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Friday, December 31, 2010

Goals We Set



New Year's Eve is a good day to look in two directions.  In Roman mythology, Janus is the god of gates, doorways, beginnings, endings and time.  He is often shown as having two heads, one facing the past and one the future.  I feel a bit like that today.

The opportunity on days like today is to look at the half full glass...give ourselves a pat on the back for all we accomplished this past year and plan how we're going to carry that success and set of accomplishments into the new year...

You could spend time on all the things that didn't get done, but why make yourself crazy?  There is always something more that could have been done or finished or started, but either they weren't important enough or didn't get to the top of the 'to do' list for a reason..... nuff said about the unfinished

OK, so I'll go first......

I wanted to lose weight this year and started out strong and lost some......didn't lose any more but kept off what I did lose......gold star

I wanted my personal scrap room in order and I did accomplish that, complete with paint and shelves and new light fixtures and all...... it's a challenge to keep it tidy but most days I can see at least a bit of the table top and the days I have spent in that room scrapping with friends have been amazing....

I wanted to blog more this year and that was a mixed accomplishment - some months more and some less, but I'm going to focus on the more and try to improve on the less next year.

My last goal (of those that I will talk about here at least) was to reach 5000 sales by the end of the year and, thanks to my excellent customers, I made it.....way back at the beginning of November.  So I looked at my sales and my stuff and said......why not go for more....and I set a goal of 6000 sales by the end of the year.....bold I know, but doable....

I'm short.  Only 65 items, but I'm short.   sigh.....  So I spent the obligatory 5 minutes thinking about what I could have done differently, about the sales I didn't make, the items I didn't list and then I stopped.  My business has taken such an upturn this year and I have been so fortunate that it would be absolutely stupid of me to be anything but happy about my accomplishments this year.

Which brings me to all of you.  Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.......

for your support
for your encouragement
for your business
for your feedback
for your friendship
for reading my ramblings
and for giving me a reason to keep doing this

I wish you and your families the very best of everything in the New Year.  Take a few minutes this weekend to be Janus-like.  Give yourselves all the credit you deserve for all the things you did and daydream about all the opportunities the next 365 days will bring.

You guys are the best.

Sue

p.s.  Since you read all the way to the bottom, you get a prize.  Free shipping on any order placed today...Mention JANUS in the comment section of your order at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Wandering Around the Blogopshere



So there is the blog feature that allows you to  see what blogosphere location they come from when they get to your blog (how cool is that?).  So I was looking and the list carries the usual mail and search locations along with some visitors from the etsy site.  But then there was an internet address that I didn't recognize so I went there to see what it was and I sure am glad I did.

Apparently, at some point, Sandi Manning in New South Wales Australia stumbled over my blog and  listed me on hers as a source of inspriation.  But, talk about inspiration, you should she her stuff.  She is currently working on a series of heart hangers (how perfect as we turn our attention to Valentine's Day) that are truly FABULOUS.  You have to see them.

You can visit Sandi's blog at http://puddleduckfarm.blogspot.com/

Today, I leave you with a great New Year's Eve image. 

Enjoy the day.

Monday, December 27, 2010

Whatcha Doin'?

I find myself with - oddly enough - very little to do.

Don't get me wrong, I have lots of projects and things that I 'should' do, but nothing pressing.....nothing with urgency......nothing that compares with the pressure of the time leading up to Christmas.....

Odd feeling..

I cleared the sidewalk salt off the front hallway floors, took the sheets from the beds in the guest rooms, got the holiday serving platters ready to pack and downloaded the pics from the camera and put them in their folders......gonna go clean off the table in the workroom and get to some of those scanning projects I've been meaning to get to.

I just listed some new colors in some great Chatterbox albums at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com - a couple of the colors perfect for Valentine's Day projects.  Never too early to get started on the next big gift making event.



Have a great week.  Carve out a little bite of peace and quiet somewhere - sometime.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

A Long Sigh....


of contentment.....

The children and grandchildren have moved on to the other families......

There's just enough snow on the ground to make it beautiful but not enough to cause traffic issues...

It's just the two of us (not counting the dogs)

We've already watched A Christmas Story....we turn to It's A Wonderful Life now

We're thinking maybe a little turkey sandwich in a bit - perhaps a side of cranberry sauce and the last two pieces of apple pie..

We just downloaded the pictures from the camera and look back on all the fun....

Thinking about whether we need to go to Target in the morning for stockings to hang for the grandchildren next year

I'm wearing fabulous new slippers, a fabulous new ring and cleaning up the carnage that is the kitchen after two days with that much food, that many small children, and that much making at least one of everyone's favorite foods....

The only thing left is to share my best wishes for you and your families.  I hope that you all had the Merriest of Christmases and that you with join me now in a

sigh.......of contentment and peace.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

One Last Sale - For Blog Followers Only



Before I wish you all a Very Merry.....I thought we would have one more sale.

10% off everything and free shipping over $50.

It's easy, it's simple and it's fun.  Remember - for every two gifts you buy for others....you must buy one gift for yourself.  It's a rule...

Hope you are all enjoying the holidays.  New blog followers are also eligible so tell your friends.

Please put the words VERY FABULOUS in your comments on the order so that I make sure to do the discount thing.

Have fun shopping.  www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

Sue

Monday, November 29, 2010

More Free Stuff......YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

And even if you don't have to work today, let me help you feel better by giving you sale pricing and free stuff.  In addition to the 5000 Black Friday specials, I am offering the following

10% off all 7gypsies
10% off all Jenni Bowlin
10% off all Glitz Designs
10% off all Kaisercraft
Buy any 12x12 Sassafras Lass collection kit - get a free set of 12x12 alphabet stickers
Buy any Tim Holtz product and get a set of 7gypsies clear buttons free
Buy any Melissa Frances Product and get three yards of velvet ribbon free

1/2 price shipping on all US orders, $5.00 off international orders

Shipping and discount amounts will be refunded when I ship your order.  You MUST put the words SAVE ME in the comments on your order to get these specials.  www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

In addition,

The 5000 Black Friday Sale items that are still available are:

Material Girl/Garden Variety 12x12 paper pad at half price with free shipping.  Normally $20.00 now $9.95 with free shipping
Jenni Bowlin Reader Chipboard buttons - buy one get a sheet of Jenni Bowlin stickers free (stickers are my choice - please do not put any in your cart unless you wish to buy them)
Nikki Sivils 6x6 Paper Pads - Buy One Get One Free - put two in your cart and I will refund one
7gypsies - Metal Reinforcers - $2.00
Queen and Company Felt Borders - Buy 2 Get 1 Free - free is my choice - please do not put the third in your cart unless you wish to buy it
7gypsies Chipboard Tags - $1.00
Vintage Look Magazines - Lots of Excellent Advertisements - $3.00
October Afternoon Flashcard Books - $2.00 off - online price reflects the discounted price
Select Tim Holtz Alterations Dies - $13.00 - Regular Price $20
Tim Holtz Halloween Texture Fades - $7.75 - Regular Price $11
Select Victorian Scrap - $1.25 - Regular Price $1.69 to $1.99
Sassafras Lass 12x12 Collection Packs - $10.00 - Regular price $17.99 - Indie Girl and Mix N Mend

That's about it for now.  Let me know if you have questions.

