Creatique Innovationz

Official Blog Transition! :)

2011-06-29T12:21:00.002-06:00

After 4 years...YaY! It's totally gone OFFICIAL, working, transitioned and I'm absolutely tickeled pink over it! I've been in talks with my dear Mother for over a year regarding updating and transitioning my blog. There are several reasons for this change: 1. Ease of Use in Finding my web-site. 2. Setting up relevant information, posts, pages...that You my readers can rely upon. 3. Though I've worked with this blog for a couple of years I just could not get google to transition my domain that I purchased over 2 years ago. As a result...Creatique Candy is born. Though still in it's infancy my hope is that you will enjoy the changes and follow Creatique at our new location and in return my promise is to keep it updated continuously! Whether I'm posting creativity, photos of whatnots, or just sharing about other inspiration I've found...I'm sure you will find it a TREAT! I want to Thank Fabulously Artsy for inspiring this transition as she is always my #1 Inspiration. Check out her really Fabulous changes by clicking on her name in bold!
Here is the new web-site for Creatique: www.CreatiqueCandy.com There is already a new "Bliss" card post there today! HUGS & TY for following me there...

Kottan Kandi A Beary Special Friend!

2011-06-08T10:39:00.000-06:00

I'm smitten over our newest video tutorial in our Love Your Lay-Out series so much so that I decided to incorporate some familiar photos that I did in my "classic" pages for our "You & Me Stronger Together" campaign.

When I watched this video I knew right away the story I wanted to tell about Kottan Kandi and what a Beary Special friend she's been to our precious angel. I also entered it into our "StudioJ Free-for-All" Close To My Heart Facebook Contest! I couldn't help myself with the FREE .JPG promotion I have all month long on my StudioJ tab via my web-site. After all it was absolutely FREE! You can get yours too by clicking the title to this post. There is a lot of creativity going on and I would love to see what you do with your FREE .JPG. You can also enter the contest or view all the "Studio" lay-outs, just click HERE today.

StudioJ FREE For All!

2011-06-02T08:28:00.000-06:00

June is the start of summer and the bridge for our graduates! My sincerest Congrats to the class of 2011! I'm pretty excited to share this month's FREE for all StudioJ. I'm just smitten over StudioJ for many reasons the #1 being that I can do something with all of those pictures that are on my camera cards in a way that I can preserve them uniquely. Just in case your just stamping by All month long EVERYONE gets a FREE .JPG file at my StudioJ to share online, via e-mail, to print (the quality is superb), or to archive! YAY!!! The coolest part is that YOU can also share it online at our Close To My Heart "StudioJ FREE For All" FB Page Contest! What a way to play with StudioJ for the first time. **Click Like CTMH FB Page and read the about the contest to enter**
To help you get started on Your FREE .JPG image Just click the Title of this post to be directed to My StudioJ online. I'm also including a Step-By-Step video Tutorial on the basics of setting up you FREE account and how it works. If you want to learn more about StudioJ I will be posting video tutorials all month long, so stay tuned...Thanks For Stamping By!

A Folio of Fun for "You & Me"!

2011-05-25T09:05:00.001-06:00

Dearest Sara created this lovely folio mini-album and I just adored the idea to create as a gift, so much that I wanted to do a replication of sorts using the "miracle" paperpack, designer wood buttons, and that gorgeous "Sweetleaf" grossgrain ribbon. There is still six days left to get your hands on this gorgeous "You & Me" National Scapbooking Month Kit. I used the stamp set to do my mini-album and there is a lot more creativeness that can flow using it. Grab your "You & Me" kit Today!

BONUS: If you join our Team Creatique Innovationz before May 31st 11:59 MST you can get the kit for FREE! Your initial investment during this promotional month is ONLY $64.50 ($350 value). I can't wait to take a journey with you on this incredible endeavor.

StudioJ "Some I Love"

2011-05-09T14:46:00.002-06:00

StudioJ is one of my FAVORITE FREE online software tools to utilize for something quick, fun and easy! I had taken some photos of our darling daughter before picture day this year and I went a little camera happy so I was wondering what to do with all these digital photos on my card. It just so happens that Close To My Heart introduced our first in a series of "Love Your Layout" tutorials. Of course it was a perfect opportunity to do a special page on "Someone I Love"! Too cool. Of course K was wearing a bit of pink, some animal print and there was tons of foliage in the backgrounds.

I had a lot of fun creating this after viewing the tutorial on it. The FUN part is that I have a StudioJ membership so the cost of just having a .jpg file was only $3.00. Yes it is in high quality so I can re-print these lay-outs on a cool textured cardstock to put inside of her album using my 12x12 printer. If you have extra camera cards lying around, You too can create some fun, quick, fast, and easy pages to display on your family blog, Facebook, or anywhere online. Just click the title at the top of this post to be directed to our StudioJ and play for FREE.

Bonus: If you do decide to purchase your page creation using the below tutorial and post your .jpg image via Creatique Innovationz Facebook Album "StudioJ" I will enter your name to win a FREE Level 1 paperpack out of our Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book. (The Creatique FB Link is located to the left column of my blog). I hope you ENJOY the video it is also in CC. Have a Happy Scrappy Day...

Click My Picture For A Larger View!

To View This Video In CC Just Click The CC Icon.

Chairs To You!

2011-05-05T09:23:00.000-06:00

"Chairs To You" National Scrapbooking Month exclusive stamp set available only during the Month of May! The best part is you can choose your discount on this lovely stamp set or earn it FREE!

In case your just visiting Team Creatique for the first time I wanted to share an inspiring opportunity with you. This is a GREAT Month to kick off a New and exciting career as a Close To My Heart Consultant. When you join Team Creatique's incredible journey in May in addition to all the wonderful business supplies and products including a FREE "You & Me" Kit (value @ $34.95) as a consultant you'll love being your own boss, working your own hours, meeting new friends, showing people how to preserve memories and leave a legacy, making money doing what you love, and being part of a fun-loving supportive community of Consultants. There is so much more that you get that success truly is at your finger-tips. I'm honored to be apart of this incredible industry leading company for the last five years and have loved every moment of my Journey. Come join me in an adventure I know you will love! Visit my web-site and see why today is YOUR day for change. I will support and mentor you every step of the way. Just Click the photo to the right under my monthly promotions "National Scrapbooking Month...Have a Happy Scrappy Day!

Card Recipe:
Recipe:
Wishes: Satchel Pg. 38
D1456 "Chairs To You" May 2011 SOTM
1301 Bamboo Cardstock (Base)
X5643 Chocolate Cardstock
X7134B "Sweetheart" Level 2 Paperpack (Tulip Cardstock & Argyle like B&T)
Z2111 Chocolate Exclusive Inks Pad
Z891 Versamark
Z1320 Tulip Mini-Medley's Accents
Z1333 Opaque Mocha Peal Adhesive Gems
Z1127 Chocolate Designer Ribbon Rounds
Z821 Clear Detail Emboss Powder
Z1294 Sanding Kit
Z697 Sponge (Distress edges in chocolate ink)

Happy May Day & National Scrapbooking Month!

2011-05-01T09:57:00.000-06:00

Happy May Day Everyone! I'm sooo excited about National Scrapbooking Month! I Love Love Love our special and had the gracious opportunity to create and share my gorgeous pages with you. Here are a couple ways that you can get your creative hands on our discounted National Scrapbook Special "You & Me". For just a minimum order of $50 you can get this Special for $15, more than 1/2 off the price of $34.95. (just click shop with me) OR you can Join Our Incredible Team Creatique Innovationz for 50% off your New Consultant Kit and receive this adorable package for FREE!...yes you read that correctly!
The added delicious special is a bonus, however being apart of a Creative Team and earning a huge discount on top of determining your own income with a minimal investment is an Unique Opportunity! The New Consultant Kit comes packed with your choices on what you would like to do with your own business. The value is over $300.00 and through the month of May were breaking with tradition just for YOU!

To sign-up your initial investment is ONLY $64.50 (basic 3 choices kit) and it is only $40.00 to add -on any other package to enhance your business goals or even to be a hobbyist with deep discounts. I'm sooo looking forward to leading US into a successful Summer and bring some Financial Freedom to You Today! Just click on the photo to the right and begin your journey with Team Creatique...Happy Stamping and Much Love!...

H2H First Annual Bunny Hop!

2011-04-18T19:29:00.004-06:00

Welcome to our first annual H2H Bunny Hop...I'm so excited that you Hopped on By! I sooo wanted to share also that this is the First in a series of H2H From Our Heart To Yours series. What an amazing Launch this is. So all you have to do to participate is post your exclusive Close To My Heart product creation between 8am - 8pm and submit your name with your link back to your project via the H2H Blog (just click the title to this post to access) Easy Peasy!
Now on to my Awesome "Steal of a Deal" project! I had so much fun creating this, that I could just Hop all around the house. I actually purchased this photo frame at a garage sale for only $.25 cents. it was very fitting to use it as a base design for a Springy Easterish type of challenge.
All the products used in this piece are exclusive Close To My Heart products and some of them were consultant only bulk products, though you can see I used very little to ribbon wrap the water can handle. In fact, I love our exclusive designer ribbon rounds! Thanks thanks to a dear friend at this years CU 2011 I'm addicted to ribbon. I hope you enjoy the base project of what it looked like prior to completion...I did notice a huge difference between my computer and my husbands in the photos, I just need a new camera since the base photo was via my HTC Evo and the others my 08 Olympus. I also am having a hard time with vision lately so bare with the colorations. HUGS and TY for Stamping By...

So without further ado the list of supplies used:

X7131B "Sophia" Tiny Flower B&T

Z2252 Sunny Yellow Re-Inker

Z2293 Cotton Candy Re-Inker

Z1263 Bitty Sparkles (for the top of the water holes)

Z1300 Just Blooms - White Daisy Variety Pack

Z1336 Pear Cream Opaques Gems

Z1372 Green Buttons Assortment (Tiny Sweetleaf button on flower)

Z1383 Bulk Sweet Leaf Ribbon

Z270 Bulk White Daisy Ribbon

Z1125 Sweetleaf Designer Ribbon Rounds

Z1122 Hollyhock Dsigner Ribbon Rounds

Consultant only Bulk: Ric Rac Baby Pink & White Daisy Ribbon

My Favorite Tool: Z1380 Spray Pen comes in a 3 pack :)

& of course for the re-inkers above I mixed it with our exclusive Create-A-Shade Pearl paint Z1039 and used the spray pen to spray the paper prior to modge podge allowed it to dry and then colored my flower petal layers with it. I LOVE using the spray pen to give the added flair!

I truly feel blessed to of made this project as it is a gift for my oldest daughter of her little sister. I know you remember this day sweetheart and I'm so happy to capture K smelling the flower (dandilion) for YOU!

Thanks to H2H Bunny Hop I was inspired to pick that frame up off the shelf and do something special for my little girl. So Hop on over by clicking the Title to this post and check out all the wonderful Bunny's that joined in to see what they came up with for their projects. They are spectacular...I promise!

Happy Anniversary!

2011-04-16T20:04:00.000-06:00

Surely I wasn't going to let this day end without wishing the loving supportive Husband of mine a Happy Anniversary!

Honey, you are the one that makes all things possible in my life, my dreams come true, and the rock that keeps me grounded. You have stood beside me, carried me, and walk with me though all these years. I just wanted you to know how much I truly appreciate you. Every little thing you do never goes unnoticed and though I may not say it all the time, I truly do count my blessings that you are in my life. I'm just as much in love with you today as I was on this day 7 years ago. Always and forever, my eternal Soul-Mate.

This was my first attempt at using clipping masks, layers, different PSE9 exclusive elements etc. It certainly isn't easy creating a 5x7 card in digital format (flat), though it took a few hours to do and it wasn't everything I wanted, I certainly think it came out lovely.

StudioJ Basics (CC) - Incredible Options, No Fuss Scrapbooking!

2011-04-11T09:28:00.001-06:00

Please take a moment to view this Awesome tutorial on our exclusive StudioJ program. I'm in love with StudioJ and even more in love with having the opportunity to share with you a video tutorial that is also in (CC) if you click on the box to view with closed captions. :) I've long awaited for a video that can show you the difference between "classic scrapbooking" and our FREE online design software for "Studio scrapbooking" and how versatile the using it is.

