Leana' s Creative Side

Recipe Box with Sophia

2011-06-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

This is June's Workshop Project. I'm so excited about it. I copied this cute idea from page 9 of the current Idea Book from Close To My Heart.

Sophia Level 2 paper packs turns this z13222 My Creations Recipe/Photo Box into a really cute gift. I used the D1470 Dreams Come True and Celebrate Everyday Stampset.

Teacher Thank You Gift Bag's

2011-05-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

The packaging of a gift is just as important as the gift and can be the most fun to create. Here are two white gift bags I decorated for T's teacher's gifts. I used the retired Zipdee level 2 paper pack. You're Sweet, Comments, Believe Alphabet, and Card Chatter stamp sets. The Ink is Dutch Blue and Cranberry. The crayon is from a Child's Year Circut cartridge. I think these turned out really cute. I was inspired by a card on Jeanette Lynton's blog.

Leadershare projects

2011-05-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

This was one of the creative things we made a Leadershare. I had not made one of these before, but this was so fun it's now this month's workshop project. This is the new Irristables alphabet and Villa. The paper is from the Mayberry Level 2 Paper Pack. The cube is the my creations cube. This makes a great gift. This card I created as a quick thank you during some of our free crop time. It uses the May stamp of the month and a goodie but oldie paper paper pack.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

With this most important day just around the corner I thought I'd share the cards I've made for my mom's. I used the stampset Grown with love, A little Everything, and Sans alphabet from Close To My Heart. The baber is from Twitterpatted and caboodle. I hope you have a very speical mother's day!

Hope for Japan

2011-04-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THE VICTIMS OF THE EARTHQUAKE AND tsunami in Japan, and like you, Close To My Heart is eager to help. And helping has never been easier!
During April, purchase the exclusive “Hope for Japan” A-size stamp set for the special price of only $5 (retail value $7.95) and Close To My Heart will donate 100% of the profits to the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. This beautifully designed stamp set reminds us of how our hearts are hopeful for those who are in need.
Contact me today to get involved in this heart-worthy cause.

Leadershare 2011

2011-04-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend to spend at the most beautiful beaches in the world! Friday night Jennifer Johnson and I headed to Navarre, FL for Close To My Heart's Leader Share event. We were there with 75 of our Scattered Hearts team members and some of our esteemed friends from Corporate. Talk about a fun filled weekend. Tina Sutton and Close to My Heart really know how to so us a good time. We cropped, created wonderful new layouts, a 3-d My creations cube, and learned so much. I'll show you some artwork asap.

Studio J rocks

2010-12-06T20:53:00.001-08:00

It was great to get 3 2page layouts done in a 2 hour span this weekend. Studio J is fabulous and just what it promises. Faster, simpler, and easier. You can try it for free on my close to my heart website. But to get the most out of it for less purchase a membership. You'll have access to more layout options, pay less for printing (even less then where you already get your prints) and you'll have exclusive paper kits from CTMH to choose from. Want to know more? Email me.

Banner!

2010-12-01T08:41:00.001-08:00

I've loved all of the great banners you creative folks have been posting. I thought I'd give it a go and make one for my daughter's room. I started it and then saw the Oct. 2010 Scrapbooks Etc one by Hilary Kanwischer and was further inspired. I hope you like it.
Everything is Close To My Heart. The cardstock is Spring Iris and Hollyhock, you'll also see colonial white and Cocoa. The patterned paper is from cherry-o and Topstitch. The ribbon is Hollyhock Ribbon round collection and the Bulk Twill. In case you want to create one of your own. I made my pennets 6x9.

Stamps + Cricut= a cake fit for a princess

2010-11-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

I used my cricut expression to cut out this banner, then I stamped it with a retired stampset called Confetti & Favors along with the number 4 from the Chocolate Alphabet small in Crystal Blue ink. I think it was the finishing touch that really made this cake for my dear daughter special. I love to think outside the layout with my stamps, paper, and cricut!

Thank you gift with Olivia and Nov. stamp of the month

2010-11-10T20:55:00.001-08:00

I've got just a second and wanted to share these cute gift jars I created last night for today's teacher appreciation luncheon at my daughter's school. The image below is not that clear because I was in a rush to take it. But I think you can get the gist. I used Olivia, Barn Red textured card stock and the awesome Nov. stamp of the month. They turned out really cute. Everything is Close To My Heart. I did use my circut and a punch for the shapes.

My job was to decorate a table for the luncheon and I chose a fall theme and I think the paper went perfect. Hope you find some inspiration!

Trick or Treat... give me sometin' good to eat!

2010-10-14T05:19:00.001-07:00

Trick or TREAT!! Join me on Oct. 30th at Cream and Sugar in Mobile, AL and your little trick or treater can create one of these adorable treat bags to carry on Halloween. Each bag even has reflective tape on the sides for safety. All supplies are included in the $6 class fee and the bag is ready to assemble. RSVP to me, choose your bag and your time slot (1 or 2pm). All supplies except the, bags, ribbon, googly eyes and reflective tape are from Close To My Heart.

Dimensional Elements-Ornaments!

2010-10-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

LOVE LOVE LOVE these new Ornament Dimensional Elements from Close To My Heart. I used the Mistletoe Creative Basics and a dash of Level two to make these. Everything is from CYMH. I created them for a class I did last month. They were lifted and adapted from other wonderful CTMH gals. I hope you like them enough to give them a try. They would be great with photos inside or on the back (that's what I plan to do after this year's Christmas)

Christmas Cards- with Mistletoe

2010-09-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

So it's been a while since I last posted. Sorry and shame on me. But on a good note I have something new to show you. I created a Christmas Card workshop for some local ladies. We used the Mistletoe Creative Basics (page 88) and A Timber stamp set ($7.95). They are beautiful!! Yes, I'm humble can you tell. Everything is CTMH. If you'd like a copy of the workshop email me, and if you'd like to order the supplies log on to my website.
These cards were created using patterns from Jeanette Lynton's Wishes and my Originals. And the first card was inspired by another CTMH consultant.

Cherry-O Mini Full Album

2010-08-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here's the whole she-bang. I created this for my group that will meet tonight. I am totally diggy how it turned out. I hope you'll agree. Everything is from Close To My Heart.

Supplies:

Cherry-O workshop on the go

You're Sweet B1351

Tasty Treats D1427

Chocolate grosgrain

Bitty sparkles

Chocolate waxy flax z1088

white Embroidery floss from the neutral assortment z1096

Chocolate, Sweet Leaf, Tulip Inks

Adorables z1321

Board Book z1310

Cherry-O Mini Album

2010-08-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

This is my workshop for my Hostess Rewards club that meets tomorrow night. It's turned out soo cute. I'll post more photos soon. It uses the Close To My Heart Cherry-O workshop on the go, Around the Block and Elegant Script Alphabets

Clear Card

2010-08-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at one of the new stampsets from the new Close To My Heart products coming out this fall. I have wanted to play with the clear cards for a while and when I saw this new Party Pennants set I knew it would be perfect with our retired special Key To My Heart set. CTMH offers so many great specials if you like this retired one you'll love the next one. I'll be posting details soon.

Clear cards are unique in the challenge that they create with the clear surface. A great trick on the clear cards is to use the Liquid Glass to adhere your paper and embellishments so that you have a clear finish.

Huge Surprises in store

2010-07-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Close To My Heart retired list has just been announced and it's got lots of surprises and it means CTMH has some huge things in the works for you and me. Check it out here. Everything on this list is available only while supplies last. It's full of CTMH Exclusive goodies you need to grab now, because once they're gone they're gone. Retiring items will go fast so place your order quickly. You can do that 24x7 from my website . If the link is broken email me and I'll email you the list.

Back from Convention!!

2010-07-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

Yeah it's so nice to be home and in pajamas all day. Don't get me wrong, I had an awesome time and have become so re-inspired. I can't wait for the faucet of creative juices to get to flow freely. Right now I'm still in the unpack and clean up mode. However, I wanted to share with you the swap cards I made. Swapping in case you may not know is where you create cards and trade them with others. All of the patterns are from Wishes or Originals by Jeanette Lynton, unless otherwise noted. All supplies are from Close To My Heart. I used patterns to make these easy to duplicate.
This "Hello" card is from the Zippidee paper pack, and uses the Spring Time stamp set as well as For Every Occasion for Hello.

This was my most popular swapped item. The pattern is from the Oct. 2009 issue of Cards by Kim Schofield. I think it's perfect for CTMH's Topstitch paper. The Sentiments is from Card Chatter-Thank You. You Rock is one of my favorite CTMH paper packs. I added the Just Like You stamp set and used the Masking Technique. This following card still uses the You Rock B&T but I added sweet leaf cardstock and stamped the flower in Baby Pink from the A Posy Stamp set.

Well that's all for now. I must get out of these PJ and shower (tmi I know) before DH realizes that DW is a slump-a-dinka. TaTa.

Happy Daddy Day

2010-06-18T13:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a lift from this week's Color Me Monday from http://www.jeanettelynton.com/

I loved how she created a masculine card with the You Rock Stamp set and the current Stamp of the month. I used You Rock and Ticket to Ride to get the same effect, but I threw in some Outdoor Denim cardstock.

Pit Stop

2010-06-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

I saw a photo once of a child's tiny legs on a big potty and I knew I wanted to try that shot. Well I had an opportunity when Taylor wore only his birthday suite and cars slippers on the little potty. This will surly come in handy during the rebellious years. This is a layout created in StudioJ. I love how quick and versatile it is.

Happy Grad Day

2010-06-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

Zippedee is a very fun paper packet and I really enjoyed creating this card is for a friend's high school Graduation. The card is inspired by one created by Melanie Douthit found Oct 2009 Cards magazine. Everything is CTMH. The Star is from our new Stars Dimensional Elements (Z1312) and the button is from the summer collection (z1282), the stamp set is from Shinning Star (D1320). I used goosebumps with my Quickutz to dry emboss the cardstock.

