Scrapbooking and Stamping with Ms. Rae

Stamping with Auntie Amy stamps

2009-07-22T23:40:00.005-05:00

I had the awesome experience of attending the Heirloom Productions Stamping Show in Grapevine, Texas this past weekend and reuniting with my great friends, Auntie Amy and Jennifer of Auntie Amy Rubber Stamps and Scrapbooks of Riverside, California. If you haven't read my precious post about these wonderful ladies please do. This time I got an opportunity to learn more about their great stamps. As a Stampin Up Demonstrator I'm always looking for an opportunity to learn ways to use my stamps, and Jennifer definitely always seems to be willing to show great techniques and answers questions. Also they both are a hoot to be around. I introduced the Riverside ladies to my new Texas buddies, the Stampin, Scrappin Heifers. That's Ms. Darlene, Ms. Sandy and I. Don't ask!!! Somehow we've become the Heifers and we're traveling around Texas having a great time.

I made this beautiful card as soon as I got home using Auntie Amy's Flower filled Kerr's jar stamp and all my other Stampin Up goodies and had a ball. I can't wait to drop it in the mail to my good friend who has a birthday coming up.

Several of the flowers that were in the front of the image I popped them up with Stampin' dimensionals by Stampin Up to give the image depth after the entire image was embossed in black ink. Using Stampin Up's Aqua Painters and various ink pads, I colored in the stamped image. The image was enhanced with glitter with Stampin Up Crystal Effect and glitters. The center of some flowers feature Robin Nests Dew Drops to give them a glossy effect. To give a finished look, I added a Lady Bug button to the card to complete the card. I must say I love the detail of the image and totally enjoyed making this card. I felt like I was designing a masterpiece. Thanks Auntie Amy for a beautiful image and Jennifer for all the great ideas you shared with me over the weekend. I look forward to another great time with you wonderful and silly ladies. By the way, here's a picture of us silly ladies clowning with Melissa of The Rubber Cafe.

Melissa - Diva(The Rubber Cafe), Ms Darlene (Granny Heifer),

Auntie Amy, Ms. Rae (Heifer Diva), Ms. Jennifer

Supplies:
Paper: SU Bravo Burgundy, Always Artichoke, Whisper White, SU Green DSP
Stamps: Auntie Amy Kerr's Jar and Berries, Stampin up Great Friend
Ink: Stampin Up - various
Accessories: Green Brads, Robin's Nest Dew Drops, SU Black Embossing powder, SU Stampin Dimensional, SU Crystal Effects, SU glitters, SU Aqua Painters, Lady Bug button, SU Big Shot Top Note Die

Enjoy!!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Reason for being Missing in Action

2009-07-10T12:04:00.002-05:00

What a busy couple of weeks but I admit with the entrance of this little beauty into my world it's been fun. It's been over 20 years since I had a little one under foot. She has really turned my world upside down. She's teething and starting to crawl at 5 months. Granny was not prepared for this little one. Oh by the way, I bought this little hat to get the sun off her and we had to take a picture before she decided to take it off. lol

So I apologize for being missing in action. I will return shortly with some creative ideas featuring all the great new items from the NEW Stampin Up Catalog. Keep watching. Don't forget to catch me on Facebook as well.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Just Had to Share

2009-06-18T14:35:00.005-05:00

I'm knee deep in Anniversary Party Favors, gifts and so much more but I just had to blog today.

My aunt wanted a little gift for her oldest daughter so she asked me to make something. I'd love to. Well since I'm in the midst of everything else I wanted to make something cute but quick. Here it is. It was a dollar store note book that I just blinged. I really hope she like it. Inside I included a little pocket for notes, used SU tab punch to create sections and created a nice journaling section in the back.

Hope you like it. Ok.. I'm off to finish my projects. I will share more later.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

I'm so Excited!!!

2009-06-15T07:04:00.002-05:00

Well, as we know as scrapbookers and stampers, we all have our inspirations for what we do. Mine has always been my wonderful family. My daughter has always been my number one inspiration. She has not lost that position she just added another piece to the puzzle, my granddaughter. My scrapbooking has taken on a new leash as I scrapbook the life of my granddaughter and the life of my daughter as a mom. It's so wonderful to see how you've influenced your child to be a mother. There's no great love than that of a mother for her child.

On to my excitement...
As many of you know I moved from California to Texas recently, while my daughter still lived in California. Well, she's decided that she wants to move to Texas. In a week my daughter and granddaughter will be here!!! I can't wait. My daughter is not a hugger but I can't wait to wrap my arms around her. LOL She got to allow mom one hug right?

This comes with a little sacrifice but I'm willing. I will have to rearrange my scraproom for a while for them until they find their own place. Never fret that will not stop me from creating. I have several items on my scrap table right now that I'm working on. By the way, the Arlington show was awesome and I can't wait to share all the great things from there. In the midst of all these great things, I'm preparing for my aunt and uncle's 60th wedding anniversary this weekend. I designed the invitations and I'm working on a slide show presentation, party favors, and more. So, I'm busy. I'll keep you posted and will post pictures soon. Watch this spot. I won't let you down. Thanks for continuing to read.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

And the Winner is.....

2009-06-08T19:24:00.008-05:00

The Winner of the Ms. Rae Blog Candy Contest is

PonyGirl40

PonyGirl 40

PonyGirl40

PonyGirl40

Congratulations!!! I'm so excited. Thanks to everyone for playing along and making my blog and place to be. Keep coming back for more exciting happenings.

By the way, I'm just back from the Great American Scrapbook Convention in Arlington, Texas an had an awesome time. You wouldn't believe the great ideas I have to share with everyone. I can't wait to start creating.

Thanks everyone for your patience. More contests to come.

PonyGirl40 send me an email with your information and I will send your your wonderful package.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Who Wants Blog Candy!!!

2009-06-03T12:09:00.000-05:00

Let's celebrate the revamping of the Scrapbooking and Stamping with Ms. Rae Blog!!!

In this economy isn't it nice to get a little something for the fun of it. I know I do. I have a great package of goodies to give away to a lucky winner just for visiting and commenting on my blog.

