Wendy Jo's Craft Cafe

Something New and Exciting!...

2011-01-16T19:01:00.003-05:00

Something new and exciting is on the horizon. I am in the process of creating a new blog and will no longer be writing new posts or moderating comments on this site. I will announce my new blog on a future Legend blog post on www.fiskateers.com as well as on my Facebook page in early 2011.

Hugs!
Wendy Jo

Quote of the Day

2010-11-21T11:31:00.002-05:00

People are like stained glass windows.
They sparkle and shine when the sun is out,
but when the darkness sets in,
their true beauty is revealed only if
there is light from within.

- Elizabeth Kubler Ross

Chicago is My Kind of Town

2010-07-25T21:35:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm heading off to the airport again tomorrow morning. I'm flying to Chicago to attend the Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show. I'm looking forward to seeing my creative friends from across the country. I have some exciting news to share once I return from my trip next week. I'm such a tease. (Don't you hate it when I do that?)

I've spent the last several weeks focusing on me and my personal craft style. I've been doing some serious research on current and up coming crafting trends. I've been reading several new crafting books and I'm looking forward to blogging on a regular basis again. Until later my friends.

Blogging in the Cafe

2010-07-01T00:06:00.006-04:00

Time flies when you are having fun. My contract with Fiskars as their Lead Fiskateer has come to an end. I am now a Fiksateer Legend. I'll be blogging here on a regular basis now. If you are visiting me here for the first time, Welcome!

I have a lot of plans for my website and it's going to take me a little time to get everything up and running. I'm currently on Facebook and will be on Twitter shortly. I also have a new video software program so I'll be posting videos here on my website of some of my projects and creative adventures.

Stories about my life, challenges, give-a-ways, videos, projects and more! I can't wait to share these things with you right here!

A Little Bit of "Buble"

2010-05-23T14:31:00.004-04:00

The video that you are about to see has nothing to do about crafting. It has nothing to do with chocolate or tea. But I guess it's safe to say that food, of some sort, is involved.

Warning: What you are about to see is silly-stupid. But I love it! I just could not resist posting it here on my blog. If you know me, you'll understand why. So, if you too are looking for a reason to laugh, may I suggest clicking the underlined link below.

Hamm and Buble

(See, a little glass of Buble can help take away the pain now and then.)

Soft Kitty

2010-05-08T01:37:00.009-04:00

Meet Skeeter, my parents new bundle of chaos. As most of my blog readers from the Fiskateer website know, I'm a huge fan of the television show The Big Bang Theory. Well, I'm happy to report that my parents are offiicially hooked to this crazy show too (thanks to me, their goofy daughter)! I even heard my dad say "bazinga!" last night. So, I dedicate this little song to my new four legged brother...

Soft Kitty,

Warm Kitty,

Little ball of fur.

Happy Kitty,

Sleepy Kitty,

Purr, purr, purr.

-Sheldon, The Big Bang Theory

Quote of the Day

2010-03-23T23:05:00.003-04:00

"If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see?"

-The White Rabbit
Alice in Wonderland

A Crafty Chica Novel

2010-03-04T15:09:00.002-05:00

Have you read any good books lately?

Well, here is one for your bookshelf...

Waking Up in the Land of Glitter by Kathy Cano-Maurillo.

Kathy ("The Crafty Chica") and I met at a Craft and Hobby Association Trade show several years ago and we've been keeping in touch ever since. I'm a regular reader of her blog and I'm so excited that her very first novel was just released earlier this week. Don't belive me? Not only did I stop by my local Borders to pick up my reserved copy, I bought a handful of extra copies... matter of fact I cleared off the shelves forcing my local store to order more in stock!

May I suggest that you run to your local bookstore to pick up your copy, because if you don't, I just might beat you to that purchase!

Hey Kathy! If you are reading this... Long live glitter!

Meet Cupcake

2009-10-04T15:59:00.007-04:00

Have you visited my other blog lately?

If so, you might have read that I have a new computer. She's all pink and her name is "Cupcake."

Well, I've been busy learning all of Cupcake's bells and whistles since I adopted her in September. I've also been racking my brain trying to remember all my favorite links and passwords that were lost on my old computer.

I've tried several times to jump on here an add a new post her on Wendy Jo Craft's, but for the life of me, I couldn't remember how in the world do do that... until now. So, the two of us might start dropping in every now and then. In the meantime, be sure to stop by my other blog site mentioned below.

Are You Visiting....?

2008-08-21T20:34:00.004-04:00

Are you visiting my blog at
www.fiskateers.com/blog/author/wendy-jo ?

If not, here's just a little look at what you've been missing...

I'm Still Blogging and Crafting

2008-08-15T09:18:00.003-04:00

Has it really been a month since I've posted a blog here on Wendy Jo Crafts? It's hard to believe that it has actually been that long because I've actually been keeping up a steady pace on both blogging and crafting alike.

Be sure to check out my blog on the Fiskars Brands Ambassadors website, http://www.fiskateers.com/blog/author/wendy-jo/ I've been hanging out there quite a bit. I'm not alone there either. There are currently four other Lead Fiskateers supporting this site as well as occasional visits from three of the original Leads. Every once in a while we even have a surprise guest pop in to say "hello" too. If you haven't checked us out lately, earlier this week we welcomed our 4,800th member in our little community. The Fiskateers have been busy posting comments on our blogs, sharing crafts in the gallery and are very active in the message board. It's definitely a group effort to keep our site new and exciting every day.

