Scrap Happens

Mini Greeting Card

This little 4x4 "card" turned out so cute! This was a gift I made for a client to give to his wife on Mother's Day. It actually does hold a gift card, but he used that area to include his own message. She loved it!

 

The Dark Side of My Desk

As promised a week ago, here are the pictures of my "haven" in full-blown scrap mode. After a weekend of endless projects the status of my work area is in shambles. I was going to clean it today, but thought better of it as I am not through the graduation season just yet. Honestly, it is kind of like making a bed. Sometimes I wonder why I bother when each day it ends up messy again. After the graduates are gone, I have Father's Day. Then quickly move into holiday projects....did I just utter the word "holiday"?

 

Groovy Graduation Gift

This funky little album was a blast to work on! I love SEI papers, and finally put the stacks I have to use. I would love to see this one when complete with pictures of all the recipient's BFF's!

    

Grad Gift

This morning I whipped up this sophisticated pre-made album for a college graduation gift. I love this paper I found last weekend!

    

Gettin' Shabby Baby

This is one of my favorite mini-albums, I keep holding on to it thinking I will use it as a gift, but I can't seem to part with it. The elements are vintage with tattered lace, tiny crocheted embellishments, and antique pins. I think I did this one just for me!

 

 

 

My Creative Haven

I am so blessed to have this expansive work area, I love it! As soon as I can locate the file...I will post the "not-so-tidy" pictures of when I am completely immersed in a project...when I fling paper without a care, and leave piles of paper dust all over my desk.

 

 

Why I Scrap

While working on invoices tonight, I came across this submission to a contest I entered. I didn't win, but I am still proud of what I wrote and thought I would share it here, instead of letting it sit in "My Documents". Maybe one day I will actually win one of these contests....

Scrapbooking is a craft or hobby to millions of individuals worldwide. Providing a close network of friendships, bridging distance between countries, cities and generations. In recent years, this “hobby” has become a form of appreciated and respected…art. The ways in which this industry has affected my life are enriching and abundant.

 

In the year 2000, after the birth of my first daughter Emma, I struggled with post-partum depression. For nine months, I kept this secret. Trying to find my own way out of the darkness. My days were full of negative thoughts and hopeless energy. Finally, the fear took over and I sought help. While medical support and love from my family were very instrumental in my healing, the discovery of scrapbooking was an unanticipated anecdote. By putting my daily events down on paper, creating beauty instead of negativity, (through my thoughts), I regained positive focus. Call it, the healing power of creativity. The artistic person I had always been was no longer squandered under those clouds of doom. And, it absolutely regenerated my world through a fresh network of other Moms and fellow scrappers. The sun began to shine in my life again!

 

This hobby has been enriching to my family and me. For as long as I can recollect, I have yearned to be an author. My ideas are plentiful. And while the subject matter has changed over the years, my desire to write has never waned. Alas, reality has set in, with the advent of two babies, a house and a small business; I realize this ideal is on hold. Or perhaps, has just taken a different path. In launching my own custom album business I have the opportunity to be the “author” of many wonderful, fulfilling stories. My own life has been so blessed by the stories my clients have allowed me to “write” using their photographs and memorabilia. Through their generosity, I can weave a tale that will be embraced for generations; a treasured book among the novels and literature on their family bookshelves. In this joy of building legacies, there lies a silver lining. I can be a stay-at-home Mom to my daughters Emma and Jessa, and help provide financially for my family. By being home full-time, I can watch my own legacy flourish day-to-day. And our family bonds in the spare time we have together by scrapbooking. My girls are learning this art and have started to “author” their own stories at the ages of six and four.

 

I will continue to achieve personal and professional growth through this enterprise. The industry will continue to challenge scrapbookers like me, with contemporary, ever-changing products and techniques; encouraging us to think outside the box…lunge out of our comfort zones! I look forward to the growth of my own community of clientele and friendships. It is such an exciting prospect to think of the stories I’ve yet to “write”. My own tales through my prized photographs will be endless, their legacy…timeless. Emma and Jessa will be fortunate to grow up alongside our diverse scrapbooking industry, allowing them a healthy, positive, and creative hobby during adolescence.

 

Health. Enrichment. Growth. This is how scrapbooking affects my life.

Little Bug Head

I captured these pictures last fall, as my daughter was collecting the tiniest of bugs from our backyard fence. She was so thrilled with the tickles on her hand as they scurried to get away. The sun was in a perfect spot to land these adorable pictures of her innocence.

