just a pharmgirl

The Little Album that Almost Wasn't

2012-01-31T13:37:00.001-05:00

Before I get to my little album story ... I want to share some exciting news that I'm sure many of you have heard already ... Jenni Bowlin Studio has gone digital with a shop at JessicaSprague.com ! Oh be-still-my-heart! Can't wait to share some projects with you, but you really need to see what the creative team has been doing over at JS with Jenni's lovely designs ... take a look at the shop and choose a product ... look at "other images" and you'll see some gorgeous works of art!

Now, the little album that almost wasn't story ...

When I first learned how to scrap digitally, I took a beginning lesson from Renee Pearson. It was a great class! As we learned, we created a mini album. I altered the theme and colors a bit in order to create a book for Matt about playing All-Star baseball when he was 12. I never finished the album. To me it was more of a learning experience and the finished product didn't matter. When the class was over, I had a 1/3 of a completed album tucked away.

Now and then, I go on major purging sprees. This usually happens after watching an episode of "Hoarding". If you're in my way, watch out because you might get thrown out also. During one of those "purging attacks", I happened upon the little baseball book. It was only 1/3 done, I didn't think it was very special, and I didn't even think twice when I threw it in the trash.

Now Matt happened to see this book in the trash. What he was doing looking in the trash I don't know to this day. But he saw it and brought it to me with an incredulous look on his face.

him: "You were going to THROW THIS OUT?!"

me: "But it's not even done, Matt ..."

him: "What if I didn't look in the garbage and find this!"

me: "Oh .... ok Matt .... hmmm ..... sorry! It's not even very good!"

he left muttering and all I could hear were words like "crazy", "nuts", and "jeeeeeeze".

So I took the book and worked one weekend to finish it. It was pretty easy to finish really. Very basic, nothing fancy. Lots of journaling about that summer. I sent the pages off to Shutterfly for printing. When the pages came back, I simply inserted them in the photo album I had bought and decorated years ago and gave him the book. The crazy boy loved it.

Fast forward a year. I didn't give the little book much thought until the other day. I was picking up in Matt's room when I saw this little book on his dresser that he displayed front and center, before heading off the college again. I flipped through and thought how silly I was for throwing this book out without even a thought. Here he has this little book, simple as it may be, but rich in journaling about his 12th summer of life. How he played his little heart out. How we "bonded" one night in a rented room with no electricity. How he would pick me out in the crowd and give an incredible smile. How his team performed under incredible pressure in front of thousands. How beautiful he thought Cooperstown, New York was.

Silly, silly me. Why did I toss this? Because there weren't enough embellishments? Because an album of memories 1/3 done isn't worth holding on to? I'm not really sure.

I read this little album again and I'm not ashamed to say that I bawled like a baby. Was I crying because of the sweet memories? Because this boy was gone away again? Because his college team calls him Ducky too? Because this little album almost wasn't? I'm not sure. But how wonderful to have this little album now.

Check! Project One is Done!

2012-01-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

But first! Before I post about organizing my layouts into albums ... I want to share all the Jenni Bowlin Studio excitement going on this week. What an exciting week, with CHA-W happening in California ... but that doesn't mean we can't have our own fun, too. LOTS of great stuff happening with lots of great prizes ... thanks Jenni Bowlin Studio!

1. New Gallery contest with an awesome prize:

2. A Chat Tuesday with another awesome prize:

Come to the forum for the chat!

3. A secret (or not-so secret) announcement coming tomorrow - here's a hint:

Isn't this hobby GREAT!

and now ... I present ... with a great sense of relief ...

Ahhhhh! It feels sooo good to get a project done, doesn't it! I've now got all my layouts into organized albums. The albums are not labeled yet because I'm waiting for one "special supply" to come in. But they look nice, organized, and that makes me happy!

I want to share how I did this and a few things that I learned along the way:

What I did:

1. Not only did I gather my "homeless" layouts, but I also pulled every single layout out of ever single album since they were not particularly in any particular album for any particular reason. And my new "system" requires my layouts to be organized.

The only albums that I did not take layouts out of were my Creative Memories albums. I couldn't ... the layouts were stuck to the page. But that's OK - those albums look so very nice, and still in perfect condition, and well, are chronological. So they already have a happy organized home. Those are some great quality albums. And you know, I still like those layouts.

2. I then started separating all the layouts into piles by category. The categories that worked for me, were "Family", "Heritage", Domenic Army, John Baseball, Matthew Baseball, and then a separate general album for every child I scrap. I scrap not only my own boys, but my sweet nieces and nephew too.

3. I also had a "re-scrap" and "fix" pile. I did see some layouts that, quite frankly, I sort of hated. They were mostly layouts where I don't think I did the story or the photo justice. I put them in "re-scrap" pile. To have a small pile of layouts I want to re-scrap doesn't bother me at all. I love scrapping, and having more "material" to scrap is actually a good thing! I also had a "fix" pile. You know, those layouts where the chipboard letters lost their stick, and little fixes like that. These will be great for a rainy day.

4. I threw out one layout. Yep. But it was a layout from an assignment I had years and years ago to scrap St. Patrick's Day. We're Catholic, we love and pray to our saints, but this is not a big holiday in our house. I actually had Matthew stage photos for me. I thought of Matthew years from now, opening his book and thinking, "oh ya' - this is the day Mom forced me to eat green eggs and ham."

5. The digi layouts were great because I had multiples of them. I was able to split them between multiple books. I even had layouts that were 100% digi and then reproduced in hybrid form. Loved being able to keep one and give the other away.

6. I then laid out my layouts in their categories and matched albums with the piles.

7. I took each pile and tried to organize it chronologically to a degree. I didn't get hung up on this part.

8. Putting all the layouts into their respective albums was such a nice feeling. It was so nice to see the album come together. And since I had basically looked at every single layout I've ever done, I was able to really see what I did that I liked, and what I did that I didn't like. I was able to get a good picture of my "scrapbooking style" if I have one at all.

At this step, I was able to see what albums and page protectors held up over time. Boy do I LOVE We R Memory Keepers albums and protectors. So you can imagine my disappointment when I went to place my WRMK albums on a favorite piece of furniture that houses my albums to see this:

Yes - that's 1/4 inch of an album that's too big, or 1/4 inch of a shelf that's too small ... so the WRMK albums needed to be moved to an old book shelf I was planning to throw away... but it's staying now until a better plan comes up ...

Some American Crafts page protectors sagged and the holes started to rip. I'm not sure why this was happening and have seen others talk about the same problem.

I tried to remedy this with placing paper hole reinforcers on the page protector holes:

All I had were ones in distracting colors:

but it worked! The protectors seemed stronger and more stable. I then found the clear Avery Reinforcements, but they didn't stick to the plastic very well. Bummer!

I have a fun idea for labeling my albums, but will have to wait until a certain special supply comes in. That's a project for another rainy day!

And that's it! I think if my layouts could talk they'd say "What took you so long! We love our new homes!"

Have a FUN and creative week. If you're at CHA - I'm totally jealous. If you're not, well then we'll be having our own fun here!

Studio Envy

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

In the past couple of days, I've seen two creative studios that have blown me away. They've so inspired me that I truly truly feel like ripping up my little space and creating something pretty.

In the following video, you catch glimpses of Jenni Bowlin's studio. OK ... it is a little more than glimpses, but I want to see EVERYTHING! Jenni! Show us everything!

What I love? Old interesting containers, acck! that white scroll molding and I have something similar sitting in my garage!, stamps organized on a shelf so you can SEE them, OLD.WOODEN.TABLES, old doors with crystal knobs, old paint, interesting drawers for storage, and of ummmm gorgeous handmade projects hanging around ... and it seems big, doesn't it? Room to breath!

The other studio i ran across belongs to Teresa McFayden. You've got to watch for a bit before the studio tour starts.

Studio and Behind the Scenes from Teresa McFayden on Vimeo.

What I love? Besides the fact that she plays one of my all-time favorite songs at the start? Glass, apothecary! jars, the chandelier, her little photo displays, the inspiration chicken wire, the old stamp shelving, old card catalog, bits and baubles everywhere ...

and I didn't see an Iris Cart in either of these!

Inspiring to say the least!

While they're away at CHA ...

2012-01-25T08:53:00.002-05:00

why can't we have a little fun, too?

Jenni Bowlin Studio has a new gallery, but it needs YOUR projects!

You can find all the specifics on the JBS Inspiration Blog!

And speaking of Jenni Bowlin Studio and CHA - have you seen their new releases?

Here's Magpie:

I'm always amazed at Jenni's designs. Her products have timeless patterns and colors and don't overwhelm. They help YOU create amazing works of art.

Imagine what you can do with these new papers: Perforated and Die-Cut papers in vintage images just waiting for your ideas and creativity:

I wish I could be a fly on the wall when Jenni creates. She gives a little peak of her inspiration for Magpie on her blog.

You can see the entire release on their Scrapbook.com blog post here: New Jenni Bowlin Studio

Have a creative day!

Let it Snow ...

2012-01-20T16:13:00.000-05:00

snow is in the forecast ...

i'm excited ... really looking forward to scrap ... get lost in it for a while ...

just need to print those photos before the power (most likely) goes out ...

my sweet scrappy spot is somewhat clean ...

and this little girl is watching me from outside as I get ready...

my Project: Getting it Done (putting all my layouts in albums) is coming along nicely!

This is my organized mess now:

Have a creative weekend. And if it snows where you are i hope it's a *pretty* snow.

Project: Getting it Done

2012-01-17T09:13:00.000-05:00

So here it is ... a bit of a declaration that I will be trying to focus on accomplishing things one project at a time, and get it done this year.

... and there are about 120 "its" on my list. But I'm going to start with one that will make me soooo very happy when it's done. You know the feeling.

I have piles and piles of layouts without homes. And the ones with homes and in albums are not in a particular album for a particular reason. They've just been put inside for safe keeping.

I'm SURE I'm in good company!

I really want to get all my layouts in albums and my albums organized in some fashion!

