Scramping with Carol

A Quick and Easy Card

2012-02-09T16:11:00.001-05:00

A quick and easy card I created today after being inspired by this post that I saw on Pinterest. As soon as I saw that bike, I knew exactly what Close To My Heart image would work perfectly for this. It was the one from the double D-size stamp set called Pair-a-Phrase that was a special back in May 2011, I think.

Speaking of Pinterest….it is a real time-sucker so I limit myself to only about 15-20 minutes a day perusing all the awesomeness on there. There is so much inspiration there that if you run into a creative block, you have only to go there and you WILL be inspired to create something on your own. Trust me!

Thanks for stopping by today! Happy scrampin’!

~Carol

Valentine Cards Anyone?

2012-02-06T11:54:00.001-05:00

I have this lovely set of 4 handmade cards available for sale. Only one of them is specific to Valentine’s Day…the others can be used for Valentine’s Day or any time. All are blank inside so you can write your own words to your loved one(s).

Colors featured are Smokey Plum (purple), Cocoa (brown) and Olive (green), which are all colors offered by Close To My Heart. The pattern papers and cardstocks used are from the Sonoma paper pack also from CTMH.

The cost of this set is $12 which includes shipping. If you’d like to see them individually, please contact me at iluv2cre84u@gmail.com and I will send them in an email to you. Don’t delay! Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it!

Have a great day!

~Carol

My Version of a SMASH Book

2012-01-28T12:34:00.000-05:00

Using the new Pemberley paper pack from Close To My Heart, I created one of those very popular SMASH books that are all the rage right now. Click on the photo if you'd like to see the entire book.

I chose to hold my book together with binder rings instead of wires so as to be able to add or take away pages if wanted. I am temporarily holding it together with silver rings but will replace them with gold soon as they will match the gold eyelets better, don't you think? And I will add some ribbon to the rings after they are replaced with the gold.

I had tons of fun making it and it actually isn't totally complete but it's a good start. I want to add a couple more envelopes and blank pages yet to the inside. I'm also not sure which front cover design to use. Can you help me decide? I created 2 different ones and may still come up with another one yet but I'm leaning toward the first one shown here. What do you think?

Smash Book

My book has covers made of cardboard (that came in paper packaging) that I cut 7 3/4" x 10 1/4" which I believe is the standard size of the SMASH books by K & Company. I covered them with pattern papers that were cut 8 1/4" x 10 3/4" and glued down on the opposite side then attached another sheet of pattern paper to hide the edges of the inside of the covers. I attached one 4" x 6" Flip Flap to the inside of each of the book covers. These will be for holding scissors, adhesive and small stickers and pieces of paper.

I used 6" x 9" manilla envelopes that I trimmed a scant 1/8" on one long side to create a pocket for the inside after sealing the envelope. I decorated these with pattern papers and cardstock on both sides. I cut a slot in each envelope to easily grab the 5 1/4" x 8 1/2" tag inside. I cut several sheets of 7 1/2" x 10" cardstock for dividers and added some tabs. The sheets of paper for journaling or doodling or just for jotting ideas down in between the dividers were cut the same size.

I love the new Foundry Binder Clips from Close To My Heart that you will be able to purchase beginning February 1st, as they are just perfect for this project. I used them to hold the sheets of writing paper in between the dividers so as to make it a bit easier to turn the pages without possibly tearing them.

Okay, I've taken enough time away from completing my book so I'll end for now. If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to ask! Thanks for stopping by today! Have a good one!

~Carol

Studio J 'Five for Free in February' Deal

2012-01-27T11:59:00.000-05:00

If you've been on the fence about giving the awesome Close To My Heart online scrapbooking program of Studio J a try, February is the month to do it! When you purchase a Studio J 5-pack, which includes 5 two-page scrapbook layouts, 5 Memory Protectors, and FREE shipping and handling, you will receive another 5-pack FREE! Wow! What an awesome deal to get you started with Studio J.

Just to put it simpler and easier for you--if you are already a Studio J member, this deal can save you $10 BUT if you do not have a membership, this deal can save you $93.40! Double wow! This should get you thinking that NOW is the time to give Studio J a try.

Just go to my website, create a free account and start playing! It's FREE to play and if you LOVE what you can do with this awesome program, then contact me February 1st to purchase this special deal! Look for more details coming February 1st as well!

New 'A'(wesome)-size Stamp Class

2012-01-23T14:36:00.000-05:00

I am so excited that the new Spring/Summer 2012 Idea Book from Close To My Heart is loaded with new 'A'-size stamp sets. Yea! I LOVE these little sets. Even though they are small, they hold so many possibilities for making (A)wesome artwork!

Here is one I've been playing with and I would LOVE for you to join me in an upcoming class featuring the 'A1119-A Garden' stamp set.

For the cost of $12, you can make these 3 projects PLUS you get to keep the stamp set. How (A)wesome is that? This class is scheduled for February 17 and payment is due no later than February 3. Contact me today to reserve your spot for this (A)wesome class!

This can also be shipped to you if you aren't local to me or can't make it to the class. Additional shipping charges will apply. Let me know if you would prefer this option.

Happy scrampin'!

~Carol

A Pemberley Sneak Peek

2012-01-23T13:08:00.000-05:00

Just thought I'd share a little 3" x 3" card that I made the other day with one of the newest paper packs from Close To My Heart called 'X7148B Pemberley'. I absolutely LOVE the colors of this paper pack since blues and yellows are my absolute favorite colors to play with.

I also used a new stamp set called 'A1119 A Garden', which is one I KNOW I will be using very often. It is one of many new A-size stamp sets in the upcoming Spring/Summer 2012 Idea Book and I can't wait to show it to you. Give me a shout to reserve your copy!

Thanks for stopping by today! Happy scrampin'!

~Carol

A Heart 2 Heart Color Challenge

2012-01-20T14:13:00.000-05:00

Here's my creation for this week's Heart2Heart challenge. It's a color challenge using Crystal Blue and Amethyst PLUS you are encouraged to throw in a bit of shine and sparkle with glitter.

I am not a huge fan of glitter because it makes a huge mess and I always get it all over my clothes, my face and my craft room. It is not easy to clean up and that frustrates me but alas! Close To My Heart makes an awesome Glitter Gel that comes in a little squeeze bottle and is so easy to use with no mess! Love it!

I apologize for the poor quality of my photo since you aren't really able to see just how nicely that Glitter Gel looks but if you look closely, you may see a little sparkle in the center of the small Crystal Blue snowflake on the ribbon. The itty bitty teeny tiny snowflakes that I stamped in second generation Chocolate ink on the pattern paper also have a teeny tiny dab of the Glitter Gel in their itty bitty centers.

The card base was created with Chocolate cardstock in the standard 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" size. The Amethyst cardstock was cut to 4" x 5 1/4" and the piece of snowflake pattern paper from Wonderland was cut at 3 1/2" x 4 3/4".

The Crystal Blue snowflakes were cut with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge that is only available through yours truly or any other CTMH consultant, of course!

The big brad is one of the Shimmer Designer Brads. I also used the wide Dark Chocolate Striped Ribbon to tie in with the card base.

The 'Sending Warm Wishes' comes from a new stamp set called 'A Garden', that will be available in the new catalog coming February 1st so you just got a little sneak peek!

Okay now it's your turn to create something for this challenge! Thanks for stopping by! I hope I inspired you if even just a little!

Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge 135

2012-01-16T11:12:00.001-05:00

Wow, it’s been forever since I’ve posted a layout for the weekly scrapbook challenge I participate in but this time it wasn’t my fault! The wonderful gal, Helen Onulak, who is in charge of the challenges took a nice break so she could spend time with her 3 sons who were all home for the holidays. Good for her!

Anyway, here is my layout for this week’s challenge. There’s those cute little girls again! I never get tired of featuring them on my layouts and I hope you don’t either!
I used the Illusion design from the 9034 Magic how-to book by Close To My Heart along with the X7140B Roxie Level 2 paper pack. I still love the Roxie papers and am glad they will once again be available in the upcoming Spring/Summer Idea Book. Yea!
Here is a list of the other CTMH supplies I used for this layout:

S1112~Mad About You-Dec 2011 Stamp of the Month
D1307~Annotations stamp set-for the journaling lines
Z2166~Tulip ink
Z2105~Black ink
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z1320~Tulip Mini Medleys
Z1393~Black Mini Medleys
Z282~Black Hemp

Thanks for stopping by today! Happy Scrampin’!
~Carol

Become a Close To My Heart Consultant

2012-01-10T16:33:00.000-05:00

Are you a scrapbooker or cardmaker? Are you looking to supplement your income to pay off some bills or just want to receive a discount on your own paper crafting supplies? Ready to start a new career that's more fun and exciting than your present one? Then we need to talk!

Become a Close To My Heart consultant and receive an awesome kit full of business and creative products to get your new career off to a great start. The New Consultant kit is loaded with over $300 worth of products for only $99 and gives you more options to add on other kits at discounted prices. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to become a Close To My Heart consultant and wonder why you waited so long to do it!

Click here for more details, scroll to the bottom and sign up! I would LOVE for you to become a member of the 'Scrampers with Heart' team!

Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

Heart 2 Heart Challenges Revisited

2012-01-09T21:26:00.000-05:00

I haven't contributed to the Heart 2 Heart challenges in forever but I happen to have some extra time on my hands for the first time in awhile....hmmm, why is that? I MUST be forgetting to do SOMETHING! I'm sure it'll hit me when it's too late! But anyway.....

.......this week's challenge is to create something with either a NEW stamp image or one that hasn't seen ink in awhile. I chose to use the November 2011 Stamp of the Month: Cherish the Day because this is the first time I've had a chance to use the January image. My hubby's birthday is coming up and I needed to make him a card so this is what I came up with. Nothing fancy as he's not a fancy guy but I know he will appreciate this card.

I used the Sonoma papers and a zip strip from one of the papers to create this standard size card. I used an image from the Weathered Backgrounds stamp set (no longer available) and inked the base of the card in second generation Bamboo ink. I distressed the edges of some of the papers and the Cocoa cardstock by sanding them with a sanding block. I stamped the January 'ticket' in Cocoa ink and the number '15' in Olive ink. Punched a couple holes in the 'ticket' and tied a small bow with hemp to finish the card. Very quick, easy and simple.

Thanks for stopping in today! Happy scrampin'!

~Carol

Retiring Close To My Heart Products

2012-01-05T16:00:00.001-05:00

These productswill be gone January 31, 2012 unless they sell out first. If there’s anythinghere you really want, get them NOW! Just enter in the item numbers and they will be added to your shopping cart. For the stamp sets, if you enter the name into the search box, the stamp set will show up so you can see what it looks like.

Here's an idea! When you place an order of $25 in retiring products or even deeply discounted items, you can receive the Rock the Block special for just $15. That's a savings of $30 and a deal that can't be beat!

Contact me if you have any questions. Have fun shopping!

