it happened like this...

epiphany crafts layouts

2012-01-27T06:00:00.007-07:00

Thought I'd share my latest layouts posted on the Epiphany Crafts blog this month. I used the Shape Studio Tool Round 14 with bubble caps for both, plus one of the frayed felt flower embellishments for the first one (which I pulled apart).

This layout also features the new Love Struck line by We R Memory Keepers, which is so cute! To create the journaling spot I placed a chipboard heart under the color core cardstock and sanded over it. Then I used my Sew Easy tool to pierce the holes and I hand-stitched around it.

This layout is about when I took my older girls skiing for the first time last year. I thought the small round epoxies would make good snow accents. I used the Christmas Eve Chowder Soup by Jililbean Soup for this one.

creative memories projects: family layouts

2012-01-25T06:00:00.014-07:00

I've got three more Creative Memories layouts to share with you today. The first is a 5K atrial fibrillation awareness run my husband's lab organizes every year. I used the new double heart chain border maker cartridge and...drumroll please...the Holidazzle line! I love versatile holiday lines! I just used the papers that didn't have Christmas specific patterns. (Full instructions on the project center here.)

Next is a layout with a family pic we took in fall of 2010 when we first moved here near the gorgeous mountains. For this layout I used the Welcome to Our Home Display Accents. They're made for the magnetic display board, but can easily be used on a scrapbook page as well. (Full instructions on the project center here.)

And last is my favorite layout from the whole bunch using the Love Mini Display Accents. Again, they're made for the mini magnetic display board, but they work fabulously for creating collages and embellishment clusters. I LOVE THAT MAN!! (Full instructions on the project center here.)

creative memories projects: Shine series

2012-01-23T06:00:00.006-07:00

I'm so excited to share my first batch of Creative Memories projects. All of these were created with the Shine paper and photo mat pack. You can find full instructions to recreate them up on the Project Center.

First up, some of my goals for this year. I added the text to the photos in Photoshop before I printed them. I used the tag maker to create a grid background for my photos and embellishments. All of the embellishing you see I did with patterned paper and punches/tools--no pre-made anything. I love all the fun punches and tools CM has to offer! (Full instructions here.)

Next is a two page spread about the first real snow last year. As soon as there was enough to make a snowball out of, my kids were all out there playing in it. I used the snowmaker and the snowflake mini pocket punch, together with the circle maker to create these fun embellishments. The bottom border was made using the wave tearing tool. (Full instructions here.)

Last I made this winter card. Again, I used the snowmaker and snowflake mini pocket punch with the circle maker. I love the geometric patterns of this series--so fun to work with! (Full instructions here.)

These were so fun to make, and I've got some more to share for Wednesday so come back then. Cheers!

photo friday: take twelve

2012-01-20T06:00:00.043-07:00

I'm so excited! This is my first month of the Take Twelve 2012 photo challenge sponsored by Ella Publishing Co. On Thursday, Jan 12 I took several photos (more than 12) and narrowed down my 12 favorite. Here they are:

I captured these shots in the morning--some before I took my girls to school, and some after I dropped them off when I took a little drive with Faith up in the nearby foothills overlooking my city. I loved watching the sun peak through the canyon. And some I took after we got back and Faith had put Mommy's mascara on her face. So lovely!

It was such a beautiful morning that day, and I wanted to capture it outdoors and indoors. Next month I'll take photos of my boys, and hubby. Maybe I'll capture an evening at our house. I'm still working on how I'm going to scrapbook these. I'm kind of leaning towards an 8 x 8 inch chipboard cinch book using 8 x 8 inch photo collages like this one, and some hybrid elements. I've still got to think about this some more before I get scrapping these.

I'm looking forward to next month!

Cinch projects

2012-01-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

Last Tuesday on the Home Shopping Network, We R Memory Keepers also sold a kit which included the Cinch machine, some chipboard, and wires/spirals. They asked me to create some projects for that segment that were not mini albums or notebooks. I must say that was a challenge! After doing a little web research and asking some friends for inspiration, here's what I came up with.

A jewelry organizer (thanks, Celeste!) using the double wire without cinching it shut all the way, and the Good Day Sunshine line.

To keep the wire from slipping around I wove some twill ribbon through the holes and around the wire. I also used my Crop-a-dile to punch the holes in the top for the ribbon to hang it with.

The second project is a spring flower basket using the cinch to bind the chipboard sides of the basket together. I can only show you a peek since they're using it for an ad in Scrapbook, Etc. It features the Cotton Tail line, which I love.

The ad will include instructions on how to make one of these, so keep your eyes peeled. I'll show you the whole thing once the ad's been out for a bit. Super fun projects to make!

Crop-a-dile projects

2012-01-16T06:00:00.012-07:00

I've made some projects lately for use on the Home Shopping Network for We R Memory Keepers. Last week as part of the Scrapbook Essentials segment, WRMK was selling a Crop-a-dile kit which included gromlets and eyelets among other things. I was asked to create some altered/home decor projects for this and they were both featured on the air. It's always fun to see your stuff on TV! =)

Here's the first one. A piece of framed art using the Good Day Sunshine line and the gromlets as the flower centers.

That frame was just sitting in my craft room closet needing to be used for something. I think it's a little happier now that it's being used. =)

Here's the other one--an Easter wall hanging using the adorable Cotton Tail line, 6x6" chipboard pieces (cut in half), Sweetheart Inker, the Corner Chomper, eyelets, and the Crop-a-dile (obviously).

These were both pretty easy to make and lots of fun! I love working on spring projects in the middle of winter. Helps me to remember what's coming soon.

winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2012-01-13T06:00:00.014-07:00

The winner of the free downloadable copy of Take Twelve 2012 is:

LauraP said...: I was just thinking about this project today, and I REALLY want to do this! My BIG scrapping goal this year is to complete my daughter's baby album and to start (and finish) my sons's album. Whew!
January 9, 2012 8:39 AM

Congratulations Laura! Please send me an email (link is on the right sidebar) and I'll get you the info you need to download your free copy!

cards anyone?

2012-01-11T06:00:00.003-07:00

Guess who's hosting over at Write.Click.Scrapbook. this week? Yep, it's me. You guessed it. I'm talking all about cards this week--why I enjoy making them, card design tips, using sketches for cards, and even how to include cards on a scrapbook layout.

Here's one of the cards I'm sharing today. It's based on a scrapbook page sketch. If you'd like to see other cards inspired by the same sketch, click here.

Tomorrow is give.away.day., so be sure to stop by and see what we have to share with one of our awesome readers. I'll give you a hint...it has to do with cards. =)

take twelve + a giveaway

2012-01-09T06:00:00.029-07:00

To help me get more practice on my new camera, and to help make sure I'm telling my everyday life stories (in addition to the celebrations and events) I've decided to take on a year-long photo project. Now, I didn't take this whole thing lightly because I've honestly avoided these photo-a-day, photo-a-week, etc projects for years because I know I just can't stick to something like that with my busy life. But, I've finally found something that I know I can do and I'm super excited.

Take Twelve 2012 is a photo challenge sponsored by Ella Publishing Co. The idea of take twelve is that you take 12 photos on the 12th day of each month and create a layout for each month using those 12 photos. I can totally take 12 photos once a month! And honestly, if I get too busy and can't do it on the 12th, that's totally okay too. As long as it happens some time during the month.

And now for the GIVEAWAY!! Ella has released a guided inspiration kit to help with participation in the Take Twelve challenge, and they have generously offered to give one free downloadable copy of this book to one of you! (A $17.70 value until this Thursday when it goes up to $20.12.)

To be considered for this giveaway, leave a comment below sharing any scrapbooking plans/goals you have for the coming year. Comments will remain opened until midnight (MST) on Thursday 1/12, and the winner will be announced on Friday morning. Please don't forget to check back and see if you won. Good luck!

ETA: comments for this post are now closed. Thanks for entering!

photo friday

2012-01-06T06:00:00.028-07:00

I have been waiting for years to be able to afford a nice DSLR camera. I've been reading about, researching, and practicing on improving my photos for a long time on my trusty little point and shoot, but there is only so much you can do with one of those. (I still love my point and shoot--I won a city-wide photo contest with it!) I finally decided I'd just bite the bullet and get myself one for my birthday this month knowing I had a few good sized paychecks coming, but my dear husband beat me to it and got me this for Christmas.