And when we least expect it, something like this happens...

http://moblogsmoproblems.blogspot.com/2008/08/introducing-company-blog-checkup-top-10.html

I'm Heading to Chicago!

2008-07-15T23:25:00.002-04:00

Well it's that time of year for another trade show. This time I'm heading to the Craft and Hobby Association (CHA) show in Chicago. I went to this show a couple of years ago as a guest of Fiskars. This year, I'll be working at the show doing demos for the Fiskars Brands family.

For show updates, be sure to visit: www.fiskateers.com/blog

Also for your viewing pleasure, I invite you to watch the latest episode of Fiskars TV at www.fiskarscrafts.com/tv . There's a special guest for show that aired for the first time today... and boy, is she super fast with that trimmer!

Troubles in Blog Land

2008-07-09T20:44:00.002-04:00

Apparently there are some technical problems with my personal blog site, the one that you are reading right now. I've received multiple emails in the last week from readers that I never knew I had before now. Apparently comments are not taking to this site for some strange reason. Now I'm not the technical genius and it may take a while for me to figure it out how to check and change the settings. In the meantime, be sure to visit my blog at the link listed in my prior blog entry. That's where I'm posting on a regular basis now. Pop on over there. I'd love to hear from you!!!

A New Look

2008-07-04T07:56:00.003-04:00

So, have you check out the new look at www.fiskateers.com yet? The message board on the new site is broken down to individual topics, it's very cool.

While you are there, be sure to click on the head shots of all the new Leads at the top of the page, read our bios so you can learn a little more about my scissor sisters. And be sure to check out my blog on the new site because I'll be writing there too now.

Oh, and if you get the chance, don't forget to check out this fun page ...

http://www.fiskarscrafts.com/articles/t_newleads.aspx

Be Back Soon

2008-06-30T21:03:00.009-04:00

Well, the countdown officially has begun. The image at http://www.fiskateers.com/ that has been so familiar to me for the last two years is about to change.

It's hard to believe that a little over two years ago, I was sitting in a crop room of a local scrapbook store talking to two members of the Brains on Fire team. They were searching for the original Leads for the Fiskars Brand Warrior Program...later to be renamed the Fiskateers. The original four Leads will always hold a place dear in my heart. Stephenie, May, Cheryl and Holly have done a fabulous job bringing to life and building a community that has become my second family. These ladies have been a blessing in my life as well as the lives of many other Fiskateers around the world and for that I will always be grateful.

It's hard to believe that in just a few short hours, I along with 4,800+ Fiskateers around the world will hit the refresh button one last time on our favorite site and we will witness a brand new era. And with that one little key stroke, we will all see my wildest dreams become a reality... My life as a Lead Fiskateer will officially begin.

Meet & Greet Scheduled

2008-06-27T09:31:00.008-04:00

I have my first official Lead Fiskateer Meet & Greet scheduled on July 5th & 6th at Scrapmania! in Hagerstown, MD.

On Saturday, July 5th, I'll be making an quick appearance from 2:00-4:00 during the all day crop.

On Sunday, July 6th, I'll be there for the official Meet & Greet from 2:00-4:00. During this time there will have a fun make-and-take, some yummy snacks, as well as some great Fiskars Brands door prizes every 15 minutes. At 3:00 pm there will be a group photo opportunity for all Fiskateers and Fiskars Certified Demonstrators in the surrounding area. So, be sure to bring your Fiskateer scissors and/or your Fiskars Certified Demonstrator name badge. And if that not enough fun for one day, at 4:00 pm I'll have a grand prize drawing...a basket full of Fiskars goodies! (winner must be present to win) Rumor has it that it includes a Threading Waters Border Punch as well as a few other surprises...shhhh...but don't tell anyone.

...Oh and did I mention that Scrapmania! will also be offering 25% off all Fiskars items the entire weekend...sweet!

For directions to Scrapmania! visit: http://myscrapmania.com/

So spread the news! Bring a friend or two! I hope to see you there!

2008-06-27T07:13:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm back from Fiskars Headquarters. I've received calls and emails from several Fiskateers and the funny thing is that I keep getting the same little question... "Well, how was it?"

Wowsiers! I had an absolute blast! Like any serious scrapbooker, I had my camera in hand and it feels that I didn't put it down for one second. I wanted to capture as many memories as I could to scrap later.

The people at Fiskars HQ are absolutely amazing! Su, Chad and the entire Team were very hospitable. During this short visit to Madison, our schedule was packed full. We met and chatted with Fiskaneers, saw some CHA sneak peeks, served up a Fiscany Bistro to the staff, and even had a little time to do a little quilting and scrapbooking of course. Matter of fact, at the hotel that we stayed at, there was a private crop going on and the new Lead Fiskateers did what we do best...we made a surprise visit and RAKed some cool Fiskars scissors.

So, the new Lead Fiskateers (pictured above: Rebecca, Cheryl, with Su from Fiskars TV, Kelly Jo, Angela and me) did a lot of brainstorming for the upcoming term that officially starts on July 1st. If this past weekend is any clue to what will be happening over the next two years in the Fiskateer community, may I suggest that you lock your seat belts low and tight around your waist...it's going to be a wild ride!

I'm Off to Fiskars Headquarters!

