Wendy's World

     I recently learned how to make this fun little mini album from my friend Kat Baker.  I'm all about mini albums, I just love 'em!  This one only takes one sheet of double sided cardstock to make the base for the album, and then you can use more paper for pull out tags, photo mats, etc.  The instructions for how to make it will be featured in the Technique Tutorial section of the January 2013 issue of Scrap n' Art Online Magazine.  (www.scrapnart.com) You can also go to my You Tube channel to watch a 2 part video tutorial (the link is on the left side of my blog). 

     I am happy to announce that I survived Christmas (barely) and have some sanity left (I think!) My family might tell you otherwise!  January will be a busy month for me...but lots of fun!  I have a crafting retreat with some awesome friends the 1st week in January, then I'm off to CHA (Craft & Hobby Association Trade Show) for 5 days to help my amazing friend Elena with the Live Internet feed.  It's gonna be free this year, so if you wanna see all the new goodies from the trade show floor, go to the Charity Wings Blog to learn more.  You can also purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win amazing stuff and all the proceeds will benefit "A Place to Bark" (a no kill animal shelter), and also help raise money for the Charity Wings Art Center (soon to be opening in the San Diego area). Did I mention the "mob flash"?  Yes, we will be blinging out our bras to raise money and awareness for breast cancer! If you will be in the Anaheim area on Saturday morning, January 12th, come join in the fun.  Details on learning the dance and how to sign up can be found here.
     After a short recovery from CHA, I'll be off to a Prima's Art*Venture event in Palm Springs, featuring Leeza Gibbons.  Me and my daughter Katie will be helping out at the Charity Wings make n' take booth.  We are looking forward to some fun girl time! Then the last weekend in January is the Anaheim Scrapbook Expo. I'm not committed to going yet, but I do love to go and crop on Friday and Saturday!  So much fun to be in a room filled with others who share a love of crafting! Oh, and did I mention that the Monday after Scrapbook Expo I am going to a 4 day crafting retreat with another group of great women?
     Yes, I know...I am a lucky girl!  I have amazing kids & family who support my love of crafting (including an amazing hubby and mom who help fill in with taxi duty, homework help, etc.) I am extremely blessed to be surrounded by amazing friends...they are the reason I go to these events!  I could craft at home, but it's so much more fun with besties! 

     I can't tell you how awesome it is now that my kids are older and I have more freedom.  I enjoyed them immensely when they were little, and I enjoy them now, but I have a newfound sense of self...and it totally fills my tank to be able to go out and play!  People often ask me if my family misses me when I'm off at events, and yes, they do (I think)!  And I miss them.  But since I am a stay at home mom, and devote all of my other time to domestic affairs, I think it balances out in the end. (I may be rationalizing, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it!)

Hope that you find time to pursue whatever it is that fills your tank! And if you're going to one of these events, please come say hi!
Hugs,
Wendy

Finally Fall!

It's been a long hot summer in Southern California, and I have been waiting for a change in the weather, which has been long overdue.
It's just now finally beginning to show signs of fall. Hot cocoa and soup can officially go back on the menu!
Just wanted to blog a quick post to share that the November issue of Scrap n' Art online magazine is up for your viewing pleasure! Last month I was a busy crafter and have several projects in the current issue. I hope you'll take a look: www.scrapnart.com

Wishing y'all a Happy Fall!

Paper Trimmer Tutorial

Are you new to papercrafting?  One of the first tools you will need is a paper trimmer.  In my opinion, Westcott makes the best cutting tools, and in this month's issue of Scrap n' Art Online Magazine, you will find my tutorial on what trimmer is right for you, and even a direct link where to purchase it!
Hugs and Happy Crafting!
Wendy