Wednesday, December 31, 2008

It's New Years Eve - do you know where your goals are?

Happy Pre-New Year, everyone!

I know, I know - New Years' resolution time! How many times do we fall off the wagon with this one - lose weight, get organized, blah, blah, blah.

Well, 2009 has to be different. I would like to challenge everyone to list 12 goals (one per month) and keep each other accountable throughout the year. Support is what helps us get through hurdles in our lives.

Here are my Top 12 Goals for 2009:

1. File my piles - I am a pile guru - and it creates clutter and chaos. The first step in the road to recovery is to file my piles. By the time the end of Jan. roles around, I should be in the habit & maybe not have any more piles to file.
2. 'Green' scrapbooking - continue to source ways to reduce, reuse & recycle in my scrapbooking and products that I am selling. Keep checking the blog for my tips.
3. Organization - once my piles are filed, I have to continue to find ways to organize my products and 'stuff'. Right now I can honestly say that I really don't know what the heck I have or don't have! Pretty scary!
4. Re-do the room - my hubby and I share a work space, so we are going to have a craft/office makeover in 2009! Stay tuned for that one.
5. Clean up as I go - this is another hard one for me & dates back to when I was a child. I think I am missing that gene from my family pool of organization.
6. Finish! - I have a few projects that aren't done - need to complete them and get them where they need to go.
7. Learn to sew - Hubby bought me a great sewing machine for my b-day and the poor thing is collecting dust. I will learn how to sew this year & how to incorporate it into my scrapping.
8. Monthly get togethers - I am phasing out my monthly crops as they weren't making me money nor was I accomplishing any of my projects, etc. Instead, I will host a monthly scrapbooking crop at my house for my friends. Wine, cheese, laughs & accomplishments are in order!
9. Continue heritage scrapping - I am making albums for my siblings & want to get my hands on the family photos to preserve them for the next generation.
10. Simple scrapping - everything doesn't have to be a work of art. Make some easy pages that are quick.
11. Monthly cards - on the first of each month, I want to make the birthday cards that correspond to birthdays & holidays of that month.
12. Holiday gifts - start working on those each month leading up to December so I'm not stressed out during December.

Wow - 12 goals - and you better bet I'm going to do it. But, I need your help! Stay with me and make some comments below. I want to know what your 12 scrapping resolutions are and help each other through them.

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Scrapbook/Craft Room Challenge, Pt II



As the new year quickly approaches, it's time to clean up and organize the craft room. As my new business is about to unfold, I have a LOT of stuff to get into order.

I'm saving pasta sauce jars, soaking the labels off of them & using them for my flowers. I consolidated the pink flowers into the big pasta jar & used the smaller jar that held some pink flowers for my white flowers.

It's an easy & earth-friendly use for a glass jar. Plus it looks pretty!

Ok, so how many more colors of flowers do I have to sort through? How many more bowls of pasta do Tom & I have to eat?

What creative uses do you have for leftover jars?

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas

I know we are all busy opening gifts, visiting family & friends and eating, but I wanted to take a moment & wish everyone a very merry Christmas!

I'll be back tomorrow with lists of how to organize those holiday photos and how to start scrapping them, along with ideas on what to do with your holiday cards!

Enjoy your day, everyone!

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Happy Christmas Eve

T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS...
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,Had just settled down for a long winter's nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
"and to all a good-night."

by Clement Clarke Mooreor Henry Livingston

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Scrapbook/Craft Room Challenge

As I enter the next phase of my business, my husband looked around our shared office space & decided it needed a makeover. Here is my side of the room:


Yikes! How do I get anything accomplished or run a successful business. His side of the room is in better shape, but we are both organizationally challenged, to say the least. Stay with me over the next few months as we have an office makeover.
How's your scrapbook room? Any before and after pictures you would like to share? Send me a post so we can all learn from each other!

Thursday, December 18, 2008

New Hairdo!


So, what's been new with me? It's been a while since I've blogged (10 days- yikes!) but I have been busily working on holiday projects which I can't share until after the holidays are over!


In the meantime, I've cut my hair!! This pic was taken via camera phone (gotta love technology) in my sis's car by my niece. What do you think? I love the freedom and ease at which I can take care of my hair now.
Hmmm, which leads me to another question: what other freedoms have I put into place? More on that - tomorrow!


Sunday, December 7, 2008

Baby Girl Word Book - buy it before it's gone!


I have a great new product in the store - and you know you want one!!!!!

Let's face it - we all know someone who is pregnant, and statistically, there are more girls than boys born!

I created this unique, one of a kind mini album for that special Mom. This chipboard word book spells Baby & is done up in a traditional feminine style - pinks, purples and frills!




