The Road to Somewhere...

Quite Unique!

2011-04-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

I just love hearing about new businesses created by people who think a little more out-of-the-box and this morning I discovered just one of those type of companies! YEA!

Many of us are addicted to sites like Groupon that allow us to pre-buy goods and services at a great discount. With deals like the one I scored last week (two movie tickets and a large popcorn for only $10.) What's not to love?!! Well, now there is a daily deal site for handmade goods called Quite Unique! How cool is that?! Getting great deals and supporting our fellow crafters at the same time!

Here is just one example of a previous deal....
A charming necklace to benefit Japan Disaster Relief. A unique handmade item with 100% of profits going to Japan...even cooler!!!

enjoy shopping and helping others at the same time.
-dw.

On the Menu Monday!

2011-04-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

I realized I haven't eaten a home-cooked meal in over a week! No wonder I'm exhausted and feeling run down. Living on hospital cafeteria and restaurant food is not the best option, but sometimes we just have no choice. Don't get me wrong; I LOVE to eat out! Just not everyday for over a week.

Since I am back home and finally have some down-time, I decided to purge a bunch of magazines (pulling out what I liked and recycling the rest). I found some great tips and inspiration, along with some yummy-sounding recipes I'm excited to try out.

Here's some of what I found:

~ Added to my Book Wish List: Paris Sweets by Dorie Greenspan. It is a story of her love of pastries and Paris complete with whimsical drawings and yummy recipes I can't wait to try. She also has a blog....check it out.

~ Precious/Sorrento Cheese is offering a FREE 46-page downloadable pasta cookbook.

~ Rachael Ray Magazine and On-Cor announced a contest to win a NYC Rachael Ray Show Getaway Package! Enter here.....Good luck!

~ Have you noticed how mini-desserts are all the rave now? These shot glasses of decadence somehow make us feel less guilty because of their tiny size. As if calories only count on full size servings. Or maybe it's so we can have a sampling of more than one flavor? I'm not sure, but I agree....I love them! Move over Cheesecake Factory and PF Changs, I may just serve up my own mini- dessert bar at my next gathering!

Pier 1 Imports offers up a wonderful guide to hosting Tasting parties. their website is packed with great ideas and recipes. Here is one that I am anxious to test out:

Serve in 12 mini shot glasses.

3 tbsp butter, melted

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1 tsp sugar

8-oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 tsp vanilla

1 tbsp milk

4 oz baking chocolate or chocolate chips

8-oz whipped topping

chocolate shavings or wafers for garnish

Melt butter in microwave bowl, add cracker crumbs and sugar, mix thoroughly. Place about a teaspoon of mixture in the bottom of each glass. Press down.
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and vanilla until fluffy.
In smaller microwavable mixing bowl, melt together milk and chocolate until melted and creamy. Add to cream cheese mixture, mix thoroughly. gently fold in whipped topping.
Fill each glass to the top with chocolate mousse. Garnish with a dollop of whipped topping and chocolate shavings or wafers.

Enjoy the "little" things in life!

-dw.

All Things....Big and Small

2011-03-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life throws out a curve ball. Something happens that makes us re-evaluate everything. Things that once seemed important, suddenly lose their priority in the daily routine. Things are just different.

The day after Valentine's Day was that kind of day. After spending two great days celebrating love and the little things in life, my family was dealt a BIG thing. We received the phone call no one ever wants to get. The one saying one of your family members is suddenly and unexpectedly....gone. Forever. Just like that. No time to say goodbye; no time to remember to do or say the things you were thinking. Just gone.

Suddenly the things I write about here seemed trivial and unimportant. I couldn't bring my fingers to the keyboard without thinking there just isn't anything I can say that is significant enough in this moment. So I took a hiatus. I needed time to let my heart grieve and for my head to try and make sense of what was happening. And now a month and a half later, my fingers return to the keyboard and I pay homage to the little things.

My cousin was an avid reader; a lover and collector of books. She had great passionate for what she believed in. She was a strong advocate for her children. She dared to travel her own path in life; to be her own person. She loved to roller skate in the living room when she was little. She gave a smile to you every time you saw her. These little things made up who she was and how she will be remembered.

And so, in her honor, I will return to writing about the little things that make up my world and who I am. Living life doing the things I want to be remembered for. Organizing, writing, scrapbooking, and decorating might seem trivial to others.....but these truly are the little things that make up who I am. And I owe it to the girl who wouldn't let others dictate how she should live her life, to live mine doing what makes me feel fulfilled.

Rest in peace, Carole. I hope heaven has a really big library, an endless-supply of homemade cinnamon rolls, and maybe even...a place to roller skate!

enjoy the little things and the people you love everyday.

-dw.

Perfect Brownies.....Who Can Resist?!!

2011-02-14T05:03:00.000-08:00

When it comes to chocolate I have some serious weaknesses. One of my favorite chocolate indulgences are Brownies! Who doesn't love a perfectly baked, warm-from-the-oven, fudgy piece of heaven?!

After trying a brownie baked in my dear friend's new brownie pan - the kind that makes each brownie look as if it was baked individually - I was hooked! I have all too much experience with ragged-edged brownies that taste wonderful but look a bit scrappy by the time I get them cut and on to a serving plate. I need what this type of pan can offer...."individual" brownies that look as fabulous as they taste.

Well, as luck would have it, I was perusing Kohl's the other day (gift card burning in my wallet) when I spotted The Perfect Brownie Pan Kit nestled low on a clearance shelf. I wasn't sure this was the same pan as my friend had used, but the concept seemed to be the same. For only $9.99 I was willing to take a chance and try it out.

Using a box mix (the only way to go in my opinion), I decided to put the pan to the test. It was so easy and the results were amazing! I LOVE having the brownies cut and ready to serve without the crumbly mess that used to be seemingly unavoidable. The nonstick pan didn't require a grease/flour prep like my glass pan and the clean up was effortless!

I give this pan a giant thumps UP!

If you want to find the clearance deal at Kohl's....act quickly! I noticed it was already removed from their website. There are other online sellers if you can't find it at your Kohl's; the best deal being found at perfectbrownietv.com for the price of $19.95 for two pans (one for you, one for a gift) plus $8.95 shipping and handling.

enjoy the chocolatey goodness of fresh-baked brownies!

-dw.

Getting away...without leaving home!

2011-02-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

Wishing for a romantic, calming spa getaway to celebrate Valentine's day this year? But, like most of us, the pains of the post-holiday budget won't allow the indulgence?

Well, think again.....It is soooo easy to create a spa mood without leaving home and spending a bundle. It just takes a little planning, some creativity, and some scheduled time!

First, identify what soothes and relaxes you. For me it's candles, soft music, some wine and a hot, bubble bath. Then decide which bathroom has the best bathtub and room to pull it off (for me it is my guest bath - perfectly decorated in tropical accents to further create a far-from-home feeling).

Next, grab the necessary items from around your house to pull the room together. I grabbed a small, bamboo picnic end tables from the garage, an extra stool, a glass ice bucket from the bar filled with ice, a bottle (okay two!) of our favorite wine, a decorative scallop shell, a wine opener, a bunch of white candles (in various sizes), a throw pillow, a bamboo silk plant, my portable iPod player and iPod, a few of my best fluffy, white towels (rolled), and an extra towel to tack over the skylight to buffer the natural light.

I went to town setting the stage to allow for easy access from the tub while striving to keep a clean, crisp look. Elegant simplicity can be the most romantic. I opened (then gently re-corked) the wine and placed it in the bucket to chill. I placed the scallop shell and a couple votive candles next to it to reflect light off of the ice bucket...all set on the bamboo end table next to the tub. On the stool, located at the other end of the tub, I placed the rolled towels and the silk plant with the pillow and couple more candles at it's base on the floor. I tacked the extra towel over the skylight so the candlelight would be the most dominate. I ensured I had a lengthy, slow music mix on my iPod playlist to keep from having to change the music out one the relaxing began. I pre-lit all the candles to ensure the lighting was enough and placement was just right, then blew them out until it was "go" time. When I knew it was almost time for the surprise to be revealed, I filled the tub with tons of bubbles and the hottest water possible (to ensure it wouldn't cool too much, too soon).

To add to the tranquility of the evening, I pre-made dinner and left it in the crock pot to keep warm so after our spa experience dinner would be ready and waiting. It all went off without a hitch and we both reveled in the total relaxation we soaked up!

enjoy creating your own spa oasis....for FREE....next time you long for a romantic getaway!

-dw.

It's that time of year again....

2011-02-09T16:37:00.000-08:00

You know...that one particular holiday that is suppose to be all about love and romance, but usually ends up being about over-priced roses and long waits for restaurant seating.

I love Valentine's Day, I proudly admit that, but I do not love the over-hyped, over-priced pressures that have been put upon this day by the retail industry (candy, card, and jewelry sellers alike). Who would have thought that one little, non-federal holiday could create such high levels of stress and anxiety between couples everywhere?! But it does.

Women start daydreaming that this is the year their favorite, romantic movie scene will play out. Her prince charming will sweep her off her feet and fulfill her every fantasy. Okay, ladies.....it's time to WAKE UP! Even the most-romantic men rarely (if ever) show up with a white, horse-drawn carriage to whisk you away to a private, candle-lit restaurant, while a pianist plays and you sip wine and dance the night away (unless you're suddenly cast in As the World Turns.)

It's time to quit setting ourselves up for disappointment and it's time to let the men in our lives breathe a little easier. It's time we take a bit of the pressure and expectations off of this holiday.

After reading a Cosmo article featuring what men wanted us to know about Valentine's Day, I had an epiphany. The article quoted one man as saying he wanted his girlfriend to be honest about what she wanted from him this year. Previously she'd said she didn't need anything for V-Day, then when a co-worker received a larger bouquet of roses (36 to her 6), she got bent out of shape!

It got me thinking. Thinking about what I would say I wanted. But, what did I really want this year? I wasn't sure. I hadn't really thought about it until that moment.

Times are tougher for us this year and I don't want money spent simply out of obligation. I've had the "it" thing the jewelry store was promoting just because it's Valentine's Day. It isn't as special when women across America all get the identical necklace! Truly! What I really want is just a cozy, romantic evening. Something he puts his own thought and effort into. So, I headed home to tell him, straight-up, what I wanted this year.

I told him about the article I had read and about my thoughts that followed. Then I added a little twist. I said, "I want creativity, effort and romance. So, to ensure all of that, I'm setting a $20 expense cap on the evening!" He about fell out of his chair! Certainly a budget like that wouldn't allow fancy restaurants or elaborate floral arrangements. My thoughts exactly! He agreed and we decided he would take Sunday the 13th for his creative endeavour and I'd take Monday the 14th.

In the end we'll get two days of romance for a mere $40! It will take plenty of effort on both our parts to pull it off, but knowing we put aside the commercialism of the holiday to return to the true heart of the occasion will be priceless.

I'll report back on how Operation 20 turns out! ;)

enjoy your celebration of love, however you choose to spend it!

-dw.

Takin' a bit of southern goodness home with me...

2011-01-31T16:15:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Cracker Barrel restaurants! The problem is the "closest" one to me is in Boise, Idaho (which isn't at all close to where I live or travel to). Soooo, I decided to do a little digging and see if I could re-create some Cracker Barrel goodness after I return home from my southern vacation.

Jackpot! I found some copycat recipes at Recipe Lion!

While waiting in the gift store last weekend I spotted jars of their Fried Apples. They looked delish!!! I wanted to try them out at dessert time....but after eating dinner, I just didn't have room. I'm planning to indulge tomorrow night when I make my last (sniffle, sniffle) visit before heading back home.

They sell them online too, so if when I become addicted I can always have them delivered. Although shipping takes time...I may need to cook my own! If you want to start enjoying these asap as well, here is the copycat recipe compliments of Recipe Lion! Yea!

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Fried Apples
Cooking Time: 20 min

Ingredients

6 large tart green Granny Smith apples
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 cup bacon drippings
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
dash of nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt bacon drippings.
*Bacon drippings adds a crisp flavor to this copycat fried apple recipe.
2. Pour apples evenly into the skillet. Sprinkle with lemon juice, brown sugar and salt.
3. Cover and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, until apples are tender and juicy.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.

enjoy re-creating what you love in your own kitchen!
-dw.

Elegant Simplicity

2011-01-27T13:52:00.000-08:00

When decorating your home for the holidays, sometimes the simplest look is the most elegant (and romantic). Sure, big, glittery hearts have their place this time of year, but sometimes a more subtle decor option has the biggest effect.
This shelf vignette was posted by Jessica at Craftily Ever After and I love it! She designed the subway art herself and framed it. With the addition of a couple candles, candleholders, and flower balls, the look is complete.
Like most people, over the years I have acquired a ton of extra picture frames - in every size imaginable. Realizing nobody really needs that many frames, I was getting ready to donate a bunch to the Goodwill when I had an idea. I could keep just a few frames (for specific rooms/walls), and simply "swap out" the images each holiday making it seem as though I have a huge inventory of great seasonal artwork without having to take up priceless room in the garage!

enjoy the romance and elegance of simplicity.
-dw.

Embellishments Squared - Organizing the little stuff

2011-01-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

Every crafter is challenged with finding the best way to store their teeny-tiny embellishments or findings. There are soooooo many options out there (and believe me I have tried most of them), but this is by far my favorite.

I came across the idea rather by accident.... I was in a Tuesday Morning store when I spotted Crop in Style plastic containers at a price I couldn't pass up (the same price I paid as a retailer when I owned my store). My mom was going to be re-doing her stamp room and I thought they might came in handy so I bought all that the packages they had on the shelf. I gave some to my mom and stashed one box away for a future organization article and never really thought about them again. That is until I moved and was re-doing my own studio.

IKEA jars

I no longer had the cupboard with slide-out drawers that previously housed the majority of my IKEA jars and I was struggling to find somewhere to put them in the new, much smaller room. I wanted them all in one spot this time (a few had lined the edge of my desktop before), yet still within arms reach. I tried my desk drawers but, unfortunately, the IKEA jars didn't fit into the lower-profile drawers. Suddenly, I remembered having those plastic containers and a light bulb went off! They were more compact, and they were square so they would lie down without rolling around and I would be see the contents easily when they were on their sides! I opened the brand new box, tried them out for size and they fit perfectly! Jackpot!

Available at Michael's $9.99 a pack

As I began switching the contents from the old to the new containers I realized I didn't have near enough of them. I hoped I would be able to find more at my local Michael's store. When I got to the store, coupon in hand, I discovered a slight difference. They were no longer manufactured by Crop in Style, but rather Michael's themselves (price $9.99). They were exactly the same size so I grabbed one and vowed to buy one more each visit (so I could keep using the 40% off coupons) until my drawer was completely full. Happily, on my third visit I was able to buy the remaining packs for 50% off during their storage supply sale! Mission complete.

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Problem solved! 27 containers in all.

You may have noticed that all the embellishments I've stored in this system are primarily metallic. That is because I use floss boxes to store my colored embellishments by individual color. Check that out here.

enjoy the changes in life that that turn out to be so much better than the original!
-dw.

Firecracker Seafood Marinade

2011-01-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

We tried another new recipe from my collection....this time a marinade for salmon fillets.

