strawberrypearl studios

Happy New Year!

2011-12-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

Bet you didn't think I was going to post anything here ever again...

don't worry, I neglected my family's blog too.

I thought I should send out 2011 and welcome 2012 with at least one post.

This past year has been a wonderful one with many blessings for my family.

We're looking forward to the arrival of baby #4 in the next couple of weeks,

so I may go even more MIA in the weeks to come.

I just wanted to send a big thank you out to all who have supported strawberrypearl this year.

I have loved meeting so many new people and have truly appreciated your love and encouragement.

May you all have peace in the new year!!!

School Spirit

2011-09-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Caren asked me to add a little customization to these megaphones for her cheerleaders.

The cheerleaders drew out what they wanted and I attempted to match it.

It was interesting to create the designs on a cone.

At first I wanted to be all mathematical about it,

but in the end I eyeballed it.

Thank goodness for my eyeballs...so much easier than math.

Our New Line Up

2011-09-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

This may explain why I was hoping for a girl, but was not holding my breath.

We're excited to welcome another boy to our family!!!

Today is the Day!!!

2011-09-21T10:58:00.000-07:00

In the next thirty minutes I will start guzzling down 32 oz. of water

so that I'm all ready for our big ultrasound this afternoon.

I kind of wish that with each pregnancy you could drink less and less water for the appointment,

seeing as how my bladder seems to be getting smaller and smaller with each pregnancy.

It feels likes we've waited forever but today we'll know if it's a boy or girl!!!

With three boys already I'm hoping for a girl. So, we'll see.

Wish us luck!

Be your own kind of beautiful...

2011-09-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

So, today's post has been swimming around my head for awhile now,

I'm not exactly sure how it's going to unfold, so stick with me...

Growing up I had the above poster on my wall.

"Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful"

You could read it as saying, "Be your own kind of 'outward' beautiful."

But, I read it as saying, "Be your own kind of 'inward' beautiful."

When I started this little vinyl business I had just had our second baby

and I needed a creative outlet.

At first I saw what others were doing and found some cute projects

that I could make and share with friends.

Gradually, I began to design my own projects and found that those were the most rewarding.

There's nothing like coming up with an original idea and being able to physically create it.

Watching people react to my creations has also been very rewarding.

I still remember a group of ladies coming up to my booth at a craft fair

and realizing that I had made a sign for one of their friends.

They told me how special the sign had been to their friend and that she had even cried over it.

It was a little thing for them to share with me, but it kind of cemented why I put my

blood, sweat, and tears into my designs.

You may be asking what this has to do with inward beauty...

so here's the point I'm trying to make.

It's easy to live a copy and pasted kind of life.

It's easy to sit and read other blogs, find cute things, recreate them

and sell them at the next craft fair or girl's night.

But, if you are not giving credit where credit is due and claiming the ideas as your own

what does it do for your own inward beauty?

It does nothing and in my experience it hinders personal growth.

We are all talented individuals and if we forget to dig deep

and uncover our unique talents, we'll miss out.

If you find something that inspires you, let it inspire you to create something that is unique to you.

Please don't live a copy and pasted kind of life.

Be your own kind of inward beautiful.

I am alive...

2011-09-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

Maybe you've noticed that I've been MIA.

Maybe you haven't.

Basically I've had two options these past two weeks...

1. Neglect the kids

2. Neglect the blog

Somehow, the kids won that battle...

I've also been trying to get my house in order, I tend to work more efficiently when that happens.

I'm day 4 into "Operation Do Not Let the Laundry Pile Up."

Which means that after the laundry has been washed,

I don't just dump it in a pile at the foot of our bed

and hope that the hubs will fold it.

I actually fold it when it comes out of the dryer and get this,

I put it away!!!

I'll be back next week.

I've got a lot on my mind and I need to share.

Hope you all are doing well!!!

Entertaining

2011-09-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

We have family visiting this weekend and I thought of this sign

as I've been hustling around getting our house cleaned

and ready for everyone.

Enjoy the weekend!

And the winner is...

2011-08-31T22:05:00.000-07:00

Today has been a big day.

First things first,

let's get to the winner of the giveaway!!!

Haley submitted the quote:

"Mom's Kitchen: Take It or Leave It."

This has to be my new favorite quote and I'm sure it will end up in my kitchen.

Congrats Haley, you will need to contact me and we can work out the details.

Guess what else was so big about today?

It was the first day of Kindergarten at our house.

Here's my son all ready for his big day!

I didn't even cry, I was so excited for him!!!

Let's do a GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-08-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

Time for a GIVEAWAY don't you think?

Okay, so here's the deal.

Last time we did a giveaway I asked you for some of your favorite quotes.

And I loved them!

So, let's do something similar this time and

the winner will receive an 8.5 x 11 print of their quote

designed by me.

Who knows, I might also throw in one of the prints

we've been focusing on this week...

YOU CAN ENTER THREE TIMES:

1. Leave a comment on this post with your favorite quote for the bathroom.

(While I do live with four boys and often find myself giggling over bathroom humor,

let's just make sure the quotes would be appropriate for a family bathroom...)

2. Leave a comment on this post with your favorite quote for the kitchen.

3. Leave a comment on this post with your all time favorite quote that you could hang anywhere!

BONUS ENTRY:

A bonus entry, what???

Yep, a bonus entry for those who have become addicted to Pinterest like myself...

Pin one photo of a project or quote that you like from this blog onto Pinterest

and leave a comment on this post letting us know what photo you pinned.

You can enter anytime from now until midnight on Tuesday, August 30th.

Have fun and be creative!!!

Sizing up fonts

2011-08-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

Pin It

I love fonts.

But not all fonts work well with vinyl.

Especially, if you are working on a smaller project.

The fonts used in this Family Proclamation quote are pretty ridiculous

if you try to cut the design any smaller than 10" x 10".

It's not always desirable to have a 10" or larger piece in your home decor.

Printing the design has allowed me to create smaller pieces

that I would never dream of cutting in vinyl.

The block above measures approx. 5" tall x 4" wide.

The print itself was a 4" x 4".

I trimmed it a little to allow for the wood border.

I mounted it with foam mounting squares to give it some dimension

and finished it off with a ribbon.

It works perfectly as a shelf sitter without being overbearing.

--------------------------

You may be thinking, "These prints are great, but how much are you charging for them???"

My goal for the week has been to create a more condensed shopping page

where you can shop for all the available products on one page

and not search the blog for them.

My progress has been a little interrupted as our youngest has been sick all week

and has required extra mommy time.

Let's keep our fingers crossed that I can put it all together in the next couple of days.

Stay tuned for tomorrow when I finally announce the GIVEAWAY!!!

----------------------------

If you are interested in more tips on creating a faux canvas,

Dana posted some helpful hints on our facebook page.

Faux Canvas

2011-08-24T14:20:00.000-07:00

I first saw the idea of doing a faux canvas here.

Check out Dana's photography here. She's awesome!

My friend has also done one with her family picture

and I liked the result.

You really couldn't tell that it wasn't a real print on the canvas.

So, I attempted to make my own faux canvas with the family proclamation print.

I spray painted the edges (and my hand and my arm...) black.

I used mod podge to glue the print to the canvas.

I didn't really like how bumpy and shiny the print was.

