A Moment in Time

Happy New Year!

2012-01-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

WOW! It's apparent that I have NOT been a good blogger! But hey, let's be honest, when have I ever been good at it! Oh well, lots of good reasons I guess. Fall was a VERY busy season for me as I travelled extensively teaching.

Minneapolis for Scrapfest, Las Vegas for Inspiration Unlimited, the Netherlands (and a quick day trip to Paris) teaching at The Fairy Tale Event for Paper and Pictures and finally the Prima Road Show in Australia. Yup! It was busy and that didn't leave a lot of time for me to update this baby!!!

It's a new year though and what better time to start fresh than RIGHT NOW! So... here I go! I will update when I can and try to give you something interesting once in awhile in hopes that you'll come back!! LOL!

So lets start out the New Year with some updates. A lot of things have changed over the past few months. I did a lot of soul searching, trying to determine where I wanted to go with this little career I have going on. I have to admit that like most, I struggled to find balance in my life and I didn't like the toll it was taking on me and my family (although I LOVED so many other aspects of it of course!). I was finding myself in a "rut" more often than not and that is when I decided that CHANGE IS GOOD! It's almost necessary. It's not easy and frankly can be scary as hell. It can also be pretty disheartening when the change you THINK you want to make doesn't pan out so then what do you do? Well, onto Plan B (or C,D, E or F)... there are a lot of letters in the alphabet so you can just keep moving until you find the place you are MEANT TO BE.

I have found that place and I am so very happy that things turned out the way they did. One door closes and another opens. Sometimes you have to have the courage to"knock" before that door will open but if you are patient, that door will open and often you will be invited in. Heck... you just might meet someone really cool behind that door and you will be grateful you walked out of the door before it.

I am soooooooo extremely grateful for the opportunities that came to me and am looking forward to the changes they bring. I am confident that it was the right decision and I am going to make the absolute best of my time as long as I am welcome.

So how about I share some of the changes and the exciting changes they bring.

First up, let me tell you about a sweet gal who came into my life just this past summer CHA. She and her husband (who is also pretty cool) own Authentique. Have you ever met someone with whom you immediately "clicked"? Well, we did! So much so that she even came with me to Holland and France this past fall. We work well together and the fact that we travel well together is a HUGE bonus! I am one of their AUTH-orized Educators and will be teaching plenty of Authentique Classes in 2012. I really hope you will come and join me occasionally. Their papers and embellishments are beautiful and the fun I have had working with their products thus far has been fabulous. Keep an eye on this new company as I have no doubt in my mind that they will do very well in the Scrapbooking world! Once this next CHA comes (at the end of January) I think you will hard pressed to find a store that DOESN'T carry Authentique as it's popping up EVERYWHERE!

Next up is Pink Paislee. Imagine how surprised I was to find out that I made the "cut" for their 2012 Design team as a Special Events/ Education Designer. They have such an extensive line up of amazing talent that I am extremely honoured to have been invited to joint their team. I am so looking forward to incorporating their products into this next years classes and I am certain the students who come will like them as much as I. I have always LOVED so many of their papers and embellishments and now I will actually get to play with them on a regular basis! I am sooooooo looking forward to this!

So let's touch on some of the classes or events I have in the works for 2012.

The first major one is Scrapbookers' Paradise's CAMP CROPPIN'! I had the privilege of teaching at this event last year and it was a RIOT! The ladies were great, the teachers were fab and the organizers amazing! I do look forward to being a part of this event again as I share a few Pink Paislee Classes and Make and Takes. I know they are just starting to get details listed so be sure to check out their Facebook Page and as I have more info, I will surely pass it on!

The next BIG DEAL and something I have been working very hard on for the past month getting it ready to launch is ARTSY ADVENTURE. When I was in Australia this past November as a part of the Prima Road Show Team, the ladies were all so very sweet and extended the invite to come back one day. Well, little did they know that we were actually able to make it happen! My ARTSY ADVENTURE tour will happen in May 2012 where I will teach at 11 different stores across Australia! How amazing is that?! Be sure to check out the blog and facebook page dedicated to this event. As time goes on, it is my intention to really work on taking my classes to the next level. I LOVE sharing my passion for paper crafting and am honoured so many feel that I am worthy of that privilege.

Well, I am stepping it up this year! YES I AM! SO many exciting plans in the works and even though I can't spill it all right now, I trust this will give you enough to peak your interest. I hope you will join me on this newest adventure and check back often. I promise I will do a better job at updating this blog.

Happy Scrapping!
Trisha

Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine's Scrapbook Carnival!

2011-09-14T16:26:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone... just a heads up that The Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival is coming to Edmonton and Calgary within the next short while! There are limited spaces available and they are going fast so you will want to check out the line up of amazing classes with terrific teachers! The shopping is PHENOMENAL as the vendors are all in one place with great deals to be had!

I copied and pasted some of the details from their website... want more details...

Check out www.canadianscrapbooker.ca for more info!

Come join us at the 4th Annual Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival! Everyone is welcome to shop, learn and get creative! This year we have our own hall filled with paper crafting exhibitors ready to meet you! Various local scrapbook stores, consultants, demonstrators and Canadian manufactures will be on site surrounding 100 excited croppers! Get ready for a fun and inspirational weekend in both Calgary and Edmonton! We can’t wait to see you!!!!

Thank you to our generous sponsors that make these shows possible!

MacEwan Conference & Events Centre on U of C Campus
402 Collegiate Boulevard Northwest
Friday, Sept 23rd: Noon – 9pm
Saturday, Sept 24th: 9am – 5pm

Central Lions Senior Centre
11113 – 113 Street
Saturday, October 1st: Noon – 9pm
Sunday, October 2nd: 9am – 5pm

The Creative Market Place – open to the public!
Join the fun and creative excitement and of course shop!
Day pass: $8.00
Weekend Pass: $12.00
12 years and under: FREE

2-Day Crop
Join us for 2 fun-filled crop days with inspiration galore and exciting prizes!

Crop registration opens on Tuesday, August 2nd at 9am MST.

The Classes and the Teachers:
Class registrations are open to everyone! Sign up for inspirational, technique driven classes! You will learn, laugh and love the energy!

Class registration opens on Tuesday, August 2nd at 9am MST.


Jackie Ludlage	Cathie Allan	Christy Riopel	Allison Orthner	Connie Nichol	Susan Weckesser

Thank you to our generous sponsors that make these shows possible!

Directions and Hotel Information:
Click the buttons below for directions, parking and hotel information.

Brought to you by:

My Mind's Eye Birthday Blog Hop!

2011-07-22T10:21:00.000-06:00

Alright ladies... you are at your final stop... if you just happened to come here, you really should go to the My Mind's Eye Blog and participate in the blog hop this weekend to celebrate. Lots of prizes are to be had... share some love on each blog and increase your chances of being one of the lucy winners!

A HUGE Happy Birthday to the My Mind’s Eye Blog! What a GREAT week to celebrate too :)

I am posting today from Chicago and having just wrapped up CHA for the summer, I feel soooooooooooooo fortunate to be able to be a part of this fabulous design team for an even more amazing company! I was one of the lucky ones who got to attend CHA this year and do I ever have a treat for you today to CELEBRATE our My Mind’s Eye Blog birthday! Being able to attend the show (although I should mention that I do not attend with My Mind’s Eye but do visit regularly throughout the week)... I DO get to see some of my favourite guys and I thought today I would share the spotlight with them as they truly are the backbone of so much of this company and they deserve the kudos for doing such an amazing job getting all those YUMMY products into all of our hands around the world. So without further adieu, allow me to introduce you to these handsome gentlemen...

First up... Jason T...he’s the “big man on campus” so to speak. He’s the guy that we all look to in some way as the “boss”. When I say that there is no one better, that is an understatement. Although I am not an employee, I have taught and designed for My Mind’s Eye for at least 3 years and LOVE that he is so easy to work with. Anyone that knows him would surely agree!!! With his expertise and personality, we all try to follow his lead and bring the best of ourselves to the table for the sake of a company we all adore. JT is an all around fab guy!

Next... K.C. Who out there in blogland knows KC? If you do, you will agree that he is rockin! This guy has it going on I tell ya! He works with so many of the stores in the U.S. to make sure they have all they need in their stores so you can indulge. You may have even had the privilege of taking a class from him. Every now and then, if you are lucky enough, you may catch him at a local store as rumour is he has been known to teach a class or two! You cannot help but love K.C’s laid back an fun attitude.

Then there is little Jason (that’s what I call him;)... he is a great guy too! Did you know he celebrated a birthday recently? YUP! A Happy Birthday to him too! He also helps with sales and although I have only met him a couple of times at the past couple of CHA’s... he is a sweet guy and also a lot of fun!

Finally... and I am saving one of the best for last (well, they are all the best really) BUT this guy has become someone whom I consider to be a great friend. This is Sean and he deals mostly with the International stores. He has bent over backwards to help to make sure I have everything I need to bring My Mind’s Eye classes to the stores and events to which I have had the privilege of traveling to and teaching at! He is such an amazing guy and anyone who knows him would say the same:) He's like a brother (they all are really) but Sean goes above and beyond to do what needs to be done! I am honoured to call him a friend:D

So there you go... a quick little introduction to the guys who make it happen in so many ways! There are of course so many others behind the scenes at My Mind’s Eye and I hope to meet them all in real life. It is a GREAT team to be a part of and I know my fellow design team members will ALL agree that you will not meet a better group of individuals... ever! We love them all and are so grateful for all they do!

Here is a pic of us all together... and I know what you are thinking;) I am the luckiest gal in the world to have this pic with these guys. I continually feel blessed to be on the design team to be able to have gotten this pic at the show this week. I always look forward to seeing them and can’t wait till January to see them and all the YUMMY My Mind’s Eye goodies).

So, now that I have chatted them up, how about I share one of my projects from CHA that I did using the uber fabulous Lost and Found 2 Collection. And this also ties in with our birthday blog hop theme. My word is “LOVELY” and I used it as it describes the products, people and relationships within this company. This particular layout focusses on our fellow design team member ANAM. What you may not know is that Anam and I have been dear friends for about 5 years. She and I met through scrapbooking and developed a great friendship. Her family became very dear to me and my family and when she had to move back to the UK earlier this year (she lived in Edmonton, Alberta as I do)... it broke my heart. Our local store, Treasured Memories, had a farewell crop for her and it was great to celebrate our friendships through this hobby and bid farewell to a wonderful lady whom we all love and adore. Fortunately with the world as we know it today, with facebook, etc, it is much easier to stay in contact. I know that our paths will cross again one day soon and I cannot wait to give her a giant hug! In the meantime, I created this layout to feature a "LOVELY farewell" to an amazing gal:)

So there you have it... a whole lot of chit chat on this post but I hope you enjoyed it! Be sure to go on back to the My Mind's Eye BLOG to finish up this hop. Leave a little love for the MME guys (I am sure they will be reading the posts and I would love to surprise them with all of us shouting their praises!!!!). A HUGE thank you to them for having me be a part of their wonderful team and I look forward to being with them for as long as they will have me!

Also a huge THANK YOU to all of the My Mind's Eye fans... without you, we are nothing! Let's celebrate our love for this hobby as often as we can... it brings so many gifts into our lives and I am so very grateful for this hobby and the relationships that have developed as a result of it!

Happy scrapping everyone!!!!

2nd Blog Hop

2011-07-22T09:54:00.001-06:00

Hello! Welcome to the 2nd My Mind's Eye Blog Birthday Blog Hop.

I am in the middle of switching hotels, so I haven't been able to get the "official" post up. Until I can get the post up, my word is: Lovely.

This is the last blog you will visit in the hop. From here you will return to the

My Mind's Eye blog.

Please be sure to come back to get your fill of My Mind's Eye goodness. You won't want to miss it.

Swirlydoos Class...

2011-07-06T21:04:00.000-06:00

On July 22, 2011, while in Chicago for CHA, I am honoured to be teaching a fun filled class using beautiful Prima products to numerous attendees in presence for Swirlydoos Special Event with Ingvild Bolme and myself. I hope to see you there!

We are going to broadcast this LIVE from the class via USTREAM and it will be recorded so you can complete it at your leisure if you have the kit! Speaking of kits, Swirlydoos MAY still have some available so be sure to contact Krissy@swirlydoos.com to order yours ASAP so it can be shipped to you to have it in your hot little hands in time for this fun filled class! I know that the last I spoke with her it was getting close to being sold out so if that is the case, drop me an email at trisha.lado@gmail.com and I am sure I can hook you up as I have numerous kits here too! The kits are jampacked with soooooooooo many beautiful products and the album has a plethora of fun techniques... I am sure you will love it!

Speaking of kits... I am clearing out kits from this past season that I will no longer be teaching. Interested in one of my Prima album or layout classes? Maybe the Teresa Collins Designs Album or Vintage Card class featuring Graphic 45 is more your style? I also have some great layout kits from the classes I taught in Puerto Rico... so many beautiful projects all with awesome instructions and tonnes of photos to walk you through the project! These are perfect for bringing with you on vacation... while the kids are swimming in the lake, pull up a chair under a shady tree and break out your supplies. That's what I LOVE to do and get some of my best scrapping done while outdoors camping or at the lake! Check the previous post for photos... I will try to post more soon! If you are interested, drop me an email at trisha.lado@gmail.com.

I have been working away in my studio non stop for the past little bit, preparing for CHA! I can't wait to show you what I have been working on... soooooooo many fun projects!

Hope you are finding time to play a bit too... let me know what you have been up to in your scrapbook world:D I LOOOOOOVE to hear comments on my blog!

Happy Scrapping!

Bring on Summer...

2011-07-01T22:52:00.000-06:00

Well, it's been a busy spring (as I am sure you can tell from my lack of updates!) but I had so many wonderful experiences! With classes non stop locally (Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary) as well as classes in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, it was insanely busy!

I had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful scrappers from near and far and experienced some fabulous parts of the world. WE had some good times and I am forever grateful for being given the opportunity to share my classes with those that gave me the honour of their time and attended! I am always humbled at the number of people who come out to join me and I hope they enjoyed their class with me as much as I enjoyed teaching it!

Now, I have a couple of weeks at home before it starts up all over again. CHA Summer is upon us and I head to Chicago with Prima again (I know... I am soooooooo lucky!). I have worked CHA with Prima for the past few years and they are fabulous! We all LOVE their beautiful papers and embellishments and it is a necessary stop for retailers from around the globe when at this tradeshow. I hope that if you are a retailer, you will drop by the Prima booth and say "HI"!

In the next week or two leading up to the show, I will be going full force preparing samples for My Mind's Eye, TAttered Angels, Walnut Hollow as well as numerous classes that are on the books:D Although it is pressure... I THRIVE on it! I LOVE it and always look forward to getting to play with the latest and greatest! I hope I manage to do the products justice and the mojo fairy is good to me ;)

Onto classes:

On July 22, I will be teaching a class for Swirlydoos focussing on Prima. I am in the final stages of having the actual project complete but trust me when I tell you it's going to be a good one! The kit is BURSTING with a tonne of terrific Prima Products and we are going to learn a plethora of fun tricks and tips that you can incorporate into your future paper crafting projects. If you are in the Chicago area, sign up! Come and play with Ingvild Bolme and I in a fun filled day that you are sure to love! We are even going to stick around for a bit of the crop to hang out and have fun with the attendees!

Now, in case you cannot make it there is still a chance for YOU to participate! Kits will be available from Swirlydoos prior to July 5. If you PRE-ORDER you can be a part of the class as it airs live via USTREAM on Live WIth Prima! I always have such a great time doing the Live with Prima episodes and this is no exception.

Check back later this weekend as I plan on posting the actual class pics for this class! I am fairly certain, it will NOT disappoint you at all!

While on the topic of classes, I am now finished teaching my spring line up of classes and have a few kits left incase you are interested:D

Each of these classes were HUGE hits among attendees and photos really do not do the actual projects justice. Ladies were thrilled with the hefty kits and I will send the powerpoints for each of the classes so you will have step by step instructions with plenty of photos to walk you through step by step. I have never had anyone come back saying they could not figure out how to do it as the instructions are extremely thorough!

