Conquest Keepsakes

ANOTHER ADD TO THE DONATION LIST...

2011-06-30T15:08:00.002-05:00

EK Success has sent us a very nice package of goodies and other items are arriving every day! We're counting down the hours now until tomorrow night!

I want to say a heartfelt thank you for everyone who has donated, whether it has been time, money, or resources! It is amazing to see how generous people are and how much they care for people they have never met, but know they are in need. We have the privilege of being in our homes with our families to celebrate this Independence Day holiday. We live in a country where our freedoms are celebrated, but yet we still have our eyes and our hearts on those who have no home to celebrate in or family to celebrate with because they have been lost to senseless tragedy or they are serving our country overseas and around the globe in harms way to secure our right to celebrate. I am proud to live in a caring community (with many gifted crafters!) that is willing to give of it's time and resources to help others. I hope you can find a minute in your busy schedule to stop and give thanks to God for what He has given us and what He continues to do through us! ~Vicki

CRAFT IT FORWARD FOR JOPLIN FAQs

2011-06-29T02:01:00.007-05:00

Well, we're getting closer to the CRAFT IF FORWARD FOR JOPLIN event! This is such a great event because you don't have to be a scrapbooker or cropper to enjoy what we are doing! We have great stuff planned for the card table. We have door prizes, and ANYONE can make a card! The auction is also open to the public for bidding and you can shop for free too! I'll be updating these questions as we go. We still have open seats for the crop, so GET ON BOARD! Help us help Joplin! We have extended the deadline to register to Thursday and you can walk in on either day. If you would like to crop and help raise money for Joplin, but can't do more than five hours, you can come and crop for $5 an hour. This includes snacks and drinks but not meals.

So, here are some FAQs for the event this weekend.

WHAT IS THE COST TO ATTEND?
The registration fee is $35 plus the donation of a cleaning item and bringing a snack. We've got everything else covered. :-) Checks should be made out to Convoy of Hope with Craft It Forward for Joplin on the memo line. I can also take credit cards and PayPal per the flyer.

DO I HAVE TO SPEND THE NIGHT?
No, you can come and go as you please! There will be somebody in the the building for the full 24-hours. We have set aside a "quiet room" where anyone can take a nap, eat their food, whatever.

WHAT IF I ONLY WANT TO COME ON SATURDAY? IS PRICING DIFFERENT?
You are more than welcome to come just for Saturday but the registration price is the same since it is a charity event and ALL proceeds to CONVOY OF HOPE. It is a tax-deductible donation. We do have a "quiet" room if you want to catch some zzz's at the church.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING? WHAT KINDS OF TOOLS ARE AVAILABLE?
Whatever you want! To start with, don't forget to bring your cleaning donation (wet wipes, paper towels, detergent, etc.) and a snack (chips, cookies, finger food, candy, etc.) You may also want to think about bring a small lamp/light. The auditorium lighting is not super bright. You can scrapbook, craft, work on jewelry, do some home deco, make cards, whatever you enjoy doing. I will have my tools up there for the event including my Vagabond and all of Tim's dies, the Spellbinder Grand Calibur and all my Spellbinder Dies (I have HUGE collection of those), my Cricut Expressions and my cartridges, a Bigshot, a 7 Gypsies electric punch binder, Crop-a-diles, cutters (guillotine & Fiskars), Bind-it-All, Cinch (with coils for both), a Creatopia, Zutter Distresser, bunches of punches, Hammers, eyelet setters, glue guns, Melt Pot, Embossing Guns (3), StampMaker, scissors, rulers, pens and pencils, etc.

HOW DOES A PROGRESSIVE AUCTION WORK?
All items are displayed and numbered, with a corresponding sheet to go with each item. Each item has a starting bid amount (which is low). You'll write in your name and your bid amount. Each item increments in bids by a minimum at $1 with some item having $5, $10 or $20 increments depending on the total value of the item being auction. Remember, this is a FUNDRAISER for a great cause and your money goes to Convoy of Hope and is tax deductible. If you try to increment the bid in the amounts other than stated, the bid falls back to last person to properly increment the bid. You can see what everyone else is bidding and that is where the fun comes in! We can have our own Storage Wars! The Auction is open to the general public, anyone can come in and bid on an item, not just crop attendees. At EXACTLY 4p, all bidding will stop, pens down, back away from the table. :-) We will then announce who has won each item. You will need to pay for it to take it, we accept cash, checks, credit cards (VISA, MasterCard or Discover) or PayPal (if you use a credit card or PayPal, we will add 3% to the price to cover our processing costs). If you cannot be present at the announcement of the winners, you HAVE to make arrangements to leave us some form of payment or method to reach you. All items MUST be picked up by 6p or they revert to the previous valid bidder, unless you make prior arrangements. The Arrow Metal Shed will be delivered to the winner but it is up to you to assemble it. The photography package will have details on how to arrange your photo shoot. The photographer will come to you. Each item will have a complete description of what it is. May the best bidders win!

WILL THERE BE T-SHIRTS TO BUY?
Yes, we will have embroidered t-shirts that can be purchased or ordered. (Kid's sizes too!)

WHAT MEALS, SNACKS AND DRINKS WILL WE HAVE?
Friday supper Buckingham BBQ served at 8p, Saturday breakfast will be bagels donated by Panera along with some donuts at 9a, Saturday lunch is Ott's lasagne, salad and bread sticks at 12p. If everyone brings a snack, we should be covered on munchies, cookies, etc. Tea, Lemonade, Water, and Coffee will be supplied. Sodas available for a dirt-dog cheap price! We may even have some additional beverages available, still working on that. :-) The food is going to be awesome, we had a VERY generous donation from Spook and Liz Whitener at Trailiner, so you will not suffer for food!

CAN I LEAVE MY STUFF OVERNIGHT AND IT BE SAFE?
Someone will be up at the church at all times, so you can leave your stuff Friday night if you would rather sleep in your own bed. :-) We do have a quiet room if you want to bring a sleeping bag and snooze. We have couches and tables for lounging as well.

WILL THERE BE VENDORS THERE?
Yes, I will have most of my store up there with additional things available at my house about four blocks away. We have other vendors too, we are working on finalizing that list. Also, Hobby Lobby northside is very close, as is Walmart, the Dollar Store, and other kinds of stores too. I carry Tim Holtz, Ranger, Maya Road, Teresa Collins/PhotoCentric, Webster's Studio, 7Gypsies, SpellBinders, Sizzix, Ten Seconds Studio, Kaisercraft, Viva Decor, Cousins Jewelry beads and findings, Soldering Kits, Graphic 45, Pink Paisley, and some cardstock, basic adhesives, and more. You can special order anything for a 20% discount. We will have catalogs and a computer available so we can look up your item.

IS THERE GOOD PARKING AND EASY ACCESS INTO THE BUILDING FOR MY STASH?
Yes, we have at least three entrances to the building, all ramped and accessible. This is a NICE facility! There is parking all away around the building close in, so not lots of walking. The church is located in the NorthBridge Shopping Center. From I-44 take the Glenstone exit. Turn north on Glenstone. After you pass over I-44 the first real traffic light is at McClernon (which turns into Norton Road, the Waffle House is on your left), go through it. The second light is Valley WaterMill Road (there's a gas station, a restaurant and the Dollar Store to your right). Go through that light. You'll go about 1/4 of a mile and see the NorthBridge Shopping Center on your left. Take the first street that turns left after passing the shopping center, StoneRidge (there is a sign for the Hickory Ridge neighborhood) and Hales' Fireworks are your landmarks. The church faces StoneRidge and is the entire building that comprises the L shape of the shopping center. Park anywhere you want. You should see my Conquest Keepsakes sign.

WILL THERE BE THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN CROPPING AND CRAFTING?
You betcha! We will be teaching techniques throughout both days, we have a few games/contests for you, and the cardmaking station for you to make a card for a survivor or volunteer. The Card Station is also open to the public to make a card for Joplin. We will be demonstrating how to make an Easel Card and a Center Step card, both cards are meant to be displayed. We will be teaching Tim-spiration techniques, how to use the StampMaker, ALL the Viva products, and how to make a personalized shirt, among other things (if you want to do the shirt, please bring a black shirt (this works best, but any dark color works) in your size, 100% Cotton—it is very important that it be 100% cotton and a dark color. Walmart has them for $4 and you can find them at Hobby Lobby and Michael's too. We will also have some lawn games set up if you want to go out for a bit of fresh air. :-) Croquet and Horseshoes anyone? We also have a surprise activity themed for the holiday weekend.

I'll add more questions and auction items as I get them! :-D

CHA is Creeping up!

2011-06-24T01:11:00.002-05:00

Yes, it is that time of year again, time for the summer CHA show in July. If you've been watching your favorite company's blogs, you will start seeing sneak peaks of new products that are being introduced this summer and throughout the fall and winter. As usual, I will be attending the summer show and will be taking pre-orders on new products. This year, we're doing 20% off on pre-orders pre-paid up front. So get the lastest, get it first, and get it at a discount for being such an eager beaver!

~Vicki

Check Out the New Items Added to the Auction!

2011-06-23T18:57:00.003-05:00

Just a quick update...there are new items in red in the post below that have been added to the Silent Auction list, as well as a direct link to the PDF of the flyer/registration form at the NorthBridge Church website (link is in the post below too). Spook and Liz Whitener from Trailiner has generously donated all the food for the dinner Friday night and lunch on Saturday! Nikki from Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker is donating goodie bags for all the attendees, so don't miss out!

CRAFT IT FORWARD FOR JOPLIN

2011-06-20T06:49:00.012-05:00

Conquest Keepsakes & NorthBridge Baptist Church Present
CRAFT IT FORWARD FOR JOPLIN
A 24-Hour crop to raise money for the Joplin Tornado Victims

Starting 6:00 pm Friday, July 1 to 6:00 pm Saturday, July 2 at
NORTHBRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH
3765 N State Highway H (N. Glenstone)
Springfield, MO 65803

24 Hours of Crafting & Cropping Fun for $35
& a cleaning product donation!

All proceeds will go to Convoy of Hope to benefit the Joplin Tornado Victims. For every dollar donated to Convoy of Hope, they can turn it into $7! What a great way to know that your gift will have a great impact in helping these families move forward through this distressing time! All proceeds from the progressive auction will also go to Convoy of Hope. Product donations needs are cleaning supplies like wet wipes, detergent, disinfectant, etc. Your cleaning product donation will go along way in helping survivors and volunteers to continue to move forward in continuing recovery efforts. The first 40 people to register will receive a free "In Our Prayers Joplin Tornado, 2011" wrist band to wear to show their support. Items for the progressive auction have been donated from local businesses as well as scrapbook and crafting companies across the USA. Be the person to take home the Teresa Collin’s StampMaker so generously donated by PhotoCentric & Teresa Collins, along with many other generous donations aimed at helping raise money for those in need. Bidding is open to the public from 6pm Friday through 4pm on Saturday.

Space is limited, so register early to guarantee your space. Give up a day of your holiday weekend to help those who have no home and no where to go. Craft & Crop with your friends doing what you love to do with a common goal in mind. Check out the new technique demos being offered so you can learn to apply these techniques to your projects, pages, wearables and home decor! Use the StampMaker to make a personalized card for victims of the devastating tornado at our card-making station. We will make it worth your time and generous donations by providing supper, breakfast, lunch and drinks, but we ask that you bring a snack so we can ensure every dollar possible will go to help the families in Joplin who need it so much. Come see inspirational stories of loss, hope, faith, and generosity. Bring a sleeping bag and a pillow and camp out with us! Easy access from I-44, with lots of shopping and restaurants close by too.

Your $35 Crop/Craft Fee will get you...

24 Hours of non-stop cropping & crafting fun Half an 8 ft table Access to electricity Friday night dinner, Saturday breakfast & lunch Coffee, Tea, Lemonade or Water to Drink Door Prizes & Raffles Progressive Auction (See what your friends are bidding & outbid them, knowing your money is going to an awesome cause! See our list of donations for you to bid on...) Presentation on Relief Efforts in Joplin Vendors to shop, with their profits going to Convoy of Hope too!
We expect this to fill fast, so if you’d like to attend, email Vicki at vconquest@conquestkeepsakes.com to hold your spot and then mail your completed form and form of payment to:

Pam Pfiefer
NorthBridge Baptist Church
3765 N. State Highway N
Springfield, MO 65803

Make checks payable to: CONVOY OF HOPE

For more information about attending, contact Pam Pfiefer, NorthBridge Baptist Church at 417-833-4830. For information regarding being a vendor for this event, contact Vicki Conquest at vconquest@conquestkeepsakes.com or call 417-350-4569. More details, and an updated list of Progressive Auction items as they are released, can be found at here on my blog and on my FaceBook page.

Just in! Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker is donating goodie bags for all the attendees, don't miss out on all the great things we have!

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

••••••••••••••••••••
PROGRESSIVE AUCTION ITEMS

PhotoCentric/Teresa Collins StampMaker
Arrow Metal Shed 8x10
Neighborhood Pizza Gift Certificate
The Center for Plastic Surgery Spa Services Gift Certificate
Weekend at CROPPIN’ AT THE LAKE (Lake of the Ozarks)
A Touch of Sun Free Month of Tanning
A Touch of Sun Manicure
A Touch of Sun Salon Service
AVBS (A Valaria Boss Salon) Salon Service & Product
Git Fit Bootcamp
Hand Knitted Afghans
Close to My Heart Album Pack (Bettyann Shuert)
My Creative Companion Book by Becky Higgins (Bettyann Shuert)
Viva Decor Product Gift Basket
Ranger Product Basket w/Tim Holtz autographed projects
Maya Road Product Basket
2 Sizzix Product Baskets (BigShot + Dies & Texture Boutique with folders)
Tim Holtz Idea-Ology Product Basket
8x8 Baby Book Kit from Memories by Design
Close to My Heart Gift Basket (Diane Meinhardt)
Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker
Massage Envy Gift Cards
Steak-N-Shake Gift Card
Houlihans Gift Card
Ryans Buffet for Two Gift Card
Ruby Tuesday Gift Card
Two Hour Photo Shoot from Allgood Photography, with disc of all images
Massage Envy Gift Cards

PLUS MORE ITEMS BEING ADDED DAILY!
(New items in red)

You can find the pdf download of the flyer and form at
the NorthBridge Church website

CANCER UPDATE & CROP-N-SHOP MAY 7

2011-05-05T20:22:00.003-05:00

The first thing I am going to say is that I am on narcotics for pain, so this may seem somewhat disjointed, it is hard to think straight when drugs are squirrelling with your mind! I'm going to update everyone with the latest cancer experiences, then talk about our Spring Crop-N-Shop coming up THIS Saturday (May 7), just in time for Mother's Day! [Yes, I'm nuts to go ahead with this but that's me, I can't just sit around and watch the cat hair grow...).