I prefer my salmon simply barbequed with lemon, onion, garlic and mayo, but this was a nice variance from the everyday usual. While the recipe says to marinate for 4 hours (which I did for the salmon) I decided to add a pop of flavor to my jumbo prawns as well by giving them a "quick" coating before I sauteed them and they were delicious too.

Firecracker Salmon Marinade:

4 ounces salmon fillets
1/2 cup peanut oil
4 Tbsp soy sauce
4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
3 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp sesame seed oil

1/2 tsp salt
4 Tbsp green onions (substituted 1 Tbsp dried onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic, minced (substituted 2 tsp fresh chopped garlic)
2 tsp crushed red pepper (we used 3 tsp - we like extra heat)

Add all ingredients together in flat baking dish, add fish, and marinate for at least 4 hours.

Our score: 8

enjoying new approaches to family favorites.
-dw.

It's time to get serious!

2011-01-21T04:00:00.000-08:00

Like sooooo many others, I have battled with my weight on and off for years. I was down to a weight I was very happy with just a year and a half ago.....then *POOF* it all came back! Yikes! So this year along with the ten other Life Goals I have put on my list, I have set a very specific weight loss goal for 2011.
I need to lose weight for many reasons. First, and most importantly, for my health. Second, for my own happiness and third, because, darn it, I have some fabulous clothes that I really want to be able to wear again!
To help reach my goal, I've decided to (unofficially) go back on the Weight Watchers Points program. I've lost 25 lbs through the program in the past and know it well enough that it takes a lot of the "work" out of dieting for me. Not too mention that there are products readily available that include WW Points on the packaging and restaurants that include WW Points on their menus. For those that don't, you can find tons of calculation websites that will give you all the Point breakdowns for many of your favorite restaurants. Even Starbucks. But be warned.....it was a rather sad day in my life when I discovered that my most favorite hot cocoa in the entire world was 8 points!!!! I'm going to have to have the baristas help me find some ways to shave off some of calories/points as I cannot bear the thought of giving up this special treat for the rest of my life! Eliminating the whipped cream removes 2 points, but I've got to make it lower than that. I'll let you know when we get it mastered!

One restaurant whose menu is very WW friendly is Applebee's. They just added brand new menu options great for the WW dieting plan! Of course, they also have great regular items on the menu that work well too. Remember to think A la Carte! You can order a side of rice and a side of skewered prawns that is both filling and low in points!

enjoy what you eat while losing weight!
-dw.

How to WOW-Up your walls

2011-01-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

For the first time in my life I live in a rental home. And while most of the time it doesn't feel any differently than owning a home, there are some moments. With every nail hole I pound in the wall, I dread the day I have to putty them before we leave. And when the urge to add color to my walls strikes me, I realize they aren't really my walls.
Well, today I learned about a way to transform your walls in a completely safe and temporary way...by using liquid starch and fabric! It adheres beautifully and stays put until you're ready to remove it, then it peels away without any damage to the wall what-so-ever! Amazing!

I first heard about the idea while watching The Nate Berkus Show. Click here to watch the segment.

Matt and Shari have a great tutorial (and endurance testimonial) on their website too.

I can hardly wait to try this and I'm thinking there may be more than just walls to try this technique out on. Stay tuned!

enjoy recreating the look of your walls, permanently or temporarily.
-dw

Scrapbook Product News

2011-01-19T11:08:00.000-08:00

Tim Holtz's Ideaology line, along with 7gypsies, is for me what I covet most in the scrapbook embellishment world. I love the retro, urban chic look that somehow combines romantic nostalgia, wordly travel, and simplicity all at once. My mind races with ideas and projects every year when he unveils his new line. This year is no different. Here is a sneak peak and a link to his website where you can see even more from the new line.

enjoy all the new inspiration heading our way!

-dw.

A Fresh Start for the New Year!

2011-01-19T05:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Twenty-Eleven!

I want this new year to be a total success. I want this new year to be fabulous! So, to help make it happen, I decided to set some life goals......eleven of them to be precise. I'm not calling them New Year's resolutions because, well frankly, I never seem to take that term seriously enough. The list contains things that will improve my overall life and bring me greater joy, so I'm calling them Life Goals. It's like a one-year bucket list! While some will be easier to achieve than others, I am hoping a strong commitment and lots of determination will have me crossing each one off the list throughout the coming year.

I won't share the entire list right now, but I will share the one that has to do with blogging. One of the goals on the list is to reformulate the way I've been (or not been) blogging these past few years. I've sporadically shared all sorts of topics from the very personal moments in my life to new recipes, organizing, decorating and even sale announcements. But I feel like it's become to disjointed. So, while I do not have the technology-side of things worked out just yet (although I know it's possible), I have the details of what I want to accomplish all ironed out. Instead of writing in five or six different blogs (to cover all the things I want to talk about and share), I will dedicate one specific day of the week to each topic. In the end, I will have "category" buttons across the top of my page for quick access to the topic(s) readers care to follow along with.

The daily topics will be:

On the Menu - Monday (recipes, menu planning, and food and restaurant specials)

Oh, 2B Organized - Tuesday (craft room and home organization tips, examples, and storage solutions)

World of My Own - Wednesday (the personal side of life, MS, my goals, projects, and daily doings)

Thrifty Decor & More - Thursday (home decor ideas, re-purposing, thrifty finds, and what's hot)

Time to Get Fit - Friday (exercise, weight loss, diet and nutrition)

Writing five times a week will be a challenge for me, but it is officially on the goal list and I want to make it happen. I can't promise to be perfect and never miss a day, but I am renewed in my desire to write and share more in 2012. Okay, there's no turning back now....it's out there...in black and white...for everyone to see! Wish me luck! ;)

enjoy setting goals that make you push yourself!
-dw.

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

2010-12-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

It's so easy to transform your everyday decor into festive, holiday-scaped decor. And you can do it without breaking the bank!

* Slip holiday wrapping or scrapbook paper behind framed photos to create a quick, holiday-themed mat.

* Swap out everyday framed photos for pictures taken on previous holidays (with Santa, in front of last year's tree, etc.).

* Fill a basket with pinecones, fallen pine boughs, holly, etc. and for extra sparkle add a string of little white lights.

* Take down current wall art and replace with framed holiday prints (or old holiday cards, magazine photos, etc.) or wrap entire frame with holiday paper and ribbon to create a large package.

* Replace what's displayed on your plate holder with incoming holiday cards.

* Replace curtain tie backs with holiday ribbon.

enjoy the quick, easy ways you can add the holidays into your decor!

-dw.

Never a Christrmas Morning...

2010-12-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

I love family traditions.

I love that my family has eaten the same traditional breakfast dish every Christmas morning for my entire life. Every morning for generations, in fact. The task of creating this delicious dish being passed down like a torch of honor, each generation learning from the one before. It is impossible to spend time preparing it without reflecting on the times my great-grammy served it up for the entire family when I was a very little girl.

This meal is never taken for granted (as we do not cook it many other times of the year), it is highly craved and savored. It is, for me, the ultimate comfort food and as much a part of the holiday as Santa Claus, stockings, and Christmas trees.

It conjures up memories of childhood Christmases; my family gathered around the tree opening stockings, the smell wafting from the oven making our mouths water in anticipation. And each year as I prepare this dish, it my special moment of reflection; I can so clearly see images of my great-grammy working in her kitchen, her white hair perfectly styled, while wearing her cute, little holiday apron. In that moment I can feel her looking down from the heavens and smiling, so proud of us for carrying on this family tradition that holds so many wonderful memories for each of us.

In a world of uncertainty, I look forward to the few things we can count on staying the same year after year.

What is your most favored family tradition?

enjoy the memories traditions evoke in you.
-dw

A Penny Saved....

2010-11-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

The average woman spends 8 years shopping during her lifetime.

Most people when asked would say they prefer to save money while shopping, but admittedly most don't take the time to save as much as they could. For me, and countless others, discount shopping is like a sport. There are skills you need to have in order to be considered an MVP level player. In this game there are definite winners and, unfortunately, some paid-to-much losers.

Here are some tips to help make you a discount shopping MVP (Money Valuing Purchaser) this holiday season.....

1. Start gift shopping early.
Pay attention throughout the year to things people like and wish for, then when you you see that item go on sale, or receive a fabulous store coupon, you can get in there and scoop it up even if the event is weeks or months away. By allowing yourself a longer time span to shop, you increase your odds of finding the deep discounts that a small window of time seldom provides.

2. Seek out and USE retailer coupons.
Grocery stores aren't the only place accepting coupons these days, many retailers are using coupons to entice us into department stores as well. For example, the *much-loved* $10 off a $10 purchase coupon that I seem to get from JC Penney at least once a year. Anyone that can do basic math knows that equals FREE stuff! Retailers issue these coupons to get us into the shopping centers (usually during slower shopping seasons). They're betting if we come in to use the coupon (and you wouldn't believe how many people don't) we will spend much more than the small, token $10 promotional amount and they will be win. With me, however, it is a bet they usually lose. Because I begin my gift shopping early I am able to apply the "free money" toward a $10-12 gift item I've been watching for. I love crossing off an item on my list and placing a $2 or $3 paid amount next to it. I get the joy of giving more without spoiling my holiday budget!

If you have not been receiving these types of promotions, start paying attention when shopping in the stores you frequent, odds are they have a little sign by the register that tells you how to sign up for coupon mailings or texts. I prefer the text option (it's important to have unlimited texting on your phone plan) because I am rarely ever in a store without my phone, therefore, I always have the coupon with me (and the sign by the register serves as a great reminder to use it! )

3. Take advantage of online and socia media promotions.
It seems more and more everything we need is simply a "click" away on the internet...including coupons and savings opportunities! Social Media sources like Facebook have become amazing sales drivers. Manufacturers reach customers directly with their business "pages." By going to a company's page and clicking the "Like" button you are accepting future sales announcements and coupons streaming into your status updates page. Today, for example, if you go to Fisher Price Toys' page and hit "Like" you will see a link to save 20% off an entire online order with them. Other retailers offer printable coupons for in-store purchases as well as from their websites.

Not a fan of social media? Don't have an account? You don't have to miss out. Retailers (and sometimes even shopping malls as well) are happy to send the same information to you via your e-mail account. Simply sign up for e-mail promotions in their store or on their website and you will begin receiving coupons right away, usually beginning with a large, incentive discount as a "thank you" for signing up. Don't skip filling in your birthday when prompted, often little "gift savings" are sent when your big day rolls around! My favorite part about receiving email coupons is that they wait in your inbox until you need them (no clutter to control). Simply enter the company name in your account's search bar when you're ready and the email they sent will pop up.....no scrolling and scrolling trying to recall what day it was sent. Just print and go!

Another great resource on the computer is being able to get sale notifications in advance. By signing up at sites like BlackFridayAds.com you will be sent periodic updates on what will be on sale the day after Thanksgiving. By getting this valuable information ahead of time you can have your Day-After shopping strategies all mapped out long before the turkey is ever thawed....let alone eaten!

4. Don't be afraid of discount retailers and thrift stores.
Before heading to the mall, I always try and hit my favorite discount retailers first. Stores like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross and Tuesday Morning all offer great, name brand labels at a heavily discounted price. Gone are the days of these stores offering only out-of-date, damaged, or factory seconds merchandise, more often it is simply a case of overstock or larger volume purchasing. For example, I recently purchased a Nike baseball hat for only $8 at TJ Maxx when the cheapest comparable hat found in or around the mall was $20!

At the mere mention of thrift store gift shopping many begin to shutter. But did you know that Goodwill receives donations from Target stores? Brand new, in-the-box items that that didn't manage to get sold on the clearance rack. (Note: these items are not returnable at Target stores. Barcodes are black marked to prevent such fraud.) Thrift shopping is not the same today as it was in years past; stores are cleaner, items are more organized, and more and more retailers are donating new, unused items that they don't have space to clearance out themselves.

5. Watch for Bounce Back Promotions.
Many retailers offer Store Bucks or gift cards when you purchase a certain dollar amount or specific items. Plan in advance to only buy the minimum amount necessary the first trip and returning another day to get the balance of your items using the promotional dollars. Last year I saved a ton shopping for my two daughters on separate days...one's outfit was purchased on the gift card promotion day and the other's on a return visit using the bonus gift card I had earned. Taking advantage of store sales also in place, I saved a bundle overall! Stores offer these savings counting on the fact that shoppers, just wanting to get finished, will buy everything that first day. Pay close attention to the promotion's small print - some gift cards are not redeemable until after January 1...these are not as great of a deal, unless you get cash in your stocking on Christmas morning!

Other types of bounce back promotions are printed on your initial sales receipt in the form of coupons or survey discounts. Always ask to have your receipt handed to you rather than placed in the bag and take a moment to read it before stuffing it in to your pocket or purse. Free future spending money may just be included!

Enjoy the adventures of saving MORE money this holiday season.
-dw.

Restaurants giving back....

2010-11-08T23:00:00.000-08:00

If you are a Veteran or active military person you could be eating for FREE this Thursday (or other specified date) in observance of Veterans Day!

Here are just a few of the places giving back a little something for those of you who fight to preserve our freedom...

Click on the restaurant links to get more details about participating locations and specific dates and times.

Outback Steakhouse: Free Blooming Onion

Famous Dave's: Free meal from special menu.

Applebees: Free entree from special menu.

Chili's: Free meal from special menu.

Little Caesars Pizza: Free Crazy Bread at Bremerton, WA location
(Due to franchising, other locations may not be participating.)

Golden Corral: Free Buffet on 11/15.

Thank you all for the dedication you've displayed, the sacrifices you've made, and the freedom you've fought for. God Bless you and your families.

enjoy the gratitudes you so deeply deserve.
-dw

My favorite time of year!

2010-11-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

House decorated. Check.

Thanksgiving menu complete. Check.

Christmas shopping started. Check.

It's official....I've got Fall Fever!

When asked what holiday is my favorite, my response usually surprises people. It's Thanksgiving. While I completely LOVE Christmas, I find myself the most excited each year when Thanksgiving is on the horizon. I love the smells, foods and gratitude of the season. I love leaves and gourds and candles decorating my entire home. I love the calmness of the day even with the chaos in the kitchen. I love the turkey dinner. I love the dining room table filled to the brim with family and friends. I simply love everything about it!

Thanksgiving has not been tainted by over-commercialism. The only ads we see seem to highlight happy families gathered around a large dining table, ready to carve into a bit-too-perfect-looking turkey. I can deal with that. My turkey may not arrive at the table as the centerpiece, but it tastes awesome!

With Thanksgiving also comes the excitement of Christmas shopping...the Day-After Sales and now even the Weeks-Before Sales. I like that too. I'm an organized person by nature and that helps me to manage through the shopping season with ease. I write a list, check the ads, and watch for sales. I love the thrill of the hunt for that perfect gift at just the right price. That is my fall sport. Guys have football, I have gift shopping. I find by starting before Thanksgiving I can get great buys, avoid sold-out dilemmas, and beat the crowds. What more can one ask for?!

Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Get out your notepad, make those lists, and get started. It will ignite the holiday spirit within you too!

enjoy the holiday preparations.
-dw.

Feeling Lucky?

2010-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you like Lucky Charms cereal and are a movie buff, like myself, you are in for a BIG treat!

