April...and I am ready for warm weather

Can we say that I am super excited for warmer weather! All the rain we have had, its time for the sun to be out and us out in it enjoying its warmth...with that said..I have a birthday coming, a baby shower in two weeks, Camping in three weeks, oh  my..I have alot going on this month it seems.

I have had people asking me what I am doing now..well, pretty much trying to keep myself motivated with no scrapbook store around! I miss my outlet very much these days! But then I come upstairs and shop in my own lil world! I have tons to get to and trying to do that has been a rough one for me lately. Having so much going thru my head I have to write it all down I think.

While surfing the web, I happen upon a questionnaire and thought I would share..so this ought to be fun!! Here we go....

What is the one word that describes your scrapbook style and why?
wow one word? versatile



What inspires you to get creative?
Alot of different things, from my magazines, online surfing paper lines, looking at my room and lets not forget..my granddaughter..I have tons of pics and I see a moment captured..I want to make up something, whether its a layout, mini album, or simply a frame.



What is your favorite Pink Paislee product right now?
At the moment, I’m holding on to the Daily Junque Mini Notes & Labels.  I just love this pack of die cuts, especially those number tags (oooooh, I have tons of ideas racing through my mind at the moment).


What is something you consider a guilty pleasure?
I don't have anything anymore! maybe my sociable crackers & spinach dip while I put stuff together...



What is playing on your ipod?
I don't have an actual ipod..but I do have an MP3 player, variety..from christian, country to some 80's..90's..
 

What is the one thing no one would know about you?
I consider myself an open book, but to share one thing..I would say my weight..insecurities about that..always have been! shh..now close that book!



Name one thing that is on your “bucket list” for the future?
Lets see, I would love to do a scrapbook cruise!

Now its your turn..and let me know what your answers are..

What Was I Thinking!!!!!


Here is what happens when you start organizing..its just keeps going..LOL..like me..I keep going and going and going..well, you get the idea! I will share some of the things going on in my room....

 
Having this shelf is quite amazing, I bought pink & brown cubes from Target..sorted all the chipboard albums, projects that I have still to make, this is perfect for just pulling out when I need them. A work in progress still! Updated pics to come soon, as I have taken off the top shelf..

 This is the work area I create at...a slightly messy one at that with all this organizing going on..but gives you an idea of where I scrap at! Trying to change this up some, any ideas? this desk is L-Shape and the long part goes the length of the banister..on the other side is the stairs! I still have to find that "ahhhh" in it..LOL!At hand is my handy magazines, the newest by date! Of course I ended up buying a pink filling tote ..big I might add and put past issues in it, after sorting and putting by year, I even purged some! Right to a friend!!!

This is a unique basket I found at Michaels, not noticing the R is missing! I love it..different! but this is what I put things in that need to be put away! handy and Pink! I think I need two! haha. But this is good to have for me because I can simply set things in this when I am done without getting up...once I am done and cleaned up, I can put the items away where they go. Everything has a home..so I want to make sure I place it in this basket so that it goes to its home.

A closer look at the bins! $6.99 each!!

Never leave something at my house..Its gonna get used! I have stored all my Stamping Up Stamps in this five drawer plastic container, all are by theme! so now I don't have to dig in drawers and on shelves for them! so this is now organized! that was a major thing to do!!!! Labels will be made eventually, right now..finding everything a good home and easy to find place for that home..is more important. You can see I have a chair leaned up against it..which is now in the attic..area where I have other things stored. I already have another chair sitting in the room along with mine.

 The wall with the window..is where I have taken apart the cubes...and lined it up with cardstock and drawers! in the corner is a metal shelf rack that I have my new printer on, my tote, 12x12 acrylic paper trays..that holds photo paper, copy paper, etc. This is area is about done...I am thinking about painting..so this could change..but maybe next Fall...enjoy the room for a bit I think is what I need to do!!!!!

Newest Tool

 Zutter Bind it...pink..and portable..gonna be making alot with this lil item..so cute..now to sit down and watch the video and use it..

 Gots to have the bag...a pink one at that..

 Tools that have pink case..oh yeah..but these will be helpful cutting the Orings..

I am about to get creative...yes, I broke down and bought these items..and the O rings. I am excited to have this addition to the scrapbook room...I am by the way, looking for a unique name for my room! something that will fit me..my needs and what I like...

Easter is right around the corner! So I have been loving all the neat ideas out there online! However, I still have lots of Easter paper in my stash and will be using that up! With that..I took Savanna to get pictures taken with Easter chick..they came out fabulous..I'll share one with you...gives you an idea!!

Needless to say, Savanna is such a great little poser! She loved holding the baby chick.

Okay I had to share another..isn't this adorable..she is holding that baby chick with that smile of hers. She was in her glory, a camera and a live animal..yes..she was very happy..Shutterly Sweet Photography is the name of the company that took these. I am amazed how much my lil Cuddlebug has grown..she is such a beautiful lil girl..and so happy!!!

Okay I had to add this one...the chick had to get his picture taken..and isn't he adorable?? I even held him and he was so sweet..and so tiny! Glad this day was a good day with good weather. Couldn't have planned her outfit any better, when we got there, Holly had a basket that was white and lined with teal..I had no idea..so that was a plus for the pictures looking so good too.

Life is amazing, I am so very blessed. I have alot of work ahead of me, but with the blessings I have, I am sure to accomplish what I can the best I can. With that said, I am starting on the Tea Pot album which will be a class in  May! So stay tuned, as I am putting all the "finds" together to make...