April is a month with no exception because you can incorporate these gorgeous lay-outs and embellish upon them to create vibrant classic pages as well. As a StudioJ member through the month of April 2011, when you purchase 10 created lay-outs you receive our exclusive opaque pearls and sparkles to jazz up your pages.
There are so many bonuses in utilizing my FREE software program here are just a few that I use it for:
1. Not one single lay-out ever looks the same and it is exclusive to just YOU!
2. I can create several albums as gifts with an event like I did for CU 2011.
3. I can use quality .jpg images to share with all my social networking sites for family, friends, followers and the like by purchasing just the jpg image - though you do get them with the page purchases to.
4. Sometimes I order a 2nd set so that I can cut the quality printed photos out and create a "classic" page to go hand in hand with my "studio" pages. That's right...no need for all the cutting and gas spent to go and have them printed and picked up because these come straight to my door.
5. It is sooo Fast, Simple, and Easy Peasy to say the least!
So what do you get out of being a StudioJ member?
There are 2 membership options: 3-month or 12-month - You can get your feet wet with a 3-month membership. Though the best value is packed with a huge punch in my 12-month membership.

Studio J members get 50% off custom prints: that's just $3.50 per page!
Members get one free shipment a month of up to 20 lay-outs - that's 40 scrapbook pages. My oh, my the endless possibilities.
Members save even more with members-only special promotions. (April opaques and sparkles)
Exclusive members only patterns.
JPG files of layouts are available to members only, either for a seperate purchase or FREE with a custom print, so you can share your layouts online, print more copies, and archive them for the future.
FREE Memory Protectors are inclued with each custom-printed lay-out.

The 5-Pack membership Perks:

Perfect for gifts to friends and family.
Each pack includes 5 two-page layouts, 5 Memory Protectors, and FREE shipping and handling.
Buy Two...one for yourself and another for a friend! What a deal...
If your ready to start your creative adventure and Scrapbook your memories Fast, Simple and Easy Today just click on the Title at the top of this post (StudioJ Basics (CC). Have Fun getting creative!
Here is one of my Favorite Lay-Outs I did in a prior StudioJ post:

Bonus Creatique Candy give-away...Post a link to your photo as a comment of what you've done in StudioJ and I will randomly pick your photo to link to next week. Thanks For Stamping By....

Sweet Aroma'

2011-04-11T00:00:00.002-06:00

SaWeet, so sweet the aroma of fresh hand-picked flowers by my Darling Husband. Where else can a lady craft the day away and never notice these gorgeous and luscious smelling Spring flowers blooming? If it weren't for my Honey I would never of been able to catch these once a year bloomers. It was very fitting to incorporate them into the backdrop of my Altered clipboard project and certainly my camera is still less than be desired, that topic is certainly for another day. :)

One thing I enjoyed at CU 2011 was a class taught by Denise using regular office clipboards to change them into a work of heART! I have to admit I embellished a little bit on this one. The medallion flower pictured below is rather a bit complex; I used one of the Martha Stewart border punches on a 1 1/2" piece of baby pink cardstock (CTMH exclusive), a Fabric pack to cut out the base flower image, then I adhered it with Tacky Glue to a base of baby pink cardstock and then cut around the edges, for the middle I used the ever addicting canvas badges (CTMH exclusive). It was fairly tedious, yet I truly enjoy the way it turned out. I'm looking forward to creating a few more of these just to post around the office. This was just a Sunday, Spring, Sweet, Inspired piece that I couldn't help but do...I sure hope you enjoy it too!

If your interested in getting your hands on one of my creative clipboards please feel free to comment below and and post on the Creatique Innovationz FB page under the photo post and your name could be drawn for April's blog candy give-away!

"Mayberry" You want to Create with Me?

2011-04-06T09:45:00.004-06:00

Sooo...May is National Scrapbooking month! I can not wait until then to start playing and it seemed fitting that the name of this gorgeous versatile paperpack is the one I will be showcasing for the entire Month of May! I'd love to show you how to create these enduring pages, cards, or both! All you have to do is fill out the schedule an appointment to the right under my Creative Time clock to book your appointment today. (Instructions on ordering, product purchase bonuses and qualifying for April promotions Inc. Tax Break bonus with this purchase, will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours) It's sooo much FUN to play with "classic" scrapbook and card creations. I look forward to working with you soon!
I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoyed creating these "Mayberry" WOTG for May 2011. I know the post is up early but where else can I post up all the fun things I could do with this. I loved the ides and the new How-To patterns Created by Jeanette Lynton. My Eavorite 2 products that came from this is the E1020 My Acrylix Token Alphabet, Z11397 Canvas Bad Buttons, & Z111 1 1/4" circle punch. I'm still in awe over the multitude of things you can create with that little ol' circle punch. I did these pages with every intention on putting "Food" photos on them. I can't remember the last time I was able to bake or cook a fine meal with all the trimmings and with Easter on the horizon I reckon I will have no shortage of photos to place in these Pages.
Bonus: I'm an avid believer in giving and sharing...so I would love if you could click on the little recommend button at the top of my page to share with others that you think would adore reading this or love to have a Mayberry time with me on FB.
Thanks for Stamping By!

HOP into Spring with April SOTM "Blessed"

2011-04-02T15:01:00.000-06:00

Spring has sprung and so has my inspiration! I love, love, love Spring! In fact on opening day; yesterday, We went on a Family Double Date trip to the movie theaters to go see the infamous "HOP". Oh, Shamwow! Let me tell you... I laughed the entire time! There wasn't one single moment in the movie where I wasn't holding my tummy from laughing so hard. Obviously if you haven't seen the movie yet, I highly recommend going. In fact, there was a moment in the movie that took me down memory lane and though in the previews; you guessed it the little dropplings of one special bunny EB, reminded me of when my oldest son was little. Mr. Bunny never failed to awe my little one with little eggle dropplings leading from his bedside out into a living room full of balloons and on a hunt for his Easter Basket. :) Spoiled? Uh Huh! One admitted Easter Fantatic in your presents.

No wonder why the start of Spring gets my inspirational flow hopping! The wonderment of nature springing into bloom, the smell of rich aromatic petals dancing in the air and color hues to light up anyones visual pallets. So I have to admit that one of my guilty pleasures is our exclusive monthly Stamp Of The Month promotions (SOTM). (You can view this month's "Blessed" in my side-bar to the right) I really enjoy playing around with these wonderful stamp sets. This month was no exception. I played with a combination technique with the images on a 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 cardstock piece of white daisy cardstock. I had so much fun that I've created a short 11 min. or so tutorial on how I played with chalking, layering on the image using 1st and 2nd generation stamping with sponge daubing on the edges techniques. I sure hope you find inspiration in the video just as much as I did stumbling upon a way to utlize the solid images with the outline images. It was such great FUN!

Card Created Using the Stamping Techniques in the Video - The Flower is on with Temp Adhesive.

If you enjoyed it as much as I did please feel free to get your April "Blessed" SOTM at a deeply discounted price via clicking my Shop With Me Icon to the top right sidebar. The discount or FREE stamp set is set up for you to earn it the way you want it. Trust me when I say that April is a Fun Promotional month because you can earn the "Blessed" SOTM, Contribute a $5.00 donation to assist our Hope For Japan exclusive stamp set, and Gain a FREE Level 1 Kit that is sooo Fast, Simple and Easy to get some photos into your album today! What a Spring into motion for the upcoming May - "National Scrapbooking" Month.

I've also included an appointment scheduler to my blog. So for those of you who have come to visit and enjoy what you see, your more than welcome to receive a FREE consultation on any of your project needs or ideas for gifts, crafts, cards, scrapbooking, or those occasions coming up. Don't hesitate to schedule a date with me. I do skype video so that you can also consult with me via from the comfort of your own home or phone ;). I hope I sprung some inspiration for you to Spring into your crafting delights. Hugs and Happy Stamping!

Shirt Cards...Ah-ddicting!

2011-03-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

I'm officially addicted to Shirt Cards...so many ideas, different sizes, varieties, ways to create and even embellish with just the little shirts themselves. Now I realize that these were probably a hit a couple of years ago. However, I'm just getting into the shaper cards, punches, doodling around with scraps etc. Whilst I was inspired actually to get this done for my DH Birthday today; I also did a Frilly girl one (He actually was watching me create that and asked if "PINK" was for him) Giggle!

I don't always keep up on the latest trends but I do find what I call comfort videos or things that inspire me to create a bit. So for that I want to pay homage to the two ladies that assisted me via their tutorials in my morning creative "Birthday Card" hunt adventure. The Pink Frilly "Sophia" shirt/bib card was inspired by Stamp A Little Love Baby blog, she also inspired the little embellishment shirt to put inside the other card I created for my DH. If you click on her highlighted blog name above, it will take you to her cami card, then you can search for her Little embellished one. This one I did in "Mayberry". The actual men's shirt card was tuted via Dawn's Stamping Thoughts on YouTube. Feel free to stop by and see her Ah-Mazing videos.

CU in StudioJ - "Mayberry"

2011-02-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

During my resting period this weekend I wanted to take advantage of our FAB FEB promo in StudioJ to create an album remembering my incredible four-day weekend at Camp Lutherhaven nestled on the gorgeous Lake Coeur d'Alene, ID. where we had our 4th annual Creative University.

As promised I wanted to do a write-up so to speak about my experiences at CU and what it means to me. Sometimes there is an experience soooo inexplicable that one can only tell it by showing a story or series of pictures. I want to start out by expressing a HUGE Thank You and pay homage to Tresa Black for bringing this Ah-Mazing event each year. There is a lot of work that goes into putting on such an memorable retreat. Just a small list of things that she preps for and I could never imagine matching this Uniquely Fabulous Multi-Tasker; Planning: Now to some planning entails details. Every last one of them were Fabulous from the Communications with CU attending members to a blog resource and newsletters. That is just the information portion....then there is the Theme: CU 2011 had an awesome theme "WINGS" how to spread our wings of inspiration, this was demonstrated in a group project by the attendees which I'm so excited to see how that turns out. (This project was a collaboration of a "Twinchie") Of course colors that also go into the Logowear.

This year the color scheme was Red, Black, White, and Grey. These were also done in our Handmade gift bags that were all sewn by Tresa's hand (A wonderful piece I treasure each year), If that weren't enough we have a charm swap we do that was incredibly led by Erin Grotegut who was also our jewelery class instructor this year where we learned and created handmade bobble necklaces...can I say ADORABLE. Then more classes; Oh My all the classes are INCREDIBLE! I can only imagine the work it takes to arrange, organize, create, and make 55+ kits with these CU Instructors this year and Tresa even did an awesome schedule rotation based on Sororities, I was in Megha Inka; Friday- We had the Card Boutique until the Student assembly ran by: Sheila Bennett, and Donna Smith. Can I interject here how FABULOUS these gift card and sentiment cards were soooo full of awesomness. Then after our Student assembly that is when I got to take Erin's class for the necklace. Saturday morning was so much fun taking a scrabooking class learning how to make ribbon flowers and tacky glue with Nona Davenport I loved learning how to use the pleated ribbon in such a fast easy way. After lunch I was able to retreat into a wonderful Altered clipboard class with Denise Anderson-Turley, this was one of my FAV's because Christina assisted in contributing to my Ribbon Frenzy addiction. (One I didn't know I had till now!) Then it was Chrissy Dunham's class which I found very interesting in using vintage combined with Fabric in scrapbook lay-outs. I'm not a very good stitcher or sewer for that matter but Chrissy made it all seem so easy and I have to thank her for my new border punch infatuation. :) Of course one of my last-classes of the CU season 2011 was Jen Royal's Bookmark corner card. Now how ingenious was this...a great gift idea and especially for those who LOVE to read.

Now, try to imagine for only but a moment what it takes to co-ordinate, organize, create and multi-task all of these elements into a Fabulous four-day weekend. Uhm....Okay I know I couldn't do it but that is all apart of why CU is so dearly apart of my annual schedule come rain or shine or even after a nice ER visit prior to my departure and coming home to learning I was in a serious state of medical crisis. Nothing can hold me back from this endearing weekend. There is so much more to CU then just the above that I don't know how to share it all at once...so what I did as the Doctor ordered this weekend was relaxed and created some StudioJ lay-outs that I wanted to share. I was not able to get in all the photos that I wanted nor did I get some of the class photos I wanted in either. However, I'm safe enough to share our CU blog so you can visit the secret class pictures and read a lil about them or even visit some of the links above in the Instructors to see what they've posted.

One part of CU that is my favorite is the "Friendships"! Each year becomes more endearing then the one before. Not only are there so much talent and different unique stories behind each individual we all have one thing in common and that is our love of crafts, some seriously needed relaxation and down-time to just create for ourselves. This common thread if you can imagine is like a silk diamond spindle to me; delicate, unique, and utterly priceless. So without further ado I share some of my CU StudioJ memories of CU 2011 with you:

Each page has a story for me...I can not wait to put it in my Cranberry Faux Leather Album that should arrive within the next 3 days. I don't know about you but if I were a betting lady I would say if you have the time and start saving today that next year I just may be able to CU at CU 2012!