While shopping at Target yesterday I spotted Lucky Charms cereal on sale. We were out at home, so naturally I reached for a box. After noticing the promotion on the box, I grabbed three more! (It's okay, the expiration date isn't until 9/2011!)

General Mills is giving away a FREE movie ticket with the purchase of two (specially marked) boxes of Lucky Charms, Honey Nut Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, and Reese's Puffs cereals.
Target's price was $2.50 per box, so total cost of
2 boxes of cereal and 1 movie ticket (valued up to $12) = $5.00!
You don't have to be a math whiz to know THIS is a GREAT DEAL!
enjoy the movie!
-dw.

Ready, Set.....Let's Try Out Those Recipes!

2010-11-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

I confess......I have been a collector of recipes since I was in my late teens; and while I've always collected them, I haven't always cooked them! It's not that I haven't meant to, it's just another example of how time gets away from us. Like most women, I got busy with work and family and tended to just fall back on the quick, in-my-head favorites that I knew everyone (already) loved. Well now, with my children grown and gone and life slowing down for me a great deal, I've decided to break out the recipe files and start experimenting! It is my hope to try at least one new recipe each week (give or take). I'll promptly dispose of the recipes we do not enjoy, and share with you those we do!

Week One was a recipe I pulled from Taste of Home magazine and couldn't wait to try out! I love breakfast casseroles and was excited to try one with a different spin - a crust made up of hash browns! Mmmm....it was every bit as tasty as it looked! My rating: 9

Hash Brown Sausage Bake

Prep: 30 min. Bake: 40 min.

Ingredients:

1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes
1/3 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules
1 pound bulk pork sausage (we used Jimmy Dean)
1/3 cup chopped onion (we omitted)
1 cup (8 ounces) 4% cottage cheese (we used 2% instead)
3 eggs, lightly beaten
4 slices process American cheese, chopped (we used grated Colby Jack cheese instead)

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the (melted) butter, bouillon and hash browns. Press onto the bottom and up the sides of a greased 10-in. pie plate. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook sausage and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. In a large bowl, combine the sausage mixture, cottage cheese, eggs and cheese.

Pour into crust. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Yield: 6-8 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 piece) equals 338 calories, 23 g fat (11 g saturated fat), 134 mg cholesterol, 704 mg sodium, 18 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 13 g protein.

Okay, so it isn't the best thing for my diet, but it was sooooooo delicious! We can't wait to make it again!

One last confession......All the culinary credit goes to Bryan, as he prepared the entire meal! I only conferred on the recipe substitutions and did the shopping! What a deal, right?!

enjoy trying new things,
-dw.

Tip of the Day...

2010-10-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Did you know a dash of cinnamon could save your Jack-o-lantern from premature death?!

When you sprinkle carved pumpkins with ground cinnamon, a natural food preservative, it seals in the moisture and keeps the luminaries from having to be thrown away quite so soon. Be sure to sprinkle the cinnamon on all raw, exposed portions and when you light it up it will add a wonderful scent to the night as well!

Thanks to Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine for this awesome tip!

Click HERE for some free templates for carving your masterpiece this year!

enjoy!
-dw.

Think Outside the Scrapbook

2010-10-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

The great part about having my craft studio unpacked and organized again is that I can see what all I have. And believe me, after being in the papercrafting industry for over 15 years, I have more than I can probably ever use in my scrapbooks! That's why, when decorating for holidays around my house, I always turn to my scrapbook supplies first. There is a gold mine of great, seasonal goodies just waiting to be used and enjoyed.

For Halloween I wanted to send a little goodie-bag to my daughter who lives out of state. Nothing fancy, just a little sweet surprise to make her feel less far away. So I repurposed a gift box I'd been saving, added some raffia and a die cut (that has long since been discontinued). I hadn't found a use for it on my scrapbook page, but once I saw it in the drawer I knew it would make the perfect tag! I simply cut it in two pieces, punched a hole in the "new" piece and created a quick, cute gift tag. Total original cost .75, being able to use things I already owned...priceless!

Since I've never been one to decorate much for Halloween, I go right into fall/Thanksgiving decorating mode. I love the smell of pumpkin and cinnamon in the air and leaves and gourds everywhere around my home.

This year I decided to add a little flair to the photographs sitting on the bar next to the dining room table. To one, I added a simple little fall die cut on the outside of the glass, while the other I replaced the white mat around the photo with fall scrapbook paper. In a matter of seconds it looks as if I bought all new frames!

Then I took advantage of two FREE photo printing offers (Walgreen's 8x10 collage print and Walmart's 5x7 photo cards - after tax, total cost = .13!) I cut out the small collage pictures and placed them around one of my favorite decor items....a circular card/note holder. With the addition of a few quote die cuts in fall colors, it is now a Thanksgiving photo wreath! The only new purchase made for the entire bar top area, were the two candles.

enjoy bringing the colors of fall into your home!
-dw.

Quote of the Day...

2010-10-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more.
If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”

–Oprah Winfrey

Take II - Reorganizing Your Creative Space in a New Home.

2010-10-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Life changes. Sometimes in the blink of an eye when we least expect it, before we are even remotely ready for it. We are forced to adjust. And we do.

When I began moving out of our family home, I never imagined that I wouldn't single-handedly pack all of my own belongings. I never imagined the chaos that lay ahead. But the reality of the huge mound of boxes containing my life stacked on my new front porch was undeniable.

The most painful of all....the contents of my once organized and lovingly decorated craft studio, were now in complete disorder. The packing had been quick, careless and thoughtless. There was simpy no order or organization to anything. Where would I begin?

One box at a time, I unpacked the contents and assessed the damage and disarray. In tears, I re-organized, re-boxed and re-labeled everything from my studio and then put that part of my life on hold until I could find a more permanent home.

Finally the day came; after finding a new job and relocating to a new town, I found a rental house that felt perfect! There was a room on the lower level that, while quite a bit smaller than my original room, would serve as my new studio. I was excited to be able to once again put my room together and that part of my life back into place.

As I unpacked, the joy was overwhelming. I was giddy with the excitement of having my own special place to create in once again. Since I love organizing as much as I do scrapbooking, it was a win-win! The smaller space made it impossible to merely re-do the room I once had, but finding ways to adapt the old furniture and storage pieces quickly gave it a fresh, new look that I love just as much.

What once was a 9' stretch of deskspace now became an "L" shaped workspace and die cut center. A beloved shelving unit that was too tall for the new room was replaced with a ladder desk my roommate offered up. The mini-table that once (barely) served to hold my Cricket die cutting system was now efficiently filling the vacant space in the middle of the room. A place to store my albums underneath for easy access and fun embellishment and stamp storage on top. My favorite piece, the IKEA Exedit once again houses my paper and embellishment jars, as well as serving as the main focal point of the room. Closet doors were removed to open up the space and store the Iris carts full of tools and rubber stamps that had previously been housed behind-closed-doors in IKEA shelving units.

In the end, the room came together just as I wanted. Although a smaller space, it feels welcoming and inspiring. Truth be told...I have actually scrapbooked more in the new room than I ever did in the old one.

Sometimes when we least expect it, things work out for the best.

enjoy seeing your organizing options in a new way!

-dw.

Note: These pictures were taken before the room was entitrely completed. I am still working on getting all my Dymo labels on the drawers, paper holders, and boxes to replace the temporary Post-it labels.

A Party with (Re) Purpose!

2010-10-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Swap Parties? I hadn't, until watching The Nate Berkus Show last week. It is a fabulous, fun way of clearing out the stuff in your life you no longer want while shopping for new stuff at the same time...all without spending a dime!

Gather your friends together and have each bring an item (or two) that they love but no longer need/want. (You'd most likely want to declare a value range to keep things equitable.) When guests arrive, they simply trade in their treasures for "play" money; each guest receiving the same amount. Once everyone has had time to mingle and view the items, the fun begins. Open the bidding (auction style) and "sell" each item off. In the end, everyone leaves the party with their newly "purchased" treasure. How fun is that?!

To add even more fun to the party, pick a theme for the evening. My favorite idea showcased was the "Ex Swap." Each guest brings an item given to them by their ex-spouse! Is there a better way to get rid of jewelry you no longer want while being able to "buy" new pieces with fresh, fun memories attached to them?

I say, let the party begin!!!!

enjoy the fun ways you can purge your unwanted things!
-dw.

No Paint Brush Required

2010-08-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Art has always been something unlimited in its possiblitlities, but sometimes I am blown away by the ultra-creative, out-of-the-box thinking some artists become known for. Check out these portraits....

Can you guess what mediums the artists used?

If you guessed push-pins and Legos...you are correct!

From push pins to Post-it notes, Eric Daigh uses standard office products to create amazing artwork!

Eric gained notoriety after winning third place in the 2009 ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids, MI. He most recently created a mural using over 100,000 Post-it notes for 3M's 30th Anniversary.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eric-Daigh/157843491325

"The Johnsons" by Brian Korte 45 x 45 20,745
LEGO elements, 5 colors

"Willie" by Brian Korte 30" x 30" 9,220 LEGO parts, 5 colors.

And while Eric may have found his original inspiration in a childhood Lite Bright, another toy of our youth also continues to serve as a powerful art medium.

Many of us played with Legos as kids, but most of us never thought to create portraits with them. Brian Korte of Richmond, VA started Brickworkz to do just that! You can commission the company to create a portrait, logo, etc. all out of Legos! They will even let you follow your piece through its completion process with online photos and status updates. This company produces amazing pieces of art and does some great charity work as well!

enjoy the unlimited possibilities of your creativity!

-d.

Happy National Rootbeer Day!

2010-08-06T05:30:00.000-07:00

There is a National Rootbeer Day?! Who knew?

A&W knew, that's who! And to help us all celebrate, they are offering a FREE A&W Rootbeer Float with an order through August 21st!

Who doesn't remember the days when the servers would come out to your car, take your order, and then deliver the food, attaching it to your car window? I LOVED that! I do not know of any A&W's that still do it, but Burgermaster still has some locations that do! We owe it to our children to let them experience it at least once. Pretty soon it may be only a days-gone-by memory we reminesce about....like Drive-in movies!

enjoy today's sweet celebration!
-d.

Ready, Set....Create! Free Photobook from Picasso!

2010-08-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

If you've always wanted to try your hand at creating a photobook....now is the time! They are easy to do, have a classy, elegant look, and make EXCELLENT gifts (it's never too soon to start your holiday gift projects)!

For the month of August (expires 8/31/2010) Picaboo is giving us the chance to create a photobook and pay only for shipping! I've created these online photobooks in the past and love the way they turn out! They are so quick and yet look so professional! Simply use coupon code: FREEBK and get started creating your photobook today!

enjoy trying something new!
-d.

Feel like Stamping?

2010-07-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

All I can say is.....WOW!

It's not very often the scrapbooking industry can leave me with my jaw hanging open, but Teresa Collins did just that yesterday when she announced her newest product!

The Teresa Collins Stampmaker Machine!

We will be able to create stamps in the comfort of our own studios! How cool is that?!

You can read all about it HERE on her blog.

Enjoy discovering what's new in the papercrafting world again!

-d.

Where's the time gone...

2010-07-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

"Life was always a matter of waiting for the right moment to act." ~Paulo Coelho

I put writing in my blog on hiatus when my ex-husband decided to follow my posts, trying to find something to use against me in our divorce proceedings. While writing relaxes me and makes me happy, I decided I wasn't going to give him an open door back into my life.

Now, however, the divorce is over, the dust has settled, and I can once again speak freely. If he chooses to stalk my life through my blog, it will merely prove he is the one with deep, dysfunctional issues. For we all know he doesn't scrapbook, doesn't follow the latest decorating trends, doesn't worry about saving money, or have MS. So there is really nothing here for him. With that said....it's time for me to return to talking and sharing about all those things...as they do all fill my life and make me who I am.

In regards to scrapbooking:
After having the majority of my much-loved studio packed away in boxes for nearly a year and a half, I have been unpacking, re-decorating, and trying to decide how best to use the space I now have. I am fortunate enough to still have a dedicated room to play and create in, however, the size and layout are different enough that it is creating some obstacles. Creative thinking is always the answer and I have found some new options and benefits that I will share in later posts.

In regards to my move:
I am getting the retreat house ready to go on the market on spare weekends and am looking forward to some fun time there soon with out-of-town family before I completely close that chapter of my life. I found a great rental house that I love with plenty of backyard for the dog and entertaining. I bought some plants and flowers yesterday and am excited to bring to life a private, backyard beach area complete with fire pit and sand to dig my toes into! Life here is good! I am surrounded by water and am relishing in the tranquility of less traffic, incredible views, and enough shopping and entertainment options to keep me satisfied. While there is no PF Changs or Cinebarre here, I am only a short trip back when I feel the need. I am blessed with incredible friends and family that helped tremendously with the moving process and I am so thankful for each and every one of them!

In regards to life with MS:
I have good days and not-as-good of days, but with the divorce finally over I can move away from the constant stress in caused and look ahead to more peaceful days. Since heat, as well as stress, are two conditions I must avoid, I am fortunate to have an office with air conditioning during this sudden blast of summer in Seattle. We went from record lows to record highs in a matter of a week.
I was excited to participate in Seattle's Walk MS fundraiser earlier this year and, along with a fabulous crew of friends and family, raised over $1,000 for the MS Foundation! It was a truly incredible day for me. "I walk for...........my future."

In regards to the divorce:
They say, "What does not kill us makes us stronger." If only I could count the times I've had to tell myself that over the past year and a half! But it is true. After the endless lies (even under oath) and deception, why should it surprise me at all that the ex still won't follow court orders?! I thankfully believe in Karma and am comforted knowing his will come back around.
My advise to anyone whose marriage is ending....whatever you do, DON'T move out of the house! Apparently possession really it nine-tenths of the law. Items were awarded to him that I owned prior to even KNOWING him! Truly exasperating, but when it all comes down to it...stuff is just stuff. The things that matter most in life aren't the things, they're the people who love you. The ones whose shoulders were strong for you, the ones whose ears listened endlessly, and helped cheer you on when you thought you couldn't take it another day. The ones who stood by you, knowing your story was true, your heart was broken, and your world needed help to keep spinning. The ones that never turned away in the darkest moments, but brought light back into your world with their encouragement and laughter. The ones I am lucky enough to call my friends and my family. The many, many people I love so dearly.
While I walk away with so much less than I came with, I walk away with all that is most valued....My honor. I can live my life with my head held high, knowing when push came to shove, my moral compass never faltered. I am the person my family raised me to be. Win or lose, nobody anywhere can take that away from me.

"How you respond to the challenge in the second half will determine what you become after the game, whether you are a winner or a loser." ~Lou Holtz

So here's to looking ahead to the second half.......and coming out a winner!

Enjoy the view ahead,
-d.

Deals of the Day...

2010-02-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

There are lots of great bargains to be found out there this holiday weekend, and there is no better deal than FREE, right?! But hurry and check them out...some expire TONIGHT!

Walgreen's is repeating their FREE 8x10 collage print deal (Coupon code: VDAY), as well as offering a Friends and Family coupon for 15-20% savings! Expires: Friday, 2/12

For my collage, I selected pictures from an event I attended last summer and will cut them apart and add them into my scrapbook - because nobody said we have to LEAVE them in collage form! It's a great way to print out a bunch of pictures...all for FREE!