To think about:

1. I need to figure out how I want to organize my albums. Chronological? By subject? Divide them up for the kids?

2. Will I find layouts that I really don't like while I'm doing this? What do I do? I've never thrown out a layout before ....

3. Do I have enough albums and protectors? I've been buying them here and there, especially when they're on sale ...

4. What about my mix of different size layouts - i love changing it up a bit, but I have both 3-ring and post bound albums here ...

The inspirations:

1. Shimelle has two wonderful posts about organizing her albums. She got hers done on one rainy afternoon. Oh good! It's going to rain tomorrow ... but only until 10am. I have a feeling this is going to take me a lot longer ...

here are links to her posts:

http://www.shimelle.com/paper/1268/scrapbookers-let-s-talk-albums/

http://www.shimelle.com/paper/1071/afternoon-craft-project-sorting-scrapbook-pages-into-albums/

2. Stacy Julian has her Library of Memories system for organizing her albums. I have her book! I've read (most of) it! Just not sure if the system will work for me.

3. Ali Edwards has an oldie-but-goodie post about organizing her albums here:

http://aliedwards.com/2009/09/organizing-scrapbook-albums-an-update.html#more-1086

She even has a category on her blog of album organization.

---------------------------------------

OK ... I'm going to get it done! It won't be done today, it might not be done tomorrow. But that's ok, because I will get it done!

Not Really a Resolution ...

2012-01-16T08:56:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about the new year. I've been admiring the resolutions my scrappy friends have posted on their blog. I've been thinking about being a better blogger. Thinking about grabbing the bull by the horns and accomplishing a ton. Then I get sweaty and know I've been thinking too much.

I was up 'til the weeeee hours of the morn' the other day, making headers for all my goals and their categories. I was using Jen Martakis' Designs and having a blast. I had categories coming out my ears: home dec projects, organizing projects, scrapping projects, outside projects, computer projects, just to name a few. And yes ... I was planning to put this all on my blog ... as a sort of documentation and incentive to keep it all up. Did I say I designed headers for all my goals? Yes I did. Into the wee.hours.of.the.morning.

This was all just too confusing, and although it sounded organized to me at first (and I LOVE being organized) ... it wasn't.

And then a lightbulb went off. Projects. Just projects. These are all just simply PROJECTS.

We can call anything a project, can't we? Organizing the basement laundry room is a project. Donating your clothes to Goodwill is a project. Finding the paint color for your bedroom is a project. Making that special layout you've had running through your head forever is a project. Finishing that mini book is a project. Learning how to make a brush from a scan on your computer is a project.

You get the idea.

What if I tried to focus on one project a week? And tried to finish it by Friday. Am I asking too much of myself, living with a lovely life challenge and all? OK - then focus on a project and don't move on to the next one until it's done. It can be a project of any kind. All my categories will wrap up into one. I think I may actually get something done. I may accomplish something! The pillow forms I bought 10 years ago may become pillows! Yea!

Now this sounds fun to me. It's not really a resolution ... it's just a different way of approaching your week. It's about looking around you and finding joy in accomplishing little projects, writing them down to keep you on track, and finishing one before moving on to the next.

I think I need a name for this ... a title to start off my project idea each time ... so I know that this is THE project I'm working on at that moment. So I don't move on until it's done. I thought of "Project Life" ... but that sounded a little familiar ... HA!

Oh gosh - that was long! But I do have 2 projects I can't wait to start ... both of which I've been waiting to find the right supplies for ... and wouldn't you know ... in the new Mercantile Mid-month Release ... BOTH items were there ...

Vintage Quilt Scraps!

and

Vintage Metal Draw Pulls!

Can't.wait.to.start but for now I'll find something to finish that's been driving me crazy for quite a long time ....

Tiny Little Treasures

2012-01-14T16:31:00.003-05:00

It was a wonderful, dry, 30 degrees morning. The skies were blue and the ground crunched under our feet. A perfect morning for a walk with the pup. We both love this weather.

When I walk, I'm always looking at the little details along the way. I may trip on a giant log in my path, but I'll be admiring the seed pod on the ground as I fall.

And the pup does the same thing as she stops to smell every.little.thing. I don't pull here because I know just.how.she.feels.

This morning I found two sweet little treasures ... signs that Valentine's Day is right around the corner ...

... the pink one being man-made ... the other made by nature.

And if you're looking for papercrafting inspiration for Valentine's Day, hop over the the Jenni Bowlin Studio Inspiration blog. There will be awesomely wonderful projects there all month! And! The new JBS releases are being revealed piece by piece! You.will.swoon.

Oh! and the little graphic at the top of my post ... the elements are from Jen Martakis - A Little Cuckoo and Snowy Day. She's the reason I was up way too last night. But that's a story for another day!

Nothing can make me happier ...

2012-01-13T13:04:00.001-05:00

... than building something from scratch from a lovely mix of bits and pieces like this:

Having fun! I hope you are too!

Laughter Fills the House ...

2012-01-11T09:44:00.000-05:00

because these two have been together again for Christmas break ...

... these two ... less than a year apart ... have their own language ... finish each other's sentences ...

... each have a different way of imitating Robert DeNiro ...

... just can't give me a normal photo anymore ....

... and like trick photography where one looks much bigger than the other ...

Motherhood is hard. And it doesn't stop when they go to college. And we question ourselves and hope that we raised them good and raised them to love and take care of each other. And although I know I've made a lot of mistakes and I wasn't perfect, when I see these two together, I can imagine that perhaps I could have done something right ...

have a wonderfully creative day!

Happiness CAN Come in a Box

2012-01-02T23:59:00.001-05:00

Oh yes, it can.

When I opened the JBS Mercantile January kit, all I could think of was "happy happy happy". These kits are full of color and fun bits and pieces. I've made 3 layouts so far with 2 more almost done.

Oh the happy colors!

The Basic Grey flowers and bits in the Papercrafting kit are so.much.fun.

I'm so glad my sewing machine is fixed!

And this one was a blast. I took a baseball card holder and used it as a base. A larger photo, title, and journaling are placed across the middle. I love this set up so much - I have plans - and more plans - to use baseball card holders more. We only have about a gazillion in the house.

The card holders hold the little bits and pieces that I imagined as confetti ...

So many fun embellishments ...

Check out the JBS Mercantile gallery - the design team did wonderful things with this kit!

Have you scrapped recently? I haven't scrapped ALL YEAR! Hoping to scrap today!

(i'm soooo funny)

January Kits:

JBS January Mini Album Kit

JBS Mercantile January Antiquarian

JBS Mercantile January Papercrafting Kit

JBS Mercantile January Artisan Kit

InLinkz.com

The Photo Dump

2012-01-02T01:38:00.001-05:00

I usually download the photos off my card on the last day of every month, make my backups, and format my card to start new the next day. It's one of the only things I do on time. But this fall things got away from me and I had 4 months on the camera.

It was funny seeing those shots though - I forgot some things ...

... like how i finally figured out why my bushes keep dying in the front ... it's a family of these little guys ...

... i made heart shaped meatloaf, complete with parsley sprig arrow ... did we really eat that?

... although Thanksgiving was at my house this year, i didn't do too much decorating. but i did manage to embellish 3 little pumpkins ...

ahhhhh! i captured a butterfly (or is it a moth?) ...

i hit the secret garden at just the right time of day for this photo ...

and the ducks ventured out into the driveway one rainy day ... something they haven't done in quite a while ...

And now I have a fresh blank card in my camera ... feels good!

Are you doing the Creative Jump Start Summit? I just loved the first jump start from Dina Wakley. If you haven't signed up and still can, go for it! It's free and such a wonderful thing to do at the start of a new year!

Thanks so much for visiting!

And so it begins ...

2012-01-01T10:20:00.000-05:00

a brand spankin' new New Year!

I'm thinking this is going to be a good one.

There are currently 53 unchecked boxes in my Goal List on Evernote. Yep 53. And I've been trying all week to consolidate these into workable New Years' Goals. I was thinking about this a lot Saturday and the more I thought about it, the more my stomach hurt. The more shallow my breathing got. Heck ... my right arm went numb.

And that's when a voice said "Be nice to yourself." And I knew exactly what that voice meant.

My type A brain is trying to operate a type B body.

There are a bunch of creative things on the list of 53, some very lofty goals, and some things that only a person living with a lovely life challenge would understand. I know I'll check off some things from the list, but I'll be sure to be nice to myself if I don't.

And I'll be sure to share most of it here. Especially the creative stuff.
So let's celebrate a new year! If you don't mind moving your cursor over the banner below:

(I've always wondered if this effect would work in a blog post).

My Son Loved this Layout ...

2011-12-27T08:00:00.004-05:00

supplies: Patterned Paper (Jenni Bowlin Studio), Seal Stamp and Ink (Jenni Bowlin Studio), Foam Stamps (Making Memories), Canvas banners (Maya Road), Transparency (Hambly), Die Cut (Magistical Memories)

... a bit of a different take on the usual baseball layout, since I focused on his coach. But there's a cool story behind it ... and ds appreciated it! :)

The reason for the focus and how I accomplished this, is just a part of my contribution to the January 2012 issue of the Masterful Scrapbook Design series on Focal Points. I'm so excited to be a part of this!

As a matter of fact, I listened to Doris' wonderful webinar on The Scrapbook Canvas while wrapping presents the other day, and learned so much!

I'm so excited to share my techniques for creating Focal Points - something I give deliberate attention to quite often when I scrap. I hope to see you at MSD in January!

Nature Came a Knockin'

2011-12-23T17:28:00.002-05:00

I was getting some things done this morning when I heard a familiar bang. A window bang. The kind I hear after my windows are clean and a poor little birdie mistakes the reflection in our shiny window for a tree.

The strange thing is ... our windows are not clean and this bang was a lot louder than I'm used to.

The reason for such a loud bang ...

The poor thing just sat there on the ground blinking his eyes ... I really thought I heard him say, "What just happened?!" I wanted to run out and grab the hawk and make sure he was OK, but this girl ...