 Leave comments ..let me know what you are doing and share with us your finds in the scrapbooking world, card making world..or are you organizing your space as well...for now I will say good night...SwEeT DREAMS.....

Are you wearing Green??

Are you wearing Green???  

well I had to ask! I got some green shirts..I think! I will have to look, being that I lost some weight..I don't know whats left in my closet! Though as a scrapper and being crafty, I might have to make something, better yet..I could pin the invitations that I am working on..One of them on me..hehehehe. With warm weather and fresh air that comes with it..I am so excited. So guessing its time to take the snowmen down and pack them away =( I love my snowmen..but thats okay..I have been pretty busy making baby shower invitations..I am hosting a baby shower for my daughter who is here from Washington State..she is staying here until after the baby is born..woohoo. I am on a roll, but now to cut and mat and cut and adhere more..with ribbon..paper, and more!! 

The process has been a good one, after getting the printer issue straight with ink cartridge. I had ordered Stampin Up Card Stock for this! Printed Winnie the Pooh and cutting them down, had ribbon to match! typed up what I wanted everything to say and printed it out on the cardstock "bashful blue", Certain Celery for green and Soft Suede for the brown. Hand wrote the "sweet as honey"...I am excited! These will be done very soon and in the mail soon after. Anything for my baby girl's baby shower. 

 

 

While baby shower is being planned, I am also looking forward to starting the tea pot album. I have ordered some fascinating finds online, some flowers I found at Michaels, and putting my thoughts into this as a fun way to cherish that memory of a tea party with the gals, your granddaughter, your daughter..your sister..whomever. This album is waiting on the awesome finds and then will be put into action. This class, the first one will be set to Craftopia, held at Oak Grove United Methodist Church in May. You will see pictures when the album goes into "production". 

 

Other crafting news..did you know what my favorite trimmer is?..well let me tell you about two of those..first being, my Pink Cutterpede that I have had for years. I love it..always use it! I just ordered replacement channels online for it and found the shuttle blade for it at AC Moores..for $1.99 each. I always go back to this particular trimmer because I can count on it! The second was my Making Memories Trimmer..this one I used for multiple cutting..putting kits together etc. Only to have the blade die on me..which its a self sharpening blade. However, I have done some serious cutting with this baby! Well I had been debating on buying another..or a refill blade..then I find..the ultimate one for MEEE...Making Memories has a PINK one just like it! Oh my..ya know how hard that is to find out Michaels nor AC Moores have it! So I am on the look, best bet to use a 50% off coupon, if I can find one and a coupon for wherever I find it at..did that make any sense..LOL..oh well..its late and I need to go to bed! I just had to share with you what I am working on..and I am so excited!! 

 

Have a fabulous St Patricks Day...

Oh My..Blog Fun

Sharing today Imaginisce... on Facebook..they have it set up to show you the fun things..and do goody boxes...go check them out on http://www.facebook.com/#!/Imaginisce !! Blogging is fun, it can be time consuming but I always find out what is going on and see all the new lines coming out. If you are on FB and want to see what my creations are, just go to http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/ScrappinNChattin/189007331110794 to see daily antics and happenings with ScrappinNChattin. Click on Like so you can get posts that I send out and share!! How fun.

I had me a great day yesterday, I worked on another Castle Album, using a princess line I bought awhile back and finally did it up..yep..another day of scrapping, yet with my sister and a friend. We had an awesome day..can't wait to do it again next month! The album will be posted soon, as I want to add some more fun embellies to it and possibly adding pages..the best part..I have a castle album with both granddaughters in it...the first one was with Savanna..next one..gonna have to look for..a boy theme..for my lil peanut who will be born in June..a GRANDSON..so all blue for me..these days..hehehe

A work in progress..still adding ribbons, more flairs and blings..and pages..will be painting too..added touch for the last part!!

It's March...Spring is Right Around the Corner....

I am loving some of the warm weather we are having! Then having cold right after I am not loving!! Do you all have tons of pictures for all the snow days we had?..well bring your pictures and join me on Saturday March 12th at 10 am at Oak Grove Methodist United Methodist Church. You will leave with a beautiful layout cherishing your precious pictures of your children or just the pretty scenery (which I captured as well). I am offering this class for eight due to obtaining that pattern paper. I hope you will join me. Class: Winter Bliss, 10 am to Noon, $15 class fee and $5 kit fee.You will need your basic tools, trimmer, adhesive, and pictures.

This layout inspires me to do more..you will stickle the snowflake..two colors to choose from, if you choose to do that of course, stamp with the snowflake stamps..and another element will be added before the class..a surprise for you. Title will be cut and say Winter Bliss. I am just loving this paper!!

My Second Class with Craftopia the SAME DAY..3:30 to 5:30 is Cards, yep..cards..I created these three and there will be Six cards total for the class. Here is a glance at the first three...

Card class will consist of six total cards. Class fee $18 with $10 kit fee.  I am in awe of the new stamp I found ~Friends~ and on this card particular card you use stickles...All of these three cards have a different border punch which you will get to try out and just adore. The ribbon may be substituted for another depending on availability. I look forward to teaching the class and seeing everyone. Pop Dots, adhesive, scissors..are required for this class. 