Hoppy Easter

2010-06-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

Studio J is great for instant gratification. I was able to quickly turn this layout out with the Exclusive digi Easter paper pack and embellishments. It feels great to create fast sometimes and to be able to add it to the scrapbook without a lot of fuss. Hope you try Studio J today if you haven't already. You can access it from my new website. Did I mention it's free? Yep, there's no cost to you to use the software and nothing to download and install (if you have Reader & Flash).

2 Cute 2 Scare

2010-05-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

When my 2 year old son first saw this layout in person he cried. He was scared of the Wicked Witch of the West. The funny part is on Halloween he didn't cry when he saw my mom, however it took him a few minutes to warm up to her. This is the first Studio J layout I created. I knew I couldn't wait to get this one done because it was such a wonderful memory. I wanted to make sure it was captured and Studio J was the perfect way to accomplish it. I completed it very quickly with the new digital software and the StudioJ exclusive Halloween digi paper pack.

Going Digital

2010-05-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

This is one of my first few layouts created in CTMH's new Digital Scrapbooking software. It's called Studio J and it's just been unveiled and ready for you to try. It really is incredibly easy! You've got to try it.

You Rock! Workshop This Tuesday night

2010-04-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

I LOVED The single page layout on page 20 of the current Close To My Heart Idea book. I wanted to give it a go for my club. So here's my mock up minus the sewing (can't do that in such short workshop). I added the Winning Layout from page 114 of Cherish to accompany it. I think it works really well. It's rocking with this You Rock level 2 paper pack and the Star power Stamp Set. Everything is CTMH. I used the lower case Giggle alphabet stamps and a large capital S from our Dimensional Elements. The awesome new Rockin Top Coats and our white Daisy brads accent the layout very nicely. The large star is from Shining star, a very versatile stamp set. If you look close you'll see our gold embossing powder and our new Glitz glitter glue in Stardust. I can't wait to add my pictures.

A little of everything

2010-04-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Stamps of the Month from Close To My Heart are awesome and the March one especially. Here's a card I made using it along with the retired Key To My Heart special campaign paper and the exclusive stampset that came with the Topstitch workshop on the go.

Magical 3rd birthday

2010-03-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a layout I did end of last year but never posted. I had lots of photos I wanted to include so I used photoshop elements to create the collage. The paper and embodiments are from Close To My Heart's Magic Moment's Kit and Mini Medley collection. The pink textured paper is Bazzil. I used the Circut to cut out the title, 3 and the cute scrolly frame. The photo is the frame is my favorite of my daughter. She looks so grown up here but oh so pretty. This layout is oh so very simple, but that's exactly what it needed with such a large collage of photos.

Spring time

2010-03-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

It was love at first sight with the new Springtime stampset from Close To My Heart. I have been wanting to use it since I got it, but here's my first crafty item completed with it. Everything is CTMH. The paper is from the Caboodle Level 2 kit leftover from the Workshop On The Go. The Flowers are clear button, and the rays of the sun are cut up sorbet ric rac ribbon. The stampsets used are Springtime, the Clouds and rain drops are from Childhood, the puddle is from Worlds Best Dad (past stamp of the month), Rain is stamped using Elegant Script.

Snow on the Gulf Coast

2010-03-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

Last month we had a few white clumps fall from the sky. It's really quite a thrilling event around here. I wish I would have ventured about an hour north to really have been able to play in the snow. They received about 5 inches and well the only accumulation we saw lasted about 10 seconds. Kallie loved it. Taylor was curious and then decided he doesn't like the cold. This was their first and hopefully not last experience with snow.

The photos are not that great I couldn't get the true white to show up, or just how pretty the glitter rubbons are either. Everything is from CTMH. The colors are Creme Brulee and Twilight. The patterned paper is from Aspen. I used my Circut to cut out the letters. and I painted with create a shade on the edges of the Creme Brulee cardstock. I plant to add a few more things but I wanted to share this with you anyway. I couldn't wait.

Felicity thank you card

2010-02-26T18:32:00.000-08:00

It's great when you can use scraps to create something unique. This card uses the special Felicity paper from CTMH. It was the national scrap booking month special paper pack. I had cut a tree out this paper and used it on another card. I loved out the negative image look and knew it would look great with some cocoa cardstock behind it. Have a great weekend.

Love Card with Caboodle

2010-02-25T08:27:00.000-08:00

Here's the V-day card I made for my sweetie and gave to him on V-day. Yes, I'm posting this a bit late but I still wanted to share it with you. It's a little non-traditional. I used the Close To My Heart Caboodle level 2 paper pack and the die cuts from a past CTMH promotion. All you see here is CTMH.

Congrats!!!

2010-02-24T13:02:00.000-08:00

My dearest friend and her husband recently found out they are expecting their first child in Sept. I am soooo very excited for them. I wanted to let them know just how much. Here is a card I created to send them using the leftovers from this month's Workshop On the Go. I used the Circut to cut out the cute lady and the stickers are from another company, everything else is CTMH and comes from the Veranda Workshop on the Go. We'll be working with it here Thursday night. I'm very excited. It's beautiful!

Get Creative with Create A Shade pearl Paint

2010-02-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

I was challenged to teach a technique to a small group of fellow Close To My Heart Consultants. In coming up with the technique to teach I became inspired by one of the most awesome and overlooked products CTMH has to offer. Create-a-Shade pearl paint, I created so many fun and unique accents with this versatile product. Here is a card where I used the paint to stamp over a previously stamped image. I love how it gives it depth and character, and was so very easy to do.

This is my most favorite card to date. I will at some point give it to Nick.

This is a close up of the paint technique I used on the bird. If you look closely you can see that I used a coordinating purple marker to outline the flourishes. I made them by stamping on top of the bird with the flourishes stamp from the Grace Workshop on the Go while it was covered in the Create a shade paint. I used the matching marker to also shade the bird and flowers. You'll notice the shading on the branch too. To attach the clear shapes I used the Xyron. It worked perfectly to give a secure translucent fit.

Everything except the purple base textured cardstock, and the twine is a CTMH product.

Stampsets used:

A Tweet

Ink:

Bamboo

Cocoa

Hydrangea

Amethyst

Paper:

Green B&T Duo from Emporium

Accents:

Journaling Spots Journey

Colonial white Rickrack

Pearl Beads
Rubons: Nature's Ambiance

Clear Shapes

Faux Metallic

2010-02-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

I was honored to demo a Faux Metallic technique I created using our incredibly versatile Create a shade Paint. Here is the card and the instructions below.

Faux Metallic Look
w/ Close To My Heart Create a Shade Pearl Paint

Give your projects an easy to create faux metallic look

Supplies:
-White Daisy Cardstock
-Create-a-shade paint
-Paint brush
-CTMH Double Stamp Set & appropriate blocks
-Transparency Sheet
-Black Stazon
-CTMH Ink color of choice (darker colors work best)

Instructions:
-Stamp your base image on White Daisy Cardstock
-Stamp your overlay image with Stazon on to the transparency sheet
-Cut transparency image out
-Paint a thin layer of create-a-shade paint on top of base image
-Lay transparency on top of base image while paint is still wet
-Cut base image out and adhere to project

All products are CTMH. Paper used is Bella Level 2, Stamp set used is Aspiration & Somethin' Special. The card pattern is Center Circles from Wishes.

WowZer, Wednesday

2010-02-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

I'm just popping in because I wanted to share something that's important to me. I am training for my first 5k that will happen at the end of March. Now to many it's no big deal, but to a girl who's never run a mile in her life it is. (Really in in school I walked more than I ran.) Today I ran the full 3.1 miles. I'm so proud!! Yippee. I hope that whatever goals you've set and are working toward will be fulfilled and bring you satisfaction.

Lincoln said it best:

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing."

Thank you, Mom!

2010-02-09T14:04:00.001-08:00

My sweet mom made these beautiful dish towels for me. She gave me two and then I discovered two in random places around the house. And just yesterday she gave me a 5th. It's just like her to be so thoughtful and loving.

As a thank you I made this card using Treasures and Card Chatter stamp sets. Everything but the ribbon is CTMH. The ribbon is from Adornments (it's very old, I bought it when I first started scrapbooking)

Be Mine

2010-02-03T18:13:00.000-08:00

These are super easy and kid friendly. My 3 year old and I assembled these. I used my Cricut to cut out the heart shapes. Next we distressed the edges with the CTMH sponge tool and tulip ink. We stamped Happy V-day in the center. Then we poked a hole and threaded pink Joann's ribbon to tie two heart shaped bracelets to the back. These were super simple, and inexpensive to create for my daughter's dance class. The polk dot paper is from the Jingle Paper pack, the stripe paper is from Hobby Lobby.

Got MOJO?

2010-02-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

I do... Here's my card using the Mojo Monday sketch. This is the first sketch challenge I've participated in. It's kind of left me feeling nervous and naked. You know the feeling? Okay maybe it's just me.

For this card I used Close To My Heart's Magic Moments level 2 paper pack, Hollyhock ribbon & ink. The brads are all CTMH's as well. The flower I made with their Hollyhock twill ribbon. The stamp set is for March's stamp of the month. It's called A Little Everything. It has sooo many uses. It's a great one to make sure you have on hand. It covers nearly every sentiment and holiday.

Tweet Cards

2010-01-28T20:18:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling a little crafty lately and here's a few things I've turned out...

The top two cards are from the ever tasty Felicity Paper Kit from Close To My Heart. It's a special kit that you can earn free or purchase out right. But the time is limited, it ends Sunday. The card pattern from the round card can be found in the ever helpful "Wishes" book from Jeanette Lynton. It's called Merry Go Round. The second card uses a Cricut Cartridge for the tree and scallops. The colors are bamboo, twilight, cocoa, and sorbet. The branch and heart leaves came from the exclusive stamp set included in the CTMH Twitterpatted Workshop on the Go.

