TERESA COLLINS

FRIDAY- GIVEAWAY to CELEBRATE!!!!!!

I love Fridays and so I woke up this morning feeling so GRATEFUL. I am super in love with life. I have such a profound love and appreciation for my sweet husband. Right now, I am just thankful that he is able to be out of bed more each day. Even though he doesn't get to leave the house or do much- slowly slowly there is good things to see. 

My sweet friends and neighbors are helping our family so much. I am so grateful for meals and the help and service given to us. It has truly helped us so much. THANK YOU!!!!!!

So many times its easy to look at the negative... but I choose to FOCUS and celebrate the good. I am amazed at all the cruisers who are signing up. I am humbled. I don't even know a better word. I have so many BIG things in the works. I don't want to tease... I wish I could share. I just want to say this....

FOLLOW your CRAZIEST wildest dreams.

SET NO LIMITS on yourself.

LISTEN to God or YOUR higher POWER. Follow those promptings.

SEEK and BE around people who LIFT and inspire YOU! 

BELIEVE anything is possible because it is!!!!!

Be KINDER and BRAVER each day... it makes a difference.

Okay... soon I promise to post... but I am just over the moon excited!!!!!!

So today I decided to share a "little" sunshine with someone. EVEN if you don't craft (I know a little crazy in my world- ha!) I think you might want this prize I am doing. Don't you LOVE Fridays????

Well, I thought how wonderful it would be to CELEBRATE. First, I am sharing this beautiful collection with you YOU ARE MY HAPPY. I did this project using my 6x6 pad and 12x12 papers. Yes, there is GOLD foil in the line. I am giving an ENTIRE paper collection away and the 6x6 pad TODAY on my business facebook pag. All you need to do is comment on my business page and share this with your friends so they will come and comment too.

 

Just to make it sweeter I will include some of the We R Memory Keepers album pages and my TC Xyron adhesives, some of my Fiskars stamps and and one of my embossing folders from Craftwell. Okay... please share with your friends and someone is going to win a BIG prize!!!!!!

Teresa Collins Designs is where to go to like and comment- https://www.facebook.com/tcdesigns!!!!!!! 

Oh, and my sweet niece, Kayla had her baby yesterday...

I love him!!! Lawson.... Oh my... So full of baby love. I am so thrilled that my sister is not a MIMI... yes, she doesn't want to be called grandma... ha!

So JOIN me... SEVEN night Western TC Cruise!!!!!!

I am so excited to announce something special. I am doing another crafting cruise. I wanted to find the best deal and offer something out of this world amazing and affordable. 

So you are invited to join me for a SEVEN NIGHT WESTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE on Royal Caribbean-

 

It is the 2014 Teresa Collins Caribbean Cruise to the Caribbean. 

Here is some of the Navigator of the Sea ship highlights:

Not only does it sail effortlessly through the waters of the Caribbean, it contains some of the cruise industry's most amazing features - a rock-climbing wall, a basketball court, an ice-skating rink and an in-line skating track. Dare we say there's more? What about a five-story theatre, a casino, a miniature golf course and a spectacular three-story dining room? This 138,000-ton nautical wonder has it all. This ship has been updated "Navigator". The rooms have been remodeled,  with the added the wave runner. The wifi is updated as well.

I will be teaching workshops while we are at sea- yes, big projects that I am known for. There will be prizes, make n takes, a TC gift bag, t shirt... and so much more. You can come and create with me for the seven day cruise. Feel free to bring along the family, husband, or friends to join you. 

We do group dining each night, and we love and encourage group togetherness. However, you are free to do as you wish- this is YOUR vacation. If you want to participate in the crafting/creating portion- you will love the 24/7 access to the crop & classroom. 

 

Last year when I did the Caribben cruise my heart was really heavy that Tyler was not able to go with me. We had planned he would go and then we learned he had cancer. After the chemo treatments and the transplant... we are now taking it day by day with this cancer journey. I was going to cancel doing a 2014 cruise.

Then I thought of Ty and his determination to get better.  Ty and I love to cruise and it is our FAVORITE vacation/down time. We find that being away from the daily texts and calls/emails just force you to SLOW DOWN. It is a way for you to unplug. As a couple it is a great way to reconnect.

So I wanted to plan this 2014 TC cruise this year so that Tyler (hopefully) is able to go. I knew that by November if all is well, he will join me. So we are keeping our fingers crossed and praying that he will be healthy and can go. Right now... I tell him- YOU are going and we are going to use this as our TRIP as our big motivator after the year we have endured. I know he wants so much to go on this with me. I know he feels the LOVE from each of you too. He reads the comments and appreciates the prayers and support. We feel it. So if you join me... US... know that this is going to be a very special celebration for us. I hope you will join us. 

The cruise is SEVEN days leaving from Galveston Texas. If you are flying to Texas, you can fly to either Houston Hobby or George Bush International Airport. Royal Caribbean will offer the service to the port on the day of arrival and the departure date of the cruise. You can sign up directly with the cruiseship. 

In picking this particular cruise, I took many things in factor. I wanted the cruise to be on a great cruise line, an affordable price, and ports that would be beautiful and fun to visit. I wanted to keep the crafting portion very reasonable.

I have never been to the Mayan Ruins. So I look forward to seeing and visiting this at one of the ports. Cozumel offers this amazing ruin. Can you imagine the photos????

Another port is Costa Maya. It once was a trading post for the Mayan Empire. It is located in the Mexican Caribbean and is best known for its jungles, beaches, lagoons and Mayan ruins.

Recent development and modern port facilities are making Costa Maya the perfect port of call. With so many activities, it will be hard to decide what to do first.

 

The other port we will visit is Roatan, Honduras. I am happy to simply be on the warm beach in November!!!!!

Roatan, the largest of the three Bay Islands, is where most modern day explorers go to discover the labyrinth of coral reef beneath the dazzling aquamarine colored water and enjoy a relaxing Caribbean style vacation.

Just a little note- the cruise will ONLY hold the super rate for us until February 22nd. I am going to work to see if it will be extended, but I cannot guarantee it. I also have set a limit on how many crafters will be able to sign up. We have a meeting space and once we hit the limit of participants the event will be sold out. Last year, the event and cruise sold out. The cost is based on per person either as a inside stateroom at $394.00 per person before taxes and $690.00 per person for the OCEAN VIEW w/ a balcony before taxes. Yes, that is for SEVEN NIGHTS!!!!!! 

Also, you are invited to join the facebook page where you can ask any questions and get to know those who are going. 

2014 Teresa Collins Scrapbook Cruise Facebook Group

 

To book your room contact Royal Caribbean International at the following...