(Sneaky guy sold some items on Craigslist behind my back to earn the cash. Love that man!!)

So, since I finally get to (and need to) practice on my Nikon D3100 I thought I'd start doing photo fridays a couple times a month to share some of my learning by trial and error (and lots of reading manuals, photography books, blogs, etc).

First off are these two photos taken in the same lighting (night, indoors, florescent) of the same subject, one right after the other. The only difference is I adjusted the white balance, and compensated for exposure and flash. Pretty cool.

Next I caught these photos at night in my dining room which is very poorly lit, and switched to manual mode so I didn't have to use my flash. I have a lot to learn, but I'm so thrilled with how much more I can do with my new camera!

Both photos are of Faith on her grandpas' laps. The bottom one is from Christmas day. She was so tired from all the excitement she climbed up there and fell asleep.

more creative memories projects

2012-01-04T06:00:00.004-07:00

Here are a few cards I created using Creative Memories products.

An ornament Christmas card using the Holidazzle line:

A paper loop Christmas tree card using the Holidazzle line:

Those paper loops are so fun to create with. There are a ton of creative possibilities using those.

new year, new opportunities

2012-01-02T06:00:00.007-07:00

So...I'm thrilled to share with you that I've been selected as a member of the 2012 Creative Memories Design Team. You can read the announcement HERE. I'm so excited to be a part of such a talented team, and to work with such a wonderful company. I thought I'd share a few of my Creative Memories projects with you.

A Thankful for You card using the Gratitude line and corner maker:

To create the flower just punch/cut four or five different size circles, fold the circle in half and trim the corners in a corner rounder. Unfold the circle, turn 1/4 turn, and fold in half and trim again in the corner rounder. Repeat this four times for each circle. Layer the trimmed circles together using foam squares, and add an epoxy sticker to the center.

I explained about this give thanks tree project in this post. Here's the layout I created with the completed tags using the Gratitude line, tag maker, and tearing tool:

This layout was included in an article I wrote in Ella Publishing Co's free monthly ezine. You can read the article on year-in-review scrapbook layout ideas here.

Here's to a new year and wonderful new opportunities!

happy 2012!

2012-01-01T06:00:00.002-07:00

2012 photo desk calendar + free template

2011-12-31T06:00:00.022-07:00

I made these photo desk calendars for Christmas gifts--one for my hubby to keep at work, and one for my dad to keep on his desk at home. I cut some cardboard I saved from 12 x 12 inch paper packs into 4 1/2 x 6 1/2 inch pieces for the covers, and prettied them up with some Cosmo Cricket papers.

The calendar pages are 4 x 6 inches so I just printed them like I do my regular photos, and them matted them with some 4 1/2 x 6 1/2 inch cardstock from a Making Memories cardstock pad. SO easy! Then I bound the whole thing with my cinch machine. (That machine might possibly be the reason I've been so obsessed with making calendars lately. It's so fun!)

**If you'd like to make one of these you can download a free 4 x 6 inch layered calendar template HERE. Simply add your photo just above the "photo" layer. Right click on your photo, and select "create clipping mask". Then you can resize your photo if you'd like by clicking Edit>Free transform and holding the Shift key down while you drag the corner of the box around your photo. Then all you have to do is click on the eyeball icons next to each calendar title and page layer to hide/show them before you print each time. That way you don't have to mess with 12 different templates. All I did was delete the photo layer and start over again for each calendar page. I also recommend flattening the layers before printing (right click on the background layer then select "flatten image"). Then you can click Edit>Undo after you print before starting the next page. Enjoy, and Happy New Year!!

calendar ideas: etsy finds

2011-12-29T06:00:00.015-07:00

1. from monkeyminddesign:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

2. from PearentheticalPress:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

3. from blackberrygraphics:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

4. from luvalexa:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

5. from laurageorge:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

calendar ideas: tag calendar

2011-12-27T06:00:00.042-07:00

Seeing as I am totally obsessed with making calendars lately (I've made 5 in the last three weeks), this week I'll share with you some simple easy-to-make calendars to inspire you for the new year.

I'll start with this tag calendar I made as a gift last year. CLICK HERE to go to the original post where you can find out more about it.

If you'd like to create something similar for 2012 it's easy to find free calendar templates online.

merry christmas!

2011-12-25T06:00:00.005-07:00

crafty christmas countdown: recycled card wreath

2011-12-24T06:00:00.002-07:00

Finally, I thought I would share with you one more idea for what to do with all those Christmas cards once Christmas is over.

Source: bhg.com via Aly on Pinterest

Make a recycled card wreath to hang up for next year! Brilliant!

winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2011-12-23T08:00:00.004-07:00

The winner of the Doable DIY Decor Big Picture Classes giveaway is

Sue @ Cakeballs, cookies and more said...
I love the trees, so cute!

December 20, 2011 10:16 AM

Congratulations Sue! Send me an email (link's on the right sidebar) and I'll get you set up. Enjoy!

crafty christmas countdown: christmas card tree

2011-12-23T06:00:00.006-07:00

I thought this was so adorable when I saw it. Not only does it help keep things organized, but it's a lovely piece of holiday decor as well.

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: christmas pizza

2011-12-22T06:00:00.010-07:00

How fun would this be for lunch on Christmas day? I think our menu is planned for the 25th. =)

Source: deliacreates.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

Also wanted to share this with you.

Sales rock!

crafty christmas countdown: easy fiesta christmas tree

2011-12-21T06:00:00.010-07:00

So clever and it looks so yummy! I'll be bringing this to dinner with the in-laws Christmas Eve.

Source: flickr.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: paper christmas tree set + a giveaway!

2011-12-20T06:00:00.005-07:00

These paper Christmas trees were inspired by the paper pumpkins I did last year--same concept just triangles instead of circles.

To make these cut ten 4 x 6 inch triangles, fold them in half (wrong side out), adhere them all together, and then embellish with trim and a tree topper (I attached mine with toothpicks). The smaller tree triangle sizes are 3 1/2 x 5 inches, and 3 x 4 inches.

I used We R Memory Keepers Peppermint Twist papers and poinsettia brads, Making Memories glitter ribbon, Epiphany Crafts Button Studio Tool Round 20, and black hemp cord. These are up on my mantle, but they would also make a great centerpiece for a holiday table.

And to inspire you wonderful readers who enjoy making DIY decor items, I'm giving away one spot in my self paced class, Doable DIY Decor!

In Doable DIY Décor, Aly will take you step-by-step through three adorable and totally doable home décor projects using items you probably have hanging around your home. You will learn some basic crafting techniques (Mod Podge anyone?), how to alter some household items, and you’ll see just how versatile your scrapbook supplies really are. You can display these projects in your own home, or give them as gifts to your friends and family. So join Aly on her journey beyond the page, and stretch your creativity past the edge of your layout!

To be considered for this giveaway, please leave a comment on this post by midnight (MST) on Thursday and I'll announce a winner on Friday. Remember to check back to see if your lucky number was chosen! Good luck!!

winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2011-12-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Big Picture Classes, 28 Cards in 4 Weeks workshop giveaway is:

angie gutshall said...

Those ornaments are so cute!! And I really need a card class since I don't make them enough! Thank you for sharing this :)

December 16, 2011 1:03 PM

Congrats Angie! Please send me email (link's on the right sidebar) and I'll get you set up right away!

crafty christmas countdown: chocolate peppermint chip cookies

2011-12-19T06:00:00.014-07:00

I'm sure most of you have heard of cake mix cookies before, but I had to share this one because it is my favorite version. It's easy but delicious, so it's great for the holidays when time is precious.

Ingredients:

1 chocolate cake mix
1/3 cup butter (softened)
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup Andes Peppermint Crunch baking chips

Preheat oven to 375. Mix together cake mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla until well blended. Dough will be very thick. Fold in peppermint chips with wooden spoon. Form 1 inch balls and bake for 8-10 minutes. Makes about 2 dozen cookies. Note: cookies will not look finished when your timer goes off, but they are done so don't over cook them.

I took these to a cookies swap and they were a big hit. Hmm...I think that's the first time I've ever used paper doilies for their intended purpose--food. =)

crafty christmas countdown: treat cones

2011-12-18T06:00:00.004-07:00

Martha not only shares instructions for these adorable treat cones, but she also shares the recipe for the scrumptious gingerbread caramels inside them. Yummy!!