I made these cards for each of my current club members as thank you for being such fun and faithful members. I left them blank so they could use them & pass on the joy. The paper is from Notebook, the colors are black, crystal blue, bamboo, and hollyhock. Everything on all cards is CTMH. The Flower stamp set is the exclusive set that came with the Sweet Home Work Shop on the Go. The T is a Circut cut letter, and the Thanks came from Thoughtful Seasons.

I still have room for you if you would like to join my 2010 Hostess Rewards Club.

The details can be found here. You do not have to live here to get in on the awesome deals and inspiring projects.

Email me if you have questions.

Gift of Cards

2010-01-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

This is actually a set of 8 cards I created after being inspired by the always lovely Lisa Steinz a fellow CTMH'er. I gave this set as a Christmas gift. The photos are AWFUL! Hopefully you can get the idea any way. The Ink's and stamps as well as white paper are CTMH.

The stamps are Treasures, and Treasure Life.

I'm Easy...

2010-01-08T04:22:00.000-08:00

Not me the card silly... Yes I love simple and easy cards. It can be so refreshing to create something and get instant gratification. That's just what this cute birthday card for my brother is to me. I used a retired set called Road Trip. It's wonderful when you can go through your stash and find delicious papers you've forgotten about. The Happy is stamped in Clover Medow ink using Giggle Lowercase, Birthday is stamped in Orange ink using the Thoughtful Seasons Stampset, The stars are from the Road Trip My Stickease, The Pattern is from Wishes, the Present uses the above inks along with Star SPangled Blue and Somethin' Special stampset. (these items excluding the paper can be purchased through me if you'd like to create your own easy but not sleazy cards)

Scrapbooking Rewards Club--- Starting in Feb.

2010-01-05T06:01:00.000-08:00

Scrapbooking can renew your soul, refresh your mind as well as preserve your treasured memories. This is a great opportunity for you to get more than your monies worth and get your scrapbooking layouts completed. Our club starting in Feb will meet once each month for a full year. If you decide to take part now you'll receive the following benefits for YOU.

(Below is our first project for 2010)
Here are the exciting PERKS:

~You will receive over $60 in FREE products just for being a club member!
~You will get the stamp of the Month FREE during your month! It's a $26.13 value!
~You will get Connection Club gift located on the back of the Idea Book, FREE with each new book.
~You will get the Idea Book ($3.95 value) FREE of charge each term (four per year for a total of $15.80)
~You might also like to know that for the members who participated in all 12 months will also
receive a 12x12 Close to My Heart linen album free. That's nearly a $35 value.

(Below is the 2 page layout completed Nov's club meeting.)

Here are the details of the Scrapbook Hostess Club Commitment:

· Each month you will purchase the supplies to make the month's project. (The project will be chosen by a vote of attending club members at the previous month's meeting)
· The club meets for a year. (once a month on a date selected by all attending members at the previous month's meeting.)
· Your minimum purchase will consist of the paper and accessories you will need to create the month's projects and so much more.
· The cost of the kit is $25.00. You will get a minimum of $25.00 in supplies. Most months you will have enough left over supplies for several other projects. You can select to purchase the Better ($35 kit) or the Best kit (price varies). The better & best kit contains an exclusive stamp set that can only be purchased during the workshop, the best kit contains other coordinating accessories.

First 2009 Club project used Emporium

A sample of your kit may be: Our beautiful coordinating Background and Texture Paper and cardstock from a themed Level 2 Paper Pack, and Items such as coordinating My Stickease, My Acrylix Stamps, or coordinating accessories such as Ribbons, My Accents, Bigger Brads, Chipboard, etc.· Your cost provides you with 100% products and no class fees. (You pay for materials but not a class fee.) 1. These pages are created with tools and techniques so you learn as you go/grow. 2. Many of these designs come from our unique Scrapbook Programs, such as Cherish and Imagine.

· You are required to BYOBasics: paper trimmer, adhesive, scissors, glue dots, etc.
· If you can not attend class, then I will have a class kit with directions ready for you and you can pick it up at your convenience.
· When joining, you will be able to choose an open month to bring drinks and refreshments for your class. That is the month that you will receive the Stamp of the Month for FREE!

Another benefit to belonging to this exclusive scrapbook club is you will receive a FREE monthly scrapbook class from me! I will teach you new techniques, we'll use new products, and I'll guide you as you create 2 or more incredible layouts each month! I'm so excited to teach you the many wonderful things you can do with the products you purchase. They won't sit on the shelf and stay packaged up in the bag! We all know how often this becomes a problem, but I guarantee you won't be dealing with this issue by being in this club!

I want to go one step further and offer you an extra incentive to get even more products FREE:· If you recruit a friend that I haven't invited to join the club with you then you will receive any "A" size stamp set ($10.95 value) or Level 1 kit ($9.95 value) in the current catalog FREE! · If you recruit 2 friends to join you will receive any "B" size stamp set ($13.95 value) or a Level 2 paper pack ($12.95 value) in the current catalog FREE! I am very excited about this Scrapbook Hostess Club and would love for you to be a part of it!

Feel free to contact me via email or phone if you have any questions or if you would like to sign up. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Teacher's Gift

2010-01-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

(Back of clip board)

I have a very good friend who's a 4th grade teacher. I wanted to give her something cool but practical. Here's what I came up with. It's an acrylic clipboard purchased at an office supply store. I've altered the back of it. I wanted something she could use on a daily basis but that also looked good. This acrlyic clipboard is pretty and functional.

(Front side of clip board)

I used all CTMH products. The paper is attached to the back of the clipboard with CTMH's liquid glass. Tip: work quickly and with lots of liquid glass. You can use a foam paint brush or a flat bone folder type item to spread the liquid glass. Whatever you use make sure to spread it in the same direction, up and down or back and forth, evenly and all the way to the edge. I used a Aleene's spray acrylic sealer on the paper to help it adhere well. When you lay the paper down you want to make sure to get all of the air bubbles out so the paper will lay flat. Remember to work quickly. Now that the paper is attached and dried, use the spray acrylic sealer to seal the paper and prep it for mod podge. I gave mine a couple of light coats before using the mod podge. After drying I added several light coats of mod podge with a paint brush. Make sure to cover any overlapping paper edges really well (that means several coats). I found that mod podging worked best when the items seams are guled down well. If it's not you can use the mod podge as a glue and keep going over it until it's sealed. When you are satisfied with your mod podge and it's dry spray a couple of more coats of the acrylic sealer. The sealer kept the item from bubbling and feeling sticky or tacky.

Products used:

Twitterpated Paper,

Chocolate, Sorbet, & White ribbon

Stamps:

Key to My Heart

Aspiration (C1340)

Ink:

Chocolate

Notice the details

2009-12-29T20:29:00.000-08:00

You know when you have to give a card to a guy, you've got to simplify it and not make it too fussy. Well it can be harder than you think. I love to add all the little extras, (not talking about perfume and lipstick, because that would be weird and everyone knows I'm not weird. Unique maybe.?.) I'm talk'n embellishments and texture lending ribbon or fibers. I really love the December stamp of the month from Close To My Heart. The possibilities are endless. For this card I wanted to create something masculine for my brother in law's birthday. I used the Sweet Home paper pack and the Overview pattern from Originals to jump start this card. I think it turned out really nice, and no estrogen overload. The Stamp sets used are Comments, Notice the Details, and

I know I know... long time no post

2009-12-23T12:15:00.000-08:00

So are you thinking what I'm thinking? I've really gotta change this wallpaper.

Well I'm sure Christmas is buzzing all around you. I am so sorry to have neglected this blog. I've been working on several things to share with you. One of them is my Christmas cards. I created these homey little cards with all CTMH products. I really wanted something unique to send.

I made about 26 cards with a photo insert. Each card was a little different. I sent these to the people I think would appreciate it and not instantly gag at another photo card. ( I personally love getting the photo cards. It's so personal)
This is the cover, without the top ribbon, for last year's cookie recipe swap with Tina Sutton. I changed my up a bit, but I think it's totally fun.

I pray the Christmas spirit fills your heart today and throughout the new year. God Bless You and Yours!

Pumpking Patch Layout

2009-11-16T21:30:00.000-08:00

For me this is my wow layout. I am tickled with how it turned out. I worked on it here and there through out the week and finsihed it up Saturday.We made our annual trip to the pumpkin patch and of course I lugged the big gun out and shot everything thing in site so as not to forget a moment. It was hard just choosing a few photos for this 2 page layout. You cannot really tell in the photo but the two pages are mounted on colonial white cardstock. The patterned paper is from Twiterpated, the CTMH Stamp sets featured are Many Thanks, Homestead and Elegant Script Alphabets. You also see Barn Red cs, chocolate ribbon, journaling spots, Top Coats, and colonial buttons with chocolate embroidery floss. Everything except the round scalloped page is CTMH. It's from Bobunny. Doesn't it work great with this gingham paper?

Road Trip Layout

2009-11-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I traveled to see my best friend in Myrtle Beach. We had so much fun making this a "just us" trip. Here's what my hidden journaling reads about the first part of the trip:

Kallie and I loaded up in the car on Sept. 23, 2009 for a trip to visit our very good friends Jennifer and Jon Dale in sunny Myrtle Beach, SC. Heavy flooding in and around Atlanta changed our course. Instead of spending the night in downtown Atlanta and visiting the Aquarium we traveled the back roads and stayed the night in a wonderful Holiday Inn Express right in the heart of historic Savannah, GA. Kallie was thrilled the entire trip and never complained, even when our AC went out. She loved stopping at the Lane Peach Orchard right outside of Warner Robbins, GA. We bought two peaches, toured the shop, tried out every thing on the playground. The morning in Savannah was spent touring the river walk and the shops along. We saw tug and steam boats, and pet a horse. Kallie’s two favorite things about Savannah were the clock and bell tower on top of their city hall building, and the cobble stone streets. We watched and listened for the bell chimes throughout the morning. My favorite landmark was The Lady and Son’s restaurant. Kallie only ate the bite in the photo, but trust me everything was delicious. We then moved on in a very hot car ride to our destination.