Other worthy News..I have been having fun organizing a scrapbook room! hmm fun..got daunting, then fun again, then well..plain tired! Though I have to admit, the best part is coming, ~Decorating~ I am in the process of working on that amongst all the other projects going on in this head of mine! Life is amazing when you can get everything done..just learning to be patient for the length of time it takes is the ticket!! Pictures will be coming soon of the organized scrapbook room..gotta get the hubby up here to do his part..ya know!

In the works is my Easter Mini Album which will be held in April. The paper has been bought, the chipboard has been bought, now that I am all caught up with this class coming Saturday, I can focus on that. Though another project has sprung up and in the works for possibly May, Tea Pot Album, upon numerous requests..Diana Jones originally did the Tea Party at All About Scrapbooks. I am not going to step on her design and re-create it. However, I will be using my silhouette to design the tea pot. It is very similar to hers, due to what we have, the same program..lol. I will put a spin on mine to be different, just as beautiful and with my house mouse stamps, along with hat stamps..phrases ..etc..the project has been started on the designing scale on silhouette. Further information is coming and I am really excited about this as well.

I will be adding a class here at my house on several things throughout the month, so please keep an eye out! if you are not following the blog, you might want to!! get the latest on what is going on. I will be posting my fav scrappinnchattin finds..

Just to show some inspiration,

My handy caddy for anything that I love to use for my inspiration..holds the recent copies of the magazines I love to get. I am still waiting (impatiently of course) for my subscription to Scrapbooks Etc to arrive...where is it...I sent the card off to order it..awhile ago..good grief..but I just have to wait..wait..and wait..so these will be replaced with the current issue as soon as it "gets here"..I love my organized area! I am excited to get it completed!! woohoo


I hope everyone has a blessed weekend coming up! maybe I will be able to have more pictures available of the card class as well.

My Finds & More

 Savanna Scrapping away, I think I have started something!!

Wow February has flown by!
I taught a class here "A Day In the Snow" two page layout and the Craftopia class My Loves Mini Album! They were truly amazing ladies that I get to spend time with and I am very blessed. There were two extra kits from the mini album and have sold. I will be holding that here at my house on February 26th. I do have two kits available for A Day In The Snow, so let me know if you want one, yes, it can be flipped to make it a boy page!! Cool.

My next classes coming up will be in March, have not set the date for the spring layout as of yet here at my house, though March 12th will be another snow day layout for Craftopia. Look for more info soon. I am excited to be teaching again and having a great time. I hope you all get a chance to take one of my classes and spend time with each other.

Its wonderful to just sit and create, which leads me to my biggest conquest..My Scrapbook Room, never ending! I am getting there, reorganizing and trying to make the projects for the classes proves to be challenging. However, this has been fun to see the transformation!! I am liking it thus far! Not done, but getting close! Apparently I got this notion to redo my room. My thought and goal was to open it up and give it more breathing room..haha. Which I have done, but ya gotta make a mess to organize the mess! I have broke down cubes that were on one wall. I now have opened up the room, the floors are becoming uncluttered with bins, there is a place for all my stamps, my Stampin Up cardstock, and all my stamping necessities are in three cubes with drawers, total of five drawers..My Bazzill and regular cardstock 12x12 are lined across in cubes..I got them all in there neatly placed by color. I have emptied all the Artbins that I own that had just "paper" in them and organized them into groups, until I go through the paper on the racks, I will keep them in the cubes..stashed for safety! here is a sneak peak...mind you, I am not done!! final pictures will be done and posted ..so something you might see in this picture may not be in the next!

 
The new area is being revamped..but I added more cubes..I told ya, a sneak peek...its getting there!

This is my utility shelf, I went and got cloth bins from Target, pink & brown and they are awesome! the shelf with the clutter, stamping shelf and that is about to be finished off! On the top shelf there are power sorter box with pictures in them. Anything dealing with photos, is on this shelf!! So you got to see a lil of what I have been working on, once I am done, I will definately post pictures of the entire room! its really exciting to see where I am going with this and where it "was"..lol. I am starting to go into the area of decorating the room with ideas ..colors..as you can tell with the bins! I have lots still to do, but this is my room in progress of right now!

How was your Valentines? What did you do for your "valentine" and how did you spend it?...I started the day off with preschool and my cuddlebug! Made some Love Bugs ..idea was given to me by Jenn Blenden, she is awesome! Thanks Jen. I changed it up a little for what supplies I had to find, but it worked. 

Here they come marching on..ready to go to their new homes!! They were fun making and the kids loved them.  I loved that they loved them!!!! I just love these little guys, that I have already bought a kit for bunnies..and will be doing them hopefully!

 Savanna making her valentine card for her class...she had fun making these! She is doing very well in school and writing so good! She wrote all her class friends name on the valentine! She did up the envelopes too!!! The roses were from my Valentine..aren't they just so pretty.

Face painting at preschool party...she loved the big flower with vines that Mrs. Brooke did on her ..awesome job!! The party was wonderful and the day was busy after that as well. Now on to other upcoming events!!

Meet my soon to be born Grandson, Kayden Noah..he is due to arrive June 9th! We are excited, my daughter is flying home this week coming, she will be having him here!!! I am very excited. You should know the next thing I am working on....Baby Shower and invitations...yep..already got the cardstock, about ready to start making these!! Baby shower will be in April, I still have a little time! I just wanted to share my excitement with you all, as this will be the first grandson, a boy!! yes, been checking out all boy paper..boy clothes..buying both..hahaha. A change for me with having two granddaughters!!!!