Prices are good from the time you receive the email until midnight November 29th so don't delay.

Thanks, as always, for being the best customers a girl could hope for.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Without Further Ado - The 5000 Black Friday Sale

OK, so enough already.

The thought of doing a 5000 Sales Sale and a Black Friday Sale is just crazy, so let's do them together.

This is what you will find:

Material Girl/Garden Variety 12x12 paper pad at half price with free shipping.  Normally $20.00 now $9.95 with free shipping
Jenni Bowlin Reader Chipboard buttons - buy one get a sheet of Jenni Bowlin stickers free (stickers are my choice - please do not put any in your cart unless you wish to buy them)
Nikki Sivils 6x6 Paper Pads - Buy One Get One Free - put two in your cart and I will refund one
7gypsies - Metal Reinforcers - $2.00
Queen and Company Felt Borders - Buy 2 Get 1 Free - free is my choice - please do not put the third in your cart unless you wish to buy it
7gypsies Chipboard Tags - $1.00
Vintage Look Magazines - Lots of Excellent Advertisements - $3.00
October Afternoon Flashcard Books - $2.00 off - online price reflects the discounted price
Select Tim Holtz Alterations Dies - $13.00 - Regular Price $20
Tim Holtz Halloween Texture Fades - $7.75 - Regular Price $11
Select Victorian Scrap - $1.25 - Regular Price $1.69 to $1.99
Sassafras Lass 12x12 Collection Packs - $10.00 - Regular price $17.99 - Indie Girl and Mix N Mend


and more.  As always, shipping will be adjusted to actual so don't worry about your shipping going crazy.  International customers - convo me for a custom listing.  Have fun with it.  More will be added as things sell out.  I may have missed changing a couple of listings, so if you think I need to fix something, let me know. 

What are you waiting for?  Start shopping 

Friday, November 19, 2010

Victorian Scrap

I know that you all love it.......the stuff that makes your projects so much fun.  Tiny flowers, little santas, fish and birds and horses and all kinds of stuff.

This stuff is great.  If you haven't used it before, now is the perfect time to try it.  This is a slightly glossy thick paper, printed with the original art from the 20's and 30's and then it is embossed so that the paper now has dimension.  How cool is that.

I listed a bunch of new designs yesterday (even got my husband to help) and they are so cute and I am so excited about them that I am offering free shipping on them starting today until Sunday for only my fabulous blog followers.  As always, check out and I will refund your shipping charges.

Also, take a peek through the rest of the shop.  I have started to list the items for the 5000 sale and you never know what you will find.

I leave you with a pic of one of the scrap designs I listed yesterday.

Happy shopping

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Giving Money Away

now that I have your attention.......

This is referral week.

From now until Sunday, November 21 - refer a friend to www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com and receive a credit of 10% of their purchase toward YOUR next order.

So let's just say you have a friend Barb who goes to www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com and shops (of course Barb loves you now because you sent her there to shop.) 

Barb gets 1/2 price shipping on her second order and you get 10% of Barb's purchase refunded to you on your next order.  The more Barb spends, the more you get.  Would be a great time to send all of your friends that shop A LOT to see me.

 Necessary fine print....the friend you refer must be a new customer to me....your credit amount does not include their shipping charges.....your freind must put your name in the comment section on their order....the order where you receive the credit should mention your friends name in the comment section of your order.

No limit on the number of friends you refer or on the amount of credits you accumulate.  How excellent is that.  Referrals must be made by this Sunday and credits expire at the end of 2010.

 Let me know if you have questions......what are you waiting for.....start referring......

Saturday, November 13, 2010

New Ranger Ink Products Have Arrived

So, you know that I am a fan of ink.  (Just ink, you ask.....silly girl) but I love to play with chemicals on paper so needless to say this was a big week at the receiving dock (otherwise known as the front door) when one box arrived with the new - reformulated - Adirondak Color Washes (in 12 colors no less) and in another box the new Liquid Pearls. You can get information on how the products have changed and how to use them at www.rangerink.com  Is there anything better.....

Actually there is.  Another box came and brought me the cutest stuff from Glitz Designs.  The Glitz Girls outdid themselves and have packaged me up the most wonderful stuff....fabulous stamps, stickers (thanks Erin) albums, rubons and just, in general, the kind of stuff that can make your project unique and fun.  You can get ideas and inspiration for this product at www.glitzitnow.com


Add to that the Basic Grey Curio paper and embellishments, new victorian scrap from my friend Adreas and new gold, silver and blue Dresden accent pieces and all of the sudden, the world is a happier place.

It really is a good time to stop by and take a peek.  You might just find the perfect thing that will make your holiday gift projects the best ever.

Mention that you read about this stuff on the blog and get half price shipping on your order just for being a blog follower.  Just type follower in the comments on your order at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com
 
and I will refund half of your shippng costs back to you.  How fun is that?

I leave you with a couple of fun images.  

Thanks for reading all the way to the bottom and happy shopping.



 

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

I'm Feeling in the Pink Today

In my never ending (well, that may be a bit much but I'm feeling dramatic today) quest to bring you the best - today I bring you a fabulous blog with visually stunning photographs and great vintage paper to copy and download for your personal use - kinda like sharing good things with friends.


Take a peek at

http://littlepinkstudio.typepad.com/little_pink_studio/2010/11/pretty-old-things-1.html


Get your coffee or tea, sit back and just stroll through the visuals....immerse yourself in the vintageness of it all.  Leave the husband and kids and dogs and cats and laundry and cleaning and ..........you get what I mean.....all behind while you take a visual vacation.  You won't be disappointed.

5000 sale postponed.  Trust me, you want me to get all this stuff listed.  I got new German Scrap listed yesterday but more to come.....