Number 1-800-465-3595Group Number 1832379 (Give this to the Guest Service Agent)

        Rooms will be held and guaranteed at a TC Group Rate until 2/22/14 (or until the event is sold out). 

Scrapbook portion of the event- Participation fees of $200.00 USD are to be paid through Teresa Collins by 8/1/2014. Event fees are separate from your cruise fees. 

 This is going to be a GREAT Monday. I am so happy that some how all the details worked out so that this special cruise event can happen this year. If you have any questions please either post them on the facebook page or email [email protected]. I would love for you to join in on the fun!!!!

Now in Germany....

This beautiful layout is on the wall at CREATIVE WORLD in Frankfurt Germany right now. Jennifer Haggerty was recently added to my 2014 TC design team. Isn't she amazing? I love that she used DAILY STORIES and my new stencils and modeling paste in the same layout. WOW!!!!

I am happy to say that my company is there right now at the trade show. I am showing a photo of Sean Edgar my sales director with the President of My Mind's Eye- Jason. I am happily hearing that the show is going amazing and that GREAT things are happening. I am most impressed with how well the booth looks. I did a format for how the products and projects should look... and it even looks better than what I had in my mind. IMPRESSIVE!!!!!

I am in the same building as My Mind's Eye. Recently, Hazel & Ruby moved in as well. It's crazy to have three companies together but it works. It is quite the LARGE warehouse too. We are all separate companies, but it has been a HUGE blessing to have a team of built in support. We are all like family. So in Germany the boys are there and doing a great job representing!!!!!

Originally, I had planned to be there as well. However, with the cancer situation I knew I was just coming home from CHA and needed to be home with Tyler. I have quite the BIG business/travel schedule for 2014. I feel so overwhelmed at times because my company is exploding with growth. I know... crazy right??? I KNOW for sure that God is making this happen. I know that HE knew I would be the one supporting our family now. I know that Heavenly Father is truly in charge. I am just listening to HIM and his direction for me... us... our family.

I have days where I think... how can I do this? I am tired... I have so much on my shoulders, and then I KNOW that he is carrying me. This trial is HARD. I am SAD because I can't help Tyler in so many ways on this journey. I am trying to balance and juggle keeping a spotless home, work, my boys, traveling, teaching, designing (oh, it's NONSTOP!!!) and finding a "little" me time. Ty is completley homebound 24x7. We haven't let anyone even come inside our house but our children and his mom. We can't risk him getting any sickness. The journey is still the same... painfully slow. His energy is so low and he is constantly dizzy. Even in bed lying down he is dizzy. He tries to stay out of bed and just walk around the house. He hasn't gained weight but THIS WEEK- his eyebrows are coming in again. He is getting eyelashes back... all this week. He is adorably cute!!!!

I want to let you know that I am so GRATEFUL for my life right now... for the lessons I have learned. I will NEVER take one day for granted. Life is such a gift. Through our trials we are truly stronger. Okay... I have something FABULOUS to share on MONDAY... I am excited. I hope you will check back and see what it is.

The big winner of the TC We R MEMORYS KEEPER ALBUM and SET is.... CHIPNDALEFAN.... EMAIL ME at [email protected] and WHEN they are shipping I will make sure you get your favorites!!!!

CONGRATS!!!!!!

 

Did you see this? It's BIG...

 

I wanted to show you just how beautiful the NEW TC/We R MEMORY KEEPERS albums and card set are. I was so excited to do my very first 12x12 albums and cards with the ALBUMS MADE EASY system. I loved working with them to make these products. I knew I wanted to add a chic & classic look to the system. My first love and career was interior design so this will always inspire all that I do. I wanted glittered albums- and they came out just perfect. PS- the glitter does not come off. I promise these albums will make you swoon if you love sparkle like I do.

We debuted FIVE 12x12 albums at the trade show. They were such a big hit and I just was overjoyed with the reaction. It's a whole new direction for me and the start of a beautiful relationship. Here are the five albums-

I wanted to do a clear album. It has faint diagional stripes because I personally love to see the photos and what is inside the album. Each of the albums are heavy duty and top quality like We R Memory Keepers are known for. 

Upclose of the albums. I picked my favorite words to put on the subway art album. I can't wait to start teaching with these TC ALBUMS MADE EASY system.

So I wanted to share how the TC Albums Made Easy card sets work. I wanted to do something NEW and different. I felt like my cards needed to reflect my brand and style. 

Each of these four card sets have beautiful cards, die cut word cards, GLITTER CARDS (first time this has been done in these sets) and clear transparency cards in both 3x4 and 4x6. I was so impressed with the quality and how they came out.

 

I will show you the four different card sets so you can see the images.

CARD SETS- HELLO LIFE, QUOTED, SNAPSHOTS, and ARCHIVED. 

I don't think I could even pick a favorite, and I have done an album with each of my new sets and albums.

CARD SET: HELLO LIFE

TC CARD SET- QUOTED 

For variety, I have some with COLOR and some more subtle. These card sets are full of my favorite quotes, and thoughts on life.

 

 

CARD SET: ARCHIVED

I am in LOVE with this one and many people said they would use it for DISNEY photos. How cool is that?????

 

CARD SET: SNAPSHOTS

I have to admit, this one with the craft and silver glitter is just STUNNING. I did my book and felt it was so easy to put it with any photo. I really love the big glittered camera, and dots too!!!!

This is a little collage of the sets. I am going to be posting my actual project soon so that you can see the way I designed my albums. I promise it is not hard and a great way to document your life.

Now... I know you are going to ask, when is this available? These albums and cards will be available directly from We R Memory Keepers (retailers) in February/early March. I will let everyone know when they are available and shipping. I know MANY stores have already pre-ordered the entire collection and many online stores told me that they are carrying the entire lines now and going forward. 

I would LOVE to know which of the albums is your favorite and the favorite card set. If you will post on my blog today- I will pick a winner. I will send YOU the ALBUM and CARD SET as soon as they are available. How cool is this????

Want to win????? I would LOVE if if you would share this post today with your friends. I am going to read ALL your feedback and suggestions on what you want to see me do. More great things are in store.

Thank you and GOOD LUCK!!!!!!

Oh it's a good day to share.... 2014 workshops....

The photo is a little mix of the various workshops that I am teaching the next few months. I am excited to share a few of my upcoming workshops visuals that I will be teaching... starting next month.

I want to challenge those who take my workshops to experiment more in mixed media and my new line of stencils and modeling paste. (yes, it's very classic,fresh, light and TC style... but easily able to be darker, vintage and grunge). I have  many stores visits and events that I am going to this year. I am grateful everyday for a growing business. I am grateful that more than ever I can work, now that Tyler can't. Every single day he tells me how proud of me he is and how thankful he is that I am able to do this.