Level 2 Paper Packs:

1. X7145B-Believe

2. X7142B-Dreamin’

3. X7138B-Fanfare

4. X7137B-Lucky

5. X7136B-Mayberry

6. X7144B-Mischief

7. X7131B-Sophia

8. X7146C-Wonderland

Workshop on the Go Kits:

1. G1030-Believe

2. G1027-Dreamin’

3. G1026-Elemental

4. G1029-Mischief

5. G1025-Roxie

6. G1028-Sonoma

7. G1024-Typeset

8. G1031-Wonderland

My Stickease:

1. X7145C-Believe

2. X7142C-Dreamin’

3. X7138C-Fanfare

4. X7137C-Lucky

5. X7136C-Mayberry

6. X7144C-Mischief(rub-ons)

7. X7131C-Sophia

8. X7146C-Wonderland

Mini-Medley Accents:

1. Z1275-AntiquedCopper

2. Z1276-ColonialWhite

Brads & Eyelets:

1. Z1274-ColonialWhite Brads

2. Z1146-PewterDecorative Brads

3. Z1228-WhiteDaisy & Black Soft Set Eyelets

4. Z1229-Chocolate& Colonial White Soft Set Eyelets

Dimensional Elements:

1. Z1225-Flurry

2. Z1226-OnTarget

Ribbon:

1. Z1126-ColonialWhite Ribbon Collection

2. Z1103-3/8”Cranberry Grosgrain Ribbon

3. Z1100-3/8”Cocoa Grosgrain Ribbon

4. Z1102-3/8”Colonial White grosgrain Ribbon

5. Z270-3/8”White Daisy Grosgrain Ribbon

6. Z1398-WingsLevel 2 Assortment

Embroidery Floss:

1. Z1093-Blue/Purple

2. Z1094-Green

3. Z1092-Red/Pink

Waxy Flax:

1. Z1086-Cranberry

2. Z1247-CrystalBlue

3. Z1248-Juniper

4. Z1249-Sorbet

Various Accessories:

1. Z1355-BlissLevel 2 Assortment

2. Z1400-FanfareLevel 2 Assortment

3. Z1147-FoundryMetal Bookplates

4. Z1633-HarvestCharms

5. Z1486-HolidayPockets

6. Z1266-JustBlooms Spring Blossom Paper Flowers

7. Z1300-JustBlooms White Daisy Variety Pack

8. Z1356-LuckyLevel 2 Assortment

9. Z1359-LuckyLevel 2 Journaling Spots

10. Z1462-Midnight Felt Shapes

11. Z1386-Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment

12. Z1468-Top Coats Icing Overlays

Color-Ready Alphabets:

1. X1406-HodgePodge

2. X5749-Oxford

My Creations Products:

1. Z1310-BoardBook

2. Z1268-Journal

3. Z1198-9x9Memory Showcase

Supplies/Tools:

1. Z616-RubberBrayer

2. Z1208-SoftSet Eyelet Tool

3. Z1245-EyeletTool Replacement Punches

Cardstock-8 ½” x 11”:

1. X1412-Black

2. X1411-ColonialWhite

3. 1320-WhiteDaisy

My Acrylix Stamp Sets:

· AHop

· ALittle Buzz

· ALittle Everything

· ALove

· APaisley

· APosey

· Adoption

· AdorningCorners

· Alwaysin my Heart

· Ambiance

· Aroundthe Block

· BabyLove

· Backgrounds& Borders

· BearyBest

· BearyBusy

· BeautifulButterflies

· BeautifulThings

· Believein Your Dreams

· Beloved

· BirthdayBlast

· BirthdayBoy

· BlessThis Nest

· BloomingLayers

· BonAppetit

· Boom!

· BunnyLove

· Campin’Fever

· Carefree

· CatchingWaves

· Charmed

· CherishedFlourishes

· Ciao

· CircleAround

· Circleof Love

· CircleTogether

· Connections

· Cruisin’

· CupcakeSprinkles

· Daydream

· DownBy the Sea

· DreamBig

· DreamsCome True

· EnjoyEvery Moment

· ExtremeHappiness

· Family

· FamilyTies-Adult

· FamilyTies-Children

· FamilyTies-Pet

· Fillin the Blank

· FlowerPot

· ForEvery Occasion

· FriendshipBlessings

· FromMy Heart

· FunTimes

· HappyHolidays

· HappyMoments

· Hero

· His& Hers

· Horizon

· HotDiggity

· Howdy

· Inthe Month of April

· Inthe Month of February

· Inthe Month of July

· Inthe Month of June

· Inthe Month of March

· Inthe Month of May

· It’sA Zoo

· Justfor Boys

· Justfor Girls

· JustThe Ticket

· KanjiPhrases

· Let’sGo Camping

· LittlePrincess

· LoveAlways

· LoveBirds

· LoveYa

· MagicTabs

· Makin’Waves

· Ms.Chillin’

· Ms.Scrapbook

· NoticeThe Details

· Oneof A Kind

· OnThe Edge

· OnThis Day

· OverThe Rainbow

· PaisleyPraise

· Pieceof Cake

· PlayDay

· PostCard-Travel Series

· PreciousLove

· PricelessLove

· RecipeBox

· RetroTech

· RoyalBirth

· SalutationSeals

· ShiningStar

· Smiles

· SoLucky

· SoulMates

· Springtime

· StarPower

· SummerBreeze

· SummerDays

· SweetBaby

· TakeLuck

· TastyTreats

· TeaTime

· ThankYou

· ThrillRide

· T.L.C.

· Togetherness

· Treetops

· Trellis

· Two-StepBackgrounds

· Unity

· X-Treme

· YouDid It

· YouRock

· You’reGreat

· You’reSweet

Oh the Creative Possibilities!

2012-01-03T13:29:00.001-05:00

I began the new year by signing up for an online class at Big Picture Classes. I have been wanting to take a class from them for quite awhile and just decided to go for it this time. No better way to begin a brand new year than by committing to a project for a full month.

Of course, I am still doing my own challenge on my other blog of posting a new photo every day for a full year which I began back in September 2011 and so far that is going well except I have missed a few days. Oh well! Can’t remember everything!

Day 3 of Picture Winter is all about promise and possibility and I can think of nothing else so full of promise and possibility right now than the newest catalog/idea book from Close to my Heart. It has so many possibilities with all the new beautiful paper packs, stamp sets and embellishments that my creative juices are ready to flow! AND I promise I will share my creations with you!

If you would like a copy of this newest catalog for yourself, give me a shout! I’d love to show YOU the possibilities, too!

Thanks for stopping by! Happy Scrampin’!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Wonderland Scrapbook Layout

2011-12-26T22:34:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd share a new layout I just created today as I prepare for my next monthly scrapbook class. I used the awesomely delicious Wonderland paper pack that I am having fun with. The pattern used-Secret-comes from the 9034 Magic how-to design book by Close To My Heart.

I really love how this layout turned out! This is the first time I've used the Top Coats Icing Overlays and I totally LOVE how they look. They're pretty cool!

This is one of the layouts we will be creating during our January scrap class so if you'd like to make one for yourself, plan to come play with us and let me know by January 9, 2012. Contact me for a list of supplies to make this layout plus one other.

Thanks for stopping by today. Have a good one and happy scrampin'!

~Carol

Are you an X-Factor Fan?

2011-12-21T11:31:00.001-05:00

Well, I’m not really a huge fan of the show but due to the fact that a sort of ‘relative’ is one of the three final contestants vying for a 5 million dollar recording contract prize, I have been following it. And tonight is the last night the final three contestants perform their last songs so I will be watching. Tomorrow night the winner is announced and I will be so happy for the show to end. It’s not my favorite show to watch but like I said, someone I know has been on it and that’s the ONLY reason I’ve been watching. Anyway, good luck to Josh Krajcik, hubby’s great niece’s father.

Time to Rock the Block!

2011-12-19T14:00:00.015-05:00

Ready to Rock the Block?

This is the My Creations Collage Cubes that will be a new product available in the upcoming Spring/Summer Idea Book but you can get one of these along with the Rock the Block E-size stamp set for just $15 beginning TODAY!

That's a savings of almost $30! Place your order of $25 from the current Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book and this set is yours for only $15. How cool is that? It's like getting the stamp set for FREE!

Give me a shout when you're ready to order OR have a family member contact me to purchase this for you as a late Christmas gift!

Here is one example of how you can decorate these cool 2” x 2” heavyweight chipboard blocks but there are MANY more possibilities! I hope to share more with you soon.

A Roxie Christmas Card

2011-12-15T17:06:00.000-05:00

Well, I know my 12 Days of Christmas Cards event is over but I just couldn't get out of that Christmas card making mode. So here's one I made today that I wanted to share.

I used a scrap piece of Roxie papers, which I haven't played with in awhile along with 2 different stamp sets--C1420 Snow Days and A1110 A Timber. Featured ink colors are Black, Desert Sand and Tulip. The card base was made with Kraft cardstock and is a standard size card.

Thanks for stopping in today! Have a good one!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 13

2011-12-14T13:33:00.000-05:00

Okay so this isn't a drop dead gorgeous, knock your socks off, awesome card but it'll have to do. Looks like my drop dead gorgeous, knock your socks off, awesomeness is hiding today! I apologize because I know you were really waiting with bated breath for my post today, right?

This was originally not going to be a Christmas card as the pieces had already been cut and prepped for a thank you card similar to another one I recently made but feeling under the gun here, I decided to steal it for my last 12 (or 13 as it turned out) Days of Christmas card.

The card base is made with Bamboo cardstock, is standard size 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 and opens on the right. I used the pretty X7146B Wonderland papers again with the main colors being Twilight, Heavenly Blue and Chocolate. I am enjoying playing with them as they are perfect not only for Christmas cards but for any papercrafting project.

For the tree, I used an older Christmas stamp set called 'A1110 A Timber' that I've had since last year at this time but one that I still love. I made it look 3D by stamping the tree image 3 times in Twilight ink, cutting them out then gluing them together. It's hard to see but there are several bitty sparkles on the tree for decorations.

I also used another older stamp set called D1166 Vintage Christmas, which is another one I still love, for the words 'Christmas', stamped in second generation Chocolate ink.

It's not easy to see but the music image from D1477 Universal Backgrounds was stamped with second generation Chocolate ink on the piece of Heavenly Blue cardstock.

The little words, Merry Christmas, come from a stamp set called D1112 Seasonal Celebration. I apologize if some of these stamp sets are no longer available. I have so many stamp sets that I still love and use fairly regularly so you will see me use them from time to time.

I like how this turned out but it still seems like it might be missing something or maybe it's just me! What do you think?

I hope you have been enjoying my 12 (13 actually) Days of Christmas cards. I wish to thank a sister consultant, Paige Dolecki, for the inspiration for this endeavor. I took advantage of this opportunity to get my cards made for sending out to my friends and family members so I really did accomplish what I set out to do. That's always a good feeling!

Thanks for stopping in! Happy scrampin'!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 12

2011-12-13T21:06:00.000-05:00

Well, I was going to create a drop dead gorgeous, knock your socks off, awesome card for the last day of my 12 Days of Christmas Cards but I was just too gosh darn busy today to get one made. So here is one I made a couple days ago with the X7145B Believe papers and yep, you guessed it, C1473 Remarkable Wreath again!

And since I wasn't able to post that drop dead gorgeous, knock your socks off, awesome card today, I am going to extend my 12 Days of Christmas Cards for at least one more day while I complete that card for you and get it posted. So check back again tomorrow for an extra treat!

Happy scrampin' and cardmaking!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 11

2011-12-12T14:22:00.000-05:00

Here's a very quick and easy card to make. I like quick and easy this time of year, don't you? It's also such an easy card to mail, too. No bulkiness to get messed up when going through the mail system.

Colors used are Grey Wool and Barn Red on a White Daisy card. I think these 2 colors are fast becoming my faves. The stamp set used is one of the 3 that come with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge by Close To My Heart.

Thanks for looking! Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

Another Wonderland Creation

2011-12-11T21:47:00.000-05:00

As promised, here's another creation with the Wonderland papers. Isn't it just the cutest little gift bag you've ever seen? Colors used are Chocolate and Heavenly Blue. Stamp sets used are C1469 December 25th, S1110 Holiday Magic (October SOTM) and S1111 Cherish the Day (November SOTM). I cut the bag at 6 1/4" on my Cricut machine using the Art Philosophy cartridge. The brad and baker's twine are not Close To My Heart products but everything else is.

Thanks for stopping in! Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 10

2011-12-11T10:09:00.000-05:00

Are you getting tired of C1473 Remarkable Wreath yet? Well, I know I'm not! I just can't get enough of this beautiful wreath. There are so many possible color combinations you can use on it and every one looks gorgeous!

Colors used are Chocolate, Twilight and Heavenly Blue. I also used the Wonderland papers from Close To My Heart and the D1477 Universal Backgrounds stamp set. The 'Merry Christmas' phrase is from an old stamp set called 'D1112 Seasonal Celebration', which is no longer available. Sorry!

This is my first creation with the Wonderland papers so I am off now to play with them more. I'll be back later today or tomorrow with another piece of Wonderland artwork to share.

Thanks for stopping by today! Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 9

2011-12-10T11:00:00.002-05:00

Another beautiful card from the C1473 Remarkable Wreath stamp set. And again, I also used that wonderful color combination of Grey Wool and Barn Red. LOVE those 2 colors together!

Thanks for dropping by for Day 9 of my Christmas card creations. Hope you like!

~Carol

Wings Altered Photo Frame

2011-12-09T17:32:00.000-05:00

If you really like this frame, it's for sale! It's one of several I will have available for sale at my Handmade Holiday Shopping Event. These altered frames are so much fun to play with. I never run out of ideas for decorating them!

