TERESA COLLINS

DESIGN inspiration

I have to share some MAJOR DESIGN inspiration. It is a beautiful scrap room by VICKI BOUTIN...DESIGN INSPIRATION. I saw it on SCRAP SCENE and wanted to share it with you. I loved Vicki's design and organization, and thought you may too.

Go check it out!

Just got home from the gym. I am pretty HAPPY that I went today.  I am not packed and ready to go to TEXAS tomorrow. Again, I feel so much better when I take TIME for me. I am happier when I take ONE HOUR to move my body each day. It is not so much about weight anymore, it's about the mental boost (those feel good endorphins) that exercise gives me. I find that I am more creative when I am happy. Now, I know that may sound crazy, but it's true for me.

I can't wait to share more peaks with you. Tomorrow and even more next week. ALSO, in ONE week- next Thursday, my website will be up. So many exciting things and future plans!!!!

Enjoy today... I guess I should go pack...

Oh, and YES...I am planning an event in UTAH in 2008. So if you are in Utah, stay tuned- if you are not from UTAH, you're invited too.

New Beginnings...

Today was spent preparing for our church activity tonight. It is called Young Woman's New Beginnings. It is a program we do once a year and the parents are invited to attend. We go over the values and goals that we teach the girls each week in church. The values are Faith, Divine Nature, Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice & Accountability, Good Works and Integrity.

Our program this year was based on THE PRINCESS ACADEMY. We told them they are PRINCESSES in training. We gave them charm necklaces, a pink sash that said princess, a ring (ring pop), a wand (pixie stick), tiara (small crown for their hair)...and much more.  I spoke to the girls about Choice & Accountability- and was assigned "FINDING YOUR PRINCE." I talked about how there are good and bad princes and they must choose wisely. They need to look for a "prince" that has a kind, gentle heart and someone who will love them and love others. They need to know that not all "princes" are the best looking or most popular, etc. It is a big choice as to who you date and eventually marry. It is so true....I know as parents we want our children to make good choices in friends and eventually marriage partners. We can't make those decisions for them, we can only guide them.

I am especially grateful today for my husband. I am the first to admit, we have had our trials and our share of misunderstandings. Our love keeps us strong and together- through the good and the bad. He supports me- honestly, you should see how proud he is of me debuting at CHA. In fact, if you are at CHA...you will get to see my husband with me in the booth. That reminds me, at CHA- we are doing THREE awesome MAKE N TAKES in the booth (#1343) every day of the show. You will LOVE them!!!! *expect more information in a few days!!!!

Only 2 more days and I will be at The Scrapbook Junkie in Texas!!! Hope it is WARMER than Utah. We are expecting a big snow storm tomorrow. I will post the Friday Preview of DAMASK before I leave to teach.

**** FYI- I will be teaching in London, UK and then teaching in The Netherlands at Scrap-a-Ganza in June 2008. I plan to share more details after the show.

Sorry...

Sorry to take so long to post. I am working on the final countdown to CHA- and I am trying to find a balance with that and my family. In the past, I have tried to do TOO much and it DOES not work out. A stressed MOM is not good!

So I have let emails WAIT longer than normal, I have WORKED OUT every day during the week (it really is a BREAK and needed to help FOCUS me!), and I've been working on strengthening my family.

Okay, you might wonder- What is she talking about??? Well, I began to notice a few things. When my family is home at night and the weekends, everyone was always scattered throughout the home or gone with friends. Even when they are home- they were in their room, on the computer, reading, etc. I felt we needed to reconnect. So I made a point to have the kids stay in the family room together more- they can do homework, and alot of things still and the point is...we are spending TIME together.

One of the things I feel strongly about is family dinner. It is easier TALKED about then done. My kids are so busy, and it is hard to have everyone home and eat together at the same time. So I try hard to have our family together for dinner each night, granted normally someone is missing. Tonight, we are having Tater Tot Casserole (quick and easy to make!!!), and three of the kids will be gone. So each night is a different situation. Does anyone have any tips on how you do family dinner????

I wanted the kids to make cookies after school yesterday. I knew it was time to do something nice for our family (I rarely buy cookies!) and for some of our neighbors. So I gave the girls a recipe and they made a ton of cookies. They added alot of chocolate chips and the house smelled yummy. (I did allow myself to have ONE cookie) and then we took some to some of our friends who help our family so much. It was cute, when we delivered the plate of cookies to our friends- the Mills. The dad asked lil' Ty..."why did you bring us cookies??? and Ty replied..."ummm...I don't know- just because." I love how truthful kids are...which actually was the TRUE reason...just because.

Last night, I worked with Ty on his monthly book report. He is making a poster on ANTS. He wants it like a WANTED poster. It was 2 hours of... I can't do this, mom do this for me, I don't like my drawings, etc. I reminded myself to be patient and let him work out his frustrations. Sometimes, isn't it just easier to do it??? However, I can't do it- it is not teaching him anything. So I sat with him and patiently tried to encourage him. Then I worked on my projects while watching TLC. I am making up some VALENTINES treats for my upcoming classes- doesn't everyone need a little chocolate when they take a class???? (yum!!!) Can't believe I will be in HOUSTON TEXAS on Friday. Looking forward to this!!!!

Sorry- so long. I do need to get to the gym. My friend is not feeling well, so I've had to go alone the last few times. (note: so much easier to go with a friend!!!!) Today, I will do a hour of cardio on the elliptical and treadmill. I admit, I don't want to go, but I will feel GREAT once I've done it!

Here is the random winner of the bracelet:

I just want to run and buy this!! I have always struggled with journaling in my layouts. So I am just tickled pink to see items that helps a person out. I had felt like my journaling just did not add to the layout. But I have come to realize that it is what makes it mine. The color combinations in all of your lines are so beautiful. I love that bracelet! I hope you post where you get all this beautiful jewelry or start your own line of it.

