BLOG CHALLENGE WINNER

Hey Girls,

Thanks for participating in the blog challenge. The winner is . . . Kim Breaux. Here are a 2 of her layouts entered into the drawing. More layouts in the gallery.

Back from Arizona

WOW, so Creative Escape was A**Mazing!!!!! Pictures with Heidi Swapp &Renee Kutcher; andloo how cute Rhonna Farrer is-got to get her to LA. It was so much fun to get away and scrap. Ha ha. You may think that sounds funny and that I get to do that anytime, why go to Arizona to scrap. Well, a girl's gotta do, what a girl's gotta do. I've been wanting to go to Creative Escape since I heard about it last year and a good friend, Renee Kutcher called me one night about midnight to tell me she had an extra ticket-so hence, Tammy flying to Arizona. I met some really cool people and my favorite friend I met was Kim from California, a sweet little gal I met opening night. It was so cool to visit and learn what is going on in scrappin' world in California, about the same as in Louisiana, but so nice to hear about things in other places or things from another scrapper's point of view. Ok, back to CE, You know I'm not really a project girl and all of the classes were projects, but they were cool and the teachers all explained they could teach us more technique through projects than layouts, so I was down with that and the adventure began. WOW, awesome teachers: Heidi Swapp, Rhonna (like Rhonda for those like me have been saying Rona) Farrer-this class was awesome, but she is so awesome, so what did I expect? Tracey Niehues (very clever), Chris Randall (I learned to solder jewelry), Heidi Lynn Schreiber (Mr. Bazzill's daughter), Lesli Spafford (hilarious girl that her husband baked cookies for 650 ladies at the event to win us over). Guest speaker was Alison Tyler Jones-WOW, i think we cried a time or 2. Funny we shed a few tears in a few classes. You know, as a teacher, i always feel funny talking about me or my family, but as a student, i really enjoyed hearing a little more about the teacher, that she has daily struggles and trials just like us AND the funny stories about their children. We created a 21 challenge art journal with Rhonna to help us create a habit with 21 days of inspiration. We created a "Today" artboard to make us "happy" when we wake up, Heidi shared with us that she's not a morning person and has a hard time being happy when she opens her eyes, he he. Did you know that Heidi Swapp went from 3 kids to 5 in 1 year-she had 2 babies within one year and that she's moving to CHINA? WOW-what an adventurous woman. Moving on, then we created cards with Lesli-very cool. The "My Thoughts Exactly" journal with Tracey, that girl is very creative and super clever-AWESOME teacher. I enjoyed the calendar with Heidi Lynn as it was creating layouts for a calendar-very cool. Visited the 7,500 sq. foot store of Bazzill owners AND the Bazzill warehouse (I'm such a geek-this was almost my favorite thing to do, seeing it be cut, packaged and touch every color of Bazzill-i know Memory Mania already carries every color that Bazzill makes, but seeing thousands of each sheet was way cool-John was a great sport but I did see him roll his eyes a few times. The good news is, I didn't see anything in Scrapbook Etc (7,500 sq feet) that Memory Mania doesn't already have, in fact, MM has more items to choose from, but the store was really cool and a great experience. All classes were 1 page spreads, would you scream or what? Ok, this will take an hour to read, sorry, signing off.

New Products are Here!!!!

Happy Wednesday to everyone. The delivery trucks keep on coming with all new products that will make your mouth water. We have several paper lines with matching embellishments and rubons. Lots of new embellishments and also some cool organizers in new colors.

DEAL OF THE WEEK

Purchase any Scrapbook Trends and receive one free of equal or lesser value. Offer expires 9/21; must bring coupon to qualify. Happy Labor Day!

PRODUCTS, PRODUCTS EVERYWHERE!!!!!

Happy Holiday weekend to everyone. I just wanted to let you know that Memory Mania is busting at the seems with all of the new products in town. The delivery trucks come one behind another so it has been like Christmas for us at the store. There are sooooooo many new products that I can't even begin to tell you which ones are in and there are tons more on the way. I just don't know where we will put it all. Hurry into the store so you don't miss out on that one product you just can't live without. If you are traveling the long weekend be safe and Happy Holiday.

MONDAY BLOG CHALLENGE

Hey Scrappers,
Congratulations to Darlene, winner of the drawing for the blog challenge. Check out her precious tooth fairy layout http://dev1.boomersdomain.com/gallery_memorymaniac/displayimage.php?album=lastup&cat=0&pos=0;

THE NEW CHALLENGE is (Aug 27-Sept 9):
Create a double page layout using the Autumn Leaves Expressions (12x12 Transparencies).
Upload layout into our gallery.
Email me to be entered into the drawing by Sept 9th.