********************

CANCER UPDATE
I'm a bit spacey at the moment, so bear with me. My surgery was scheduled for Friday, April 29th, but I had to go in on Thursday to get a shot of radioactive trackable substance in order for them to determine the closest lymph node that picks up that area so they could do a Sentinel Node Biopsy. If I thought the needle core biopsy was bad, this was worse. It felt like someone injecting hydrochloric acid into the tissue. It burned for five minutes after the shot was done. They had to keep telling me to breathe because you want to hold your breath, it hurts! My surgery was scheduled for 7:45a the next day. Of course that meant I missed most of the Royal Wedding. Sniff. I had a bilateral mastectomy and they took three lymph nodes. Pathology shows no spread, clear margins (since they took both, I would expect that), about as good of a report as you can get and have Breast Cancer! It goes to show, screening mammograms work! They told me it was the smallest cancer they have ever caught with a mammogram. Because it was microinvasive, I do have to see an oncologist, but no radiation and no chemo, but possibly Tamoxifen for the next 5 years. I spent the night at the hospital and came home the next day. I ended up back at the ER on Sunday due to a reaction to either the anesthesia or Percocet. I rashed up good, ran a bit of a fever and had partial numbness of my right foot and leg. At least I got to see the new digs at the ER. VERY NICE!

I am recovering well, in fact, I guess I am doing things that most people can't do at this stage. Since I never saw that list, I never gave it a second thought. I still have drains in, hopefully they come out the first of next week. I am sore, tired and in a bit of pain since I am not able to take the Percocet, but it is bearable and it will soon be better. They start filling the saline temporary tissue expanders the end of May. And that is what I know for now. I want to thank everyone who prayed for me, sent me well wishes, called, came by the hospital, and all the other small things that are so important at a time like this. You all are awesome!

CROP-N-SHOP
This Saturday May 7, which is National Scrapbook Day, we are still hosting our Spring Crop-N-Shop. Diane and Janet have gone well beyond the extra mile to get everything put back together for the store and crop area. Cliff say's I'm just the talking head. :-) We will be having a sale to help reduce stock for the upcoming Summer CHA Show, demoing the StampMaker and the Viva Decor products, and of course showing all the latest Tim Holtz dies and folders. Come over and hang out with us and learn how to make your own "Prima-like" bling embellishments, make your own personalized stamps and check out our future classes. I'm still playing a little catch-up due to the cancer interruption, but we are getting back on track for some pretty fun classes. The store and crop area opens at 10a and will be available until 5p. We've got space at the tables for 12 croppers and crafters, so come on by!

Until then, Happy Crafting!
Vicki

ANOTHER CHALLENGE

2011-04-21T00:39:00.003-05:00

This is certainly a post I never thought I would have to write. Life has been busy lately, but good. So let me tell you my story of the past couple of weeks.

We had our Children's Miracle Network crop a weekend or so ago (April 9), and it is always one of our larger crops that I LOVE to do. This year I donated at Vagabond to be raffled to help raise money for the children, and we demoed the Teresa Collins StampMaker; along with some rockin' Viva Decor products (Pearl Pens, Inka Gold, Paper Pens, Glitter pens, etc.), and it was a success! I had the best time working with the StampMaker and rather enjoyed myself. If you've not seen the StampMaker, it is pretty awesome and SOOO easy to use! Personalization to the max! But while we were setting up for the crop on Friday (the event was Saturday), I had to attend an appointment to hear the results regarding a recent run-in with a mammogram and the needle core biopsy. I just had my routine yearly screening March 30th when they called me back and told me they wanted to do a needle core biopsy of an area that looked suspicious. So on April 6th they did the biopsy and scheduled an appointment for my results for Friday that week, April 8th at 4p. (For those of you with nipple piercings, my hat's off to you, I could NEVER do that, because it felt like someone took an ice pick and jambed it in there!) We were due to set up for the crop at that time, so I sent my husband with a loaded truck and trailer on to the crop since we had limited set up time while I kept my appointment with the radiologist. I honestly thought it was a wild goose chase and a waste of my time when I needed to be somewhere else. Unfortunately, the news they gave me was not what I wanted to hear. I have breast cancer. Small curable breast cancer, so God is watching over me indeed!

Luckily (or more like God watching over me) they caught it at a very early stage. It is considered Stage I Microinvasive DCIS, approx.1cm in size. They do not feel it has spread to the Lymph Nodes yet but they will do a Sentinel Node Biopsy to make sure. Normally, this small of a cancer can be treated with Lumpectomy and Radiation. BUT, because of my Lupus and other connective tissue disorders, I am not a candidate to have radiation (I swell up after only 15 minutes in the sun). This means that I will have to have a complete mastectomy, but I can avoid the radiation and chemo (although chemo will be back on the table should the cancer have spread to he lymph nodes). My head is still reeling, it was the last thing I expected to hear.

I had a meeting with the surgeon this week where we talked about options and outcomes. They feel pretty positive about it, they feel it is curable and for that I am eternally thankful!

I meet with a Plastic Surgeon next week to work out the details, and it appears for now that my surgery will be scheduled for next Thursday or Friday (April 28th or 29th) depending on how it goes with Plastics on Tuesday next week. It will be a skin-conserving mastectomy, and for that I am thankful. I had been somewhat concerned that at the end of the mastectomy on the left side, I would end up looking like a VW Beetle in a bad car wreck with one head light looking up and the other down, you KNOW what age does to a woman! [grin] I was assured that they can take both and do reconstructive surgery to make the girls look normal. I'm hoping for a face lift while I am under (heheheheheh), I should ask for a package deal!

It has all happened so fast, it seems surreal, but I'd rather have it over with than to drag it out. So my prayer warrior friends, pray for me next week! My Sister's sister-in-law just went through all this, although her cancer was much more aggressive. She is doing great now and got engaged over the weekend. Congrats Tacy and Golden! She is going with me to see the plastics guy because she knows all the questions to ask. I can't say how thankful I am to have that kind of support!

This whole C thing has messed with my training schedule, but keep watching! We WILL be doing all of the projects seen at CMN plus starting a stamp club (where you can make your own stamps) and a metal embossing club along with our usual projects.

For those of you with special orders outstanding, we are still waiting on a few backordered LaBlanche Silicone stamps and a few other special orders. Email is going to be the best way to reach me as we'll be screening calls for the next couple of weeks. We are still doing classes as presented at CMN. I'll have details up soon. :-)

It goes without saying, Happy Crafting!
~Vicki

LIFE IS LIKE A BOX OF CHOCOLATES...YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO GET!

2010-12-30T00:44:00.005-06:00

The holidays are always so hectic, but even more so this year because one of my best friends has Stage 4 Gastric Cancer. I've written about this before, but I feel compelled to share a little more. My friend Katie Renz, mother to boy twins Nate & Will who are five and Hunter who is eleven (boy time flies!), and the wife of Kevin, was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Gastric Cancer. It's a very aggressive cancer too. Currently she is in the hospital (she's been there since Christmas Eve). Today she is getting started on chemo as the cancer is not operable at this time. You can read the details on her blog at katiespaperhaven.blogger.com, where she is journalling about her wild ride with this disease. She started Chemo today (3 types) and most of the side effects are similar to what she is feeling now (lots of nausea and pain, plus needed to be transfused Christmas Eve with blood too). She is in a lot of pain, and it is very difficult to eat (read that as 3 cans of Ensure). She is a fighter and has many loved ones and friends praying for her constantly and lifting her up to God, along with the boys and Kevin. This is one of those times where I wish I could bear it myself, she has so much of her life before her. :-D

I met Katie two years ago when Lori with Clear Dollar Stamps invited all of us on her design team to go to the Winter 2009 CHA trade show In Anahiem (Lori's stamp design team and card/projects team). These are some of my favorite memories, along with the 2010 CHA-W & CHA-S Shows. Angela Beavers came along with us during the 2010 Winter show (I met Angela on the 2009 Artful Cruise to Mexico with Tim Holtz), and we all hit it off and had an awesome time! Ang, Corrine (another cruiser) went to the Chicago show this year and we had a great time there too. You all are my buds!I thought I would share a couple of photos from the shows. We had an amazing time, and we are looking for even more amazing times in the future! Our God is a God of Miracles, we are hoping and praying and believing that the chemo will nuke it all! She's in decent spirits considering how fast all of this is happening. A million times I have wished we lived closer!

So here are a few pics of all of us at various shows.

Nancy Grant & Katie Renz chilling on the SCS couch during the consumer show.

Katie waving to her fans after registering for the CHA-W 2010 show.

Angela and I at the CHA-S 2010 show.

Starting on left, Laurie Wilson, Nancy Grant, Kim Teasdale, Katie Renz, Lori McCroskey and Vicki Conquest (me) eating dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. Tasty!

All of us bugging Steve Posner and taking over his booth! Great guy!

Katie and Nancy at the Cricut booth checking out new dies during consumer show.

I hope you all enjoyed my walk down memory lane! These ladies are five of the most talented people I know,and I am PROUD to call them my friends! Get on over to Lori McCroskey's web site, Clear Dollar Stamps and check out the new stamps and products they are sneak peaking this week, and the new dies that match their stamps. AWESOME!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and truly appreaciate your friends and family. And most of all, don't forget the reason for the season, a baby wrapped in a manger, given to us by the Father to redeem us by His shed blood, risen and interceding for us! What love! God IS the Miracle Man, and we are praying for one now!

GRAPHIC 45 ONCE UPON A SPRINGTIME IS IN!

2010-12-03T01:39:00.004-06:00

It's finally here! Graphic 45's new spring line, Once Upon a Springtime is in the store! I LOVE it! Something about Fairies, Butterflies and Flowers makes me happy! The papers are gorgeous, and the backside patterns are beautiful. I have pads in 12x12 and 8x8 as well as 7 of the loose sheets. Now is the time to reserve yours! Supplies are limited! For those attending the 12 Tags of Christmas play dates, you will get extra special pricing on this new line of papers. I don't generally carry lots of loose sheets, but this time I went all out. (heheheh) I also purchased many of the retiring lines of G45 loose sheet papers, so there is a very nice selection of G45 here at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio. In case you didn't know, G45 is retiring Baby 2 Bride, Playtimes Past, Times Nouveau, and Botanica Bella. Some of it is already sold out, so get here early to get the best picks. We also have both sizes of the G45 pads for Perfect Gentlemen, Boardwalk, and Le Romantique, Staple Stickers, Chipboard Buttons and Trim in stock, as well as loose sheets of Renaissance, Domestic Goddess, Fashionista, Communique, Transatlantic, and Christmas Past, & Baby 2 Bride. If you want any of these items, call or email me ASAP, it will be going fast!

We also have Tim's paper pads, along with EVERYTHING Tim Holtz and Ranger. And I do mean EVERYTHING! Don't see what you want? Just ask, we do special orders with discounts. Through Dec. 24th we are offering the Vagabond machine at $199, plus some grungepaper, grungeboard and a TH Bigz die for being patient enough to wait until our next shipment. We sold 5 Vagabond's on Saturday, so get yours today! Patience is a virtue, not a character fault!

Along with G45 papers, we also received some DCWV Mariposa Glitter pads (both sizes and you are going to SWOON when you see it!), 7Gypsies Conservatory papers with accessories, Basic Grey Curio (paper packs in two sizes, matching chipboard, journal notes), Prima Fairy Floral in paper and Journal Notes, Core'dinations Jenni Bolin and Graphic 45, cold-press watercolor paper, Kaisercrafts Carnival, HomeMade and English Rose lines, the Kaisercraft wood cupcake stands, Printer's tray, bookends, drawers, diaries, wood Flourish Words, birds, keys, frames,and snowflakes, Webster's Pages Vintage Netting, Pan Pastels, jewelry findings and beads, ALL Ten Seconds Studio molds, metals and tools, UTEE, melt pot, wax, molding materials, and Maya Road chipboard. Much more than I can list! I receive new stuff every week, come by and check it out!

Don't forget to sign up for CK 12 Tags of Christmas events!

Vicki C

IT'S THAT 12 TAGS TIME OF YEAR!

2010-12-02T23:36:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday's sale was AWESOME! Even though it's a lot of work to get everything tagged and arranged, it is always SO worth the effort! I enjoy nothing better than enabling my friends to get crafty with me, and particularly, giving them a good reason to be excited about crafting. And what could be more exciting than showing off Tim Holtz's Vagabond machine for die cutting and embossing?! NOTHING! :-)

Well, maybe inviting my friends over to do Tim's 12 Tags of Christmas, THAT is exciting in and of itself. If you don't know what the 12 Tags of Christmas are all about, click this link to go to Tim's blog and read all about it and find yourself caught up in the urge to be creative with what you have on hand! (I can see that every sentence I write tonight is going to end up being punctuated with exclamation points.) How else do you get across how fun it is taking something as simple as a #8 manila shipping tag and turning it into your own piece of artful Christmas cheer? The past couple of nights, I've been up when Tim has posted his tag for the day, even though I am supposed to be conducting myself within the realms of good sleep hygiene. Sheesh, that just sounds somehow unclean to say. Why is it called "sleep hygiene?" Why not "sleep habit" or something else less, um, dirty-sounding? The only time I go to bed before midnight or 1am is when I am sick. That's when they should worry. :-) Anyway, seeing the tags go live is exciting for us night owls, and you can follow Mario's BTS Tweets on Twitter for a peak at what is going on "Behind The Scenes" as Tim make's his tags. The best part is learning a ton of techniques new and old using Tim's products, Ranger products, as well as some unusual applications of items you may have just sitting around your craft room.