This package includes all brand new items:

CTMH Father's Day Acrylic Stamp Set

CTMH Scrapbook Kit

CTMH Ink Pad

CTMH Ribbon Tube

CM Christmas pack

CM page layout kit

Plus more!

Here's how you win. There's a comment box to the right of this blog. Please leave me a comment there or on one of my posts between May 30th and June 3rd midnight. I will draw a winner from all comments on June 4th. Make sure you leave an email address for me to contact you. Gosh I'm having so much fun with this. Watch every day. I don't have a problem putting your name in twice if you become a follower of my blog by subscribing. Wow, isn't that a bonus?

Ok, Let's have some fun!!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Scrapbooks Etc. Inspired Layout

2009-06-02T23:29:00.004-05:00

My layout was inspired by this cover of Scrapbooks Etc. Have you ever seen a layout that you just had to duplicate in some way? Well this was one of them. I had this great photo of my daughter, granddaughter and I and thought this layout would be wonderful. This is a mini layout that I will later turn into a 12x12 layout but this was so much fun to do using Stampin Up! Big Shotz Beautiful Butterfly Die.

Using SU new Window Sheets I was able to layer my butterflies to give them wings to simulate flight. I love the look of the transparency and the multiple sheets of paper. The dimension was great. Unfortunately, the photo doesn't do this layout justice. Sorry. I added wire for the butterfly's antennas and just a touch of Stickles on the edges. Dimensionals were used to pop these beautiful butterflies off the page.

Almost looks like little Jaida is watching them fly away.

Paper: Stampin Up!
Ink: Stampin Up! Certainly Celery
Accessories: Beautiful Butterfly Big Shots Die, Brads, Wire, SU Summer Love Rub Ons, SU Scallop Border Punch, SU Scallop Oval Punch and Oval Punch, Stickle Glitter Glue, Butterfly Brad

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Card by Challenge - Mojo Monday

2009-06-02T13:13:00.009-05:00

Here's my Mojo Monday Challenge card. I really enjoy these challenges allowing me to use my tools wisely and push me outside my comfort zone. Unlike scrapbooking this is a small area to play with so I find it a little more challenging but fun. I hope you enjoy this card. Check out their challenges and give it a try.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Watercolor fun!

2009-06-01T09:41:00.005-05:00

I couldn't resist sharing this beautiful card I made at unit meeting yesterday. I think my love of card making is definitely renewed. I just love the look of this dainty card and the technique was so much fun.

Our unit leader CASEd this card on the net so I will definitely will not take credit for designing this card. I will share with you how it was done.

Using SU! Shimmer White cardstock, emboss Fifth Avenue Floral stamp. We used white craft ink but you can use VersaMark ink and White or Clear Embossing Powder.

Here's the fun part: spray your paper with water in a mister until you have quite a bit of water on the image. Using a couple drops of a few colors of ink refill touch your Aqua Painter pen into a drop of ink then touch that to the water in one of the crevices in your image and watch the color will spread. Do the same in other areas.

Clean your Aqua Painter and repeat the process with another color or two in other areas. You may have to re-mist with water occasionally as you go. Then let this dry; it will take awhile.

Once it's dry, cut out your image and use on your card or project.

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral
Ink refills: Summer Sun, Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose
Craft ink pad: Whisper White Craft
Paper: Shimmer White cardstock; Taste of Textiles Coated white pin stripes
Accessories: Little Leaves Sizzlet die, Big Shot, White Organza Ribbon, AquaPainter pen, Eyelet Border Punch

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

Hostess Club

2009-06-01T00:21:00.005-05:00

Join a special hostess club with Ms. Rae. Each month I will feature a project using beautiful Stampin' Up! products. The advantage of joining this club is that you will enjoy fun projects each months along with the earning the benefits of hosting a Stampin’ Up! party without actually hosting one. Best of all, there is no driving! No extra money spent on gas traveling to different craft stores to find those perfect accessories that coordinate together! It’s all here at the touch of a button, mouse button that is!

If you enjoy preserving your family memories, creating cards or making altered projects then this club is for you! If you have a wish list of items that you always wanted then this club is for you! If you love being creative and have been looking for perfect projects then this club is for you! Join the Ms. Rae Hostess Club today!!!

Here’s the details:

Agree to purchase a monthly kit for 6 months at $25.00 plus sales tax.

Email me to join.

Membership is 6 months in length

Just for joining you will receive a “free” catalog and all mini catalogs updates

In addition to free production outlined below

Ms. Rae's Stampin’ Up! hostess club is a great way to build your collection and create an awesome project in the process. If you’ve never used SU! products before, this would be a great way to start -and you will be hooked!

How the club works:

There are 6 spots in each club.

Each month one club member will be the “Hostess”

The hostess will earn a free hostess level 1 stamp set featured in the current catalog

In addition the hostess will earn $15.00 in free SU! products.

Here's the special bonus:

When it is your month and you gather additional orders from your friends and family you can earn additional hostess benefits.

Payment will be through check, money order, Paypal (no extra fee), or credit cards. Orders and payment will be due the 3rd of each month. Shipping from me to you will be USPS with delivery confirmation. If you have any questions please let me know. There are 6 spots total and when they fill, we will start the next club.

I guarantee you this club will be fun!!

Sign Up Today!!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

All About Me Album - By Request

2009-05-31T09:17:00.023-05:00

While I finish my current project to post later, I thought I would honor a request of one of my commenters. Here's the All About Me Album from my slideshow. I will try to add more items from the show periodically. Thanks for viewing.

This is one of my all time favorite class that I taught a few years ago. When Lisa Bearnson came out with the All About Me album I was going through something in my life that made me stop and realize that I needed to finally make an album about me. Everything I had done up until that point was about everyone else. I made an awesome book (one day I may share it with you guys) and then was asked to teach a class on All About me and Paper Bag Albums so this was my take on it. I had so much fun with it. I was with the other company at the time (hee hee) so excuse that it's non-Stampin Up!