Sunday, November 7, 2010

I Found a New Love - And Wanted To Share

So I know you think I don't pay attention to much,.....don't worry, I'm not hurt by that.....sometimes I don't pay attention the way I should, but we have a new blog follower jillandstu.  So because it is Daylight Savings Time today I am up waaaaayyyy too early, so I clicked on jillandstu to see what blogs she follows and found this piece of goodness.....

http://shari-design.blogspot.com/

Shari Carroll is a very very talented person and she does a monthly technique article that is not to be missed.  For November, she is making holiday cards with both the positive and negative stamped spaces and has a video of some great inking goodness.  

Let's all say hi to jillandstu as she joins our little blog family and let's all stop by and see Shari's blog.  Drop her a line and tell her how much you love her stuff and where you found her.

Because you know you are my favorites, the 5000 sale is coming this week and you will get notice in advance of it's start.  In addition to the sale, there will be a chance for you to get free product by referring friends.  Get your friends lined up now but don't have them shop until I tell you.  They will get something for shopping and you will get something for referring them.....how much fun is that...

I leave you with some vintage photo goodness.




Saturday, November 6, 2010

Bits and Bobs (Who's Bob?) To Die For

So, again, I know that I have lots of the things that you want and lots of the things I want, for that matter, but even I have to shop somewhere.....so when I want to go shopping, I stop by my favorite place for cool bits - The Altered Paradise at Regina's Studio.

From vintage raffle tickets to cool game cards, she truly has wonderful stuff.  I just got a package from her yesterday and I spent over a hour going through my stuff and imagining the possibilities.  She has metal hand forged nails, sewing tins, doll parts and, over 300 items under $3.

Stop by and see her at http://www.etsy.com/shop/reginasstudio?ref=top_trail.  You won't be disappointed.  Great stuff, great prices and great customer service.  She is truly FABULOUS.  Have a great weekend. 

Friday, November 5, 2010

New Jenni Bowlin In The House

And it is drop dead FABULOUS!

New calendars - three of them - vintage and multi color bingo calendars and a mini die cut pad with calendar pages.

New die cut pages in vintage and the cutest polka dots you'll ever see.

New journaling cards and 4x4 mini papers in this year's extension to the black and red line and fall bingo cards - perfect foundation for place cards at Thanksgiving dinner.

All this in addition to the paints, inks, stickers and papers from the summer line......don't forget those vintage chipboard holiday buttons.....




Stop by and see what all the fuss is about.


Special offer just for blog followers - buy any three Jenni Bowlin products and receive a 4x4 mini album with cut out cover FREE.  These books have lined papers and are a regular retail $5.95.  Just mention BLOG in the comments on your order.

Have fun and let me know if I can do anything to help.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Soap and Art - The Perfect Combination



You know that I want to help all of you with your holiday shopping and I am enough of a realist to know that not all of your Christmas shopping needs can be found in my shop.  Sad, I know, but true.  I do, however, still feel that I am able to help.

May I recommend the following:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/ljctree?ref=top_trail

There is soap with fabulous blends and wrappings, there is jewelry - check out the fabulous earrings - the taxi or hobo necklace.....a little something for everyone on your gift list.  And don't forget to look at the pricing....absolutely fabulous.

She has great customer service, excellent product and prices that let you shop in comfort.

Stop by and see what you've been missing..

Monday, November 1, 2010

Who Doesn't Love a Good Cupcake

I know - you don't hear from me for a while and now twice in one day, but I have to share.

If you are not familiar with the fabulous Carol Wingert, then let me introduce you to her via her blog.  I have been taking classes, both in person and via kits from Carol for over three years now and I love love love her stuff.  Not only do I love the finished product, but I love love love her instructions.  They are clear, concise and have helpful photos.

Carol now offers kit instructions - just the instructions - for projects on her site - all for a limited time. This week you have the opportunity to purchase instructions for the cutest decor cupcake you have ever seen.  Lots of wonderful goodness here.

http://carolwingert.typepad.com/creatologie/2010/11/new-workshop-to-go-creatologie-cupcakes.html

Join the mailing list for updates.  I promise you won't be disappointed.

Fabulous Fall Wreath

OK, so i know that some of you read the Tim Holtz blog regularly, but for those of you that do not, you need to take a look at this wreath.  One of his design team members made it from cast off packaging, although I think you could also use paper and stamps to get the same mottled look to the leaves.  I think it's beautiful and a great way to recycle packaging.

You can see it at:  http://cain81art.blogspot.com/2010/10/fall-wreath-design-team-project.html

Just a heads up.....the etsy site is at 4972 sales.  Can a 5000 sale be far behind?  Keep watching for notice of the sale....

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Wow - What a Fabulous Weekend



You can sing those words to the tune of Oh What a Beautiful Morning......just thought you would be interested....

There were 40 of us this past weekend out in a truly beautiful place for a truly fun scrapbooking weekend. On a cliff overlooking the fabulous Rock River we laughed and scrapped and shopped and ate the most fabulous food.

Thanks to everyone who joined us there. You guys are the best.

Jealous? Want to join us next time? Drop me a line and I'll put you on the mailing list. We have lots of repeat attendees, but usually have room for more. Next year's dates are available. We'll be going in January, March, July and October. January and July are benefit weekend - little higher fee but the extra is tax deductable.

Lots of new product in the etsy store at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com October Afternoon, Sassafras Lass and watch for a few small little items from 7gypsies - Christmas. Can you believe that - 7gypsies Christmas. New Victorian Scrap coming any minute now and......next week......starting to blog holiday project ideas from some of your favorite companies. Stick around, we'll be off and running on holiday preparations soon.

I leave you with some vintage photo goodness.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

7gypsies Library Drawer - My Completed Project












It isn't too often that I share my work here on the blog, but I'm kinda excited about what I
did so this time I will.

My dear friend and scrapping buddy Cathy is gonna be a grandma soon. For those of you who have entered the grandma/grandpa zone, you know that there is nothing quite like it. So I made her a gift. Cathy has an extremely busy schedule so I made this library drawer set for her so that she can just put her printed pics in it, put a card with notes with the pic and be done.

I've shown a couple of the pics here, but you can see all the pics of the project here

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15416950@N05/sets/72157624924799438/


That's what I know today. My October Afternoon shipment will be at the door this week so watch for some of that goodness soon and I am adding new product every every day.

4000 sale still in progress with some new items added.

Thanks for being such great listeners as I bragged a little today.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

4000 is so much better than 3000

Congratulations. You should all be so proud. Look what you've done. You have grown my business again. So little to do with me and so much to do with all of you. The only way that I can think of to thank you is to


drumroll please


HAVE A SALE!