I bought this paper and coordinating accents at a cute store in Myrtle Beach. This is the Abby Road collection from My Mind's Eye. the fibers are from Adornment. the Eyelet and the two tags Scenic route and adventure are from Making Memories. All embellishments are from CTMH. The LO is based on a sketch from the June 2009 Creating Keepsakes (High School Junior by Suzy Plantamura).

The two beach pictures printed too dark and will have to be reprinted and replaced, so forgive them, I just couldn't wait to post it. Hope you like it.

New Vision

2009-11-03T05:48:00.000-08:00

I love it when something new and original comes from something ordinary. I think this card is just that. Lisa Stenz created a beautiful Christmas card I just had to lift and share with you. She saw a beautiful Holly branch in the Stamp set that came with the Twitterpated On The Go Workshop from Close to My Heart. Here's the stamp set as is.

If you would like to make your own you can order the Twitterpated WOTG or any of the current WOTG from me. This is the finished project with all of the wonderful coordinating embellishments.
For my card above I used all CTMH products, The Twiterpated WOTG exclusive stamp set, Festive Thoughts Stamp set, the Childhood stamp set for the string and bows, the New England Ivy Buttons, white embroidery floss, Chocolate, Holiday Red and New England Ivy ink.

Polar Express- I Believe

2009-10-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend's creative time creating this card to mimic the Polar Express. I started it on Friday and finished just a few minutes ago working on it here and there. I just added a final touch after this photo was taken. I took my white gel pin and added snow dots in the Juniper CS. It add another dimension and a finishing feel.

Supplies:

I used CTMH's Childhood stamp set to create the train, the tracks were created using the fence from Spellbound and I used a masking technique. The paper is from Jingle Level 2. The snow on the train and the puffs of smoke are liquid applique. The only non CTMH product is the stickles. I don't know if you can see it on the snow at the bottom of the card I used the Pearl Create a Shade paint to give it a fun shimmer and textured look. My Quickutz mini Venus dies were used to cut out the believe in the Tulip paper, then they were coated in the ultra wonderful, how did we live without it Stickles. I hope you like this card. It was fun to create and a complete original design. PS I forgot to mention the snow was created by stamping with the cloud outline stamp from the Childhood set, then cutting out, and using the reverse side.

Trick Or Treat...

2009-10-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

...Give me something good to eat! You know how you've become a collector of Scrapbooking supplies? You know what I mean, you buy the prettiest paper, and cool new embellys and then just save and save them. Well, I bought a package of door hangers from CTMH when I joined back in 2005. I finally found something worthy of them. I actually used one as a template to create this cute treat door hanger (yes it does fit an actual door knob) I'm going to make a few up for my children and a few of their friends. I thought the new Beware stamp set and the retiring Enchanted paper pack fit perfectly together. Everything but the ribbon and candy is CTMH.

Warm Winter Wishes Quickie Gift

2009-10-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

This could be a really fast and inexpensive gift to give. This is not a new idea but I did make up my own template for it and the finished size is 4x5.5. These papers are from my long held stash and the only things CTMH are the Snowman stamp and the New England Ivy CS. The stripe paper is from Hobby Lobby and the Damask paper is from Anna Griffin (both really old papers). I created this just for fun and I wanted to use up some of the paper I have taking up space

Tip: I finally invested in a really good craft x-acto knife. This was the way to go to cut out the Snow man so close to the edge. I used the gripster it's around $5 and really is something I can't believe I've gone this long with out.

Seniors Rule!

2009-10-15T20:44:00.001-07:00

Today 4 wonderful ladies at the local senior center participated in my free card class. They are a great group of ladies who have never created cards. They were truly excited. What I loved most was that they had no idea what they signed up for, they thought they might have to work on the computer. It was wonderful to see them jump right in there and get inky fingers. All of the ladies had a great attitude and made this fun for me. I look forward to our next class. These are the three cards we created. All products are CTMH.

This card uses the Many Thanks stampset, Sorbet ribbon, CS & Ink, Coca Ink & CS, Desert Sand CS & Vanilla CS.

This card was their favorite. They loved the Bella Paper. Here I used Thoughtful Seasons stamp set for the Happy Birthday, Annotations ( a past SOTM) for the tag and for you, Colonial white brads, and Holly Hock Ribbon & Ink. The card they made used the olive ink. I personally like that instead of the smoky plum that I used for this card. This next card uses my favorite paper from last year. It's called Notebook. The stamp set is my newest favorite and it's called Childhood portrait. The Ink is black.

My sweet Cupake is having another birthday!

2009-10-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

This is the birthday invitation I created for my daughter's 3rd birthday. They are really fun and very easy to create. The texture on these is surely the icing on the cupcake!

To mimic a real cupcake liner I used a dry embossing pen to create the vertical lines you see on the brown textured card stock.

And I used my quickcutz goosebumps to emboss the pink icing top. The stamp is from the Celebrate Everyday card kid and the # 3 is from the Friendship Alphabet.

The flowers are Dasiy Doodles, Basic Grey Brown Cardstock, Hobby Lobby ribbon, Hobby Lobby Pink CS, Pink brad from JoAnns.

NIce List

2009-10-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

I am a maker of lists. I have list for everything and I LOVE having a cute notebook to keep them in. I saw the makings of a great Christmas Shopping List notebook with this wooden notebook I found in a $1 section at Michael's. I used all CTMH products with the exception of the stickles to create this project. The stamp sets featured are No Peeking, Celebrate, Christmas Greetings, Sans & Classroom Alphabets. The ribbon is Creme Brulee, the paper is Jingle level 2, the colors are Tulip, Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Black. Liquid Applique is what makes Santa's beard, hat and eyebrow so life like. It's super easy to use. You simply squeeze it to apply where you want it. Let it dry overnight, then use a heat gun to puff it up. (Make sure not to cut out the item before heating so that you have something to grip.) I did add glitter on top of it for the hat. Also, add brads to the ribbon and the paper before gluing the paper down. I didn't know I wanted to add them until after I glued the paper so that's where the ripples come from. If you like it let me know. Thanks for looking.

Let it Snow....

2009-10-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

I knew I wanted to make this card when I bought this snowman set last year. But I just got around to doing it. I can see so much potential. You could easily make this a snow globe card.

You can easily re-create this card. I used acetate bought from Kinkos/Fedex, all other materials are CTMH. This is a 6x6 card. I used vellum tape to adhere the acetate to the inside of the card. I painted the snowflakes and stamped them with Create-a-Shade paint.
For the snowman I cut first stamped the bottom circle and flurry image in Juniper on the Juniper card stock. Then I stamped the same circle and flurry image along with the other images shown on white cardstock. I cut out each. (Color before cutting out to make sure you like it and don't waist your time). The snowman is then stacked and glued down. I used stickles to glitter the flurry.

All Sorts Mini Album Workshop

2009-09-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

This is a workshop I created (partially inspired by Jayma Malme) using the new Jingle Paper and the 6x6 All Sorts Mini Chipboard Album. The new twinkle brads are adorable and so cool with the matching glitter. I love how they set off the crocheted flowers. As a gift to anyone who reads my blog I would be happy to email you a copy of the instructions to make your own with a complete list of supplies used here. Just send me an email or leave a comment.

On the left page below I used Photoshop Elements to create a bracket that I used as a template to make this page. You can have it, just email me or leave a comment and I'll email it to you.

Here's a creative way to use the little chip board pieces you punch out of the holes. On the left page below, I colored them with markers and used liquid glass to make them look like brads. I

Scrapbooker's Extravagana

2009-09-20T19:58:00.000-07:00

And the Winner is.....

Bonnie Faulk

Here is the Grand Prize she won at yesterday's Extravaganza with Heart.

Inside is the following:

1- Party Stamp set ($6.95 value)
1- 1x1 block ($3.95 value)
1- Pewter Designer Brads ($3.95 value)
1- Chipboard Flower Album
My Accent Assortment: Brads, Edge Anchors, Photo clips, Crochet flowers, and buttons

Here are some of the items that were on display.

I created this fun gift with the tube from my children's bath crayons. (yes I did wash it out first) The candy was more full until I spilled it before taking this photo. I bought the colored candy corn at Wally world. It's Apple Cider flavored, not bad, but odd as a candy. However, don't you love the colors, sorbet, brown and white?

This is what I used to show my upcoming available dates for workshops and gatherings. I remember seeing something like this at convention last year and thought it would be perfect for a booking tree. This is an acrylic clipboard I picked up for under two bucks at walmart. What you see is the paper on the backside of the board. I love this because, I'm a wedding planner and can use this pretty clipboard at my events. The back side is also pretty, and that's what everyone sees so I love using this. It's practical and useful. I used CTMH's liquid glass to adhere the paper to the board and then I used ModPodge to seal it on the back side.

Here is my display board for the Grace Workshop on the Go. You can see more photos of the cards and the accompanying layout by scrolling down a bit. I'll have to get a better photo of this card later. I cropped it as an afterthought. I love how it turned out. I'll post the work shop photos later. I'm off to clean. I'd love to know what you think about what you've seen here. Please drop a comment in the box. ;-)

Announcing Scrapbooker’s Extravaganza w/ Heart!!!

2009-09-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooker’s Extravaganza w/ Heart!!!

And you’re invited

Want Free scrapbook supplies?