This album allows you to reflect on Who you are, Why you are the person you are, and what makes you happy. Have fun with it. There are no rules. Let your creativity flow. No worries about other peoples personal tastes. It's an opportunity to be Self-loving! There is no such thing as being selfish when you're thinking about you. When we think about self we help ourselves be better for others. So we're being self-loving.

Strip journal about your favorite things and make pockets to save your favorite mementos.

I made my own Paper bag Albums with my sewing machine and Crop-a-dile. I like how sturdy the sewing make the books and the holes are easy with the crop-a-dile.
Remember since paper bag albums have openings you have plenty of room for pull outs which I put tabs on the ends and then embellished those pages as well.

My personal album used all this space to journal All About Me!! Enjoy.

If you have questions feel free to let me know or challenge yourself to scrap an All About Me album. If you can't do a full album then start with a layout. Check out my All About Me Flap book as well.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop with me 24/7

I Love Acrylic

2009-05-30T12:29:00.006-05:00

Anyone that knows me would know that I absolutely love two things: Acrylic and Rubons. These happen to be my ultimate favorite scrapbooking items right now. Well, you can also add flowers to the list too. Never mind. If I keep listing I will get carried away. lol You get the point. Anyway. I love acrylic albums and how pretty they look and enjoy using rubons on them. I'd love to share one of my favorite layouts that I made of my best friends and I.

This layout shows a plethera of flowers, rubons, rhinestones, glitter, and bling. I love it, hope you do too!!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

I'm Seeing Red

2009-05-28T00:49:00.008-05:00

SplitcoastStampers offered a Scrapbooking Challenge with a focus on color.
This challenge was to use a color that doesn't necessarily go with the normal events. Usually when you think of red you think of Valentine's Day, Love, 4th of July, Christmas or even Veterans Day.
I must admit it wasn't one of my normal color to pick up and use so I enjoyed this challenge. It took me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to scrap these fun pictures of Licorice, my cute Chihuahua.
We all have those hodgepodge of photos and this was a perfect layout to get them scrapped. I printed my photos on a 4x6 contact sheet of four photos to give me the white border perfect for this layout. I used some great red DSP from Stampin UP! white ribbon and red ink and I was done. Well almost. I had to threw in a touch of green and pink to balance off the layout. I hope you enjoy it.

Supplies Used:
Paper: Really Red and Pixie Pink DSP Whisper White and Basic Black
Stamps: Eastern Bloom
Ink: Really Red
Accessories: Clip, White Ribbon, Leaf punch, Corduroy Buttons, Brads, Buttons, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds, Top Note Big Shot Die

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Shop 24/7 - Get Designer Papers Buy 3 get 1 Free by May 31

2009-05-27T17:29:00.000-05:00

Technorati Profile

Card by Challenge - Hinge Card

2009-05-27T08:04:00.005-05:00

Here's Monday's Card by Challenge.

As I mentioned in order for me to focus on cards as challenge is always good. This week I'm working on a combination challenge from SplitcoastStampers Technique Challenge - The Hinge Card along with KJ's Stamp Pad Color Challenge.

I loved the color challenge because they were some of my favorite colors. So this didn't challenge me too much. Hee Hee. But the card was a little challenging since I was limited in my stamp supply. It wasn't a difficult card but I will try it again when I have more supplies. For now, enjoy my take on it.
Paper: Stampin Up! Orchid Opulence, Certainly Celery, Mellow Moss, and Whisper White Green DSP unknown
Ink: Stampin Up! Rose Red
Stamps: Stampin Up! Eastern Blooms and Sincere Salutations
Accessories: Certainly Celery Corduroy Button Brad, Scallop Edge Punch, Dazzling Glitter

Feel free to leave me a comment to the right or add yourself as a follower.
Stay tune for a Scrapbooking challenge tomorrow.
Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Envelope Scrapbook - Gotta love it!

2009-05-26T07:50:00.020-05:00

I was challenged this morning to make a Envelope Scrapbook by a fellow blogger from SplitcoastStampers who has an Awesome Tutorial. This was a very easy project and I absolutely loved it.

First I had to admit that I was limited in my Stampin Up! supplies so I did the Scrapbook as a Random Act of Kindness (RAK) for a fellow Close to My Heart Consultant using CTMH supplies mixed with SU stamps. This challenged me to use my very limited supply of Stampin Up Designer Series Paper (DSP) to make a smaller version.

Here's my CTMH Full Version as a RAK:

Paper Pack: EvenSong CTMH

Cardstock: Olive, Watermelon

Ink: VersaMark

Flowers: CTMH

Stamps: Oval Alls, Eastern Blooms,

Enjoy Every Moment - Stampin Up!

Punches: Stampin Up!

Now my fun filled mini Stampin Up! version. Note I only had 6 x 6 DSP on hand so I opted for smaller envelopes to makes this project work. Enjoy:

with belly band removed to see photo

Paper: Stampin Up! (Not Sure of the name)
Cardstock: Real Real, Pixie Pink
Ink: Basic Black Stampin Up!
Stamps: Beautiful Baby, Enjoy Every Moment - Stampin Up!
Punches: Stampin Up!

Let me know what you think in the comment box to the right!! Thanks.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Decor Elements Video

2009-05-21T23:46:00.004-05:00

Since I'm so into the Home Decor Elements, I thought I'd share with you one of Stampin Up! Deco Elements Videos. They are so easy to use. Enjoy

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Memorial Day Weekend, Let's Create!!!

2009-05-21T20:41:00.009-05:00

It's Memorial Day weekend already. Some may find this as an opportunity to party, have a barbeque, or just relax over a long weekend. What about taking this weekend to scrapbook or stamp a card? I always enjoy a lazy weekend.

This weekend as I relax with family I'm taking a chance to familiarize myself with Stampin' Up! great papers. I've been having a hard time personally choosing which papers to purchase during this great sale this month so a friend of mine gave me a few pieces to play with. I know I can't let this sale get away without getting a free pack of paper when I purchase 3. The only hard part is which packs do I choose from. Do I want Raspberry Tart with Bella Rose or do I want to try Certainly Celery this time with Rainbow Sherbert. Ohhhh sounds delicious doesn't. I may have to get them all. That's the fun thing about this special is I can get a little bit of everything without breaking the bank.