So what do you do with it? Simply add photos and/or journal about those cutsie, fun things that your baby girl is doing - her first smile, a giggle, eating solid food - whatever it is, you will photograph it, and you need to preserve those photos as well.

Each page is handcrafted and designed by me. The great feature of a Word Book is customization. Would you prefer to have her name spelled out? Would you prefer a different word? No problem! I can do that too! Looking for a specific color theme? Do you not like the 'bling' and would prefer pearls and lace? I can do that too! It's your book, your word and your way! Click on to http://www.rwctc.com/ and click on Shop Now to purchase this or a custom book. Satisfaction guaranteed!














Saturday, December 6, 2008



I've been bad about putting my daily To Do up here. Let's start fresh again!

1. It's Saturday - I need to help DH decorate the outside with our lights today.

2. Finish 'Baby' word book, take photos & put on Etsy & Ebay

I'm not going to kill myself today with a ton of things to do. I'm happy getting one big thing or a few small things done each day. Finishing this book and getting it out there for the public to see & buy is a big accomplishment on a day when I'm suppose to decorate the house!

Goodies from a Thrift Store

As I change my business over from selling 'stuff', a.k.a. supplies to creating meaningful memory pieces, I am also embracing using recycled or gently used items in my creations. I think one way to not only save money while supporting my business (or habit) but to also save our planet is to thrift store shop, as I have mentioned in previous posts.
I visit the Hospice thrift store quite regularly as I have found some really great treasures in there before. The other day I stumbled upon packages of these little goodies:



I found an unopened package of these royal blue, puffy, material hearts and 2 packages of these acrylic stars, for the whopping price of 25 cents per bag! The original Wal-Mart stickers were on each of the packages and were priced .83 and .57 respectively.

As long as these items don't touch my photos, there is no reason why I can't use them on my layouts or other projects. Pretty cool, huh? What goodies have you found lately?

Monday, December 1, 2008

Why it's important to buy handmade

Well, it's the holiday shopping season, and this year, I am making a conscience effort to not visit the malls and stores & purchase 'stuff' for my family. Instead, it's all handmade this year.

Why? Several reasons. First, visit the Story of Stuff (http://www.storyofstuff.com/) & you'll understand about consumerism and what it is doing to our planet. That should be reason enough. Secondly, I am moving away from selling 'scrapbooking stuff' and moving into the gift business. I need to market my items, and what better way than to give my creations as gifts. Lastly, by supporting a local business person, you are helping to build a sustainable economy in your own backyard.

Stay tuned to my blog as each day I will post a new creation - whether it's a new line of cards, a new word book or a picture bouquet - I'm sure you will find something unique for one of your loved ones this year!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Frugal Scrapbooking - thinking outside the box

Many people mistakenly believe they cannot afford to scrapbook. Not true, I say! As with any hobby, there may be some initial start up costs and investments; however, there are always bargains abound!

Do you think that a non-scrapbooker will know whether you spent $30 on a kit or found bits & pieces and put several pages together for $4?

Creativity is part of scrapbooking, and my belief is that we are trying to preserve memories. It doesn't matter if you don't keep up with the latest and greatest! Protecting your photos and mementos, along with recording your important events and thoughts is what scrapbooking is all about.

What can you find within your own 4 walls already to get you started? Here's an idea to start you off:

  1. Ruler
  2. Pencil
  3. Scissors

Let's start a list!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Today's Etsy Find!


Cookies for Santa - we've all left cookies for Santa in the past but how about a little soap for Old Saint Nick?




CocoSavon's shop in Etsy has a really cool bar of soap entitled 'Cookies for Santa'. Click on the link above and read the yummy description about these bars of soap. Betcha can't use just one!


Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

http://snowflakes.barkleyus.com/

Here in south Florida we are pretty fortunate it doesn't snow! So, for us to have some snowflakes, and maybe start invoking some holiday spirit, click on the link above to make your own snowflakes!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Feng Shui in scrapbooking?

I've always wanted to learn about Feng Shui, but I just haven't had the time. I came across this site:

http://stamping.thefuntimesguide.com/

It's an interesting read on how to incorporate Feng Shui into your scrapbooking. I'm sure many of us do this already, but we just didn't know it. Let's see something of yours that is 'feng shui-like'! I'll go search through my books, too, to find something......

I'm behind


Well, my to do list sort of went out the window the past few days. I've been under the weather, so it's been about getting better. It's Monday & onwards & upwards. Four business days until a week of R & R in the Georgia mountains, so I need to get my newsletter out to you this week!!!!



TODAY: type newsletter, convert it to .pdf & mail!!!!!

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Daily To do list! 10.29.08



I love being accountable. It seems like I can only get 1 thing done each day!