Saturday September 19, 2009
2:00pm-5:00pm Extravaganza
5:00pm-8:00pm Mini-Album Workshop
($25 for supplies & pre-registration required for workshop)

Every person who RSVP’s by Sept. 17th then attends will receive a free gift. All guests can make and take a treat box like the one shown above free.

Bring a friend & you get an extra special gift!

To RSVP and get directions email me

What is a scrapbook extravaganza with heart? It’s a time out with the girls; creating fun projects, and winning free stuff, and seeing awesome new scrapbooking must haves from Close To My Heart.

What could be more awesome than that?

Leana Ott
Independent Consultant with
Close To My Heart

Old Pattern New Spin

2009-09-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

I've been a little under the weather so to say. So here's my first post in a little while, but now I'm on the up swing and ready to create. This is for a future workshop I'll be hosting. (Details to come). I can't take credit for the template it's from CTMH. Actually it's from the April 2007 Workshop on the Go. It was fun to create with our new line. This project uses the new Twitterpated line from Close To My Heart and the Many Thanks stamp set. This cute card box holds 12 3x3 coordinating cards. All products are CTMH.

This workshop creates 12 3x3 cards (2 of 6 designs) and this adorable card box to hold them in. Crop attendees in Oct. will be able to make this for an additional cost.

Grace Workshop on the Go Cards...

2009-08-30T16:47:00.000-07:00

Here are the cards I promised from the Grace Workshop on the go. I love how they turned out. It was wonderful have the step by step instructions to work from. It's great to know that from one pack of paper you can get all of these cards (it makes 6, two of each design), the two page layout and so much more. The exclusive stampset is so versatile. I don't know if you noticed or not but each of the card uses one design... they are just so uniquely different.

I've also added a simple 3x3 card I made just for fun. The stamped image is from a breathtaking new stampset called Childhood Portrait. I couldn't wait to use it. I think this week I'll be using it on some layouts... hummm the possibilities.

Grace Workshop project for Sept.

2009-08-25T05:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek of the new Grace Workshop on the Go from CTMH. I just love how it turned out. It was perfect for these photos of my son at just 9 days old. This is the project my hostess club will be completing in Sept. Close To My Heart has added great value to the WOTG program, now you can get a exclusive stamp set included in the kit along with a great accent like the edge anchors used on these pages. But the bonus is that you also get the step by step instructions for 6 cards using the same paper pack, stamp set, and embelishments. It's an awesome deal. I'll post the cards in just a bit.

Card Box

2009-08-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

I challenged the ladies in my Hostess Rewards Club to create a card using a template from Jeanette Lynton's Originals book. They did fabulous. I'll get photos of the cards and post them. The winner received 6 of the cards seen posted in slide show, and they were packaged in this cute box.

The template for this box came from Lisa Stenz. We're going to make this box and another at my upcoming extravaganza. If you'd like to participate please RSVP by emailing me or posting here. The Extravaganza will be on Sept. 19th from 2-5pm. More details to come.

16 cards from Wishes

2009-08-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post before heading to bed. This is a super simple workshop from Jeanette Lynton's newest book called Wishes. It's a great resource for cards. It's got step by step directions for each card along with lots of variety of the same sketch. This set I created using Emporium and a variety of CTMH stamps (too many to list, you can email me if you'd like to know about a particular one). I kept this simple due to time issues (such as not having much of it). This workshop makes 16 cards 2 of 8 designs.

You can find this workshop on page 111.

Twitterpated Swap Spoiler

2009-08-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is a sneak peak at a swap I'm participating in. This is using the new Twitterpated Level 2 Paper Pack from CTMH. I just love how it turned out. It's an acrylic 4x6 frame (from the dollar store) I've attached a 2010 calendar on the front (using Moments in time Previous SOTM) The tree branch is from Aspiration. I did paint the small branch and stamped it on the Sweat Leaf cardstock. This pattern is from the new Wishes book. I hope you like it and better yet I hope those swapping with me love it.

Everything but the calendar and the ribbon on inside the slit of the frame, I attached the ribbon with my Xyron to the frame and the calendar is glued down with glue dots.

Humor

2009-08-19T20:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, 3rd post of the day! You'd think I did nothing but sit around the computer all day and that is so far removed from the truth. I am working on some projects for an upcoming event. And as I posted previously I am in the middle of a mission to organize everything and that includes my photos. I'm using the Organizer side of Photoshop Elements to tag and organize all my digital memories. Well while doing both, working on a project and organizing photos, (I'm a compulsive multi-tasker) I found this forgotten photo and I thought you might get a good laugh like I did. This is my son Taylor just 17 days old and a little jaundiced. But his sense of humor is shining through. He's now 17months and adorable little person. I hope this brightens your night! If so let me know.

2nd post of the day-- Trick or Treating Layout with Sneak Peak of new Spellbound Stamp set

2009-08-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, that was a mouth full. This is my second post of the day, so be sure to check out my cute box below. I tend to use other great artist's work as a jumping board, but this one was all me and it was really fun to generate my creative juice. Everything but the purple ribbon is Close to My Heart. I used Enchanted paper (get it while it lasts!) Clear buttons, Believe and Giggles alpha stamp sets, The Tree is from a new set called Spellbound. I think I'm going to re-do it on black CS. The sassy strands (in the button holes) and Alpha sets are being retired too so if you want them get them while they last. The stamp sets can count toward the $60 stamp set order so that you can get the Everyday Celebrations card kit for free!

Super Easy Favor Box

2009-08-19T04:57:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun, different and easy to create? This little box is perfect! It uses one 8.5 x 11 sheet of CTMH's Tulip cardstock and a few scraps. I did randomly stamp the background with Spot on Backgrounds, it doesn't show up in photo, but it's really cute. The stamps you see are from the exclusive new Everyday Celebration card kit you can buy or earn free (link to the right) for a limited time. The adorable dash ribbon is from the Sweetleaf Ribbon Round collection. I plan to make a dozen of these for my daughter's 3rd bday party. Now I just figure out what to fill them with. If you'd like directions send me your email and I'll forward you a tutorial link. I won't spam you promise!

Let's get together in the kitchen

2009-08-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

I am on a mission! A few weeks ago I decided to conquer one area in our home/life that needs organizing each week. Well one of those areas was my recipes. I have been holding on to this metal tin I bought with my sweet sister in Baton Rouge at a wonderful scrapbooking store a couple of years ago, yes really that long ago. I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it; I just didn't get around to it until recently. I really love the results. Here I used a wonderfully easy Close To My Heart Recipe Kit for the insert dividers and recipe cards. The Paper is a CTMH paper kit that coordinates called Let's Get Together. I'll be happy to order you one if you'd like to make your own. One tip in case you plan to make one... I found was using the large Xyron to make the paper a large sticker worked really well. It sealed the paper to the tin and will make it last a long time. It also kept it from bubbling. I have a Xyron 250.

Kreative Keepsake Box

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

I just love this paper packet. It's so versatile. I made this Treasure Box for my son and I love how it turned out. I have to admit I scraplifted this from Chris Green a fellow CTMH'er. It's a great way to keep items from Taylor's baby days. If you'd like to try one, the blank box is only 6.95 before shipping and handling. I'll be happy to order one for you.

Thank you Quickie Card

2009-07-29T13:43:00.001-07:00

Here's a great card to make when you want to use your scraps and only have a little time.

Time Flies when your having fun

2009-07-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by Michelle Zindorf today. She does beautiful work and it always stirs my creative juices. Today I pulled out my trusty brayer, dusted it off and inked up for this card.

Here I used Close To My Heart's Make it Count and Free Spirit stamp set, Black, Sunflower, Crystal Blue, Moonstruck, Olive, White Daisy and Autumn Terracotta ink. This was a quick card to make and fun to boot. I hope you enjoy it. I plan to send it to someone I love as a thank you for being the world's greatest sister and friend.

Sneak Peek at tonight's Club Workshop using Bella

2009-06-23T05:54:00.000-07:00

This using the new Bella papers from Close To My Heart along with the 6x6 Accordion album.

Some elements of this album are insipred or borrowed from other creative CTMH consultants

Moondoggie!!!

2009-06-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Oh what a fun day this was; what a beautiful way to remember it. I just love how this layout turned out. Tuesday of last week my parents, grand-parents, the kids and I went out for a fun day on the Pascagoula River. We spotted mom and dad osprey feeding their babies. Until then, I'd never seen in person a bird caring a fish. On that trip we saw two! The kids had so much fun. This was Taylor's first boat trip and he gave it two thumbs up. I am looking forward to our next boat outing.

These two pages were created during my Hostess Rewards Club that met last Friday night. They were created with Close To My Heart's Moondoggie level 2 paper paper pack, Extreme Happiness stamp set, Building Blocks Alphabet stamps, Elegant Script Alphabet stamps, Cranberry and Desert Sand Ink, and their new Journaling Spots. I'd be happy to help you create the same or similar layouts. Just ask me how.

Be Yourself Birthday Card

2009-05-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

What a blessing it is to have great friends surrounding me. Amanda is one of them and this Birthday card is for her special day tomorrow... or more accurately in the next half hour. I hope she likes it. I made it today during the kids (& DH's) nap time. I used the May Stamp of the Month from Close To My Heart and the Key to My Heart paper kit also CTMH. The layout came from Jeanette Lynton's book called Originals. I love it because sometimes I don't have time to be creative and it's a great starting point. This particular card pattern is on page 90.

Amanda I hope you have an awesome birthday!!! And remember it doesn't have to be limited to just one day; take a week or two.

Cute Birthday Card

2009-05-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

I can't say fast, it took me a while to create this. But it would be fast to re-create it. It is a 5x7 card. I made it for Drew's first birthday. I kept playing around with it one night. I thought it turned out cute. It's not to kiddish so you could use it for an adults b-day too. I used spring Iris Blue and the green pattern paper is from the CTMH Emporium Level 2 Kit. The Stamp set is birthday bash for the cake and the words are from the Nursery Set offered by CTMH.