So, I put a layer of mod podge over the top.

The mod podge over the top took some of the shine and some of the bumps away.

I think in the future I will use spray adhesive to glue the print to the canvas.

I think this will prevent the print from getting so many warps and bumps.

And, since mod podge and I are just now becoming friends,

I'm wondering if a second layer, might help the shine.

Real canvases are nice, but spendy.

If you are into faux, give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you.

-----------------------------

I know you are eagerly awaiting the big GIVEAWAY announcement,

we're almost there so keep being patient!!!

Displaying the Print

2011-08-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday I mentioned that the easiest way to display a print

is to frame it.

I framed this 12 x 12 and removed the glass because I didn't like the extra glare.

Please ignore the highly fabulous family pictures on this one and the next one.

It seems as though we have a severe lack of family photos with all of us in the same shot.

I originally intended for this one to be displayed with a vertical picture

but I also wanted to see how a horizontal photo would work.

I think the best combo would be a black and white vertical shot.

But that's up to you.

For this one, I experimented with some plexi glass and I really like the finished look it gives.

Here's a close up of the plexi and brads hold it in place.

I thought I would test it out and see how it would look hanging with a scroll.

It could also be framed without the scroll but with the plexi.

So many options...

And, here is our trusty stand-by...

the Family Proclamation hung with a metal scroll.

A classic and personal fav.

Yes, you have seen it before but done in vinyl.

This is a print and will be less expensive.

Tomorrow, we'll talk canvas.

Prints

2011-08-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

I'm in the middle of converting some of my vinyl designs to prints.

I have chosen some of the crowd favorites and had them professionally printed as 12 x 12's.

This week I'll be focusing on some fun ideas to do with the prints.

And yes, there will be a giveaway...so stay tuned.

The easiest thing to do with a print is to frame it.

I experimented a little with the family proclamation quote

and had it printed in smaller sizes besides just the 12" x 12".

This print is 5" x 5" and I love it.

It seems to be just the right size for my living room.

..........................................................

These new prints will be available to purchase at the end of the week.

So much to anticipate, I know....

Mr. Postman

2011-08-19T14:28:00.000-07:00

This arrived in our mail today.

The creativity is already flowing.

Which means...

we'll be having a GIVEAWAY next week!!!

I'm a little excited about it all...

Summertime...

2011-08-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

We eat an unhealthy amount of popsicles and love every minute of it.

Canvas Art

2011-08-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked to create some pieces for a friend's wedding.

More than one person actually asked me to make something, so I tried to vary from the norm

and come up with something new so the lovely couple wouldn't be bombarded with strawberrypearl.

These are actually canvases wrapped in material and then I attached the vinyl quotes on top of all that.

Canvases are fun to play with, so don't be surprised if you see them in future posts...

Creative Slump...

2011-08-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I find myself in a creative slump.

It bugs.

It's frustrating.

It's annoying.

But sometimes, it can be a relief.

Like a little vacation for my brain.

I've needed the vacation recently as the baby growing inside me

seems to have sucked my brain cells dry.

But enough of the slump,

I'm ready to create again.

And I am excited to share some of my new ideas with you.

So, only a few more lame posts to go and then I will be ready to share something new.

Thanks for your patience!!!

Garage Sale Find...

2011-08-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by the garage sale!!!

I love when things that I'm not really using can be great additions to someone else's creativity.

I found this board when I was going through the craft room and it didn't make it to the table.

I couldn't give it away, I had to keep it.

I dunno, I just kind of like it.

Garage Sale

2011-07-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

We're in the middle of getting ready for a garage sale this weekend.

We've been wanting to do one for awhile but it kinda feels like I'm nesting.

Can nesting really start with the end of the first trimester???

If you are in the area, you are welcome to stop by.

I'm cleaning out the craft room, like seriously cleaning out the craft room.

There might be something you can use, there might not.

If you want to stop by, email me and I'll send you directions.

Take Time to Read

2011-07-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

I love to read.

It isn't always easy to find time to stop and read a good book,

but that has been my goal lately.

But I need your input.

What books have you read recently that you would recommend?

What is your favorite book of all time?

Metal Scrolls!!!

2011-07-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

There are two scroll designs/sizes to choose from.

First Up...

Our 12" scroll, perfect for 12" tiles or wood signs.

Price = $3.50 each

...............................................

The second scroll option is our

4" x 2.5" smaller scroll.

Price = $2.75 each

Baby Week: Father's Love

2011-07-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

Let's not forget Dad.

How sweet is this quote?

Baby Week: Baby Needs the Mother

2011-07-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

It's funny, sometimes you find a quote that just rings true.

I was rocking my baby (who isn't so much of a baby anymore...) tonight

and this quote fits exactly how I felt.

Thank heaven for rocking chairs and quiet moments.

Baby Week: Stacker

2011-07-13T07:30:00.000-07:00

Stackers are a classic way of proudly displaying your baby's stats.

Baby Week: Practically Perfect

2011-07-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

I love love love Mary Poppins.

While she may have been talking about herself with this quote,

I think it's perfect when describing babies.

Baby Week: Strong Mothers

2011-07-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

You may have seen my friend Melissa's comment last week about the fact that we are expecting a baby!!!

We're pretty excited to welcome baby #4 to our family

and with three boys, I'm kind of hoping for a girl.

With all this talk of motherhood, I thought I would dedicate this week

to quotes about mom's and babies.

If you have a favorite baby or motherhood quote, please share!

Baseball Car Decal

2011-07-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Wendy recently asked me to create some car decals for her son's baseball team.

Each baseball was personalized with the player's name and number.

We offered them to the parents and grandparents of the players.

They were a hit and such an easy way to show team spirit.

These would make great items for fundraisers.

You could even have a competition to see which player can sell the most...

I have lots of other clipart for different sports and activities.

Contact me if you are interested in our car decals.

Red, White and Blue

2011-07-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all had a fabulously wonderful

4th of July!!!

I talked my husband into throwing our

first annual 4th of July Backyard Breakfast

and it was so much fun!!!

We included a bike parade for the kids

and I couldn't help but add a little vinyl here and there.

My original plan for the blue plates was to add

white vinyl stars and then hang them around the yard and fence as decorations.

Well, decoration time took a little longer than I wanted the day of,

so I saved them for the bike parade.

We gave each child a plate and had them tie it to their bike.

As they "registered" for the parade,

I wrote a number on the white star and we had them line up in numerical order.

It was alot like herding cats,

but very entertaining.

I also used blue and red vinyl stars

on these white bags to line our walkway

and direct traffic to our backyard.

I think I am in love with red, white and blue.

Such a fun holiday to decorate for.

God Bless America

2011-07-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a happy and safe

Fourth of July!

lessons in motherhood

2011-06-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

So, I recently received an important phone call

and sequestered myself in my office away from the kids

to ensure peace and quiet.

However, the lock on my office door doesn't actually work.

My oldest son eventually made his way in and was desperate

to show me something.

My silent crazed hands failed to shoo him out of the room

which led to the mother of all stink eyes and me silently whispering

"Leave!"

Not exactly a mother of the year moment for me.

When I finished the phone call,

I found my son and asked him what he wanted to show me.

He quickly whipped out these beautiful tulips

he had cut from our yard

and excitedly handed them to me.

