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

Challenge Entry

Hi Everyone,

I'm sorry it's been so long, but school is over and I am BACK. So, stop by and seee me.

I also wanted to let everyone know that I have received some entries for this month's challenge and they are just wonderful. I can't wait to get the rest of them. I've already cried, so make me laugh, oh okay make me cry too.

I am actually so excited about next weekend's crops I don't know if I can wait that long. The paper is awesome and the games are hilarious. I was talking to someone earlier and I was telling them how I laughed so hard last year and how I got nothing else done. So, if you are signed up, don't plan to get much done, but do plan to laugh your butt off. Just coming up with the questions has been a hoot. Wait till you hear them. We are almost all sold out, with only 2 spots available. So, if you plan to attend, you'd better do it soon.

We are also closed on Monday and Tuesday, and the crop room is closed for the rest of the week...we have to get ready for the crops. I am also expecting 5 - five deliveries this week....yippee more new stuff. Oh, and I actually got a layout today. Woo hoo. 20,000 more to go (seriously...I am a photo addict).

As for the mommy and me crop, the paper is just adorable. It is really cute. It really is all about the kids. I can't wait till it gets here. Yep brand new paper.

Well, I'd better go, I've got 20,000 more layouts to get to.

Happy Holidays,

Dee & The Girls

Yep...It's me again!

I'm just wondering if anybody reads these.
I posted a challenge for a free theme crop and I got nothing. How could that be?
Don't you want a $30.00 gift package?
Let me here you deepest thoughts!
Tell me how you going to be an even better person next year...H--l tell me how you will seek revenge on your worst enemies (just kidding), but let me know what your thinking.
I really want to know, and you could use it on a page about you. After all, we don't have any pages of ourselves, the kids, the trips, the animals, but us...who the heck wants to see us. Well, I do and so will your grandchildren, great grandchildren and so on. I have seen pics of my grandma as a teen that are some of my favorites...leave a little bit of yourself embedded in your pages. They will love it...guarenteed. Don't have kids? maybe your an aunt, big sister, etc (I have some great party stories about my aunts...oops can't divulge all the info -they would kill me) but what teen doesn't like to have fun. Imortilize yourself on your pages and on our walls. We would love it.

Life is short...enjoy it, then scrap it!

Well, I've got to go, my hubbies here.

Dee

As promised

Hi Everyone,

I promised I would blog again this weekend, so here it goes, all the latest on my intense life as a mother, scrapbooker, business woman, wife, blah, blah, blah, blah!

Seriously, don't you have those days where you feel you could just stop time because everything is happening way to fast. Well, this weekend has been it for me. I feel like time is just flying by or is it that I am just trying to do to much too fast. What is typical? What's a day in my life?

Well, after seeing tons of pages on this very topic, in various magazines, I am certain that typical is very different for everyone. Whether you are a stay at home mom, a busy career gal, or just a college gal...there are just no 2 people alike. I mean they may all begin at 6 am (like mine do), but they can take some great turns or some sad ones and we just weave and bob with what God has served us up. I know that whatever it is I can do it. But just once in a while we all wish we could just stop time and smell the flowers, or the dirty diaper, or the sweaty boss. You get the picture. So, after dissecting all my latest magazine subscriptions I have come up with a list of my own "smelling the flowers" time. Read Below for all the details. Please feel free to idea lift any of them...maybe I'll see you out there...doing more, seeing more, being more.

1. I plan to date my husband more!
2. I plan to help Nikolas be the best that He can be (not what I want him to be).
3. I plan to spend more time with my kids (time really does go fast) that involves no yelling.
4. I plan to scrapbook more (really you would think I get done tons of pages...NOT).
5. I plan to be more organized (with school, work, the store, life).
6. I plan to take more trips (with and without the kids).
7. I plan to be healthier (Note: I didn't say skinnier I said healthier).
8. I plan to get closer to my mom (and let go of all the issues...I'm all grown up now and I should act like it)
9. I plan to make this a great year at the store for me, ya'll and the girls (Anybody have the winning lottery numbers)
10. I plan not to sweat the small stuff.
11. I plan to be more fiscally responsible.
12. I plan to enjoy it all (the good, the bad, and the ugly!)

Are you up to challenge?
What are you planning for the New Year? Forget resolutions that start on Jan 1st and end on Jan 3rd. Plan with me. Either respond to this blog or e-mail me and the best, most honest, response will win a free theme crop coupon for next year. You've got to the end of the month. Think hard, be honest, and plan well.

