TERESA COLLINS

She is on her way to Seattle... (message to family and friends)

Oh my... this morning was the BEST! McKay left the MTC at 4:30 am to head to the SLC airport. She called me from the airport and we talked for about 40 minutes. McKay was so happy and kept stopping to say HI to all her missionary friends that were leaving for their missions too. She was giggling and happy and said going on a mission was the BEST decision she had ever made. 

She LOVED the MTC and felt such a connection with her roommates. She is the only sister going to Seattle from her district and the only one that she met that is going Spanish speaking. 

Why oh why is she wearing a Llama shirt with a skirt? That's the McKay I know and love.

So she was telling me that she has made so many friends and that everyone she meets thinks she is so funny and a little crazy and kept telling her she was so fun to be with. This makes me laugh because McKay has always been so outgoing, very friendly and honestly people always wanted to be around her because she "radiates" goodness and makes you want to be with her. 

She has always made silly faces and I guess the Elder's told her that she is CRAZY and fun to watch. I see that she is still the same ole McKay.

She sent me these photos yesterday. This was her last week at the MTC. She just said she LOVED the experience. She gave a talk in church in SPANISH in front of the MTC president. I am so proud of my girl.

She said the language is coming along and she feels God has truly helped her in 6 weeks to learn the language. She mentioned that her and her district had decided to work hard to learn Spanish and give it 1,000 percent and not slack off. She told me this morning that she knew they were blessed because they worked daily (all day) to learn the language. Their teacher told them that he had never seen a group so solid in the language leaving the MTC. He was impressed with their work ethic and desire to serve.

Cute story- McKay kept running into people she KNEW or people who knew people she knew. One day she went up to a Elder Bartholomew and asked him where he was from. He told her Springville, Utah. She said do you know DEVAN Bartholomew my brother in law? Small world- it is Devan's cousin. She said he looked at her like she was a little crazy. 

Then one day she is at PE and the teacher calls McKays best friend Josilyn. It is against mission rules so Mckay could not talk to her but she said she could hear her and it was a sweet experience to relay a message. She wanted to know that her friends are okay. I sent her messages from Josilyn and Taylor Ann.

Speaking of friends- she wants to THANK all of you that are emailing and sending her letters and packages. She got 19 emails yesterday. Since she only has ONE hour of computer each week she feels bad that she can't respond to each of them. She said to thank you each SO MUCH and how supported and loved she feels. She misses her friends but said she knows that she made the right decision to serve. She is so happy and will be back with all of you in JAN. 2015 at BYU!!!!!

You can write her now at the Seattle address. As her mom, I can't thank you enough for supporting her. McKay is a mommy's girl and she said she has not been homesick but just misses all of a lot. She is doing so well because of all of the support.

PS... McKay has not changed one bit- she is still a hoot. She had me laughing so hard this morning!!!!!! I'm on the phone with her and she is laughing the entire time and randomly talking to missionaries as they walked by. So McKay!!!!!

How neat that she got to HOST and welcome the new missionaries into the MTC this past week! 

Okay... I am floating- super thrilled to finally get to talk to her. I could not be prouder of this girl! Seatlle, Washington take care of my girl. If you see her, please give her a huge hug and tell her hello. I know she would LOVE it!!!!!

 

It happened in Vegas.....

CHA Summer trade show in Las Vegas was a huge success. It started off as a rough start. This was the first trade show that I had ever driven to. I was on my way to Vegas and had a friend with me in the car. We were on our way to pick up Gentry at her home when the sunroof of my car (I had it only for less than 2 days) emploded. It sounded like a 50 caliber gun exploded in my roof and the sunroof shattered and glass EXPLODED down on us, in the car, on the roof and the trunk. It was so scary and it happened for no reason. I was driving maybe 25 mph  and 76 degrees outside with no cars in front or back of me. I was so scared. I immediately went to the side of the road and took photos and surveyed the damage to both of us and then the vehicle.

Instantly, all I could think about was being THANKFUL. I was so thankful that we had not been hurt beyond a few scratches. I am so thankful that the car dealerships immediately took action to help us. I even had a loaner car in Vegas for the week. 

Sometimes... things like this puts everything in perspective. I would never have thought this would or could happen. I just felt so thankful that I did not wreck from the reaction. Even though it was a new car for me... well, it is just a car and no matter what I knew the car could easily be replaced. Our life could not. 

So when we arrived at the hotel, I was a little overwhelmed from a long day of driving, dealing with two car dealerships and trying to get my car fixed and safe to drive. The hotel has made a mistake and gave us ONE single bed. I needed two beds. I had to move rooms. The new room was so dirty (it looked like a crime scene). I was then moved back to my original room. I was told they would bring me two cots. Well, after waiting hours they brought me ONE and very "snappy and rude" told me they would not bring me another and I needed to pay for the cot each night. I went to the hotel check in and asked for a new room and they were very nice to give me free internet and change our room again. Well, it was quite the adventure. In all the drama, I was not upset and I think they appreciated my attitude of understanding and wanted to make me happy. To be honest, it was just a hotel room and I was just so thankful that we had made it to the show okay.