First up is my PRIMA "True Beauty" Mini Album... using assorted papers and embellishments from the REFLECTIONS collection, you will create a beautiful mini album with pages of assorted sizes and various mediums.

Class Kit Cost: $60.00 +Shipping

Vintage Card Class featuring Graphic 45's vintage inspired papers with some fun products that work so very well with these particular cards. They will blow you away with their layers and detail and a few hidden surprises. You will like them so much it is doubtful that you will be able to give them away!

Class Kit Cost: $35 +Shipping

Teresa Collins Designs- Timeless Mini Album... again, this kit is bursting with beautiful papers and coordinating embellishments. The project is relatively generic so you can use it for just about any theme. The tactile treasures and interactive components with captivate you and make you want to recreate it over and over so you can share with our loved ones!

Class Kit Cost: $60 +Shipping

If you are interested in any of the above, drop me an email at: trisha.lado@gmail.com and we can make arrangements!

SO I will leave it at that for now! As I mentioned, pop by in the next couple of days and I hope to have some more photos for you!

Have a great weekend!

Scrapbook Classes galore!

2011-05-18T12:39:00.000-06:00

So I only have a few weeks left of a very busy (but oh so fun) Spring that has been full of some fabulous classes and events! But there are still a few fabulous events that YOU can be a part of (and I hope that if you are in the vicinity, you will join me!)

First up:

Scrapbookers Bliss in Calgary, AB May 27-29... I will joining the gals for a weekend with 6 classes jampacked with techniques and the kits are AMAZING! I think it will truly blow your mind as most have been extremely happy with the value of the class once they see the kit and at the last event I sold out of all extras as the ladies wanted at least one extra to play with or to give as a gift. If you are interested in any of the following classes, please contact the store directly at (403)217-9827 for times and cost. If you cannot physically make it, the kits are available- for the same price as the class- you just have to pay shipping. Definitely a fun assortment of class projects you can do at leisure!

Graphic 45 Vintage Card Class:

Prima Mini Album

Tattered Angels TECHNIQUE Class:

My Mind's Eye "Releasing the Artiste Within" Layout Class- featuring the Stella & Rose Collection

Teresa Collins Designs- TIMELESS Mini Album Class
7 Gypsies Altered Receipt Tray Class
A couple of days after I return from our adventure in Calgary, I am off to Rayuella Scrapbook Store in Santiago, Dominican Republic. I am sooooo looking forward to meeting the lovely Ciana and playing with her customers all weekend long! I have no doubt in my mind that this will be an amazing experience for all! There are a few spaces left I believe so if You are wondering about attending (assuming yo are in the area), contact the store directly for the details!

After a few days of R&R it's off to San Juan, Puerto Rico for the Puerto Rico Scrapbook Event June 10-12. Here I am teaching 2 funky layouts to more than 600 ladies! I have heard that these girls KNOW how to have a good time... rumour is they actually DANCE to win a prize! How fun is that?! I am looking forward to being a part of the line up of amazing teachers (I almost wish I could be a student for this event... you have got to check out who will be there!).

So there you have it... if I don't post for a couple of weeks, you now know why! I will try to drop by for an update every now and then though... fingers crossed that I can, otherwise I will give you a full report upon my return!

Happy Scrapping!

WINNER of the Creating Keepsakes "Creative Spaces" issue

2011-05-14T06:47:00.000-06:00

A HUGE congrats to KI!!!! She is the lucky winner of this special issue because of her comment left on the post from the other day! KI: email me you mailing address so I can pass it on to CK and they can send out your copy! Everyone else, it's on sale now and is bursting with inspiration.... check it out!

Ki said...

Well of course I'd love to win a copy, cause you're in it!!

May 10, 2011 7:49 AM

Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine... NEW webisode!

2011-05-11T10:07:00.000-06:00

I just LOOOOOVE Jackie's webisodes and this is one you will want to check out! Here she will show you how to create METALLIC transparencies... it looks like such a cool technique and I already have ideas f how I want to add my personal touch and incorporate it into a future project!

Canadian Scrapbooker Webisode

Watch the webisode and leave a comment there for you chance to win a FABULOUS prize package featuring some of the goodies used shown below:)

Just to also let you know that I am in full swing prepping for my next round of classes at Scrapbooker's Bliss in Calgary, AB at the end of the month. I know I have received numerous emails about how to get a kit for some of the classes I am teaching so if you cannot make it to the actual class, please call them at (403)217-9827and request that your name be put on the list for a kit. You will have to pay for shipping of course but at least that way you are guaranteed a kit:)

A couple of days later I am off the BEAUTIFUL Dominican Republic to teach at Rayuela Scrapbook Store June 4-6. I have a feeling that this will be a remarkable experience and look forward to spending time with Ciana and her lovely ladies in paradise.

From there I fly directly to Puerto Rico for the PUERTO RICO SCRAPBOOK EVENT June 10-12. I have heard nothing but amazing things about this event and with such amazing teachers involved, I almost wish I could be a student too...hehehehe! Heidi Swapp, Donna Downey, Margie Romney, the Glitz Girls, Stephanie Barnard, Ashlee Jorgenson and the one and only Tim Holtz... this is sure to be an event like no other! I have heard it is one giant scrapbooking party and I am thrilled to be a part of it!

Anyways, lots of cool things in store in the next little bit so if I am not around, you know why!

Happy Scrapping!

Creating Keepsakes Creative Spaces 2011

2011-05-09T09:41:00.000-06:00

Last summer while teaching at Creative Escape in Arizona, I had the privilege of meeting and becoming instant friends with the uber fabulous Megan Hoeppner, Creative Editor of Creating Keepsakes Magazine. She is such and amazing talent and an even more amazing person. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to meet her.

Anyways, I was beyond THRILLED when she contacted me last fall to be a part of a secret project she was working on and I am so excited to finally be able to share with you the details of her newest publication with Creating Keepsakes Magazine- CREATIVE SPACES with Megan Hoeppner (click for a link to a fabulous sneak peek of some of the amazing Creative Spaces featured!). She chose me and my studio to be one of the FABULOUS spaces to be included in this beautiful publication and I am honoured that she thought it to be beautiful enough to include with the amazing spaces also included in this publication.

This issue is bursting with Studio design ideas and a plethora of storage solutions for any room in any size. Surely you will find something to inspire you!

After several months of hard work and planning this special issue will hit the store shelves Tuesday, May 10. You can also get a copy HERE and if you use the code: SPACESBB It’s good for free shipping in the US until 5/27/11.

I am stalking my mailman for my copy as I can't wait to see all of the cool studios of some of the amazing designers featured!

My new studio is my personal pride and joy. I LOVE having a space that inspires me to create. It is by far my favourite room in our new home and I hope you enjoy seeing it in this issue and perhaps pick up a tip or two for some storage solutions that may work for you!

What's even better? Creating Keepsakes has offered to give away a FREE copy of Creative Spaces with Megan Hoeppner to one lucky gal who leaves a comment here on my blog by Friday, May 13. How cool is that?! Simply leave a comment with your email address so I can contact you if you are the lucky winner!

Good luck!

ALOHA!!!

2011-04-22T10:17:00.000-06:00

Hello all my friends:) I am on vacation in Hawaii on the beautiful island of Oahu with my family this week and most of next. It has been years since we had a vacation like this where we can all be together and just PLAY! No work for me on this trip which is nice (aside from designing a project for this blog post and a few other details to tend to now and then but NO TEACHING!). It's nice to be able to just do what we want when we want with no schedule to follow... I could definitely get used to this!!!

Anyways, most of you have probably come here from the My Mind's Eye Blog as part of the blog hop we have going on. Thanks for visiting! Seeing as I had limited supplies with me, I did not create a layout but instead I created a mini album featuring the Fine and Dandy Collection. This is for the photos I WILL take on our vacation and it's nice to know that when I get home, I can just drop the photos into place!

This trip for me is about MAKING the memories so that I can continue to enjoy my hobby of preserving them! I have learned that I need to learn to live in the PRESENT so that in the FUTURE I can preserve the PAST. Simple enough, right? I hope so and sometimes I need the occasional reminder which is okay too!

My word of the month:

M E M O R I E S

So all the details for the MME blog hop are on their blog but here is the jist of it:

Start at the My Mind's Eye blog, follow the links to each consecutive blog making sure to make note of each designer's word of the month. Be sure to leave a comment on each designer's blog for a chance to win the ENTIRE Lime Twist Collection and email all words to amber@mymindseye.com for another chance to win! Pretty cool, eh?

From here, you will visit Jana's blog:)

Happy Hopping!

Trisha

Welcome Spring...

2011-03-22T15:59:00.000-06:00

It's supposed to be the time of year where birds are chirping, tulips are blooming and warm breezes blow but alas that is NOT the case in these parts. NOPE! In Edmonton, it is STILL SNOWING and I am sooooo tired of it! UGH! Oh well... I guess it gives me something to look forward too:D

We did get a little break though...

We had a short little break this past weekend when we took our kids on a whirlwind trip to Vancouver. We took an afternoon to explore Stanley park and Gastown in Vancouver and had a fabulous time!

It was Carter's (my youngest son) birthday and he wanted to go to a Rubik's Cube competition rather than have a birthday party so off we went! We had no idea what to expect but figured that seeing he can solve it in 30 something seconds.... he stood a good chance. It was a great experience for him, one that he will remember for many years. He didn't advance to the finals (there were much older people who could do it in 10-15 seconds!!!) but we were still super proud of him and if he is still interested when the time comes around for another, we will head back for another and see how he does again!

So back to the snow thing... YUCK! There are a couple of things that have saved me from insanity with all this white stuff though. I have some pretty amazing events on the horizon that will whisk me away to much warmer climates in the coming months and if not warmer, at least I am heading south...lol! Here is a list of dates and I really hope to see you at one or more of the classes at the various stores/ events:

First up:

April 8-10

Scrapbooker's Bliss- Calgary

April 15&16

Scrapbook, eh Retailer Event and Camp Croppin'- Calgary

Where I will be teaching for Prima:D

Here are a couple of sneak peeks from the Camp Croppin' Class:D

And here are a couple of sneak peeks for the Retailers Only Portion...

These classes and events will be all be fabulous of course but there is one that is a little bit extra special really gets me excited... this one is in beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico June 10-12 and is sure to be one heck of a party! The Puerto Rico Scrapbook Event has invited this crazy canuck to come and play and I am UBER thrilled to be participating... click HERE for all details!

Some of the leading teachers will be there (Tim Holtz, Margie ROmney, Heidi Swapp, Donna Downey, the Glitz Girls and me!!!) and I am looking forward to being able to share some fabulous classes with the 600+ people that will be there! It's only a short plane ride away and if there are any wanting a little fun in the sun then this is the place to be! I am adding on a day or two so that I can see some of the sights on one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean! Anyone want to come with me???

Some more exciting news? I am officially a part of the Canadian Scrapbook Magazine team as a regular contributing writer. I have written several articles for them over the past couple of years so it is such an honour for them to have made it "official"! Stay tuned on more exciting things to come in that department:D

The last one for now... and it's a BIG one! October/ November I am heading down under... YES! I do mean AUSTRALIA to be a part of the Prima Road Show and I will be teaching with a few of the other Prima girls at numerous stores all around Australia! I am so looking forward to working with Your Creative Journey on what is sure to be quite the adventure!

There are a couple more events on the horizon too but I am just finishing up those details! Can't make it to the classes but still want the kits? Feel free to email me at trisha.lado@gmail.com with any questions and I am more than happy to do what I can to help you out!

Happy Scrapping!

Trisha

Woah!!!!!! I have really neglected this blog!

2011-02-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

I guess it is time for an update, eh?

SOoooooooo much to report so let's get right to it! First up...

Scrapalicious, Inc in Missisauga, Ontario is bringing me in for some amazing classes with my "Weekend to Unwind" event NEXT weekend (March 4-6). There are SIX awesome classes to choose from all of which are bursting with amazing products and uber fun techniques:)

First up on Friday night, we will be kicking of the weekend with our A-Pron-O-Lo-Gy Workshop! Now this is going to be a FUN class as there will be a PLETHORA of fabulous goodies to create your very own crafting apron PERSONALIZED to reflect you and your own style. Choose from an assortment of paints, Glimmer Mists, stamps, fabrics. trims, flowers, etc and play with us. I will walk students through some cool techniques but you will be encouraged to go wild and have fun and I guarantee you that you will have an apron that is simply fabulous:)

Graphic 45 Vintage Card Class... not just for card makers! You will learn some fundamentals about layering patterned papers and embellishments that can be carried into all of your paper crafting projects. These lovely cards will make any recipient very happy and I am pretty certain they will be cherished for many moons to come:)

One of my favourite projects in a very long time has to be this Timeless Mini Album using the newest Teresa Collins Designs papers and embellishments (did you know I am officially one of her "Endorsed Educators"?! YUP! I was thrilled when this scrapbook icon asked me personally... I adore her as a friend and artist and am thrilled to now include her products in my class line up!!!). Anyways, there are sooooooo many techniques included in this class that I am pretty certain it will blow your mind!

Another TECHNIQUE based class is the Tattered Angels Technique Tag class. Here I will walk you through an unbelievable number of techniques using the Tattered Angels line up of Glimmer Mists, Glimmer Glams, Glimmer Glazes and Chalkboard Glimmer Mists. If you weren't sure how to use these goodies before, your mind will be swirling with ideas of how you can use them in all of your future projects!

Ahhhhhhhh.... My Mind's Eye:) How I LOVE me some MME! This is a sneak peek from the "Releasing the Artiste" Within class. Here I will show you some cool tricks for getting the most out of your paper products and take your layouts to an entirely new level of fabulous! There are sure to be a few "Ah huh" moments and undoubtedly will leave you inspired to continue to create your pages with a little more "oooomph"! This is a class that will focus on YOU so be sure to bring along a couple of 4X6 prints of yourself that you adore:) DOn't have them? TAKE THEM... you won't regret it, I promise!

The last class for our Weekend to Unwind at Scrapalicious, Inc is this Altered Receipt Tray using fabulous vintage inspired products by 7 Gypsies. Tonnes of tricks that can be carried over into other paper crafts of course but you will leave with a fabulous project to adorn your wall

that you will be able to swap out the tags whenever you so feel inclined:) This kit is BURSTING with fun stuff and I am pretty certain you will not be disappointed!

ALL of these classes are also available as kits. If you are interested in the class but cannot make it for whatever reason, be sure to PRE register and we can make sure any necessary prep work is done and ship it to you after the event:D

For exact times and to register OR order a kit, please call Scrapalicious, Inc at (905) 614-0085 or check out details by clicking HERE!

I also have some more exciting news to share:) First, I have been asked to join the Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine team as a regular Contributing Writer. This is such a huge honour for me. I have loved having the privilege of sharing occasional articles over the past couple of years with their readers so to now be officially included as part of the fabulous team...well, I am at a loss for words! Stay tuned for my next article in their Summer 2011 issue... I hope you like the projects as much as I do:)

I went to CHA last month in Los Angeles with Prima... had an AMAZING time with not only the Prima crew whom I adore but I LOVED catching up with friends from around the globe. It is inspiring to be in a room (although it's insanely huge) with some much talent! Store owners, designers, manufacturers, fellow scrappers... so many fabulous people that I could spend an entire day talking about all those that I have relationships with in one way or another and how my life is so much richer for having them/you in it. Do you find it odd how this hobby has brought so many cool people into your life in one way or another? I feel so blessed to be a part of this industry and I look forward to seeing where this road will lead to next:)

While there, my friend Sean, whom I work with at My Mind's Eye hooked me up with this gorgeous and fantastically FUN gal named Yamille from Puerto Rico who puts on one heck of a show (so I have been told!) and guess who gets to go and teach in June? Yup! This crazy Canuck is over the moon excited to be heading to San Juan in June to teach some amazing classes to over 600 ladies on one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean!!! I will give you more details as I am able to release them but if you are looking for a GREAT scrapbook event for a terrific price you might want to consider heading to paradise with me:) They are in the process of updating their website with the info so keep a close ye on it for all the details! I think you will LOVE the line up and will want to save your pennies for this one! Puerto Rico Srapbooking Event... check it out!