Masters & More

Hi Everyone. Hope the back to school craze has settled & you can find time to scrap!!! Here is a layout that I HAD to do from the Masterpiece book (page 85). I loved Lexi's layout and wanted to make my left overs from my Sassifrass kit work in double time! Speaking of time, what an incredible thing to just pick out a layout that you like & make it work. The 'Make it work' mantra shoud be used when using the Masterpiece book. Use it for a guide to layouts and don't try to copy the layout exactly to save time & fill your albums faster. I thought that using the same line of papers for the same event (just so many pics & so little time) would make for nice flow in my album. * Sorry about the funny faces, but no time to get permission to publish. They were all so adorable. Maureen

Time to Remember

Here in Louisiana, we are about to reach the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. It took me almost a year to document the emotions of going through that time. Not only was a beloved city destroyed, but our state was then hit by Rita, and it seems that it will take years to recover. So I encourage you to take a moment this week and if you haven't already documented this event, try to do so now when the media will again focus its attention on our city and our state on August 29th.
To complete the layout above, I opted for a simple design so that my focus would be the photographs and the journaling. For the photographs I used Adobe Photoshop Elements to over saturate the images to exaggerate how surreal and emotional going back to the city for the first time was for me. I also used Ranger Alcohol Inks on my title to emphasize the idea of stained glass. Fortunately many MMU students will learn how to effectively use Photoshop Elements and and assortment of Ranger products in some of the upcoming classes we have at the store.
Finally, as you reflect on the last two years in a scrapbook layout, let the products and techniques you use on that page mirror the emotions that you want to convey in your photographs and journaling. I know for many of you, this layout will be difficult to do, but I am a firm believer in real life scrapbooking. Hurricane Katrina will always be a part of my life story, and I believe it is a story that should be passed on to future generations.
Jody

Masterpieces

Thank you to everyone that joined us for the book signing last week. This has been such a wonderful experience and I've had the best journey with so many special people!! I'm so proud of all of you. THe layouts are great and we are getting the most awesome response at the store. Rarely does any customer walk out of the door without a Masterpieces. And the testimonials are incredible, everyone is in the store or posting comments and emails that they are getting so much done!!!

.

Tips**News**New Products---OH BOY!

Hi Gang,

NEWS.................
Happy Wednesday to Everyone. I wanted to let everyone know that we have a new employee at Memory Mania. Her name is Rachel Vincent. She loves to Scrapbook and is eager to help you out in any way that she can. So stop by Memory Mania today, introduce yourself and give her a warm HELLO!

TIPS...................
Have you ever needed a card at the last minute and didn't have time to run out to the store to get one? Well, have I got a tip for you..........Every time you create a layout, use your scraps to create 1 or 2 cards of different varieties to keep on hand. This way, you save money and time and you give your loved one something made by you. You can even make a cute card box (index card box) to store them in.

NEW PRODUCTS..........................
Okay, the Absolute Most needed Scrapbook item EVER is definetely the Memory Mania Masterpieces Book. You have no idea until you buy one how much you will use this awesome tool. I have reached for mine tons of times. You won't be disappointed.

We also received a HUGE shipment of Thickers-foam & chipboard- in tons of different colors, Clear Acrylic Buckle ups & ties from One Heart One Mind, The new Reminisce line of papers , stickers and rubons, & Hero Arts Clear Stamps. AWESOME!!!!!!

Hurry in soon. We'll leave the light on for ya!!

25% off -- SUMMER SALE!!!! -- 25% off

Hey Guys,

Don't forget about our awesome 25% off summer sale on select items throughout the store.
Some of the items include our wonderful Pink Krafter's Komfy cushion, the All My Memories Pink 12x12 shoulder tote (big enough to tote your albums), the Fastenater (decorative stapler),
various kits on the kit wall, Foam wedding stamps and much, much more. So make it a point to stop in, say hi and check out what's on sale. We'll be waiting for ya!

Terrific Tuesday

Hey Scrappers,
I hope you are having a terrific Tuesday. Just got back from a Tuesday morning workout & I'm all energized and excited about Jody's class tonight.

Reminder-this is the last week of the BLOG Challenge- create a layout using any of these American Craft Embellishments (foam OR chipboard OR flower shapes)

AND these are also the BLOG SPECIAL for this week only: Purchase any American Craft shapes AND Embellishment box & receive the free American Craft giveaway with ribbon, rubons, brads, etc.

Having fun with Handwriting

I was asked to teach the Love Your Handwriting class for MMU. In preparing for the class, I realized how much more I could do with my layouts using my handwriting and I've had so much fun working on this layout.