We had a great time!!!! Yes, we enjoyed girl time every night in the hotel room. We loved to laugh and talk. I am blessed with the best girl friends. I love that my daughters are truly my best friends too. I am lucky to have friends that believe in me and support me. (TC, Amy, Cheri and Gentry)

 

THIS is my team!!!! Cheri Piles is the head of my design team, Gentry works all the trade shows, does blog posts and helps refine my collections. I always like to get the Gentry and Taylor seal of approval. Jared and Brian Orr are my sales directors. I have truly enjoyed working with them. Amy Coon is officially my cheerleader. She is my friend and so much more.

 

I debuted FOUR full collections and the TC Craftwell ebosser machine with embossing folders, and two new tools with Xyron (TC Xyron chipboard punch and pink stapler). It was a great show for us and I am just so thankful. The show was much smaller and we kept busy the entire time. I am so thankful for the retailers that constantly inspire and support me. 

Did I mention we had flash floods the first couple of days we were there? Oh, I was caught in this one. Another reason to be thankful. 

We stayed at the Las Vegas Hilton. LVH connected to the Convention Center. 

Here I am filming for Scrapbook.com. If you go to their site you can see me debuting and showing each of the new collections. Oh my... my dress kind of matched the curtains in my booth. ha! I LOVE showing the new lines and what inspired them!!!!!! All of the collections did well. Retailers can order one collection or all four and almost all the stores ordered ALL FOUR collections. I hope the store closest to you ordered the new lines too.

 

I filmed a 30 minute TV segment of the home shopping CREATE and CRAFT live from CHA. I was on with Dean and he is a hoot! I love being able to show the collections and sharing how you can use them.
Then I debuted my brand new machine with Craftwell. Oh my... this was a BIG HUGE hit at CHA S. The Craftwell TC eBosser is the ONE machine you will want. It is the ONE MACHINE that does it all- embosses (my folders are big letter size and 8.5x12"h) and will use all your dies to cut as well. Yes, you can use any of the leading dies to cut in the machine. (spellbinders, provo craft, accucut, accuquilt, sizzix, ALL OF THEM). The TC eBosser comes with all the platforms to use any of them. The machine is completely electric- no turning a knob. In only 15 seconds you will emboss or cut your image like a pro!!!! The machine is fool proof and is heavy duty (all metal parts so it's durable).

We did fabulous make n takes each day and the lines were long. We did RUN OUT!!!!!

*you can see the manila tag and white card that we embossed on this view.

Here are the other folders that I designed that are available.

My machine comes with the TC Craftwell eBosser and TWO of my embossing folders (sophisticated and it's about time). Also, I will be introducing the WORLD WIDE LAUNCH DEBUT of the machine in September on HSN during the 24 hour craft day. The machine will be avaiable after that on October 1st. I can't wait for the debut!!!!!!!

I finally got to meet Emily. I have been working with her for months. She is a sweetheart and we clicked immediately. I also meet Jasmine. I knew that Craftwell was the perfect fit for me. They are a technology based company with the highest standards of workmanship, and customer service. Craftwell hired these models- Abercrombie models to walk around with the TC eBosser machine. They were at the booth and took photos with so many people during the show. Thank you David, Paul, Jasmine and Emily for going above and beyond in our debut and partnership. 

This was Cheri's first show and she really enjoyed meeting everyone and seeing first hand how crazy fun and busy the trade shows are for us. (Abercrombie Craftwell TC Ebosser models, Kristine McKay (My Craft Channel) and Stephanie Hamen (Fiskars).

 

Just wait to see what we have planned for CHA Winter in Anaheim!!!!!!

 Also, if you are looking for the new tools with TC/Xyron... you can order from Xyron, Notions and Product Performers. 

They are not shipping yet, but I will let you know when they are available. You can get the TC Mega Runners, TC Stickermakers and the TC Adhesive KITS NOW!!!!! The stapler uses LARGE staples and is heavy duty.

Okay... now for the BIG PRIZE WINNER... we looked and watched to pick a winner. Drum Roll..... 

the lucky winner of the FOUR brand new paper collections is:

Alexia Misso

You really helped to promote the new collections- thank you!

 

 Thank you so EACH of you that entered to win and who helped share the collections. It truly meant so much!!!!!!!

Okay.. THIS FRIDAY I am headed to Hannah's Home Accents to teach this weekend. The address is: 455 Lake St, Antioch, IL 60002. Please come and visit us. The store has ALL of my paper collections and we are going to have so much fun!!!! The workshops are sold out!!!!! However, PLEASE come and join us and shop. I would LOVE to meet you. 

CHA... come visit us!!!!!! GIVING ALL ALL FOUR COLLECTIONS-

Tuesday is the FIRST day at CHA here in Vegas. It's also my birthday so I am in the mood to make someone a very HAPPY crafter. I LOVE so much what I do!!!!!!! So I am giving away a BIG PRIZE today to celebrate. (READ BELOW!!!!!)

First, I had to get a new sign for the booth and it was 9 feet wide and heavy so I needed the TC boys and the MME boys to use their muscles to help me put up the sign. Putting up the booth is always takes a lot of time. The best part is the beautiful projects that are arranged throughout the booth. I love showcasing what the design team and I created. THANK YOU design team and friends who helped create projects for the booth and Ideal World TV samples. Also, THANK YOU boys!!! 

