TERESA COLLINS

DAY 2 BOOT CAMP- THIS IS NOT for WIMPS!

I have to let you know that I was in so much pain yesterday that I did not leave my house after I got home. I tried to stay active since I had to do 4 projects yesterday. I have a mid-release and cartridge projects to design- so sleep was not an option. I felt I was not very hungry yesterday and struggled to eat the 29 points that I get each day. I ended up with 26 pts. I was so sore by the day end that McKay made a salad for me. I went to bed and watched TANGLED with the kids. Yes, I was too sore to even sit on the couch. I have NEVER been so uncomfortable. It was just not my legs, but my entire body. FINALLY... I was able to sleep but I kept waking up and had a hard time moving. I went to bed thinking..." I do NOT want to go tomorrow." Tyler was so supportive but was concerned that I was pushing it to far. My darling family kept getting me water to drink. I have the BEST family... thank you!!!!!!!

Yesterday, Taylor called me. My friends (blog, facebook) have been cheering me on. YOU will all never know how much it has helped me. Then my sweet daughter called me. She said, "Mom, I just read your blog. You made me cry." I asked her why. Taylor said, "I am so PROUD of you, so PROUD that you are my mother." Okay...literally I was a mess. REALLY... my daughter gave me the greatest gift. I do WANT to make her and my family proud. I am not doing anything AMAZING but I am doing something that is so HARD for me. I just LOVE that Taylor felt this way. 

So I went to Day 2 of boot camp this morning and I thought of TAYLOR to get me through it. I told myself AGAIN. "YOU ARE NOT A QUITTER!, WORK THROUGH THE PAIN, DON'T WORRY IF SOMEONE LAUGHS AT YOU" and I prayed. I needed to be able to do SOMETHING. Right- I can barely walk and I was REALLY scared to go back for more.

I show up and there is ONLY four of us. The trainer- Aaron is amazing! He looks around and said that they were weeding out the herd. He got 8 drop outs emails on facebook and 2 more texts. IT was too hard and he was watching them quit. They have four classes in the AM and 3 in the PM- so I am sure there will lots more who do not show up or quit still. I went up to Aaron and I told him...
"I am not going to quit and I can barely move but I am going to give it EVERYTHING that I have." I saw him smile and he REALIZED that I was "really" in this. 

TODAY was worse than yesterday. After warm ups, WE ran again. Yes, I came in DEAD last. I have to say that LIZ who was in front of me, kept supporting me. She would look back and say, "YOU CAN DO IT, RUN GIRL" Her support kept me going. I met her today for the first time. Then we did the most "INSANE" 45 minutes of cardio/weights. If you watch The Biggest Loser- it was just like that. I hit the sledge hammer on the big tire, the weight (25 lbs) over my head- walking back and forth (my arms were on FIRE!), pushing that large black metal machine that had weights on it, and more. I was having a hard time with the coordination with the sledge hammer.

Aaron came over and I told him that my left side coordination is gone since my stroke. By the way...he calls me QUEENIE. I wear my large black T-shirt with a crown on it to boot camp. He likes the crown and so my nickname is QUEENIE. HA! He told me he was so impressed that "I WAS THERE! I WAS DOING THIS and not making excuses!"  Hmmmm... I was taken back and realized that for SO LONG I did FEAR pushing myself physically. I just KNOW that I can do this. It is the HARDEST thing I have ever done. 

FINALLY it was done and I wanted to cry for joy. I walked to my car and sat there. I called my husband and told him that I had made it. I got off the phone and then I shed some HAPPY tears. I had no idea if I could make it through day 2... but I did. I want you to know that I am still struggling with this in my mind. I am scared and this is beyond hard. However, I won't quit. THANK YOU for your comments.

I am home now and McKay went to the store to buy EPSOM salt. Stay tuned for the ANNOUNCEMENT of my new release. It will be any time now. HAVE a great day!

DAY 1 BOOT CAMP- REALITY

How do I even start this post? I am going to be truthfully honest. It was the HARDEST workout that I have EVER done. EVER! I was so nervous and I just prayed that I did not make a fool out of myself. I showed up and immediately I knew I was in trouble. The group of participants were a "die hard" group. I immediately noticed the two women who were a size 0-2. One lady mentioned she was breastfeeding. I was impressed!

We started by warming up for five minutes. It was intense. There was little instruction. Just a white board with what to do. *push ups, leg lifts, side lifts, and more. Then we went OUTSIDE. Yes, it is cold here today but I was so scared that I didn't even care. We ran sprints as a group. We were to run as fast as we could. We did this for quite some time. I lost track honestly. *NOTE: I am not a runner and I thought I was going to die after 3 minutes. My lungs were burning! However, I would NOT give up. I knew that I would have to do the fast walk for the last couple of minutes. The "negative" person in my head was constantly telling me: YOU can't do this, what are you thinking you have not worked out in 6 months and YOU are gonna fail. Let's be honest here you have not really worked out in years at any real intense level.

I answered back (to myself)- NO... failure is not an option. I was dead last but I knew that I am not a quitter. I just had to keep moving! The trainers were both very supportive and encouraging but did not single me out. THANK YOU!!!!! I started to feel a little light headed and so I simply tried to walk and catch my breath but NOT STOP!

Then we did these jumping hops for several minutes. It was like ackward for me. I was "feeling" it by now. Again, I kept moving. It felt awkward and I know I looked awkward. One thing I lost with my stroke was "coordination." It is not a pretty sight. 

THEN- the trainers announced... YOU are going to run this route. It was leaving the parking lot, and making a big circle. I THINK it was 10 minutes. I wanted to cry. Seriously, going from 0 exercise to this. I had to run... WALK and honestly at this point...speed walked most of it. I watched as the TEN people zoomed past and made it look effortless. I was keeping up visually with the last five. I was at least proud of this. I knew I had to keep up visually with the group. You guessed it- I came in DEAD LAST. 

At this point, I was NOT feeling bad but honestly PROUD of myself. I made it! I can do this. Yes, I am the slowest and the MOST out of shape in the entire group, but I was hanging in there. I kept thinking... I will improve and in ONE MONTH just think where I will be! 