Home SaWEET... Home!

2011-02-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

What an incredible weekend I had at Creative University - Create U 2011. What an amazing adventure of memories that I'm blessed to treasure...
I would love to spend time writing a total and complete recap but as my cherished mentor Tresa Black says; "secrets are hard" though my response is "Secrets are fun". It is going to be a treat to share this experience in segments since I'm only just beginning to get all of my photos uploaded and unpacked from these last 6 days. I want to start of with our CU 2011 Class photo compliments of Chrissy Dunham and a couple of photo shots of the gorgeous scenery that embraced us all.

What an Incredible Group of Ladies to share such an experience with I tell you with the deepest of gratitude for everyone's contribution to this event. Tresa puts in so many months, hours, time, and I don't know how in the world she does it! What I do know is that I cherish every coming year just to be here with these ladies.

So last year in 2010 I took a stunning photo in this exact same spot. Each day this year I went to that particular spot just to see what they would look like without any editing or anything as the photos I will post are raw un-touched or modified. The scenery is not the same of course because Mother Nature has in store a different experience for us all. Just as breathtaking is the embraceable surroundings.

So this is the jewelry I was able to create, swap, gifted, and I'm in LOVE with the nesting rings that Wendy created for me. Very touching in deed! She is sooo talented I could cry. There are little pieces in all of these pieces that are such treasures I just couldn't live without a single one of them. Each has a personal touch from one of our CU students that were created with a touch of heART. Even the gorgeous flower Tresa created for the helpers and Instructors are amazing. (I will have to take a close-up for another post of my adventure)

This is the part that I can't get enough of CU! The Logo wear, the roomie gifts, gifts from Friends I only get to see once a year, swaps from other amazingly talented women, Classes I get to create from (which were absolutely amazing!), and sooo much more...PRECIOUS MEMORIES to share.

Ohh....Three more that I just can't help but share....

Yes!!! That's me covered in Ribbon...I couldn't help myself because this lovely endearing CU Sista Christina helped me in my ribbon dilemma with her HUMONGOUS (yes that is my word, lol) ribbon box to finish off my altered clipboard project (you can see Denise hard at work on the paper flowers behind us.

I can not take credit for the ribbon placements or the creation of the adorable piece after it was finished as Christina added her touch and with a Crop-A-Dile no less (It does cut through the clipboard like "Butta" she says; just randomly punched holes at the top with ribbon combinations, double knotted & of course I will have a piece of her creative touch with me always. You can see the end result below...isn't it GORGEOUS!?

So this ends today's post about CU 2011. These are just a couple of the reasons why I go and mark it on my calendar every year. I don't even have a fraction of what I received this year in these photos. I can't wait to take some individually. I will be writing about the impact of what CU does for me personally and why it is such an intricate part of my annual schedule on my next post, till then Thank You for Stamping by.

Why I LOVE What I Do...

2011-02-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

Have you ever just woke up and said any of these things to yourself: "I sooo don't want to get ready for work.", "I wished I could spend more time with my family.", "If only I could afford to go out, have a date, spend time with friends?", "If only I owned my own business."... I used to say the same things to myself.
It is really difficult not to, because we give ourselves permission to do so. What if I were to tell you that YOU do not have to feel that way or say those things to YOURSELF anymore? What if I told you that I own my own business and I have the freedom to make the money I want to? What if I told you that being an Independent Consultant for Close To My Heart is the most rewarding, inspiring, touching, incredible Direct Sales company to ever be apart of?...Would that be something that would inspire you to want more?
In order for a Journey to begin there is a goal someone has to have that is so powerful and so motivating that makes your heart skip a beat...(Mary Christensen). If it weren't for my Close To My Heart business I wouldn't be able to even share this post right now. I LOVE what I do because I can literally pay it forward without hesitation in so many ways. I can actually help to change someones life by inspiring, creating, educating, and sharing this incredible opportunity with others.
In saying this the road to success is not without discouragement, that is when you can lean on your team members and other extraordinary people in your life to do a "PICK ME UP" and dust off to keep moving. I can honestly say with my whole heart that I'm able to do that. My FEAR? Failure...we all have that yet during this particular month of opportunities that are FREE FREE & FABULOUS! YOU can own your own business as an Independent Consultant with Close To My Heart too! The road to success is paired with an unparalleled company in this industry and what they do for us all.
I invite you to view "My Story" link from my web-site to learn more about Why I LOVE what I do and also view this incredibly INSPIRATIONAL gift that I received from my Husband for Valentines Day that our dear friend Rick Morton from the Wild 101.1 FM wake-up show, and Team Mazda were able to give me. Best part is that if I weren't an Independent Consultant with Close To My Heart this never could of been possible!

Don't delay...join Team Creatique Innovationz today and Let Me Show You How to not have to wake up with those exhausting questions each day. I'm looking forward to helping you find your Inspiration and Why for wanting to own YOUR very own business.

CU 2011 Charms Preview & Updates...

2011-01-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

Sooo...excited about Creative University this year I can hardly catch my breathe to catch up ;). I've been slightly neglectful the last 2 weeks in blogging. However, I have an inspired justification for this. Each year darling trendy adorable Fabulously Artsy Tresa Black, holds a unique event that is like none other that I've had the honor to experience and I truly mean this from my heart. It is a time for me to get away and be educated by amazing Instructors hand chosen in our industry, Relax in an amazingly breath-taking environment, and last but not least INSPIRATION in abundance. These are the key words and foundation of this amazing experience. None the less I'm pretty pre-occupied with preparations for this event. Bonus; it is the only time I get to spend an entire weekend with my wonderful friends that I don't get to see throughout the year. So here is what I've been working on that has had my hands a little sore...but a priceless memento that I personally can't live without participating in. It is our Annual CU Charm Swap. I figured I would post some pre-views that are not packaged as that will be in a slideshow follow-up after the event along with all the other goodies I'm creating just for CU 2011. I will follow-up after the photos with an update. Enjoy....

Creative & Filler Charms for "Vintage" & "Under The Sea" Charm Swap Close-Up!

"Vintage...you can see that there is a similar filler that is attached to the Creative charm and it is dual sided with glass type coating on both sides. Took hours to dry and each piece is uniquely different....

As you see these are scrabble tiles...Yes a new rage and there is so many things you can do with them. It is fun to be able to craft an image on to them or use any kind of paper or scrap that you choose. Again they are dual sided, yet only one side has an itty bitty sparkle on them.

Then we have "Under The Sea" The Creative charm is a mix of small color beads wrapped then connected on a jump ring that surrounds the Turtles head...hence under the sea. :)

Updates:

I've been working on a few creative things lately as you can tell. Some I can share and some I have to keep secret. shhhh I was going to start Creatique's Live Technique Tuesday class broadcast last night, however, I was notified by my shipper of my new system that it will not be here until this upcoming Friday. That gives me a little bit of lead way to acclimate myself to the new system I will using to broadcast on, along with the programs on it. So the live class has moved to Tuesday, February 8th @ 6:30pm MST. It is still going to be the canvas class using a 6x6 with re-inkers, designing using the our easy How-To pattern from "Wishes".

Newsletters: I've worked on reformatting, revising, retouching, etc. on the newsletters. I want to keep consistent as it is one of my goals for the New Year and yet there is not enough time in the day it seems. With that said all of the monthly promotions etc. can always be found on my side-bar link back to my web-site for you to view along with the calender link back as well. Please bare with me through our transitions.

Without further ado: Congrats go out to my Sister & Brother-In-Law Nicole and Cory on their new bouncing baby boy! Were happy to hear he has finally come.

Last and certainly not the least...Our family has experienced some unfortunate events and news over the holidays. I'm keeping my chin up as much as possible and with whole heart I can say that without Close To My Heart, my Fellow CTMH Sisters, extended Family & Friends who embrace us and my FB community I don't think I would be able to get through these times. So my deepest gratitude for all the support, gifts, cards, e-mails, letters, phone calls and love that you all have shared with us. It means a great deal to our family!

With Love From the Creatique Home Studio....

2011 Creatique Innovationz Theme: Inspire...Inspiration!

2011-01-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

January brings in a New Year along with a new Theme! For 2011 Creatique Innovationz Theme is: Inspire...Inspiration. We are always surrounded by ways to Inspire Inspiration within ourselves and those that surround us. The goal this year is to bring a wealth of knowledge to Inspire Inspiration in many different facets of creativity. I love having the gift to Inspire Inspiration within others whether it be through a post, something creative I've learned and shared, Helping others to Inspire the concept of "Paying It Forward".

One of the most amazing things is being able to look out into the world that surrounds us and see the many things that inspire what we do day-to-day. I hope that this small gesture of creativity sparks your interest to take a leap into inspiration with our incredible January "Wings" Workshop on the Go Kit with deep discounts on accompanying products within the brochure. You can even earn a discount or even for FREE on this lovely "Find Your Style" stamp set that I used.

I strongly encourage you to spread your "Wings" on the "Big Red Scraps" featured art gallery. There are many inspirational talent that surrounds this awesome Theme for the new year embraced by Creatique. A Huge Thank You to my Sisters over at "Big Red Scraps" for featuring my artwork for January 2011.

"Wings" Workshop on the Go Pack - "Find Your Style" January SOTM

Products Used:
9032 Originals: Button Trio Pattern
G1016 "Wings" Workshop on the Go
D14552 "Find Your Style" January (SOTM) Only available during the month of January.
Z2157 Vinyard Berry Exclusive Ink Pad
Z2105 Black Ink Pad
Additional Embellishments Used:
Z1039 Create-A-Shade Pearl Paint
Z2267 Juniper Re-Inker (The WOTG project would use the Z2257 Vinyard Berry Re-Inker
Z891 Versamark Ink Pad
Z821 Clear Detail Embossing Powder
Z1248 Juniper Waxy Flax (For Inside the Buttons)
Techniques Used:
For the Butterfly image I used the "Rock-n-Roll" method.
1. I stamped the base image of the Butterfly on the versamark ink pad.
2. Repeat this step on the Vinyard Berry inkpad
3. Use the Black ink pad to roll around the edges to get the effect I wanted.
4. Then I stamped the image off-set to the Colonial white cardstock piece.
5. Applied clear detail embossing powder, then heat emboss the image.
The inside of the card sentiment was layered on cardstock using the same versamark method of stamping with just the black exlusive inks pad and then clear detail embossed.
***Stay Tuned For Creatique Candy Give-Away, Creatique UStream online live class announcements.***

Plenty for $20 Holiday Special & Snowdays!

2010-12-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share this month's Holiday Special available only on my web-site through December 30th! Plus you can read all the details about the special and view my Creatique Candy for this month via the link below for Creatique Innovationz Home Studio News...I'm sure you will agree it is more then a value and also a little about my goings-on's the past couple of months. ;) I've enjoyed the lovely creating I've been doing lately and the quality time I've had to be spend with my family & figured I would share some of my favorite pictures from the kids snowday we had on Wednesday. First snowday ever since moving to ID...of course we use to have many in SD. Tis the season of plenty! Happy Holidays to Everyone...December - Creatique Holiday Special!

Snowflake Doubles...

2010-11-23T16:43:00.001-07:00

Wow, the holidays are certainly flying in too soon for me! I'm certainly in the land of the lost when I'm not near my family during the festivities so to speak. The weather is very frigid and unwaivering in these blizzard type conditions we are experiencing, which is abnormal for us during this time of the year. Armed with a lack of posting, morning mocha and a desire to create my way out of the blues...I went on a hunt for some inspiration. I never really have to look that far when I click over to my FABULOUSLY ARTSY Friend Tresa Black's blog. It just so happens that I'm always looking for different ways to create interactive cards and there it was...her latest Ustream class on a Double Slider. This creation is a replica of what I learned on her Ustream class...with the exception of the stamp set and multi layers. I only made one of the sliders as I had a difficult time playing with the measurements. I did however, create two more cards from the base of the chocolate cardstock and made a lovely one as a gift. As always Thank you so much Tresa for pulling me out of the creative blah's that I tend to drown in during the holiday season. How fitting that today was the day we had first downpour of snowflakes that actually stick to the ground.

The snowflake embossed using liquid glass and prisma glitter. So cute!

The three different placements of the liquid glass and the open part of the card is what is inside of the two I actually created without doing the slider part.

This is a closed card...I really loved the ease of using the water-brush to roll my paper edges and my embossing dryer to dry it in an instant. Who would of thought to use these simple techniques.