So, if you are not busy Wednesday, December 8th; Saturday, December 11th, and Monday December 13th, come over to the CK Paper Studio and make your own interpretation of Tim's tags. We're loaded with all kinds of Tim and Ranger goodies, and so much more. LIKE... my Vagabond! Yep, we'll be using the Vagabond to do all our cutting and embossing. We'll be using Tim's Tag Die to cut tags, not to mention using just about every other die and embossing folder handy (and believe me, they are ALL handy!). We'll be spraying, misting, sprinkling, stamping, inking, heating, distressing, cutting, trimming, painting, water-coloring, masking, swiping, edging, drying, laughing, chatting and eating on every one of those dates! Wednesday and Monday start times are 6p, Saturday is 10a. There is no cost for this event, just bring yourself and your trimming stash. The store will be open, so you can buy what you don't have and think you MUST have. Knowing most of you, we pretty much have it all!

On Saturday, December 18 (my hubby had to point out that I was calendar-challenged when I posted to FB about this, Saturday is the 18th, not the 17th as I FB'd), we'll be gathering one last time before Christmas to finish our tags (or make more) or chose from any one of several small projects you can do as great gifts for your friends. Gift Card holders, Alcohol Ink Splattered Ornaments, Candy boxes and the like are on the menu. Give us a call and let us know you are coming to any one of these events, and have a good time fellowshipping with friends and family! Check out the 12 Tags of Christmas and see what you can be inspired to do!

VICKI'S VANISHING VALUES SENSATIONAL SATURDAY SALE!

2010-11-24T08:00:00.002-06:00

I tried to get this posted earlier in the week, but boy does life get in the way sometimes! Anyhoo, if you've been following me on FaceBook, I had a contest to name my big Saturday after Black Friday sale. Up for grabs were over $100 of products from the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio store. I received some pretty good suggestions, I wish I could have used them all! But Lois Glossip was the winner with "Vicki's Vanishing Values Sensational Saturday Sale!" I love alliterations, so my hat's off to Lois for coming up with such a cool name! There were some other great ones too, so I felt that everyone who participated in the naming contest (including my far flung friends from Ohio and Texas) should receive a little somethin' somethin' from CKPS! Sometimes you never know what you'll get when you chime in on a contest on FB! So thank you to Candy, Shirley, Lynda, Diane, Kerry, Trae, Angela and Lois for participating! Trae, I need your mailing address, so email or Private Message me on FB with the particulars so I can get you hooked up too! As my friend Candy says, "My Wonder Wall Runneth Over!"

Sooo, what IS Vicki's Vanishing Values Sensational Saturday Sale all about? It's about GREAT DEALS on all your favorite vintage, distressed, metal, bling and paper arts products! Everything, and I do mean EVERYTHING in the store is sensationally priced to move it off my wall and into your hands at unheard of prices! The accountant does not like inventory at the end of the year (!!) and I've got to make room for all the juicy new products that will be rolled out in January at the Craft & Hobby Association trade show. Everything will be at least 30% off and up to 60% off on some items. You REALLY don't want to miss this, as it includes some of the latest Tim Holtz, Maya Road, 7 Gypsies, Graphic 45, Ten Seconds Studio, Tattered Angels, Kaisercraft, and Ranger products, just to name a few! You'll want to get here early for the best selection! NOTHING is exempt from these sale prices except for preview products, BUT if you like what you see of the preview items, you can preorder and receive a 30% discount on Saturday only! (Sorry, this discount does not apply to Tim Holtz's Vagabond.) Does it get any better than this? I will also be demoing the Tim Holtz Sizzix Vagabond die cutter. If you want to see what this gorgeous, mighty cutter/embosser can do, come over and take a test drive! We are the first in Springfield to have the Vagabond, so come check it out!

But wait, there's more! Everyone who shops here on Saturday between 8a and 12 noon, will receive a free gift for taking the time to come over and deplete me of stock! These nifty little spiffs are not old papers/products, they are 2010 release products, including some of the latest items from Maya Road, Tim Holtz, Ranger, 7 Gypsies, and many more! There is NO purchase minimum for these free items. If you spend a penny, you get one (and for my British friends, I am not talking about a free restroom visit). :-) So save a few dollars for Saturday and be sure to get here before Noon so you can add a little extra cheer to your crafty holiday shopping!

Here are just a few of the values you will find here on Saturday (these are on in-stock items only and do not apply to special orders, preview items, or electronic die cutters):

All paper pads and loose sheet papers, 50% off
All chipboard products, 40% off
All soldering products, 50% off
All mists and sprays, 40% off
All dies and embossing folders, 40% off
All embellishments and ribbons, 40% off
All ink products and adhesives, 40% off
All metal working supplies and tools, 50% off
All other tools, 30% off
All jewelry accessories, findings, wire, and chains, 40% off
All wood products, 30% off
All storage products, 50% off
All binding products, 40% off
Plus several bins of onesies and twosies (it could be ANYTHING), 60% off!

My hoarding habit will be your gain on Saturday! All products will be color-coded so you can see at a glance what the discount is. If Brown/FedEx is running on time, we might even have a preview of the new Graphic 45 paper line, Once Upon a Springtime. (No promises, but I do know it has shipped!)

But wait (again, I'm not done), there is even more! If you place a special order (an order for a product I do not currently have in stock that is not a preview item), you'll get a special Saturday-Only discount! It's so sensational, I can't even type it! A great opportunity to shop for the very latest products and save on everything, not just one couponed item! Can we say, Merry Christmas?!

The sale starts Saturday at 8am and goes to 8pm. The "Spend a Penny" free items run from 8a til Noon. So come over and check out the sale, see the classroom space, get a preview of classes to come and enjoy some holiday snacks and cheer! See you Saturday!

Vicki

TEN SECONDS STUDIO & TIM HOLTZ CONFIGURATIONS R US!

2010-10-16T12:28:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to let you all know that we've received the rest of our Advantus Tim Holtz Idea-ology, which includes all four Configurations, Seasonal and Lost & Found Salvage Stickers, Seasonal Paper Stash and Lavish Trimmings. All pre-orders have been filled and I have a limited quantity of each of these products available...RIGHT NOW! Don't miss out on getting your hands on the highly sought-after Configurations! I also have a limited supply of Tim's Foundations Box Feet, Tissue Tape (all six styles), and other Idea-ology trimmings!

This week we have also received additional Maya Road introduced in July, including: Kraft Mini Tickets Strips, Dollies, and Calendars; Windows, Ornate Tags and Decorative Scrolls Chipboard sets; Tags, Crowns, Antique Keys, and Mixed Scallop Triangle Banner Mini Chipboard sets; Sand, Blueberry and Licorice Maya Mists; Wood Bingo Calendar Numbers; Pennant and Flower Edge Chipboard Albums, Canvas Pennant Album, House Accordian Album, Dollie Transparencies, Resin Blossoms, Vintage Crochet Trim in several styles, Pleated Ribbon in Cream (so you can color it with mists!), along with re-orders of some of your favorites, including the Snowflake Coaster album (which would make a great holiday banner!), Maya Mists, Alphas, etc.

Not to be neglected, we now have all colors of the Tens Seconds Studio metals. In fact, we have EVERYTHING TEN SECONDS STUDIO! I just completed my Certification with TSS products (what a blast that was and will be a separate post of its' own) and, WOW, if you haven't used these products yet, you are truly missing out on one of the most creative mediums available! We carry all the molds, metals, adhesive, tools, etc. of this product line, and many additional products that complement the metals. If you haven't tried Tattered Angels Glitter Glam and Glazes or Ranger Alcohol inks with these metals, you are missing out on MAGIC! I kid you NOT, TOTALLY MAGIC! We carry the Tattered Angels Glimmer Glams and Glazes and Ranger Alcohol Inks (and other products) that we love most to use with the metals. To use a British/Australian term (in honor of my British inlaws who will be here with us next week), I was GOBSMACKED with all the things you can do with these metals and molds! I would exhaust my list of superlatives if I start telling you just exactly how cool this product line is! BTW, hope you have a die cutter of some kind to use with these molds, because you're gonna want one... We recommend the Sizzix Bigshot, but you can use a Provo Craft Cuttlebug too. We don't discriminate...

******

So, along those lines, we have Ten Seconds Studio Technique classes scheduled for October 23 and November 6th here at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio classroom just to show you what all you can do with this product to complement your scrapbooks, projects, altered art and jewelry. These classes will teach you the basics as well as more advanced applications working with Ten Seconds Studio products, plus using complementary products like Tattered Angels and Ranger to produce effects that will knock your knickers off! :-) I'll be posting additonal details and class costs after I clean my house today for the imminent arrival of the inlaws. The British are coming! The British are coming! OK, my historical humor for the day...

******

Now, a suggestion for the significant other in your life that is wondering, "What the heck do I get my (significant person here) for Christmas? I don't understand anything about that crafting stuff!" Get them a Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio Gift Certificate good for products and classes. Email Vicki for details on how to purchase this one-of-a-kind, collectible [smirk] gift certificate for the crafty person in your life. They can even use it on special orders! Contact info is on the left side of the blog.

Hope you all have a beautiful weekend like mine, full of sunshine, cleaning, dusting, mowing, vacuuming, trimming, dishwashing, cat bathing... Oh, well, maybe not cat bathing. I don't want to be hospitalized before the British arrive... It's bad enough to have to "tamale" Maki for her eye drops.

TIM HOLTZ DIES & FOLDERS

2010-09-16T16:47:00.005-05:00

What a beautiful day in the Ozarks! Fall is my favorite time of year, and although we are not officially there, you can tell the weather is changing. I was pretty sure yesterday I was going to have to take Maki (my Seal Point Himi) to the vet in a Kayak. Nothing worse than rain so hard you can't see 100 feet in front of you, rush hour traffic (yes, we sorta have that here) and you're driving with a yowling cat that is UNHAPPY to be in a carrier, in the car, with a painful swollen eye! She was trying to dig her way out of the carrier, and that was somewhat distracting while driving. Almost as distracting as watching a really dark sky with a large wall cloud coming toward you, just before the sky opens up and dumps on you. I was happy it was just rain and not a twister or golf-ball sized hail. Just the same, she saw Dr. Bacon (through her one good eye), was much better with him dropping stuff in her eye than with me, and she yowled again all the way home, but the pain med he gave her, plus her bad eye being numb, seemed to disinterest her from trying to dig out of the carrier coming home. It did remind me of the "Pig that goes Wee, Wee, Wee all the way home" commercial. At least the sun was shining again by then. That's what they say about Missouri weather, if you don't like it, wait five minutes.

I've had a few inquiries as to what Tim Holtz Alterations Dies and Texture-fade folders I have in stock, so I am going to make a list at the end of this entry. I also just found out this afternoon that my TH stamps are FINALLY shipping, so those of you with pre-orders should be happy inkers next week. Idea-ology is also on it's way, and Ranger product should be shipping next week too. We're fully stocked with Maya Road, Ten Seconds Studio and expecting some more Kaisercraft product to ship! Lots of projects planned for the holidays, we'll get some samples up soon (probably coated in Maki hair, I think she sheds on demand).

Here's a sneak peek of the Kaisercraft Beyond the Page Advent Calendar done with Graphic 45 Christmas Past paper, Tim Holtz Hitch Fasteners as drawer knobs, and a few Kaisercraft Latte Pearls. The shadowbox portion will be dimensional with lots of other embellishments, and I still have some inking to do, among other things. This was taken with my iPhone, what a great tool for a quick informal pic!

Here's the list of Tim's Alterations that I currently have in stock. If I catch a moment this evening, I'll take a pic of the Tim "Wall of Wonder" as my friends call it, and a pic of the classroom/crafting area. Don't forget that we have Candy Colwell's "The Witching Hour" book class coming up on October 2. If you haven't signed up, hop over to her blog for information on how to sign up.

TIM HOLTZ ALTERATIONS
Caged Bird
Hardware Findings
Gadget Gears
Elegant Flourish
Heart Wings
Fanciful Flight
Ornate On-the-Edge
File Tabs On-the-Edge
Scallops On-the-Edge
Bracket On-the-Edge
Plaque & Postage On-the-Edge
Dot Matrix/Gridlock Texture Fade
Burlap/Swirls Texture Fade
Sizzix Cutting Pads for On-The-Edge dies
Movers & Shakers Key Hole Punches
Movers & Shakers Hole Punches

CRAFT-N-CROP SEPTEMBER 18TH

2010-09-10T11:20:00.005-05:00

We had so much fun the first time, we're going to do it again! OK, so we're going to do it every month up through Christmas. Our next wild and crazy Craft-N-Crop is September 18th at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio, from 10a to 6p. Please note, that is a time change from the first one. I'm not much of a morning person (unless you want to say I'm a REALLY EARLY morning person since I don't seem to get to bed much before 3a), so this time is probably more realistic if you want my brain engaged in productive activity. :-) Please call to reserve your spot at the tables, we can easily seat 12 attendees and if we have less, it means more room for you to spread out. Not that any of us would do that..., eh Katrina? :-) Kidding aside, we are all for the spread if there is room. Cutters and other tools are on other work surfaces, so you can have more supplies on your table. Plus there will always be a store special for those who want to pop by as well as those of us, er, crafting or whatever it is we do! Cliff will be standing by with the big cart, so you can load up your gear in one trip around to the lower level. Cost for the crop is a measly $5 and that covers your drinks, some snacks and free use of all the tools you can find, and there are a lot tools, I LIKE TOOLS! If it plugs in or runs on batteries, makes loud noises or can burn you, I probably have it, so ask if you are not sure.