We got back to the gym and we did some serious weight training with weights. I went to use the 12 lbs. dumbbells and the trainer said...you need more. He gave me 15 lb dumbbells and I squatted (trying to get my bottom to the ground as low as I could) 3 sets of 15. They had it written on the board- you knew the stations and you were to do your sets. The trainers were there the entire time to encourage each of us to do "more."  

FINALLY, it was over and I wanted to cry HAPPY tears. I will admit, I was not prepared. My chest is still hurting and I'm coughing like crazy. I walked to my car with the BIGGEST grin ever. I did it! I faced my FEAR and guess what? I am going back tomorrow morning to FACE it again. 

Right now...my legs are shaking and I feel like I was hit by a bus. I am now going to go have a little protein and will stick to my weight watchers diet. Prior to working out I had a banana and 2 egg whites. I am finishing up my first 44 oz of water. I already dread tomorrow. PLEASE tell me it will get better...the trainers said that this is the "weeding the herd out" week. I will not stop!!!!!!

SPORTS edition.... MENTAL preparation

I am having the best time creating with my SPORTS EDITION II collection. Tomorrow is the official DAY 1 of book camp. Hmmm... my trainer told me to spend today getting "mentally prepared." I am kind of struggling with this concept. I actually have just been trying to stretch and somewhat meditate a bit. Anyway, I am just thankful this week for the time...having my kids home from school. I am also excited to pick up my mid-release today from my office. In just a couple of days I will be REVEALING my newest collection. April 1st should be the BIG reveal date. Today.... I wanted to share some inspiration with you from the talented Suzanne Sergi.

 

I love how she took photos and documented her son's football practice and games.  To see more of her work visit her blog at http://www.scrappinthedetails.typepad.com

BOOT CAMP- first meeting

Today I was so nervous to go to the first meeting with the trainers of "my" boot camp. I am not going to lie, I actually got up and was so nervous. I knew today was not an actual workout but the "assessment". I walked in and several other "new recruits" were there. We were weighed and measured. I got on the scale and did not look down. I am just not focusing on "the number" anymore in my life. The trainers (two guys in my case) wrote down every measurement for my body. I was a little uncomfortable. I listened to the numbers and concentrated on "not listening" too much. In the past, I would have. Not now... this is really a test and a challenge for me to become FIT beyond what I have experienced since having my last child. 

This is what I was told.

1. YOU will push yourself beyond any limits you THINK you can do.

2. PREPARE yourself MENTALLY. This is your greatest challenge. YOU have to KNOW that you can and will do this.

3. You workout will change DAILY. You may be running one day, shoveling snow the next... be prepared for the unexpected. SIXTY minutes a day to a new me- SIX days a week.... 

4. Often, you will be pushed to the level that you will "get sick" or have to go the restroom to try to "get sick." Hmmmm... this one did not sound fun at all!

5. If you follow their plan- YOU will LOSE body fat and be in the BEST condition of your life. *they had a man last month lose 39 lbs and 9 inches in ONE MONTH. That is truly inspiring to know that they will push you to be your best.

6. This is not for whiners or quitters. PERIOD! You are expected to be on time and not to miss your workouts. 

My first day starts on Wednesday and I will go through Saturday. *Sunday is our only day off!

I am beyond excited, nervous, and a little afraid that I will pass out or not be able to keep up with the class. I am going to give this my ALL. I owe this to MYSELF. I owe this to my children and husband and FAILURE is simply not an option. So I am preparing. I am washing all my sweatpants, created a JOURNAL to document each day...my thoughts, feelings and what I am doing. Yes, food and exercise accountability. I think weighing myself in front of other people was really hard today but I know this journey will make it so worth it. I'm ready for success. I am vulnerable and yet I feel powerful. I hope that makes sense. 

Afterwards I took my kids to lunch, visited my office and then took Ty and his friend to AIRBOURNE TRAMPOLINE ARENA in Draper Utah. I spent 2.5 hours watching them flip and have the BEST time. I love watching my kids have a great time. IT was so cool and a great place for active kids. I highly recommend the arena for a great activity for your young to older kids. 

*Girls Night OUT this weekend at Robert's Craft. Join me there!!!!!!!

Sunday Inspiration....

It's been a long wonderful weekend. I'm thinking about tomorrow. My first meeting with my boot camp staff. I keep thinking... WHAT in the WORLD are you thinking? ha-  I like challenges and so this is one that I admit is really way outside my comfort zone. I will post all about it TOMORROW. Yes, in the morning, I will head to boot camp in my sweats and ready for the day 1 assessment. I am ready for the challenge and am going to give this my ALL. 

Here is a little Scrapbook Inspiration from the talented Cheri Piles. LOVE how she made the TIMELESS collection flowers-

 

“Decorative Wall Hook”

Designed by: Cheri Piles http://cherinspirations.blogspot.com

Featuring: Teresa Collins Designs – Timeless, Blingage & Blingage II

Supplies:

Labels paper, flocked paper, gray damask, decorative brads, chipboard elements, die cut card set, Gentry’s glitter, Donna’s gems. Wood Door hook, Claudine Hellmuth studio matte, hot glue, 1.5 inch chipboard circle.

Instructions:

Preparing your page components:

 

1. Cut the following pieces from your papers:

Cut back side of labels paper to size for your door hook plaque, 7.5 x 3.5

Cut flocked paper strips for outer edge in half inch strips.

Punch out black tag from die cut card set sheet.

Punch out quote in pink oval from chipboard elements.

1. For flower:

• Cut 14 flower petals out of gray damask as shown in photos.
• Place brad in center.

• Brush studio matte around edges
• Dip in Gentry’s glitter around glued edges – let dry all the way.
• Roll petals around a pen
• Gently unroll petals and place them facing the same direction so your petals all match. Hot glue a puddle onto the middle of your chipboard circle and start layering your petals in a circle.
• Add another puddle of hot glue in the center and layer your 2^nd layer of petals overlapping your first layer.
• After glue is all dry pierce hole in center

Assembly

1. Glue back of labels paper to front of plaque.
2. Glues strips of flocked paper to edges of plaque.
3. Glue the black tag onto the labels paper – just a bit off center.
4. Hot glue your flower to the black tag.
5. Peel off sticky backing from chipboard quote and place in bottom right – just overlapping the bottom of the black tag.
6. Measure and cut length from black gems from the Donna’s Gems (Blingage II) place along both the top and bottom of plaque.