And for those of you who love Bebe...or believe you can never have too many tote bags...Bebe is offering a FREE tote bag to all their Facebook fans. Once you sign up to be a fan, go to Wall Photos and click on the tote picture and print it out!
Expires: Monday, 2/15

enjoy some great bargain shopping this weekend!
-d.

What's New in Scrapbooking - Part 2

2010-02-05T14:57:00.000-08:00

In the Tool category a few things caught my interest...

The i-Top tool isn't new, but Imaginisce has added some new things to "top!" Now you can top magnets (perfect for those adorable magnetic perpetual calendars), brads, buttons and badges.

And how many times have you poked your finger trying to set a brad? We Are Memory Keepers introduced the tool that will end that problem! I haven't tried it yet but am anxious to add it to my toolbox!

Fiskars introduced a new personal trimmer with a patented triple blade and rail system that interlock for straighter, more precise cuts. (Fingers crossed that we finally can get perfect cuts from a personal size trimmer!) I love my large Fiskars trimmer but have not had as much luck finding a travel-sized version that I feel as good about. Maybe this time....

In the oranizational category, only a couple items have caught my attention...

Simply Renee's new Clip It Up floor model. For those with little table or counter space (or just too much stuff - LOL) this is a fabulous solution! This model, retailing for $230, stands 6' tall and has three 15" arms (extra arms can be purchased separately as well). They work great for organizing quilt squares as well as scrapbook supplies and with the ability to adjust the distance between the arms it allows you to customize it to whatever you want it to hold!

This next new product has me re-thinking how I store my ribbon! Best (the people that bring you those fabulous drawer systems) has introduced not only a fabulous ribbon storage system (the containers fit neatly and compactly into drawers), but also a ribbon spooler! One of the reasons I quit storing my ribbon in neat little rolls was because I was spending WAY too much time rolling it! Now using a similiar concept as DMC thread users have been using for years, Best gives us a large enough version for ribbon! I love it!

Watch for my favorite paper lines released at CHA in Part 3 of What's New in Scrapbooking!

enjoy the newest tools of the trade!

-d.

What's New in Scrapbooking....Part 1

2010-02-02T09:05:00.000-08:00

As I've mentioned before, I am not a fan of the sugary-cute and whimsical that is so popular in the papercrafting world right now. That's not to say I never do layouts with bright colors or a touch of whimsy, it is just not my go-to style of choice. I am usually more drawn to the romantic and shabby-chic looks. I can't get enough of muted, distressed prints filled with swirls, crowns, and a hint of edginess. And lets not forget my long-time obsession with all that is damask!

So, with that in mind....I bring you *MY* top picks from the 2010 Winter CHA (Craft & Hobby Association) Show held last month. I am happy to report that I managed to find enough top picks to put a major dent in any scrapbooker's budget!

I'll begin with one of my all-time favorites.....7gypsies! They never disappoint me. I am bursting with excitement over their newest display offering: Letterblock Printer's Trays!!!!! In brown and yes, surely just for me, black too! I cannot wait to get my hands on this baby!
Quite some time ago after seeing Ali Edwards' wonderful display piece she created using an antique tray (right), I decided I just had to make one. However, first I had to find a tray; not such an easy (or affordable) acquisition in my area. But now, thanks to 7gypsies, my search is over!
They also released a great ephemera line called Ancienne (below), a paper line I loved, titled Avignon, and much, much more.

Since I started this review with one of my favorite companies, I'll follow it up with another favorite, Tim Holtz.
This year he has partnered with Sizzix to produce Alterations, "Tim's take on die cuts" and embossing. Coming in April, Texture Fades: texture plates in which the design fades out in places to create a more altered look. These plates will be deep enough to add texture to Tim's Grungeboard as many other things! Also an entire line of dies designed by Tim. Everything from file tabs for your mini albums to creative, album-cover edges! I love how this man's brain works! And last but not least, a new Alterat ions machine by Sizzix...coming in July. Not to mention additions to his Idea-ology line and incredible new stamp designs for Stamper's Anonymous.
These lines alone can cripple a crafting budget they are are so wonderful!

And now for a line a bit more on the romantic side....Shabby Green Door released a collection called On the Wings of a Dream. Stamps, papers and embellishments all sure to supply hours of inspiration. While I hadn't heard of this coming before, I became a quick fan!
My last pick for this posting (more picks tomorrow in Part 2) is a company that I grow to love more and more each year. They have taken the chipboard and mini-album markets by storm and, as always, their newest additions make me want to drop everything and create!
Maya Road has added some adorable chipboard theme sets: sewing, baking and whimsical banners (see, I told you I like some occasional whimsy!) along with their usual, incredibly wonderful chipboard mini-albums in shapes we all love...my favorites: the birdcage, baby onsie, and dress form! They have also released an awesome line of baubles to trim out our favorite altered projects as well as the most innovative product I've seen from this year's show so far...
Liquid Resist! Many of us have used templates and masks as a means to create designs with glimmer sprays, but this is the first I've seen a product that you "draw" on and simply peel off!

enjoy the bounty of new products heading our way!
-d.

Can't wait to try this!

2010-02-01T12:26:00.000-08:00

While visiting the Wilton site, to discover the awesome cupcake decorating I can do with my new 1M star tip, I found something very unexpected....an incredible sounding party recipe. Chicken Italiano appetizers! Don't they look incredible?! What do chicken appetizers have to do with a baking website? It was a Wilton blog entry on "other uses for muffin tins."

Chicken Italiano Appetizers

A flavorful sauté of chicken, Parmesan and vegetables, perfectly spiced and baked in a wonton cup.

Watch their online video HERE.

Ingredients:

18 wonton wrappers
1/2 cup red pepper finely chopped
1/2 cup green onion finely chopped
2 teaspoon olive oil
2 cups cooked chicken finely chopped
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/2 teaspoon oregano
salt and pepper to taste

I can't wait to try these out! I'll be sure and report back on how they turn out.

Shopping Note: After much searching, and a lot of misdirection by the staff, I located the wonton wrappers in the frozen section at our local Asian market.

enjoy the little things that make big differences!

-d.

What I learned today...

2010-01-29T11:11:00.000-08:00

Did you know there are many different varieties of garlic? I didn't. Until I read about a guy named Pete Rasmussen (Sandhill Farms: Eden, Utah) that grows and sells over 30 different types to customers like Whole Foods.
I also learned (at gourmetgarlicgardens.com) that many of our current varieties were not available here in the US until a little over twenty years ago. Many were grown in a military protected area of the Soviet Union and we were not allowed in to purchase them, that is until the Soviet Union was disintegrating in 1989. Once the ban was lifted, purchasers "went from village to village along old silk Road buying garlic from local markets and naming the cultivars after the town or village where they were purchased."
Want to learn more about garlic or just want to enjoy fabulous foods drenched in it? Check out the Annual Northwest Garlic Festival in Long Beach, WA June 19-20, 2010.

Necessity really is the mother of invention. Ever wish you had the perfect something to hold your camera so you could be in the picture? Don't want to spend a lot on a bulky tripod? Here's the solution...D ynomighty's Bottle Cap Tripod. Simply screw the tripod adapter onto your water or soda bottle (who doesn't usually have one of these around?) and attach your camera. Viola! Instant camera holder! It even pivots 15 degrees in any direction. What a cool idea! People's ingenuity and creativity never cease to amaze me!

A sad note...Heidi Grace is closing her adorable little shop, Clever, in Ruston, WA. But for a wonderful reason; she is pregnant with her third child. Congrats to her and her family!
If you hadn't had a chance to check her latest creations at her shop, you can still get in on the 50% off clearance sale (select Thursdays and Fridays in February) as well as continue shopping online. Best of luck and continued success to Heidi...I know she will do more great things! Her scrapbook line is currently being produced by Colorbok.

Funniest thing I read today:

"If Al Gore invented the internet, I invented spell check."
~ Dan Quayle

*Of course, I cannot verify Dan Quayle really made this quote, but I felt the chuckle was worth sharing either way.

enjoy the things you learn in each day,
-d.

I love cupcakes!

2010-01-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

I've always loved cupcakes! There is just something so cute about them. An individually decorated mini-cake that you get all to yourself? What's NOT to love?!

I couldn't wait to make some cupcakes this week and test out my new 1m star tip. Wow...what an incredible difference a tip can make! I love the look of the giant swirl on top. So yummy looking and so fun to do! Some people even questioned if they were store-bought! (The ultimate compliment!)

If you love cupcakes too, you might have to have this cool, new product....a collapsible cupcake carrier!

Being an organizer, I struggle with the standard cupcake carriers when I help people re-organize their kitchens. They are big and bulky and used only once in a while, but for many, an item they just can't live without. So here is a fantastic storage solution...a silicone version by Progressive International, that collapses to half of it's in-use size. I first saw this incredible idea on surlatable.com, but found it at asseenontvguys.com even cheaper....only $25.95! It's amazing what collapsible, silicone products can do for our biggest storage dilemmas!

I found another fun product while perusing the As Seen On TV Guys' website...a giant cupcake cake pan. I posted about a similar product last year by Wilton, but this silicone version is a great alternative at only $19.95! This is one cupcake you'll have to share!

One last product I have to share with you is one that I am eagerly waiting to try out...the food decorating pen by Cuisipro. For only $10 it is the perfect companion tool for any cake or cupcake decorator. You simply pull back on the plunger to fill and squeeze to decorate. It has two tips
(one for thin lines and one for thick), is dishwasher safe, and is easy enough for a child to use. I have a feeling I may need to own more than one! I'll report back after I try it myself, but the reviews I've read all gave it very high marks.

enjoy the great new products that make our life easier!
-d.

Say it isn't so.....

2010-01-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Forbes announced a new list of companies in dire financial struggles and while reading through it my heart sank. Eastman Kodak, Applebees, and US Airways were just a few of the companies named. While the appearance of US Airways name on the list was of little surprise to me (I still recall the horrible service we received back in 2007), I was very sad to see the other two there.

The digital photography craze has been difficult on a lot of companies close to my heart, but the camera industry probably most of all. It has been costly for them to make the transition from film to digital. And while I too have switched completely to digital photography, the past five digital cameras I've purchased have all been Kodak. What can I say, I'm sentimental that way.

As for Applebees financial struggles, I was a little more shocked. Their restaurants (at least in my area) always seem to be pretty busy. They say the financial shortfall is due in part to their slashed prices to draw customers in (it has worked on me). I can completely sympathize with that, but their idea to turn things around has me baffled. They now say they are looking at remodeling their restaurants in hopes of boosting patronage. How is that going to make me want to eat there? ...Enjoy their food more? ...Make dining out fit into my budget more often? The logic is completely lost on me. I do not decide where I want to eat by asking myself or my friends, "Who has the nicest looking restaurant?" That seems so absurd. I get the old adage, It takes money to make money, but in a time of financial struggle, heading to Pottery Barn to redecorate my office doesn't seem like the solution to getting more work!

But hey, that's just my opinion!

Other restaurants seem to be trying more creative solutions during these hard economic times. USA Today reported Burger King will try to increase sales in South Beach...by adding BEER to their menu at their Whopper Bars! They will make the addition in mid-February and may expand into other areas such as Vegas after that. Now the catch phrase is likely to become, "Would you like beer with that?"

enjoy the companies you love, and support them; don't assume they will always be there.
-d.

(Re)Decorating on a Dime!

2010-01-19T12:05:00.000-08:00

I have always been a fan of saving money. I learned early on if I was able to acquire that one coveted item at a deep discount, there would be money left over for other items on my wish list as well! After all, more is better, right?!

I diligently shop with coupons to stretch my food budget, I peruse TX Maxx, Marshalls, and Ross incessantly to stretch my clothing budget, and I constantly frequent thrift stores and dollar stores to stretch my decorating budget. And the truth is...nobody can ever tell the difference!

My mantra has always been: Why pay more if I don't HAVE to?!

Today I thought I would share a few quick decorating ideas using items that have been re-purposed, re-designed, or purchased at a re-ally incredible price!!

* Give a quick facelift to unused wall decor.

This piece (purchased years ago at Marshall's for $5) never really fit just right at this house, so it was in a box in the storage room. When I needed a little something to liven up the hearth for Valentine's Day, I grabbed an extra photo of my girls, cropped it to size, and using removable adhesive, covered the original Eiffel Tower picture, and placed it on an easel.

* Think beyond an items intended use.

I have always loved plate holders, although ironically, I have never had a desire to display plates. I found this one at a thrift store for under $2. It was already black and matched my decor perfectly. So I had to buy it! This past Christmas I decided it would make the perfect holder for my holiday cards. After the holiday was over, I removed the cards and replaced them with pictures (from an old Paris calendar) mounted on black cardstock. Now my "postcard" holder makes a beautiful addition to my Parisian-themed room.

* Decoration pieces can be used for more than one holiday.

I purchased these jumbo, black heart ornaments a couple of years ago at IKEA after Christmas for next to nothing (I think it was $1 for a set of 3) and this year decided they needed more pizazz. I broke out my silver metallic Sharpie marker and went to work. I used them on my Christmas tree and was happy with the way they turned out.

After Christmas, however, I couldn't see putting them away. I decided instead to place them in the top tier of the fruit stand with some red hearts (Dollar Tree) and now I have the perfect Valentine's Day decoration. Since my home decor all centers around black furniture and appliances, it was just right.

enjoy the ways you can give new life to old items around your home.
-d.

Going Bananas!

2010-01-15T00:36:00.000-08:00

Some time ago as I prepared for an upcoming trip, I bought a word game book called, Banana-Grams. If you know me, you know I LOVE word games. Scrabble, Bookworm, crosswords, anything with words and I'm in! So when I saw the book, I had to have it. I gave it a glance but really never got into it. I'll be honest, I didn't really get it. It was more than merely unscrambling words, it was banana boats, banana splits, banana shakes....etc. (That translates adding/changing letters to create new words, connecting words (like crosswords), turning one word into another word through a chain of letter changes....etc. The banana references were completely lost on me. I left it in my carry on bag and almost forgot about it. Then a friend starting mentioning a game by the same name. Odd, as she as referring to a table game played with tiles. Now, I was really confused. Then one day while waiting for a prescraiption at Walgreens, I noticed an end rack full of bananas. Well, not real bananas, but rather cloth bags in the shape and color of bananas. I stopped and caught a glimpse of the name on the side of the bag. BananaGrams. Price = $14.99. It seemed a bit much to pay for something I truly had no real knowledge of (and there was no help on the outer packaging to aid in figuring it out). But, I decided if it was a word game, surely I would enjoy it.

It was the best $15 investment I've made in ages!!!!

I LOVE it!

Two players (you can play with more, we just haven't yet) draw 21 tiles a piece. You then start creating words, connecting them to each other (like crosswords). Each time a player uses up all their letters each player draws another tile. First player to use all of their letters after the last tile is drawn from the bag WINS! It is like playing Scrabble without a board and zero wait time between turns! It is quick moving, easy to play, and very compact. If you haven't gotten in on the craze, I strongly suggest you try it! But I'm warning you....it's rather addicting!

And what about the book? It makes a LOT more sense to me now. I found it was more fun after playing the "real" game. So back in my travel bag it goes. Since the game version isn't ideal for airplanes....the book will make a nice travel edition!

enjoy trying new things!