"They're for you, Mom. Because you love tulips."

Like a knife right to the heart.

As moms, we don't always make the best choices

and it's amazing to me how resilient our kids can be.

During one of our recent giveaways

in which you could submit your favorite quotes,

Terri submitted this one about living in the moment

and it has really stuck with me.

Summer is here and with it, a whole new schedule.

My goal is to enjoy all that summer has to offer with my kids.

Which means my house is not always going to be tidy,

the laundry probably isn't going to get folded

and I may not always answer my phone.

If you call and have to leave a message,

just know that I am enjoying life with my kids

and that I will eventually get back to you.

Grandkids Welcome

2011-06-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!!!

Price = $25.00

Business Vinyl Week: Sign Blanks of all Kinds

2011-06-24T11:19:00.000-07:00

Sign blanks are available in many different formats.

Corrugated Plastic Signs are often used around election time

as people proudly support their candidates with yard signs.

If you are in the business of yard work or painting houses,

why not stake your sign in the yard of the client you are currently doing business for?

Help potential customers easily make the connection as to who

did the awesome new landscape or beautiful paint job.

I think it would be fun to create these stork signs for families

who want to announce a new arrival.

Metal sheeting comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

Easily directly traffic in your parking lot with a metal sign.

Sometimes customers walking or driving by your shop

may not know about all the goodness in your store.

Using an A-Frame sign to display the daily special

outside your store can attract customers who may not

have given you a second look.

An A-Frame covered in chalkboard vinyl

allows you to easily change your daily special.

Street Signs are also available.

I think this would be fun to use as decoration

in a transportation inspired boy's room.

If you are in the market for a sign,

you have lots of options.

Business Vinyl Week: Banners

2011-06-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER: Today's photos are not the greatest. When I do banners, usually I finish them, put them in a mailing tube and ship them out, never to see them again. Which means getting a nice shot of them hanging at their event isn't always possible. Some of the banners can be quite large and taking pictures of them late at night after I finish them isn't always feasible in my house. So, I ask that you look beyond the quality of the photographs to the concept of what we can create for you and your business.

Banners are a great way to shout your message out to the world.

This banner hung over main street and was approx. 20 feet by 5 feet.

If you plan to hang a banner anywhere in your city be sure to find out

what regulations your banner needs to meet before you place your order.

Banners come in a variety of sizes and colors.

It takes approx. one week to receive a banner blank from our supplier.

We can expedite shipping but that becomes costly!

So, plan ahead and save money.

This banner would not stop flapping in the wind, so ignore the bottom corner. It's just folded over.

Sometimes, banners can be reused.

This Mother's Day Gifts banner was actually done on the back side

of a banner the customer had previously used for another promotion.

I prefer to receive logos in .ai or .eps format because I can change
the size of the logo without it becoming distorted.
The client who requested this banner created their own logo
and was only able to save it as a .jpeg.
Luckily the client was able to email me the names of the fonts she used
and I recreated the logo in the proper format.
This will also benefit them when they create other marketing materials
such as t-shirts and flyers.

Contact us to discuss color and size options for your banner.
Banner Pricing = $5.00/square foot

Business Vinyl Week: Advertising with Your Car

2011-06-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

Using your car to advertise your business is a great idea.

It is relatively inexpensive to have your logo and information cut in vinyl.
And, a high volume of potential customers
will be introduced to your business as you drive around.
Traffic jams and rush hour suddenly become free advertising.

When it comes to cars and vinyl, you have a couple of options.

You can have your logo and information put on a magnet.
You can put that magnet on your door or even on your tailgate if it's big enough.
Car magnets are great if you don't always want to be driving around in the company vehicle.
You can remove them as you please and easily re-stick them when you are ready.

You can put your logo and information directly on your windows.
The vinyl can be removed when you are ready to change things up a bit.
But, it can not be re-used as the vinyl gets destroyed when you peel or scrape it off.

When it comes to choosing the size of your design, I like to think less is more.

Vinyl can be cut to whatever size you need.

However, that doesn't mean it should fill up your whole window.
I recommend a smaller to medium sized design.
You will want the information large enough to read,
but small enough to be classy.

Vinyl can also be placed directly on the body of the car if you prefer that.
HOWEVER, this becomes risky business
as you never know how the paint will react.
I feel it's best to stick to the windows and avoid the potential for a new paint job.

Business Vinyl Week: Logos

2011-06-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

I love logos.

They are fun to create and I love to see what some people come up with.

Here are two of my favorites.

Everytime I see them, I have to tell my husband how much I love them.

I love the simplicity of the words and the graphics.

When starting a business there are two major upfront decisions that have to be made:

1. Business Name

2. What's the logo going to look like???

(sure there are more decisions to be made,

like how you are going to finance the whole thing...

but logos are more fun to think about.)

The logo says a lot about your company, for that reason, it can be a process to create one.

For me, creating the logo for strawberrypearl has been a three year journey.

When I originally started doing vinyl,

I knew I wanted to use the name 'strawberrypearl.'

It was an email address I created in high school and it has just stuck with me.

One of the many hats my brother wears is that of graphic designer.

So, I asked him to create a logo for me.

This is how it started.

As I journeyed into the vinyl world and became more comfortable

with text and designing type,

I couldn't keep myself from playing with my logo.

I actually quite like the logo my brother designed

but I'm a creative spirit and I just couldn't keep my hands off it.

For awhile, I tried something super simple and did this:

but of couse I got tired of that and currently the logo is this:

Occassionally, I'll throw it inside the strawberrypearl icon:

Playing with your logo can be risky business.

Your logo helps build your brand

and your customers will come to rely on it.

Do you remember when Gap tried to 're-invent' their logo?

I don't think I read one positive comment about it.

As a result, they called it all off and went back to their old logo within a week.

Recently, Toni asked me to create a logo for her hair salon.

When I first met with Toni to discuss her logo,

she showed me a design she had created on a build your own logo website.

It was similar to the top logo here:

As I worked with the logo, it slowly morphed into the bottom design.

Toni had asked that the logo be non-gender specific because they

cut both men's and women's hair.

She also asked that the logo include 'LLC.'

The best part about creating a design is the moment when you know you finally got it.

You can work hard at something and tweak things here and there,

but the best feeling in the world is when you make that last tweak

and you just want to exclaim 'Viola!'

That's how I felt when I came up with the logo for Toni:

Here's one more logo I've been working on:

This is for a project I'm working on in my spare time.

A project that I hope to share with you in the near future.

If you are looking to start your own business

or need a logo re-design,

email me at strawberrypearlstudios(at)gmail(dot)come and we'll talk.

I'd love to create something for you!

Business Vinyl Week: The Bagel Deli

2011-06-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

This week is dedicated to the many options vinyl offers to businesses.

This vinyl logo was created many years ago, sadly not by me...

My husband's family owns and operates a bagel shop on Capitol Hill in Seattle.

A couple of years ago, we all got together to spruce the place up a bit

and I was able to add my vinyl touch.

We replaced the paper signs in the bagel display case with

more permanent vinyl.

We added the hours of operation to the entryway.

And created other signs to direct customers around the shop.

My husband surprised my with a fancy new camera for Christmas,

so while we were at the deli,

I took a few random shots behind the scenes.

