TERESA COLLINS

GRADUATION...

quick update. I am the biggest baby. Who cries at a high school graduation? ME!!!! I just got home from Taylor's graduation. It was LONG...with about 450 graduates. It was crazy and then David Archuleta was home for his sisters graduation. (Claudia and Taylor) are friends. Anyway, everyone was bugging him for photos and autographs during the ceremony. He had two policeman guarding him. Finally, after Claudia got her dipolma, David hurried out. It's so surreal. I watched as grown woman were all over David- CRAZY....and again ALL in the middle of a high school graduation. Anyway, Taylor looked so cute. I gave her pink roses and a leis to wear. Then we made a quick trip to her fave- Cafe Rio for a salad.

Now, I'm headed out the door to Ty's baseball game. Wow...then home to do work for the yard sale in the morning. I am so THANKFUL today for everything. Oh, today was my kids last day of school. Off to the ballfield.

Beauty Magazines...

I decided to get my nails done yesterday. I admit, I only do my nails when I travel or for TV. I just have a hard time making the time for myself- unless I am going somewhere. Anyway, I was reading Shape and US. I know- total fluff. Both magazines had big sections on how "the celebrities" lose all this weight. I was dying when I read that Christina Aguilera has lost 40 lbs so quickly after having her baby. It said she works out over TWO hours a day PLUS toning and eats 1,700 calories. They listed all the food that they eat- and will not eat. Hmmm...they are really disciplined. What caught my attention was the fact that so many of them get "food delivered"- you know the healthy and very expensive kind to them. Wouldn't that be nice to not have to worry about cooking and clean up? Also, a personal trainer who comes to your house everyday would be motivating.

It occured to me that I want to do MORE to keep myself healthy. So I decided to start walking EVERYWHERE I possibly can. Zach had a baseball game and I had no idea the distance from our home. It ended up taking me 50 minutes to walk to his game. I made it right on time. Then when the game was over, I walked home. It was faster- only 45 minutes. Ty drove it and said it was 5.5 miles total. Anyway, I was happy that I did it. I walked 1 hour and 35 minutes- and it felt great. I love to walk and so I am going to start walking to the stores and places that I need to go too. Thank goodness for IPODS and music.

Today it is pouring rain. I am going to the school in 2.5 hours for FIELD DAY. I have no idea what we will do. I would imagine it will be inside- the school gym, but it's tiny. I'm doing snowcones! I have piano today with the girls. I get to talk to our piano teacher about the girls, their practice and how they are doing. It's great to keep the girls motivated. I MAKE my girls practice everyday. Maybe one day they will thank me?

I have lost (misplaced) my card reader. I want to share my project that I will be teaching in Chicago (july) and in California (aug). So hopefully, I will find it and you can see some images soon.

blessed...

I loved reading the comments from yesterday. I guess it helps to hear validation- that someone feels the same way that I do. You know as parents our time RAISING our kids is FAST. It goes by too quickly.

My daughter Taylor is 17 and graduates from Murray High School in 2 days. Oh my- this is CRAZY to me! She brought home her cap and gown last week and I was torn 1. So proud of her 2. Oh no- I'm not ready for this....Ha! Today, we are going to do a little photo session. I am not ready to let go. I wish my mom was still around, so I could ask her if she felt sad and happy for me- at the same time? I graduated from Hickory High School in North Carolina and within 2 months I was on a plane going to school out west. I remember my mother, being mad- and we argued a lot. She said I would go off and get married and never come home. I DID NOT get it. Stupid me- I thought she was mad. She was probably hurt and afraid. I now realize it was because she loved me. She was right, I was married by the time I was 19 years old (sooo very young- what was I thinking????) and never lived back at home. I was pregnant with my sweet Taylor within a year, and I was officially a grown up. Wow, it seems like yesterday.

I failed to mention our reactions with David Archuleta not winning American Idol. I knew he probably would not win, but still a part of me wanted him too. Anyway, I'm not sure if it's "out there" but he did get several offers. He signed two contracts. I was told by a very reliable source that one was a million dollar deal. The sad news, is that the family is now going to be moving to LA for David's career. McKay and her friends are having the hardest time, since they are friends with his younger brother. So as happy as everyone is that DAVID has made it, it's hard to see such a wonderful family leave the community. I will be first in line to buy his CD's. Oh, and I will buy DC's too. What a great American Idol final.

I need to get going, I am trying to get my items ready for Saturdays fund raiser for the Jenkin's family. If you are in Utah, I hope you will come by. I plan to do something in June to help raise money for them. I will do a kit and give all the proceeds to the family. I felt it is a win win for everyone. I will design, kit and ship it...and hopefully lots of you will want to purchase the kit. All the money will go to help the family- How does this sound????

THANKS for cheering me up yesterday.

Teresa

Where to begin?