Inspiration Artwork & Kusudami...?

2010-11-08T17:05:00.000-07:00

Time flies when your being creative...! I was very inspired this weekend when I attended our Creative Hearts training. Michelle Snyder shared some fabulous ideas of where to pull inspiration from. I like to think that I tend to create outside of the box but when Michelle did some pages and cards for her Holiday Extravaganza, I never would of thought to look within my own wardrobe not just for colors but also patterns when creating from them. There were several projects she created that I uploaded to our Team Training Album on Facebook. The one I loved the most and re-created with her inspiration was the one she did using a really cool hounds-tooth patterned hat.

This was hers & the gorgeous hat I so want!

Here is My Design:

Here Are the Pages I created from her bases:

Then of course prior to Friday I had wondered around YouTube.com for some ideas to play around with. Since I've become a flowerholic a dear inspiration Dawn Griffin posted a video tutorial on how to make these really adorable flowers. Of course true to form I wanted to learn more about how in the world I could put these flowers into an ornate gift. So I dug further to find a really neat technique of orgami called "Kusudami", which in turn got this as a result:

You can also turn it upside down and utilize it as a center piece for your table.

You can also create it in many different ways with all kinds of centers, papers, and ribbons. I admit that this one took approx. 8 hours to create from start to finish. I couldn't find a video specific in putting the pieces together so I just layered them using the gluing technique Dawn showed in her video, I suggest using a low heat glue gun and you can use an emboss dryer to melt the stringy parts. In total it took 50 flower petals to create this Kusudami. Many thanks to Michelle and Dawn for their inspiration contribution to my Creatique post this week.

**NOTE**I find it so important to provide credit for where I get my inspiration from, therefore within all my posts I do highlight with a link that are different colored words that will link you back to whom and what it is that I'm referring to.

With that I wanted to express a deep gratitude for those of you who follow my blog, Creatique Live classes and FB Fans. I appreciate all of your patience, guidance, suggestions, and more! With that I wanted to let you know that I'm going to be resuming my online live classes after this holiday season. Till then please keep tuning in to my blog as I will have candy to give-away on my weekly posts. So without Further ado...Erin Grotegut is the Creatique Winner of Dr. Suess Surprise! Congrats Erin, please contact me for delivery of your Creatique Candy.

Caring & Sharing for a Cause...Dr. Suess

2010-10-19T12:49:00.000-06:00

I'm absolutely addicted to all things Dr. Suess! What a surprise huh? One of my Favorite books written by him is "Oh, The Places You'll Go!" I started this guilty pleasure years ago with my son. I started collecting Dr. Seuss books from the bookorders that use to come home when he was in elementary school. Admittedly, I have a picture of him one Halloween dressed in the cutest little cat in the hat costume. (I don't have a digi of it) Of course my love for Dr. Seuss was for the nonsense words that he creates and the way he rhymes. The stories and illustrations are a great way to teach how to sound out letters, rhyming, counting, you name it.

Well suffice to say in K's first grade class her teacher Mrs. Platt has a passion for Dr. Suess as well. In her room on the back wall is a whole counter full of these books with characters to match them. I fell in love immediately when I seen this themed display and also overheard her during reading time comparing sense and nonsense words using Dr. Suess. When I asked her where in the world did she get those (thinking it must of cost an arm & a leg), she lite up like a ray of sunshine and said "Oh, they cost $5.00 each at Kohl's". I literally thought I was going to just pass out right then and there. How in the world can these collector books with exclusive large plushes only cost $5 each? The answer is simple...Kohl's offers different themes from Dr. Suess, to Disney to Winnie the Pooh. What they do is sponsor these limited edition exclusive books and plushes to match, for $5.00 a piece. Kohl's does not profit from any of the proceeds. In fact 100% of the profits are donated to support kids' health and education initiatives in communities nationwide. What an incredible initiative to support. Not only do I get to collect these exclusive items the moment they hit the store but I also get an opportunity to give back to communities all over the country and even better yet, I have a blast doing it.

Today was great because Mrs. Platt said she was meaning to e-mail me as Kohl's just got a new shipment in of Dr. Seuss and of course I went straight from school to the store to pick up my collection. So I wanted to share where they are going to be displayed in my home. Plus the photo of the newly released Dr. Suess collection. I suggest that if your a fan like me to grab your keys and get to Kohl's for your set today. They sail off of the shelves very quickly and once they are gone there gone!

Share your favorite Dr. Suess story in the comment link below...if your store has run out I just might have a special one of these just for you! Bonus...I'm still looking for a home on my last Creatique Candy give-away post.

Creatique Candy Time - "A Little Story Told"

2010-10-14T11:48:00.064-06:00

When you think of telling a story, we think often of the meaning behind that particular story. I'm an admitted avid reader personally. My point is that I find inspiration within stories. Because only within a book can I tend to get lost in a moment that well, each individual experiences or perceives the meaning in a different way. I had this professor Lois Hart in college, she always had books lying around her home. Our first Literature class she had me read a book by Maya Angelo called "Why The Caged Bird Sings". That book evoked so much emotion, a portrait within my mind that at the moment I can't seem to find the words to explain. What I can say is that inspired by that experience and course, I've always kept my heart open to other opportunities.
So we have "Blogtoberfest" going and I have been recuperating from an infection. I know sounds yucky don't it? Well it shouldn't because it is that time of the year. I wanted to do something new and creative because I just enjoy playing around in my photobucket account and today was also K's school picture day. So what better than to create a story of the pictures I took but in a different and unique way then I ever have before. "Portrait In Progress" kind of thing. So without further ado here is "A Little Story Told"
Click on the slideshow for Album.There are so many different ways that you can tell a story or share something creative even when your feeling a little bit under the weather. Our precious little Miracle truly inspires me everyday. She makes me want to be a better Mother in so many ways. I'm so far from being the perfect Mom but I do my best to teach her about reading, creating, and using our inner heart's to help others. Here is one of my Favorites Taken:

"CREATIQUE CANDY" Time...

Since there was not a "Technique Tuesday" taught this week. I'm wanting to give some Creatique Candy away! YAY, it is something I've been really holding back on so I'm really excited to share it. Only one other lucky person will have this card I created. If you would LOVE to have this card...all you have to do is leave a comment about your favorite story, book, song, phrase, anything really, to be entered into the drawing. The winner will be announced on October 26th @ 6:30 pm MST -7:00 during my LIVE "Technique Tuesday" broadcast on the Creatique Innovationz Ustream Channel. You won't want to miss it. I'm going to be designing a glass "krafty block" an really neat gift idea. Stay Tuned for more...

I'm Right Where I Belong!

2010-10-08T20:34:00.000-06:00

Today was one of those days...it started out raining, then turned cool with clouds in the sky and the sun decided to play peek-a-boo for most of it. Then again, I've been very under the weather sick for a few days at least and spending most of my time wrapped up in my fuzzy blanket, sleeping. I realize lots of vitamin C, water, and rest are the key ingredients to feeling better. Well, so does creating a little something inspirational to remind me that I'm right where I belong.
I was able to muster up enough energy to create some lay-outs that I want to dedicate to my Darling Husband. He's mustered through the worst of "sickness" storms and more with me.
It is rare for us to go out and have a date night or spend quality time with our children on a day-trip, something we used to do once a week when we were back home in South Dakota. These photos are from here in gorgeous Idaho taken a couple months ago. However, they are a reminder of the love we share and the precious moments we do get with one another and truly does provide that "medicine" I need to help me feel moocho better in times like these.
When your feeling a little blue and somewhat a little disconnected, it is very therapeutic to find reminders of just where you belong. Thank you Kip for being that Pillar of Love, Inspiration, Support, The most Amazing Daddy to our wonderful children and most of all the Love of My Life!

You view more detail in a larger format just by clicking on each of the photos.

I'm always inspired by Helen Onulak's StudioJ Tips. She shows so many goodies on her blog on how to incorporate ideas, use tools, or take advantage of our exclusive membership program in creating well designed lay-outs in a fun, elegant, informative and most certainly some of the most unique ways of expression. Hence, I've created an additional few "Studio" scrapbook lay-outs using some of her tips. Stay tuned to my blog for more upcoming posts during our annual "Blogtoberfest". There will be some "Creatique Candy" to give away coming soon.

Canvas - "Elements In Two's"

2010-10-07T09:44:00.000-06:00

"Elements In Two's"

Despite all that I've ever learned in applying elements in 3's, I couldn't help but step outside of the box in a creative stump, so to speak and knock out 3 personal challenges when I decided to create this canvas. First I used this as my "Make It From Your Heart" Olivia submission. Second, I've wanted to do a canvas for ages so inspired by Creative University Online classes taught by Tresa Black's "Canvas Wall Hanging" and Christine David's "Scrapbook Lay-Out", I wanted to combine 2 of the classes with one swipe. Officially, I can announce this did not make the "MFYH" submission, however it does look fabulous on my family room wall and I'm convinced that a scrapbook page/canvas wall hanging can actually be so beautiful in visual elements of two's.

There are no words in this lay-out because I wanted it as a beautified 12x12 decoration that goes along with the wall creation I'm doing as a dedication to my children. What is that you ask? I'm always captured by the many pictures that I've seen from family and friends in their homes. Usually most of them are in a frame and ordered along the wall according to time line or grouped. I decided that since I have lots of professional and school pictures of my children that instead of using a normal picture frames that I would be a bit more creative in 'framing' their photos.

For their christmas gift I'm working on a wall in my family room that displays these handmade creations with altered letters as a treasure to them. So whenever we have visitors over they can see our family photos in a collage all created differently. I have a lot to catch up on and I'm moving along very snailing in doing so. I have to admit, it is easier when using this incredible Close To My Heart How-To book "Magic". So without further ado;

What I Used:

Magic: Backstage (Left page)

Z7128B Olivia Level 2 paperpack (Leaves & Polka-Dot background)

Textured Colonial White carstock

X5759 Pacifica cardstock

Z1102 Colonial White grosgrain ribbon

Z1331 Foundry Metal Accents

Z1335 Opaques Licorice pearls

Z1336 Opaques Cream pearls

Z1226 On Target Dimensional Elements

Z1299 Distressing Kit

Z2297 Pear Re-inker

Long reach punch, 12x12 Canvas (for the base)

H2H "Birthday" Challenge/Sponsorship, "Blogtoberfest", & More!

2010-10-04T00:01:00.245-06:00

There is tons to share this week, so let's get right down to it shall we? This creative inspiration came about with my husbands initial help. Yes, you heard it right, Kip actually participated along with me in this weeks H2H "Birthday" Challenge. I must admit I was stumped for a good bit as to what in the world do I create? Ultimately in the end it was funny when he said "That is nothing like what we were doing last night." Well, "Thanks Honey, I appreciate your inspiration!" This was actually pretty fun to make. I used some emboss resist on the candles with sponging Sunflower, Pear, and Spring Iris, foam backed them to the card base at the bottom. It is a 6x6 card using: Sponge Technique, Embossing, Bitty Sparkles, and scrap ribbon plus the items below;

It is an honor to sponsor the H2H "Birthday" challenge this week. That I'm having a 'Celebration' just awaiting to find out who's going to provide a new home for this prize package from this lovely H2H "Birthday" challenge Give-Away.
This is how the H2H Challenge works:
1. Click on my H2H sponsor badge located to the right of my page. The Challenge period runs from Monday October 4th until Sunday October 10th @ 10:00 pm EST.
2. Create a project that is "Birthday" themed in it, ie; Card, Lay-Out, Gift, Jewelery, Canvas, Letter, Bouquet, anything that inspires YOU but it must have a "Birthday" theme and the following; **PROJECTS MUST INCLUDE Close To My Heart Prouducts BUT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE 100%**
3. When your done creating, you will want to upload your photo (Must have a link to view it). Then click on over to the H2H "Birthday" challenge, Post into Mr. Linky your Name & URL Link to the project, and don't forget to comment - To Enter The H2H Give-Away. Winner will be Announced via random.org on Monday October 11th.

There is Lot's to See and Learn through the professional H2H Design Team that enjoy creating and inspiring others while using our exclusive Close To My Heart Products. There is a bonus handmade card creation by the Design Team if we reach 40 participants too!

It was also important for me to share this week that I did a photo submission of my "Three Dimensions of Majestic Lake Cour D' Alene" via Farm Bureau. Please take a moment to contact me on how to vote, it is truly a view to behold and one I will see soon at Creative University Class of 2011. I took this photo last year and every-time I see it I still feel as though I'm there now.