 

 

For more inspiration by Cheri just visit her blog at http://cherinspirations.blogspot.com/

TEXAS inspiration....

Last weekend, I was teaching in Frisco Texas. I met the most darling girl. I kept looking at her necklace and bracelet. I did not want to stare but I thought it was my POSH paper (the girl siloquette). I was instantly drawn to it. LOVED it...and then she said, I made my jewelry using your POSH paper. 

So I asked Jennifer if she would send me some photos because as crafters- THIS is what it is all about!!!!!

Jewelry designed by Jennifer Babcock. 

I have to say how TOUCHED I was that I was blessed to be able to have THREE generations in my workshops with Jennifer, her sweet daughter, and her mother. They were so beautiful in spirit and I watched from a distance as they took photos together as a family. How blessed they are to be together!

Check out her BLOG. Jennifer is a sweetheart! 

It is officially spring break for Ty and McKay. (Zach is going to school in another school district and will have his break in a few weeks). We are spending a week of "good times"- staying home. I am focusing on trying to do family time right at home. Ty has heard of a few fun places he wants to go to. I will be focusing on BOOT CAMP too- Monday is my first meeting.  McKay said, "Oh no, mom your going to be grouchy!!!!" So funny- so I will try really hard to be "happy" in my journey. I am 100% scared of this new experience but thankful that my family is really supporting and encouraging me in this experience. 

One thing I am going to do this week is here:

JUMP AROUND UTAH

Sesil and her husband own this new business. I have visited prior to it opening and NOW I want to take my kids and have some fun! They are having a HUGE special for the next day. Only $5.00.... I hope you will support Sesil and take your family for some amazing fun! I am so blessed to have Sesil working for me and I am so thrilled for the success of her new and growing business. Congrats Cratin family!!!!!!

Scrapbook EXPO- TC make n take

I spent a few hours today at the Sandy Scrapbook Expo. Oh, it was so fun! I seriously LOVE going to these events. I get to walk around and see old and make new friends. I spent a little over an hour in the Good Things Utah booth. I did a make n take using my papers, blingage and 8x8 Your Story covers and machines. All the girls were so excited and we ran out in record time. I had no idea so many people did not know what a Your Story machine is. It is a binding machine that is affordable and super easy to use. We were so crowded and "some" girls were fighting for the last of my supplies. So... I will be going on air to show the machine to those of you who were not there. MORE later about the show date!

It was fun to have Kayla and Maxson come to the event. This was Kayla's FIRST scrapbook event ever. She is not really a scrapbooker (YET!) and so I introduced her to other companies products (since she get's all of mine that she needs or wants!). She loved the LUSH lines by MME. She got some darling stuff from KC and MME. I have a feeling she will "catch" the crafting bug. Just a feeling that I have. My good friend came and helped me with the "creative" madness of the make n take. Oh, it was FUN! THANK YOU girls for coming and supporting me. Maxson was darling and I loved having him there too!!!!

Oh...I did it. I did something that is CRAZY scary to me. I signed up yesterday to do a 6 WEEK boot camp-

I have for years wanted to take this leap but my FEAR has always stopped me. I mean really in my head I've said so many times... "I don't have the time!". That has been my excuse for years. Something happened this past week and it was MAJOR in my life and heart. I need to follow my heart and do something that I should have done a LONG time ago. I need to commit myself to living the life I know that I need. I am beyond scared. I am not at all physically fit right now. I have been 1,000% a mom/wife/ designer in full mode.  I have not taken the time to be a better me and stop living in fear of change. Hmmmm... it's deep and it's just so OUTSIDE of my comfort zone.

I will tell you that this is an INTENSE program. FIVE DAYS a WEEK- oh, I am not loving how early it will be. SIX WEEKS!!!! I start this coming week. I am 100% dedicated to the CHANGE. I have decided to blog about my journey EVERY day...and share with you what I am doing. I want to be accountable. I want you to know that YOU can do this too. It does not have to be boot camp. It is all about FACING the things you fear most. Oh, I am not turning back. I'm ready... this is long overdue.

Monday is my first day. I am doing a JOURNAL BOOK with Notations. Yes, each day...everything will be documented. Am I crazy or what? If you have done BOOT CAMP and have any tips for me...feel free to share with me.

Now...off to BASEBALL. Yes, it snowed today and now it's rainy but BASEBALL will go on! Gotta love Utah weather. Zach's team is playing their FIRST season game. 

 

 

Scrapbook EXPO- TC make n take

Tomorrow I will be at the Scrapbook Expo in the Good Things Utah Channel 4 TV booth-

I will be there at 1:00 pm for only ONE hour!!!!

I wanted to do something fabulous but be warned...get there early because I think they will run out fast. I am doing an entire 8x8 hardcover (YOUR STORY) TC book with my fave papers and blingage-

I made this book for the fun times McKay has had this year. We will bind with the Your Story binding machine and it is really just a beautiful book. I hope you will come- it will be lots of fun!!!!!!

Looking forward to the show and seeing my friends!!!!

 

DRILL Highlights-

Last night was the year end show for the MHS drill team. It is always a sad time for the girls. They are saying good bye to the Seniors and the team. So many of the cute girls cried and cried. They form such strong connections and they learn so much from many hours of practice each week. I know they have to resolve conflicts and work together even with all the different personalities and such. McKay has been Jr. Head Captain this year. She was the LUCKY girl who got to take the "large" boom box to school each day. She was in charge of all the music and cd's too. I saw her grow not only as a dancer but as a leader this year. *top row far right- McKay

It was a crazy busy day for our family yesterday. McKay had to finish her poster. I used SPORTS EDITION to help her with the titles and together we added lots of orange gems. 

The family came to the house for Ty's birthday dinner. Kayla and Matt had new family photos and so we all LOVED seeing the new photos. I am especially happy to get to scrapbook the memories. 

Ty was being camera shy and so Matt was trying to get him in the mood for a few birthday photos. It did not work! Ty is so not a fan of my little photo shoots.