Mom and pop shops are great. They usually have a charming atmosphere

that just can't be duplicated in larger stores.

Replacing some of the hand-made signs in the shop with

inexpensive vinyl can help to spruce the place up

without taking away the charm.

Wicked

2011-06-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have yet to see Wicked but I have heard rave reviews.

Sue asked me to come up with something with these lyrics

from one of the songs from Wicked.

She is moving and wanted to give this to one of her good friends.

This was one of my favorite pieces to work on because

of the story behind it and the connection these women have with each other,

which is so eloquently described in the lyrics of the song.

I love making gifts with meaning.

Iron-On Vinyl

2011-06-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have a love/hate relationship with iron-on vinyl...

it doesn't always do want I expect it to do,

which could possibly be due to operator-error, or possibly not.

When I designed these giggle and dirt shirts,

I had them professionally silk-screened for my own sanity.

One of my biggest frustrations when working with iron-on vinyl

is that I am usually working

with smaller shirts, which means smaller/thinner writing.

Usually the letters didn't stick like I want them to because they are so thin.

So, I thought I would take a stab at it again and make the onesie's

pictured above for my cousin's baby shower.

I figure she's family and won't hate me if the vinyl melts off in the wash.

This time I cut a block of blue vinyl to put behind each design.

Vinyl loves to stick to vinyl, so the blue block gives the white letters

something to grab onto.

If you look really close you can see that the vinyl isn't smooth,

that it has melted into the grooves of the onesie.

I think this is a good sign...

or it could just mean that I fried the vinyl...

Either way, I guess I can start experimenting with it again.

If you've worked with iron-on vinyl and have tips to share,

leave a comment.

And the winner is...

2011-06-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

Congrats Camille, and I hope your countdown goes quickly!!!

Email me your address and I'll get the blocks shipped out to you.

Thanks to everyone for playing along.

If you didn't win, the countdown kits are available to purchase.

Enter the discount code: countingdown

at checkout to receive $5.00 off your countdown block purchase.

The discount is good until midnight on Friday.

Countdown Block Kit = $15.00
use the discount code for $5.00 off

Last Day for Giveaway!!!

2011-06-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day to enter the GIVEAWAY!!!
You have until midnight!!!

It's been fun to hear from some new faces this time around.

So, even if you've never commented here before, we want to hear from you!!!

What are you counting down to?

Tell us on our giveaway post and you just might win!

Giveaway Time!!!

2011-06-10T11:11:00.000-07:00

Remember these bad boys?

If you would like your very own set, just leave a comment.

Let us know what you are counting down.

We'll choose a lucky winner on Tuesday.

The winner will receive:

A do-it-yourself kit including wood blocks,

black/white paper,

chalkboard vinyl,

black vinyl circles,

white vinyl numbers

paint and paint brush!

You may enter up to three times...

but each entry must include a different thing you are counting down.

Don't be shy about being creative with your comments...

Creativity is encouraged around here.

You have until midnight on Monday to enter.

Be sure to include your contact info if it is not found on your profile.

If the winner does not respond within 24 hours of being notified,

a new winner will be chosen.

Good Luck!

Teacher Gift Idea

2011-06-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ally requested this for her teacher.

I thought it was very insightful for a sixth grader!

What we've been up to...

2011-06-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

We've been in Seattle for the past week.

Visiting the city and family.

Having fun and making memories.

We had lots of fun but in the end...

2011-06-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

Teacher Gifts

2011-06-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year...school's almost out

which means time to find that perfect teacher gift.

With all the knick-knacks teachers receive,

why not be different and do something with a little meaning behind it?

2011-05-30T10:42:00.001-07:00

2011-05-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

Perspective

2011-05-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

It's never easy to lose a loved one.

I love the perspective that this quote offers.

Price = $20.00

New Design

2011-05-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here's another new design for a name board that I came up with recently.

Happy Monday!

Let the Craziness Begin...

2011-05-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

I'm in last minute scramble mode as I wrap up preparations for the Scrap-A-Thon.

Wish me luck!

Stop by and see us if you're in the area and want to get your scrap on!!!

Have a great sunshine filled weekend!!!

Scrap-A-Thon

2011-05-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Praying for sunshine today.

I have a shelf that needs to be spray painted

so I can use it for my display at the Scrap-A-Thon this weekend.

Here are the details for the big event:

Friday, May 20th 5pm thru Saturday, May 21st 10pm

@ the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Moscow.

Cost is $40 for the whole time, $30/day or $20 for 1/2 day.

100% of proceeds will be going to the school for books,

supplies and the over all cost of running a non-profit preschool.

For Questions, Comments, and Registration,

please contact Megan Hansen @ 509-336-4854

or email megandh@hotmail.com.

Who would have thought?

2011-05-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Never thought we'd be using our snow card on May 16th...

.......

Click here for the skinny on Learning Pockets

This sign never gets old for me...

2011-05-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

Each time I make this sign, I play with the design a little.

It never gets old!!!

Wedding Decor

2011-05-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

Old windows are great for just about anything.

This window will be used at an upcoming wedding.

The empty panes will have pictures of the happy couple.

Congrats Adrienne & Brad!!!

May you have many years of love and happiness!!!

Happy Monday!

2011-05-09T06:26:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2011-05-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Even though the one year old has managed to bypass the gate in my office/craft room doorway

and has now knocked over a basket of beads,

I still love my kids and am grateful for them!

Happy Mother's Day!

Giveaway Prize

2011-05-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share the finished tile Terri won from the giveaway we did recently.

Age is just a Number

2011-05-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have a new idol.

She has white hair,

she's kinda short and plump,

she's probably in her 70's

and she uses power tools.

We were driving home the other day

and I noticed a little old lady no younger than 70,

using an electric leaf blower

to blow the dirt off her driveway.

I instantly loved her.

How many grandmotherly women do you know

who are still out doing physical labor?

Makes me want to know her story.

What would you ask her?

Name Board

2011-05-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is fast approaching.

You may have noticed your mailbox being overtaken by save the date cards,

bridal shower invites and wedding announcements.

Not sure what to get the happy couple?

How about a Name Board?

Name Boards measure approx. 8" x 24"

A proof will be created and emailed to you based on the information you provide.

The board will be created after you approve the proof.

Price = $30.00

Everyone needs one of these...

2011-04-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

So, did you watch the Royal Wedding this morning?

I've just seen pictures so far and the couple looks amazing.

Kate's dress is so her, I love it.

I normally don't get invovled in these type of occassions, but how could you not?

I read a quick article about the day's events

and it just cracks me up how everyone thinks they are experts

on William and Kate and what they are thinking/doing.

If I were them,

I would hang this sign on their front door.

Congrats Wills and Kate,

and yes, I ship international.

Scrap-A-Thon

2011-04-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

I'm participating in my first Scrap-A-Thon

and I'm a little excited!!!

Here's the info if you want to play too...

A Charity Scrap-A-Thon sponsored by Scrap Bella

• Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast and Saturday dinner included!

• Fabulous Goodie Bags for the first 10 to register for the whole time!

• Drawings, Raffles, Give-Aways, Scrap Swap and Shopping!

• A great girls night!

Friday, May 20th 5pm thru Saturday, May 21st 10pm

at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Moscow.

Cost is $40 for the whole time, $30/day or $20 for ½ day.