If you are local to me, give me a shout for more details about my Handmade Holiday Shopping Event or check out the details on my business Facebook page. I'd love to see you there!

Thanks for stopping in today!

~Carol

Christmas Tag Banner

2011-12-09T17:10:00.000-05:00

I had tons of fun putting this Christmas banner together. It was so easy to do with the awesome Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from Close To My Heart. All the tags and letters were cut with the cartridge. The hardest part was trying to decide how to decorate each tag.

I used some older Mistletoe Christmas papers from last year because I thought it was about time to use them up! The main colors used were Cranberry, New England Ivy and Bamboo. There are several stamp sets at work here, too and I will try to list them all.

S1110 Holiday Magic, which was the October 2011 stamp of the month and is no longer available, A1115 A Holiday and one of the stamp sets that comes with the Z1686 Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge bundle.

Thanks for stopping in!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 8

2011-12-09T16:16:00.000-05:00

My two favorite 'blues' together again! I love Pacifica and Sky together. They are just the coolest 'blues'!

I used the Swiss Dots Cuttlebug embossing folder on the Sky cardstock, cut out a snowflake (and set it aside to use on another project) from a piece of White Daisy cardstock using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from Close To My Heart then inked from the inside of the snowflake to the outside edges with Pacifica. Love the effect!

The word 'JOY' comes from D1492 Christmas Love. Adding a piece of White Daisy ribbon and bow finished the card off nicely!

Thanks for looking! Have a great day!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 7

2011-12-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

A quick and easy card to share using the B1381 Holiday Cheer stamp set again. I love these ornament images and the little phrases. The colors I used are Cranberry and New England Ivy which are just the best colors for Christmas. The swirly thing that the ornaments are hanging from is an image from the Holiday Magic stamp set which was the October stamp of the month. That image is actually supposed to be the runners on a sleigh but I flipped it upside down to use it like a metal ornament hanger. Pretty cool idea, huh? Love how you can use images for something other than the obvious!

Thanks for stopping in today! Have a good one!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 6

2011-12-07T17:53:00.000-05:00

Very quick and easy card with random stamping. Random stamping is so fun that I really need to do it more often.

I love these two little snowflakes from the S1110 Holiday Magic stamp set from Close To My Heart (which was the October SOTM) so I decided to do some random stamping in Cranberry and New England Ivy inks. I also used B1381 Holiday Cheer for the words.

To finish it off, I put a small clear bitty sparkle on the tiny star underneath the words. Hope you like it!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 5

2011-12-06T17:34:00.000-05:00

Here's my card for today! This one was made with the Believe paper pack from Close To My Heart. Now let me just tell you, I was NOT real crazy about this paper pack when I first saw it but as I've played with it more and more, I've begun to like it just a tad bit.

The orientation of this card is a bit unusual for me. I typically prefer the standard 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 inch size, which this actually is, but usually in the vertical mode with the opening on the right. I wanted to try a different style of card and like how this turned out.

The metal embellishment and the baker's twine are not from Close To My Heart but seemed just perfect for this card. Hope you like it!

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 4

2011-12-05T22:30:00.000-05:00

Two of my most favorite colors together are Barn Red and Grey Wool from Close To My Heart. And of course, they look fantastic when creating a simple wreath with the Remarkable Wreath stamp set. There's that wreath again! Isn't it a beautiful image? I never get tired of creating with it.

I thought at first that this card looked a bit naked but the more I look at it, the more I like it. It is a very simple card but I like it just the way it is! I try to make easy, non-bulky cards as the majority of my cards go postal. I want them to arrive in one piece, not a mangled mess so I choose to keep most of my cards on the flat side.

Hope you enjoy the card.

~Carol

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 3

2011-12-04T16:58:00.000-05:00

Gift Card Holder

Here's a cute gift card holder I made today. I actually made several but this is the one I liked the best and wanted to share it with you.

I made this with the X7145B Believe papers from Close To My Heart and that wonderful C1473 Remarkable Wreath stamp set that everyone seems to love.

The second photo shows the inside of the gift card holder and the area in the center is where the gift card slides in. If you are in need of any gift card holders for anyone on your Christmas list, give me a shout! I'd be more than happy to make some for you!

Gift Card Holder--inside

A Christmas Card A Day-Day 2

2011-12-03T11:40:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas card to share. Same colors and stamp set as the previous one.

I love these 2 shades of blue. So pretty together!

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #132-Magic Top Hat Layout

2011-12-03T11:20:00.000-05:00

My latest layout for the weekly scrapbook challenge. I made this with the new Wonderland paper pack from Close To My Heart. This is my first creation with this paper pack and I really like it. The layout is by no means complete. After I put photos on it, I will embellish it more and since it's not winter yet, it'll be awhile, at least I hope so!

Supplies used are all CTMH:

G1031~Wonderland Workshop on the Go kit
9034~Magic how-to book (Top Hat design)
Z2111~Chocolate ink
Z2117~Crystal Blue ink
Z1365~White Daisy and Chocolate brads

Have a happy scrampin' day!

~Carol

Rock the Block

2011-12-03T11:10:00.000-05:00

Beginning December 19 and running until January 31, 2012, when you place an order of at least $25 (before shipping and tax) from the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book, you can get this awesome E-size stamp set and set of collage cubes for just $15. That's a retail savings of almost $30. How cool is that?

See the second photo below for what I did with my set of collage cubes. I put 4x6 photos of my granddaughters on each of the six sides--the cubes are 2" square, and very sturdy chipboard I might add, so you use 6 of them for your photos--the other cubes can be decorated any way you wish with images from the Rock the Block stamp set.

I am loving this special promotion and I know you will, too! Mark your calendar for December 19 then give me a shout so I can hook you up with your own set of collage cubes and stamp set to create with.

A Christmas Card A Day

2011-12-02T20:43:00.000-05:00

Well, I actually meant to start this yesterday but due to the fact that I had an appointment with a tooth extractor (aka: the dentist) I totally forgot to post yesterday. I would like to share with you one Christmas card each day for the next 12 days. I thought I would do this as a way to get my cards all done and have them ready to mail way before Christmas so we'll see how I do.

And here is the first card I have to share with you. All supplies are from Close To My Heart. The colors used are Pacifica and Sky. I love these 2 shades of blue together and especially for the Christmas season. The stamp set used is D1492-Christmas Love, which has quickly become one of my favorites this year. I will share another card made with this stamp set and color scheme tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Carol

Sonoma Photo Tray

2011-11-22T16:34:00.000-05:00

Oh, I am so pleased with this photo tray I finally finished today. It only took a few days as I wanted to go slow and be sure to make it just as nice as could be. I am so glad I wasn't in a hurry because it turned out really, really nice. It's quite possible I could add more embellishments to it but for now, I LOVE it as is!

I think the Sonoma papers from Close To My Heart are just perfect for that vintage-y, old-fashioned feel and absolutely perfect for family photos! There is space for 3 photos on this tray, which can hang on the wall or stand on a mantel or shelf if you prefer.

I am loving the new Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from Close To My Heart! See all the pretty flowers on the tray? I made them all with that cartridge and it was soooo easy! If you have a Cricut machine, ask me for more info on the Art Philosophy cartridge. Once you get this cartridge, you won't need ANY other as it has 700 images. Can you believe that? 700 images!!! The possibilities are ENDLESS! Go to my website to check it out further then let me know when you're ready to get your own copy of this awesome cartridge.

Thanks for stopping in today! Have a great day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #131~Olivia

2011-11-22T13:29:00.000-05:00

I used one of my all-time favorite Close To My Heart paper packs, Olivia, for this layout I created for the weekly scrapbook challenge. Unfortunately, it has been retired and is no longer available. :-( The design comes from the Imagine how-to book and it's called Understudy.

Below is a complete list of the supplies used which are all CTMH unless noted.

9030~Imagine how-to book
Olivia paper pack (retired)
C1463~Harvest Happenings
Z1686~Art Philosophy Cricut/CTMH cartridge
Z2108~Brown Bag ink
Z2114~Cocoa ink
Z2191~Sunset ink
Z2104~Barn Red ink
Z1366~Antiqued Copper brads
Z1365~Colonial White brads
Buttons (retired)

To shop for any of the supplies used to create this layout, except for the retired items, please go to my website. Give me a shout if you have any questions. Thanks for stopping in today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #130~Elemental

2011-11-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

The latest layout in the weekly scrapbook challenge that I participate in. Love how this turned out! I thought it might be a bit too busy with all the patterns going on here but it really looks good. I still may add more embellishments later when I put some photos on it.

The design used, On with the Show, is one of my favorites in the Magic how-to book from Close To My Heart. You'll be able to make this layout if you attend my December scrap class along with a Christmas layout. More details to come later.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9034~Magic how-to book
X7141B~Elemental Level 2 paper pack
Elemental stamp set (included in the G1026 Workshop On The Go kit)
B1378~Miracle stamp set (unavailable)
D1482~Love Life stamp set
Z2164~Sorbet ink
Z2111~Chocolate ink
Z2167~Creme Brulee ink
Z2137~Olive ink
Z1612~Foundry Pin Clips
Z1489~Olive mini medleys
Z1686 Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge (only available through CTMH)

Thanks for stopping in today!

~Carol

My First Blog Giveaway!

2011-11-11T11:23:00.000-05:00

Remember this cool Pair-a-Phrase double-D stamp set that was a Close To My Heart special a couple months ago? Well, if you weren't able to grab one then, here's your second chance!

When you place an order of $50** or more on my website before November 25, you will be entered into a drawing* to receive this stamp set FREE! How awesome is that? AND if $25 of that $50 is spent on stamp sets, you are eligible to receive an awesome Holiday Wishes stamp set for only $5.00. Now that's an even more awesome deal as the retail value of the Holiday Wishes set is $17.95**.

To see artwork created with the Pair-a-Phrase stamp set, click HERE, HERE and HERE. And if you click HERE, you will see two more cards made with this stamp set. Look at all you can make with this stamp set! So many possibilities!

Don't delay! This special giveaway* will expire on November 25th. Enter my website to place your order NOW! And good luck to you!

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a great weekend!

~Carol
*This giveaway is not being conducted by Close To My Heart. It is mine alone.
**Shipping and tax are extra and will be charged at the time of checkout.

A Couple Christmas Cards

2011-11-10T16:39:00.000-05:00

Totally LOVE these 2 cards! I was inspired by someone on Pinterest today. When I first saw their card posted, I knew I had to try making my own version and here are 2 of them!

It was so easy to create these cards using the snowflake image on the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge sold only through a Close To My Heart consultant like yours truly! How cool is that? Give me a shout when you're ready to buy one for yourself. In the meantime, you can admire the artwork I create with the cartridge.

I can picture this design in many different color combinations so off I go to try to come up with more!

Hope you enjoy my cards as well as the one by the original poster who I believe shared her creation on Split Coast Stampers recently.

Have a good day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #129-Love that Face

2011-11-05T14:23:00.000-04:00

Here's another layout of my precious little granddaughter, Aveney. Gotta love that face, right? (Sorry for the glare on the left page.) This layout was created for the weekly scrapbook challenge as always. It uses 2 different designs from the Reflections how-to design book from Close To My Heart...Front & Center-Space pg 69 and Front & Center-Focal pg 71. If you have the Reflections book, create a layout using these 2 designs and share it with us. It would be great to see what you create!

I still need to find a space to put either some journaling or just the date, her name and age somewhere on the layout. Haven't decided the best place for that yet.

Below is a list of the Close To My Heart supplies I used for this layout:

9031~Reflections how-to design book
X7141B~Elemental Level 2 paper pack
Z1489~Olive Mini Medleys
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2318~Desert Sand marker
Z1686~Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge

Thanks for stopping by today!
Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

An Altered Photo Frame

2011-11-04T09:25:00.000-04:00

I totally LOVE how this frame turned out! The photo doesn't do it justice..it is gorgeous! I was inspired by a sister Close To My Heart consultant by the name of Bren Yule. You absolutely MUST visit her blog. She is so talented!

I decorated this frame with the Bliss paper pack from Close To My Heart. Unfortunately, Bliss is no longer available. :-( But it was just perfect for that elegant, vintage-y look I wanted to achieve.