Posted by: Kimberly | January 25, 2008 at 04:30 PM

Please email me Kimberly. It's so fun, with the winners...I never know who they are, where they live or anything. I love the emailed reactions...and it's just so fun to give something to someone that will hopefully brighten their day.

If you would like the source of the crown bracelets email me or post a comment and I will send it to you!!!!

HAVE A GREAT DAY...and Friday Preview will be the DAMASK line.

EDITED::::: here is the link for the bracelets

here you go....

http://myworld.ebay.com/my_flat_in_paris_couture

Also- I posted the ANGEL layout again...here it is...no typos...

Preview #3- Journal-it

Well, it is only TWO more weeks before CHA. Which means 2 more previews and yes, I have even more things that I will be sharing in addition to the last two paper lines. This line came about due to my love of journaling, and that I wanted to do a line that would make it easy to journal...so there is tags, (various sizes) and such. This is a 12 papers/6 double sided...the colors are manila, bold red and dark black. Here is a peek at a couple of the layouts for the booth.

Here is a close up of one of the layouts....

I know it is hard to see, the the tags, cards images are on manila. The papers have so many of my fave images and sayings...

I hope you enjoy the little sneak peeks...soon, I will be able to show the entire collection. This is just a small sample of this line...promise, so much more. (edited: don't scrapbook layouts at 3am-ha!...the layout said angle...instead of angel...it HAS been changed-)

In one week, I will be teaching in Houston and I am really looking forward to this. Classes are sold out...but please come by and say hello if your close by!!!!

I am going to do another prize today....since I have done one the last two weeks...and let me tell you...you will LOVE this prize. It's so cool, that I hate to depart with it..smile! However, I really loved it and so- maybe you will to, post and one of you can win it...

The fancy crown bracelet....isn't it cute????? I really appreciate EACH of you. I appreciate the many friends and store owners who continue to support me. I am thankful....

So- GOOD LUCK!!!!  and have a great Friday. 

teresa

just a few photos

tomorrow I'm posting the third line...

but thought today I would post just a couple photos from Saturday night.

Taylor and her date Austin...Senior Ball. I mentioned he was tall. Taylor is 5'7.

She had a GREAT night!!! I have many more photos, but wanted to quickly post a couple.

Here is Ty doing his guitar solo- on Saturday night- at his recital.   Here is a view of him playing with the band. His teacher is the guy on the far right.

Such good memories... the place was like a gym. All the photos look yellow...but anyway- thankful that I have them.

Got to get back to helping the kids with homework.  Have a good night!

Thankful FOR....

I admit it I'm struggling for some balance right now. I find that I am constantly trying to balance it all. I feel at times that certain things suffer when I am trying to work on some things...Make sense???

So instead of being negative...I want to post TODAY about what I am thankful for: (in no particular order!)

1. I made it to Body Pump (even when I was talking myself out of going since last night!).

2. Ty knew I was up against some last minute items for CHA- and he did all the laundry today( I didn't even ask him to do it!)

3. I got a email from a girl from Atlanta (someone who reads my blog) and just emailed me JUST the RIGHT email today. It LIFTed me... (she will never know how much it meant!!!!!)

4. My friend Bek (everyone needs a friend that they can call 24/7 and know that they are 100% there for you...) poor girl...knows that I am OVER the top busy right now...and just need to talk sometimes about all the things I need to do...and she understands.

5. Gentry started drivers ed. today. I know this makes her happy...so it makes me happy...

6. I am very close (hope tonight) to be caught up on my many emails. If I owe you one...thanks for being so patient.

7. Ty and I had a "US" lunch today at Cafe Rio. I had my fave pork barbacoa salad.

8. Went to Costco today, and when we got home, ZACH was doing his homework (without being asked!)

9. Tonight, I get to go spend the evening with the Young Women at church. We are preparing a dinner from scratch- Chicken Cordon Bleu, and such...time spent with Taylor...again...thankful!!!!

10. So thankful for family. Thankful...Thankful....

I know that in the times when I am overloaded, I need to step back- BREATHE- and focus on what is important, what matters most...to me that is my family.

Oh, there is much more, but this is just what came to mind right now. Did you see David on American Idol???? At the age of sixteen, I think he is amazing. He made it to HOLLYWOOD... that is all we know for now. Gentry said that not only is he extremely talented (he won Star Search a few years ago), but he is one of the nicest guys she has ever met. She said, he is a good kid and always does good things for others.

Oh, Friday...I will be previewing the "Journal-it" collection.... I am so excited about this collection.

teresa 

hey

i'm out the door heading to the gym. i have some cool things going on- with my CHA releases- in which, I am very thankful. so today, i have to work on that. I will share soon....

if you watch American IDOL. My daughter Gentry goes to high school with the 16 year old that will be on tonight, or this week. We don't know how far he got- they say its a 2 million dollar penalty for sharing the info. but it seems he went pretty far...who knows...he is AMAZING. I will post his name later....

just if you are fan of the show...watch this amazing kid. He is one of the nicest kids you will ever met and he is amazingly talented. Gentry can't believe that someone she knows is one the show...very cool!!!

We are snowed in, in UTAH. So much snow...it's everywhere. It's gorgeous!!!!

off to the gym...today is a hour of the mixed cardio/curcuit training. My fave is the eliptical machine...

It's Sunday...