Exciting news, just before CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) was held, alot of different companies put on contests. MME had it where if you shared their link on your facebook page and commented on theirs, you had a chance to win! Guess what, I won!! two collections of MME newest CHA release..Stella and Rose collection and Gertie & Hattie collection..I was so thrilled! not often I do that...win for that matter! I am excited and it really is gorgeous in person, as I got it this past week!!!!!!

This is Stella and Rose collection, alot..I am in embellishment heaven!!

And the Gertie & Hattie collection...aren't these wonderful....yummy paper and embellishments right up my alley, girl and boy!! what timing!!

Stay tuned for more things to come, I will start posting projects and other findings as the week comes about. I am also working on cards...hehehe. So look for pictures in the near future!!!!

When one door closes, another opens

The last day of January, can you believe it? I can't, where did the days go? Though tomorrow brings a new month full of fun and excitement! When I think of what all that has transpired over that past years, where my life was..and where I thought I would be, I am truly Blessed.
I have been stalking the CHA releases! You should check out my Scrappinnchattin fb page. http://www.facebook.com/pages/ScrappinNChattin/189007331110794?ref=sgm . There are alot of great products that were released this past weekend at CHA, I just wish I could have gone ..but then I would have been the one standing there "drooling". LOL. Second thing, I am so stoked, I won something on another blog and FB'd it..meaning, I shared their link on my facebook and they picked the winners, I won on My Minds Eye release Stella & Rose Collection and Gertie & Hattie Collection! wow now that was fun, I cannot wait to get those collections in my pocession. Here is the link to see those and more http://mymindseye.typepad.com/blog/2011/01/sneak-peek-stella-and-rose-part-2.html !! I am really loving both lines, as I have two granddaughters and one Grandson on the way, so this is perfecto'...yay.

Well in other news; Redoing this scrapbook room has taken a sudden stop, I got a new laptop, new external hard drive and new Printer...wooohoo. Needless to say I am trying out tables in the scrapbook room to help with this, changing it up! But had to get the new laptop out and get it going so I can at least get the printer hooked up. So I have created once again, ANOTHER MESS! but isn't that what you do, make a mess to clean up the mess and rearrange the mess?..lol. Look for pictures soon as well as the next blog update, as I get the pictures in, I will be posting about our Friday night goodbye to AAS..my next blog will probably involve tissues!!

Today I am working on prayers, prayer for my Sister in law who has had a rough time of it, her health has been really bad and right now..prayers for her to get Stronger, to get better, to live without hospitals and doctors, and for her to be with her two sons and her husband. If you could for a moment sometime today, say a small prayer for her.  I will be heading to the hospital and making the visits. Another prayer I need you all to say, for Susie, she is such a sweet lady I am blessed to know this woman for she is such a super person with the biggest heart, she has been in the hospital.  So for these two that are dear to me, I am really doing alot of praying and thinking positive thoughts.

Stay tuned on my return to the blog, because things are changing! Please comment on your favorite new CHA releases, its fun to see what others like, what others come up with ..so share..I will share mine if you share yours..Have a Great Monday..the last day of January

Pockets of My Love Mini Album

I have been working on this adorable mini album.  I will be teaching this as a class in February. If you are interested in the class, please contact me, as I can put you in contact as well with the gal setting up our place to hold classes & crops. Price and date to come soon.

The two page layout Class, A Day in the Snow will be held Saturday Feb 5, 2011 at 2 pm.  If you are interested in a kit, please comment and I will get your information. I will also be putting together a Ustream video on my classes. The Class/Kit $18.00.

All the goodies to go with the Pockets of My Loves mini album..oh it was fun shopping! Best therapy out there if you can do it. I look for the sales as well. I bought a few extra things you will see in the picture, brad setter..takes getting the hang of..but we shall see. I just love the ribbon! The materials! and The BUTTONS...so adorable..on the mini album pages!!!!!!








Keep an eye on ScrappinNChattin FB page, linked to my reg FB account. I put up lots of sneak peeks for CHA which is coming up quick..I so cannot wait to share those....hopefully soon.

Been keeping busy with Savanna and my scrapbook room, which came to a hault yesterday as blood sugars bottomed out, will get back on track in the next few days..meaning no more all nighters scrapping..LOL..I am so blessed to be able to have the medicines that I have, Diabetes is tricky and ya gotta stay on top of it.

I will work on my About Me book once the Pockets of my loves album is done...yay..love both!!

Winter CHA 2011 Sneak Peeks..OH MY

Have you been wondering what is coming, I have and let me tell ya a few things, today Maya Road sent out their first sneak peek and I am drooling, as you all know me, I am a chipboard mini album junkie! Plainly put, but I do love the new ones out.  Check out their Sneak Peeks and let me know which is your favorite for release. http://mayaroad.typepad.com/mayaroad/2011/01/day-1-of-maya-road-sneak-peek-week.html ! You will find that I am on their facebook as well and love to watch the blog! MR...I can't wait for your products to hit the shelves...

Other news, My paper addiction is ...well...just that! However, I am loving this Webster line, They showed their lines coming out at CHA and we all are drooling! Paper is something that will make that statement, make that whole project or layout just pop.  I can't get enough of Websters..and I am gonna go nuts until I can get my hands on it.  Check out my facebook ScrappinNChattin for all the updates that go on with Winter CHA ..2011. I have posted links for you to enjoy seeing..as well.

MR put out the cutes Enjoy..