SO I will leave it at that for today and I am really going to make an effort to keep this blog more up to date:) I know I have said that before but life gets so crazy some days that unfortunately this is the first thing to drop when there are not enough hours in the day. Not sure how those amazing bloggers do it... I am in awe:D

Anyways, thanks for stopping by and I will be back soon with even more news!

Another more local event definitely worth checking out is Scrapping in the Valley May 13-15 in Drayton Valley, AB. This is an event put on by the town and should be an amazing event! I had the opportunity to visit their facility and WOW... great space to scrap the Mackenzie center will be!!! Check out the links to download event info here and hopefully I will see you there! What a great little weekend getaway this will be, I know I am looking forward to it!

"I Believe" it's a "Holly Jolly" time of year...

2010-12-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I am glad you took a few minutes to stop by. If you came as a part of the My Mind's Eye Blog HOP... I hope you are having fun! If you just happened to come by my blog and check it out... THANKS! I am thinking though that you may want to go back to the beginning (MY MIND"S EYE BLOG) and follow it through as My Mind's Eye is giving away some fabulous prizes including the Holly Jolly Collection, the "I Believe" Collection and my personal favourite "Union Square"! If you are already paying along, you would have joined me from the super fabulous Karen Grunberg:)

You need to start at the beginning and collect a secret word from EACH blog along the way. You will end up with 12 words that form a secret phrase:) Then, email Amber at amber@mymindseye.com with all 12 words for your chance to win! You have until next Wednesday so there is plenty of time to play along! Winners will be announced Thursday:)

The other way to win is to leave a bit of love at as many stops along the way as you can! The more comments you leave, the greater your chances of winning as we will randomly draw a winner from all comments posted to all blog posts:) Pretty cool, eh?

So... let's get started! It's no secret the My Mind's Eye continually outdoes themselves with each new release. Just when I think it can't possibly get any better, they WOW me again and again! I guess that is why I feel so very blessed to be a part of the My Mind's Eye Design Team and have no plans of ever changing that! It's great being with a small core group of ladies and we all work so well together with diverse types of style. The AMAZING monthly guest designers continue to amaze me and it is an honour to be alongside of such amazing talent. I consider myself extremely blessed!

Choosing a FAVOURITE project from this past year is tough! I have plenty that are favourites for many reasons so I thought I would share with you a project that was originally for My Mind's Eye classes that I taught at various stores and events near and far! First up, in honour of my current FAVOURITE line: UNION SQUARE (and it just happens to be one of the giveaways!).

I created this layout as one of my "RELEASING THE ARTISTE WITHIN" classes and it is to serves as reminder to us to "Remember to LOVE and TREASURE the ever so sweet journey". As scrappers, we sometimes put a lot of expectations on ourselves to get every picture scrapped or to have to create masterpieces each and every time. Well, that should not be the case! This is a hobby and sometimes letting go of the "rules" is good for the creative soul!

It's not a race to the finish line. EVERY page you get scrapped, is one more than the person down the street that has not got their memories preserved. With that in mind, it allows you the freedom to once in awhile put a little bit of extra time into that really special layout... like this one!

I created my own CUSTOM title by cutting out individual words from other embellishments and piecing them together to get the message I wanted and still have it match the layout.

I took it even further and mounted the main photo on a chipboard book cover that could lift open to reveal a space for an additional photo and journaling (that I have not yet gotten too... hehehehee! YUP! I am human! LOL!)

I cut and layered additional papers, overlapping in spots and I am happy with the end result!

Play with your papers and cherish the hobby that has brought so many of us closer together. I hope my family will treasure these projects as much as I do but if not... that is OKAY! Truthfully, I scrapbook the way I do for me! It fuels my creative spirit and allows me to express myself in a creative way. I could just put my pics in an old manilla scrapbook with some notes beside the photos, as my grandmother did and it would be cherished by future generations just as much... I guarantee it! But when My Mind's Eye creates such AMAZING papers and embellishments, I am pretty certain I will continue to play in my scrapbooking studio for many, many years to come!

Okay... I am rambling... but let me show you one other project, perfect for this time of year using the Union Square Collection!

I had the privilege of being a Guest Designer for Provo Craft's CRICUT CIRCLE this week so using my Cricut Expression machine and these lovely papers, I created this fun Gift Card Enclosure.

I created a festive holiday card using non traditional papers and I think the end result was pretty cool!

See the little pocket below... perfectly sized for a gift card...

So there you have it and in case you did not figure out my not- so-secret word... it is " AND" (my little gift to you;)

From here, you will hop on over to my very dear friend, the one and only and super fabulous VICKI BOUTIN. I am sure she has a treasure for you too! Hope you are having fun!!!

Remember to leave a comment for your bonus chance to win and from my family to yours, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

(((HUGS)))

Tis the Season...

2010-12-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The lights are hung outside, the decorating inside has begun and I am even contemplating baking in the near future! If you know me, you KNOW I am not the baker type anymore... although I try, my energies seem to be spent in other areas. BUT my boys LOVE it so I am going to pick up a few ingredients and spend some good times with my boys as we cook up some festive treats!

Anyways, I have managed to get several gifts and will pick up some more this week. I even started cards this year! And yes... I will actually put them in the mail too! LOL! I have been designing like a mad woman as over at Graphic 45 we have a blog hop going on with Coredinations... there are some really cool creations so be sure to keep an eye on BOTH blogs for some fabulous eye candy!

And I have a really fun announcement! March 4-6, 2011 it has been confirmed that I will be joining the lovely ladies at Scrapalicious Inc in Mississauga, ON for a fabulous Weekend to Unwind event! I have some terrific classes planned and as always I come armed with a tonne of prizes! I really hope you will check out the link HERE and join me for one, two or even ALL six classes:) There are very limited spaces available so if you are interested, I wouldn't delay in signing up! I am currently waiting on the brand new releases from Prima, My Mind's Eye, Tattered Angels, 7 Gypsies, Teresa Collins and Graphic 45 and as soon as I am able, I will give you the sneak peeks you are wanting!

There are some other events being planned for the new year and as those dates are confirmed, I will let you know and hopefully you will be able to join me:) Anyways, for now, I will run (those Christmas cards I started have to be finished today hopefully so I had better get cracking!)

Happy Scrapping and I hope you are enjoying the holiday season thus far!

Just about settled...

2010-11-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

Life is finally returning to normal and I am so grateful for that! It was a busy fall and this blog has been neglected... I know... I am BAD! But I resolve to try to change that!

Between teaching at a few fabulous events, doing a bunch of classes at my local store (Treasured Memories) and moving, life was INSANE but I loved every moment! Now I am home for the next couple of months and I get to enjoy the holiday season with my family and then the insanity of CHA prep begins! Before you know it, it will be time to board the plane for California (LA this time instead of Anaheim.. that should be fun, eh?!). It will be nice to escape the cold and hook up with many friends from this industry whom I really only get to see twice a year. I am sooooooo looking forward to it!

Today, I plan on starting my decorating for the holidays. It has been a long time since I was this inspired to really go all out and make this a beautiful holiday season. The new house/ neighbourhood is beautiful and all the neighbours have done a beautiful job, forcing me to step it up and bring my bestest efforts to the table! It can't be that much more difficult than a scrapbook page, right? Hmmmmm.... we will see! I will try to post pics and let you be the judge:)

I can say that my studio is DONE! Yes, that room got priority in being set up/ decorated perfectly. I LOVE it and although I cannot show you full pics (it's TOP SECRET for now), I am excited with how it turned out! Everything has a place and a purpose. I purged big time and i felt soooooooooooo good! I got rid of the stuff that I realistically will never have the chance to use. It's so freeing to be able to create without the clutter! If I decide down the road that I really do not have what I need, we I guess I will just have to go shopping... darn!

There are some fun things on the horizon this month scrapbook wise! I have invited to be a guest on LIVE with Prima.

I will be creating )and showing you how to create) a fun little "HOLIDAY BLISS" Mini Album perfect for dropping your photos into as soon as you are ready. I really hope you will tune in on December 21 at 6:30 pm PST. We will use assorted Build-a-Book Components and alter them with a plethora of fun mediums and of course use amazing Prima products to decorate. How can you go wrong! Mark it on your calendars and prepare to tune in! I will post the link to the Ustream channel closer to the time as well as a few more sneak peeks:)

In other scrappy news... lots of projects have been worked on with plenty more to go!

Here is one of my Graphic 45 layouts I did...

This is a very Lumpy Bumpy Layout using the Fashionista Collection and a few of the Graphic 45 Staples (Kraft flowers, trims and letters).

I incorporated a bunch of Prima goodness too as it really did add the dimension that I adore!

This layout is now framed in a giant frame from Ikea adorning my Studio wall:) In fact I now have several layouts in their frames... I LOVE them! Such a nice alternative to display your favourite projects rather than tucking them away in an album:)

What else? Hmmmmm... well, I am going to make an effort to post more often! I do have a few very exciting announcements to make in the next week or so... stay tuned for all of those details! Some fabulous things are on the horizon for 2011:)

In the meantime, enjoy your day, get out there and MAKE some memories and then give your self the gift of "me" time and scrap them! If you are anything like me, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be a wee bit insane so it's nice to find a bit of downtime... you'll enjoy the rest of it that much more!

Happy Scrapping!

I am sooooooooooooooo bad!

2010-10-25T07:05:00.000-06:00

Definitely have not been posting as much as I ahould but life has been hectic. After a couple of fabulous trips to Victoria, BC and New Brunswick in September for my Weekend to Unwind events, I have been working like a mad woman moving this past month! We are fortunate in that we are able to take our time moving but I am not entirely convinced that is the best way to do it...lol! EVERY day I have been driving across town with a Jeep full of boxes. But alas, we are nearing the home stretch and it will all be worth it once we are in and settled.

What I love best is my brand new studio! FINALLY, I have a real space to create and it is GORGEOUS (if I do say so myself;). I promise to post pics soon!

In the meantime, I want to let you know about some classes I have coming up! Tomorrow night (Tuesday, October 26) I will be teaching the My Mind's Eye Releasing the Artiste Within class at Treasured Memories. EVERYONE who attends will get a special My Mind's |Eye gift so I highly recommend coming out to play! Can't make it? Call and register to get a kit and I am sure you can make arrangements to pick one up or get it shipped! Space is limited so call the store at (780)414-1540.

On Saturday, I am teaching 2 TWO Prima classes!!!!!!!!!!!! It's going to be an all day play day with so many beautiful Prima goodies that it will BLOW your mind! First up... the
A-pron-O-lO-gy class. In this class we will be playing all morning long as each person will get to create their own altered Prima Paron! You will learn numerous techniques and have the opportunity to learn various transfer techniques, play with Glimmer Mists, Paints and other mediums. You will transform YOUR apron into a work of art that you will gladly wear each time you craft! With the holidays right around the corner you will want to create a personalized version for many on your gift list! Denims, lace and numerous trims will be available but if you have a favourite fabric that you wish to incorporate, feel free to bring it along.

After our lunch break is the Prima Mixed Media Album! This mini album is BURSTING with a plethora of Prima goodies. You will learn a variety of techniques that you can incorporate into many of your future projects!

Both of these classes will be held at Treasured Memories and again, space is limited so call TODAY! (780)414-1540.

And then next up is Clipper Street in Langley, BC!!! An entire weekend of fun is one the horizon. I am not sure how many spaces are available, last I heard they were getting pretty full. |If you hurry, you may be able to join in on the fun there too!

So there you have it... a quick update. I wish I had photos to post this time but I am on my sonds computer so it can'\t be done at the moment. Check out their websites for more info!

I hope to see you soon!

Happy Scrapping!!!

Another Weekend to Unwind Event coming!

2010-09-09T09:40:00.000-06:00

Sooo excited to share a sneak peek from my Tattered Angels class for Scrapbook Parade, The Scrap Shack AND Treasured Memories:)

YAY! I am so excited to say that I will be coming back to Clipper Street in Langley, BC November 5-7, 2010! I am so excited to come and teach at Deanna and Stacey's store:) They have been fabulous friends for the past couple of years and I over the moon thrilled that they have invited me to share some fabulous classes with the Vancouver and area ladies! Be sure to check out their BLOG for details on all I will be sharing with you! 5 FABULOUS classes using the latest and greatest from Tattered Angels, Prima, My Mind's Eye, Graphic 45 and 7 Gypsies! There is something for everyone and I hope to see you there!

I am also counting down the days until my Weekend to Unwind Event at Scrapbook Parade in Langford, BC next weekend (September 17-19) and at the Scrap Shack's Scrap Gala in New Brunswick the following weekend (September 24-26!). There are only a few spaces available in a few of the classes... so if you are interested, get your name down FAST! I come armed with a tonne of prizes so if you want a chance to win a plethora of goodies... get on it! I can't wait to play with you all:)

What that also means is that I am up to my eyeballs in final preparations! Samples are being tweaked, instructions/ powerpoints are being written/ designed and a TONNE of kitting is about to take place! I may not be updating this blog too often but you will surely see me on Facebook:) If you haven't found me yet, be sure to search: TrishaLadouceur. Hook me up!

Happy Scrappin'!

Mini Book Project from Creative Escape!

2010-09-03T10:40:00.000-06:00

Here you go ladies (and maybe the odd gentleman!)... I promised you pics of the album that was part of your BONUS project from my Creative Escape Class last weekend... I hope you like it! Now, I know you have written instructions in your Creative Escape Idea book BUT these are a few detailed shots so you can assemble your project at home with ease!

You have all of the Glimmer Misted components in your kit to create this. Simply attach the Graphic 45 papers as shown, pop up the Riff Raff Designs chipboard (note that you will have to cut it as shown so you end up with 2 smaller bits as you see in the picture above). You will then cover the back of your "S" with paper off of one of the spare tages on your Graphic 45 die cut sheet (this might be best to save for last to ensure you don't accidentally use the wrong one).

Layer your beautifully misted Prima flowers and place a Say it in Pearls center to the middle. use one of the G45 die cuts (back side) to write "My" and pop up as shown.L

Layer tags (with Bazzill Tulle) as shown in the upper left corner.

Page 2: As Heidi pointed out on her webshow... how ironic that we have a bunch of men in swimsuits... I SWEAR I didn't know we were getting a show!!! LOL!

Attache the My Mind's Eye paper to the top of the chiptile (keep in mind you are building a little flip book so the page will actually be upside down as you are using the back side of the first tile. Hand cut the swimmers and attach as shown.

Cover the backs of the letters with remaining Graphic 45 die cut tags, pop up on a postcard image (note that you attach this with adhesive only on the bottom and two side... you want to form a pocket!).

Tie black Bazzill Tulle through Graphic 45 die cut tag and secure around back of tile. Attach Tattered Angels letters as shown and reinforce position on front of tile with a coupel of Stix 2 Foam Mounting Squares.

Now for the next page, remember you are flipping up the Owl Tile so you can cover the backside. COver the tile with Graphic 45 patterned papers. Cut our images are shown and secure.

Tie Bazzill tulle through Graphic 45 tag and embellish with Prima Flower Cluster that has been Glimmer Misted.

This next page require you to use your last Glimmer Misted Chip Tile but note that this one will be regular direction (not upside down).

This time, you will cover the plain side of the tile with the My Mind's Eye Flocked dotted paper. Cut out Graphic 45 images and secure to the background.

Pop up Graphic 45 Die Cuts and tags again using Stix 2 Foam Mounting Squares. Be sure to tie some black Bazzill Tulle through the hole and trim with your Westcott Scissors!