100% of proceeds will be going to the school for books,

supplies and the over all cost of running a non profit preschool.

For Questions, Comments and Registration,

please contact Megan Hansen at 509-336-4854,

email at megandh@hotmail.com.

Thank you for your support and we hope to see you there!

Tender Mercies

2011-04-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

We're deviating from the post I had planned for today

because there's been a little excitement at our house in the past 24 hours.

Have you heard this term before...

It comes from the opening scriptures in the Book of Mormon.

(1 Nephi 1:14, 20)

For me, it means that the Lord will bless and protect us in all that we do

as we show even an ounce of faith in Him.

Yesterday morning, I had the most random thought that I should probably

know where the water shut off valve is for our house.

I made a mental note that it is probably

the random sprinkle valve in our office closet.

The one buried behind many books and treasures.

And that was that.

Last night as the boys were getting ready for bed,

I heard water running in their bathroom

and figured they had left the faucet on after they brushed their teeth.

I was about to nag at them for leaving the water on,

when I realized it was coming from under the sink

and saw the water pouring out from the cabinet.

My husband sprang into action

and tried to shut off the water under the sink.

It didn't work.

Our next thought was to turn the water off to the house.

I started digging in the office closet and turned the valve.

Nothing happened, hmm...maybe I was wrong about that.

Nope, turns out I twisted it the wrong way.

Righty-tighty, lefty-loosy.

We got the water shut off and the kids settled in bed.

I was not looking forward to a day without water

as I waited for the plumber.

However, I received a call a little after 8:00

this morning from the plumber and he was on his way.

By 8:45am, my water was back on and we were back in business.

The plumber's comment to me:

I've never seen a valve do that.

It cracked right in half.

So, if the Lord is willing to bless our little family with minimal water damage.

What do you think he is willing to bless you with?

How have you seen the Lord's tender mercies in your life?

Spring

2011-04-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone enjoyed the Easter weekend.

We actually had two beautiful days of sunshine in a row!!!

You think spring is here to stay?

And the winner is...

2011-04-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Terri submitted the following quote:

"There are moments

that I know I will long for

even as I live them."

~Judith Katzir

Congrats to Terri, I look forward to creating a design with this quote!

Thanks to everyone

who submitted quotes!

It was fun to hear some new quotes and relive old ones.

Last day for the Giveaway!!!

2011-04-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

You have until midnight tonight to enter the giveaway!!!

I'll post the winner tomorrow morning.

Click here to enter.

Words of Inspiration

2011-04-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this little video a couple of weeks ago and loved it.

Here's the take home message I pulled from it...

Have you seen it? What did you think?

Giveaway!!!

2011-04-18T10:24:00.000-07:00

I'm trying something new for this week's giveaway, so please play along so I don't look like a total goof...

I'm sure you're all on pins and needles wondering what this great giveaway will be.

So, without further ado...

I love quotes.

I know, shocker.

There are lots of quotes that I love because they make me giggle.

I totally identify with other quotes.

Others I love because I find truth in them.

And others, are little snippets of longer talks or quotes that encourage me to be better.

So, I want to know.

What makes you laugh?

What do you identify with?

What is truth to you?

To participate in the giveaway,

you need to leave a comment with your favorite quote,

scripture verse, short poem or anything else that inspires you.

Feel free to leave a little note about why you love the quote.

You can enter up to three different quotes

because I know how hard it is to choose one.

Be sure to leave three separate comments.

What the winner wins...

I will take the winning quote and create a design layout for the winner.

The winner may choose to have the vinyl cut so that they can create a finished product

or I can create a finished product with the quote on a 12" x 12 " tile or 8" x 24" painted board.

The winner will be announced on Friday, April 22nd.

You have until midnight on Thursday, April 21st to enter.

.........

The fine print.

Be sure to include your email if it is not listed under your profile.

If winner does not respond within 24 hours of notification, a new winner will be chosen.

The winner will receive free shipping within the U.S.

All are welcome to participate but winner will be responsible for shipping outside of the U.S.

Designs are property of strawberrypearl studios.

a picture says a thousand words...

2011-04-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

Countdown Blocks with Chalkboard

2011-04-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

I like to apply the K.I.S.S. principle to my life.

Keep It Simple ~~Stupid~~ Silly

I love countdown blocks and how adorable they are with all the cute scrapbook paper

that corresponds to the holiday you are counting down.

But I don't like storing holiday decorations.

So, why not make one super cute countdown that you can change for each holiday?

I stacked the blocks a little differently and then used chalkboard vinyl on the bottom block.

Now I can countdown whatever I want, whenever I want.

I thought my son might like this one.

He's working on numbers and what mom doesn't celebrate bedtime?

The arrival of a new baby is always exciting,

but who wants to be reminded just how many days it takes to grow a baby?

With the chalkboard vinyl, you can countdown the months,

then as things progress, the weeks, then the days and maybe even the impending hours.

Might keep your mind off the contractions.

And if you are left with nothing to countdown,

why not celebrate life?

Want to Make Your Own?

Vinyl and Wood Kit as shown (does not include paper) = $15.00

Chalkboard Magnets

2011-04-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Chalkboard vinyl with a magnetic backing makes for some more fridge fun.

Let your hubs know you noticed and appreciated his good deed...

Or, get the kids all pumped and excited for dinner

only to crush their hearts when you make grilled cheese because the day was just too crazy...

Good thing these chalkboards are erasable.

Available to Purchase

12 inch x 12 inch Chalkboard Magnets = $10.00

Chalkboard with Pocket

2011-04-12T09:19:00.000-07:00

My favorite part about this chalkboard tile is the pocket!

I love the paper and I love the convenience of having my list, coupons and receipts next to my to do list

so that I am organized when I head out for the day.

Available to Purchase

Chalkboard Tile with Pocket = $20.00

(pocket will be made with varying designs of black & white paper)

...........

Want to make your own?

Metal Scroll = $3.50

Chalkboard Tile = $10.00

Chalkboard Vinyl

2011-04-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

I created this little set of chalkboards awhile ago with chalkboard vinyl.

I have been on the hunt for chalk markers to use with it and have had a difficult time finding something.

Regular chalk works just fine, but the markers have a finer tip.

I even checked the craft stores while we were in Utah a couple of weeks ago

and got nothing but strange looks from the sales associates.

You want to know where I finally found the markers?

At our local Michaels. I was browsing the paint section and saw them.

Turns out they were not in the chalk section like I thought they would be.

As much as I love the chalkboard pens...

I probably love these hinges even more.

I found them at a hardware store in a discontinued bin.

The chalk ink wipes right off the chalkboard vinyl with a wet rag.

You can see I wasn't patient enough to let it dry before I wrote on it again.

I'll be sharing more chalkboard projects this week.

...........

Want to make your own chalkboard?

12 inch x 12 inch sheet of chalkboard vinyl = $5.00

Learning Pockets

2011-04-09T07:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks for joining us this week and sharing in the Learning Pocket fun!

Remember...

Easy access = more play time = more learning

Enjoy your weekend!

New Product: Single Pocket

2011-04-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know how things are in your homes, with your families, but around here,

it seems like someone is always trying to get out of having to do something.

So I created this single pocket with our pictures.

(How long do you think it will take them to notice there's not a picture of me???)