So this weekend, I'm taking my sample sheets and see what I can create and fall in love with. I invite you to join me by getting your own Designer Series Paper today and watch this spot and see what I create. I'd love to see what you create as well.

Enjoy!!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Working on Blog Updates

2009-05-19T10:11:00.005-05:00

Morning everyone,

Well, I'm taking a break from scrapbooking and stamping, working on my roots. No not my grey roots. lol As many of you know I started off as a computer programmer and still love to dabble here and there. So today I'm playing with HTML code on this blog and on my Los Angeles Church website, Greater New Holy Trinity MBC. Thanks to my college buddy Em, I've been putting some much needed design changes up on the site. Please leave me comments. I'm a scrapbooker at heart and love the flowers and stuff and want my blog to reflex that.

Hmmm maybe I will give away some blog candy for those that give me some good constuctive comments....

Keep watching.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Using Stampin Up! Decor Elements

2009-05-18T03:03:00.012-05:00

I can't resist sharing with you Stampin Up! Decor Element Line of products. They add a new touch of class to your home decorating.

My living room wall is the focus of my favorite family photos using the famous saying from Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy that I love from the Decor Element Line.

My Scraproom is where I do my creating so it was only fitting that I use the Create definition Decor Element there.

I must note that these are great for affirmations, wall hangings, signs and so much more. I live in an apartment and don't worry about the paint or when I have to move because these great items remove easily from the walls or mirrors. Click here to check out the many designs that Stampin Up! has to offer.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Ms. Rae

SCS Stampin Up Demo Blog Group #8

2009-05-17T11:25:00.001-05:00

I've joined a group of wonderful Stampin Up! bloggers on SplitcoastStampers.com. Our goal is to encourage and motivate each other to blog on a regularly basis. For me it encourages me to get scrapping and stamping and share my work. I love that! We also must post comments on each other projects to help motivate each other. It's fun for me because I can gain some great ideas, techniques and meet new friends in the process. I invite you to check out their blogs and let them know that Ms. Rae sent you.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Scrapbooking Challenge

2009-05-16T02:22:00.007-05:00

What's a workshop without a Scrapbook page as well?

Using the previous color challenge and my limited supplies I created a simple layout to share at an upcoming workshop for beginning scrapbookers.

Also it was an opportunity to share a photo of my cute little granddaughter Jaida. Enjoy!!

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Ms. Rae

Card by Challenge

2009-05-15T01:56:00.003-05:00

Trying to get in the swing of designing my own cards again I thought a challenge would do the trick. Using my new Stampin Up! Kit with my limited supplies of stamps and paper supplies a challenge was easier for me to design from. I've never been one for using sketches. I've always let my photos or embellishments guide me. Well its time to try something new.

I found two great sites that have awesome color challenges and sketches for cardmaking. I created a card for my upcoming workshop using the color challenge and sketch. It was so fun.

Check it out:
The Color Challenge was from KJ Stamp Pad using colors Pixie Pink, Yo Yo Yellow, Whisper White and Basic Black

The Sketch was from 2 Sketches for You

Mine wasn't as great as some of the samples on these site but think I did ok with the limited amout of Stampin Up Supplies I had on hand. It was fun.

Happy Scrapping and Stamping,

Ms. Rae

Coming Full Circle

2009-05-12T00:54:00.001-05:00

During my college days, I fell in love with stamping and card making when my best friend and I found Stampa Barbara stamps in Los Angeles. She and I collected rubber stamps everywhere we went. I can't believe this was before I was married or even moved to Santa Barbara and was introduced to the then famous Stampa Barbara store. Wow, that was over 25 years ago.

Now after being a Close to My Heart Consultant for several years I've finally found my love for stamping again. It's weird how things happen. Once the scrapbooking bug bit I slowly lost my energy for stamping and sold my vast collection of stamps on eBay. Even after I became a CTMH consultant I still didn't catch the bug. Since moving to Beaumont, I've found a group of wonderful ladies to scrapbook and stamp with and my love for both arts have merged. It was like riding a bike. With most of my new friends being Stampin Up! Demonstrators I made the decision to change companies since my CTMH business was kind of dormant after my move from the Santa Barbara area. I still love CTMH products but felt that the camaraderie of the group of Stampin Up! demonstrators in the area is what I needed to kick start my business and keep me motivated.

So, I've come full circle back to my stamping roots and card making foundations and have become a Stampin Up! demonstrator. I must admit my first love is Scrapbooking. I'm enjoying making cards with my new friends and scrapbooking has taken on a new zest. So watch out, Rae is Scrapbooking and Stamping now!!!!

I Can't Believe it's been eight months since my last post

2009-04-06T21:58:00.000-05:00

Wow, I really can't believe it's been 8 months since my last post.
So much has happened in that time. Where do I begin?
After spending the winter teaching Tax School for Liberty Tax, I decided that it was time for me to start making changes in my life. I really enjoy teaching and I met some wonderful people while I was doing it. I've been teaching in so many avenues of my life and realized that it's really for me. So first things first. I needed to acquire my own place first and then start teaching again. Either it be scrapbooking or taxes, I know it's what I enjoy.

Well, I decided that on my one salary, living in California was not for me. I did some research and found that I really wanted to make the move to Beaumont, Texas. I would be close to family and be able to afford to live on my own again. Whooooooa hhooooooo. I've been so blessed over the recent years to have great friends and family but I know that God has so much more in store for me.

I now have a nice apartment in Beaumont. Me and my cute little dog Licorice are enjoying our new place. Now, I am having fun decorating my apartment and getting my scrapbooking room together. I can't wait to begin scrapbooking for my beautiful new grandbaby, Jaida.

Watch this spot for photos of my new scrap room and layouts of Baby Jaida....

Thanks for your patients....

Ms. Rae In Texas

Auntie Amy's Has the Wow Factor

2008-08-24T22:36:00.002-05:00

Ok, I thought I was done talking about the Shop Hop but since my last entry was about favorites and the Wow Factor I would be remiss if I didn’t share this with you.