I promised to post the stores and events. Note: some more are in the work to be finalized so stay tuned.

Teresa Collins 2014 Events & Workshops

January 9-14th 2014

CHA Anaheim Trade Show

 January 10th 2014

Timeless Treasures event with Teresa Collins (sold out)

30505 Avenida De Las Flores, Rancho Sta Marg, CA 92688

 

February 21-22nd 2014

Scrapbook Daisies event with Teresa Collins

 3962 N Studebaker Rd, Long Beach, CA 90808

(562) 377-0302

 

February 28-March 1st 2014

Scrapdoodles Event

1315 Central Park Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

(540) 548-3788

 

March 7-8th 2014

Hannah's Home Accent event with Teresa Collins

455 Lake St, Antioch, IL 60002 (847) 395-3355-

 

March 21st-22nd 2014

EMI Scrapbooking event with Teresa Collins 

3670 Hutchinson Rd, Cumming, GA 30040
(770) 888-2417 

 

 

April 5-6th 2014

Club Chocolate Event 

Porto, Portugal

clubechocolatequente.blogspot.com

 

April 9-16th 2014

 Event with Retailers Event following 

Frankfurt, Germany

 

April 25-26th 2014

Creative Cards & Crafts event with Teresa Collins

15 E. Park Blvd. Villa Park IL 60181

[email protected]

630-782-9999

 

May- **** BIG things are soon to be shared.....

 

May 23-25th 2014

Creative Adventure Downunder

New Zealand Event

http://www.creativeadventure.co.nz 

 

June 6-8th 2014

Puerto Rico Event

The Scrapbook Store 

 

July 18-19th 2014

Scrapbook Attic Event with Teresa Collins

2115 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143 (501) 278-5700-

 

August 1-2nd 2014

Scrapbook Daisies Event with Teresa Collins

Long Beach, California 

 

August 22nd-23rd 2014

The Scrapbook Store & More Event with Teresa Collins

Greenfield, Wisconsin

www.scrapbook-store.com

 

September 12-13th 2014

Clipper Street Scrapbooking Event with Teresa Collins

Suite 105-6360 202 St

Langley, BC, Canada
+1 604-514-2229

 

September 25-27th 2014

Teresa Collins Event Inspiration Unlimited

Henderson, Nevada Event coordinator Ginger Nelson (SOLD OUT)

 

October 17th 2014

*watch for announcment when and where...

 

October 18th 2014

 *watch for announcement when and where...

 

October 24-25th 2014

Scrap & Bean event with Teresa Collins

Edmonton, AB CANADA

www.scrapandbean.com

 

November 6-9th 2014

Pages 2 SCRAP event with Teresa Collins

Tuggerah NSW 2259

 

December 5-6th 2014

*hint... I'm going back! It's a tradition. Watch for announcment soon.

 

I have no idea which stores are taking sign ups yet. I will try to keep everyone posted on my blog as well with updates. 

 

Workshop: MEMORY DISPLAY TRAY

 

 

This workshop will be taught at the following locations:

Scrapbook Daisies- February 21 or 22nd (Long Beach, CA)

Scrapdoodles Event- February 28th or March 1st (Fredricksburg, Virginia)

*please go to the store directly for a complete description of the workshop and details for the workshops shown. 

US- LOVE is a GOOD THING

Yes, this is a HUGE workshop too. This one is being taught at:

Scrapbook Daisies- February 21 or 22nd (Long Beach, CA)

Scrapdoodles Event- February 28th or March 1st (Fredricksburg, Virginia)

and I will be teaching HELLO MY NAME IS again in Fredricksburg and at Hannah's Home Accents in Antioch IL. 

 

 

The following two workshops are being taught at Hannah's Home Accents in addition to Hello My NAME IS... 

Oh my... loving this pretty line. It's a BIG project on a large clipboard. 

Last, the ESSENTIALS BOOK WORKSHOP in a BOX... (box not shown- but the project fits within a box. Plus, I took these photos prior to me adding lots of elements to it. I am so excited to teach with all the new lines.

I promise to post more information in regards to the other events as soon as I can.

I wanted to share this card that was posted to me on my facebook wall. I have decided to start randomly sharing some of the beautiful projects that are daily shared on my facebook wall. I love to see what people are doing and creating. This is one of my lines Summer Stories from last year. I thought this card was STUNNING. Laurel Seabrook thank you for using my products. You having amazing style!!! Check out her blog at www.wanttoscrapblogspot.com. If you know her, let her know I shared her card today. 

 

Also, if you won a prize make sure you email [email protected] and in the subject line post: WINNER 2014 TC PRIZE so we can ship out what you won. 

 

 

 

Related articles

SNEAK PEEK- first workshop in 2014!!!!!!

TIME TO SHARE....CHA 2014 with Teresa Collins

Photo Shoot....& a little MODELING PASTE & STENCILS

So this morning I did the photoshoot for my next idea book with Northridge. This is my fourth I believe that I have done over the years. I loved where the photogragher Kaycee wanted to do it. We went to downtown SLC and to a office with ALL WHITE walls, brick, windows, tables and the floor was DARK hardwood. Oh my.. it was very fresh and cool. I adored her and she just made me feel at ease from the start. We took photo for 1.5 hours and I so loved working with her. I think a great photographer knows how to put you at ease. PS Taylor I wore your darling gold and white cardigan. So I will keep you posted on it's release. 

 

I have to say that I am feeling so grateful RIGHT NOW. I have so many people ask me about Tyler. How is he feeling? Is the cancer gone? What do they expect to happen???? I just take it day by day. I truly have surrendered to God's will in this hard situation. I am cherishing EACH moment and day with him and my family. I don't take it for granted that he simply is home and I have him here. The thought of having him go back into the hospital... well, it terrifies me. The thought that the transplant didn't work... yes, it's a constant thought in his mind and heart- terrifies me. I try to not think about it. The reality is that OUR REALITY is this stupid dumb agressive cancer that will want to come back. They say it's not really a matter of IF but WHEN with these types of agressive blood cancers. I am just being OPEN and real in our journey. I have told Ty time and time again that he is going to be fine, because in my mind and heart I can't think of anything else. I know that for me, it's my FAITH that truly keeps me going. I know that God is with us each and every day in the good times and the bad. I have felt a  peace that often brings me to gratitude of tears. Yesterday, I was able to go to Sacrament meeting. Oh how, I look forward to this meeting each week. Ty normally sleeps to about 11 am so I went and was home before he woke up. A beautiful blond girl got up to give a talk. She is new in our church ward. Her name is Jessica and instantly I felt her LIGHT. She was exuding Gods light and WOW did she shine. She started to talk and I felt like God had put a big ole warm sleeping bag around me and was holding me tight with love. I just held back the tears and thanked Heavenly Father for lifting me. I am trying so hard to be a cheerleader and be positive. Ty is having a harder time... mentally and physically with how his life has drastically changed. We still have around 50 more days of being homebound, and the 100 day until he is tested. We have no idea what that test will say. We will face that and continue on this journey together. 