One new items you will be able to see is the full range of Hanah Silk! I have seven boards of all the samples of the silk ribbons they offer, and we can special order any color you want, by the yard or by the spool. These are some of the most beautiful hand-dyed ribbons you will ever see, in either silk or satin.

Future Craft-N-Crop dates are October 23, November 6 and December 4th, although our December day may change due to potential scheduling conflicts. That's always such a busy time of year, but we want to get in one more day of Christmas crafting before the big day hits!

Neighborhood Pizza is just up the street from us if you want to grab a quick bite to eat, they have it all! Small personal pizzas, regular pizzas, sandwiches, casseroles, nachos, salads, wraps, I couldn't begin to name it all, and it is the best food in Springfield! You can even find them on Facebook! If you get the urge for your own bag of treats, there's a Dollar Store right next to it. Milk Dud central. Yeah baby!

Again, I will try to pull a demo out of my Tim Holtz Hoodie and see what we come up with. We're still waiting on Tim's Fall line of stamps and products, which should be shipping soon. They tell us "September" but that can mean it leaves their dock on September 30th at 11:59pm, so I'll keep breathing for now. :-) We will have the new Spellbinder dies in to demo along with some new Kaisercraft creeping in the back door.

Call to reserve or get directions, we are easy to find, just north of I-44 on North Glenstone and a bit east on Valley Watermill Road (or about a mile west of Hwy 65 off the County Road 102 exit which is also Valley Watermill Road, past the Springfield Country Club, The Greens and the Valley Watermill Reservoir). The street address is 3726 N. Mill Ridge Avenue if you have GPS (one of the top ten technologies according to Modern Marvels on the History Channel—consider yourself educated!).

JUST A QUICK HOBBY LOBBY CLASS NOTE

2010-09-10T09:34:00.006-05:00

The next class dates are scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 21, Thursday Sept 23 and Friday, September 24. The class for that week is the Monogrammed Notebook. You will need to bring a Chipboard letter with the monogram of your choice, and all the items listed in the sidebar for the Basic Crafting Kit. The Paper Studio Large Chipboard Letters are excellent for this project, although other chipboard letters will work as well, depending on size. Please bring a large glue stick for this project. This book will be using fall themed papers and ribbon and include instructions so you can make additional books on your own. The cost for this class is $15.

Please be sure to read the sidebar regarding Hobby Lobby Classes, and the Basic Craftng Kit. It gives you all the information you need to sign up for the class and what items to bring. Class sign-ups need to be made according to the schedule listed under Hobby Lobby Classes. These deadlines are necessary in order for me to have enough time to prepare kits for the classes. Sorry, no exceptions. If you don't have the supplies that you need, please come in at least 30 minutes before the class and I will help you find what you need at the store so you can purchase those items before class starts. :-) Our classes start promptly, so don't be late!

SCRAP & CRAFT AT CONQUEST KEEPSAKES!

2010-08-27T18:09:00.006-05:00

Don't forget to Scrap & Craft with Conquest Keepsakes tomorrow from 9a to 5p! If you need directions, email me and I'll get them out to you. It's going to be a beautiful day!

If you come by the crop, take a look at Candy Colwell's The Witching Hour book and a couple of her amazing Heritage blocks on display! Sign up for the Witching Hour book class (only a few seats left), and see what we are offering this fall. Lots of great Christmas Gift ideas that you can personalize with your own unique crafting style! Here are a few pics of Candy's ingenious The Witching Hour book:

In this class you will learn some unique ways of putting together a 3-dimensional book that is very interactive and can be displayed during the holidays. Every time you look through it, you see something new! Candy is a master craftsman of interactive crafting experiences. We'll be using many products you might not have had the opportunity to use, so come and learn something new with Candy! The class will be October 2 here at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio.

If you like to craft/crop, we have space for 12 (quite comfortably), so bring something to work on and come play with us tomorrow! Door prizes, make-n-takes, demos and more! Of course we have chocolate (what self-respecting crafter wouldn't?) and lemonade, tea and more. We have the garden cart waiting to bring your scrappy/crafty items around in one easy trip!

We'll continue to carry a unique array of vintage items and can special order what we don't have in stock. While you crop/craft tomorrow, watch our slide show of favorite CHA Winter and Summer pics, you will see some of the great projects we saw at the show and share a few laughs too.

Check out our Vintage, Metal and Soldering Class/Kit Clubs that we will be debuting this fall or sign up and join us on our monthly Scrap & Craft nights. We look forward to seeing you in our comfortable, relaxing surroundings and becoming a part of the Conquest Keepsake family!

It's a WHOLE NEW WORLD!

2010-08-13T00:24:00.003-05:00

This is has been a summer of a lot of changes, crafting, hanging with my crafty friends, Mom having cancer surgery, me battling my own health issues, but most of all, totally revamping my training and retail area here at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio HQ (aka, the other 1500 sq. ft. in our walkout not occupied by mowers and bathrooms). Most of my friends/family/business associates know I have had a travel store for the last three years, Conquest Keepsakes (so original, I know) and I sell primarily vintage/multimedia art and paper products and teach paper crafting classes. I also have been teaching basic papercrafting at both Hobby Lobby stores here in Springfield. But some changes were in order...

Sometimes you just have to make a choice to do one thing well instead of a lot of things OK. Thus my decision to focus on vintage mutlimedia projects, mini-albums, and vintage jewelry making, and expanding the training area. To that end we have added Ten Seconds Studio products so we can create metal works of art that fit with our vintage projects and jewelry. We are also working on adding a couple of more product lines to deepen what we have to offer in this niche. If you like SteamPunk, this could be for you! Such a hot product area right now, I saw quite a bit of it at CHA this summer.

Speaking about things made from metal, I'll be going down to Texas in October to take the TSS certification course, which I am sure will be a hoot as Cheryl and Megan are very entertaining and quite versatile in what they do. I KNOW I will come back enlightened! At least about metal...

As I've said, this summer I've decided to get REALLY serious about making some changes in my training/retail space here at HQ. I have the technology and the background, so why not use it? So for the past couple of months I have worked on totally clearing the finished walkout basement area (bye bye mancave, or at least relocated), rearranged the tables, spanked out the Sharp projector, set up the video camera and lit up the screen with artsy projects (instead of SciFi and Photoshop). Delightful! So now I can teach 12 to 14 victims, er, clients, at a time, utilizing the video cam to show everyone the techniques we are using and demo products. Now we've gone from 6 to 12, effectively doubling our training/crafting/cropping space. With this setup, I can even monitor my wireless IP Surveillance camera. :-) A girl's gotta know when FedEx and UPS hits the door! I could even do some Death by PowerPoint if I were so inclined (and believe me, I'm NOT).

It really does feel good to go back to my roots in technology, instructional design, graphic arts and marketing and using more of that to promote my crafting/artsy business. I taught graphic arts software for 20 years, so it has been nice to put all those art classes in college to work and teach something that doesn't involve the computer. Using your hands to create art and tell a story is so gratifying to me! I still love my Mac and graphic apps, but I am really excited about expanding more in this vintage direction by enlarging the training area, branching out into metal art and offering products that are out of the mainstream and harder to find! My love has always been teaching hands-on, and with all the wonderful products on the market now, there is plenty of room for everyone to be involved. It is my goal to teach techniques and products that are not currently offered by the big box stores, or even the local scrapbook stores. Like I said earlier, everyone can't do everything, so I have directed my efforts to fill in the gap between crafting and art, using found objects and items out of the mainstream. The full store is set up when I am not traveling, so it's a one stop learn and shop! You don't know what it is? We will show you! Then you can become addicted as I am. :-)

Along those lines, Conquest Keepsakes is holding an open house Crop & Craft August the 28th from 9a till the cows come home (your guess is as good as mine!), but we're shooting for 5-6p. We will be doing demos, make-n-takes, door prizes and other fun things to introduce the newly expanded and high-tech advanced classroom area, along with our expanded store offerings. We will have a new schedule up shortly now that summer is coming to an end; for local classes, road classes, club crops, and events (including Hobby Lobby classes too) for Fall and Winter. If you like Tim Holtz, Ranger, Ten Seconds Studio, Maya Road, Graphic 45, 7 Gypsies, Suze Weinberg, and everything else distressed and vintage, this is for you! We have a class schedule that will keep you hopping, so check back often! We've expanded into jewelry making and soldering, so we are sure to have something to interest most of you beyond scrapbooking!

We'll be posting pics of the new space within the next few days. There are still a few things that require assembly. I just LOVE directions that consist of pictures of what's in the box, and... nothing else. NOT!

We have some other "new" things coming, so don't be surprised when... or I could show you some sneak peaks of.. well, I'll tell you about it later!

Keep the faith! ~Vicki

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS...

2010-03-20T17:58:00.002-05:00

Well, it's not Monday, but it is rainy! As the rain sheets down outside here in parts of southern Missouri (snow in other areas), I am here in front of my warm fireplace and MacBookPro, sitting on the knitted throw that my Mom made me for Christmas and reflecting upon another cozy afternoon spent with my artsy friends in Ozark. Although it was cold and wet outside, inside we all sat around the tables and visited and shared our latest artful projects. Shirley was working on a beautiful crazy quilt mini-ablum, Pat on a snow layout and Joyce let me peak at the mini book she just finished for her nephew, who bears a striking resemblance to my nephew! In another corner Misty is showing Lois how to use her Design Studio with her JukeBox on her Cricut. We all sang happy birthday to my husband, who graciously spent his day helping me move product in and out, setting up tables and ringing up the goodies the girls wanted to use on their projects. Rebecca and I shared a smile as we're both the same age; she just had her birthday and mine is coming up in a few weeks. Let's just say we're older than we wish we were! It's always amazing how our lives intertwine with consistent themes of family and friends, fellowship and laughter, and sometimes a tear or two as we think of relationships that have changed or moved on due to circumstances beyond our control or the natural cycle of life.

I am truly thankful for the family and dear friends that I have. They are a constant blessing to me. They inspire me to do better tomorrow than I did today, they spark my creative curiosity as we all exchange our thoughts about the day's events and how we want to capture those feelings and emotions, as well as the details in what we're working on during the day.

As the rain turns to drizzle and ice (and heavens, probably some snow!) I'm going to sit here and plan a few new classes and projects. There is something about the change in weather during this time of year, even when we seem to be going backwards and not "springing" forward, that always makes me yearn for something new and different. New product arrives daily and it almost seems like sensory overload trying to narrow all the ideas down to a few well-planned projects that will excite others to work with them as much as it excites me to plan them! As I grow older this month I am still excited about getting to play with my new toys! Stay tuned, you may be finding yourself drawn into the excitement of a new project too!

Keep the faith!
Vicki

SOMETIMES THINGS JUST DON'T PAN OUT LIKE THEY SHOULD...

2010-03-18T00:55:00.004-05:00

I haven't posted in a while, been busy with other stuff, and not so fun other stuff at that. This is a hard post for me to write. I've put it off forever but now I finally have to say something.

You know how the old adage goes that says, "No good deed goes unpunished"? Or the one that says. "Never lend money to a friend"? Well, I've received a good dose of that this year. I wouldn't normally talk about this type of thing on a blog, but I guess my bucket is full to overflowing. It's time for righteous indignation! I feel a need to say something, because I think this situation happens way more often than it should and I am sick and tired of people acting badly and getting away with it, because no one will stand up to the person and tell them, "Hey, that is NOT how you treat friends/people!"

Since when is it OK to lie to or mistreat your spouse, your friends, your family, and even your constituents if you're a politician? How come we as a people, we as family, we as friends, and even we as voters, can turn a blind eye to things that are just flat, plain wrong? Do we not have any sense of personal responsibility anymore? When did our word being our bond cease to be? Has it now become "do anything we can get away with?" Do not actions have repercussions/consequences? Can we lie with impunity?

What happened to treating people with compassion and understanding? Extending help even when we are not asked? Hoping others will "pass it on?" Is the good deed dead or does it only work in movies? Has Ty Pennington used up all the good will in America and the common person thinks watching it on TV is as good as doing it? Do people now have the option of making promises they have no intention of keeping and freely cop an attitude about it? Is that the new "cool?" Can we take other people's money that they were generous enough to lend and just pitch responsibility out the window and say, "Screw you, you can't touch me, I'm not paying you back a dime?" What EXACTLY has this nation come to? I hear a lot of people calling themselves Christians, but acting in a VERY un-Christ-like manner. Jesus is shaking his head and the founding fathers of this nation are spinning in their graves.

As a Christian myself, it sickens me. It SADDENS me. It makes me lose hope. Hope in America and it's people. A nation that was founded on Christ-like principles and now it's people are acting like a group of miscreants, thugs, liars, cheaters, etc. Do we blame this on a new generation? If so, it is people my age that have failed our children. We've not taught personal responsibility and accountability to them. Why should they feel responsible if we don't show responsibility to them? The golden rule has tarnished. A nation that was founded on the Bible now doesn't let you post the Ten Commandments in a public place.

All of this and more has hit home to me this week. I was generous with a friend and this person repaid my kindness and generosity with a lie and an attitude. They've told the lie so many times that they now think it's the truth. (Almost sounds like Congress.) I'm to a point that I can't believe anything that they say. It's a sad day when you have to document every little word someone says just in case they chose to lie about it in the future. What a sad and pathetic way to live your life. I feel truly sorry for a person like that. I would much rather have joy, truth, friendship, generosity, kindness, understanding, compassion, gentleness, love and hope in my life.

So my word for this year is BETTER. I want to be better at being a Wife, Aunt, Sister, Daughter, listening ear, encourager, sustainer, prayer warrior, Christian, artist and friend. I'd also like to be better at posting. :-) While I'm at it, I'd like to be better at picking better friends. Thankfully, I am already blessed with many wonderful, compassionate, gifted friends. I just need to get rid of some chaff and pass on a little lesson regarding actions have consequences, whether those consequences are experienced in the short term or the long term. Ultimately, we all know God is the final adjudicator and He sees all. I can live with that.