"Three Dimensions of Majestic Lake Cour D'Alene"

I also wanted to share that our Fabulously Artsy Fans have gone wild once again with "Blogtoberfest"! I'm an avid follower of Fabulously Artsy and if you click the blogtoberfest badge to the right column above my Creative University Online Badge you can grab a badge of your own to share and Blog along with motivation and inspiration everyday. I'm totally digging the gorgeous handmade bracelet she made. Isn't it just divine? I wonder if I will have time to make one of my very own? It truly is a blogging party like no other. So jump on in and get that Blog Hopping! Don't forget to link your blog to the Blogtoberfest this event is open world-wide!

I truly appreciate all the love that is shared by these amazingly talented ladies. I love hearing your feedback, comments, c-box, e-mails, and more. I'm feeling all warm and fuzzy that I haven't gotten to my monthly newsletter yet, so thank you for your patience. & The Winner is...drum roll please? "SHELLY" of the September 14th "Cherry-O" Flip My Top bookmark card from my 9/28/10 "Technique Tuesday's" live Ustream Class. Tune in for the next Creatique Candy give-away!

What To Do With Soup Cans...

2010-09-30T18:05:00.000-06:00

So what do you do with your soup cans? Usually they get put into the recycle bin. Well this whole week I've managed to save 2 veggie cans and a bigger soup can so I can really dig the idea of our precious little girl's first Class, First Grade Teacher Mrs. Platt. She is just an incredibly awesome teacher. She came up with this unique idea of parents participation in rotating a volunteer recycled art class. Of course I jumped at the chance to come up with an idea.

So I consulted with one of my dear friends regarding this. She was a Sunday school teacher for years. I'm lucky to have so many teachers to call upon in these tasks. Anyhow, while I was speaking with her the idea popped into my head about using some old B&T paper I had on hand and these soup cans since I'm also privileged to be apart of the PTA Box Tops Team. I figured we could get 23 soup labels and cans to go along with it. Well suffice to say winter is not upon us and the labels don't have points on 'green beans'. With that said this is the base project that were going to create for our first "Recycled Art" class this upcoming Tuesday.

Here is what I used:

"Game On" and "Whoopsy-Daisy" B&T paper

Black & Ocean cardstock for the base

Mod Podge to put on the base and the finished coating of the project

1. Tear up paper and put it on a paper plate.

2. Apply glue to the outside of the can one swipe at a time and adhere the paper or roll the paper that is tattered onto a paper plate.

3. Dry set it, then apply an outer coat of Mod Podge for a gloss finish.

4. Emboss a Letter...here I used E1014 "Posterboard" Alphabet.

5. Use glue dots to adhere the letter to the front.

6. Embellish as desired.

I don't have ribbons on these ones yet, but I'm working on it. I used the First Initials of my kids names so each of them have a decorative can of their own. For K it was great because now she has something to shake her dice in when we do her math games homework from her toolbox. For A, well he can use it as a pencil/pen holder so I can have mine back! You can also use them for a mini flower arrangement base, Chunky paper clip holders, and well just about anything you could have sitting on your desk. It took K & I only approx. 30 min from start to finish to complete one. Can you do the same with your child? Share an idea with me on your soup, veggie, chilly, tuna, or other can of choice for some upcoming Creatique Candy.

For More Recycled Art Ideas check out these links: Kid At Art & Make Stuff

Thanks to Mrs. Platt's private classroom blog for these links to share.

Have A Scrappy Evening!

H2H ABC Challenge!

2010-09-29T18:39:00.002-06:00

H2H ABC Challenge was really neat because I was able to accomplish 2 goals in doing it this week. #1. Finally getting a school picture creation completed to put in a frame and post on our Family Wall from CU-OL Christine David's Class. #2. I was able to actually use my "Passages" paper and complete my H2H goal I wanted to have done by this evening. If you click on the actual photo you will see a larger version to see some of the details in my Scrap-page in a Frame piece. Here is what I used for this "Sweetest Soul"
Recipe:
Magic: "Charmed" Left Page
G1010 "Passages"
X7126C "Passages" My Stickease
E1017 Old World Alphabet
X5637 Barn Red Exclusive Inks Pad
X5642 Cocoa Exclusive Inks Pad
X5644 Brown Bag Exclusive Inks Pad
Z1243 Pewter Mini-Medley's
Z1316 Cocoa Designer Ribbon Round
Z1294 Sanding Kit
Z1114 Piercing Tool
Z821 Clear Detail Embossing Powder (For the words)
Z891 Versamark
Burlap Material
What's The Challenge? (Click H2H Badge & Show Us What you do!)
A - Alphabets from Old World - Needs to be an Alphabet
B - My Son's Portrait "Sweetest Soul" - Boy Themed
C - Cocoa, Brown Bag, & Burlap - Has to have Brown in it.

I'm not usually one for simplicity for the most part. However, this was a perfect fit for a fantabulous challenge.

Thanks H2H design team for inspiring me once again.

"Fall"ing in LOVE with FALL

2010-09-25T09:49:00.003-06:00

I'm in love with Autumn/Fall! It happens to be one of my favorite times of the year. When I use to live on the east coast and now here in gorgeous Idaho, at this time of the year it truly is breathtaking to see what mother nature has in the design arsenal when it comes to breathtaking color hues. Oh, how I love a hot cup of fresh homemade apple cider, the aroma of the brisk air tickling my cheeks, the sounds of the leaves laughing beneath my feet.

I can go on and on about the many ways I'm touched by the season. One of the things I search for is harmony, a sense of peace within my soul and a way to artistically express it.

This particular piece is just a practice for the one that I'm going to teach during my upcoming "Technique Tuesday's" Live online class.

Letters are an easy way of expressing yourself and ones creativity as a gift or just a simple treasure for your family to see on the wall. I love the papers in "Olivia" our newest paperpack from "Close To My Heart", it is fun, autumnish and really the papers are versatile within the pack so you can actually step out of the Fall feel and be free to mix and mingle papers together. Whatever it is that you decide to do with your Letter expressions, remember to make it from your heart or whatever it is that's inspiring you.

Creatique Candy works like this; those who participate in the class or watch the broadcast have until Sunday following the airing of my class that week to comment on my blog and channel. Each new class will be eligible for the handmade creation I completed & posted from the prior class. (Subject to minor changes in embellishments and/or base project to create your own). Thanks for Viewing & Stay Tuned!

Chunky Monkey Letter Ustream Live Broadcast September 28th completed Torn, Tattered, T! Check it out, there will be an upcoming post Sunday that will be featuring our Creatique Candy Winner. Check out the live show via Creatique Innovationz Channel link:
@ http://www.ustream.tv/channel/creatique-innovationz After viewing the live broadcast it is in 3 segments, please comment on the show or share your thoughts, then come back here to comment and enter to win Creatique Candy through the link below. ***REMEMBER*** This Candy is for last Class Project Created and a pre-made base bonus, featured in one of my previous blog posts.
Thanks for viewing & sharing!
Here he is...Mr. Linky....Feel Free to leave your comment from last nights class...I look forward to Sunday's Creatique Candy Give-Away! Also please leave a comment on the 3 part broadcast. Have a Fantabulous Day!

Flipped My Top - Big Time! My Ustream Online Class...

2010-09-16T14:13:00.000-06:00

The first class is now over....Whoosh that was a biggy! Thank YOU sooo much for coming out to support me. It was an extra special opportunity for me to get my feet wet since the inspiration to do so came from YOU & of course CU-OL. :) You can still click on my CU-OL button to get creating on some extraordinary classes that were taught.
Now on to the goodies! I had a Fun experience with everyone who attended. Next time I will check my sound settings so it is better. Portrait in Progress right? I don't want to keep you in suspense because there are a couple of things I want to share with you. You will find the Creatique Candy Comment winners within the slideshow so pay close attention. You will have until Tuesday September 28, 2010 10:00pm MST to e-mail me with your name and address for these lil fellers to have arrive in their new home!

My next Live Ustream class will be taught on Tuesday September 28, 2010. You can view the class on my Ustream Channel @: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/creatique-innovationz

You can view my supply list @: http://creatiqueinnovationz.myctmh.com/MyCTMH/Events.aspx?PageID=183&eID=573256

Here is My Favorite Card I created yesterday that shows my LOVE of reading!

Recipe:

X7123B “Cherry-O” Paperpack

Z2166 Tulip Exclusive Inks Pad

Z2117 Crystal Blue Exclusive Inks Pad

Z2153 Sweet Leaf Exclusive Inks Pad

B1348 “Bowl of Cherries” Exclusive WOTG “Cherry-O” FREE stamp set!

Z1319 Opaques “Cherry-O”

Z1320 Mini-Medley Tulip Collection

Z1102 Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon

Z1114 Piercing Tool Kit

Z1294 Sanding Kit

Z1208 Soft Eyelet Tool

Z1229 Chocolate Soft Eyelet

Z1151 3-D Foam Tape

Z534 Micro-Tip Scissors

1514 Tombow Mono Adhesive

How To Paper Measurements:

1. The base of the card is measured as 4 1/4" x 5 1/2". 2. To create the pocket base you want to make sure your using a 4 1/4" x 12", take a bone folder and fold the base in half.

3. Cutting: Fold Facing to the Right open up the card lay flat up against your trimmer, you will cut 3" off of the top of the card. This will leave a V shape when holding it up.

4. Place the folded edge to the left of your trimmer and cut at the 5 1/2" mark.

Congrats you now have a pocket card base.

5. You will then need 2 pieces of 3" x 4 1/4" of cardstock or pattern paper for the top and bottom half of the front of your card base. (I combo layered with our B&T paper & cardstock)

6. Swing Mechanism: Very important that you have aligned your top layer up against the top to see how much adhesive you need to apply to the inside bottom that should flip down. (the 3" piece for the pocket) **If your using the pocket for a bookmark or tag etc. you want to make sure that you place that over the top 3" piece and below the bottom 3" flip up prior to adding your adhesive to the bottom portion. Remove Bookmark or tag.**

7. Use a piercing tool, make sure that your overlapping pieces are together poke a whole and place a brad less than 1/4" from the left side and that the pieces are all overlapping.

Now You Can Embellish Away & Share...Tune In For Technique Tuesday For More Creatique Candy Give-Aways! I have a homeless Card that would love to take a trip.

Just look for the Mr. Linky post after my Live classes and You could be an owner of one of my Creatique Innovationz exclusive handmade gifts.

H2H Color Challenge! My Swing Card Tweets.

2010-09-09T17:37:00.002-06:00

Oh...ShamWow! This was something that really had me pondering...what in the world do I use for my good ol' fashioned favorite blending pen? Hmmm...I know, an exclusive stamp set I've never touched. D1418 Alphabets - While this stamp set was one of our featured gifts during National PaperCrafting Month, I decided that I wanted to get it a little bit inky. I sure had a blast with this weeks color combination challenge from H2H. I decided to take another tour around UTube of course and I found this tutorial on how to do a swing card that is simple & quick. Now, for the H2H challenge of course I vamped up the extras with some embossing, texture with scoring and sanding, coloring flowers and to top of the technique extravaganza with this challenge was using Daneen's blending pen technique with the Birdy! Isn't he just cute?

Exciting?...Just wait there's more...

This is what it looks like when you flip up the top, a secret lil hiding place for your message.

& of course Dear Deneen's Technique. Check out H2H & MORE via the H2H badge located to the left hand side of my page. You will be sooo inspired!

Here is the H2H Color Challenge Combo: Autumn Teracotta, New England Ivy, & Honey

Items Used:

All 3 colors for the cardstock & exclusive inks pad; except the back base & the main stamp image using Colonial White

Bitty Sparkle for the eye

Blending Pen

Sponge

Twill Ribbon

Clear Detail Embossing Powder

Versamark

Antique Copper Brad

& unfortunately a retired stamp set....

So now you know what I've been up too these past quite couple of days. I've been creating of course! Got my studio all organized & FINALLY unpacked. I can not wait to get my magnet board completed with "Cherry-O". Before I get to that...I want you to know that I made an extra s"Tweet" H2H card just for YOU! Plus I will also be teaching how to make one of these cards of your very own on my Ustream Channel so you won't want to miss it. Tuesday September 12, 2010 @ 7:30pm. See You There!

H2H So s"TWEET" Swing Card for One Lucky Reader...

Mister Linky's Magical Widgets -- Easy-Linky widget will appear right here!
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Creatique Innovationz Handmade Paper Flowers Tutorial UTube.

2010-09-04T11:47:00.009-06:00

I'm certainly in the learning phase of doing this. There are tons that I want to share & get done, though some insight on the best program to utilize would be deeply appreciated. HUGS & Enjoy! Please comment below to win a few flowers of your own.
I'm also on Ustream where I did a very extended version...so I may just leave this one :)
Here is the link: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/creatique-innovationz

H2H Challenge Fold Card...Yipee I did it!