I would like to encourage you to love your handwriting and use it more often in your layouts. Using your handwriting adds some of your personality and style to your layouts.

A helpful hint: look at fonts online (just google "free fonts" and you can download fonts for free), on Microsoft Word, or in magazines. It helps to get ideas for different types of fonts from other sources! I hope you will start or continue to use your unique handwriting when working on your layouts!!

Masterpiece Designers Group Photo

Thanks again for sharing this wonderful dream with me.

CAMP CROP A LOT PHOTOS

So sorry for the delay, Thanks again for attending Camp Crop a Lot and sharing your talent and time with us. Attached is the group picture. CCL4LFE - January 4-5, 2008. Early bird registration September 7th.

Thanks again to Michelle Sanders for the awesome make/takes from Hambly and the mini classes for the table contest winners. Check out Michelle's clipboard class several blogs down.

BLOG CHALLENGE

OK Girls, if you haven't taken the challenge yet, please try this one (August 13-27). Remember all that you have to do for the blog challenge, is create a layout or project using challenge products, load on Memory Mania Gallery & Email me to be entered into the drawing for a goody bag.
BLOG Challenge-for the next 2 weeks (ends August 27): create a layout using any of these American Craft Embellishments (foam OR chipboard OR flower shapes). AND these are also the BLOG SPECIAL for this week only: Purchase any American Craft shapes AND Embellishment box & receive the free American Craft giveaway with ribbon, rubons, brads, etc.

Merry Monday!!!!!

Hey Scrappers,
Its the first day of school in Ascension Parish, so I'm sure there are many moms out there doing what I'm doing this morning. . . Just taking a moment to try to figure out where did the summer go. Watching Justin walk out of the door like he has so many times before for his first day of school (10th grade now0. OMG, where did all of the years go???? (Guess I'm feeling kinda nostalgic, we had a 25 year class reunion this weekend) OK, back to first day of schoo, of course, I'm not allowed to take the bus picture anymore, but I did snap a couple by the front door like I always do. Talk about cool, to take that 1st day of school picture in the same spot each year and look at them side by side-OK i'm tearing up now because I can honestly remember the morning of kindergarten and he didn't walk out of the door without me, I was holding his hand until he jumped on the bus AND i followed the bus to school to get a picture of his grandma (she was on bus duty that morning) get him off the bus. Those days were so sweet. Its so wierd when they get older, he wouldn't even let me cook breakfast. Its great to have some freedom, but its sad that they don't need much from you anymore. Of course, the hug & kiss are non negotiable, he he. And if your kids are past the bus picture, one year I did take a cool picture of the bus driving away & journaled that I wasn't allowed to appear for bus pictures anymore, he he Anyway, I hope you all had some good memories of this first day of school. And if you're not there yet, check out the pictures in Scrapbooks Etc magazine for some cool first day of school pictures to take.

OK, for the Monday Challenge-for the next 2 weeks, create a layout using the foam/chipboard/flower shapes by American Craft-there's also a special this month on those-by the American Craft shapes and Embellishment box & receive the free American Craft giveaway with ribbon, rubons, brads, etc.

Alter Much?

This project is fun! Not only is it an altered clipboard, but it's also a little organizer for receipts, coupons and all those little bits and pieces we seem to loose track of. If you are signed up for the clipboard organizer on the 25th, this is what we will be making. If you are not signed up, better hurry!

Organized Kaos

Here’s a question I hear often: “How do you display/store your scrapbook albums?” For some time now, I’ve been on the lookout for a piece of furniture to house my albums, works in progress, and miscellaneous materials and I just found it! Here’s my new armoire neatly storing my albums and everything else that I previously had in stacks on the floor of my scrapbook room. I was surprised at how much I could actually get in there and I can add shelves.

I also found a crate to keep my masters kits (and any other already coordinated supplies) neatly filed. I used hanging folders with several manila folders inside. Now when I plan a layout all I have to do is thumb through my crate to see if I have something that I can use before I head to Memory Mania to shop!

pamb

SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! 25% OFF!!!!!!!!!

You heard right. It's our Big Summer Sale. We are offering 25% off of select items throughout the store. Some of them are too good to pass up. Okay, I'll give you a hint: Our PINK Krafters Komfy Cushion will give you a soft seat for those long hours of cropping with side panel pockets for organizing all of your essential tools and keeping them close at hand.



Another must have SALE item is the PINK All My Memories shoulder tote. It is great for toting all of your 12x12 albums with you to crops or classes. This is also a great gift for all of your scrapbook friends.