... was going insane ... she saw and wanted that hawk ... because after all, she's been taught to protect these two from just that kind of bird ...

... and was just doing her job ...

And after that excitement, I moved my wire tree into a sunnier room. Now, the handmade ornaments could really shine ...

Have a wonderful Christmas!

Midmonth One-of-a-Kind Finds and Finding Pretty Among the Brown

2011-12-15T12:52:00.004-05:00

The JBS Mercantile mid-month updates are loading! I bought! So psyched - I always wanted one of those green wire frogs!

Check it all out right here: Mid-month One-of-a-Kind

Among lots of other things, there are a few vintage alarm clocks for sale ...

which reminds me of a project I once did, where I took apart an old alarm clock and made a little motivational display:

I love stuff like that ... using something old in a manner it wasn't quite intended!

My Lovely Life Challenge has been whipping me good these past couple months. But I'm a firm believer in keeping hope ... and so I will be hopeful ... 2012 is going to be MY YEAR! I hope it is for all of you reading my blog ... and for others dealing with their own lovely life challenges.

We need to see the pretty among the brown ...

have a great day!

betsy

Vintage Snowflake Cards, Kit Crafting, and a Chat with Jenni!

2011-12-06T20:03:00.003-05:00

Hello fellow crafters! I'd first like to tell you that Jenni Bowlin herself is having a chat tomorrow - Wednesday! Here's the info:

It will be happening on our forum here!

Hope to see you!

I made some Vintage Snowflake Cards that were so much fun:

See the rest of the vintage snowflake story here!

I used my Cricut to make these. Yes, I know - the new Silhouette is out! Oh how I would LOVE that machine! But the practical girl in me just wouldn't feel right about not using my very first and only diecut investment - the baby Cricut - until its motor just about runs out! I've never really used the machine a lot. I bought it years ago from QVC after seeing the wonderful layouts Loni Stevens made with it. Why is Loni not scrapbooking anymore?! But anyway, I just can't say goodbye to this machine until I really give it a good workout!

The Mercantile December Kit gorrrrgeous! You must check out what the DT made. Here's what I've done so far:

DS will love this one:

and a little bitty mini - that I just love:

You can see the kit in all its glory HERE!

and the winner ....

2011-11-28T21:22:00.000-05:00

of the gift certificate and lesson downloads is ...

Dara Lynn! I've got your email Dara Lynn!

Thanks everyone for playing! I wish everyone could win!

Cyber Monday at JBS Mercantile!

2011-11-27T13:00:00.004-05:00

I really enjoy this time of year: preparations, decorating, and shopping for those you love. And nobody knows yourself better than you do, right? So we've got to add some shopping for yourself too!

What better place to get started than Cyber Monday at the Jenni Bowlin Mercantile!

Here's what's happening:

Jenni's new online class "Home for the Holidays" . Click on the link for a description of the class. I was able to get a sneak peek myself and can I just say that Jenni IS creative genius and her attention to detail is just amazing!

A new shopping section will open on the Mercantile also! One-of-a-Kind will have unique items Jenni's found along her flea market travels. Here's a look of something available at the Mercantile One-of-a-Kind:

An old pencil box! Oh how I LOVE vintage storage!

and also some blog hop fun with the JBS DT!

You can win a $10 JBS Mercantile Gift Card PLUS the Lesson Materials (downloadable pdfs and video - kit not included) for Jenni's class: "Home for the Holidays".

Jenni's class and the new One-of-a-Kind shop will open

midnight CST on Sunday, November 27th!

Items for sale and class kits are limited, so be sure to shop early!

You can win on my blog! Just leave a post with your email if you don't have a blog link. I'll pick a winner Monday night at 8pm CST / 9pm EST.

and here's the rest of the JBS DT bloggers for the blog hop! Visit them all for more chances to win!

doris sander http://sanderdk.typepad.com/meanderings_/

mindy miller http://mysecretheart.typepad.com/my_secret_heart/

leah farquharson http://amusing-to-create.blogspot.com/

briana johnson http://mypaperlust.blogspot.com/

megan klauer http://meganklauerdesign.blogspot.com/

jenni bowlin http://jennibowlin.blogspot.com/

lisa dickinson http://lisadickinson.typepad.com/gettin_by/

jill sprott http://wordplaywordwork.blogspot.com/

waleska neris http://myorganizedmess.typepad.com/talking_to_myself/

becky novacek www.beckynovacekphotography.com
shimelle laine http://www.shimelle.com/

Keeping Track of those "Heirlooms" and Confused Frogs

2011-11-21T12:48:00.004-05:00

My mom was here the other day and we were looking at old photos and found some photos of furniture that belonged to my great grandparents. One of those pieces, a chair, I have in my house. It made me think about the "stuff" I have around my own house. My boys have no idea what might be a family piece vs something I picked up on the side of the road. Sure, nothing is an antique that would make them rich (that I know of!), but one day they may want to know if any of this "stuff" has special meaning or has been in our family for a period of time.

So, I made a Household Inventory portfolio that can hopefully answer their questions ...

I used a 7 Gypsies Portfolio that was part of a previous Mercantile Project Kit and covered it with Jenni Bowlin patterned cardstock from her Haven line. The keyhole is from Melissa Frances and I accented its design with a Malted Milk Paint Dabber.

Here's the inside of the portfolio opened up. Isn't the Haven line just perfect for this?

I created templates for photos and information about the pieces I'll include in the portfolio.

If you'd like to do something similar, click on the pdf below to get my template. In order to have it at the correct size for the 7gypsies portfolio, you must download the file and print from the downloaded file.

Household Inventory

And now on to the confused amphibians around our house. Imagine my surprise upon opening our back door in the middle of November to see two of these stuck to our glass:

I think the little guys are confused with the warm weather we've been having the past couple of days!

Have a great day!

Much accomplished at a Fiskateers Crop!

2011-11-09T11:19:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Amy I'm now a proud Fiskateer! And Amy had a wonderful Fiskateer crop Saturday after trying to find a suitable place among the storm damaged area. Some people STILL don't have power around here! Wishing them power real soon!

I did get a lot accomplished! My October Daily is done! Only one day went by without a photo:

John's highschool baseball album now has 2 years down with 2 to go. Must finish before son graduates college! And then I can start Matt's - who's already playing college. LOL!

And then I created a very special piece to a very special garland. You can see all the pieces being put together here! I just love this idea!

Another project done too - which I love and will post soon.

Ya', I know some people get 50 things done at crops. But I'm one very slow scrapper!

Have a creative day!

An Exciting Class Coming Up! and a Concert for a Cause!

2011-11-03T12:35:00.003-04:00

Ahhhhh .... lights ..... computer ..... boring daytime TV ..... it's all back and wonderful .... at least for me!

Still so many people out of power in CT! I feel for ya'!

And speaking of CT, here are a couple exciting things coming up:

I love this little store in Westport, CT - The Great American Stamp Store. It has stamps of course, but tons of other crafting items, gorgeous ribbons, unique charms, scrapbook stuff, mixed media! The owner Judy, packs it into this adorable shop and it's the kind of place where you just have to look and look and look because guaranteed, you'll miss something if you don't. I just love places like that. It's more of a treasure hunt than a simple ol' shopping experience! And if you haven't been to Westport, well, you must visit. It's the shopping capital of southwest CT I would say.

I'll be there teaching - oh how I love to share creative stuff! Especially Jenni Bowlin stuff - gotta love it. This class will use lots of her new product and you'll create a book you can use year after year. Here's the official class announcement :)

Exciting News! Guest Artist Teaching November 13

We are thrilled to announce that a guest teacher, Betsy Sammarco is teaching this exciting class at the Great American Stamp Store. Betsy has been designing for Jenni Bowlin Studio since March 2010.

This class will only be offered once, call the store if you wish to register.

Gift Keeper Pocket Album Class
Sunday, November 13th 1-3pm

$35

Call 203-221-1229 to register

Come to a class with Betsy Sammarco where you will make an adorable book to help you keep track of your Holiday shopping! You will learn techniques using new product from Jenni Bowlin Studio.

Crafters should bring:
Paper trimmer
scissors
adhesive (including Zip-Dry or similar if you have it - or share)
sandpaper or sand block
pencil
crafting knife or exacto and cutting mat

And the other exciting event ... do you like classic rock n' roll? Do you want to listen to some great live music at a very unique venue? Do you want to help support a very worthy cause?

Then come to this show!

Read all about it here:

http://www.trinityonmain.org/the-one-show/

And once again the weather pulls the plug ...

2011-10-31T12:56:00.000-04:00

... and the latest New England storm has us out of power again. And the prediction for power return is a week .... again? Oh dear .... blogging from dh's work and the library and any odd place I can is not the greatest.

Soooooo! Instead of reading my blog today read Jenni's blog and get a great description of the kits available at midnight tonight (CST, i think). The main kit has one of GREATEST JBS red/black releases yet. Oh go take a look! And it looks like you can pick up an extra pack of the main kit papers!

It's Halloween! You'll be up late anyway - and you deserve a treat!

Have a creative day, and hoping my New England friends stay warm this week!

betsy

A Favorite Kit for sure!

2011-10-28T12:10:00.000-04:00

I'm totally in love with the Jenni Bowlin Mercantile November kit. It features the newest Jenni Bowlin paper line - the Red & Black Extension 4 - one of my favorite lines to date!

You'll see what the dt has done with the kit on Hallowe'en midnight, but here are a few images from me:

And wait until you see the Mercantile Project Kit and and add-ons - totally cool!

I was soooo good with my October daily until recently! It's the 28th already! I *think* I've taken photos every day - I just have to put it together!

Here's one of the pages in the book so far:

Three days to get this all together!

Come to our Jenni Bowlin ScrapFest!

2011-10-20T09:50:00.003-04:00

It'll be fun!

There will be chats at 9pm CST thurs, fri, sat, and sun with a door prize at each one!
We will begin posting untimed challenges in the message board and continue posting them throughout the weekend. Winners for the untimed challenges will be chosen on Sunday October 30th at 3pm CST.