2010-09-01T15:57:00.001-06:00

So Who doesn't love "Olivia"? I'm thrilled to get on board this weeks H2H Challenge "How Fancy Are Your Folds?". I went on UTube & Thanks to Splitcoast Stamper Biata (sorry if I did not spell your name correctly) & her Tutorial on the "Easel Card".

So in true inspirational get on it & get er done style...I decided to utilize a stamp that I doubt I ever would & take on the paper piecing technique while doing it! Oh YEAH!!! I really enjoyed how this card turned out. It was a task none the less as I could of shaded or used my exclusive ink markers & blending pen...however, I wanted to do something different. Isn't that what H2H does? It inspires us to get creative & that I'm so happy I participated this week. TY to the Design team for sharing your many ideas. Below you will find a recipe of exclusive Close To My Heart products I used and feel free to click the colored links above.

This is the Card In The Easel Position When Completed:

Here is the Card In A Sideview Position:

Here is the card in Open Position:

Here is the Card Lying Flat For Mailing:

Here is My Reciepe:

C1419 "Harvest Home" My Acrylix Stamp Set
X7128B "Olivia" (Polka Dot B&T, Colonial White & Barnred Cardstocks) A Piece of Chocolate Textured Cardstock for the accents.
Z2111 Chocolate Exclusive Inks Pad
Z1336 Opaques Pearl Cream
Z1275 Antique Copper Mini-Medley Accents (Brad)
Z1276 Colonial White Ribbon (The V shape
Z553 Bonding Memories Glue Pen
Z534 Micro-Tip Scissors
You can click the instructions for creating this card via Splitcoast Stamper Biata link above. Let's See what you can do with your Favorite Fold!

Facelift, Flowers, & More...

2010-08-31T07:30:00.007-06:00

Howdy Bloggers, Friends, Family, Visitors! I sure hope you like my new facelift! It certainly isn't the surgical kind but I tell you what, it takes just as long as a surgery would. I was playing around with my blog the other night, one of those inspired things someone does when wanting to make a change, and wow there are so many things I can do & well as the fonts are still showing up as bitty fonts for my titles...I've yet to figure out Kevin & Amanda's trick on that one. :) All things considered I'm thrilled with the results!

Getting Crafty...have you ever noticed most of my status messages lately say I'm getting Crafty? Well my Happy Readers I have! I finally gone & done it. It started with wanting to learn more about interactive cards so I went on UTube (Garsh I wished I were a Utube Sensation!) and I learned how to make my first ever waterfall card! "Splendid" did you say? I thought so too....Here is some pix I did of my first waterfall card ever.

Now That was Fun!!! - You can see how when you pull out the tag the different squares I utilized in creating this wonderful waterfall card. Too Cute!!!

So next on my list was to get my Team Card Swaps Completed before TODAY!

This one is a mix of Pear, Gypsy, "Olivia" B&T, with some Bleaching Technique Taught By: Tresa Black on her Fabulously Artsy Tutorial (For the Skull Teeth).

However, The next card was so totally inspired by CU-OL with Sheila Bennett!

There are 2 parts to her tutorial in CU-OL & you can reference them anytime...Just click her name above to create a Pinwhell card of your very own!

Now...On to the Flowers!!! Of course I've got a crafty habit of using our delicious new exclusive colors palette in creating these flowers...Of course I used UTube again! I'm thinking I should do a tutorial on my Ustream on these for my team, Thoughts?

These are my Delcious Flowers & You can tell which ones I utilized all 8 new colors in! How Delightful. The one thing I love about these are that they are simply Divine. F.S.E!

Here are a few more & think you can spot the one with the questions?

Well That's It for Today...I have a couple other contributions to post however, I'm waiting very patiently for Make It From Your Heart to end in order to display them. I sure hope you've had fun looking at my latest Facelift & Creatique Creationz!

On A Personal note...Things in my life are extremely hectic lately so my deepest apologies for not having all of these treats to share for you. I'm so vamped about CU-OL that I'm ready to tackle my krafty block with these amazing new colors & do a Canvas of my own! I will also get to those adding of pages that I need to do at the top bar as well. So I'm certainly in a Portrait of Progress with this whole thing and my deepest appreciation for all who contribute to my inspiration everyday.

HUGS & LOVE!!!

Creative University Online!!! You Won't Want To Miss This...

2010-08-24T10:16:00.001-06:00

Mark your calendars, it's less than a week away! The first Creative University - ONLINE!

Nine hours of free classes, presented by Close to My Heart consultants to kick off the new Autumn/Winter Idea Book and Catalog. Tresa has assembled a top-notch team of co-hosts for this event, with a variety of demonstrations to showcase new products from Close to My Heart.

9am-6pm pacific

10am-7pm mountain

11am-8pm central

12pm-9pm eastern

Classes begin on the hour

Teachers:

Tresa Black

Bobie Glassette

Denise Anderson-Turley

Haley Dyer

Aaron Brown

Sheila Bennett

Christine David

The event is on the Fabulously Artsy ustream channel. Sign up (it's free!) to chat live with teachers and other viewers. Ustream account is not necessary to view the classes, but if you'd like to chat, you need to sign up.

Help Promote This Event, Grab a Badge from the Sidebar!

Feeling Confident & Accomplished...

2010-08-12T13:03:00.000-06:00

   Wow...I'm actually feeling really confident now that I've gotten all of my Create & Takes completed from Convention 2010 in Washington DC. I actually opt for the partial create & take classes because I want to be able to add my touch to things. I have to admit these were very difficult as I wasn't in attendance on the flip flap Magic:Mesmerize lay-outs. I'm pretty proud of myself for how they turned out though. :)
   On another note...I've been working on getting some slideshows prepared from my trip in DC. I had a blast there as I spent some time with my Daddy & Sandra during my stay. I loved meeting all the people I did even during travels & restaurants etc.
   I'm always amazed at how people touch my life in so many ways. I have lots of creativity flowing now that I did these so I'm getting ready to work on our National Stamping Month promotion "Triple Play"! Now, I already started the stamping part...garsh I wished I would of done so in brighter light then my flowers would be centered. Anyhow, figured I hadn't posted in a while & wanted to share what I did in DC so till next time....

H2H Challenge "It's Time To Get Scrappy"! & Boy Did I Ever!!!

2010-06-09T15:10:00.007-06:00

I Love to scrapbook lately & especially when it comes to creating pages with pictures I just have not had the time to print out or develop that tend to just sit on my SD card (I tend to forget they are there sometimes even) LOL :) With that said H2H got me thinking about the EXCLUSIVE "Splish Splash" pack that is only available through Studio J & How perfect it would be to have pictures from the sea salt pool we had a blast teaching Kaedyn how to swim in. So I got my card out & started just playing & WOW I couldn't control myself as I also got inspired to use "Moon Doogie" to scrapbook some pages we did whilst at the Hot Springs during our camp out a couple weekends ago. & YEPPERS That is "Moon Doggie" paperpack that you see I promise. So My H2H Lay-Out(s) are created with limited time & using our exclusive FREE design software. TY H2H for this incredible challenge!
(To View Entire Lay-Out Just click on the Image for more detail!)

"Moon Doggie" Camping May 2009!

"Moon Doggie" Hot Springs Camping!

"Splish Splash" - Tuscany Suites Sea Salt Pool Vegas 2009!

"Splish Splash" Daddy Teaching Some Swimming

"Splish Splash" Mommy Teaching Some Swimming

LOVE TO PLAY WITH STUDIO J!!!

2010-06-04T15:46:00.001-06:00

Oh What Fun I've had today playing with Studio J. Getting some pictures done that have needed to be done for quite some time. :) Some of these already have been posted individually & some well...I will just have to post them one by one.
I actually LOVED playing with "Zippidee" & "Passages" where I was able to get Alec's DC trip scrapbooked. I can not wait to get the finished pages in my hot little hands. If you have not tried STUDIO J, I strongly encourage you to try it today!!! I can't believe how fast simple and easy it can be & boy did it save me a lot of time & moola. Whoot! Whoot! Awesome thing is that it looks as though I spent hours on all of it not to mention that the 3-D look is incredible. Thanks a MILLION Close To My Heart for allowing me the privelage to sell such a wonderful memory maker. FREE Software & FREE to try it out. I'd love to see what you come up with. (hint) (hint)....Till next time....

Summer Is Here So Are Loads of New Ideas!!!

2010-05-10T09:20:00.002-06:00

I have been slowly moving my Home Studio and starting to get a bit more organized with the updates. I appreciate so deeply all of the support and encouragement I've received during this moving process. There is so much to do and I'm thrilled to bring you a preview of all the happenings for this summer in this slideshow!
1. We just moved and along with the move I attempted to re-direct my blog readers to a stand alone domain. This move however did not go as smoothly. So http://CreatiqueInnovationz.blogspot.com is the actual blog site you will want to utilize until further notice.
2. Each Photo in the slideshow demonstrates the exclusive Close To My Heart product line launch for Summer 2010 Idea Book. I also strongly encourage trying out your hand at StudioJ. You can click on the link to the top right side of my blog to take you right there. :) Happy Creating!
3. Starting in June I will be uploading photos and pictures and providing blog candy for my readers and followers alike. I've found that I have an inventory of exclusive never to see again Close To My Heart products that I would LOVE to send your way! So keep a watch out for this incredible opportunity to get your hands on some products by following these different links and participating for blog candy CTMH products: (Must comment on my posting for these challenges and post photos to participate)
Color-Me-Mondays Color Swatch Challenges from Jeanette Lynton CEO of Close To My Heart!
Close To My Heart Stamp of the Month Consultant Blog Hop: Start here with Helen Onulak:
Heart 2 Heart - Exclusive Close To My Heart products use & incredible design team packed with Ideas!
Art & Soul Monthly Webisodes
Facebook Close To My Heart Fan Page...This one is a biggy the moment we hit 15,000 Fans the first 100 orders placed on any Close To My Heart's exclusive web-site will receive a special gift.

How fun and exciting it is to see so many artistic fellow CTMH Fans participating. I hope you enjoy the Summer month preview of what I have to offer and I look forward to seeing you soon!

So I've Been Tinkerin'

2010-04-03T21:29:00.002-06:00

Howdy Everyone...thanks for stopping in to visit me! (Waving) So as my title says it all I've been Tinkerin around & not just with this incredible paperpack exclusive online now in our StudioJ, but also in a myraid of crafting genres. Yes I'm finally starting to get those creative juices flowing bak at me. Tinkin with the lay-outs, CS2 program, Contest Entries, Preparing for our Incredible Summer Adventures in Close To My Heart and well just plain old Tinkerin.

How's that for the latest & greatest...Oh yes I forgot to leave out that I have grown fond of Facebook and the games but not to impressed with the company behind most of them ZYNGA. That is a whole nother blog in and of itself. Anyhow off the soap box. Most of you know I'm just learning and starting to get into this more and since I haven't been putting my writing skills to use. All of this may look greek and have no absolute value, none the less I enjoy getting busy and sharing.

HUGS TO ALL MY SISTAS @ Creative University.

A special Shout Out to Amy Muse WE miss you!

Congrats to Kathy and Kenzie both (endearing RL Friends) On Your engagements.

Happy Anniversary to my HUSBAND 6 years and counting.....

My LOVE to all my Family, Friends, Customers, & All Who have blessed my life!

Creative University 2010!!! What An Amazing Experience...

2010-03-09T14:59:00.003-07:00

(Click The Slideshow To View From Site Full Screen)
Creative University 2010 was absolutely AMAZING! Now bare with me here because I meant to blog about this from the moment I have gotten home...however, I have had so many requests to at least put something up I must mention that I had forgotten Kristy's creative charm in one of the pics because it was still attached to my name tag & My Creative project from Nona's class is in the works so I will readd them to the slideshow when I'm complete.

My Creative U Story:
CU 2009 I was ready & geared up to go, however, I ended up going to Whitefish for a family vacation so I couldn't fit it in. By the graciousness of Tresa Black CU who hosts these annual events for the last 3 years (you can click on her name for the official CU Site) saved me a spot in our 2010 Class. I can't thank her or any of the talented and extraordinary women who I had the treasure & pleasure to spend the weekend with enough. Truly it was incredible. The food was out of this world YUMMY! Our logo wear as you can see I'm in LOVE with. The projects and free time teaching that was done by some very talented women was just an added bonus of their time in sharing what they love to do as a hobby. Which I have to thank them for adding another thing to my budget but also giving me wide vision to the art world. ;) The cabins were cozy although I don't think I sat down nor really slept all that much because I was too stinking excited to even describe this fully. Keep in mind I have not left my home in months till this event!