What a GREAT weekend!!!! I have to share the photos of Ty's guitar recital. It was a mini rock concert. His teacher rented out a performance hall at the Univ. of Utah. I loved watching all the students perform. I think it will motivate Ty to keep working hard to become better. The students got to play with a band- each had a guitar solo. It was so cool, to see Ty at such a young age, play the guitar. He is getting better all the time. I promised Ty that I would do a mini book- with all the photos for his FIRST guitar recital. Ty LOVES to look at my projects. He will even ask me to scrapbook certain events. A couple of weeks ago, he was shooting his BB Gun at a target (outside- thankfully!!!) and asked me to take photos so that I could scrapbook them. Gentry is the exact opposite, she asked me today- if I had a lot of photos of her and her friends. I reminded her that the last few times I took photos she covered her face with her hands and told me to stop taking photos!!!! (yes, there is reasons why I have more photos of Ty and Zach- ha- they actually ASK me to take their photos) I wonder if this is normal???? Do we take more photos of our younger children??? Is it because the OLDER ones sometimes do not like to cooperate???? (it is like this at my house!)

Oh, Taylor had the best night, at her Senior Ball last night. Yes, I will share photos...hopefully tomorrow. Austin, her date showed up, and he was so tall...I bet 6' 5. I opened the door and the kids, said at first they thought I was Taylor. NICE! (I'm sure Taylor may not have agreed)

I have some news to share- my classes at The Scrapbook Junkie are sold out!!!! I really am appreciative to those of you who signed up and I look forward to meeting you. I have a "bring to class supply list" that I will send to The Scrapbook Junkie and Scrapbook Oasis, or if you would like it emailed to you now...just send me a email. In subject line, please put: Class Supplies- thank you!

INFORMATION: I can finally share!!! I will be in Phoenix, AZ  teaching at the coolest store- MELROSE VINTAGE. Have you heard about this wonderful store???? I was so excited to be asked to come, and it worked out in my schedule. Here is the details- you can sign up starting TOMORROW...

Class Date: Wednesday March 5th

Time: 6:00-9:30pm

Place: MELROSE VINTAGE (located Central Phoenix)

Phone: 602-636-0300

*here is the details, it's a brand new CLASS, with my new CHA paper line (JOURNAL-IT). It will be a BIG book project, filled with innovative techniques and journaling tips and tricks...plus so much more. Just so you know, we have limited the class size to only 20 STUDENTS, so if your interested, call the store.

The winner of the CROWN RING is.....

I am freaking out over here....SERIOUSLY. Where on earth are you getting those amazing crown pieces. You have the best taste...I know that I am going to LOVE your new collections because you just have the eye...
Whether the ring fits me or not...I will cherish it..shall I win it. I covet the crown...LOL..it's a bit of an obsession actually...now..gimme the crown lady...LOL
Great Job with Boardwalk. I have three boys and I am thrilled that you created some so very cool...and flowers...totally rock on a boys layout...I figure..I'm creating it...and I'm a girl...enough said.

Can't wait for CHA..

Posted by: Melody | January 19, 2008 at 12:59 AM

CONGRATS MELODY and email me your address!!!!

Thanks again, for all of the comments. I really enjoy reading them!!!!  Ok...got to go watch a movie now with Lil' Ty. He likes to snuggle...(love it!)

FRIDAY PREVIEW #2

are you ready?????

I just got home from the gym. Woo Hoo...it's been six weeks now and I can FINALLY see some muscles...(okay, maybe more firmness-- than muscles!!!!)

I am so EXCITED- THRILLED to show you my SNEAK PEEK of BOARDWALK. This is a line, that I drew all images by hand and then painted them. I was inspired by my fave summer colors...light blue and orange. This line can be used for the summer, beach or really just anytime photos. I wanted this line to be perfect for boys (never have enough good boy papers-huh?) and girls... The colors are bold and yummy... as you can see on the preview...boys- yes, I love flowers even on my boy layouts...

This is photos from the summer. The boys were playing on the slip n slide at Zions National Park- our FAMILY REUNION.

I wanted to retake the photos of this layout, because this photo does not do the colors justice, but my card reader is broken, so I will post it with a little disclaimer.

So I need to get back to CHA prep...it's COMING fast! I did FIVE layouts yesterday. I'm fast, but normally not that fast. Ha! THANK you for all the comments- I read them all- oh, and the winner of the books is:

Hi Teresa

Wow hubby working out with you that is awesome...

You mentioned coming to Phoenix in March to teach...where - that is where I live and I want to take another class from you - took a couple of classes when you were with another company.

Thanks
Shannon

Posted by: Shannon Coyne | January 16, 2008 at 05:49 PM

Congrats Shannon- email me....

Not to worry- I have a FUN prize today to give away...well, at least I think so...

It's a CROWN RING...I purchased two...ONE for me and ONE for some lucky person...(size 7) Sorry if it would not fit, if you win, you would always GIVE it away to someone special.... so post a comment.

I am so excited lil' Ty has his FIRST GUITAR recital tonight and tomorrow night. He is NINE now and he can play a few songs... He will play with a BAND - and do his solo- he will play Nirvana "smells like teen spirt." Oh, how I am LOVING my FLIP camcorder!!!! It is the BEST gift- so small and easy to use. I carry it in my purse- 24/7. HIGHLY recommend!!!!

Good luck- and thanks for checking out my sneak peek- BOARDWALK- oh, can't wait for SUMMER....

TODAY

I went to the gym with Ty. He went with me to BODY PUMP. It was great. He was a trooper and LOVED the class. He loves to lift weights, so he liked it (love the music!!!). He assured me, HE does not want to do any of my "dancing classes". So he won't do Body Attack or the likes. Ty was the only MAN in the class. It wore us both out and I'm glad that he now knows what I do 3 times a week. He doesn't belong to my gym, so they are having GUESTS DAYS- you take any guest and they promise a no hassle (we won't bug you to join)pass. They then let me spin a (wheel of fortune) wheel to win a prize for bringing a guest. GUESS WHAT I won???? The second best prize on the wheel- a YEAR MEMBERSHIP- value $300... the guy said, "you should be very happy, jumping up and down...but I was like YEAH, that's GREAT...no jumping up and down for me!