Because you are my blog followers (and my favorites, but don't tell the other kids that) you get first shot at the deals available. There are now over 40 items with special pricing at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com. Some are old friends with improved pricing and some are things that I have been saving for an occasion just like this. There are over 500 total items on the site so take your time and browse on through.

In addition to the posted sale prices, you, my loyal blog followers, also get the following:

  • buy any 5 items from Queen and Company (felt borders or bling in any combination) and get one free. Please do not put the free one in the cart. I have a stash I will be fulfilling from. Please just put multiples of 5 in the cart for this deal.
  • spend $10 on Jenni Bowlin items and get a fabulous 4x4 inch chipboard book free. Again, please do not put the chipboard book in the cart, I will automatically add it in for you.
  • to the first 8 blog followers to buy anything from SEI's lines (6 total items listed), you will get a 6x6 paper pad (my choice of product). Again, don't put your freebie in the cart, I'll put the paper in for you automatically. I only have 8 to give away so don't be left behind.
  • spend $10 or more on Cosmo Cricket items and get 2 yards of purple velvet scalloped ribbon from Cosmo Cricket. The ribbon is a perfect match for the new lines.

Queen and Company offer is unlimited - you will get one free for every 5 you buy. Buy 20 get 4 etc. Jenni Bowlin, SEI and Cosmo Cricket offers are one per customer.

Everone ordering at least one 4000 Sale item will get 1 yard of free ribbon and one holiday clear stamp, either Christmas or Halloween included in their package.

Sale runs until quantities run out but quantities of some items are less than 5 so if you think you want something, best to shop early.

As always, excess shipping charges will be refunded.

International buyers, convo me with a list and I will estimate your shipping for you.

Something missing? Saw and item before and now it is not there? Ask. It may be hiding somewhere in the great Etsy closet.

Thanks again to all of you for your support, encouragement and purchases. You make this little dream of mine so much fun.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Lookie Lookie

Ok, so here's the thing. One of the things that people do on Etsy is offer their 'view of interesting things' in the form of a Treasury. People who put these collections together, do them around a 'theme'. It has been a great month for itsalwaysfabulous in Etsy treasuries. I have had my victorian scrap birds, shabby French stamps, bingo cards, itinerary stamps and a couple of other things selected to appear in Treasuries. It is so cool to see what my products have been featured with. My shabby French stamps were featured with a chair covered in script fabric and clothespins stamped with French postcard writings. My bingo cards were featured with a whole collection of other Bingo things - some vintage and some new. My itinerary stamp was featured with some of the coolest travel stuff on Etsy. If you have a minute, find the treasury section on Etsy, type in a search keyword and spend a few minutes looking at some excellent collections of stuff. Start here: http://www.etsy.com/treasury/?ref=fp_nav_treasury

In other news, I have 3999 sales. You know what that means......A SALE!

Starting Monday the 13th, there will be 40 items on sale, some favorite items at reduced prices and some brand new things I have been saving up just for this sale.

You never know what will show up. You'll just have to stop by www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com and check it out. I'll be sending out more information soon.

Have a great weekend. Enjoy the great fall weather.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

It's Scrapbook Expo Weekend

here in the Windy City suburbs and you know that always generates a lot of scrapbooking excitement. Lots of cropping buddies to see and to share the excitement with.

If you live in the greater Chicago area and are going to Scrapbook Expo, why not stop by at the world headquarters of itsalwaysfabulous? Buddies and I are going over to the Expo for a bit on Friday, but I'll be here at headquarters (did I mention that I live under 2 miles away from where the Expo is?) and we'll be cropping and selling here. Wanna join us? Drop me an email at sue.stoughton@gmail.com and I'll give you specifics and directions. Great opportunity to pick up some brand new product at excellent prices and meet the entire staff (that would be me, my husband and the dogs). Stop by the Melissa Frances booth at Expo and ask who sells her product locally. You may just get a surprise.....

If you don't live close by, no worries, we have something special for you also. If you place an order at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com between now and Sunday and your order is over $50, you'll get free shipping. Better yet, cash in on all the new Jenni Bowlin, 7gypsies and Robin's Nest and if your order is more than $100, you'll get free shipping and 10% off.

This offer is only for blog followers so you must must must tell me that you are a blog follower in the comments on the order, but hey, such a small thing to do for such excellent savings. If you are coming in to shop, you'll get a special deal also.

Jenni Bowlin arrives today so watch for lots of listings and I'm still loading up the 7gypsies items. So much to list......so little time.....

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

CHA Update and New Things

New things....so many new things.

I have been gone, but for good reasons. I have been SHOPPING for new products and, boy, did I find some stuff.

So here's what is on the way.....

Arriving TODAY - New 7gypsies - Paper, paper and more paper. Then there are the embellishments and the decor. Have you seen this stuff? If you haven't seen it, you can see the catalog here http://www.sevengypsies.com/pdfs/CHAS10_catalog.pdf Take a look. You want to see this stuff, trust me......Papers, new book covers and journal pages, new decor....each one cuter than the last. Take a look. Did I say you want to take a look..... Pricing will be 25% off the prices listed in the catalog.

Arriving later this week - Dew Drops and Diamond Drops from Robin's Nest. These tiny little embellishments are about 1/4 inch across, but will pack a lot of punch on your next project. I ordered an assortment of different sizes and shapes. Regular retail price is $6.00 per jar.....itsalwaysfabulous price is $4.25. I concentrated the order on Halloween and Holiday colors.

Any of this sound good? If there is anything you want me to set aside for you, just let me know and I'll put it aside when it arrives. Some of these things are available in limited quantities so let me put this stuff aside for you if you're interested......

Coming soon....the complete new release from Tim Holtz, album kits from Teresa Collins, embellishments from Sassafras Lass, holiday and recipe kits from Donna Salazar, papers and embellishments from October Afternoon, paper and letter stickers from Cosmo Cricket, all the new Jenni Bowlin and more........

As always, thanks for being the best blog followers ever. Let me know what I can do to help.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Where Have I Been?

I really have to apologize. I have been out of touch and so behind on everything. I am finally starting to get out from under it all, but still need another day or two until I can say that I am caught up.

For those of you who have been trying to reach me, I apologize that I have been unavailable. For those of you that have been waiting for things promised, I'm running to get my promises fulfilled. For those of you that think that I am a bit flaky, July has been a month when I definitely deserve the title.