And did someone say KITS!!! We have about 16 different kits on SALE 25% off so stop by the store today and check out all of the other items on SALE. You don't want to miss out.

BLOG SPECIAL

Hey Scrappers,
There is lots of things throughout the store on sale for our SUMMER SALE. I'm sure Christy will give you a few hints later in the week. But for now, the first hint is: select kits are on sale, come check it out.

Master Team Kit Idea

Hello everyone.

I am sorry that my post is a couple of days late but I was out of town.

I know that like many of you I have extra left overs with my Master Team Kits and I try to find ways to use them. One of my favorite is making cards for family and friends on birthdays, holidays, everyday, etc. I will post some sketches of some of my favorite cards to make later today in the gallery. I hope everyone will enjoy them.

Tania

CCL Make/Takes

Camp Crop a Lot Make/takes
You are My Sunshine created by Natalie Morris & Jessica COlby

Family created by Stevie Martinez

Monkey Around created by Jessica Colby

CCL - July 2007

I would like to thank the Memory Mania team for all of their hard work. This past weekends was wonderful. I enjoyed myself soooo much - meeting new people and talking to all my friends. KUDOS to Tammy and all of her girls; you and your team is the best!!!!!! No other scrapbooking store I have been to is like Memory Mania - everyone is so helpful and they all work so well together. Keep up all the good work.
Tania

CCL COUNTDOWN - 3 days

3 days until Camp Crop a Lot. Are you getting excited??? I can't wait. Its going to be the best year ever.

BLOG Challenge

Hey Scrappers,
Congratulations to Darlene Quebedeaux, winner of the blog challenge this week. If you haven't seen it yet-please check out her beautiful clock in the gallery.

WOW-HOW EXCITING

Wow, words could never describe how it felt to look at the first draft of Masterpieces!!!! A 7 year dream becomes a reality with the help of my friends. Here's a sneak peek. The finished product should be in and shipping in early to mid August. Of the 50 designers, 25 of them are from Louisiana. We will have a book signing with hopefully all of the local (25) artists on Saturday, August 11th 10am-noon. Please come out & join us.

Wanna Peek?

Ok, you CCL campers...want a peek at the Hambly make and take we will be doing Friday morning? This is a peek at a simular project...you will just have to wait and see exactly what we will be doing so get there early!

New Baby Boy

Elison Hebert!

Congratulations to Jansen & Steven Hebert, they had a healthy baby boy last night - 8lbs 1oz, 21 1/2" long at 9:58pm. Both mother and baby are both are healthy and doing great. Jansen is on Memory Mania's Design Team and if you have not checked out her layouts please do - she has a wonderful talent and gift for Scrapbooking. I hope that everyone has a great day!

Tania

BLOG CHALLENGE

Hey Guys, Don't forget about our blog challenge using the Scrap-o-dex or the CI clock. It has been extended, so no excuses..........get those projects done. We can't wait to see how awesome they come out. Check out Darlene's clock on our gallery for inspiration. It is absolutely beautiful. Remember you are not judged on your work, it is a random drawing. But to be entered into the drawing for the goodies you have to upload an image of your project to the gallery and email Tammy to let her know. Ready, Set, GO!!!!!!!

Digital Scrapbooking

Okay for all of you that are dying to try your hand at digital scrapbooking we have a new HOW TO book for you. With the Better Homes and Gardens Ultimate guide to Digital Scrapbooking you will learn how to use digital brushes, create photo borders, add journaling effects, make custom backgrounds and so much more.

Secret Sale item

SHHH................It's a secret, but did you know that we have
our American Crafts felt Photo Corners on sale at 45% off!!!
WOW....now that's what I call a sale. You get a lot of bang
for your buck with these great photo corners because there
are tons of various colors and sizes all packed into a cute little
reuseable can. Hurry into Memory Mania and get yours
today before they are all gone!!!!

JULY SALE!!!!!!!!
Memory Mania has some wonderful items available at
45% off during the month of July!!
These items are found throughout the store - many things are fairly new, so come by and check them out!! Remember that those who come first will have the best selection!!

BLOG CHALLENGE

Hey GIrls, The blog challenge with the Scrap O dex and/or clock has been extended for 2 more weeks since we had so much confusion with the scrap o dex. Good luck and please share those projects.

BLUELIGHT SPECIAL

The special for this week as well as the alternate for the blog challenge is: 20% off of the Creative Imagination Square Clocks. The clocks can be used as the blog challenge this week, however, anything created already in class is not eligible.