Keep the faith (I'm certainly trying),
Vicki

ROW ROW ROW YOUR BOAT...

2010-01-23T01:47:00.002-06:00

I'd say I was sitting here in sunny California, but it's definitely not sunny and I forgot to pack my oars so I could paddle on down to the convention center tomorrow. Oops. Hopefully it will be sunny and a little bit warmer tomorrow, or I think I might have to call this western, western Missouri. :-) Our condo does have a great view of Disneyland and we'll be able to see the fireworks from our unit. If we're looking out the window and not at our computer screens!

I did get my one clumsy move for 2010 out of the way today. Last year, my groove involved missing a step going downstairs at my house and doing a face plant at the bottom of the stairs, a week after getting my cast off my arm. At least I didn't have an audience for that performance (outside of the furry four-footed kind). This year, I waited until I arrived here in California and made my move in front of Bubba Gumps. Evidently I am not even coordinated enough to walk down the sidewalk without falling down. In the rain. Hard. Busted. Embarrassed. Sigh.

Well, it's getting late. I'm trying to keep up with photos and such on FaceBook and Twitter. Once the show (CHA) starts, I'll post pics here too. Theoretically. If I don't bust my camera by falling on it.

Keep the faith (and medical insurance if you're coming near me)!
Vicki

A WONDERFUL GIFT

2010-01-15T22:13:00.003-06:00

One of the wonderful benefits of the Tim Holtz cruise this fall was having the opportunity to make new friends and spend time with other creative women. This cruise was also the first time I've been a part of an ATC swap. For those of you who don't know what an ATC card is, it stands for Artist Trading Card and it is based on a very simple concept. An ATC card is the size of a card from a deck of playing cards (think Hearts, Spades, Poker, Black Jack, etc.) and past that it really has no rules. It can be anything you want, using whatever types of media you feel comfortable using. The only real rule it has, is that it has to be given, not sold. So imagine 150 creative women making cards to trade with each other and with Tim, Mario, and Wendy! Not all of us made cards, but those who did were very generous and very creative. Since I signed up for the cruise about 4 weeks before departure, I didn't have time to make any cards, although I decided that I would try to make some after the cruise to share with several of my fellow cruisers. Watching everyone swap cards and show their collection of cards was a lot of fun, and one of my new friends, Kathy E., made a vest of ATC cards that she wore on the ship. Amazing! My other favorite was Mario's card... a copy of the shipping labels for all the boxes they had to send with supplies. Hysterical! It still makes me smile.

This week I received an ATC from Karen (aka KeyChain) that she made using some pretty cool techniques, and some interesting products. Rather than try to describe it, I thought I would post a picture of it so I could share it with all of you. What the picture doesn't show as well is that the right side of the card with the likeness of Mona Lisa is very textural, so I asked her what she did to create it and here is what she said:

"I spread a thin layer of Gesso on the card, made an impression using a clean stamp. Added a thin wash of paint after it had dried."

I thought it was a really nice look and worked really well with the other products she used on the card. I'm kind of an earth-tone girl, so the whole card really appealed to me. Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. :-) She also helped me increase my ATC collection (now that I have more than four, I can call it a collection, can't I?). Thanks Karen! Can't wait to see you at the show and you can tell me what else you used on this card... [wink]

Until tomorrow everyone, keep the faith!
~Vicki

Quit laughing...

2010-01-15T00:42:00.002-06:00

So I have to be the world's worse blogger, nothing new there! Facebook and Twitter were clamoring for attention but now it is back to basics!

Since there is no way to catch up, I'm going to use a good old church euphemism that goes like this, "Come as you are." So, other than late to the party, here I am! You can also find me on Facebook and Twitter (@conquestkpsks).

Here's a quick run down of the last couple of months, and probably the reason I am slow to post, is THE CRUISE! Yes, the cruise to Mexico with Tim Holtz and Wendy Vecchi in October and arranged by ScrapMap happens to be one of the most incredible things I have ever done! Bar NONE! All the rest of the girls have blogged their trips, so now I'll endeavor to blog my perspective, along with current news such as the impending trip to Winter CHA in LA. I do have a few more days before I leave on Thursday, so I hope I'll be able to catch up while itching with anticipation for the show!

If you ever have the opportunity to do a scrapping/stamping cruise, working with ScrapMap and Jim West was a delight, considering I signed up six weeks before the cruise! Jaci Hague hustled around and got me everything I needed on time so I owe her special thanks. You ROCK Jaci! They had every detail planned and it was such a wonderful time. We did have some rough seas the first couple of days, but we all managed to deal with it as it came along. The Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas was a spectacular ship, our stewards and wait staff at dinner were impeccable, I don't know how else they could have spoiled us with everything they did. Just flat amazing! Because of the rough seas, we had to change our itinerary some, but Tim and his crew just rolled with it and we had an awesome time! Of course I picked up a few new slang versions about cruising, like "The Floating Raisin Ranch" or "Newly Wed or Nearly Dead" much to my amusement! They've already announced the next Tim Cruise, it will be in the fall, Sept. 30th through Oct. 9th, New England and Canada. I do have some pics posted in an album on my FaceBook page, but there are more to come (I took TWO cameras and some video).

After the cruise I threw myself into getting stuff together for our Forever Memories crop we do once a month, and OF COURSE we are all Tim peeps. It's a small group of very talented ladies and we all love vintage, distress and mutli-media projects. They really had to twist my arm to get me going to that! [grin] Now I feel like a pimp handing out Tim fixes once a month (if not more often).

As far as upcoming events and classes, we have two events this Spring. One is the Pleasant Hope Crop on March 6th that my friend Lori McCroskey puts together every year benefiting the school, and the other is the Children's Miracle Network crop April 9, which is always a big crop for a really good cause. For more information on these crops, you can contact Lori at Clear Dollar Stamps for info on how to register for that event, and for the CMN crop, you can contact The Scrapbooking Momeez for more information and registration. This year Krista Pickle, from Scrapbooks Forever in Branson will be hosting an excellent store for this event, you don't want to miss that! Mark your calendars now. I will also have a booth and teach a class and some make-n-takes, all emphasizing vintage/distress looks. I'll be carrying everything Tim in my booth, along with Zutter, 7 Gypsies, Graphic 45, Maya Road, Making Memories, and Jenni Bowlin, just to name a few. If it's vintage or distressed and available, I'll have it. Obviously we will be showcasing Tim's new products being intro'd next week at CHA, his inks, stamps, Idea-ology, and his new Sizzix dies. I'll be giving away a couple of really great products and you'll have the chance to examine and play with his new product lines.

In between those crops, we still have classes going at Hobby Lobby, our Forever Memories monthly crops and some other special events for a few local groups. If you're as excited as I am about all the new things coming out, you may need to stop reading here and go to the restroom. I'll still be here when you get back!

One of my new fascinations is Ten Seconds Studio and working with metal. I can't wait to see what those crazy ladies show us this year at the show. Seriously, you need to catch their Taco Tuesday videos. Look for links for all these on the sidebar.

Until later!

Vicki

NOVEMBER CLASS OPPORTUNITIES

2009-11-18T02:49:00.002-06:00

As I sort through the 435 pictures I took on the cruise to start blogging about it, I thought I would post an update for November classes. We have several classes to choose from, so I'll list them with all pertinent info for those of you watching for the schedule.

This Saturday is open craft day here at the Conquest Paper Studio. I have kits for the Advent Calendar, another grunge wall hanging project, a grunge birthday book (Days to Celebrate) and a couple SpellBinder projects. There are also some monogrammed gift card tins too. It starts at 10a and runs until the last person leaves. We'll have access to my many tools and horde of products, those of you who know me well, know my stash is legendary. As usual, you'll receive discounts on products you order during the open craft days--deals so good, you can't afford to miss them! I will probably do another Open Craft day Thanksgiving weekend, so if you are interested in any of the classes, let me know, you can email or call [350-4569]. I've still got a few Tim tricks up my sleeves for several of these projects. These are all great gift projets. There are still Hobby Lobby classes, but I need to have at least 4 or 5 signed up to have the classes at the stores. Classes here at the Paper Studio go on no matter the number of people present. I'll post some more details tomorrow. Bring a friend and have some fun with us! Bring your basic class kit (wet and dry adhesive, sissors, sand paper, trimmer, ruler, pencil, black and white gel pens, dimensional foam (pop dots), brown or black ink to age with, and any Tim Holtz products you might have (like Distress Inks, ink blending tool, pads,

Keep the faith! What a wonderful time of year to be reminded about what that means!
Vicki

GOOD GOLLY WAS THAT A BLAST!?

2009-11-13T01:29:00.003-06:00

OK, I'm kind of lame. Look down at the ground and kick the rocks lame. A pictureless posting shamer. That's me!

HOWEVER, I'm gonna work on it. Who goes on a Mexican Riviera Cruise WITH TIM HOLTZ and doesn't write or post anything? Well, that's about to be over. I was kind of waiting to let all the other Timites get there stuff up before I put up mine. It's a concerted effort to wait, but we're trying to stretch out the joy as long as we can! We're a merciless lot! Suffice it to say, THAT CRUISE WAS ALL THAT AND A BAG OF CHIPS! I met some new, wonderful friends, got my picture taken with Whoopie Goldberg and it doesn't stop there! Even high seas and a tropical depression didn't stop us! The projects were bumbalicious and Tim, Mario, Wendy, Rick and the whole gang at ScrapMap made this trip a cherished memory! Table 302 was the best IMO but Club 300 had it going on too! So many details and I'll try to get to everything. I even shot some video! Ooo-la-la what a trip! Tomorrow I will start at the beginning, and try to get it all in. However, I do have a few other things on my plate at the moment. Like visiting inlaws, class prep, CHA show prep among other tings...

Cliff's parents are in this week from Canada for a ten day stay. We love to have them here because who couldn't sit and listen to a British accent and not feel well traveled? All of my husbands family has it's roots in the UK, but also have folks scattered about. We're having some beautiful weather, at least for the next several days, a goood Indian Summer. So on that note, I'm going to vacate my post (ha ha) and get all kinds of busy. Classes are coming up and I've been keeping Tim Holtz products stocked and there's so much to get done.

Before I stop for the night, I definitely have to get a shout out to my husband. I am SO BLESSED that Cliff is a part of my life. When I got home from the cruise, he had flowers, a box of Milkduds and clean house to meet me. He even rearranged the furniture in the bedroom, something I've been wanting to do for a long time, and he even wrapped some fall leave garlands around the four posters on the bed. WOW. What a guy! Honey, I love you with all my heart!With that,

Keep the faith!
Vicki

SHIP AHOY! CLASSES, OH BOY!

2009-10-06T15:37:00.003-05:00

I've been busy, busy, busy trying to get everything I need to do done before embarking on my Artful Cruise to Mexico with Tim Holtz and Wendy Vecchi! (Yes, I feel compelled to use the proper name for the cruise from ScrapMap) Oh my golly, am I EXCITED! Maybe a little TOO excited if you ask Cliff. Anywho, I've been busy ordering supplies and putting together kits for the classes which start the week I return from Mexico. Seriously, I think Tim and Wendy bought every spec of Idea-ology out there, not to mention Ranger products! Boy, are we gonna have some fun with all things inky! Tim has our Yahoo Group for the trip whipped almost to a frenzy with excitement as he and Wendy both tease us about what they have in store for us and our workshops. And shopping? Oh my YES! All the latest from Idea-ology, Ranger, Stamper's Anonymous, 7 Gypsies, Graphic 45 and Maya Road! Do you think I am going to come back with some Timmy and Wendy classes for you? You betcha! In fact, some are already scheduled... but you'll have to wait for the details!

Speaking of workshops, you can now pick up the class schedule for October (since we're IN October) for the two local Hobby Lobby stores. I'm offering a Spellbinder Pendant class and the Countdown to Christmas 16 x 20 calendar this month. Here are some brief descriptions of two of the classes. A version of the Calendar is on display now at the South Side store, fliers will be available soon.

(You all can't see this, but my big lilac point Himalayan just crawled up on my lap between me and my laptop (no grace needed here), laid down and curled up into a ball, stuck his face into the crook of my arm and is purring away as he takes a nap. How cute is that? Aside from the fact that I can't breath as he's mostly on my chest, and I can't move except to type and he lays his ears back—the Ears of Irritation—when I do that. Pewter wants complete compliance with his cutefulness. Oh, and I have a face full of long white cat hair to boot.) OK, back to class descriptions...

Spellbinder Ornament—make a beautiful snowflake ornament with pearl and ribbon accents using the new Spellbinder Pendant dies on your Cuttlebug! All the supplies are included but bring your standard scrapbooking kit (see description to the left). If you've ever wondered what Spellbinder Dies can do and how you might use them in your Cuttlebug, this is the class for you! You'll also see a demo of the Scor-Pal scoring tool. A must have for any card maker!
Cost is $8
Oct. 22 from 1-3p at the North Side store
Oct. 23 from 1p –3p at the South Side store
Nov. 23 from 6p–7:30p at the CK Home Studio
Nov. 24 from 6p –7:30p North Side store

Countdown to Christmas Calendar—A 16 x 20 Christmas calendar with removable boxes for goodies for the kids (or yourself)! A fun way to count down the days to Christmas. Uses DCWV Christmas Glitter pad, Cosmo Cricket Christmas paper or bring papers of your choice. This is a GORGEOUS project worth every penny and more, don't miss it! This project involves a little homework for the North Side store, but nothing too strenuous. EVERYTHING is supplied! Can be done in colors to match your decor, uses Christmas picks or Kaiser wood embellishments. Bring your standard scrapbook kit.
Cost is $30
Oct. 26 or Nov. 9 from 6p – 10p at the CK Home Studio
Oct. 27 or Nov. 10 from 5:30p – 7:30p North Side store
Oct. 29 or Nov. 12 from 1p – 3p North Side store
Oct. 30 or Nov. 13 from 1p – 5p South Side store

So, what about those Timmy classes? Let's just say in November and December we're going to do a little Decor Grunge! We'll be using all the new Tim Holtz products as well as his current products. We're going to sponge, smear, blend, stamp, staple, paint, glaze, sand, glitz, mist, heat, canvas, crackle, distress, ink and grunge our way to better art! A technique extravaganza that is going to knock your socks off! In case you haven't noticed, Hobby Lobby carries not only the Distress, Adirondack and Alcohol inks, but they now carry the Paint Dabbers, Sander, Stickles, Grungeboard, Tiny Attacher (better buy one now, you just might need it...), and other Ranger and Idea-ology products. With a coupon, what could be better? Or cheaper...