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

Last day to enter the BPC class giveaway. Comments will close tonight at midnight (MST). I'll announce the winner Monday. Good luck!

crafty christmas countdown: paper pine cone ornament

2011-12-17T06:00:00.012-07:00

Isn't this paper pine cone ornament gorgeous? Again...simple concept, but genius design. This looks harder than it is. The instructions are pretty easy, it's just a bit time consuming but well worth it for these results.

Source: thehybridchick.com via Aly on Pinterest

Don't forget, tomorrow is the last day to enter the 28 Card in 4 Weeks BPC giveaway. Good luck!

crafty christmas countdown: paper circles ornament

2011-12-16T06:00:00.008-07:00

I love this simple but genius paper circles ornament. This is based on such a easy concept, but the way the circles are glued together just tips this into the awesome category. Gotta try this!

Source: homemade-gifts-made-easy.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: paper and bead ornament + a giveaway!!

2011-12-15T06:00:00.018-07:00

I love these paper and bead Christmas candy ornaments. They look good enough to eat! This would be a fun and easy project you could do with your kids/nieces & nephews/grandkids, etc.

Source: bhg.com via Cynthia on Pinterest

Since it's the season of giving, I'd like to give to one of you amazing readers one spot in my upcoming Big Picture Classes workshop, 28 Cards in 4 Weeks!!

This class runs from Feb 2nd-29th. During each week of class, you’ll make seven cards, each taking 15 minutes or less. You’ll learn to use sketches, samples, downloads, and videos to create some cute and clever cards that your loved ones will enjoy receiving. Don’t feel pressured to keep up—you can always access the handouts and videos and make the cards whenever you have time. Card-making doesn’t get much easier than this! Topics will cover major events, holidays, seasons, and many every day occasions and themes. Plus, won’t it feel great to use up all those scrapbooking leftovers in the process?

To be considered for this giveaway leave a comment on this post before Sunday at midnight (MST) and I'll announce a winner on Monday. Remember to check back to see if your number was the lucky one! Good luck!!

ETA: Comments for this post are now closed. Thanks for entering!

crafty christmas countdown: desk calendar gift idea + a freebie!

2011-12-14T06:00:00.034-07:00

So I finally finished the desk calendar I told you about in this post and donated it to Jennafer to be sold in the fund raising handcraft boutique at the Festival of Trees--a local event to raise money for the children's hospital here. This makes a great (and easy) handmade gift, so I thought I would share the finished product with you and link you up to the Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine website where you can find a supply list, instructions, and a free printable calendar download. (By the way, this is part of their December Countdown event so be sure to visit their site often this month.)

Here's the final cover:

And here are the calendar pages:

CLICK HERE to get the free printable calendar for this project from the Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine blog. Enjoy!

crafty christmas countdown: free printable tags + BPC Give Back 2011

2011-12-13T06:00:00.005-07:00

I thought these free printable Christmas tags from kindovermatter.com were so cute! Hope you enjoy them, and be sure to leave them some love it you partake of their kindness. =)

Source: kindovermatter.com via Aly on Pinterest

And speaking of kindness, I wanted to share with you a wonderful opportunity to get creative and give back at the same time. Big Picture Classes is running it's Give Back 2011 Campaign.

If you register for the brand-new (and fabulous) Self-Paced class: Grateful, Every Day between December 10th to the 25th, we will be donating 100% of the proceeds to the charity of your choice. On top of that, BPC will be matching up to $5000! Together, we have the potential to do a lot of good in the little time left before Christmas.

crafty christmas countdown: baker's twine trees

2011-12-12T06:00:00.014-07:00

I've seen yarn wrapped trees, and last year I made some ribbon wrapped trees, but I LOVE the baker's twine! Baker's twine just has that holiday feel to me so adding it to decorative trees makes perfect sense.

Source: one-happy-mama.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: paper circle tree

2011-12-11T06:00:00.009-07:00

Here's another decor idea. Every year I love to see the different versions of Christmas trees that creative minds come up with. This one is super cute and would be easy to do with nesting dies, an electronic die cutting machine, or a circle cutter and/or circle and scallop punches. Just stick the circles on a bamboo skewer and top it with a star. Cah-ute!

Source: lifestylecrafts.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: paper star wreath

2011-12-10T06:00:00.002-07:00

I love this wreath made from paper barn stars. This would be an easy project, but it looks so cool!

Source: littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

I love various buttons and decorative brads in the star centers. Adorable!

crafty christmas countdown: rolled paper tree canvas

2011-12-09T06:00:00.003-07:00

I thought it would be fun to share some cute and doable DIY Christmas decor ideas. The first one is by Leslie Ashe. The link for this pin is no longer working and I wasn't able to find the original post despite my efforts so...if anyone knows where the original post for this is, please do share.

To create this just roll graduated lengths of Christmas scrapbook paper and hot glue them to a blank canvas. Add some buttons or brads for ornaments and a star at the top and voila! Cute, huh?

Source: leslieashe.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: christmas card set + exciting news!

2011-12-08T06:00:00.007-07:00

Today I'm sharing a Christmas card set I made. My favorite part about these is that I saved loads of time by using the Sew Stampers by We R Memory Keepers instead of taking the time to handstitch them. When you're making a whole batch of cards for the holidays finding ways to save time is super helpful!

You can see this card set featured in a WRMK ad in the latest issue of Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine on page 7. (I think I just let out a little squeal of excitement! This is my first print ad!) If you're not into sewing or hand stitching but like the look, you'll love these! They're super fun and easy to use.

Now the exciting news!! Speaking of cards, I'm thrilled to announce that registration is now open for my latest Big Picture Classes workshop, 28 Cards in 4 Weeks!

During each week of class, you’ll make seven cards, each taking 15 minutes or less. You’ll learn to use sketches, samples, downloads, and videos to create some cute and clever cards that your loved ones will enjoy receiving. Don’t feel pressured to keep up—you can always access the handouts and videos and make the cards whenever you have time. Card-making doesn’t get much easier than this! Topics will cover major events, holidays, seasons, and many every day occasions and themes. Plus, won’t it feel great to use up all those scrapbooking leftovers in the process?

Class runs during the month of February so you'll be through with the holiday rush and ready to get crafting! I hope you'll join me in 28 Cards in 4 Weeks.

crafty christmas countdown: cute & easy gift idea

2011-12-07T06:00:00.028-07:00

So I saw this cute gift idea the other day and I loved it! I decided to make one for my mom, sister, and sister-in-law for Christmas. My mom has a lot of grandkids' birthdays to keep track of so I thought this might come in handy. Here's my version:

Papers, stickers, and die cuts are Jillibean Soup; Scallop rotary cutter is We R Memory Keepers; stitched scallop border maker is Creative Memories; Cinch binding machine is We R Memory Keepers; buttons are Basic Grey and Creative Cafe.

So rather than use the clipboard, I decided to create covers using chipboard packaging I had saved and I bound them with my Cinch machine. That way they can keep the calendars in a purse, or a drawer, or whatever. And if you don't have a binding machine, the copy center at your local office supply store will do it for cheap. It was super easy and I made three in one evening.

P.S. I shared a shoe-lace ribbon sewing technique on the Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine blog yesterday. Click here if you'd like to see the post with full instructions and step-out photos.

crafty christmas countdown: free december daily printables

2011-12-06T06:00:00.003-07:00

These adorable Outnumbered Journaling Cards are free from Creativity Prompt. If you're working on a December Daily album, or plan to next year, check it out!

Source: creativityprompt.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: christmas planner

2011-12-05T06:00:00.005-07:00

The talented and generous ladies at eighteen25 share some free printables and instructions to make this adorable and handy Christmas planner.

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

Funny how we crafters have to make a crafty planner to keep us organized so we can have extra time to craft. Hee hee!

P.S. I'm guest blogging over at D's Paper Studio (Debbie Lewis's blog) today. She's doing an amazing 12 Days of Home for the Holidays event. There are wonderful holiday stories and inspiration posted each of the first 12 days of December. The super cool Ali Edwards kicked things off--worth checking out!

crafty christmas countdown: pocket banner countdown calendar

2011-12-04T06:00:00.001-07:00

I know, I know. More pockets! But I promise this is the last one. =) There is not a tutorial for this 12 day Christmas countdown--it was a Very Jane deal that has expired, but it was so cute and looked so easy to replicate I thought I had to include it. It's pretty self explanatory--just sew together some pennant flags (leaving the top open), punch holes in the corners, tie them together and hang them up. You can add tags with activities, candy, small toys, etc. And...of course you've got to scrapify it! Cute, huh?