Just playing around

2009-05-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

I was feeling in the mood to play with my mother's day gift, a new paper cutter. My DH and the kids got me for mother's day. I hinted very subtlety that I needed one and whoopee, I got it. It's taking a little getting used to, but I'm having fun breaking it in.

Here are some things I've done recently and some I just like that I've done a little while ago. I hope you find some inspiration.

This Close To My Heart Acrylic Album is a workshop I created for a Hostess Reward club that met last month. We had a blast working with this. Magic Moments is the Close To My Heart paper kit used.

It was a fun challenge to create this workshop project only using 1/2 a level 2 paper pack and one set of Magic Moments My Stickease.

The CTMH rub-ons work great on the Acrylic Album.

The pictures are not that great, but you can get the idea. It turned out really cute. This one I gave to my sister. I can't wait to see how she filled it up with photos.

This is the last page. I've got some other items I'll post for you later this week.

We're Tickled Pink!!!

2009-04-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

PUT A LITTLE MORE “YOU” IN YOUR SCRAPBOOKS & YOU’LL BE...

Tickled Pink this spring! Close To My Heart's newest scrapbooking kit puts you front and center—with verything you need to create two beautiful two-page layouts all about the things that you love and that make you shine. And speaking of shine, you’ll also be tickled by the kiss of glitter on these fabulous papers!

To get your very own Tickled Pink scrapbooking kit:

• Place a minimum order of $60 in stamp sets (excluding K-size and Stamp of the Month) between April 15-May 31 to receive a Tickled Pink scrapbooking kit FREE! limit one free kit per order.)
• Purchase the Tickled Pink kit at just $34.95—well below retail value!

Tickled Pink Scrapbooking Kit Includes
Featured Colors: Blush, Crystal Blue, Twilight, Hollyhock, Sweet Leaf
1 – My Acrylix® I Am Stamp Set (D-size)
2 – 12" × 12" Floral B&T Duos™ Paper (1 with glitter)
2 – 12" × 12" Stripe B&T Duos™ Paper (1 with glitter)
1 – 12" × 12" Blush Textured Cardstock
1 – 12" × 12" Crystal Blue Textured Cardstock
5 – 12" × 12" White Daisy Textured Cardstock
(1 sheet with die-cut shapes)
1 – Mini-Medley Accents White Daisy Collection
1– Foam Texture Tool
1– Brochure

*Tax and shipping/handling still apply. Available for a limited time while supplies last.

Favorite Layout

2009-02-16T21:42:00.000-08:00

Do you have something that just brings a smile to your face when you think about it? Okay not chocolate cupcakes... I'm talking scrapbooking. Here is one of my favorite new layouts. I just couldn't wait to share it with you. I hope you get inspired. I used the Close To My Heart Key to My Heart stamp set and level two paper kit.

This is about my daughters first haircut. Really trim. We only cut one over achieving curl. But it made a big difference.

The pictures printed in Sephia really complimented the paper colors. This layout is a scraplift from the CTMH flyer announcing this kit. The second page I used Cherish page 54 to help me create it.

For the detail, I used a Dimensional Element. I wanted to make it feel like her curl is attached to the page. I first used my blending pen to color it with Creme' Brulee ink then I stamped with the same ink and I dusted the edges with Sorbet ink. I think it really added a nice touch to the page.

Attention Stampers!!

2009-02-15T19:59:00.000-08:00

Ever thought, hummm, I'd sure love something for free. Well, you got it!

Close to my Heart is giving away this adorable 4 piece stamp set for free with every Stamp purchase totaling at least $25.

To kick off Close to my Heat's 25th anniversary as a leader and innovator in the stamping business, Close To My Heart is giving all of our stamp purchasers a fabulous gift! When you spend $25 in stamps (Customized Name and Stamp of the Month excluded), you’ll receive a custom-designed B-size My Acrylix® Good Times stamp set (retail value $13.95), packed with fun and versatile party-inspired images, for FREE!* This beautifully crafted set will be a perfect addition to your stamp collection.

Email me today to get yours. This offer is only good until Feb. 28, 2009

Create Some Love

2009-01-18T04:38:00.000-08:00

The day celebrating love is just around the corner. Why not celebrate your loved ones by giving them handmade Valentine cards. Here's a few cards I made this past week. The card layout ideas are from Jeanette Lynton's Originals Card Confidence Program. It's a great step by step cutting and layout guide. This top card I made for my friend Rhonda who just got married and this card I made for Nick as his Valentine's Day card. It started out to be a thank you card and took a big turn. The paper and stamps used are from the Key To My Heart collection from Close To My Heart. If you are interested in getting this set for yourself I'll be happy to tell you how to get it for free, this set is only available until Jan. 31.

I had so much fun creating these cards and I think they turned out really well. I used heat embossing on the Heart tag and liquid glass on the stamped heart. You may also notice the Stickles on the ribbon.

Scrapbooking Rewards Club

2009-01-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

I am forming a Scrapbook Hostess Club! I am personally inviting you to join. If you are interested in scrapbooking and/or card making, I would love to show you how Close To My Heart products can help you create faster, simpler and easier. This club will have so many benefits for YOU.

Here are the exciting PERKS:

~You will receive over $60 in FREE products just for being a club member!
~You will get a FREE 12 x 12 linen album at the end of the 12 months, if you complete all 12 classes (a $31.83 value)!~You will get the stamp of the Month FREE during your month! It's a $26.13 value!
~You will get Connection Club gift located on the back of the Idea Book, FREE with each new book.
~You will get the Idea Book ($3.95 value) FREE of charge each term (three per year.)

Here are the details of the Scrapbook Hostess Club Commitment:

· Each month you will purchase the supplies to make 4 or more scrapbook layouts.
· The club meets for a year.
· This exciting Scrapbook Hostess Club will begin in February.
· Your minimum purchase will consist of the kits and accessories you will need to create the 4
themed layout pages.

· The cost of the kit is $25.00. You will get a minimum of $25.00 in supplies. Most months you
will have enough left over supplies for several other projects.

A sample of your kit may be: Our beautiful coordinating Background and Texture Paper and cardstock from a themed Level 2 Paper Pack, andItems such as coordinating My Stickease, My Acrylix Stamps, or coordinating accessories such as Ribbons, My Accents, Bigger Brads, Chipboard, etc.· Your cost provides you with 100% products and no class fees. (You pay for materials but not a class fee.)

1. These pages are created with tools and techniques so you learn as you go/grow.

2. Many of these designs come from our unique Scrapbook Programs, such as Cherish and Reflections.

3. I provide a make-up day with the same format, in case you can't make your scheduled one, but still want to attend.

4. You are required to BYOBasics: paper trimmer, adhesive, scissors,
glue dots, etc.

5. If you can not attend your scheduled class or the make up day, then I will have a class kit with directions ready for you and you can pick it up at your convenience.

6. When joining, you will be assigned a month to bring drinks and refreshments for your class. That is the month that you will receive the Stamp of the Month for FREE!

Another benefit to belonging to this exclusive scrapbook club is you will receive a FREE monthly scrapbook class from me! I will teach you new techniques, show you new products, and guide you as you create 2 or more incredible layouts each month! I'm so excited to teach you the many wonderful things you can do with the products you purchase. They won't sit on the shelf and stay packaged up in the bag! We all know how often this becomes a problem, but I guarantee you won't be dealing with this issue by being in this club!

I want to go one step further and offer you an extra incentive to get even more products FREE:· If you recruit a friend that I haven't invited to join the club with you then you will receive any "A" size stamp set ($10.95 value) or Level 1 kit ($9.95 value) in the current catalog FREE! · If you recruit 2 friends to join you will receive any "B" size stamp set ($13.95 value) or a Level 2 paper pack ($12.95 value) in the current catalog FREE! I am very excited about this Scrapbook Hostess Club and would love for you to be a part of it!Feel free to contact me via email or phone if you have any questions or if you would like to sign up. Sign up soon, groups are forming NOW and I only have 4 spots left.

The Latest Buzz

2008-12-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

I am awaiting the arrival of the Spring Close To My Heart Idea book. It should be here any day now. Here's a peek at the cover.

January is National Paper Crafting month and to celebrate all things made with paper CTMH has an incredible gift.

This is a scrumptious kit with two sided printed paper, and a E sized stamp set (meaning big).

Here's a note from CTMH about this special.

The gorgeous new Key to My Heart Level 2 paper packet features all of our luscious
new exclusive colors: Tulip, Juniper, Sorbet, and Crème Brulee. The packet is
accompanied by the awesome new E-size My Acrylix® Key to My Heart stamp set
brimming with elegant, charming designs. It’s a great combo with a retail value of
$47.90—and from December 16 through January 31 it can be yours at substantial
savings, or even FREE!
Fun for All!
Celebrating National Papercrafting Month
What’s more, hostesses can get the kit FREE with a Home Gathering sales total
of $400 or more. And if you join Close To My Heart between January 1–31, you’ll
receive the kit FREE in your New Consultant Kit.
National Papercrafting Month promises something for everyone!

Or you can receive this when you spend $130, you’ll get the Key to My Heart kit FREE
When you spend $75, you can purchase the kit for just $20

I also wanted to share with you the Stamp of the Month for January. Just in case you were wondering what it looked like.

Need Some Creative Christmas Ideas?

2008-11-22T20:11:00.000-08:00

I've been in such a creative and Christmas mood lately. I wanted to share with you a few items I've made. I used Close To My Heart's new Festive Frills stamp set to create the trees. So did you notice the tree trunks? They're made using the tail from the larger bird in the stamp set. How cool is that? To create this and the following card I made a triangle stencil to mask the area I didn't want stamped, leaving a triangle hole to stamp in. The trees on the top card do have pop dots on the foreground trees to give it dimension.