When there is a job to be done and no one volunteers, we head to the pocket.

The lucky winner is the person whose picture is in front.

Want to try a pocket of your own?

Single Magnetic Pocket = $4.00

New Product: Weather Learning Pocket

2011-04-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Artwork from Heritage Makers

It's all about the weather these days and someday we may have an extended stay of sunshine.

I like this pocket system because we get to talk about the weather and how it is always changing.

The kids also get to work on the concept of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

There are eight different weather options in each pocket.

There are three cards of each weather option so that if the weather actually stays the same

for three days in a row, the kids can document it.

The kids also like to play memory with these cards because you have to find 3 of each match.

Available for Purchase

Magnetic Vinyl Pocket System: Weather = $10.00

Deck of Weather Cards (3 sets of 8 different weather options, 24 cards total) = $20.00

If you attempted to order these earlier, and the cart wasn't working properly, try again.
If you have any difficulties, please email me.

New Product: Colors Learning Pocket

2011-04-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

I tailored the Colors Learning Pocket to kids of all ages.

I want my five-year old to work on sight words and colors.

And, I want my three-year old to work on colors.

Artwork from Heritage Makers

Each card has tons of different objects all in the same color.

Older kids who are working on sight words,

can match the words to the colors through a game of memory.

I think it would be fun for younger kids to collect small objects around the house

that match the color card they are working on.

Available to Purchase

Magnetic Vinyl Pocket system = $5.00

Deck of Color Cards (words & objects, 20 cards total) = $15.00

New Product: Numbers 1-10 Learning Pocket

2011-04-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Learning Pocket: Numbers 1-10

Artwork from Heritage Makers

This is probably my favorite Learning Pocket.

My two oldest kids are 5 and 3, so they are on different levels

when it comes to working with numbers and words.

My oldest likes to play memory with the cards, matching the words to the numbers.

And my three-year old likes to work with the cards that have pictures.

One day, I put out some plastic jam jars and had the three-year old line up the cards with the pictures.

Then, I had him put the same number of marbles in each cup as there were pictures on the card.

While he was doing that, the five-year old set up the word cards on the other side of the jars

as pictured below. They had fun working together, each on their own level.

Available to Purchase

Deck of Cards: Numbers 1-10 (pictures & words, 20 cards total) = $15.00

Magnetic Vinyl Pocket System = $7.50

New Product: Learning Pockets

2011-04-04T10:47:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give a little history on the development of today's new product - Learning Pockets.

1. The Name

Many years ago, I took a child development class. I vaguely remember learning something about how children have these moments or little windows of time where they are especially susceptible to learning new concepts. I translated that into "learning pockets" and added that to the fact that I wanted to develop a pocket system of educational games for my children.

2. The Pocket System

This is my first attempt at creating a pocket system. I used black vinyl material and sewed this little ditty.

I altered the pattern a couple of times, but in the end, it was too time consuming and really did nothing for my patience. I like to sew, but I do not love to sew and I couldn't see myself mass-producing these.

I let the idea sit for awhile and got back into it when Lydia found this magnetic pocket system at the dollar store. I loved the idea and figured I could dress up the presentation of it a bit. The dollar store is a little hit and miss here, so I wasn't sure if I could find the pockets when I need them. So, I kept thinking...

And that's when I decided to make this version. It is a double magnetic pocket system.

I liked how it turned out and went about making the cards.

This Alphabet Set includes both uppercase and lowercase letters. As they sit side by side in the pockets, my children can find the matching letters to show both at the same time. It seems that sometimes we focus just on the uppercase and I really wanted to show both styles of the alphabet.

Artwork from Heritage Makers

My son loves to play memory with the cards. If he uses all 52 cards, it takes him quite awhile to finish one round, but it ~~keeps him from bugging his brother~~ helps him learn his alphabet. Each set of upper and lowercase letters has a matching picture of an object that starts with the letter. That way if he is a little unsure of the match, he can check himself by seeing if the pictures match.

He also likes to line the uppercase cards up in order and then match the lowercase letters below them.

We've had fun finding new ways to use the cards and I love having them out for the kids to play with whenever they want. I have them on my fridge and if the boys want to play, they just come get the cards.

Easy access = more play time = more learning!!!

Available to Purchase

Magnetic Vinyl Pocket System = $5.00

Deck of Uppercase and Lowercase Cards = $20.00

Stay tuned for more Learning Pocket fun.

I'll be posting a new pocket idea each day this week.

Front Door

2011-04-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

Today's photo comes care of Marci.

She wanted their family's last name on their front door.

Easy way to dress up the door and add curb appeal.

Want to add your name to your door?

Email the dimensions of the area where you would like the vinyl

and I'll send you a proof with different font options.

Price will vary depending on size.

Name pictured above = $10.00.

strawberrypearlstudios(at)gmail(dot)com.

Heaven is for Real

2011-03-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we took a road trip. Four days of driving for one event.

The trip went really well and I enjoyed the time spent with my family.

One of my favorite things about road trips is that I get to read!!!

I stumbled across this book at Costco a couple of weeks ago and purchased it for our trip.

I started reading it on our way home from Costco and couldn't put it down.

It's a true story about a little boy who gets to visit Heaven during an emergency appendectomy.

During the following months after his surgery, he shares his story with his parents.

What I love about the story and this little boy is that there is no apologizing for what he saw.

He saw Christ, he visited Heaven and that's the way it is.

It's an amazing story that just might change the way you look at life.

If you are local, and want to borrow it, just let me know.

Have you read it?

Leave a comment and let us know what you think about the book.

...

We'll get back to vinyl on Friday after I tackle the laundry.

Find Joy in the Journey

2011-03-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I am more about the destination than the journey.

My little family is in the car today on the second leg of our 600 mile journey.

I am finding joy.

Pray While You Push

2011-03-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

Monday's post made me think about other life mottos that I love.

This one has been swirling around in my head for about a year,

so I decided to create something with it.

About a year ago, we were discussing a talk given by President Uchtdorf titled

"Two Principles for any Economy."

I haven't been able to forget something Elder Uchtdorf said.

He stated, "When our wagon gets stuck in the mud,

God is much more likely to assist the man who gets out to push

than the man who merely raises his voice in prayer

—no matter how eloquent the oration."

"Pray while you push" is how I summed it up.

There's more from the talk that I enjoyed and so I printed it on cardstock and

attached it to the back of the block.

I feel these are important words to remember as we face the challenges of life.

We can't just sit and pray for help without working towards a solution.

Available to Purchase

Price = $10.00

Block Measures Approx. 5" x 5"

Black Paint/Beige Vinyl

Quote on Back of Block:

It is often in the trial of adversity

that we learn those most critical lessons

that form our character and shape our destiny.

...When our wagon gets stuck in the mud,

God is much more likely to assist the man

who gets out to push than the man who

merely raises his voice in prayer

— no matter how eloquent the oration.

- Dieter F. Uchtdorf

my motto

2011-03-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

So, I had a different plan for today's post (think new product reveal...)

But, our morning had a different plan for me, so I went looking for a project to post and found this nugget.

Things you should/shouldn't know about me today:

#1. I am sitting in the car with my laptop and two sleeping children.

and

#2. We're waiting for two things...

a. Bountiful Baskets to open their offers for the week

and

b. My son to finish with pre-school.