And! the Design Team will choose our December Kit Club guest from the crop participants!

So, grab a button from my side bar and hope to see you there!

It's all taking place on the JBS forum right here!

a lovely palette and a digi sale

2011-10-18T10:29:00.002-04:00

This color combo from the October Mercantile kit has got to be one of my favorites. Can you tell by my blog?

and speaking of the kit, here's my contribution to the gallery this month:

Sweet dearest oh so photogenic niece

this was definitely a summer to remember

got the rock idea from Country Living Magazine

and we have a winner!

2011-10-17T23:07:00.002-04:00

Post number 2! has won a pass to Shimelle's Pretty Paper Party! Congrats Kathy R!

I'll send Shimelle your email address!

Thanks for playing everyone!

It's Party Time!

2011-10-16T23:27:00.001-04:00

There are online classes for everything these days, and Shimelle has been teaching online scrapbooking classes for years - but she's decided it's time to kick it up a bit and go from online class to a four-week online party, and you're invited. Pretty Paper Party (http://www.shimelle.com/paper/1258/pretty-paper-party-a-new-online-scrapbooking-class/) is the party to attend if you have a collection of paper stacked up for a rainy day, if you have more scraps of paper than you know what to do with (but you know you don't want to throw them away!) and if you've ever put a piece of paper back in your stash because it was just too special for the photos at hand. Through printable prompts and tutorial videos, Shimelle and dozens of special party guests will share beautiful and innovative techniques you can achieve with the paper you have already collected.

And I am soooo very excited to have been asked to be a special party guest! Do you have patterned paper at home? Of course you do! Then you'll love what i'll be bringing to the party! You'll be looking at your paper in a different way after this party ... I promise you!

I'm giving away a pass to the party right here on my blog! Just leave me a comment on this post telling me what your favorite party cake/cupcake flavor is and I'll pick a random winner Monday night at 11:00pm Eastern time. If you don't have a blog yourself, please remember to also post your email in the comment!

Shimelle's Pretty Paper Party starts Monday 10/17, but don't worry, it's fashionable to be late, there are no deadlines, and you'll have permanent access to the class! If you've already signed up for the class, you'll be refunded or will be able to give the class to a friend.

So hit the comment link below and let me know ... what is your favorite party cake?! See ya' at the party!

Documenting My Days

2011-10-07T15:04:00.000-04:00

and so the month rolls on and I'm documenting a piece of each day for my October daily.

Here's how my layout looked on the screen before printing it out:

This is truly going to be an easy way to create my little book!

Some shots after 6 days:

I'm going to add these lovely gold foil leaves as I go along. I found them in New York City.

some favorite photos will be full size: 3 x 5 inches ...

I'm still working with the wonderful October Mercantile kits! Can't wait to show you how I used this old blueprint paper from the Antiquarian kit in a layout:

and this creative way to display your photos will have to wait until the full reveal on the 10th:

Thanks for visiting! Have a creative day!

Getting that October daily ready ...

2011-10-05T13:38:00.007-04:00

After playing around with a bunch of different ideas, I finally decided on the photo / journaling format for my October daily.

There's a lot of talk on the message board about how we are approaching this, so I'll share my way here:

I'm creating the template for my mini pages in a word processor - I use Mac Pages - but something similar can be done in Word.

This is the template. The green boxes will have photos in them. They're small - only 2x2 inches, so I have a space for a larger photo that will be included now and then. This same template will be copied and used every six days. All I have to do is change the numbers, photos, add my journaling, and print it off.

The colors I chose for the print match the mini book I made from the October JBS Mercantile kit. To match them nicely, I simply pulled the internet image of the kit up on my screen, and used the color-picker in my Mac Pages to "choose" the colors I wanted.

Here's the general idea:

click image to view larger

I just love it when your computer makes life easy for you ... !

so .... I'll be waiting every six days I think to print my photos out .... if I can wait that long ... ;)

If you've never used a color-picker, you should try it! PSE has a color-picker that does allow you to get the color code for anything on your screen. You can find a bunch online, too - apps for your Mac and programs for your PC. Many are free or very cheap!

Time for a change ...

2011-10-03T13:28:00.004-04:00

. . . a blog change!

Change is good isn't it? Keeps things fresh and keeps you on your toes. I wanted to practice my newly acquired blogger skills and update the ol' blog.

Aren't the graphics beautiful? These are from a Jen Martakis Designs digital kit: Watercolors. So pretty!

And it's October! Which means a new Mercantile Kit ! I've created four projects already and my mind is happily spinning on the fifth.

Here's what's in the gallery for me so far:

Here's a little mini I created with bits and pieces from the kits - the base of the mini was created from the little vintage file folders in the Antiquarian kit:

The exclusive stamp is the vintage Post Card stamp - so many uses for that stamp! I'll be using this mini for my October daily - join in the fun here!

And check out the projects in the Mercantile gallery from the dt. A-mazing!

Bad blogger but looking to October

2011-09-27T11:19:00.004-04:00

I've been a bad blogger!

but you see ... I went here ...

with this wonderful girl ... to see that crazy guy ...

dear brother & dear sil

... and have been trying to get my garden weeded with tons of help from mom and dad ...

... even turned 50 ... I'll say it! ... I'll even wear a badge! ...

... and just have been trying to get things DONE ...

But October won't get away from me ... because Doris had the brilliant idea to do an October daily ... and got others to join in the fun ...

... wouldn't an October daily be fun?! ...

... my hats off to you all who do a December daily ... but that month gives me hives as it is ...

... we've got a little group chatting about it on the JBS message board ...

... and check out the sneak peeks of the October Mercantile Kit ...

... full reveal coming ... it's lovely ...

thanks for visiting!

Yes, I met Dina! and good discoveries ...

2011-09-15T13:48:00.002-04:00

Hopped the train and navigated the subway last weekend to one of Dina Wakley's classes in NYC.

Yes ... I saw THIS book in person. Yes ... she is an incredible artist. Yes ... she is a wonderful teacher. And Yes ... her son CJ is such a cutie!

Dina taught a technique and mini book that amazed. The stamping technique was so cool and interesting that even dh paid attention when I tried to explain it to him later. Now that's BIG.

If you have a chance to take a class from Dina - do it! She's such a great teacher - you can even find a bunch of her online classes as Get It Scrapped. I took this one, and it changed the way I look at scrapbooking and crafting!

Have you seen this shop? Oh my - I placed and order the other day and it came very quickly, wrapped to the gills. The wrapping was so pretty, I almost didn't unwrap it! So lovely really, and I guess a very fitting name: InspireLovely . Beautiful, unique stuff!

I had planned to go to Brimfield a couple weekends ago. I wanted to go the the Antique textile event before the big show. Unfortunately my lovely life challenge got in the way this time. But dear mom, upon hearing what type of goodies I was missing, came in to show me her stash of textile goodies. And like a good mom, let me take whatever I wanted home:

Oh don't you just love those vintage buttons!

And another good discovery ... i organized my unorganized photos .... the ones that were filling up a drawer because i thought i was going to scrap them, but didn't ... or printed doubles of just in case ... and found a bunch of enlargements ... i can't even remember why I had so many:

and i'm inspired to scrap these enlargements before the photos get totally ruined ... but to scrap them simply ... so the photo is center stage ...

I leave you with a few images from the project I was working on with the vintage postcard sheet from the Jenni Bowlin Studio Mercantile September Antiquarian kit.

We had a great day at the beach this summer where our dog Shiner became a *star* in our eyes. I just HAD to document this day. The layout is 6x12 and a pocket on the layout holds a mini album:

The mini was made from the vintage postcard sheet in the JBS Mercantile September Antiquarian add-on:

Fold it up a certain way (and it's already perforated!) ...

to make the sweetest little book complete with a journaled tag and painted birds and banners and paint splatters ...

have a creative day!

I Fell in Love With a German ...

2011-09-08T07:00:00.007-04:00

NO NOT HIM!

I fell in love with a German foil embellishment silly!

... the one I worked with till the wee hours of the night ...

... the beautiful German Foil Doves from the Mercantile Antiquarian kit ... here's one of the detail shots ...

... yes, this is LOVE folks ... there's even a German Foil buckle in the kit!

I was first introduced to German Foil when I took a Big Picture Class from Jenni Bowlin ...

Jenni is a MASTER at using German Foil in her layouts ... and it frequently makes its way into her kits and for sale at the Mercantile shop.

I'm not a real technique-y scrapper, but I tried painting on them last night and boy did they take to paint wonderfully. Here is an in progress photo:

... they look awesomely cool in person ... and great flying around in their mini book ...

The paint I used was Jenni Bowlin Malted Milk and Speckled Egg Dabbers. The Speckled Egg is new and I think one of my favorite colors ever. And it's easy easy to paint on German Foil with Dabbers. A heavy touch to cover more and a light touch just to get at the embossed areas.

The whole thing will hopefully be photographed soon and the new Mercantile gallery will be up Saturday. You'll love what the design team has been doing!

have a great day!

Good Stuff!

2011-09-07T15:14:00.001-04:00

I'm just in love with the vintage goodies in this month's Mercantile Antiquarian Add-on.

I'm using the 12"x16" vintage railroad postcard sheet for a very cool mini album. Here it is in its beginning stages - splattered with Soap Powder paint.

And this mini album fits perfectly in the vintage hat check envelope in the same kit.

So much fun. Using vintage items in your projects brings you back to scrapbooking roots, doesn't it?

And working on another layout at the same time, using a mix from all three kits: the papercrafting, artisan, and antiquarian:

Kits just make scrapbooking so much fun! Updates the the gallery are coming Saturday - this was such a beautiful kit - the main papercrafting kit is sold out - but the add-ons are still available. If you don't want to miss out next month, become a subscriber!

The next good thing ... have you seen the latest class at Master Scrapbook Design: Design Play. I'm so glad I'm taking this - the material posted so far is GREAT. I'm going to really practice the theory explained in this class. Great teachers, great examples, and it goes on all month. It's like being back in school for a really, really, really fun class!