Your last page (as shown above) is left plain. You are of course more than welcome to embellish it too though!

Lastly, to assemble your book, use your Crop-a-Dile to punch 2 holes in a 4X1" piece of scrap paper. Use that paper as a template by lining it up at the top of the chip Tile and punch your holes one piece at a time. Use the 2 binder rings in your kit to secure your pages together!

Do not forget to add your Bazzill Cardstock and Hambly Overlays as the filler pages on which you can add your photos and journaling documenting your Creative Escape Journey! You will have plenty of Die Cut Tags left to embellish.

Should you need additional flowers or bling, check your local Scrapbook Store... everyone LOVES Prima so they should not be too hard to come by! Same goes for any additional elements by My Mind's Eye, Graphic 45, Bazzill, Vintaj, Riff Raff Designs, Stix2, Westcott, Ranger and Hambly.

Below are some samples of additional pages or variations of pages I did using some of the leftovers in the kits as well as various elements that were purchased to compliment the project. A bit of eye candy but please be aware that you may not have all of the pieces used in the samples below!

See how I tucked in the "Packing list on this page? It is from one of the Tattered Angels Travel bingo Card Sets.

Above, I added a spiral clip along with "Chart Your Course Tag"

That embellishment was added to the bottom of the page that I used the Bingo Card, more My Mind's Eye LUSH paper as well as the Graphic 45 papers and tags. Add a bit of Prima and VOILA!

Now keep in mind you do have a few extra (actually a LOT extra) Framed Font Alphas from Tattered Angels, perhaps you want to try to come up with a few more words. If you need additional Glimmer Mist, the colours used were: Crushed Shells, Caribbean Blue and Black Magic. Check your Local Scrapbook Store for any additional bits you want and be sure to send me pics of your completed projects! I would LOVE to see how you jazz up the filler pages:)

Hope you all enjoyed this project... I know I sure LOVED sharing it with you!

Now, go and be CREATIVE everyday in some little way (r BIG way if you are so lucky to do so!)

Happy Scrapping!!!
xoxoxo

ETA: I should also mention that if you like this project, I am pretty certain Creative Escape will be putting the extras up for sale on their website... check it out! You will NOT be dissappointed in the kit... it pretty much ROCKS as far as goodies are concerned!

www.creativevescapeaz.com

Finally... my Creative Escape Project...

2010-08-31T17:28:00.000-06:00

Thanks for your patience ladies:) I have been having computer issues and it took me longer than anticipated to upload these pictures. BUT I managed to get 'er done so without further adieu... here is my Creative Escape Project. These are the pics as it should be finished as er my instructions at the event. Remember these are the ACTUAL photos to complete it as designed(the ones in the book are slightly different).

ANYWAYS:

Here is the Memory Box I created using the Tattered Angels Glimmer Kit as my foundation. This was designed to hold many of your trinkets and treasures that were collected on your Creative Escape journey. You could, of course, change the title if you so wish as you were given an entire package of Framed Font Alphas. We covered it with BEAUTIFUL My Mind's Eye papers from the LUSH Collection. We embellished with lovely Prima flowers, pearls, swirls and lace. We finished the box top off with a lovely Vintaj Arte Metal Butterfly and a graphic 45 tag:)

Here you will see that the Tattered Angels Framed Font alphas have been inked to show off that beautiful embossed pattern. Note that they extend about 1/2" off the bottom of the Chip Tile.

The Chipboard Butterfly has been backed with the My Mind;s Eye Flocked Paper Damask remnant. It has been mounted to the left edge of the tile (part of it is hanging off the edge).

"CREATIVE" has been reinforced with some Crackle Accents to make sure it really sticks as it will be manhandled quite a bit. I highly recommend adding a thick coat of Crackle Accents to the top of the "CREATIVE" letters and allowing to dry overnight to add a beautiful bit of dimension.
Note that the flocked damask has been secured over the lace border.

The Vintaj Butterfly has had the wings bent up and then it was secured to the large Prima flower using FabriTak or Tombow Metal Glue.

Secure papers from "Outer Box" bag to edges of box. Double check length of papers prior to securing... make any adjustments if necessary.

You will be cutting down the My Mind's Eye paper (flocked Polka Dot) according to the instructions in your Creative Escape Idea book. You will have a few inches left to use as you wish in your BONUS project (mini book- I will post those pics tomorrow).
Now, you will attach the many papers from the "Inner Box" Bag. PLEASE be sure to lay out ALL papers in place prior to attaching. You MAY need to rearrange or make slight adjustments on paper dimensions to make all pieces fit and cover all internal cardboard components.Notice that the semi circle at the front of the box was covered with a straight strip of paper. I also did NOT attach the cardboard at the one end inside to allow for the lid of the box to close.

Be sure to round 2 corners on the piece that goes on the flap. The same will be done for the paper that covers the paper on the other side of the flap.

Going back to the top of the box, you want to remove the tag from the Graphic 45 Tag Sheet (2nd in from top and left). Turn it so the hole is on the left side, tie tulle through the hole and mount "Savor the Journey". Attach to border strip.
Layer Prima Flower Clusters (NOTE: your flowers MAY differ from the ones shown). Use FabriTak to secure them together and on the box. Attach Say it in Pearl Center Kisses to the centers of the flowers.

Cut apart Prima Crystal Swirl into smaller segments and adhere to the top of box as desired. Tuck the My Mind's Eye Flocked Finch into the flower clusters as desired and secure with adhesive.

That should pretty much cover all that may have been left with your boxes from my Creative Escape classes. Now, for those of you that did NOT make it to Creative Escape but want to create the project, I am pretty certain they have kits available for sale as well as the AMAZING Idea Books. They were beautifully done and showcase all projects by the various teachers.

I should also mention that there is a co-ordinating Mini Book that fits perfectly inside the box. ALL products needed for it are in your kits so please do take the time to finish it up. You won't be sorry... I promise! You will also have an assortment of of leftovers that will allow you to create a couple of personal pages for it as well... I would LOVE to see pics of your finished project:) Send me photos at trisha.lado@gmail.com. Maybe I will post a couple of finished ones that have been customized to provide further inspiration!

Tomorrow, I will post pics of MY book (that you have the instructions for in your Idea Book) just so you all can see what my entire project consisted of.

Ladies... I am soooooooo sorry you had homework!!! LOL! You all know that I am NOT very good at 90 minute classes... I tried. I REALLY REALLY tried but alas, I failed. I hope you can forgive me and enjoy the project anyways!

I know I enjoyed having the opportunity to share it with you and hope you enjoyed it as much as I!

Happy Scrappin' and enjoy the process of finishing this up!

(((HUGS)))

Trisha

Creative Escape 2010 Wrap Up!

2010-08-30T19:40:00.001-06:00

Left to Right: Heidi Swapp, Claudine Hellmuth, Teresa Collins, Pam Black, Maggie Holmes, ME, Jessica Sprague, Margie Romney- Aslett.

WOW! As I sit here in my cluttered kitchen (I still have a tonne of unpacking to do) and begin to think about all the amazing happenings of this past weekend, I am blown away. Absolutely each and every detail was taken care of for each and every facet of the amazing event we all know as CREATIVE ESCAPE. I knew going into it that it would be unlike any other event in the industry but in no way was I prepared for the magnitude of perfection we encountered. A HUGE thank you to Doug Jones (Mr. Bazzill) for having the faith in me as a teacher/designer to bring me on board for this event. To stand alongside of the most talented ladies (my own personal idols;) was indeed an honour. Their talent is outstanding and even more so are their sweet personalities that shone through with all they did to welcome me to their team.

The Bazzill team (Lisa, Mona and Franni... along with all of the other fabulous people involved) are like a well oiled machine. It was amazing to see the fruits of their labour. I know we have all been planning this event for at least the past 9 months (i referred to it as being similar to having a baby or getting married). Very few "glitches" occurred (if you can even call it that) and they were rectified almost immediately! With an even of this magnitude, that was VERY impressive! I am so thankful for their hard work and I know all attendees feel the same.

The volunteers were AMAZING! I am not sure what I would have done without my two lovely gals... they were lifesavers in my extremely large classes. They knew their stuff and were absolutely BRILLIANT TA's! Thanks girls:)

OH! And I have to mention Shye and her amazing sugar cookies and cupcakes in a jar. Simply amazing girl and your sweets were such a heavenly treat! THANKS!

The attendee's were just as amazing. Their excitement truly made this event spectacular! I loved being able to meet so many new friends and I look forward to hopefully meeting them all again one day soon in my travels. Hook me up on Facebook ladies (search: Trisha Green- Ladouceur).

And the sponsors. WOW!!!!!!!!!!! Now I need to take a minute and talk about their amazing participation. I knew going into this event that it would mean asking A LOT of the people that I work with in the industry to support my classes. The numbers of kits that would be needed was not a small number (it was MASSIVE). Their financial investment was substantial. I knew that going into it. Yet, these amazing companies still felt they could trust me to represent their companies and products to the attendees. I had no idea though really just how large of an investment it was until I saw the pallets of boxes that were labeled for my classes (the above pic is only one of a few). I actually got a bit emotional when I saw it firsthand and was happy that I had a few minutes alone in my classroom to soak it all in. To say THANK YOU just does not seem like enough but from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate all that each and everyone of you did! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

I mentioned to my students in class that if you would please take a minute to show your appreciation for their generosity, I KNOW they would love it! Feel free to email me at trisha.lado@gmail.com and I will forward it to the powers that be at each company OR visit their websites and blogs and I am sure you could leave a comment for them there! So without further adieu here are their websites (Just click on their name).

Tattered Angels: (They provided the Glimmer Kits for all attendees. Wendy and Rachel came to handle the misting components of my project)

Prima: Flowers, Crystal Swirls, Lace, Say it in Pearl Center Kisses

My Mind's Eye: LUSH papers

Graphic 45: On the Boardwalk papers and die cut tags

Riff Raff Designs: Laser Cut Chipboard Elements

Hambly: Screenprint Overlays

Bazzill: Cardstock, tulle

Stix 2: Double Sided Tape, ATS 50 guns and adhesives, Foam Mounting Squares

Ranger: Crackle Accents, Black Paint Daubbers

Westcott: Scissors

Vintaj: Arte Metal Butterfly

Tombow: Metal Glue

Thanks again to each and everyone of the companies listed above. Please know that I truly appreciate your support as always and could not have had such an amazing experience with you:) Love you all not only as business associates but dear friends:) (((HUGS)))!

OKAY! Now how about some of the fun stuff???? Now that we have the "business" out of the way, let's get to more of the fun details!

First... the Wild Horse Pass Resort.

For being in the middle of the Arizona, it truly was a little piece of paradise!

The only downside, with the temperature hovering around the 105-110 mark, it was just too darn hot to enjoy too many activities outdoors, but I did try to take a few minutes at a time to absorb some of the peaceful surroundings. If you ever get a chance to visit this resort... DO IT! You will not regret it! Everything about it was wonderful:)

Getting to hang out with some wonderful ladies whom I proudly call my friends was priceless! Teresa (as well as the others) were absolute gems and I will cherish their new friendships always!

So onto the actual event. Thursday was Trunk Show day for us teachers. This was an opportunity for attendees to come and check out some of our work and to meet us. It was such an honour to meet these lovely ladies! They were so sweet and kind. I was blown away by their kindness and sweet words. Here is a pic of my display:)

I also made new friends! Isn't this the cutest cricket EVER?! I loved getting to play with the Provo Craft Cricut Cricket:)

For now, I am going to bed and I am going to try to catch up on some much needed sleep tonite! I know I promised many of you ladies pics of my class project. I will get it up Tuesday, I promise. I am not finding the pics on my computer so I will retake them in the morning and post them as soon as possible! I know you all have a few finishing touches to put on your Trinkets and Treasures Box and I want you to be able to do it my project was intended! Plus... it means you will have to come back and visit me here again... heheheheh! Just kidding! I just can't seem to find the right file... aaaaaaargh!

Anyways, I would LOVE to hear your feedback! What dod you think of the event? What did you enjoy best? What are some of your favourite memories? I'd LOVE to hear some good stories:)

Have a great night and remember to be creative everyday:)

where has the summer gone?

2010-08-21T08:26:00.000-06:00

It has flown by so quickly and I have been horrible as I have not updated this blog in more than a month! That must be a sign that it has been a fun and busy one, right? Well, I think so! I have been away more than I have been home (or so it seems) and with all we have had going on it just did not leave a lot of time for blogging. SO now I will give you a quick update!

July started with a trip to Orlando for the ultimate mama date with my boys, Logan and Carter. Daddy stayed home (couldn't get the time off) but I made sure it was a vacation but boys would not forget. They truly were in heaven and had a great time! All except for Carter who on the day we were at Universal Studios' Island of Adventure wound up with heat stroke. That brought the day to a screeching halt but he was better by the next day to enjoy more of the trip!
As soon as I returned, I headed into CHA prep mode. Tonnes of samples were created for My Mind's Eye, Graphic 45 and Prima. I love the excitement that surrounds this event and feel so very blessed to be able to be a part of the uber fabulous Prima Show Team. We always ahve such a great time and I think that this was one of the better shows. I had a GREAT time with all and look forward to CHA-W in Los Angeles in January.

After the show, I went with my sweet friend Carla and her friend (Both from the Netherlands) into Chicago and met up with my Crazy Canuck friends, the amazing Vicki Boutin and Leica Forrest! You just gotta know we had a rocking time and saw some great sights, had some yummy food and even did an architectural boat tour... AMAZING! I really LOVE Chicago... it truly is a beautiful city. It's just too bad I didn't have more time to explore. I can't wait to return again someday!

A few days after I got back, my hubby Drew and I headed out for our first vacation ever without the kids. YUP!!!! We so needed it and before I knew it we were on a plane to NEW YORK CITY!

This is my favourite place on earth! And I was so happy to be able to go with my husband. We had 5 great days of seeing the sights, shopping, eating and going to a couple of amazing broadway shows. We went to see Promises, Promises (totally FUN!) and Billy Elliot. WOW! What a production Billy Elliot was, it literally brought me to tears several times and I was bawling like a baby! Those kids are so flipping talented and the story was beautiful. If you ever get the chance to see it.. do NOT let it pass you by! It was worth every single penny and I would see it over and over again!

That brings me up to now. I have been working since I got back on my fall classes and I am getting close to having them all finished up. You know what else is coming up? CREATIVE ESCAPE!!!!!! Yup! Tomorrow I leave for the desert and the beautiful Wild Pass Resort for what is sure to be an experience unlike anything I have ever been a part of! These folks have it together big time! I feel so very blessed to be a part of something so amazing:) And teaching alongside of superstars like Heidi Swapp, Teresa Collins, Margie Romney- Aslett, Jessica Sprague, Claudine Hellmuth, Maggie Holmes and Pam Black... wow! I am still in awe!!! I am like a giddy little school girl and look forward to an amazing weekend with gals from all over the globe! I even know of a couple girls I met while teaching in Norway who are making the jaunt across the big pond to attend. I think there are a few last minute spaces available so be sure to check it out if you are looking for a last minute getaway! Well worth it, I promise!

So there you have it. I will really try to be more on the ball with this blogging thing. I think it'll be so much easier once life returns to normal in the fall.

Also, just a heads up that there are still a few spots left in my "Weekend to Unwind" events with Scrapbook Parade in Langord BC (Sept 17-19) and The Scrap Shack in Riverview, NB. Both have several uber fun classes that will knock your socks off as they are jampacked with products, techniques and I have tonnes of prizes to share... come on out and play with us! You will be glad you did:)

My Mind's Eye BIRTHDAY Blog Hop!

2010-07-16T06:36:00.000-06:00

My Mind's Eye Blog is 1 year old! Happy BIRTHDAY!!!!

(BIRTHDAY is the word you need from me)

And who would have guessed that we would have so much fun over there?! I would!