Just a reminder, don't forget to bring your scrapbook kit to class as we don't supply tools or adhesives unless specifically noted. These classes are always available for scheduling for private groups or events, and they may be offered at other times outside of Hobby Lobby store hours.

Keep the faith! ~Vicki

AND THE LIST GOES ON...

2009-09-22T00:22:00.002-05:00

Tam and I worked on the class list today. So many good ideas and so little time to make them. But for those of you wondering what we have up our sleeves, I list out the names of a few of the classes just to whet your appetite. We'll be doing some perennial favorites as well as some new, cool stuff. Read on!

Additionally, we're going to be doing some product demos at Hobby Lobby North Side. If you've ever wondered what some of the best tools are, come to a Demo Day where we will be showing the Cricut Expressions, Cuttlebug, Electric Big Shot, iTop, Crop-a-dile, embossing folders and how they work in the various machines, SpellBinder Dies, Tim Holtz products, and any other tools we think are smokin' (not literally!). We'll be having some make-n-takes at these events, so mark the dates down when we announce them. If you want your hubby to buy it for you, we'll even help him shop! With the Cricut demo, we'll show you how to use the pens, the JukeBox, Design Studio Software, Vinyl, the new stamp and embossing products (to create stamps or your own embossing folders) along with the cartridges, and we'll talk about the Gypsy for the Cricut.

Since you all know I am going on the Artful Voyage in Mexico with Tim Holtz and Wendy Vecchi, it's a safe bet that we are going to be having classes on how to use both the Tim Holtz products, but also stamps by Wendy Vecchi and products from Ranger (think Rock Candy Stickles and Crackle paint, alcohol inks, paint resist, blending, using Grunge paper and Grunge board, stamps, Glossy Accents and lots of techniques).

All of our classes make EXCELLENT Christmas gifts, so don't miss out. Classes include:
Countdown to Christmas Calendar (16 x 20 Advent calendar using canvas board, trims and other secret ingredients—this class sells out every time we do it, so sign up early!)
Days to Celebrate (birthday book using the Zutter binder) or Prayer Journal
Bill Minder with Calendar (this makes an excellent Christmas gift, don't miss it!)
Grunge and other wall hangings (lot of Timmy and Wendy here, in Christmas and home decorating options, we're teaching some new techniques that will knock your socks off!)
Christmas Card Tin (need a place to store your cards? This is it!)
Note Card Tin (Your own personalized stationary and a beautiful place to store it, or do it for a friend!)
Spellbinder Ornaments (Uses the NEW Pendant dies with the Cuttlebug and Big Shot)
Planner (a beautiful renewable planner that you might just keep for yourself)
Recipe Book (they gotta go somewhere, eh?)
12 Tags of Christmas (Straight from the Tim man himself, a multi-part technique class)
Ideology Jewelry (More Timmy in a way you can't imagine)
Joy of Christmas Wall Art (Capitalize on the letter craze and choose your own colors!)
Christmas Card stamping and embossing class (need something to fill that decorative tin, right?)
and the Fantasy Box makes a return!

Another highlight this season are some one hour classes to make small gifts, technique classes that you can apply to many projects, and prizes given away in EVERY class!

Our class sizes are kept smaller so you can finish your project in the class, no taking it home and wondering, what do I do now?

Lastly, soon we are adding an Adobe Photoshop Elements for Scrapbookers class. Come learn all about digital scrapbooking and also how to fix your pictures to make them look their best for your album.

To inquire about all the classes and demo's listed above, you can email me at vconquest@conquestkeepsakes.com. Remember, we do private parties as well, so if you want to plan a class just for you and your friends, or as an event for a group in your office or church, drop me a line and we'll set you up!

Keep the faith!
Vicki

CRUISIN' RIGHT ALONG...

2009-09-18T22:42:00.002-05:00

Take a hint from the title, I'm goin' on a cruise! Yeppers, in October I am going on the Artful Cruise in Mexico with Tim Holtz and guest teacher Wendy Vecchi! This cruise is sponsored by ScrapMap and I am BEYOND excited, I had a blast in Tim's class at CHA in July so I thought a whole week of Tim would be even better. I've been hinting at the hubby for the last three or four months about the cruise. He did a really good job of ignoring me. Finally, he was nice enough to give me the green light to go, after I pestered him to death. How else does a woman get what she wants? Does that count as a green light? It's just icing on the cake that Wendy is going to be teaching too. I am an absolutely HUGE fan of her grunge flowers. EVEN CLIFF admired her grunge roses while we were touring the Ideology booth at the show. Cliff wasn't going to let me go by myself, however, so I convinced my friend Tammy to go with me. Luckily, I only had to ask once, right Tammy? Yes, I can hear your head shaking from here. A whole week without cat hair, what will I do with that extra hour every day that I'll gain from not having to roll my clothes with a lint roller? Sleep or stamp? Now that I've spilled the cat kibble, on to other news...

I AM working on my list of classes for the holiday season. You all know how much I LOVE Christmas—Christmas papers, Christmas stamps, Christmas cookies, Christmas parties and Christmas cards. Oh and Christmas Kitties! So I am making my list, probably making it twice, gonna find out who's... oh, did I mention Christmas music? LOVE Christmas music. I think I have more Christmas CDs than regular music CDs, or maybe I should say more Christmas DOWNLOADS with the advent of iTunes (see how I worked in the word "advent"? uh-huh, it almost slipped by you). Glad you all were paying attention. :-) OK, yeah, I was saying something about a list... hmm... uh... yeah, a list of classes! That's it! (It's really hard getting old, hear what I'm telling ya?) So classes are in the works. I'll have the October schedule here shortly, with a big hole in the middle because I am...going on a CRUISE! Oh yeah, I told you that already. :-)

We'll be having classes in several locations again this year. First off, as usual, classes at the north side Hobby Lobby on Tuesday nights and Thursday days, and at the south side Hobby Lobby on Friday days; classes here at the Conquest Keepsakes Paper Studio, Craft Night at Northbridge Baptist Church and some additional classes scattered around Springfield (details as they develop). As an aside, my husband informed me that there was a CK—S and a CK—N, Conquest Keepsakes South (my craft room downstairs, which is at the south end of the house) and Conquest Keepsakes North (the breakfast area upstairs, which is on the north side of the house), so now I am telling all of you that all the classes at CK will be held in the M location, the room midway between my craft room downstairs and my breakfast area upstairs, which is the living area downstairs. Are we all clear now? Hmm, maybe I'll draw a map. Coming soon to a location near you...

Keep the faith!

Day One on the Trade Show Floor at CHA Summer 2009

2009-07-28T17:53:00.004-05:00

Today was a wild and crazy day! This show isn't nearly as large as the Anaheim show, but it is still an interesting place to be today! I'm working in the Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker booth with Nikki, Dan, Chastity Hassel and Susan Dupre. It was a very busy day for us, lots of traffic in our booth, we were quite busy the whole day right up to the close of the show floor. Chastity and Susan were making paper cupcakes for the make-n-take and they were busy from beginning to end! We had video cameras in our booth several times today (the ones run by professionals, not us wanna-be's with hand-held cameras!) and we had all kinds of compliments from everyone! Nikki has worked hard for this show and it "showed" in how well-organized she was and how professionally she handled herself with everyone. A more gracious person you could never meet! We took more orders than I could count, and we had a lot of fun passing out the Willie-B lapel pins and catalogs. All of the samples done by the girls were phenomenal and we had many, many wonderful compliments on their work. Their art was wonderful and the displays looked so good! My husband also came down with us and today he was making the rounds scouting out all the booths. He even did a Make-N-Take over at the Spellbinders booth! Now THAT is a miracle! I can't even get him to cut paper for me at home, and there he was with a table of girls making a paper box. Ladies, as my friend Katie says, "He's a keeper!"

I'll try to get some pictures posted up from today, and from my class with Tim Holtz yesterday! You betcha, THAT was the best class I have EVER taken! I had an extra ticket, so Susan went with me and we had a blast! I have pictures from the class, and he signed my book to boot. How great is that? More later, need to stop to eat (tired of paying $5 for a cinnamon roll...). Tomorrow, I'm sending Cliff out with a camera. Be prepared for beheaded projects...

I GOT TO SCRAP!!

2009-06-17T00:22:00.004-05:00

I know this sounds a little odd coming from someone who is SUPPOSED to be scrapping, but believe it or not, I don't have too much time to scrap lately. But I did get to go to a crop, Scrapbook Generation's Scrap-A-Palooza over the weekend, and it was a BLAST! Nikki and I went together as we saw an opportunity to get some samples done for the upcoming CHA show in Orlando. [roll eyes] Ahem, well, Nikki managed to get most of her haunted house made from her Halloween papers, Boo-tiful (was that not the cutest thing you ever laid eyes on? Oh yeah, you've not seen it, but trust me...), while I worked on a Christmas Advent calender made from her Christmas papers (you are going to LOVE, LoVe, lOvE those papers!). I got all wiggly with the Glimmer Mists on my canvas, so we'll see if that was a product of clear thinking, or of chocolate overload from the awesome chocolate fountains they had going at the crop. If there was any more justification going on regarding my chocolate intake, I would have had to right and left aligned the tables! All the food was flat stick! (that is your new Australian slang word of the week, someone in Australia told Nikki her papers were "flat stick" and we're hoping that was a complement...) Those ladies at Scrapbook Generation know how to do a crop! Well, aside from the part where a spider chased me in the parking lot trying to hitch a ride on my foot. There was some small amount of screaming that happened. Technically, it was after the crop was over, so I'll let the spider slide. :-| I saw a lot of old friends and made some new ones, and that is why I like a good crop. Of course I do have to say it was a privilege to see Nikki all excited about people buying her papers. Scrapbook Generation is carrying both her My Sweet Cherry Pie and Victoria's Street papers and embellies, along with their usual broad range of everything scrapbooking.

This week has been a real whirlwind of orders from all over the world. We were billing, packing and shipping all day today, which is a minor miracle because we're still inputing financials into the system and realized we couldn't officially generate invoices until we officially received the products into the system! Details, details. But, as they say, we got'er done.

Because Willie-B is our mascot, we have this "Bee" thing going, so now we have the Graphic Bee, and today I was told I was the Wiki Bee. Everyone keeps asking me what I do for Nikki and I never know how to answer that, as it encompasses so many things. Like graphic and prepress work (nothing like 20 years of experience in the printing and graphic arts industries to come in handy for a company that designs paper for a product), technical support for our Macs, PC's and network, marketing and advertising, implementing our business processes, event management, packaging, sourcing, and general moral support as needed. (lol) So today, when Nikki was trying to explain what I do for NSS to Lexy, she referred to me as the Wiki Bee, which really kind of fits. I know a lot of occasionally useful information, as over the last 20+ years (put away your calculator, that's not nice...) I've worked in print, publishing, graphic arts, web, instructional design, training, tech support and business management areas primarily in the graphic arts industries and software/hardware training industries. I currently own and run a consulting and training business, and in the past I've started up several new businesses and then sold them. I'm almost dangerous in accounting, but I try to stay out of that and let the DH handle it since that is his profession. Heaven forbid if he would try to design a brochure, that would be like me trying to reconcile a balance sheet! :-) Actually, the hubby is adept at using Photoshop and Illustrator and I feel like a proud momma about that! At least the DH has the books covered for Nikki.

So another day is done and we're looking forward to what kind of challenges tomorrow will bring us. Keep the faith! God knows what we need before we even know that we need it! ~Vicki

Nikki Anounced Her Design Team!

2009-06-10T00:33:00.003-05:00

Nikki announced her Design Team today for Nikki Sivils, Scrapbooker LLC and what a wonderful group of designers she has chosen! We are so excited to have this team and it was really hard for her to narrow down her choices, all the submissions were excellent and making a choice almost seemed like a crime!

All the pieces for the Summer CHA show are coming together nicely, we have product and it is beautiful. There's nothing like seeing a plan come together! So many details go into it and seeing the finished product is mind-blowing! I feel lucky, honored, humbled and excited to be able to have a part in helping her get her new business off the ground. Talk about living vicariously!

Switching gears for a moment, I want to move on to stamping. I've been designing a set of stamps for Clear Dollar Stamps called the Flowers of the Month in the Timeless Treasures series. We've been introducing them two at a time each month and every set has a picture of the flower, a nice paragraph about the flower and what it means, as well as stamps for the name, scientific name, birthstone and month to go with it. While doing research for these stamps, I have learned more interesting facts about the flowers than what you see in the set, so I will start sharing with you some of the extra-interesting tidbits and stories about these flowers that we can't put into the sets. You will be amazed at some of the legends and myths surrounding these flowers, as well as learning some more practical applications that these flowers have to our daily lives. I guar-an-tee you will learn something new that you can bore your friends with at the next PTO meeting! We will have them all out and available before Christmas in time for you to create calendars, planners and birthday books and gifts using these series of stamps.

You can also start watching for some sneak peeks of Nikki's second paper line Victoria's Street! I wish I could say it was named after me, but Nikki's niece Victoria actually gets the honor for this line. She is just as sweet as the Victoria's Street papers!