Lots of Changes...

Well its January 2011 and already facing new changes in my life. After working for All About Scrapbooks for four and a half years, sadly our favorite local scrapbook store is closing down! 12 years in business is awesome for a store and with this economy. Therefore, I will be making a new way for me, I am teaching classes from home! We will see how that goes and hopefully be able to keep in contact with a lot of friends from AAS. Which leads me to the first class..Schedule Saturday February 5, 2011.  "A Day in the Snow" This two page layout will inspire you to get those snow pictures out that you just took and put them on this fun layout.  Cost of class $18. If you cannot make the class, don't worry, I will do up a kit for you. Everything with a picture of the layout will be in the kit, exception of the Stickles used on the snowman. I used Ice Stickles, you can use any of the clear sparkley stickles. I am working on a video for the techniques I used...stay tuned for that to come. 

This is the complete layout. Crate Paper line Snowday, Lifestyle die (QK) Snowman. 


Another project going is my Inspired All About Me album is in the works. Wow..I am using a combination of different lines from Webster's..and I am loving it!! Here is a sneak peak..

I can definately create a class out of this, however, You may have these products at home, if you are interested, let me know and we can sit down and def go over it!! I love creating and inspiring..as I am told that I do..so why not just put it out there and inspire you to get creative..everyone has that creativity in their blood!! 


I am going to miss my outlet at AAS..my co-workers/friends. I am going to work hard here and get my classes here set so that everyone still has a place to learn and be creative..

Pages in progress...

Update on the family life:
Savanna is still keeping me busy, with her preschool and dance, AWANAS..she is getting back into the groove of it all after a long Christmas Break..I am happy that break is over! LOL. My daughter is 18 weeks pregnant and in Washington State. I miss her so much!! My son is doing well and growing into a responsible man at the age of 21 he has been working for MHI for a few years now. I am very proud of him. Gabbi and Sammy are quite the characters, and Minnie and Charlie, they have not met yet, I hope it stays that way for awhile. So that is the happening in my life. Thank you to all of you who have shared your time with me. I will miss you at AAS and hopefully see you here on line or on my FB ScrappinNChattin page, which linked to my regular Facebook account. So you will be seeing alot there as well.

Happy New Year and God Bless You All
Valerie

Snow...Snow...Snow

This is what we woke up to on our Winter Storm of December 2010

 Savanna had such a good time out in the winter wonderland! Nothing like wrapping up warm and playing in the snow, only to be wet, she was trying to get the snow off her gloves!

 Taking a drive over to my Brother in laws house..down a back road, how awesome the scenery was, and how lucky to be able to see it for myself!

 We made a trip to the local Food Lion grocery store, here in Moyock, and what a site it was! Very busy as well, and they were out of Everything!!

 On our way home, down our street, a snowman not made of snow, but still so pretty in the snow! Our neighbor puts him out every year...isn't he a delight?..

 Our beautiful home, Home Sweet Home, covered in snow, such a beautiful site, getting inside this nice warm home was all I thought about..my venture out was nice..but home where its cozy warm, Better!!

Had to capture the sky, the snow on the ground, the beauty...at last we got snow, and we can actually say..we had a snowy 2010, lets not forget at the beginning of 2010 when we had all the snow...


December is about to close out the 2010 year! We will be heading into a New Year in just a few days, wow, do you remember all your goals for the year? Have you journaled your year? Scrapped all the pictures you took?...I know for me, this has been the toughest year, one I will never forget! I will be working hard to record the happenings, the events, the sad, the happy, the days that you have to just say..."it is what it is". I am happy we are closing another year, I am Praying for a Fresh New Year to bring Joy & Happiness to us all.


With that said, I am working on many projects, I sent gifts out..some I made, some I bought, I have tons of fun things in store for my hobby! Classes coming soon, layouts you just don't want to miss out on, and playing with the silhouette and the big shot are just a few of the things I can't wait to get my hands on upstairs! The Glue gun has made its appearance at the desk! 


Getting organized, in January, there will be pictures coming! Lots of changes in my room is in store. I can't wait. I am putting out a challenge, get organized, share pictures and ideas, first five will win a prize. Just send me the link to your pictures, share your ideas by leaving comments on here, and the most important part, describe your work area, give us some input on your space to go with your picture. Hows that for bringing in the new year?...


Leave your comments, share your ideas...this blog is for just that. I will be posting pictures of my creations I have just done and will be doing..soon..so look out...2011, Bring it on..


Be Safe out there in this Snow..God Bless

Holiday Excitement

Having a cup of coffee/hot cocoa w/marshmellows, got your mittens out, scarf, hat and coat! Trimming your tree, wrapping presents, singing Christmas carols and watching those wonderful past Christmas movies. That is what we all are doing,..forget the chaotic rush of buying gifts, start making them! Make time for YOU, I like to call those days "MEE TIME" !! 


Enjoy the snow as it comes and becareful. Pray for Peace and well being for everyone. Take lots of pictures and get ready to start the new year with new goals in mind, mark them off as you accomplish them, if you miss a few, don't worry you will def get to add it to next year !!!! 