How could we not really? It started with a fabulous company that has been a favourite of ours for the past 10 years. They create STUNNING products that we all adore. My Mind's Eye also have a great staff that for those of us that have the privilege of knowing them... they are pretty amazing! Such a great group of people:)

Add in our group of gals on the DT and it's all a perfect match! We are so fortunate to be blessed with the talents of a new Guest designer each and every month! There are always projects for every style on the blog as we have such a diverse group of talent. I am still shaking my head in disbelief each day as I am reminded how lucky I am to be a part of something so great!

Not only have I had the privilege of designing for them but I am also able to share my passion for their products as an endorsed educator! Chances are if you have been to one of the events I have taught at over the past couple of years, you probably noticed a very have My Mind's Eye presence. I look forward to sharing many more in the days to come... be sure to come and play with me if you notice that I will be in your neighbourhood. You will be thrilled, I assure you!

Anyways, so you joined me (TRISHA LADOUCEUR) here probably as a result of the Blog Hop we have going on. If you are just joining me, be sure to go to the My Minds Eye blog to start. There are a tonne of prizes to be had and a coupe ways to win. All details are posted on the My Mind's Eye Blog so head on over!

I am sure you have been inspired by a couple of the other gals posts featuring a few of their favourite projects from this past year so hopefully you will find mine just as inspiring!

I will keep it simple, I have two favourites and for 2 very different reasons! This one (shown above) I adore because of the blingy fun I have going on! I love the layers, colours and all of the enhancements to the premade embelllies with plenty of bling:) It's very detailed and that is just how I like it. I like losing myself in a project when I create and this was a pleasant day creating this layout.

This one on the other hand was so very simple for me. And that is what I am learning to LOVE and My Mind's Eye makes it so easy. All of their products work so well together that whether I use them as intended or customize them to suit my needs, I always end up with a project I am thrilled with! The colour palettes are perfect for masculine and feminine projects and I can always find something to suit the mood of the photos. It's not too often you can find a company that manufactures a group of products where something will appeal to everyone and their individual tastes:)

Okay, so to recap... you came to me from Jana's blog right? Well now... you need to hop on over to Tamara's Blog! Leave a comment at each stop, figure out the secret phrase, email it to Amber@mymindseye.com and have a chance to win a fun My Mind's Eye BIRTHDAY surprise (one of EVERY - new collection we are releasing at CHA. That's right: Alphabet Soup, both Halloween, both Christmas and the entire Lost & Found collections)!

Have a GREAT weekend and Happy Scrapping!!!!

School's Out For Summer!

2010-06-30T05:35:00.001-06:00

Where has the year gone? My boys are finished school for another year and are excited to have 2 whole months off:) This should be a pretty spectacular summer for them too:)

I spontaneously booked a week long vacation to Orlando and we leave on MONDAY! Yup!!! 5 days! Just me and my boys... unfortunately, my hubby could not get the time off work:(

Anyways, I am sure I will have plenty of fresh photos to scrap (YAY!). Logan and Carter are at GREAT ages to really enjoy the parks (11&10 respectively). Last time we only went to MGM and Magic Kingdom. This time we will also visit Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Universal Studios and Sea World(including the New AQUATICA.. which looks AMAZING!). Anyways, I will update you if I can. In the mean time, I am going to bring a bag of scrapstuff so I have it so I can work in the hotel while my munchkins sleep. I plan on keeping them so busy all they will want to do is sleep when they get to the hotel...lol!

Have a fab day everyone!

OH!!! And one last thing... my Weekend to Unwind events at both Scrapbook Parade in BC and The Scrap Shack in New Brunswick are filling fast and spaces are almost gone. I would LOVE to see you there and hope you will spread the word, grab a gal pal or two and meet me there!

Looking for something to do next weekend???

2010-06-17T17:46:00.000-06:00

I was asked by a fellow scrapper in Edmonton (Misty) to post this and see if we can spread the word! If you are in the Edmonton area, please spread the word. It would be great to see this event sell out! I copied and pasted this from Anam's blog:)

On June 26th we are holding a fundraising event to contribute to a trust fund for a dear friend (Andrea) and her children (a daughter age 12 and a son age 10) whose husband is sadly losing his battle with colon cancer. He was diagnosed in the fall, and after a recent failed surgery attempt, he has been given only months to live. The cancer has spread throughout his abdomen, and is completely inoperable. This is Lloyd's second run in with cancer, and although he bravely fought and won the first time, he is not so lucky this time around.

This is a family who has done all of the right things. They had been putting money away for their retirement, keeping minimal debt and purchasing what little insurance is available to them. They never assumed any of this would ever happen to them. Lloyd had cancer when he was 19 years old and because of this, they were not able to get life or disability insurance. They have exhausted their finances and savings. What little disability benefit they are receiving is nowhere near enough to keep the family going. The prospect of ongoing medical treatment bills and eventual funeral expenses are daunting, to say the least.

We need to ensure that Andrea and her children can have a future without Lloyd and this trust fund will help them get by after his passing. I am one of a group of seven women that became very close to Andrea while we worked together at a local scrapbooking store, and we continue to get together on a regular basis. It pains us to see her in so much distress and we are doing everything we can to ensure that this trust fund will make life a little easier for her family during such a difficult time. We have decided to hold events such as scrapbooking crops, raffles and silent auctions to contribute to this trust fund.

Saturday, June 26, 2010
10 AM to Midnight
Elmwood Community Hall
16415 – 83 Ave

The fee to register is $60 which includes 14 hours of scrapbooking, two meals, snacks, HUGE door prizes (one of our prizes is a Cricut), games, fabulous goodie bags and a product sale.

I am trying to reach out to the Edmonton scrapbook community for support and to help spread the word. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Misty Kuefler (email for more details: mkuefler@vsm.ab.ca)

Quick Edit:

Amber is actually the person taking registrations her contact info is...(780) 720-4588 or amberhartwig@shaw.ca. the facebook group is 8 Strong Hearts.

Creative Escape Sneak peek!!!!!

2010-06-17T09:10:00.000-06:00

Creative Escape is quickly approaching (August 26-28) and I find it so hard to believe it is creeping up on me so fast! I feel so very blessed to be a part of this event and the fact that I have the amazing support for my class from some of the most phenomenal companies in the industry! Here is a sneak peek of just a few of the things we will be playing with!

OH YEAH BABY!

Does this peak your curiosity? It should! It is by far one of the best projects I have ever designed and I cannot wait to share it with Creative Escape attendees from around the globe! Whoooohooooooo!!!!

I am not sure why that is all underlined and I am not seeing the button to remove it so forgive me, okay?!

Anyways, I am so grateful to the following companies... be sure to check out their websites to see what they have been up to!

Tattered Angels
Prima Marketing
My Mind’s Eye
Riff Raff Designs
Vintaj

Hambly
Ranger
Bazzill Basics Paper
Wescott
Stix 2 Anything

Graphic 45... amazing us again!

2010-06-16T08:30:00.000-06:00

So the sneak peeks have started ALREADY for Graphic 45's newest releases! Usually, they hold off to ship until CHA but these Graphic 45 ladies know how to make us girls happy and will begin shipping ASAP! You MUST run on over to their blog (HERE) and check out the "Halloween in Wonderland Collection"! It's simply FABULOUS and most certainly the most unique collection of Halloween papers I have ever seen!

Another FABULOUS Weekend to Unwind Event...

2010-06-01T09:49:00.000-06:00

I am sooooo excited to announce that I have been invited to attend The Scrap Shack's annual Scrap Gala this coming September in New Brunswick!

September 24-26, 2010 I will be bringing my Weekend to Unwind Event to paper crafters in New Brunswick, Canada for a nonstop weekend full of fabulous classes. Using the hottest products by the most popular manufacturers in our industry, you will participate in 6 jampacked classes bursting at the seams with amazing techniques that will take your paper crafting projects to an entirely new level of fun!

All 6 classes along with some crop time are available for a low price for a limited time. Check out their website for more details! www.scrapshack.ca

Stay tuned in the coming weeks as I add new photos of the actual projects as a few are awaiting the arrival of the CHA- Summer releases before I can call them complete! In the mean time, here is another collage of sneak peeks from the Mixed Media Album:

And here is one for the Vintage Cards Class:

As you can see, the class projects will be pretty amazing and know that the other ones will be just as fun! Feel free to drop me an email at : trisha.lado@gmail.com should you have any questions!

A VERY Creative Week!

2010-05-26T12:14:00.001-06:00

Lots of eye candy to be shared... It seems all of my Design Team Posts were scheduled for this week so be sure to spend some time checking this out at Graphic 45:

My Mind's Eye has some loveliness too!!!!

I just LOVE the LUSH Collection and played quite heavily with it this week. Be sure to check out their blog for more detailed photos and descriptions!

Last but not least... and EPIC post on the Tattered Angels Blog! It's kind of a Design Team/ Educator post all rolled into one!

There are a plethora of tips and tricks for creatively using Glimmer Mist (including the new Chalkboard Mist), Glimmer Glaze and Glimmer Glam!

Speaking of Tattered Angels NEW goodies, be sure to check out the latest issue of Canadian Scrapbook Magazine! I wrote an article for the Summer issue on these new goodies and explained some of the basics. Be sure to check it out (they are on sale now at a Scrapbook Store near you~ in Canada anyways!) For those of you out of our borders, I am pretty sure you can order this publication online! Check out www.canadianscrapbooker.ca.

I did several projects using some of my favourite manufactures and LOVE how they all came together for this assignment!

Now that I have that all finished with this week, I have a few details to work out regarding more upcoming classes!!!! There are plenty of exciting things in the works and I will be announcing them soon! Stay tuned:)

Happy Scrapbooking!

Blog Hop with Graphic 45 and Tombow!

2010-05-24T11:35:00.001-06:00

I just want to share a bit of fun that is going on over at Graphic 45. WE have paired up with

our generous sponsor, Tombow to create some fun rpojects using both Graphic 45 goodies and their adhesives. They have asked us to give away some of their great products! Well, Graphic 45 just had to say YES! So bring on the comments, as we will randomly pick ONE winner at the end of the swap to win this FAB prize package from Tombow! Yahoo!

Head on over to the Graphic 45 Blog and leave a comment for your chance to win!

Then, be sure to click on over to the TOMBOW BLOG for more inspiration!

Where does one start????

2010-05-16T19:26:00.001-06:00

I am sitting in the Phoenix airport in a restaurant waiting to board my flight home after a fabulous weekend in the Bazzill Warehouse with some of the most talented ladies on the planet participating in the Creative Escape Preview Day. What is the Preview day you ask? Well, the teachers are brought to Arizona and all of the event volunteers take the classes that will be offered at the event. It's the chance for us as teachers to refine our projects so that the attendees get absolute perfection right out of the gates! We figure out what worked and what did not so we can tweak anything that needs tweaking before the actual event. It's brilliant planning on Creative Escapes part really.

So many great things came from this weekend though. First...

The view. I have never been to Arizona (except for the airport once or twice). The event is at Wild Horse Pass Resort and this is where we, the teachers stayed this weekend. All I can say s OH MY GOODNESS!!!! Never have I had the priviledge in staying in such a phenomenal resort. The staff there were out of this world friendly and helpful and already they are anticipating the arrival of all the scrapbookers! They love us as much as we do them! The above pic is the view from my balcony. Funky cactuses, lovely river thingy, golf course and mountains. They were breathtaking in the early morning as the sun was rising. I was awestruck at the beauty... seriously.

Big and small, there were cactuses everywhere! Totally cool!

The first night I was there was so much fun! Emily picked me up at the resort and took me to Scrapbooks, Etc (the store owned by Marti Jones... they also own Bazzill). I was BLOWN away at the size of this store. UNREAL! I am sure she has to carry more product than any store I have ever been too and now she does fabric too! I got lost in there! Overwhelmed really. Next time, I am planning a day trip so I can shop till I drop! Heidi Swapp was teaching a Tattered Angels class so Emily and I helped her get ready for it and get things rolling! Then we took off to Krispy Cream Donuts. We wanted to get a treat for the students. Little did we know that it was some anniversary and the line up was out the door and around the sidewalk!!!! We were in line for more than an hour to get our fabulous treats:) Well worth the wait but a darn good thing they don't have any in Canada cuz that could cause some serious damage to my backside...lol! Anyways, I had a great night with Heidi and Emily and am grateful they let me tag along! Oh... and we even went to an authentic Mexican restaurant for dinner(I got my fix!!!!).

On the first day, I also had a few hours to myself and actually had a chance to unwind a bit. I sat by one of 3 pools, under an umbrella enjoying a cold drink and reading my book. It was so peaceful! LOVED it!!!

Anyways, Friday and Saturday was a total of 7 classes taught by the uber talented Heidi Swapp, Claudine Hellmuth, Maggie Holmes, Pam Black, Jessica Sprague, Teresa Collins and lil old me:) Can't believe I have the opportunity to be a part of something so amazing!

Last night, Teresa, Claudine and I went for a fab dinner to wrap up our weekend. What a joy to be in their company and form a friendship with these gals! They are amazing people and I am blessed to call them my friends:)

WOW... every now and then you just have to sit back and reflect on your blessings. I am feeling pretty good that I have the people in my life that I do but I am anxious to get home to the most important people of all, my hubby Drew and our boys, Logan and Carter! I miss them like mad and look forward to just chilling with them for a few days:)

Have a great week everyone!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Feeling good!

2010-05-11T16:02:00.000-06:00

SO many things to do in the next 24 hours as I prepare to head to Mesa, Arizona (suburb of Phoenix). I hop on a plane bright and early Thursday morning and head for a little piece of paradise. I going to meet up with the Creative Escape Crew for what is sure to be a phenomenal weekend as it's the Preview Day. This is where we as tachers do a "run though" of our classes so we can perfect them before the real thing in August! I am sooooooooo excited (yet very nervous at the same time and that is NOT like me!!!). But did you get a look at who the other teachers are??? OMG!!!!! I am playing with the big girls this time around... yeaaaaahhhhh!!!!! Here's hoping all goes well and they love my class as much as I do!

In the mean time, I wanted to let you know that this new blog of mine (courtesy of the uber fabulous JESSI LUTE) will be my little project to complete once I get back! There are lots of little details that only I can finish up and then it will be ready to rock! Thanks for your patience:)

I have so many pun things I want to share with you but alas, you will have to wait! I'll try to post from the resort though!

Have a great week!

OMG!!!!!

2010-05-03T12:08:00.001-06:00

I Have to put this out there... my dear friend Jessi is redoing my blog (it desperately needed a major fix)... this is where she is at so far!

Jessi, you are amazing and I am so appreciative of the work you are putting into this for me... thank you!

LAdies, leave her some love and then go check her out! She is getting into the biz of blogs on a grander scale and I am sure you gals will agree that this girl is pretty flipping amazing (and she tells me she isn't even finished yet!!!!). Can you tell how excited I am????

Thanks Miss Jessi!!!

Happy national scrapbook day

2010-05-01T18:01:00.000-06:00

Well, two classes down
And one to go tonite:) our weekend to unwind
event in grande prairie at artfully inspired has been a huge success!!! 3 of 6 classes are complete and the ladies have enjoyed them thouroughly! Here are a few pics with more to follow!!!

Margret scrapping with a broken arm.., now this girl is a die hard!! Lol!

Sondi assembling a canvas using mme lush... Mmmmm!!!'
Lots of smiles and good times!!! Happy scrapping everyone!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Heading out on the road agin...

2010-04-28T06:48:00.001-06:00

but before I go I want to wish you all a HAPPY NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY this weekend:) What are your plans? Anything exciting? Let me know!!!

For you Edmonton ladies, I was teaching at Treasured Memories last night when they were packing up the door prizers and goodie bags and all I can say is OMG!!!!!!!! I really wish I was going to be there to play... next year, I must sign up for the weekend as the ladies are getting spoiled! I am sure that is the same no matter where you go. Retailers and manufacturers LOVE to treat their customers right and do all sorts of fun stuff that weekend. No matter where you are... head to YOUR Lss and support them. Without them, our industry would be pretty boring and we'd be stuck with Michael's, Walmart and the dollar stores. Yeah... not so good so get out here and SHOP!!! Chances are you'll find some pretty wicked deals this weekend too making it even more worthwhile!