Thanks for stopping by!

Surviving the Empty Nest

2011-09-06T14:12:00.001-04:00

brush by Rhonna Farrer, nest by the Sparrow family

With both boys in college now, things are different. I went grocery shopping yesterday to refill our frig after the hurricane, and I was stumped. How much milk? Deli meat? Do I really have to make dinner tonight? But that's just part of it. I guess you can get wrapped up in what you miss by having them gone. But then it becomes more about you and not so much about their new adventures and opportunities.

So instead, I'm wrapping my brain around happy thoughts. Actually, I've been preparing for this day for a looong looong time. I knew it would be hard, so I tried to get myself ready so I wouldn't fall into a hole of shock and despair! Seeing changes in your life as opportunities helps focus on the positive. And really, isn't this stage of life just full of positives for everyone? I think so.

So I drew up a set of goals on Evernote covering all aspects of my life: scrapbooking, home, work, health ... you name it. Big plans for sure. And I read them last night, ready to put them on paper, in sort of a ceremonial way to say "AND THIS SHALL BE DONE!" And then promptly dosed off ... sitting up ...

My list is exhausting. So I'm revising my plan.

My scrapbooking plans for Surviving the Empty Nest from now until December are:

1. Try to lift some scrappy goddesses out there. Can their magical talents rub off on me?

2. Try to beat the pants off of Doris and Briana one month and make MORE layouts with my Jenni Bowlin kits than they do. (but is this humanly possible?)

3. Learn something new each week that will help use my lovely computer for my scrapbooking. I'll even share it here.

the end.

My original list is still on Evernote, but I'm not even tempted to open the page.

I think I'm going to survive!

circa: ages ago

It's Like a Hurricane Around Here ...

2011-09-01T10:02:00.000-04:00

... well, ya' ... and in more ways than one ...

Hurricane Irene hit the east coast pretty bad - and we're in survival mode ... getting back to our pioneer roots! I'm lucky today to grab a computer at the library for a quick post ...

and like a hurricane we've sent ds#1 off to college - just hours before it hit - and now are packing by daylight to get ds#2 off tonight ... exciting times for sure!

yes ... the empty nest has arrived ... but I have big plans for that ... and tell me ... is there really such a thing as an empty nest these days? i think not! but more on that later ... when i can post properly with photos and such ...

like a good little cub scout i was prepared for the hurricane and even prepared as much as I could to make one of my favorite projects using the new September Mercantile kit by candlelight ...

I love it ... and I was able to give it to ds#2 before he goes away today ... my sweetie ...

you can see it ... and all the other amazing projects in the Mercantile gallery right here!

Flea Market Friday and the Calm ...

2011-08-26T12:28:00.001-04:00

Had some sweet little scores at the flea market while on vacation ...

How I just LOVE vintage storage! This is perfect for my scrap area!

... and these sweet little things were all dirt cheap ... the ideas are churning. Aren't those leaf coasters the coolest?

I'm always amazed that even though my late-August garden is such a mess, I can still muster up a sweet little bouquet ...

Now I must go ... it's the calm before the storm ... actually such a beautiful day today ...

gotta batten down the hatches!

I love extreme weather - love it! As long as no one gets hurt.

Hoping for little damage to anyone in hurricane Irene's way!

I Had No Idea ...

2011-08-24T21:20:00.001-04:00

... that Rhonna was setting up shop again ... love her designs and love her concept of using her digital designs to uplift and inspire your life ...

... that one of my favorite scrappers Paula, is going to be a teacher at this event ...

... that the First Edition of the JBS Mercantile Gazette was going to turn out that awesome ...

... that there's going to be a very cool mixed media event in my state: Art is You ...

... that even this girl gets rejected sometime ...

... that pinterest can really help you come up with decorating ideas ...

... that this wonderful artist is teaching just a train ride away ...

... that my dear talented friend has set up her gorgeous etsy shop ...

... surfin' is fun, isn't it?!

Inspire Me Monday

2011-08-15T17:00:00.000-04:00

Just posting a bit of colorful inspiration today!

Charlestown, RI

Banner Americana

2011-08-12T08:20:00.001-04:00

a sweet banner celebrating our country ... complete with unique vintage bits and pieces ...

... with a few of my own Jenni Bowlin Studio bits and pieces thrown in ...

... project photos wouldn't be complete without the "blowing in the wind" photo ...

My Banner Americana was created from a Mercantile Mid-month release I bought back in June. Mid-month releases are full of unique vintage surprises. And from the sound of Jenni's latest blog posts mid-month releases and vintage additions to Mercantile Kits will contain some real cool finds ... Set your timers ... each Mid-month release is available on the 15th of the month ... that means this coming Monday ...

... and another project to share ... this one created from the August Mercantile Project Kit ...

You can see more of this and amazing, amazing new projects from the Design Team right here ...

thanks for stopping by ...

The Dog Days ...

2011-08-06T11:07:00.002-04:00

the dog won't even smile for the camera ...

the diamond needs to be watered down ...

the egret wades through the duck weed ...

the ducks take refuge in the shade ...

Can you hear the cicadas?

Despite the heat, it's still so nice to play with paper and stamps and ink and paint and stencils and flowers and vintage surprises ...

from the JBS Mercantile August Kit ...

and I could hear the cicadas when I opened the August Project Kit ... can't wait to play with it this weekend ...

Thanks for stopping by - have a creative day!

She's Back! Miss Personality!

2011-07-27T09:40:00.000-04:00

My sweet little Miss Personality is back and so this project:

Is now finished with her sweet little face full of personality:

Here's what we did! I positioned my sweetie in front of me, told her I was going to say words to her that she had to act out. Miss Personality had no problem with this. She IS Miss Personality. Actually she said to me, "So you're doing this with me and not my sister, right."

Woops - must have next project ready for sweet sister!

These are the photos I got that fit right into the pockets of the mini:

I used the July Mercantile Project Kit to make this mini and there are still some project kits available. Jenni designed this kit as Mercantile's first card kit, but it's such a beautiful kit that you can use it for anything as I did here! Buttons and ribbons on the photos above are from my stash.

And They Caught Frogs

2011-07-25T22:17:00.001-04:00

Two adorable cousin boys have been waiting almost a year to come to our house to catch frogs. You can imagine the pressure. It was dry. Our pond was now a mud hole. And for sure those frogs were keeping cool elsewhere and wouldn't let a net near them. Oh the pressure!

I was nervous. The sweat poured off my brow. These boys were CUTE. They wanted frogs.

I HAD TO DELIVER.

Success.

And the adorable boys were very very happy.

Have You Smooched Your Computer Lately?

2011-07-14T20:58:00.001-04:00

I have.

Oh I LOVE my computer. I LOVE how it helps me organize my life! I LOVE how how it helps me scrapbook!

And yes ... when it does cool things for me ... I will give it a smooch. Like when it helped me do this:

And now I get to share some of these cool things with you at a Masterful Scrapbook Designs webinar!

I LOVE MSD - the seminars are jammed full of information and inspiration. I'm so excited to be a part of the Hybrid Scrapbooking webinar with Paula Gilarde and Aly Dosdall! What is hybrid scrapbooking? Just like it says on the header of my blog: "Using your computer to make fun stuff." I love using my computer as a tool to enhance scrapbooking with traditional supplies ... and now I get to talk about it!

Here's info MSD in July and August:

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If you're not subscribing to Masterful Scrapbook Design in July and August you're missing out on 12 value-packed webinars with over 24 scrapbook page designers.

The August issue of Masterful Scrapbook Design is a special "interview" issue that will sell as an archive for $36 on September 1st. (While subscribing will cost you just $12.50 for one month.)

August members at Masterful Scrapbook Design will receive video and audio recordings from 8 focused interviews with 24+ designers. These recordings will be accompanied by pdfs with scrapbook pages, designer notes, and worksheets.

So why am I telling you about this in July?

July members are all invited to attend the live recordings of these 8 interviews (in addition to the 4 webinars for our July "Fast Starts" issue).

Each of these special interviews includes three guest teachers. You'll hear them talk and see their layouts on your screen at the same time. You can even type in questions during these webinar recordings and I'll work them into the conversation. We've rounded up a balanced group of paper, digital, and hybrid scrapbookers who create with a variety of styles--What's more, these are scrapbookers who have a lot to say about their process.

The first three live events are this Thursday, July 14th so click here and subscribe today.

Webinar topics and participants are as follows:

Pages that Reflect the "Times" with Noell Hyman, Sharyn Tormanen, and Doris Sander (July 14 at 11am ET)

Current trends impact all of us. The times we are living in right now -from global politics and trade, to technology and styles- are especially remarkable. Scrapbook pages that weave in such references have a richness that endures and triggers long-forgotten memories decades later. We'll talk about a range of approaches to this, looking at and talking about pages that weave in little mentions, pages that use elements other than journaling toward this end, and pages that are all about "the times."

Finding and Evolving Your Style with Kayleigh Wiles, Doris Sander, and Dina Wakley. (July 14th at 1pm ET)

Guest designers talk about their past and current scrapbooking styles, sharing layouts and exploring how they got to the styles they're embracing today.

Making Digital Pages Inspired by Paper Techniques with Melanie Grimes, Amy Mallory, and Amber Ries. (July 14 at 3pm ET)
So how do you get a digital page -- or an element on it -- to look like paper? Start with good product and add a helping of the right technique. We'll talk about those techniques as well as how to translate inspiration from paper scrapbook pages to digital ones.

Clean and Simple Pages that Wow with Vivian Masket, Erin Clayton, and Celeste Smith. (July 25th at 9pm ET)

We'll take a look at lots of clean and simple pages and talk about what gives a clean page its pizzazz as well as how to keep things fresh when reusing compositional motifs.

Composition with Karen Grunberg, Francine Clouden, and May Flaum. (July 25th at 11pm ET)

While a good eye helps when putting your page elements together appealingly, learned skills are even more important. We'll talk about the favorite compositional approaches and processes these designers employ for making awesome pages.