I’m a person that believes in lasting impressions. Usually when you’ve experienced the Wow Factor someone has made a lasting impression on you.

A few months ago, I attended the Riverside Stamp and Scrapbook show and had the rare opportunity to visit Auntie Amy’s Rubber Stamp and Scrapbook store in Riverside, CA. I admit at first I was reserved because I’m not a rubber stamper anymore. I’m strictly a scrapbooker so when I see stamps I kind of turn a blinds eye and chill. No disrespect to the store but “Been There Done That”.

Lo, and behold, out walks this personality that I will never forget, Auntie Amy. I believe that I even shared with her on that first visit that I used to be a stamper and was a die hard scrapbooker now. She didn’t get angry she took the time to show me what her store could offer me. I liked her already!!!

Let me tell you what sealed the deal, besides the AWESOME kernel-free popcorn… (It’s to die for) The personality of this wonderful lady and her side kick, Jennifer was beautiful. They both graciously showed us around the store and sold us on products we were still on the fence about. For me, it was Glimmer Mist!!!! You gotta love that stuff. Just can’t sell me on why I need all the colors but we shall see… Sorry, I digress.

As we left the store, Auntie Amy, as we all affectionately call her, comes out to take our picture. Her sense of humor had us laughing continuously as she teased our one camera shy friend to “act like you like these people.” We all laughed as we entered the car because we had experienced a wonderful Auntie Amy adventure in Riverside. The adventure was even better when we realized that she had left us all special goodies in our bags. What a Lady!!!!

Now a few weeks later, I visited the store as a part of the Shop Hop. Auntie Amy met us at the door with the same excitement as she did before, like we were old friends. I love it!!!! We had a wonderful time with the talented Jennifer doing the Make n Take, learning Glimmer Mist techniques, and seeing Prima Flower ideas. Yes, we got sold on yet more Glimmer Mist.

What I failed to mention is that, we called Auntie Amy as the store was closing to see if she’d stay open late to accommodate us Shop Hoppers. She graciously stayed open with a smile, drinks, snacks, and what my mother would call “good-ole Southern Hospitality.” With this type of hospitality, I’m happy to return and give this big-hearted lady my business.

My heart was sealed to Auntie Amy’s store today when I journeyed with my friends who had to complete this final store on their Shop Hop passport. What a treat. Again, Jennifer and Auntie Amy, treated us graciously with bottled water and snacks, showed us all the specials, guided us around the store and made our visit enjoyable. I had a marvelous time. I even think it’s cute that she calls me Ms. Rae not just Rae. HUGE SMILE.

These highly talented ladies have what it takes to be considered a favorite store. I feel the Wow Factor every time I enter the store. This is what makes scrapbooking such an enjoyable business. If you haven’t visited the store I invite you to go in and say hello to Auntie Amy and Jennifer or take one of Jennifer’s awesome classes. While you’re there grab a bag of popcorn and tell them the Victorville Divas say hello. Thanks for the Wow Factor!!!

I got my Favorites!!!!

2008-08-23T13:08:00.000-05:00

I am a creature of habit… I like normal routine… I like to go to the same store all the time… I don’t like to shop for discounts or run around town to find a discount… I like to go where I’m going to be treated nicely… I want to know that my BIG SMILE and hearty laughter will be appreciated…

My favorites are based upon my emotions. Oh yes, Rae is a big softie haven’t you figured that out by now. I gauge many parts of my life by my emotions and I think that this is what defines the “Essence of Rae.” You will definitely have to visit my other blog to check out that subject. Ms. Rae’s Be Still n Know Blog

Anyway, I love the scrapbooking business because it is a business about having fun. I’m looking for the Wow Factor because scrapbooking is a place where we, as designer/creators, come to smile, share our memories with others and generally have a great time. This is why I have been a part of this world as a business owner for several years. It’s an opportunity to put a smile on someone’s face!!! My ultimate goal!!

“Don’t frown you’ll never know who may be falling in love with your smile”
-Unknown

I recall at the Lompoc Scrapbooker/Stampers Festival last year I had a blast as a vendor because I spent time with my customers, sharing the ART and LOVE of scrapbooking. Showing them how to use the products I had created. Showing them how to not just buy what I was selling but how they could give me a call later if they had questions. I wanted them to learn this wonderful Art form. I wanted them to know I was there for them now and in the future. That is what makes scrapbooking so special. We are passing down lasting memories to EVERYONE that we encounter.

This is how I decide on my favorite scrapbook stores. It’s hard when you’re moving around quickly to find what you’re looking for. I know as I looked around during the Shop Hop, there were several things that I looked for to add a store to my favorites list. That Wow Factor that I just mentioned is really high on my list but so is Products, Products, Products!!!

I personally want to support My Local Scrapbook Store (LSS) more than the big chain stores so it’s important that I find what I can at the LSS. I recognize that the LSS can’t carry everything but whatever they carry, I will do everything in my power to purchase from them if they are as accommodating to me as I am to them. I know there are things that only Joann’s will carry so off to Joann’s I will go.

Ok, there I said it Joann’s. I know I’m going to get beat up on this subject. Why do I like Joann’s Crafts so much? First off, I was an employee of Joann’s Craft’s Superstore in Ontario, Ca last summer and love the variety of items they carry. They will never be able to compare to our LSS but it sure is fun to explore the aisles and see what they have. Also, it doesn’t hurt to use that 40% off coupon once a week. The Annual Founder’s Day Sale doesn’t hurt either. It makes me smile. Ok, that’s all I’m saying about Joann’s.

So Scrapbook owners, we love your stores and will support you. That’s what makes this such a loving business.

For the record, I have my favorite grocery store because the cashier speaks to me when I go there or the produce guy doesn’t have a problem looking in the back to see if my special grapefruit containers have come in. When I lived in Santa Barbara County, I went to the same gas station for years, when he was a few cents higher because he took the time to explain to me how to not let air into my tank. I know these are simple things but these are the things that are the difference between making me happy or sad. No I don’t shop at the 99cent store or run all over town to get things from Big Lots because it doesn’t do it for me. Does that mean that I don’t value the dollar? Does that mean that I’m against someone that does? Does that mean that I won’t go there when they have something special I’m interested in? NO, to all of the above. It just means that it’s not my favorite because it doesn’t have the Wow Factor for ME.