This weekend I am off to Artfully Inspired in Grande Prairie, AB. I am teaching 6 classes and they are filling up fast!!! There is still time to get in on some of the classes so call (780)402-2789 to register! We have lots of fun planned and you do not want to miss out!

I also have designed a NEW class.... it'll be taught for the first time May 13, 2010 at MYSTIC PAPER in Mesa, Arizona!

This is a Prima Endorsed class using the latest Build-A-Book release that is a combination pack of canvas on chipboard and clear pages. Some of the techniques in this book are so very fun and are sure to make you giddy with excitement as you anticipate the next time you want to implement all that you have learned! In true "Trisha" style, it is full of lumps and bumps, layers and texture. It's a one time class at Mystic Paper as I am there only for the weekend (Creative Escape Preview Days!!!!). I hope you will come out and play with me! Call the store at 480.834.0286 to register today.

Canadian girls... or Vancouver Island girls more particularly, this will also be taught at Scrapbook Parad e in Langford, BC September 17-19. I know it sounds like it is far off BUT Carol just announced this class a couple of days ago and all classes are more than half full, this one is about 3/4 full so you do NOT want to delay! Spaces will not last long!

Graphic 45...

2010-04-26T15:22:00.000-06:00

It's official (or it was a few weeks ago) but today they have put me up on their blog! That means it's real and has not been a dream!!! YIPPEE!!!

I cannot tell you how honoured I am to be a part of such a talented group of ladies designing for an even more amazing company. WOW!

I have had the privilege of teaching for Graphic 45 as an Endorsed Educator for well over a year. I have LOVED creating projects with their vintage inspired products. They work so very well with so many of my other favourite companies (Tattered Angels, Prima and My Mind's Eye)- YUP! Even MME... not one you'd usually think of putting together but MAN!! Does it ever look gorgeous together!!! Just wait until you see what I did for my class at Creative Escape. The above companies are all sponsors of my class and I had a GREAT time combining them into the most amazing class I have ever designed (can you tell I LOVE IT???!!!)

Anyways, check it out if you get the chance:) I know the new team is bursting at the seams waiting to get the game started!

The pic I have shown above was part of my DT entry... I used the Le Romantique Collection. It is quite possibly one of the most beautiful collections of paper I have ever used:) Simply STUNNING!

Have a great day and Happy Scrapping!!!

A little bit of eye candy for you...

2010-04-25T08:23:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share a few pics of some cards I created the othe day using the fabulous Meadowlark "DUSK" Collection from My Mind's Eye. I LOVE the slightly distressed black and white patterns in this collection and know that I will be using a lot of it in the coming days!

Here is a closer look at how I layered the scalloped borders (done with the Fiskars Border Punch). This is a little flap that actually comes around to the front of the card.

Below is another card, again using the Fiskars border punch. I used the Black LUSH collection of decorative epoxy brads and ribbons.

This last one actually includes a tag that pulls out of the pocket on the front (the top of the tag is with the triangular piece near the top). Layer assorted die cuts from the accessory sheet to finish it off perfectly!

I have had a pretty productive weekend thus far... I am feeling pretty good about all I accomplished! I am hoping today is just as productive!!! I am hoping YOU are having a great weekend too! I completed a class sample for a location to be announced within the next couple of days as well as for Scrapbook Parade... that even is in September, was just announced this week and so far the response has been out of this world! You won't want to leave signing up for this event until the lsat minute as you will be OUT OF LUCK!

I plan on doing a bit more preparations for our Weekend to Unwind Event coming up NEXT weekend in Grande Prairie at Artfully Inspired! Are you coming? Leave a comment to introduce yourself! There are still spaces available so be sure to call and get your name in before they fill! (780)402 2789! Many samples are in store so drop by to check them out!

Trinkets and Treasures runs at Treasured Memories on Tuesday evening... I always love this store!

Happy Scrapping Everyone!

Weekend to Unwind in Grande Prairie...

2010-04-23T05:56:00.000-06:00

Less than one week and a I will be in Grande Prairie at Artfully Inspired for another fabulous weekend of classes, cropping, great food and unforgettable fun! I shipped off a few of the class samples (I had to hang on to the Trinkets and Treasures Album as that is being taught at Treasured Memories in Edmonton on April 27).

There are still spaces available and you have to register if you want your chance to win a prize valued at more than $200.oo!!! Ask the ladies in Courtenay... the box was overflowing with goodies and I have been known to add goodies to it throughout the weekend. Lynn Fitzpatrick was the lucky gal there and she walked away with nearly $400.00 in that stash! Another gal, Jasmine, walked away with a prize pack worth more than $100.00 as a result of an impromtu giveaway so don't delay and register today! Call Tanya at (780)402-2789. Or better yet, stop in the store to check them out. Just keep in mind that the samples have put a few miles on and may look it...lol! But yo will get the idea. And the most inmportant thing about my classes... you have the option of personalizing most of them to suit your needs. Many of them come with their own alphas to swap out the titles (True Beauty and the recipe box can be changed in this case).

One of the pages of the Trinkets and Treasures Album (this one is so fun as there are pockets, flaps and tags on every page!):Here is some of the beautiful detailing you will do in the True Beauty layout Class... you will never look at patterned paper the same way again!

One of the cards in the Vintage Card Class: Check out the heart and crown... that is one of the NEW Tim Holtz Dies and many of the cards in this class will be using them! They are soooo much fun!
Here is another sneak peek of one of the cards... you will work with fabulous papers that scream VINTAGE! Many of the embellishments are everyday items that you will never look at the same way again!

I hope I have wetted your appetite and I look forward to seeing you there! Be sure to drop me an email if you have any questions regarding these classes at trisha.lado@gmail.com.

Now speaking of Weekend to Unwind Events... they are popping up EVERYWHERE! I am thrilled to announce that we have just announced the dates for another FABULOUS weekend! I am thrilled to be joining Carol and team at SCRAPBOOK PARADE in Victoria (Langford), BC! I will be there teaching a FRESH new line up of classes perfect for gift giving (if you can bare to give them away) September 17-19!!! The store will be taking registrations right away and I KNOW these spaces will not last long so I hope you will plan on coming and joining in on the fun! You will definitely hear more about it in the coming weeks so stay tuned:)

Alright, I am hoping for a weekend full of scrapping fun! It's rainy here this morning and if it sticks around, I always find it so soothing to scrap in the rain I guess it's because I know I can't go out in it anyways so I might as well sit back and enjoy the time. Ahhhhh... there is nothing better than just giving into your creative desires!!!

Happy Scrapping everyone!

Trisha

life long friends!

2010-04-16T22:10:00.000-06:00

So one of my definite highlights of my trip to Vancouver Island last weekend to teach my classes for the ladies (and gent) of Courtenay, BC's SCRAPBOOK CENTRAL was haing the chance to hang with my bestest far away bud Jamie "HAM" Matson (nee Hamilton). I have known her since I was 11 years old and living in Victoria. We kept in touch over the years but haven't seen each other in nearly 15 years. I was over the moon excited to be able to see her if only for a few hours. And she was such a good sport, she hung out in the hotel room while I was teaching... totally wasting her Friday night on me! I loved getting to catch up... it has definitely been too long and no way will I let it go that long again. Hoping to see her again this summer or fall at the latest and hopefully we can get in a better visit!

You can tell in this pic that I only got about 2.5 hours of sleep, eh? Oh well, it was worth it! Thanks again Ham (funny little nickname, eh? WEll, mine was worse... WAAAAAY worse!) for the visit. I can't wait to see you again soon!

Okay, so the Weekend to Unwind, well, as you can see the ladies were out in full force! We had 6 amazing classes and the projects were rocking... if I do say so myself!!! LOL! This is the True Beauty/ Lumpy Bumpy layout Prima class. There were a few spots left before I got there and once they saw the projects... it sold right out... IMMEDIATELY! The kits were bursting with lovely Prima goodness and the ladies created a layout full of breathtaking detail. Ladies in Grande Prairie, you do not want to delay... sign up NOW! Call (780)402 2789.

Okay, jumping back to BC... I have to show you a few pics of some of the NON class stuff. First I did not make it to the ocean:( I saw it from afar but alas, no time to dip the toes. Next time for sure! But I did see wildlife. YUP! This deer came to see me (yes, I said ME... he came for a visit cuz her heard there was a city slicker hanging around). HE stood staring at me for long time while I got giddy with excitement in my barefeet on Diane's deck on a frosty cool morning. This pics is a bit blurry but it was FAR away with my crappy little point and shoot zoomed in at full max. You get the idea though right?!

A HUGE thank you to Diane and her staff for hosting the Weekend to Unwind last weekend in BC. I appreciate all you did and hope you had a fab time too:) Here we are below at theLOVELY Kingfisher Resort and Spa (who knew something so fancy would be in a small town? Apparently it's one of the best... I know I thought it was GORGEOUS!) Swwet little Sarah also works there and got a smokin' deal on our meal so I was blessed to have Diane agree to take me there rather than Sushi (Thanks Di!!!!!!)

From left to right: Cheryl- Diane's manager, Sarah- sweetest, hippest, coolest chick in Courtenay I am sure! She even skipped school so she could meet me... sssssssssshhhh!!! But she did take one of MY classes to make up for it!!!! Okay net to her is the lovely Diane, hostess with the mostess as my Granny would say... Thanks girl! and then there is little old me and finally this last girl... hmmmmmmm... I wish I could remember her name. She was a friend of Sarahs' but was not at the event nor does she work for Diane. BUT she was a lot of fun too!

So there you have it... less than 2 weeks until the next event in Grande Prairie. I also have the Trinkets and Treasures class coming up at Treasured Memories on April 27... I LOVE the girls over there and I am hoping for a great turnout again:) Ladies, this class is jam packed with a plethora of Graphic 45 as well as co ordinating Prima embellishments!!!! I would love to see you there so call (78)414 1540. Can't make it??? You can still purchase a kit if you get your name on the list. They come with instructions complete with photos so you can complete it at your leisure!

Happy Scrapping everyone:)

p.s. if you girls could send me any photos, I would greatly appreciate it! My email addy is: trisha.lado@gmail.com

Mistified tour down under!

2010-04-08T12:49:00.001-06:00

My fab bosses Wendy Senger (owner of Tattered Angels). and the one and only Heidi Swapp ( my boss at Creative Escape;) are heading to Australia for their Mistified tour!!! Check out the Tattered Angels website for more details at www.mytatteredangels.com

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

getting packed...

2010-04-06T19:28:00.000-06:00

So I am just about packed and ready to hit the road for the weekend:) I am heading to beautiful Vancouver Island to a small town: Courtenay/ Comox. I am thinking it will be GORGEOUS there (I am so looking forward to smelling the fresh sea air)! Scrapbook Central is hosting the FABULOUS "Weekend to Unwind" and Diane and her staff have done a great job getting ready for some fun!

Anyways, I finished kitting the last of the classes here today and thought I would share a sneak peek of the Vintage Card Class:) The funny thing is: this one sold out without a single sneak peek! I knew BC gals (and guys) loved their card classes so I am thrilled they had enough faith in me to sign up without seeing:) These are some of my favourite cards to date:) I updated the kits as I got my hands on the brand new Tim Holtz dies and I HAD to incorporate them... they are AMAZING!

I also wanted to show off the LOVELY Domestic Goddess and Fashionista Collections from Graphic 45. I think they worked really well for these cards:) Very simple and many of the images lend themselves to cardmaking with ease! There are more but I can't give them all away! This class is sold out in BC BUT I do have a few extra kits I think (depending how things go) this weekend. Drop me and email if you are interested ;) trisha.lado@gmail.com

There are spaces in the other classes though and the ACTUAL samples will be in store either late Thursday (depends when my flight gets in and if we make it before closing) but for sure it'll be there Friday morning so you can pop in, see them up close and personal and register! I have a tonne of prizes to share but you HAVE TO BE in attendance. Also, an up to date "What to Bring" list has been posted on the Discussion Board for Scrapbook Central on Facebook... be sure to check it for all you need to bring!

Okay, so I think that is it for now! I still have a tonne of other things to do to get ready for my trip so I best get off this computer and get it done! And I have a project to do for MME's blog post tomorrow! It's our monthly Top Ten Post... are you playing along? I would love to see!

Happy Scrapping everyone!

And to those of you coming this weekend... I look forward to meeting yo and can't wait to play! Be sure to register for the crop too as I plan on playing as well!

When I am back next week, there are some goodies I am getting ready for Creative Escape (who;s going? Did you get your name pulled in the lottery?!) Let me know! I have a few tweaks to make to my class project and it will be PERFECT! It is out of this world and we are sooooo lucky to have the amazing sponsors for it that we do! I will chat more about them in another post though:)

Scrapbook Memories and More class

2010-04-05T11:51:00.000-06:00

Hey girls... just a quick heads up that my TRUE BEAUTY class in Sherwood Park at Scrapbook Memories and More is on for tomorrow night (Tuesday, April 6!) featuring all things PRIMA! It screams "GORGEOUS" with all of the lovely cutwork, lumpy bumpy embellishments and just the right amount of distressing to make it look well loved:) All of this will be combined and mounted on a 12" canvas as it is just too pretty to tuck away in an album:) Wanna come and play with me?I miss my local girls! Call the store to register as there are only a limited number of spaces available:) (780) 449 0603

Can't make it to class, you can still purchase a kit and arrange to get it shipped or drop by to pick it up BUT you need to get your name on their list so call today:)

Spring is upon us and that can only mean...

2010-04-01T22:34:00.000-06:00

My Mind's Eye BLOG HOP DAY!!!

Living in the great white north (aka Canada), Spring cannot come soon enough after a long cold winter! By the time it rolls around I am tired of the cold and snow. I long for all that "Spring" brings. The days finally begin to lengthen, the sun shines a little bit brighter and actually produces a bit of warmth which results in life arising from the remnants of last years vegetation revealing itself from beneath the blanket of snow that protected it for so many months.

Unfortunately it also means that things are not so pretty looking right now. Everything is varying shades of a dull grey or dead brown. It sounds a bit depressing, eh? Well really, it is NOT! Nope! Even though things appear to be bleak and dismal, they are really just waiting for the perfect moment to reveal their inner beauty and if they make us practice patience, we sure do appreciate it a whole lot more!

This is the lesson I am trying to share with my son through this layout is that even when all seems to be all gloom, there is always a BRIGHT side... you just have to look for it. When you remain optimistic, the sun will shine a little more BRIGHT, the grass will eventually grow greener, the flowers will bloom in a variety of BRIGHT colours... the possibilities are endless... you just have to know it will eventually happen and be patient and optimistic in the mean time! I hope this analogy sheds some light on life to my pre-teen son who is showing some less than chipper outlooks on life at times lately (eeeeeeek.... hormones already!!!LOL!) Now where did this all come from you ask?

Well.... there is actually some FUN involved in me dealing with an 11 year old tonite that has a bit of Spring Fever apparently! It inspired me to create THIS layout using the BRAND NEW "So Sophie" Collection from My Mind's Eye! YUP!!!!!!! This was only released to retailers on April 1- yesterday (they only got to see pics and place orders) but the amazing folks at MME sent me a box bursting with the latest and greatest and all I can say is WOW! Imagine how happy I was when I called Amber to ask if I could use it for this assignment and her answer was "yes!!!"... whoooohoooooooooo!

So there you have it... you know what Spring means to me and now you are wondering why, right? Of course! Well... let me tell you!

This is IMPORTANT so listen up!!!!!

We over at My Mind's Eye (the design team)are so excited we are jumping or should we say “hopping” for joy. We would like to invite you to the first ever My Mind’s Eye Blog Hop!