 

I wrote this down in church yesterday... yes, I always write down things that inspire me...

 

 

 Gentry and Taylor went on Saturday to a really cool place here in Utah. You should see all the photos on Gentry's blog-

www.devanandgentryblogspot.com

 

I wanted to share a few with you today since I loved them!!!

 

 

Can Devan and Gentry be any cuter together?

 

 

 

This is such an amazing place to go and see.

 

Devan and Gentry went with my sisters Taylor and Rachel (their step sister) to go to the Ice Castles in Midway and then went up to Park City where the Sundance film festival is going on right now.  Devan has been wanting to go to the ice castles for a while now and was so excited to be going! It was much bigger that they had imagined! 

 

 

 

Yes, Taylor where are your warm boots????

 

 

 

Simply stunning... you need to come to Utah and see this.

 

 

 Devan cannot take a serious photo. He is the cutest BIG kid!!!!

 

Today my show on www.mycraftchannel.com. I wanted to show my new modeling paste and stencils from CHA.

 

TC MODELING PASTE & STENCILS

BASICALLY ESSENTIAL 

 

The show write up:

 

"Have you been wondering how to take your creativity to a whole new level with your stencils? Todays show is debuting the new line of beautiful stencils and modeling paste by Teresa Collins. She is showing her BRAND NEW released new products and showing how to use them. Modeling paste is the perfect medium to add beauty and texture to any crafting project. Watch to see all her new stencils and how she has used them to create cards, book and even a home decor frame for her home."

 

Products in show: Basically Essential Modeling Paste (#BE1012) and TC Gems Stencils #BE101, BE102, BE1003, BE1004, BE1005 by Teresa Collins

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Okay... Hope you have a GREAT holiday today!!!!!!

CHA videos and look what Gentry is doing!!!!!!

CHA was a GREAT Show and so now it's time to share with you the videos and projects from the new collections.

Here are shows that I filmed for Scrapbook.com.

https://www.youtube.com/user/scrapbookdotcom/search?query=teresa+collins+2014

 

The youtube video(s) are LIVE, so feel free to embed them on your website, blog, facebook, twitter and more to share. I would appreciate the support.

 

 

I am so proud of my daughter Gentry. She was a art major at BYU and simply has the most amazing handwriting. Gentry has two of her prints featured on groopdealz.com. So if you would love these beautiful prints for a great deal visit the sight. 

 

I am working hard to get ready for PAPER WORLD in Germany next week. Yes, I will be there but not really. ha! I knew it was a little too close to CHA and needed to be home with Tyler... so Sean (my amazing Sales Director) will be there. So please if your going... go visit him. I wish I could come, but I will be in Germany in April teaching.

 

So I thought I would share a project with my INSTAGRAM kit.

 

 

I wanted to show that you could hang the 8 die cut polaroid thick chipboard frames from the gray ribbon or you would use them to create a photo display. I love the possibilities. 

 

 

Home from CHA....

 

 

 

I am home from CHA. I am a "little" tired. It was so nice to be home with Ty and the boys. Ty has been having some harder days with his recovery. It's a painfully SLOW process. I am so grateful for such a successful show. Truth be known, it was my BEST show ever. I do believe Heavenly Father is guiding me and my company's journey. 

I am already back to work today. It is nonstop and I am thankful for this. 

Today I wanted to show you the DAMASK 12x12 TC Stencil with paint and stained chest. It was completely a raw wood chest. Brie Pinales did this amazing piece and added the fabric, stain, paint with my stencil. ( TC Stencil #BE1001). I love her work and she blew me away with how it turned out. I hope it inspires you like it did me!!!!

 

CHA day THREE… filming and more

 

 

I am just always amazed how scrapbooking has taken me to do some things I never thought I would do. I have to admit, I love taping and sharing what I love so much. I am a one tape wonder. I like to do my TV filming in one take so it's natural and from the heart.

 

Filming with the NEW Basically Essentials and the FLIP BOOKS. Honestly, the flip books are truly the biggest hit and everyone loves them. It has been the BEST show. I was so excited for the response that at one point I was overcome to tears of gratitude and had to walk behind my booth. My heart is so overflowing with thankfulness.

 

I am just so thrilled to go teach at Cheryl's store next month.  Make sure you sign up for the Scrapdoodles event Feb.28-March 2nd in Fredricksburg, Virginia. I am going to show the three projects later this week, but Cheryl said the phones are ringing with sign ups already.

 

I am also teaching at this cute girls store in Canada. Watch for more information. Kathy is with SCRAP & BEAN- in Edmonton AB in Canada.

 

ANNOUNCING... I am going to teach in CALIFORNIA next month. I am so giddy to be going back to teach at Martha's store- Scrapbook Daisies in Long Beach, California. The dates are February 21 & 22nd. 

 

 

I love to meet all the international crafters and retailers. These beautiful girls are from Spain. I was so fortunate to teach and meet the most wonderful and kind people.

I simply am IN LOVE with my new cutting dies (thin metal) and stencils with Craftwell. The response was HUGE and they loved that I had done cards and tags, tabs, butterflies, numbers, the days of the week and MORE. I was so thankful that the response was SQUEALS that I had done my own handwriting.

The show has been beyond a hit for us and I am truly just floating. The last day of the show is today and then I will be headed home to my family in a few hours. I am just excited to go home and kiss my boys. I've really missed them. 

THANK YOU everyone for the BIG TIME support. I could not do this without you. 

CHA day TWO- BIG news to share!!!!!

 

So have had a great day #2. Yes, Gentry, Sean, Cheri and I have had a wonderful show. We have been so busy and for this I am so grateful. Everyone is very excited about the new products. I can't believe how often I have heard... "Do you ever sleep?" I do have a hard time sleeping with all the creative passion always dreaming in my mind and also taking care of my sweet husband. I am REALLY missing him. He texts me that "he is soooo proud of me and loves me" so many times a day. I am going to shine because of him and his support. I can do this... for him, for us and our family. I know God is helping guide us on this journey. I know it... feel it and just feel uplifted in a hard time. 

I have cried many tender tears with many that have visited my booth. I am just so humbled by my support. This is Leticia. I met her for the first time. She was so sweet and cried. I just grabbed her and said YOU are going to be on my blog. I love her. I just had to hug her.