Updates: My back is still a bit bad. Have to watch how I move, but I can sit up for more than an hour or so at this point and can manage the whole thing with Motrin (a lot of Motrin, but still with Motrin.) As far as our dog Megan is concerned, she passed on Saturday. She continued to have seizures, could no longer see, could no longer find her way back inside after being in the back yard, and was so anxious that she could not find rest. Our fabulous vet helped us give her rest. We gave ourselves the day on Saturday to cry. I am still tearing up as I am writing this, but I will never forget how, in the vet's office lying on the table, she looked up and licked my face as if to thank me.

Back from the kleenex run to the other room now.

Anyway, I have some help coming over today to help me get caught up on my listings. I have some one-of-a-kind books and papers that I am going to try to list. Things that I have picked up here and there that I think you will all appreciate. Vintage sewing patterns, cooking pamphlets from the 50's, children's books with fabulous illustrations, etc. etc. etc. My buddy Jake is gonna come scan for me so that I can do my listings.

In the mean time, mention that you are a blog follower and get 10% off your total order at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com . Consider it my way of apologizing for being so lost and far away the past few weeks. Just comment that you are a blog follower in the order comments and I will refund 10% of everything you order (does not apply to shipping charges. Offer ends Sunday July 18.

See the new Graphic45 Alice in Wonderland/Halloween paper I have listed. I listed the 8x8 paper pads, but if you want the 12x12, I also have that, just let me know if you don't see either listed.

Thanks to all of you who sent your wishes to us for Megan and to me for my back. You guys are the best.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

My Dog is Old, My Back is Spasming - An Ode to My Life

So first of all, thanks to all who stopped by the big 3000 Sale. So glad that so many of you were able to take advantage of those great prices.

Secondly, in a fit of cleaning late last week (proving once again that no good comes from a clean house) I did something to my back. Was mildly uncomfortable (read here high pain threshold) until yesterday....which brings me to the rest of my title.

My mixed breed Megan has been with me since 1995 when I got her from a shelter. When I got her, they said she was two. I've done the math and that makes Megan 17 this year, old for most dogs but unusual for 45 lb. dogs. So last year she had some kind of a stroke and we did xrays and blood tests and came up with nothing but we've had another great year with her since then. Her days have grown shorter as she sleeps more and more but is still around at breakfast looking for love and bites of bagels. So yesterday, in front of my tween niece and nephew who are visiting for a few days, Megan has a full blown seizure. I don't think there is anything as helpless as watching a dog who has given you nothing but love (and a house full of dog hair) go through something that you are unable to help them with. It was the first of 5 throughout the evening. After the second we went to the vet who drew blood and told me to call back today.

This all ties together because in order to get the dog to the vet she had to be....that's right....lifted in and out of the car, up and down from the table at the vet, in and out of the car to go home and up the stairs at home. 45 lb dog at awkward angles with an already marginal back. Not so much the lifting with the back.

Hard to predict, today, where the greatest pain will be..... in my back or in my breaking heart as I watch my baby go.

But enough about me....

I hope that you are all enjoying the summer heat. So hot and humid here there is little else to do but sit inside and be artsy with paper (any excuse for a play day.)

I will be shipping today I hope (back has been preventing me from the stretching and bending that my shipping and receiving efforts require) but I will be listing the latest collection from Melissa Francis - retro kitchen and very very cute. You can see the whole collection here http://www.melissafrances.com/products.php?cat=16&item=0

That's all for now. Going to go lift Megan on to the couch so that I can rub her belly. Falls under the heading of the least I can do for such a good friend....

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE

Now that I have your attention, I am proud and happy to announce that I have over 45 items with special pricing in honor of my 3000th sale.

The list includes two different Tim Holtz alterations dies, one set of Tim Holtz texture fades, Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist, Dream Street Papers Rubons, 7gypsies Round board books and rubons, Cosmo Cricket Joy Ride 6x6 paper pads, 6x6 paper collections and so very very very much more.

Don't be shy, go ahead and shop. Quantities on some of these beauties are very limited (some of them are actually the last one or two around) and new sale items will be added as this first group sells out.

Shop early and shop often. If you are on the site at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com and go to the top of the screen, you can type in 3000 sale to see all of the items listed out for you.

As always, shipping will be adjusted to actual when I ship and any overpaid shipping will be refunded through paypal.

As blog followers, you have most of the day today before I let my mailing list of 350 people know of the sale.

Thank you all so much for your support in my first 16 months of selling. Literally, could not have done it without you.

Monday, June 21, 2010

And So It Begins

Ok, so it was a bigger shipping day than I thought it would be plus Linda came over to do her Basic Grey layouts for June (we missed Betty, don't know where she was) so I am a little bit farther behind on setting up items for the sale, but I do have the first few done. So because you are my blog followers and, therefore, among my favorites, I am giving you first pick of some very limited quantity things. There is a Tim Holtz Alterations Die (movie tickets), Jenni Bowlin Chipboard Buttons, Chipboard Alphabets, Making Memories Ribbon and so much more now and to come.

Go ahead and start shopping. Put the stuff in your cart and check out. I'll take all your orders over the next few days and combine them and combine the shipping. As always, excess shipping will be refunded.

Want to find the items fast? They are all tagged with 3000 sale so key that in once you are on the shop page at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com and they will show up for you.

Check back often over the next couple of days. There will be at least 30 items on deep discount sale so don't miss out.

Let me know if you have questions and, as always, thanks for being the greatest customers on the planet and for reading all the way to the bottom.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Today


was a great day for so many reasons. Yesterday we got the whole famn damily together for May Birthdays/June Birthdays/Mother's Day and Father's Day. There was food and noise and confusion and it would not have been wonderful without all of that. We took two of the grandkids to lunch (golden arches of course), on the Merry Go Round, to the Movies (Woody and Buzz for the third time) and then home for yet another meal and round of dog walks. I don't think the dogs or the children or grandpa, for that matter, are gonna have any trouble sleeping tonight.

The head count at our most festive was 10 humans and 7 dogs. When there gets to be more dogs than humans, that's when we have to worry. Pics to follow - I am literally too tired to unload the pics. Besides, unloading the editing them tomorrow will allow me to extend the happy glow.

If you have a chance to see Toy Story3 I highly recommend. Lots of humor for adults among the animation. Good solid entertainment.

The other excellent news is that Cathy Vreseima purchased item number 3000 on my etsy site today. It was so great that Cathy was involved. She has been a customer of mine almost since the beginning and, like all of you, has encouraged me and enabled this little project of mine to continue long after I thought it would. Thanks Cathy and thanks to everyone who helped me reach my 3000 items sold 3 weeks before my business plan said I had to reach 2000 items sold. Guess I'll have to revise that plan. HOW FABULOUS IS THAT.

