of watermelon and a blue Icee. Yum. I know it may seem nutty to take a picture of someone's butt, BUT, I thought the situation warranted it. I used Sakura Souffle pens for all the opaque dots and Sakura Pigma Micron black pigment markers for the hand lettered (and cut) title. On another note.. trying to decide whether or not to enter a couple of contests coming up. I just won a doodle layout contest on ScrappersAnonymous.com. That's was SO exciting! Yippee. I think I'll wait til school gets going - we go back August 9th! - and get back in the swing of things. I think 4th grade is a tough year for kids... they have way more independence and have to rely on their own brains to remember things like bringing their homework home! We'll see. I'm looking forward to my free clinic on Distressing this Saturday at Scrapbook Mania from 1-4. I have a doodle class on Monday night which is sold out. I've scheduled another class for September 11th. There are a few spots left in that one. Call the store for details. Anyway, hope y'all had a great Monday. Looking forward to doing more scrapping this week. How about you? Are you in a groove, too?

Two Peas too!

2006-07-29T10:05:00.000-05:00

Good Saturday morning to everyone! There must be something in the water because someone else posted about me on TWO PEAS IN A BUCKET, too! (Thanks Ellen for showing me the thread!) So BIG HELLO to the TWO PEAS ladies. Hope you enjoy the PDFs. If you're ever near Birmingham, Alabama, let me know! We'll get together and doodle! LOL

Scrap Love... I'm lovin' ya!

2006-07-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

I was checking my site traffic this morning and it had a huge spike in it for some reason. So I checked out where all the traffic was coming from... ScrapLove.com ladies - you blew up my blog!!! I'm so amazed that any one actually finds me on here. So,THANK YOU SHARLENE at SCRAPLOVE.COM! You made my day!!!

2006-07-27T00:22:00.000-05:00

September Doodling Class date chosen! I know there were several people on the waiting list for the next Doodling class. The date will be September 11th. The class is half-full already so call Scrapbook Mania to hold your spot or go ahead in and reserve. (Make sure to check out the Gypsy Harvest and 3 Bugs in a Rug stuff when you get there!) Thanks also to everyone who has emailed with comments about the series of doodling classes. Someone asked me if I am getting tired of teaching them (it'll be my 4th one) and I said OF COURSE NOT! Honestly, I love doodling. Ask any of my friends or design team teammates. I doodle myself to sleep some nights sitting on the couch watching TV. LOL! One lady thanked me for inspiring her to try something she never would have done otherwise. She seriously brought me to tears. I am so happy I can share this passion with you!

Love pretty paper!!!!

2006-07-26T21:45:00.000-05:00

and ribbon and paints and.... I just really like how this altered tin turned out. I used the July kit sold at E.B.B. Creations which includes the tin, these Kaleidoscope papers, all the solid color Scrap-eze ribbon, the dividers inside the tin, and several things not used for this project including sequins, more papers and Bazzill, diecuts, and lots of other goodies. (My favorite monthly kit so far!) I also used the Sakura Permapaque metallic markers to color the hardware a pretty greenish color. Love the way it looks!!!! I see lots of these tins in my gift-giving future! Also, I've got another doodling class coming up August 7th. Sorry ladies, it's sold out but I'm scheduling another for September too. I think there is a waiting list, so call Scrapbook Mania to get on the list for the September class. Advanced Doodling class is in August, too and I'll be announcing three, YES THREE!, new classes that will begin in September. I'm super excited about them so keep an eye out. I'll divulge one little tidbit to whet your whistle... .... sshhhhhh..... there are some freebies included in these classes. Everyone loves a freebie, right? Anyway, off to hang with my cutie pie kid, do some laundry, and a little scrapping maybe after his bed time hopefully. I've got my mojo going right now. I don't want to lose it! Have a great Friday folks! :)

2006-07-22T12:53:00.000-05:00

Well, we've been shopping for football equipment for hours this morning. I'm incredibly excited about him playing this season because he just LOVES football and has been waiting for years to play. But MY GOSH is that stuff expensive. Registration was about $150 and the equipment SO FAR has been about $250. Shoulder pads $50. Padding $25. Practice pants and jerseys and socks $75. Under Armour $30. Mouth guards, ice packs (yes, I just have a feeling we'll need them), chin strap and pad $25. Cleats $40. And we still have to buy game pants and socks. Luckily the helmet and game jersey are included in registration. I told my son we'd be eating PB&J's for a while. :) I think too, it's kind of like buying spices for a recipe... you have to buy the whole bottle of thyme the first time and then you'll have it for a lot of recipes later. Some of this stuff may last another season so hopefully next year it will be half as much. (If I'm wrong, please don't tell me! Ignorance is bliss.) On another note, a layout of mine was requested by Scrapbook Trends magazine for their November issue. Pretty darn exciting. :) I mailed it in today. Boy, November seems so far away, doesn't it? Well, off to do some laundry, steam clean the carpets, hang out on the back porch to watch the rain fall (wishful thinking), and hopefully a lot of just relaxing and playing games with my wonderful kid. Have a great weekend!