Yesterday, it rained and the baseball games were canceled until June 21st. It ended up being a long day at home. We played Family Feud (DVD) and just hung out. Zach loves to play family games. It is one of his favorite things to do. I have been facing a little bit of the blues lately. I HATE this...I am so much to be happy about, but when I feel overwhelmed- I do tend to get down. One of the things that I do is SLEEP too much when I'm down. Yesterday, I slept in and then took an afternoon nap.

Today, I am listening to the construction workers work. I think the remodeling has taken it's toll on me and I question if I should have ever done it. I know I will be happy when it's all said and done, but right now...I'm DONE. I need to have positive thoughts. I know it...I feel it...just doing it is hard. Without a kitchen, my entire family has been eating so much JUNK! I truly believe when you eat bad food, your body does feel bad. I know for me, I am sick of the fast food. We had KFC chicken two times in the last few days. I have been living off of lean cuisines (too much sodium).

ONE WEEK until Ty and I leave for the UK/Wales/Amsterdam. I am so excited to go, but part of me HATES to leave my family. I ALWAYS get the feeling of dread....I am such a hands on mom and I don't like leaving my kids. So as much as I look forward to going, I have feelings of dreading it too. Does that make any sense? I am gone less than a week- it's such a quick trip. I just cannot leave my family for too long. Thankfully, Taylor will be taking care of the home and family. Zach will be going to a baseball tournament in Idaho during this time. This is our first time EVER letting him go anywhere without us. The family taking him is wonderful and we completely trust them. It is just HARD to not be there and support him. I know this is making me a little sad, because we will not be there to cheer him on.

I wanted to try to address a few things on my blog- wow...this is SO HARD. I have not wanted to say anything, but there is just no way I can not address it. I am so thankful for so many of you- your support, your emails, EVERYTHING. With that, I am getting literally hundreds of requests for DONATIONS. I am at a point where I just can't even respond to all of the requests. My heart aches when I read the emails and the requests. I WISH that I could do them all. However, I simply can't. I work completely out of my home. I do not handle any donation requests. I decided to live a simpler life and I don't stock any of my products at my home. I only keep enough for my own personal use. When I teach classes, I order my products from my distributor, so that I don't have to keep a stockpile at my home. It just keeps me sane!!! I have so many dear friends emailing me and asking for donations for very worthy causes. I wanted to just let everyone know that I simply am not able to answer or address all the donation requests. I hope you understand- because as much as I love love love what I am doing- I have to keep balance. My first priority is my family and I have to limit the hours that I am on the computer everyday. I hope you will all understand. Right now, I have over 200 emails that I need to respond to. I am so sorry if I have not responded personally to your email, or a request. I do read each and every one of them. Wow, it makes me want to cry...because I am a people pleaser and I hate to disappoint anyone but I just can't do it all.  THANK YOU for your support and understanding!!!!

Sorry if this has been such a downer post- I want to document my life...as it really is. For those of you who blog- I would LOVE to know if you consider your blog as a journal? I do print out my blog as a journal of my life.

Have a great day!

Memorial Day Weekend....

I am so sorry for taking so long to post a winner of the prize. As many of you know it's been quite busy around my home.

The winner drawn randomly is.....

Oh Man...My heart goes out to your friend Ginger and her family. I am with you...I HATE CANCER. My good friend was diagnosed a few weeks ago with breast cancer and it has just broken my heart.

Why does it just seem like horrible things happen to the best people. I am always amazed at the grace people have as they go through these kind of challenges.

I will be sure to think of your friends family as I say my prayers.

~~Nik

Posted by: Nikki Weber | May 21, 2008 at 05:26 PM 

Congrats!!!! Please email me.

We now have the drywall up and they will mud and tape on Tuesday. I can see it somewhat coming together. I will always appreciate my kitchen so much more. I have taken for granted the blessing of a kitchen.

I have been overwhelmed with emails from many of you. I apologize for not replying yet. I want you to know I have read every one of them. I've found myself crying and praying for each of you that have taken the time to share your story. I will pass on all the information for the family. I simply find that  I do not have the ability to answer all the emails that I get in a timely manner. I am trying to find a better solution, because it makes me feel bad---a lot of guilt!!!!

We are busy this Memorial Day Weekend with a baseball tournament. I love these games. It's truly a way for me to RELAX and escape. No emails, no pressures or deadlines...just watching my son play a game he loves. Their team won all four games and will play in the championship games tomorrow. It is single elimination, so we hope they can win the three games tomorrow to win the championship game. We probably will play the team again, where the "name calling and fighting" broke out. I am not excited about this. I hate confrontation!!!! Zach is doing great- he had two homeruns on Fri/Sat. What is so cool is that two of his teammates hit homeruns on Sat. too. That is three kids in one day hitting it over- love to see the boys BEAM with happiness. Sometimes baseball can be so much pressure on the boys. So I was so thankful that the boys are doing so well as a team.  So tomorrow...baseball is on the agenda.

This week is the last week of school for the kids. We have Field day- I'm doing the snowcones. Taylor has graduation on Friday. The yard sale on Saturday for the Jenkins. Lots of workers scheduled (cabinets being installed), etc. However, I'm just thankful for EVERYTHING. I am thankful for the CRAZY days- I want to be more appreciative for every single day.