Going to spend a good portion of the day tomorrow working on listings for the big sale this week. Hope to be ready sometime on Monday so stay tuned to this station for further updates.

Thank you all for your support, encouragement, and purchases over the last 16 months. Literally, could not have done it without you.....

Thanks, as always, for reading all the way to the bottom.

Sue

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Class Announcement


Been a while since I have been here. Hope this post finds you all well and enjoying the summer.

Couple of pieces of news

On June 22 I will be teaching a class at the Carol Stream Historical Society. It is a great accordion album titled Home is Where the Heart Is. Catchy title, don't you think? I am proud to have been invited to be part of an evening that focuses on preservation. There will be a talk on the art of preservation by a professional from Wheaton College then time to create this cute little 5x7 accordion album with a tie closure and room for lots and lots of pics. All the pieces will be pre-cut and you will finish the project that evening. Cost of the event is only $12 and part of the proceeds goes to the Historical Society. For more information and to sign up, go to:

http://www.carolstreamhistorical.com

If you have questions, let me know. I hope to see some of you there for an evening of fun.

Second piece of news is that I will be reaching 3000 sales on Etsy in the very near future. You know what that means...... A BIG SALE. Earliest start of the sale will be Monday June 21st (let's get through Father's Day first) but I have to tell you I have been accumulating things just for this sale. Teaser - 6x6 packs of paper - several different kinds - $1.00. You won't want to miss this sale so make sure to mark your calendars for Monday June 21st to read the blog for an update to visit www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com . Remember that blog followers get first notice of all things sale related, so tell your friends to follow so they won't be left out.

Finally, it's almost trade show time when lots of your favorite manufacturers are releasing new products. If you see something you like, let me know so that I can help you find it.

The plasterer is coming on Monday to patch the holes that the electrician made when he strung the wiring for the new fixtures in the scrap room. That makes us one step closer to finishing (feels like I have been saying that forever).

Hope you all have a great weekend and, as always, thanks for reading all the way to the bottom. I leave you with a vintage postcard image of the California Beaches.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Holiday Weekend - What Are You Doing?



It looks like the weather may cooperate - the kick off to the summer season is here. Weren't we just talking about snow?

It's time to get the white shoes and white pants out of storage and find all the tools for the grill. So what's everyone doing this weekend? Beach? Party? Yard Work? Love to look forward to long weekends. So many possibilities.

So, a couple of pieces of news. You need to take a peek at this:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf5413a574b8eef2e9f4ea8/macgyver


Etsy treasuries are collections of things that people think are cool. I think my clips fit perfectly into that collection, don't you?

So that inspired me to create a treasury of some of my favorite paper things. You can see my favorites here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=99799

Do you have favorite paper things? What are your favorite paper things?

So there is that and then there is this. I would like to start posting 'our' projects. Things we have done - things we are proud of - things we think are great. What do you think? Anyone interested? I'll start. I did this layout because I thought the papers and ribbons were perfect for the picture. What do you think?

Send me your favorite projects. Would love to share them with the group.

That's all for now. Whatever you are doing, have a great weekend.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Wednesday Inspiration



So because I was destined for just a little sleep last night, I decided to look around rather than spend all my time managing my farm on Facebook. (otherwise know as the game that can suck hours from your day without notice until you are taking the dinner chicken out to defrost at 4 in the afternoon)

What I found are some truly amazing things that I thought you might enjoy.

First from Jenni Bowlin's website comes the gallery of this month's guest designer. I love the first sample (who knew that paper and string could look that amazing) but I also love the messy use of the misting product. Go here http://www.jbsmercantile.com/page.asp?Page=37 to see that.

On the Cosmo Cricket page, they recently posted some of their favorite layouts received from customers and fans. You can see the post here http://cosmocricket.typepad.com/cosmo_cricket/2010/05/our-favorites.html I am just in love with the fist layout. Look at all the stuff on that page, but imagine how many of your random scraps and odds and ends you could find a home for on a page like that.

And for my last, check out the Educator's Blog at http://mytatteredangels.com/educators/ . This blog is put together by people who work with Glimmer Mist and they give full technique instructions on how to achieve new looks with their products. Some very fine things there - and not as difficult as you would think. Love seeing new techniques to use with products I already have.

That's it for me today. Have an extra dog in the house today which brings the barking total up to five so there will be lots of running around today.

Hope you've enjoyed the fruits of my insomnia. Don't forget to post a comment on the prior post for the giveaway.

Thanks for reading all the way to the bottom.

Monday, May 17, 2010

New Stuff and a Giveaway!




So I hope everyone had a great weekend. The weather here was picture perfect and my husband (who is mentioned here often) painted shelves for my scrap room. Big beautiful shelves that will hold lots and lots (and hopefully the last) of the stuff I have waiting for a space to live. Bought light fixtures and emailed some electricians. I think I may just get the room done before the end of the month. Pics to follow.

But enough about me. Let's talk about NEW PRODUCT! Jenni Bowlin has new banner stickers. Children playing, photographer's mark, butterflies, and ledger papers are just too cute for words. The butterfly stickers match the rhinestone-enhanced dimensional butterflies that were new last month. How excellent is that. She also has new mini-bingo cards in the color of the ocean with beach themed words.

There is also new product from Sassafras Lass - cute 6x6 paper pads, felt embellishments and the most fabulous fabric brads you ever wanted to see - two different kinds.

And from 7gypsies - so much new - paper pads, paper tapes, journal books and the rest of the newest release. Each little thing more fabulous than the rest.

To celebrate, leave a comment here on your favorite new product and I will draw two names (actually will have the husband pick random numbers) on Friday. Winners will each get a $15 credit at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com That should get you started on the new product. This drawing is only available to blog followers so if you have friends that might be interested, send them along to follow the blog and leave their comments.

Hope you all have a great week. Tim Holtz embossing dies are due in any minute. Can I put some aside for you?

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Since It's Raining Today - Let's Go Shopping!

I'm from the ANY EXCUSE TO GO SHOPPING school of thought. I love to shop, especially when things are on sale.

So in honor of the fact that the dogs will be in the house all day whining to go out and will all come in with wet paws and in honor of the fact that my beautiful flowers are getting a much needed drink and in honor of the fact that it is Tuesday, I offer you, my fabulous blog followers,
10% OFF EVERYTHING (on orders over $20) at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

All day today, I will refund 10% of your purchases (does not include shipping charges) when I process your order. And there are some fabulous things...