So today is a great day- spent with my husband. Loved working out together, then heading to Costco. We spend entirely too much $$$ there, but we buy alot of food. Today we bought 9 gallons of milk- that is about what we do a week. Then Ty and I had a late lunch-3pm- at my fave- Cheesecake Factory. I ordered the 6 carb cheesecake as a treat. I loved it, but Ty said he could taste the Splenda and did not like it as much as the normal cheesecake.

Going to go do miniature golf tonight at church with the young woman. Should be fun!

Excited, booked flights to PHX for March (baseball tournament & TEACHING a class!!!!! Staying in Scottsdale, sounds so nice- it's gonna be a high of 7 degrees this evening. It's SO COLD here!!!!

TIME for a prize...since I won a GREAT prize today...so can you... I have a lot of books (accordion, index tab, 7 gypsies, making memories, etc. LOTS and I want to share some with YOU...don't we all need some books to create??? so post a comment and I'll pick a winner on Friday... oh and Friday- SNEAK PEEK....BOARDWALK collection.

Tuesday Times....

I just got home from the gym. I did NOT want to go. My friend was having the same thoughts. Thankfully, we had set a 8:40am LAST NIGHT-  BE THERE time- and we did. For me accountability is big...if I know Bek will be there waiting for me, then I don't want to let her down. Plus, the workout goes by so much faster when your chatting. Right now, I need the mental break, from the business stuff (one hour!!!) to focus on myself- my health. I need those happy hormones!!! (I have not lost anymore weight in several weeks- in fact I gained some weight after I've been doing weights and my body pump class)

The Scrapbook Junkie just started sign up for my classes in Houston, TX- I am teaching two classes (Feb. 1st and 2nd). If you would like to purchase a kit only- call the store please. I only did a limited number of kits for TX and the Oasis so I have no extra kits. Scrapbook Oasis already did signups and the class is sold out and has a waiting list. So if your interested...

Today, the cabinet lady is coming to measure my kitchen again. I never realized how long and tedious redoing a kitchen could be. This has been months of work, and the work has not even began. Decisions, Decisions, Decisions....so times I feel so overwhelmed, I want to cry. Thankfully I have a wonderful contractor, Rick- who understands me, and my crazy life. He is trying to work around my travel schedule, my family life...etc. I will be very thankful for all the cabinet space, ( I have the tinest pantry- for such a big family) and I want to be able to have lots of space for organized food...and the best thing about the kitchen plans is my island. I have always wanted a large island in the middle of my kitchen that can FIT my entire family. We have five children that live in our home and our other two boys - when we are lucky enough to have them here- that is SEVEN kids. So I asked for a big island. CAN you guess how large it will be???? Put it this way, because of the remodel...I am GIVING up having a FORMAL dining room. Yes, knocking out a wall...and then I can have a big island. Did you know that cabinets take forever? I have a 10 week wait til the cabinets will be done.

This afternoon it is BASEBALL. Zach has started again. In Utah, there is SNOW everywhere, so we rent indoor batting facilities (his superleague team). Anyway, they are doing a Tournament right now. So this afternoon, I get to rush him from Cub Scouts to his games. McKay has dance at the same time- so we juggle it all.

Oh, Taylor got asked to the SENIOR BALL- it's this Saturday. She picked out the most beautiful RED DRESS. It seems like yesterday she was 5 years old and wearing her plaid skirt and black maryjanes- and a bow in her hair. Oh, the time FLIES.... If you have little ones- cherish every single day- it's true they GROW up WAY TOO FAST!!!

Thank you again for the support and comments. I really appreciate it!!!!

THIS WEEKEND

This weekend has been one of the best ever. On Friday, I spent a couple hours reading the book by Denise Jackson. I cried while reading the book- over and over- I was so touched. It is nice to know that in life, our trials not only make us STRONGER, but help SHAPE us. I was touched today in church. I am lucky enough to serve with the young women in our church. They are aged 16-18 years old. I love these girls! I learn so much by watching them. They are all in that stage, where they WANT desperately to feel included, loved and accepted by their peers. They want to look THE PART, and yet they face so much self doubt. Even the most beautiful and talented…they share their feelings of  “am I good enough? Pretty enough? Thin enough??? Smart enough??? … They struggle to love themselves…

I come home and reflect upon the lessons at church and in Young Women’s. I STILL – yes, in my thirties- face the same things they face. As woman, I wonder if we are just

TOO

hard on ourselves, do we expect ourselves to be PERFECT???? I admit, I do. Do we put too much emphasis on WHAT the WORLD thinks of us???? Whose opinion really matters? It is the times when I struggle the most with trials in my life that for me- I turn to the Lord. I know that HE knows and loves not only me, but EACH of us. I am thankful for a lesson today that reminded me, that even though I am human- and I make mistakes and sin- that I can be forgiven. I am thankful to know that NO MATTER what we do in life, HE loves us- HE knows the true intentions of our hearts…and because HE can forgive me…well, I must too forgive and not judge others. I am not perfect, but I am trying.

I was able to spend the afternoon and evening last night with some great girls up in

Bountiful

. We meet and cropped. Well, I should say, they cropped. I took BOXES of photos and organized them for 7 hours. I separated my photos into clear containers- labeled for each of my children and events. Of course, I have some that are family photos, sports photos, Christmas, Halloween etc. too. I accomplished a lot and I LOVED seeing all the photos. I doubt I will ever scrapbook most of the photos- but I have THEM and that is what is so important- love the memories. I want to be more organized. Any tips on organizing your PHOTOS???? I need it!

Thank you for the kind comments on Bella Girl. My girls are insisting that I read the books now, since it inspired the name for this collection. I don’t know if they will let me borrow TWILIGHT. Ha! This was only a small peek…and I hope you will like the rest of it. You will find that the four lines I am introducing are really different, but very me. I am still deciding which line to show on Friday. I am thinking it may be BOARDWALK. I love the colors- blue and orange together.