THANK YOU for reminding me that there is always HOPE and MIRACLES. I appreciate each and every comment.

Teresa

spreading some cheer...

There is something that is really sad for me right now. In so much, that I'm having a hard time sleeping. Before I talk about it- I thought I would begin my post with some cheer. I want to give away a FUN prize. I just got some of my new items and was so thrilled with the outcome. So here is the prize:

Some Damask paper, my black chipboard bracket book covers, my NEW**** baby pink chipboard bracket covers, my crown perfect closures, a clear dome ring (size 8) that I made with a star in the center of the ring, and last a roll of dotted 7 gypsies gaffer tape.

The ring is super simple...but if you like funky rings- it's pretty cool.

These covers are so versatile. You can add them to any book, or layout for that matter. They are real leather, and you can paint, stamp or ink the strap if you like. This is just one of the images that the closures come in. I'm giving away the CROWN closure.

A little bigger image of just the PINK covers. They are shipping now!!!! I got my pink covers yesterday and they are super cute!!!!

So if you want a chance to win- just post a comment. Thanks!!!!

So for the sad news. A friend of mine (Ginger)- husbands has just found out that he has cancer. Her husband, Bryce is only 35 years old.  They have four young children, one is under one years old. Recently, Bryce was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer.  They are the most beautiful family and this is a complete shock to them. Bryce has been sick for several months. After several visits to doctors, they thought it was nothing serious- MRI's and CAT scans did not show the cancer. They do not have medical insurance. My heart is so sad and I wish like anything that I could do something. What can you do??? I feel helpless.

In a effort to alleviate some of the financial burdens of fighting such a destructive and devastating disease, our community will hold a yard sale to help their family. We had a neighborhood meeting last night to plan the sale. If you are in UTAH- please come to this event and support the fund raiser. It will be

May 31st

8-12 noon

McMillan Elementary

5900 S  315 E (right off Fashion Place Blvd)

Murray UTAH

Ginger is one of the girls who introduced me to scrap booking. I will be at the yard sale at 6am setting up and working at the event. I will be donating a lot of scrapbook products and such. I hope if your anywhere near the event, you will come and help support this dear family. There will be a car wash and a bake sale too. Cute David Archuletta has so graciously donated items to be raffled.  Let me just say... I HATE CANCER!!!! I hate it...

As for David Archuleta. He was amazing last night. When he sings, I feel so moved. I think no matter what- win or lose tonight... HE will be just fine. David has his whole family and a lot of close friends there with him tonight. My family will be glued to the TV tonight. I think these two David's are both so talented and who ever wins...well, they both are winners!!!!!

So post a comment and good luck on the prize. I wanted this post to end in a happy positive post...

I heard a thought today..."cherish TODAY...there are no promises of tomorrow". This is so true. I have been hugging my kids every time they pass me- they are thinking I'm crazy, but hey- you can NEVER show your kids/husband/parents/friends too much love...

Teresa

 

THIS IS MY LIFE...

I thought I would post a few photos of what my kitchen looks like.  There used to be a wall in the middle of this room. It is gone now.

So this is my kitchen. There is no cabinets, no sink, counters, flooring, etc. We had to take out a window and close the space up, so that I could have cabinets where the window was. Then I had a larger 4x4 window put in to allow greater light.

This is my kitchen now-

I know, it's pretty scary.

We are grilling out on our grill, eating too much cereal and convenience food. It has made me very crabby and weepy. I admit it, a major kitchen-home remodel is taking it's tole on me. I am finalizing CHA S and leaving for Scrap A Ganza in two short weeks. (BTW- my class at Windy City Scrap booking is going to be posted for sign ups I believe-- TODAY. It is July 16th in Chicago. The class is already over half full- so CALL if your interested. I have some BIG surprises in store for this class!!!)

So last week, McKay had her year end choir concert.

I can't believe she is now 14 and will be in 9th GRADE next year. (3rd from left). LOVE her!!!

I have a little problem- it's my son Ty. He is just the funniest kid you will ever meet. He loves to be unique and likes to do his own hair.

This is what he did yesterday before Taylors seminary church program. Granted it is TOO long, but he loves it.

I worry- should I let him do his crazy hair ways? He looks really darling, but I do worry if people will judge me or him. I am fairly strict in mothering and sometimes I feel I need to let my kids have a bit more freedom. I try to pick my battles. He wanted to dye his hair RED and BLUE before which was a big NO WAY EVER!!!!

Today for school, he went with his normal everyday hair style...

Similar to this...photo taken at his baseball game on Thursday. He likes to wear his baseball hats!!!

Anyway, I took photos- I want to remember how he took 30 minutes to do his hair "special" yesterday.

Last, a few projects to share-

a class designed by Laura Vigliarol using the Damask line-it's a book for prom. LOVE it!