Working at a Scrapbook store has its perks..seeing the new products come in, creating awesome pages for the store, trying and or hearing about products that are just released...working with fantabulous women who create and inspire. So when I go to work these days, I have the motivation to go in with fresh thoughts..I have missed all our customers and so fortunate that I get to see them again..yay me! God has blessed me with alot, and knowing I make a difference in the world of scrapbooking..is very satisfying to me! Working at home is a goal to of mine. Teaching from home and having traditional workshops of fun for us women is my next adventure. Girls night, parties for everyone..and most of all inspiring you to be you...Scrapbooking is what you want or make of it..it don't have to be all glimmer, embellished..it can be whatever you want it to be..so remember, pictures are the reason we put it in the book..those MEMORIES..we want to keep..and thats why I am here to help you all...In the coming weeks you will see a newer and improved blog..and updates on what I am doing. Please leave comments and let me know what you think. What I put on my blog are the things I love..so watch out...learning how to maneuver this blog and adding more..is gonna be fun fun fun...now..to go get the lil one from school and come home and get creating before I head to work tonight...Stay Warm out there...

Sizzix: Scrap-Mart.com Blog Hop! {Christmas}

Sizzix: Scrap-Mart.com Blog Hop! {Christmas}: "I'm starting to think we are Blog Hopping Fools around here! ;) Today, we are hopping with Scrap-Mart.com. Here's the info.... Welcome ..."

It's beginning to look like Christmas....

Frosty was built early 2010, we actually had SNOW...isnt he adorable...Thanks to Savanna, Papa and Tina...

Oh my...The Christmas Tree is up, the stockings are hung, the outside is lit up, we had our first snow! Presents are being bought and wrapped! I love Christmas..birth of Jesus Christ. I love to share all the good things he brings to us.

Update: I have been really down..sick! Gone alot from traveling this year to getting sick..not a good year for us! Alabama saw alot of me...with my Uncle Austin and the cousins, Uncle Austin is now resting and up there with grandma and granddaddy and other families. Savanna got sick after a trip camping which put her in the hospital...a virus that took alot out of her! She is healthy and full of energy now though. Then I got back problems and go to dr, ended up with Diabetes as a diagnosis ..a week in the hospital and out of work for a few months to recoup ...well I am going back tomorrow, Monday for my first day back..at work. I miss all my customers and friends..it will be good to get out of the house again! My dad is in the hospital and has the same thing as my uncle had..he will be going home today though. Prayers are always welcome.

Now onto more creative news, I have a layout to be put up soon. I will be teaching on the concept of the layout next month! It will be awesome....and its DONE...haha. I love it when I am ahead of the game..hehehehe. I will post a pic soon!!! I am working on a baby album for my friend show just now had her baby yesterday..Haylee Michelle..ADORABLE...yes, I went to the hospital to see her and the baby..held the baby and I just melt..OMGOSH..she is precious..Congratulations, and I can't wait to add these pictures to the album and get that rolling, being I have a stack of baby embellies and paper to get it going...yay!!

Life is amazing, challenging, and most of all precious...please take time out to recognize those in need and the Children..This time of year is scary for me to think about with Children being Abused and Neglected...Reflect on your childhood and Pray for those who are growing up without a childhood. Merry Christmas..More pictures and fun Creative projects to be posted soon....

Hey Everyone....taking a few moments to let everyone know that I am in and out of town alot. Last post explained why I was not posting and now I am home..only one less person in my life..that I miss so dearly..My Uncle in Alabama..its not easy for me..nor my cousin. So we did made a plan..her and her family went camping with us to the mountains..then come back to my home and stay a week..just getting settled in..so that sums up me...

What is going on...well June I held a class/crop and it was wonderful..the ladies are great..and I can't wait for Saturday..I am holding another one. I am excited..my cousin will be joining us...the class portion is $15 and you will do a two page spread..we will have cropping time the remainder of the time...yay....sign up at AAS. I will be holding this once a month...as long as I have space.

All About is having a great sale on quickutz..50% off all qk with purchase of a 2x2 die...you can't beat that one..in stock qk only. Don't forget to check out the Silhouette Group...with me..on July 28th..hoping to have things in check for that..it will be a different tune..we are going to have some fun..we are going to share our creative ideas.."show N Tell.."...Last Saturday of the month will be a Silhouette class with me..you must have taken Silhouette Basics class to do the Group..thats a must..group is not teaching basics..its how to start using your silhouette, getting more out of it..

I have lots of projects about to begin..wait for lots of postings starting September..(camping season is about to end)...one more run in August and a short run in October..

I am enjoying my life..finding myself more so this year then anything..finding which direction I would like to take..with classes and style I want to get into ...I like variety..so check back.

Back Home...

Well its been quite an eventful five weeks...I headed out to Alabama on April 11th, only to be there two weeks, however, that changed..after almost five weeks away..then to get home..and turn around and go camping for the weekend down at the beach..(already planned)..run Cuddlebug to her Ballet/Tap Pictures on Saturday morning..then back to the beach..now we just rolled in today...we are HOME...only I will be here for one week...we leave for the Mountains for a week..next Sunday..wow..

Update...I missed National Scrapbook Day.."once again"..but could not be helped, as I was in Alabama and my Uncle took a fall, that prompted the first hospital stay...then he comes home..and 24 hours later..starts a fever...then to the doctors..then wee hours..paramedics and ER...he was admitted to ICU...he stayed in there..about three days..then to his own room..he is hanging in there....my daddy (his brother) and my mom and daughter..got there to visit with him..we are emotional..but we know..God will hold his hand and lead him ...never will he be alone. I am so torn..as I wanted to stay..however...five weeks away from home was getting crazy with my hubby..as he was wanting us home..Back to my reality..I have been living in another reality..with my cousin..and my uncle. I am so blessed to have them in my life. Savanna did wonderful..she is four after all..

