Congratulations!!!

Yep, I just couldn't stop at 1 new designer. It was just so close and we are in desperate need of some more designer help - so we took the two ladies who scored the most votes - Sharon P and Renee D. They will be a great new addition to our double dee rotation and the design team. Classes will be posted soon for both of them. So, be on the lookout.

I can't believe that another year is coming to a close. After 3 1/2 year in Florida I am more certain than ever that I made the right choice moving down here. My trip to NYC just reminded me off all the things I really don't like - like the TRAFFIC, the cold, the grey sky. I'll take my simpson's sky anytime. It just puts me in a better mood.

We finally had our christmas yesterday and the girls loved their bikes and Nik has been on his Wii all day long. As for me, I got to play with my new portable printer and actually printed over 100 pictures in just over an hour. I just couldn't help myself. Some of them - like the ones with my dad making funny faces in his hospital bed to the pictures in front of the tree yesterday - oh and the ones of the girls riding their bikes and of my niece playing with the kids really really came out nice.

But, I haven't been able to scrap anything because I spent the entire day doing laundry and emptying out my closet. My husband, promised that he would get the tiles done by the new year. Except, he got home today and didn't feel well and actually went to bed before 8 - so now my ENTIRE living room is covered with scrapbooking stuff and clothes. To tell you all the truth, I can't believe that I have so much clothes in my closet. Some of it I hadn't seen in months - okay - maybe years. But, I need it, maybe this will be the year that I will lose some weight and fit into clothes the size I was before I met my husband - yeah right. I am purging this year. For real, I plan to kiss it all good bye. I'm keeping everything in a realistic size for me. Because we all know that I can't be skinny - I am way too bitchy and you guys would never step foot in the store if you knew me during my skinny phase. I was way to mean. I think my life would be completely different if I was still that skinny little B-I-T-C-H.

So, cheers. Celebrate the ME that I am and the ME that you are.

Life is GOOD - Enjoy the moment. At this point, I really have to go I need to enjoy this moment - doing the laundry and packing my scrappin stuff for tom. crop. Yep, stop by tom and crop with me from 10 to 6 or just enjoy the 5 cent clearance paper. You really can't beat that price - I also added about 60 new papers and have more to add on a daily basis.

Remember I will be closed wed and thurs - so the sale is this tues, fri, sat, and sun.

Write soon,
Dee

I'm home and cutoff from the world...

This is the pits - not driving really does suck sometimes and today is one of those days. I'm HOME ALONE and no car to go cause mayhem in - actually I am cut off from the world except for this laptop. My brand new cell phone decided it was not going to charge anymore - I don't why and I can't turn it on to get anyones number off of it to call in the rescue squad. I don't know anyones number by heart except for my families and they have heard enough from me in the last week. So, I've made a new resolution for this year and I will need everyone to be my partners in crime on this one. I think I am going to sign up for driving lessons. I really need to learn how to drive but I don't want my husband to know in case I chicken out - so I am asking for referrals - if you know of anyone who is patient - out in Lehigh - with flexible hours - and reasonable prices - let me know - but just me can't have my husband wondering why a driving school or driver is calling the house - I need it to be a surprise - but this person must be patient - because as you all have figured out by now I am neurotic. Yep, I sharing the truth - I'm a little obsessed about many things, like the store, and my children, my friends, and my dad, oh and a hundred other things. Sometimes It is clear why Nik is the way he is, he gets it from me. Oh well, nothing can be done about that now!

On a happier note, my dad is doing well, but his attitude is low today - he is a little anxious waiting for the results to come in, but he looks great, he is strong (Thanks Renee - I really appreciate it) and I can just feel it, he is going to be okay!.

As for the store, I am so excited to be back tomorrow. I can't wait to see all the new stuff that arrived. Plus Winter CHA is just around the corner and I am dying to see the new stuff coming out next month. Yep, a whole bunch new lines coming out next month from all the major brands and some new ones. SO, I'm giving you all a task. Let me know what you think is hot, tell me about new little companies you might of heard of - or awesome new lines you heard about. Tell me what you want to see!

Oh and I talked to Rebecca and she informed me that the CI paper was just as beautiful as I said. So, croppers get your pockets ready, because this paper is truly irresistible. I can't wait to pick some of it up to make samples for Saturday, so designers if any of you are in town stop by and pick up some paper for samples and double dees - Stephanie next week is your turn - hope you are reading this - since I can't call anyone.

Well, I've got to go, I am working on a double dee of mine own.

Write soon,

Dee

Daddy's home

Yippee!!!
My daddy's home. It looks like we are going to have our traditional christmas after all, if we can keep our dad away from the food. Yep, he loves to eat, but after a week without food he is on a mostly liquid diet. Now we just have to wait for test results to come back after the holidays, but I feel good about it.

As for the store update. I am happy to say all 3 deliveries for this weekend's crop have arrived. Another Yippee. I have been making things up for our crop all month. It's going to be hard to decide which ones we are actually playing - because it would be impossible to do them all.

I'm so excited!

Stop by and say hi to Rebecca and don't forget to stop in on Friday for our 25% off your entire purchase sale on Friday. I'll be in then getting ready for the crop and making some samples.

I will see you all soon and merry christmas everyone.

Write soon,
Dee

Ha, Ha, Ha

I know this may seem odd, but I've been laughing my butt off since I got here. My dad loves games shows (he always has - hence my love of the newlywed game version used during the girlfriends crop). He spends hours watching those shows and guess what he has access to them from the hospital. One of his all-time favorites is the family feud. Yesterday, we spent the entire day with my dad watching gameshows. We could not believe some of the crazy answers people come up with it. For example, one of the questions yesterday was: name animals that you would find in the desert. What's your answer? Well we rattled off camels, snakes, etc, while the person on the show answered rabbit and guess what 2 other people gave that answer...rabbit???

Everything everyone answered yesterday was just a little off and my dad and I all cracked up about that thinking that when you must be on the show your brain goes into dumb drive.

After we goofed on several people on the shows and had a jolly atmosphere going I got an anxious phone call from my son saying that he just couldn't stay in the car any longer. Anyone that knows my son, knows that spending more than 2 hours in the
car while he is awake would be a challenge and being in a car over 24 hours would be impossible, so I did what any other mother would do in a situation like this - I tried to bribe him. I asked my son to think of something that he really wanted and that if he was good the rest of the way, I would get it for him, thinking a game for his psp, etc. My son being such a smart kid, thinks about it for about a minute and then he tells me his answer "a plane ticket to go back home". He is not a fool, he knows that once he gets up here he is going to have to repeat the process with dad on the way back home. I didn't raise a fool. Of course that's not a plausible solution, but he has been good so far and on the way back it will be the day after christmas so he will be exhausted and will probably sleep through the first 12 hours, so that's half the battle. But, as I told that story to my siblings and my mom and dad, I thought about how different all my children are. It's amazing. But, so are my sisters and I, and my brother is like an alien compared to us.

As the years have gone by we have begun to look more alike but we have such different ideas on so many things... yet when it comes to things like my dad getting sick we are of one mind. We come to the same conclusions and feel the same way, think alike, respond alike, even eat alike. It's weird and funny when you think about it. Weird in the way that I never ever thought we would agree on what's best for my dad and yet we did and funny in that it's like we are reading each other's mind and finishing each others sentences when it's months sometimes between the time we talk to each other.

I've always known that my parents did a great job raising us but it's moments like this that make me love and appreciate them even more. I know that they are the reason I am so strong, and funny (oh yeah baby), and honest, loyal, sensitive and compassionate (I cry at home makeover and romantice movies), they made me crafty (I crochet - is that the one with one needle? - I macramay - I scrapbook, etc), they made me love school and books, well,they made me ME, with all my quirks and crazy notions.

I am hoping to follow in their footsteps and be able to raise 5 children who have common sense, school smarts, are loyal, and honest, hilarious, and so much more.
This is what I wish for them and I plan not to stop until I've achieved that cause they also taught me to be stubborn and headstrong and dedicated. SO, watch out Nikolas because moms on a mission. HA!

Write soon,

Dee

News on the NYC Front

Dad's doing well. We are hoping he will be out of the hospital for Christmas Eve, keep your prayings going and thank you for the well wishes. I figured I should respond to things brought up here because I heard that some people don't read the comments.

So, here are some of the highlights I should share from the comments:

Yes, we have wireless internet access. We just have it secured because of our location across from a hotel where people are always trying to connect. We are happy to share that info with you (confidentially of course). Just ask!

Also, I think that the under 5 dollar thing would be kind of cool, too. Thanks Heather and thanks for the well wishes. They are greatly appreciated.

Today we only spent 8 1/2 hours in the hospital - they kicked us out when visiting hours were over, but I have come to some conclusions about the hospital stay. Being in a hospital that long can make you into a hypochondria. You begin to pick up every illness when you are there - my knee hurts, I'm tired, my throat hurt, I'm hot then cold, etc. But, the thing I feel the most is hungry. I don't know what it is about a hospital that makes me hungry - but every stitch of food someone talks about makes me hungry, I have eaten more in the last two days I've been here then all of the last week put together. It's strange but true. Anyone with me?

Well, I have had some other ideas about the store, but they all have been about the girlfriends crop and I can't share those yet. They are a secret!