1. Make something else for show on Saturday
2. Get that newsletter going!
3. I have to make muffins tonight.......

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Frugal Scrapbooking Tips

I love a bargain, and who doesn't these days? I came across yet another article about saving money on your scrapbooking & thought I would share some tips with you:

1. Look around the house. You would be surprised what “scrapbooking” supplies you can find. There are many household supplies or products including: paperclips, craft paint (not only can you use it to accent a page, but you can use it the same way you use stamp ink), old envelopes and used stamps (great for destination/travel pages), old/broken jewelry (use as embellishments), shopping/clothing/market tags (you can paint over, dye, or cover them), wrapping paper, gift ribbon, hair ribbons or rubber bands, game pieces, old maps, book pages (as backgrounds), cereal/shoe boxes (for chipboard) and much more. Just be careful that these items are acid free or at least if they are not, won’t be touching any of your photos.

2. Go digital - or at least a little bit. There are many sites out there that offer freebies every week or so. Not only can you use them to do digital scrapbooking layouts, but you can take parts of them and print them off to use on your regular scrapbooking layouts. And the great things about these is that you can print them again and again for different pages. Check out www.scrapgirls.com and www.digitalfreebies.com for some freebies.

3.) Have a scrapbooking supply swap. The next time you get together to scrapbook, just tell everyone that you are having a “swap” table where people can bring supplies they don’t use any more or don’t want. You could also make it a sale too if someone wants to sell something they have.

Scrapbooking may not be the cheapest hobby out there, but it needn’t be expensive. I am sure there are lots of other ways that each individual can make it even more affordable. If you have any more ideas for making scrapbooking cheaper, let me know your great discoveries. Post them here so we can all share!

Daily To Do 10.29.08


Here's what I need to do today:



1. Finish memory bouquet (can't wait to start selling these!) It's done! I need to post pictures!

2. Write articles for newsletter - I didn't do this!


Check back later!

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

To Do 10.28.08

Ok, I cannot take credit for this idea, but I liked it, so I'm stealing it. Each day I will list a few things that I need to get done so I am accountable for it. If I publish it publicly, maybe someone can criticize me for not getting things done!




My to Do List 10.28.08
1. Cut out chipboard flowers for bookmarks decided to postpone that idea
2. Send 'thank you' e-mail to newbies that signed up for my newsletter Done!






Now, for those of you who don't know me, I do work full-time, and I am in the process of turning my craft into a more permanent adventure. I may still need to work part-time to obtain medical benefits, but the long term goal is to have flexibility in my life so Tom and I can live in both FL & GA, and go back and forth as the spirit moves us!

Monday, October 27, 2008

26.99%????!!!!!

What the heck is that percentage amount???? The amount one of my unused credit card companies is going to charge me!

Now, we all know to keep your FICO score high, you shouldn't close your unused credit cards to keep your history looking good. So, I have some unused cards that sit in a file folder somewhere in the lost history of files in my cabinet.

I receive a 'we're changing your account' notice the other day in the mail, and since I don't use these accounts, I usually toss them. However, I felt compelled to open it & yes, it said they will change my account interest rate to Prime + 5%, which is currently 26.99%, with a maximum of 29.99% interest per year.

I wish I had kept it & taken a picture! My jaw hit the ground. Number 1 - I don't use this card, and I can only hope it's sitting in a file, or I shredded it. Number 2 - if I did have a balance, I would go to the poor house.

I just thought that was ridiculous. Be sure to check out those rates on your cards - you never know what the mafia card companies are up to!

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Beautiful Tote Bag - ecofriendly!

I was browsing Etsy this early Sunday morning and found this beautiful tote bag:



In my quest to remain ecofriendly and reduce, reuse & recycle, this tote bag was handmade using fabrics from the Boise Re Use Market. It's a stunning combination of prints and is only $25! Click on http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_6&listing_id=12759998 to visit the Etsy store that is selling this item.

While you are at it, don't forget to purchase a card from me if this tote is a gift for someone!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Coping with the Holidays - blog challenge

Can you sense the rush yet? The retailers seem to bring the Christmas rush in earlier and earlier every year, which creates a lot of anxiety for some people.
Well, there are ways to deal with it. Ignoring might work for a while. I refuse to walk down any aisle this is displaying any type of Christmas or Holiday decorations, except for Halloween, but that stuff is already gone!

My blog challenge this month is: What do you plan to do to take it easy this year and not get caught up in the holiday hype?

This year is going to be simple for me: shop on etsy.com! Yes, I will make my family members gifts, but there are times that I'm too busy to do that, so I will support the handmade gift movement by purchasing from hardworking artisans and crafters like me! I will decorate my house with items I already have and sit back and enjoy the holidays & stay out of the mall!!!!

What about you? Post your comments by Nov. 15th to share your thoughts with everyone else, and you could also be the lucky winner who's name is pulled for a prize!