News...topping..All About Scrapbooks just celebrated their 12th year Anniversary...woohoo...Happy Anniversary to All About Scrapbooks...watch out..(I'm Baaack)..well for a week this time..hehehe.

Guess what..AAS has Big Shots in stock..now let me tell you about that...we have the electric one..which is great for those that have wrist issues...hmmm..that would be me..we have the regular one..so I am debating which one to get.

Have you been by the store to catch all the deals?...Come on by Monday..(tomorrow) to see me..10-5 I will be working ...if you don't catch me there then..come on by Thurs night or Friday nights crop..I am working those two nights...

Don't forget..Friday is all day crop..

I will be setting up another class..being I had to cancel my Mother/Daughter Crop..I have done a layout..still in progress..mostly done...for June..Me and My Cousin Nancy did some scrapping..not as much as we hoped..but for the most part..loading my car down..was worth it..lol.

God Bless

Hugs

Valerie

Spring Is Here

Happy Spring everyone, I have been really busy with work, my Cuddlebug..and our trip to Colorado! About to leave in a week for Alabama to see my uncle. Lots of great things going on..Just had my class for the Easter Mini Album which was great..now getting ready for my next project..which would be the Mother Daughter-Sister Crop/Class. This will consist of a Crop with a two page layout class. I am excited! I will post pictures soon of this awesome day to come..which is on Saturday May 8th.

May 1st is National Scrapbook Day. I am excited..we will have a Crop on that day 10 am to midnight..$5 fee will be collected, only to credit your tab back ..so the crop will be FREE...so come on out on Friday which is All Day Crop and then leave your Scrappin Gear for the next morning and just return...the store will have sales...and then Make N Takes ..a fun day in store for you all...More information will be coming!

My next project...after the Mother Daughter Crop...will be the Castle Album...yes...by popular demand..I am doing another Castle..with the new Princess line we got in..and I can't wait..that will be so much fun..with adding coordinating ribbon...along with the paper of course.

The weather has been awesome...I am looking forward to Saturday..a day off and awesome weather..what gal could ask for more. Tim Holtz sizzix dies are in ...well some..being we have sold out on alot of them. I will be posting this week..with awesome news....

Excitement..Warm Weather...New Things

ALL ABOUT SCRAPBOOKS,
BEST SCRAPBOOKING SUPPLY STORE!
We are participating in this year's Best of Hampton Roads! Voting takes place March 14th through March 31st. Go to the official "Best Of" site at www.hamptonroads.com/bestof or just go to pilotonline.com and follow the prompts. You can also vote via text message by sending the text code AXH to 21333.
Standard Text Messaging rates apply. Only one vote per category, per city will be accepted from each cell number.

Hello everyone...well March is here and wow..these past few days have been absolutely beautiful...I am all about warm weather. Okay you all know where I work...and well..we have the best team in Hampton Roads..very excited to say that we are participating in the Best of Hampton Roads ...All About Scrapbooks in Chesapeake ...opened in 2001 I believe, I have been there since May 2005 ! We have continued to bring the best to Chesapeake even in this economy. If you have not visited the store, do so, you won't regret it. Also we have a website..our blog.. www.aas.typepad.com. You can sign up on there as well to get our newsletter that is absolutely the best. I am proud to be a part of AAS and continue to help and teach everyone. So vote for my store...(well it actually is Bob & Rogene Mason's store) but we call it ours because we work there and we feel this is a big part of our life..after all..so join me in voting for the best Scrapbook Supply Store ...starts on MARCH 14th..

Other worthy notes, Held the Shabby Sweet Pea class last night and the wonderful ladies that came out and joined me are just awesome. Thank you to all of you. I hope you are inspired to keep making your layouts, and adding a bit of decor to your home with your creative pages.

If you missed the class, get with me and I will see what I can do to help you. Next class..is late in the works but that is due to oral surgery! Easter Mini Album April 1st, $25, I had set this to be March 24th but well, that just did not happen! Pictures will be up soon.

On March 25th we fly out to Colorado to see our new lil granddaughter, Gwenevere. We are excited, its also hubby's first time flying & Savanna's. Excited about seeing her...and can't wait to get more pictures!!! This will be a fun experience flying with hubby..my guess watching him and his reactions..hahahaha.

In May..there will be the big event, National Scrapbook Day, First Saturday in May..believe its May 1st ...come and join us for cropping, make-n-takes, fun new products and most of all, share the day with other scrappers. I will be holding a Mothers - Daughter-Sister Crop with a layout to go with this day. Second Saturday of the Month, look for more details coming..

Special prayers going out to my Uncle in Alabama, as he battles with end stage COPD, he has been hanging in there, being very brave and strong. He is my hero, along with my dad. He is my dads only brother, sibling. I am heading there soon. Details will be revealed later, as I am surprising him, once again. And for Nancy & Tony..my dear cousins, who are taking care of him and doing a great job, I miss you guys terribly, and I am counting the time down till I get there..