I have two full time sales directors now that you can meet at the show- Brian and Riley. Come and meet them today!

 

Here is the crew today setting up the booth. I am super in love with the new releases. I am so thankful to be able to be here and for the tremendous support of my friends in the industry. This is Cheri's first show and I have loved having her here with me.

I am OVER THE MOON thrilled to debut my ebosser machine and file folders that you can see today for the first time. I have letter size and universal size embossing folders debuting. 8.5x11 and 8.5x12 are the best thing EVER!!!! Craftwell and I are partnering up to bring out the best designs and machines on the market. Trust me you will want this machine and folders. I will be doing a video from the show!!!!

You can come and do my free make n take with my brand new machine and folders TODAY. What a way to celebrate my birthday. 

The CHA trade show begins this morning and the make n take is today and tomorrow at 12 noon & 3 pm in the CRAFTWELL booth right across from my booth. It is Thursday as well at 12noon. Kits are limited (they are like a class) and may run out so come soon so you won't miss out.

MAKE N TAKE- using my new COLLECTIONS!!!!!!!!

This is the make n take. If you are at the show... come and make it before they run out!!!!! I will post the project and PDF instructions FREE next week AFTER the show. I know many of you cannot be here.

So excited for the show. Today is going to be amazing and yes the rumors are true- it's my birthday and I am turning 29 AGAIN!!!! Thank you for the surprise Taylor and Gentry. I love you for helping to spread the word. ha!

I'm off to go film now early before CHA. I am doing a segment for Scrapbook Expo on myself. Watch for videos, photos, instagram, facebook and more from the show today. I have no idea what they will ask me in the interview, but I am excited to do it.

TOMORROW morning- Wednesday...I will be on TV with Dean, a host for Create & Craft from the United Kingdom to film LIVE from the CHA Show. Anyone can watch it LIVE on Wednesday at 8:00am PST, 9:00 am MST, and 11:00 EST. Watch with the Create & Craft app or online at CreateandCraft.tv. If you are at CHA you can come watch it live. I will be on for a full 30 minutes. 

To celebrate my birthday today... I am giving away a collection pack of paper from ALL FOUR OF MY BRAND NEW COLLECTIONS!!!!!!

All you have to do is post a comment here and share on your favorite social media sites about my new releases today. Just tell me where you posted it... share the love and I'll pick one winner to win ALL FOUR collections- Santa's list, Masquerade Party, Memorabilia and Family Stories!!!!!! I hope you will help me in sharing the contest and comment as many times as you want. I have my design team, friends all watching instagram, facebook and twitter, blogs to watch and see everyone sharing. I would love your help in making sure EVERYONE gets to see my new collections and the chance to win it today! Then just come back and comment on my blog- HERE as many times as you want with where you shared it. YOU NEVER KNOW and if someone shares enough love I may have to pick even more winners. Would you like to win???????? 

Related articles

CHA Make N TAKE- PRESS Release TC & CRAFTWELL machine

CHA day 1- first day of show....

Happy Birthday Teresa!

This is surpise guest bloggers Taylor And Gentry. July 23 is a great day becasue this beautiful lady was born. I hacked my mom account to wish her a Happy Birthday! Please Leave a comment wishing her a great Birthday. If you are in Vegas at CHA please stop by booth 949 and wish her a Happy Birthday. 

MONDAY in Vegas

I'm here in Vegas preparing the booth for the start of the tradeshow on Tuesday. We have had a flash flood, changed our hotel room 4 times (ha ha) and honestly had the BEST time ever!!!! It's been so much fun. 

I loved taking the girls to Henderson to shop for inspiration on Saturday. I love the store- WEST ELM.

Then we started to do the booth. The crates were ready and we went to work to set it all up.

The padding for the floor is the very first thing we do. Thank you Gentry, Cheri, TC, Brian and Riley for helping to make set so much fun.

This is the booth in progress. PS the chandlier takes FOREVER to put all the crystals on it. 

We had Crafters Home and the lines debuted were so well received. I am so excited to show them to everyone at the show. The booth number is 949. 

The booth in progress. My favorite is seeing all the design team projects displayed. I am 100% sure they are the best at the show. Yes, I am biased. 

The show starts tomorrow and I will post more photos. If you follow me on instagram and facebook- I am posting throughout the day.

Instagram- Teresa Collins Designs

Facebook- tcdesigns

 

2013 CRAFT SURVEY- with amazing drawing

My Craft Channel has launched the 2013 Craft Survey for the general crafter and I am helping to spread the word. The survey is short and will only take about 3 minutes to complete. After you complete the survey-you are entered into an amazing drawing for a $650 prize pack that includes a great prize offering by my company and several other amazing companies.

 I have included the link to the blog post and an image for the giveaway. The survey and giveaway will be active through Wednesday, July 24th.

http://mycraftchannelblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/my-craft-channel-2013-craft-survey-650.html

Debuting MASQUERADE PARTY... it's definitely a PARTY!!!!!

I have always loved to design for Halloween. It makes me sad that my kids are now too old to Trick or Treat. At least I can still design and enjoy having Halloween trick or treaters and parties. So this year, I was inspired by doing a line that was geared for PARTY favors with invitations and more!!!!