Pages with Lots on Them with Emily Pitts, Michelle Clement, and Lynnette Penacho. (July 27th at 9am ET)

Got product? Just how do you get a nice helping of it onto your scrapbook page and make it "work?" We'll look at layouts and talk about the techniques and products these designers love working with on their delightfully full pages.

Hybrid Scrapbooking with Paula Gilarde, Aly Dosdall, and Betsy Sammarco. (July 27th at 11am ET)

We're looking at pages these designers really love as a result of "going hybrid" rather than straight paper or digi. We'll talk about when hybrid is preferred as well as favorite digi products for hybrid pages and best tips for making hybrid pages efficiently.

Favorite Techniques for Paper Pages with Lisa Dickinson, Wilna Furstenberg, and Cindy Liebel. (July 27 at 11am ET)

In past issues of MSD, members have been bowled over by the looks these three designers get on their pages using tools and techniques. In this webinar we dig into everything from glue guns to die cutting machines and see just how they do it!

Click here to subscribe now for $12.50/month.
(Remember, the first big interview day is Thursday, July 14th, and when you're subscribed you'll get a reminder of it.)

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Have a wonderful and creative day!

Boy Grown

2011-07-12T18:23:00.000-04:00

I so loved the Mercantile Park Bench Add-on kit:

Lovely colors, lovely vintage, lovely bits and pieces.

After Matt's graduation he was standing by the car, the sun was setting, and i snapped a photo and the add on was just perfect for the layout ...

The carnation was the actual carnation on his graduation gown.

oh love that kid - love these boys ...

totally exciting scrappy news coming up - a post for tomorrow!

have a wonderful wonderful creative day ...

July!

2011-07-01T11:36:00.000-04:00

July has the potential to be very "exciting" around our house. Lots of baseball, lots of covering co-workers on vacation, lots of let's pass out at the end of the day kinda days. I want to get it all done, but keep that "hey it's summer" frame of mind!

And July also welcomes in a new Jenni Bowlin Mercantile kit. I've done 3 projects so far and have a bunch churning in my head.

This one: totally inspired by a trip to the mall. There was an amazing window display at Banana Republic. A whole lot of Polaroid's against a teal background. I went back a few days later with a camera and the window was already switched out! Anyway, I took their simple idea and went to town with all the great embellishments in the Mercantile Papercrafting and 2nd Add-on kit. So much fun to put them all in a pile and just embellish. The brads? To die for!

And this one: the soft colors and sweet little doily embellishments reminded me of these photos:

And my favorite favorite favorite thing of all this month was the Project Kit. The intention of the kit was as a gorgeous "card making kit" (the first ever at Mercantile), but I turned this one into a mini:

What's the idea of my mini? Do you have a little "Miss Personality" in your life? I do, and as soon as she gets home from visiting relatives, I'm going to set up my camera, and have her act out the words on the Bingo Cards. the photos will fit right into the pockets of the mini. This is SURE to be gorgeous, hilarious, and entertaining all at the same time!

Have a wonderful and creative 4th of July!

On Being Superhuman and Little Boys that Grow Up

2011-06-20T21:31:00.005-04:00

When you're living with a Lovely Life Challenge throwing a party can be tough. Maybe tough isn't the right word. Let's say that throwing a party for your high school graduate when you have MS can take Super Human Strength. POW BAM WACK

But I did it. Yep, I had the help of dh's wonderful family and yep - my teenage boys gave me their muscle. Having this party, and seeing everyone happy, and conquering my Lovely Life Challenge made me feel a bit like this:

So here's to everyone, living with their own Lovely Life Challenges - may you find the Superhuman Strength to do those things to want to. It may not be in the way you once could, or in the way you imagined, but still DO IT IN SOME WAY.

Case in point - I had a wonderful idea to create a whimsical, funky banner in ds' school colors. I had plans to use pom poms, cupcake liners, buttons, and Jenni Bowlin goodies. Here's what that banner looks like today:

OK - totally not in the plan. I had big ideas for this banner. Oh well. So we move on, go to Party City, and the party banner looked like this:

And here's to this sweet little boy:

who will be graduating tomorrow. So proud of this guy ...

thanks for visiting!

If I Build It Will He Come?

2011-06-14T10:11:00.000-04:00

Toads. Aren't they adorable? When the boys were younger, we used to catch them and keep them in a terrarium for a couple of days. We'd throw worms in there and the boys would be in hysterics as I became the "voice" of the toad as he stalked and ate his dinner.

DH has seen a fairly large toad in my garden every morning. And the other night, Matt saw Toad sitting in our garage.

I like to think Toad's hanging around to check out this piece of real estate:

As far as I can see though, he hasn't tried it out yet. I know Toad Houses attract toads. It's worked for me before. Hopefully Toad will like this rental!

Jenni Bowlin Mercantile June Kit: oh so beautiful! Here's another layout from me using the kit:

The kit features Jenni's new line Haven. Haven has colors and patterns that work with everything. I love that. One line ... lots of uses. I have plans for this line for my vacation photos, Christmas photos, graduation mini, home mini ... i can go on and on ...

And the subject of the layout above ... that kid ... is graduating high school next week ... party this Saturday ... lots to do ... trying to stay calm knowing the empty nest is around the corner ... but i know you are a mother forever ... and time doesn't stop ... and the parenting you've put in will hopefully pay off ... but life isn't easy ... and we have to be positive and happy ...

lots of thoughts ...

Glorious, Glorious, Glorious

2011-06-09T17:38:00.001-04:00

are the roses near my picture window

bought years ago from a company that sells antique roses, and rescues roses before they're trashed in constructions sites, etc. This big guy has always tried to bloom well for me and has survived so many hard winters. He's hardy. But the trick was the trellis. Tying him to the trellis was what he wanted and needed all these years. Thank you beautiful rose! So sorry I didn't do this sooner!

Gallery updates coming soon to the Jenni Bowlin DT gallery! I love the kit, I love Jenni's new line.

My contributions so far:

and a favorite coming soon ....

thanks for visiting!

Shimelle - doing good

2011-05-31T20:18:00.003-04:00

The incredibly talented Shimelle is doing something good on her blog today - for 24 hours -

and it's a win-win -- get a great class from Shimelle and contribute to her cause

that's Shimelle below dressed as Wonder woman ... and she IS!! I'm in awe of her work, her blog, and her classes. Here's the link!

A Paper Lovers Adventure

2011-05-28T12:48:00.000-04:00

I saw this ad in the paper this morning:

It was a local number and I got excited.

The interesting thing however, was that I was the only "non-dealer" there. Guys that had been in the business for years it seems were climbing all over each other rummaging through crates and crates of this gigantic collection. There was so much, and it was so stuffed into one garage, that I'd say we were only able to see 5% of the stuff.

When the owner asked what I was looking for I felt a little dorky saying "Sweet little graphics for projects I'm working on ..."

And pickin' through this stuff is hard work.

Guys were asking other guys to pass boxes to them and some guys would pretend not to hear and just continue their searching mumbling "leave me alone".

One guy found his treasures by taking them right out of my box. Ya', I nicely asked for them back.

It's hard to find your little treasures in this kind of situation I think. I think I'm more of a flea market girl, where the stuff is usually neatly displayed. Or a tag sale girl, where it's so much easier to look around. I think I should leave this kind of pickin' to the experts like Jenni at the Mercantile.

But look what I managed to pick up:

I would have totally passed over vintage checks if I didn't see how the Mercantile design team has used them in their monthly kits. You know, they have gorgeous graphics on them! The pages of the Winston Readers has great graphics and sweet child-like text. There's old sheet music in great condition there and a sweet little book.

So that's my adventure for today. I need a rest.

and then I'll scrapbook - the new Haven line by JBS is so much fun to scrap with. It goes with everything and there is true genius behind these product lines, I swear!

A new kit reveal is coming on the 31st and I created my favorite mini to date with it:

Have a wonderful weekend!

circa 1999

Creatures from our Mud Hole and a Sweet 'n Easy Gift

2011-05-23T10:51:00.001-04:00

We have a mud hole on our property - most people call it a pond - but really, i think its a glorified mud hole.

It's not really large, it occasionally dries out, it doesn't have a good inlet and outlet, but it has wildlife neverless.

Tadpoles, frogs, turtles, salamanders, ducks, snakes, and one lone white heron are just some of the inhabitants we find.

One duck couple comes every spring and we like to think the female is the one we saved and that she comes back to visit us every year:

Last year, I was looking out my bedroom window and saw something strange swimming in it. I ran outside, eyes opened wide, and saw ... well ... something I can't really describe. To this day, I'm not really sure what it was, but it was interesting and strange enough that I felt it necessary to leave my boys this note:

and yesterday, a neighbor knocked on our door to let us know that one of our mud hole inhabitants was in the street, vulnerable to the next car driving by ... and she knew we liked saving things like this ...

This snapper was BIG ...

and get a load of that spiked tail!

just a shovel and a wheelbarrow and gentle handling ...

and the snapper was returned to his home and promptly sank into the mud ...

The Sweet 'n Easy Gift

Did you ever want to get someone a little something - not spend a lot of money, but want it to be a little bit special.

I wanted to do just that - I wanted to give a coworker something, but knew if I spent $$, he would feel uncomfortable. So I bought a cute little Kolo album and personalized it with his grandson's name:

Those are older Doodlebug rub-ons that I applied straight to the album. Aren't they cute? Add a couple of tags on bakers twine and there you go. Easy, not expensive, but sweet, right?

I hope you have a wonderful, creative day!

Life Right Now ...

2011-05-19T17:02:00.000-04:00

has been full of this:

and this:

and heart attack producing moments like this:

Any hints for a center fielder's mom on how to get a good photo from the fence? The best I can do:

But a dear friend got great shots of ds' all important home run for which I made a little trophy:

Supplies used: Seal Stamp, Sport Mini Bingo Cards, Vintage Black Line Mini Patterned Paper, Die Cut circle label, Black/Red Flag Banners, twine, and vintage stamping blocks.