I just want to express a deep heartfelt gratitude for all these incredible Women that I feel honored, blessed and above all a gift they have given me by spending this time with them. They helped me overcome fears that I didn't want or feel I was ready to grip right now. Well all I have to say is that I don't think I ever felt so much calm, peace, serenity, SAFETY, Love, Adoration, and many other adjectives that come flowing to my mind until I had this experience. Nearly took me back to when I traveled to San Antonio for one of our CTMH Regional Celebrations in Nov of 08. Only this was so much more different to me.

I'm not very good with this whole blogging thing but I did my best with the photos I wanted to get up quickly and kinda put a spin on the happenings within the slideshow. I will say this much I'm without a doubt going to be there next year! This is something I will never miss ever again. Only this time I'm going to be there on Thursday so I can take full ultimate advantage of the entire weekend.

A Sincere thank You to Tresa, Nona, Bren, Denise, Erin, and Dawn for the extras and the classes. What I learned was awesome & I wouldn't trade it for the world. I also learned how to be organized in teaching a large group of people as these women know how to do it best! Thank You! Thank You! As we all say current and hobbyist alike....You're all have touched my heart & changed my life. Creative University is Close To My Heart at it's finest! My hats off for everyone who was there for our class of 2010! Now scroll down to the bottom of my blog be sure to follow the Creative University blog as the countdown to Class 2011 has already begun. :)

"Topstitched Cupcake" - Yummy!

2010-01-18T21:58:00.001-07:00

"Topstitch" Cupake w/ giftcard insert. This personal handmade creation was inspired by Tresa Black with all of her treasured talent and her Fabulously Artsy video tutorial. I so admire her because with the amount of work that I put into this lil bug-gar I can only imagine what she went through to create her very own cupcake. I have promised for well I can honestly say over the last 4 months that I was going to one of my very own. I can not tell you how many mistakes I made...however, it was one of the funnest most joyous projects I've made lately. For many reasons because my children put there precious input and thoughts into what I was doing. Especially Kaedyn who seems to think she will get this to use with her babies in her bedroom kitchen, Kip who from a distance said "Wow, That actually looks good enough to eat!", Alec uhm he just thinks it's kewl Mom. :) I wonder what you're thoughts are?
It will be a while before I create another one of these however, truly what got my juices flowing was our exclusive "Topstitch" B&T Due from "Close To My Heart". All products used in this were from close to my heart from the Grosgrain ribbon: Baby Pink, Chocolate; Cardstock: Heavenly Blue, White Daisy, Accessories: Embroidery Floss Baby Pink & Chocolate, Mini Medley-White Daisy Accents, Pretty Pins, Prisma Glitter, Bigger Brad Baby Pink, Delta Ceramacoat, Baby Pink Re-Inker, bonding memories glue pen. Last but not least it was even the cardboard backing - other products used for my cupcake were: small pink binder clip (staples), small wooden ball, 3" styrafoam ball & Hot Glue & Tons of it! Thanks Again Tresa for such a wonderful tutorial & the inspiration to make my very own "Topsitched Cupcake"! :)

So Excited About Creative U - New Addiction :)

2010-01-14T11:55:00.003-07:00

I'm so thrilled about Creative University this year I can hardly stand it. An entire weekend of relaxation, education, & inspiration from women that I admire with their creative abilities and for their generous hearts. So there is a project that we get to work on prior to going to this annual event that is hosted by Tresa Black. In fact project "CHARM SWAP" is well underway and WOW I can not begin to tell you the incredible charms I've seen thus far, the cool thing is it was open to even people who were not attending Creative U. The theme is "spring" with insects, birds, flowers, etc. & the colors are pink, green, silver, and white.

Being a "Newbie" and also never having any experience ever making any piece of jewelery other than hand weaving pearls with white floss for my wedding in 2004 that is the extent of my background in jewelry of any sorts. In fact it was my Mommy who created all of the gorgeous pieces for all of my brides maids with bracelet and necklace ensembles. Having that said. This is my very first EVER charm or jewelry piece I've made. Yes, it is apart of our project "CHARM SWAP" for creative U. I still don't have the loop wrapping thingy down yet. LOL In fact Kip is better at it then I am. He was such a sport as the first picture we took he put my charm bracelet on what a great hubby. :) - However, I decided to go with this picture even though it isn't the best photo I've taken. Them lil buggers are difficult to get close ups on. This one measures the length of a Penny. Inspired by our theme and not having a clue how where to start on the creative swap charm - I did this one as our filler since we do create 2 sets. 1 being a filler set (uhm I have to admit no clue what a filler is) the other set being one totally created from scratch using our imagination. I do have tons of ideas in my little head but no clue how to start...so MOM calls are in order. LOL - well and a bit of help from U-Tube I think I will have it figured out. In fact the community of my CTMH Sisters have some awesome talent and ideas on our artboard in thinking outside of the box using our exclusive products in handcrafting jewelry.

I'm so totally blessed to have an arsenal of information out there to learn from. Admittedly, this just might be my new niche. One thing is definitely for sure...this got my creative juices over-flowing. Thank You so much for this event. Without it...well I wouldn't be posting something NEW and learning right? May blessings to all for the NEW Year & New possibilities. Now time to complete the first set...

Playing with StudioJ Today!

2009-12-30T15:11:00.003-07:00

So I'm working with "Back Country" using our StudioJ FREE online design software. I had this saved in my projects forever now. This lay-out is in my purchase cart one of many that I'm working on from gathering vacation pictures that otherwise I would have no clue how to get scrapbooked :). The beauty is that in one week I will have these delivered in my hot little hands ready to put straight into my album. This was of our vacation in Whitefish in March of 09. See what I mean a day late & a dollar short. I never would of been able to cherish these memories faster, simpler, & easier without Close To My Heart. Just one of the many blessings they offer me to cherish our family memories. I will add a few more of these lay-outs as I finish them off.

New Year - Exciting Things To Share!!!

2009-12-29T13:17:00.001-07:00

I Love being a Close To My Heart Independent Consultant. Each new quarter brings New & exciting things to share with my Followers, Customers, Family & Friends. I always post the slideshow to view under My Story link within my web-site. However, why not post this to my Blog too? I mean honestly most of those that follow me know me already & Those that are NEW to Creatique Innovationz can at times find inspiration in some of the artwork I create or even in the plethora of projects that our Incredible Art Department create for the launch of the new product line features.
This time I wanted to incorporate the offerings of our Exclusive Party Hostess Collections, Petite Perks that can be earned in a variety of ways, Artwork from our Incredible Art Department featuring the new 4 Exclusive paperpacks...& last but not the least the incredible New Consultant Kit for Joining Team Creatique Innovationz with an option to view the Scrapbooking & Cardmaking Bonus Options. Because I LOVE Close To My Heart so much...this time I made sure to put Hearts all around the gorgeous slideshow...There is nothing I love more than the hard dedicated work that all of the team and department members put into helping my business become successful. My Heartfelt Thank You Close To My Heart!

Christmas & December 2009!

2009-12-28T10:56:00.007-07:00

This was a very difficult month for me... well the term "Agoraphobic" can only describe what I'm personally going through. I have felt such an overwhelming since of being "lost" & literally panic at the thought of getting into my car & going anywhere. With the whole wide-world at my fingertips I find I crawl into the walls of the info-highway much safer than the "real" world lately. It is a story that is time to share. Just because I constantly hear "Nichole You can do it!" or "Nichole, We Miss YOU!" or "Nichole, it is easy just get up & motivate." - While all of these calls, letters, messages, e-mails, cards, letters...& the like keep pouring in. I find myself drawing more inwards.
Yes it is very hard to believe considering how extremely out-going I am & How Blessed I have been through-out my life. I can't explain it & I have no answers for what has happened. In fact I try to mule through my mind many a times where & when it all started to happen. The issues with my breasts did not help matters...being torn in 20 different directions perhaps or the fact that it is time to admit to the world "I CAN NOT DO IT ALL" is probably more in order. I know I'm not the only one who has felt this way.

In fact...it is crippling, trying, exhausting, & most of all....it affects all those that I love deeply around me. All I can say is that time will heal whatever started this spiral of desolation I've imposed upon myself. However, I thought it important to share because despite How Easy it can be for some...it is not so easy when put into these shoes to wear. Now I understand what others go through more so now than ever. Being dubbed a Self Proclaimed "Survivor" in which I am if only my entire story were to be told. I would think that I could just pick-up & go like normal, as I always have. Maybe it is the Holiday Blues, or Missing my Family terribly. Whatever, that reason is that I find and repair...be rest assured all will know when I'm back! :O)

My Slideshow was probably not the appropriate place to put this but figured it would have the attention it deserved in understanding my world as I live in currently. Having that said without further ado...
We had our first snowfall that actually stuck to the ground. Kaedyn had her Christmas Program, Alec registered for Basketball, I created a "Veranda" card playgroup for January & Random family pics of the Holiday...that about sums it up. I really do look forward to using the best medicine I have & that is Close To My Heart. When I create I find I'm in an entirely different world with inspirational CTMH Sisters. It is something that pulled me from an abyss before & without question saved my life. I'm quite sure as I pour over my new Idea Book pages...it renews that sense of belonging with my fellow sisters here & abroad fighting for our freedoms. I LOVE YOU ALL!!!

"Veranda" January Card Playgroup "Wishes"!

2009-12-15T11:16:00.004-07:00

I was so excited to get my creative juices flowing the other day...that I had to share. :) It is so difficult to create on whim & stay out of my studio so I'm not inclined to use more products then my customers can afford. So what I did was utilized the exclusive FREE stamp set included in the Best Package Option of "Veranda" that will have many options for several playgroups during the month of January 2010! WHOOHOO!!!

It was no easy feat to use just my Creative Basics "Veranda", The FREE stamp set in the WOTG "Veranda" Kit & only a handful of embellishments. However, I'm very proud of the way they turned out. So without further ado here are the results for me to share a sneak peak of what is to come for Creatique Card Creations night in January!!!

Workshop Lay-out of 8 cards - Though we will be creating 16 of them:

Slideshow of all cards Individually:

"More To Adore" in Studio J!

2009-12-12T18:12:00.006-07:00

How delightfully fun! I got to enjoy creating this retired classic paperpack "More To Adore" in our exclusive Studio J (a bonus perk for the CTMH consultants who attended Leadership Conference 2009) when I finished my layout I wasn't quite sure what to expect until I received it 4 days later in an adorable box. It is as true to life as it is here. I so wanted to share this lay-out as there are so many elements involved into it that you can get as detailed as you like or as simple as you will see. I'm bursting with ideas and I just couldn't wait to share it.

Studio J is going to have a variety of patterns that come from our Cherish and Imagine how-to books. Since I had so many photo poses of Kaedyn on her picture day I wanted a lay-out that I could combine 12 photos in and highlight different areas. This of course was my very first one using our upcoming FREE online design software. (Due to release in May of 2010!).

Here is just a small list of my favorite things I could do with Studio J:

I could zoom in and out of my photos to highlight what I wanted to. I was also able to invert vertically for some of them to create a visual balance. Along with changing the tone to sepia on some of them.
I could add an additional text block over the tag my stickease, and create the my stickease to be smaller or larger for the boot on the right side of the page.
I was able to add a photo mat behind the photos with various color options that went along with the kit.
As the distressing Queen I was also able to sand the background in blush (an option I can not do in classic scrapbooking). - I really had a heyday with the distressing of course which brought the entire lay-out into balance.
Adding the metal accents with colors we do not have for classic embellishments was also fun!

There will be more to come while I attempt to catch up on the scrapbooking challenges and learn from one of my favorite mentors Helen Onulak. Thank You Helen for sharing such a joy. I'm so excited about Studio J and I'm really looking forward to sharing it with you too. :)

New Addition To The Family...Ruff Ruff

2009-11-19T20:42:00.003-07:00

I just can't help myself...Had to blog about our new Marley & Me pup... "Reiger" is his name. Boy is he just as cantancourus as ever.

Picture Day!!!

2009-10-21T15:24:00.002-06:00

Oh How I love Picture Day!!! She enjoys posing in all kinds of ways...Taylor Swift is her idol! Short & Sweet for da first time ever. :)

Outdoor Twist - "Sweet Home"

2009-10-07T12:49:00.010-06:00

Saturday Afternoon July 2009 on our way back from Grand Junction, CO. outside "Close To My Heart" corporate office. Utilizing " Sweet Home" in another way...Colors: Buttercup, Indian Corn Blue, Garnet, White Daisy. Accents: White Daisy Mini Medley's, Chocolate Alphabets, Framed In Top Coats, White Daisy Brdas, Rustic Edge Anchors, "Sweet Home: My Stickease.