Saturday, October 18, 2008

And the winner is....

....Pam Penovi! Our local gal strikes it big!

October's Blog Challenge was dealing with stress & after putting the names in the hat, Pam came out the lucky winner. Your prize is coming to you on Monday!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Have you thought of starting your own Etsy shop?

StudioJewel - Journey of a Jeweler: How to Set Up an ETSY shop for dummies (smart dummies!)

This is a great article on how to establish your Etsy shop. It is written by The Bead Girl and is linked to her great blog. We all have a creative talent, and there is someone out there willing to pay you for it. Maybe it's time to take the plunge & start your own little business........

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

New Find!

It's been almost a week since I've blogged. I know - I'm bad. I have the Mutt March on Saturday & am selling completed items, so guess what I'm doing every night? Making things!

Anyways, check out this site if you need any lanyards: http://www.lanyardlady.blogspot.com/

She makes some pretty cool things!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

New Venue for Crop

Hi,
Just a reminder that the crop will now take place at Jay Mar in Stuart. Neil, the manager of the store, is willing to let us use his space. He and I figured it's a win-win for both of us. He gets exposure for his store, and I have a set place to have the crop and maybe win over some of his customers.

Mark your calendars for 10/25! Can't wait to see everyone!

Sunday, October 5, 2008

A sad day


Well, last night I went to my fish tank to feed Georgie, my betta fish. Georgie didn't come greet me like he always does. Instead, he lay - still and motionless - behind his favorite plant. I tapped the glass to be sure, and there was no response. My little Georgie had passed along to that great fish heaven in the sky.


Yes, he was a fish, but he was happy in his big tank, and he would come to the glass to greet me. I'll miss him!
ps - although this isn't Georgie in the picture, this is exactly what he looked like


Monday, September 29, 2008

My Daily Etsy Find!

I love photography, and I am always in awe of other's works, mainly because I really do not take good photographs. While on Etsy today, I found this awesome photo of a waterfall in a creek. Take a peek:




Visit the store for some other great finds: amerimagesbytim.etsy.com. While on Etsy, visit some of the other great crafters and artists. You never know what you may find!


Sunday, September 28, 2008

Intricacies










I started selling a really cool scrapbooking paper called Intricacies. I haven't added them to my online store yet, but the croppers have been snatching them up! Here are some pictures of what they are:









There are a whole host more: bikes, construction, arrows, circles, dog prints, dinosaurs, daisies, 4th of July, rocket ships, and many, many more. I am carrying hearts, butterflies & flowers.

Here's an example of how to use them:



The colors vary depending on what you are looking for. Contact me so we can work out the details! It's a great new way to add character to your scrapbook pages!

A Cute Etsy Find!

Twice a week I will bring you some cute things I find on Etsy.com. I'm just trying to encourage everyone to look and buy handmade as much as possible (see previous post).


The holidays are right around the corner & we're always on the prowl for unique gift ideas. I found this adorable phone charm on Etsy.com:


Click on the store name, Medox, to view more charms. And remember, they are just limited to your cell phone. I just love the happy little expressions on these charms. And who doesn't love peanut butter & jelly?????
Stay tuned for more great Etsy finds!

Saturday, September 27, 2008

My Etsy Store!

As much as I love to scrapbook and create things, I enjoy teaching new techniques and working on my site and on-line store, and the monthly crops, and all the other things I am involved in.

So, to ensure I keep my skills up, I've decided to open an Etsy shop! For those of you lurking on this blog who don't scrapbook, you can buy things that I make, and you can discover a whole new world of items that are all HANDMADE. The great feature of Etsy is all the artists and crafters on there make their own products to place for sale. We buy from each other & support each other. We bring new people to Etsy to discover all the magical and beautiful creations from talented people.

My store is http:\\rememberwhencreation.etsy.com. I'm trying to add new things every other day. So if you are in a rush and need a card or page layout or any of the other things that I'm going to add real soon, then let me know. If you see something in the store & you want to learn how to do it, let me know & I'll teach it at a monthly crop.

Remember, our country was founded on small businesses. Back in the day, before the ridiculous corporations took over, we shopped at the butcher, the baker and the florist. We visited farms and all the Mom & Pop shops to buy our goods. I know financial times are hard, however, how are the Mom & Pops going to make it if we continuously go to Wally World and Target to buy our gifts? I know toilet paper is cheaper at Wally World, and that's ok. When you are thinking about your holiday gifts or birthday gifts, think HANDMADE. It's much more meaningful.

Have a great weekend & think about my last paragraph!

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

First Day of Fall


It's hard to believe when it's 80-something degrees outside with about 90% humidity that fall is in the air! But, today marks the first day of fall - time to switch gears for the upcoming holiday stampede.