Source: veryjane.com via Aly on Pinterest

crafty christmas countdown: envelope advent calendar

2011-12-03T06:00:00.001-07:00

Here is one of the cutest countdowns out there this year. Jill Yegerlehner, genius behind Jillibean Soup, made this one out of mini kraft envelopes from Canvas Corp. So cute!!

Source: jillibeansoup.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

I think I have an obsession with little pockets and envelopes right now. =)

crafty christmas countdown: pocket advent calendar

2011-12-02T06:00:00.009-07:00

I love this idea for an advent calendar! Pockets are so cute. Each pocket contains a tag that has an activity on it and you can also slip in some goodies. Just use 12 x 12 kraft cardstock or chipboard for the backgrounds.

Source: kimberlypetersen.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

P.S. Check out this article I wrote about year-in-review scrapbooking ideas for Ella Publishing Co's free ezine. I can hardly believe it's time to get ready for a new year!

crafty christmas countdown: scrap your christmas cards

2011-12-01T06:00:00.003-07:00

Welcome to my crafty Christmas countdown 2011! I did this last year (and a few years ago) and it's a lot of fun, so I thought I would do it again this year (if you'll forgive me for not making new graphics for this year then we're all good). Each day I'll feature a cool Christmas project and provide a link to the source so you can try it out for yourself if something inspires you.

Today being December 1st I will link you up to the new gallery which just launched today at Write.Click.Scrapbook. where you can find (among many other fabulous submissions) this layout that I made.

I have always struggled with what to do with Christmas cards from friends and family after the holidays. I hate clutter and I don't like bulky things taking up precious storage space so after several years of hanging on to all of them I finally got sick of them and just started throwing them away. Last year I decided that I really should have some kind of record of who our friends and loved ones are so I decided I could spare one scrapbook page dedicated to Christmas cards.

I punched circles from each card trying to capture the signatures/names and some fun design elements, and then I sewed them in a grid pattern on a plain piece of kraft cardstock. I added a painted chipboard frame and a date sticker and voila! I think I'm going to do this every year.

decking the halls

2011-11-28T06:00:00.044-07:00

One of my favorite family traditions is that every year over Thanksgiving weekend we get out the Christmas decorations and deck our halls. It's the best time for us to do it since Derek's home and we've got extra time. Plus I love having everything up early enough that it's worth the effort and we get to enjoy it all for at least a month.

Our living room is still full of boxes since we didn't quite get everything done. We'll finish up tonight for family night.

And we discovered that half of our tree lights are broken, so we're stuck in limbo until I hit the store today.

I hung up the advent countdown and added the scripture verses for each night. I just need to pick up some candy and goodies to stuff in the boxes for the kids. This is one of my favorite Christmas traditions.

We've got four nativities--the three smaller ones are out and I'll get the big one up today. I can't wait to finish getting everything out and to start focusing on the reason for this most wonderful of all seasons!

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? When do you do decorate your home?

happy thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:00:00.002-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Aly on Pinterest

I hope you have a wonderful day filled with family, delicious food, and counting your blessings.

my gratitude list

2011-11-23T06:00:00.005-07:00

God
church
a wonderful husband and marriage
my sweet family
God's word
forgiveness and mercy
our new home
Derek's new job
living closer to family
living close to some gorgeous mountains
good schools
great neighbors and friends
two working cars
warm clothes
wool socks
sugar free apple cider
chocolate
opportunities to stretch myself by serving others
yoga
bike rides
good health
date nights
cheese cake
wonderful scrapbooking/crafting opportunities
freedom
family movie nights
monthly family ice cream trips
amazing ancestors
people who are patient with me
a beautiful world to enjoy

I could go on and on...

CK Special Issue: Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the latest CK special issue Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations? It's all about...well...scrapbooking holidays, special occasions, and celebrations!

My favorite part is how they show a month-by-month gallery of pages about the holidays and celebrations unique to each month. I also love the budget friendly tips at the end.

I'm happy to have a layout in this issue. It's my sweet little pumpkin, Faith, on a layout with some Jillibean Soup goodies:

I created this particular layout for an entirely different page call and it wasn't picked up. So I decided to add a few things here and there and re-submit it to this page call, and they picked it up. Love it when that happens!

give thanks tree

2011-11-17T06:00:00.003-07:00

Inspired by this project (which I posted in my five latest pins Monday) I decided to make a give thanks tree. During our family night on Monday (read more about family night here) my son James shared some scripture verses about why we should have grateful hearts and give thanks, and then he explained our give thanks tree plan--each day we each write at least one thing we are grateful for on a tag and hang it on the tree. On Thanksgiving day we will read all of the tags on the tree before we eat our big meal together. I can already see the excitement and gratitude in the kids since we started this and it's catching. =)

I had my dear hubby punch some holes in a butternut squash and I stuck in some branches. Then I punched about 50 tags using the Creative Memories tag maker and their new Gratitude series papers and title stickers. I tied the title tag with some Jillibean Soup baker's twine and there ya have it. Simple. The trick is keeping my two year old from pulling it apart. ;)

we r memory keepers on HSN tonight!

2011-11-15T06:00:00.003-07:00

They'll be featuring the Sew Ribbon tool tonight between 7 and 8pm (Mountain Standard Time) and some of my projects will be featured (I hope, LOL). Here's a peek at what I made:

My favorites are the first layout because of the funny memory of Faith constantly "redecorating" the Christmas tree for us, and the banner. That will be hanging on our mantle once I get it back. =) Be sure to tune in and watch HSN tonight between 7 and 8pm (MST), or if you don't get HSN you can always watch it later tonight on their website.

five latest pins:thanksgiving edition

2011-11-14T06:00:00.013-07:00

Source: budgetwisehome.com via Aly on Pinterest

Decoupage some fall leaves on a white pumpkin or gourd. I love this idea, and it looks fab!

Source: womansday.com via Aly on Pinterest

Reese's peanut butter cup pilgrim hats. We are definitely making these the week of Thanksgiving!

Source: thehermannfam.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

Isn't this Thanksgiving onesie adorable?? You could use patterned paper and make a Happy Thanksgiving card or Thanksgiving place cards too.

Source: simplyvintagegirl.com via Aly on Pinterest

A thankful tree. Such a simple but fabulous idea. I think we're making one of these.

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

Free adorable Thanksgiving subway art from eighteen25.

scrapbooking with fabric and notions

2011-11-11T06:00:00.014-07:00

Have you seen this?

It's the latest CK special issue on sale now. I was thrilled to have two layouts requested for this special issue, and even more thrilled to find I had three show up in it. They used one from an issue last year that had a Studio Calico fabrip border.

Here's a sneak of one of my pages. I'll share the others in a couple of months.

I love the whole idea of using fabric and notions on scrapbook pages. I love the texture and fun feel they add. This idea book is packed with fabulous inspiration--check it out.

some photos

2011-11-09T06:00:00.004-07:00

I got some good shots of the kids in their Halloween costumes on our porch. Thankfully, there was no school that day so we had plenty of time to get dressed up and take some pictures. Usually the day of Halloween is such a rush that I never get good ones unless I dress them up and take photos another day.

Jeffrey was a spider, James was a millionaire (inspired by Mr. Howell from Gilligan's Island), Ashley was a vampire, Lexie a hobo, and Faith, being the drama diva that she is, took her ladybug roll very seriously and crawled around on all fours saying, "I a ladybug!" We totally lucked out and had gorgeous weather--the kids didn't even need jackets. The next day was freezing and snowed a bit, so we're thankful we had a lovely Halloween this year.

new from ella

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these two new ebooks from Ella Publishing Co? The authors are some of my favorite designers out there, and these ebooks are chock full of amazing inspiration--you won't be disappointed.

Crystal Wilkerson (who is a favorite of us write.click.scrapbook. designers) chose 10 of her favorite paper scrapbookers (Stacy Julian, Jamie Waters, Wendy Sue Anderson, Kristina Proffitt, Jen Jockisch, and more!), and she used their scrap-liftable designs to inspire her gorgeous digital designs.