Also, I talked to Diana today and she said that the 3 entries looked good! I can't wait to see them. She said she was going to take pictures for me and emailed them to me tomorrow. THANKS Diana! I really can't wait a whole other week to see them. Don't forget everytime you make a purchase from now till next Saturday - you get to vote for your favorite. So, happy shopping and tell me what you think - what you liked, etc I want to know.

Well, I've got to go, I have to call the kids and say my goodnights before they fall asleep.

Write soon,

Dee

We are almost there...

I am so happy to say that my dad came out of surgery and really looked good. Yippee.
I want to thank everyone who has been praying for him. Thank you.


Moving on to a happier topic, I am so excited to announce that several shipments are on their way to us just in time for the crop. I am super excited about that. I can't wait to play with all the new stuff. I also just talked to Ines and she has not only one but three double dees she is working on for this weekend. So, if you haven't stopped by this weekend will be wonderful with awesome new layouts. If you are not sure which designer she is - remember the layout with the Sharon Ann Christmas paper that we completely sold out of with the bling on the ornaments that was hers as well as the one that sold out with the webster's pages and the one with the CI red christmas paper and the paper tree on it. So, ladies get ready for 3 awesome double dees and remember when they sell out they are gone for good so don't wait too long.

While I was in the waiting room for 13 hours I was thinking about things that we could do for next year and I came up with another of my brilliant ideas (well atleast I think so - maybe you won't agree, but it doesn't hurt to think out loud!)
I was thinking about a one pager for under 5 challenge. I read this scrapbook magazine from europe somewhere and they have these less then 5L challenges - and I think we can do that. I was thinking about doing another monthly $5 challenge. Where everybody gets a kit for less than 5 and everybody creates something with it that month and brings it the following month to share with the group and pick up the next less than 5 kit. I think it can be done and with the economy the way it is we can be frugal and still get cool layouts done. This way if you join both clubs you'll be guarenteed to get atleast 2 layouts done every month - that's a guaranteed 24 layouts a year. That's awesome, something new and something old, a cheapie, and a challenge.

Tell me what you think about that idea. I am excited to know.

Also, tell me what you think about the new designer submissions. I am dying to see their projects. I wonder what awesome ideas they came up with.

Well, I've got to go. I've been up since 5 am and I have a pint of choc choc chip ice cream with my name on it.

Write soon,

Dee

Girlfriends Crop Mania

Hi everyone,

I am in NYC and all I can think about is all the cool stuff I am going to get for the crop. I was just going through my CI order and damn they have some awesome product. The journaling/dicut tags and the antiquities paper, oh and the doily, oh and lets not forget the renaissance paper. SO much to play with and I don't have any scrappin stuff with me.

Today, I flew in to NYC and guess what...it was snowing. Do you guys know what that means to me...aaaauuugggghhhhh. It's one of the reasons I moved out of here to begin with. The temperature was just not for me. I don't mind the visit as much as the snow--- it's messy, and dirty, and grey. It's awful and what makes it worse is that I don't have any scrappin stuff with me. Everybody knows what airport security is like - you can't even travel with a cutter bee and scrappin without a cutter bee is just not scrappin.

But, I digress. Back to the crop. I have so many ideas in my head. I don't know if you all will have a chance to get anything done. I have the cutest challenge in mind and if I can get on the plane with coquito (a tradtional puerto rican holiday drink) I will share it with you ladies at the crop. It was delicious last year when my husband made it, but my mom made these and they are superior.

I am in NYC for my dad - he is having surgery tomorrow. So, please add him to your prayer list. We really need all the prayers we can get. We are all just sitting and waiting that's the worst part. So, what do I get to do instead of worry, I blog, I shop, I plan, I make list, games, you name it, I've done it. I'm getting a little stir crazy. But, that only means more fun for you. One thing I was thinking about was our sale. I was thinking about how if you spend $150 you get 50% off so it's actually only $75 - during the holidays it is so easy to sneak that sale under the radar...especially since men hardly ever give you a gift card to a specialty store. Instead they think a Michaels card is the best they can do - you can shop with a % off coupon all the time you can't do that at Dee's all the time. This is just another one of those tricks I had up my sleeve before I became a store owner. I kept secret stash, I sold albums, I saved the change from the groceries I was pretty set-up when I finally got my husband to take me the local specialty store in NYC that was over an over away - but so well worth the trip. I loved walking down the aisles and touching, matching, seeing all the pretty new things - all the glittery stuff, all the different color combinations. I can't believe that after all these years I still can't live without all the latest papers, the cutest ribbon, and the coolest embellishments. My hottest new favorite has to be the diecuts with glitter and the journaling diecut paper. Awesome.

Well, my mom just forked over some old issues of scrapbook trends that I don't have so I will have to bid my goodbyes - I am going to see some eye candy.

Write soon,

Dee

P.S. Check out the new additions to the calendar for next year. I am so excited. I am even have the challenge kit planned in my head for January. I might not be able to hold on to January to play with some of the stuff.

The girlfriends crop is my favorite time of the year...

The christmas break always reminds me of the girlfriends crop. I love to plan for this crop. While Christmas is about the kids, The girlfriends crop is about us. Hanging out. Laughing. Sharing. Just us.

I am so excited about all the challenges and games for the girlfriends crop. The kit is awesome. I just finished putting the order together. Yeah!!! You will love it.

I also finished getting the challenges planned and I am so excited. I can't wait to see what you ladies do. Last year the little people on the name tags were so cute. You ladies were so creative. I was so impressed. Everybody did a great job. I also am working on the new questions for the girlfriends game - more laughs there.

Yep, I am looking forward to the girlfriends crop!

GOOD LAUGHS.

Now, I am working on the calendar of events for next year. I have added the challenge kit party for the year and a couple of other activities. BUT, never fear we will have plenty of new stuff this new year.

Some ideas include -

Jen S. monthly class on 2 page layouts

Ines monthly class - which she is still developing

My monhtly crop - The theme crops will keep several of our favorite crops like the christmas extravaganza, the summer CHA crop, NSD crop, and the girlfriends crop and some new ones that will get your mojo going.

We will continue to have our monthly freebie friday crop and our monthly super saturday crop will now be free, too.

We will also have a monthly free Sunday crop.

Kellie - is probably going to do a monthly altered project.

But, the fun is just starting because our new designer will also have a monthly class depending on who wins, etc.

I am also looking for a card gal again to do a monthly class - so if you are a card gal come in with some samples and let's talk about it.

Oh, and so much more!

So keeps your eyes and ears open - lots of cool things coming up!!!

But, if you have an idea, a request, this is your chance to ask - ask now or hold your opinion forever. Let me know what you think!

Write soon,

Dee

The scrapbooking bug...

yep, I've got it. I am in love with all things scrapbooking. From magazines to paper, bling to flowers, their just isn't a scrapbooking thing I'm not in love with. But, is that a problem ...well atleast for my husband it is...me - not so much!

Why, you ask?
Because I actually use the stuff. There is something to be said for having all the most beautiful paper in the land, ribbon, etc. But, using it is where I get the biggest high. I love repurposing paper or using something super old in scrapbooking years (3-4 years) and making it beautiful. I get a thrill.

This week I've had several sleepless nights and I have been doing just that, challenging myself to do things differently.

For example:

I made a layout with christmas paper and photos of my brother. I know it doesn't sound right but you can't tell it's christmas paper from looking at it. I also made another layout from christmas paper with photos of my dad and my daughter. Oh, and a picture of my niece on christmas paper, too.

I accepted Rebecca's challenge and made several layouts with the new prima lollipop flowers. I also used "boy" themed journaling blocks on a girl layout.

Another challenge was using one of the diecut papers in a different way. I am so proud of myself that I got all those challenges done (check them out on the slide show) and I got a chance to scrap an old photo of my dad with my daughter. Yippee.

So, using my stash is not an issue. But, I hear that several of you have stash challenges. So, I am stepping up to the challenge. Starting in January we will be having a monthly challenge party. I will be putting a challenge kit together for you and issuing a challenge. You come to the party and pick up the kit or for local gals the challenge can be dropped off (cheap delivery charges apply depending on total number of dropoffs) and you will get a whole month to put it together. Then come to the next month's challenge party with your projects and share them with the partygoers. Everyone who shares a challenge project, layout, etc will get their name tossed in a can for a chance to win 50% off the new challenge kit. So, you will get to share and see other things people did with them and get further inspiration.

The challenge kits will range in price from $5 to $15 a month and include a challenge. It will also require that you use it in conjunction with some of your own personal stash. A win win celebration - you get to use some of your old stash and then you get to celebrate and show it off at our challenge party. Can it get better than that. I'm thinking the first friday of every month for our challenge parties - how does that sound???

OOOh, it's getting late and my husband is going to be here soon and I need to get my stash put away before he does.

Write soon,

Dee

Oops, was I all over the place....

Sorry Heather did I confuse you - the challenge was posted on Saturday's blog.

This is what it was -

It's a journaling challenge...

Tell me how he gets it (your man, boyfriend, significant other, spouse, etc).

How does he get you?

What makes him the right man for you?

What little things make you certain that he loves you....

I thought about this hard and long and here is a little bit of my response.