Her Ty is blowing out his candles and Grandma Collins made the most delicious dinner. Thank you so much!!!!!! We are blessed to have her as the matriarch of our family. 

Gentry came home from BYU and posed with Zach for a photo. I love that everyone was there to support Ty and McKay today. My happiest times are when everyone is home...crowded in our kitchen together. 

Taylor and Spencer are doing great. Taylor has caught the "scrapbooking" fever and she is now officially a scrapbooker. She is set up with a Cricut machine, cartridges, and of course LOTS of paper, stamps and blingage from her mom. She asked to borrow my Stampmaker tonight...I think I may be in trouble!!!!!

We went 45 minutes early to get front row seats prior to McKay's team performance. We made her a LOVE sign. Yes, she was so embarrassed when she saw us holding it up. Yes, we cheered pretty loud for her.

Maxson was a big FAN of the music. He was swaying to the music and mesmerized by all the commotion. I can hardly believe he is almost 11 months old. 

Here is McKay with her partner, Johnny for the group dance. This was so fun to watch the boys dancing with the girls! 
 

Performing Military-

Pom Routine-

 

DANCE routine- McKay is flying in the air...

and then my camera died. Ha! Oh, thankfully Gentry took the rest of the photos from the night. It was just a wonderful day with the family.

I want to thank the entire family for coming and being together to support each other. I love you all so much!!!!!

*Utah girls- I will be at the Scrapbook Expo in Sandy Utah on Friday. I will be in the Good Things Utah Channel 4 booth at the show. I am doing make n takes and hanging out. Some of my product will be at the expo. I will post more tomorrow!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Today is Tyler's birthday... his mother is at the house now and is preparing a "special feast" for the special day. I am so fortunate and blessed to have my family. I am especially grateful they are here today with me. Earlier today, I got a phone call from a close friend to let me know about someone who said something really hurtful things about me to him. You need to know that this person would HAVE to know that it would get back to me. 

Hmmm... what did I do???? I sat in my car and cried. Yes, I admit it... it hurt me to the core. I am a firm believer in avoiding drama. I think if you have mean or negative things to say about someone- be brave enough to say it to them directly. However, I also don't believe everything I hear. Who knows what someone REALLY says if you are not there and part of a conversation. Right? I came home and thought about it. I prayed and needed find some peace in my heart. It had really hurt to hear what was said. This person to my face pretends to like me, to be my friend and and yet on numerous occasions has talked behind my back. The crazy thing is that I think this person is very talented, a wonderful mother and brings so much to the world with the talents she has. I am not going there ... there is no room in my heart and life for drama. Another lesson learned...right? It reminds me of what is REAL in my life. That is the love that I have for and with my family. This is REAL! These relationships are real. We should be building other's up and not tearing them down. As for me... I only wish this person the best and will always show kindness in my words and actions. No room in my heart for anything else. 

Today something amazing happened-so thankful for this!!!!! My company has been growing fast and I got some news that I had been waiting for. It was another reminder to me that HE wants me to do this. This is beyond me. I know it...I feel it and although scary at times- it is what I am supposed to do. The good far outweigh the bad... 

LUCKY ME....

Tonight I will get to see McKay perform at the year end drill team performance. I am a very excited mother. I love watching her dance and shine. Her happiness in life is always beaming from her. 

McKay (purple scarf) is the LIGHT of energy in our family. She is crazy funny and we just love her! She likes to call everyone odd nicknames... she calls her little brother "little nugget" for no reason and it's just so funny!

She is now 16 years old and a Junior in high school. She has a great group of friends. *Halloween Party dress- up

*yes, she loves to take silly photos (nonstop!!!!)

Today I am so GRATEFUL to be able to go watch her and her friends perform. I am actually emotional about it. I realize that more than anything I am a better mother, friend, wife, designer, etc. because of my family and their example. I am just deeply thankful that God gave me my little ray of sunshine to raise. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Tyler- I love you! 

MONDAY- it's a PARTY!!!!

We are in PARTY mode at my house. Today and tomorrow we have so much going on. My sweet mother in law is staying with us for a few days too. Ty's birthday is tomorrow. My husband is not much for parties but he married the "wrong girl" wink- I love any opportunity to celebrate. However, over the years I have learned what he does and does not like. Ty did not like the surprise party with 50 guests that I did for his 40th birthday. I promised him to NEVER do that again. So this year, his mother wanted to make a special birthday dinner for him at our house. All of our kids will be here too. I know...FAMILY PHOTO is in order. It is so hard to get ALL of us together. 

I am so looking forward to our family get together. Then as a family, we are all going to McKay's year end DRILL TEAM performance tomorrow night. I love this showcase. They perform all of their dances and some new ones. The girls all wear their formal dresses and get introduced to the audience, accompanied by their father's. It is just really a tender and sweet time. Afterwards we will head back home to have dessert. These times are my very most favorite in the world!

 Tonight, we are headed to a parent drill team year end dinner and award ceremony. I have my camera and can't wait to take some photos of the girls. Now, I just need to figure out what kind of gift I could give Ty for his birthday. He is so hard since he does not like gifts. He always says, " I don't need or want anything." Hmmm... any suggestions?

Now I want to share with you the cutest party favors created with my POSH Collection.

party favor and invitation ideas by Tammy Mitchell-

I love it! I really love the vibrant PINK!!!! 

HOME again-

 I am home now from my quick trip to Dallas, Texas this weekend. I had no idea how BIG this event was. I was truly blown away with the organization and FUN details of the event. They had yummy food, line dancing, games, crops, door prizes, workshops (ongoing) and MORE! I taught two workshops on Saturday and was blessed to have THREE of the best helpers ever. The classes were so full and I could not have done it without them. The event was with Provo Craft, the Cricut Circle members and organized by Creative Critterz. It was 200 plus SWEET darling woman from all over the world. I had girls from Alaska, UK, and numerous states in my workshops. The Texas Cricut Stampede has a great turnout and Tammy outdid herself on running the event. The girls were so WELCOMING and the enthusiasm was contagious. I want to thank EVERYONE who was there and who made a difference. I KNOW those in attendance in my workshops know what I mean. THANK YOU is simply not sufficient words to express my gratitude. Thank you for having me come as a guest. I am beyond thankful! 