I cut the letters, hearts and scalloped pieces with my Cricut Expression and the Art Philosophy Cricut Close To My Heart cartridge, which is totally awesome! I embellished with some Pewter brads, a flower, a ribbon slide and a swirl along with a knot and strip of Colonial White ribbon.

This beautiful frame would make a great gift for a loved one! Want to make one for yourself? Or have me make one for you? Contact me!

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

Happy Scrampin',
~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #128-Moi?

2011-11-03T22:24:00.000-04:00

Love these photos of my youngest granddaughter, Aveney.

Isn't she just too cute?

This is the latest layout created for the weekly scrapbook challenge that I participate in. The Caboodle papers, now only available in the Studio J online scrapbooking program, were just perfect for these photos. Don't you agree? The design used, Portrait Collection, is from the Cherish how-to design book.

As I look at this layout again more closely, I realize that I meant to change the color of the text under the main photo on the left page to the same color as the rest of the journaling. Oh well!

Since this is a digital layout and not a traditional one with actual paper and embellishments, I have no list of supplies to share. But if you'd like to try this out for yourself, click here to start playing with Studio J. And let me know if you DON'T enjoy it but I know you will!

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #127~Holly Jolly

2011-10-24T22:27:00.000-04:00

I wasn't too crazy about the new Believe paper pack from Close To My Heart until I made this layout for last week's scrapbook challenge. It is so cute! Don't you agree? The design for this layout, Hat Trick, comes from the Magic how-to book. I also used the Holiday Magic stamp set that is the Stamp of the Month for October. This set is just perfect for all your holiday cards and scrapbook pages but is only available until October 31st so give me a shout if you'd like to purchase one. Ask me how you can get it for just $5.00!

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

A Cool Gift Card Pocket

2011-10-17T21:57:00.000-04:00

This cool gift card pocket was inspired by a Close To My Heart sister by the name of Vicki Wizniuk. You can see her awesome artwork by clicking here. Vicki posted this recently on the bulletin boards for CTMH consultants and I absolutely loved it! I immediately had to try my own version and this is what I came up with. Isn't it just too cool?

It is, however, not a super quick project but was lots of fun to create. I made it with the Dreamin' paper pack from Close To My Heart and the Hooray Bouquet stamp set. The second photo shows the inside tag that holds the gift card.

And the third photo is where the gift card is stashed. Although I don't have one inserted, it would go on the top part where the cutout is. It's a pretty snug fit so it won't fall out. If you'd like to make one of these gift card pockets for yourself, click here for the instructions.

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #126~Be Yourself

2011-10-17T12:55:00.000-04:00

There's nothing better than 'being yourself'. After all, isn't that what makes each and every one of us uniquely special? I have always told my children to just 'be yourself'. You are who you are and no one can change that!

This week's challenge layout features photos of my lovely daughter who has just got to stop getting older and better because that means I am also getting older and I'd also like to think I'm getting better, too! Haha! Although I am very proud of the wonderfully beautiful woman she has become, I do long for those days when she was just a cute little blond-haired (yep, she used to be a blond) toddler running around, dressing up and totally entertaining me with her happy silliness! She was always happy and smiling every day that you couldn't help but feel happy, too! Oh, where did the time go?

I created this layout using the Studio J online scrapbooking program from Close To My Heart. The design used is Performance from the Magic how-to design book. If you haven't tried Studio J yet, click here to start playing. It's FREE to play. You only pay for the layouts you want printed out by Close To My Heart. You've already got all those photos on your computer, right? Well, what are you waiting for? Upload them to Studio J and get them scrapbooked before your computer crashes!

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #125~2 Cute

2011-10-13T16:36:00.000-04:00

Here's my layout for last week's scrapbook layout challenge. I used to always be on time with posting these weekly challenges but lately I don't know what my problem is. I can't seem to be on time for anything anymore. I guess I really need to get more organized and I know that's easier said than done. But I'll give it a try.

Anyway, here's a list of the supplies used for this layout which was created using the Salsa design from the Imagine how-to book from Close To My Heart.

All supplies are from CTMH unless otherwise noted.

G1017~Sweetheart WOTG Kit
B1370~Sweetheart stamp set
B1269~Journaling Jots stamp set
C1441~Affection stamp set
Z2193~Cotton Candy ink
Z2105~Black ink
Z1386~Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment

Unfortunately, the Sweetheart WOTG kit and stamp set along with the Level 2 Assortment pack are no longer available to purchase but if you already have these supplies, you could certainly duplicate my layout if you wish.

Thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

A Blog Award for Me?

2011-09-28T12:42:00.000-04:00

Oh gosh! I have just received a blog award from Jody Gustafson, a sister CTMH consultant. I feel very honored to receive this award. Thank you, Jody! If you have never visited Jody's blog, you really should! She is one very talented lady and continues to inspire me!

Okay so here's what I have to do next. I have to choose 5 more blogs that have inspired me and this will be very tough to do as there are so many great ones out there. The main goal of this award is to spotlight up and coming bloggers who currently have less than 200 followers. Although most of the blogs I chose are not technically 'up and coming' they do have under 200 followers.

Here are the rules to accept this award:

1. Thank the giver and link back to the blogger who gave it to you.

2. Reveal your top 5 picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog.

3. Copy and paste the award on your blog.

4. Have faith that your followers will spread the love to other bloggers.

5. And most of all - have fun!

The 5 bloggers that I have chosen for this award are truly inspirational to me:

Paige Dolecki-Although Paige doesn't post to her blog often since she is a very busy mom, you will get plenty of inspiration here!

Krista Ritskes-If you need ideas for your tons of scraps, Krista's blog is the one to see.

Dawn Heuft- Dawn loves to create videos to show how she makes her many beautiful creations. Thanks for taking the time to do that!

Teri Baxter-Lots of great ideas here! While visiting Teri's blog for crafting ideas, please be sure to thank her hubby for his service to our country! Thank you!

Adeline Brill-Adeline's artwork is awesome! She often participates in blog hops so you will get much inspiration here!

Be sure to visit each blog and leave them some love!

Thanks again for this award, Jody!

~Carol

Dreamin' of a Paper Bag Album

2011-09-27T11:10:00.000-04:00

I just had to share this cute little paper bag album I made using the new Dreamin' paper pack from Close To My Heart. It was so much fun to make and is actually not quite done. I'm sure I can come up with more ideas for embellishing the pages so there may be more details added later.

I created this with 3 standard size brown lunch bags. They make such cool little albums! I folded them in half, used a bone folder to give them a really good crease, then sewed them down the center with brown thread on my sewing machine. I also sewed around each of the pages except for the ones with the opening. I wanted to leave that edge free to slip a tag into.

The second photo shows you what the tags look like. I made 3 of each size tag and decorated the fronts and backs of each one.

The other 2 photos show some of the inside pages just so you can see how they can be decorated.

Stamp sets used on this project:
C1465-Unscripted
D1482-Love Life
S1109-Limited Edition-Sept SOTM

I hope you have enjoyed looking at my little paper bag album and that it has inspired you to grab some of those lunch bags and get creating yourself.

Have a great day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #124~Fall Fun

2011-09-26T10:42:00.000-04:00

Isn't this layout just gorgeous? I really am so in love with the new Dreamin' papers. Absolutely beautiful Fall colors! Now to find some great Fall photos to put on it. Well, it just turned Fall so I really don't have any photos yet and I sure hope that all the rain we have had this past 2 months doesn't affect the Fall colors this year.

I used the new Cricut CTMH Art Philosophy cartridge for the title and journaling boxes as well as the letters for the title. This cartridge is the BEST thing since sliced bread! If you have a Cricut machine, this is a MUST-HAVE tool. You most likely won't even need any other cartridges once you have this one. It's awesome!

If you have the Magic how-to design book, please join this weekly scrapbook challenge and create a layout using this design. When you've completed your layout, let me know so I can check it out.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

G1027~Dreamin' Workshop on the Go kit, which includes the X7142B Dreamin' paper pack, a C-size stamp set (exclusive to the kit), Z1349 Shimmer Designer Brads and Z1483 Bronze Glitz Glitter Gel
9034~Magic how-to design book-Spellbound design
Z1686~Cricut CTMH Art Philosophy cartridge
C1399~On the Edge stamp set
B1269~Journaling Jots stamp set (no longer available)
Z2123~Goldrush ink
Z2150~Sunflower ink
Z2111~Chocolate ink
Z1365~Chocolate brads

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a good one!

~Carol

A CTMH Card Workshop Sneak Peek

2011-09-26T10:01:00.000-04:00

Dreamin' Card for Card Workshop

I am so in love with the new Dreamin' paper pack from Close To My Heart. I have been having so much fun making lots of cards and artwork with these gorgeous Fall-inspired papers. I'll try to post more of my Dreamin' creations soon.

Here's a sneak peek of a card that we will be making at my next card workshop in October. We will be creating several Thanksgiving cards as well as a couple Halloween cards and a birthday card or two. If you'd like to make one of these for yourself, let me know by September 30th. Contact me soon for more details!

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #123~Safe in Grandpa's Arms

2011-09-18T20:27:00.000-04:00

I need to start remembering to post these gosh darn weekly scrapbook challenges EVERY week instead of just when I think about it. I am so sorry I don't post when I should. There are just too many venues I post on and can't seem to remember which ones I did and which ones I didn't. I certainly must be getting old as my daughter made me realize since she turned 26 years old today. STOP! I don't want to get any older!

Anyway, here is a layout of my hubby (shhh, don't tell him I posted this layout of him) with our newest granddaughter, Aveney, who was born back in March. He is such a gentle giant with her and loves her dearly. I only hope he doesn't frighten her as she gets older because sometimes those 'little' people can be scared of 'big' people. You know what I mean? It just happens sometimes.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9029~Cherish-Add An Element design
X7141B~Elemental paper pack
Textured Desert Sand cardstock (no longer available)
D1482~Love Life stamp set
B1269~Journaling Jots stamp set
Z1686 Cricut Art Philosophy CTMH cartridge
Z2116~Cranberry ink
Z2192~Pacifica ink
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2105~Black ink
Z1393~Black Mini Medleys
Z1151~3D Foam Tape
Z280~Natural Hemp

I sure would love for you to join in these challenges. If you have the Cherish design book, go to the Add An Element design on page 42 and start creating. Then leave me a comment here with a link to your layout so I can check it out or send a photo of it to me in an email.

Hope you have enjoyed my layout. Thank you for stopping by today. Have a good one!

~Carol

A Day of Thanks

2011-09-10T11:30:00.000-04:00

I know it's a bit early for Thanksgiving but I wanted to share this beautiful card I made while playing around in my scraproom a couple days ago. I am planning a card workshop soon and was trying to come up with some really nice designs for Thanksgiving cards. But as this card evolved, I decided it would be too elaborate for a workshop. It would just take way too long to make. So this card will have to be saved for someone special to receive from me when Thanksgiving rolls around. Could that special someone be you?

Now for the details....I was inspired by a gal by the name of Wanda Cullen, I believe, on Splitcoast Stampers recently who posted a card much like the design of my card. Her card is absolutely beautiful! If you check it out, I'm sure you will agree. At the moment I can't seem to locate her card but will keep searching then post a link when I find it. I am so amazed at all the great talent out there and get so much inspiration from them all.

This is a standard 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card, my favorite size to work with as it usually will go through the mail more easily unless it's too lumpy and bumpy like this one happens to be ;-) This may need to be hand-delivered.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

C1473 Remarkable Wreath stamp set (Love this set)
D1444 A Little Thanks stamp set (Just a little note)
X7142B Dreamin' paper pack
Autumn Terracotta (put through a dotted swiss Cuttlebug embossing folder for the background), Chocolate and Sunflower cardstocks
Desert Sand, Autumn Terracotta and Chocolate inks
Z1612 Foundry Pin Clips
Z1081 Colonial White Waxy Flax
Z1151 3D Foam Tape
Bamboo Brad
Retired Ribbon
Die cuts were made with the new Z1686 Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge available only through Close To My Heart and myself

I hope you have enjoyed my card today. If you notice I have forgotten to mention any supplies I have used here, please let me know.

Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

More Close To My Heart Roxie/Pair-a-Phrase Cards for You

2011-09-06T14:50:00.000-04:00

On these first 2 cards I used the Z1380 Spray Pen to create a little visual interest on the card base. I put a few drops of Z2214 Cocoa re-inker in the pen then added some water to the seventh line on the pen. I gave the pen a few quick shakes then a couple squirts and voila...splatters almost where I wanted them. Ha ha! Love the effect though! I let the card base dry then stamped the swirly image (on the first card) in Z2114 Cocoa ink before adhering the strips of X7140B Roxie paper. I stamped the flower basket image which comes from the CC1014 Pair-a-Phrase stamp set (ask me how you can get one FREE) in Cocoa ink then colored it in with a cotton swab dabbed into Z2118 Desert Sand, Z2196 Smoothie and Z2153 Sweet Leaf inks. LOVE the muted effect produced by a cotton swab.

Before I go any further, I need to mention that each of these cards was cut using the new Z1686 Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge exclusive to Close To My Heart. They are all 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch cards.

Again, I used the Spray Pen on this card. Why waste all that re-inker and water, right? The flowers were cut with the Cricut cartridge then stamped with the flower image that coordinates with the cartridge image. How cool is that? I used some Roxie scraps and a corrugated parentheses from the Z1464 Milepost Shapes by CTMH. Added a Z1365 Cocoa brad, small piece of Z280 Natural Hemp and a sentiment and it was done!

LOVE this card! Again, I used Roxie scraps along with a 4 1/2 inch piece of the zip strip from a sheet of the Roxie paper. I sanded the edges of the X5912 Desert Sand and Bamboo cardstocks and Roxie paper to bring out the white core. The edges of the X5901 Colonial White cardstock square were inked with Cocoa. I used another corrugated piece from the Milepost Shapes pack, 2 leaf images cut with the Cricut cartridge, then stamped with the coordinating leaf image that was inked with Desert Sand, Smoothie and Cocoa inks using the tissue technique. Cocoa brads, hemp and a sentiment finished it off!

I also need to mention that these cards were created using designs from the 9033 Wishes cardmaking program from Close To My Heart. This is an invaluable resource if you love to create your own handmade cards.

Another corrugated piece was used here as well as a couple images from the Pair-a-Phrase stamp set. I added some Z1387 Wooden Buttons that have Z1081 Colonial White Waxy Flax threaded through the holes to this card and love how they look.

Isn't this little owl image just too cute? I've never seen a pink owl before so I had to color it with Desert Sand ink in various shades and even though he doesn't stand out as much as I'd liked, he's still cute! Seeing it 'in real life' makes a difference.

Another shape from the Z1464 Milepost Shapes pack, a Z1387 Wooden Button and a Z1365 Colonial White brad round out this funky shaped card.

I hope you have enjoyed my cards today! If you are interested in purchasing the supplies necessary to make these cards at home, please give me a shout!

Have a great day!

~Carol

A Couple Close To My Heart Pair-a-Phrase Cards

2011-09-06T09:57:00.000-04:00

I am still having loads of fun with the Pair-a-Phrase stamp set, which is the special this month from CTMH in celebration of National Stamping Month. I was pretty much in my scraproom all day yesterday...but don't tell hubby that....and created these 2 cards that may or may not be cards for an upcoming workshop. What do you think? Would you want to make either of these cards in a workshop? YOU may be the determining factor here so please take a moment to leave a comment if you would, please!

Contact me for more details on how you can receive the awesome Pair-a-Phrase stamp set for FREE! It's only available until September 30 so don't delay!

Christmas Card with Mistletoe

Thanksgiving Card with Olivia

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge 121~Roxie Layout

2011-09-04T15:09:00.000-04:00

Oh my gosh, I absolutely LOVE this layout, don't you? I thought the Roxie papers were just perfect for this particular design, Crystal Ball, from the Magic how-to book. Now to find the perfect photos! That is the hardest part.

Do you have a Cricut die cut machine? If you do then you know what I am talking about when I mention how awesome it is! I love my machine as most Cricut owners do! Speaking of Cricut, I used the new Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge that is exclusive to Close To My Heart to create the big scalloped circle and the smaller circles on the left-hand page and the 2 small scalloped circles on the right-hand page as well as the letters for my title. Have I mentioned how awesome it is? If you're a Cricut user, check out this cartridge. You are going to LOVE it! When you are ready to purchase your own copy, contact me!

I created this layout for the Weekly Scrapbook Challenge which I am temporarily moderating for my friend, Helen Onulak who is currently nursing a 'frozen shoulder' issue. Please don't ask me to explain what that is! LOL....you'll have to ask her. But I do hope she recovers quickly.

Anyway, if you'd like to participate in this challenge, please feel free to do so. All you have to do is use the Crystal Ball design from the Magic how-to-book and create a layout with whatever papers you prefer. If you don't own Magic, please contact me to purchase a copy. I only ask that you try to use mostly CTMH supplies on your layout but it doesn't have to be 100% CTMH.

If you do create a layout, please leave me a link to your layout in the comment section at the end of this post so I can check it out or send me a copy in an email and I will post it for you here on my blog. If you are a sister CTMH consultant, please post your layout on the bulletin boards under the

***Scrapbook Challenge 121*** thread.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9034~Magic-Crystal Ball design
Z1686~Cricut Art Philosophy Collection (exclusive to CTMH and it's awesome!)
X7140B~Roxie paper pack
CC1014~Pair-a-Phrase double D stamp set (National Stamping Month Special-ask me about it)
X5901~Colonial White cardstock
Z2105~Black ink
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2196~Smoothie ink
Z2153~Sweet Leaf ink
Z1377~Kraft Borders
Z1393~Black Mini Medleys
Z1487~Pewter Mini Medleys
Z1612~Foundry Pin Clips
Z282~Black Hemp
Z1151~3D Foam Tape

Okay, now it's your turn to get creating with the Magic~Crystal Ball design. Have fun and be sure to let me know where I can see your layout. Thanks for stopping in today! Have a great holiday!

~Carol

Last Day for this Great Deal!

2011-08-31T08:31:00.000-04:00

Today's the last day to take advantage of two special deals going on at Close to my Heart. Don't delay! This special is gone after midnight tonight! Order your Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge OR place a $75 order and get lots of FREE stuff!!! Let me show you how to get the most for your bucks!
Here's the deal...

Order the Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge Bundle for $99 today which then qualifies you to

receive the National Stamping Month Promotion (Pair-a-Phrase Stamp Set) for FREE!!!

That's two D-size stamp sets (retail value $35.90) for FREE!!!

Plus if you also purchase the August Stamp of the Month--Wicked

(retail value $17.95) --for only $5,

you will receive the--A Typeface (retail value $6.95)--stamp set FREE!

How cool is that? That's a total savings of $55.80 and a deal that's hard to beat!

But you have to hurry!!! In order to take advantage of this great deal, your order must be placed by midnight TONIGHT!

If you don't want to purchase Wicked or don't want the free alphabet stamp set, you can still get the Pair-a-Phrase double D stamp set for FREE by placing a $75 order in September. Contact me if you have any questions!!

Happy Scrampin'!

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #119~Typeset Layout

2011-08-21T22:10:00.000-04:00

Remember these Weekly Scrapbook Challenges I used to post here every week? Well, life got in the way and I just didn't find the time to post the last few that I did. At this point in time, I probably will not be able to backtrack and post them but will do my best going forward.

I will be posting the weekly layout designs temporarily while our usual moderator, Helen Onulak, is recuperating from a very painful shoulder issue. So please bear with me as I try to get into the routine of posting the same day and/or time each week. After next week, I should have the routine mastered and maybe Helen will return by then. I understand her shoulder issue is not something that heals quickly but I do have my fingers crossed that it won't last long.

I know Helen also has a Mr. Linky link thingie on her blog for everyone to post a link to their layout for these challenges but I haven't figured out yet how to get that onto my blog here so until I do, just leave a comment at the end of each post and include your link there. Thanks!

Anyway, here is Scrapbook Challenge #119 made using the new Typeset paper pack from CTMH. This paper pack is perfect for school but also works nicely for showcasing family photos. I have already created several layouts with this paper pack for the photos I will have from my upcoming family reunion. The design used, Mystify, comes from the Magic how-to book from CTMH.

Below is a full list of the supplies used and all are from Close To My Heart unless specified:

9034~Magic how-to-book
X7139B~Typeset paper pack
D1482~Love Life stamp set
D1329~Noteworthy stamp set (journaling lines)
Z2105~Black ink
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2165~Juniper ink
Z2167~Creme Brulee ink
Z2104~Barn Red ink
Z1463~Just Blooms Paper Butterflies
Z1464~Milepost Shapes
Z1391~Clear Buttons
Z1365~Colonial White Brads
Z1081~Colonial White Waxy Flax
Z282~Black Hemp
Z1393~Black Mini Medleys

Hope you enjoy this layout of my son, his wife and their 5 daughters between them.

Now start creating YOUR layout using the Mystify design from Magic and post a link in the comments section so I can check it out!

Have a great week!

~Carol

Can I Just Share with You Again?

2011-08-18T20:03:00.000-04:00

I am having so much fun with the Pair-a-Phrase stamp set from Close To My Heart. Just look at this lovely card I made today!!! The little bicycle image is just too stinkin' cute! Don't you agree? That's the image I wanted to play with when I made that last card with the butterflies, remember? Well, I finally used it and absolutely LOVE this card! I still have some scraps from my Roxie paper pack yet so I was able to use some of them on this card, too. I am consuming it, not collecting it! I love that new motto from Close To My Heart.

Remember...YOU can also get this awesome double D-size stamp set with a retail value of $35.90 FREE just by placing a $75 order by September 30. Contact me for more details!

Hope you enjoy the card!

~Carol

Another Close to my Heart Roxie Layout

2011-08-18T10:13:00.000-04:00

Here's another Roxie layout that we will be creating in the August Scrapbook Class, if time allows. Don't you just love the BLING on this layout? And those cute little butterflies add just the right touch!

The photos of my oldest granddaughters were just perfect for this layout. If you plan to attend the class, bring along 3-4x6 photos and 1-3x3 photo and you can go home with a completely finished layout!

Thanks for looking and happy scramping!!

~Carol

Another Close to my Heart Pair-a-Phrase Card

2011-08-17T21:28:00.000-04:00

Oh. My. Goodness! I love, love, LOVE this card! I had an idea in my head today as I started to play with my new Pair-a-Phrase stamp set--which, by the way, you can receive FREE this month and next month in celebration of National Stamping Month--to use the cute little bicycle image on a card. Well, now I know this card does not have a bicycle image on it so let me tell you how I ended up using these butterflies instead.

I was searching for a small piece of Colonial White cardstock that would be large enough for the bicycle image and came across a piece of cardstock that I had previously cut a scalloped square from. So glad I didn't throw it away and this is exactly why I don't throw away anything I think may be useful later AND is also the reason my scraproom is always a mess! Ha ha!

Anyway, I found this piece of cardstock with a scalloped square in the middle and immediately went to work deciding what other cardstock colors to pair it with. Well, may I just tell you that I think the colors I chose were just perfect? You cannot go wrong when you put Black, Desert Sand and Colonial White together! I think it is my most favorite color combination.

So...once I chose the other colors and the size of the card I wanted to make, 4 1/4" x 5 1/2", I had to decide how to add an image into the center of the scalloped square. And here's where my original idea changed...it was too small for the bicycle image but just perfect for these cute butterflies. I colored them in with a cotton swab dipped in Desert Sand ink and love the look! I also added a small Licorice Opaque Pearl on the two main butterflies and popped up the wings on the teeny, tiny one.

I then stamped the words...all you need is love...in Black ink, wrapped some Colonial White ribbon around the bottom of the card and tied it into a bow, decorated the inside with the butterflies image and called it a day! I am very pleased with how it turned out! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Thanks for stopping by today.
Happy Scrampin'!

~Carol

A Close to my Heart 'Pair-a-Phrase' card

2011-08-17T13:06:00.000-04:00

Wanted to share this latest card I made with 2 images from the awesome double 'D' stamp set--Pair-a-Phrase--that you can earn FREE this month as well as during the month of September. The card was made using scraps I had left over from the new Roxie paper pack, that I have absolutely had a ton of creative fun with. I have used up pretty much the entire paper pack and now need to buy another one!