2008-06-19T21:28:00.013-04:00

After several long hours, as you can see, I'm FINALLY packed for my trip to Fiskars Headquarters in Madison, WI. Gee, I hope I haven't forgotten anything! I know the airlines are getting tight now about baggage, but these crates should definitely throw them a curve ball!

It's hard to believe that I'm now just counting down the hours. Tomorrow evening at this time, I'll be hanging out with Angela, Kelly, Rebecca and Cheryl as we gather to start our Lead Fiskateer training for the next two year term. Fiskars and the Brains on Fire gang has a packed schedule for us the next several days. But believe you me, we all can't wait to get started!

Want to chat with us and get a little sneak peak? We have a on-line chat planned this coming Monday, June 23 (6:30 Eastern, 5:30 Central, 3:30 Pacific). Here's the link:

www.fiskarscraft.com/prechat.aspx

I'm off to try to get some sleep...

Meet a Fiskateer Wiggle Worm

2008-06-15T23:48:00.004-04:00

Back on April 22nd the Fiskateer community was introduced to the new Leads for the 2008-2010 term. The day that I received the call that I was selected to be one of the new Leads will be a day that I will always treasure.

The current Lead Fiskateers: Holly, May, Cheryl and Stephenie have been so inspiring over the past two years. I can't even begin to describe how each one of these extremely talented ladies have touched my life and the lives of so many scrapbookers across the world. Holly, May and Stephenie will soon be taking on a new role in the Fiskateer community...that of a Fiskars Legend. (Several weeks following the announcement of the new Leads, Stephenie accepted a full-time position as the Design and Consumer Education Manager at Fiskars.) Cheryl Walters will be returning as a Lead Fiskateer for the next two year term.

Later this week on Friday, I and the other Lead Fiskateers for the next term will be heading to the Fiskars Craft Division Headquarters in Madison for our official training. Joining Cheryl and me on this adventure is Angela Daniels, Kelly Jo Massicotte, Rebecca Peck. The last two months I've been a little quiet on the Fiskateer message board. That's because there's been a lot of prep work happening here at home. Soon, some of those projects will be revealed and and this creative adventure will officially begin.

So, I'm down to counting the days on one hand now. I'm so excited that even while writing this, I'm finding it very hard to sit still. Yes, it's official...

...I'm a wiggle worm.

Miserable High Temps

2008-06-12T20:25:00.005-04:00

For the last week, the weather was in the high 90's. Matter of fact, it even hit over 102 in my hometown in Maryland. Not only was the thermometer at my local bank showing high temperatures, the thermometer that is usually stored in my medicine cabinet was working hard this week too. It's June and I caught a miserable cold. Can you believe it?

I'm feeling much better now, and all that's left is a faint dry cough. I'm so glad this little spell came and went as quick as it did. There are big things happening in my world in the upcoming week. I see an airplane in my future...eight days and counting!

There's your teaser for now. Check back later this weekend. (Remember...Mordecai has some prizes to give away in a previous post!)

Edit: Mordecai has selected her winners in her Birthday Favor RAK listed below. She thanks you for playing along.

Yikes! I've Got a Teenager!

2008-06-07T07:29:00.004-04:00

Yes it's true. There are crazy cat people out there in the wild and wacky world...and I'm one of them. We celebrate our four-legged kids birthdays each year too.

Thirteen years ago today at 2:25 am, my spoiled little brat was born. She was the first born of a litter of four little girls. I'm told that she was sweet and silly and special from the moment she popped out...she like her people mommy was a breech birth.

People often ask me how I came up with her name, Mordecai. Well, actually I didn't. Long story short, her birth mother was a stray that was found hanging around a church in New Jersey. The searched high and low to find this cats owners, but no one came forward. So, one of the members of the church took her in and named her Queen Esther. When Queen Esther was taken to the vet, they discovered she was about to give birth to a litter any day. Upon the day of the arrival of the litter, she named the kittens one by one. The first born kitten she named Mordecai.

The owner of Queen Esther was a customer at my sisters health food store. Then forty-one days after her birth, she was delivered to me here in Maryland. The name she was given was a unique one, so I decided to keep it.

So today we celebrate the birthday of my little girl, Mordecai. May all your kitty wishes come true.

Want a party favor? I have two packs of Cloud 9 Design Cat Cardstock Alphabet Stickers to give away to two lucky Fiskateers. I'll draw the names on the morning of June 14th. So be sure to leave your Fiskateer number so I can get ahold of you!

This RAK is now closed. I've posted the winners names in the comments to this post.

Do You Have Some Time?

2008-05-31T07:40:00.007-04:00

For the last five years I've given some of my time each week volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washington County MD. The school year is coming to an end, with it comes the official end of my most recent match in this wonderful program.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization's mission is to help children reach their full potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a measurable impact on youth.

This volunteer program that I have been involved with gives adult mentors the opportunity to have their weekly meetings right inside the child's school. The "Little" in the match is pulled from an elective class each week such as gym, art or reading classes to meet one-to-one with their "Big" each week. This location gives matches the opportunity to work on school projects together or just a place to chat about things happening in their lives. The mentor managers in my community do all they can to put matches together who share some similar interest. It may come to no surprise that each week, my Little and I would usually spend our time scrapbooking and paper crafting while we chatted.