The winner of the crown necklace is:

Love the new line. It's amazing, the style, the name and the colors!!! Awesome job!!! So happy you are still designing. Thanks for the sneak peak, can't wait to see more!!!!!!!

Posted by: Heather | January 12, 2008 at 09:19 AM

*Heather, please email me your address.

I am posting some fun give aways THIS week- so stay tuned!!!

Teresa

FRIDAY PREVIEW...

I am home and very tired from my class. I've tried to push myself the last two days and see if I can see some better results. For me, that meant going to the gym after taking the kids to school. I did 75 minutes yesterday and 85 minutes today. Whew! Don't worry- I know my limits- I am taking tomorrow and Sunday OFF! Five days this week is enough. My goal is honestly just to FEEL the BEST I can about myself. Not going for some MAGIC number on the scales. I did go shopping this week to buy clothes for CHA. I much prefer to go "home decor" shopping. Ha!

Some questions answered:

I will be at CHA in BOOTH #1343. Teresa Collins will be inside the Product Performers booth. You will not be able to miss it- we are busy making fun plans and samples for the booth. Product Performers will distribute the Teresa Collins line, so you can order directly through them. I can't wait for everyone to see the BOOTH- if your not able to make it to the show...don't worry, my website and booth will have both PHOTOS and VIDEO... Yes, video- just wait...so much...

I will be posting my travel schedule on the WEBSITE, (honestly, I can't figure out how to do it here on my blog!). I am still finalizing some store visits up too.

So the winner for the 7 GYPSIES products is:

Hi Teresa,
I love your blog - I find you very inspiring with your approach to life and your creativity.
I've started back to the gym and am still working on mastering the elliptical - it's challenging for sure!
I started scrapbooking about 9 years ago when I kept receiving so many pictures of my wonderful godson and decided to do a book that I could present to him when he graduates high school -
Well, I'm now a true addict! Love buying supplies, taking classes and going to crops.
Have a great rest of the week!

Posted by: Meggers | January 10, 2008 at 02:47 PM

Congrats Meggers and email me- k!

So I've decided to do something FUN. It is 4 WEEKS until CHA...and the debut of my FOUR lines...and some other great things too!!! So each Friday, I will show a small sneak peek- a layout from each of my collections...TODAY I will show you a preview of BELLA GIRL... (the baby is ERIN my dear friend Kate's daughter). You'll have to be patient for the rest...

Presenting...BELLA GIRL (well just a small sample!)

and another a little bit of a close up....

I CANNOT express, how exciting to me, it is to show this little bit of the paper line. It's SCARY too- hope that you like it...I am so thankful to do what I do, and I know I can't please everyone, but of course you try...

So today, in CELEBRATION, I am giving away another CROWN NECKLACE...(it is  similar to the last one I gave away!!!!!) I think everyone needs a little FUN and crowns and gems...pink and black...well, it's so girly and we are all QUEENS right????

So good luck, post any comment and I will pick a winner this weekend. Oh, and if you have some free time READ all the comments from my last post. WOW, so cool to read how you started into the hobby of scrapbooking. It just made me think- GRAB A FRIEND, introduce HER/HIM to this wonderful hobby. It's a easy as showing them YOUR pages. It's is such a great thing- preserving our memories...so very important...remember DOCUMENT your life...if not for you...but for your family- children and posterity.

TONIGHT....what should I do????? It's DATE NIGHT and I would love to go out to eat, but it's so hard to stay really healthy while eating out. Why, oh why...did they have to build a CHEESECAKE FACTORY (5 minutes from my house!!!!!)??????? I LOVE their lettuce wraps....Can you tell I'm hungry???

for those asking about where I got the crown necklace...

*crowns necklaces (honestly, don't remember where I've gotten them ( I have ALOT!!! (smiling)- I have severals sites that I get them from. I purchased most online... you check out EBAY- they sometimes have them...

EARLY AM POST

it's about 1am and I am up tying up some loose ends. I am working on my travel schedule too. I can't wait to share with you some of the places and events that I will be at. (finally, gonna make it to NORTHERN California) and some other fun places- Phoenix, AZ, and more...

If you paid for the ROLODEX instructions w/ DVD and would like the supply list emailed to you...please email me and post in the subject line: supplies for Rolodex dvd. I tried to email everyone that asked for it, but I am afraid with all the emails that I have been getting- well, it could have gotten lost. Please email me again!!!!

I can't sleep...so sore from Body Pump today. My legs were trembling in class from exhaustion- not even kidding!!! Oh, I don't do the elliptical for the entire hour... I do 15 minutes elliptical, then 10 minutes treadmill, and then alternate the elliptical with the treadmill for 60 minutes. Bek and I alternate, but spend MOST of the time on the elliptical machine. It's my fave!!!!

I have to tell you about my proud mommy moment- my boys share a room, and sleep in bunk beds. They read for 20 minutes each night in bed, and when they are done, we go in- say our prayers and tuck them in for the night. Last night, we went in to find the boys already asleep with scriptures in their bed and church music playing in their room. It was a CD of children's church hymns. My husband called me into their room, and I was so proud that they choose to read the scriptures and listen to GOOD music. Normally, I find Goosebumps or a baseball book...but it really touched me that they wanted to read scriptures. Just made me so happy...memories  I NEVER want to forget....