Here's what we’re going to do:

· Start at the My Mind’s Eye blog and “hop” on over to every blog you are sent to (there will be a total of 6- including the MME blog).

· Each of our fabulous designers has designed a new layout they will share on their blogs. They will also each share a word that describes spring to them.

· Leave a comment on each blog and write down each designer’s word.

· At each blog, you will be directed to another blog. Be sure to visit and comment on each blog, to increase your chances of winning!

· When you hop back to the My Mind's Eye blog, leave a comment saying that you are done and email all 5 words to: amber@mymindseye.com. (don't include the words in your blog comment)

· Our blog hop will close Monday, April 5, 2010 at midnight.

You know MME, and we aren’t doing this just for fun - although we will have fun. We’re doing it for prizes! By playing along with us, you could win your favorite My Mind’s Eye collection.

There are TWO ways to win:

1. Email Amber with the 5 words our designers say describe spring to them.

2. We will randomly draw one of our designer’s blogs and choose a winner from their blog comments. So, the more comments you leave, the greater your chances of winning

Are you already playing along? Well then thanks for joining in the fun and you are just about done! Now head on over to the amazing AMBER and see what she has created to show what SPRING means to her:)

remember to leave a comment here too for another chance to win a gift from MME!

Hoppy Spring!

HUGE news... and no... it is not a joke!!!!!!!!

2010-04-01T05:44:00.000-06:00

I am a giddy like a school girl right now as I just came back from checking the GRAPHIC 45 blog to see who their new Design Team consisted of and guess what??? I am on it! YUP! I knew they were announcing it on their blog today but I guess I thought they would give us a heads up if we were chosen... apparently not! lol! Ms. Candy said she'd announce it on the blog and that she did... I guess I had better listen up from here on out, eh?! Yes ma'am!!!! Well... I am over the moon excited and look forward to sharing some Graphic 45 goodness with everyone over the next year not only in my classes but via their website and blog, etc as a DT member. It is a HUGE honour and I an humbled to be among such amazing talent:) Just a wee bit of pressure now but I hope to do you all proud;) Be sure to check out the rest of the list of talent over on their blog... it is mind blowing!

In many ways this announcement leads PERFECTLY to the rest of this post!!!

Over the past week or so I have been posting sneak peeks of various classes for my upcoming "Weekend to Unwind" events in Courtenay, BC (Scrapbook Central) and Grande Prairie, AB (Artfully Inspired). I did not want to jinx myself (YUP! I am a wee bit superstitious I guess...lol!) by giving sneak peeks of my Graphic 45 class so without further adieu here we go!!!!!!!!!

Okay, so for the past year or so I have been an ENDORSED Educator for Graphic 45 sharing paper crafting classes with scrappers around the globe and one of my FAVOURITE classes has been the Trinkets and Treasures Album class. This is one I have redesigned several times using different paper collections and THIS one is the latest using the Le Romantique Collection of papers, tags and frames from Graphic 45.

This is such a unique mini album that is bursting with fun pockets, flaps and tags to house all of your Trinkets and Treasures.

The other cool thing is that we use a common household item as your base... should I tell ya???You would not believe it if I told you! Maybe I will make you wait till the class to find out ;) NAH... it is simply Office Envelopes that have been folded in a funky way to form the base of your book. YUP! And that is NOT an April Fools Day joke...lol!

They have been folded to create a cool staggered base that is covered with a plethora of Graphic 45 goodness!

Embellished with a plethora of coordinating goodies, it a project you will cherish always! I hope you will join us at either of these events and participate in this class and others like it! And I will also mention that if you are a Graphic 45 fan you will also ADORE the Tattered Angels Mini Book and Altered Box. It is JAMPACKED with the Domestic Goddess collection of papers and tags! Scroll down to the post on this blog from March 27 and you will see the sneak peeks for that class! And remember, if you are attending that class, leave a comment on THAT post for your chance to win an extra prize :)

I should also mention that these classes will all have instructions available so if there is one you are interested in and CANNOT make it, be sure to register at either store anyways and you can with either pick the kit up OR you can have it shipped. If we know ahead of time and you want us to do some of the prep work (i.e. paint,etc) that can be done for you! It does not get any easier than that but do not delay as there are only a few spots left. I know the Vintage Card class in BC is already SOLD OUT but you can have your name put on a waiting list:) That is one that also uses Graphic 45!!!!

Okay... so that is IT for today! I need to get to work writing some instructions for all of these classes (definitely not the fun part of my job... blech!). BUT I do have a new Mac that makes stuff like that look pretty with relative ease so it should be not too bad!

Happy Thursday (for many of you, it is the last day before the Easter long weekend... whooooohoooooo!). Be sure to check back here tomorrow for some fun featuring My Mind's Eye:) We something cool in the works that you will want to be a part of!

Happy Scrapping!

Something SWEET... just for you!

2010-03-31T11:26:00.001-06:00

I want to share some fun pics from the HEDLEY concert in Edmonton the other night. Imagine, me posting about something and it is not just scrapbooking stuff this time!!! Nope, it involves some handsome men (my hubby and boys) and a fun night out at their very first concert featuring a few more handsome men in a "Bad Boy" kind of way (but you didn't hear that from me;)! More than handsome though... they are talented and great performers!!! As a family, we ALL enjoyed their show and can't wait to go again!

Carter, 10 years old and already stylin'!

It was my boys first concert and they were thrilled to have had the opportunity to go to a show that included some of their FAVOURITE bands. I have liked Jacob for a long time (from his Canadian Idol days) and started to follow his band HEDLEY shortly afterwards. I have to admit that I was just as excited (if not more) than the kids were! It's not very often we can find a type of music that we all enjoy. Needless to say their CD is a must have for road trips! LOL!

Drew and I NEVER agree on music and with these guys we both sing along:)

This guy has sooooooo much energy on stage. Not sure how he does it but he does it well that is for sure!!!!!

Be sure to check them out... especially those of you OUTSIDE of Canada... they get a lot of airtime here but I don't think have made it as big as they should elsewhere. They have some great talent and put on one heck of a show! Google them, find them on You Tube or iTunes... whatever... download their stuff and you won't be disappointed! I promise:) Here is a video of part of their performance the other night at their concert here in Edmonton. Iapologize for the poor quality as it was shot from FAR back with my crappy little point and shoot camera... but you will get the point!

Okay, so now that I am done tooting the praises of HEDLEY, it is time for a bit of My Mind's Eye goodness!

Spring is in the air and if you head on over to the My Mind's Eye BLOG you will see what Anam and I have created using some of the fun LUSH and QUITE CONTRARY products. There are a few cute projects and if you play some of your newly downloaded HEDLEY while creating, surely you will be inspired to create a few fun Spring projects too!

My Mind's Eye Canvas Class

2010-03-29T15:18:00.000-06:00

Using the insanely gorgeous LUSH Collection of papers and embellishments, I created this elegant canvas full of detail.

The tactile components of this project will set your senses on fire. With flocked papers, beautiful ribbons and a touch of bling there is the perfect balance of embellishments to create an elegant wall hanging to have have hanging on your wall with pride.

You'll incorporate a touch of Prima enhanced with Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist.

You will finish it off with the beautiful Riff Raff Designs chipboard title.

Be sure to bring a 5X7 photo to class that depicts the theme "BLISS" as well as your 12X12 canvas.

This class will be taught at Scrapbook Central as well as Artfully Inspired for the Weekend to Unwind Events... I hope to see you there!

Another Class Sneak Peek...

2010-03-27T14:03:00.000-06:00

Using one of the Tattered Angels Glimmer Kits that is bursting with FABULOUS Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists, Chiptiles, Glimmer Alphas, Bingo Cards and a plethora of embellishments we will create this fantastic mini book and altered box. I combined all of these products with the beautiful Graphic 45 Domestic Goddess Collection of papers and diecuts to create a recipe book perfect for housing all of your favourite treat concoctions.

You will learn numerous techniques as you work your way through this workshop as to how to best work with Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists to get a variety of results on your finished projects.

You will also learn numerous tricks for combining and layering various patterned papers to create beautiful vintage-inspired, collage styled pages and altered projects.

Combine with the perfect embellishments and the end result is a keepsake that you will cherish always!

Now I will point out that you also have the option of changing the title of this book and box as your kit will come with a complete set of Glimmer Alphas that you can use to personalize your project!

If you are registered for any of the classes at the Weekend to Unwind in Courtenay, BC April 9-11... leave a comment and let me know which ones! If we sell out this workshop BEFORE Friday,April 2 one lucky person will win a bonus Tattered Angels Prize at the event! Grab a friend and get registered for this class and others... you will most certainly enjoy your time and LOVE the projects!

I can't wait to meet you all:)

Trisha

With Mother's Day right around the corner, this project would also make the perfect gift too!

Lumps and Bumps are a GOOD thing!

2010-03-24T06:26:00.000-06:00

Anyone that has taken a class with me that I seem to use that phrase as my own personal motto:) Learning to layer various patterned papers and enhance your project effectively with lumpy bumpy embellishments can be a little intimidating to most. it does not have to be though!

In this layout class, you will have the chance to play with some of the most beautiful papers and embellishments Prima has to offer! You will be encouraged to use a photo of YOURSELF (yup!)... there is a reason why so if you so feel inclined, bring a 5X7 vertical BLACK AND WHITE pic with you that you LOVE! I know, it can be HARD to find one we love of ourselves but if you do not have one, it might be a good time to break out the camera;) Relax and have fun with it:) You can also add the photo later so no stressing if you do not have one.

You will also have the option to customize your title in this class... the possibilities to personalize are endless!

The best part is this layout is going to be suitable for hanging on your wall by mounting it to a canvas or shadowbox or better yet a Build-A-Book Page hung with ribbon! It's just too pretty to tuck away in an album:)

This class will be taught numerous times in the next few months... first up: Scrapbook Central in Courtenay, BC.

It will also be in Grande Prairie at Artfully Inspired! Stay tuned for other dates and locations:)

More class samples coming in the next couple of days so come back for a visit, okay?!

Happy Scrapping!

Trisha

A Weekend to Unwind... sneak peek pics

2010-03-22T20:06:00.000-06:00

Alrighty girls, it's time to let some sneak peeks of some of the classes come out so over the next several days I will post some pics of some of the classes that I will be teaching at the Weekend to Unwind Events in both Courtenay, BC and Grande Prairie, AB.

First up is the FAMILY WALL HANGING CLASS:

This fun project is perfect for housing your cherished family photograph and displaying it on your wall with pride! It features the lovely My Mind's Eye Life Stories Collection with Riff Raff Designs Chipboard, Grungeboard all put together with Prima as the base. You will learn several different techniques involving Glimmer Mist and Crackle paint. It is sure to be a class that you walk away with a plethora of new ideas for future projects!

Scrapbook Central is accepting registrations NOW and spaces are filling fast! Please be sure to call the store to register today at (250)338 8815. I look forward to seeing you there!

Artistically Inspired will be going live with registrations right away too! Stay tuned for details:)

Check back for more sneak peeks over the next several days:) Leave a comment if you are coming or feel free to ask any questions!

Happy scrapping!
Trisha

A Weekend to Unwind...

2010-03-18T05:11:00.001-06:00

Well, I promised you a couple more events and I am so excited to be a part of these two events so here are the details:

I am so excited to be doing 6 fabulous classes at each of these Weekend to Unwind events featuring the fabulous products by Prima, Tattered Angels, My Minds Eye and Graphic 45 just to name a few!

Friday April 9- Sunday April 11
Scrapbook Central
Courtenay, BC
250 338 8815
www.scrapbookcentralbc.com

Friday April 30- Sunday May 2 (NATIONAL SCRAPBOOK DAY)
Artfully Inspired
Grande Prairie, AB
780 402 2789

Tickets for the BC event have only been on sale for a week or so and is just about sold out so I suggest you get registered ASAP! Grande Prairie will be on sale now so be sure to contact them for details.

Remember that there are crops associated with these events too so be sure to stop by the store to get all the details! The Artfully Inspired Event is for National Scrapbook Day and tied into their one year anniversary so you KNOW there are going to be some extra special things associated with it!

Here is a sneak peek from one of the classes bursting with Prima goodness:

Tattered Angels pairs up with Fancy Pants:)

2010-03-14T11:49:00.000-06:00

And when that happens only good things can come of it!

It is my son's 10th birthday this week and he got his gift (a SWEET new ride:) a couple of days early (he had to help pick it out of course). But being in Edmonton, ALberta means we still have snow (and lot of mud) so I wanted a springy layout that was a bit "mucky"- to reflect the environment we are dealing with. The Kraft Kuts collection by Fancy Pants helped to provide a more natural background (Not super bright)... but still fun and playful... perfect for a boy with a cool new bike!

Using an assortment of Glimmer Mists (Caribbean Blue, Harvest Orange, Mustard Seed and Suede), I spritzed the background papers and Chipboard letters. This provided a funky tie dye look to the letters. The new resist tag by Heidi Swapp for Tattered Angels was sprayed as well as he other die cuts. The new Chipboard frame from the alphas was covered with Glimmer Glaze and dried completely before having ink applied to the edges.

So much fun was had creating this fun little project using an assortment of Tattered Angels an Fancy Pants goodies. Makes we want to spend the day crafting away!

If you are looking for a sneak peek into one of my classes and some tips to help get you started with Glimmer Mist... be sure to check out the Tattered Angels Educator blog. I posted a fun little video from a class I taught aboard a New England cruise with OH MY CRAFTS. We had a great time not only sailing the high seas but crafting our days away.

So many fun classes are in the works for the next several months... my calendar is getting FULL (and I am more than okay with that;). I have some fun Tattered Angels classes coming to an event near you (maybe) and I hope to see you there! Next up: Scrapbook Central in Courtenay, BC. Last I heard she was almost sold out in only a few days... if you want to have fun learning some Tattered Angels tips and tricks, join us! In the coming days, I will have a few more dates to reveal so stay tuned and in the mean time... happy scrapping!

Spring brings.......

2010-03-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

baby animals, flower buds, mud puddles and........

the Spring Issue of Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine! I feel honoured to have another article published in this beautiful magazine and they did a WONDERFUL job with the spread! I have a copy here that I would like to share with one of my peeps.

YUP! I want to give a copy of this FABULOUS magazine to whoever can tell me some of their FAVOURITE Spring-y scrapbook supply manufacturers:) What is out there that I need to get my hands on and play with that I have not already? Or... are your faves already in my stash? I want to hear all about it! Tell me which products by various manufacturers that I need to look at for inspiration and I will put your name in a draw for a prize full of inspiration too:) I am constantly inspired by my favourites, many of which were used in the article. Maybe, it will inspire you to create some fresh and new too! Perhaps try a new technique that you have not yet... I would love to see r hear all about it!

Know what else is cool about Spring? My travel schedule pics up... YUP! I am sooooo looking forward to heading off to Comox. Courtenay in the next few weeks as I visit SCRAPBOOK CENRAL for a "Weekend to Unwind"! I will be there with 6 (YUP... SIX) jampacked classes and you do not want to miss out as they are sure to go FAST! Registrations have started today and I do not suspect they will last long so be sure to get your name on the list! Let me know if I will see you there!

Where else am I off to? Well, I will save that for the next post (heheheheh... I am sooooooooooo mean, eh?! LOL!). Ah well, I do not want to give it all away or you would have no reason to come back and visit me...

So do that... come back and visit! And don't forget to enter for your chance to win the Spring issue of Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine!

Want some more inspiration... head on over to the My Mind's Eye Blog... we have a new sketch up for this months' challenge. We would love to have you join us and play along! Here's a peek at mine:)

and so it begins....