Now a few projects using the Damask Collection at the Stationery Show. I am not sure who did the creations, but they are beautiful. The perfect wedding collection-

Have a great day!!!!

CRAZY....

That is one word that describes my schedule. I plan to post a photo of my nonexistent kitchen. I am using my husbands, since my laptop is having some problems again. Anyway, we are either eating out or using the microwave for all of our meals. Zach is already saying he doesn't want any more fast food. My home is a construction zone from 9am-6pm every day. Thankfully tomorrow- Sunday- no one will be working and we have the home to ourself. Our sweet neighbors invited us to dinner. So thankful for such good friends!

I LOVED today. I was able to go to Zach's baseball games. I love the other mom's and look forward to seeing them. I love to see Zach doing what he loves. The team won both games- and since we are now playing up- 11-12U- it is really good for us.

I helped with the church 5K trek run this morning. One of my friends, Kathleen came up to me and said she saw me in a national magazine. I said, oh what scrapbook magazine??? She said- no it was one of those "entertainment magazines"and it was with David Archuleta. I was baffled, because I never got my photo taken with David on Friday. So I figured she was mistaken. Then tonight, I was looking at the People magazine for this week- May 26th. I got to the page about the three American Idols home visit. They show David in the photo and YES- it's me in the crowd of people. That is what I get by being in the front row. It is the MOST unflattering photo- you know the one you take that you would delete or rip up!!! HA! You can also see in the stands behind me- my son Ty. He is standing with both hands in the air (wearing orange shirt). So I read the magazine and laughed that of all the photos they took and could feature (how crazy that I am in the photo!). Go DAVID A.!!!!!

I am teaching the young women in church tomorrow so I better finish my lesson. Taylor also graduates from our church seminary program tomorrow night. (They go to a class with people their own age, for one hour every day during high school. They learn about the Lord, the scriptures, and developing their Christlike attributes). She is giving a talk to the senior graduates. So thankful for her and her willingness to do this. Taylor was asked to talk about what church seminary has meant to her and things she has learned. Taylor said, she plans to focus on not what she learned, but how she will LIVE what she has learned during her high school years. I had a proud mama moment. It's one thing to KNOW what you need to do, and another thing to LIVE it. I'm constantly humbled by my kids. They remind me of my weaknesses and that I need to try harder to do better.

Thank you Taylor for always inspiring me to do more, share more and be more . 

I'll update soon with photos and such. I want to thank Creating Keepsakes Japan for featuring me in this months magazine. I wish I could read the article about me. I'm so incredibly humbled and thankful for the support.

Have a great weekend!!!!

TIME TO TRAVEL

Well, I'm not traveling for about three weeks, but I have been thinking A LOT about traveling. I'm getting ready for my trip. I am doing the pre-trip stressing. I have so much going on- my daughter graduates from High School in 2 weeks. (I'm sad & Happy for her at the same time!!!) I always said that I loved getting married at 19 and having kids so young. Now, I realize I'm not ready to let her completely grow up!!!! Taylor came home from school yesterday to let me know she will graduate with a Science Honor special award. She didn't apply for it (norm) and the school counselor found her  and told her to apply she was the top student to get it. COOL!!!

Baseball is in full swing and Ty or I will be found at a ballpark/game every day (except Sundays). I love it and it's my favorite sport to watch!!! McKay is getting ready for her end of year dance recitals, and choir concert. WHY do they WAIT for the year end to DO EVERYTHING???? I have to run in two races this week- Fun, Fit, Walk Run with little Ty on Friday with his school and Saturday- a 5K with the church youth going on TREK (camp). I am so happy to be busy...but wow, it's nonstop.

They are trying to have my kitchen done by the time I leave for the UK in 20 days. I am so over the top worried about everything. Right now, it is very SLOW. I am not seeing a lot of progress. Tomorrow there is supposed to be (promised by contractor) non-stop action going on if they are to complete  the house/kitchen remodel on time. I sold my appliances, and listed them on line at KSL.com on Monday night. I sold a refrigerator, range and built in microwave oven within ONE HOUR. Wow...FAST! They will pick them up tomorrow- so I will officially be without my kitchen. This is what I have been dreading!!!! However, the bright side is the appliances sold.

I guess...this post is simply that I am beyond busy. I am finalizing lots of artwork. I am over the moon happy with my CHA S releases. Every time I do a line, I can't decide what is my favorite. I have many favorites this go round!!!! Oh, I am taking Taylor to CHA S with me. She has begged to go for years. Since she is now graduating and older, I am bringing her to the show to help do one of my make n takes. THE MAKE N TAKES for this SHOW are OVER THE TOP...I mean, if your at the show you will want to RUN TO MY BOOTH!!!!! Okay, maybe not RUN, but we are doing something pretty AMAZING!!!! I also have Jamie Harper in my booth again to help with another Make N Take. I am so blessed to have Jamie working with me. She sent me a project she did for the booth yesterday- Want to see it????

