Finally got to play...

After two weeks in Maryland/Delaware, getting H enrolled in preschool, and trying to get my life somewhat in order, I've had a little time to be creative. I've started planning a Christmas card workshop, but also had time to play with a few new toys.

Utilizing my Cricut Art Philosophy (new CTMH cartridge) and Mickey Font cartridge, I was able to create the top banner with the assistance of cricut's Craft Room! This is a fun new FREE tool that helps you merge cartridges in your collection and even cut your creation! You can try out cartridges you may want to purchase by seeing all the images and putting it down on a digital mat. I'm loving all that I'm learning about my cricut. You can check out the info on Craft Room here.

Earlier this week, I strolled into Joann's with a coupon in hand, not sure of what I was going to purchase. I made my way through the scrapbook section, and was about to leave when the magazines caught my eye. I picked up a copy of Creating Keepsakes "Budget Friendly Scrapbooking" Special Issue. Best of all, I used my coupon to get it for 40% off! Anyway, as I've been reading through it, I was inspired to create the above layout using scraps and embellishments that I've had lying around for a couple years now. This magazine is a great read and has lots of suggestions for how to maximize your tools and supplies without busting your budget! You can check out a few of the resources and ideas from the magazine here.

Neglected but excited!

Since my last post I've been traveling quite a bit. My family spent 10 days traveling around Florida and the Bahamas in July. We're currently visiting family on the East Coast and will be for another 10 days.

So while I've been too busy to craft much, and neglected this blog slightly I am really excited for what the future holds. During July, I also participated in a Christmas in July market and sold several cards, tags, and bookmarks from my stock. So I need to replenish my creations... And while cropping is fun and exciting, new purchases of cropping supplies make it even better!

The NEW Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter Idea Book came out August 1st! By the time I get home a large box will be waiting for me with new paper, embellishments, and the BRAND NEW Cricut Art Philosophy set! During my break between vacations, I also picked up several papers and embellishments from our local Scrapbook Shoppe on sale. So I have lot so of new goodies. And BONUS... While my husband was searching Craigslist he said, "There is a post on here with Cricut cartridges for $20? How much do they usually go for?" My collection of cartridges is small so I was eager to see what was listed. Upon inspection I found several cartridges I wanted and was able to get 4 cartridges for $50! These include H2O, Pumpkin Carving, Everyday Paper Dolls, and Joys of the Season! I've already experimented with H2O but look forward to using the others as well. While my family is at the beach next week, my nieces and I will be cropping a couple days away. Pictures will follow in the coming weeks. But check out the great new items from Close To My Heart on my independent consultant website

Project12 #7 - Maryland Pride

Thanks to The Scrapbook Shoppe I got in a creative mood yesterday while the little ones had some nap/quiet time. Using this sketch as my inspiration...

I created this Maryland Pride layout.

The flowers in the top left are a recent addition to my supply collection from Creative Memories. I added Stickles to the layout for a little sparkle. I'm really enjoying experimenting with new tools. I began my scrapbook adventure in 2001 and have really changed my style since then. I'm adding more dimension and training myself to think outside of the 4x6 box.

Liquid Glaze, Buttons, and Adhesive Ribbon

Two of the three titled items are new to me and my craft tool bag. Close To My Heart introduced me to Liquid Glaze. However, it sat in my tool bag lonely and unopened for a VERY long time. It wasn't until a recent workshop at The Scrapbook Shoppe that I realized how to use it and I loved the effect it had on my layout! And now, I can't get enough of it.

Buttons are useful in so many ways - keeping our pants on, holding our sweaters closed, adding a little pop to a boring card or layout. It was only recently that I started using buttons. Some of my Close To My Heart Workshop On The Go kits included them and showed me how to embellish my layouts and I realized what a fun little tool I had.

And what could be better than regular ribbon? ADHESIVE RIBBON! While shopping around the PX, I usually peruse the craft section. Tonight my eyes fell upon a 50% off sticker on a pack of Martha Stewart adhesive baby ribbon and I thought that would be perfect for all the cards I'm attempting to make for my pregnant friends. And it is extremely easy to use.

So with the help of my Cricut Expression, I created these two cards. I'm not Hallmark but I think the sentiment will still be appreciated.

You can't tell from the pictures but there is liquid glaze on the wheels of the stroller, hair of the baby, nose and bow of the giraffe. And the use of buttons and ribbon is obvious.

Adventures With Paper & More

In an effort to stay motivated and complete most of the projects on my "To Do" list, I am going to procrastinate on them more. I'm going to start a creative blog. As a master procrastinator, I'll admit the house still needs to be cleaned, the laundry is only half done, and I'm still in my pajamas. But I wanted to take the time to set up a blog to help keep my creative mind going. As a mother of two, I often get stressed about everything that has to be done - we need to go to gymnastics, the dog needs a bath, the coupons need to be clipped, "mommy can you..." blah blah blah. So in an effort to keep my sanity I crop and blog.

My collection of creative toys is expanding. I recently added a Cricut Expression and Cuttlebug to my craft area. Since National Scrapbooking Day several weeks ago, I am constantly researching new techniques, reading other creative blogs, and acquiring new toys, gadgets, and supplies.

I also enjoy digital scrapbooking. When I'm in need of some quick layouts, I turn to StudioJ and hammer out several pages in a few minutes. Here is a look at my most recent digital project.

I hope you enjoy reading about my adventures with paper, scissors, adhesive, border punches, die-cuts, embossing, and more! And just like my wall says, "Scrapbooking is cheaper than therapy"