Time for rest, a movie night with my family and hopefully a little sleep! 

 

I made it!

I want to shout and sing and just be thankful... I made it! Yes, I made some BIG huge (somewhat UGLY design deadlines)... RELIEF. I have been feeling a little STRETCHED. I am celebrating- BIG TIME! I have more (there never really end), but this was a BIG one. I am always trying to do MORE and traveling has been not worked to the advantage with this. However, THANKFULLY... I have the most amazing staff, friends, design team, FAMILY...FAMILY...I had to say them TWICE, who help me so much. I am not the most organized girl, but I try to surround myself with people who are. HA! Thank you- YOU know who you are!!!!!

I just am feeling EMOTIONAL today. Not SAD or feeling down- but in a HAPPY sweet place. I have such a deep appreciation for so much in my life. In a few hours I will be going to TEXAS for the weekend. This Cricut Circle event is in Frisco, TX and is around 200 in attendance. I have not taught in TX in a over a year, so this is going to be so nice to meet up with the girls. I am looking forward to teaching with my new Cricut Imagine cartridge images, and my NOTATION kits.

Off to get a few hours of sleep!!!!! 

 

HOME from HSN

I arrived home late last night and had to immediately work on a BIG design deadline. I am feeling so relieved that I am almost 100% done now. I am beyond thrilled with the lines. I did mention earlier that I have a HALLOWEEN line coming out at CHAS... and the rest will have to remain a secret. Oh I LOVE LOVE LOVE that I am so fortunate to do what I love. 

HSN went GREAT. We SOLD OUT again!!!!! I want to say a few things to those of you who have the stampmaker. PLEASE make your first stamp from one of the negatives that is in your kit. There is many videos online to watch if your interested. I am a visual person and I often watch "step by step" videos to help me with new machines. If you have any problems or questions you can contact PHOTOCENTRIC who manufacturers the TC Stampmaker. They guarantee you that they will help you and hold your hand if needed to ensure that you can make your own stamps. Also, please note that when you print our own negatives on your inkjet printer, it has to be SOLID black ink. If you can see your hand or if it is gray- the stamp will not come out correctly. Remember, the WHITE of your image will become YOUR stamp. The black in the negative will wash away. I cannot stress how important this process and step is to creating your stamps. The most important thing to remember is that you can feel confident that help is only a phone call or email away. I find creating the stamps easy but I was really intimidated at first. So open your box and start creating!!!!!! THANK YOU everyone who cheered me on FACEBOOK/ TWITTER and know how much I really appreciated it.

I am home tonight working on some darling projects for my trip to TEXAS on Friday. Yes, I am going to a fun event. I am teaching TWO workshops on Saturday and they are OPEN to the public. There was some miscommunication. However, space is VERY LIMITED at this point. This is my last trip for a few weeks- yes, I needed a self imposed BREAK. You know it's BASEBALL season and well... I don't want to miss watching my boys play. So much to look forward too!!!!!

HSN projects- Live

I just got back from setting up the table. I wanted to show you some photos of the table. I know that my time on TV goes by REALLY fast and you may not be able to see all the projects up close. ALL of the samples were created with the TC STAMPMAKER-

The table skirt was STAMPED, as well as the lamp shade. EVERYTHING you see!!!!!

I love home decor so we focused on items to stamp and create for your home: pillows, bags, table coasters, clothing, etc. 

I love how you can take a photo (Taylor and Spencer on their wedding day) and making it into a stamp. *note HIGH contrast photos work best for photo stamps.

I am so in love with the stamped lampshade!!!  Also, this layout was created by JULIE JACOB. I love how she created her own "the JACOB family established 1991" stamp with the TC Stampmaker. 

I love that you can make your baby's footprint and then scan it and in turn, turn it into a STAMP!!!!! Yes, I am a little addicted to my BLINGAGE clipboards. 

 
These are place settings for my family. I took each of the names in our "growing" family and everyone has their own setting. I even made note paper for each name. 

Watch HSN and your will see even more samples. I go on in about 5 hours now. I am really excited to go on again. Last time we sold out and hopefully we will do so again. Yes, I will be up most or maybe all night but it would be hard to sleep anyway. 

HSN TC Stampmaker: 2:00 EST and 10:00 EST

*Please note that you can call Photocentric and they are 100% about helping YOU create your artwork. They are great with customer support and always there to help you with an questions and teaching how to create your own stamps. 

 

HSN--- I'm here

I just got into my hotel after a long day of traveling. I'm on my way to set up for the HSN TV segment-

I'll be on in a short 8.5 hours. I am excited to show the TC Stampmaker. I am back on- we SOLD out completely in January. I'll be on 2:00am EST and again at 10:00 am EST. 

I hope you will tune in and see all the beautiful projects that have been done for the segments. Off to HSN!!!! 

Blingage Clipboard-

 

Yesterday I showed how I turned regular Clipboards to BLINGAGE clipboard on Good Things Utah. I loved that as I was setting up my table for the segment, a male camera man came over to look at my setting. He told me how cool he thought they looked and his 7 year old daughter would want to make them too. He asked me where he could go to buy my Blingage. I was flattered coming from a non-crafter, AND so impressed with the desire to find a way for his young daughter to make one. 

Also, on the show was the couple from the TLC show The Chocolateers. They were showing how to make chocolate bowls using balloons that had been inflated and the balloon was punctured. Then I noticed a woman walk on in the studio. She was so FIT and I thought to myself, this girl must work out all the time. She was so tiny and toned. I realized that the next guest was Kathy Smith the fitness guru/expert. I honestly have NEVER seen someone with such an amazingly "perfect" body. ha! 

I came home to find that my family was visiting us. I had so many kits and projects to do, but I dropped it. Yes, I knew that family is first and I could work double time today if needed. I wanted to just spent time with Matt, Kayla and the baby. We even ended up grilling chicken on the barbeque and watching American Idol together. Kayla dated one of the guys that is a final contestant on the show. Small world!