Aren't those old number stamping blocks great?! Read more about this here!

Other goings on?

Check out this wonderful JBS challenge here: Four Ingredients Challenge

have a great and creative day!

Mercantile May!

2011-05-01T10:07:00.001-04:00

Working with the May Mercantile kit is a breeze with all the bits and pieces of lovely lovely stuff contained within!

Here's a shot of the bits and pieces:

and you can see the full kit and the add-ons here: May Mercantile Papercrafting Kit.

Here's what I've done so far with 2 more in the works right now. A wall hanging for dear nieces:

Look what happens to the sweet yellow butterfly beads when they catch the sun . . .

And speaking of breeze - there was such a lovely breeze yesterday and I flung every window open. My papers were flying around, but I didn't care. And the breeze allowed me to work on my little garden, and I think I have a piece of paradise right here. As I sit and scrap, and look to my right, I see heaven and the hard work is definitely worth it. Hope to post photos later.

Two Reasons to Wear Your High School Stuff at the Flea Market

2011-04-26T08:47:00.000-04:00

We visit a flea market in Rhode Island while on vacation every year. The boys like to wear their high school stuff - team t-shirts, hats - stuff like that to the market.

When I asked them why, they said they meet a lot of other people from our town that notice them because of their high school and town name. People who don't even know them, will introduce themselves because they're from the same town and usually start talking about our High School baseball team and high school sports in general.

Last summer, we found another reason for wearing your school name big and proud.

As Matt was walking the market isles, he heard "Hey New Canaan!" and turned, and a very observant seller beckoned him closer. The seller showed him an old glass milk bottle with our town's name on it.

Matt found me and excitedly explained that he had an unbelievable treasure to show me.

The old milk bottle is from a dairy farm that used to be in our town. I'm sure the very smart and observant seller sold it to us at a higher price, knowing he had sentimental buyers standing in front of him.

But this was a cool buy - a very cool buy . . .

and speaking of flea markets, I have a little tutorial over at the JBS Inspiration blog on turning an old washboard into an inspiration/memo board.

Take a look here: Repurposed Washboard

thanks for visiting!

Remnants of Camp Auntie Betsy and Eggcellent Mists

2011-04-20T20:15:00.000-04:00

This is what is left from Camp Auntie Betsy. 27 Hours of wild crazy fun with 3 wild crazy girls.

This lovely sil made her first layout:

and then exclaimed "I LOVE scrapbooking!" (yea for me!) And isn't she CREATIVE?!

this little monkey is quite a natural when given paper and safety scissors:

and the other sweetie pie made load of pages, but bad Auntie forgot to take a picture. But lots and lots of pictures were taken here:

and now I think I need to recover and sleep for 27 hours!

But before I leave! A little bit of my experiment misting eggs:

I blew out some eggs, put them on skewers and stuck them in the ground. I mixed some favorite mists of Jenni Bowlin for Ranger dye ink and experimented with distance, amount of dye. I just LOVE the natural speckled look to the eggs you can get with mist.

Since egg shells are not entirely porous, it can be a bit difficult to get the ink to dry. The best methods I found were: 1) sandpapering the egg lightly first or 2) using the ScrapPerfect pouch on the egg. I sped up drying with my heating tool also.

Then I wired and decorated the eggs simply - a bead, button, ribbon, JBS Charms . . .

sweet, no?

thanks for coming by!

Vintage Inspired Layout

2011-04-18T09:42:00.000-04:00

Take a look at this piece of vintage loveliness:

Doris posted this on the JBS Mercantile Forum for an inspiration challenge that ended last night. Just full of loveliness, isn't it?

Sometimes when I use a piece for inspiration, I'll stare at it for a while, then close it up, take out a journal and sketch some ideas. That way I don't get stuck in trying to copy the inspiration exactly. I end up with a lot more ideas and sketches in my journal that I can use another time.

That's what I did this time. The layout design, a center embellishment, and gardening theme were all in my mind when I scrapbooked this layout:

I used older photos of my boys in a garden near my house. To enhance and bring attention to my boys in the photo, I added a digital frame around them before printing the photo. And yep - pink in a layout of my boys is A-OK with me. I guess it helps soften the fact that Matt is holding up a gun and shooting me in the photo - LOL! Ah those boys!

Supplies:
Homespun die-cut paper
Front Porch patterned paper
Vintage Sew-On Buttons
Stick Candy Ink Pad and Stick Candy Dye Ink
Doodlebug ric rac
Fern Stamps from Rubber Stampede

and these wonderful bits of pretty from the February Mercantile kit (one of my most favorite): the Doodlebug brads and May Arts Ribbon

thanks for visiting and have a creative day!

Gallery Updates, Challenges, and Inspiration

2011-04-12T11:46:00.000-04:00

Lots going on in the scrapbooking world!

Gallery Updates for the April Jenni Bowlin Mercantile kit!

DT members have posted more layouts and projects right here: April Gallery

I think that the dt has posted some of my favorite layouts ever this month. I'd really like to know what they're all eating and drinking, 'cause I'd really like to get myself some of that!

Here's my newest using the kit. A real personal one here:

Every time I stumble up these stairs I think "I gotta scrapbook this" . . . glad I finally did.

The House of Three Daily Junque paper in the kit is perfect for cutting up and using all the lovely bits and pieces. Sooo incredibly sad to see HO3 is going out of business. It was unique. But maybe we'll see product from the 3 talented ladies elsewhere. I hope so!

Challenges:

Check out this challenge from the JBS Mini Crop the other day: Vintage Challenge

Inspiration:

Check out the mini book inspiration from Write.Click.Scrapbook and Jenni Bowlin Studio. Lots of ideas and chances to win!

A Homemade Camera Bag and Weekend Scrappy Fun

2011-04-07T12:04:00.000-04:00

I've really been eyeing those new camera bags that really and truly look like pocketbooks.

I decided to give it a try and alter my own pocketbook into a camera bag. I've seen other people do this online, but I did mine quick and easy and it's far from perfect, but it works. I used MINIMAL sewing and a lot of eye-balling.

Here's the bag I bought at TJ Max:

I got some foam at WalMart that I 'measured' and cut to fit the bag and my camera and lenses. I had some fabric at home, so I didn't need to buy that. I was surprised that I had fabric at home that matched the bag! I covered the foam with the fabric and used velcro to attach it to the pocketbook lining so I could change things around.

Here's my new camera bag:

Yes, it's a bit "puffy" and it doesn't have a shoulder strap, but I REALLY like it. The best thing? It was easy! I bought everything Wednesday afternoon and by Wednesday midnight, it was all done. The other best thing? Didn't cost much at all:

bag: $35
foam: $6.50
fabric: from my stash
velcro: from my stash

total: $41.50 - not bad at all!

Check this out! Staying home Saturday night? Can't make it to Tennessee for the JBS Warehouse sale? Then come to our mini online crop!

Sure to be a good time!

and then this Sunday friends and family are walking with me on our yearly Walk MS event to raise money for research, aid, education, and more for those suffering from MS. This was my wonderful team "Strike out MS" last year:

A neighbor has a friend that he sponsors every year in an intense Bike MS ride. This year, the rider, whom I've never met, and have never spoken to, is riding with my name written on his bandana.

Thank you thank you.

Perhaps a cure in our lifetime?

Lots of fun Jenni Bowlin stuff!

2011-04-04T10:26:00.000-04:00

Lots of fun stuff going on in the Jenni Bowlin Studio world!

Check out this post for inspiration throughout the day and a chance to win some JBS Core'dinations!

The April Mercantile kit is on sale!

Such a fun, fun kit. So many things I've been achin' to try! Add-ons and a gorgeous project kit available too!

Here's what I've made so far . . .

Loove the neutrals combined with the brights in this kit!

Yep! I'm totally addicted to making little photo displays so here's another!

And a banner!

And I was so excited to be a part of the most wonderful and talented Shimelle's blog! I show how to make tulle flowers with pretty little defined edges: Tulle Flowers

So sweet! And FUN to make!

Thanks so much for visiting!

Sneaky Peeks . . .

2011-03-29T12:06:00.000-04:00

Check out the Mercantile Forum thread of sneaky peeks of the April kit! Such a gorgeous kit - all the paper in the kit is newly released product I've been dying to have. So cool to see it in person!

Here's my sneaky . . .

there's nothing like a beautiful kit to inspire . . .

Back from Spring Training . . .

2011-03-28T11:07:00.000-04:00

when i explained to ds#2 where I was going this past weekend - to a crop where a bunch of women get together and scrapbook - this baseball lovin' kid said, "It's like the spring training of scrapbooking . . . "

I guess it is!

One of the greatest things about going to a crop is meeting other like-minded women, hearing their stories, and getting inspired by their involvement in this hobby.

I didn't take many pictures. but here's some some people I met and the some of the stuff that I'll remember from the weekend:

Beth and Linda: daughter and mother team from Scraptacular who ran the event. What a team, what a family, what energy!

Donna: look at the amazing binding on this album! the insides are so detailed and intricate. she found the directions for this from Kathy on youtube. Donna does a lot of her computer scrapbooking stuff using EXCEL! Yes . . . I said EXCEL! A.mazing!

Judi: takes such beautiful photos and makes beautiful layouts and we were exploring photoshop together that weekend. As we were trying to make some things work on Judi's new Mac, a little voice from behind us gave us the answer to one of our questions.

"Do you know photoshop?" we asked of this voice from behind. "I'm a graphic designer" she said. And then poor Morgaine, the graphic designer, was like a piece of fresh meat thrown into the lions den and we all pounced on her and asked her questions.

I was soooo relieved and psyched when Morgaine told me that at her own design office their Mac cannot print directly from Photoshop. they have to save the jpg and print directly from the printer or another program. I've had to do this with my new Mac and PSE and thought I was going crazy. Thank you Morgaine!!!