That's all for today! Keep the faith! ~Vicki~

FINALLY, A GOOD SUMMER MOVIE!

2009-05-23T14:49:00.002-05:00

This has nothing to do with scrapbooking or crafting, but I have to talk about it anyway! As a Trekkie from years gone by, I have to say how much I LOVED the new Star Trek movie! The special effects and even the acting by a relative group of unknowns was superb! I think they managed to do an excellent job of catching the flair and feel of the original show with all the show- stopping, jaw-dropping action and effects available in modern movie-making. The characters of Kirk, Spock, Bones, Sulu and Scotty were pretty good, my only disconnect was with Checkov, and to some extent, Uhura. But hey, Uhura and Spock? Hmmm, fodder for thought! By far the best movie I've seen since the Lord of the Rings and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (my PERSONAL favorites for their overtly Christian themes). IMHO. :-) Back to your Memorial Day weekend... and don't forget to pray for our troops as they lay down thier lives for ours in defending freedom, and for all the ones who have already died defending our right to live free!

Keep the faith!

EXCITING NEWS!

2009-05-20T01:13:00.006-05:00

I have been SO busy helping my friend Nikki with her new scrapbook paper line that I've not had time to blink! I am working with her on a consulting basis and we've been having a blast! She has six different paper lines, with four double-sided papers and one die cut paper. Nikki and Dan leave tomorrow to go to the press check for the papers. What's really cool about her small papers is that they are reductions of her full size papers AND they come with three or four pages of each design, how cool! Cardmakers will be thrilled with that!

She also has several other products coming out at the show and a couple of surprise products new to the scrapbook industry. We are SOO excited about this as we are exhibiting at the CHA Trade Show in Orlando in July for both the trade show and the consumers show. We'll be doing make-n-takes for both shows, so be sure to look us up, we're in booth #552 during the trade show (across from Prima and next to May Arts--uh oh) and then we'll move to booth #1925 for the retail consumer show. We won't be selling product to end users, but we should have several retailers exhibiting in the Consumer show carrying our papers and supplies.

Nikki will be doing an official Call for Designers posted shortly, so be looking for that on her blog. We'll pick the best of the best and they will be on display at the CHA show! We also plan on doing the Winter show too. We'll be doing some sneak peaks of the papers and projects as we go along, so make sure to check back often. The web site should be up in about a month (or less we hope!) and you'll hear more about everything that is happening!

In the mean time, I am still planning my fall classes at Hobby Lobby. We'll be doing some altered art tags courtesy of Tim Holtz inspiration and the Countdown to Christmas calendar, along with a Birthday Book and a Planner. You'll want to look at our local Hobby Lobby stores for more information.

Additionally, I'll be adding some technique classes, some of which will be how to color and shade with Tombow and Copic markers, new classes on Tim Holtz' fabulous line of distress products and finally some classes on how to use my favorite tools like the Cuttlebug with the Spellbinder Nestabilities and the Cricut Expressions. I'm also considering adding some classes on Adobe Photoshop Elements and digital scrapbooking, so keep an eye out for all of these and more. OK, you can put your eye in and still look for these great classes!

Keep the faith and I'll chat with you later! V!ck!

CMN, WHAT A WONDERFUL CROP!

2009-03-23T23:21:00.002-05:00

I don't know how many of you were able to attend, but Cox Health and the Scrapbooking Momeez put together a wonderful charity crop for the Children's Miracle Network this past weekend. I was one of the vendors to attend along with my good friend Lori McCroskey from Clear Dollar Stamps, the Momeez Debbie and Angie (of course!), Sheri Beersman with the ScrapNook in Bolivar (and shortly to have a store here on the north side of Springfield) as well as folks from Close to My Heart and Stampin' Up! As usual, we had a wonderful crowd of about 85 croppers and never a dull moment! I was able to convince my accountant hubby to hang out with me for most of the event as I had to be away from my booth to teach a class. This was quite the sacrifice for him, as he is a HUGE March Madness participant and to miss the games while watching a bunch of women cut and paste was a great gift. Who could ask for a better hubby than that? :-) I am truly blessed!

We did a couple of make-n-takes and I taught the Days to Celebrate birthday book class. We were completely booked at the event, so for those of you who wanted to take the class, I will be offering it in April at both the north and south side Hobby Lobby stores on several dates, and I will confirm the times in a later post. I will list my scheduled dates and times for both stores, but they are always subject to change and by enrollment. To take a class, you will need to contact me directly, the stores do not take reservations. You can reach me at 417.350.4569 or at 417.833.8760. If the schedule doesn't offer a convenient date, give me a call, as I still offer classes at my house. You can also see projects for sale at Neighborhood Pizza Cafe, along with the current schedule of classes. That should be back up by this weekend. :-)

Saturday's crop was such a wonderful time to catch up with old friends and support a wonderful cause at the same time. If you didn't purchase a shirt, you can still contact the Scrapbooking Momeez!

Here is my standard Hobby Lobby schedule, keeping in mind that it is always subject to change. You can pick up a calendar of Hobby Lobby classes next to the store sale fliers. Classes are subject to enrollment, I usually need at least four people enrolled to confirm a class, so bring your friends! These do make wonderful Mother's Day gifts as well as Christmas gifts if you want to get a head start on the holidays!

Northside Hobby Lobby
Every Tuesday Night from 5:30p to 7:30p
Every Thursday Afternoon from 1:00p to 3:00p
Saturday, April 25th time TBD

Southside Hobby Lobby
Every Friday Afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00p
Saturday, April 18th time TBD

I'll be teaching the Days to Celebrate Birthday Book both Saturdays (one at north side and one at south side) and Tuesday Nights at Northside. Class fee at Hobby Lobby is $15. Other class subjects and times are TDB.

For the Days to Celebrate class you will need to bring a ruler and pencil, paper adhesive to apply paper to chipboard and to seal envelopes (glue stick works well to adhere paper to chipboard and any kind of adhesive you can apply in a thin line works well for the envelope), a trimmer and a scoring tool would be handy to bring, along with a eyelet setting tool. We will be using the Zutter Bind-it-All and I'll be demoing a Scor-Pal scoring board. If you like to age your projects, then bring your favorite aging ink! Examples of the projects should be available by this weekend at both stores.

We'll be looking forward to having a crafty time!

Have a catscrappy day!

TECHNOLOGY I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT

2009-03-20T00:33:00.003-05:00

You all know I am a certified Macavist, I live, sleep, drink, dream, collect and bleed Macs. Back in the day we used to say I bleed six colors (in reference to the six color Apple logo at that time). I have owned almost one of every generation of Macs sold. The only notable Macs that I've not purchased for myself are the iMacs, mostly because I have always required a production Mac. By that I mean an upgradable or expandable machine. I've owned Apple's printers (all 3 versions, can you name them?), their camera, scanner, the Newton, monitors, modems, the first true laptop, Shuffle, iPod 5th Gen and now my most favorite, my iPhone! With my MacBook Pro 17" breathing down it's neck. I AbSoLuteLy ADORE my 3G iPhone. If I can't get to my laptop to get my email, it's OK, because I get it on my 3G. That alone is worth the price of admission! Coordinating my calender, contacts, music, and photos is just too slick!! Surfing and posting to my blog with it, priceless. My favorite app that I've downloaded? Lightsaber, complete with background music! Yes, I am easily entertained.

To be honest, I have to say this is one of my most productive tools. At CHA this little puppy helped me find places to eat, keep up with emails without lugging my laptop around, gave me directions to the nearest grocery store, took pictures of cool layouts and displays, helped me find my group when we got separated from each other, and I could go on endlessly about it. This is why a Mac will always trump a PC, ease of use, totally useful in every way, productive, and FUN!! it is never a chore to work on any of my Apple products. Yes, dare I say it, I am an Apple snob! Chuck your viral PC in the trash and buy a Mac. Macs can even run Windows, if you just can't give up your addiction to the BOD and hate to give up your one-on-one personal time with your antivirus routine. I do have a PC laptop but I have no reason to run it. I have my Cricut DesignStudio software running on my PC partition on my Mac. :-)

Go get a Mac and an iPhone and use all that extra free time you'll gain doing some serious Scrapbooking!

DON'T LOOK BEHIND THE CURTAIN

2009-03-17T12:26:00.004-05:00

I must have some latent urge to watch old movies and listen to old hymns, as those seem to be the things that pop into my head when I get up in the morning and go to post on my blog! Actually, every morning when I wake up, my brain already has a song embedded in it. I am not sure how that works, so I am going to say it is Divine Intervention. I think God gives me a song to hum every morning that somehow fits my day when I think about it at the end of the day. Normally these songs are hymns that I learned growing up or it could be one of the praise songs we sing at church or a new song from the radio (once it was row, row, row your boat...NOT analyzing that one), but sometimes, the song I get is a real thinker. Those songs are usually good old hymns, many of which the words were taken right out of The Word of God (aka, The Bible). Like today. The song of the day? "His Eye is on the Sparrow." Now this is an old traditional favorite of mine, as sung by Selah. I was brushing my teeth, the bathroom windows were open and the birds outside were just chittering away, and the sound of it just captured me in that moment and BAM! the words just popped into my head. That song touches me in so many ways, to think that God is specifically watching me today, that His eye is on me, ME! He CARES for plain little old me brushing my teeth and wondering if my husband's interview for a job will go well today (hes' been unemployed for four months so far). The words aren't long, but the message is straight from The Word just for times like these when life feels uncertain. Here are the words:

"Why do I feel discouraged? Why do the shadows come? And why does my heart feel lonely and long for heaven untold? When Jesus is my portion, a constant friend is He, His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me. So I sing because I'm happy, and I sing because I'm free! Yeah, His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me."

I am special and unique and God loves me for exactly who I am, right this very minute, even if I am like the man behind the curtain running to and fro trying to put up an illusion of grandeur and magnificence and have others think I am more than what I am. At the end of the day, I am still God's child, deeply loved and cherished, no matter what I actually get done on my list! Now, that makes me happy and puts a song in my heart. I just try not to sing out loud, the cat's haven't started a fan web site for my singing capabilities yet—they're too busy covering their ears! teehee

I'm getting ready to fire up the Cricut and put in some major project prep time. I'm a big believer in the right tool for the right job, especially when it comes to prepping for a class. One of the best things about going to CHA is seeing all the new tools! I just LOVE tools! There weren't as many this time (OK, I'll qualify that by saying "not many that I would USE"), but I did order one really nifty tool/appliance that I am absolutely DYING to use, but I've not had the time to fire it up! Can you believe that?! This nifty new product comes from the other side of the pond, and I am sure that once I start using it, it may break me financially! Possibly mentally too... But I'm not going to tell you what it is until I've actually USED it. Hopefully that will be before April...

You'll just have to get the deets later! :-)

WORKING FOR THE WEEKEND

2009-03-16T23:14:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow I'll be "working for the weekend" as an old Loverboy song goes. I have a LOT to DO before Saturday gets here as we prepare for the CMN crop, the Scrapbooking for Miracles crop held Saturday, March 21, 2009, from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm at the Wesley United Methodist Church at 922 W. Republic Road, in Springfield, MO. This crop is presented by Cox Health Nursing, Cox Health North Outpatient Therapy Services and the Scrapbooking Momeez and benefits the Children's Miracle Network. This is one of the best crops in Springfield, you'll find old friends here and make new ones too. They are offering classes and various types of make-n-takes at the vendor tables, mine included! ;-) You can find out more about the crop on the Scrapbooking Momeez web site here.

As in previous years, my booth for Conquest Keepsakes will be set up next to Clear Dollar Stamps. I design stamps for Lori and we like to tag team the attendees with some of the best make-n-takes in southwest Missouri. I have heard of some people coming up from Joplin to attend the crop. I'm sure they are ready to get their hands a little inky, don't you? You know who you are! Lori will be showcasing her knew stamp sets for the month of March, and if you're REALLY lucky, you might even get a sneak peak at some April stamps! Be sure to check out her web site and her blog. Her blog has some of the best tutorials and tips that I've seen anywhere. [grin] OK, so I wrote of couple of them along with a few other guest designers...

That brings me to the class that I am offering at the Children's Miracle Crop this Saturday. This class utilizes one of my most FAVORITE tools, the Zutter Bind-It-All, along with two other tools that I really like, my Cuttlebug and Cricut Expressions. You all know I am Arr--rrr--RR tooltime about tools, especially those that plug in or make scrunching noises. You may laugh, but I have a serious problem with tool addiction! Ask my hubby, he's the first to tell you not to get between me and my tools. I OWN THEM ALL! Cricut, 7Gypsies Binderie (I'll have that at the crop), Crop-A-Diles ad nauseum, Cuttlebug, Sizzix, Sizzlets, mat cutters, knives, Melt Pot, heat guns, punches, corner rounders, cordless Dremmel tool (woo-hoo-oo), 15 rulers (don't ask), Nestabilities dies from Spellbinder, I could go on. My hubby will tell you that if it plugs in or uses batteries, it's ALL ME! I'm a sick puppy. And I digress.

Back to the class. We will be using the BIA (Bind-It-All) to make a very cute wire-bound book. You will have two choices of the type of book to make, the Birthday Book or the Prayer Journal. This cute little darlin' of a book can be made using library envelopes or you can cut your own, or even use your Cricut with the Boxes, Bags, Tags and More cartridge. It cuts a very nice envelope and tag, should you choose to go that route. All papers will be cut for you, this will be an assembly party! We want to make this a fun class without having you drag a trolley of supplies to the class and camping all day at my table.

However, you do need to bring a few supplies and tools to the class, Here is what you need to bring for this class: 1) your favorite adhesive (I would recommend Zip Dry, my new FAVORITE adhesive), 2) scissors, 3) a brown chalk ink pad for aging (but optional), 4) a fingernail file (one of those big black ones you can buy at the Dollar Store, Walmart, Walgreens, etc.), 5) pop-dots or other dimensional adhesive, 6) Crop-A-Dile or other eyelet setting tool, 7) a folding bone will come in handy, and 7) any stamps and inks that you think you might like to use. If you don't have the supplies you need, I know that most of these things can be purchased at one of the onsite stores.