Hope you enjoy the card and thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

The Great Close to my Heart Deal Begins Today!

2011-08-15T21:06:00.001-04:00

Woo Hoo!! Today's the day to take advantage of two special deals going on at Close to my Heart. Today you can combine two different specials, order your Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge and get lots of FREE stuff!!! Let me show you how to get the most for your bucks!

Here's the deal...

Order the Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge Bundle for $99 today which then qualifies you to

receive the National Stamping Month Promotion (Pair-a-Phrase Stamp Set) for FREE!!!

That's two D-size stamp sets (retail value $35.90) for FREE!!!

Plus if you also purchase the August Stamp of the Month--Wicked (retail value $17.95) --for only $5,

you will receive the--A Typeface (retail value $6.95)--stamp set FREE!

How cool is that? That's a total savings of $55.80 and a deal that's hard to beat!

But you have to hurry!!! In order to take advantage of this great deal, your order must be
placed by August 31st. Contact me if you have any questions!!

Happy Scrampin'!

Ready to have a 'Wicked' Halloween?

2011-08-15T15:19:00.000-04:00

I know Halloween is still a couple months away but I just had to share these cards I recently made with the August Stamp of the Month-Wicked. Now I am NOT a huge fan of Halloween and never have been but wow, is this stamp set so cool! I am having lots of fun with it! The best part is--it doesn't have to be used exclusively for Halloween--as you can see by the first card that uses the put your best foot forward stamp image.

August Stamp of the Month-Wicked
By making a $50 purchase, you can get this for only $5.00.
But hurry as this stamp set is only available until August 31st.

I want to thank a CTMH sister (sorry, don't remember her name) for coming up with the idea of only stamping the bottom half of this 'Wicked' witch to make a totally un-Halloween-y card. I LOVE it!

And don't you just love that little bit of color I added to this 'Wicked' witch? It's just enough to give it a little less 'wicked' flavor. The color I used is 'Sunset' which is one of my favorite Fall colors.

And would Halloween be the same without a black cat roaming around? I think not. This one is just too cool!

Well, I hope you have enjoyed my cards today. Give me a shout soon so you can get one of these stamp sets into your own hot little hands to play with. Remember, it's only available until August 31st. Contact me today!

Happy Scrappin'!
~Carol

You must see this video!

2011-08-08T17:37:00.002-04:00

This video is from one very talented Close to my Heart consultant by the name of Tresa Black. It's no wonder she won first place in the album contest at CTMH Convention 2011. Congrats to Tresa! She is amazing and this award was well-deserved for sure!

~Carol

Close to my Heart Roxie Workshop Layout

2011-07-30T10:16:00.004-04:00

Oh. My. Gosh. I am so in love with the new Roxie paper pack from Close to my Heart! It's the first paper pack I chose to play with from the new 2011 Autumn/Winter Idea Book and I am SO glad I did. LOVE it!!!

You are all going to totally LOVE the new idea book, too, especially the lower prices on all the stamp sets. AND there are so many exciting new products that I can't wait to share with you! Contact me to reserve your copy today!

Come join me on August 30th or 31st to create this layout with the new Roxie papers. I guarantee you will LOVE it, too! Please RSVP by August 15th.

Supplies used are all Close to my Heart (available August 1st):

X7140B-Roxie Level 2 paper pack
C1466-Instant Memories stamp set
D1307-Annotations stamp set (journaling lines)
D1296-Chocolate Alphabet Small stamp set
Z2118-Desert Sand ink
Z2105-Black ink
Z1466-Bling (this is so cool!)
Z282-Black Hemp

Now that the new Close to my Heart idea book has arrived, available to customers August 1st, I will be posting more artwork created with all the fabulous new products! Stay tuned!

Thanks for stopping in today! Have a scrappy day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Meets Cricut!

2011-07-17T14:19:00.004-04:00

Are you ready for this fantastic news? I sure hope so! Beginning August 1, you can order the brand new "Art Philosophy" Cricut cartridge which is exclusive to Close To My Heart. And may I just say, WOW! You are going to absolutely LOVE this cartridge! I can't think of two things that are more meant for each other than Close To My Heart and Cricut.

Many of the images coordinate perfectly with dozens of our beautiful stamp sets. There are over 700 images on this cartridge and it comes with 3 D-size stamp sets (retail value $17.95 each) and three 9" x 12" chipboard sheets (retail value $4.95 each) with shapes that also coordinate all for the price of $99 plus shipping and tax. WOW!

Check out this short video that tells you all about it. Then give me a shout on August 1 to place your order for this fantastic new product from the best stamping and scrapbooking company in the world, Close To My Heart!

Happy Scrappin'!

~Carol

It's a Swing Thing

2011-07-17T13:46:00.005-04:00

Ever since the CTMH Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book was released, I had been wanting to recreate the layout on page 65. Well, it only took me 6 months but, I finally did it! LOL These pictures were the perfect ones for this layout, too! Must be that is what I was waiting for!

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

X5644 Brown Bag cardstock and Z2108 ink
X5635 Topiary cardstock and Z2155 ink
X5761 Sky cardstock and Z2194 ink
Z2111 Chocolate ink
D1467 Trees & Things stamp set
C1304 Sans Alphabet stamp set
C1401 Friendship Alphabet stamp set

Thanks for popping in today!

Come back soon for more details on the upcoming Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book, which will be available August 1. Woohoo! Can't wait to show you all the new fantastic products!

~Carol

CTMH 'Daily Life' Display Album Calendar

2011-07-13T16:54:00.003-04:00

I know 2012 is still a few months away yet but I am thinking ahead and being prepared for next year. Wouldn't you like to be prepared as well? I will be holding a workshop to create this 2 year calendar and will have more details posted soon. So check back often. In the meantime, click on the photo and it should take you to the online album where you can view a slideshow of the completed 2012 pages. The 2013 pages will be on the flipside when I get them done. Let me know if you're interested in creating one of these cool calendars for yourself or to give as a gift to a loved one....think Christmas!

Thanks for visiting today. Now back to your regularly scheduled program. And I need to get busy updating my blog. Geez! Didn't realize I was still back in June here. Where does the time go?

Happy Scrappin'!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #114-Longwood's Orchids

2011-06-08T09:43:00.003-04:00

I first must apologize for not posting much artwork lately here on my blog. I have been quite busy trying to stay in shape...yep, I try to exercise regularly....plus it is gardening season so I am in either my flower garden or my veggie garden every single day fighting to keep the weeds and bugs at bay.

Anyway, here is my latest layout created for the weekly scrapbook challenge that I participate in. Again, I am so sorry I am behind in these challenge postings. I will try to get them all caught up and posted soon. This one was created digitally. Can you believe that? I created this layout using the Front & Center-In the Middle-Sidebar pattern along with Sophia papers in Studio J. If you're not familiar with Studio J yet, click here and play for awhile. Let me know if you DON'T have fun with this program because there must be something wrong with you! Ha Ha!

During the month of June, you can download a FREE jpeg file of one layout of your choice when you create one with Studio J. What can you DO with a jpeg file, you ask? Well, if you have a wide-format printer at home, you can print it out OR upload it to an online photo developer and get it printed OR just share it with your friends and family through email or websites. It's yours to do with whatever you wish! So go ahead and give it a try! If you find that you really, really LOVE it, give me a shout and I'll tell you all about the memberships for Studio J.

Have a great day and thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

A New Friend for the Garden

2011-06-08T09:25:00.005-04:00

Hubby recently bought this little watermelon-eating ant at an Amish craft place on his way home from a bike ride with the Lancaster Bike Club, of which he's a member. Isn't this little ant just too cute? I thought so and wanted to share him with you. He makes me smile every time I look at him! :-)

If you look beyond the little ant, just above his head and to the right of the hummingbird feeder post, you will see another metal garden structure standing in our Vitex tree. Do you see it? If you click on the photo you can see it larger. Hubby bought that one the same time he got the ant. Don't know what his fascination is with metal garden adornment this year but I'm not complaining.

Hope you enjoy my garden today!

My CVS Shopping Trip

2011-05-19T09:53:00.006-04:00

I was so excited after my latest trip to CVS that I had to share this photo of my haul. See all this stuff? (I just realized that there is a notepad missing from the photo that I also bought for $2.77 and another candy bar is missing as I already sampled it. :-)) Well, it SHOULD have cost me $116.82 but with all my coupons plus sale prices, and Extra Bucks, it only cost me $40.65. Can you believe that? I saved about 65% on this order and I think that's a great deal! Now off to the grocery store to see how much I can save there. I'll try to remember to post my savings from that trip as well.

Thanks for stopping by today. Have a great day!

~Carol

Only 21 Days Left to Join My 'Scrampers with Heart' Team for Half Price!

2011-05-10T13:03:00.001-04:00

There is NO better time than the month of May to become a Close To My Heart consultant. Below is all the information you need to decide if you want to join my team!

Start Your Own 'Close To My Heart' Business in May

May is an excellent time to start your own business with Close To My Heart! From the 1/2 price New Consultant kit, worth over $300, now for only $64.50 plus shipping and tax, to the FREE 'You & Me' National Scrapbooking Month kit (retail value of $34.95), you can't go wrong joining this wonderful company during the month of May.

There is a place for everyone at Close To My Heart.....
Everyone has a different 'style' of paper crafting, scrapbooking and creating. That's what I LOVE about Close To My Heart products. The exceptional products fit any 'style'.

Every consultant has a different 'style' of business. That's what I LOVE about Close To My Heart, it can fit MY 'style'...even if that style changes over time.

Even if you have never thought about becoming a consultant, you may find YOUR 'style' in this list below. If you DO find a 'style' you recognize, I would LOVE to talk to you!

Business Builder
Earn additional income by working with customers, hosting workshops, classes and home gatherings, harnessing online shopping and more. Whether you want just a little extra spending money or enough to help pay the bills, the sky is the limit!

Studio J Consultant
The Studio J bug has bitten you and you love the ease of creating layouts, the instant gratification and outstanding quality. Start taking advantage of the 22% consultant discount!

Club Coordinator
You and your friends LOVE Close To My Heart. Get the group together once a month to create one of CTMH's Workshops on the Go and receive a 22% discount on your purchases.

Personal Use Consultant
You are a Close To My Heart enthusiast and submit an average of $300 in quarterly orders by yourself (or with a group of friends). It's time for you to start earning a minimum of 22% discount on all your purchases.

Junior Consultant
You like CTMH's products and can't resist an amazing deal-all that comes in the New Consultant kit for such a low price. You might order a few things a year at a 10% discount, would love access to our exceptional Bulletin Board full of inspirational artwork or would like to attend one of Close To My Heart's exclusive Consultants-only events. Everyone signs up as a full Consultant and if after one full quarter you do not submit $300 in retail sales, you will become a Junior Consultant. Any time you submit $300 in retail sales in any given quarter, you'll bump right back up to full status and start receiving your 22% discount again!

Did you recognize any 'style' that fits you? If so, I would LOVE for you to join my growing team!

Does someone you know fit one of these 'styles'? I offer incentives for referrals!

You only have 21 days left to take advantage of this awesome special! Don't delay! I would LOVE to hear from you!

Have a great day!

~Carol

Only 27 More Days to Become a Close To My Heart Consultant for Half Price!

2011-05-04T08:45:00.003-04:00

There is NO better time than the month of May to become a Close To My Heart consultant. Below is all the information you need to decide if you want to join my team!

Start Your Own 'Close To My Heart' Business in May

May is an excellent time to start your own business with Close To My Heart! From the 1/2 price New Consultant kit, worth over $300, now for only $64.50 plus shipping and tax, to the FREE 'You & Me' National Scrapbooking Month kit (retail value of $34.95), you can't go wrong joining this wonderful company during the month of May.

There is a place for everyone at Close To My Heart.....
Everyone has a different 'style' of paper crafting, scrapbooking and creating. That's what I LOVE about Close To My Heart products. The exceptional products fit any 'style'.

Every consultant has a different 'style' of business. That's what I LOVE about Close To My Heart, it can fit MY 'style'...even if that style changes over time.

Even if you have never thought about becoming a consultant, you may find YOUR 'style' in this list below. If you DO find a 'style' you recognize, I would LOVE to talk to you!