Here it is- TRAVELOGUE:

    

Whether your traveling near or far...I hope you remember to document your journey. Jamie's book is so cute!!!! I have to go- but tomorrow, I plan to share more projects that many of you have sent to me. THANK YOU!!!

Remember, send images of your clear dome rings!!!! You will be so sad, when you see the prizes that the 5 winners get, if you didn't enter. Oh, did anyone watch American Idol last night???? Thoughts???? Who do you think will be voted off tonight? I think at this point- it could be anyone. I really didn't like the song the producers choose for David A. to sing last night.

More soon-

THANK YOU

Thank you for your comments and several heartfelt private emails. I am truly TOUCHED. Oh, I have a couple more photos to share from David A. homecoming.

We blew up 3,000 balloons and had 3,000 shirts printed up. The shirts were gone FASTER than anything. It was just such a fun day.

Taylor and I hung up a ton of banners that had been made. So many- Will you marry me? banners.

These football stadium seats were completely full. I knew I needed to take the photo early before they let anyone in.

Taylor did not have classes in the AM so she helped volunteer too. We got these cute shirts!!!!

It was really fantastic to do this for the day. I wanted to support David. He is so humble and realizes where his gift is from. His brother will be singing a duet this week at the JHS choir concert. McKay said he has a GREAT voice too!!!! So tonight, I will be watching American Idol- the three remaining "idols"are so completely fantastic. I am sure it will be a great show.

McKay had her cute friends over on Friday for a little party.

They are cute! (McKay is in the white shirt!)-

We had pizza, birthday cake and candy. Lots of nutrition. Isn't it great to see your children HAPPY and laughing? PRICELESS.

So I have so good things to share. Yesterday, I was talking on the phone to Donna Downey. I had agreed to go teach at her INSPIRED artist workshop 2009- May 7-9th in Concord NC. I will teaching some mini workshops. So excited to be involved. The teachers are fantastic and I only heard the BEST things about her event this year. DONNA DOWNEY- INSPIRED EVENT- here is a link to the event! I will see Donna in 3 weeks in Amsterdam. How cool! She is a sweetheart. Oh, did I mention that this event is only about 30 minutes from where I was born/raised??? I feel like I'm going home.

Some other cool news- I will be teaching at WINDY CITY SCRAPBOOK store on Wed. July 16th from 6:00-9:00pm. There is very limited space, so I wanted to let you know in case you want to call and get on the class list. I will be teaching a very cool book project that is filled with good and new things! If you are in or near Chicago, hope you can make it! I will post the store contact information-

www.windycityscrapbooking.com

2265 N Cylbourne Chicago IL 60614

PHONE: 773-935-0585

I need to run some errands. Have a great day!

 

Mother's DAY

I have the hardest time on Mother's Day. I am so emotional anyway, so my kids know I'm very tender hearted. I had a beautiful lesson taught to be in church today. Several woman talked about motherhood. I wanted to share something REALLY simple that was said...it was to "live in the moment." So often, we worry about a clean home, our crazy over scheduled days, and feelings of not being the mother we want to be. I could go on- but if your a mother, you know the word- GUILT. I am very hard on myself. I was inspired today to just simply enjoy "being a mom- all my faults and all."

As many of you know, I lost my mother 5 years ago. It was so sudden and unexpected. Without sharing too much, my mother in law and family has been having some emotional issues within our family. Out of respect to my family, I won't share the private details. I want to share this- in family's we all have misunderstandings and hurt feelings. It's a part of life. I sent a very bold and heartfelt email to my mother in law this week. I was so sad to see people that I love hurt and being judgmental. I said something that I truly mean. I mentioned that as much as my mother and I --often had issues (what mother and daughter) doesn't at times? I regret that we spent so much wasted time due to misunderstandings. In my email, I said that I would give ANYTHING to have just ONE hour in the presence of my mother.

ONE HOUR...just to see my mother again.

The other stuff...it just doesn't matter.

When I hear friends complain about their mother's. I feel compelled to tell them to ACCEPT who they are. Embrace the good, and overlook the bad. I have no idea WHY I'm sharing this...just felt I should.  Love your mothers...Love your daughters...life is too short!

I was so thankful to be able to share the day with my birthday girl. I know we all love our children, so I am no different than any other mother. I told my children tonight that I LOVE being their mother. I wanted them to know they are my life, my heart and my joy. One of McKay's best friends came by tonight. She wanted to give her a gift on her birthday. Her friend Camrey, gave her a CD that she made for her. At first, I thought it was a music DVD. However, it was a DVD made especially for her. It was a video of various pictures, videos of them together, and words made to music. It was the most touching thing! Camrey put photos of the girls-some- several years old. It was of them at Halloween, goofing off, at school, etc. She said..."We have been friends for nine years and you are still the same since the day we met. You are sunshine!" Plus, other cute thoughts. She had photos of sunshine...and photos of their friends together. It was the most thoughtful gift. Camrey took the time to give her a true gift. A gift of LOVE- from the heart. I know Camrey does not read my blog, but I can't thank her enough for loving my daughter. I will personally go over to her home tomorrow and give her a big hug.  Lesson learned-the gift of love is priceless.