So did I mention that 7 gypsies sent me a box of wonderful goodness? I am and always will be a FAN of 7 Gypsies. So if you LOVE them too, I am sending one lucky person a prize with 7 Gypsies products.  I have books, stickers, rub ons, etc. TOO MUCH to list...but oh how darling it all is....  I would LOVE to know HOW you were introduced to SCRAPBOOKING. *my neighbor Rachel invited me to a crop 5 1/2 years ago (before my mother passed away), I went- telling her...I don't scrapbook and didn't want to. I thought it was not me...but I went and took a box full of photos, I put them in files (separating them into categories...for about six hours and talked the entire night to the girls...did not do a single page or purchase anything in the LSS!) I technically started to scrapbook a month after my mother passed away  which was about about 6 months after that crop. I took my first class- a Heritage Class and took lots of the Heritage class. I was normally the youngest person in the classes, and I was immediately HOOKED...  Good luck!!!!!

Crowns...

the winner of the crown necklace...

L.O.V.E. this necklace...and pink & black & silver! These were my wedding colors. You are such an inspiration and I love your BLOG...way to go stepping out on your own. Can't wait to see what you bring out at CHA.

Posted by: Trina McBride | January 07, 2008 at 07:47 PM

Congrats Trina, please email me.

I wanted to mention that I read every single comment and that in order to not pick favorites and make it completely fair- everyone has a equal chance to win. It is a random  drawing. I wish I could give EVERY one a prize. I hate to disappoint anyone. That is one of my many people pleaser traits. *so later this week- another fun prize...so stay tuned!!!

Yesterday and today- made it to the gym. The only problem is that after working out, I get so HUNGRY in the afternoons/evenings. Going to the gym with Bek is the best- the hour on the eliptical machine goes by fast. We set a time to meet and then we JUST GO. No excuses, the holidays are over. CHA is close, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse...the best thing for me to do is go first thing after getting my kids to school. I am drinking so much water- (about 99 oz a day)- during our hour cardio I drink 33 oz- so it's not as much as it sounds. It is really helping me, to realize ALOT of the time, I EAT when I'm actually thirsty. I am goal driven, so if I set a goal (like no Ocean Spray- until I've had 64 oz of water)- I am pretty good to really do it. It's all about health and being healthier...

Had a very productive day today...I worked up some samples for the booth. I keep SMILING- I'm so HAPPY. Plus, I had the best phone chat today with Janna- I love it when she calls me, because she is like a sister to me. I am constantly inspired by her in life and her art. She takes the most beautiful photos. We were discussing our friendship today and how, we may not talk for a week or two- but we pick up the phone and start right where we left off. Well, Janna- she is one of the BEST friends I have ever had. She is a good person and I can't wait to see her at CHA... (Thankful for calls today from Roe and from my UK friend Michelle G.- nothing like the support of friends)

Have you heard Candice Cook- is pregnant??? She  designed the Laguna Boy and Girl lines for Junkitz...well, I am so happy for her and Curtis. This is baby #4. Congrats Candice!!!!

I am reading a book called IT'S ALL ABOUT HIM by Denise Jackson, she is married to the country super star Alan Jackson. It is about how they were high school sweethearts-got married- had no money for many years- then their dreams came true with fame, stardom and wealth, a life of luxury came their way. Denise goes on to talk about her "fairy tale" life...and how "real life" is not a fairy tale. At the pinnacle of their success, their marriage was falling apart. Denise had build her LIFE around Alan and HIS success and no amount of money or success could change what was happening in their life and marriage. She said, "Sooner or later, we all come to the point when we realize that REAL JOY and PEACE isn't just around the corner of the next achievement, the next relationship or the NEXT new thing." It is a great read, Denise looked to God to heal their problems. No amount of money or wealth can BUY you THIS. As many of you know, Ty and I have been married for 11 years now. This is my second marriage and we each had children- he has two sons (matt and seth) and i had my three girls (taylor, gentry and mckay) and we married and have two sons together (zach and ty). Let me be honest, blending a family is HARD- or at least it was for me. There was times in the first couple of years, when I really struggled. I could so relate to this book, her message. I think it spoke to me, because I can understand how hard marriage can be and I have had to learn to not RELY on my own wisdom (ha!) and in LIFE not just marriage... I truly can't do it on my own...I had to listen to the larger, stronger voice of God. I LOVE this part in the book..."But that's where I find real life in my relationships with Jesus so absolutely freeing. I don't have to be perfect. I can't be perfect. But I know that HEis with me, forgiving me when I fail and picking me up when I fall. And because of His presence and power with me, I can begin to be the wife, mother, daughter, and friend that I was truly designed to be. When it's all about Him, then our stories not only have an unbelievably happy ultimate ending, but every chapter- happy or sad- is somehow sweeter than the one before."- denise jackson.

So sorry for such a LONG POST. I know it helped me by reading this book and felt maybe it would do the same for you...by sharing a few of the insights of her book.

Thanks for reading if you still are!!!!

PS thanks Lyndsey...I am honored that a 15 year old reads my blog...thank you for your emails. I know you will achieve GREAT things in your life!!!!

Monday...give away

I am home...and SO glad that I made myself GO...worked out hard and now must refocus on something that I've been lacking...drinking lots of water. I don't drink diet soda anymore, and LOVE...okay...GUZZLE Diet Ocean Spray Cranberry Grape Spray- it is only 5 calories per serving...BUT now I don't get in all the plain water that I need. So today my goal was to drink ALL my water (64oz a day) before I allow my self to drink the Ocean Spray, and maintaining this goal daily. Today...check!!!!

So here is the silver box that is wrapped and ready to go to one of you. Wanna see it????

There is a cute little crown charm hanging from the ribbon.

love pink and black with silver...always have...

so inside this box is a CROWN necklace. I Love

fun & funky jewelry. This is a one that I really love...

so here is a peek of what is inside...

sorry...somewhat blurry...here is another photo....

anyone want to win this???? If you don't wear necklaces, you can take the crown off and use it in a project. Easy...just leave a comment. I LOVE your feedback and comments and so THANK YOU to each of you that share so much me with.