New 7gypsies
New Melissa Frances
New Sassafras Lass

Don't miss out. Put the word BLOG in your comments at checkout and take advantage of this event.

Tell your friends, have them sign up as blog followers...share the happiness.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Melissa Frances - Don't Miss This Product




Good morning -

I am so excited this morning I could just........ well, you get the idea.

Back in August of last year, I placed an order with one of my favorite scrapbook companies, Melissa Frances. You should take a minute sometime and visit the blog at www.melissafrances.typepad.com Lots of good inspiration there.

Anyway, I got my shipment, listed the Bingo Books on etsy and they were sold out in under 24 hours. Truly amazing. So I placed another order and they are finally here. Just amazing product came in two boxes yesterday.

I love Melissa Frances product, very shabby chic and always excellent quality. I am listing many fine things from Melissa Frances on the etsy site at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com today. Especially cute is the new Postcard Album - heavy chipboard pages printed like the front and back of a postcard. Very very cute. Also very cute are the chandelier dangles (moon shaped are shown). They are excellent quality plastic (because of the weight) and are about the size of a quarter and, best yet, are $1.50 for 4. Can't beat that with a stick......

Don't miss out on this fabulous product. You never know how long it may take to get them in again.

I leave you with pictures of the pages of the postcard album and my wishes for a great weekend for everyone.

Friday, April 23, 2010

NEW 7gypsies in the House - The wait is over


for some of the product, anyway.

The 7gypsies items that everyone has been waiting for since February are finally shipping and my first order arrives today.

Because you are fabulous blog followers, I am able to offer each of you a gift with a 7gypsies purchase this weekend.

Purchase any (old or new) 7gypsies item this weekend and I will include in your package a 6 page 5x5 inch blank album. The kit includes two bookboard covers (one printed with a polka dot and label design, two binding rings, and 6 cream colored cardstock pages. This offer is only good to blog followers so please put in the notes at checkout that you follow the blog. If you forward to friends, would be happy to include them also, as long as they follow the blog. One gift per customer so there is lots of love to go around.

Not all the 7gypsies is in but there are new stamps, 8x8 and 6x6 Avignon paper packs, Avignon tags, Mini Label Stickers (6 varieties), Paris and Roma book covers, Ancienne Ephemera and Gypsy Tags.

Most are listed on the site, but if there is something from the new stuff that you don't see, drop me a line at sue.stoughton@gmail.com and I'll tell you what's up.

So don't miss out. See great stuff at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

Have a great weekend. I leave you with vintage Paris graphics.....

Friday, April 16, 2010

2000 Sales = 1 Great Sale

Good morning -

Happy After-Tax day. I have to tell you......being done with the IRS for another 12 months brings a certain serenity. Now for the tough part - waiting for the REFUND!

So, I need to apologize for not having this sale sooner, but I promised my husband (who is a very fabulous and patient man) that I would not get all caught up in the sale until the taxes were done. Ok, so enough of that. I want to thank you all for helping me to reach 2000 sales. You guys are the best!

I have 25 (was going to stop at 20, but why) things that I have put on sale at incredible pricing. You will have to look through the listings, they are not all right at the top but here is a sampling of what to expect -

  • Graphic45 Domestic Goddess Paper Kits - 14 6x6 papers, complete sets of tags and alphabets and more $2.50 - why the tags and alphas alone are more than that.
  • Jenni Bowlin Butterflies in 5 colors - Just released - On sale for $2.75
  • 7gypsies vacation books - excellent chipboard books - $1.50
  • 7gypsies wax and seal sets - two styles - $1.50
  • Jenni Bowlin Chipboard Buttons - two styles - $2.00
  • Cosmo Cricket Everafter Papercrafting Kit - $7.50
  • Clear Scraps Heart Shaped Acrylic Album - $2.50
  • 7gypsies clear Calais stamp set - $3.50
  • Smooch inks - Buy a Smooch - get three yards of ribbon free
  • Chatterbox Ribbon Sets - 6 colors/styles - $3.00
  • Chatterbox Velvet embossed albums - $3.00
  • 7gypsies gaffer tape - several styles of three roll packs - $3.00
I am adding more as we speak. Have a long list of things to offer. Shop with confidence that your shipping will be adjusted to actual and if you create more than one order, I will combine them to get you the best shipping.

Questions? Let me know.

Happy shopping and thanks for being the best customers a girl could ask for.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

The Sale with come out - tomorrow



You know that song from Annie - The Sun Will Come Out ----- so here at this fabulous place, it's all about the sale. I promised my husband I would not run the special sale until I finished the taxes and now that is done. Because I have the most wonderful customers anywhere, I am thanking them for helping me to reach 2000 sales with - what else - a sale.

There will be new things, and old friends and surprises.....there will be 20 different specially priced offerings. Some of them are hiding on the site now and will have their prices changed before tomorrow's start of the sale, and some of them are ready to list, but all will be fabulous.

Teasing now:

Graphic 45 paper packs including tags.....
Chatterbox albums - velvet embossed covers.....
Jenni Bowlin Butterflies.........special pricing
Free with purchase items........
7gypsies paper tape.....special pricing

You are not going to believe what will be there. And it will all be there starting tomorrow....

In the mean time, check out the new Distrezz It tool from Donna Salazar and Ruler Ribbon from Tim Holtz, new and just listed today. www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com

Happy peeking. It is 80 here today, so beautiful, I leave you with a vintage picture of a Chicago landmark and a picture of our foster dog Brandy. She is available for adoption from the National Brittany Rescue and Adoption Network.

See you tomorrow....

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

All Free Graphics All The Time

You all know that I love free stuff. I just think that it's like a gift I wasn't expecting. There are free ideas, free templates, free samples, free thinking, and in the 70s there was free love......

One of my favorite places to celebrate free is a website called the Vintage Moth. Abbie has this incredible site where she posts - you guessed it - free graphics. I have loved this site for a long time and yesterday I made my love official by becoming a site sponsor. When you visit the vintage moth at http://www.percyandbloom.com/ you will see a sponsor button that will take their visitors to my etsy site. How excellent is that?

To celebrate this event, I am giving away something. Comment here about your favorite free thing between now and Friday and I will draw a name. Winner gets a bottle of Tim Holtz Distress Stickles, one of the new colors of Distress Ink and a Tim stamp. How excellent is that.

You must be a blog follower to win. Stop over and see my friend Abbie at the Vintage Moth and enjoy her generosity. Have a great week.