So have you thought about gifts for the holidays yet? RWC has some new Christmas paper lines coming in, and if you missed the July class on door hangers, then stay tuned as the chipboard shapes & words will pop into the store real soon. It's a quick & fun project to make & relatively inexpensive.


Do me a favor - don't get bogged down in the holiday fervor this year. I'm still having a crop in Nov. & Dec. For those of you who attend, I think you'll agree that the atmosphere is relaxed and fun. And we accomplish our goals!
PS - the picture at the top of the blog is fall in Georgia from our trip last October. Leaves - watch out - here I come!

Friday, September 19, 2008

ScrapBizness: Remember These???

ScrapBizness: Remember These???

If you want to take a stroll down memory lane today, click on this link! Some blasts from the past in the scrapbooking world......

Thursday, September 18, 2008

STRESS!

It's all around us everyday. STRESS. It comes in many forms and fashions for each of us - whether it's Mother Nature and what she throws at us, or if it's the job market, housing market, stock market, juggling career and kids and family, caring for elderly parents. We all have something. It's that simple.

So, my question this month is - how does scrapbooking help alleviate your stress?

For me, it's a time when there is nothing going on in my mind, except the layout or card in front of me. It's relaxing for me. I thoroughly enjoy what I am doing and allow myself to get caught up in the moment. I don't allow myself to get stressed out about scrapbooking - why should I? If I run out of my tape runner, then at least I can put all the pieces of a layout or two together and pick up a refill tomorrow.

Tell me how you do it? Post by October 15th and one lucky 'poster' will win something from the store. And don't forget to click over to www.rwctc.com and check out what's happening and maybe you'll find a product or two that you can't live without!

Scrap Pink!


October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in honor of all those brave MEN and WOMEN who have fought the battle of breast cancer, your $10 crop fee is donated to the Martin Memorial's Breast Health Navigator Fund. The fund is designed as a support mechanism for women in our community who need support: financial & emotional.


Join us on Sat. 9/27 from 1-5 pm at Piper's Landing in Palm City for a scrapping good time. We are having an altered bra contest, a 'pink' make n take, door prizes, goodie bags and more.


I know 9 women who have gone through the battle of breast cancer, and I know you must know at 1-3 yourself. Your $10 will make a difference. Join us.


Wednesday, September 17, 2008

And the winner is....

...for the Sept. blog challenge - Char the mad shopper! She's winning a set of Bo Bunny papers!!! Congratulations & stay tuned for the next challenge.

Thanks to everyone for posting your comments.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Scraps of me!

Wow - a whole week went by and I didn't post anything. I just don't know where the time goes! I apologize for that.

In the meantime, I did work on a layout for me this past week. It's something that I'm trying to do since I spend the majority of my time working the business, I forget about my own personal scrapping.

In the recent issue of Memory Makers magazine, (and if you are reading it too don't forget about the 10% discount you'll receive if you order from the store!) the Reader Idea Gallery focused on honoring yourself by scrapping a page in honor of yourself. So, I looked through it, and while I didn't scraplift a layout, I was struck by Jennifer Armentrout's layout of her addiction to keeping scraps.

I looked down beneath my desk and saw the shoebox. You know the one - filled with pieces of paper. "Why do I keep this paper?", I thought. It struck me - because my Mom never allowed us to waste things growing up. There is always a practical use for everything. Mom didn't realize she was ahead of her time in the greening of our environment.

So, I came up with this layout - in honor of Mom:



The journaling reads: "Don't waste." my Mom always told me! So in a nice shoebox from my DH, I have all my scraps - big pieces, little pieces, funky shaped pieces. I have them all! And I use them. Mom always gives good advice!!

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Baby Album Ideas!

Your little baby - they grow up fast & you are busily clicking the camera, snapping every moment. So now you have a mountain of photos (or lots of files on your computer), so which ones do you include in your album?

Here are some ideas to try & narrow the field a bit:

Baby’s First Bath
As soon as the "belly button" falls off, it's time for the first real bath. In addition to taking pictures of your baby in the cute, little bathtub, be sure to take one of him/her all swaddled in the hooded towel after the bath is over. And in your journaling you can write about how old your baby was and his/her reaction to the bath.

Baby’s First Trip
Whether it's a day trip to Grandma and Grandpa's house, a weekend getaway or even a full blown vacation, baby’s first trip is a significant milestone to preserve. Regardless of where you go on this first trip, your baby will encounter many new new sights, sounds, smells, people, etc. Journal about how your baby reacts to these new and different surroundings.

Baby’s First Solid Food
The first time your baby tries solid food is a fun event to capture in photos. The facial expressions are priceless. Things to journal about include what the food was, how much your baby ate and your baby's reaction. When your baby is older, take some pictures of him/her feeding himself/herself pasta with tomato sauce. A messy tomato sauce face is quite a sight!