Today I have printing my new IMAGINE papers out. I am so excited for the TC release. We named my cartridges this week and they are being produced now. Gentry is home tonight visiting from college and she is now a Cricut Imagine PRO- ha! I love having her home. She just needed FAMILY time and decided to come home. I think as much as she loves her roommates, she needed a break. Gentry LOVES college, and she especially loves her art department classes. 

Well, the countdown is ON. I leave for HSN early Sunday morning. I can't wait to show the samples that have been created. I love the customization of making your OWN stamps!!!! I hope you will tune in to watch on Monday March 14th. Can't wait to go on again-

Good Things Utah TV- BLINGAGE CLIPBOARDS

 

Today on Good Things Utah Channel 4-

Watch as I show you how to CREATE the most beautiful, chic and affordable BLINGAGE clipboards!!!!!

For those of you not in Utah- here is the how to on creating these CHIC clipboards-

I used clear and wood clipboards that I purchased from Office Max. I decorated all the tops of the clipboards with Teresa Collins Blingage. I did add a few pieces of my mother's buttons and jewelry on one of the clipboards- *adding meaning!!!!

I hope you like and you are INSPIRED to create your own BLINGAGE clipboards!!!!

I will be in TEXAS teaching next weekend. I am teaching TWO workshops. I am going to the Circle Circle Texas Stampede.

 

Texas Cricut Stampede

March 18-20, 2011

Embassy Suites & Convention Center

Frisco, Texas 

 

 

So many emails asking me if YOU can sign up for my classes-

http://creativecritterzevents.homestead.com/tx-cricut-stampede.html

Here is the LINK- workshops are SELLING out FAST, so if you want to come make sure you sign up. YOU have no idea TEXAS girls the good things in store for you! We are going to have a good time. I even hear there is a Charming Charlie by the location...my new fave!!!! Have a GREAT DAY.

Design Team- get to know...

We are kicking off this month with a "little get to know the girls" on the design team blog. This is a layout by Stacey Michaud.

"You and Me" by: Stacey Michaud
https://staceymichaud.blogspot.com/

"I know that Sports Edition II is designed to be a sports line, but I think its colors, words and graphics can also move beyond that!  The second I saw the TEAM tag, I thought of my husband and me.  We always talk about how we are a good team.  I used hearts and stars to accentuate and add detail.

Tip:  If you want to add extra color to your page elements, use a marker to customize!  I love that Teresa uses lots of black and white!  I needed a pop on this layout so I colored in the negative space with an orange marker!" Stacey M.

Supplies: 
Sport's Edition II: Practice A, Blue Numbers B, Words B, Sport A, Tags A, Circle Tags A, Red Stars A, Brads
Celebrate line:  Stars
Blingage:  Ty's Stars, Jamie's Gems, Stephanie's Gems
Trim: On the edge

Come visit the Teresa Collins Design Team Blog (http://teresacollinsdesignteam.blogspot.com/) to see more about Stacey and another great project using  Sports Edition II.

Crazy busy day for me- I am headed to my office for meetings after I drop my son off at school. Then you know I volunteered to waitress at the 6th grade etiquette lunch. I will wear my norm "black and white" and take care of a table of 8. Ty said he hopes I have his table. How cute! I decorated the table myself. I will take a photo!!!!

I am kitting like crazy for the DALLAS MEETUP in one week. Oh, tomorrow I am on Good Things Utah Channel 4 at 10:00am. The most chic blingage clipboards...LOVE THEM! I will post photos and instructions HERE tomorrow and on the design team blog. Did I mention I am getting ready to leave for HSN on Sunday???? You could say I am balancing a few things.It's all good and I am FORTUNATE to love what I do!!!!!

TEXT from a teenager-

This morning we woke up to so much snow. Ty got up to shovel our driveway or we would not be going anywhere. It's really WHITE and beautiful here in Utah. I love how bright and beautiful it is...but driving in the snow is not something I enjoy. I got up to make lunch for Zach. I did a quick breakfast for my other son- grits (yes, my kids love them!) and noticed that McKay was racing to get ready for school. She had a 8 page report due today. She was working on it all night last night. You know the "last" night and the race to get it finished. 

McKay gets to school and I get the following text:

"Mom! I have a math test today and I forgot my calculator! I'm gonna fail"- McKay

me- "What time? Where is it?"

McKay-"Like 9 15 and i'm not sure! I think in my bag"

me- "What bag?"

Ty and I go to search her MESSY room. We find it in her drill team bag.

I then proceed to find out that she had NO LUNCH money in her account or had taken a lunch. Of course, I had to hurry and take my son to school, make a lunch and meet McKay at her school. 

You know... as I was driving in the SNOW (which I don't like) I just SMILED and lauged... these are the MOMENTS that I cherish the most. I love that SHE needed me and to see the look of appreciation on her face was worth it. So thankful for days like TODAY!!!!!!

In a couple hours I will stop all my "busy crazy to do lists" and go help in my son's classroom. Yes, this is what I love!  

 

Here are a few photos from this past weekend-

 

Peggy created this for Renee's birthday. I really wanted to take the silver glittery wrapping paper present box. (it was empty!) I loved it! 

I am so fortunate and LUCKY to see my friends again at EMI. Lisa has to be the happiest girl ever and she is a constant reminder to me of this. 

This is my dear friend Shannon that works at Provo Craft. We are holding up the TC make n take that we did at the Cricut Circle Swarm. (*a 5x7 Your Story album with NEW TC Cartridge Imagine Papers and Images!!!!!!!!!!) Everyone was so excited. I have to say something about my friend. She is the REAL deal. She inspires me to be so much MORE as a person. She has really been a huge influence of good in my life. She fosters so much good in me and I am now more into cooking and accepting a meal does not have to be a 5 course meal. Shannon went to culinary school and she is an amazing cook!!!! She doesn't judge my lack of skills but has helped to "inspire" me to do more. Okay...gush gush gush... I love her!!!!!

Ha Ha... can you spot me in the background? Yes, I was signing a book. Okay... NOTATIONS is a huge success. The book kit is so for YOU...everyone...to make and create in YOUR own style for YOU to tell your own story!!!!! 