I love making my own frames to decorate for Halloween. This is using my 6x6 paper pad and chipboard for the collection. 

I found these photos of McKay at Halloween and they brought back such good memories. I can still remember buying her the tights and thinking she was the cutest "witch." I am LOVING the collage paper. Many of these images were ones and have used in previous collections.

I am so in LOVE with the Halloween treat bags with the collection. I have used these as pages in my projects as well as party treat bags. I added the 12x12 stickers to the bags- there are glassine and printed bags.

PS I am ALOT addicted to Hi-Chew... anyone else? My favorite flavor is 1. Mango and 2. Grape. I used to be a STARBURST girl but no more- ha!

Okay we are headed out for the show. I hope you like the little peek from the Halloween collection. MUCH more to come!!!

Remember to call or go to your LSS and ask for the new collections. They need to know what you like and want them to order. I so appreciate YOUR support.

The winner from FAMILY STORIES collection:

  Lydibel congrats!!!! Please email [email protected] with what you won and address. 

Have a great Friday!!!!!!

CHA new collection- FAMILY STORIES

I got home from Denver last night and crashed about 10 pm. Today I am headed to the My Craft Channel studios and filming Craftwell TC ebosser and embossing folder videos. I have a script and I always do better when I wing it- ha so I hope I will do okay. I think my favorite thing to do is LIVE tv. I like that it's a conversation and you can normally feed off the host or whoever is on air with you. I love HSN and Good Things Utah (channel 4) because of it. I don't get nervous at all which I have always found really weird. I actually LOVE doing TV because I love what I am doing and people tell me my passion is felt. I hope that is the case.

Okay... I am excited. TOMORROW I leave for CHA. This year I am going to drive to the show. I love roadtrips and I just decided to drive and have my own car there. Are you going? The only problem is that Gentry is going and she is the worst back seat driver. She claims I scare her when I drive. 

So today I am showing my THIRD release for CHA Summer. Trust me, you will LOVE this line. It's just beautiful. It's color but beautiful in that it's not too bright or too neutral. I wanted a strong theme related to it but one that you could use or not use. Hope that made sense!!! 

My inspiration was that 1. family line 2. anchors (your family is your anchor in life) 3. PEOPLE icon (just loved it!) This line is so pretty and I keep reaching for it to design with it.

I love the stamps in this LOVE (love), the sequins, enamel dots inside the sequins, diecut pennants and brads on the distressed wood. PS the papers are all heavy cardstock weight.

This is the family stories cards that I made with the 12x12 chipboard, and 6x6 paper pad and my envelopes. All cards were embossed with TC ebosser machine and TC folders. I'm a LITTLE (okay alot) addicted to embossing now.

This is ONE of my new FAMILY STORIES workshops that I will be teaching. 

The stamps for this line are just my go to stamp set. I use it in EVERYTHING. The man/woman, take note, anchor, etc. I love it! 

I am teaching at so many events and I just wanted you to know that if you are coming to my event in Henderson NV- Inspiratin Unlimited- those workshops are exclusive to that event. The same goes for the Caribbean cruise. I have so many new events to announce. Just know that I always make sure and let you know if I am ever teaching a class again and when it's an exclusive project. 

Do you want to win a prize from FAMILY STORIES? All you need to do today is comment. I would love it if you tell me WHERE you buy your scrapbook supplies. IF you don't have a store- please list your online store.

THANKS!!!! GOOD LUCK.

CHA Make N TAKE- PRESS Release TC & CRAFTWELL machine

Today is such a GREAT day! I am headed to the SLC airport this morning... going Denver for a quick ONE DAY trip. I will be home late tonight. I wanted to share some very exciting news. I previously announced that I would be designing embossing folders with CRAFTWELL. I can officially share today that there is going to be more. Here is the press release:

            

Company Contact:                                                              

Craftwell Inc                                                         

888-315-8885                                                                                                                                   

[email protected]                                                                      

 

Craftwell Announces the Teresa Collins eBosser

 

New York City, NY, July 17, 2013 — Craftwell Inc. today announced the launch of the Teresa Collins eBosser, packaged as a special bundle with an exclusively designed die cutters and embossers.  The Teresa Collins eBosser compliments the new line of Teresa Collins embossing folders that hit stores this August.

 

With all the same great features of the eBosser, fans will be able to purchase a collectable eBosser designed by Teresa Collins, exclusively for Craftwell Inc.  The eBosser represents a new generation of die-cutting and embossing machines for the craft and education markets.  The products are used for multiple applications including scrapbooking, paper crafting & card making, quilting, home decorating, children’s education and activities, which enable users to cut or emboss paper, card stock, vellum, vinyl, felt, craft foam, plastic, foil and other materials, providing more usability than competing products. 

 

“We are very excited to launch a complete line of products for Teresa Collins.  The Teresa Collins fan base continues to grow world-wide, and this represents the start of several initiatives that are to come,” said Craftwell’s Chief Executive Officer, David Tse.  “Craftwell’s innovative products are complimented by a top designer in the market, truly making the creative process a real enjoyment.”

 

Teresa Collins, President of Teresa Collins Designs, states ”Craftwell is the only company to that has been able to push the bar on innovation in this industry.  It is important that our partner can provide the kind of technology complimented by our exclusive designs to make crafting fun and efficient.”