Here are a few Rae-isms for the day!!!
Life’s too short!!!!

Find your Wow Factor and Go for it.

Don’t let me determine what it is. Define it for yourself. I did!

Don’t let Anyone Steal Your Joy!!!!

Keep Smiling Everyone!!!

Find the Scrapbooking Hot Spots in California!!!

2008-08-22T02:00:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for a new spot to learn new scrapbooking techniques?

Are you interested in checking out a new Scrapbook Store?

Looking for a store to buy your sweetheart something nice? Ahhhhhh I knew you men were lurking. (By the way, Ask me nicely and I'll tell you what the latest rave is!!!)

Are you going on a road trip and would like to check out a store that wasn't featured in the latest CK magazine?

Look no more!!!!! I suggest you grab your GPS, a few scrappin divas and check out Scrapbooking Roads. This great site has a guide to scrapbooking stores across the country including right here in California. Download the guide today.

When I shop hopped with my Awesome Shopping Divas', we used Maggie, our Magellan GPS, to guide us through the streets of Southern California. I hope this guide, your love of the hunt, your GPS of preference, or your own Mapquest list, lead you on a successful scrapbooking journey .

Enjoy your next Road Trip!!!!

What is Faithbooking?

2008-08-22T01:13:00.000-05:00

One day I came across a book in a scrapbook store called "Scrapbooking Your Faith" by Courtney Walsh which got my attention. As a Christian woman, I try to include my faith in my scrapbooks as a legacy for my loved ones. My desire is that when someone picks up my scrapbooks they know exactly who Rae is. My Christianity should be a strong part of who I am even in my scrapbooks. It was wonderful to see a book on the market that encourages scrapbookers to include their faith in their scrapbooks. Not only should we scrapbook the special events like birthdays, anniversaries, babies or children in our lives but we should turn inward and include our spiritual beliefs and religious events.

One website shows that Faithbooking can be:

A means to express our faith.
The ability to capture life’s lessons that God teaches us.
An eternal legacy for our children.
A witnessing tool.
An incredible, permanent reminder of our God Moment and His hand in our lives.
Scripture, thoughts, prayers, blessings, memories, letters, and stories combines with our photographs to always remember our personal and spiritual journey with the Lord.

You can choose to make separate faith books or your can choose to incorporate faithbooking into every scrapbook that you do. As I thought about this subject, I realized that the major of my projects have a part of my faith already incorporated. I would love to challenge myself to create a few separate faith books as well. Some of my favorite layouts over the last few years have been inspired by my favorite Christian songs. Another form of faithbooking is creating an About Me album the incorporates your favorite scriptures or affirmations.

There are now many wonderful religious products on the market to allow us to directly incorporate our faith into our scrapbooks. There are many Internet groups for faithbooking that can keep you motivated and encouraged to scrapbook your faith.

A Few Faithbooking Sites:

I pray that this blog helps enlightens you to an area of scrapbooking that will make your scrapbooks much more meaningful for you and your loved ones. I will add more information about Faithbooking in upcoming weeks and share pages from my personal layouts.

I would like to share with you one of my favorite Faith layouts. It features a testimonial song by the Williams Brothers, "Still Here." I journal how blessed I feel to still be here after all the trials and tribulations I've gone through. If you're interested in my Faith Blog please visit Ms. Rae's Be Still and Know Blog and Chinue Christian Ms. Rae's Moment's of Faith Blog

I invite you to add your email address on the right to subscribe to weekly updates to my blog. Also feel free to include comments at the bottom of each post.

May God Bless you.

Rae

I Finished the So California Shop Hop!!!!

2008-08-18T21:47:00.000-05:00

Well, I officially completed all 35 stores!!!!! Yippppeeee.

I admit that when I started out on this Road Trip it was not my goal to complete all the stores. My passion in life is to Just Have Fun!!!! Even sick this past week, I have had a blast. In one week, I’ve visited 35 scrapbook stores as well as stopped at my favorite store, Jo-Ann’s Crafts, along the way. I’m excited and tired.

After last weekend, my plan was to just rest. Unfortunately, I spent most of the week in bed with a massive headache but ventured out with my dear friends one day to visit a few of the stores in the Inland Empire. It was a slow casual day for us as we journeyed to the stores, visited with the store owners, stopped and looked at the local sites and took our time heading back to Victorville.

It’s About Time… Scrapbooks & More in Murrieta was such a darling store I must admit. Beautiful chandeliers, cute chairs, wonderful displays, great ambiance and personable management made this store top my favorites list. Mel you did a wonderful job in my book!! I could have sat for hours in the store just exploring. Thanks for the experience.

We had an enjoyable day visiting:
1. Scrapbook Corner, Temecula
2. Scrappin Diva’s, Temecula
3. It’s About Time… Scrapbooks & More, Murrieta

After several days of resting, I joined the group again for a marathon run to get as many stores done as possible. The rules from the “Diva in charge of MapQuest” were: let’s get our books stamped, use the rest room, and run. Well, we all must stop and look at some things right? Some of us took pictures. Some of us looked for extra treasures. Some of us shopped. My mission was to collect tons of idea to come home to scrap and check out the great scrapbook stores. Our goal was to visit 13 stores that first day but made it to 10 even shutting down a few. I think that was monumental.

Yo Ho Ho A Scrappers Life was had at:

1. Ever After Scrapbooks, Carlsbad
2. Pink Pineapple Scrapbooks, Vista
3. Stamping Details, Poway
4. Yellow Bird Scrapbooking, El Cajon
5. Scrapbooking by Design, Laguna Niguel
6. Timeless Treasures, Rancho Santa Margarita
7. Oh Scrap!, Costa Mesa
8. The Red Bee, Tustin
9. Once Upon A Memory, Huntington Beach
10. Scrapbooking Heaven, Westminster

Yellow Bird Scrapbooking took the Pirates theme a step further by allowing us to play dress up. Now, I can be a ham with the best of them but playing dress up is not really my cup of tea. For some reason, I was in rare form this night and totally enjoyed becoming the “Pirate Princess” that I am. Please don’t hold it against me, remember I was suffering from a major headache. Yo Ho Ho.