EMI Scrapbooking... did you see the TC display/section at the store? Okay- it was BEAUTIFUL.All the workshops this weekend SOLD OUT!!!! If you are anywhere near Cumming, GA... ROAD TRIP...worth it! Oh, and stop by CHARMING CHARLIE my new FAVE jewelry store ever!!!!!

The Cricut Circle meet up in Smyrna, GA (yes, Julia Robert's is from this town) was so FUN!!!! All the girls were so SWEET to me. I felt such a sweet welcome. I love how these cute girls store their ribbons. Look it's on a hanger!!!!!

The entire event happened because of these beautiful creative friends with Shannon. I am just fortunate to be a part of it! Oh, the things you can do with your Cricut and Imagine!!!!!!! Cindy Royal (far right) amazed me with her projects and her stitching. I got to spend some time with her and loved her. She is just real, genuine and a inspiration! 

Everyone wanted to KNOW more and more. Questions about everything...and you know you can't share everything until it's TIME! I kept dodging questions. Shannon luckily was there to answer questions!!!!! 

How in the world can this YOUNG beautiful girl have 19 grandchildren and 1 on the way? So excited to see her again Friday night-

Okay, thank you girls for sharing your photos with me!!!!! I really am grateful to YOU!

Now just waiting for my next text... I'm sure my kids need something and I'll happily be grateful for the reminder that I am needed. 

HOME...

  I am home. I have so much to do that I thought I would do a quick post-

In one short week- next Monday I will be in FL doing two segments on HSN. I will be promoting/selling the TC Stampmaker.

I have been so busy and I keep thinking if I can just keep FOCUSED I can get all the things accomplished that I need to do.

 
  Here are a few photos from my visit to Scrapbook Daisies. 

Such a beautiful store. 

Then this past weekend I visited Georgia. OVERWHELMED with such a great trip and time with the girls. Thankful that I was able to travel with my friend Shannon. I am not a big fan of traveling alone. I am dealing with some MAJOR jet lag today. I need photos girls from EMI and the Cricut Circle meetup!!!!!  Please send to me...

Peggy and Susan and EVERYONE at EMI... I am so grateful for your warm WELCOME and for our "bonding time." You all know what I mean. I am so thankful for the "sharing" and inspiration that was FLOWING in that room. I really appreciate having Peggy there to assist in the workshops. SHE was amazing!!!!!

Okay... major deadlines and a busy family to take care of. I am trying to STAY away from the computer.

My son Zach went to a baseball tournament in St. George this weekend with his dad and brother. It was the first game and tournament for the new team that he joined. They did great. In fact, they made it to the CHAMPIONSHIP game and placed runner-up. WOW... such a great start. I have to admit, it was so hard for me NOT to be there. Zach is now playing baseball SIX days a week now. Yes, it's what he LOVES and WANTS to do. The season will technically start soon. I am such a baseball and drill team mom!!!!!

 

HELLO Georgia

I am having a fabulous time here in Georgia. I am in my hotel room and getting ready to go teach for the day (EMI Scrapbooking in Cumming, GA). The woman I met yesterday were so NICE, so encouraging... that I have been lifted & inspired!!!! I LOVE what I do...

I loved going to the Cricut Circle crop in Smyrna. I am in awe at the talent of the woman there. The women could not have been any nicer. I love to met the women who read my blog. It was fun to do the make n take and to hear how excited they are for my cartridges to come out. Thank you Shannon for the fabulous trip here. We got lost for about an hour but how much fun it was when your with a friend...laughing and enjoying the journey together!

Last night, I taught the ON THE EDGE workshop. The women in the south are so welcoming. They talked and chatted and it was definitely a FUN FRIDAY night together. I am a southern girl too, so we chatted and crafted. Thank you SUSAN for making this fabulous weekend happen! 

I had so many questions here in GA. I would answer a few of them here. Yes, my next 8- day cruise will be in November 2011. Marah and I are hosting a cruise leaving from Florida. Teresa Collins & Marah Johnson Cruise. I think the girls here like to cruise. I have had several women who drove here from FL to attend this weekend event.  Many girls asked if I would be teaching with my cartridges and products with PC. I am HAPPY to say that Provo Craft is going to sponsor my workshops with me. Oh, yes... we will be doing lots of crafting and PLAYING on the cruise. Another questions-many people ask me when I teach on a ship. We do the classes during the times we are at sea. You will get to do all the excursions. We eat together as a group at night and we have so much fun. You can come along or bring a friend. I am excited to go to the Caribbean again. LOVE Sunny weather!!!! 

It's a colder rainy day here in GA but I love it! Time for me to get busy...TODAY is going to be a good day! 

ATLANTA- FREE TC STAMPMAKER DOWNLOAD

I am packed...

I am headed to Atlanta Georgia-

I wanted to let everyone know that due to so many beautiful projects that the design team has been creating, I decided to do another BLOG just for INSPIRATION. So I hope you will enjoy the new TERESA COLLINS DESIGN TEAM BLOG. You will find at LEAST three posts a week all all things TC related. I have to say that I have been fortunate to have these girls on my design team. We have a big team now and WOW do they shine. I love that they daily encourage and support each other. It was important to me that we were a TEAM. They have went above and beyond in big last minute deadlines. THANK YOU girls and a special thanks to Sesil and Cheri for not only running the design team but being such huge cheerleaders for me personally. 

Now, I am excited to show you the free PDF of the TC STAMPMAKER 8.5x11 download that you can print and create your own stamps with this month: (Please be patient if the download link is not there until later today)

You can visit Teresa Collins Stampmaker blog and download the sheet or individually. I wanted to make sure that you had plenty of time to create some of the St. Patricks Day stamps now. One of my favorite words- EVER- is LUCKY...so I had to put LUCKY on the sheet a few times.  We are listening to all of your suggestions and I want to support the TC Stampmaker in offering free download and designs. If you are like me, your very busy and you might like knowing that each month you can simply print out the PDF sheet of stamps on art film (comes in your TC Stampmaker). Remember, I will be flying to Florida again in less than 2 weeks- I will be on HSN on March 14th twice selling the TC Stampmaker and accessories. Also, if you have the TC Stampmaker and have ANY questions, there is customer support via email or by phone Monday- Friday. 

