The Best of 2009

I'm BAAAAACK! My mojo went on Christmas vacation, apparently. Neglected to inform me, just packed its bags and headed somewhere tropical I suppose. But I'm feeling the old spark and I'll be posting a darling scrapbook layout tomorrow. Guess even our creativity needs a short break once in a while.

Last day of the year always makes me a little sentimental. Looking back at some of my previous posts, I thought I'd take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about my faves....


How Sweet It Is
The cupcake mania began the video tutorial, which is the most-watched video on my youtube channel. I'm stilled called "the cupcake lady" by many.




A Smidgen of Scrapbooking
I admit it, this was not my year to catch up on scrapbooking. Just a handful of layouts made it past my over-obsessive compulsion for perfect titles, clever journaling and just the right embellishments. Workin' on that. But I did a few, and that makes me happy. Check out this one, and this one, oh, and here too.


Do you... Create U?
This is big. For me, it's really, really big. My annual, once-a-year, eat-sleep-breathe Creative University. The 2009 event was so much fun, and the 2010 event is less than 8 weeks away. I'm all sold out for 2010, but 2011 is already in the planning stages.



The Dress
Sewing... fitting... basting... pinning... All for one dress. So worth it.



I Can See Clearly Now
I have to say, I love this acrylic album. It was for a silent auction fundraiser for Operation Smile and I'm so proud to have participated in such a worthy cause. And unlike my usual method-of-operation, I created this one in a non-stop creative blitz. See, I CAN get something done when I have a deadline.



Blogtoberfest!
Crafty tutorials all month long, what could be better? A real kick-in-the-pants for my lazy posting, but it was so much fun seeing all the other bloggers who jumped in with their tutorials as well. Kuddos, crafters!


The Art of Being a Goof
This was my year to show off my natural ability to make a fool of myself. I think that this comment from a youtube user sums it up: "I mean this in the kindest way possible...You are SUCH a dork!". Compliment accepted.

So, if you get a chuckle from my silly face pictures, or odd attire, or the just plain strange discoveries, I'm glad to have brightened your day. Giggle on, my funny friends, giggle on.

Nugget Box Tutorial

With the crazy rush of last minute shopping, baking and assorted holiday hoopla, I'm pleased that I was able to wrap up this tutorial. Enjoy!

Sneak Peek

Wondering what's the next video tutorial? By special request, a nugget box! Those yummy little Hershey's nuggets are so perfect for wrapping and they make a quick and easy Christmas gift when presented in a matchbox style gift box.

I've been working on the video for a few days and I'm just about to reshoot some of the footage. (Lighting issues, ugh!) It'll be out in a few days, so check back for the release!

Size Matters

This is the wreath that took on a life of its own. Since we recently painted our door black, an evergreen wreath just wasn't going to work. I wanted something shiny and lovely, and handmade. Then, for some insane reason, I thought this Christmas ball wreath would be simple and inexpensive. A jaunt to the Dollar Tree (love this place) scored me a few tubes of ornaments. I wanted a styrofoam wreath, but after seeing the prices a straw base seemed like a good idea. I mean, come on, who wants to spend 10 bucks on a base that no one really gets to see anyway? Got me a big one, no use in making a small wreath as long as I'm going to get such a good deal on ornaments.


Fast forward four days and about 5 more trips to the dollar store. My hand has permanently become claw shaped from holding a hot glue gun for hours on end. But it's all worth it... this is one eye catching wreath! I can't bring myself to add a bow, it might cover some of my hard work. If you spied the bare spot, avert your eyes. The glitter balls don't like sub-freezing weather and slammed doors, so a couple popped right off. Back to the glue gun when my hand regains its flexibility.

What the heck is a bagalope?

If you're hunting for the perfect party favor, look no further! Bagalopes are quick, easy and inexpensive. So simple, yet so darned cute.

Love a Bargain?

I love a great deal, don't you? Don't miss out on the Holiday Heydey online clearance sale on my website! Super bargains on fabulous Close to My Heart products. But hurry, this stuff goes fast. Special $5 shipping on orders of $100 or more. Order through my website and you'll also receive a hand-stamped card from me! Click here to shop the sale!

Shopping website may experience slow periods due to volume of visits on Close to My Heart sites. Be patient, it's worth it!

WHAT is that crazy lady doing NOW?

I hope my neighbors understand that I'm not insane. Take this photo clip from the video I'm working on right now. Creeping around the bushes in the backyard with a rifle.... well, that's not something you see every day. Care to guess what the video is about?