-d.

Deals of the Day!

2010-01-14T10:40:00.000-08:00

There are two days left to get your FREE photo desk calendar at Clark Color! Simply use the promo code: RINGIN2010 and it your's for only shipping and handling...a better deal than $8.99 and free shipping in most cases! Gotta love all the free offers out there right now! You even get the choice of having the calendar start with any month you like....say February for a Valentine's Day gift? May for a Mother's Day gift? June for a Graduation gift? Once again, the possibilities are endless.

International Delight has an offer ending soon as well....Sign up to be a Fan on their Facebook site and then click on the Holiday Giveaway tab....they will send the first 100,000 fans who register a coupon for a FREE pint! How sweet is that!?

enjoy the FREE things life has to offer!

-d.

Deal of the Day....

2010-01-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

Walgreens (my personal favorite pharmacy) has a great TODAY ONLY deal going on!

To help promote collage prints they are offering a FREE 8x10 collage to their Facebook fans. Coupon code: FANFREE. Simply upload up to 20 photos, select collage, and it will arrange them for you. If you don't like the look, simply click "view options" and then "shuffle." I think I hit the button about 50 times before I settled on the layout I wanted. Then just tell them whaich store you'd like to pick it up at and...viola! So simple! I used the offer to compile a collection of flower/outdoor shots I have taken over the past few years. I love my new, little portfolio piece!

The ironic thing about this offer is this past Monday I spent quite some time creating a portfolio collage real similar to this one - manually. Creating the picture boxes, making sure they were all aligned evenly, cropping them to fit into one large box together......when I could have merely logged on to Walgreens.com and had it completed for me in a matter of minutes! Well, now I know!

What will you do with your collage print? It's perfect timing for a great (and very cost-effective) Valentine's Day gift or a 2009 year-in-review collage for either a scrapbook title page or a main picture for a quick and easy 2010 calendar. The ideas are endless. But this offer isn't....it ends tonight! Well, the FREE part anyway. It's available any day we like for only $3.99.

Thanks Walgreens!

enjoy the generosity of others.....then pay it forward!
-d.

It's THAT time of year again...

2010-01-11T08:29:00.001-08:00

Every year at this time - Craft & Hobby Assoc. Trade Show time - I get a little sad. It's like reverse home sickness. After spending YEARS attending and working this incredible show, where all the latest and greatest in the scrapbook industry are unveiled, I've been away from it now for about three years. And I miss it. Terribly. Yes, I came home exhausted and blistered each time, but it was WORTH it! Because each time, I also came home incredibly INSPIRED! Nothing turns on my creative energy more than being drenched in fresh new products and surrounded by other artsy souls. It is my heaven on earth. Aahhhhh.....

To help me survive my show withdrawls {thankfully} are the many sites that release "sneak peaks" of the newest products being released. I love that I can peruse pages and pages of what I would have seen and touched on the show floor (and certainly nothing beats that, but this is a nice back-up alternative).

With that said...I have a confession to make. This year I'm not quite as sad that I won't be there. I have not been jumping for joy at the lines being released this year. And let me be the first to say...I have NOT seen them all. But the industry seems to be leaning heaviest toward cartoony and flowery designs this year. And well, that just isn't my style. It is for some - and that is great - it's just not me. So I'm not finding tons of inspiration out there this year. Well, that was until I saw these......

Prima is releasing adhesive felt strips, reminding me of the Queen & Company rolls I LOVED. I can't wait to start adhering these to EVERYTHING!

And if that wasn't enough to make me start drooling...Donna Downey has designed some incredible jumbo, foam stamps! I can already see the layouts in my head. Inspiration achieved.

I'm sure there will be more great things to get me fired up, but for now...that's all I have on my shopping list. I'll let you know when I find more!

Since I mentioned Queen & Co.'s awesome felt borders, I thought I would share a couple ways I've used them. Most recently added to a candle to give it that romantic touch. My initial use of the border was for a bedroom mirror. I bordered the sides with the felt and used rub-on words to create a border along the top. Unfortunately, the mirror has since been broken and I do not have any photos of it after it was completed. This in-progress picture will inspire me to re-create it.......someday.

Enjoy the things that ignite your creative energy.
-d.

I could do that!

2010-01-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

I once saw a cute little phrase posted at a craft bazaar and it has always stayed with me....
"Of course you could make it yourself, but will you?!"

I often hear those words in my head as I gather inspiration from retail stores, decor catalogs, and websites. And truth be told, my collection of ideas FAR surpasses my list of completed copy-cat projects, but I find comfort in the belief that many will someday reach completion!

I get a LOT of decor catalogs delivered to me. I receive a TON of advertising e-mails. I do this so I can constantly be inspired. Many of my decorating successes are due largely to the creative sparks set off by advertisers. Among my favorite sources.....Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Ballard Designs.

I saw this adorable Valentine pillow from Ballard Designs (the one with the number 2 applique) and immediately thought, "I could make that!"

A pretty bold statement given that I am not a sewer! So, for myself and all the other sewing challenged artists out there, I also found this fabulous blog showing easy-to-follow instructions for making pillows!

enjoy the process of making it yourself!
-d.

I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon. ~Author Unknown

Give a Day....

2010-01-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

As if Disney wasn't already one of my all-time favorite companies...this year they are going above and beyond.

They are offering a free day at a Disney Park in trade for a day of volunteer service in your own community. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, simply click here. If you aren't planning a trip to California or Florida you can earn a day and then donate it to charity!

I've said it before; I'll say it again....Disney ROCKS!

enjoy the rewards of helping your community!
-d.

An "E" ticket trip down memory lane...

2010-01-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

For those of us in our forties, we remember a different kind of Disneyland than our younger friends. We remember the days of ride tickets instead of the modern day - pay once, ride all - concept (which I truly prefer). We didn't know it at the time, but the phrase "E - ticket ride" would transcend generations and become a true measure of ride worthiness for years to come. All because Disney decided to class their ticket coupon values with letters.

As Disney prepares to celebrate the 55th Birthday of Disneyland Park, they are unveiling some retro-styled souvenirs, including a memo pad sporting the old "E" ticket artwork! Oh, the memories.
It's hard to believe my first trip to Disneyland was over 30 years ago. Since then I have been to both Disneyland and Disney World more times than I can count. It never disappoints....the magic is always there for me. Like an old friend...always growing and evolving, yet still deep inside, always the same.

enjoy the e-ticket moments in your life!
-d.

New Year...New Word!

2010-01-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

2009 brought a lot of change to my life. Some loss. Some gain. Some scary things. Some sad things. And, yes, some happy things too. For me, it was a true celebration to see 2009 come to an end.

But now that 2009 is wrapped up and put away, it's time to focus on the year ahead! And you know what that means....
It's time to select a new Word of the Year.

For those of you not familiar with the word of the Year, here is an excerpt from last year's blog entry:
Every year I, along with millions of other scrapbookers, select a word to focus on throughout the coming year. A word that embodies how I feel, what my goals are, and what I strive to accomplish in my life. It is different for everyone. There really are no rules of selection other than it should motivate and inspire YOU. And like most goals, you are asked to write it down, keep it in sight, and weave it into your life throughout the months ahead.

I have a few words rattling around in my brain, but I haven't made a final decision yet. I have, however, stumbled on an incredible idea to keep our 2010 words in the forefront of our minds and daily living.

I wish I could say I thought of it, but I didn't. The credit goes to Pottery Barn's Clay Ide.He orders personalized doormats from Williams Sonoma and instead of using a last name, he personalizes it with a word of meaning. What better way to stay connected to this year's word than to see it every time you cross your threshold?!

enjoy the possibilities of a fresh, new year!
-d.

For more ideas on honoring your Word, read Ali Edwards' blog entry HERE.

I love July!

2009-07-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Could be because it starts with a holiday and ends with a birthday...could be all the summer sun we get...or maybe it's just because life seems to be moving in the right direction again finally!

I've found which way is up... And I won't quit climbing the mountain until I reach the top!

I'm settling into the house, getting out lots with friends and family, and feeling really good again!

I hope your July is filled with fun, sun, and good times too!

enjoy the journey.
-dw

My Time Away....

2009-04-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

I have all but disappeared from Blogging....sorry....due to many personal issues currently on my plate. My husband asked for a divorce ten days after Valentine's Day and two weeks later I was diagnosed with MS. I've been through a battery of tests to discover what is causing my months of dizziness and vertigo and it is taking a toll.
I am blessed with incredible friends that have rallied around me, providing the much needed strength and laughter I need in my life right now. For that, I will be forever grateful.
You can find me on Facebook (Deanna Wentz) until I have time to get back to blogging. I really do miss it and plan to be more diligent in the near future. I just have to figure out which way is up first.
enjoy every moment....
-d.

No Library Card or Cash Needed!

2009-02-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

In this economy, good deals seem to be getting easier and easier to find. But completely FREE?
That's not usually quite as easy! But Tow Books has done it....

John Warner, Chief Creative Czar of TOW Books announced, “We’re giving the books away for free. The problem with books isn’t that they cost too darn much, it’s that they cost anything at all. Thanks to file sharing, music doesn’t cost anything anymore. Why should books be any different? Why should someone pay 10 or 15 dollars for something they’re not sure is going to be any good?”

The giveaway includes dozens of copies of the actual physical books TOW has released, along with unlimited free electronic copies.

I chose, Everything Is Wrong With You: The Modern Woman's Guide to Finding Self-Confidence Through Self-Loathing
by Wendy Molyneux

Here is the description Tow Books offered....

While other self-help books might tell you that something is wrong with you, this book is here to tell you that everything is wrong with you. In your quest for perfection, are there things you've forgotten to worry about?

Like: Are your toes weird? I'm not saying they are, but are they?

What if you think you are thin, but you actually have a vision disorder that just makes you see yourself as thin when, in fact, you are totally not thin? Think about it!

What if whenever you go out of town your boyfriend has crazy orgies at your house? And what if all your best friends come to those orgies? Of course I can't prove it, but can you disprove it?

Remember, if you were OK, there wouldn't be so many books and magazines out there devoted to helping you get prettier and be more stylish. I mean, if you think that publishers are just in it for the money, then you definitely have trust issues! How can you solve them? Please purchase this book to find out. And maybe buy an extra copy in case you lose this one. And a third one in case you get mugged on your way home and the mugger demands three copies in exchange for your life. It happens all the time. On the other hand, you could just walk out of here without this book, thinking that you are great just the way you are … and arrive home to find that your husband has left you because of your weird toes.

Click here to see the available downloads.

enjoy the free laughs!
-d.

Word of the Year

2009-02-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

Every year I, along with millions of other scrapbookers, select a word to focus on throughout the coming year. A word that embodies how I feel, what my goals are, and what I strive to accomplish in my life. It is different for everyone. There really are no rules of selection other than it should motivate and inspire YOU. And like most goals, you are asked to write it down, keep it in sight, and weave it into your life throughout the months ahead.

This year I had completely forgotten to select my word until I received an e-mail from my local scrapbook store. Seems they were holding a contest. A contest all about our word. After choosing the word, customers were asked to put that word into an art form...a scrapbook page, wall hanging, etc...and bring it into the store where it would be voted by other customers. I read this e-mail at 11 o'clock on Friday night. The deadline was the following day.

This year's word came to me easily. I had a pretty rocky 2008 and over the past few years I had somehow allowed myself to move away from a lot of things that are important to me: friendships, faith, my health...the list goes on and on. This year my goal is to work harder on those things.

I want to Regain my focus. Refresh my friendships. Improve my health. Lift my faith. Re-ignite my passions. Strengthen my soul. I want to re-prioritize my life.

I want to RENEW all that is good and important to me. So, I decided to enter that contest at my local store. Something I haven't done in nearly 10 years! I rarely ever submit my work to any public forums except this blog. But this time I felt compelled by a force I haven't felt in YEARS! A passion not only re-ignited but on FIRE! I wanted to shout my word out and let everyone know...I'm back! So I stayed up till 1 am creating this wall hanging declaring my word for the world to see.

Now it's in your hands. The contest voting runs throughout the week so if you happen to be in the area of Lasting Memories, stop in and cast a vote! And vote honestly; don't just vote for who you know. There is a temporary position on the Design Team at stake for the winner so it needs to be an artist you find inspiring.

enjoy the challenge of breaking out and going for it!
-d.

Quote of the Day...

2009-02-01T23:45:00.000-08:00

I love this one so much I plan to add it as the tag line to my blog header...which I am recreating with the help of House of 3! Check out the website to see which three incredible scrapbook artists joined forces to bring us some fabulous new, gotta-have goodies!

Find the Joy in the Journey.

-Thomas S. Monson

enjoy all the new inspiration and products recently released at CHA!
-d.

How I welcomed in the Chinese New Year!

2009-01-27T11:28:00.000-08:00

Working for a publishing company specializing in educational materials for acupuncture clinics, you think I'd be an old pro at acupuncture treatments! But up until yesterday...I'd never even had one!
Desperate for a remedy to hours of dizziness, I made the call. I was a bit nervous to try it out, but also curious and excited to experience it first hand. Turning to a doctor I trusted completely (my boss) I knew I'd be in great hands.
It was not at all what I expected. The pokes were lighter than I had imagined and the peacefulness as I laid there was a welcome change. It was not painful in any way and I found it hard to believe that they even call what they use needles! They are so thin I could not even feel them being taken out. I only knew they were there by the slight feeling of pressure they produced.
So the question most have asked..."Did it work?" Yes, I am happy to report that it did. While I don't know exactly what was causing the dizziness (stress or ear issues most likely), I was happy to have the feeling alieviated.
I'm a believer!

Happy Chinese New Year!!!

enjoy discovering new ways to look at things,
-d.

A Day of Incredible New Beginings....

2009-01-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

All glory comes from daring to begin.
~Eugene F. Ware

On this day of incredible history, let us ALL dare to begin...

Let us lead with our hearts, surrender to our passion, and follow our own vision while respecting the passion and vision of others.
Let us speak wiser and listen closer.
Let us dream BIGGER and try harder!
Let us be what we seek to be...without limitation, without judgment, and without criticism.
Let us enable others with these same rights.
Let us not look at what makes us different, but rather what makes us the same.
Let us unite, grow stronger and be better.
Let us begin.

-enjoy the energy and unity in the air today. Let us carry it on to tomorrow.
-d.

Eat This...at Panda Express

2009-01-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

I love the Eat This, Not That books by David Zinczenko (Editor of Men's Health Magazine). I appreciate the help it gives me in knowing the best...and worst...menu items to order when eating out. Today I checked out my favorite shopping mall eatery, Panda Express.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that my choices here are usually pretty good. However, I was very dissapointed to learn that my side of steamed rice is a very high calorie choice. The side dish suggested is mixed veggies (90 calories), but with both main dishes already containing veggies, I will most likely pass.

One of my favorite dishes is listed as a calorie nightmare, but it certainly doesn't come as a shock. Orange Chicken, with all it's breading and deep frying, came in at a scale sinking 500 calories. (Note: It is the only item on their menu containing Trans Fat.)

My other two favorites, however, scored very well; Broccoli Beef and Mushroom Chicken together with mixed veggies total only 350 calories.

As for my usual side of steamed rice? At 380 calories alone, it is NOT a good option. I'll add on a bowl of Egg Flower soup instead (only 88 calories) and make it an even lower calorie meal overall!