Also, I am the GUEST blogger TODAY for ROBERT'S CRAFT BLOG. Yes, two back to back... How LUCKY do I feel to do this? I hope you will take a look at a little inspiration there too. Robert's Craft is a several stores in Utah that carry my product collections. 

Off to Atlanta...*reading material in hand, fabric to make flowers, and as always my pink blanket! *love the Weight Watcher's magazine.

 

GUEST blogger for CK BLOG today-

I am busy getting ready to leave for Atlanta. Oh, I am really looking forward to this trip. I am always grateful when I get to travel with a friend. I love knowing that I am making new friends and seeing old friends during my trip.  I just love my southern friends. I feel at HOME. I can't explain it, but it just is what my "soul" needs. My sweet husband and boys had a special event planned that will keep them very busy. I love knowing that they are doing father/sons time while I am away. I am pretty excited to do a mini book make n take with my new IMAGINE images on Friday. EXCITED...I hope everyone will list what they see in my "little" sneak peek of what is coming!!!!

I have been having a lot of fun with the Mother's Day Bouquet cartridge by Provo Craft. It is the PERFECT cartridge if you are a FLOWER lover. I created a fun project for the CREATING KEEPSAKES blog post for today-

I created the flower with my NEW 12x12 metallic REFLECTIVE paper- I added TC BLINGAGE to the center of my flower. 

You can see step by step visuals and instructions on how I created both the reflective and glitter flowers at Creative Keepsakes blog.  I am their special guest blogger today!

 

http://www.creatingkeepsakesblog.com/blog/2011/03/02/create-sparkly-flowers-inspired-by-teresa-collins-designs-new-collection/

 

Thanks CK for the huge support!!!!

 

Today I wanted to show you another flower tutorial by one of my talented design team members. Amanda Jones created a BOUQUET of POSH flowers. 

Amanda Jones Tutorial- flowers

For each flower you will need 3 die cut flower shapes. It is not important what style of flower as long as they have 6 petals.

Now you need to cut your flowers. Cut between 2 of the petals on your first flower, just into the centre, so that the flower is still whole but you have a slit between 2 of the petals. Cut 1 petal away from the second flower, again cutting between the petals into the centre of the flower.  centre of each as shown above left. You should end up with 2 pieces – 1 petal and 5 petals.

With the third flower shape you need to remove 2 petals, leaving you with 2 petals and 4 petals.

You should now have 5 pieces. It’s time to start sticking!

This is the tricky bit...  take the single petal and add a tiny amount of glue to one edge. Curl the paper round and stick it to form a cone shape, as shown in the picture. You might find tweezers handy at this point!

Repeat this step with the 2 petal piece.

The 3 larger pieces can be adhered in the same way, but this time you need to add glue over the whole of one petal, so that the 2 petals closest to where you made your original cuts can be completely overlapped.  You should end up with 3 cones, increasing in width.

Now it’s time to assemble your flower. Take the smallest cone and put a dab of glue on the tip. Insert it into the next biggest cone as shown in the picture above. You may find it easier to snip the ends off of your cones at this stage, so you can slide them in a bit further to make your flower sturdier.

Increasing in size, keep gluing and sticking until you end up with a flower that looks something like this one!

 

To decorate my candle holder I made flowers in 2 different sizes.  I simply lined the inside of the holder with coordinating paper and then randomly glued the flowers into the top using a hot glue gun. Finally, I hand-cut some leaves from black cardstock and glued them on to fill any gaps between flowers.

These flowers are so beautiful. THANK YOU Amanda for sharing this INSPIRING project with us!!!! Doesn't it make you want to create your own bouquet?????

 

Have a GREAT Wednesday!!!!!

HAPPY DAY....

I am feeling so productive. I was asked to do a TC blog guest post for two fabulous sites this past week. I got up early and had to finalize all the projects, photos, etc. I am working fast so I don't miss my weekly WW meeting and my time in Ty's classroom. I can do without sleep so that I feel like I'm "more' caught up. So as I am racing out the door in a few short minutes... I wanted to post something that I am just so in love with. I want you to know that you will be seeing MORE layouts and inspiration from the Core Amour Color Core TC Cardstock collection that I recently debuted. 

This is one of the papers and Jamie Harper added a little TC BLINGAGE (metal wings) and the diecut tag from ON THE EDGE. The paper is a canvas texture- acid free, and 80# cardstock weight. 

 

Here Jamie Harper (love her style!) added a TC *new BLINGAGE metal clock! I love that the paper can be sanded- you can sand the entire sheet OR you can keep it unsanded. 

Photos do not do the papers justice!!! I am officially in LOVE with the canvas texture and of course I love the designs- wink! My collection pack comes with both On the Edge and Posh inspired designs. You can check out Coredinations site at www.coredinations.com/coreamour

Have a FABULOUS TUESDAY!!!!!!!!!! I am really looking forward to my WW meeting and keeping my motivation and mojo going. 

So POSH...

 

 

Play video http://store.scrapbook.com/products/teresa+posh.html 00:01:31 Added on 2/28/11 165 views

 

Posh:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FqSLXjN62E
Timeless:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIoDqC8TGA
Sports Edition II:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTALaqcYZC8
On the edge:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JM3A6OtyGQ

These videos are SO great. You can really see the color and vibrance of my NEW collections. So loved seeing these!!!!!

 

TODAY was such a GREAT day. I was able to see my finalized images for the TC cartridges that will be coming out soon with Provo Craft. It is just a dream come true to be able to spread my creative wings into this new area.  I am even going on Friday with my friends at PC to attend the Provo Cricut Swarm in Atlanta, Georgia. I will then be teaching workshops at EMI SCRAPBOOKING!!!! I am looking forward to meeting lots of new friends this weekend. 

Our anniversary yesterday was just a really nice relaxing day. We went to church and as we sat there together as a family, I felt a deep feeling of happiness. Just then Ty reached over to grab my hand. THIS is really what it is all about. We are in this together...the good and the bad, we are a team. I made Ty a silly poster board with candy sentiments. You know the ones... that the candy is part of the "message." I think the cute part was that my boys "loved" that I did this for their dad. I think a little "candy" message board is now in order for each of them! 

If you are in my Georgia workshops- please contact EMI for the complete supply list of what to bring to class.