He gets me-

when I don't feel like talking
when I want to sleep late
when I need him to hold me
when I just need to be left alone
when he comes home with a pint of chocolate ice cream without me asking
when he picks me up and takes me to dinner - just the two of us - for no reason whatsoever
when he listens to me - really listens to me when I NEED to be heard
when he ignores me when I rant and rave like a lunatic
when I launch into one of my nesting zones - where everything must be in it's place right now!
He just gets me!

Use some of mine, add some, change some, start fresh. But, journal it and use it in a scrapbook page - put both of you in a layout - forget the kids - don't you think they would appreciate a page where they feel your love for him (each other).

Then, send me your response. You can be anonymous just let me know who you are so that I can add your name to the pot when I pull out a winner.

Write soon,
Dee

It's me again

Hi Everyone,

So, I lost my mojo yesterday and I didn't get anything done at the crop. What is a girl to do?

It is so easy to get frustrated and walk away from scrapbooking and get nothing done. Just let it go, it's too hard, or I'm not creative enough, or I don't have the right "stuff" or enough "money". Their are plenty of excuses. But, it takes a stronger person to get through the hump and keep on going. We are mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, cousins, aunts, women (oh and some men too) - we are capable!

This weekend I had someone ask me about the pile of layouts on the back table and if they were all recent and mine. Yep, most of them are mine and I did make them recently. How do I get it done, with 5 kids and a day job and the store, etc. Excuses for not doing it I've got plenty of, but I am the family historian. I need to do it for me, for my children, for my sister, for my husband, for my friends, for those who came before me or those who will come after. I know I am getting sappy, sorry.

But, the reason I got back into scrapbooking in the first place is sappy. I was watching that Oprah episode where she talks about the woman who was dying from Cancer and had made videos for her daughter for all the special days in her life, advice on life, love, men, etc. It made me think, wonder, worry. What if I died tomorrow what would my children now about me and what I loved, what I enjoyed, what we did together, what made us laugh, what I cherished most. Would my husband understand that he was the love of my life? Would the kids know, why anything and everything? Will my parents live on forever in my pages? Can you just smell my mom's roast pork through the pages, or hear my dad pretending to speak Chinese? What if...

So, I began to scrapbook our story and I've never looked back - Of course, I've lost my mojo at times, but this reason always seems to bring me back. It reminds WHY, I do it, why it's important.

So, if you are having a loss of mojo, read this, remember this, your story matters and no one can say it the way you can.

So, go on tell your story!

Write soon,
Dee

Hi Everyone

Sorry, it's been so long since my last email. Life - it's hectic - imagine that! LOL.

Can you imagine, I RSVP'd for a wedding WEEKS ago and as life would have it my kids misplaced my invite with all the relevant info. I knew it was this weekend I just assumed it was Saturday - I had the entire day planned out. I was going to hide my grey, get a much needed manicure and pedicure have somebody work for me at the store and surprise I found out Wed at almost 5 pm with a chicken in the oven that the wedding was Friday - imagine my surprise since I had a crop scheduled for Friday. Oops - so I have been running around like a chicken without a head to pull it off. I am happy to say that the wedding was beautiful and we had a really good time.

On the drive home my husband and I talked about our wedding. Wow, it's been 11 years already! Yep, it's moments like this that guarantee that we will be together another 11 years (22,33,44 years but who's counting). He gets me, he really gets me. My madness, my quirks, my ME moments, my aauuuggghhh's,etc. But, that's not all, I get him and his quirks, and madness and aaauuuuggghhhh, too. That's why it works. Because we do get it. And that brings me to your newest challenge. Tell me why he gets you - what are the little things that he does for you that make you feel loved. The winner will be picked at random from all the entries submitted by the deadline which is December 19th and then I will announce the winner right here. The winner will get to choose their product - 6 sheets of patterned paper, 4 pieces of cardstock, and 2 yards of ribbon. Approx retail value of $10 just for sharing your thoughts on the subject. Get to work!!!

As for HOT scrappin news we have the new Splendid Fancy Pants and the All Fall Fancy Pants collections in and some Prima stash and let me tell you I love their stuff all the time - I just can't stand them!!! You never get everything you order. Yuck!!!

Well, I've got to go - scrappin time- yeah!!!
I'm working on my own how he gets it layout.

Write soon,
Dee

What next???

Well ladies now that we have had our Christmas Crop the next and only big crop for this year is the Girlfriends crop in December. This will be our 3rd annual crop and it is absolutely my favorite crop of the year. I laugh my butt off. You guys are just hilarious. My favorite part has to be the Girlfriends version of the Newlywed game. The questions are straightforward enough - it's the answers that just keep me going. I love to hear the chitter chatter, all the a laughter and the funniest answer without even trying.

Have I told you that my favorite part of scrapbooking is the socializing. It crosses boundaries. Your age is just a number at our crops - 20 year old's sit next to 50 year olds and talk about real life - we talk about it all from S-E-X to kids, grandkids, shopping, our addictions (to paper of course), the subjects are limitless. The conversations are always flowing and yet we always manage to get some scrappin done - not as much as you would expect at a 6 hour crop - but that is neither here or there.

I must admit I have made some wonderful friends, some that adopted me quickly and some that have recently joined our ranks but damn it if they are just not amazing.

So, as Thanksgiving approaches I am thankful for all my new and OLD friends - thanks for hanging out at Dee's, thanks for sharing your lives with us, thanks for shopping with us, and thanks for being you - you are all amazing!

Write soon,
Dee

There's a party going on...

I am so excited about tomorrow's crop. There are a whole bunch of gals coming to celebrate with me. Although my birthday isn't until Saturday, I did not want to spend my birthday night with a whole bunch a ladies - you get what I am saying :)

So, for the first time in my life I am celebrating early - which for us superstitious Puerto Ricans is completely unheard of - I could die tomorrow and have celebrated something that didn't happen yet. But, what the heck this is my last year in my 30's. Then, I gladly move on to my 40's. Yippee.

Really, I do love being in my thirties and yes they were so much better than my twenties but I am a follower of Oprah's philosophy that it only get's better. So, I am looking forward to entering the next ten. I have to tell you that really, I have loved my 30's so much more than my 20's. Perhaps it was the uncertainty of being single, or still being in college, starting the first REAL job, trying to meet that "PERFECT" man - by the way there is no perfect man but that's a post for another time, etc.

Now, I am a bit more stable or perhaps unstable. I have 2 jobs that I really love, and the best kids in the world (when they are sleeping - LOL), and a great husband, not perfect, but great nonetheless, awesome friends, and a great life - wow I should scrap that. Unfortunately, we have had many losses these last 8 years, like my great grandma, my grandma, my cousin, my mother-in-law, my dad's surgeries, and many, many others but I was better able to handle them now than I ever could have ten years ago.

So, yep I am looking forward to what the 40's have in store but I am totally going to be celebrating this last year in my 30's starting with tomorrow's crop. So, check it out - this year we will have way more fun than ever. I'm giving this year the good old college try - so get ready for some partying. The fun is only starting tomorrow and next weekend the crop will be even better - I went a little crazy - you will never believe until you see it, so if you can't make it - a very limited number of kits will be available for purchase - and believe me you don't want to miss this -celebrate in style.

I want to thank everyone who has wished me a happy birthday. You guys rock.

As for Heather's question about the Prima order - you must see the viola felt and the transparent tape, or a little bling that came in from them - it's totally awesome.

Finally, the question about the designer challenge:
The kit contains $40 worth of product and we sell it for $25. You get several weeks to work on your projects from cards to altered, to layouts, to minialbums you choose what and how much you want to do. Then you submit it by the deadline which is December 16??? and we put it on the display shelves. Every single customer that comes in between December 17th and December 27th gets to vote everytime they make a purchase during that time. The designer with the most votes win and becomes a store designer - which means free goodies, opportunities to teach, and attend CHA Orlando and so much more!!!

Like I said there are no rules for your projects and their is no wrong way to scrapbook. So - crop on dude.

Several people have been known to purchase the kit because of how eclectic it is and how much you save. So, you can purchase the kit for the deals but let us know - because we would really like to have atleast 3 people in the competition to provide our customers with several choices.

Well, I'd better go the little angels are trying to kill each - not really but ohhh so close. Also, I did a layour last night that I am so proud of - I can't wait to show it off tomorrow.

Write soon,
Dee

And the winner is...

Yep, we pulled the name out of the hat yesterday, as witnessed by Renee and Rebecca, and a drum roll please...

The WINNER is Heather F. Congratulations!

Stop by the store and pick out your own goodie bag - include 4 pieces of pattern paper, 1 sheet of cardstock, and 1 yard of ribbon all of your choice. That's right you pick it on your own. That way no duplicates, no stuff you don't like - you pick and you are guaranteed an awesome kit. I know I am amazing - I just act the way I would expect others to behave towards me. So, enjoy. As for the rest of you. I will post another challenge soon, so keep reading for your chance to be a winner.

On another topic, my Jen E., is in her last trimester and has temporarily (Hopefully)left our design team. So, what does that mean? That we are on the lookout for another designer to join our ranks - the pay sucks but the benefits are fantastic. So, if you are interested, stop by the store and pick up our newest Designer's Challenge Kit. It will be ready for pick up this Sunday. Remember the only rule is that you have to do as much as you can with it and hand it in by the deadline. The kit is worth $40.00 and is available for our future designers for only $25.00. We need atleast 3 of you to participate. You can't win if you don't participate. So, don't be a chicken - I don't vote on the winner the rest of you do. That's right, we display your samples on our shelves and every person who makes a purchase during the designated time will cast a vote for their favorite. The designer with the most votes wins. Can you believe it? It's that easy. Cards, layouts (in any size), minialbums, altered projects, anything - the sky is your limit - oops let me rephrase - you must use the product in the kit. But, you are allowed to add additional items to reflect your personal style. Please don't feel like you are so different from anyone else that you can't participate. That's what we are looking for - we want a fresh new designer that's not like our already existing designers.

Remember their is no way to scrapbook wrong, but there are different styles that we all tend to gravitate towards, different is not bad. We love that. So, come in and check it out.

Finally, we still have a few spots available for our Freebie crop on Friday. All purchases made by those croppers will be 39% off in honor of my 39th birthday. What's the point of a birthday if everyone can't celebrate. So, all croppers will shop for 39 off. Of course their are a couple of exclusions, like kits, classes, and services, but those are already hugely discounted and our brand new Sharon Ann Christmas Collection and our Prima order that arrives Friday - I am trying to celebrate not go broke. :)

Hopefully, I will see you then. As always you guys know I don't have any "REAL" family in Florida so I love to be able to celebrate with my SCRAPPIN Family. Thanks, for choosing Dee's.

One last thing (for real) - I will be downloading some more pictures of samples done this weekend. Some cute stuff from Jen S and myself. Enjoy. Don't forget we have most of that product in stock!

Write soon,
Dee

Birthday News

Yep, it's almost time for my birthday again. But, this time there is a twist. In order to get the 39% off your purchase you need to come and crop with us. That's right, I am turning 39 and who better to spend my time with - other scrappers. So, email me or add a comment to this post and add yourself to the crop list. Remember we can only fit 20 - oops 16 of you in the crop room for each crop - so don't hesitate. First come - first serve.

The two time slots are Tuesday (tomorrow) from 10 am to 6 pm and Friday from 5-11 pm. I have people signed up for both of them already - so don't miss out. 39% is a lot off - the only exclusions are the Sharon Ann Christmas Collection, the kits, and all services - classes, etc.

On another note, we got two responses to the challenge about scrapbooking being a need or a want. So, since they both had great responses and I hate to pick, I will put both their names in a bag and pull out the winner. I will be doing this during the crop tomorrow for proof and publish the results here tomorrow as well as prepare the goodie bag.

So, Renee and Heather check it out late in the evening and find out which one of you won. You can pick it up anytime after Tuesday's posting.

On another note, I am just christmas crop crazy. I really love all of the paper that's out there for the holidays and all the stuff I have saved up and ordered is all so different from each other. These christmas croppers will love how very different all these lines are from each other. I am so excited. I can't wait to play with it all.

Well, I've got to go I am trying to get some layouts done tonight before the crop.

Talk soon,

Dee

In my lifetime...

Yesterday, once again, history was rewritten. No matter which way it went yesterday, we would once again have changed history. That made me think about all the things that have happened in my lifetime. Yes, it's true I'm old and judging by the amount of things that have happened in my lifetime you would think I am a zillion years old. But, technology has had the biggest changes. For example, pay phones are a thing of the past - I don't even know of one in Florida...anybody??? As a teenager I had a beeper glued to my hip. Forget visa, I never left home without it - yet only doctors do now - or is that only on Grey's. Computers were not a household item. Now they are tiny. Oh, and do you remember the first cellular phones. Those 2 guys from Saturday Night Live made that club movie where they have one of those phones. They were not $600-1K when they first came out - now you can get them for 50 bucks with a plan and they can fit in the palm of your hand. Damn, I feel old. That's just the tip of the iceburg, but those were the good changes. I have seen such sadness as well. For example, I still lived in NYC when 911 happened. I will never ever forget that day - I won't forget where I was and how scared I felt or how life has changed for me and millions of others. Then, there's the death of Elvis - I am not sure how old I was when he died but I know that when we moved from our 20th floor apartment to out 8th floor apartment my mom made me through out my Elvis cards because he was dead and I couldn't marry him anymore - so I had to through a WHOLE drawer full of cards. Don't laugh at me crushes are everything as a child - okay I might still have some crushes in my lifetime - but that's okay. My husband says that we can look - it's the touching that's not an option. Lucky we are not the jealous type. For him it's easy - if the man's not bald he doesn't even fall into the spectrum of hotness for me except for maybe MacSteamy - but he does steam my glasses.

Well, my DH just brought me a pint of chocolate ice cream and a hershey's candy bar -so I've really got to run. Yes, he's a keeper - so I guess my history is pretty written.

Respond and tell me about something that has happened in your lifetime - technological or not. Refresh my memory after all I am a zillion years old.

Write soon,

Dee

Okay, I hope this works...

Okay, so I've been trying for over an hour to upload these photos, but no go. So, I finally broke down and did the flickr thing and let me tell you it's a breeze as long as you can remember the password which for me is a joke - because between my personal accounts, school accounts, and store accounts, I am just all passworded out. So, I've got them up and running on the slideshow. I am so proud of myself.

Also, I want everyone to know that some of those samples I added on were made with this month's kits. I am uploading those tonight so you will be able to see all the new kits. And, yes I really stretched the his kit this month - Mr. Snowman counts!!!
It's a boy. LOL.

Also, I've read the comments on the latest challenge - awesome 2 responses in just a few days - that's awesome. I'm sure I'll get a few more - right???
Is anyone out there??? If you are respond and you could be our winner this week. Well, I've got to go. I've got to get those kit pics up on the website before the month is over.

Oh, and don't forget that we have a freebie crop on Friday - yep FREE! from 5-11 to kick off this years shop hop. Don't forget big discounts for participants - 15% off for the entire time of the shop hop. We still have passports - so reserve yours now!!! Even if you just use it in the west coast or at the 7 in the local area you are sure to find lots of things. We are all so different and we carry so many different things - you would get an eye full and a bag full at a great price. So, happy shopping.

Write soon,

Dee

P.S. Check out the new kits on line later tonight!

Yep, more to say

It's true I have more to say, I rarely don't. Maybe I just like to hear myself talk.
But, actually today I have tons of photos to add to the blog - including the beautiful double dee that Stephanie did this weekend, but I am having computer issues. So, I've given up for today. Tomorrow I will try it again - including the latest kits. Maybe it's too much space.

Write tomorrow - maybe it's me maybe I'm broken - after the two days I spent with migraines I can believe it. Well, my DH is screaming about something...so I'd better go investigate what the emergency is.

Write tomorrow,

Dee

How's it going???

As for me, I have a layout in my head I need to get out. Have you ever had that feeling or rather urge to do something NOW? Okay, maybe it's just me, but I tell people this is not a luxury for me - scrapbooking is a neccessity. I can see the headlines now - Local Teacher and Mother of 5 KILLS... Not for nothing, but life is stressful - whether it's the job, deadlines, a business, the spouse, children, or even planning a party of any kind - nerves can become frazzled and frayed. I need to have down time - some time to just think about the PRETTY PAPER or the COOL NEW TOOL or to put life into perspective. Sometimes it's hard to see the silver lining in things and then I sit and scrap and have an epithany - really that's how it works for me. I really believe in signs - as I scrap I think through my day, the week or even about the month and most times things will become clearer. I will finally get that comment he or she made or the weird phone call I got or the next big thing or crop that I need to do for the store. It really is weird but that's how it works for me - I am enlightened. I have the answer or maybe more questions to clarify things. I can breathe, solve, anticipate, correct, or just let it go - because god knows there are times where you just have to let it go, where you have to take a deep breath an move on with your life.

But, today is really one of those days, where I know that if I get that layout done, I will have an answer, I will know what to do next, I will continue to breath. So, yes I NEED to scrap. I NEED to do it. Okay and maybe some chocolate too. I NEED it.

Do you NEED it???

Respond to this blog entry and your answer could win you a gorgeous goodie bag. I'll give you all a week - how does next Sunday sound???

Write soon,

Dee

What are you doing???

Hey everyone!

I am supposed to be emptying out my huge nightstands so that I can put them back in my bedroom, but my husband went to Walmart to pick up my latest photos - so the cat will play. He is picking up photos of the two of us on our last anniversary - Oct 11th. I am actually working on a layout about it - talk about instant gratification. I am not only putting me back in my scrapbooks I am putting us in it. So, stop by this weekend and check it out. Also, we have a super saturday crop this weekend - think about it, then call and sign up anyway. Hopefully, I will have created another dozen layout on us, me, them, him, her before this is week is over...????

Newest arrival Colorbok and Rusty Pickle are both in this week.

Well, I'd better go, if he finds out I am scrapbooking and blogging he might have a hissy fit. LOL.

Write soon,
Dee

P.S. Don't forget to sign up to be one of our followers we are up to 2 in 3 days...and with over 1400 hits on our site in about 2 months...that's pretty good :)

Dee

Wow, we are on a roll

Actually, this will probably be my last entry for the week. My husband is done with the tile in my bedroom and now it's my turn to put the room back together again. I have been living, sleeping, scrappin, blogging in the middle of chaos for a little over a week, when my DH decided that after waiting 10 months to get to tiling my bedroom floor that 2 weekends ago was about that time on the man schedule to finally get it done. But, like any man with a full time job he has been doing it a little at a time (god bless his soul), but now the truly hard work of putting our bedroom back together falls to me. Beginning with my scrapbooking desk. Poor desk. It is ginormous and still it cannot compete with all my scrappin supplies :) I am not sure I will be able to get it all back together again. I am letting go of all my packrat days and consolidating, reorganizing and shedding the useless. I am done with all the scraps. I just can't keep them all. But, really when do I ever use them. It sounds good in theory, but unless I use it right away I just save it until it's time to make room again. So, a tip for today, keep them handy -somewhere you are able to see them and use them more quickly or just pass them on to a thriftier scrapper or your friendly card maker - or the little rugrats who steal all your stuff anyway. Mine are going to my three little ones - someone's trash is someone else's treasure.

It does feel good to organize. I think most scrappers love to do it. Sometimes spending for time organizing then actually scrappin - so this might take me a while.

Well, once again I sadly say goodnight. If I can sneak out of clean up duty for a few minutes, I might be able to blog tomorrow.

Also, post your comments and tell me what you think about all the changes. I hope you love them all and sign up to be one of our followers.

Write soon,

Dee

Yep, It's Me Again...

What can I say I am on a blogging mission. I must admit I am pretty proud of myself that I was able to download all the pics for the double dees and the Crate Paper/Sassafras Layouts - although it took me about 8 hours to finish it all. If you click on them - you will be able to see an enlarged version of the layout through flickr. If you don't know what they are, like me - a few hours ago, check them out, you can organize and save your photos and post them on other sites. So, that brings me to my other reason for blogging. Share your photos with us. Send me a jpeg (on flickr if possible) of one of your latest creations and you might be published at our site - does that count as a real pub??? I don't know, but you could sure get bragging rights for it- be a mini-celebrity. Also, with our new look we have been able to add a followers list. So join us and find out when I have posted immediately and stay on top of what's going on.

Oops almost forgot the code words for this week.

They are: I love the new blog!

Also, the Dine and Dash project this week was created by Stephanie F. (Welcome Layout- cute)
We have enough product for 6 of you to recreate it, so hurry in before they are all gone.

Dee

Great Blog Dee

Twice in 1 week...

I know, I know, it's shocking...2 post in 1 week. It just can't be real. Well, I am here to tell you that I now have the blogging bug. I was telling the ladies yesterday, at our freebie crop, that I was looking through other blogs for inspiration - am I blogging right? (I know I need to get an A at everything - I'm dealing with my issues) but I discovered some neat things I can do on my blog - like update my profile - which I just did - check it out!!! and show off some of my latest works of art as well as post the double dee's everyone's been asking about so check out our slideshow for them both.

Let me know what you think about our new look and blogging more frequently???

I'm going to go create some more.

Thanks,

Dee

Yep, I'm Blogging again!

Hi Everyone,

I have the scrapbooking bug! Yep!

At this weekend's crop I got a ton of scraplifted layouts done. I am so proud of myself. The layouts look great and took mininal time because I didn't have to think about it. It was hit and run scrappin.

But, the funniest thing is it took a newbie (Zuly) to tell me something I never realized before - I am a quiet scrapper. Although I love all the social aspects of scrappin in a group - I am a listener by nature. As everyone talked including John Tish I listened and scrapped my heart away. But, it didn't end there - I went home and after sleeping part of the day away - I made another 4 layouts yesterday and I am still inspired - so who knows how many I will create this week. As for the paper I used, it was crate papers 2 latest lines - lemongrass and prudence. I am in love with both of them. They are gorgeous and selling fast - so don't miss out - there are plenty of samples for you to scraplift so don't forget your camera, too.

As for the newbie update - our latest customer of the month winner is Natalia - she is a brand new scrapper and now she's entitled to 15% off all her purchases for the month of November - but the catch is I need 8 layouts for the customer of the month display. Which are due by October 31st - get crackin Natalia!

Another newbie item - they were just contagious - they were so excited to win prizes - it was just hysterical. It reminded me of what it felt like when I first started scrapbooking - awesome but a bit scary. It's so refreshing to see that kind of energy - scrapbooking should be fun - it should not be a tool of torture. So, if the fun has been sucked out of it for you - stop what you are doing and think about why you do, or look back through some old layouts and read the journaling or just read between the lines. Scrapbooking is meant to be fun. So find your happy place and get a scrappin'.

But, if you can't find the old mojo come to our freebie crop this Friday and let us inspire you - I promise you ideas to keep you going throughout the holiday season. If not the crops on us - oh that's right the crop is free. Heehee! Which leads me to my final tip for today (straight from John Tish) laughter helps keep colds away - I don't know how but it's true. So, if nothing else at least you'll laugh your butt off and keep that cold at bay!

Happy Scrappin,

Dee

I know it's been a long time

Sorry!!!

I can't tell you how sorry I am. It's just been pure madness between life, the "REAL JOB" and the store I am barely able to put a sentence together much less find time to write about it. But, today has been one of those days that has made me grateful - to be alive - to be here - to be surrounded by friends - to have a great husband - just a great life.

After being in a bit of a slump - family stuff, I am so excited to say that I see the light at the end of the tunnel. Yesterday, after once again feeling overwhelmed and without a second to spare to be me I sat and rehashed the Oprah episode that just finished. (I LOVE OPRAH!) Yesterday's episode involved a young man who tried to kill off his entire family and his father not knowing he was involved and having survived the attack had decided to "FORGIVE" him/her. He talked about his faith and his need to give the hatred back and go on. What an amazing man. It just gave me a whole new perspective on forgiving. It's true it doesn't hurt those you are upset at - they just keep on going - they have gotten what they wanted whether it's being ruthless or careless or just mean-spirited it only hurts you. They don't care and you know what I don't care about it either. God is good! I am letting it be and calling them out to be better people - if that's possible - okay that was mean - but I had to get something in I said I didn't care it doesn't mean it didn't hurt - but I am SO OVER IT!

So let those feelings go - life is short - enjoy the moment and don't let those naysayers stop you from leading your best life - damn you've worked hard for it now enjoy it. Let them get their panties in a bunch - no more sore grapes for me. I'm FREE!!!

On the other hand I have some scrapbooking gossip for you - that Imaginisce Fairest of them All is just gorgeous so if you have a little princess in your house - whether it's you dog or your granddaughter this collection will get your panties in a bunch - I told Kellie to pull one of each for me so expect samples soon cause I feel like a princess today!!! - now if I just had the right photo - I might need to borrow someone's tiara and speaking of feeling like a princess has anyone seen the info on the November crop - It's called I NEED A BREAK - because we need a break before we get slammed with all the thanksgiving cooking and the Christmas shopping and all the hoopla. We are working on getting a masseuse at the store as well as set up for a manicure and ped at an additional cost but who doesn't need to feel like a princess - I know I do - don't you deserve one too???

Also, our HUGE christmas crop is just around the corner - so plan accordingly - It's going to be even bigger this year.

Oohhh I almost forgot Sassafras sent a little goodie for everyone who is attending our crop on the 18th - It's adorable!!!

Gotta go - I am going to scrap with my daughter for 15 minutes before her bedtime. Damn, I'm lucky!!!

Dee

WOW!

Hello Everyone,

Okay here are some ramblings about this weekend.

Yes, we are open to customers this weekend...after my croppers get here on Friday at 5 pm the NEW Display area in the back room will be open to all. Okay, I must admit that I did order way TOO much stuff and their will be new stuff out on the regulars sales floor as well, but NEW none the less...

Pink Paislee is HERE
Scenic Route is Here
Bo-bunny is HERE
Studio 8 is HERE
American Craft - some is here - some arrives tomorrow
Doodlebug is HERE
Jenni Bowlin is HERE
Chatterbox is HERE

PRIMA is HERE and wait till you see the incredible goodies they sent, they really outdid themselves. All there stuff is just beautiful and the flowers they sent for the croppers are phenomenal!!!

the goodies from all of the following have arrived...

PRIMA
Creative Imaginations
American Crafts
Bo-bunny
Making Memories
Ki
Fancy Pants
Bazzill
Fabric-Tac
Flair
My Little Yellow Bicycle
Doodlebug
TWELVE OFFICIAL
Chatterbox has shipped
Sakura has shipped
Sassafras ???
THREE up in the air...we will see who makes it...

Did I tell you about the goodies from PRIMA...oh I did, well they were great enough for me to mention again...

If you are attending one of the classes please bring all your basics along with some chalks (preferably glitter) and watercolor pencils (we have some rather inexpensive ones available at the store - $2.49)

Well, I'd better go, I just got Pink Paislee in and I need to finish up the Scenic Route stuff.

Talk soon,

Dee

It's almost that time!!!

RANDOM THOUGHTS

Actually today is our "REAL" anniversary. So stop by and wish us a happy birthday. But, that's not all if you spend $5.00 and say the code words "Show me the Goodies" you will get a little goodie bag from Us to thank U for choosing Dee's. We greatly appreciate your business.

Moving on, this has and will be a crazy week. I am expecting about 6 more shipments by Friday including the papers that will be going into the goodie bags everyday, as well as goodies from our sponsors.

But, we are upto 14 sponsors so we beat last years record, I don't know if we can beat that next year, but we are all set for now. We also have 50 pounds of goodies to give out, so that should be awesome.

Some of you have shown some interest in just attending classes or just crops. Those options are still available. If you wish to attend a class only or a crop only on Sat or Sunday the cost is $45.00. But, regardless all the new product will be available this Friday, for you to purchase, just remember our croppers have first dibs. Sorry!!!

I am still drooling at all the pretty stuff and have to control myself bedoew I keep it all for my self. As for the samples, I am working on having a sample up of every new line we have received so far. As for, the stuff that has not arrived yet, we can only try. The girls are busy working on it.

Please add Diana and Jen E. in your prayers groups. Pray for Diana's granddaughter, Jen's baby girl, and my little cousin. We can use all the help we can get! Thank you.

The store is a mess, but we are working on it, so please excuse our appearance until Friday, we will be together by then. LOL!

Gotta Go,
Dee

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!

Okay ladies the time has come to tell you that I have lost my damn mind.

In case you weren't sure, it's OFFICIAL!

Can I get a loan???
Sell my home???
Okay, sell the kids...they are already broken anyway.
LOL!!!
I really do want to keep my children.

Today, we have a guest straight from Chicago that is going to give you a heads up on just how insane I am...NUTS.

Hey everyone--it's Kellie. I made the last minute decision to buy a plane ticket and tag along to the show with Dee. We had a great event with Creative Imaginations when we got in Thursday night. There were lots of great make-and-takes, yummy food (esp. the chocolate fountain), and some awesome new paper lines. Dee placed the order and we were off on a shopping spree of MAJOR proportions.

We've had two days on the show floor and I don't know how Dee keeps it all straight. She has ordered from some new companies like Pink Paisley and Jenni Bowlin. And the love affair with many of our favorites continues. I don't think I can pick a single favorite because there are too many awesome companies and paper collections. I think October Afternoon and My Minds Eye would be in contention if I had to pick. Since I don't, I'll let you know that My Little Yellow Bicycle and Luxe Designs have some really fun lines as well. Dee said she was done with winter and Christmas paper but the little penguins and polar bears were too cute to resist at the Reminisce booth. (I think she was afraid I was going to take off with the samples if she didn't just buy it, so she caved. he he he)

Oh, I was supposed to tell you how crazy she is and let you know that she has in fact lost her mind. Yes, she's lost her mind. But don't worry, we'll scour the showroom floor tomorrow and maybe we'll find it. If not, don't worry. We'll leave it and bring home some AWESOME new goodies for the store. That's it from me..and now more from Dee.

Hey I am back...I kicked Kellie out of the way to once again regain my thrown as the heavyweight champion of the Scrapbooking federation of wrestlers.

I do have to tell you all that I met the owner of Scrapbook Goodies at the show and she was very sweet...you guys have to stop by there and check it out...I think we have two different visions so go check it out.

Alas, I must say that the goodies have been a whole lot better from most of the companies this year. I must say my advice to Basic Grey did not go on death ears. They gave out one of each of there papers when you placed an order so I have a chunk of new paper to give out for the crop including BRAND NEW paper that will not even be released to October- HOT!!!

But, they weren't the only ones the goodies from American Crafts are incredible. Believe me if you have not signed up for the CHA crop next month - you will be sorry. The amount of goodies was just obscene. As for the product - their travel line was incredible. But , the fun doesn't end there, that's just the tip of the iceburg. Bobuuny as always gave me some great goodies and Sassafras has also agreed to sponsor us for the crop. Doodlebug was on the fence...as there new product is not ready to ship yet. So, it might make it - it might not. But, you will still get it. So, expect some awesome stuff...I know I do. Oh and let's not forget the Slice Aprons. But, it's not over yet we still have tomorrow. So, you might get another sreaming email tomorrow. Yippee. We could still win a slice or a little yellow bicycle, wouldn't that be fun.

Oh well, I've got to go, I've got a snickers and a diet coke with my name on them.

Miss you all,

Dee

oh and KELLIE

OMG - I forgot something.

Hi Everyone Again,

I was just going to log off and I remembered the reason I first started the blog today - the goodies that we got for our Anniversary Crop. We got rubons from Making Memories for everyone in various themes. We also got a box from Bazzill with minialbums, brads, packs of paper, acrylic buttons, and so much more. But, the box of the week is the box from American Crafts. I am so surprised with the box of goodies from them. The box was HUGE. It had everything from photo corners to letter stickers, to foam leaves in autumn colors and paper and ribbon rolls. We are talking WOW. If the boxes keep getting bigger you will need handtrucks to carry your stuff out. YEAH!!!

Talk soon,
Dee

CHA is just around the corner!!!

Hi Everyone,

I just can't believe it...finally the sneak peeks are out...well atleast some more of them, because I was getting a bit anxious. But, now that I have seen some of them...I am really worried. I might have to get a second on my mortgage to get all the stuff that I want. It's unbelievable. The stuff coming out is just incredible. Like My Little Yellow Bicycle. I was really thinking of skipping their Love and Halloween Collections and just getting their gorgeous Sharon Ann Collection. But, after taking a closer look at their other collections...damn them if I don't want them all. So, you guys better come in and get some halloween paper...cause at these prices it will probably be the only halloween line I will be getting in.

Then, there's always CI - they are spectacular. Their school lines and their harvest - thanksgiving line is AWESOME. Can I get a loan???

But, the love doesn't stop there I just saw the sneak peak from Fiskars and I really want to SCREAM. Heidi Grace is BACK. And Li'l Davis - you guys know that they bought them over right? Well, they are back and the line is absolutely delicious.

But, that's not all Ranger has NEW STICKLES coming out. Notice all the capitals- I am SCREAMING these things out :-)

Oh and the new line from Daisy Bucket with the TREES is spectacular. I'm seriously drooling right now.

Trees are hot - bling is hotter.

The singles from PRIMA are amazing and the dinosaurs are incredible. Oh and the flowers...
But, the rhinestones from Kaiser are stunning - I am in a butterfly stage.

Oh, and the Princess collection from Imaginisce is Priceless. Every little girl in town needs some of this in their albums.

That's just the tip of the iceburg. I have seen so much...my eyes are bleeding.

Oh, but the fun is not over.

I want to send out a big shoutout to Renee Dorrian who was published in Creating Keepsakes this month. Yippee. I think it was page 123 - she made it with some of our 10 cent paper- isn't that hot.

Oh, and finally, I will not be leaving for CHA until Thursday, so I will be in on Tuesday and Joyce would love to hang out with ya'll on Wed ( I am spending the day with my kids - the guilt) until Saturday. I will be back on the job that following Tuesday with plenty of GOODIES for our CHA Crop. This year CHA is going to be HUGE.

And don't forget about our CHA Crop on Friday, August 8th. This is going to be a huge event. I just got a little hint of the make n takes from Brittany and Sharon and let me tell you - they will be awesome. Noper. I am not giving any hints out:(

Kellie is going with me to CHA and it will be a girl's weekend, so those of you going give me a call so we can make plans - like Beth, Geri-ann, Colleen, Stephanie, and Rita.

I will have my cell and charger this time - Hopefully.

Talk to you guys soon.

Tomorrow is the Let Freedom Ring Crop and I have tons to do. But, the paper is gorgeous and so are all the 10 new lines in the store - Pebbles Zoo and School lines, Scenic Routes Appleton and Liberty Collections, New Pearl Colors from Kaiser and Cocoa, Tudor and Thrillseeker.
Then, their the new teal, lime, and green diecut papers from CI and there bling and glitter brads. Oh and my favorite the Daydream glitter papers and boutique brads from Doodlebug - these are gorgeous and I don't expect them to make it past this weekend. So, you need to stop by and pick up some of these gorgeous, also, the fancy pants papa is finally out on the floor and the Cream collection from CI. There's more. so, come by and check it out.

Also, if you have any special items you would like from the new CHA releases tell me now so that I can make sure to order them. But, I don't think theres anything I am not getting. LOL.

We will talk again soon - before CHA I am sure.

Dee

OMGosh!

Hi Everyone,

We are upto 9 sponsors now...can you imagine. Here are the names again:
Prima Marketing, Inc
Fancy Pants Designs
Flair Designs
Creative Imaginations
Making Memories
American Crafts
My Little Yellow Bicycle
Bazzill
KI Memories

We already have 7 confirmed YESES and I have a feeling that the number is going to hit max very soon. Only 13 more spots available and then we will only have room for classes. I am also in the process of fixing up both the crop rooms and expect both of them to be done by the time of the anniversary crop. This is going to be our biggest bash ever. Believe me it's going to be incredible. Some of our sponsors are some of the biggest scrapbooking companies in the country -these are big nams, great donations, awesome prizes. I am just so excited!!!

I have also been looking at the sneak peaks and let me tell you I am in love with quite a few lines. If the show looks as great as the sneak peaks this will be the best show ever. I even got some special invitations to see new product releases before the show. Yippee. I just can't believe me.

Some things I can't live without:

URBAN LILY
CREATIVE IMAGINATIONS
DAISY BUCKET
AMERICAN CRAFT THICKER STICKERS
luxe
pink paislee
flair

I am still waiting to see something from KI, Scenic Route, Pebbles, Fancy Pants, PRIMA, Sandylion, Rouge de Garance, kaiser, MYLYB, Bazzill, Making Memories, and so many more. A lot of companies have not released any sneak peaks...everything has been hush hush. I do know that the theme for CHA-S is kids crafts - and I heard that their will be new lines from someone for Hannah Montana paper and High School Musical. I can't wait to get my hands on those all my kids watch them - what the heck I've seen several Hannah Montans episodes...but that's out secret.

Well, gotta go - I hope everybody had a great 4th of July and don't forget we are open tomorrow from 10-5. We also still have room for our crop next weekend - and we have quite a few deliveries come in with new paper - as always our croppers get first dibs. I am so excited to have brand new paper in...several companies have launch midyear mini releases plus we are getting and awesome new pet line from KI - it is so cute...you will love it. Come in next saturday and check it out - the store will be open to 11 pm for those shopping emergencies!!!

See you soon.

Dee

More Info on the Anniversary Crop

Hey Everyone,

Already since yesterday's email we got two more sponsors.
The total is now upto 6:

Prima Marketing, Inc
Creative Imaginations
Flair
American Crafts
Fancy Pants Designs
Making Memories

Also, we got in the goodie bag stuff from Creative Imaginations and I am completely shocked by the amount of goodies sent. I can't even believe how much stuff they sent us. The box included everything from paper and chipboard to stickers and epoxy. Believe me if that was the only thing going into the goodies bags you would love it. I can't wait until I get the rest of the goodies.
I am so excited. I am hoping to beat last years sponsors and get 12 this year. So, we are half way to our goal. Yippee.

CHA is also right around the corner and I have finally started getting little sneak peaks. I just placed my first preorder and the paper is just so cute!

I also saw some great back to school paper from Creative Imaginations that was just to cute to pass up.

Oh and let's not forget URBAN LILY is back. Anyone who has been at Dee's knows that I carry paper from oversees and my favorite has always been URBAN LILY but at the winter show they were not there. I was so sad at the news. I really love their stuff, even if some of you don't get it (YET). It has finally started to get some attention and I actually sold out of 2 of the sheets today...yippee again. So, I thought they were out of the paper business as these recessionary times have been so difficult for everyone. But, today I received an email from them with a sneak peak that has me DROOLING. I can't believe it. So, save the anniversary dates because that's when all the good stuff will be here and ofcourse the croppers will have first dibs. And with the stuff that I've been seeing...ooh la la.

Well, I've got to go I am supposed to be making multiple photo layouts. My 19, 9, and 13 photo layouts were a big hit. Jen's dog layout was also a big hit and the two Jen's mini albums from Fancy Pants (they are almost all sold out - the paper used URBAN LILY and Rusty Pickle).
Come in and check them out - very cute - 1 is boy theme the other is girl themed. But, pets would also work well and travel cute grandma brag books too).
Let's see how many photos I can put on the next two pager.

Good night,
Dee

Anniversary Crop Information

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to give you all the lowdown on our visiting Prima Donnas.

Read all the juicy details below:

Our 2nd Anniversary Crop is scheduled for August 8-10th. The first crop will begin on
Friday, August 8th and run from 5-11 pm. This crop is limited to 32 croppers. The fun continues on Saturday, August 9th at 9 am all the way till Sunday, August 10th ...until 9 pm - that's right the store will remain open for 34 consecutive hours. All together the 3 days offer 40 hours of open crop time.

The Guest Designers are Sharon and Brittany Laakonen.
The entire 3 day event is $175.00 and includes:
All of the following meals:
-2 breakfast- Saturday and Sunday
-2 lunch - Saturday and Sunday
-3 dinners - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
TWO Goodie Bags
-That's right - one from us and one from our many sponsors. Last year we had 11 sponsors and this year we are hoping to break that record. PRIMA has already confirmed their sponsorship!
But that's not all we are also combining our CHA Crop with our Anniversary Crop- so imagine the prizes, and goodies. Last CHA Crop we had over 100 prizes - we are hoping to break that record, too.
Two classes - one with each Prima Instructor
Various make n takes
-The Prima Donnas have created various make-n-takes to complete with you...that's right 4-1 time with each designer.
Can It Get Any Better?
Of course it can...if you sign up for all 3 days, additional classes will be $35 each ($10.00 off).
GRAND PRIZE
As a grand prize- someone will win a 50% off shopping spree for an entire hour.
Previous winners have loved it...you could be next!
CLASSES ONLY
Classes will be available at $45.00 each and are on a first come - first serve basis.
MINI CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
It's Clearly Summer! - Clear albums look amazing, but can be a bit intimidating. Join Sharon Laakkonen as she shows you a few tips and tricks to creating a fabulous, Prima-filled, Summer Time mini-album! Flowers, ribbon, clear patterned tape, flocked letters, Say It In Crystals and other gorgeous Prima products will be used to create your very own scalloped Build-A-Book!

Chalk It Up- Create a beautiful layout wall-hanging with Prima's embossed 12x12 chipboard sheets and other dazzling products. Sharon will show you a fast and easy chalking technique that creates the base, while additional Prima products finish this one-of-a-kind layout off with style! As a bonus an extra 12x12 chipboard sheet will be included for you!

It's In the Cards - Four cards...all filled with beautiful Prima products...Voila lace, flowers, die-cut felt, ribbon, crystals...they will all be a part of this amazing class! Join Brittany Laakkonen as she teaches you some of her favorite card designs made from her favorite products! If you have never tried card-making before then this is the time to jump in.

His, Hers and Ours - This three layout class will focus on a feminine layout, a masculine layout and a final layout that can be used for any theme! Each layout will be loaded up with Prima products hand-picked by Brittany! Join this talented, young scrapper for a technique-driven class that is HIP & FUN!!

Please note that each class is limited to 12 students!
Three day attendees will be given priority sign-up.

ALSO, since this event is being combined with our CHA Crop we will also have atleast 10 new lines available for you fresh from CHA-Summer and an onscene amount of prizes - including some of the greatest picks around.

Congratulations to Renee D. for correctly identifying our 2 Guest Designers! She won a FREE class.

Watch the blog for additional information!

I will also be updating the list of sponsors as they confirm.

We have 1 yes and 4 maybes already - YIPPEE!

Email me at dee@deescrapbookstore.com to sign up or for further details.

PLEASE NOTE THAT A $25.00 deposit is required to guarantee your spot and only 20 people will be able to sign for all 3 days. We already have 2 people signed up and 5 classes spoken for in just a few hours. Don't miss out - you will love them.

Check out their Prima blogs at
for Sharon
http://www.primamarketinginc.com/idea_gallery_designer.php?designer_id=7&designer_name_first=Sharon%20Laakkonen
for Brittany
http://www.primamarketinginc.com/idea_gallery_designer.php?designer_id=42&designer_name_first=Brittany%20Laakkonen

OR there two peas blogs at:
Sharon's 2 Peas in A Bucket Link:
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/userprofile.asp?user_id=103432

Brittany's 2 Peas In A Bucket link:
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/userprofile.asp?user_id=217076

Have fun taking a look.

Sneak peaks of our classes will be available soon. They are creating one of a kind projects for us never seen before. Yippee!

I hope to have a little more info tomorrow. I will post as I hear.

Dee

June Challenge

Hi Everyone,
I know I have been lax in my updating of this page, but the end of the school year can do that to you. With the last day of school just a few days away...I am so glad to say that I will spend a lot more time in the store catering to your every need (okay, with more scrapbooking on the side, of course).
But I digress, I am here to tell you what our next challenge is, so read on....
As I sit here thinking about the end of the year, a smile crosses over my face as I think about all the progress my students and my own children have made this year. This has been an awesome year. My baby girl is finally reading well, my 4th grader is reading for pleasure, and my 2nd grader is finally in the honor roll. It has been a real battle this year, but darn it it was well worth it. I wouldn't change a thing. A few months ago my second oldest, Albert, asked me, if I could change anything what would it be. I thought about this for a few seconds and quickly blurted out "Nothing...I like who I am right now, this moment in my life. I am so lucky. Besides, if I changed something it might mean that I wouldn't have any of you and that would not be right with me."
At 38, I have to admit that I have weighed the pros and cons of my life and I am so sure that this is exactly where I want to be. I wouldn't change a thing. The good, the bad and the ugly have made me who I am. And who I am is pretty lucky...broke, exhausted, stretched thin, tired, cranky, oh but so LUCKY.
Darn it, it's been a good year.
So, where's the challenge, you might ask, keep on reading...
I challenge you to do the same, create a layout that tell me what makes you you...
the coffee before sunrise, to the sound of the ocean while you sleep, or just your love of chocolate ( this one is going on my list). What makes you YOU. My layout will be up by the 30th - so e-mail me a jpeg or bring it in for me to photograph. All entries will be posted on this page next month.
Have fun.
Winner will be picked at random from all entries made and will recieve an ADORABLE mini tote.
Talk soon,
Dee

Six Weeks - Unbelievable

Hi Everyone,

I just can't believe it, has it really been 6 weeks since I last blogged? I really haven't been on since February? How did that happen?

Oh wait, I've been to CHA, we've had dozens of orders delivered, and it just keep rolling in. Maybe that's the reason?

You bet your patootie it is!

Running a business is no joke!

I feel like I am on the run all the time, but I had an epiphany last night as I physically and emotionally prepared for the SAT 10's to commence.

Many of you know that I still have my day job, and what this means is SAT-10 Week. We have been eating, drinking, breathing Sat 10 for the last couple weeks, and the day of reckoning finally arrived today. The kids started Day 1 of Reading. Although, I know that I have worked hard with them, I still felt that anxious knot in my stomach last night. You know, the feeling you would get before the very first day of school. The nerves you felt on your wedding day. The jitteriness associated with beginning something new, facing a new frontier, arriving somewhere new. As I type these very words I can feel that knot in my stomach again. Yep, I revert back to being 5 years old and the first day of school. But, I've got a solution for this - my very own - "Cutter-Outter" theory.

Last night, after putting my little ones to bed, I sat at my table and began to cut arrows out. Really, cutting things out lets me do without much thinking. I can cut for hours and keep my mind going through the day, or planning activities, or just vegetating. It's amazing! It's calming, really. Those of you who have tried this know what I mean...it's takes no brain power...you can rehash your day, or daydream, or just plan pages in your head...your mind is just free to roam. I can be planning my next crop, or my next lesson plan, either works. It really does the trick for me. But, let me tell you the Hershey's Kisses Ice Cream Poppers don't hurt either.

But, how does this apply to you? What's the challenge? Well, your challenge is to create a layout showing/explaining what you do to calm down, what relaxes you, what evens you out? What bring you back from the brink of madness?

Bring your completed layout to Dee's by April 30th to qualify for a drawing to win a goodie bag with a retail value of $10.00.

Good luck!

Our New Challenge for February

Hi Everyone,
This month's challenge comes from the aisle of the CHA Conference this week. While, oohing and aahing down the many aisles, I came across the Tattered Angels booth. Tattered Angels, what's that? Well, they are the creators of Glimmer Mist. You know those little spray bottles that I have been drooling about. Well, while I was at their booth I came across some interesting techniques, including some masking techniques (needless to say I purchased all their new colors for Spring and Summer and some big sellers (Platinum, Gold, etc) ). They tried them on naked and decorated chipboard (don't worry - I ordered some of these, too). So, I said, what the hey. Once, I started really playing with them, I fell totally in love with them. And, so will you. Try them out. I dare you!

Dare to be different and try out our monthly challenge. But, this one is a technique challenge. What's a technique challenge you ask? Well, that's when I ask you to go outside your box and do something totally different. For the next two weeks, mull it over, think about, and try it out. Use Glimmer Mist in any fashion. That's right on anything!

AAAUUUUGGGHHH! Is that what you are screaming? Well, don't feel bad, I am taking this challenge with you. But, I have a head start. So, pick my brain and ask me what you wish.

Let's Play!

Bring your completed project to Dee's by February 29th to qualify for a drawing to win a goodie bag full of brand new products. This one will be incredible!

CHA CHA CHA!

Hi Everyone,

What can I say?
It was awesome!
The best one so far!
I have never seen such beautiful product. Chatterbox came back with a punch. Doodlebug has gone to new highs and Creative Imaginations is magnifique. I also discovered a little jewel named Dream Street Designs and another Australian manufacturer run by a whole bunch of sexy sounding YOUNG Men that SCRAPBOOK. That's right scrapbook! They gave us tons of samples...you will love them. But, the fun doesn't end there. I loved Fancy Pants (as always) and Prima (OMG), American Crafts (and their AMPLIFIED LINE - Unbelievable). I have never oohed and aahed as much in my life. Bazzill's on the edge and Scenic Route's paper you must see IRL. Oh and Pebbles and Rusty Pickle can't be left behind either. Their new Lucky Collection is coming just in time for our Lucky You Crop. I have big plans for this one.
The prizes were just as awesome. I have a Cricut cartridge that is a CHA exclusive, it's not even ready to ship yet. Oh and let's not forget Making Memories new "Slice". The T-shirts say it all. Prepare to be flocked, filigreed, foiled, and "fabulized".
My uncle is going to be working on the upstairs this weekend...so it looks like we will be ready for the CROP after all. We still have 4 spots left upstairs. So, hurry don't miss out!
Well, I'd better go, I am trying to put an e-mail together for this weekend. Look out for it.
Talk soon,
Dee

Sorry ladies...I forgot a couple

Hi again,

Sorry, I forgot to tell all of you about 2 other must haves for this trip Rendez-vous and Sandylion's new line from Rouge de Garance. You guys know I love stuff from abroad (my undying love for Urban lily - another must have for this trip). I have been watching Rouge for a year now and they are finally in the US. Yippee!!!! I know the list keeps getting longer. Thank Gosh, they are not shipping all these things at the same time or I'd have to mortgage my home to pay the bills. But, they will all be here before you know it.

Oh and I almost forgot I haven't seen the sneak peak from one of my all-time favorites...guess which one and you could win 1 of each of the papers for you own collection.

Also, the challenge is good through the 15th so don't miss out!
And for those of you who don't get our emails, you need to sign up to find out about our sales.
This week I am sharing the code CHA Special and get 50% (FIFTY PERCENT) off your entire purchase (some exclusions do apply). We will be closing at 4 pm on Saturday, so don't miss out. We will also be CLOSED on Sunday!
But, stop by before then and enjoy our special. Once the Show begins this sale is over!

See you soon!

Remember the more you spend this week the more I can spend at CHA! Happy Shopping!

Thanks,
Dee

It's almost time for CHA

In just a couple of days I will boarding a plane headed for Anaheim California the home of winter CHA. I am just thrilled! I can't believe it. I love my husband. He is fantastic. I don't know what I would do without him. He is footing the entire trip! What a man!

But, let's move on to the real reason behind my blog today. Besides the fact that it's been a while, I have so much CHA stuff to go over I can't help myself. I want it all. I have already started ordering and I must tell you that Piggy Tales has also agreed to send us goodies for the crop. I can't wait. You guys have to go check them out www.piggytales.com . The new lines are hot. I love the Mulan collection...it's black, red, and white. Just perfect. I also ordered the cutest boy line - Toy Soldier - with trains on it, even on the ribbon. I have also ordered from Scenic Route. They have buttons now! Awesome. But, the best secrets are best kept secrets. I am completely in love with everything!

You guys know how I am a paper hoa-. Well, I am quickly becoming a gizmo and gadgets girl, a stamper, a lover of it all. Some of it I blame on Kellie. She just knows the best tricks for everything. I delved into alcohol ink, staz on, glimmer mist, and so much more. What is a girl to do. I must admit I am also in love with Creative Imaginations everything. Okay, I lie I've always been in love with all things CI, this is a long term affair. Sad but true. I am so in love they might be my first order.

These are my first 10 hits @ CHA, lets see if you love them too:
Creative Imaginations
Fancy Pants
Hambly
Dream Street
We R Memory Keepers
Queen and Co
Chatterbox
Bo-bunny
Basic Grey
Mambi
Daisy Bucket
Heidi Swapp
Creative Cafe
Prima
Making Memories
Okay, it's 15! And that's just for day one.
Did you love these?
Give me your input, tell me what you are drooling for. Email me at dee@deescrapbookstore.com and tell me your top 10 or 15.
We will seriously consider all recommendations!
Help me make my list for Day 2!
Talk soon!

Dee

January Challenge - Random Thoughts

Hi Everyone,

Over the vacation, my mom had a stroke (don't worry, she's alright), and things like that quite often force you to think about your own existence. So, as I pondered the question, I pondered on my own children having to face something similar. What would I want them to know, what was my goal in my life, what do I want to be remembered for, what would my obituary say...would people cry?

This last thought, reminded me of something I had always said in my "younger" years. As a young adult, I always said that I didn't want to be mourned, I wanted everyone to remember the good times, I wanted people to have a party. And guess what? That's still what I want.
I want everyone to throw a party, I want drinking, dancing, laughter, jokes, all of that. I want someone to joke about the crazy things I said and did. I want everyone to talk about how much I LOVE TO TALK.

This, in turn, reminded me of a wall board that my girlfriends and I kept in College. When, in College, I was not as motherly and upstanding (HAHA) as I am now, so when my friends stayed up all night working on papers, or drinking at a frat party (oops), we would get home and write down, some of the funniest thing we heard throughout the night. You know those moments of delirium, when you just make no sense. OMG those were some of the funniest thing I had ever heard. But, for the life of me, I can't remember any of those random, useless, but rather hysterical phrases. So, I am challenging myself and you to for the next couple of weeks, be on the lookout for those random thought, jot them down and then use them to make a layout. Then, drop off your layout at the store. The winner will win a free journaling challenge class with Dee and an awesome goodie bag.

Time for the January Challenge!

Since, it's already the middle of the month, this challenge is running from today until Feb 15th.

You have until Feb 15th to:

Record, for the next couple of weeks, random funny things that you say or hear.

Then, pick your favorites .

Complete a layout using your favorites...you can write as much or as little as you want.

Drop your layout off at the store by the deadline

Winner gets:

A Free Journaling Class with Dee

A Fantastic Goodie Bag

Have Fun!

Dee