Knowledge is Power.

enjoy the food even more knowing it's a good choice for you.

-d.

How a Visual Crafter Organizes

2009-01-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

How we create is key to how we organize!

While working on my book "Creative Spaces," I came to the realization that being a very visual person meant I had to organize more visually. Out of sight for me often meant out of thought. I had to find ways to put things "away" while still having them in front of me.

Now I prioritize what needs to be most visible by what I use the most and what I forget about the most.

I love stamps! To me they are little pieces of art in themselves, but I always forgot about them. They were neatly sorted by themes, in cute little drawers, behind cabinet doors. While the room looked crisp and clean with things behind doors, my pages were a little crisper as well....because they didn't have any embellishing! Now I store my most loved stamps in jars and see-through baskets, colanders....anything that keeps them in view. That is not to say as the stamps I will need to make the occasional "welcome baby" card are visible, just those that I know I will use most often. The rest are still neatly sorted by themes, in cute little drawers, behind cabinet doors. Easy to find when they're needed.

I am inspired by seeing my supplies. When I walk into my room and see all the stuff it just makes me want to create something. It stirs up ideas and motivates me. Why do we feel so inspired in a sb store? Because all of the products, colors and images inspire us!

I had a friend make a comment that really opened my eyes. While describing my room to another friend she said, "It's like a store; everything displayed in these cute, little jars!" She was right. I had created my own little "boutique." Putting everything out in the open so that when creating, I could simply peruse my shelves looking for that certain thing I needed. So instead of being called a visual organizer maybe I should use the term, boutique organizer...for those of us that keep that shopping feeling alive!

enjoy the style of organizing that works best for you!
-d.

Time Out for Movies

2009-01-04T07:06:00.000-08:00

Movies are a complete escape from real life for me. They are two, stress-free, self-indulged hours away from thinking about money, work, or relationships...well my own anyway. This holiday season with a Seattle snowstorm shutting down work days, garbage pick up and delivery services for over two weeks, there was a little more stress to be escaping from. So with gift cards and free passes in hand we set off to the movies on four different occasions! Here is what we saw:

Seven Pounds....

While this film was certainly the most anticipated for me, it seems to have all but dropped off the radar. I have yet to hear any post-release hype or big box-office revenue reports. Maybe having the plot kept so tight-lipped kept people away. That is a shame.

All they really revealed about this movie in trailers was that something has happened to this guy (Will Smith) and he sets out to better the lives of seven other people. How and why was a big secret that you could only discover by seeing the movie. Well, what he does for those seven people is incredible and you are left sitting in your seat as the credits roll wondering if you could be capable of such giving. I won't give away the secret but I will say it is huge! It is beyond a doubt a movie worth seeing!

Alert: Tissue will most likely be necessary

Marley & Me....

John Grogan's account of his life and times with a Labrador named Marley will make you laugh and remember that special pet in your life. My husband drug his feet at seeing this one as he deemed it a "kid movie." And while I wondered when the preview trailers were all for upcoming kid flicks, he was wrong. John and his wife Jen take us through many emotions as they face job changes, sacrifices and the introduction of kids into their lives. It drew close to home for me and I found the movie emotion beyond just the "dog" stuff. However with John's incredible sense of humor and Marley's continued mischief, laughter takes center stage throughout this film. Being a true story, however, they couldn't very well omit the sad moment at the end when John has to say goodbye to his canine companion. Over all, it leaves you wishing John worked for your local newspaper. I, for one, can't wait to read some of his columns.

Alert: If you've ever loved and lost a pet, tissue will be mandatory!

Grand Torino....

This was the surprise of the season for me. I like Clint Eastwood and usually never miss one of his films, but his performance in this movie is truly worthy of an Oscar! The message is so good on so many levels. It deals with racial prejudice, gang violence, and above all...taking a stand. It leaves you cheering when this old, Korean War veteran offers a hand to help out his Hmong neighbors. It moved me, it educated me, and it made me laugh. All the contents needed to make an incredible movie. We ended up seeing it twice and we didn't regret it.

Alert: Have a tissue on hand, just in case.

If you find yourself heading to the movies, there isn't one of these movies that isn't worth the admission price!

enjoy your two-hours of escape,

-d.

Wishing everyone a very, merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T07:09:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy lately that I haven't had much time to blog, but I didn't want to miss the chance to wish everyone a fabulous holiday season full of magical moments.

We have a snow on the ground, wonderful foods being prepared, and lots of family and friends coming over to celebrate with us this year....what more can I ask for?

Even in these hard times I feel so incredibly blessed. This year has brought its struggles and sadness, but it has also brought joy and laughter. Thanks to all of you who have been there for me. The gift of your love and friendship is the greatest gift of all.

God Bless!

enjoy the twinkle in the eyes of your loved ones while you make memories that will last a lifetime.

-d.

A Blast from the Past Returns!!!

2008-12-24T06:54:00.001-08:00

The place I celebrated my thirteenth birthday, and created tons of fabulous memories through my childhood, is coming back!!!

If a menu containing items called The Zoo or Pig Trough are familiar to you then you probably have guessed that I'm talking about the one and only, coolest ice cream parlour in the country.....Farrell's!Yes, after a long absence from our lives new owners are vowing to re-create the magic and start this fabulous restaurant chain back up! I don't know how long it will be before it resurfaces in Washington State, but seeing as Mr. Farrell (yes, the man who started it all back in Portland, OR years ago) lives here, I'd guess the odds are pretty good it won't be too long of a wait! YEA!!!!!!

Bring it on....I'm more than ready!

To keep up on the latest info go to: http://www.farrellsusa.com/ They are so cool they even have a Facebook page! It is a fun trip down memory lane looking at the old photos people are submitting!

enjoy the times when the hardest choice you have to make is which flavor candy cane stick you want to buy on your way out of Farrell's!

-d.

Scrapper's Christmas Poem

2008-12-23T10:58:00.000-08:00

This was posted to one of the scrap groups I belong to....not sure who to credit as the author (I'll keep checking).

Twas the night before Christmas, I'm glued to the tree.

I'm wondering what Santa brough just for me.

Could it be cardstock or chipboard or lace?

Or a Cricut, I said with a smile on my face.

And that's when I heard him..."Hi Santa," I said.

"You know, good little girls should be in their beds!"

"I know I should, Santa, and now I've been caught...

but I was so excited to see what you brought!"

"Well, let's take a look in this room where you work."

He shook his head quickly, and left with a jerk.

I heard him exclaim as he put it in gear...

"You've got enough crap! I'll see you next year!"

Geez, doesn't Santa get it?! there's no such thing as TOO MUCH scrapbooking stuff!!!!

Happy Holidays to all my scrapbookin' buddies!

enjoy this season of magical moments,

-d.

Thanksgiving Reflection -

2008-11-25T17:22:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life gets crazy and we get stressed out. Sometimes life throws so much at us, we wonder if we can possibly survive one more blow. I'm at that point. The point of wondering if I can take any more. I have had so many things hit me in the past couple weeks that I find myself physically in pain, sleepless, and crying at the drop of a hat. I know it is unhealthy and I want to rise above it all. One foot in front of the other; one day at a time. I survive with those thoughts carrying me along.

Then tonight I stumbled upon something I wrote last year following Christmas; a blog entry that was misfiled in a strange place on my computer. After a year, it suddenly popped up in front of me. It was like a message telling me to hang on longer, be stronger. A reminder that I'll make it through again this year just as I did last year as my Grandmother was placed in a memory care facility for her battle with Alzheimer's, while one of my children chose a dangerous path that worried me, and as I struggled to keep my head above the water financially and physically.

Here is what I wrote:If you believe..........sometimes magic happens!

"I had one of the most stressful pre-Christmas seasons ever this year. Between being sick for over a week and a half and having a lot of family things going on, I struggled to keep the holiday spirit alive in my house and had very little time to focus on holiday preparations. But through it all, my absolute LOVE of Christmas carried me through. One thing I held onto was the dream of a white Christmas. I haven't seen snow on Christmas since my girls were toddlers and I just felt I needed it this year. So I believed. I believed even thought the weatherman said it would rain. I believed even though everyone reminded me it hardly ever snows in Seattle on Christmas. I believed even when I woke up and it wasn't there. I believed and guess what....?! IT SNOWED!!!! We looked up as we were unwrapping gifts and saw that the rain was beginning to mix with snow. Then it turned all to snow. And it snowed for hours! And to me it was as though the Lord whispered into my ear, "Here you go. Thanks for believing and hanging in when the going got rough." In that second all the frustrations of the pre-holiday season washed away and my world was at total peace. My Christmas spirit bucket was once again overflowing with love, faith and joy. It was my favorite holiday gift and it didn't even require fancy wrapping or a bow!"

I had just been thinking about how much a white Christmas would mean to me this year the other day. I had completely forgotten that for a brief part of the day, we enjoyed one last year.

Funny how sometimes we forget in the midst of stress and frustration the simple joys that are bestowed upon us. Our gratitude slips away as we seek for help for new problems. So this Thanksgiving remember that even in times of adversity, there are many things to be thankful for. Moments that warmed our hearts. Small things that brought great joy. And people we are blessed to share our lives with.

I am thankful for many things, but mostly my family and friends who are there for me, supporting me and loving me unconditionally. And for a heart that can see goodness even during the storm, and for the faith that assures me I'll make it through one more time.

enjoy a holiday filled with reflections of all that you love and are thankful for.
God Bless.
-d.

A very sad heart....

2008-11-25T12:45:00.000-08:00

It is with great sadness and disappointment that I announce the closing of the Creative Outlet Retreat House.

Please go to: www.creative-outlet-retreats.com to learn more.

Thanks to all those who supported us in this dream!

Be true to the passions of your heart, and enjoy the moments while you have them.

-d.

Quote of the Day...

2008-11-25T07:51:00.000-08:00

So far I've done alright, God.

I haven't gossiped, haven't lost my temper,

haven't been greedy, grumpy,

nasty, selfish, or overindulgent.

I'm very happy about this.

But in a few minutes, Lord,

I'm going to get out of bed.

And from then on,

I'm going to need a lot more help.

-Author Unknown

The Election of a Lifetime!

2008-11-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

Wow...To be even a small part of this momentous election was incredible. Never have I felt stronger about voting (all though I do every election) than this year. I was asked why I was so worried about getting my ballot dropped off in time when Obama was solidly in the lead. I realized it was because we were on the brink of making history and I wanted my vote to be a part of it.

All my life I was taught to respect people as people. To judge them by the character they displayed. Not by their heritage, skin tone, or accent. A simple ruled it seemed to me, but as I grew up, I was shocked to discover that others weren't taught that lesson. Even today, in the year 2008, there are undeserving prejudices that still exist. And that continues to baffle me.

So, as I watch the announcement that our next president of the United States will be Barack Obama...I was moved. Not because a democrat was back in the oval office, but because America voted on principle instead of prejudice.

We voted for hope. We voted for change. We voted for a man that we believe in and a man that believes in us and what we can do for our country.

And that, more than anything else has in a long time, makes me proud to be an American.

"I'm asking you to believe. Not just in my ability to bring about real change...

I'm asking you to believe in yours."

-Barack Obama

Hope Won!

2008-11-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

We Need One Another Right Now

"I want this song to be a vehicle to bring Americans together as a whole, so that we can truly understand how much we need each other," said BeBe Winans (who co-wrote the song with Tyler Haynes and Ross Koper).

I love this song! Great message...great voices...great timing.

enjoy the music that stirs your soul.
-d.

What I've been doing while away...

2008-10-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

I thought with the end of summer, I would find myself more freed up for staying in touch. Boy, was I wrong! Life just keeps moving full steam ahead and time in the home office has been hard to get. So what has kept me so busy?

I have traveled to Florida and Colorado on business. Florida was so busy we barely had time to realize where we were, but we did manage to get a little pool time and a quick trip to Downtown Disney for dinner at Bongo's - the restaurant owned by Gloria Estefen - and I LOVED it! We ate outside on the deck as the sun set; both the food and the atmosphere were awesome!

For the Colorado trip, Roger was able to join us so I had much more fun (and a little more time off as well). Rog lived in CO for years so we visited where he grew up, went to school, etc. While we were there we also looked for Rog's biological son (now 19) that he had never been able to know. We found him, they talked, and now they are continuing getting to know each other. After nineteen long years Rog has been able to fill a huge void in his life. Could there be a better trip than that?!

And the newest thing on our plate....

Gracie. We adopted an 8-week old Dobie last week! She is bundle of energy and cuteness!

So between the Retreat House work, the book project, the Weimeraner pups, my day job and the traveling it requires, my family, and household duties, I now have a baby in the house again. Am I INSANE?!!!! No....but I am a bit tired.

enjoy the quiet moments of peace at the end of a frenzied day!

-d.

Ever have one of those days?!

2008-09-19T07:54:00.001-07:00

Most of us have; but thankfully we don't have video footage to prove it!

YEA...It's OK to Snack!!!

2008-09-18T06:07:00.001-07:00

I have been running on my vitual hamster wheel again lately...too bad it doesn't burn as many calories as my treadmill! Needless to say, I have not had a lot of spare time to blog this summer. I am working to get my schedule back in shape and resume on a regular basis, but for now I thought I would share a great weight loss article I discovered by Women's Health Magazine....

Drop 10 Pounds By Snacking

by Shelley Levitt

Snacking when you're trying to lose weight is like having premium cable on a budget: When it's time to cut back, they're the first things to go. But swearing off between-meal eats can actually have an adverse effect on your waistline: "Studies show that people who avoid eating between meals may end up consuming more calories overall," says WH weight-loss advisor Keri Glassman, R.D., author of The Snack Factor Diet. "When you're famished, your blood sugar is low and your defenses are down, so you don't necessarily make the best choices."

As a nation of snack addicts with no sign of reforming--according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002, women snack more than twice a day, at around 192 calories a pop--it's time to embrace our need to nibble. To snack without adding bulk to your backside, fill your cupboard with foods that have built-in willpower.

Here are three snacking strategies that come with a no-gorge guarantee:

Just add air!

Foods that are pumped full of air make your stomach feel inflated without giving you a beach-ball belly. In a study published last year in the journal Appetite, Barbara Rolls, Ph.D., author of The Volumetrics Eating Plan and the director of the Laboratory for the Study of Human Ingestive Behavior at Penn State, served visitors to her lab either crunchy cheese snacks or more aerated puffy cheese snacks. Those munching the puffier snacks consumed nearly 75 percent more by volume, but they took in 20 percent fewer calories. "When something is full of air, an equal amount looks bigger, so people tend to take in fewer calories," Rolls says. If you nosh on air-puffed snacks, you'll be able to eat more without your gut suffering the consequences--and you can stretch your snack over an entire episode of Mad Men instead of blowing it all in the first commercial break.

Scarf this:

Potato, corn, and rice chips with 20 percent fewer calories than traditional chips 120 calories per ounce

Cheetos Natural White Cheddar Puffs 150 calories per ounce

Quaker Caramel Corn Quakes Rice snacks 60 calories for 7 cakes

Think thick!