 

Craftwell will be featuring the new Teresa Collins eBosser and folder collection at the CHA Create-n-Connect Trade Show on July 22-25, 2013 at booth #954 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

 

About Craftwell

Headquartered in New York, Craftwell is a leader in providing technological innovations to the crafting and education sectors.  The company’s products are designed to provide users with advanced capabilities that increase their creative possibilities.  Craftwell’s eCraft electronic die cutter was an honoree in the prestigious Innovations Design & Engineering Award program at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).  Their newest product, the eBosser die cutter & embosser, has been lauded by crafters and quilters, gaining international acclaim.  For more information, visit www.craftwellusa.com.

 

As you can imagine I am thrilled to be working with Craftwell. I love that they allow me to stay true to my signature style. We have great things in the work. The machine is really beautiful. I don't think this photo even comes close to how pretty it is. I wanted the artwork to be in gold. The gold against the white is so timeless and pretty. I designed the make n take and showed it to Gentry who then asked if I could get her a machine. Then Taylor asked if I could get her one too. 

Are you going to CHA? Craftwell and I will be directly across from one another. Please come visit us and see first hand how wonderful the machine is. If you visit booth #954, we are doing a free make n take with my brand new 8.5 x 11 TC embossing folders and the TC ebosser machine. I will post the times next week since the actual make n take is only during a set time each day. However, you can go in the booth and design with the machine at any time.

Yes, you can come and make the entire book with my machine and folders. I am using my new MEMORABILIA collection (papers, sequins, corsage pin). You will get complete instructions and visuals to recreate and teach. This album is punched with the TC/Xyron chipboard punch too. 

You can see three of the embossing folders used on the Make N Take project: starburst, circle and clock. I am truly in LOVE with the machine and folders and how simple it is to create with. I could not be more happy with how the machine and folders turned out. I love the large 8.5 x 11 size. Did I mention that the TC ebosser will die cut and emboss any folder or die cut you have from any company? I can still use all the Sizzix, Spellbinders, Provo Craft designs that I have in my new machine. It works with all of them and this was a HUGE selling point for me.  

I have many more designs to debut too. Craftwell is the perfect partner for me and I am thankful for this opportunity. 

The winner for yesterday's giveaway- the Memorabilia collection is:

 

Please email what you won in the subject line with your address to [email protected]. THANK YOU and congratulations!!!!!

 

NEW TC XYRON products & MEMORABILIA collection

TODAY is a big day to debut my new products. I can hardly contain my excitement over the releases and peeks you will see today and this week. First, I am so honored to be designing and working with Xyron. I love being able to produce products that I love and believe in. We are constantly adding new items together. I LOVE that they listen to what I love and use and together we bring it to market. So today I am sharing my TWO new products with Xyron.

If you have ever taken a workshop with me- you know a STAPLER is my go to crafting tool and one I always ask students to bring. The TC Xyron stapler has AMAZING quality and is perfect for holding and using as a crafter. The stapler is heavy duty which was very important to me.  It is easy to hold and use. It works with regular sized staples. I have used it for months testing it out and have never had it jam. So I love that the quality is there and did I mention it's pink. Isn't it cute????

The next tool we are debuting together is this-

It is the TC/Xyron chipboard punch. It will punch through paper and chipboard with ease. I will be using this in all my upcoming workshops. I am in LOVE!!!!! All new TC workshops will get to use the punch. I will be showing projects tomorrow that I created with the punch. PS there is a MAKE N TAKE involved with this!!!

Both of these tools will be available NOVEMBER 1st directly from Xyron. 

Now for the second collection that I designed-

I wanted to do a collection that had the look of chalkboard and mixed with my love for journaling and QUOTES. I wanted it to feel like a line that you could see at a boutique. Oh my... this line is so fun to design with and I can't pick a favorite item in the collection. 

6x6 paper pad, papers, sequins... this line is really a pretty collection.

 

  The line is non-themed so you can really just create. The sequins in this line are: gold, black, clear and yellow. 

From ONE sheet of the 12x12 quote papers I did this entire set of framed quotes. I really am just a girl who loves her quotes.

I wanted to share some of my cards and another frame. The crystal corsage pin in the tan ribbon is a BRAND new product as well. These projects are using the layered stickers in the collection. I spy: envelopes, stamps, corsage pin, layered stickers, 12x12 and 6x6 paper.

I hope you enjoy my version of chalkboard and scrapbooking. Thank you for all the comments yesterday. Today I am giving away a collection set of MEMORABILIA and another lucky winner will win the new TC Staper!!!!!!! Two winners will be posted tomorrow and I will post my new collection and some exciting news.

The winner from yesterday (Santa's LIST) is:

Please email what you won in the subject line to- [email protected].

Make sure you LIKE TCD on FACEBOOK if you have not done so already- www.facebook.com/tcdesigns. Have a great day!

DEBUT- SANTA'S LIST TCD Christmas Collection

I am THRILLED to finally be able to share the FIRST sneak peek of my Christmas collection that will debut next week at CHA Summer in Las Vegas, Nevada.