Baby’s First Tooth
Although a toothless grin is absolutely adorable, it is exciting to see that first pearly white poking through. Once it’s visible enough to be seen in photos, take some great close-up shots for your scrapbook album. Note in your journaling the date the tooth first poked through and the date the photos were taken.

Baby’s First Step
While it’s often difficult to capture your baby’s very first step on camera, you’ll certainly get lots of photos of those very early steps. Try putting them in sequential order – from letting go of the furniture to taking those wobbling steps to landing on a diapered bottom – to show your baby’s progress across the floor.

Baby’s First Easter
Depending on how old your baby is for his/her first Easter, here are some ideas for what to include in your scrapbook album: dyeing Easter eggs, visiting the Easter Bunny, going on an egg hunt, opening his/her Easter basket, finding eggs hidden by the Easter Bunny, and preparing/eating Easter dinner.

Baby’s First Mother’s Day/Father’s Day
The first Mother's Day/Father's Day with your baby is, of course, very special. And you'll certainly take lots of photos of Mommy/Daddy with Baby. In addition to journaling about how you spent the day, it's interesting to journal about what you were doing and feeling on the previous Mother's Day/Father's Day. Maybe you were pregnant and received gifts from your baby-to-be. Maybe you didn't have any idea that you would be a parent in a year. Either way, it's fun to reminisce about what a difference a year makes.

Baby’s First Halloween
Depending on how old your baby is for his/her first Halloween, you may or may not put them in a costume. If they're in a costume then of course you'll take lots of pictures of them all dressed-up. If they're very young, putting them next to a very large pumpkin makes for an adorable photo. Remember to include pictures of your pumpkin picking trip, too.

Baby’s First Thanksgiving
On our Thanksgiving pages we often journal about what we're thankful for. Of course, as new Moms we're most thankful for our new babies. Journal about the "little things" you're thankful for – how your baby tightly holds your pinky when you feed him/her, the way your baby smells after a bath, the sound of your baby's giggle when you make funny faces, the peaceful feeling of rocking your baby to sleep, etc. – to make these pages extra special.

Baby’s First Christmas
There are so many memories you'll want to capture in your photos - getting the tree, trimming the tree, Christmas Eve, Christmas morning, favorite gifts and more. I've written another article called “Scrapbooking Your Christmas Memories” that has lots of suggestions for things to include in your scrapbook album.

Baby’s First Snow
If you live in a cold weather climate, your baby's first encounter with snow makes a fun page for the album. Even if your baby isn’t old enough to play in the snow, you can bundle him/her up and go outside so he/she can see the snow and feel it on his/her face. Some things to journal about on this page are the date of the snowstorm, your baby's age, what you did outside (e.g., pulled your baby in a sled, built a snowman), and your baby's reaction to the snow.

Other Photos
Undoubtedly, you have lots of baby pictures that aren't part of a specific event, holiday, milestone, etc. It can be hard to come up with ideas for how to categorize them. Here are some page/title ideas to use for your "every day" photos: Month (e.g., March, August Days), seasons (e.g., Spring Time, Winter Days), Sweet Girl/Boy, Play Time, Having Fun, Silly Sisters/Siblings, Peek-a-Boo, Cute as a Button, Busy as a Bee, Laughing and Smiling, Say "Cheese", Mommy's Little Girl/Boy, Daddy's Little Girl/Boy, Apple of Mommy’s/Daddy's Eye, Memorable Moments, Friends and Fun, "Look at Me!", Miles of Smiles, Precious Moments, and Movie Star (photos wearing different pairs of sunglasses). Also, if you have a nickname for your baby, that can make a cute page title.

Baby’s First Birthday
In addition to the standard pictures – singing Happy Birthday, blowing out the candles, eating the cake, opening the gifts, posing with party guests – take a picture of your baby right after he/she wakes up in the morning on his/her birthday and another one right before going to bed that night. That way you can put just these two pictures on a separate page and focus your journaling on how your baby spent his/her first birthday, from waking until bedtime.

The Perfect Ending
If you still have your baby’s hospital hat (you know, the adorable little hats babies wear right after they’re born), put it on your baby’s head and grab your camera. Although it will look pretty funny stretched out over the head of a one-year old, it makes quite a poignant picture. Put just this photo on the last page of your baby’s first year album, and you’ll have lots of room for journaling about the amazing year that has passed since you welcomed your baby into your life.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Friday Night Fun Crop

Remember When Creations is adding a Friday night fun crop! This past Friday night we had a productive and fun time cutting away at the Cricut:

The design bar is being restocked and so is the store. Please check out the store by visiting the website at www.rwctc.com
Next crop date TBD - stay tuned for more details on the Friday night crop and the special crop we are having for Breast Cancer Month!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Extra Extra! Read all about it!