That said...she also has a seriously spirited side. She used the word "butt-head" at some point, and with more frequency than we thought appropriate. So, having been reprimanded for it by having her radio or some other prized possession taken away, she amended her words to "bug-head" so as not to get in anymore trouble. She says it now with a certain amount of pride, thinking she has beat the parental system and code of behavior we impose on her.

One smart cookie...and a bit of a stinker!

 

Educate?

I am thinking about teaching local scrapbooking classes. Like, Scrapbooking 101. Do I have the energy or the time? Maybe it is time I share my knowledge.

I think I'll start with a small get-together of nine year olds, see how good I do with them before taking on adults!

Stay tuned...

 

Random

Ok, I am in a random mood, somewhat like this random weather in Montana. I had two days of spectacular sun, sitting in my hot pink chair with one (or two) nice cold beverages. As I sat contemplating Capri pants and flip-flops, snow really was the farthest thing from my mind. Yet, two days later as I opened my garage door to take the kids to school, I was beyond freaked out. I didn't bother to park my car INSIDE the garage because after all, it is the end of April. I am not even remotely kidding when I say there had to be two feet of snow on my car. And, as I was trying to leave peacefully with my two fighting children, I realize my car doors are frozen shut. And hey, in a vain moment  I have to admit...this was a really good hair day, and now I stand beneath snowflakes the size of silver dollars thinking all that flat ironing was for nothing! But back to my point, if I actually have one this evening...I am posting some random pages in tradition of the random elements of Montana seasons.

 

Different Views - 2

I got to thinking, there is another popular pose I use almost every time I "stage" my kids for a photo shoot. It has been suggested that I put together an album of all of these great pictures I take of them with their backs to me, or walking away. There is something that really tugs at my heartstrings when I look at them going "their own way" in the direction opposite of me...that will be happening as they start on their own paths in life all too soon. Very poignant.

   

 

  

Different Views

Over the past few years I have taken some really fun pictures of my girls looking at themselves in the mirror. Until last night, as we were pulling a tooth, I didn't realize how many such photos I have. If I can sit down tonight, I'm going to get these onto a page...stay tuned!

 

ABC's...the reaction.

My Dad's reaction upon opening his book; priceless.

 

 

ABC'S of Life

A couple of years ago I had an opportunity to put together albums from me and my siblings, for our parent's on their 70th birthdays. I chose an ABC theme, it was such a blast to put together! The three of us came up with words for each letter of the alphabet that reminded us of our Mom and Dad. We used goofy saying of theirs, treasured hobbies, past careers, and names of loved ones. The books were a major hit with both parents...

Think about this as we approach Mother's Day and Father's Day; and think about that 25% discount too!

Obsessed with Paper? Absolutely!

When we bought our new house in 2005 there was a grand bonus room, empty and perfect for my scrapbooking space. With the help of a local cabinet designer, I created my own place to work. Beautiful cabinetry, with ample space for EVERYTHING!

Ok, so four years later...I am outgrowing my paper drawer. There is literally no more space in this very spacious file drawer. I guess it is time to make some scrappin' grab bags to sell this summer at the local farmer's market. As I realize piles are now taking over my desktop workspace, as well as my rolling storage cart.

Alas, I can admit to not having bought any paper in the past six months...I am really trying to dedicate myself to the "use what you have" theory. (It really isn't any fun...).

 

Go FISH!

The Madison must be calling me...

Tis' the season to get back out on the river and find that prized catch. Chronicle your memories in this mini 6x6 album. It has a very masculine appeal, and will hold up to 19 cropped photographs.

  

(Five page representation of 20 page album)

Springtime Storybook

I put this pre-made cutie together on Monday, while trying to ignore the winter weather outside my window. It is always therapeutic for me to bury myself in beautiful paper!

This type of album is left blank for a recipient to add their own memories. This one is particularly girlie, perfect for a graduate to add photos from her senior year friendships!

 

(Seven page representation of a twenty page album)

Pic Tip of the Day - Proper Storage

The most convenient place for a stockpile of photos (such as a basement or attic) is often the most unfavorable place to store them. It's best to keep your photos and albums in a room that's relatively well ventilated and doesn't have dramatic temperature fluctuations.

Store photos in a cool, dry, dark place that's safe from hazards such as pet damage and flooding. A closet, chest, or cabinet (with the prints in a box that controls light and air exposure) extends the best resolution. For heirloom pictures, consider a fireproof box.

Pic Tip of the Day - Shoot & Recycle

Going digital after my second daughter was born was like an escape. I was no longer restricted to taking only 24 pictures per roll of film, left to discard many that weren't "perfect". Yes, I can be objective enough to find imperfection in photos of my own children...not often, but it does happen.