As far as your muffin top is concerned, all calories are created equal. But your brain plays favorites. "Liquids don't seem to trigger the same response in metabolism and hunger suppression that solids do," says Susan Swithers, Ph.D., of Purdue University's Ingestive Behavior Research Center. "You're consuming calories, but your brain doesn't really register them, so you still feel hungry and can overeat without realizing it." The good news: Experts speculate that thicker liquids, such as smoothies, are recognized as food by your brain's appetite center, so they can help you get to that couldn't-eat-another-bite feeling. Dutch researchers backed up the idea with a study published this year in the International Journal of Obesity. After offering unlimited amounts of chocolate in three forms--milk, custard, and a beverage with a consistency between the two--they found (in addition to, we bet, a lot of eager volunteers) that those who had the chocolate milk consumed 30 percent more calories than those who ate the pudding. The mid-consistency mixture fared somewhere in the middle.

Scarf this:

Jell-O sugar-free pudding cups dark chocolate and raspberry 60 calories per 3.75 oz

Mott's Plus Sauce cups pomegranate 50 calories per 3.9 oz

Dannon Light & Fit 0% Plus, vanilla flavor50 calories per 4 oz

Spice it up!

Spices have a good track record as a weight-loss tool. One study showed that spiking soup with a big dose of red pepper led to consuming fewer calories in subsequent meals. Not only does the hot sensation slow you down, pepper may cause thermogenesis (your body literally heats up, burning a few extra calories in the process). Another reason to kick it up a notch: Food scientists in Taiwan report that capsaicin, the compound that gives red pepper its pow, may prove lethal to fat cells, killing them before they can fully form. There's common sense as well as science at work here, says Judith S. Stern, Sc.D., a professor of nutrition and internal medicine at the University of California, Davis. "You simply can't eat spicy cuisine quickly."

Scarf this-

Trader Joe's wasabi peas 120 calories per 1/4 cup

Applegate Farms Natural Joy Sticks 100 calories per stick

A bell pepper cut into quarters and topped with spicy Pace Thick & Chunky Salsa 15 calories Whole jalapeños stuffed w/garden vegetable Philadelphia 1/3 Less Fat Cream Cheese 74 calories

enjoy snacking...on better things!

-d.

2008-09-16T06:45:00.000-07:00

You may recall an entry I did some time ago when I discovered the book, Eat This, Not That. It is an incredible book that helps you learn which restaurant foods are better for you and which will sabotage your weight loss faster than you can say, "drive-thru!" It was put together by David Zinczenko, editor of Men's Health Magazine, and now there is a sequel out focusing on kids' foods.

I recently signed up for his e-mail newsletter so I could continue reading his great facts about restaurant foods. (I eat out way more than I should with my schedule, so I need to stay informed!)

Check out this article from his site:
16 Secrets the Restaurant Industry Doesn't Want You to Know

...and his appearance on the Ellen show:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1600119196/bctid1606785709

It's okay to eat out...just get the facts first!

enjoy your next fast food meal with less guilt!
-d.

Gold Star Marketing

2008-08-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

While I was in Las Vegas we made a trip to the outlet center and one of the stores we shopped in was Dress Barn. While waiting in line I couldn't help but notice their new, very cool marketing campaign. Very clean visually, and very inspiring. I remember thinking that it seemed rather "scrapbooky" and by that I mean that the elements would go nicely into a scrapbook layout. I took a mental note that I should check out their website upon returning home. Well, time slipped by and I completely forgot about Dress Barn and their inspiring ads....until today. I was catching up on a friend's blog and read a inspirational piece that was taken from a Dress Barn ad. Here is that piece:

Let yourself do something for others today.
Let yourself laugh.
Let yourself make funny faces.
Let yourself eat too much chocolate.
Let yourself meet someone smarter than you.
Let yourself be.
Let yourself entertain new possibilities.
Let yourself listen more.
Let yourself discover a new friend.
Let yourself whet new appetites.
Let yourself open up.
Let yourself think young.
Let yourself pass it along.
Let yourself be dramatic.
Let yourself experiment.
Let yourself twirl.
Let yourself cook up something new.
Let yourself spill the sprinkles.
Let yourself help others.
Let yourself be stirred.
Let yourself shine.

enjoy the endless possiblities you can allow yourself!
-d.

Rain, Rain Go AWAY...

2008-08-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

I can handle a little rain, but in the middle of AUGUST!? Come on!

I guess it's our own fault; everybody I knew was complaining about the heat! (We Seattlites don't take the extreme heat too well!) From 92 degrees and sunny to gray and rainy is a bit too much change in 24 hours though. The lawns and flowers have all been watered now, so it's time to come on back Mr. Sunshine!

We now return you to your regularly messed up traffic.....Ugh.

Why is it for a town that is "known" for its constant rain...nobody has YET to figure out how to drive in it?! Just curious...

enjoy the sunshine while you've got it,

-d.

Quote of the Day...

2008-08-15T20:09:00.000-07:00

"Creativity

is allowing yourself

to make mistakes.
Art

is knowing which

ones to keep."

—Scott Adams

Look who wised up!

2008-08-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

I was shocked this morning to see this...

in my Michael's promo e-mail that I get and, honestly, seldom read. (*So it may not be brand NEW news to everyone else, but it knocked me off my chair a bit!)

Finally, a huge chain-store that realizes that papercrafters want high quality - over cheesy, low-priced - cardstock! I am curious to find out what the price point is!? There must be a few nervous local scrapbooks stores out there right now, as Bazzill has been a huge draw for them. I'm betting this was brought on by the failure/closure of the Recollections stores (Michael's version of a "local" scrapbook stores).

Hmmmm...interesting. And might I say, a much better idea than an entire wall of Martha supplies (sorry all you Martha lovers...I just never bought into her over-sized and over-priced line.) Only time will tell.....

UPDATE: You know I had to do it! I went and checked out Michael's today. The Bazzill paper sells for .69 a sheet. Are they out of their MINDS?!!! Even at 20% off it is .05 MORE than the local sb store! And I have to say, much to my amazement, they STILL have a complete wall dedicated to Miss Martha. Go figure. I was pleasantly surprised by one thing...they had a printed paper special running 4/$1.00 and one of my faves My Mind's Eye - Bohemia line was included! I usually pay $1.00 per sheet for it so I was overjoyed that my 16 sheets rang up to a mere $4.00!!!! All in all...it was a good thing.

enjoy the new selection,

-d.

Who doesn't love a drink umbrella?

2008-08-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Make your own cute, little drink umbrellas this summer!
Source: Martha Stewart's Living- A soup can makes a handy template for paper umbrella tops.
- Cut paper with pinking shears or scallop scissors for a decorative edge.
- From each circle, remove a pie-slice shape measuring about 1/8 of the circumference.
- Fashion into a cone, slightly overlapping straight ends.
- Use a glue stick or double-sided tape to secure.
- Dab white craft glue inside nose of cone, and pierce tip with a wooden skewer (snip skewer for a custom fit).
- Allow to dry.
- Place in drinks and enjoy!! enjoy the party!

-d.

Photo credit: Martha Stewart's Living

Turn Kids' Artwork into Cards

2008-08-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a great summer project to do with the kids while they are home this summer! I spotted this idea while surfing the web (Creative Chicks at Play - a fabulous blog!) and I love it for a couple reasons...* It helps stay organized and clutter-free by putting the piles of children's artwork to use instead of hoarding it all in boxes forever or even worse...tossing it in the garbage. Now it can have a second life and bring joy to others. (Especially cool for notes to far-away family - also helps revive the quickly-fading tradition of handwritten notes.)

* The pride and self-esteem your child will have when you tell them you would like their artwork on your cards is priceless! And they can help with or do the project themselves to stay busy this summer!

* It's a quick and easy project with very little clean-up involved - because the messiest part of the artwork was done previously!

I only wish I had seen this idea years ago!

enjoy the projects that you can do with your kids,

-d.

Photo Credit: Creative Chicks at Play

Not enough to do this summer?

2008-08-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

Is that even remotely possible? Not for us. Like every summer we are busy, busy, busy. July was mostly work-busy, but I am happy to say the past couple weeks have been more play-busy (my favorite kind!!!)

This past weekend was Seattle's Seafair Cup (hydroplane races) so we spent two days out on Lake Washington in our boat. Two of Rog's old school buddies (from OR and CO) even made it up to join in the fun! We enjoyed a nice dinner out at McCormick's and Schmick's on Lake Union Saturday night and the bone-in rib steak was pure heaven! The steamed clams were also delish and now I am totally motivated to go dig some ourselves (add that to the calendar)!

Speaking of the calendar...While reading through my in-box this morning and reading about the recent DSP/Adobe Laptop crop in CA, I was presented with another awesome idea to add to it!

A Photo Walk.

You simply gather together a group of photography buffs (aren't most all scrapbookers photography buffs?), make a plan (select the path/destination, search out unique vantage points, print out a few "cool" shot ideas for the camera crew to keep in mind), and ENJOY a day out and get some spectacular pictures!

I can't wait to do this! Seattle offers some wonderful shots...downtown, Farmers' Market, the surrounding mountains, the lakes, the Puget Sound waterfront...we are very fortunate to have endless photo opportunities!

Here are a couple creative picture ideas I saw done by the DSP/Adobe gals...

* Gather the group in front of a store window and instead of window shopping, take advantage of the reflection and do some window snapping! It made a really cute group photo!

* Take note of the shadows that lay before you. Snap a shot of your own shadow on the sidewalk. It makes a fun, funky photo.

* Do a little research/web surfing to discover out-of-the-way vantage points and unique views to inspire even the most seasoned photographers. Think outside the box a little. It's time to see your city from a new angle!

* Seek out locations that will present opportunities for some interactive shots. Statues to pose with, hat stores that let you model the wares, interactive fountains, etc...

So watch out calendar, a sunny, fall day next month will be deemed Fall Photo Walk 2008. Anybody local want to join me?! I'm already mapping out the course!

If you're not local and decide to put together a Photo Walk in your hometown, come back and share a link to your pictures so we can all share in the fun!

enjoy the fun opportunities that you are presented with each day!
-d.

Quote of the Day...

2008-08-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

" There are two things to aim at in life:

first, to get what you want;

and after that, to enjoy it.

Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second."

— Logan Pearsall Smith

Another Year Older...

2008-07-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

"You don't get
older,
you get better."

-Shirley Bassey

I like to think the words above are true and that with each passing year we not only grow older, but become better people as well.

Our life experiences teaching us throughout the years and molding us into the people we are.

I celebrated my 43rd birthday yesterday...well, I've actually been celebrating for a couple weeks now! Girls' weekend in Vegas was a joint birthday celebration for my cousin and I, Rog and I met up with friends last weekend to celebrate together, and we went out to dinner with the family yesterday. I love making birthdays last longer than a day! Although all those opportunities to eat cake have seriously unraveled the diet program. Luckily, the memories will far outlast the calories!

This is HUGE!!!!

2008-07-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

CHA Moves Summer Show

The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) announced it is moving its summer show to Orlando July 28-30, 2009, followed by the first-ever CHA Consumer Show July 31-August 1, 2009. Details are not yet finalized, but CHA is hosting conference calls to answer questions and listen to suggestions and ideas.

Source: Bill Gardner July 23, 2008 Craftrends Magazine

For those not in the industry and don't follow the trade show hype, CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) holds two large trade shows every year where craft supply manufacturers display there newest and upcoming products. Store buyers from all over the world attend these shows to place orders to bring us all the cool, new stuff.

This summer show has been held in Rosemont, IL (45-minutes outside Chicago) for as long back as I can recall. While I always LOVE attending trade shows, I really disliked this particular venue location. It was downright miserable. The weather was always hot and sticky, we weren't close enough to Chicago to zip downtown for dinner and see the sites, and the prices around the convention center were horribly marked up. I used to refer to it as "being trapped in convention hell." So the news of CHA moving this show to Orlando is soooo exciting! I am downright giddy!!!And then to announce they're hosting a consumer show on top of that...just days after my birthday?! Holy craftroom, Batman...Sign me UP!!!

enjoy the changes in life that makes you giddy!

-d.

6 Quirky things About ME!

2008-07-24T12:01:00.001-07:00

When my friend Nicole tagged us all to list 6 quirky things about ourselves, I thought, yeah I can do that! But then, as I started listing my quirks, I realized rather quickly stopping at 6 may prove difficult. Apparently, I'm pretty darn quirky! I know, I know...YOU already KNEW that, and I guess deep down I did too, but this really cemented the fact for me.

So here are the top 6....

1. I'm a hair twirler. I have tried and tried to break the habit, but the only thing that stops me is having short hair. For seven years I kept my hair short and my habit (fairly) under control, but as soon as my hair once again reached my shoulders, my twirling picked up where it had left off years before. Oh well, I'm sure there are worse habits to have. Right?!

2. I cannot listen to "crinkle" noises. Rustling popcorn bags in movie theaters, chip bags at snack time, shopping bags in the mall...they all drive me over the edge. I'm not certain why, but the noise seems to amplify in my ears and it is more than I can bear. So my kids know if you want to eat chips at our house...you'd better find a bowl!

3. I do not eat m&m's out of their bag (probably due to quirk #2) so when they aren't easily accessible in a candy dish, I pour them out on the table, desk, etc. and begin organizing them by color. There is a certain unconcious order in which I eat them as well. They are lined up in rainbow order, then all rows are brought to equal lengths, before I begin picking them off color by color. I never realized I had this quirk until years ago a co-worker pointed it out to me by asking me why I did it. I didn't know then, and I'm not sure today! But last week (while totally cheating on my diet) I realized I was doing it and snapped this picture. Who knew I'd be asked only days later to list my quirks! LOL!

4. I might be considered a compulsive organizer. That is not to say that everything in my house is clean and organized at all times...it isn't. But when I do organize I tend to be what some say is a little over-the-top. The shirts in my closet are all hung in color order on matching colored hangers (white shirts have white hangers, black shirts have black, etc.). All the foods in our pantry face "label forward" and are always placed in neat, straight lines. I spend more time organizing my scrapbook supplies than I do actually scrapbooking. My books are categorized in different bookshelves around the house by category (bibliographies here, novels there, etc.).

5. I love to wrap gifts, but admit I'm a bit picky about how it's done! I have to crease all the edges after wrapping so that the gift has a very crisp look. And at Christmas time I have to use real ribbon for bows.

6. Like Nicole, I believe cake and ice cream should never be allowed to share a plate. I love both things, but HAVE to eat them separately! I hate wet, soggy cake...ugh! I also order my strawberry Belgium waffles with the berries on the side so as not to have a mushy, juice drenched waffle. I almost always prefer my toppings on the side...even salad dressings! I guess I'm more of a "dunker."

2008-07-17T06:07:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed (or maybe not) that I disappeared for a bit. Seems in summer all bloggers fall off the radar a little, and I am no exception.I got busy, my diet (aka: healthy living plan) was in ruins, and I just needed some time off. I am happy to report: I'm back, my diet is *getting* back on track, and a little R&R in Las Vegas with the girls gave me some much needed down-time!