I will post more photos from the homecoming tomorrow. Hope you had a wonderful day surrounded by those that you love!!!

David's Murray Hometown Visit....

***typepad was wonky for me last night. I was not done with this post and it would not allow me to continue. I will do another post later with more info. and photos. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY and HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET MCKAY- I LOVE YOU!!!

Are you ready for the details from yesterday????

Be prepared for lots of photos. I have SO many photos, that it was hard to decide which one to share.

Here goes:

David sang three songs for his fans. He was OVERWHELMED with the thousands of people who came to see him. David had no idea so many people would show up.

He performed at the high school- stage on one end of the football field. We were so lucky to be in the reserved spot- right up front.

It's so evident that so many people have been inspired by this young man. He had fans from across the nation show up. One girl gave him a scrapbook. Taylor saw it, but I was busy helping blow up 3,000 balloons. Yikes!

I wanted to show this photo of Mayor Snarr (Murray Major) telling David that yesterday was officially David Archuleta day. That is David's dad (hat), and family. He has one brother and three sisters.  That is American Idol's camera man shooting the moment.

David with family again. His mother is in yellow- somewhat hidden. I think she is beautiful. David's brother, Daniel is in the black t-shirt. He is a gifted athlete. Also, he sings as well. He will be singing a duet this Thursday at the choir concert at the Jr. High. McKay says he is quite the singer too.

David was given a street named after him.

This is a view from the stands before David showed up. Police had to stay overnight in the parking lot, so that people could not take the students/facility parking. When I arrived shortly before 9 am, I saw only three parking spots. It was a MAD HOUSE. The police said there was so many people, we had to open the doors early at 1:15 instead of 3:30 as planned. I was hanging banners and I saw all these people RUNNING across the football field to get to the front of the fence. I had to stop doing what I was doing, to help deal with the crowd.

Before the show, my boys came from school to watch David. They were so excited. These are the shirts that we gave out to the first 3,000 people. We tried to give all the student body shirts. We ran out of shirts so fast. I felt so bad!!!! I had people offering me money for a shirt. One man asked- how much money would it take for you to give me a shirt? I could not help him since we would not sell the shirts

       

thursday...

I am wondering how to host a party for McKay when my home is so torn up. She turns 14 on Sunday- Mother's Day. Once again, we get to share the day. She wanted to invite about 40 friends. McKay is very social and has many friends. Thankfully, they are good kids. My only complaint is that they want to constantly be together and I want her home more. I limit how often she can "hang" out with them. This makes me the "mean" mom. I have ordered a big cake and was planning on a small party tomorrow night with her friends. My home is in complete disarray, so I cannot really have them over. Unfortunately, it's rainy now- so the backyard will not work. I'm thinking tomorrow after the BIG David Archuleta gathering, they can come over for Pizza, Cake & Ice Cream and a late night.

I will be volunteering for the big AI Welcome Home Party for David. I will go to Murray HS at 9am for the day. We are blowing up balloons, and decorating for his arrival. The PTA has 3,000 shirts printed to give out to the fans. It is expected to rain, and so we will very likely be out in the rain. They are expecting anywhere from 15-20,000 attendees. The high school is right beside the new IHC hospital. My husband will be across the street, doing surgery. I wonder if he will be able to hear all the "celebrations & cheering." So tomorrow, it's going to be a day full of fun.

I want to share the images from my stamps. They are the perfect size for ATC cards too. Have a great day!!!!!

It's RAINING....

I love RAIN when it's springtime. It's still WARM outside and it's just CALM. I have been running errands ALL day long. I mailed out all the packages from the winners of various contest. I sponsored a contest at www.scrapscene.com  and the winner was Michelle Beck from FRANCE She did a beautiful layout!!!!

Then I had to go to UPS to mail a surprise box of goodness to my dear friend Ms. Janna Wilson. Many of you may know her, she and I met through our work at Junkitz. That is just one of my many blessings from working with Junkitz. I love my sweet friend. We talk on the phone as often as we can and we are both TALKATIVE. We are very similar and I simply adore her!!! I am so proud to call her my friend. Love you Janna!!!!!

Oh, then the quick trip to Costco that ended up to a quick $200 spent. Can you tell groceries have REALLY went up???? I try to buy healthy food and I think it costs MORE to eat the good food. I loaded up on strawberries and watermelon. I crave chocolate around 7pm EVERY night...always have. So I buy those snack size packs- mixture of chocolate. I then can have a piece at night.  The problem is not allowing yourself to eat more than one or two pieces. Ha! I am down 8 lbs. so far. I so appreciate all your emails that helped get me back on track.

I wanted to share some more layouts that have been shared with me-

what a cute layout of two sisters. This page is Jen Erickson's layout. I love her creative journaling and the bird/stars.