Ann was making an incredible wedding album for her daughter. Simple - matted photos on black and white patterned paper. but beautiful. stunning. the photos were mostly from friends - and gor.geous. none of the photos looked staged - they all looked to be candids. her daughter was probably the most radiant and beautiful bride I've ever seen. the groom . .. . a.dor.able. and the love and emotion between the two was sooooooo evident in the photos. looking at them, i started to cry.

yep - there i was at a crop crying at a stranger's wedding photos.

Ann's friend Sherri was making an album for her daughter in such a unique way. every layout was a 2 page spread with a theme and contained photos from all different years of her life. such a fun way to document your child's life.

there's lots more . . . like Amy, who i went to the event with, who introduced me to the Slice (i've fallen in love with a machine) and who won the Jenni Bowlin raffle of new releases. so funny because that prize had a ga.zillion tickets in it and Amy, a true JBS fan, just put a few tickets in, and she won!

Because of my lovely life challenge, crops like this are far and few between. But I took a deep breath, said a couple prayers, embraced my you-can-do-it attitude, and . . . . quite frankly . . . . packed light! I worked on a Teresa Collins 6x12 Sports album for ds#1 that should have been finished almost a year ago. I took the album and instead of following the instructions exactly, added Jenni Bowlin embellies and Slice images. And now I am so very close to finishing ds#1's baseball album, just in time to start ds#2's!

and when I got home? the first thing ds#2 asks is: "Did anyone get pulled up into the majors?"

ya' Matt, I think we all did!

thanks so much for visiting!

Mother Nature was good in geometry . . .

2011-03-24T19:15:00.001-04:00

. . . this day in particular . . .

all found on the same beach, same week, last year.

and here are some projects I've shown elsewhere in the past weeks:

From Jenni Bowlin Mercantile February Kit, a little birthday mini book:

The font for these fun numbers is JFRingmaster.

and I'm addicted to making little photo displays! Here's one using product from the Mercantile March kit:

how I just LOVE making this stuff!

Have you visited Jenni's blog lately? I loved reading her last post. So heartfelt. I'm real excited to see what's coming our way from JBS, aren't you? One new thing introduced just the other day is a colaborative kit offering with JBS and Kenner Road!

The first one is here:

What a partnership!

and soooo excited about going to a crop this weekend in Morgantown PA! going with Amy and Amy. there's nothing like being with other scrap-obsessed women for a weekend! LOL!

thanks for visiting!

I have no patience today . . .

2011-03-19T13:03:00.002-04:00

. . . and must welcome Spring one day early.

Hello Spring!

The great thing about living in New England is that just when you need a change in your life . . . a change comes . . .

this is beautiful . . .

but you eventually need a change . . . and New England life gives you a glimpse of what's to come just when you need it . . .

Score!

I have been looking and looking for a printer's tray at a decent price and finally found one . . .

And why is it outside and not in my house holding all my little bits of pretty things?

Because after trying to scrub the ink from the tray with Murphy's Soap without much luck, I snuck down into dh's work room and decided to try this . . .

which has now left my printer's tray with the most unbearable smell. So my big time score will remain outside until those New England winds can blow that stink elsewhere . . . !

Have a great weekend!

And a Good Time Had by All

2011-03-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

The JBS Mercantile online crop was a blast! I was so busy chatting I haven't had time to look through all the layouts posted for the challenges yet.

You can still enter any of the challenges listed here. Deadline is Sunday March 13th at 7pm CST. Awesome prizes! I've been so inspired by the submissions. I've got to look through them all!

And a wonderful birthday party on Saturday for my boys . . . things got a little crazy . . . and things got a little crafty too . . . since my very crafty sil wanted to learn how to use medium on canvas . . . we did it . . .

and we now have to wait to the next get together to paint it . . .

And after all that . . . dearest sweet little niece asks me "Auntie Betsy . . . . do you have any craft stuff?"

Huh?!!!! You know the answer to that honey! After sitting her at my desk i caught her in action:

Be still my heart!

2 Names for the Ribbon!

2011-03-03T22:45:00.001-05:00

I ended up pulling two names for the ribbon - there's just so much!

Sooooo . . . Connie and Kristi . . . . ribbon is coming your way!

Email me your address and I'll send it off!

And don't forget this !!!!!! I can't wait!

Sharing Some Ribbon!

2011-02-28T18:29:00.003-05:00

Did you know that May Arts has challenges and contests every month? And that you can win a roll of ribbon from them? Check it out on their blog here! I think they post at the beginning of the month - not totally sure.

Here's what I entered last month . . . Messenger Doves:

Made with Jenni Bowlin Studio patterned paper, vintage buttons and bling for the eyes and May Arts Ribbon for the wings.

These doves are truly messenger doves because they're carrying inspiring messages to whoever would like to read.

They're being housed in a birdcage I found at my parents' house. I snagged it before it made it to the consignment shop!

I received a whole roll of this ribbon just for submitting and getting an "hm":

and I'd like to share . . . so leave a comment here and I'll draw a name Thursday 10pm est. I'll send off 3 yards of this very cool stuff to you!

And Weeeeehooooo! I cannot wait for this!

All those details here!

An Awesome Announcement and a New Place to Hang!

2011-02-25T19:21:00.000-05:00

How much fun will THIS be:

Here are the details:

We cordially invite you to "Be Our Guest" at our first ever online crop which will take place next weekend on our new and improved message board complete with chat room! Please help us spread the word! It's going to be great fun with lots of quirky games, inspiring challenges, and chats with our designers. We will be giving away lots of gift cards to JBS Mercantile, plus we have two amazing top prizes! First Prize is a Guest Designer spot for the April JBS Mercantile Kit Club($75+ value) plus a gift box of new "Be Our Guest" goodies ($75+ value). Second Prize is a Guest Star spot right here on the JBS Inspiration Blog with a gift box of new "Be Our Guest" goodies ($75+ value). You can't win if you don't play, so we hope you'll find time to "Be Our Guest" next weekend!

And yes, the new and improved message board is a great new place to hang! Come take a look and say hello!

just a pharmgirl

The Little Album that Almost Wasn't

Check! Project One is Done!

Studio Envy

While they're away at CHA ...

Let it Snow ...

Project: Getting it Done

Not Really a Resolution ...

Tiny Little Treasures

Nothing can make me happier ...

Laughter Fills the House ...

Happiness CAN Come in a Box

The Photo Dump

And so it begins ...

My Son Loved this Layout ...

Nature Came a Knockin'

Midmonth One-of-a-Kind Finds and Finding Pretty Among the Brown

Vintage Snowflake Cards, Kit Crafting, and a Chat with Jenni!

and the winner ....

Cyber Monday at JBS Mercantile!

Keeping Track of those "Heirlooms" and Confused Frogs

Much accomplished at a Fiskateers Crop!

An Exciting Class Coming Up! and a Concert for a Cause!

And once again the weather pulls the plug ...

A Favorite Kit for sure!

Come to our Jenni Bowlin ScrapFest!

a lovely palette and a digi sale

and we have a winner!

It's Party Time!

Documenting My Days

Getting that October daily ready ...

Time for a change ...

Bad blogger but looking to October

Yes, I met Dina! and good discoveries ...

I Fell in Love With a German ...

Good Stuff!

Surviving the Empty Nest

It's Like a Hurricane Around Here ...

Flea Market Friday and the Calm ...

I Had No Idea ...

Inspire Me Monday

Banner Americana

The Dog Days ...

She's Back! Miss Personality!

And They Caught Frogs

Have You *Smooched* Your Computer Lately?

The August issue of Masterful Scrapbook Design is a special "interview" issue that will sell as an archive for $36 on September 1st. (While subscribing will cost you just $12.50 for one month.)

Clean and Simple Pages that Wow with Vivian Masket, Erin Clayton, and Celeste Smith. (July 25th at 9pm ET)We'll take a look at lots of clean and simple pages and talk about what gives a clean page its pizzazz as well as how to keep things fresh when reusing compositional motifs.

Got product? Just how do you get a nice helping of it onto your scrapbook page and make it "work?" We'll look at layouts and talk about the techniques and products these designers love working with on their delightfully full pages.

Hybrid Scrapbooking with Paula Gilarde, Aly Dosdall, and Betsy Sammarco. (July 27th at 11am ET)

Favorite Techniques for Paper Pages with Lisa Dickinson, Wilna Furstenberg, and Cindy Liebel. (July 27 at 11am ET)

In past issues of MSD, members have been bowled over by the looks these three designers get on their pages using tools and techniques. In this webinar we dig into everything from glue guns to die cutting machines and see just how they do it!

Click here to subscribe now for $12.50/month.(Remember, the first big interview day is Thursday, July 14th, and when you're subscribed you'll get a reminder of it.)

Boy Grown

July!

On Being Superhuman and Little Boys that Grow Up

If I Build It Will He Come?

Glorious, Glorious, Glorious

Shimelle - doing good

A Paper Lovers Adventure

Creatures from our Mud Hole and a Sweet 'n Easy Gift

Life Right Now ...

Mercantile May!

Two Reasons to Wear Your High School Stuff at the Flea Market

Remnants of Camp Auntie Betsy and Eggcellent Mists

Vintage Inspired Layout

Gallery Updates, Challenges, and Inspiration

A Homemade Camera Bag and Weekend Scrappy Fun

Lots of fun Jenni Bowlin stuff!

Sneaky Peeks . . .

Back from Spring Training . . .

Mother Nature was good in geometry . . .

I have no patience today . . .

And a Good Time Had by All

2 Names for the Ribbon!

Sharing Some Ribbon!

An Awesome Announcement and a New Place to Hang!

Have You Smooched Your Computer Lately?

Clean and Simple Pages that Wow with Vivian Masket, Erin Clayton, and Celeste Smith. (July 25th at 9pm ET)

We'll take a look at lots of clean and simple pages and talk about what gives a clean page its pizzazz as well as how to keep things fresh when reusing compositional motifs.

Click here to subscribe now for $12.50/month.
(Remember, the first big interview day is Thursday, July 14th, and when you're subscribed you'll get a reminder of it.)