This collection is just stunning. There are beautiful red glitter 12x12 papers, 3x4 notecard 12x12 paper, treat bags, sticky notes, numbered brads, file folders, SEQUINS (800 to a package) chipboard, enamel dots, stickers, chipboard buttons, stamps, photo corners, envelopes... and more!!!!! I wanted to share some projects with you with the debut.

I'm in LOVE with the Santa in the collection. The colors are kraft, white, creams, tans, black and red. What can I say I am a fan of traditional Christmas colors. The treat bags are BRAND NEW and they have printed patterns mixed with clear glassine envelopes too. I just added sticky notes to them to fill with candy and give away as a gift. MERRY CHRISTMAS is my new decorative tape (on the glassine envelope) The photo in the frame is a 3x4 notecard (from 12x12 paper).

I love the number 12x12 paper. It has all the numbers on one sheet 1-31 and then repeats so that you can do countdown or use for any type of numbered project. I stamped the month on the front of the wood box from the collection.

Here is a CHRISTMAS MEMORY KEEPER project that I designed with the new line. Yes, the large gold sequins are part of the collection.

Everything seen is part of the collection!!!!!

These are the stitched notebooks with the collection. I have so much for to share and preview with this and the other collections! I hope you like...okay LOVE them as much as I do!

Shipping will be right after CHA. We have everything in and ready to ship to our retailers. 

Today I am going to GIVE AWAY one collection of SANTA'S LIST to one of you for commenting. I will pick a winner and announce it tomorrow on the blog when I preview my next collection. GOOD LUCK!!!!!

Arkansas... THANK YOU for having me!!!!

The Scrapbook Attic & More. What can I say? We had so much fun. These girls welcomed me and I became INSTANT friends with EACH of these beautiful girls. They were a FUN group. They made me laugh and really enjoy a creative journey with them. The store owner- Denise Pearlman and I instantly hit it off. We chatted like old friends all the way from Little Rock to Searcy. I knew immediately that I was going to have a good weekend. Everyone was so friendly, laid back and eager to enjoy girl time.

 

This is my friend Teresa Wilkins. She came with a group of 7 of her friends. She teaches workshops with my products, comes to many of my events and honestly just is a HUGE supporter of my designs. I am so thankful. She gave me the most beautiful blingy bracelet here. THANK YOU Teresa!!!!!

They drove a couple of hours to be here. I am excited that two of these cuties will be going on the TC hosted EMI Caribbean Cruise this October with me. PS- It's not too late if you would like to join us on the cruise. Don't you love the aprons that they made?

They even made their shirts for my visit and had me sign them. I love watching and being inspired by the foundations of real and meaningful friendships so many girls had here. 

These two sweet girls drove here all the way from Texas. We even had girls from Georgia too and other states.

Kristin was the captain of this table. ha ha... I so enjoyed meeting and getting to talk to each of these girls. 

These cute girls are going to call into HSN next time I am on air. I really hope that they do it. ha!

Thank you so much DENISE for having me at your amazing store. I am so impressed with all that you are doing and am so thankful for your support. Thank you to you and your staff for going above and beyond in welcoming me. I can't wait to come back!!!!!

Two weeks ago- ITALY

I know I am a little behind in sharing my photos from Italy. I am in Searcy Arkansas and realized I need to share my photos from Italy so I can then share my photos from here. I got home two weeks today from an amazing time in Italy. A Kiss on the Chic hosts the event each year to Bellagio, Italy. It was truly beyond beautiful. I took about 800 photos and so I've only been able to share just a few. Here are some more-

I am beyond thankful for this experience. This was my view for nine days.

It's a GREAT workout to walk everywhere... up and down the cobblestone streets. There is little shops everywhere. The town is super friendly.

STUNNING beautiful views of Lake Como. Nope we never did run into George Clooney. ha!

It was pure serenity and just so peaceful. I think that is how I would describe where we were.

I really loved meeting all the girls at the event. This is Sherry and her sweet daughter Addie. They are mom/daughter and I just loved my sweet Texas friends. Many stories, laughs and good times were shared. 

I loved all the food choices. This is where we had pizza one day. I'm not a pizza person, but ate it almost every single day. ha! I really enjoyed how they prepared it- very thin crust. The photos on the right side of this room were framed photos of GEORGE CLOONEY and his visits to Bellagio. 

Laura planned some great day tours and we got to shop and enjoy lunch in Como one day. This is where the Scrapbook Store is located. So worth a visit if you are ever never Como. 

The girls from Italy spoiled us with daily gifts and they gave me the BEST gift to take home. It was an assortment of vinegars, sauces and and more from Italy. YUMMY!!!!! We are still enjoying the gift.

I adore these girls. Jeanne Oliver is the mega super talented and adorable mixed media artist. She is kind, humble and just the complete package of awesomeness. I loved meeting her husband Kelly too. We truly enjoyed our time with them. Laura McCollough is the event host and with her two beautiful girls did an OUTSTANDING job. It was VERY organized and I loved this. Laura taught a workshop as well. I loved it!!!!!! Okay- THANK YOU LAURA for inviting me. I had the most amazing experience. I simply feel honored to have been invited. THANK YOU!!!!

I loved the statues in Italy. I took MANY photos of statues...