Thanks & have a great 4th of July!!!! Take lots of photos.

thanks
Tammy

BLOG CHALLENGE

Hey Scrappers,
Have you tried the blog challenge yet? You just gotta try it. You know you need someone to challenge you to try something new? This is it. Make a non-traditional album-a scrapodex!!!! Its great to add photos and give to a your spouse, grandparents, yourself for the office. Also GREAT idea for your coffee table, highlighting your favorite all time pictures OR a theme. Another great idea is a decoration for a birthday party and the pictures on the scrapodex could be highlights throughout the year. I can't wait to see you give this a try and load it on the gallery.

Scrapbooking Your Vacation

Good Afternoon Ladies!
As I get the family packed for a trip to the beach for the Fourth of July, I wanted to take a moment to share with you some of my favorite tips for scrapbooking your vacation memories. If we take a trip for five days or more, I will make a travel album just for that trip, but all of the following ideas can be applied to any vacation, whether it is just an overnight or a month long holiday.

1. Keep a small journal, and take five minutes to jot down what happened on that day. I have done this with every trip I have been on since I started scrapbooking, and it is extremely helpful if you plan to scrapbook the trip well after you have been home.

2. Bring your camera- everywhere you go. I always pack a plastic bag to store my camera so it can be protected from the elements, along with an extra battery and picture card.

3. Add "local color" to your journaling. For our trip to Maui, I included several Hawaiian phrases into my journaling. This helps anyone looking through your scrapbooks to feel like they have gone on vacation with you.

4. Focus on the photos. Try to vary your shots between close-up and wide angle photographs. Don't forget to put your family in front of those special places like Cinderella's castle or historic monuments.

5. Choose papers and embellishments that have a timeless look. Because you want the focus of the album to be on the vacation memories themselves, choose supplies that will not overwhelm your photos and journaling. I tend to pick a company that has coordinating papers and embellishments for each of my vacation albums and use the products on every layout.

Don't forget the sunscreen!
Jody

AMERICAN CRAFT GIVEAWAY

Hey Girls,
Don't forget to come in and take advantage of this great giveaway by American Craft while supplies last(ribbons, buttons, pen, rubons) . Receive your goody bag when you purchase their supplies-details are listed by the products as the store. I love that the manufacturers are rewarding you for purchasing their product.

Using Your Masters Kits

I just finished a scrapbook of my daughter's senior trip last summer. I like to tell a story in my books (like a real "storybook") so I always include a title page and a closing page.

My closing page usually ends with a note from me saying how much I enjoyed working on the book along with a few thoughts on the events depicted in the book. Sometimes I put a photo on the title/closing pages, but I didn't do that for this book, I put a pocket page instead. Then I ALWAYS sign and date it. For the title/closing pages in "Maddie's Senior Trip" book, I used leftover paper from one of my Master's Kits.

AWESOME **NEW**ORGANIZATION BAGS

WOW, you really have to come see these awesome new bags by Creative Options. They are so cool and stylish. Stop in soon, Christy is showing off her new birthday present.

MEMORY MANIA IDEA BOOK

WOW, we almost have all of the photography finished for the idea book. It's amazing how long it takes to get the lighting, etc set up for this shoot. But the cool part was looking at the incredible layouts in person, they are SOO MUCH more impressive in person than in the emails, and I thought I loved them through email. Thanks so much to everyone that used the 2 gallon bags, these made our job so much easier. Its been an incredible journey with the idea book, but there are a few weeks left of 24/7 computer work, so wish me luck.

BLOG CHALLENGE

THe challenge for the next 2 weeks is to create different projects with the SCRAP O DEX! This little product is GREAT, I'm dying to take a few minutes and put my favorite photos in it and decorate it as my album for my coffee table. Another awesome idea is for someone for their office desk, recipes, WOW me, what can you do with it!!!

Have a Merry Monday!!!!!

Tip/Technique Thursday...a day late!!!

Hey guys! Okay, so I'm a day late with my tip...sorry! Hope you can get some ideas from my latest layout - I had trouble coming with just one, so here are a few tips that I used in this layout:

1. Don't be limited by printed titles - this cute printed paper from Karen Foster had words about MOVING, and I loved it! But when I put it on the page, I thought...this isn't her HOME really, so I scratched out HOME, ran it through my printer to change the words, and now it reads "Apartment Sweet Apartment"!!


2. Use that new Flex Ruler from Bo Bunny! See how awesome my curves are?


3. Use a sketch!! I hardly ever scrap from scratch anymore - WHY should I when it's so easy with a sketch to guide me?? I can't WAIT till that new Memory Mania Idea book comes out - it's got over 50 sketches!!

Have a Happy Father's Day with your families!