This project is AMAZING... can you see the Tim Holtz grungeboard hinges? on the book??? I was blown away by this book. The talented designer is from the UK- Emma Trout. She used Damask and Bella Girl. I simply am in love with it. I wish I could see it in person. She is on Heidi's (Scrapbook Mate) design team. 

I have to go make dinner, and then head to church tonight for Young Women's night. I will come home JUST in time to watch American Idol. My girls think I am obsessed with David. HA! I'm just so proud of him. FYI- if you watch the show- you know tonight we find out if he has made the TOP THREE and will get a HOME TOWN visit. So our town- Murray- is already a buzzing. He is performing at our high school football stadium- MHS-this Friday at 4:30 pm. If you are in Utah- it's open to everyone. They are estimating 20,000 people. If he is voted off- well, it's a WELCOME HOME celebration. If he continues on to next week- it's the PARADE too, etc. Either way- it's pretty exciting here. Of course, our family will be there cheering him on. ***please know I support all these finalist. It's just we (well, my girls-) happen to know David and his family.

I have had a few RING CONTEST entry's. Wow...you girls are fast. Trust me, it's worth entering this contest. Wink!!!! I have SPECIAL prizes- just for the 5 winners- so be sure and enter. Oh, and if your a store and you carry the rings- please post on my blog. I have had people asking where they can find my clear dome rings.  Here is some tips:

1. use glossy accents as your adhesive- it will DRY clear. *remember LESS is more. A little goes a long way!!!

2. The rings come in size 7, 8 and 9. They are fairly true to size. I wear a 7, but later in the day or in the summer (hot weather)- I bet I will wear a 8.

3. The rings retail for $1.00 MSRP.

Correction: Stamper's Anonymous booth show hours are 10-6pm.

Thanks for noticing the new "me"photo. Ty took it for me a couple months ago. I think he is quite the camera man. I think I'll keep him!!!!

Have a great night!!!

Rambling....

I’m so thankful for the beautiful weather where I live. It’s sunny and warm. We have a baseball game tonight (perfect baseball weather) and then I will RUSH home to watch David Archuleta perform. McKay downloaded some of this songs on ITUNES. It’s kind of weird knowing David- before AMERICAN IDOL. Fame is so funny. I can’t imagine going from NO

ONE

knows you- to MILLIONS of people who do. They are getting pretty nasty on TV, online,etc. about “the real David” and his father. To set the records straight- the rumors are so untrue- his dad IS NOT the evil SHOW dad that they are portraying. He is not mean and demanding of his son. I know that David will remain the great young man that he has always been. When it comes down to it- I feel that David Cook will win because of this age, genre and such. Oh, and he is greatly talented too!

Both David’s are amazing!!!!

I am so impressed and wanted to HIGHLIGHT an amazing album contest winner on my blog.

This is the winner's entry SIMON KAMPS. She entered her book at www.coordinatescollections.com and I LOVE it!!!!

Simon used the stitched file folder that I designed when I was with Junkitz.  I LOVE this project!!!! It is clever, creative and I think INSPIRING!!! Congrats Simon- 

Stampers Anonymous will be debuting my new stamps at a consumer show this weekend. They will have my new rubber stamps and new Travelogue papers. The show is Saturday & Sunday.

Here is the Show info:

Somerset

,

New Jersey

May 9-10
Friday -

Saturday

Garden

State

Exhibit

Center

9-5 each day

I want to share a project that I will be teaching this summer. It's a small travelogue book-

 

I used my new stamps on the cover- I am loving playing with the stamps!!!! I used the BIA covers too. Since it is a class, I with show just a few images. I am so excited to teach more- I know I have several stores on a waitlist. I am wanting to make it to more stores this year. Contact me if you are on the waitlist and want to confirm anything, or to inquire about my schedule. I have been having issues of emails bouncing- not getting to me- for the past few months.

So I have to share a photo that I came across from NSD. I was blown away-

Now I LOVE all of the different examples of my CLEAR dome rings decorated.

WOW- K2 Scrapbooking in Sarasota FL did my rings for NSD. I get asked all the time, about visuals of clear dome rings decorated. So I thought- let's do a contest- my official FIRST ever contest!!!! Decorate one of my clear rings (TC-2304 Clear Rings) in ANY manner and send me your image. I will PICK 5 WINNERS who will be featured on my website & blog. Each winner will get a prize package from me!!!!! Sound fun????

Requirement: HAVE FUN!!!! and send a brief description of how/what you did to your ring. I can't wait to see what you can come up with! Deadline: May 25th. I want to announce the winners and send the prizes before I go teach at Scrap a Ganza.  I hope you'll join in on the fun!!!!

Here it is...

I have so much to share. I want to thank EVERYONE for the comments and the personal emails. I got the BEST advice from you. It was EXACTLY what I needed. First, I went in and stepped on the dreaded scale. I was up 13 lbs. from my last weigh in. Wow...I about cried, but more so- I was MAD at myself.