This is a HUGE large church in Italy. I saw a man doing a confessional in from of a priest. I thought it would be like in the movies. So much history... I could have stayed so much longer.

I would go back again... again and again. I so enjoyed this event.

So now I am headed to teach two more workshops here in Searcy. I am beyond grateful to be here with Denise Pearlman and the girls at The Scrapbook Attic & More. The store is FULL of my products. The event was sold out fast and they have moved the store to make room for everyone here. I LOVE it here. I love all the girls who came long distances to be here. Many traveled from other states. WE are having fun and I love being in the South. I LOVE it!!! I got up at 6am to workout. I am walking and running every morning and I knew it was going be too hot and humid it I waited. 

Hope you are doing something fun today!

At the airport... headed to Arkansas

I am at the airport. We are literally boarding now... I am headed to Little Rock Arkansas. I am so looking forward to this trip. So many sweet women coming. Some I know and many I will get to meet. I love what I do!

I wanted to share about yesterday. I was able to go and see KC and Mallory get married in the temple. It was beautiful and a great way to start the day. Then Zach had prospect games in Spanish Fork, UT.

Did I mention I love watching my son play? I am his biggest fan. Okay... my husband is right with me. Devan and Gentry came to support him.

I am so happy for him. He had a great week of baseball. He loved the BYU baseball camp and did well and then he played well yesterday. He won the Home Run Derby for the Class of 2016. I love that he did NOT want me to take this photo. He did not want others to think he was bragging. I love that about him. I had to take it when no one was looking. I love Zach and his friends and watching them play and focus on good things. 

We then went to the wedding reception at the Provo library. It was beautiful. I got home late and then had to pack. I am going on 3.5 hours sleep. I am planning to sleep on the flight. Oh, they are calling my zone now.

Happy Friday... on my way to Searcy Arkansas.

Is CHA really next week?

Next week... CHA Summer is in Las Vegas Nevada. It is time to debut new collections. I am going to start showing the lines and projects THIS COMING MONDAY. I will reveal my MAKE N TAKE that you can come and do at the Craftwell TC booth (they are right across from me at the trade show). Guess what? I have a new machine to debut with Craftwell and 8.5 x 11 embossing folders. I will debut TWO NEW fabulous TC/Xyron products. Oh my... I have been busy. I have designed new stamps with Fiskars, but I am not sure if they will debut at CHA S. Did I mention that I have been busy????

I am just so thankful for friends and family in my life who support me. I went to lunch yesterday with a dear friend. I love her and I love that she gets me. I often run on very little sleep so that I can be with my kids during the day and attend their events. Often I work late into the night. I try to plan my time and be organized so I am "really there" for my kids. I will never truly be happy or successful if my family fails. So my first love and priority is always my family. With the success of my company I have had to spend much time in prayer and asking for HELP daily to balance it all.

I had a really special experience yesterday. After lunch I came home to be with my son Ty. I knew I needed to film segments this morning for My Craft Channel but I wanted to spend time with him. I had a few ideas and projects that I had worked on with my new products debuting, but wasn't sure what projects to feature. I honestly just prayed that I would KNOW and be able to get at least SIX show contents ready to film. Well, I made dinner for Ty and he had BMX practice tonight. Ty took him and I was alone for 2.5 hours. I started to go show by show for each of my tapings. I felt the strongest impressions and knew exactly what shows and samples would work. In total I had 14 shows to tape... fourteen. I literally got done with packing the boxes and supplies to take to the studio and five minutes later the boys got home. I was astonished that I had it done so quickly. It is moments like this that I realize that God is always mindful of our righteous needs and desires.

I am been so busy that I have not been able to edit my Italy photos. It was so wonderful and magical and I loved EVERY moment of the trip. It was special to have Ty go with me. I did edit a couple of photos and I thought I would share a few at a time.

We did so much walking. I loved it!!!! The streets are just my favorite. I love ITALY!!!! PS Ty hates his photo taken. I take them anyway. It's important that our kids have photos and the grandbabies...

The buildings, the architecture... just stunning.

Lake Como

Did I mention that I loved all the shops there? I also loved the gelato. Oh it was a treat!!!!

Here we are in Como. I loved every town. I loved the church here. I got the cutest ITALY zip up jacket here and visited the scrapbook store here. I love these two NC sisters. Lynne and Carol are from my home state and area. I just connected with them. I am going to go have dinner with them next time I'm back visiting my sister and family in NC. I loved this trip and for the memories.

I have many more photos to share... thankful for Laura and her efforts to do such a great event.

I'm headed to Searcy Arkansas in TWO days. I know it will be fun!!!! I do have a fun announcement for my international friends. I am headed to Madrid Spain to teach 4 workshops the weekend of Oct. 4-6th. All the details will be announced next week. My flight has been purchased and I will see my friends in Spain soon. I know some girls are flying in from surrounding countries. I know it will be a wonderful weekend if you would like to join us.

Okay, thankfully I am up super early... now I need to leave to head to the My Craft Channel studio. 

Life in the MTC

I just dropped off at BYU Baseball camp with his friend Oliver this am. Oh my... I LOVE being a mother. I love that he wouldn't hug me good bye. HA! I did get a wave. I guess he is almost 16 years old. I think it is funny how my boys are easily embarrased by me these days. Today I was talking "too loud" as I checked him and his friend into the camp. I wonder if I was the same way???? The camp is only until Wednesday night.