 

I love WHAT I do.

This is my sweet friends at The Scrapbook Store & More in Greenfield Wisconsin. Their new store opens in about a month. Well, GUESS WHAT???? I will be teaching at their store in August. Mark the date... August 22 and 23rd... PLEASE come if you are close to us.

 

I love the shows. I get to see my dear and special friends. Love seeing Erin, Cheri, Maridette, Jennifer and Yvonne. Life is truly all about our relationships.

 

I just wanted to share that Fiskars is truly a great company to design with. I have my own line of stamps with them and well... BIG huge things have been in the works. I am just the LUCKIEST girl in the entire world. Honestly, they are truly a great company to do what I love with. I heart them!!!!

 

I have a HUGE BIG grin on my face...

I am so THRILLED... yes, I could shout it.

Well, my partnership with CRAFTWELL is only getting better. Yes, I love my TC eBosser and I wanted to design a line of my own dies that cut in my machine. Look at the images below. Yes, they are mine and they are hitting the stores in April. I am giddy and guess what this is just a FEW of the dies I will be doing. Expect a HUGE line and well, lots of my handwriting (yes, I heard the requests!!!)

 

I also did a huge line of STENCILS that go with their BRAND NEW  eBRUSH. Oh my... you have to see this machine. Okay... going to the show for day #3. So much MORE to share.... 

Here is details for my show today at MY CRAFT CHANNEL and my BRAND NEW BOOK I am debuted here at the show.

Teresa is showing her BRAND NEW released CHA book that is everything you need in ONE book. This book has everythingyou need to complete a beautiful album. It comes with beautifully designed pages, page protectors to hold your photos, die cuts icons and tabs and sticker labels in one book that has been pre-bound. All you need to dois decorate and enjoy! Today Teresa will show you how easy it is to create your own darling essential album kit. 

 

Products: Basically Essential Album Kit (#BE1010)

CHA DEBUT--- HUGE TERESA COLLINS NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!

 

This is photos from the show booth. CHA has started and wow what a show. The booth is jam packed. I literally did not even have lunch or go to the restroom all day. ha! I get so busy and I love what I do.I truly am passionate about crafting, documenting and telling the story.

The photo above is DAILY STORIES. Oh my, it's like a beautiful sorbet of color. YUMMINESS is what I heard over and over. 

Then another HUGE hit was my ESSENTIALS collection. I am telling you that it is going to products you want to use over and over....

 

 

Modeling paste that is out of this world smooth, palette knifes to apply, stencils (5 new skus)sized 8x10- you get THREE sheets of stencils per package. Yes, they are PINK!!!! Oh, and yes, you get my handwriting, multi icons, alphabets and images in EACH of the three 8x10 stencil skus. Oh, and two 12x12 stencils that are so beautiful. The prices are amazing and you will love them! Also, I debuted a media kit of glassine envelopes, bags, manila tags and library pockets in ONE package. The FLIP BOOKS are a huge hit. One store ordered 120 for her store and we are already placing reorders from CHA on the Essentials collection. I did my tiny alpha stickers in black and white- 900 stickers to a package. The instagram kit is so cool as well as my prebound ESSENTIALS album. PROMISE to show photos of EACH of these. Just know you are going to LOVE all of it!!!

 

You are my HAPPY- everyone loves the GOLD foiling in the paper line.... watch for the line coming to you soon!!!!

 

Save the Date is so timeless, beautiful and elegant. Did I mention the paper is rippled,textured like wallpaper????? It can be a wedding, love or just a general line. 

 

Hello My Name IS.... well, it's a MASSIVE hit. I can't tell you how many people have come into the booth and we've shed tears. Yes, documenting LIFE and THOSE WE LOVE is powerful and WHY we record our keepsakes... our memories. THIS LINE is what it's all about. I am just so thankful others will be inspired to tell their story.

 

This is the wall of beautiful projects. I wish you were all here to see the creations. 

 

In the middle of this is the INSTAGRAM banner kit. I made this to mail to McKay on her mission. My new kit comes with the heavyweight diecut frames (8), the beautiful satin gray ribbon and 8 predesigned sentiments that can go behind the frames if you wanted. ALL come in the one BANNER kit. 

 My design team just ROCKED the new lines. I love my girls... seriously proud of them. I love seeing their creations each show and on the design team blog.

 

I wish you could see these in person. Leslie Ashe, Christie Bryant, Tessa Wise, Jennifer Haggerty, Melissa Phillips, Cheri Piles, Stacey Michaud and Yvonne Blair are my 2014 design team girls and THEY are over the top amazing!!!!!

 

XYRON and TC adhesive and tools line is over the top my favorite adhesives. I am just so in love with them. I actually carry my pink stapler in my purse. Don't tell anyone!!!! (ha- they may think it's a weapon!)

The TC eBosser is a HUGE hit and MORE good things are happening with my machine and CRAFTWELL.

 

HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT-

FINALLY I can share....

I can't wait to let you know that YESTERDAY at 11:00am we announced my new partnership with We R Memory Keepers. Yes, I am doing my OWN Teresa Collins Album Collections. I have 12x12 binders introduced today. I did FIVE new exclusive TC albums. 

I also did four Teresa Collins Albums MADE EASY card collections. They are so beautiful and it was quite the BIG buzz here at the show. Here is a view of my album opened. 

 You are see I have glittered albums (the glitter DOES not come off). Can you see my cards????? Yes, in my set I have (drum roll- cards in 3x4, 4x6, die cut cards, clear thick transparency cards with sentiments and for the first time EVER- glittered cards. I had to have GLITTER in every one of my card collections. I designed my collections in true TC style. I am all about documenting the daily and I wanted my albums and card to be timeless and elegant/chic... I HOPE YOU will love them!!!!

 

 

I am doing videos and will be showing you how to create and make your own ALBUMS made easy with TC and We R Memory Keepers. This is the start of a HUGE and expanding partnership.

I am filming in the We R Memory Keeper booth here with www.scrapbook.com

 

I am SO thrilled for this announcement. It has been TOP SECRET!!!!!! All the product to the left of me is my wall of products with them. You order directly from We R Memory Keeper if you are a retailer. Yes, these are designed for my wonderful independent stores too. Anyone can order them...

 

Some times I look really silly.

 

These girls are from Sweden. I loved meeting them. Yes, I love knowing that my lines do GREAT there. I would love to visit Sweden. 

 

Announcing... I am going back to CANADA. Oh yes, Clipper Street Scrapbooking and we have set a date. September 12-14th 2014 I will be British Columbia. I can't wait!!!!! 

I love them so much and I simply can't wait. Come join us- last  year all the classes SOLD OUT...