Like most gals alone in Sin City without spouses for four days...we stayed up way too late, drank way beyond moderation, and lounged by the pool a little longer than we should have. But we had a fabulous time and I am now sporting the best tan I've had in over ten years!!! And after all was said and done I was only down $55 in gambling expenses (thanks to a turn of luck on the last evening!). Heck, I spent more than that on cocktails!
We saw Jersey Boys (LOVED IT!!!), ate at Margaritaville, scoped out the beautiful, new Palazzo Hotel & Casino, experienced habenaro chile dip (I barely survived!), went downtown and watched the Fremont light show, shopped at the outlet mall, walked until I had blisters, and (as noted earlier) drank and ate way beyond my allowed caloric intake!!! But I had a BLAST!!!

I gained 5 pounds in Vegas!!!!! Luckily, I have gotten all but one pound back off, but still have three to go to get back to my former diet success status. It is amazing how letting go of the Points/calorie counting, even for a short time, really makes a difference!

But dieting in Las Vegas is against the law, I think! Isn't it?! Well, It SHOULD be!

enjoy getting away and letting go of all rules!

-d.

Something New in Stamping....

2008-07-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

People's genius never ceases to amaze me. I love people who take their ideas and put them into action, especially when it is a cool thing for the crafters of the world!
Unity Stamp company developed a new kind of rubber stamp system. It has the advantage of unmounted storability, without the hassle of not having the image pictured on the opposing side for easy use like we get with wood-mounted. Check it out...

I can't wait to get my hands on these!!! Maybe she's looking for more designers and I can finally launch the images I've had tucked away forever?! One just never knows....

enjoy the new products that are getting you excited to craft again!
-d.

Quote of the Day...

2008-07-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

"The grand essentials of happiness are:
something to do,
something to love,
and something to hope for. "

— Allan K. Chalmers

CHA New Products Preview...Part 2

2008-07-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Creative Imaginations.....They always have a ton of new stuff to release, but this year they seem to be all about school days and Halloween.

My Minds Eye.....A favorite of mine for some time now, they are releasing 6 new lines!

Luxe.....

Dream Street Designs.....Here are just a few of their newest lines created by my favorite Dream Street designers!

Tinkering Ink.....A unique look for a holiday line.
American Crafts.....As always they are releasing a TON of stuff. Check out their new cardstock line and the cool boxes they come in for easy storage and transporting!

Pink Paisley.....You all know I'm a sucker for new rub-ons!!!

Rusty Pickle.....RP's is rockin' now! I love this line! Great for concerts, boys and my 80's youth!

Technique Tuesday.....These new stamps are adorable, but then not much of what these gals produce isn't!!!

Bo Bunny.....I love this soft yet edgy holiday line!

CHA New Products Preview...

2008-07-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again! Scrapbook store owners will be heading off to Chicago to see and order all the cool, new product releases! So until the products arrive and the shelves are stocked full, here is a sampling to tide you over.
Birds and trees are apparently still the rave (?), as well as urban bold. Girly bling is still hot with the damask, lacy look I currently love! There are still some companies dabbling in traditional and cutsie as well, so don't fear if bold and bling aren't your style. There is plenty of variety for everyone!
Here is part 1 of my CHA Summer '08 Preview:

Teresa Collins.....She is my hands-down favorite designer these days. I love (and own most of) her entire Travelouge line and these new editions are just as awesome!
Tim Holtz......Everybody knows I'm a sucker for just about anything he puts his name on. I just love his grungy, altered, no-rules style!

Heidi Swapp......Typical Heidi designs that I always love!

Webster's Pages.....The Inspired collection, which also has coordinating Calendar pages. Their designs are always soft, elegant, and sophisticated.

Glitz Design.....New paper lines, glitter cardstock stickers, and innovative new Glitzers...transparent stickers with bold colors and BLING! The bling is inside the sticker, so there is no way you'll lose it! Fiskars.....Talk about reinventing yourself. This company seems to do it more every year. Since they began partnering with various small designers/companies, Fiskars has gone way beyond just scissors and trimmers! EK Success.....Releasing 19 new sets of Art Blanche® chipboards alphabets, numbers and popular shapes which coordinate with their existing nesting Paper Shapers® punches (sizes small – XL). You can punch out paper and completely cover the chipboard shape in one step, without the hassle of tracing and cutting the shape! August Retail Release.

DCWV.....New Stack Packs released in 12x12 and 8x8, each containing 48 sheets; and a 4.5 x 6.5 mat stack, containing 72 sheets. Coordinating embellishments are also available. . Grade School Stack. This A+ collection includes 24 acid-free prints, 12 with glitter and foil. Adorable apples, bouncing school buses, chalkboard doodlings and more make up this scholastic collection. Other new themes: High School, Alphabets and Sweet Stacks.

3 Bugs in a Rug.....They always have adorable papers and these are no exception.

Still waiting...

2008-07-15T06:22:00.000-07:00

Updated product delivery news from Making MemoriesMaking Memories takes great pride in manufacturing the highest quality goods designed to delight your customers. Among those is the Slice - one of the industries most highly anticipated innovations in many years. We look forward to putting it in your hands as soon as possible; however, in interest of ensuring it lives up to our high quality standards, we have adjusted our (retail) delivery date to October 2008.
Making Memories is also thrilled to announce additional Slice related products that will be unveiled at this month's CHA event. Look for desktop and portable storage, tools, additional design cards, Slice specific papers and much more.

Eat This - Not That!

2008-06-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

I feel like I been living by this mantra since I started my self-imposed healthier living challenge, and while at Costco....I found a book with that as its title! I had to check it out. I LOVE it and wanted to share a few tips from it....The book covers a ton of fast food restaurants and store bought, prepared foods and then lists the calorie comparisons between the good and bad choices. It provides great tips on how to make the best healthy living decisions when dining out and grocery shopping.

For example:

On your next stop into Jack in the Box, ordering the Chipotle Chicken Ciabatta and medium fries will cost you 1,140 calories, while the Chicken Fajita Pita and a side salad will be only 335 calories!

Great tip: Order a regular taco instead of a small fries with your next combo and you'll save 180 calories!!!!

And here's something that Jack fans should be aware of...."Unlike many other fast food restaurants that have made the shift away from trans fats, JITB's menu has a number of items with more than 5 grams of the stuff." Come on Jack, give us a break!

And how does my favorite fast food place stack up? Here's what they had to say about McDonald's....

Surprisingly, the Quarter Pounder (without cheese) is the better option with 410 calories over the Premium Grilled Chicken Club with 570! Neither are the best choices overall, but the mayo and the bacon on the chicken burger make it the big loser. Best choice in my opinion? The 6-piece McNuggets with only 280 calories.

The book also lists foods that do great things for our bodies. Did you know...

- Raspberries contain anthocyanins which boost insulin production and lower blood sugar levels.

- Shrimp is high in vitamin B12 which aids bone density and is crucial in the generation of new cells.

- Beef, high in iron, simulates hair turnover and replenishment.

- Olive Oil contins antioxidants shown to raise HDL (good) cholesterol and reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, making it a double potent protector against cardiovascular disease.

- Garlic can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer by 50%.

It sounds to me like I need to make a beef and prawn stir-fry for dinner and then enjoy some ice cream and respberries for dessert...all in the name of healthier living of course!

enjoy discovering the options we have to live healthier!

-d.

Shopping Alert!!!

2008-06-19T12:34:00.001-07:00

With the economy in the shape it is, it isn't exactly the best time for most of us to be out shopping, but I just had to share info about a couple of my absolute favorite, annual sales...
Yep, it's THAT time again...IKEA's It Only Happens Twice a Year SALE!!!!
Sale. IKEA. Enough said.
Every year I look forward to University Village's sidewalk sale. I love the outdoor, open air shopping and the bargains I find are always amazing! Having Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Fireworks, Crate and Barrel, and Impress all in one place is already a great thing, but having clearance tables in front of each store is an even bigger bonus!
And lastly, I don't make it to Paper Zone all that frequently, since I live only a few blocks from one of the best scrapbook stores in our entire state, but their 15% Everything Sale does usually make it worth a trip!

Happy Shopping!

enjoy the bargains you hunt down,
-d.

Whew.....

2008-06-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

I reached another small goal along the healthier living path....

I am now down 10 pounds!!!

I actually reached this goal over the weekend, but worried that I might not be able to hold onto it until today as we ate a little outside, okay a LOT outside, the diet lines...even for a weekend!

Friday we went to Wendy's for lunch. I ordered 2 of their grilled chicken wraps (very good) and a small Coke. I made a taco buffet for dinner. I ate three hard shell tacos even adding cheese and light sour cream (not too conservingly either). Then we went to the movies where I bought their popcorn, but opted for Kettlecorn salt (I carry the travel shaker in my purse - they're sold in Regal theaters!) instead of butter (a HUGE sacrifice for me) and another Coke.

Saturday we ate breakfast at iHop. I ordered steak tips and eggs. Ate a small portion of my hash browns and a couple bites of my buttered crepe (just enough to satisfy the palette). We snacked on low-calorie, baked chips and skipped lunch. We ate an early dinner at Bob's Burgers. Melissa and I shared an order of fish and chips, and I had a few bites of the Caesar salad. Then we went to Coldstone for dessert and I ordered a child-size vanilla and double fresh raspberry mix-in. By adding double fruit, I was able to offset the very small portion of ice cream and it totally satisfied my dessert craving.

Sunday (Father's Day) we ate at Marco's like usual. I had the steak and eggs. And a cupcake! We again skipped lunch and ate a very early dinner at our favorite chinese restaurant, Golden House. I didn't worry about anything other than removing most all the breading from the deep fried prawns and opting for finishing Shadoe's Won ton soup so I would get a little more full on soup broth before diving into the deep fried almond chicken (my fave) and everything else!

All in all, it could have been disastrous!

But there are always ways to rethink our previously unhealthy choices about meal selections. Even when we eat out and are on vacation, there are ways to pull out better options from a menu of seemingly only fattening foods, without having to always opt for a salad every time. If I continually opted for salad only, I would be driving myself (at record-breaking speed) to a melted butter pity party. I would crash the diet and land in a sea of comfort food. Proving to not only give myself back every calorie I had deprived myself of, but then some!

Compromising is really the key. Don't deprive yourself of the foods you love; find ways to enjoy them using healthier choices and moderation. Trade this for that. Take off the fried coating to enjoy the prawn in sweet and sour sauce. Have more soup and less chow mien. Eat half an order of fried fish instead of none at all. Make smarter decisions with the foods you've always loved.

Skip that chocolate muffin and wear those Tommy jeans! ;)

enjoy the trade-offs,
-d.

A Tourist in my own Hometown

2008-06-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

With Roger's family in town visiting from Arkansas, we spent the weekend touring the local sights. Here are a few shots I captured along the way...

We headed to Vancouver, Canada to ride the gondola up Grouse Mountain (a mere 3700 feet above sea level).

Then headed to Seattle to check out our own scenic views atop the Space Needle.

Then off to the Pike Place Market to see if we could spot any Flying Fish...

(Notice the receiver behind the counter is a tourist? Now she can say she caught that fish dinner herself!!!)

Even though I was born right here in Seattle, I never tire of seeing my city full of life and energy. The blue skies and sunshine were just what we ordered and the breathtaking views and people watching opportunities never disappoint.

enjoy touring your own town now and then,
-d.

Healthy Living - Week 2

2008-06-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

So I have survived two full weeks of healthier living, and you know, it really hasn't been that bad! Through those 14 days, I lost eight pounds, gained back two, and then lost three for a total of:

-9 pounds!!

Things that helped me the most:

- A very supportive and encouraging husband.

- Weight Watchers frozen meals - ready to go with Points already calculated.

- Fresh Fruit in season.

- Pop Secret 100 Calories kettlecorn at the movies and anytime I need a snack.

- Reducing Coke from my diet and replacing it with more water.

- Eating before 6pm every night.

- Not snacking before bedtime.

- Weighing myself everyday at the same time.

- Keeping my "new" weight on a white board in my bathroom so I see it often.

As I went to my closet to get dressed, slipped on my favorite pair of Tommy jeans I remembered the reason why I drew the line in the sand and started this new plan.

I have had this particular pair of Tommy jeans for some time. When I first got them they were a little loose after I had worn them all day, but they were still my favorite jeans. After some time, they were no longer loose when I took them off at night, but I still loved them. One day I went to my closet, grabbed the beloved jeans and...OMG, they don't FIT!!!!! That was my Aha moment.

It wasn't about having to wear a certain pair of comfty jeans, it was a true realization of how I had let myself go. Little by little...pound by pound. I love those jeans, but I love me even more! I want to be healthy. I want to feel better. I want to be around to play with my grandkids. I want to grow old with my husband. And to ensure those things, I have to not only reduce my current weight, I have to learn to live differently. More healthy. For the long haul. Not just long enough for a fad diet that will get me to my "goal" weight.

It was time. It is still time. And I am happy to say, I grabbed those Tommy jeans off the shelf today...and put them on! A small goal reached. Another step on this lifelong journey of healthier living achieved. YEA!

Now, what other clothes do I have that I've been missing...?

enjoy the successes, however small, along the journey!

-d.

Stampin' UP! finds a way into retail stores...

2008-06-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

3M and Stampin' Up! Get Crafty
Companies create a joint marketing venture

SALT LAKE CITY/ST. PAUL – Scotch 3M’s Stationery Products Division, major manufacturer of adhesives and computer accessories, and Stampin’ Up!, a leading manufacturer of decorative rubber stamps and crafting supplies have formed a joint marketing agreement. Both companies anticipate the agreement will produce substantial increased reach to crafters in the billion-dollar US craft market and beyond.
“The synergy created by this program will be outstanding,” says Stampin’ Up! CEO Shelli Gardner. We are very excited about the cross-promotional opportunities with a great company like 3M.”
The agreement signals a first between a direct-sales craft company and a craft materials retailer. In an industry marked by constantly changing creative styles and equivalent-quality products, successful companies are focusing on strategies to move their products to the forefront. In this highly-visual industry, visibility is everything.
Some have expressed surprise at the joint agreement since many of the companies’ products overlap. However, the companies see the agreement as a way to strengthen the crafting industry overall, and that strengthens each of their businesses indirectly.
“With fierce competition and the economy tightening, we see scrapbooking retail stores closing every day,” says Gardner. Some of our products do compete, but in order to keep customers engaged and active, we need to offer as many interesting product choices as possible and let them make their own buying decisions.”
As a result of the agreement, select Stampin’ Up! craft projects and Web site URL will be printed on the front of 3M’s crafting products’ packaging. 3M customers may access Stampin’ Up!’s Web site to view custom craft project concepts. Both companies anticipate that the added exposure will increase their bottom lines.
“Millions of customers are familiar with Stampin’ Up! product and its quality,” says Amy Swartz, Stampin’ Up! sales and marketing vice president. “Customers scanning rows of 3M adhesives and recognizing a Stampin’ Up! project made with a stamp set they own will be an attention grabber, and the association with Stampin’ Up!’s quality is inherent. This is a fabulous opportunity for both of our companies to benefit from the association of two strong brands.”

Stampin' Up!, a 19-year-old, $240-million, direct-sales company, designs and manufactures decorative rubber stamp sets and offers accessories for home décor, greeting cards, craft projects and scrapbooking sold through home workshops by a network of independent sales consultants called Stampin' Up! "demonstrators."

Also unprecedented is the announcement that Stampin UP! is opening its convention to the public to celebrate their 20th anniversary!

Remember the cheeky-faced images from their early days? Wow...they've come a long way!

enjoy finding ways to be innovative,

-d.