2010-03-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

2010's class schedule that is! It has been a bit delayed as far as getting things announced but many dates are filling and can I say just how excited I am to be a part of so many different scrapbooking events this year! Both near and far, there will be some fabulous classes featuring so many fun techniques featuring the latest and greatest products from the hottest companies in the industry! I have been working like a wild woman designing samples and I have to say that I am pretty pleased with the end results. The picture above shows a sneak peek from one of my upcoming Prima classes:)

The big one thus far has been for Creative Escape. Never in my life have I been so meticulous about every piece and step that went into a project. Everything had to be perfect and the end result was pretty good (if I do say so myself!). If I was a student in my class, I would be thrilled with all that will be taught and the fabulous kits provided by my amazing sponsors! It's top secret of course though so you can't see it until you are there but you will not be disappointed!

I also worked on samples for Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine for another article for the Summer Issue. I can't tell you what that one will be about but it will be worth the wait for sure! I can tell you that I am THRILLED to have an article in the Spring Issue though! "Off the Wall and onto the Page" is all about incorporating canvas onto your scrapbook pages rather than hanging it on the wall. I LOVE how they laid it out... they made it look BEAUTIFUL! Thanks to the crew over at Canadian Scrapbooker for putting out another fabulous issue. I LOVE seeing all of the amazing Canadian talent... it's mighty impressive!

So while I have been multitasking... trying to get all those details taken care of, I have also been working with Dianne at Scrapbook Central in BC and we are now ready to ROCK! Yes ladies.... prepare for a fabulous "Weekend to Unwind" April 9-11 in beautiful Courtenay, BC on Vancouver Island.

I had the privilege of meeting Dianne in Ottawa last fall at a retailers event and we have been working diligently trying to get this event organized. After meeting up again at CHA in January to finalize all the details we are now ready to ROCK!

So what do we have planned? Well, 6 AMAZING classes to start! Cropping, shopping and so much more. Be sure to pop by the store or give them a call and register starting n Monday for a weekend to remember! Register for the entire weekend before March 30 and your name will go into a draw for a fabulous prize package!

That is event number one... there are several more in the works and once details are finalized, I will most surely post. Hopefully I will get to see you at an event near you!

Now, it has not been all work. Well, maybe it has but when your work is soooooooo much fun, it feels more like play most days!!! Not always... but definitely more often than not!

Today I was pleasantly surprised t see my name listed on the short list for the Graphic 45 Design Team Search. What a HUGE honour to even make it that far. Now I plan on crafting the weekend away to create another project just for the second part of the competition... here's hoping I have success! Be sure to check out the list of talent over on their blog... WOW! I am humbled to be amongst the list of gals to have made it this far...

Lots of layers........

2010-02-16T06:04:00.000-07:00

Well another long weekend is past and although it was Valentine's Day and Family Day, I did manage to get some work finished. Most importantly was my class sample for Creative Escape! I gotta tell you, I stressed over this class sample more than anything I have ever designed in my entire 10 + years of teaching. I wanted every detail to be perfect and I am pretty happy with the results so I can only hope that the powers that be over at Bazzill and the Ms. Heidi Swapp herself agree:) Just a wee bit of pressure...lol! The registration lottery for this event has started and I have gotten several messages from some of my peeps who will be attending:) I have no doubt in my mind that this will be anything less that spectacular and I cannot wait to take it all in myself! Who's going... leave a comment and let me know! It seems we will have a pretty strong Canadian contingent down in Arizona too... I LOVE that!

So today will be a day for finishing off details on another assignment I have that has had me occupied as well. Hoping tohave that all signed sealed and delivered today to the lovely ladies over at Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine and then with any luck I can breathe for a day or two before I prep for many of my friends coming to town this weekend for the Memories Wholesale Convention:) I look forward to seeing them and hopefully get a chance to do dinner one night and catch up!

In the meantime, here are a few sneak peeks from a project I did for the My Mind's Eye blog last week using the brand new Quite Contrairy Collection as well as some yummy embellishments from the LUSH Collection (quite possibly my favourite collection from My Mind's Eye ever!!!!!!!!!!)

For more pics... be sure to check their blog!

I have some Tattered Angels goodies to share but have had to hold off until I know exactly what will be usedfor another project so I have not been able to post anything at all yet. It will be worth the wait though, I promise! I have been playing with the new Glimmer Glam and Glimmer Glaze and LOVE the results! I think you will too! Stay tuned for more details there:)

Last but not least, I just got the official invite again from BC's Creative Expo again this fall! I am so very excited to be returning for the third straight year. I would love to hear from you BC girls what kind of classes you would like to see! I am going to be putting together my class proposals and I want to make sure there is something for eveyone! Let me know and I will see what I can do about making it happen:)

Alright... that is all for now... have a great week and I hope to be back with another update soon!

Well... I guess I have been slacking in the blogging department...

2010-02-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

more than a month has gone by since my last update! Sorry about that. As you can imagine, life has been hectic. In the first part of January, I was going like mad preparing for CHA in Anaheim. Then there was the show and all of the fun stuff that goes along with that for an entire week. Before flying home, I went to St. Cloud Minnesota (just outside of Minneapolis) to teach a class to college students. It was a crazy kind of month!

Coming home, one would think that I might have a chance to slow down for a bit but that is not the case. NOPE! I have some of my most important projects to work on over the next week or so and have been focussed on making sure everything turns out JUST right!

One of those projects happens to be my class for CREATIVE ESCAPE in Arizona this upcoming August. As a recap, for those of you who may not be aware, I have the huge honour of having been asked to teach at this is the creme de la creme of all scrapbooking events! Without a doubt, it surpasses all others in the overall excellence. Top industry educators are chosen to deliver top notch classes to more than 700 people who have travelled from all over the globe to attend. Everything I have seen and heard about this event has been phenomenal. So many people want to attend that they have to hold a lottery for a chance to register for the event! That lottery is coming up and beginning on February 16, they will begin to contact people who have been chosen to attend! You only have until the 15th to get your name one the "hopeful" list. It is my hope that I get to see as many of my peeps as possible so if you are one of the lucky ones to get chosen, let me know!

To give you an idea of the amazing people that are a part of this years event... I borrowed the following from Heidi's blog (thanks Heidi!)

ONLY ONE MORE WEEK until we are drawing the LUCKY lottery winners for this year's Creative Escape!! holy cow, can i just TEASE you a little...one of the teachers just emailed me a photo of her finished project and it's SO inspiring! we have an AWESOME line up of teachers... they are all SO different and unique... have you taken a minute to see who we have teaching? some you may know, some you will definitely get to know:

PAM BLACK was with us the very first year... and has been helping and behind the scenes every other year. she is a wonderful artist and great teacher... i am always amazed by her creativity and execution! she teaches at Scrapbooks etc... her background is home decor, and she just oozes great taste!

TERESA COLLINS of course is planning something SO WOW! of course she is totally over the top and you will LOVE it.. she's been drawing from her new line of products and has something spectacular up her sleeve! she is so sugar sweet and super passionate, and you will leave feeling like you have a new friend! she has an amazing capacity to reach out to people, and draw them in.

CLAUDINE HELLMUTH is best known for her unique artwork and collage mixed media stuff... but she also has her own line of stuido paints and artist canvas by Ranger and does tons of teaching and educating! i have had the opportunity to learn from her at Ranger U and love her funky style! she is passionate about sharing techniques... you will feel like an ARTIST as you create in her class! ( i follow her on twitter)

MAGGIE HOLMES is super talented in so many ways... and will be delighting and inspiring us with both her passion and talent for photograhy as well as a fun little take away project. She is so FUN and energetic! you will love getting to know her! i can NEVER get enough photography classes... i am always wanting to improve and learn from other people's point of view... i can't wait to learn from her! go and look at her blog today.. CUTE CUTE IDEAS

TRICIA LADOUCEUR is one that i didn't know personally, but Doug and Marti had taught on a Cruise w/ her, and thought that she was both an amazing designer and instructor... after we invited her to teach at CE, i had the privileged of spending a weekend with her in Colorado at the Tattered Angels Corp. office when we had the company Christmas party and went to see NEW MOON!! she is a TON of fun, super sweet and an inspiring artist. you will LOVE her! she is a blast!

TERESA MCFAYDEN is one of those people that i just look at all her creations, her work and all the things her fingers touch, and i have been amazed and inspired for YEARS! she has more talent and creative goodness than should be allowed for one person! i have never worked with her, and so i am SO looking forward to meeting her... i was DELIGHTED when she accepted the invitation to teach..(would you believe that i was SO shy to ask... she is one of my creative IDOLS!)

JESSICA SPRAGUE... yes... THE ONE AND ONLY... Jessica Sprague. this woman amazes me. she inspires me and i am thrilled that we'll have her brilliance and happy energy among us! she is SO cool. every time we get on the phone, the minutes melt into hours and we just talk and talk and imagine. we would never be able to keep up with our ideas, but it would be SO fun to try! she is a BALL of energy and an absolutely phenomenal teacher. i can't wait to see what she's got cookin!

AND... little 'ole me. i am so lucky! (smile). This is the 5th year for Creative Escape... and we are in FULL PLANNING stages! of course we must TOP last year! (is that possible)?? and we are incorporating some totally new elements into the experience! we have TONS of sponsors that are joining forces with us to make this year the best ever! for the first time, we did pre-sell about 1/3 of the spots available on the last night of last year's event... signing up for the LOTTERY does not OBLIGATE you to the spot. if you happen to be selected, you can choose to register you and a guest- or just you... as people that are selected either register or decline... we will continue to pull names and notify people with registration codes! Once you are registered officially, you can book your accommodations at the GORGEOUS Wild Horse Pass Sheraton. (its soooo delux) The Lottery will begin it's first round of selections on Feb 15th... (you can't win if you don't play)... Creative Escape is the most amazing scrapbook event and retreat. year after year, people are touched, filled, inspired, delighted and most of all-- it seems that they makes friends for life. there is really something MAGICAL and BEAUTIFUL about it! and while the Bazzill team deserves the credit for all the crazy hard work... and we have spectacular, passionate teachers- and INSPIRING keynote speakers! ... REALLY... it's all the good, fabulous women who attend that make the magic! i hope you will be there with us in 2010~

So there you have it... I am up to my eyeballs in a tonne of projects all of which have the SAME deadline so I am hoping and praying that all comes together on time! I am designing my class for Creative Escape and can I just give a HUGE shout out and thank you to the amazing sponsors that have stepped up to the plate in a big way so far! I am absolutely blown away with their generosity and support of my classes:) Prima, My Mind's Eye, Tattered Angels, Vintaj, Hambly, Graphic 45, Riff Raff Designs, Bazzill, Stix 2 and Quick Quotes. There may be one or two more but that is a pretty good start if I do say so myself! I can't wait to show you what I have been working on... t is definitely one of my favourite classes EVER and I am hoping it makes everyone happy:)

Alright... there you go! Run and get your name on the list for the lottery for Creative Escape! I am getting back to my desk to finish up and hopefully have it all done by Monday... wish me luck!!!!!!

Looking forward to 2010...

2010-01-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

I tend to be a relatively optimistic person. I am a "glass is half full" kind of gal most days. But I truly feel that 2010 is going to be a good year. Yup! I said it. I am looking forward to many new adventures in this journey called life. I am making a few promises to myself (not resolutions... that word always seems to jinx things). There will be some changes~ hopefully most are for the better. Last year I accomplished things I never would have thought that I could. I did not even really set out looking but they came anyways and I feel extremely blessed that they did.

Maybe that is the key. Appreciate what we have first and foremost. Put your best foot forward at all times and good things will happen on their own when you least expect it. hmmmmmmmmmm... maybe that is what happened. But then again, I am also a firm believer in MAKING things happen... take the initiative to go after what you want. Be the facilitator for making your dreams come true. I guess it boils down to finding the right balance, eh?!

Well whatever the formula is, I want to try all of the above this coming year. I have some personal goals I hope to achieve. I want to improve my time management skills (again... I gotta kind that balance). I will be my kids biggest cheerleader and encourage them to reach to attain their goals too. My husband and I will work together to make many dreams a reality for our family. Work wise, I love being able to do what I do and I will continue to do so for as long as I can. I have been given some pretty amazing opportunities this past year and I hope that in 2010 I will be just as fortunate. I feel blessed for what I have on the horizon already and I am pretty certain most would agree that it is pretty much a dream that I am living some days. Not that it is all a garden of roses, because it is not. It has it's moments when I wonder why I am doing it at all. Some days, I truly wonder if it is worth the grief. But then I realize that I am one of the luckiest gals I know and will focus on the good things and not give the negative bits any more attention than necessary.

So onto some really COOL stuff that IS happening in 2010... actually, it is happening right away at CHA later this month!

Tattered Angels has some AMAZING new releases and they are gradually going to reveal bits and pieces of what is up their sleeves so I suggest heading on over to their blog regularly to keep an eye on all of the new yumminess! The above pic is a little sneak peek and I am tickled that they chose one of the projects I created while at their warehouse in November to tease you all with. I literally let out numerous squeals of delight while there (I am sure they all thought I was a total nut!). Just wait until you see it all... you will be uber excited to play too!

There are a few other fun things on the horizon for the month of January. I know I will be a scrapping machine as there will be several projects that will have to be done for CHA for both My Mind's Eye and Tattered Angels. There are a few other things on the go that I can't yet chat too much about but they too will be pretty cool! Just hoping I make it through the month relatively alive! LOL!

Have a great day everyone and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

THE BIG SECRET IS OUT!!!

2009-12-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

So... I think it's okay to now shout it out because it is up on their website:)

It's official and I am extremely honoured to share with you that I have been asked to be one of the instructors at Creative Escape in Arizona, August 26-28, 2010!

For those of you that do not know, Creative Escape is the creme de la creme of Scrapbooking events! Absolutely everything about it is first class:) Although I have never been, the reports all come back that there is not a better event ANYWHERE! 750 people from around the globe descend on an amazing resort in Arizona for one wild weekend taking classes by leading industry experts.

In the line up this year:
The one and only HEIDI SWAPP (imagine my surprise when I was in Colorado at Tattered Angels giddy with excitement over my news only to find out that Heidi was their NEW "Angel" and would be there with me for a couple of days! And I actually managed to keep my mouth shut about BOTH secrets all this time...lol!

The UBER talented Teresa Collins . I have always been a huge fan and love her fun style.

Maggie Holmes ... everything she seems to touch becomes a beautiful work of art! I cannot wait to get to know her better and maybe some of her talent will rub off :)

Pam Black... extremely creative and inspiring!

And little old me... I am still over the top excited! I am looking forward to being able to be a part of this event and know that it will be a PHENOMENAL experience:) I am still in shock that I got asked to play with these girls... WOW! I am pretty certain that Doug's (Mr. Bazzill) ears are still ringing as I squealed with delight so loudly when he called and asked if I could fit it into my schedule.... uh YES... I am pretty certain I can MAKE IT HAPPEN!!! LOL!

I have the preliminary plans for my class already and I am pretty certain the folks in attendance will be blown away with the generosity of my class sponsors! I have them in place already and am humbled by their willingness to support me and my classes:) It goes without saying that I also hope my mojo faerie is good to me and helps me create a project worthy of this type of event (no pressure, eh?!). Just kidding... I think things should come together nicely (that's me thinking positively... maybe if I keep thinking it, it will happen ;)

So who is hoping to come? Check out their website HERE for more details and how to register (I think there is a lottery process that you have to register for). I am pretty sure you will hear lots more about this event in the coming months and without a doubt I am tickled pink to be involved!

Now... onto some other fun stuff, real quick before I gotta run! My Mind's Eye... 12 days of Christmas posts are happening every day and you MUST run on over and check out some of the fun projects. They are generously giving away some great prizes each and every day so it is worthwhile to leave a comment... it just might be your LUCKY DAY! Their blog is HERE...

I have a lot to do today as we leave tomorrow to spend Christmas with my sister Deana and her family! I am so excited about this as it has been YEARS since we were together for the holidays and I do not think all of our kids have ever been together for Christmas so this will be a year to remember! My parents will be there too:) I have presents to wrap, baking to do (yes... ME! I actually plan on baking!) and packing to do. I am praying for enough hours in the day and safe roads for our trek to Calgary:)

Merry Christmas everyone! Have a safe and joyous holiday!!!!