Children in this program range from elementary school to middle school ages. The girl that I have been matched with for the last two years has grown so much in just the short time that we were together. I'm so proud of her accomplishments both inside and outside of school. She has worked hard and has so much to look forward to as she enters high school next year. You see, not only does she "graduate" from middle school this year, she as also "graduated" from the school mentoring program. In our last official meeting, we took some photos together, we exchanged addresses and promised to keep in touch. Not only does the BBBS organization fulfill their mission, I truly believe that they build friendships as well.

Volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters just takes four hours a month. Whether it's one hour a week within an in-school mentoring program or time spent within a community matched program, being a "Big Brother" or a "Big Sister" is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable things you can do.

For more information on how you can become a volunteer in your area visit:

http://www.bbbs.org/

It's Very Tempting

2008-05-23T09:43:00.007-04:00

There's no doubt about it. I do love a fine piece of chocolate.

Late last night while I was nibbling on a berry truffle by Joseph Schmidt, I found myself drooling over the thought to make plans to head to NYC again this year to attend "THE" Chocolate Show. http://www.chocolateshow.com/

I've attended this show in the past with my sister...and I'm very tempted to make arrangements to go again this year. This show is open to the public and it's definitely a delicious adventure to take if you live within a reasonable travel distance. If you don't live near by, may I suggest that you check out their website. There's a lot of delicious links to the finest chocolate companies who'll deliver to your door.

Tuesday: Project Organization

2008-05-13T10:41:00.007-04:00

There really is a rhyme and a reason when I'm catching up on organizing my scrap items. Each week I try to set a little aside just to get things in order. Call me goofy, but I always plan that in advance.

This "special time" is usually Tuesday evenings. I get off work at my Full-Time job, stop by the scrapbook store in town to check out any new arrivals, pick up a little take-out, and head home. Once I'm home, I add any new scrapbook treasures I've purchased to my current stash. That's when the organizing begins. It's a perfect thing to do in between loads of laundry. (Yeah, that's usually a scheduled thing too.)

So, will someone answer me this: Why do I find myself totally rearranging things every single week? It's a wonder that I can find anything once I start a new project. Things are generally returned to the same area, but my living area is quite small.

So, since BIG changes are coming my way in just a matter of a few weeks, I've made the decision to invest some new serious storage for my scrappin' stash. Perhaps you have seen the advertisements for this great cabinet system in major scrapbook magazines. I've been toying with this purchase idea for some time now. But today is Tuesday: Project Organization. No better time then today to take the leap!

Now I'm sitting here wondering if my new purchase will arrive in time for next Tuesday.

Stay tuned...Same scrap time. Same scrap channel.

Do You Post Photos & Layouts On Line?

2008-05-10T09:14:00.008-04:00

Last night I was catching up with a little light reading on some of my favorite blogs. While visiting Tim Holtz's site, I stumbled across a link to a very interesting article written by artist Claudine Hellmuth.

There are two bills that are coming up in the House and Senate that will change Internet copyright as we know it. They were shot down once before because of action against it --- but now they are back as bill numbers H.R. 5889 The Orphan Works Act of 2008 and S 2913 The Shawn Bentley Orphan Works Act of 2008.

If you post your family photos or scrapbook layouts anywhere on the Internet or on your personal blog, both of these bills will allow those items to become public domain.

To learn more about these two bills and a quick link to how you can let your voice be heard, read the May 9th blog entry at http://claudinehellmuth.blogspot.com/2008/05/do-you-post-your-family-photos-online.html

This is one soap box that I will definately stand on. Won't you join me?

Nature's Beauty

2008-05-08T10:39:00.002-04:00

My favorite thing to photograph is the outdoors. I love just taking a stroll in a park or down a nature trail with my camera in my hands.

I own two digital cameras. One camera is a HP Photosmart. It's a small camera with 3.2MP and a 3x optical zoom. This is the camera I usually keep in my car for those unplanned photo opportunities. This is the camera that I used to take the lovely photo in this blog entry. This photo was taken on a trip to Maine last year.

The second camera I own is the Canon PowerShot. This is a super cool camera, and it's the one I take with me when I'm specifically planning on taking photos during my travels. The camera has 8.0MP and a 12x optical zoom. Hands down this is a great camera with more setting than I know what do do with...but I'm still learning! And did I ever get some great shots on my trip up north last week. I can't wait to share the beauty I captured with all my readers.

No matter what camera you own, I encourage each of you to just carry it one week where ever you go. There's no telling what beautiful treasure you may stumble on during your routine journeys.

Happy National Scrapbook Day!

2008-05-03T07:06:00.017-04:00

After a week long business trip, I had the chance to go home for 8 hours. Just enough time to sleep and pack my bags once again...

...for a 12 hour Crop!!!

Yippie! I am so excited to be spending my day at my local scrapbook store, Scrapmania in Hagerstown, MD. I'll be there attending their SOLD OUT crop to celebrate National Scrapbook Day!

So, who wants to play a little game and win a little surprise scrapbook prize from me? So if you aren't joining me at this crop, just answer these three questions correctly...

Answer Edit: I spent most of my day talking, wandering around the scrapbook store, eating peanut butter cups and Twizzlers and drinking sweet iced tea. I did manage to complete two pages plus some other projects you'll see posted in the future on the Fiskateer website. As for how much money I spent...let's just say I spent over $25.

I'll select a random winner for each question on Sunday. I hope everyone finds a way to celebrate National Scrapbook Day in their own special way!

This RAK is now closed and comments have been locked. For those Fiskateers who had trouble commenting on this site, I did include those who replied from the message board as well. The random winners all appear to be Fiskateers too: Mandiannie #1485, Missy #2984, and Peggy #4129. Congrats ladies!