So I need to get my packages mailed out, a trip to the mall, and get something ready for after school snacks. (I have a snack ready for the kids each day when they get home...something real simple but somewhat healthy (some days are better than others)...today it is applesauce and cheese tortillas) I will pick a winner if not tomorrow than early Wednesday...so busy with CHA on my mind.

Good luck!!!!

Wow...

So much to get done today. I do not have time to workout...nope, but I'm going. In 15 minutes...why...because I promised myself to make MYSELF a priority. My health, my sanity, my stress reliever, well...so I will go, even though I have SO much more that I feel pulling me away to do it. My first thought, is to bag my workout and focus on all the rest...but I know I need to STOP putting myself and my health last.

I have to run straight from the gym (leave my class 15 minutes early) to go pick up my sons (take to the dentist) then feed them and take back to school by 1pm... I won't bore you with the rest of my schedule...just lots of "to do's" and feeling pressure to get emails returned, prototypes completed...laundry...etc. HOWEVER, today...I'm so thankful that I'm able to do these things. Yes, today is crazy busy, but you know...ONE Day I will be so MISSING this...

so it's really something I am thankful for- a busy life. Oh, so today...later today (after I go to UPS to mail out that BIG box to Karen and Carla the Prism Prize (post office), then I am showing a photo of todays give away. I love it! I hope you will to. So check back later today...K!

Off to go sweat some....

Hello...

It's still Saturday, but I FINALLY was able to post. What a busy weekend. Wish I could say that I am done kitting the kits for the classes I am teaching, but I am not. If you have ever taken a class from me, you know I pack my kits with goodies, do color copies of every page, precut all my papers, etc.  Here is one of the kits that I finished kitting-teaching at Oasis and The Scrapook Junkie.

I am thankful to GENTRY- my sweet 15 year old who has helped me for countless hours this past week... THANK YOU GENTRY!!!!! (yes, I do pay them to help me)

Gentry is on the right. Taylor (left) was ABSORBED in reading her book- Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse for the FOURTEENTH time-so she did not help much today. My girls are BIG TIME readers. In fact, I named the BELLA GIRL paper line, from the character Bella in the book series. My girls kept talking about Bella and it fit. Have you read these books???? I haven't yet, but when things slow down a bit...I will.

Well, I am sad to say...we did not make it to the movies. I loved reading all of your reviews. I don't think I want to see a sad movie right now, so we went to dinner instead. A great Chinese place, so I could have lettuce wraps. It is a appetizer, but I had it as my entree. One thing that Ty and I do now when we go out to eat... is to order ONE meal and share it. I have found in moderation, I can eat pretty much anything now and not gain weight. I may not lose, but I am not gaining.

I keep forgetting to answer some questions, I get asked often in my comments. Yes, we are still doing the kitchen remodel. It's taken so long, due to the previous contractor (let's just say, it's hard to find a good contractor), and starting from ground zero again. I am hoping that it will all be finalized so they can start the week after CHA is over. Another thing- my website is almost done. It will have information on the events/places that I will be at posted there too. I will show sneak peeks of the new papers...but not quite yet,  but the website will definitely give you an idea of what the lines are like. I do have a few more things than just the paper lines too. Oh, I wish I could give more hints, but I better not...Okay...I will give one HINT...I'm coming out with something that is SOMETHING you can WEAR....WHAT can it be????? Also, design team- in all honesty, right now, not yet- with such a quick turnaround, it is something that I am not thinking about it until I get through CHA and see what needs I may or may not need. I really appreciate all the emails that I have gotten with interest. I will keep them all for future reference!!!!! 

Here is the winner from the PRISM CARDSTOCK for TODAY....

Hi, Teresa! I'm in Somerset, KY...where there is no LSS! :( This is where I was born and raised.

I'm crossing my fingers, toes & everything else!

Oh...are you going to have a design team for your products at any point? Just curious!

Posted by: Carla-aka-cakescraps | January 04, 2008 at 09:33 PM 

Congrats to you!!! Please email your address. Thanks Prism for the prize...and Carla, I will send you more surprises too.

Check back because on my next blog post, I have decided to give away...something really cute...hint hint...crown...

I have to go finish my lesson for church in the morning. Our church time is now 9am in the morning- so early to get all of us out the door!!!! Have a great weekend!

teresa

I have a WINNER...

winner winner winner....

Hi Teresa: I met you at CKU San Jose album track. You struck me as so real and down to earth. Since then, seeing your work, you have such a sense of style. That's why I am so surprised to hear you talk about times you're feeling low. Surprised because you are so talented, stylish and cute-as-a-button that you seemed to have it all! But your honesty on your blog keeps us all coming back to visit and makes you so much more real for us all to relate to.

Just remember, you have what it takes. It's all within. You just have to go and show the world! Best wishes on your awesome adventure!

Posted by: Karen | January 03, 2008 at 12:32 AM

Congrats Karen- please email me your address.

Wow...I have to say that since Wednesday I have had thousands of hits above my normal stats on this blog. Nothing like a prize huh???? I have had the most wonderful emails sent to me. I cried as I read your personal stories. I thank you for sharing with me!!!! Every since I made my announcement, I have been emailing alot. I have had such WONDERFUL support. Emails asking to distribute my products, or LSS telling me they are going to carry my lines...just really good stuff. Lots of offers to come teach- and much to think about. I was on the phone with Heidi yesterday, trying to figure out if I can do Scrap a Ganza this June in the Netherlands. I made a commitment this year 2008 to think with my business head and make smarter decisions. I wish I could do it all, but I can't. If I overcommit myself, then I'm stressed, and my family suffers. So I hope to do as much as I can and still keep my family my first priority. I am SO EXCITED for CHA...