Black Dragon Canyon - CastleCounty, UT. same day...Exploring the blessings of Mother Nature! Utlilzing "Sweet Home" in another way ... Colors: Colonial White, Garnet, Heavenly Blue. Accents: Posterboard Alphabet, Love Story rub-ons, Garnet exclusive inks marker.

I really enjoyed finally creating something for myself. I had printed these photos the day I got back and now I have a story to tell of our trip. I absolutely loved the simplicity of using both of my "Imagine" & "Cherish" how-to books as a base line for my inspiration!

Happy Birthday Princess Kaedyn!!!

2009-10-01T13:03:00.001-06:00

6 years ago today at 2:36pm I gave life to my precious princess...She has touched my heart, soul, and taught me a great deal of how to love all of God's children. One of my miracle blessings that I'm honored to share on her incredible day! It is impossible to not feel the magic of Disney in our home daily. As she will always be a an inspiration and fill my heart with the deepest gratitude. Happy 6th Birthday my little angel. Were so proud of You and your gift to love, share in your words of prayer for all of humanity. She is just a normal 6 year old who goes to a Christian school and loves to sing, dance, and learn. Her heart is kind, generous, and innocent. You elevate my imagination my sweet Kaedyn...Keep dreaming baby gurl!

It has been many years since I played around with photo graphics and with a few clicks of a button I was able to create a story of all her favorite princesses she likes to imitate. Everyone of her princess gowns are original Disney. She also has Sleeping Beauty which will be added to this post after Halloween. The joy it will be to be able to scrapbook these memories in her very own Princess "Hollyhock" album.

"Grace" Playgroup Options!!!

2009-09-30T11:58:00.001-06:00

There is something about this paperpack that when I was doing the initial artwork for the new "BEST" options....I actually started over-flowing with tons of ideas with these earth tone colors and inspiration for Fall. Which most don't know but it happens to be one of my favorite times of the year. Everything changes in vibrant and multiple color hues everywhere you look. I got such a warm home feeling when I did these lay-outs for Octobers playgroup. I think that using the new "basic buttons" was just so much fun because I could add ink to the texture of them. So many uses for buttons on pages, cards, handmade crafts...I'm looking forward to spending quality time with all of my playgroup members creating various lay-outs and cards this October.

I usually photograph each card individually for the slideshows but I wanted to keep this as basic as possible this month...because the surprises are when you arrive!!! Stay tuned to more artwork on our "Color Me Mondays" from Jeanette Lynton.

Football Season Has Begun!

2009-09-11T08:36:00.004-06:00

Alec has played football for the last 3 years. To our surprise it is one sport of the many that he does that he enjoys the most. The best part is this year he is actually playing for his school team.

Rightfully he worked hard to earn a spot on the Varsity team. Above all else he understands and acknowledges the important ingredients of being in such a special position as he is above all else a "STUDENT" - "Athlete"... With that said he knows he has to maintain his grades in order to participate. That means no missing assignments. We are so very proud of him and I can not wait to scrapbook his football season in whole - after Wrestling starts. :)

Among his 8th grade desires in sports as in previous years, Alec will also be on the Wrestling, Snowboard, Basketball, and Track & Field Teams for the Eagle Colts. He is quite the lil sports monster and rightfully earns every bit as he is above all else a team player, has incredible sportsmanship, participates in his community, very active in church and has many duties to his scouts as well. So his commitments ride out everyday of the week and we all support his tireless efforts. Plus he gives us many memories to scrap and share for his future generations. We are very proud of you SON!!!

Back To School :) Yipee!!!

2009-08-31T09:08:00.003-06:00

I Love back to school day...of course Kaedyn does too. This year she will be attending Kindergarten again with Little Miracles Kindergarten. She has attended this school for 3 years now and we have enjoyed every moment of it. The decision was in her best interest to reattend with an incredible addition to their programs. The best of all is that she now is split in her class with 1/2 girls & 1/2 boys. In her previous year she happen to be one of the two girls in attendance the whole year through. So yes...with that came picking noses, doing lil boy things...but she has got a lil flair back to her "Princess" style. We are very excited about her new venture.

Alec went off to school this morning without a few minor hitches...What do we do with teenagers? So I did not get first day of school photos of Alec like our tradition stands but if ya coulda seen what he intended to wear, then a 20 min debate over it...well anyhow. I will be updating with some photos of him and his new doo soon. We are very proud of Alec and his new schedule and all of the activities he is participating in. He has already started Football practice a couple weeks ago. He has his first game this Thursday. Most know that along with his sports schedules: Football, Wrestling, Snowboard Team, Newspaper/Yearbook, Basketball, & Track & Field...we keep pretty busy throughout the year. Many photos to come.

Were very proud of both our lil treasures and I'm doing the happy dance because now I have at least 6 hours a day to dedicate to what I would love to call my "Creative Therapy" Time. WhooHoo. So along with more blog updates you will also be viewing more photo reals of my latest inspirations and some new ideas implemented.

"Twitterpated" Playgroup Options Galore!!!

2009-08-23T07:20:00.002-06:00

I really enjoyed Creating every single one of these extrodinary pieces. Of course we all have variations in what we want to demonstrate. I have two favorite parts to creating these projects; The "Krazy 4 Mushrooms" Title Box - Using Word and our exclusive CTMH Fonts CD "Stumbling Along" I was able to create both the Title and Journal for perfect placement. My absolute other fav of mine was creating the multi mushroom card. I created both top and bottom borders using a simple sponge border technique, of course the mushrooms were just gorgeous! :)

This is why I continue to enjoy creating...Everything I needed came inside of my "Best Package". It was so much fun to see exactly how many B&T duos I had left over. Of course, true to Nichole standards, "Mz. Distress Queen" I had to add more photo matting and incorporate some of the color combinations into my "Krazy" lay-out. It so suited me... :) That is what I enjoy about my theraputic creations. It allows me the freedom to add or remove many different elements within each piece. I'm thrilled to get this project done and look forward to sharing more...

Whoosh this is the most addicting thing next to you guessed it "Mafia Wars" LOL. Facebook is a great way to connect with me on a daily basis for status updates and to keep along with what I'm doing, creating, sharing, & touching base with my Family, Friends, Customers and all of my CTMH Sisters & Brothers. I wouldn't have it any other way. :) Thank YOU all so much for your continued support in all that I do!

Excited About StudioJ!!!

2009-08-07T08:08:00.001-06:00

I really have tried to contain my excitement about Close To My Hearts news release for "StudioJ" that was announced during our Leadership Conference in Long Beach, CA. I failed to place this into my monthly newsletter this month waiting until September 1st to publish all about StudioJ, which is our new "Studio" line that will launch in May of 2010!

This is our newest FREE online design software that will help you to preserve your favorite photos and memories in minutes that will come delivered in custom-printed two-page layouts ready for their new home in you're cherished legacy albums. This is exciting news for everyone! This is a new addition to our "Classic" scrapbooking line. The best thing is that I can now preserve all those digital photos I have! Trust me I have thousands of them waiting for a home in my legacy albums.

I'm just so excited and thrilled that we continue to lead the industry in preserving memories faster, simpler & easier. I truly have the best of both worlds with our "Classic" line that I create pages with those photos that are already printed and the "Studio" line that I can catch up on the photos I don't have printed yet! What I think is more incredible is that being able to use the "Studio" line will allow me to add ribbon, stamp my titles and still create journaling in my own handwriting by leaving those spaces blank when I finish creating them with the FREE design software. So I have endless options to choose from by incorporating "Classic" & "Studio" scrapbooking together. Isn't that just the neatest thing?
Without further ado please take a moment
to learn more about StudioJ by visiting:
www.STUDIOJ.com
Real life. Real Scrapbooks. Real time.
You can also view Jeanette Lynton's Blog about StudioJ!
View Samples & Prepared To Be Amazed.
The photos above were a surprise visit to our very own Close To My Heart headquarters, on a quite Saturday afternoon with breathtaking views and moments we shared together. Kaedyn our 5 yr. old took the photo with Kip & I in it, with our digital camera. She did such a wonderful job. I see a possible future photographer in the family! I can not wait to scrapbook these in our "Classic" style as I could not contain printing them. Just imagine how they will look in our new "Studio" lay-outs options.

Various LBC Pics First 48 Hours! & Leadership 2009 Pix!

2009-07-30T07:23:00.003-06:00

Just some Kandid photos taken of our first two days...Of course I still have lots more to share...Were headed to the pacific aquarium today! I have to say the delight was the "Rocky Road" Dipped apples from the Chocolate Factory! Incredible...If you have a chance to taste them go for it...2nd best is the funnel cake! 3rd...well stay tunned. :)

So I said to stay tuned...I had to add back to this post as I updated the slideshow to share some of my precious moments with my CTMH Family!

To Judith, Helen, Melissa, Sarita, Tammy, Amy & my many supporters in the CTMH Family...I wished we would of had the chance to meet up with all of you for a photo op. :( I miss you endearingly. I have comfort in knowing that WE'RE on our way to DC 2010...All of my love to you & this was an extrodinary experience for me as I'm sure with all of you. My Heart & My love for all that you have done to contribute to my successes thus far. Moocho HUGS & my hats off to you ladies!

Long Beach CA. Hotel Maya!

2009-07-28T14:42:00.001-06:00

No words can expresss that this is a slice of paradise on the cusp of the bay. Hidden away right next to the "Queen Mary" herself. This was just awe inspiring. Can I just say that I will have tons and tons of pictures. I just wanted to throw a couple up and you can tell the view from our King Bay View Suite that we can see the entire Bay area and acrossed at the pike. I love the transport Red Bus free passport that takes you all around Long Beach. Breathtaking views and yes Romantic indeed. So without further ado...I'm off to the cabana at the pool & I will have to take a pic of that as well. Kip laughed and said I needed tanning lotion as I have hidden for the last few months. Surprising though, I may be a ghost but I tink I might get some color added during this trip we shall see.

Creatique Innovationz Cards Created

2009-07-21T16:17:00.001-06:00

These are cards that I have created that I compiled into a slideshow for your viewing pleasure. I make every one of them from my heart. There is something about creating a handmade card for someone whom you care for or just for any occasion. Using our "Originals" & "Wishes" card confidence programs have made it faster, simpler, and easier for me. Not to mention the inspiration within the books are unsurmountable. I hope you enjoy viewing these as much as I did creating them. :)

"Boom Di Ada" Pick, Sniff, & Snack!

2009-07-20T08:35:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite lay-outs created using "Boom Di Ada" from our exclusive "Sideline Surpise" design from Jeanette Lynton's exclusive How-To Book Cherish! Once again the photos are when she was 18 months old...Can you believe it she is now 5! Of course all my photos are a bit old when placing them but with all of the Yummy paper packs that come out inspiration flows on the color hues. It was just so cute she Picked, Sniffed, & Snacked on the dandelions. :)

"Moon Doggie" My Way...LOL :)

2009-07-19T22:16:00.001-06:00

I wanted to have some emphasis and the color hues, flip flaps & Well these will be going with me to leadership so that I can add some pictures on them. The later 2 pages will follow shortly...Stay Tuned:

Interesting Learning How To Blog?!

2009-07-19T19:12:00.001-06:00

I know, I know...these lay-outs are familiar but old! Like last August during our Creative Hearts Unit meeting old. Want to know what is worse than that...the photos on these lay-outs are from Our very first Valentines Day together in Cancun back in ........drum rolll.....2001!

But hey I'm just trying to catch up on posting some of my artwork here. Funny thing about Blogging, I'm so not familiar with the process or how to do it. I think the only thing left is changing the fonts to match everything else here. :) None the less it is a work in progress and I can see why my fellow sisters have wanted me to join in the fun. Thank YOU from my heart for motivating me to get er done!

2008 What We Do & Various Experiences & Travels To Share!

2009-07-18T12:04:00.002-06:00

So This is What WE do!!! Places we have traveled together and various experiences we have shared as a family over the last 2008 Year! From Building and taking down Silo's, Travels to Disneyland, Floating the Boise River, South Dakota to visit family, & well just a few lil snapshots of the Kidlings that I so enjoyed taking! :)

"Perfect Day" Card

2009-07-18T09:57:00.001-06:00

I Love utilizing embossing and sewing on my cards. This one I had created for our Creative Hearts SOTM all teams Card Swap. This is my very first post for artwork I have created on my new blog Creatique Innovationz! I'm so thrilled to share... :)