I have been breaking some of "RULES" for the past few months. 1. I stopped weighing myself (loss of accountability) 2. Stopped drinking my 64 oz. of water every day- NONE. I have been drinking Caffeine Free Diet Mt. Dew. I went a year 1/2 with NO SODA and then I slipped. I am drinking caffeine free because I stay up until 4am every night if I drink caffeine. My body will not shut down... 3. I started getting COMFORTABLE with myself. I felt good about my size and figured that I looked "good enough." 4. After CHA, I let all the emails and new product design deadlines become a PRIORITY over exercise. I am a people pleaser, and daily I get 50-100 emails emails that I WANT to respond to. I just get overwhelmed.

So on Friday, I KNEW what I had to do. I needed to REFOCUS. I looked at the positive- I had not gained all the weight back. Then I read all the comments (a few times!!!!) and took your advice to heart. Yes, went and found the older photos from two years ago. I decided right then to STOP lying to myself.

So I am happy to say, that I weighed myself this morning- down 3 lbs. So I'm back on track. I still have 10 more lbs to go- and then more after that. I'm focusing on the first goal first. I will just say, that I have NEVER been more "happy" with myself. In the past, I would have seen I gained weight...and then ATE & ATE because I was DEPRESSED that I had gained weight. What a cycle!!! (okay...sorry  for the long weight issue posts) If you are reading my blog... and really want to know who and what I am about, then you'll find I share my life- just how it is.

FINALLY- the winner- PICKED randomly for the BOX of TC PRODUCTS is:

OMG, I would love to be the lucky winner to get some of your goodies!!! I'm sorry you had the dreaded appointment today! I hate that!!! But I hate the dentist even worse!!!! I know, that's strange!!!

You will get everything together with your weight and everything will fall into place. You seem like such a terrific person, and you have a wonderful family.....you're doing something right!!!!!

Patti H.

Posted by: Patti | May 02, 2008 at 02:15 PM

I am the

MAY

Guest Designer for Freckle Friends. I have to say, that I LOVED their kit. I adore the girls who own the site www.frecklefriends.com . (Susan hope you feel better REALLY soon!!!) They have supported me and my product lines since the very beginning of their online business. I was so happy to do some projects for them. Here is a few images of what I created-

The kit had Damask and Bella Girl & Journal it, a Fontwerks stamp, a cool Cosmo Cricket album and some very cool Tinkering Ink paper. (plus more!!!!)

I have been wanting to scrap this photo of Zach from TWO summers ago. VERY simple page. I cut the large DAMASK image in 1/2- and used in along left and right side of black cardstock.

Oh, isn't this a fun book? I made a mini book for Gentry. She had to wear this sign two weeks ago to school. I wanted to document it. I love the Hambly transparency sheet.

Scrapbooking those Sweet 16 photos, with the kit.

Freckle Friends kit club---http://www.qbaroo.com/frecklefriends/index.cfm?categoryoid=48&productoid=1120

I need to get myself to HOME DEPOT. My home is completely torn up. I still have the kitchen (partial)- so that I can cook for another week.  Have a great day!!!!!

Friday....

I am happy to say, that my crazy day yesterday worked out. I had some kids that had to WAIT for rides, etc. Last night, I was just so thankful to have the day DONE. It was stressful. It's crazy days like this, that can be so overwhelming. Last night, after the girls YW recognition dinner, I told the kids to load in the car and we went to McDonalds. My kids like the fruit and yogurt parfaits. We went through the drive-up and then came home. It was a NICE way to end a very busy day.

This morning, I have my good ole' appointment with my OB-GYN. I dread these routine but necessary visits. In fact, I HATE them. Nothing fun about getting up on a table and well, you know...I am a very private person when it comes to modesty. I am so uncomfortable with the entire process. I HATE being weighed on the medical scales. Today, I admit, it has been a LONG time since I weighed myself.

THERE... I admit it. I am struggling. I have lost my motivation. Now, I'm afraid of SLIPPING back...gaining the weight I lost. Why in the world am I admitting this???? Because, I want to be real and honest with myself. I have always admitted that I will struggle with my weight- every day for my entire life. I am not a girl that is naturally thin. I am the girl who will eat out of boredom, stress, happiness, sadness...I think you get the picture. So HELP- anyone- does anyone have any advice on how to get my motivation back???? I think I am in denial, but I worked to hard to gain it all back. I will find out today if I've gained weight.

So tomorrow is National Scrapbooking Day!!!!! I hope you have some fun "creative" plans. I will be going to two baseball games and one baseball practice. I will be THINKING "creative" thoughts. Does that count????

So to celebrate, I am going to do a TERESA COLLINS PRIZE BOX for some lucky winner. YES, I will include my latest paper line- TRAVELOGUE-PLUS Damask, Journal-it, Clear Ring, Black Chipboard bracket shaped book, Boardwalk, Bella Girl, my die cuts, etc... post a comment to win. Good luck and happy NSD.... So fun to do a PRIZE