Shout out

2006-07-17T19:38:00.000-05:00

I heard through the grapevine that someone posted something about me on Scrapbook.com. Holy compliments batman! Some sweet person posted something about my doodling on their message boards and then some other sweet people posted very kind words about my doodling sheets. So, BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE LADIES AT SCRAPBOOK.COM! And whoever L84CROPS is, thank you so much for starting that thread! And you even spelled my name correctly. (That rarely happens!) :) On the topic of doodling (one of my favorite topics, by the way) I have a big secret that I can't completely reveal at this point but I will say this... you will be hearing, and reading, much more about doodling from me in the not-so-distant future. Watch for it at a store near you! hehehe I love secrets.

2006-07-09T11:09:00.000-05:00

I taught my Creative Alphas class yesterday afternoon and it was a blast! I taught lots of fun techniques for creating alphas and really, just how to think differently about type. Hope everyone enjoyed it! To the ladies that were there, I loved what you came up with during class. Very creative ladies! Honestly I was a little worried that class wasn't going to go over all that well because we had a much smaller group than usual but THANK HEAVENS we did! Oh my gosh we seriously could have gone on for at least another hour with those techniques and their variations. In fact, for those who inquired when it would be offered again, we'll be maxing it out at about 6 people. It requires one-on-one attention and the small class will allow me to do that. It was such a hands-on, get dirty, get messy, expand your horizons class. During the class, we talked a bit about page titles... here are links to some web sites I told you about... very helpful when stumped for a page title! The Perfect Title has tons of titles arranged by category. And dMarie Page Toppers has a tool where you can enter words relating to the subject matter of your layout and it searches the title database of ideas! Hope that helps! Speaking of classes, tomorrow night I've got the card class at Scrapbook Mania. It's a tall order to get through all those different cards but I know we can do it! Come to the class with a paper cutter, adhesive, and if you like to ink edges bring an ink pad, too. Looking forward to it!

TWO CLASSES COMING UP!

2006-07-03T21:38:00.000-05:00

Wow. I have TWO classes coming up! Let's see. The first is the CREATIVE ALPHAS class this Saturday from 2-4. I'll be teaching lots of different ways to use and create alphas for your layouts! We'll create a layout similar to this one. (Click on the image for a larger version.) You'll need to bring 3 vertical 4x6 photos of a similar topic or 2 horizontal 6x4 photos. Black and white is great but optional. Also, bring all the rub-ons and sticker alphas you can! Paper cutter, adhesive, and a marker for journaling will be needed, too. This will be a fun class. The second is on Monday, July 10th from 6-8. It's the QUICK CARDS class. We'll create 8 fun cards with a supply kit included with the class fee. The kit includes Scenic Route papers and all the accents you'll need for the cards. Just bring your paper cutter and adhesive. You can sign up for either of them by calling or going in to Scrapbook Mania. You can hold your spot by paying in advance of the class. Space is limited! Oh, and my August doodling class is already sold out. We'll be having another in September though. My August advance dooding class has a few openings.

2006-06-30T17:56:00.000-05:00

Here are the layouts I completed during the 2-day crop. (Click on each to enlarge.) Keep in mind that I spent a lot of time chatting and walking around the store and just having a fun time with my old and new friends. I used lots of doodling on these, a lot of marker and pen work. I really like how they turned out. It's weird how haphazard they are when I'm doing them and I mess up and fix them and mess up again and fix them again. In the end though, somehow they turn out alright.

Love my family!

2006-06-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

I never get to see my family. I'm so happy I'm getting to spend time here. Let's see, my mom, sister, three nephews, brother-in-law, my dad, my son are all here! It's raining but we've been able to get some good stuff in anyway. The photo is of my oldest nephew, Chad, and my son. They jumped in the hot tub in their clothes (the goofballs). Their hair is exactly the same, too. It's cute. More updates later. Just wanted to check in and say hello! Oh, and the 2-day crop was FANTASTIC! I met lots of great ladies and spent time with my friends Jenney and Angela. So glad they were there! And I did a few layouts that I really like. Have a good week everyone!

Woohoo!

2006-06-22T05:26:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited. Two whole days of scrapping! I can't wait to see my friends and do some serious scrapbooking. There are about 15 of us and we're getting goodie bags and there will be prizes. Looking forward to meeting everyone! Oh and I of course have to mention the chocolate fountain that will be there! I've seen it in action. Three tiers of melted chocolate cascading down calling out for you to dip a piece of cake, or a strawberry, or other little morsel of yummy goodness. LOL Seriously though, I am looking forward to the other stuff, too. :-)

2006-06-20T05:45:00.000-05:00

I called this one Brave Reflection.

It's about how hard it is to know that how my son turns out is a direct reflection of me and if I'm doing a good job or screwing up! Such pressure! Of course it's worth every second of every minute of every day. I know all I can do is my best, which isn't always perfect for sure. I love this layout. It makes me happy. And sad. And scared. My gosh I love this boy.