"Moderation in all things" is my motto for life, not just what I eat.

It's always an adventure trying to juggle everything life offers.

I love my family, I love to work and I love to be creative.

Sometimes, those things don't always go together.

But, if we keep the bigger picture in mind and attempt to stay away

from the extremes, we'll find a sense of balance.

So, while some may find that blogging from your laptop in the car

is a little extreme, I find it perfect.

The kids get what they want (and need)

and I get a moment to share my thoughts with you.

Care to share?

Leave a comment and let us know what you do to keep the balance in your life.

Spring Ahead!

2011-03-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Image from Here

Don't forget to set your clocks

ahead an hour on Sunday morning!

clearance week...

2011-03-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

Next week is Spring Break for us which will hopefully mean spring cleaning!!!

I know, not as exciting as a tropical vacation. But, I'll take what I can get.

I've decided to spring clean strawberrypearl a bit too.

So, join us next week for...

I'll post the clearance items on Monday.

They will be available through next Saturday.

When they're gone, they're gone.

Aren't you so excited?

See ya Monday!

Name Boards

2011-03-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

Looking for a unique wedding or

house warming gift?

Try a name board.

Each board can be personalized

with last names, first names, dates,

whatever you want.

Boards are approx. 8 inches x 24 inches.

Price = $25.00

Email me at strawberrypearlstudios(at)gmail(dot)com

to place an order.

baby sleeping...please knock

2011-03-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

My friend, Jade, asked me to create this sign for her

when she had her second baby.

I think with each baby you cherish

and live for nap time.

Jade and her husband are currently counting

down the days/hours

to the birth of their twins.

I think they need a new sign...

Good Luck Jade & Ben!

The Stacker

2011-03-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have often wondered who came up with the concept for stackers.

I think they are so cute and I love to create

variations on the basic stacker concept

(shown as the "lead me, guide me..." stacker)

So, if you know who first

created the stacker concept,

do share!

Have a great weekend!!!

Our Best Bites

2011-03-02T11:08:00.000-08:00

I received this lovely cookbook in the mail the other day

from my mother-in-law as an early birthday present.

My crafting time has recently been replaced

with snow-shoveling time

as we've been hit with a ton of snow!!!

So, I thought I would share this awesome book

and we'll get back to vinyl projects on Friday.

Kate @ Our Best Bites just happens to be my sis-in-law.

And, Sara was my husband's friend in high school.

I'm so excited for them!!!

They have worked so hard on their blog

and have now produced this amazing cookbook!!!

The book is loaded with amazing recipes,

and helpful tutorials.

If you haven't visited their blog yet,

I highly recommend it!!!

You can find their recipes and

purchasing info at

ourbestbites.com.

Enjoy!!!

time to hang up a new countdown!!!

2011-02-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

I am so excited for March!!!

We get to hang our St. Patty's countdown.

The end of winter just might be approaching.

And, my birthday falls on the ides of March!

It'll be my first time celebrating my 29th birthday.

I'm still not too sure how I feel about that.

But I'm so excited for March to almost be here!!!

Thanks to everyone who joined us for Heritage Makers week!

If you have any questions, you can email me.

And the winners are...

2011-02-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

Congrats Ladies!!!

Thanks to everyone for participating!!!

One of my favs!!!

2011-02-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

You have until midnight tonight

to enter the GIVEAWAY!!!

Ten gold stars to anyone who can 'guess' the name of

today's Heritage Makers project!!!

Super easy to make,

the project is based on a template.

All you have to do is drop your pictures in!!!

Happy Thursday!!!

Family Tree Book

2011-02-23T10:02:00.000-08:00

DON'T FORGET TO ENTER

THE GIVEAWAY!!!

You have until tomorrow at midnight!

One of my favorite books that Lydia has created is her Family Tree book.

In my opinion, this book really sums up

what Heritage Makers is all about.

Here's Lydia's thoughts about it...

I have a lot of favorite HM projects

but when it comes down to the nitty gritties,

my favorites of the favorites are the ones

that have to do with stories of my ancestors.

Did you know that science has proven that kids are better off

- contribute more to society, are well grounded, all that good stuff -

when they know their family history?

It's so important that we know who we are and where we came from!

After all, how can we improve our future if we don't know our past?

The book is simple and beautiful.

(And - added bonus - all based on a template!)

It includes a picture and short bio on me,

my parents, grandparents and great grandparents.

Compiling the book was such an amazing experience.

I throughly enjoyed reading the various personal histories

and documents over a period of several months.

One thing became astoundingly clear

- life is EASY these days compared to the physical hardships

and amount of work that used to be common place.

My parents are amazing,

I feel blessed that I can remember my grandparents

and the lessons they taught me,

and I am grateful to my great grandparents

for making the sacrifices they did for future prosperity.

As I personalized the pages of

striking nature photography and beautiful poetry,

I became convinced that EVERYONE

needs one of these books!

Soon after I finished my book, I made one for my husband...

and gave it to him for Christmas. (It made him cry!)

Can you imagine how lucky my kids are to have

BOTH sides of their family tree neatly summarized

in two heirloom quality hardbound books??

I've said it before and I'll say it again -

I love what I do!! (How could I not??)

Thanks to everyone who joined in on

Lydia's webinar last night!

Did you know you can make

Board Books through HM???

This is totally awesome.

I'm thinking I might have to make

a quiet book or something...

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

2011-02-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

When I first heard about Heritage Makers,

I fell in love with their swatch books.

They seemed so easy to make

and the possibilities as to what to create

with them is endless!!!

So for this lovely GIVEAWAY we'll be giving away

two swatch books!!!

That's right, two lucky winners this time!!!

The winners of this giveaway will be able choose one

of the above swatch books!

SWATCH BOOK #1 = Colors & Numbers

Colors on the front of the pages,

Numbers on the back of the pages.

SWATCH BOOK #2 = Family Conversations Starters

I love this one!

It is loaded with fun questions you could use

to start interesting conversations

around the table, in the car,

or while you wait at Quick Care...

3 EASY WAYS TO ENTER:

1. BECOME A FOLLOWER OF THIS BLOG

& leave a comment including your favorite color!

2. BECOME A FOLLOWER OF THIS BLOG

& leave a comment with the answer to the following question:

"If you could...wave a magic wand and stop any one thing,

what would you stop and why?"

3. BECOME A FOLLOWER OF OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

& leave a comment on this blog letting us know

that you joined us on facebook.

IF YOU ARE ALREADY A FOLLOWER,

leave us comments with the above answers

& let us know if you are following us on FACEBOOK.

So that means everyone can enter up to three times!!!

Be sure to include your email address

if it's not listed on your profile.

If you win and we can't contact you,

we'll have to choose a new winner...

You have from now to midnight on Thursday to enter.

We'll announce the winner on Friday!!!

Heritage Makers Day 2

2011-02-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

REMINDERS:

Lydia will be hosting a free online webinar TONIGHT @ 8PM PST.

So, put the kiddos to bed and join us

for an hour of instruction on how to use

Heritage Makers.

(I'll post specific instructions at the end of this post)

HAVE YOU ADDED YOURSELF TO OUR

LIST OF FOLLOWERS YET???

I'll be announcing the GIVEAWAY later today!!!