Regardless, one of my favorite freedoms is to point and click as dang much as I want to, what is there to lose? And even some of the photos that end up out of focus can be transformed into a incredibly unique album page.

So I say...go for it, take as many pictures as you can. Especially of your kids, and especially while they are young. Soon, you will have to force a smile out of them...because you just won't be cool enough or worthy of their teenage smiles!

Here are a few I look forward to getting onto a page soon. This "selection" was chosen out of a crop of roughly 50 pictures, the balance of which resides in my recycle bin.

 

Recession Refocus

A dear friend of mine recently put a spin on what I do, that I hadn't thought of. I carry his words with me on yet another new path, as I seek new employment or make this small business work! I have found his wisdom to be a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel, as I approach my album business with new-found gusto:         

"I think a lot of people are focusing on some more simple things that we have in years past, mainly out of economic need, but also for comfort—home, family, and memories are a lot less expensive than European trips and the next house up the hill. The fact that you’re providing a unique, creative way to focus on some of these things is in your favor."

He is one smart dude.

 

 

 

 

Pic Tip of the Day - Adhesives

When adhering your photos to an album page or other media, only use archival quality adhesives sold in most craft stores. Using tape (Scotch or otherwise) is risky as it will eventually dry out, leaving your precious pictures loose in an album, easy to be misplaced.

Happy Easter, in the Parental Blink of an Eye...

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Pic Tip of the Day - Ewww, yellow.

Did you know there is a natural substance in wood called lignin? Lignin is responsible for turning paper yellow and brittle with age. That also goes for any photograph or memorabilia mounted onto paper that is not lignin-free. There are products made lignin-free...and they happen to be some of my favorites to use in the albums I create. 

See your old magnetic albums for evidence of this discoloration, see me to make sure it is prevented from happening in the years to come!

Super Spirited

I like to think outside the box when creating holiday pages. Instead of using the traditional orange and black for this Halloween page, I chose to focus on the costume instead.

And this truly is one "Super-Spirited" girl!

Sale

Custom Memory Albums are 25% off until May 31st, 2009.

 Great for grads, dads and moms!

Heartfelt

I want to share a recent testimonial that really captures the essence of why I do what I do...

"Kellie prepared several memory albums for us. Each time we received them we were blown away by the quality, attention to detail, creativity and intense emotional impact of her work. She truly pours herself into these endeavors and the results are phenomenal. She creates family treasures that will be cherished for generations".

    

 

Pic Tip of the Day - Plastics

When creating your own scrapbook masterpiece, use only chemically reliable plastic, fabricated of uncoated polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene.

Hop to it!

Spring always feels like a time of renewal, once the muddy snow disappears and gives way to all the blooming flora. Of course, in Montana we often find ourselves sifting through fresh snow to find eggs. I am hopeful that this year will bring warmth and new wonders...

Why not also renew those old and yellow photo albums this spring? I can help!

Pic Tip of the Day - Investment

The plentitude of pictures in our lives, in this day and age of digital, allows us to disregard the true emotional depth of a photograph. Simple moments captured on "film" can evoke a truly sentimental moment years down the road. But if not properly stored, those memories will fade and deteriorate. They are truly delicate objects that can easily be damaged by improper storage, careless handling, and exposure to the environment. We spend an abundant amount of money on cameras, software programs, printers, and processing...take your investment one step further and consider using a better storage system for your precious memories.

Lighting

I love taking pictures in just the right light. I search my house in the morning or afternoon to pose my kids in. But sometimes, I am fortunate enough that a moment just happens...and it turns out beautifully. These bubble pictures are a perfect example, as my daughter tried to blow her first bubble. She sat very quietly, and in an extreme state of focus, hardly realizing my camera was snapping pictures. Capturing a simple moment is priceless...

Pic Tip of the Day - Pens

Take a look at some of your old photos from say, the 1960's. Did someone journal on the back using a ball point pen? Is there discoloration on the photograph now; probably in the shade of  pink or red? Ball point pens are too acidic to use on your precious picures. Go for a pencil if it is just jotting a temporary note, or use an achival quality pen (found in any craft store) for a more permanent message.

 

 

 

Back at it!

Ok, so again...my daily posts are lacking. Somehow this blog just never makes it to the top of my agenda!

Now however, I find myself unemployed from a full-time job (besides the full-time job of finding a new job) with time on my hands.

My hope is that I can fill my days with working on memory albums again. This part of my life has been on hold for virtually two years, making room for only a couple of projects every six months or so.