Business Trips = Photos for Scrapping

2008-04-26T23:31:00.004-04:00

I'm on my way to Maine and New Hampshire for a business trip.

This photo was taken during my trip to Freeport, Maine a couple of years ago. It was the view I had while enjoying a lobster roll at one of my favorite restaurants in town.

So, my camera is all packed and ready to capture the gorgeous sites I may stumble across during my journey this upcoming week. There's no doubt that I'll return with plenty of shots to crop during National Scrapbook Day on May 3rd.

Wowsiers! I'm Still in a State of Shock!

2008-04-22T22:38:00.009-04:00

"There's always one moment in life when the door opens and lets the future in." -Graham Greene

I've given you some sneak peeks in past postings. I finally can reveal my secret project. I submitted my application for becoming the next Lead Fiskateer. (http://www.fiskateers.com/) Part of the application process required me to submit an "anti-resume." All I had to do was think outside of the box, right? And that's exactly what I did...I altered my own box of cereal! And now I can share with you the front of the box.

So, I had been sitting on pins and needles for several weeks, waiting for the call...and "it" finally came on Monday. You can listen to "it" here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUjqgBR9n3c

So, I'm still in a state of shock. I've received phone calls and emails from family and friends from near and far. I thank each and everyone of you for your kind words during this exciting time.

Smiling Certified Fiskars Demonstrators

2008-04-17T23:59:00.018-04:00

Why are these ladies smiling?

Each and everyone of them are Certified Fiskars Demonstrators!

I had the pleasure of personally certifying 40 passionate scrapbookers for this NEW Fiskars program in: Hagerstown, MD; Towson, MD; Millersville, MD; Colonial Heights (Richmond) VA; and Hershey, PA.

So, who are these ladies you ask? I'm happy to announce the following ladies have been certified to demonstrate Fiskars tools: Pam, Jean, Linda, Roz, Allison, Lynn, Valynda, Emilee, Vicki, Tammy, Sherri, Kelly, Amy, Dawn, Nicole, LeeAnn, Nancy, Deborah, Denise, Cristal, Holly, Sharon, Donna, Kristi, Christina, Terry, Gay, Patricia, Lesley, Barbara, Cyndie, Tammi, Cheryl, Jonesy, Grace, Laura, Aly, DeAnn, Melissa and Shantih.

Three of these classes were conducted at three of my favorite scrapbook stores:

Scrapmania! in Hagerstown, MD http://www.myscrapmania.com/
Great Scraps in Millersville, MD http://www.greatscraps.biz/
Times to Remember in Hershey, PA http://www.hersheyscrapbook.com/

All of these stores have talented Fiskars Demonstrators waiting to share their knowledge with you. If you have the opportunity to visit these stores, please stop by and say "hello". If you don't live near these great stores, Fiskars now has over 1,000 Certified Demonstrators across the United States. So, be sure to ask your local scrapbook store owners to schedule an official Fiskars Demonstration or Class in your area. I bet you'll have a Fiskariffic time!

A Sweet Flashback

2008-04-14T21:57:00.005-04:00

All I wanted was waffles for breakfast. Just a simple and quick breakfast before going to work. So, there I was, walking towards the hostess counter and out of the corner of my eye, I saw...This!

Are you kidding me? How funny is that? Of course I had the do the same thing any sane adult who was born or grew up in the 60's would do...I bought a box. (And for those of you not born in the 60's, they also make boxes for the 50's, 70's & 80's too.) How could I turn down such a sweet flashback? (And check out that box! I'm inspired to scrap!)

Will I eat everything? Ummm...that would be a "no". But I'm sure that I will find someone, somewhere, who would love to take candy cigar and wax lips off my hands. Other than that I have 14 other types of candy to enjoy at a later date...oops!...make that 13 other types. That Tootsie Roll Midgee had a very short life.

You CAN Judge a Book by It's Cover

2008-04-13T15:13:00.004-04:00

I do enjoy a good read. For me, it doesn't have to be a complex story or a chilling thriller. How about a sappy romance? Nope, that's not for me. You see, I'm a different type of bookworm.

I like those simple little quotable gift books that have a meaning. I'm sure you know the type of book I'm talking about. The cute, little books you usually find on the shelves of a fancy little gift shop or greeting card store.

My most recent find is this book, "be the difference". It's a book of quotations compiled by Dan Zadra released by Compendium Publishing.

Just the reading the title alone on the store shelf told me what type of inspiring book I was about to buy. The title alone caught my eye. But once I read the inside of the cover jacket on this book, I knew that this book was going to be worth the purchase.

So with this purchase, I've found a gift of inspiration. There are so many quotes in this book that has made me thinking about my life...where I've been, where I am, and where I'm going. Be the difference. It's that simple. One can get so much more out of life if they just "be the difference".

I've been wanting to create a scrapbook about me, for me, for quite some time now. The one thing that I think that has been holding me back was trying to find that little something that would connect each page together. And thumbing through the pages of this little book, I have found my inspiration. Quotes.

Can it really be that simple? I'm about to find out.

Time Out for a Punch Break

2008-04-12T10:29:00.004-04:00

I've spent the last week working on a special project for my full time job. This "little" project isn't mandatory...I'm doing it for fun! Crazy huh?

But if I tell you that it's all about paper crafting, then you'll understand why I'm so wrapped up in this project. Last year I made 21 duplicate scrapbooks to give to my peers, all the photos were taken during our annual Town Meeting held in Maine. Last year I assembled the books at a crop I attended during National Scrapbook Day. This year's project has more recipients, so I have my hands full.

So, I thought I'd take a quick "Time Out for a Punch Break." I love the new Fiskars Border and Corner punches. They are so easy to use and very addicting! I do hope that new designs are being created for future releases. Just sitting here I'm thinking about the endless possibilities of designs.

If I could create a new punch for this line, it would include paperclips on the borders and open pair of scissors in each corner. Perfect for little artist frames, workplace photos, school time memories or framing photos from scrapbook crops and conventions.

So, I'm curious...if you could create an new punch for this line, what would it look like?

This Fiskateer is on the Road to Chocolate!

2008-04-06T08:59:00.008-04:00

This Fiskateer is on the road to chocolate...and a great scrapbook store! I'm heading to Hershey PA today to hang out at the Times to Remember Scrapbook Store located in the Hershey Outlets Shopping Center.

Not only will I be holding another session for scrappers to become Certified Fiskars Demonstrators but before the class I'll be spreading some Fiskars love! Before the evening class, I'll be hanging out in the store between 3:00 and 5:00 give out a couple of surprise RAK's. So if you live in the area, or if you've already been certified by another Nifty Fifty Fiskateer, be sure to stop by and say hello. I'd love to meet you!

Blog readers: Be sure to stop by my blog later this week. I've certified 35+ Fiskars Demonstrators before today. Later this week I'll be posting photos from those sessions.

What a Pain in the Neck!

2008-04-02T18:39:00.004-04:00

Ever have one of those days? For me, the last three days have been a pain in the neck!

Wait a minute, maybe I should reword that...

For me, the last three days I've HAD a pain in the neck! I don't know what I did, so don't ask. Perhaps I read the sign and my subconscious followed the directions. "Wrong turn O.K."...Not!

So, this afternoon I went the a massage therapist. I could shoot myself for not doing it sooner. Although the pain isn't completely gone, I can see a big difference by just taking thirty minutes out of my day to put myself first. I really wanted to spend my free night at home scrapping and writing thank-you notes to all the ladies who attended my Fiskars Certified Demonstrator session this past month. But I'm following the directions given to me this afternoon and will be spending the evening just chillin' on the couch.

Tomorrow hopefully will be a pain-free and I'll be able to craft the day away.

Rotary Cutter Winner Announced

2008-04-01T22:29:00.003-04:00

No fooling here today...Congrats to Laurie R. the winner of the new Heidi Grace Special Edition Rotary Cutter from my last post!

I really enjoyed reading all the responses both here, as well as on the Fiskateers message board. Thanks for playing and remember...I love to RAK so be sure to come back and visit my blog again.

Spring Floral Blooming on Store Shelves

2008-03-28T23:07:00.008-04:00

Look at these beautiful Special Edition Spring Floral scissors and rotary cutters from Heidi Grace. I found Blooming on the shelves of my local JoAnn's store today.

Each year I look forward to snap dragons. As a young child they always made me smile and they still do. Funny thing though...I love the way real flowers look, but call me crazy, I really don't like the smell of flowers. Never have. So, these little HG beauties are perfect pick for me.

How would you like to have one of these beauties delivered to your home? I've decided to RAK one of the rotary cutters to give away to a lucky reader of my blog. I'll pick one response on April 1st...no fooling! But I want to get to know my blog readers better...so tell me...what one type of flower makes you smile?

(Edit 3/31/08: Melita left a great question in her comment. I have answered her question in a comment response below.)

Sweet Tea: The Nectar of the Crop

2008-03-27T20:55:00.010-04:00

Why is it that Scrapbookers love to have their favorite sweet treats within reach while creating their scrapbook pages?

Some favor Twizzlers over Red Vines. Others favor Skittles over M&M's. A few favor hard candy over chocolate. Then others favor Sweet Tea over Diet Coke.

Ahhh...Sweet Tea. In my opinion, Sweet Tea is "the nectar of the gods." Whether I'm at work or I have a day off to focus on crafting, no day of mine is complete without a cup...or gallon...of fresh brewed sweet tea.

Okay, before I go on any further, I know of at least one of my blog readers will totally disagree and say that Diet Coke is "the nectar of the gods" and that I stole his line. Sorry Honey, but I beg to differ and I do hope that you don't mind that I'm just borrowing, or scraplifting, part of your line in the end to make it my own.

Fact: Diet Coke first came on the market in 1982. (Yes, even I am older than Diet Coke.)

Fact: The first written reference to the tea leaf goes back to the third century B.C. when a famous Chinese surgeon recommended it for increasing concentration and alertness.

That my Dear, goes to prove that tea has been around as longer than first King of England, or the early Chinese Emperors, and perhaps the Greek Gods. More tea has been drunk around the world and longer than any other beverage. So, that being said, I'm scraplifting your famous phrase and making it my own for the benefit of my blog.

Every scrapbooker knows that it takes time to create that perfect layout. Sometimes we need a little sweet help along the way. For me it's sweet tea.

So, if tea was first recommended for increasing concentration and alertness, in my books I feel that sweet tea should be crowned "the Nectar of the Crops." Makes perfect sense, don't you think?

***Edit: I live in upper part of western Maryland. If that's considered a southerner than I need to work on finding my deep south accent!

Jackpot!

2008-03-18T21:12:00.009-04:00

I hit the JACKPOT!

Check out that beautiful sea of blue I found today. All those new Fiskars tools I played with at CHA have finally hit the store shelves.

Sorry for the short blog. I'm going to go play with my new friends now.

Traveling & Training

2008-03-16T00:23:00.006-04:00

I've been on the road traveling and training scrappers all over the Mid-Atlantic. So, where have I been? Where am I going? Great places like: Hagerstown, MD; Millersville, MD; Towson, MD; Richmond, VA; and Hershey, PA. If you are interested in becoming a Certified Fiskars Demonstrator, it's not to late to sign up for one of my classes. If you are in my area and would like more information, please leave your Fiskateer # in your comment and I'll get in touch with you to give you all the details!

What's Your Fiskateer Number?

2008-03-14T04:34:00.003-04:00

Welcome to my blog Fiskateers!

Although it's been up and running for quite some time now. I finally decided to post my blog information with all my Fiskateer Friends. I invite you to stop by whenever you get the chance. As you all know this "Fiskateer of the Year" loves to RAK & RAC. (RAK=Random Acts of Kindness, RAC=Random Acts of Crafting.) Since I do this on the Fiskateers site all the time, I decided to do this on my blog too.

So leave a comment on any two of my blog posts between now and March 28th. Make sure that you mention your Fiskateer number in your comment and I'll pick a winner or two to receive something new and exciting that was released at CHA last month. Pretty cool, huh?

This Fiskateer is Spreading the Word

2008-03-06T10:36:00.006-05:00

I've discovered some recent marketing articles in the blogosphere about my life as a Fiskateer. Check out these great articles if you get the chance:

http://www.virginiamiracle.com/2008/02/20/fiskateers-energizing-sales-through-social-media/

http://sloanreview.mit.edu/smr/issue/2008/spring/01/

http://brainsonfire.com/blog/2008/02/21/hanging-out-with-the-fiskateers/

This Fiskateer Is A True Caricature!

2008-03-05T20:56:00.013-05:00

What a Character I am! Wouldn't you agree?

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to go to Disneyland while I was out in California attending CHA. The last night I was there, I was walking down the streets of Downtown Disney and I had a mission to accomplish.

At dinner one night earlier that week, my dear Fiskateer friend Angela Daniels (aka Spidergirl) was telling me about a caricature sketch of her and her husband that hangs in her house. (Her nickname should definitely be a clue to what hers looks like.) I could just picture it in my mind and I thought to myself, now that's fierce! (Forgive me for that tossing that into the ring...tonight is the Project Runway Finale. Angela and I are both huge fans of this show and we both share the love for one finalist. Christian's personality and work rocks that show! He has definitely a character like no other and I hope he's the last to leave the runway.)

Back to my story...Let's just say that I was in the right town at right time when we had this discussion. So, I came up with this "goofy" idea to get a cartoon sketch done of me at Disney as a crazy scrapbooking Fiskateer! But guess what?...This is only another sneak peak. I was so in love with the outcome of this sketch...I've taken it a step further. But I still can't share my final project at this time. But in time I will share. I promise that to you.

YOU Can Become a Fiskars Certified Demonstrator!

2008-03-02T21:20:00.004-05:00

Today I had the pleasure to certify 12 new Fiskars Demonstrators at Scrapmania! in Hagerstown, MD. The group of ladies who attended my session today are extremely talented and are ready to help spread the Fiskars love! (Please check back for photos from this event.)

Are you interested in becoming a Certified Demonstrator for Fiskars Brands craft tools? Fiskars has 50 Nifty Fiskateers waiting to train you for this great opportunity across the US. For more information, visit http://www.fiskarscrafts.com/

So...What's New?

2008-02-25T23:30:00.004-05:00

I am super excited with my most recent purchase. I had to replace my old scanner that blew up after several years of over use and torture. So, after a couple of weeks of research, I decided to purchase the Kodak EasyShare 5300.

This all-in-one printer will print, copy and scan. I've read some great reviews about this inkjet system that is supposed to save me lots of pennies. Talk about special features, this printer has two separate paper trays. One for standard letter size paper and a second specifically for 4x6 photo paper. Ahhhh, a scrapbookers dream, don't you think?

A Little Preview

2008-02-23T11:31:00.005-05:00

As promised, here is a little preview sketch for a project I finished a couple of days ago.

Okay, so I know that it isn't much of a hint, but due to the possible publication of this item, I'm not able to show you the actual photos of the finished and completed project at this time.

Disappointing as it may be, in time I promise this to you...If everything goes as planned I'll be able to share more details with you shortly.

Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Worth the Wait

2008-02-22T09:34:00.009-05:00

Have you every found your self saying "I wish that I had a tool that did this, or I wish that I had a tool that did that?"

As you already know, last week I had the opportunity to work at the Fiskars booth at CHA. This trade show gave retailers the opportunity to see the new winter releases from major crafting companies. It was great to see all the new treats being released, but the downside as a consumer, it was all eye candy to just to drool over. Unfortunately this wasn't a show where consumers could purchase these delicious items right then and there. We have to wait for these items to arrive in our local stores.

Fiskars has some new exciting additions to their impressive tool line this year. (see photo) My favorite of these new additions are the new Border and Corner punches. It's actually two punches in one. A must have tool gives the user the ability to produce beautiful continuous borders with the added feature of a corner punch to create a perfect frame around photos on any scrapbook page or handmade card.

One thing that I love about Fiskars is their ability not only to create tools that allow me to create wonderful handmade pieces of art, but the company also has a great sense of humor. Really, it's true. Instead of being boring and bland, Fiskars gives their new tool designs cute and cleaver names. Take for example the new punch that resembles a basket weave image. What did they call it?..."A Tisket A Tasket". The beautiful rose border punch is called "Commin' Up Roses", the new lattice punch has been given the name "Lattice Entertain You" and a cute flower and leaf pattern is "Read Between the Vines." See what I mean? Don't you just love it?

I love the fact that crafting companies like Fiskars is always thinking out of the box. Grabbing the attention of the purchaser in more ways than one. My local scrapbook store Scrapmania has ordered all of these new punches which should be arriving shortly. I found myself working on a project last night wishing I already had one of these punches in my stash. But trust me...it will be worth the wait.

Did That Just Happen?

2008-02-16T23:56:00.011-05:00

Well, my vacation is coming to an end and now I'm asking myself "Did that just happen?"

I had a blast at the CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) Convention in Anaheim. I was invited by Fiskars to do demos at their booth during this event and I got to play with all their new winter releases for 2008. I had the opportunity to work with so many talented people including: lead Fiskateer Stephenie (pictured with me); Suzanne from Fiskars TV; Nancy and Amy from Cloud 9 Design; Carrie and Geno from Brains on Fire; several Fiskaneers; and a few of my Fiskafriends from the west coast. Oh, and I finally also had the pleasure in meeting Chad Vincent, President of the Fiskars Craft Division. I absolutely love his business style and love what he and his team are doing for the crafting industry. I was so entranced with the whole experience of CHA, I totally missed the opportunity to capture many of these treasured moments on camera. I have so many stories to tell and will share some of them with you in the days ahead.

I spent the day Saturday working on seveal layouts, downloading and editing over 700 photos I took in the last two weeks, and managed to squeeze in a little entertaining at my place too. I'm working on a top secret project right now and will post a little sneak peek in the hours ahead. Until then...Live Life, Love Life, Scrap Life!

Please Stand By...

2008-01-30T21:58:00.000-05:00

Please stand by...I'm not having technical difficulties...I'm on vacation!

Fiskars has invited me to CHA Anaheim to demo at their booth. This is gift was given to me when they named me their very first "Fiskateer of the Year" this past November. I'm really looking forward to this whole experience and I can't wait to share my stories, photos and projects with you. I'm planning on checking in when I can during the next two weeks. In the mean time...Live life. Love life. Scrap life!

Two Treats in One?

2008-01-27T20:25:00.003-05:00

Let me start off by saying that Skittles have always been the perfect sweet treat to eat while scrapping. They aren't sticky, they don't melt in your hands (oops, that's another candy's slogan), they come in all sorts of inspiring colors and there are several fun and fruity varieties available to devour. But a couple of weeks ago I stumbled across these...the new Chocolate Mix Skittles.

Everyone knows that I love chocolate, but I've always loved Skittles because they weren't chocolate...well at least they weren't chocolate until now. Call me crazy, but I have yet to open this package. I decided to save them for a special occasion....Oscar night. How can I hold off on such a treat? No worries. I just opened a family size bag of Wild Berry Skittles. Yum-o!

Makin' My Own Kind of Music

2008-01-26T23:14:00.001-05:00

Question: What can a scrapper do with old 45 records that are just collecting dust now that we are in the age of the ipod?

Answer: Turn them into covers for a Love Songs mini-album, just in time for Valentines Day.

Today I taught a class at my local scrapbook store, Scrapmania! in Hagerstown, MD. In making this little album, we used a quite a few of my favorite scrapbook tools including: Fiskars Squeeze Punches, Fiskars Ultra ShapeXpress, Fiskars Circle Border Punch, and the We R Memory Keepers Crop-A-Dial...and did I mention a ton of Cloud 9 Designs Be Loved paper line and embellishments.

The crafty ladies (Jackie, Vicki, Dianna, Karen, and Lynn) in my class were not only were introduced to most of these tools for the first time, everyone in the class when home with their own Fiskars Circle Border Punch as well as a few other Fiskars surprises! One lucky scrapper even won her very own Ultra ShapeXpress and starter template. Oooh, I just love spreading the Fiskars love!

I'm in Overdrive

2008-01-25T23:13:00.000-05:00

My creative mojo has been in overdrive for the last two days. Why you ask? I can sum it up in one word...chocolate!

For the last two days, I've been preparing for a mini-album class I'll be teaching this weekend at my local scrapbook store, Scrapmania! I've also been working on a special project that will be revealed at the CHA Convention next month in Anaheim.

I'll be posting more information about both of these projects in the upcoming days. In the meantime...sit back, relax, while I share with you this delicious photo of gourmet chocolates.

Creative Juices

2008-01-23T21:47:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love this fountain. Is it mine? I wish!

This wonderful piece of art sits in a local day spa around the corner from where I live. Everyone interprets art in their own way. To me, this is peaceful and refreshing yet it's telling me...to just let my creative juices flow! And that's what I intend to do.

Wouldn't this just be the perfect addition to the corner of my scrap room? It's so me! I've admired this for quite sometime and I think it's time to splurge and find one of my very own. So, let the search begin!...