Before we get too far into Heritage Makers

I wanted to kind of layout pricing and how to purchase points.

Heritage Makers recently revamped their purchasing options

so that everything is more user friendly. Yeah!!!

So, to purchase items from Heritage Makers, you need points.

You can purchase these points for a $1.00 per point.

But why would you want to do that

when you can shop the deals???

Just like everything, you will want to shop the specials with HM.

They recently created Club HM to offer the best bang for your buck.

There are different purchasing levels

depending on how much you want to spend.

But each level offers great features.

Becoming part of Club HM is a three month commitment.

The lowest level is $30/month for 3 months.

For that price you get 40 points/month

plus free access to their Premier artwork!!!

To join Club HM go to Lydia's page MylifeMyheritage.com

and click on the Club HM icon to learn more.

There is also a one time sign-up bonus of

100 points for $50.00 when you join Club HM.

An amazing deal!!!

You'll need to contact Lydia to purchase these points.

I'll be back later today with more pictures

and GIVEAWAY details!!!

Here's updated info for tonight's webinar...

Follow this link to register:

https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/548348432

You don't need to have an account with HM to attend

or even have a clue about HM.

Lydia will fill you in on everything!

During the webinar you will be able

to see Lydia's computer screen

and hear her lovely voice!

If you have questions, you'll be able

to submit them during the webinar.

Fun Filled Week with Heritage Makers!!!

2011-02-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I mentioned that we were going to have
a special week on this here blog

and that you were going to meet one of my favorite people.

I think I also mentioned something about a giveaway....

hmmm, you might want to stay tuned for that!!!

Allow me to introduce my friend Lydia...

I think there are some people in life that you are just meant to be around.

Lydia just happens to be one of those people.

Our paths first crossed when I was in ninth grade.

At the time, I didn't know Lydia too well

but her husband just happened to be my basketball coach.

I wasn't the greatest of basketball players...

I think I enjoyed making fun little cards and trinkets to pump the team up

before each game more than I enjoyed actually playing.

I was pretty terrified each time I was told to sub in.

Really??? You want me to go in???

This bench is actually kind of comfy...

So, fast-forward a couple million years

(or about fourteen...) to the present day.

I'd run into Lydia and her family every now and then,

usually at the WSU craft fair.

When we moved into my grandparent's home,

I started running into her more.

She lives down the street and one day she invited me to

a Heritage Makers party and I actually went.

Home parties are just not my thing, but I had heard great things

about Heritage Makers and I wanted to know more.

Heritage Makers is an online scrapbooking company

that allows you to make hardbound storybooks, calendars,

swatch books, playing cards, gifts, posters, cards,

you name it, you could probably create it with Heritage Makers.

I kind of fell in love with all the projects Lydia showed me and get this,

I told her I would host a party...what???

Did I really just say that???

The party was a flop but it gave Lydia and I a chance

to bounce our creative ideas off each other.

Since then we've worked together on many different projects

and now I get to share them with you!!!

I'm going to let Lydia give you the run down on Heritage Makers

and then throughout the week,

we'll share some of our projects and yes,

we'll have a giveaway!!!

(To be entered, you'll need to be a follower of this blog,

so make sure you've made the click!)

Here's Lydia...

How many of us have photos stuck in drawers

and boxes and .jpgs stuck on

our computers and phones??

It's a common problem.

And one that Heritage Makers can help solve!

When I found Heritage Makers,
I instantly recognized something great and immediately fell in love.

It's an online publishing company
that allows you to create just about anything.

You provide the pictures and they provide the rest.

There are over 50,000 pieces of artwork
so there's no chance of growing bored,

you have complete control over your template

with the ease of state-of-the-art drag and drop technology,

and there are well over 4,000 templates in the art gallery.

But my favorite part about heritage makers is that

it allows me to strengthen my family

while building hardbound storybooks

and doing fun projects with my valuable photos.

I love sharing my projects with other people.

And it is my privilege and honor to work with Lacey

(who I adore, by the way- how could you not??)

to introduce you to these fun new products and ideas.

Lacey here again...

While this post is growing to great lengths,

I thought I would share my first Heritage Makers project.

When I first started learning about Heritage Makers, I loved how many

of the books and projects were focused on bringing stories

and people of the past to life.

I've mentioned before that my grandpa passed away earlier this year.

I decided to create a little swatch book that has pictures of my grandparents on one side

and some of my grandma's favorite recipes on the other side.

The book contains 10 pages with photos on the front and
recipes on the back.

My parents gave a copy of the book to my siblings

and to my dad's siblings for Christmas this year.

It's been fun listening to everyone's memories as they look through the pictures and recipes.

The book was easy to make.

Lydia mentioned that you can choose from

many different templates to create a project.

I actually decided to start from scratch and

created my own layout and design of the book.

To create a project with Heritage Makers go to MylifeMyheritage.com and set up a free basic account.

If you have questions, please contact Lydia.

She will also be hosting a free online studio demo tomorrow night at 8pm PST.

We will include the link in tomorrow's post.

And, oh yeah, she just might have a free greeting card coupon for you.

(But that's not the giveaway!!! Stay tuned for more on that, we'll be posting every day this week!!!)

Learning Curve (and GIVEAWAY alert!!!)

2011-02-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

(click here to purchase)

So, I am just a wee bit excited to show you this...

My friend, Lydia, has an awesome website all about family reunions. Awhile ago, she asked me to create some sort of tree that could represent a family tree. I loved the idea, but when it came down to it, I just wasn't sure how to physically create the image in my design program. When it comes to layout and design, I have fully embraced the trial and error process and have experienced both the good and the bad.

Well, sometimes things just click and mental stumbling blocks vanish.

Lydia found the perfect tree for our little project.

Only problem, it was a metal piece of wall art...not so much a digital image.

So, I took that piece of metal, traced it on some paper and through trial and error...

I created this vinyl graphic and I am in love!

I love the tree, but what I love more is the process it took to create it.

If someone had just handed/emailed me a digital tree image, that would have been fine and dandy.

However, I started this project from scratch and in the process I learned a ton about my design program and hopefully I will be able to build on that to bring you more fun and exciting projects. Something about teaching a man to fish versus just handing him the fish...

Speaking of fun and exciting projects, next week I am going to highlight some super awesome projects I have created in my spare time. We're going to stray a tiny bit from vinyl, but no worries, there just might be a GIVEAWAY!!! HINT: You might want to make sure you are a follower...

See ya on Monday, Lydia will be joining in on the fun too!

For All You Twilight Fans....

2011-02-16T16:05:00.000-08:00

I saw this the other day and just had to share...

White Vinyl Car Window Sticker Approx. 8" x 2" = $3.00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

May all your dreams come true!!!

big weekend!

2011-02-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

My son is turning one year old this weekend!!! I am so excited!!! We have a busy weekend and somewhere in there I am planning on making a cake. I love to do fun cakes and this year I think I am going to use this little stick figure head and turn it into my son's cake. He is known for his wild hair, so I thought we could celebrate it. When he was born, he came out with a wild head of hair and I was determined to not cut it until he turned one. That didn't last long. He's coming up on his sixth hair cut next week!

Happy Birthday Ivan!!!

(p.s. If you have any suggestions on how to not terrify your child during a hair cut, I'd love to hear them!)