When thinking about the albums you need, or think you don't need...consider these upcoming events: Graduation, Mother's Day, Father's Day or a wedding or baby shower. Spring is a great time to give a really "fresh", creative, and memorable gift!

As you spring clean this year, think about finally getting your photos out of envelopes and into a better environment. Envelopes, and old magnetic albums literally eat away at your photos over time. Contact me for more information, or read my post below on album restoration.

I'm going to find a way to get on here everyday, with tidbits of information or wild ideas that I feel the need to share!

Oh yeah, I am also offering 25% off any custom album order placed prior to May 31st, 2009...consider it my "Unemployment Sale"!

Creative Clipboards

Finding a little downtime over the holiday, I created these cute clipboards. Additional pages can be stored beneath the displayed page for easy transition, based on your mood...a great way to quickly highlight your favorite photos!

 

Renew Your Vows

Most wedding photographers offer a beautiful album as part of your wedding portrait package. Since I've been in business, I have done many albums filled with the candid photos from a wedding and reception; embellishing the pages in a way that enhanced these pictures, while telling the story of a very special day. I recently had an opportunity to "rescue" a wedding album from the early 80's. This was the actual album the couple purchased as part of the package deal. Let me tell you, it was no easy task dealing with whatever adhesive they used to adhere the photos to the page. Not to mention, the plastic (most likely loaded with PVC) was starting to discolor the pictures. Now, I am not trying to bash photographers of this generation, I am sure most products used now are of archival quality. This just so happened to be from an era prior to our current awareness of what chemicals can do to affect the longevity of our memories. So...enough said, here are some photos I reworked onto really cool pages. This is a GREAT idea for a Christmas gift;  send me your parent's wedding album and have me rework it...they will love the update and cherish your sentimental gesture!

Flower Power

Needing some new inspiration, I found these little books over the weekend. Just plain chipboard, leaving much to the imagination. I had a blast making this one as girlie as can be; though not yet complete with photos on each page! Each album can fit 12 photos, and are "bound" on a ring. I have another one to complete...I think I may do a black and white theme.

Faerie Festival

I took the girls to the cutest little event on Saturday, a Faerie (new way to spell it I guess) Festival. They had a blast, and were so adorable! It was held at a local "new age" bookstore. They did faerie crafts, met the Faerie Godmother, danced, ate faerie popcorn and cookies, and had a treasure hunt. Times like this are going to go by much too fast, soon they won't believe in faeries...much less, want to hang out with me on a Saturday.

Special Tradition Pages

As I had hoped, I found time to put together a couple of pages from our traditional July 4th pictures.

A Special Tradition

Ten months before my husband and I were married, his stepfather and sister (Fred and Julie) were killed in a motorcycle accident. In fact, just two weeks before Phil had already planned to propose to me. Heartbroken and dazed, he stuck to the plan and did indeed ask me to be his wife. At the time of their deaths, I was living in the same house with him and Fred, experiencing grief that I had never considered possible. In our 20's this wasn't a situation we had even thought possible. We were suddenly thrown into a life of responsibility, leaving the late night Vegas parties, and even later sleep-in mornings behind.

Our first child was born three years after the accident. On her first Fourth of July, I decided I wanted to take a picture of her in something patriotic. I looked in the garage, a mess in it's own right, but also a breeding ground for anything obscure that I may be searching for. I didn't find a thing. Fred was a bit of a pack-rat, so I knew if I was diligent I would eventually find what I was looking for. Finally, looking in a closet I found a flag-printed shirt and baseball cap that had belonged to Fred. I put these items on my darling Emma, which dwarfed her completely, but she was adorable just the same! Who knew...almost nine years later we are still doing this, and her little sister is also involved (not taking no for any kind of answer!).

Our plan is to keep this tradition up until she actually grows into the shirt. My hope is to put one picture from each year into a scrapbook, so that Emma can see her own progression in growth. Which, by the way, is just too fast.

This year, Emma asked me how long we planned on putting her through this. I replied, "Until you grow into this shirt." She then asked me if  Grandpa Fred was as big as Daddy when he died. When I told her yes, she said: " Well then, we are going to be doing this for a long time."

Here are a few pictures of this very special annual event, soon to be a scrapbook page or two!

 

Jewel of Mine

Sunday Obsession

Finally, back to my own pages! It has been months, well years actually since I have managed to get my own photographs onto paper. I pulled out my file today, I am still working on pictures from 2006! So needless to say, I am obsessed this weekend, after completing four pages. The dishes sit in the sink, my washer and dryer are both full, and beds are unmade. Do I care? Absolutely not, I'm getting back to my  project! Here are the four pages I did yesterday.