I was kitting my classes last night for the Oasis and Scrapbook Junkie. These kits are FULL and are going to take me the entire weekend. I placed a LARGE order with Prism Papers (cardstock) yesterday and I am going to pick up my cardstock in a bit. Well, today they called--- they are so cool and wanted to gave me some prizes to give away...so TODAY...ANOTHER PRIZE- a PRIZE PACKAGE from PRISM and some extra goodies from me today..... I will pick a winner tomorrow!!!!

I plan to do ALOT of prizes up into CHA...just for fun. You won't want to miss what I have planned for a prize for next week...hint hint...crowns on my mind...hint hint!!!!

So I finished up a project that Tim Holtz and Robin Beam asked me to do for the Ranger booth. I probably can't reveal what it is, but is was so fun. I have never spent so many hours on a project. (I will post this after CHA). I hope you have a great weekend!

Tonight- date night...I want to go see the movie- PS I LOVE YOU. Any reviews????? I will need the break from kitting. I also got the latest issue of People-special double issue- their yearly weight loss issue...you know People who have lost HALF this weight, etc. I find these stories motiviating...

remember--to enter a comment to win- oh, if you will..tell me where your from. I would to know where you live.

I'm first...I was born and raised in Hickory NC...now I live in Utah.... your turn!!!!

THANK YOU...

THANK YOU for all the supportive comments and personal emails. I read so many emails, and I was overcome- and literally had a very tearful afternoon. I go through these emotional times, when I simply feel so much, and my heart is so thankful- that I cry. I am a big baby...I admit it. I would read emails and smile a huge grin, laugh, or often times- like today-cry...due to the things in which you shared with me. I am not going to lie, this new adventure is ALOT and I keep thinking of a 1,000 things that I need to do. I have had so many of you offer to help me- design team, booth help, class help---you name it, I have been overwhelmed with support. THANK YOU!!!!! I want you each to know (I know I have not responded to each of you) that I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me. I want to tell you again, what I think of EVERY single day.... what has kept me going when I doubted myself....

SHE BELIEVED

SHE COULD

SO SHE DID... 

In life, we have so many people who pull us down or say "you can't do that..." and I used to listen to those things and believed them. It was the same with my weight. When my mom died, I literally fell apart. I gave up and ate my way to 200 lbs. If you have ever lost someone close to you, then you understand how you can get to the point where nothing matters.  Yes, I admit it- I was heavier 5 years ago, then any full term pregnancy. Then one day, 16 months ago, I stopped listening to all the negative things and started to BELIEVE in myself again. I have never been so down or sad in life. I attended a trade show in Chicago and overheard some girls calling me FAT. I came home and cried and felt sorry for myself for months. I was thinking I could never lose the weight and just had a big ole pity party for myself. Then one day- I took my feelings of low self worth to the Lord and prayed for the strengthn to change my outlook and my life. I knew that my weight was now a barrier to all the things I could do in my life. I hide behind it now... so I guess what I am trying to say, is that I hope if you EVER get into a depression, a low period in your life, or anytime where you just are having a hard time...remember, that YOU have the power within you to accomplish anything you want to.

Going out on my own, is scary...and I know with that comes people who will try to hurt or tear me down,  and I accept it comes with the territory...and it's okay. I've learned who's opinion truly matters in life. I don't think I would be HERE doing this- SHARING this- without all of you- my friends- those of you who care and support me.

So as promised....the four new paper lines...with a little information...

just a little....

1. BELLA GIRL (tell me what girl does not love pink/black and crowns...) enough of a hint....

2. BOARDWALK (this line is bright fun colors...just what I've been wanting to do...did someone say SURFBOARDS,eh?????)

3. DAMASKED (enough said....sophisticated and rich)

4. Journal- It (this line will make you journal in a whole new light-)

So is that a enough info...to get you excited???? I hope so.

I want to do a BIG PRIZE...so I am packing up a big box (sending it UPS it's so big worth HUNDREDS of dollars & my ROLODEX DVD kit included too) I wish you all luck...post any comment below and I will pick a winner on FRIDAY...

 

Is it REALLY the FIRST????

happy new year!!!! happy new year!!!! happy new year!!!!

I have to admit, we stayed up way too late last night. We have a tradition of getting Chinese food (take out) from our fave restaurant. This was the FIRST time, I have had their food in a year- so I ate too much and was then sick. You KNOW that feeling when you just feel horrible and say WHY did I do this to myself???? Today-I am going to more healthy.

So- I can FINALLY SHARE!!!! If you could only see me right now- I am nervous to share, excited to share, well I just NEVER thought I would be doing THIS...

Teresa Collins designs made the decision to go independent. I will be at CHA- debuting my first ever Teresa Collins lines. I have created FOUR paper lines that are MY ALL time FAVORITE plus more. This all came about when I was contacted by PRODUCT PERFORMERS through a friend. They are a very large, successful distributor in the craft world. They will be distributing my line for me. That means I will not have to worry about the day to day stuff, shipping, orders, etc. PP will do ALL of this for Teresa Collins. It was the best possible situation for me- and I am very happy. I LOVE the new releases and I am finally 1000% myself in what I design and release. I like the creative freedom to make the decisions that bear my name on them. Here is the logo that you will see- hence forth and forever:

HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL NEW YEARS-

I AM SO HAPPY TODAY to finally be able to SHARE...

My website is almost ready to go up...probably a few more days...so I will share that later.

So were you surprised???????

xoxo

Teresa

****ADDED*** thank you for the many emails that I am getting- THANK YOU for the COMMENTS. I am working on the BOOTH samples, design...and have so much more that I have to get done in the next month. I plan to share the NAMES of my paper collections tomorrow- such a tease I know...did I say they are my all time FAVORITES to date????

If you've emailed me- I'm reading- just spending the day with the family- and watching FOOTBALL. Well, not really- but it's on....