Monday, April 5, 2010

And The Winner Is.........



n8tvtexan who said...

oohhhhh I would LOVE to get my hands on one of those!!! As far as what else you should sell....hhhhmmmmm thats a tough one.Maybe more Glimmer Mists or maybe Bombshell Stamps.

I so appreciate all who posted and said so many sweet and thoughtful things about my stuff.

Congratulations, Michelle. Send my your address and I will send you your prize.

So, I have now topped 2000 sales....Planning an excellent sale........20 deals too excellent to pass up. What are you hoping I put on sale?

Watch this space and read your email to see the sale announcement.....You never know when I will be ready.

I leave you with spring images...

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

FREE - FREE - FREE - FREE




Now that I have your attention:

I'm am thrilled and delighted to announce that the Artist Printer's Trays from 7gypsies are back in stock. For all of you who have patiently waited, the wait is over.

The good news is that I feel like celebrating this return of the excellent product....so I am giving one away.

Just be a blog follower and post a comment with your request for product I should be selling at www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com . Do this between now and Friday and you will be entered in the drawing. I will have my husband pull the name so you can be sure of the scientific nature of the drawing.

Picture of the item is shown in addition to some fabulous ideas of what to do with it once you win it.

Watch for a sale posting soon. I am approaching 2000 sales on the etsy site and if you thought the sale for the anniversary was excellent, wait until you see what I have been saving up for this one......

Sue

Friday, March 26, 2010

You Have Got To See This

So this week Tami came over and we did a layout thing with the Basic Grey monthly kit (oh so cute) and Tami (who sells Stampin Up) tells me about this web site with one of the Sizzix designers and promises to send me the link.

Here it is. OPEN IT. No really, open it. You will just be so excited.

http://karenburniston.typepad.com/i_am_not_lefthanded/

Have a great weekend.

Sue

Monday, March 22, 2010

Fabulous Product and a Fabulous Idea


So I know that I just posted yesterday and I usually don't post that often, but this was so cool that I thought I must.

So the new BIG thing are the Sizzix dies from Tim Holtz. Everybody wants them and everybody has to have them. They are cool and you can see more about them on his website at www.timholtz.com but that's now why we're here.

Some very crafty person made stamps with her new Sizzix toys. Now, she shows them with the Tim Holtz dies, but any Sizzix die would work. Take a peek at

http://absolutelyeverythingblog.blogspot.com/2010/03/collage-play.html

Have a fabulous day and thanks for reading all the way to the bottom.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Basic Grey Page Kits - Monthly - So Very Cute



So, a while back there were some people here at the house scrapping and one of them kept cranking out these really cute layouts, all with Basic Grey paper (have you ever seen a bad layout with Basic Grey paper?) So we see that not only does she have great layouts but she has 'stuff' left over when she is done with the layout. Turns out that Alicia (of the sweater fame) was a member of Page Kit of The Month from Basic Grey. Absolutely cute layouts, all delivered to her door complete with everything (except adhesives and pics) to finish the layouts - even printed instructions.

So, being the curious person that I am, I started looking into it. Found out that Basic Grey is offering the kit of the month thingy again for 2010 (March 2010 to Feb 2011) but this year if you buy all 12 kits, you get an album to put them in at the end of the year for free. Album will be exclusive and not for sale anywhere outside the Kit of the Month thingy.

So here is what I know. I have lots of interest and only a very few kits left. Kits arrive every two months, so I have March and April Now. Shipping is $4.95 priority to anywhere in the US. Cost of the kits elsewhere (and the Basic Grey recommended retail price) is $20.00 plus shipping PER KIT. Cost from me is $16.50 per kit - $33.00 for two kits and $4.95 shipping for the two (if you need shipping).

In addition, because there was so much stuff left over when I made the samples, I made another set of two page layouts with the leftovers and I am including pics of those layouts with the kits. Pics of my layouts are not the best and will email better pics on request.

I have, like I said, very few of these left, but if you are interested, let me know.

I have attached pics of the March and April kit layouts.

It's sale week on the etsy site and lots of new Tim Holtz product arriving and listed there on Tuesday.....

Hope you are having a great weekend.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

So So Much Fun



OK, so this past weekend I went to camp. I love camp... the girls, the paper, the embellishments, the sizzix.....

No campfires (which means no smores....definitely a downside), no tents (really, is there a downside to that omission?) no sore back from sleeping on the ground......

Went with a few of my friends to a great retreat spot and scrapped all weekend. A very good thing. Good company, good inspiration, good everything.

I don't have a picture of my weekend, but I do have some great Easter images to share. Will that do?

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Lucky You - Jenni Bowlin on Sale

Very Simple Sale Today......

Nothing complicated, nothing to do, just shop www.itsalwaysfabulous.etsy.com. See all the fine product there and, oh, while you're there, take 10% off the already excellent prices on all things Jenni Bowlin. No, I'm not kidding. This is real.

There are over 80 items from Jenni Bowlin on the site and all of them are on sale, including the brand new release which is buttons and stick pins and butterflies and oh so much more.

Shop to your heart's content, pay the cart amount and I will refund the 10% at the end of the day today.

Order must be placed and paid today. As always if your shipping charges are over the actual cost of shipping, the excess gets refunded when I send your stuff.

While you're there, see the new Victorian Scrap (with reduced shipping prices) and take a peek at the Tim Holtz product from his new release. Let me know if you have questions.

Have a great day and, as always, thanks for being a part of the best set of customers a girl could ask for.

Sue

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Just a Hello - And Some Inspiration




I spend some time looking at blogs. I do it for inspiration, I do it to keep current, I do it because it beats cleaning the ever-present dog hair from under the furniture. Every now and then I find some things that I think should be shared for one reason or another and, today, I have found the following:

The first is a new blog from one of my Etsy customers and her daughter.

http://katsuijewelry.blogspot.com/ is the blog. They have a great posting from a shopping trip and below it a great posting showing details of their home. Love the wedding veil and the card catalog furniture. Their etsy shop - which has some of the finest product pictures I have seen - can be found at http://www.etsy.com/shop/katsui

The next selection is on YouTube. It tells those of us with Cricuts how to make Tim Holtz grungeboard roses. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edApDLVUWSw Have fun with that one. It will have you putting roses on everything in sight.

Finally (I have more but I don't want you to tire of me) I have a few pictures of some of the things I got at a recent estate sale. Are you jealous?

Thanks for reading all the way to the bottom. Great sale coming next week, be sure to check out your email on Tuesday.