 

This is my cute friends... I love seeing Christy again. She is a volunteer at my NV event- Inspiration Unlimited. 

Oh, yes, FINALLY I can announce...

I am going to Australia to teach this year.

November 7-9th 2014

We are going to have so much fun. I will be in Sydney and teaching at her store- Pages 2 Scrap. JOIN US!!!!!!!!

Can't wait to come Tracey. She promised to show me around Sydney too. Yeah!!!!

Big big NEWS and debut with CRAFTWELL... will show you TOMORROW!!!! I am a lucky lucky girl. I love this. I am doing my make n take here. The booth is #2848 and I do them daily at 12 noon and again at 3 pm. If you are here... come do my DAILY STORIES TC eBosser make n take book.

 

Stay tuned for more from CHA.

CHA starts today

Well today the show starts. I had a wonderful time last night teaching at Timeless Treasures. Thank you Nancy and Suzanne for having me come teach. The class room is HUGE and I loved the girls who came. Everyone was so excited and I really enjoyed talking to each of the girls. Such a fun night!!!!

 

 I love to see the girls getting excited and buying my products. I loved the enthusiasm in the room. We had a full house- the class sold out. Thank you everyone for coming last night and making it such a great Friday night.

The girls were rocking the Cinch machine. Gentry and Cheri really helped everyone bind the books. TC helped do all the embossing and die cuts from the TC eBosser. It was a jam packed book project.

We worked the TC eBosser and EVERY single one of the TC embossing folders SOLD OUT. When I left ONLY one machine was left in the store. I was told that someone was saying they were wanting to come back and buy it first thing this morning. I love that everyone loves the machine as much as I do. I signed machines tonight and am always honored to be asked to do this.

My booth today is at 2515. If you are here, make sure you come to the booth. WATCH today for an exciting announcement. Also, don't miss my make n take TODAY at the CRAFTWELL booth. It will be at 12:00 and it's the entire book that I have been showing. Also, I will be able to finally show you all my new products with CRAFTWELL that debuts today during the show. 

Okay... make sure if you are on facebook to go to my business page for VIDEOS throughout the day today. I thought it would be great to show those of you who are not at the show all the new products via video. Have a great day!!!!!

CHA Booth Set-Up Day 2

Today is the second day of booth setup for CHA Winter 2014 here in Anaheim California. This weather is so wonderful after all of the blizzards happening in Utah lately. I love being here with my daughter Gentry and all of the people I work with. I feel like I have the the most wonderful people working and supporting me. I feel so thankful and blessed. 

This is Cheri Piles my design team lead and I walking into the convention center yesterday.

 

 

Excited to get our passes and start setting up.

 

Sean is my Sales Director and has been so Wonderful! He is the muscles behind the booth getting set up. Here he is putting all of the crystals on the chandelier. However, he is the most amazing sales person. He believes in me and gets my crazy passionate obsession to design. He has taken my company to another level in a economy that struggles. How blessed to have a thriving company and honestly, I need to give credit to Sean and so many people who have made this possible. I always say... it takes a village.

Setting up in our booth is a party!

 

We are booth number #2515 so come and visit us if you are coming to the show!

 

 

Last night we got to go to dinner with Matt and Kayla and the kids and it was so fun! I miss seeing them all of the time. I know it sounds bad, but I want them to move back to Utah! Kayla is definitely such a cute pregnant woman. She is coming to visit the show on Saturday. 

 

Gentry uses any opportunity that she can for some photos. She is so much like me! She has actually opened her own Etsy shop designing prints that she sells at youaremyhappyshop.etsy.com. I am so glad that she gets to come to all of the shows with me and help me so much.

I can't believe it's already time for CHA. Make sure you visit the CRAFTWELL booth and see what I have designed and do the amazing make n take that will be from 12:00- 1:00 and again in the afternoon. 

Also, TONIGHT is my workshop at TIMELESS TREASURES. I am so excited to see my friends. Okay... got to get back to decorating and designing the booth.

ON our WAY.... to California!!!!

Gentry and I are at the airport. We are on our way to CHA today. We will head straight to the hotel to drop off our bags and then right to booth set up. It is quite the process to set up a booth. Gentry is the "real" expert and I am so thankful she works for me. 

I thought I would show another sneak peek today of ALL three paper collections I will be debuting. HELLO MY NAME IS and DAILY STORIES and SAVE THE DATE. I also have a FOURTH collection too.

It's ALL my favorite BASIC essentials. I am super thrilled to debut a line that is ALL my go to favorites. Let's just say STENCILS (lots of my own handwriting and you get THREE sheets of 8x10 in one package!!!). I am debuting my own TC modeling paste, palette knifes and stencils... and MORE!!!! Here is a LITTLE peek of a couple projects.

This is a workshop that I will be teaching in the next few months. It's a MEMORY TRAY with each 4x6 section with my NEW papers and my stencils & modeling paste. The damask, the hearts, the STENCIL alphabet, the fleur de lis, stars and butterfly. OKAY... I am addicted. I hope you will love my new essentials line.

Okay... I'm biased but I love these photos of Zellie, Maxson, Kayla and Matt. I am super happy that I get to see them TONIGHT. 

Stay tuned from CHA. I am doing a lot of filming, meetings, and teaching my workshop tomorrow night at TIMELESS TREASURES. The class sold out so fast!!! Thank you girls. I am just so grateful for the support. I can't wait to start teaching again. I love this. PS I am doing my teaching schedule for 2014 this week.

This week I have been contacting and giving confirmed dates to the stores and events that have been waiting for me to come teach. If you have not heard from me, and you have contacted me or want me to come teach- make sure you email me right away. I like to do my schedule just a year in advance. I have lots to share where I will be and teaching in the next year so I will post that information soon. Next month, SCRAPDOODLES event in Virginia. 

XOXO

 

SNEEK PEEK- SAVE THE DATE....

I am leaving for CHA tomorrow and I have not even packed. I am officially stressed. ha! In preparing to leave, I am behind on so many things. However, I am so thrilled to show you my THIRD collection peek. I could not be happier with how this line turned out.

I have a confession- this lines name is called SAVE THE DATE but honestly I wish I had named it something else. It does have journaling for LOVE and WEDDING but it's really versatile for anything. 

 

This line is all about celebrating BEAUTIFUL love. I wanted to do a LOVE aka could be WEDDING line. I was inspired by wallpaper texture in Italy when I was teaching there last year, so I sourced the "coolest" textured paper. YOU are not going to believe how cool this paper feels. It's heavy and thick and textured like wallpaper. I would describe it like ripples.

SAVE THE DATE: papers, sequins.

I am so in LOVE with this line!!!!!