After a long day, we arrived back to Victorville ready to sleep. Not knowing if we were going to be able to finish the stores the next day or if we needed one more weekend to finish we needed all the rest we could get.
We started out early Sunday even though our first store wouldn’t open until 11:00am with intentions to be there on time. Starbucks here we come… Oh, they forgot, I don’t drink coffee!! I love these ladies because they were gracious enough to make a detour for me to get an ICEE for the road. Thanks Ladies.

Our first store planned for the day was Strictly Scrapbooking- Cerritos. As I mentioned before, this is one of my favorite stores, but we had rules. I’ve been known to find loopholes in the rules. I didn’t need to make a potty run so while everyone else went to the restroom, I was on the hunt for that great Teresa Collins Travel Paper.

The day before, I saw a great mini album by Ally Serrato at Pink Pineapples in Vista and I had to have just a couple of sheets of this paper. I had dreamed about this album all night. Thanks Pink Pineapple!?!? Since I hadn’t bought much on this trek, I felt I deserved to treat myself to a few pieces of paper. RIGHT? So while they were in the bathroom, I found my paper. Can you believe it hadn’t been entered into the system yet? So here I was bending the rules and had to wait for these wonderful sales associates to find the price for my great paper. This is why I love the scrapbooking business. People are so helpful. They called the owner, found out the price and like a flash I was able to purchase my paper. I was a happy camper. Oh, you know my friends teased me for finding the loophole in the rules but oh well you only live how many times? ONCE!!!!

So, back to the game plan and we were on track yet again.

Our journey led us to:
1. Strictly Scrapbooking, Cerritos
2. Scraparazzi, Whittier
3. The Scrappin’ Table, Placentia
4. Scrappin’ in the Hills, Anaheim Hills
5. Pages From the Heart, Monrovia
6. Scrap n Yap, Monrovia

As I mentioned, I had been in pain most of this journey and was not paying much attention to my passport. I knew I was close to being finished but didn’t realize I only had one store to go. As I walked up to Scrap n Yap in Monrovia, my partners in crime tell me it’s time to take my picture for the contest. I’m easy going and I even take the paper sign that they had made for me. Just as I go to get my picture taken, I realize I hadn’t read the sign. It reads “This is my Last Store.” I then got excited!!!! I was done. I had successfully completed 35 stores. The ladies in Scrap n Yap were so gracious to welcome me when they realized that they were my last store. I even got to stamp my own passport. What a fun journey!!!!

I don’t know if I’ll win one of the fancy prizes but I feel like I’ve already won. The fun of the journey alone has been worth it. That doesn’t mean that if I win, I’m turning the prize away. Are you crazy?

I want to thank my new Victorville Scrapbook Sisters for welcoming me into their circle of friends. I’ve only known these ladies for a couple months but I feel like I’ve known them for years. We’ve been cropping together, traveling together, retreating together, and shop hopping together. I feel truly blessed to have met you all.

Thanks for the Journey!!!

Rae

Scrappin' Divas

Shop Hopping across Southern California

2008-08-11T05:18:00.000-05:00

Can you believe what I've been doing for the last 3 days?

A few of the choice words from 5 lovely ladies these days have been:

Road Trip!
Are we there Yet?
On the Road Again
Did you find a Treasure?
Which store did you like?
Is it time to go yet?
Potty Break Anyone?
Are you broke yet?

Believe or not, we 5 lovely ladies from Victorville have been traveling together across Southern California participating in the So Cal Shop Hop 2008 on a mission to visit 35 Scrapbook stores in a two week period for a host of prizes, deals and tons of fun.

We started off Friday morning early at the tip of the Hop, in my own neck of the woods, at the beautiful Santa Barbara Scrapbook store. We had a wonderful time in the store, meeting all the other ladies venturing out early to get started on the same adventure and getting a jump start.

Our goal was to hit 8 stores that first day with a stop for lunch and maybe dinner thrown in before heading back to the High Desert. With some stores staying open late to accommodate the Shopper Hoppers (as we were called) we made most but missed a few because some stores closed early. Who could imagine that store owners wanted to get home to their families when there were Shopper Hoppers out there waiting to raid their stores for “Treasures”?

Oh, I forgot to tell you, this year’s Shop Hop theme, “A Pirate’s Life for Me”, meant that there were “hidden treasures” at each store that we beauties couldn’t miss. There was Doubloons to be found and we were on a mission.

We shopped at the following stores/cities on our first leg of our tour:
1. Santa Barbara Scrapbooks, Santa Barbara
2. Makin’ Memories, Newbury Park
3. Treasured Memories, Oak Park
4. Scrapbook Safari, Woodland Hills
5. Creative Paradise, Sherman Oaks
6. Scrappin’ Good Times, San Dimas

Due to time constraints, we were unable to make the following stores this first day. We’re not worried another day will dawn:
· Pages from the Heart, Monrovia
· Scrap n’ Yap, Monrovia

Some of us lovely ladies ventured out yet again on Saturday morning. We were not as daring as we were the first day but we had a mission to get out and hit a few stores. If we can visit all 35 stores there’s are several GRAND PRIZES. I could use a Scrapbooking Retreat after visiting all these stores.

Oh, one more secret, the winner of last year’s Grand Prize is traveling with us and will be going on a Scrapbooking Cruise in a few weeks with A to Z Scrapbooking so I know there must be hope for one of us out there to win something.

So, Saturday morning, we started off at our home store, Scrapbook Boulevard, by checking out all the sales, new products, visiting with the croppers, and having a good time before heading to the Inland Empire.