Whats new with me, well I think I summarized what is going on and what is to come, however, we are planning our camping trips accordingly, and anxiously waiting for those times to arrive! Savanna has her Recital coming up for Ballet/Tap..in June..that is exciting, as she tried on her costumes the other night, no the parents did not get to see, and I was not there, Steve took her..I was home from having a tiring day with pain from oral surgery. I can't wait to use the paper I bought, by Karen Foster, Ballerina...oh yeah..with the papers and pictures..I can see it in my head already! I do believe her Ballet pics will take up an entire 12x12..hahaha..we shall see.

and thought for the day, have you tried Smooch, have you seen the colors?..come by the store..oh my...now to figure out where I put mine..hahaha...pink, is called Taffy..what more could I say..the fine brush on this allows you to add this beautiful color to add a touch of creative color to any paper, embellishment, even flowers..I edged my flowers on the Shabby Sweet Pea layout with Taffy Smooch, beautiful ...yummy ...now to find that Smooch in my stash...I so need to get my room back to being organized..um...LOLLY...get yourself well..cuz you got a job to do...:o)

Look for more updates soon..as now I must sign off and get ready for work..

Where is February Going....

Hello everyone, Where is February going?..I think this month is flying by me! First off...I hope everyone had a Wonderful Valentines. A Time for love and sharing that special time together..even with kids..(we did)..though fortunately, we got to celebrate it a day later...a night out to dinner, it was interesting to say the least..

I had wonderful news, My Castle Album was published..been in the works since I believe last November. ScrapStreet Magazine is an online magazine that contacted me for publishing on there site. I was very taken back, I was even ...like "who me"...hahaha. Well you can check it out at http://scrapstreet.com/mag10/february10/fixtures/turn2.htm . You will see my castle..on there...so exciting.

I love Employee crops..we decided to get together and spend some fun time scrapping together, which is hard to do since we work there...but we had such a great time..we all brought a dish in..and had fun sharing ideas, talking about just anything, and most of all..Being there..doing what we love to do..Scrapping...we even took a group shot of us..can't wait to do this again!

Well my Shabby Layout..framed pictured above is now a Class! You will receive everything for the Layout, however, a few things which I have printed up a class sheet for students, the frame is not included. You can find the 12x12 Scrapbook Frame at Michaels or AC Moores! (Use their coupon). The class will be held on March 10th 6:30-9 pm, cost is $20. Simply call AAS and reserve your seat for the class, pay over the phone, or come in and check it out and sign up and maybe check out the other wonderful classes we have on display for March. Lots of changes going on ...new and fresh and FUN at the store. Busy as usual. I am also working on a mini Chipboard Album...look for that soon.

Have you seen the new Bobunny lines? I can't wait...oh to play with those paper..lots of ideas to put into place. Though I have to admit..my attention has been geared to reading at night...I finally saw the Movie Twilight..and now I am reading the books, I am on the third one, Eclipse! Oh my..but with a four year old, hard to read unless she is in bed! thanks to Nicole at work..she created a beautiful layout Twilight! I am in awe over parts of Nicole's layout..the flowers she made..by hand...beautiful job...so inspiring! I hope the picture does the sample of her layout justice ...she did an awesome job.

Ballet is going wonderful..Savanna is enjoying it very much. I can't wait to see her in her Recital Costumes..she will have two, one for Ballet and another for Tap...we are happy she is happy...and we got to sit in on one of the sessions and watch them. Which brings me to some Ballerina essentials coming to the store very soon. I am so excited, I can't wait. When it arrives..be ready to see a layout ..and posted.

I have added to the right new links to Places I like..check them out. Let me know what you think of these great lines. I hope to hear more comments on here soon...let me know what you are working on and share with me some pictures. I can't wait.

Going to finish the "home duties" before work now. Have a Blessed Week.

Snow, Rain and Cold, Oh My

Well its February...and we got Snow..can ya believe that! Last weekend up to 7 inches here...and our store closed on a Saturday due to the bad weather, impassible icy roads. We got through that and now we are heading for bad weather, actually its here.wind just picked up, rain..we did have snow for about 30 seconds..which was supposed to be tomorrow..so needless to say, this weekend brings surprises as we are waiting to see what will happen.

I have been working on the layout at the top, Sweet Pea. This layout of course was inspired by this adorable little granddaughter born on January 22, 2010. I will refer her as Sweet Pea..as you can see on the layout. In this layout, I layered Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses, Sugar Rush and Pink Paisley line. I hadded Prima flowers to the corners, and of course I had to add Tim Holtz tickets..adore..they are just to cute not to add. You will see the edges of the flowers look darker, I had to try out my new Smooch..and all I did was edge it. I have these string of pearly beads on a strand..looped it and adhered it. Rhinestone pink pearls from Kaiser was a cute little add. Just little touches. The middle layer, I used fiskars hear border punch all the way around..I traced another paper to get the top note looking shape..to add the picture and embellishments on..I cut that and fell in love. Enjoy sharing this layout with everyone, I have to make another one, as my cuddlebug informed me she didn't think I loved her much because I did the frame for Sweet Pea...and I showed her, Nanna has another right over there to make just for you. She of course hugged me and said "you do love me"..four year olds..what would we do without them.

Working a few projects...stay tuned for those to be added soon..and one will be a class comin to All About Scrapbooks. I am excited! February is among us and soon before you know it..March will be here..and that schedule is getting tight. If you need more information on the layout above, let me know. The Frame is from Michaels...(cough...eck..cough) but we don't sell frames, this one is a Scrapbook 12x12 Frame. I can't wait for the Tim Holtz Sizzix dies to come...they were released at CHA as alot of other great treasures....Sure to have lots of flavor and drooling going on over at the store when that hits the shelf.