I stamped this tree in Close To My Heart's White Daisy ink and then went back over it with a silver gel pen and added the sparkle at the top. I really think it's got a classy and polished look to it.

Few Creative Outbursts

2008-11-17T21:04:00.000-08:00

Here are two of the items I've created recently. The box is a gift box that I stamped on white cardstock using the CTMH "No Peeking" and the new CTMH "Frosty Borders" stamp set in Cranberry. This was really easy to do. Here's a link to the directions

The card is one I made for Nick's sister. She sent Kallie an Alligator costume and book about alligators. So I made this card as a thank you. On the inside I stamped "A bit of thanks". The stamp set used is CTMH's "Life's a Jungle" It was the July stamp of the month. I thought it was cute to cut a bite out of the card.

Season of Gratitude Tutorial #1

2008-11-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

This is my first card tutorial on line. I made another very similar to it for Nick's mom (posted below this project). I loved it so much I made this card for my Aunt Dora as a thank you. I hope you find this easy to follow. Please leave me a comment if you have any thoughts about it or if you attempt it. All products excluding the stickles are Close To My Heart (CTMH). If you would like to order anything you see here please contact me and I'll be happy to get them to you.

Materials Needed:

3 x 4 white cardstock

3.5 x 5 Vineyard Berry Cardstock

8 x 5.5 CTMH Creme Brulee Card stock (card base)

CTMH Black Ink stamp pad

CTMH Autumn Terracotta Ink stamp pad

CTMH Tulip Ink stamp pad

CTMH Chococlate Ink stamp pad

CTMH Playful Flourishes Stamp Set

CTMH Give Thanks Stamp Set

2.5" x 2.5" clear block

2" x 3" clear block

Blending pen

Bone folder

Crystal Stickles made by Banger

3 CTMH Autumn Terracotta Bitty Brads

CTMH sponge tool

sponge

Eyelet Setter

Scrap paper

Step 1. Stamped pumpkin from the Give Thanks stamp set in CTMH Black ink. Make sure you leave room for the Season of Gratitude sentiment at the top of the card.

Step 2. Stamped the bottom left of the card using the U shaped flourish. I only inked part of the stamp. This will allow me to line up the other U shape flourish in the next step to complete the effect I want.

Step 3. I used the matching flourish and inked it in black so that it would line up with my image, thus making a complete U underneath the pumpkin.

Step 4. I used the small squiggly from the playful flourish set, inked it in black and lined it up on my stamped flourishes and stamped.

Step 5. I inked in black just the "A season of" from the Give Thanks stamp set. I wiped off any additional ink with a wet wipe. Then I stamped it on the card making sure to leave room for the word Gratitude.

Step 6. Oops! I forgot to clean my stamp properly. Therefore you can see a second generation stamp of the words A Season of when I stamped the word Gratitude. Make sure to clean your stamps each time. I'll attempt to fix it later. I did stamp the word Gratitude in black ink.

Step 7. Using Autumn Terracotta ink and the blending pen I colored in the pumpkin. To use the blending pen you'll need to squeeze the closed ink pad, then open it and using a damp blending pen use the ink that transferred to the lid tray. It helps to start painting your color from the edges and work your way in. This will give you a softer overall color creating a watercolor appearence.

Step 8. Using Chocolate ink and the blending pen I colored in the stem of the pumpkin.

Step 9. Using a piece of a dollar store sponge, I sponged around the top of the card with Tulip Ink.

Step 10. Using the Autumn Terracotta ink I sponged around the bottom edges on the card.

Step 11. I used the blending pen and the Autumn Terracotta ink and highlighted the words and the flourishes. Step 12. I used the Autumn Terracotta ink and a flourish stamp and did second and third generation stamping around the edges. Second generation stamping is when you load your stamp with ink, then you first stamp on a scratch piece of paper, and second on your project. Third generation is stamping twice on your scratch sheet and thirdly on your project.

Step 13. I did 3rd generation stamping all around the card with another flourish using black ink.

Step 14. I went over the flourishes and each of the curls in the words with the stickles.

Step 15. I adhered the card front to a vineyard berry textured card stock and set in three Autumn Terracotta Bitty Brads on the left hand side of the card. Step 16. I folded my Creme Bulee cardstock and then using the sponge tool and the Autumn Terracotta ink I sponged around the edges. Next I adhered the card front.

Finished Card and another version using all of the same supplies.

Get Your Scrap On!

2008-10-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

CROPTOBERFEST

OCT. 25, 2008

Starlite Ballroom

10am-4pm

Get a head start on your holiday scrapbooking, or catch up on projects you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to complete them. Saturday October 25, you’ll have 6 hours of interrupted scrapping bliss, a catered lunch, snacks, and several opportunities to win great prizes. You’ll even learn something new in the free make-n-take and the optional workshop*. The cost is $30. You’ll receive lots room to spread out, good lighting, a catered lunch, a free make-n-take project, and the chance of winning great prizes.

To register call Leana Ott 422-4095
An independent Consultant with Close To My Heart

Starlite Ballroom is located on Airport Blvd. behind Mosley’s meat market at the intersection of Airport and University Road in Mobile, AL.

*There is an additional $10 cost for the optional workshop. Sign up in advance so that materials can be pre-cut and bought.

New Favorite Tool!

2008-10-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

I'd like to announce my love for the brayer. I bought it years ago with much excitement only to discover I didn't know how to use it properly.
So I boxed it up. Well I found Michelle Zindorf's blog and whipped mine out to a rolling success. Here's a two of my creations. Michelle has easy to follow step by step instructions on her blog with lots of pictures and work she's created. Please take a look. http://zindorf.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/

I used the July SOTM from CTMH for the Friends card. You can see the CTMH stamp sets Paradise and retired Saling to create the sunrise card.

Christmas Card Workshop

2008-09-23T16:08:00.000-07:00

Designs and photo are CTMH www.closetomyheart.com

Love the look of handmade personal Christmas cards but don’t feel like you have the time? Get an early jump start on your holiday greetings with this 2 hour workshop. You will create 12 beautiful yet deceptively easy (meaning no creative talent needed) Christmas Cards to send to your loved ones. What’s the cost? $15 dollars and you get: great time with fun gals, snacks, 12 completed cards, (see Merry & Bright on page 52) accented with cranberry grosgrain ribbon, and cranberry brads. RSVP by Oct. 1st please so that I have time to place the order and get all of the supplies.

When:
Friday Oct: 10, 2008:
6:30 to 8:30pm

Where:
My place. Call for directions

RSVP by:
Oct. 1, 2008
251-661-9550

Cost:
$15.00

FUN FUN FUN

2008-09-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

I had a great time with each of the wonderful ladies that came to the Scrapbook Extravaganza. I saw lots of smiles so I think they had a great time too. A big Congratulation goes out to Kristen Ryan for winning the Grand Prize valued over $42.00. She won the new Circle Around stamp set a 2.5 by 2.5 block and a new Sorbet stamp pad, one of four exclusive new colors. Leigh Raines was the winner of the new Acrylic Album.

I had a great time and loved showing off all of the great new products CTMH has to offer. I hope my enthusiasm was contagious. Here are a few of the projects I displayed as well as the make n take each of the girls created. On the top layout (inspired by a layout on page 73 of the new CTMH Idea Book) you'll see the 4 new colors Sorbet, Tulip, Juniper, and Creme Brulee. I used the new Coffee Stain , Make My Day, Circle Around and Summer Harvest stamp sets. What you can't see is the new voice recorder that is hidden behind a picture. It allows you to record 30 seconds of audio and play it back. The battery is long lasting and easy to change without affecting your creation. The recorder can be painted, stamped on, or altered. Basically it's awesome you should get at least one! The second page uses the Juniper and Creme Brulee colors, our new white rub-ons, the Make It Count, and new Classmate Alphabet stamp sets. The third layout uses all of the new colors, the Coffee Stain and Paradise stamp sets, the mini-medleys in spring blossom and awesome Color-Ready Alphabets. This layout was inspired by page 8 of the Fall/Winter CTMH Idea book and the pop up make n take card was seen on page 31. I used moonstruck, bamboo and white card stock, moonstruck ink and the Route 66 B&T paper as well as the new Snowflake Kisses stamp set. The fun technique of "popping up " was used on the inside card for the "warm winter wishes" it's from the new Winter Memories stamp set. Wow, this seems like a whole lot of typing. I bet you can't even imagine this is just the tip of the iceberg so to say, of all the new products. And I hope you noticed how inspirational the new Idea Book is and if you would like to get your hands on one please contact me.

New Fall/Winter Close To My Heart Idea Book

2008-09-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

It's here and ready for you to flip through it's magical pages. I bet you'll think this is great reading material too. I have your free copy (a $3.95 retail value) waiting for you when you attend the Scrapbooker's Extravaganza this Tuesday at 6:30pm. Please email or call me for details. Please see the official invitation below for the event details. You'll also see how you can increase your chances of winning great door prizes. I have one prize valued over $42 and two awesome Acrylic Albums to give away. I hope you can make it you will not want to miss this fun event.

Create a FANtastic Football Party

2008-09-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some tips/ideas to help make your next game day FANtastic!

Make your Football party the hottest ticket in town with a super "ticket" invitation from http://www.party411.com/

Decoration ideas:

Set the table with a grass table cloth. You can purchase indoor/outdoor green grass carpeting from a local hardware store and use it as the foundation for your tablescape. Then use white athletic tape or electrical tape to create the yard lines. You can substitute green felt in place of the grass.
Mark the party spot with your team colors: Decorate around your mailbox and front door in your team colors by hanging team bunting and or a team flag.
Make Football brownies and sandwiches by using a football shaped cookie cutter.
Have your own stadium cups made in your teams colors to commemorate the date and event.
Paint the face's of your guests in your teams logo, or give an extra gift to those who come with theirs painted.
Make sure all guests have a team pom-pom and wear their team colors.
Give a special gift to the Best Dressed guest.