Allison

BLUE LIGHT SPECIAL

Hey Scrappers,
Don't miss out on these awesome items that are 25% off for our Father's Day Sale June 14-30; Select items are scattered throughout the store are 25% off, including some brand new items. There are little signs on the items so it will be easy to see. Stop in soon.

BLOG CHALLENGE

Ok, let's get scrappin'. Seeing all of these awesome layouts in my inbox everyday for submissions for the idea book has me chomping at the bit to scrapbook, if I could just finish this book, I'm so ready to use it to scrap. So to inspire you too is our BLOG challenge for the week -- AMERICAN CRAFT, not only is there an awesome little free gift when you buy American Craft products this week at Memory Mania, but those same products are the BLOG challenge: USE 3 or more American Craft papers, rub-ons & embellishments. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!

Hey Scrappers,
Check out Darlene's challenge with the flex ruler & Tinkering ink;
http://dev1.boomersdomain.com/gallery_memorymaniac/displayimage.php?pos=-246 and Michelle's post http://dev1.boomersdomain.com/gallery_memorymaniac/displayimage.php?album=lastup&cat=0&pos=0; Michelle used the flex ruler to spell SWEET; Awesome job girls.

KUDOS , Michelle is the winning of the BLOG drawing this week.

Tammy

Memory Mania Masters Kit Club

Have you seen the new link on the website for Masters Kit Club. Michelle Sanders has created an awesome blog just for the masters Kit club. She has invited some awesome guest designers, in addition to our awesome design team member layouts posted on the gallery. Tania Allen hosted the masters free crop this week and it was a huge hit. They have scheduled the next crop for Monday, July 2nd 6-9pm. Hope you can come.

MASTERPIECES

Sorry that you haven't heard from me lately, I'm buried under all of these layout submissions. WOW-they are awesome, I'm getting about 10 per day and still hoping to see more from my southern friends, this is your big chance to showcase your family in a magazine that will be distributed across the U.S., I hope you'll give it a try.

Update on the idea book. Studio S (Shannon LeBlanc) was AWESOME and offered her studio for us to photograph all of the wonderful layouts. Jill did an awesome job photographing the 100 layout pages that have already been chosen for the book through first set of sketches. Jill and I were calling the store every few hours to order scrapbook goodies after seeing them used on these awesome pages. I can't wait until its complete, you're going to just love seeing so many double-page spreads. Have a great day, next on the agenda today is Allison & I will be creating summer camp layouts (10 of them today) wish us luck.

tammy

NEW ARRIVALS!!!!!!!!

OKAY Ladies, You must come by the store and check out the awesome new clear stamp storage system that just arrived by Crop In Style. You can store them, hang them, add to them, and put them into the tote for travel. They are just great. And if you are a clear stamp "Collector" like I am them you will definitely want these. This system had Jessica screeching with excitement when we opened the boxes. Stop by today before they are all gone!!!!

CHALLENGE

Don't forget Christy's awesome challenge this week- Tinkering Ink & Flex Ruler.

BLUE LIGHT SPECIAL

Blue Light Special this week is Technique Tuesday Stamps 30% off with this coupon-expires 6/12/07.

Diaper Duty Jars

I wanted to share these jars that I made to place near my diaper changing station in an attempt to use my scrapbooking-creativity to decorate my babies room.

I got the jars from Walmart (in the kitchen area). The animals are from Walmart also. The paper is Daisy D's. I inked around the animals and paper to make them stand out a bit more. I cut small squares out of extra paper and used them as "blocks" to write the letters on. I then sewed the buttons onto the top of the tag. Lastly, just attach the tags you made with the ribbon tied around the neck of the jar.

I plan on putting the diaper rash cream and other things I may need in the jar labeled "Watch me grow." Of course the other two jars contain cotton balls and Q-tips. I hope this inspires you all to get creative and do something fun with your scrapbook things. Happy scrapping!

Jansen

CONGRATULATIONS!

The Winner of the Queen & CO. Blog Challenge is DARLENE QUENEDEAUX!!!!! You can check out her adorable Layout titled "Cousins" in the Memory Mania Gallery.

Hope everybody gets to working on the next blog challenge!

Have a great week!
Jess

New Blog Challenge

Hi everyone. I hope you had a great Memorial Day Weekend. I know that summer is here and everyone is itching to get those suitcases out for travel, but don't forget to stay on track with your scrapbooking so that you don't fall behind. To help you do that here is the new Blog Challenge.

A Double page layout using the amazing Flex Ruler by Bo Bunny and the colorful Tinkering Ink Line. You will have two weeks to complete this blog challenge. The Flex Ruler is great. You can bend it into any shape, trace on the reverse side of your paper and cut along those lines for a unique design.