Card making pros Kristina Werner, Heather Nichols, and Kimber McGray (love these girls!) have teamed up to share their best tips for stamping, stitching, designing, heat-embossing, misting, pattern-matching, embellishing—and SO much more!—on 31 gorgeous thank you cards.

a new epiphany crafts layout

2011-11-04T06:00:00.013-06:00

This one was posted on the new Epiphany Crafts blog this week. It's my baby playing with my Daddy. She loves one-on-one attention from either of her grandpas, and definitely has them both wrapped around her teensy finger!

I used the new Homemade 6 Bean Soup line from Jillibean Soup. The spool end paper fit perfectly with the Round 20 button tool, and the vintage Tea Room settings matched the colors of this line exactly. Love it when that happens!

crafting for a cause

2011-11-02T06:00:00.003-06:00

One of my crafty friends, Jennafer Martin, is looking for crafters who'd like to donate handmade items by Nov. 11th that can be given as gifts to be sold at a boutique as part of the Festival of Trees, a local Utah fundraiser for the children's hospital here. Wonderful cause!!

To learn more about Jennafer's request, CLICK HERE. To learn more about Festival of Trees, CLICK HERE.

I'm making a 2012 desk calendar to donate. Here's the cover:

I'll share the pages when I get them finished. I'm going to use my new Cinch 2 to bind the pages together. Can't wait to give it a try.

stretch a sketch: fall projects

2011-11-01T06:00:00.016-06:00

Check out the Scrapbook and Cards Today blog today to see how I used this original sketch to create three
different fall projects including these fall place cards.

happy halloween!!

2011-10-31T06:00:00.003-06:00

Source: countryliving.com via Aly on Pinterest

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-10-28T06:00:00.002-06:00

Source: echoparkpaper.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

cute halloween treat bags

Source: twopeasinabucket.com via Aly on Pinterest

gorgeous papercraft halloween bouquet

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

the only spiders I will every call cute!

Source: allrecipes.com via Aly on Pinterest

my favorite thing to make with pumpkin!

Source: twoshadesofpink.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

these yarn-wrapped gourds are fabulous!

fall traditions

2011-10-26T06:00:00.013-06:00

side note: don't forget to check out the Epiphany Crafts blog this week for our EC + Clearsnap blog hop. There are some amazing projects!

Fall is a time of year that we have created many traditions for over the years. We love to make pumpkin pie, apple pie, apple cake, and apple crisp. We love to visit pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and local Halloween events. We always carve pumpkins and sometimes roast pumpkin seeds. We make handmade decorations and "Halloween" our house. And this last year we added one more to our list of fall things to do: a drive up the canyon to see the incredible changing leaves.

Here are some photos from last fall when we went for a short hike--incredible!

click to enlarge

These are from this year--we didn't hike but it was sure lovely!

click to enlarge

And shame on me! I forgot my camera so these are taken with my cell and they don't even come close to giving these colors justice.

Anyway, I love our new fall tradition now that we live 10 minutes from these incredible mountains. Do you have any fall traditions? Please share!

something good

2011-10-24T06:00:00.002-06:00

I'm always a little disappointed and a lot disgusted whenever I watch the news or glance at the headlines on my google news feed--so much violence, crime, hate, and selfishness. There's such a fascination with reporting the bad, that I thought I would share a story I found that is so uplifting, positive, and good. (You may want to grab a tissue for some happy tears.)

Have a great day, and let's try to spread some goodness around.

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-10-21T06:00:00.002-06:00

Source: blog.catchmyparty.com via Aly on Pinterest

tons of free halloween party printables

Source: scrapbookandcardstodaymag.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

it's a little late to start this, but I thought I would include this link to instructions for making my halloween countdown on the SCT blog.

Source: sagebrushridge.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

i LOVE this! i could see misting the pages with orange glimmer mist first.

Source: barbschram.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

these are adorable! great activity for kids or great for a halloween party.

Source: tatertotsandjello.com via Aly on Pinterest

chevron + halloween = awesome!

halloween decor

2011-10-19T06:00:00.013-06:00

Found this in the dollar bins at Target last year and thought I would scrapify it and set it out on the counter for some Halloween fun.

I used the Monster stew line from Jillibean Soup. Since it was covered with glitter, I had to use hot glue to get the eyeball paper to stick to the word, but for the embellishments on top of the eyeball paper I used my ATG and some GlueDots and they worked fine. I don't know about you, but we're getting kind of excited around here for Oct 31st!

while i'm scrapbooking...

2011-10-17T06:00:00.021-06:00

this is what my 2 year old daughter does:

makes a tower out of "blocks"

plays with "puzzles"

hmm...wonder if she'll be a scrapbooker when she grows up?

i posted this on my facebook wall, so sorry if this is a repeat. =)

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-10-14T06:00:00.015-06:00

Source: womansday.com via Aly on Pinterest

some great halloween decor and craft ideas on the Woman's Day site

Source: apumpkinandaprincess.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

i love these mini pumpkin candle holders

Source: singingwithbirds.com via Aly on Pinterest

rice crispy treat crust, frosting, cookies, and candy--my kids would die if i served them this halloween pizza!

Source: meandmypinkmixer.com via Aly on Pinterest

okay, i had to throw this in there after that wicked pizza above. these aren't quite so bad for you. =)

Source: iheartnaptime.net via Aly on Pinterest

free printable cupcake toppers

epiphany crafts projects

2011-10-12T06:00:00.042-06:00

Have you seen it?? Epiphany Crafts has a brand new blog! Woo hoo! CLICK HERE to take a peek. My projects, along with some awesome ones by Laina Lamb, are up on the EC blog today. Here's what I came up with for October:

For this layout of my kids on Faith's first Halloween I used the Shape Studio Tool Round 14 with bubblecaps and some Jillibean Soup Monster Stew. The corrugated alphas are Making Memories.

I also made this Halloween tag for some goodies I took to my neighbor. For the tag I used the Shape Studio Tool Round 14 with bubblecap and a Clubhouse Vintage Setting. I love that EC makes their settings in colors that match so many paper lines! The papers and stickers are We R Memory Keepers, and the decorative trims are Making Memories--don't you love that bat trim??

Funny sidenote: the layout took me about 15 or 20 minutes, and that silly little 3 x 6 inch tag took me at least an hour!! What's up with that?? I kept shoving things around, rearranging them, and trying different things. My creative mojo was taking a lunch break or something...crazy. =0

just because

2011-10-10T06:00:00.010-06:00

Before we get too far into the school year, I thought I would share this layout I made just because. It's not often that I get to create a page for no other reason than I want to make one. Don't get me wrong--I get plenty of photos scrapped and stories told, but most of the time I have an assignment or there's a page call so I'm scrapping with those in mind. And I love that. I love the challenge of using the photos I have and the stories I need to tell within my assignments.

But it was really fun to scrapbook this page just because I felt like it. ;)

When I saw this grade card paper from Crate Paper I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it. I journaled two things I'm proud of about each of the four older kids. I want to make sure they know I think they're awesome when they look back through our family scrapbooks. So...if you need some back to school inspiration for a scrapbook page here ya go. =) Even though I kept to a school theme with this page, the journaling really has nothing to do with school. But I like it--it makes me smile.

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-10-07T06:00:00.002-06:00

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

print these free designs from martha onto vellum to make these table top lanterns

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

cheesecloth adds a creepy feel to halloween decor

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

cute clothespin bats

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

use a bat cookie cutter to make a halloween garland

Source: glorioustreats.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

this cute idea for a halloween treat bags includes a free printable treat topper

easy canvas prints

2011-10-05T06:00:00.046-06:00

Now that we've been in our home for a year, I'm finally turning my attention to decorating the basement. I've decided on a travel theme and I want to incorporate some cool vintage map images, a large compass clock, vintage travel cases, various foreign knick knacks, and lots of black and white photos from the places Derek and I have traveled around the world. In keeping with this theme, I decided to try turning one of my Yellowstone pictures into canvas using easycanvasprints.com. This one is of Mammoth Hot Springs.

I ordered an 8x10 3/4 inch deep canvas with a black border around the edge to make it pop against the beige wall. I'm thrilled with how it turned out! It's great quality and so cool to see my photo in beautifully wrapped canvas form. I had never seen a custom canvas print before, but I'm so glad I was able to get my hands on this. Not only does it make a lovely wall decor piece, but I'm thinking it would make an awesome Christmas present--can you picture a cute canvas photo of all the grandkids on Grandma and Grandpa's living room wall?

it's october!

2011-10-03T06:00:00.001-06:00

And that means there's a whole new gallery of inspiration up at Write.Click.Scrapbook. This month is all about shadows, and here's my submission:

It's all about how Faith is my sweet little shadow when the older kids are at school. She just wants to be wherever I am. I used some American Crafts goodies--not very fall-ish, but perfect for my photos. I also sneaked in a couple of paper doilies. I recently bought a package at JoAnn and I've used them on so many projects and in so many ways. Totally worth the $2.46 I spent!

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-09-30T06:00:00.012-06:00

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

accordion fold decorations--i've got all kinds of ideas brewing in my head with this concept!

Source: thecraftingchicks.com via Aly on Pinterest

cute felt halloween countdown

Source: familyfun.go.com via Aly on Pinterest

love these cute halloween healthy snack ideas!

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

martha's got these free printable halloween treat jar labels

Source: marthastewart.com via Aly on Pinterest

i love the look of these simple glitter pumpkins...probably a bit messy, though.

Epiphany Crafts + Clearsnap =

2011-09-28T06:00:00.019-06:00

these fun projects I created. First a layout:

For this layout about my parents (aren't they a lovely couple?) I used paper doilies as masks and sprayed my background cardstock with Pralines and Cream Smooch Spritz. I then added some Cosmo Cricket patterned paper punched circles in the center of the doily images and finished them off with Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Round 14 tool and bubble caps in the Vintage Tea Room Settings.

I used the Lettuce Smooch Accent Ink to paint some journaling lines.

I also used the Lettuce Smooch Accent Ink to paint my Maya Road bare chipboard alphas.

Next I created a card:

For this card I used a resist technique. I first embossed my stamped images using some Clearsnap white embossing powder and watermark ink. I then sprayed the paper with Tea Party Smooch Spritz and wiped it with a paper towel revealing the white embossed images. Then I used the Frosted Aqua and Lettuce Smooch Accent Inks to add details to my stamped images. I then added some custom epoxies as flower centers using the Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Tool Round 25 and the Shape Studio Tool Round 14 with some Cosmo Cricket papers.

HSN project (plus some more)

2011-09-26T06:00:00.005-06:00

ETA: Sorry! Got my times mixed up. The star and scalloped circle tools were selling this morning, but the square tool with the charms is selling tonight at 8:00pm MDT. Click here to get more info and watch the segment tonight.
Epiphany Crafts tools were selling today on HSN in the "Scrapbook Steals Under $25" segment. They featured the square 25 shape studio tool and the new square charms. This necklace of mine was there with Brian in the studio:

What I love about the new square charms is that they're double-sided so you can stick two photos in if you'd like. You can watch the segment replay HERE if you're interested. They sold out pretty quickly so you can't purchase them there, but you can HERE.

Here are some other projects I've made using the square 25 tool:

five latest pins:halloween edition

2011-09-23T06:00:00.004-06:00

i can't wait for halloween. i never dress up, but i love getting costumes together for my kids, decorating, trick-or-treating ('cuz hubby and i get the rejects), and just the whole feel of it. it's so fun. anyway, i thought it would be cool to have a five latest pins: halloween edition every friday until the end of october. sound good? cool. here goes the very first one:

free printable "keep calm" halloween signs:

Source: simplycreativeinsanity.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

"boo" your neighbors and friends with this free printable tag:

Source: uncommondesignsonline.com via Aly on Pinterest

a little button wreath wall art:

Source: modpodgerocksblog.com via Aly on Pinterest

mummy pops made from white chocolate dipped oreos:

Source: alittlelovelyblog.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

i love this look! i might need to buy a silhouette cameo...

Source: countryliving.com via Aly on Pinterest

ni hao again!

2011-09-21T06:00:00.034-06:00

Last year one of the top hospitals in China paid for Derek and I to come to Shanghai so he could present some research at a medical conference along with some other foreign and Chinese doctors. (Click here to read about our trip.) They were gracious enough to invite us back again this year, and we had a wonderful time!

This time we visited another city called Hang Zhou, which rests at the end of the Grand Canal and boasts a gorgeous lake and mountains where the most famous tea in China is grown.

We also visited one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China with pagodas and Buddhist grottoes. It was founded in 328 AD by an Indian monk.

While there we saw a performance of Impressions West Lake by Zhang Yimou who also directed the amazing opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. What an incredible combination of music, dance, water, and lighting!

On our last day we visited the new city center by the Qiantang River with it's modern skyscrapers and architecture, and then an outdoor market where we shopped (and bartered) for souvenirs. We also spotted a DQ on the corner--who knew?

winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2011-09-19T14:00:00.008-06:00

The winner of the Bite-sized Scrapbooking bundle #1 giveaway is:

Beth said...
I would LOVE to win this! I adore using sketches, and these look great! I get most of my inspiration, like a lot of people, from all the talented bloggers I follow. Love incorporating all the wonderful ideas into my own pages!

Congratulations!! Send me an email (link's on the sidebar) with "bite-sized winner" in the subject and I'll get you hooked up with your free bundle asap! Thanks for your comments.

bite-sized scrapbooking giveaway!

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of Bite-sized Scrapbooking? It's a wonderful subscription service offered by Kim Byrns for scrapbooking inspiration so you can save time getting your pages scrapped. Kim has recently offered the first six months of bite-sized scrapbooking subscription content into one fabulous bundle for only $7.99, and she is offering this bundle to one of you readers for FREE!

If you'd like to be considered for this giveaway, just leave a comment below telling me your favorite source for scrapbooking inspiration. Comments will remain open until Sunday 9/18 at midnight MDT. I'll announce the winner some time on Monday 9/19. Good luck!

winners, winners, chicken dinners!

2011-09-14T06:00:00.012-06:00

The winners of a free copy of one of the three List It! books of printable journaling prompt tags are:

Melinda AKA medialady said...
Wow! I don't know how I missed these on their site! I love them and would love to have the everyday ones.

Melinda said...
What a great giveaway! It'd either be the childhood or the everyday life! Thanks for the chance!

Danielle said...I love their books! The holiday one would be my choice.

Congratulations!! Send me an email (link's in the sidebar) ASAP with "ella winner" in the subject line and I'll email you info on how to collect your free Ella List It! book.

Thanks for all your comments, and don't forget to check out the 411 on Ella's Boot Camp 2011. They've got quite an impressive line up of "drill instructors". You won't be disappointed. And you can save $2 on registration if you use the code below. (Click the image below for more info.)

an Ella giveaway!

2011-09-12T06:00:00.026-06:00

In celebration of a successful digi month over at Ella Publishing Co., they have offered to give three of you readers a free List It digi plus version ebook! These books contain 90 + printable journaling tags with prompts to get you thinking and speed up your journaling process.

Page by Francine Clouden

Winners can choose from three different books: List It! Childhood, List It! Holiday, or List It! Everyday Life.

If you'd like to be considered for this giveaway, leave a comment below telling me which book of List It! journaling tags you could use and why. Comments will remain open until Tuesday 9/13 at midnight (MDT) and I'll announce a winner on Wednesday morning. Good luck!

i remember...

2011-09-11T06:00:00.012-06:00

...exactly where I was that morning 10 years ago when I found out about the unbelievably tragic terrorist attacks against our nation. I had gone over to my aerobics class as usual, but there was a sign up on the door saying the class had been canceled for the day. I went home to shower and get dressed, so I turned on the TV to find a PBS kids show to keep my little ones busy. I couldn't believe the image I was seeing. At that point it was only one plane in one fire-engulfed building. The news anchors were speculating about how this could have happened when suddenly a second plane hit the flaming tower's twin, and we all knew exactly what was going on. Then reports came in about other attacks and I began to feel sick to my stomach. Where are they attacking next? How far is this going to go? How will we stop them, I wondered as my husband called to check on us. I wanted him to come home so we could all be together. I'd feel so much better that way.

It was about this time when I saw the horror of the towers falling and I burst into tears and cried out an audible uncontrollable, "NO!" as I thought of the thousands of innocent trapped citizens, firefighters, and police officers being smothered to death. All I could think of was the poor families of those people and how they'd never see them again.

After the initial disbelief, sadness, and anger wore off I remember feeling a profound need to never forget this day--the attacks, the losses, the sadness, the resilience and patriotism that followed, the humanity brought out in the individuals who were there to help and succor the victims and their families.

So that is why I write this. Ten years later I still feel the desperate need to never forget this. And I hope the US government doesn't either. I hope the war on terror doesn't get sidetracked as it has in the past, because the terrorists and their evil and horror will only get stronger if we send them the message that we don't care anymore. That we're giving up because it costs too much (or insert any number of excuses here). I hope we honor those who fell that day in the way they deserve.

some recent publications

2011-09-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

from "Remember This" a Memory Makers Idea Book

from CK Sept 2010

from CK Scrapbook Supplies special issue (one of my favorite special issues yet!)

from "Double Page Design" Ella ebook by WCS designers

from CK fabulous flowers special issue

back to school projects

2011-09-07T06:00:00.002-06:00

I recently got my hands on Jillibean Soup's Sweet and Sour Soup line (LOVE!) and was inspired to create these back to school projects:

To find full credits and instructions for these altered notebooks and fridge magnets, visit the Scrapbook and Cards Today blog.

p.s. if you check out the Scrapbook and Cards Today blog, there another chance to take my class for free!

guess who's...

2011-09-05T06:00:00.004-06:00

hosting this week over at Write.Click.Scrapbook? Yep, that'd be me! I'm doing Home Decor Week this time, and each day I'll be sharing a simple home decor project, tips, and ideas plus some of my favorite sources of inspiration so be sure to check it out.

By the way, it's highly possible that on Thursday I'll be giving away a spot in my BPC home decor class...just sayin'.

it's september!

2011-09-02T06:00:00.003-06:00

And that means there's a new gallery full of inspiration over at Write.Click.Scrapbook. This month's theme is books. There are some fabulous pages in the gallery, so be sure and check them out! I decided I needed to record some of the recent books I had read. I think my kids will enjoy looking at this when they're older and seeing what some of the popular books were right now. Here's my submission:

I used the Autumn Splendor line from We R Memory Keepers. I love how versatile the line is, and the colors and patterns are just so yummy! I used a library card and some measuring tape twill from Jillibean Soup. The alpha stickers are from Bella Blvd.

I also used a fun Photoshop trick on this picture of me. My shirt is actually a much more saturated blue color in real life, but it didn't quite go with these papers. So I used my polygonal lasso tool to select my shirt, and then used the hue/saturation slider to desaturate the blue a bit so it didn't overwhelm the rest of the layout.

five latest pins:decor ideas

2011-08-31T06:00:00.004-06:00

Here are a few cool decor ideas I've pinned lately:

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

What an easy and cool idea for a decor piece in a child's room.

Source: modpodgerocks.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

Simple, but very cute!

Source: sewhomegrown.com via Aly on Pinterest

Anthropologie knock-off using scrapbook paper and decoupage medium.

Source: thehouseofsmiths.com via Aly on Pinterest

Love the frame collage--so clean and classy.

Source: google.com via Aly on Pinterest

I wonder if this would work with moistened patterned paper?

a layout and some cards

2011-08-29T06:00:00.016-06:00

So I decided to throw my hat into the Doodlebug design team call. I haven't worked with their products much, but every time I see one of their ads or their CHA booth I'm always impressed with how cute their stuff is. I ran down to my LSS and picked up a bit of Doodlebug, and here's what I came up with:

Sadly my LSS didn't have any of their new stuff yet, but I think this worked out okay. It was fun to play with!

words to live by: completed album!

2011-08-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

Before I show you the rest of my Words to Live By mini album from the Big Idea Festival at Big Picture Classes, I thought I would share some of my thoughts about it. When I first heard about this project I fell in love the the concept and thought it would be a really neat way to get to know some of the teachers at BPC and get some inspiration from them. But to be honest, my next thought was...I've got so much on my plate already, I don't have time for another project right now. And that would have been fine. But I really wanted to do this, so I came up with a plan to fit it in: DON"T STRESS!

I decided to create this album in the simplest way possible (while still being cute and fun) and to not worry if it was my "best work" or "cutting edge" or included the "latest techniques" and products. I had some Doodlebug scraps laying on my desk and just went with those, rather than mulling through my huge stash for the "perfect" products or making a trip to the store. I used the templates BPC provided and I went for quick and easy embellishments like stickers and punches. There are times when I enjoy taking several days to finish a project so I can get it to where I'm really happy with everything being just right, but not this time.

So I guess my point is, sometimes scrapbooking/crafting can be about getting something done; about just accomplishing something, and less about how you accomplish it. And we should be okay with that if that's what works for us at that moment. We should be happy with our work and the stories we've told because they're ours and no one else's. They have incredible meaning for us, even though they may not be technically amazing. Because that's really what this hobby is all about.

a few recent layouts

2011-08-24T06:00:00.007-06:00

I thought I would share with you a few recent layouts I made for page calls using some Epiphany Crafts and We R Memory Keepers products. My boys recently were asking why I make so many layouts about the girls, and not so many about them. I really need to make more about them--my album is girl-heavy that's for sure! I told them that they always give me a hard time when I want to take their pictures, and maybe that's why. Hopefully they won't harass me next time I point my lens at them. =)

Anyway...this first layout is about the girls' homemade valentines. I used the WRMK Funfetti line and the Sew Easy banner head, which I love. I ran it over the background cardstock, as well as both of the patterned papers I made the banner out of. I then cut out the banner pieces from the patterned papers using the Sew Easy holes as guides and added them to the background cardstock before I stitched the banner. Make sense? Then I added some smiley face hearts to the banner using the Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Tool Heart 14 and bubble caps.

This next one is about a fun date my daughter and I went on to see a sneak preview of Harry Potter 7:part 2. Her orthodontist rented out 2 theaters for his patients to see it before it came out. We had a blast! I tried to capture the whole movie theme by punching squares out of my black background cardstock to represent the notches in a strip of film. I used the new WRMK Spookville line because the colors worked really well with the photos. I added the smaller cell phone photos to the digital filmstrip frame before printing them. I also used some super old Making Memories metal alpha tags--they worked perfectly for this. Glad I held on to them. =)

Thanks for peeking, and happy scrapping!

i can hardly believe...

2011-08-22T06:00:00.001-06:00

...that this beautiful girl is 11 years old!

Happy Birthday to my sweet Ashley! I'm so proud of you and I love you so much!

Typical Ashley:

reading a book (currently Catching Fire)
making a craft
snuggling and playing with her baby sister
being responsible
eating slowly with her new orthodontic appliances
staying organized
playing with neighborhood friends
keeping us all in line

words to live by

2011-08-19T06:00:00.008-06:00

I've been participating in the free Big Idea Festival over at Big Picture Classes this week. (CLICK HERE to see my blog post and learn more about it.) It's been great to put together this mini album and think about the words shared by each teacher and how they apply to me and my family. I decided to create my album as sort of a declaration of our family's beliefs about each word with a photo to illustrate. Here's my cover:

I printed the free templates on cardstock or semi-solid patterned paper and added bits and pieces from Doodlebug Design, Jillibean Soup, and MME. Here are the first four pages:

I'm excited to find out what the rest of the words are. It's neat to see everyone's take on the concept and how their albums are coming together. I'll share the rest of my album next week when it's all done. It's not too late to register and start your own--the content is still available for each day. Check it out!

doable DIY decor

2011-08-17T06:00:00.007-06:00

To say that I'm bursting with excitement about this would just not quite get the point across. =) I am beyond thrilled to announce that my first self-paced class at Big Picture Classes is now live!

If you’re anything like me, you love your pretty patterned paper so much you want to mount it to your craft room wall. (I actually did!) Would you love to make home décor items from your scrapbook stash but aren’t sure how? Do you see the cool DIY home décor projects out there on the web and wonder, “how’d she do that?” Or are you a DIY home décor veteran looking for new and clever ideas? Then my self-paced class, Doable DIY Décor is perfect for you!

In this class I’ll take you step-by-step through 3 adorable and totally doable home décor projects using items you probably have hanging around your house, plus your favorite scrapbook supplies. You’ll learn some basic crafting techniques and tips, how to alter some household items, and you’ll see just how much you can do with basic patterned paper. Keep these projects and display your handiwork in your own home, or give them to loved ones as gifts. I hope you’ll join me in my home décor journey beyond the scrapbook page where you’ll learn to stretch your creativity past the edge of your layouts.