Sincerely your friend,

Dee

Have you been good?

Hi Everyone,

I know. I know. I've been neglecting you all for some while now. But, for some reason I can't blog from home. And when I am here I am too busy putting in all the new stuff in the computer. And if you've been here lately, you'll know, we have gotten so much new stuff it should just be illegal. Including some of my favorite paper from Bo-bunny. It's awesome. You just have to come in and see it. Oh and the glitter paper from Creative Imaginations. But, I can't have all the fun, I need to share. But, I am not telling. You need to read the last newsletter to find out what it is. All I want to know, is if you've been good. So, read that newletter for all the details and stock up on all the new stuff. It's going fast.

Dee


P.S. I promise I will blog again this weekend.

Big Tag Sale

Hi everyone,

What a crazy week. Not only did I have to get ready for our theme crop this weekend, but we had report cards, and Nikolas had a bad week, and then my husband decided to paint the house. Total and complete madness.

But, I do want to thank everyone who called in, e-mailed me, or stopped by to say Happy Birthday, that is greatly appreciated. You guys are awesome!

The crop last night was a ton of fun. The goodie bag included the Explore collection from We are memory makers...cute! But, I did forget to pick the customer of the month for December, so, I am doing it right now live on the blog. Tammy E you are the new customer of the month for December. Congratulations you get to make 8 layouts for the wall. But, you get 10% off all your purchases for the month of December. To keep me honest, the name was pulled by Juli H. and witnessed by Jen S. and Beth W.

I do want to say that my favorite part of the crop was the 38 seconds each one of them got to shop for 38% off. That's right, all the ladies got 38% off all the items they could grab in 38 seconds. It was a blast! I love to torture them. This always gets everyone riled up and I LOVEto do that.

The Christmas Crop is almost full...2 more spots left. Then, we will be asking for deposits to guarantee your spots. I don't want any last minute cancellations when I have people on the waiting list. So, if your thinking about this one, think fast. As for the girlfriends crop we are about half full for that one. This will be SO much fun. The games are hilarious! More torture techniques then ever.

Well, I'd better go, I must get my stuff packed up to take home, I get to scrap this week...Yippee...only 2 days of work.

Also, don't forget we are closed for thanksgiving but we are open for the day after Thanksgiving sales...OMG...we are having a tag sale...come in pull out a tag and get anywhere from 5 to 50% off your entire purchase. But don't fret this sale is from 2-5 pm - so you'll have plenty of time to get your other christmas shopping done. So, remember we are only open from 2-5 on Friday. I will see ya on Saturday...with tons of new sample. Yeah!.

I am out.

Dee

Oops, I forgot about my birthday sale

Hi again,

I forgot Thursday is my birthday and I need you all to help me celebrate with a 38% off paper sale. That's right I am 38 and the sale is 38% off every piece of PAPER in the entire store. Sorry, you CANNOT combine this with your shop hop pass. This sale is Thursday only from 10 - 5 pm don't miss out.

More details in this week's newsletter.

Dee

It's almost that time again

Hi Everyone,

Well the shop hop is half over and things are just great. I am so glad I participated. Keep coming in.

For the rest of the world, my son is on his first day of the vitamins Attentive Child. My mom had to ship them from New York, we are on the waiting list here. So, I'll give you an update as soon as I can. I really hope this works. I'm not asking for miracles, i just want him to pay attention long enough to master all the second grade skills he needs to move on. Which so far had been hit or miss. So, keep your fingers crossed. And, if you are in a prayer group pray for him and both to get patience.

On a lighter side, the Christmas Crop is at 17. So, hurry, we are only taking 3 more names.

Also, the home sweet home crop this weekend still has space. But, the paper and the goodies arrived. Beautiful. Believe me you'll want to buy this paper. The crop is Saturday, don't wait too late to reserve your spot.

The lace cardstock is here and it's beautiful, and as soon as I am done here I am going to go play with it. That way you can all see some samples. GORGEOUS!

We are expecting A2Z this week and creative imaginations. You know that paper with the disney meals I was talking about...it shipped...yippee...just in time for the crop. I am also expecting some Bo-bunny in...beautiful kits, too.

Well, I need to start cleaning up, my uncle made some roast pork today...wow. Delicious!