Don't forget to load your blog challenge on the gallery & email Tammy to be entered into the drawing for the prize.

Happy Challenge. I can't wait to see what great designs you come up with using these products.

Christy

FREE American Craft EMBELLISHMENT KIT

Yes, you read it right, you get this FREE embellishment kit when you purchase 10 American Craft Papers, 2 sheets of stickers/alphabet rub ons and 1 can of House Collection Shapes or Flowers at Memory Mania for a limited time (while supplies last). Bring this coupon & tell all of your friends to log onto the blog & print their coupon-what a great deal!!!!!

The SCRAP O DEX

How cool is this new SCRAP O DEX! I had a blast creating this cute little gift for Father's Day. If you are out of ideas of what to get good ole dad, come by and join us for this class on June 5th from 6-8pm. This is sure to be on his desk for years to come!!!

A dozen pics on ONE page?!

Ok, scrappers...I know you all are trying to figure out ways to fit more pictures on your pages. So, here is your challage, fit a dozen pictures on one page! It can be done and it can be done creatively!
Here is a page I did for the Scrapjack blog a few weeks ago. I used some of the new Scenic Route papers, Basic Grey and a fabulous Hambly transparentcy. So here is the big tip...if you want to get a bunch of small pictures printed, you can go to the Kodak photo printing booths that are set up in different chains and print smaller pics! They all print on 4X6 photos but you can choose to have two a standard one picture per print OR you can choose to a print two to a print or four to a print. How cool is that? Once you get these small prints, the possiblities are endless! Now if you are scheduled to take my Funkytown class at CCL, you can use this little tip to print your pictures for the mini book we will be making! Now go get some tiny pics and get scrappin'!

BLUELIGHT SPECIAL

Memory Mania Page Kits (kit clubs are excluded);
Buy 3, get 1 free for a limited time only May 22-May 28 ONLY. Must have this coupon for the special. Page kits are never on sale, so this is a bargain, get them while they last.

Have a Terrific Tuesday!!!!!!!

MASTERPIECES IDEA BOOK

WOW!!!!!! I am so excited!!!!! Opening my emails to see these awesome submissions is better than opening gifts at Christmas. I love seeing all of the different styles & paper choices. This is going to be one awesome book!!!! I've been very choosy and I promise you will just love me for it. In fact, there have been many fabulous layouts that I want to use, but just don't have room for. For those of you that are going to submit entries for the last set of sketches due June 15, please include some southern layouts. I would love for our customers to get more ideas for layouts with their pictures to Children's Museum, the Aquarium, The Baton Rouge Zoo, The State Capitol, Jazz Fest, Fest for All, Mardi Gras celebrations, crawfish boils, BBQ, can you think of any other themes that we have lots of pictures of but never see those layouts in other idea books? Hopefully, i can make final decisions tonight & post a sneak preview. Have a wonderful day!!! I got a chance to scrapbook last night, can't you tell, I'm so excited I can't sit still (it doesn't happen that often, 2 layouts in a couple of hours).

MASTER'S TEAM CHALLENGE

I'm on my way tonight to Disneyworld but wanted to share these ideas for using my scrapbook supplies to create party favors-cd envelope with 1 sheet of pattern paper. Noelle Landry

Totally Transparent

Just a little sneak peek for you!

The Totally Transparent Class on Tues May 29th is coming up and you won't want to miss it!

If you love the look of transparency frames and accents, I can't wait to share the secrets of making these yourself!!!! We will create accents, frames, and borders from plain transparency paper. Complete this 2 page layout.

Just for you NAT! Wish you were here teaching with me!

Love,

Jess

BLUE LIGHT SPECIAL

Heidi Grace Products are 30% off with this coupon. expires 5/20/07

MONDAY BLOG CHALLENGE

Merry Monday to everyone. I sure hope everyone had a wonderful & relaxing Mother's Day. Dane cooked crawfish pie for lunch and the 4 of us spent several hours relaxing by the pool which is always a treat. We then visited with the Bullions which is always nice too.

Congratulations to Tania Allen, winner of the Blog Challenge-Autumn Leaves Overlay;

THE NEW CHALLENGE IS . . . Double page layout using the Queen & Company embellishments. Use a sketch & submit it too for double duty. Good luck. Tips: You have 2 weeks to complete the Blog challenge, however, the sketch call is due tomorrow. Load your blog challenge on the gallery & email me to be entered into the drawing.

Muffin Tins for Mom!!!