I have used the line over and over....

This project is using the NEW papers, wood pieces, sequins, decorative tape, and tiny alpha stickers.

A workshop that I will be teaching SOON- It's HUGE!!!! (note: NEW SNEAK PEEK of my NEW STENCIL**** stay tuned)

Stay tuned for more sneak peeks too.

I have so much more to tell you about.

We are at DAY 37 post TRANSPLANT with Ty. I have to say that when they tell you that recovery is hard, they are not kidding. Some days he simply stays in bed the entire day. A good day is him walking downstairs and sitting on the couch. They want him to sit up as much as possible and exercise. We have a stationary bike in our bedroom now that he tries to do a few minutes a day if he can. He still is very weak and extremely tired. He has mentioned how bored he is. I know not being able to do anything and being home bound 24/7 is quite hard on him (as it would be anyone). We are constantly worried about him getting sick and have strictly enforced having no one but our kids come into our home. I am constantly cleaning. Mentally, I think it can be overwhelming. I never feel like I can keep the house clean enough. It's a day by day...slow process... but I am looking forward to him feeling better. It's hardest on me, that he doesn't like to talk much. It takes him too much energy and thinking and so he is rather quiet most of the time. This is different for us and so I am adjusting to the change. 

Hope you have a FABULOUS day!!!!!

Want to learn how I did it?

Hello My Name Is... is truly very and near to my heart. 

I just taped my weekly shows for My Craft Channel last Friday and

I wanted to show the BOOK in the BOX project and how I created it.

 

 

I am showing my soon to be released BRAND NEW collection- Hello My Name Is on this weeks show. I can't believe CHA is this week. Yes, I'm headed to CHA later this week.

 

This weeks show is all about thinking OUTIDE and or INSIDE the box. I have used a "find" purchased at the thriftshop to create my own keepsake project of my life. You can learn the inspiration behind designing this new line and how to create your own book in a box.

 

Other projects shown in this segment are a 5x7 Frame: Don't Forget YOU are Awesome and  Hello My Name is MAXSON layout

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is from one of the 4x6 tags from the 12x12 paper.

 

Products: HELLO MY NAME IS papers, wood pieces, brads, chipboard and gems. 

 

You can watch the segment now at www.mycraftchannel.com. 

 

Stay tuned for the winners from the debut contest and for more sneak peeks. 

 

Hello My Name is DEBUT....

 

I was thrilled to hear the great response yesterday with the Daily Stories sneak peek. I promise to keep showing more and more projects prior to CHA. I also have winners to pick- so stayed tuned for this announcement. I really appreciate all of you that are following me on facebook and instagram too.

I am filming sixteen new shows tomorrow for my weekly MONDAY show on www.mycraftchannel.com. I have so enjoyed doing these shows each week and love that I get to share so much of the behind the scenes of my inspiration. I love that anyone can watch the shows for free. This is important so that everyone can get inspiration from any place in the world at any time of the day. 

So today I wanted to share another brand new CHA collection that I designed. It is called

HELLO MY NAME IS

I want to tell you why I did this particular line. Even before they told us that my husband had cancer, I knew something was not right with his health for many months. It was just a feeling of unease even though I had no idea why. I remember one night it was late and it was time that I needed to design a line for this coming show. I woke up and KNEW exactly what I needed to do. I felt strongly that I needed to do a collection that would be very gender neutral and tell the story of WHO a person was. What is their life story? Where are they from? What was their childhood like? I often do this. I dream about collections and designs. So I immediately started designing this line as if I was going to do a book for Tyler and for myself for our children of our life.

I did a line several years ago called DOCUMENTED that was similar themed to this and it was a strong seller and sold out. I got so many requests to reprint it. Now, I have a NEW LINE that helps you tell the story... 

 

This collection is for ANY age or gender. (products shown: Hello my name is paper, wood pieces, red gems, brads, chipboard)

 

Just like for Maxson, I used the same line for my sweet Zellie. The colors are kraft, tan, red, white and black.

 

This layout shows the papers, the photo overlays, gems, and the TINY alphabet's debuting at CHA.

I actually did layouts for each member of my family with this collection for the show.

You can see the papers, photo transparency, clear gems, wood pieces, brads, chipboard and tiny alpha stickers in this one layout of Gentry.

Then I did a book about me. I wanted to do a book within a box.

The box opens up to reveal a book about ME and who I am.

 

My book was so big that I've kept it closed with a rubber band. Of course, I tied ribbon to the rubber band to make it pretty. I simply LOVE this line. I love designing lines that have a purpose. I know all too well if we do not write things down, they will be forgotten.

In this photo, you can see the collection papers, chipboard, tags, epherma die cuts, stickers, and file folders.

Yes, you may recognize this little girl... it's ME! (HELLO is the decorative tape).

One of the very baby photos that I have of myself. I am so passionate about creating meaningful and keepsake projects. This is what brought me into this industry and drives my need to create. I hope you love the sneak peek. I hope this line is one that will inspire YOU to tell the story of YOU, or someone you love.

I can't wait to show you my other collections. Watch for more soon. Have a GREAT day!

 

TIME TO SHARE....CHA 2014 with Teresa Collins

I am pretty excited to share that CHA is soon. I wanted to share about the new collections in the next week prior to the show in Anaheim. I will begin by showing the logos for the FOUR Brand New Teresa Collins CHA 2014 collections.

So I thought I would show you a few projects that I have designed with DAILY STORIES today. This way you can get a feel for the collections. I am super proud of each of the new lines. I will share each day a little "behind the scenes" of how and why I designed each line.

This is DAILY STORIES. I wanted to design a line that had lots of color. These are some of my favorite colors. I also wanted to tell a story through this collection of daily life. I know so many scrapbookers do PROJECT LIFE, so I'm sure this new line would so complete that process. I wanted to design papers that helped me and others tell their own daily story through my journaling and card prompts. This collection is truly just beautiful. I love side A and B equally. 

This is a view of so many of the papers that I used to design a DAILY STORIES flip up clipboard project. This is a workshop that I will be teaching in the next few months as a class. I am going to be sharing my upcoming events soon. If you are a store and you have not heard from me, please email me again. I know many of you have contacted me, I have tried to email each of you back with the schedule for 2014. I am truly excited to visit the stores and teach. I know I may have missed some emails so be sure and email or talk to me at CHA. 

 I had so much fun with this layout. I cut the scallop paper into layers and shared it with McKay this week via email. She loved that I am scrapbooking her mission. The butterflies are layered stickers in the collection. The sequins in this line are so pretty- pink, orange, gold and blue. The decorative tape for this line is along the top- it's the DAYS of the week repeated. The mini black alphabets are part of the TC sticker collection debuting at CHA. Also, the sparkly gems are new TC and debuting too.