Finally, I think my mom is planning a sneaky surprise visit, we'll see.

Gotta go - lots of goodies to get in the computer.

Dee

Thank you...Shop Hop Madness

Hi Everyone,

First, before I get into all the shop hop madness I must say that you are all so wonderful. I have gotten such an outpouring of support for my son. You can't all possibly know how much that means to me. As much fun as I can be when it comes to my kids...It's all serious business. I have gotten phone calls, e-mails, visits with suggestions, help, ideas, alterntive medicine, with Hope. I can't possibly explain how much that means to me. One of the best suggestions so far, has been the use of attentive child from GNC. My husband and I agreed to try it and see if it would work for us. And guess what they were all sold out at the Lehigh Store and have a waiting list. So, I recruited my mom to find some at her local store and it's on it's way. So we are doing a 15-30 day trial. You just know when it works. So, we are waiting to get it. I'll let you know what happens. Again, THANK YOU.

Secondly, our Meet the Designer's event was a huge success. We had over 40 customers come in and try our make-n-takes. We still have some chocolate mousse cake, pretzels, and chips left. But, we are sold out of the 8 x 8 acrylic albums and a fewer other things. So, don't wait to long before you come in.

Wow, where are all these scrappers coming from. It's incredible. What madness. I have never ever seen half the people who walked in through our doors. I do have to admit, I loved all the beautiful comments "I don't want to leave" - Natalie, I can't believe you got so much new paper since I was here 2 1/2 weeks ago - Nadia, and the list goes on.

I also got a very unexpected visit from Janet & Colleen from Scrapbooks, Etc. They are just great. You ladies have to go and check them out. Great mom and daughter team and the baby is just gorgeous. I miss having a baby around. I am going to have to wait to be a grandma, though. No more midnight feedings for me.

All the new faces have just been great. And the Christmas Crop is more than half full. So, don't wait on that. Believe me you don't want to miss out on this crop. It's going to be awesome. Well, I'd better go I have a million things to do before I can go home and John is already in his way.

Oh, I want to let everyone know that the lace cardstock from KI will be arriving this week - somewhere between Wednesday - Friday. This is going to fly out the door. I guarantee it.

The big hit this weekend the Bisous paper - awesome, come check it out.

Talk to you soon,
Promise!

Dee

I'm sorry...

I know I have neglected all of you. But, life is hectic. I was silly enough to think that going back to work wouldn't change a lot of things in the store, silly, silly girl. I actually have had extra servings on my plate because of some online classes I have been taking, my wedding anniversary, my husband's birthday and my oldest just turned 21. Plus, we have been overhauling the store. We have new racks and displays, the kids room is gone and we have a bigger more airy crop room. The bathroom is next, but the husband has been super busy and he is getting cheap with his time. I think with my self-diagnosed ADHD that the store will always be in a state of change. I think change is good, and I think others like it, too. New is always good...besides I have to make that paper look pretty enough for you to buy it.

We've gotten tons of new stuff, too but I have to say that the shop hop registrations have been a big hit. Do you guys know about the shop hop? Let me give you the low down info:

The Shop Hop event runs from November 2nd through the 16th and includes the 13 local stores from Bonita to Sarasota. You purchase a passport for $15.00 (includes the tote bag with goodies). You get 15 days to visit all 13 stores and get your passport stamped at each store (a minimum purchase of $10.00 at each is neccessary), and you are entitled to 10% off at each store (cannot be combined with any other specials), if you are one of the first to register and get a tote bag, and you take it with you, you also get another 5% off all your purchases. Plus all the stores have some specials or events going on. So, it will be awesome.

I know it sounds kind of weird sending my customers off to another store to spend their money, but it's a really great event. With so many paper companies out there it's really hard for one store to carry everything. I do want you to love scrapbooking and the experience so you can keep coming back. It's also great to support the small business owners. Scrapbooking stores get lots of competition from stores like Michael's and Jo-Ann's and if we can team up together we can offer the customers better more knowledgeable sales people and products that they just don't carry...the real specialty stuff you crave. It's really about offering more quality service to get you to come back. So, if Desi or Diana are not "acting right", you just let me and I'll whop their butts (just kidding Desi and Diana, I know you ladies are just the best).