Business Builder
Earn additional income by working with customers, hosting workshops, classes and home gatherings, harnessing online shopping and more. Whether you want just a little extra spending money or enough to help pay the bills, the sky is the limit!

Studio J Consultant
The Studio J bug has bitten you and you love the ease of creating layouts, the instant gratification and outstanding quality. Start taking advantage of the 22% consultant discount!

Club Coordinator
You and your friends LOVE Close To My Heart. Get the group together once a month to create one of CTMH's Workshops on the Go and receive a 22% discount on your purchases.

Personal Use Consultant
You are a Close To My Heart enthusiast and submit an average of $300 in quarterly orders by yourself (or with a group of friends). It's time for you to start earning a minimum of 22% discount on all your purchases.

Junior Consultant
You like CTMH's products and can't resist an amazing deal-all that comes in the New Consultant kit for such a low price. You might order a few things a year at a 10% discount, would love access to our exceptional Bulletin Board full of inspirational artwork or would like to attend one of Close To My Heart's exclusive Consultants-only events. Everyone signs up as a full Consultant and if after one full quarter you do not submit $300 in retail sales, you will become a Junior Consultant. Any time you submit $300 in retail sales in any given quarter, you'll bump right back up to full status and start receiving your 22% discount again!

Did you recognize any 'style' that fits you? If so, I would LOVE for you to join my growing team!

Does someone you know fit one of these 'styles'? I offer incentives for referrals!

You only have 27 days left to take advantage of this awesome special! Don't delay! I would LOVE to hear from you!

Have a great day!

~Carol

Mayberry Level One Kit with Flip Flaps Workshop

2011-05-02T15:40:00.005-04:00

Come join me for a workshop to create a 12x12 2-page layout using the Mayberry Level One Scrapbooking Kit and 12 inch Flip Flaps from Close To My Heart. This is one workshop you are totally going to LOVE.

Do you have lots of photos of one subject or event and can't seem to decide which photos to use on a scrapbook layout? Let me show you how to put multiple photos on your layouts by using these awesome 12 inch Flip Flaps.

The workshop is tentatively scheduled for June 15 & 16 with payment of $20.00 due by June 1.

The $20.00 fee includes:

X7136A~Mayberry Level 1 Kit
Z1325~12 inch Flip Flaps (pack of 8 in 3 different sizes)
2 Clear Memory Protectors

Add an additional $6.50 if you would like a full pack of Memory Protectors (10 pack)

Please RSVP along with payment by June 1. Space is limited so don't delay! Have a group of friends who may be interested in this workshop? If you can get a group of at least 10 friends together, your class fee is waived! Is that an awesome deal or what? Hope to hear from you soon!

Thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

Awesome Photo Cube Workshop

2011-05-01T14:03:00.006-04:00

Check out this cute photo cube that you and/or your children can make at one of my upcoming workshops. I made this at the CTMH Leadershare event that I attended yesterday, and although I did make a couple slight changes to it, I can't take the credit for the design. :-(

I like this little cube so much that I decided to offer this as a workshop. This would make a perfect father's Day gift!

Below are the different price points on this workshop.

For $24.00 you will receive:

Z1152-MyCreations Cube
Z1390-Villa Irresistibles chipboard shapes
Z1395-Eclectic Alphabet Irresistibles
Cut Mayberry papers to complete the project.

For $33.00 you receive the items above plus a bottle of Z679-Liquid Glass.

This is the adhesive needed to hold the cube together.

Remember, Liquid Glass lasts a long time as you only need a small amount.

For $45.00 you receive all of the $24 option plus the C1459-Stitched Together stamp set, which is used on the cube panels.

Printed instructions are also included with each workshop kit.

If you already have any of the above supplies and only need to purchase certain ones, we can re-figure a price for you.

If you know anyone who may be interested in this workshop, please pass along the info.

When someone you tell signs up and pays for the workshop, I will give you a small token of my appreciation.

This workshop can also be packaged up and shipped to anyone out-of-state for an additional shipping charge.

The dates for this workshop will be May 21 & 22 and June 18th. If you are interested, leave me a comment here or email me but be sure to contact me right away as seating will be limited.

Please RSVP with payment by May 11 if you plan to attend one of the May dates and by June 4th if you plan to attend the June workshop. Have a great day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Lucky Layout-Our Hero

2011-04-21T21:38:00.003-04:00

A layout I made for a dear friend who lost her 10 year old son to leukemia recently. Many people, along with family members, called him a hero because he maintained such a positive attitude all through his treatments for the disease he fought so valiantly, for just over 3 years. Not a day goes by that someone somewhere does not think about him. He was such an inspiration to many and is sadly missed. This layout, along with several others from mutual friends, will go into a scrapbook that I am putting together to give to my friend.

My layout was made using the Lucky Level 2 paper pack and Enjoy Life stamp set. Although the names for the products used sound like they shouldn't be used for this particular layout, the colors and images were perfect for a 10 year old boy and that is why I chose them. The design for the layout, Top Hat, comes from the Magic how-to book from Close To My Heart. The Colonial White mats are just to show size and placement of photos and can either be used or removed.

Thanks for stopping in and happy scrappin'!

~Carol

The Girl in the Pink Hat

2011-04-21T21:11:00.004-04:00

Sharing a new layout that I made yesterday using the Disappearing Act design from Close To My Heart's Magic how-to book. Magic is a wonderful book full of awesome designs to take your scrapbooking to a whole new level. If you'd like to experience it for yourself, give me a shout.

Isn't this little girlie sweet? She is one of my many cute granddaughters--I have 4 of them!--and she is such a cutie pie. The journaling hasn't been done on this layout yet as I may give it to my son and his wife to do.

My layout was created with the Sophia Level 2 paper pack and C1456 Heartfelt Treasures stamp set along with Hollyhock, Pear and Goldrush inks and various colors of brads. I also used the Sophia Journaling Spots on the right page for the journaling box. Loving the Sophia papers for all the little girlies in my life.

Thanks for looking and happy scrappin'!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #107-Another Studio J Layout

2011-04-19T20:46:00.002-04:00

Oh, how fun it is to create a layout in record time! I love the online scrapbooking program called Studio J. Layouts come together so quickly. See what gorgeous layouts you can create with this awesome program? Oh, believe me, it will NEVER replace the classic scrapbooking that I love so much but it's a lot of fun to play with while watching TV or fixing dinner and gives you a chance to get caught up. If you have tons of photos stored on your computer, this would be the perfect way to get them off the computer and into your scrapbooks. Click here to go play for yourself and let me know what you think about it. If you like it, ask me about a 3 month or yearly membership. There are lots of cool perks when you are a Studio J member that you won't want to miss.

This layout was made using Studio J's Miracle paper pack and the Click, Click, Click members-only design layout. Isn't it beautiful? You could be making these beautiful layouts, too, so don't delay. During the month of April, when you become a Studio J member and order a set of 10 layouts, you'll receive some FREE bling. That's right! You'll receive a pack of clear Sparkles and Opaques Pearl Gems (retail value of $5.90) for FREE with every 10 custom-printed layouts you order. It's another way we make scrapbooking, faster, simpler, easier--and now more sparkly!

Also, during the month of April, when you place an order of $100 or more through my website, you will receive a Level 1 Scrapbooking kit absolutely FREE! That's a retail value of $9.95 and there is a limit of one free kit per qualifying order. You have a choice of 7 different kits, while supplies last so don't delay.

Don't forget about the special stamp set that Close To My Heart has created for the people of Japan. 'Hope for Japan' is only available till the end of April and is specially priced at only $5.00. Close To My Heart will donate 100% of the profits from the sale of this stamp set to the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. Let's help them out by purchasing one of these A-size stamp sets.

Thanks for stopping by today.

Happy Scrappin'!

~Carol

A Simple Close To My Heart Card

2011-04-14T21:48:00.004-04:00

Wanted to share this simple but oh so nice card! It was created using this month's Close To My Heart April Stamp of the Month stamp set called, Blessed. Ask me how you can earn this stamp set at a discount or even FREE!

The colors used on this card are Honey, Olive and Black-a nice combination. Hope you enjoy!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #106-You Are Pear-fect Layout

2011-04-14T21:26:00.003-04:00

Here she is! My newest granddaughter who is such a cutie! Meet Aveney Grace. She was about 12 days old in these photos and just too sweet! I'll get to the journaling at some point after I think about what I want to write. It has to be Pear-fect, just like Aveney.

Supplies used for the weekly scrapbook challenge layout:

9029~Cherish-Silver Screen design
X7136B~Mayberry Level 2 paper pack
B1380~Mayberry stamp set (only available with the Mayberry Workshop kit)
D1469~Polka Dot Alphabet stamp set
D1359~Comments stamp set
D1455~Blessed (April 2011 SOTM) stamp set
Z2137~Olive ink
Z2128~Hollyhock ink
Z2162~Honey ink
Z2114~Cocoa ink
Z1397~Canvas Badge Buttons
Z1384~Hollyhock Ribbon
Various Brads

Hope you enjoy the layout and happy scrappin'!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #105-Studio J Layout

2011-04-14T21:08:00.004-04:00

Just look at this cabinet crawler. She loves to empty out this one cabinet in her mommy's kitchen and crawl right in. I almost chose 'cabinet crawler' for the title on this layout but thanks to a sister Close To My Heart consultant who gave me the idea, I chose 'Oh, the Places You'll Go' instead. I love it!

This layout was created with the Studio J online scrapbooking program that is a totally free program to use. You only pay for the layouts you want printed and Close To My Heart will do that for you when you're ready. If you'd like to give the program a try, click here and start playing. Remember, it's free to play! You only pay for the printed pages.

Hope you enjoy my latest layout made for the weekly scrapbook challenge. It uses the 'Topstitch' papers which is perfect for this cute little girlie! Don't you agree?

Thanks for stopping by today. Have a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart's Hope for Japan

2011-04-09T17:40:00.005-04:00

Wanted to share a card I made using a special stamp set created by Close To My Heart to help the earthquake and tsunami victims of Japan. When you purchase this stamp set at the special discount price of only $5.00 (retail value $7.95) plus tax and shipping, Close To My Heart will donate 100% of the profits to the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. Contact me to get this A(wesome)-size stamp set for yourself which is only available until April 30, 2011.

I used the emboss resist technique on this card and love how it turned out. The striped piece of patterned paper is the flip side of a paper from the Miracle paper pack. Colors used are Twilight and Sweet Leaf.

If you'd like to check out more awesome artwork created with the Hope for Japan stamp set, click here.

Thanks for stopping by today. Make it a good one!

~Carol~

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #104-Sophia Layout

2011-04-05T10:06:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm a bit late posting this layout as it was last week's scrapbook challenge but admit it, it was worth the wait, right? I love how this layout turned out and can't wait to find photos to put on it. Hoping to possibly add photos of my new grand baby as soon as they get printed. I hope you enjoy the layout even without the photos.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9034~Magic-Parlor Trick design
X7131B~Sophia Level 2 paper pack
D1359~Comments stamp set
C1456~Heartfelt Treasures stamp set
Z2128~Hollyhock ink
Z2106~Blush ink
Z2102~Baby Pink ink
Z2197~Pear ink
Z1364~Sweet Leaf brads
Z1365~White Daisy brads
Z1151~3D Foam Tape

Thanks for stopping by today. Happy Scrappin'!

~Carol~

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #103-Sweet Summer

2011-03-29T10:24:00.004-04:00

Ah, the sights, sounds and smells of 'Sweet Summer' await us and can't get here fast enough for me! I am dreaming of warmer days as this winter has dragged on long enough. I am not a cold weather person nor have I ever been one so I am SO ready for warm, sunny days. I look forward to opening windows and letting the warm, fresh air in, and hanging clothes out on the line-do any of you do that? I know a lot of people are so busy these days that they don't take the time to hang their clothes, especially sheets, outside and they don't know what they are missing. Not only do you save energy by hanging clothes outside instead of using a dryer but it is the most wonderful smell in the whole wide world and you bring that smell inside with you along with the clothes. Call me crazy but I LOVE it! I also look forward to sitting out on my deck- maybe a new one this year?- with a glass of wine while watching the flowers and veggies grow-the birds chirping and splashing in the birdbath-baby birds learning to fly-smelling the wonderful food cooking on the grill. Ah, the sights, sounds and smells of 'Sweet Summer' await me!