Just HAD to say how much I enjoyed Jessica's Muffin Tin class the other night!! Typically, I'm not much of a project person, but this one caught my eye, and I could picture it in my mom's kitchen!! Just had to share how much I loved this unique idea!! I think they even have kits in the store to make your own now that the class is over and if you need a quick Mother's Day treat!!

Allison

Master Kits!!!!

I love working on Master Team - for me it is a challenge to try and come up with a new idea and/or technique each month. One of the people from who I get some of my inspiration is from our very own Jessica - She is an amazing scrapbooker! I have wanted to working with some of the scraps I have from the past Masters Kits. Like many of you, I have plenty of photos that are not scrapbooked. I love to have some of these photos framed for my home, work and scrapbook area. One of my ideas to have these photos framed is posted. I used some chipboard flowers and attached scraps of paper and distressed the edges with sandpaper and inks. I also added some stickles, buttons and ribbons to the flowers. I glued these flowers to the alligator clips and on the base of the paperweight I rapped around and glued. I used an older photo holder and redecorated it.
I can not wait to make some for presents for family and friends! I really enjoyed this little project - hope you enjoy it!!
Tania

BLUELIGHT SPECIAL

BLING YOUR BAG!!! Purchase a pink 12x12 tote for $19.99 and we will personalize it FREE with this coupon.

Challenge-don't forget to enter the drawing by posting a layout with the Autumn Leaves overlay.

Elsie Workshop layouts

There are still a few spots left in the I love Elsie workshop! The 2 layouts are at the store for your viewing pleasure. See you all soon!
Jess

"Go To" Layout Designs

Have you ever had scrapper’s block? You know, you stare at that blank sheet and don’t know where to start. When I get there, I usually pull out my “go to” layout designs. I have 3 favorite designs that I can manipulate slightly to get a different look each time and I use them often. The last layout I submitted for the Masters Team Kit will be my 4th “go to” design.

Here are a few suggestions to alter the layout and get a different look:

Doodle or journal around the centered mat.
Place numbers on the photos; put the corresponding number and a caption for the photo in the border area.
Alter the placement of the large, central mat.
Leave negative space; don’t feel like you have to fill all the spaces on your layout.

Using a previous Masters Team Kit, I created another layout, Purrfect Poses, using the same design with some alterations. Do you have any other tips on how to alter the basic design of my latest “go to” layout? I’d love to hear them!!

Hey Scrappers,
Here is a picture of the 2007 CCL tshirts. SOrry for the delay, the manufacturer took a while longer than expected for the CCL Sample Shirts. We do have an asst of sizes, if you are not sure which size you will need. We will be making the final order next week, May 11th. If you have already ordered your shirt on your registration, your order is already put in.

Thanks
Tammy

A little sneak peek!

OMG! I am loving the new Elsie line. I have already made some of the projects for the workshop with the new papers, rub-ons, stamps, and stickers. How fun! Don't miss your chance to sign up. This workshop is one you can't miss. We will make one of the photo cubes, the checkbook cover and the adorable magnetic page accent to add extra photos or journalling to your layouts! Stay tuned for a peek at the 2 layouts!

Hope everyone is having a great Thursday! Stay safe in this nasty weather!

Jessica

MASTERS KIT CLUB PROJECT

Look how cool this hanger is that the masters team created with their scraps from master kit club. I just love it. Great job girls!!

JENNI BOWLIN

OH wow, this stuff is awesome, there are papers, journaling cards, mini papers, Who What When & Where Printed Tickets, Label Paper; chipboard shapes!!!!! you gotta see it, IT IS AWESOME and won't last long. Oh wait and did I mention the adorable new jewels from Doodlebug-again, won't last long, each employee has bought every color available so far!!!! Hurry in.

What's COOKING at Memory Mania

Have you tasted my mother-in-law's cooking? Its to-die-for!!!! She is cooking up some . . . crawfish pies, mini muffulettas, brownies & chicken tenders, yummy!!!! Then Michelle will be promoting the book that she has most recently been published in, Styles Defined!!!! Come out & congratulate her, pick up a copy of the new book & get it AUTOGRAPHED!!!! Don't forget, that's this Saturday 10am-noon.

BLING YOUR BAG

Hey Girls,

I sure hope you have Memory Mania penciled in on your calendar this weekend. Jessica has been working so hard planning fun things to do. Come see HOW EASY it is to doodle on a tote bags, the bags sell for an awesome price AND if you get it on Saturday morning, you can sit with Christy as she shows you just how easy

it is to decorate your tote bag. Its PINK, its COOL, you just gotta have one-Especially if you are coming to Camp Crop a Lot!!!!