But, I must digress and get to the real fun....the Pajama Crop next weekend. That's right ladies our 2nd annual pajama crop is next weekend. This will be one heck of a crop, with door prizes, new games, hourly specials and so much more. The $30.00 includes dinner and an awesome goodie bag. Tons of new product coming this week...be on the lookout. HOT!

I hope to have it all in and spend the whole weekend croppin with ya'll. Cause, I am falling way behind. But, I am in the process of finding a few good pediatric neurologists. As many of you know, my son Nikolas is ADHD labeled, but he never got a neurological evaluation. And, now as the need for medication is obvious I need to get that done, but I do not have health coverage for my son and I will need to pay for it all. But, I want someone who knows there stuff. I was told a Dr. Morales was phenomenal but I don't know of anyone else.

I know you are thinking medication...and I know that it sounds scary and it is. I worried, fearful, distraught, but at this point I feel we do not have a choice. When, my son was first diagnosed at 3, I was adamant that he would never take any "drugs". I am a teacher, I am educated there are other options and for the last few years I have been able to keep him safe and progressing along academically. But now, as every doctor me and my mom could get our hands on, predicted the time has come that we need to consider it. He is not making any gains academically. It's not the teacher, she is awesome. My daughter had her in 2nd grade and truly she cares about her students and their progress. She does admit that he can get to her, but she has made allowances for him, and we both see so much in him. The potential is all there (I have the IQ test to prove it) but he's not. He's all over the place. Homework gets done and it doesn't find it's way to class. There are days when he just downright refuses to do it. I know you think he might need a good butt whoppin, but that doesn't work, taking things away doesn't work (he is currently toyless, tv less, gameboy less, PSP less - you get the picture and still. As a mother I just can't sit around and let him repeat the year. I have to try this, maybe it won't work, but I can't sleep at night if I don't atleast try it. I know this is heavy, but I am doing this as a therapy for myself. Most of you are not just my customers but my friends and being a former northerner that's all I have down here...you guys. Thanks for letting me put this on paper. As I am typing I am crying so I know that it's helping me. But, mayb you know someone in the same boat, or you have gone through similar moments yourselfs. E-mail me, give me your thoughts on the subject...do you know of something?

Well, it's been over an hour that I started this e-mail and I am finally able to come back to it. I want to end this on a good note. So, I am reminding you all that life is wonderful...it truly is. I am blessed with my family (at home and with you guys).

Thank you,

Dee

It's been a while

I know it's been a while, but with so many computer glitches lately I haven't had a chance to do anything. But, never fear, I am back and with a vengance.

Actually, I've been reading other blogs and realized how much of themselves are in their blogs. Then, I remembered an article I had read that said something about using the journaling in my blog for my layouts and that gave me an idea...I am going about this all wrong. I get the most responses when I talk about my life and the stupid things that happen to me because people can connect to that. That's what a blog should be about. That doesn't mean that I am going to stop talking about the store...it is my baby, but I do want to include ME, my life, the ups and downs that make me me and along the way you too might find some off yourself in it. We are really not that different. We have problems and triumps, moments of weakness (mine all revolve around chocolate), but mostly we live, we breathe and we learn. I know that sounds kind of weird, but every single day I do I really do learn something, even if it that I should never ever do something again. You know what I mean...you start off with all the best intentions and before you know it, something goes totally wrong and you think (to yourself of course) I will never ever do that again. It's kind of like when your a teen and meet a hot new BAD boy (who your parents hate) and you think I can tame him, ladies that really doesn't happen, but you try it anyway. Then, half way through you realize this is just too much work and give up. You take your lumps and learn your lesson and hopefully don't do again for a while (teenage girls are just so hard headed= they might have to go through this a few times before they really learn their lesson). But, damn it's fun (oops I let my teen side escape for a second).

Speaking of teen sides, today, I spoke to my aunt. We tried to call her last night at midnight (to wish her a happy birthday) but she was out with her husband (at midnight). I asked her how 43 felt and she said she felt like she was 28. That's my lesson for today to all of you...don't let age stand in your way of doing what you love. She's out celebrating her birthday...whether it's 43 or 403 shouldn't you go out and celebrate your birthday...shouldn't you have some fun, aren't you still alive. I have lost so many in the last few years, that sometimes you get all caught up and don't realize that these are the best years of your life. It's a beautiful day, go out and enjoy. But, don't forget to take pictures. You don't want to forget to scrap those great moments in your life.

And, let me know what you did.

Dee