I've posted some sample pictures at the bottom of this post and a full copy of the tutorial will be made available to class attendees. The sampels posted are not the colors we are using for this class, but the look and feel will be similar. This project has several paper options to choose from, 1) Kaiser Craft paper from the Elegance line, 2) Kaiser Craft Paper from the Old World line, and 3) Basic Grey paper from their Porclain or Marakesh line. When you walk away from this class, you will have a beautifully bound book with gorgeous ribbons, beads and embellishments, along with some extra embellishments for another project. Come over to my booth and take a look at the kits and pick yours before they're gone! Space is very limited! Cost for this class is $15 and worth every penny and then some...I see Christmas gifts to friends in your futures!

All of these papers and embellishments, along with supplies for the BIA will be available for purchase at Scrapbooking Momeez, Clear Dollar Stamps, Scrap Nook and Conquest Keepsakes. I'll have a complete selection of wires, covers, and closures, some that you cannot find anywhere else, or you can place an order from me or CDS for what you don't see. My tip of the week BEFORE you come? Go use your 40% coupon and purchase a BIA at Hobby Lobby and bring it with you to the crop!

I'll be posting everyday up until the crop with more information on our make-n-takes, door prizes and a show stealer of a product, you won't want to miss this! Also some new and fascinating news on the scrapbooking front! Stay tuned...

Now, enjoy a few pictures...

PREPPING FOR CHA

2009-01-20T23:15:00.002-06:00

Nothing like last minute shopping for a trip! Personally, I am THRILLED to be going to a warm destination where my fingers don't turn blue. I'm already tired of winter in the Midwest. Between twice-weekly physical therapy appointments and last minute shopping, I'm getting more exposure to cold weather than I care to have. I'm a cactus, I should be living in Arizona. I like warm, dry weather! Our contingent of CHA goers are busily emailing back and forth trying to determine what tools and supplies we're bringing and coordinating our last minute travel schedules. Saturday can't get here soon enough for me!

In the mean time, I am going to work a bit more on my organization project in ye old craft room, and gather my notes on all the booths I want to be sure and scope out while we're there! Then I'm going to read up on my new Canon compact camera (it's harder to use than my DSLR!) and make a few test shots of all the sleeping cats scattered about the house. Maybe even take a few more of the craft room. I moved some of my tables and now my DH is referring to my craft room as "the dance hall." OK, so it was a little crowded before. :-) Now that I have taken over the media room for more work space, I can afford to take down a table or two. heh heh heh Oooo, it doesn't get any better than this!

TOO MUCH HGTV

2009-01-19T22:40:00.008-06:00

This post isn't so much about my crafting addiction as it is about my HGTV/DIY addiction, but they are both related, as you'll see in a minute.

Hi, my name is Vicki (Hi Vicki!) and I 'm addicted to HGTV. [Clapping in the background, murmurs, some head nodding and shaking, and a few slurps of coffee]

I have to confess, this addiction started over ten years ago when I moved to California for a job. I was living in San Francisco bay area by myself, working in a high tech, workaholic company. I was lonely, pining for my fiance back in MO, and as befits a lonely, single, Mac technodweeb with a bent towards art, I got caught up in something so innocent, so NORMAL, so secretly devastating, I can hardly bear to speak of it. The shame of it all. Yes, I subscribed to satellite so I could watch HGTV and DIY. [shocked murmurs, a few snobs, I mean sobs here and there] What had I DONE?!! Wasn't cable enough?

As each day turned into the next, coming home from work day after day with my head spinning full of Unix code, multiple platforms, and command line text, I finally broke. I couldn't take it any more. I HAD to watch more and more HGTV. I couldn't keep myself from it any more. Trading Spaces, Divine Design (who doesn't love Candace Olsen?), Designed to Sell (Lisa LaPorta, you ROCK), Oh Clivey, where are you? I was SMITTEN! I too, wanted to be out there redecorating America. It was my dirty little secret, my addiction to HGTV. I watched it morning, noon and night (nothing like working from the home office). Pick #2 you idiot, it has all the features you've been whining for! And what I confess to you now is downright shameful, despicable, and practically criminal.

When my fiance moved out to CA so we could get married, I (of course) had to drag him in to my secret, sordid addiction (my Mother told me it was good to share). I was hoping that since he was a bean counter, his common sense and money-twitching goatee could feel the danger and pull me up. Sadly, as it often happens, I ended up bringing him down in the mortar and mud with me. We never recovered. It wasn't long after we were married when we searched for and purchased our first house in California. Our HGTV addiction escalated. We sat for hours staring at "Designer's Challenge", "Landscaper's Challenge" and "House Hunters". We spent our spare time at Home Schelpo and Schmoes arguing over satin nickle verses brushed chrome. Were they same or different? We couldn't tell and those lingering questions hung in our minds as we were lost deeper and deeper into the abyss that is HGTV.

Unfortunately, my Lupus health issues got in the way if my 80 hour work week and it was decided that we needed to move back home closer to my family and a less stressful lifestyle. We needed to sell our house and sell it in a hurry. I was ecstatic! NOW was the time to pull out the stops and fish out my three-ring binders (yes, binders is plural) of tips gleaned from my fanatical worship of HGTV. When it came time to sell our house in Morgan Hill, it was quite evident that my HGTV addiction was going to pay off. There was hope, maybe I could actually USE what I had seen. There were s0oo many ideas, my head was spinning.

I staged our house just like Lisa and Clive advised, I mean we REALLY put on the dog, er, cat! I had the table set with china, candles burning, cookies baking, fresh flowers and I even cleared away the clutter and made a color brochure for those coming to the open house. We talked to our realtor on Wednesday to list it, had a realtor-only showing on Friday and scheduled an Open House for that Sunday. It never made it. A couple saw our sign and insisted on seeing the house on Saturday, so we scurried off to Lowes in San Jose. Who couldn't waste a day or two in there, eh? We were there about 30 minutes and my cell phone rang. The number on caller ID was OUR home phone number. Eh? It turned out to be the agent and he had an offer at our asking price written up and they wanted to know if we would sell it RIGHT NOW, while they were standing in OUR kitchen. Huh? Now? This minute? After I picked the bean counter up off the floor, we went straight home and signed the papers. It was on the market for a whole 4 days although it technically never made the MLS listing. We sold it for 40% more than we paid for it, and we only owned it for a year and a half. If THAT doesn't show you that satellite pays for itself, what does? A living testament to Do-it-Yourself living. So how does all of this relate to crafting...?

Enter Carol Duvall.

We arrived in Missouri and the house hunt was on, and so was the satellite. Again. You just can't break some habits no matter how hard you try. I just couldn't kick the addiction. While the DH hunted for a new job, we sat huddled in front of the TV. The only channels we watched were ESPN, HGTV, and DIY. My cats sat on the floor and learned how to vote for their favorite house and make Zen gardens in their litter boxes. I hang my head in shame at the thought of it.

As you know, if you have an addictive personality, it is not uncommon for addictified (my word, and I am NOT related to George Bush) people to find other useless things to become addicted to. And thus Carol Duvall entered my satellite orb. She crafted, I drooled, she talked and I was mesmerized. Horror of horrors, I felt COMPELLED to go purchase EVERY item she used. My stash was growing exponentially. What to do with all this new stuff? I already had enough computers and peripherals than most small businesses do. So much stuff and no room to put it in our rental duplex. I was getting desperate. I needed a fix-it fix, or more to the point, I needed to decorate something or I would self-destruct! House hunting became priority one. Who needs a job? Then, along came THE house. Not just any house, THE HOUSE. A house in frame, like polyclay in my hands. A house with a very large room that could be, would be [vacuum sucking noise here as I draw in my breath]...a CRAFT ROOM! My very own haven, my space to do with as I wished! Where's that Osterhouse carpenter guy when you need him? We bought it. That summer we put the "sweat" in sweat equity.

Flash forward to today. I got the itch again last fall to paint something. Specifically my craft room. It had languished in chaos crying out for organization and color! I went on a satellite binge (OK all that means is that I watched the repeats too). I watched it all, made my notes, collected my color swatches and procured my tools. I was driven. I NEEDED to have color, to mix those patterns, to pop in some bling, to light it up. I gave myself like a two-bit drunk to the task of creating order out of chaos. Here are a few peaks at the process, it's not quite done, but after reading this whole story, you deserve a picture or two. When it is finished, I'll post up the final shots. After it is all up, you can sentence me for my crimes. But whatever you do, don't separate me from HGTV! I can't take 16 hours of ESPN and the DH already took away my DIY!!

The first pic is of my closet in my craft room. It holds my wiring hub for all my CAT5 and QUAD6 cable and alarm system, all home-run as it should be, and all pulled and installed by myself and my DH. Our electrician thought I was nuts (he still pulls 2 pair in daisy chain--cringe!). Then he asked me to do a couple other houses in the same manner for him. I told him HE was nuts. :-) My canvas cubbies came from Hobby Lobby (they fold up when I don't need them). The gray racks were cast-offs from Staples. FREE!! This is a first cut at the reorg, more organizing to happen later.

The second pic is one of my light table that I rehabbed. I built the bottom half of the unit it get it to count height to make it more practical and it awaits final painting. The slat board behind it holds my inks and other supplies. I've already changed this arrangement some, so the final pics of this area will look different. I've put several of my projects up on the red shelves throughout the room. Mostly to keep them away from my cats. They really like my work. :-)

And that ends tonight's story of addiction and creativity. G'day!

ALMOST THERE

2008-12-30T19:25:00.002-06:00

This is going to be a short post, but at least it will make it up before the new year! The reason for the shorty? I've got a full arm cast on my left arm, from the tips of my fingers to about 4 or 5" below my shoulder! There are not enough words to describe how I feel about this, this THING! Arrrgghh! OMGoodness, I can barely type, it's a one-handed effort as the left hand is stuck in the permanent "handshake" position. Great for a door greeter, not-so-much for a crafter. Evidently, according to the MRI, I have moderate to acute tendonitist and a torn muscle in my elbow, or however you might describe that. The orthopedic surgeon thought that "immobilizing" my arm would help it heal, but I am here to tell you that I'm pretty sure the only thing this cast has done is make me feel like a feral animal. The urge to gnaw this thing off is overwhelming. Grrrr.

Have you ever thought about turning an accountant into a hair dresser? It can't be done, uh-huh. He is hair dryer impaired. Not happenin'. Sigh. Only six more days to go. SURELY I can distract myself with enough Hallmark TV and sleep to get through the next six days. I tried working on my projects, as most of my Christmas was supposed to be handmade, but I gave up after I painted the table--several times, glued my Kleenex box to my leg, and then inked more of my cast than I did the project I was working on. The handshake position is not condusive to holding anything other than someone else's hand. I give up.

I did get my lengthy tutorial done on my Birthday Book (Days to Celebrate) before being "casted", so go take a look. It's on Lori's blog at clearlyistamp.typepad.com.

Cheers!

A FINISHED DAYS TO CELEBRATE BOOK

2008-12-02T17:32:00.004-06:00

I've been promising a picture of this project for quite some time, so enjoy the photos of this particular version. I have another one using patterned paper that I'll try to post when I finish it. I'm working on a tutorial for this project, and if you know me, you know I am nothing if not thorough when it comes to documentation! :-)

Here is a brief synopsis of some of the tools I used to complete this project.

*Zutter Bind-It-All with brass 3/4" wires
*Cricut Tags, Bags and Boxes Cartridge to cut the tags (I also trimmed 1/2" off the bottom of each tag)
*Stamps from Clear Dollar Stamps; Log It, Days to Celebrate, Colossal Title Outline and Coaster Calendar
*Ribbons are American Crafts
*Buttons, eyelet and brad from Hobby Lobby
*Inks used; Memento Tuxedo Black, Memento Lady Bug, VersaMagic Jumbo Java for aging, Versamark for clear embossing, and the Kaleidacolor Autumn Leaves for the book title
*Paper is Bazzill and Neenah Solar White
*Copic 0.35 black multiliner pen to write in Date, Name, Birth and Anniv on the tags (there are stamps included in the Days to Celebrate set that you can also use to stamp in those headers)

Finished size of the book is 4 x 6.

What I really like about the Log-It stamp set is the grid can be used for all kinds of things. I chose to use it for this project and in the right-hand columns I put the year the person was born (so I don't foget how old they are) and used the last column for anniversaries. If you put the year the person was married, you won't let their 25th wedding anniversary go by without that special gift... like I forgot my brother's 25th wedding anniversary because I did not reference my handy little book. Sigh.

Look for more hints and tips in the full project tutorial, coming soon-ish.

CRAZY FUN!

2008-11-18T16:49:00.004-06:00

We all had some crazy fun on Saturday! Things got rolling about 2p and then the paper was flyin'! We took on Rodney Reindeer first and learned there IS a difference using Copic markers versus regular markers like Marvey markers when it comes to coloring and blending. I wish I had the investment in Copics that Marianne has when she teaches classes! Things you don't think about until you have 15 people all wanting to use the same three or four markers! I think we succeeded in enabling some folks with Copics! If you want to learn more about these fantasic markers, check out Marianne Walkers' blog http://ilikemarkers.blogspot.com.

After Rodney, it was down to business with the Celebrate book and Advent Calendars. Everyone was busy scoring, folding and inking, and even the kids were working on magnetic notepads! For once, we got out of there before 10p after several crafters and their spouses stayed late to help clean up, what a wonderful group!

MORE ADVENT CALENDAR PICS

2008-11-11T00:54:00.004-06:00

Here are some additional pictures of the Advent Calendar and one includes a pic of the container used to store your boxes to keep them pristine.

Here are some suggestions of the types of things you may want to put into the boxes; money, miniature ornaments for a small tree, Bible verses about Christ birth prophesy and fulfillment, beads, candy, scavenger notes, or a lump of coal. