You Can Create

Close To My Heart and Cricut...so Excited

2011-07-19T04:49:00.000-07:00

The VERY BEST announcement made at convention was that Close To My Heart is teaming up with Cricut to bring us an exclusive cartridge. I has seen some of the work up close and personal and I am STOKED. I can not wait to get my hands on it...

This video will say it better than I ever could... Check it out!

Now... aren't you excited!

Email me for more information...

Julia

Candy Bouquet

2011-05-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

I made this for my lovely niece who is graduating from High School. It was very easy and fun( and forgiving . My soon to be 9 year old daughter enjoyed helping and now wants to make one for her teacher.

Supplies:
Cardboard can ( any size, this was a used can that had pancake mix in it)
Paper of choice ( I used Close To My Heart Cardstock in Tulip and Black)
Styrofoam ( floral foam would work too)
Sticker ( TPC Sudio" Class Act Sticker Sheet"
Tape
Wooden sticks ( mine where flat craft sticks, but you could use skewers too)
Tissue paper
Candy of choice

1) Wrap the can in the cardstock using adhesive tape to secure.
2) Place large chunks of foam inside the can
3) Tape candy to wooden sticks

4) Tape tissue squares ( 6x6 ish) to wooden sticks.

5) Tape cardstock and Stickers to wooden sticks to make "signs".

6) Arrange candy and "signs" in foam and then fill in with tissue sticks until you like the way it looks.
7) Admire your creation :)

Back to Blogosphere!

2011-03-26T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ok... I want to get back in the habit of sharing my Scrapbook Layouts.

Here are a few LO I worked on this week while on Spring Break

I LOVE these People: This was Layout based on the "Out of the Hat" layout from Close To My Heart's Magic book. ( p 82-82) . I had to add one more picture than the sample LO.

Paper: CTMH Olivia Kit
Cardstock: CTMH Barn Red
Chip board letters : CTMH ( retired ) and Provocraft Brush Express

50 Pounds Lighter: This LO is my " I did it" Lo. It is based on Sketch 9 at Sketch Support.
Again, I had to alter the LO to allow for more pictures...
Paper Kit: CTMH Sopia
Paper Flowers and butterfly is from CTMH too.

Beautiful Lengths: This is my favorite LO that I did this week. It is based on another LO from the Magic Book. I had to flip the "Backstage" layout to accomodate my feature pictures... Looks good to me :) I have had the floral paper in my stash for FOREVER and finally found the perfect LO for it. I love how the colors compliment her outfits!

Paper: CTMH Sweet Leaf B&T ( retired), Floral from Scrapbook Walls
Cardstock: CTMH Spring Iris and White Daisy

Not bad for a week, eh!

Happy Scrapping.
Julia

History

2009-05-30T11:07:00.001-07:00

One of the neat tips I picked up was to take pictures of your kids in front of the TV or holding the newspaper when historical events happen. I made sure to do this during the last election. The kids were excited about he whole process and C actually took the pictures at the polling place. The focal picture is of them watching the inauguration live. LOVE that shot :)

I used a retired kit from CTMH.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

With All My Heart

2009-05-25T16:39:00.001-07:00

This is the most recent sketch from 2Sketches 4 U.Here is what I ended up with. When looking through my file of inspiration cards, I noticed lots and lots of cards with "paper quilts". That is definitely where I was headed when I started this card.

I once again used CTMH's Key To My Heart paper. I am please with the way this one came out. I think I will give it to one of the kid's teachers with a "Thank you with ALL my heart" message inside.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Celebrate Good Times

2009-05-23T20:10:00.001-07:00

As soon as I saw this card on Stamps, Paper, Scissors Blog, it reminded me of the CTMH Key To My Heart Paper. So, when I started this card, I knew where I wanted to start. Of course, mine never end up looking EXACTLY like my inspiration, but that is OK

I made this card for little girl's birthday.

Pattern Paper: CTMH Key To My Heart
Cardstock: Tulip, Colonial White
Stamp: CTMH B1332 Good Times

Thanks for looking,
Julia

52 "All About Me" layouts

2009-05-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

I came across this list of LO ideas and want to make sure I don't lose it :)

1. What books or magazines are you reading now?
2. What is the last tv show/movie you watched & why?
3. If you could have a free plane ticket to anywhere in the world,
where would you go?
4. What's one important value in your life right now?
5. Who was your -----grade teacher/favorite teacher and what did
he/she teach you?
6. Name a character in a movie/TV show or book that you admire.
7. List 5 things about yourself that most people don't know.
8. What is your favorite color & what does it say about you?
9. How do people in your life show that they love you?
10. Have you ever wanted to change your name? If so to what & why?
11. What do you think about technology like cell phones & the
internet.
12. What's the last conversation you had & with who?
13. List 3 dreams for your future.
14. Describe your best & worst personality traits.
15. How did you meet your best friend/significant other.
16. What do you do for fun?
17. What's the best gift you've ever gotten/given?
18. How did you spend your last $10?
19. What's your dream car?
20. Have you ever had a dream come true? Was it everything you
dreamed it would be?
21. What is the last song you listened to & why?
22. How old were you when.......... (you got your driver's licence,
when you got married, had your first baby, moved out on your own, got
your first car......)
23. How has your personality changed in the past 10 years?
24. How many times have you moved in your life?
25. Do you like to cook?
26. Where do you shop?
27. Do you ever feel bored & wy?
28. What's your housework story? (....are you good at it, do you have
a maid, make your kids do it, hubby does it, nobody does it.....)
29. How many pets have you had? What do you remember about them?
30. What's the lst web-site you visited & why?
31. How often do you smile?
32. Who are the most influential people in your life right now?
33. If you could change anything about your life today, what would it
be?
34. How has your daily routine changed from the time you were -----
years old & now?
35. What is your favorite sport to play/watch? Why? Favorite
team/player?
36. Do you have a tattoo? What? Why did you get it/what does it mean?
Will you get more? If you don't have one now, would you ever get one?
37. What was on your last grocery list?
38. Describe the contents of your purse right now.
39. What's your favorite scrapbook supply/tool/brand/technique?
40. What is something you have always wanted to try & why? (on your
layouts or with another hobby)
41. Who is the last person you e-mailed/e-mailed you? (or IM'd)
42. Describe something unexpected that made you happy, worried, sad...
43. How did you start scrapbooking/get your job?
44. If you could be on one make-over show/reality show, which one
would it be & why?
45. Do you watch the news? Why or why not?
46. What newspaper headline effected you the most/do you remember the
most?
47. What's the coolest thing you've ever done?
48. What's something your parents taught you that you've never
forgotten?
49. If you could write your own fortune-cookie fortune, what would it
say?
50. What best song lyrics best describe your life & why?
51. What's in your fridge right now?
52. How are you?

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Pig Day!

2009-04-11T12:21:00.001-07:00

One of the highlights of 3rd grade is reading Charlotte's Web and Pig day. Each child (with the help of a parent) makes a clay piggy bank. Mom and I had lots of fun helping C makes his little piggy. Isn't it cute!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

New Catalog Sneak Peek

2009-04-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

I know I say it EVERY time a new catalog comes out, but CTMH did an AWESOME job with the new catalog that is set for May 1st release!

I am very excited to give you some sneak peeks of the new paper kits...shhhhh! Don't tell anyone ( wink wink)

This lovely artwork is from the new BACK COUNTRY kit:

This one may be my favorite: ANIMAL CRACKERS

MOON DOOGIE is perfect for those summer themed paper crafts:

TINKERIN' is very cute!
Look how sweet the BELLA kit is!

Thanks for looking, let me know if you want to be added to my customer newsletter or if you want a catalog :)

Julia

Tickled Pink

2009-04-04T16:05:00.001-07:00

This is a preview of the special kit that Close To My Heart put together for National Scrapbook month. It is called "Tickled Pink". I comes with a D size stamp set GLITTER paper as well all sorts of other goodies. You can earn this kit valued at $34.95 for FREE when you order just $60 in stamps. That is one sweet deal! This offer is only good until May 31.

I can send you more details if you are interested , so let me know.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Cupcake Class

2009-03-28T12:45:00.001-07:00

The kids have been wanted to take a cake decorating class for a long time. We can blame Ace Of Cakes for this obsession. So today, they took a cupcake class at the local Michaels. It was an adults class, so I was there to supervise and assist, but they did most of the work by themselves. It was a 2 hour class and they are pleased with the results. They are already asking when the next class is.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Today

2009-03-19T20:21:00.000-07:00

Another FABULOUS swap page from Amanda E. I have had this one for a bit. I was so pleased when I found these pictures matched this LO so well.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

WHY?

2009-03-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

Why cant we get the kids to sit still when we want to take pictures? Maybe it is because the "old folks" set such a poor example!

We were celebrating Thanksgiving and James was laying on the carpet. Not sure what came over me...but I pounced on him! Oh my goodness. It did not take long before MOM joined the fray.

Needless to say we laughed and giggled and rolled on the floor like fools. Thank goodness Cat took pictures.

Anyway, it may explain why we were unable to get a" cousins" shot this year :)

I used CTMH's Magic Moment's paper kit.

Thanks for looking!

Julia

Jedi Birthday

2009-03-15T16:57:00.001-07:00

I have been taking the supplies for this LO from crop to crop to crop since June of last year. I had GRAND plans to use Cricut's Paper Dolls Cartridge to create a Jedi Robe for the is LO. But,I could never figure out what the rest of the LO would look like, so I gave up. No cool Jedi Robe for this LO.

I did however use the color scheme on the sign in this picture to come up with the colors used on this LO.

I am glad I got it done...if you can think of how I can add that cricut robe...please let me know.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Wish

2009-03-10T15:56:00.001-07:00

I wish you could see how pretty this card is! The pattern on the purple paper is glittery, the blue paper is metallic, and I used pearl Create-a -Shade paint from CTMH on the flower too. It has subtle BLING :)

This card is based on the sketch challenge over at 2sketches4 you(Laura's Sketch #21).

Thanks for looking!

Julia

Happy 4 U!

2009-03-03T12:52:00.000-08:00

Whoo Hooo! I am on a roll. Two weeks in a row I have been able to participate in the 2Sketches4U challenge.

I used scraps from CTMH Rough and Tumble Kit, plus some odds and ends that I had.

This card is based on Kazan's sketch # 21 shown above. I rotated the sketch for my card and am happy with the results.

This was going to be a birthday card, but ended up going in a different direction. I love when I set out to do one thing and end up with something so totally better then I first imagined.

Thanks for looking,
Juia

Thank You Card ( Laura Sketch 20)

2009-02-27T12:58:00.000-08:00

I am very happy with how this card came out. As soon as I saw Laura's Sketch 20 on 2sketches4You this week, I knew that I wanted to make a it a "flap card" Here is what it looks like open:
Papers: CTMH Notebook
Stamps: Simple Stitches,Say It with Style
Flower: Petaloo

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Bloom

2009-02-14T14:57:00.001-08:00

I created this card for the 2 Sketches 4 U blog. It is Laura's sketch # 19 I follow this blog EVERY week, but this week I can participate.

The papers I used are from CTMH Emporium Creative Basics.

The flower is made of strips of paper folded for dimension. I am glad I got to make this card.
I cut the letters using Jasmine on the Cricut.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Your a Star

2009-01-23T19:32:00.001-08:00

I got to play with my Cuttlebug. I discovered you can emboss chipboard!!! Thanks to Jenn M for letting me borrow her Swiss Dot Folder. I am on the hunt for my own at the moment.

Anyway, I made a card for Cuttlebug Be Inspired # 15 challenge.

I used CTMH Baby Pink and White Daisy. The chipboard stars are from American Crafts. The rest of the goodies are from my stash :) I also used heat embossing for the sentiment and stickles on the white stars.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Stampede

2009-01-20T07:44:00.000-08:00

This was a page kit put together by Becky Harding-Dixon. I love how the colors match the colors in my pictures. The kids had fun at this Boy Scout function. Archery. BB guns, rock walls and rope courses filled the days activities.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Giraffe Altered Tiles

2009-01-18T16:16:00.001-08:00

I am on a bit of a Giraffe kick at the moment. I got a Giraffe print purse for Christmas and I am loving it. So, it was no surprise when I bought a pack of Giraffe print napkins on Clearance at Target. I would use them for something...someday.

Well, low and behold I found these nifty tile sets on clearance at Big Lots. 4 tiles and the metal holder for 50 cents! They even have cork on the back. I snatched them up and said. "I will use those for something."

I got home and put the two clearance deals together!

I painted over the Christmas designs and then decoupaged the napkins on to the tiles. I think the creases would normally bother me, but since it is an animal print, I think it makes them look cool!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

My Treasure

2009-01-16T16:02:00.000-08:00

It is hard to tell from this picture that I used the map paper from the CTMH Route 66 paper pack. Who knew I would use it on a pirate-y page?

We had Disneyland passes for almost a year before I bought them them ears. Don't you just love to "MEAN" pirate faces the kids make. Makes me want to pinch those pirate-y faces and smooch'em... ( I am sure that is not the reaction they were going for!)

I got all fancy and heat embossed the buckle and coins...

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Laugh Or Cry? page 1 and 2

2009-01-15T19:02:00.001-08:00

When David took these pictures of K. before and after a "spa day" birthday party, I did not know what I should do: laugh or cry. Here is my little SIX year old all dolled up with curls and glitter and look at her poses... WHAT!!! She can not be looking at the camera like that...It is just not right. Stop it..stop trying to be such a big girl!

PS..I used my new Cuttlebg to emboss the Colonial White squares. This paper is from Close To My Heart is this the Exclusive Key To My Heart Paper from this months special... PERFECT match to K's outfit.

Julia

My Cha-Cha Nails

2008-12-04T13:54:00.000-08:00

I was in the holiday spirit when I got my nails done yesterday. So, I splurged and got a bit of gold detailing!

Lots of fun!

Julia

Making Fishing Flies

2008-11-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Uncle James, Christopher was able to learn how to make fishing flies. In typical Christopher style he made a chart comparing his fly to Uncle James's sample.

I used CTMH Its a Guy Thing kit.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Remember this:

2008-11-25T16:22:00.000-08:00

I can claim this LO as my own. I had fun using gold embossing powder...

I used the CTMH kit called note book for this LO.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

In Your Eyes

2008-11-05T20:51:00.000-08:00

I wish...Oh how I wish I could claim responsibility for the LO...but I can not. This is another SWAP LO. I am sad to report that this once excellent swap group has fallen apart.... but wont stop me from using this BEAUTIFUL LO. Amanda E...you are one AWESOME scrapper!

The only part I added was this picture, the matte it is on and the title.

I snapped this shot of my kids on my lap quite by accident and LOVED how it looked.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

What Have I Done

2008-10-30T20:15:00.001-07:00

Christopher wanted to make his jack-o-lantern a chef. What could be scarier than a jack-o-lantern that has cooked a pumpkin pie? Sick...I know.

Have a happy Halloween everyone.
Julia

Christmas Tags

2008-09-15T19:24:00.001-07:00

Yeah...I made something!!!

I made these tags for a a Scrap Bingo Swap. This is the first time I have swapped with this group, so I hope it is acceptable.

I actually got some LO done on Saturday, and hope to share them with you this week.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Where you at???

2008-09-12T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed with a part time job. I work with students for four hours a day helping them become better readers. This job is a gift from GOD because I can help supplement the families income while the kids are in school, and then when they are out I am "just a Mom".

BUT, that is now 4 hours a day less that I have to do the "just mom" job. Pair that with the fact that our family has made the choice to car pool this year and I just find I don't have a lot of the same freedom with time that I have had in the past.

OH...and my hubby has me HOOKED on World of Warcraft LOLOLOLOLOL... Now don't tell him I said so. It has be the topic of many discussion this past summer. This game is fun , he really enjoys it, and we are this close to buying me my own account so we can play together. TOGETHER is a good thing :) BTW I am a level 17 Mage with a cute purple robe at the moment !

On top of all that, I have some friends who are going through some MAJOR life changes.

All this translates to LOSS of MOJO!!! I am itching to create, but have not found the time/ inspiration to get me going. I am hosting an all day crop this Saturday and hope to get SOMETHING,anything done.

Pray for me...as I adjust to my nee schedule. Pray for my friend that she will have God's wisdom as she navigates her new life.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by, I hope to have something crafty posted after Saturday.

Julia

Somehow it feels like Christmas to me...

2008-08-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

This morning I sent the kiddos of to another year of school. C is in 3rd and K is in 1st.
He said the cutest thing this morning! "Somehow it feels like Christmas to me" He was so excited to get back!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Proof I was on vacation with my family

2008-08-21T14:07:00.001-07:00

I can always tell when my self image is slipping, I seem to disappear from the family photos...

We spent 4 days at the beach with my family and this is the only picture that proves I was there...

Clever shot ...eh??? The kids and I were out on a shell hunt.

I am so glad that the kids go back to school next week, because I will be able to get back on track and back into the gym ( and the family photos!)

Thanks for looking,
Julia

2 Sketches 4 You: Laura Sketch 6

2008-08-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

Ok...this card has 2 sources of inspiration.

#1 This card is based on 2 Sketches 4 you: Laura Sketch #6:#2: I used the color scheme and stamp motif from this shirt I recently purchased.

And here is my card. I really need a good tutorial on heat embossing. I am not very good at it. Any one know how to keep stray powder from clinging to the paper??? Any feed back would be appreciated.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Paper: CTMH Twilight and Black
Black embossing powder
Stamps: CTMH Say it With Style and With Love

page 87: A face with out freckles is like a sky without stars

2008-08-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

I came across this quote and knew I would be using it someday on a LO about my kids... I took these closeups of the kiddos on a hike earlier this year and was thrilled to finally use the quote. I am not sure who made the stipped paper...

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer

2008-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to get my copy of this book...and I jumped right into it! Over all the plot line was great. But in all honesty it was TOOOOOO LOOOOOOOOOOOONG! Maybe I was just upset that I had to get the the last 1/3 of the book to get to the part I was most interested in: Will Bella have special power and what will it be?

I was sideswiped by some events in the book (and disgusted by one part in particular). But, Stephanie Meyer stayed true to the characters she has created. And that was great!!!

All in all I would still think the Twilight series is great read. Just be prepared for the marathon of the last book :)

Julia

RAK'd by Jessica S.

2008-08-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

Jessica Studer sent me the RAK and I LOVE it. The color of the blank cards will be showing up real soon, I can promise you that and It will be lots of fun to play with the Art Blanche Calendar kit...

Thank you Jessica.

Julia

Smore's Cookie Bars

2008-08-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

Grammy Staffy requested this recipe for Smore's Cookie Bars. It is ALWAYS a hit when I serve this treat:

S’Mores Cookie Bars

1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/3 cup flour
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 Milk Chocolate Bars
1 cup marshmallow creme

**Heat oven to 350. Grease 8 inch square baking pan. In large mixer bowl, beat butter and sugar well until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla: beat well

**In another bowl, stir together flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt; add to butter mixture, beating until blended

**Press HALF the dough into prepared pan. Arrange chocolate bars over dough, breaking as needed to fit. Spread with marshmallow cream. Scatter bits of remaining dough over marshmallow; carefully press to form top layer.

**Bake 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool Completely in pan in wire rack, Cut into bars.

Serve and Enjoy!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Uglies by Scott Westerfield

2008-08-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have been having the best time with Young Adult Books...

I just read a great book...it really is a start of a series and I will be finishing it!!!

The 1st book is called "Uglies" The author is Scott Westerfield.

Set in the future, everyone who is 16 automatically becomes pretty by undergoing a surgical prodecure. But becoming pretty has a price.
Shay and Talley are not sure that they want to pay that price...Shay runs off before her 16th birthday and Talley is forced to betray her friends.... It was a slow start for me but of course the cliff hanger has me chomping at the bit to read the next one: Pretties...

Now...I have in my hot little hands "Breaking Dawn" yes, my library ROCKS...

I will be a reading fool: 754 pages!

*EDIT*...it is now 10 pm...I am on page 206...I am sooooo shocked at the TWIST in this story...I was sooooo blindsided!!!

Off I go to read read read!!!

Julia

Three Cups Of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

2008-07-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

Finished this book last weekend but did not get a chance to tell you about it. This book recounts the TRUE story of climber Greg Mortenson. After local villagers in Pakistan save his life he promises to return to build them a classroom. That promise grew and grew! One school has turned into 55+ schools. Despite terrorist threats, kidnapping and 9-11 Mortesnson still continues to build classrooms for girls in the middle east. Sometime I got bogged down by the author attempts at describe the landscapes and environments, but the teacher in me LOVED the heart warming results of this mans efforts.

Another great book!

Julia

Laura Sketch # 5: 2 Sketches 4 You

2008-07-28T21:18:00.000-07:00

This week's sketch on 2 Sketches 4 You was provided by Laura. Here is her sketch:
Here is what I came up with. I do not know who made the cute stripe paper. (If you do, please leave a comment so I can give proper credit)
The chipboard is from Love, Elsie. It is sooo hard to keep track of where the buttons and bling are from...sorry!

The stamp is from CTMH: Say it With Style

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Design Team Wanna Be: Part Two

2008-07-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd card I submitted for the 2 Sketches 4 you design team call. I wish the 1st picture showed the true colors of the card. I have got to get better of taking those pictures. The second shot show the detail work.

Papers: CTMH baby pink, colonial white and sweet leaf cardstock. I also used CTMH ribbon and colonial white brads. Not sure where the mini safety pic came from...but I LOVE that detail :).

Stampsets: CTMH: Baby Steps and Card Commentary

You can check out the designers that did win over on the 2 Sketches 4 You BLOG.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Design Team Wanna Be: Part One

2008-07-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

First and foremost I consider myself a scrapbooker. Recently , however I have tried to hone my skills in card making. I even challenged myself to try out for a design team. I knew that many FANTASTIC card makers were going to apply kind of took the pressure OFF. Check out the designer that did win at 2 Sketches 4 You.

It is a lesson I try to teach my kids. You may never be THE best, but if you do YOUR best...you should be proud. ( How sappy is that???)

So, here is card #1 I submitted to the 2 sketches 4 you design team. This one is my favorite of the two that I submitted.

Papers used: CTMH Silhouette, Crystal Blue Cardstock,

Love those BITTY brads that CTMH released last year!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Kazan's Sketch 5: Shine

2008-07-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Here is another great sketch from 2 Sketches 4 U...

As usual, my card looks a bit different from Kazan's sketch, but I am happy with it.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Paper: CTMH: Free Spirit

She did it!

2008-07-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

She is very co-ordinated this little girl! After only about 45 minutes (real time) of practice...15 minutes over 3 days...K learned how to ride her bike!!!

She was very excited!

Off she goes!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Dude You're Awesome

2008-07-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

I made this card for the teenage boy that was my assistant for VBS. I used Basic Grey paper.

Thank for looking,
Julia

pages 85- 86: Easter

2008-07-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

You know there are just sometimes when I am DONE with a LO. I keep looking at this LO and I know it is not "right". But I can't figure it out. So I gave up LOLOL.

The base of the LO is from a LO swap . Thanks Dorie.

Thanks for looking.
Julia

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

2008-07-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

Finished reading "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" by Lisa See.

It is the story of 2 women in 19th century China. Paired to be friends for life they used a secret language for women, nu shu, to communicate. Nu shu was written on fans, and embroidered onto handkerchief and provided the connection for women kept in isolation. It is amazing to read about a society that binds women's feet and places a women's value on her ability to produce a male heir.

These 2 friends start out together, but end up on 2 different paths, with nu shu their main way of communication. It is powerful story of friendship and misunderstanding.

Great book !

Julia

pages 83 and 84: Father's Day

2008-07-20T17:07:00.001-07:00

Becky D is getting a lot of play on my BLOG recently:)

This is a swap page kit ( all the pieces to the LO are included but not assembled). We had a great time this Father's day weekend and I have the pictures to prove it :)

thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 81 and 82: KinderBeach

2008-07-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Another FABULOUS swap LO from Becky D.

I LOVE the pictures I got of the potato sack races...FUN FUN FUN

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 81 and 82: VBS

2008-07-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

I created this LO from scratch... no swap LO's surprise surprise surprise!!!
I had the pleasure of being a shepard at Vacation Bible School this summer. One of the highlights was watching the kids raise over $700 for an orphanage in Africa. Yeah Kids!!!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Papers: CTMH Rough and Tumble.

pages 79-80: Gingerbread Houses

2008-07-15T13:05:00.000-07:00

This is a swap LO dine by Becky D. Kindergarten is such a BUSY year. With so much to accomplish.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

page 76-78 : Grunion Run

2008-07-14T18:22:00.001-07:00

This is another AWESOME swap page from Amanda.

Journaling reads: 11:30 at night...1000's of people...4 fish??? What happened to all the fish? Good thing Chris and Katelyn enjoyed the evening anyway.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

2008-07-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

I usually stick to romance novels. ( Danielle Steele, Nicholas Sparks ect) But on the recommendation of my local librarian, I read the Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyers. I am not one for vampire books...but honest to goodness they were GREAT reads and I am eager to read the 4th installment due in August.

In the meantime, I thought I give another book by Stephenie Meyer a try. It is another Science Fiction book called "The Host". The plot is difficult to describe so here is a blurb from the cover:

"Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away.

Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy. Humans become hosts for these invaders, their minds taken over while their bodies remain intact and continue their lives apparently unchanged. Most of humanity has succumbed.

When Melanie, one of the few remaining "wild" humans is captured, she is certain it is her end. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, was warned about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the glut of senses, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.

Wanderer probes Melanie's thoughts, hoping to discover the whereabouts of the remaining human resistance. Instead, Melanie fills Wanderer's mind with visions of the man Melanie loves—Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she has been tasked with exposing. When outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off on a dangerous and uncertain search for the man they both love."

I really liked the book and actually had a hard time putting it down. It gives you lots of room to think about what makes us human. What makes us humane? What are you willing to do to save those you love? All very interestingly explored in this book.

Can't wait for the 4th Twilight book. What about you?
Have you read any good books lately?

Julia

page 76: A sunset on Earth.....

2008-07-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

I guess I couldn't wait 'til Saturday to scrap this picture.

I used CTMH "It's a Guy Thing" paper along with some buttons and some hemp.

I really like the way this LO turned out.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Blank Card

2008-07-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

I left this card blank for the time being. To me it is a sweet little card for a new baby or something along that line. I don't think you can see the detail on the white ribbon, so you should know that there are embossed flowers that add so much to this card.

I was inspired to start this card with a sketch found on 2 sketches for you. I did not follow the sketch completely...but it was my start.

Colors: CTMH White Daisy and Pattern paper from CTMH "Let's Get Together"
Yes, I used the lace punch again. I think I am in love with it :)

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Chino Crop Swap July ( part 2)

2008-07-05T08:54:00.001-07:00

Here is the other swap LO that I created for the Chino Crop Swap. I made 5 of them...and they all look the same. I followed a LO called "Safe and Secure" from my Imagine book ( page 78). I even used the same pattern paper shown in the sample LO. The best part of the whole LO is the little photo hanger details. I LOVE it :)

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Geek is Chic

2008-07-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

Yes...that is EXACTLY how thin I am. Yes, that is EXACTLY how well dressed I am. Yes, that is EXACTLY how.... Who am I kidding. I only wish I looked that good on my computer!

This is one of my new Bella stamps. She is called "Clickabella". I made another one of those folding cards using Life Delights paper from CTMH. I have a few more Bellas to play with and will share them with you as I get to them!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

A Sunset on Earth is a Sunrise in Heaven

2008-07-03T10:14:00.000-07:00

I lost my father a year ago today to Alzheimer's.

Someone sent me a card with the sentiment that read "A sunset on earth is a sunrise in Heaven". It is so PERFECT for one of my favorite pictures of my dad...he was doing what he loved: fishing.

I have not scrapped this picture yet. Maybe this coming crop will be a good time to do it.

Thank you for letting me share with you.

Julia

Chino Crop Swap July ( part 1)

2008-07-02T08:46:00.001-07:00

I know I said that I was not going to participate in any swaps for a while, but I needed to ANGEL 2 spots in my Chino Crop Swap. I did not have a lot of time to get this done, so "cheated" a bit...

Remember when I was messing with a sketch in May? I had 2 LO's already done, so I completed 3 others to make my 5. Here are 2 that are different from the others. ( I made a 2nd Christmas one) I really like this sketch and think I will use it again in the future.

I will share what I did for the 2nd spot in a day or two.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Birthday Card

2008-07-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

I took advantage of CTMH's buy 2 get 1 free stamp sale ( WHOO-hooo).

I have been wanting these 2 stamp sets (Spot On and Baby's Steps). I used them to create this card!

Colors used: CTMH Hollyhock and White Daisy)

I also used a bit of Crystal Stickles on the cupcake for a little something something :)

Thanks for looking,
Julia

create

2008-06-29T19:52:00.001-07:00

I altered this box with CTMH new paper kit called BoomDiAda. It took me a while to warm up to the kit. But now...I LOVE it. I am going to be use this box to keep my work in progress pages organized. I have used if a few times and have found that this keeps my work space a bit tidier. For example, when I was working on the New to the Zoo LO, the papers sat on that back shelf, and I was able to access them quite easily. I am looking forward to keeping my work space tidy!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

PS, Have I mentioned how it has been harder to create with the kiddos home for summer...they keep me busy :) I hope to create more real soon.

Page 74-75: New to the Zoo

2008-06-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

I used Basic Grey Aged and Confused for this LO.

( I am using my husbands computer tonight and can not for the life of me figure out why all my words are underscored...)

Thanks for looking,

Julia

Where Have I been???

2008-06-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

The past week in Southern California has been miserable...100+ weather...not my thing. When your "scraproom" is in the corner of the un-air conditioned garage, it makes it difficult to create. Things have finally cooled down and I have once again been able to play :)

This card has several inspirations

#1...Many of the creative blogs I follow feature Bella stamps, and I final gave in a purchased a few. This one is called: best friends forevah

#2. Aaron Booth created this cute folding card.
My card opens just like hers.

The message inside may not make sense to everybody. But I know there are lots of people like me. Sometimes I love paper sooooo much that I don't want to actually use it. It needs a super special project that is worthy of the paper. As I have used up those last scraps of my Cocoa Cafe collection of paper that CTMH had as a special, it has been harder and harder for me. I want to keep them forever I don't want them to go away. The projects have had to get VERY SPECIAL for me to use the Cocoa Cafe Paper.

At any rate as you can see, I used the Cocoa Cafe papers on this card and the message inside reads: "Your friendship is worth more than all my Cocoa Cafe scraps"

My scrapper buddy will get it with out the long explanations...she is the same way with her papers :)

Please don't forget about my PAY IT FORWARD post. I need one more player. You can read about it and sign up here.

Thanks for stopping by,
Julia

The Grunion Are Run'n

2008-06-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Living in Southern California all my life, I have often heard the phrase "The Grunion are Run'n"
It seems odd to celebrate the mating ritual of this fish, but it is the truth. Imagine a beach FULL of people at 11:30 at clock at night waiting for little girl fish and little boy fish to wash ashore to lay and fertilze eggs... That extactly what we did.

We spent some time at the museum , and saw a video that explained the strange behavior of this fish.

And then we waited...

and waited

and waited.

Now the video shows 10's of 1000 of fish flopping on the beach doing their "love dance" and that is what we were hoping for... we saw about 4 fish total...REALLY???

Lucky for us C was able to catch one (which is odd that they allow you to catch these love sick fishes to eat...ewww. That is just SO wrong). We took pictures and let the poor fishy go.

Now we can cross "Grunion Run" off our list of things to do before we die.

Julia

Thank you with all my heart

2008-06-20T19:35:00.001-07:00

This card is based on card sketch found on 2 sketches 4 you.
I tweaked the orientation of the sketch, and am please with the outcome.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Papers used: CTMH Sweet Harmony

PIF: Pay it Forward Blog Candy

2008-06-19T18:33:00.001-07:00

Have you "PIF'ed" yet? If you haven't "Paid it Forward" yet here's your chance. I need three stampers that will promise to "Pay it Forward" to three other stampers.

Here's the details:

1) Be the first three to comment to this post. Be sure that you leave a way that I can contact you because I will need your mailing addy.

2) I will send you some "PIF" stamping goodies.

3) Commit to send three other stampers some "PIF" stamping goodies too and in return they will send three other stampers some stamping goodies also. See how that works?

Thank you to Chris Dickerson of Creating with Chrissy.
I follow her blog and was excited to receive the goodies pictured above in the mail, I am most excited about the chipboard :)

Wanna play...be one of the first three.

Thanks for stopping by.

Julia

Congratulations Graduate

2008-06-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

Chris Dickerson sent me a PIF (which I will post tomorrow)

She sent the cutest card along with her package:
I have been away from my craft table for about a week and was itch'n to make something. I CASED her card to create this graduation card.

The best part of this whole card is the clever way it opens up for the hand written message. The flap tucks under the "congratulations graduate" medallion...Brilliant!
Here is what the card looks like open.

Papers used: CTMH Simple Pleasures
Stamp Set: Express Postage

Thanks for the inspiration Chris

Julia

And the winner is....

2008-06-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

Thank you to the 21 ladies who took the time to leave a comment for my BLOG goodies.

The winner is comment # 1 ( Via random.org)

Ramona said...

Congrats Julia on the big
3K! Please include me in your RAK drawing!

Ramona :-)

June 13, 2008 2:45 AM

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2008-06-18 02:11:37 UTC

Ramona, please email me at JuliaHammond@myctmh.com
with your mail to addy and I will send you this great set of sticker! Very pretty and very summer-y. I have always LOVED these stickers but my sticker-phobia has prevented me from putting them to good use. I'd love to see what you do with them!

Thanks for looking ,
Julia

3000 hits :)

2008-06-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

Yeah....We hit 3000 hits today. Time to celebrate. I am going to pull together a RAK goody bag and send it to our winner ( maybe YOU).

So post your name and email. Since I will not be online for a few days, I will pull the winner's name out of the hat on Tuesday June 17th.

I hope YOU are the lucky winner :)

(open to US mail to adresses only, thank you)

Julia

Prayer Can

2008-06-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

I came across this idea on the CTMH consultant board. As usual, my prayer can looks nothing like the sample I was trying to CASE.
I used a tube shaped box that I had squirrelled away. I have a hard time getting rid of cool boxes or other goodies that can be altered at a later date. This project TOTALLY justifies this quirk. I was looking for a creative project, came across the tube box in my pile of goodies and went to right to work! See... quirk justified :)

The poem on the front reads:

Gather your worries
and write them all down
include everything
that makes you frown.

Put in every burden,
anxiety or doubt...
Close the lid tight,
and don’t let them out.

Release them to GOD
by saying a prayer,
and let the Good Lord
take it from there.

Enjoy peace of mind
as you trust in GOD’s plan.
placing your worries
into HIS hands.

Thaks for looking,
Julia

Papers used: CTMH, Life Delights

page 72 and 73: Decorating the Rose Parade Float

2008-06-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

This LO is based on a sketch I found on the Sketches R Us Blog: It's a one page sketch, so I had to strech it. I am please with the outcome.
I used Basic Grey Papers to create this LO. The title was cut with Cricut Alphalicious and the flowers were cut with Cricut Walk in My Garden.

Thanks for looking
Julia

Do you know who makes this paper?

2008-06-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

I know this may be a long shot, but I have this scrap of paper and I'd like at least 2 sheets more for a project I'd like to alter. Do you know the manufacturer??? Please leave a comment if you know, OR, if you know of a paper that has the same feel/theme, please direct me to it.

Thanks for your help!

Julia

page 70 and 71: Tea Party

2008-06-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

This is another swap LO. Thanks to Mel for this girly LO!

Julia

Look what someone gave me.

2008-06-07T08:20:00.001-07:00

K's teacher gave all the parent helpers these photo cubes. How darling is that. I love it just the way it is, but ooohhhh the posibilites :)

I may have to find a blank one of my own to play with!

Julia

thank you card

2008-06-06T12:41:00.001-07:00

Made this quick thank you card the other night. I used CTMH Sweet Harmony. Did not take long at all. It is quite similar to a card I made in April.

Julia

page 68-69: Daisy Scouts

2008-06-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jenn from the Chino Crop for another great SWAP LO. The colors were perfect for this Daisy Scout LO.

Julia

Family Tree...literally

2008-06-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, I can remember my dad bringing home a sapling much like this one. The sapling came from my grandparents pecan tree. It was in a old coffee can and I can remember watching it grow year after year. Eventually it grew large enough to be planted in my parents front yard. I have prom pictures of my then future husband and I in front of it 20 years ago.

Imagine my joy when my mom offered me a this sapling from that same tree that sits in the front yard. History is repeating itself. Now my kids will watch a pecan tree grow from a sapling that was in their grandparent yard. That is just too cool to me :) Yes, I am sentimental over a tree sapling. (Sappy you might say...if you were into puns wink wink)

I want to scrapbook it, so I am on the hunt for pictures of my family in front of the pecan tree through the years. Wish me luck.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

page 67: Love ( in MIL vertical frame)

2008-06-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

This frame is quite similar to the other frames I made. But of course, she got a personalized picture LO in her frame :)

papers used: CTMH Elegant Bouquet

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Thank you gift

2008-06-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

I created this album for K's Daisy scout leader. I took individual photos of each girl holding a "thanks" sign. Paula is an AWESOME leader and she deserves much more than this album.

Papers used: CTMH Floral Tapestry.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

uh-oh...subscription woes.

2008-06-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

I apologize to those of you who have tried to subscribe for email updates. I have corrected the problem and all of you should now be able to subscribe without trouble.

Julia

My son the Jedi

2008-06-01T06:32:00.001-07:00

To celebrate his birthday, C battled Darth Vadar at Disneyland's Jedi Training Academy. Look at him...staring evil right in the face :)

Happy 8th Birthday son.

Julia

Page Kit Swap

2008-05-31T07:11:00.000-07:00

This is the last swap that I will participate in for a while. For this swap, I cut all the paper according to a LO design found in my Cherish Book. I sent along the base pages, the cut paper the ribbon and the brads as part of the kit. It will be up to the individual scrapper to use the supplies to create. The picture above shows what the LO is supposed to look like. But you know how creative people are. Creative people will use the kit just the way they like.

I used the beloved Silhouette Papers from CTMH for this swap.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

I have added Email subscriptions

2008-05-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

If you will notice, I have added an Email subscription button to my blog.

You will get an email when I update my blog.

If you like what you see then sign up :)

Julia

page 65-66: Talking a Walk

2008-05-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

This LO is from a LO swap. Thanks Amanda for this great LO. I love how the bright yellow matches the yellow in C boy scout uniform. I really love how the title was created with 4 layers of paper. It is so beautiful!

Thanks for looking.

Julia

messin' with sketches

2008-05-27T14:05:00.001-07:00

I know this sketch is by Erica Hildebrand, but I can not find a blog or website to reference where this sketch is from. There are several reasons I like this sketch. It is very linear. I like linear. I notice many of my LO's have that quality. The layers of paper on this LO however are a stretch for me.

The first LO I did , I used CTMH Caprice papers. I am quite pleased with. I think it is very pretty. I am not sure exactly how I will use this LO...but I like it none the less.

This second LO I am afraid that it has too much green or maybe too much brown or not enough of...something. So, I am not so sure of this one. Becky wanted me to use these papers to make a Christmas LO for her growing stash of Christmas pictures. I am not so sure, she is going to like the outcome. I am sure she will tweek it just the right way to make it PERFECT.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 63-64: Bon Jovi

2008-05-26T06:06:00.001-07:00

I sat here trying to come up with all these clever things to say and all I want to say is Jon Bon Jovi is one handsome man :) I was more of a Duran Duran girl in high school (not a rocker chick by any stretch of the imagination.) Let just say that Jon has aged a whole better than those other guys.

I had a rough time with this LO . I started it and then left it and then revisited it. I knew it needed more detailing. But, I was not having any luck. I decided to add the brad detailing first and then the guitar (Cricut, Indie Art). Once again, Becky had the FAB U LOUS idea of adding black Stickles to the guitar. Made is just right...just like Jon.

My husband in on this LO and for the record, he is handsome too :)

papers used: Sasparilla, barn red and black cardstock

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Scrapbook Funny

2008-05-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

Isn't that the truth!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 61-62: Family Disney

2008-05-24T13:29:00.001-07:00

I quite a few Disney pictures this year since we took the plunge and bought passes. It has been wonderful to spend time there with family and friends. This LO was inspired by one from fellow CTMH consultant Betty Hileman. I ended up with much less detail then her LO, and I rotated part of her design, but I love it anyway.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 59-60: Princess Day

2008-05-23T19:06:00.000-07:00

My friend Becky is an awesome scrapper. And she LOVES to do paper piecing. When I saw this AWESOME LO, I freaked. She was kind enough to replicate it for me.

Thanks Becky-Becky!!!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

Cousin It

2008-05-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

I have a habit of naming my tools. My guess is that we are compelled to name thing we love :)

My cricut is named George. I LOVE George. Cant Crop without him.
My ATG gun is Liberace. I LOVE Liberace as well. No croppin' without him either!

I have recently welcomed Cousin IT into the family...
This is my latest ribbon storage solution. Since I use ribbon alot, I think Cousin IT will be a regular guest at my crop spot :)

Julia

pages 57 and 58: Twinkie Mobile

2008-05-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite LO created in a while. I used Reflections again as my placement guide.

Thanks to Becky for the brilliant idea to add stickles to peeps bunny. FAB U LOUS!!! :)

Julia

pages 55-56: Cast of Characters

2008-05-20T07:08:00.000-07:00

I used my hi tech tool ( plastic canvas) to make the eyelet circles on this LO.
Here is a close up of the eylet detail.

Papers used for this LO are CTMH Giggles and Grins

Thanks for looking,
Julia

The PERFECT tool to make circles with eyelets and brads

2008-05-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

So, I was wandering up and down the aisles at JoAnne's 'cause I like to do that.

I just about came out of my skin when I saw the PLASTIC CANVAS circle pictured above. I LOVE other my hi-tech , cost effective tools and this one is no exception. The only thing that would make it better is if it were 12 inches in diameter :)

I colored each concentric circle to help me stay on track. Now I can place my brads and eyelets in PERFECT circles quite easily. I will share a LO tomorrow that I used this tool with.

Thanks for looking,
Julia

I love SKETCHES

2008-05-18T18:17:00.001-07:00

This sketch is made by Tiare Smith

I have a love affair with sketches. I have a sketch saved and used it today to make 2 really cool LO's. The first one I am not sure what I will use for. The second will be used for my accumulation of Disney pictures.

Thanks for looking
Julia

pages 53-54: Pinewood Derby 08

2008-05-17T05:23:00.000-07:00

It just makes me so happy when the colors of the pictures go so well with my paper. It happened on this LO The colors work so well with Free Spirt papers from CTMH.

Thanks for looking
Julia

Thanks SoCalScrap :)

2008-05-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the ladies over at SoCalScrap . They have a blog and once a week they have a Friday Freebie give away. Answer a question and be entered for a freebie. I won a week or two back and this was my prize. I can't wait to play with these goodies!

They just posted this weeks Friday Freebie question. Check it out and participate. You might just win :)

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 49-52: The Joys of Being Six

2008-05-15T05:20:00.000-07:00

These LO are from 2 different swaps and 2 different scrappers. They used the same paper so it came in handy when I scrapped these pictures from K's birthday party.

Thanks Mel for this LO:

Thanks Becky D for this LO:

Thanks for looking,
Julia

This will be scrapped :)

2008-05-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

We welcomed 2 bearded dragons into the family zoo. C's teacher has the mommy and daddy in her classroom. They laid eggs in April and the babies hatched last week. My friend and I both adopted 2 . As you can see, C was HAPPY to be bringing them home!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

pages 47-48 What time is it?

2008-05-13T19:22:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Jenn M. for this great swap page. The colors were perfect for this LO for High School Musical:

Journaling reads:
We didn't think we were going to make it in time for the show. But, we walked up at exactly the right time. K enjoyed the show and was lucky enough to be pulled up twice to perform. One Happy Girl!

Thanks for looking,
Julia

My kids are CRAFTY :)

2008-05-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to receive handmade gifts from C and K this year for mother's day!

C made a clay sign:

K made a plate:

Lucky me! I have such crafty kids ( a wonderful teachers who make sure they get a chance to make things!)

Oh, I got another WONDERFUL mother's day gift. I bought it for myself. Can you say Cricut EXPRESSIONS :)

Julia