We were able to raid the treasures at:
7. Scrapbook Boulevard, Victorville
8. Stamp Your Heart Out, Claremont
9. Chino Scrapbook Company, Chino
10. Stamping Fools, Upland
11. Auntie Amy’s, Riverside

Ok, you’d think we’d all be tired about now but even though we’re having fun we are chicks shopping. We now head home to crop and appraise our pirate’s booty. With a 20% discount at every store, some of us had a great deal of loot. As we crop, chat, and chew on goodies, we plot our next move. We realized that there is another day dawning in a few hours. What can we do? We realized that there are special prizes for visiting just14 of the stores. Can we make that or are we planning to do them all? Only time will tell.

Sunday dawns bright and early. As women, it is our prerogative to change our minds a few times, so we did. (Wasn’t that a Bobby Brown song? Sorry I digress). This time, our journey takes me yet again into my old stomping grounds, Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. We planned on visiting 8 stores with great intentions to shop quickly and move on. Yeah, that was funny, 5 women with a little cash in scrapbook stores. (I’m still laughing) We did great but we really must move faster if we plan on making all the stores in the future.

We covered:
12. Sonja’s Scrapbook Spot, Los Angeles
13. Stampin’ From the Heart, Los Angeles
14. A to Z Scrapbooking, South Bay
15. Strictly Scrapbooking, Torrance
16. The Scrapbook Garden, Huntington Beach

We’d hoped to cover:
· Strictly Scrapbooking, Cerritos
· Scrapbooking Heaven, Westminster
· Once Upon A Memory, Huntington Beach

Honestly, I must say, we couldn’t help it. We had so much fun exploring the stores, we got slowed down. I personally, finally, had a chance to enjoy Strictly Scrapbooking so I was in heaven. A to Z Scrapbooking was an added treat. Every store has been fun for me but I had been looking forward to these two for some time and was thankful for the opportunity to explore.

We still have two weeks…

So I’ve been busy and I’m enjoying the Ride.

In my dreams tonight I’ll be saying ROAD TRIP!!!!!

Check back with me tomorrow as I explore with you “FaithBooking: Ms. Rae Style”

Summer Time Acrylic Album

2008-07-11T19:08:00.002-05:00

As you know Acrylic Albums are all the rave right now and Ms. Rae wanted to get in on the fun. Using Close to My Hearts Life Delight's Level 2 Paper Pack and 6x6 acrylic pages, I completed a Summertime Fun album over the 4th of July weekend. I attended a wonderful 3 day event at a friends house in Victorville and this was one of the projects I accomplished. This fun book features my favorite little Divas Ms. Ericka and Ms.Mina. Aren't they Adorable?
Watch this site for my upcoming workshop schedule for my classes on making a project like this. Thank for looking.

Check Ms. Rae out on The Boulevard

2008-06-25T06:51:00.000-05:00

Starting in July, Ms. Rae will be appearing at Scrapbook Boulevard as one of the instructors teaching an All About Me Flap Book Class. This unique interactive mini album features over 10 photos and allows you, the scrapbooker, to turn the tables and feature "You" for a change. Turn the camera on yourself by getting in front of it instead of behind it. Find out what makes you smile by making this beautiful album All about you. See mine below. Yes, I feature those special people in my life but I'm in every photo. I even turned my cell phone camera on myself. Join me at Scrapbook Boulevard in Victorville (check out their calendar section and the About Us Section). See you there!!!!

Victorville/Adelanto Scrapbooking First Meetup Successful

2008-06-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

The First Meetup of the Victorville/Adelanto Scrapbooking Group was a huge success. There was 7 wonderful ladies in attendance and we had a great time getting to know each other.

We all bring a wealth of knowledge to the group and look forward to a long lasting friendship. Our goal is to scrap together monthly at the minimum but we also will be planning to attend scrapbook expos, retreats, classes and events together. Our first event will be to travel together to the Southern California Scrapbook Shop Hop. We hope to visit as many of the So Cal Scrapbook stores that we can visit in a 2 week period. If you're interested visit SoCalShopHop to see what the hip is all about. We invite you to join our meetup group. Even if you're not in the area you can join to be informed of our activities. You never know you may be in the area sometime and want to join us or catch us when we mosie into your neck of the woods. Check us out at Victorville/Adelanto Scrapbooking Meetup

Join Ms. Rae's Hostess Club

2008-06-22T07:42:00.000-05:00

Love to Scrapbook ? Want FREE supplies?
Join

Ms. Rae’s HOSTESS CLUB

Requirements:

*Spend $25 per month for 6 months*
Anything you want out of the Current Close to My Heart Idea Book

*Anybody Can Join!*
Ask your friends and buds!

*Hostess will earn at least…*
(For chart, see page 6 of the Idea Book)
The Club Hostess will receive $25 of Free product.
For an additional $100 the club purchases,
Hostess will add another $15. to her Free stuff !
Make it another $100, add another $20 in Free stuff !

*One of Those Months You Will be Hostess*
That means for your 6 month commitment, you will receive Free Items the club has earned in your assigned month, anything you want from the Idea Book !
Purchase as much as you want. Ask your friends what they need. The more purchased, the more you can earn for FREE.

*Place Held*
Can be determined once club is formed
We will have a Make-N-Take project when we meet.
You will learn techniques that can be applied to all of your scrapbooking projects.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you !

Contact me today

MsRaes.Scrapbiz@yahoo.com

What has Ms. Rae Been upto Lately?

2008-06-12T04:01:00.000-05:00

What has Ms. Rae Been up to Lately?

What a year!!!! It has been a whirlwind year for Ms. Rae but thankfully "I'm Still Here." As most people know my favorite scrapbooking subjects have aways been my beautiful daughter who is now officially grown. So I had to learn how to turn the camera on myself. We as scrapbookers often have to do this. Have you gone through your books and notice how many photos do not include you? I have in recent years. I took a vow a few years ago to complete at least one "All about ME" album per year even if it's an mini album.
I have found myself

asking others to take pictures of me

learning how to take pictures of myself in the mirror with my cell phone

stepping from behind the camera and jumping in the photo

simply smiling more so that I can get my picture taken

So I'd like to share with you my 2007/2008 "All About Me" Flap Album and Challenge you to create your own All About Me album today.