Supplies used for this layout challenge:

9030-Imagine-Classical Look design
X7136B-Mayberry Level 2 paper pack
B1375-Summer Days stamp set
B1269-Journaling Jots stamp set
Z2114-Cocoa ink
Z2137-Olive ink
Z2196-Smoothie ink
Z2305-Black marker
Z2337-Olive marker
Z2396-Smoothie marker

Thanks for looking! Have a great day!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #102-My Dad's 80th Birthday

2011-03-29T10:01:00.003-04:00

Wow! My dad is 80 years old! (Photos will be added after I get them printed.) It is so awesome and amazing to still have my dad in my life. I am hoping I have some of his good genes to live that long and still have my wits about me. But I think one of the main reasons why he is still with us today is his love of gardening and harvesting of fresh veggies. Almost as long as I can remember, he has had a garden, no matter the size, in order to reap the benefits of eating healthy veggies. And he still has a garden today. He has already started some seeds in his basement and can't wait to get out in his garden to start playing in the dirt. Warmer weather better hurry and get here or he's going to go crazy! Happy Birthday to my wonderful dad. May you have many, many more!

Supplies used for this challenge layout:

9034-Magic-Mesmerize design
X7133B-Miracle Level 2 paper pack
B1378-Miracle stamp set
D1478-Bingo Alphabet stamp set
D1359-Comments stamp set
Z2160-Twilight ink
Z2118-Desert Sand ink
Z2111-Chocolate ink
Z2103-Bamboo ink
Z1377-Color Ready Kraft Borders
Z1387-Wooden Buttons
Z1081-Colonial White Waxy Flax
Z1151-3D Foam Tape

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

Close To My Heart-Scrapbook Challenge #101-Another Miracle Layout

2011-03-10T17:03:00.002-05:00

Here’s my layout for this week’s scrapbook challenge. I had to dig into some older photos to put on it as the colors of any more recent ones I have just wouldn’t work. And because these photos were taken on different days, it was a bit more difficult to decide on a title so I chose ‘Missing U’. These three little cuties don’t live too close so it’s been quite awhile since I’ve seen them and I really DO miss them. These photos bring them back to me briefly as I remember the days they were taken. As soon as I decide what to write, the journaling will get done. That’s always the last thing I do on a layout because it’s the hardest part for me.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9029~Cherish Design Book-Portrait Collection
X7133B~Miracle Level 2 paper pack
B1378~Miracle stamp set
C1452~Delight stamp set
A1070~Atomic Lowercase Alphabet stamp set
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2153~Sweet Leaf ink
Z2117~Crystal Blue ink
Z2114~Cocoa ink
Z1397~Canvas Badge Buttons
Z1099~Twill Ribbon
Various brads and chipboard shapes

Thanks for stopping by today. Hope it’s a good one for you!

~Carol

CTMH-Scrapbook Challenge #100-Lucky Layout

2011-03-09T09:21:00.003-05:00

Wow! Can you believe this is Scrapbook Challenge #100? I can't believe it is! That means I have been participating in this weekly scrapbook challenge for almost 2 full years. I should win some kind of prize, don't you think? LOL...I have made a layout for every one of these challenges, sometimes a little late but I always got it done and I think that's awesome! Without these challenges, I may not have accomplished as many layouts as I did and that makes me feel good knowing I have created 100 plus layouts (I also made other layouts not related to these challenges) in the past 2 years. Okay, enough excitement for one day! On to the details!

If you think this layout looks like it could be used as two separate single page layouts, that was my intent. The left page will be given to a friend whose 10 year old son lost his battle with leukemia recently-several of my class and workshop customers are each creating a single page layout for a memorial scrapbook we are putting together for my friend-and the right page will be used for photos of my hubby once bike-riding season begins again for him. And I sure hope that is soon because he's driving me nuts!

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

9034-Magic design book-Final Act
X7137B-Lucky Level 2 paper pack
D1359-Comments stamp set
Z1356-Lucky Level 2 Assortment
Z1338-Sunset mini medleys
Z2140-Outdoor Denim ink
Z1363-Outdoor Denim brads

Hope you enjoy the layout and thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

Close To My Heart~Scrapbook Challenge #99~Untitled

2011-02-22T20:37:00.005-05:00

This week's scrapbook challenge is a design from 'Cherish' called 'Simple Pleasures'. My layout is untitled at the moment as I'm not quite sure what photos to put on it yet but I do like how it turned out. I probably will add more embellishments after the photos are in place. Hope you enjoy it!

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

X7133B~ Miracle paper pack
B1378~Miracle stamp set (only available in the Miracle Workshop kit)
C1452~Delight stamp set
Z2118~Desert Sand ink
Z2117~Crystal Blue ink
Z2126~Heavenly Blue ink
Z1377~Color-Ready Kraft Borders
1273~Desert Sand cardstock
Chocolate Flower button

Thanks for stopping by!

~Carol

Close To My Heart February Stamp of the Month Card

2011-02-21T21:17:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share a card I made today with the February Stamp of the Month from Close To My Heart called 'Friendship'. I love how this card turned out. It is a standard size, 4 1/4 x 5 1/2, which is my favorite size card to make.

I made the card with Sweet Leaf cardstock.

I added a piece of 4 x 5 1/4 Heavenly Blue cardstock for a mat.

I then stamped the image in Versamark ink on a piece of 3 3/4 x 5 Colonial White cardstock and heat embossed the images with Heavenly Blue embossing powder.

I then used a sponge to rub a bit of Sweet Leaf ink over and around the embossed images.

Using a tissue, I wiped off the excess ink from the embossed images.

I also embossed the sentiment with the Heavenly Blue embossing powder then matted it with Heavenly Blue cardstock and love how it looks.

I cut out another embossed image and popped it up next to the sentiment.

The Sweet Leaf ribbon tops it all off and adds just the right touch of elegance to the card.

Now who to give it to......hmmmm........that's gonna be tough!

Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you enjoy my card!

~Carol

Simply Scallops

2011-02-20T20:53:00.000-05:00

Sharing a video with you! Check it out then contact me to purchase a scallop punch of your own.

Heart 2 Heart 'Kissing' Challenge

2011-02-17T20:35:00.004-05:00

This is the inside of the card.

I'm quite tired at the moment but wanted to get this posted because it seems I forgot to do it last week. Oh well, better late than never! But thank goodness the Heart2Heart challenges are good for the whole month.

Anyway, last week's challenge was to use the 'kissing' technique. This is a card that I made way back before Christmas that uses this technique. Nothing fancy but it's still the 'kissing' technique. If I wasn't so gosh darn tired right now, I'd explain the 'kissing' technique to you but if you really want to know how to do it, check out all the creations by the Heart2Heart challenge design team. I'm sure someone, somewhere explains the technique.

I also created this with a clear card. I am not real good with the clear cards but if I can follow someone else's idea or design, I can usually come up with a pretty decent card. This design was one that was used on a card back in July at the CTMH Convention that I attended. I loved it so much and thought it would be perfect for the cute little birdie.

Go ahead and try your hand at the 'kissing' technique. I think you'll like it! Be sure to post your creation on the Heart2Heart blog. I look forward to seeing what you create!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Carol

Another Sweetheart Card from Close To My Heart

2011-02-09T15:43:00.004-05:00

I thought I'd share a card I made yesterday inspired by a sketch that Gina K. posted on her Stamp TV website. I love a lot of the artwork she creates-she is so talented! Anyway, this card is based on her most recent sketch that I really liked so I made a card of my own using the new Sweetheart papers from Close To My Heart. I absolutely LOVE the Sweetheart papers but I think you already know that! Haha! I have used it quite a lot lately, haven't I? Well, it is just so perfect for all the little girlies in my life that I am sure I'll use it all up! I hope you enjoy the card and thanks for stopping by!

~Carol

Close To My Heart~Scrapbook Challenge #96~Too Cute Sweetheart Layout

2011-02-09T14:25:00.003-05:00

Yep! It's another layout of my youngest granddaughter! Can you believe that? Ha ha! And she just so happens to be one year old today! Happy Birthday, Miss Scarlet! You are just too cute! I am going to see you later today via Skype and I can't wait!

I had so much fun making this layout with all the little embellies I added. I just love how it turned out. I hid the journaling under the butterfly and included a closeup shot so you could see it. I haven't written anything yet but will do that soon. The journaling is always last with me because I like to really think about what I want to write and practice writing it a couple times before I actually write it on the layout. I don't like to goof it up and have to fix it.
Supplies used are all Close To My Heart, of course and here's the list:

9034~Magic-Backstage design
G1017~Sweetheart Workshop Kit
Z2105~Black ink
Z2193~Cotton Candy ink
Z1335~Licorice Opaques
Z1326~Sparkles
Z1362~Pink Brads
Z1368~Black Bitty Brads

Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you enjoy the layout!

~Carol

Let's Get Sketchy with Heart 2 Heart Challenges

2011-02-02T17:03:00.004-05:00

Yea! I have been able to play the Heart 2 Heart challenge for two weeks in a row! Can't promise to keep it up so enjoy it while it lasts! This week's challenge is a sketch and I love sketches so I had to join in.
My youngest granddaughter's first birthday is next week and since I needed to make her a card, this was a perfect time to join in the challenge. I am loving this new paper pack from Close To My Heart called 'Sweetheart'. I have lots of little girlies in my life and the 'Sweetheart' papers are so perfect for them. You will be seeing lots of artwork from me with this paper pack.

I wanted to make the card very simple and not bulky at all since it is, after all, for a one year old. So, must not have any little parts such as brads, ribbons and the like that she could pull off and put in her mouth. I think I did pretty good with keeping it simple. What do you think? Simple but nice, right? I'm not so sure that's what my granddaughter will think but I know her mommy and daddy will love it.

Okay, so now it's your turn to get sketchy. After completing your artwork, post it to the Heart 2 Heart blog for your chance to win an awesome prize.

Thanks for stopping by today! Make it a good one!

~Carol

It's Time to Get Wild with Heart 2 Heart

2011-01-29T16:11:00.002-05:00

I decided to join in this week's Heart2Heart challenge because...well, just because! The challenge is to use an animal or bird in your artwork. Insects are also welcome! I chose to use frogs (are they insects or animals?) on my layout as I've had this stamp set for such a long time and haven't used it enough. I also have had this 5x7 photo of my oldest granddaughters since last summer but never got around to using it so it was just perfect for this challenge. Don't you just LOVE the real stitching on my layout instead of the faux stitching that I usually do? I absolutely LOVE how it turned out! Hubby oiled up my sewing machine real good for me a few days ago so I will be doing more real stitching from now on.

When you're done admiring my awesome layout, no modesty here, head on over to the Heart2Heart blog, check out what the Design Team has created and get busy on your own artwork to post.

Supplies used are all Close To My Heart:

Z1375 Kraft paper (new)
D1365 True Happiness stamp set
C1265 Charm Lowercase Alphabet stamp set
C1184 Frogs stamp set
Z1339 Pear mini medleys
Z280 Hemp
Z2114 Cocoa ink
Z2197 Pear ink
Colonial White and Copper Brads

Thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol

Close To My Heart Scrapbook Challenge #94~Sweetheart~Mother & Daughter Layout

2011-01-20T13:53:00.003-05:00

I am ahead of schedule on this week's scrapbook challenge, although I am posting this with a heavy heart today. The 10 year old son of a good friend of mine passed away this morning after a very brave 3 year battle with leukemia. I am totally devastated by this news as he had recently been doing so well. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as they deal with this horrible tragedy. And be sure to give your own children lots of hugs and loving cause you just never know if or when they could be taken from you. It's so not fair for a parent to lose a child.

This layout features a new paper pack called 'Sweetheart' and is a perfect choice for these two precious ladies. (I plan to give them extra hugs the next time I see them!) I had a lot of fun making this layout and hope I didn't overdo it on the embellishments. Below is a list of supplies used:

9034~Magic~Performance design
G1017~Sweetheart Workshop Kit
E1019~Bohemian Alphabet
D1413~Cherished Flourishes
Z1370~Pink Buttons
Z2166~Tulip ink
Z2105~Black ink
Z2102~Baby Pink ink
Z2366~Tulip Marker
Black brads

Hope you enjoy the layout and thanks for stopping by today!

~Carol