I did drop off a box at a local place that makes daily deliveries to the MTC. I love knowing she will get her box today. I did not drive by the MTC even though I was RIGHT there because I knew I would start crying. 

 McKay has been in the MTC for almost 3 weeks(this Wednesday). Yes, I am that mother who is going to document and count down each day. I think it will help me to really feel apart of her journey and help her to remember it when she gets home. She emails each week and sends me photos. I wanted to share some of her photos from the MTC- Missionary Training Center.

McKay loves the MTC! She has made instant besties with her companion and the other sister missionaries. 

McKay told me that these girls are so sweet and they became instant best friends. I am not surprised. She loves people and has always been the girl who just accepts and loves people just as they are.

My sons have a crush on her friend in purple. Oh my!!!!!

This is her companion in the MTC. They always have someone that they are with at all times. McKay said they are like the exact same person. They are so similar that they like the same things and have so much in common. So thankful they are instantly connected!

These are the name tags that they wear for their mission.

They love to have fun too!!!

The girls pointing where they will be serving once they leave the MTC.

This is standing in front of the Provo Temple. I am so thankful she is sending me photos every week. So proud of my girl!!!!!!

I have a NEW show today on www.mycraftchannel.com. I film new episodes this Wednesday. I love doing this!!!!!!

I still have the photos from Italy to edit and put up... Oh my so busy right now. I am headed to Searcy Arkansas to teach this Friday. I can't wait!!!!!!

HAPPY 4th of JULY

I am so thankful today and everyday for the freedom and this wonderful country. I am thankful for the men and women who fight to protect our freedom. My father was a Vietnam Veteran. I just am so appreciative that we are a country that is so blessed. I know we have so many problems, but I like to focus on the good. 

Today we are going to a barbeque and watch fireworks and then having a family party and doing the same thing tomorrow. I love being with my family and friends and enjoying the simple things.

This week it has been hot and crazy busy. I sold my car (it sold so fast- thank you KSL- when I listed it and now I have no car!!!!) and now need to find another car. I think I priced it too low with all the calls that I got on it. I just wanted to be fair and listed it for exactly what it was worth. Going to car dealerships gives me anxiety. Ha! I just don't like the negotiations. Anyway, driving my husbands stick shift now makes me realize that I need to apprciate the car I drove being automatic. Yes, it's the little things. 

We are now selling McKays car since she is on her mission. Thankful for Zach and Taylor washing it and getting ready to sell it.

That is the one thing that I really encourage my kids to do is to work as a team in life. We are there to help each other in all that we do. Sometimes it's easy to just think about ourself and I want them to think about helping other people.

When we were in Italy they went on hikes and helped me watch Ty. I asked them to keep him busy doing good things and they did some fun things like hikes, swimming, etc. I can't thank my kids enough for all that they do to help each other and the love that they share. 

Well, I have some news. Seth had to come home from his mission about 4 weeks ago from Mexico. He is very sick and they have no idea what is wrong with him. They have run so many tests but they can't figure out why he is so sick. He lost around 25 lbs (which he was already tiny!) and so we are praying they figure out what is wrong and that he can go back out on his mission.

McKay is loving her mission. I think it helps me so much that she emails and writes often. She sends me lots of photos and I just feel such happiness watching her grow and be so happy. I miss her like crazy and yes, I cry but I try not to let her know this. 

Time to go and enjoy the 4th of July!!!!!!!!

 

Still adjusting...

Wow... I have not struggled to adjust to the time difference as much as I have this time going to Italy for 9 days. Last night, I finally slept 6 hours during the night. Woo Hoo! The previous night I was up the entire night. Oh well, I see that it may take a few more days to be back to normal.

I am HOME... so thankful!!! I love traveling and it's ALWAYS an adventure. I have so many photos to share. I simply am playing catch up with family and work obligations. It is July 2nd and I leave next Friday to go teach in Arkansas. Oh I can't wait!!! These workshops sold out so fast and we literally could not add one more person... so I am going to go back really soon and teach more workshops for Denise. 

Then I leave July 19th for CHA Summer!!!!! I am thrilled with the releases. I love revealing new lines. I can't wait to share them with you soon. CHA is in Las Vegas, Nevada this year. I am pretty excited that I will have TWO boothes at the show. I have my company booth and right across from me- CRAFTWELL has a TC booth with my BIG REVEAL of what I did with them!!!!! It's going to be amazing and if you are going to CHA S- well, I designed the COOLEST make n take with my products that you can make in the TC/CRAFTWELL booth. Trust me, YOU will want one of the kits!!!! I can't wait to share with you.

My family is doing great and we are keeping busy. McKay is emailing each week and sending letters. She loves the MTC.

I will post photos that she has sent me soon. It's so hot here in Utah and I'm headed out to walk before it get's CRAZY hot today. We are having 100 plus degrees each day this week. I miss the long hikes and walks in Italy. I ate so much pasta and pizza and did not gain at all. It had to have been all the walking we did. Oh, and I had gelato every day too!!!! It was yummy. 

More later...