CLICK HERE to learn more.

scrapping summer photos: H2O layouts

2011-08-15T06:00:00.031-06:00

I'm hosting today over at Write.Click.Scrapbook., and I'm sharing some water-themed layout inspiration. Here's one of my sample projects, and if you'd like to see the rest you can click here.

For this digital page I used the Echo Park Hybrids line, Summer Days, available at jessicasprague.com, and some elements by Crystal Wilkerson. These photos were taken at an indoor pool, so I tried to take the photos with my back to the windows and my subjects facing the windows. The bright colors of the swimsuits were what determined my color palette.

big idea festival

2011-08-12T06:00:00.001-06:00

Sometimes something comes along that is just too good to pass up, and that's the case today. I just had to share this with you! This is a wonderful event happening at Big Picture Classes starting Monday, August 15th and running through August 26th, and it is FREE! Each day during this event you will receive a word with a downloadable template to make a mini-layout so that by the end you have a whole mini-album of inspiration. Each day you will have a different instructor, and the line up is impressive. Click here to register.

five latest pins:graphic design edition

2011-08-10T06:00:00.002-06:00

One thing I love to do is find awesome graphic design or artwork on Pinterest that I think would somehow inspire a cool scrapbook page. I might be inspired by the color scheme, or the layout, or the style, etc. So I'm going to post five of my latest design inspiration pieces, and you see if you can find how they might influence a scrapbook page for you. Sound good? Leave a comment telling me which ones would inspire you to create a page and how.

Source: inaluxe.bigcartel.com via Aly on Pinterest

Source: ffffound.com via Aly on Pinterest

Source: bookcoverarchive.com via Aly on Pinterest

Source: simplesong.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

Source: lovelife.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

Aren't those cool? I love the color schemes of the first and fourth ones, the collage of shapes on the last one, and the layout of the second and third ones. What inspires you?

have you seen this?

2011-08-08T06:00:00.008-06:00

This is the latest special issue from PaperCrafts magazine. It goes on sale officially tomorrow! It was originally to be entitled "Go-To Sketches" but the editors wanted to make the terminology a bit more user friendly for those who may be new to the paper crafting/scrapbooking/cardmaking world. It's full of 288 cards for all occasions based on 84 sketches. I loved seeing multiple interpretations of the same sketch. It's one of my favorite idea books--tons of inspiration! Definitely worth checking out.

I am thrilled to have a card in there. Mine is based on sketch #38.

I used the 8x8 paper pack from the Rocket Age line by October Afternoon, some Jillibean Soup labels and stickers, and some old Making Memories mini alphas. It's a swinging door boy card. It was fun to make because I don't make very many boy/masculine cards. I really should make more. =)

photographing your kids naturally

2011-08-05T06:00:00.035-06:00

I don't know about you, but it's rare for me to get natural looking photos of my kids. It seems like most of the time they either look stiff and posed, or they're a blur in a mediocre candid shot. When I saw Rebecca Cooper's latest ebook from Ella Publishing Co., I was so excited to get my hands on it.

(click on image to learn more)

I always adore Rebecca's gorgeous photos. She makes a work of art out of photographing her kids coloring with sidewalk chalk! With my almost 2 year old daughter bouncing off the walls and refusing to sit still for a photo, I can't wait to read this.

digital supplies by Echo Park Digitals and Creativity By Crystal

In other Ella news, August is digital month with articles in their free ezine each week on different aspects of digital scrapbooking. I had the opportunity to write the kick off article, What Is Digital Scrapbooking? The digital layout above was my artistic contribution, and some other very talented digital (not to mention hybrid and paper) scrapbookers contributed as well. The article contains helpful information for all levels of interest in digital scrapbooking, so be sure to check it out.

shadow box project + tutorial

2011-08-03T06:00:00.002-06:00

I got this shadow box at a Making Memories warehouse sale last fall. When I saw it, I knew I wanted to make a decor piece for my baby's room, but therein lies a great irony: when you have a baby, you have no time for projects! =) So it sat on my craft room shelf for several months until I got my hands on the perfect line of scrapbook products and decided to get it done. This project was featured on the Scrapbook and Cards Today blog yesterday. For instructions on how to make this project click here.

I used Fancy Pants Designs Baby Mine line and I'm so happy I did! I love the soft colors, the whimsical patterns, and the fun new specialty papers and embellishments. I really enjoyed working with the flocked transparencies (so gorgeous and so many creative possibilities) and the new filter paper embellishments (you can do so much with them because of their pliability and texture). I'll share with you a short tutorial from the SCT blog yesterday on how to make the layered flower embellishments on this project.

Just scrunch one of the filter papers toward its center and staple it. Scrunch another one (a smaller size) and staple it on top of the other. Punch out a small circle from a scrap of cardstock and cover it with glue dots. Adhere some ric rac, winding it around and layering it from the outside toward the inside of the circle. Add a stitched button to the center of the ric rac and adhere it over the layered filter papers.

it's august!

2011-08-01T06:00:00.016-06:00

And that means there's a new gallery full of inspiration at Write.Click.Scrapbook. This month's theme is layouts without photos. Seeing as I've hardly made any layouts without photos, this was a good challenge for me. I'm not sure why I haven't done more of these pages because I really like the ones I've seen.

I decided to make a page about the common phrases my kids are saying right now, and there are some interesting ones. =) I've wanted to scrap this subject for a few months, so I kept a post it note on my desk and wrote the phrases down that I heard them say most often. Here's what I came up with:

I really wanted these phrases to stand out on the page, so I used the Jillibean kraft mini alphas to contrast with the bright colors. The paper is from the Spotted Owl Soup line, and I created a collage out of some of their kraft tags and journaling sprouts as a background for my title. The yellow letter stickers are also Jillibean Soup. For the embellishments I punched flowers out of various Spotted Owl Soup papers and layered them with some Epiphany Crafts felt flower settings, buttons, and a small epoxy. Tip: I pulled apart the felt flower settings to get more mileage out of them and to mix things up a bit. I like how it turned out. =) .

five latest pins

2011-07-29T06:00:00.004-06:00

Here are five of my most recent pins on Pinterest:

Source: etsy.com via Aly on Pinterest

Simple yet stunning! Cardstock in various colors punched into circles and connected with jump rings.

Source: pebblesinc.blogspot.com via Aly on Pinterest

If you're looking for summer layout ideas, here's a cool one. LOVE that ribbon sun!

Source: writeclickscrapbook.com via Aly on Pinterest

More summer layout inspo. Vivian's skewer flags rock!

Source: scrapbookandcardstodaymag.typepad.com via Aly on Pinterest

Super cute grass button border!

Source: purlbee.com via Aly on Pinterest

Aren't these felt embellishments just delish?? I love the yo-yo's. Have to try that!

how 'bout some hybrid inspiration

2011-07-27T06:00:00.002-06:00

in honor of the webinar I'm participating in today with Betsy Sammarco and Paula Gilarde at Masterful Scrapbook Design on Get It Scrapped?


(From my childhood album.) How is it hybrid? I printed the digital brushes on the left and colored them with chalks before I added the traditional paper elements.


(From my heritage album.) How is it hybrid? I printed out the digital journaling spots and flower, cut them out, and added them to the page.

(Another one from my heritage album.) How is it hybrid? I created the title spots and journaling spot in Microsoft word, printed them, punched them out, and added them to my page.


How is it hybrid? I added the digital butterfly brush to the photo before I printed it.


How is it hybrid? I added the digital label frames to my photos before I printed them. I then cut them out and added them to my page. I also printed out a digital journaling label, cut it out, wrote on it, and added it to my page.

How about you? Have you ever given hybrid a try? If so, link me up in the comments below.

my top 5 CHA picks

2011-07-25T06:00:00.009-06:00

Sadly, I wasn't able to attend CHA this summer but I've been peeking at all the new releases and have picked my top 5 favorites. Here they are in no particular order:

1. Echo Park Paper Co. Happy Days collection. Bottle caps patterned paper = genius!

2. Jillibean Soup Homemade 6 Bean Soup. Love the sewing + vintage feel.

3. Sew Stamper from We R Memory Keepers. A rolling stamper in various stitching patterns: I love anything that simplifies and beautifies!

4. Doodlebug Design baker's twine and baker's twine patterned alpha stickers. Yum!

5. Silhouette SD in the new improved...wait for it...12 x 12 size!! I've been waiting for it, that's for sure!

There went my payckeck. And some of my hubby's too. Whew!

Which new releases have you been excited about??