I am officially addicted to GOLD. I just loved adding GOLD to this line (well, to several of the lines!)

So are you going to CHA? I am so excited to share my MAKE N TAKE at the show. It is a BOOK. Yes, I was a little excited to do a big project. Last show I did a flip up book and we ran out of the projects so fast. This time we did so many more, but I would bet they are going to run out. Here is the project-

This is taking place at the Craftwell booth. I will be going to help do the make n takes twice each of the days at the show. I'll post the times and booth numbers in a few days. We will be using my brand new collection, my embossing folders and embossing and die cut machine with CRAFTWELL. Have you seen the TC eBosser?

So I guess I should tell you now that I am debuting some BRAND NEW really cool products with CRAFTWELL at the show. Oh my... I am one lucky girl. These products are so cool and I'm so fortunate to be able to design with such a cutting edge company. They are ahead of the game in doing innovative products that have never been seen. YOU are going to be amazed. Definitely check out it out at CHA and I'll of course be sharing more of my new products with them. 

Here are a few more views of the Teresa Collins/Craftwell MAKE N TAKE. Each kit will have full color instructions for you to take and teach at your store too.

I love my honeycomb embossing folder. It's 8.5x 12"h and I love to put the sequins inside the design. Note- all the butterflies are cut with my machine too. 

All the adhesive used is TC by Xyron and at the show you will be able to try it out as well. (paper trimmer,corner rounder: Fiskars). I am very thankful that I work with Craftwell, Xyron and Fiskars. I'll be sure and post later the times and all our booth numbers. 

I hope you like this first collection. I am going to give away the ENTIRE paper collection and some bonus products from brand new Teresa Collins DAILY STORIES... TODAY to SIX lucky winners.

If you would like to win- please do the following.

1. Go follow my instagram at teresacollinsdesigns and repost as described.  I will be giving away TWO entire collections via instagram.

2. Follow and like my FACEBOOK page at www.facebook.com/tcdesigns. Post on link for the contest. I will pick another TWO winners via FACEBOOK.

3. I will pick TWO winners right here today by posting on my blog today. That is THREE ways to win. I hope you will help me by sharing the collection and contest.

I really truly appreciate all your kind words and support. I am always so thankful for the opportunities that my business has brought to bring great people into my heart and life. xoxo

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SNEAK PEEK- first workshop in 2014!!!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014- celebrating.... and sharing

 I have a feeling that 2014 is simply going to be amazing. I admit, I don't do New Years resolutions. I used to do the typical...lose weight, etc. I just am the type of girl who honestly DAILY tries to work on things and goals. I always pray for help to find a way to improve and work on. Yes, too many imperfections to focus on just one. ha! My girls do them and they really commit and do them. This year Gentry and Devan will eat NO candy. I know they have done the zero soda for years and they really do keep their resolution. I don't know if I am strong enough to do what my kids do. They inspire me.

I had the best night last night at home with my cute husband. My boys were both gone for the night at their friends homes for the night. We had a quiet night together watching Game Show Network and just being super duper lazy. Oh how I love just being with him. I texted all my kids at 12 midnight and told them I loved them and Happy New Year. I know... pretty exciting, huh? 

I wanted to share how Christmas went for us. Well, I am just so thankful that Tyler was home. I did not ever go to the mall or shopped this past season. I simply did not have the time. I did buy a gift for the boys that I purchased online. So it was a really laid back Christmas. Ty had only been home a few days so that was our best gift. I was so excited knowing that my missionary daughter was going to call and skype with us. 

I was a little hyper. I kept telling her how much I loved her and the boys were flexing muscles to make her laugh. I know she thought we were crazy. She spoke Spanish for us and just was so happy. Her companion was to the left of her and I could hear her chuckle at the things we were saying and doing. It was just so wonderful to talk and see her. So proud of her!!!!

I got a text at 6 am that Gentry and Devan could not come visit us that day. Gentry was coughing and felt sick and we could not risk Ty getting sick. It was hard to know they were not going to be with us. This photo is of the girls that day at their Grandparent Pier's home in Provo. Taylor did come up later that day. 

She brought me gifts from Gent and Devan. I really loved the cool sweater and planner. I use planners because I am afraid to not write things down. I have planners for every year and I keep them to this day. Please note- my crazy hair. I love to embrace the imperfections.

I am most excited that my boys let me take a few photos. They have to look cool though, right? He is sixteen so I guess it's okay. 

 This was first thing in the morning. I love the puffy eyes... Thankfully, they don't wake us up at 5 am in the morning anymore. I think it was about 8:30 am.

I love the GOLD stocking for the kids. I fill them up with their favorite candy. Most of the time, I end up having to throw most of it away. If I am ever wanting a treat I know to go to their room and look for their Christmas candy.

Zach got customized wood bats made with his name engraved on them. They are beautiful and I don't want him to use them. 

I made cinnamon rolls and enjoyed a more quiet Christmas at home.

Since we could not get our Christmas decorations out this year, I ended up about two weeks before Christmas buying a $29 fake tree. It even had lights on it- Seth got it and put it up for me. Gentry and Devan had bought the same tree and I decided we needed at least a tree up. I will put this tree up every year now to remember this very special simple year. 

Ty got me a coat. It was a sweet story. Of course, he could not shop, but he had heard me tell Gentry that I loved her jacket. He contacted her to find out where she got it and surprised me by ordering it for me. I had no idea, and thought it was so sweet that he had be so thoughtful. I never expected anything this year. 

Then later in the afternoon, I went and checked the LOVE BOX on our front porch. I was so surprised to find these two lower bowl tickets to the Jazz vs Laker game on Dec. 27th, and a container of candy. No one wrote a note or signed anything. I have no idea who gave us these tickets. I knew they gave them to us for our children. I was so surprised and ran upstairs to show them to the boys. They were very excited and it just meant so much to them. I just was so grateful for this very generous and kind gift to my boys. Thank you thank you so much for this gift- if you are reading this!!!!! They had an amazing time together and even got to take the trax downtown for the first time. 

My boys called me about after the game. I was anxiously waiting for them to get home. It was taking longer than I had expected. I got a call asking if I could come pick them up. They had taken the wrong trax train home and went way out west about 25 minutes from our house. They apologized for taking the wrong train after I first picked them up. I just laughed and told them that it was fine and that I was glad that they learned a little about how the trax work. This way they now know to watch which trains to board. It was actually a good life lesson. 

 TOMORROW- I am sharing some BRAND NEW CHA visuals and about my new releases. So excited to FINALLY be able to share. I can't wait!!!!!