RWC and Midnight Oil Scrapbook Designs have teamed up to find a new Design Team member for them. Read all the details at my website: http://www.rwctc.com/

In the meatime, here are additional pictures of the Big Boy Album that I created:



My hubby used to ride his motorcross bike on Becker Road in Palm City. This is waaaayyy before it was developed into the blacktop jungle out there.




Apparently he liked to burn some rubber! The great feature of this album is the unique size. At 6" (high) by 12" (length), you can fit those older small photos on the pages, or with the power of technology, you can crop or print your digital images into a size that will fit this book!






The Big Boy is constructed of chipboard and contains 6 pieces, which allows 12 layouts. Chipboard is great for its sturdiness - you can rough it up, paint it, ink it - whatever your imagination comes up with!
Even if you are not interested in becoming a Design Team contestant, this album is great for a holiday gift. And, you can only purchase them for a short time, through me!

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Faye is Over!

Just a note to let everyone know that we survived Faye just fine. I did have some flooding in my car, so hopefully the mold & mildew will stay away!

Back to normal on the Treasure Coast!

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

The 1st Day of School

Well, school started in S. FL yesterday with the outer bands of Fay hitting Florida! Is this a sign of the upcoming school year? Will it be a drama-filled year?

Did you take pictures of your kids going off to school? Here's a neat idea: grab a piece of paper & have your child sign his/her name on it - printing or cursive - however your little one writes right now. Then at the end of the school year, grab that same piece of paper & have your child write their name again. It's really cool to see how your child progresses with their penmanship throughout the school year.

What other ideas do you have for saving school memories? Share them with us over the next month & one lucky winner will receive a goodie from Remember When Creations!

Sunday, August 3, 2008

What ONE Scrapbook Tool can't you scrap without?

What is your favorite tool? What can't you live without? If you were stuck on a deserted island with some scrapbooking tools, which is the most essential for you to have?

For me, my first choice is Glue Dots! I love Glue Dots! They are the most essential tool - without them, nothing would stick - from paper to chipboard to ribbon - it's all about the Glue Dots!



Buy them now - shop.rwctc.com under the Adhesives section to purchase yours today! Okay, scrappers - tell me what your most essential tool is! One lucky winner will win a prize on 8/15!

Monday, July 28, 2008

Enter With Joy!

We had alot of fun during our Joy door hanger class! Check out what these creative ladies made:










































This was a one-hour class, and all the supplies were provided by Remember When Creations. This is a great little gift for someone on your list or to decorate in your own home. I will teach this class again through the Vocational Adult Community Education in Martin County on Nov. 5th and Nov. 13th. If you are interested in either signing up through them or if you would like to have this class in your house with your friends, contact me at info@rwctc.com

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Why is Remember When Creations unique?

As a small business owner, the most important aspect of my business is You - my customer. Without you, RWC doesn't exist! So, why should you shop with me instead of running to Michael's or Wally World? Here's what I think:

1. Personal service - how many times have you walked into a big box store & either a.) couldn't find someone to help you, or b.) the sales clerk just walks you to the part of the store where the item is suppose to be & it's not there? Those scenarios just don't happen at RWC! If you want to order on-line & can't figure it out - call me! Looking for something I just don't stock - call me! I want you to be happy with your shopping experience!

2. Unique products - sure, I have tape runners, glue dots and paper trimmers, which are scrapbooking essentials, but my product lines are definitely different than what you see in our small selection of places to shop in Martin County!

3. Fun times - I love hostessing the monthly crops! I think it's fun for all of us to get together & work on projects and I love to teach something new to make your projects more interesting. I also learn from each of you!

That's my top 3 list! Is there anything you want to add? Leave some comments & something special will show up in the mail for you!

Sunday, July 20, 2008

New products in the store



Hi,


I have neglected my blog because I am busy trying to stock the store! I've added some new products and a few home made goodies too! Check it out:








Even though we are hitting the end of July, wedding season is still in full force. If you are looking for some unique gifts for the bride-to-be, check out some goodies I've made:




The above image is a Bride Wordbook. It's a chipboard album that can be customized for the colors that the Bride loves! I can even put the pictures in it for you!
Have a great week!

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Tuesday night scrap!

This past weekend was a fun one for Jan & Laurie Ann. The 'Kids Can' event at the Indian Riverside Park was a blast & we had great fun with the kids making birthday cards!

Heather, with Parties by Heather & Nancy, owner of Carousel Corner in Palm City, invited us to scrap with them on Tuesday nights. I was able to go this past week & I had great fun with them. First, Nancy's store is fantastic. She has everything from newborns to teenagers clothes, tons of toys, and lots of strollers, car seats, etc. It's a great store for all you Moms!