Games:

Divide into two teams Home and Visitors; have a paper football champion ship during breaks.
During half time, take it outside and see who's the best kicker. Let each guest try to kick a field goal. The furthest in bounds kick wins.
While outside have everyone try their hand at being the quarter back. Take a piece of plywood and cut three holes out of it three times the size of the football. Then give each a score, 10, 20, 30. Each person gets 4 passes. If the throw makes through a hole then the person get the amount of points allotted for that hole. The person with the most points wins.
Create a trivia game relevant to your favorite team. Divide the group into two teams; Home and Visitors. The team with the most correct answers wins.
Have a trophy made and award it to the winner of your day's games. That person/team is responsible for hosting the next event.

FANtastic Football Party Tips:

Start the pre-game party an hour to an hour and a half before Kick Off
Warm up the mood with food, drinks, and your own pre-games
Have friendly competition during commercials and the half time break
Keep score, The Home Team & The Visitors
Award a trophy to the winning team, they have to host the next event

You've Got To Check This Out

2008-09-01T20:59:00.001-07:00

This is a YouTube video of Jennifer McGuire (you've seen her and her awesome work in many Scrapbooking Mags) well here is a video of her altering the new CTMH Memory Keeper box. She has lots of neat tips you can even use on your pages.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQb6DmXm-q4

Scrapbooker's Extravaganza!!

2008-08-29T18:33:00.001-07:00

Scrapbooker’s Extravaganza!!!
And you’re invited

Want Free scrapbook supplies?

Tuesday September 9, 2008
6:30pm-8:30pm

Every person who RSVP’s by Sept. 7th then attends will carry home at least $10.00 in Close To My Heart Merchandise free! Bring a friend & you get a special gift!

And you’ll have a chance to win even more free supplies!*

You can increase your chances of winning for each of the following items you complete you'll earn a extra raffle ticket*:

RSVP
Bring a friend
Show up on time
Bring a banana
Post a comment on this blog

For the following you'll earn 3 extra tickets each*:

Place an order
Make a donation to Operation Smile during the extravaganza
Book a gathering

To RSVP and get directions call 251-422-4095

What is a scrapbook extravaganza? It’s a night out with the girls; being some of the first to see, play with and take home some of the awesome brand new products Close To My Heart has to offer.

Lean Ott
Independent Consultant with
Close To My Heart

*You have to be present at drawing to win. The drawing will be held on Sept. 9, 2008 during the Scrapbooker's Extravaganza.

Also if scapbooking or card making isn't your thing that's okay you can come any way or please send this to someone you know who might be interested I would very much appreciate your help getting the word out.

I just can't hold out any longer...

2008-08-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

Here it is a sneak peek at some of the new toys (hum I mean products to which I will forever preserve our family memories with) from CTMH. I am working on items to display at my Scrapbookers Extravaganza happening on Sept. 9th. Yes you're invited, and you can see these masterpieces in person. I just love all of the new paper kits, the 4 new colors and accents. This is the new memory keeper box. It is so amazing because you can use it for so many things. I am going to use it to hold some of the many love notes DH leaves for me. The paper is from the new Notebook collection. I also used the Free Spirt, and Make It Count stamp sets. Everything but the larger flowers is from CTMH. They also have large flowers. I just haven't been able to add them to my toy box yet. The top of the box design was inspired by the CTMH Spring 2008 Idea Book cover. The top page with my adorable son Taylor is a simple 6x6 page using our new Juniper and Creme Brulee colors, ribbon, and accents. The T is one of the great solo dimensional elements. And you can see the bling on the T with the new sparkles. This card I created using a design from the brand new Originals by Jeanette Lynton the founder and creator of CTMH. You can find the directions for this card on page 66. This book is wonderful and has great pictures, easy instructions and lots of examples. It's a must for every crafter. I used three of the brand new stamp sets CTMH is debuting in Sept. Circle Around, Thoughtful Seasons, and Magic Moments. We're going to be playing with the Thoughtful Seasons in our make and take at the Extravaganza. Come see and play with it for yourself. I hope you've enjoyed this sneak peek. I'll am saving the best for the 9th. I hope you can make it.

Aswesomely Cheap Storage Idea

2008-08-28T06:15:00.001-07:00

My mom and I were shopping in the mall yesterday and found the perfect solution to my ribbon and accent storage issue. Total cost $6.75!! Yep. I thought you'd like that part. I bought the square shelf for $3.00 and the magnet board for $2.75 and a pack of prestick magnets for $1. Each was regular price. Great deal, I know! So here's my end result.

FYI. The adhesive on the prestick magnets is not enough so I added Clear Gel Tacky Glue.

Husband Alarmed When Alone At 1am!

2008-08-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

Yes I was up until after 2am Monday night creating and playing with an awesome new product from Close To My Heart. DH said he woke up at 1am and saw I wasn't anywhere around but then he looked up and saw the house alarm was still set so at least he knew I hadn't run off with my CTMH loot. He's so silly.

I cannot wait to show you my latest creative outpouring. Here's a sneak peek. I know it's not much but you're going to LOVE LOVE LOVE it. I have been so busy with life I haven't been able to finish it completely but let's just say this new product gets your memories out of the box in an amazing way. I'll post the finished product on the first of Sept. so check back here then.

Give a gift, Get a gift!!

2008-08-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't love to help a child have a future and get something really wonderful in return. Here is a great opportunity for you to receive this wonderful From Me To You card kit and give the gift of a better life to a child. I am so proud to announce this partnership with Close To My Heart and Operation Smile. This card kit can be yours for only $10 (plus S&H), and all of the profits go to Operation Smile! Isn't that amazing.

You'll get

16 Colonial White Card Bases
D size My Acrylix From Me to You stamp set (value 22.95)
Precut cardstock and textured cardstock
Coordinating brads & ribbon
Sandpaper
16 Envelope Flats
Step-by-step instruction booklet to create 16 cards (2 of each of 8 beautiful designs
An attractively decorated box

The retail value of this kit is $34.95

Operation Smile is a wonderful organization that works in 26 different countries around the world with volunteers preforming surgeries on children with severe facile deformities. The deformities are debilitating and in some cases lead to death. While at the 2008 Close To My Heart convention. I was blessed to hear co-founders Dr. William P. Magee Jr., a plastic surgeon, and his wife, Kathleen S. Magee, a nurse and clinical social worker speak. I was so impressed that they used their talent and time for the last 20 years to give an amazing gift to children who would have had no chance at life. Since their inception in 1982, OS has helped more than 115,000 children . I was astounded to learn that the life altering surgery takes less than 45 minutes to preform and costs about $240 each. I really encourage you to check out their website and learn more about Operation Smile for your self. I am sure you will feel the same way I do about such a worthy cause.

If you would like to order this card kit or any CTMH products, or even host a gathering please contact me.

Just Because!!

2008-08-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

You could WIN $1,000 In CTMH Products & Earn this beautiful Card Kit FREE!!! Close To My Heart is featuring an exclusive and really fabulous Just Because card kit in honor of National Stamping Month, and you can get it free, or greatly discounted.

The Just Because card kit will make 16 beautiful cards and includes
-A D-size My Acrylix® Just Because stamp set
-Designer ribbon and Sparkles
-Two Exclusive Inks™ mini stamp pads
-Cardstock and B&T Duos™ papers
-A magnetic-closure designer box
-Step-by-step instructions for making these stunning cards
-Kit colors: Chocolate, Colonial White, and our new Tulip color.

Beginning Aug. 14, - Sept. 30 you can purchase the Just Because card kit for $34.95, or if you make a purchase of CTMH products with the minimum of $75 you can receive the kit for $15.00, or you can get it free as well as the Stamp of the month free with the minimum purchase of $125. That's $57.90 free!!!

To enter for a chance to win $1,000 in CTMH products, begining Aug. 14th, you can log onto http://www.closetomyheart.com/ Just fill out the entry form and you're entered to win!

With this kit you will not be intimidated, instead you'll be amazed at just how easy it is to create 16 beautiful cards with the easy step by step instructions and photographs. Your friends will be so pleased when they receive a hand made card created by you. If you would like to see move of this kit or would like to order one please contact me.

Photos and cards by Lourae Minor

Back from convention

2008-08-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

This was my first, but not my last Close To My Heart Convention. Lisa Murphy and I traveled last Wednesday to sunny Orlando, Florida and stayed in the beautiful Gaylord Palms Resort. I have returned with a fresh new perspective and invigorating energy and I'd like to share it with you.

The excitement in the room during the first General Session of convention can be compared to the Beatles landing in the U.S. Yes, we were all screaming teenagers when we learned of the great new products being released by Close To My Heart. Some of them include 4 new colors with delicious names I can't wait to share with you on September 1st. We created a fabulous Christmas album with the crystal clear My Acrylic album (retailing for 14.95). We saw and came home with many beautiful new stamp sets and lots of creative ways to use them. I would love to show you the great new products and the truly fabulous current products Close To My Heart has to offer during my Open House coming in September.

I will be posting more information, and great items you can walk home with FREE. So like your favorite TV show keep it tuned right here for updates.

Let The Creativity Begin

2008-08-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am so excited; I can feel the creativity pumping through my veins! I am starting this blog as a way to share with you ideas, tips, new techniques, and great new innovate products that will help your own creativity flow. Here you'll find semi-weekly blogs concerning scrapbooking, card making, creative gifts, photography tips, and much more. I am going to keep this introduction short. I don't know if you are like me but I don't have a lot of time to read all that I'd like, so I appreciate brevity and great new ideas that are to the point. So that's just what you'll find here.

Let me know you've visited with a quick post.

Sincerely,
Leana Ott
Independent Consultant
with Close to My Heart