It was nice for me to sit back and just have some scrapping time. We were able to share ideas, help each other out & get some scrapping time. If you want to join us, we meet on Tues. nights at Carousel Corner, located on Martin Downs Blvd. in Palm City. Hope to see you there!

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

The website is up!

I'm so excited to tell you that Remember When Creations' site is live! Visit:




to check it out! It is ever evolving & the content will change continuously, so please make sure you bookmark it & check it out often.


In the meantime, I am still loading the store & I expect to start selling later this week. I have some exciting product lines that you won't find locally. Check it out!


Intricacies by Monday Morning Memories is a great enhancement for any page or card. These 11x11 beautifully cut-out overlays come in a variety of styles & colors. If you would like to see a custom design, please let me know so I may contact MMM for a price quote.
Other products/manufacturers in the store include Bo Bunny, SEI, Making Memories, Paper Arts, Midnight Oil Scrapbook Designs, Ranger Ink, American Crafts and more!
Stay tuned for a grand opening!

Friday, July 11, 2008

What would you do differently?

I remember when I first started scrapping. I bought a 'kit' at Wally World, a.k.a. Wal-Mart, and decided how much fun this was going to be. I dug out some pictures of a trip DH & I took to St. Augustine, grabbed the deco-scissors & started snipping.

I snipped, snipped & snipped some more! Gee, those pictures are awfully small! Now what do I do with them? Oh, use this template & mount the photos? Ok, I can do that. Put them on the page? Sure - gee, aren't they exciting on a piece of 8.5 x 11 white cardstock!

If I could go back & do it over again, I would have gone to the library and checked out some books to learn more. I guess that's what fueled my passion for preserving pictures and teaching others to do the same. I don't have time right now to show you the first page I ever did, but I'll do that later! You'll crack up!

What was your biggest mistake when you first started scrapping?

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

It's Christmas in July!



Do you realize we're almost halfway to Christmas??? You know how it goes - school goes back into session, then it's Halloween (and the retailers put Christmas stuff out) and then you are carving a turkey & then you only have 4 weeks to the big day! Why not get a jump start on holiday gift giving by attending a RWC's class? This month we are making a Joy Door Hanger.
When: Sat. July 26th
Where: Tierra Verde Clubhouse
Time: 11:00 am
Cost: $10
You will receive the 8" Joy chipboard & all materials to decorate/embellish it.
Please RSVP - I can take 9 participants!


Scrapbooking A to Z

To continue on with the monthly column in my newsletter, this month we are going to quickly look at the letter H!

H is history in the making - What you scrapbook today will be history tomorrow. Are you preserving worthwhile memories that someone will enjoy looking at and reading about in the future? Do they tell a story? Does every page answer the vital questions: "Who?" "What?" "Why?" "When?" "Where?" and sometimes "How?"

Sunday, July 6, 2008

The 4th is over.....

.....what are you doing with your photos? Are you looking for some special papers & embellishments that are Americana in nature? Check out these goodies:




Sorry these photos are all over the place, but I was so excited to see them, I just plucked them on the blog. There's more. I can special order any of these for you! Just shoot me an e-mail and I will give you product descriptions and prices!

What to Scrap This Month

July is underway, so here are some ideas for your layouts this month:


July 6 - Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day

July 7 - Chocolate Day (make your favorite chocolate dish, take a photo of it & explain in your layout why this is your favorite!

July 10 - Don't Step on a Bee Day!

July 12 - Hot Dog Day!

July 13 - Embrace Your Geekness Day! Here's a day to journal & create a LO about YOU!

July 15 - Gummi Worm Day! Go ahead - indulge. It's fun to be a kid again

July 17 - Get to Know Your Customer Day!

July 18 - Perfect Family Day!

July 20 - National Ice Cream Day!

July 21 - National Get Out of the Doghouse Day - hint: tell your hubby's to visit my store & buy you some stuff to get out of the doghouse!

July 23 - Gorgeous Grandma Day Make a LO of your Grandma

July 24 - National Drive-thru Day! Try to make it a more healthy option!

July 26 - National Cowboy Day

July 27 - Parent's Day! Make something with your scrapbooking supplies for them!

July 28 - National Milk Chocolate Day - time to repeat your favorite chocolate recipe!

Friday, July 4, 2008

Scraproom Challenge!

A Scrapbiz member, Roberta, is posting a challenge on her blog - organizing your scraproom (scrapspace). Here is a photo taken on 7/3 of my space:







Yes, it's not pretty & I'm embarrassed!

However, it's time to take the challenge & get it together. Visit Roberta's site at:

Helping You Create Meaningful Memories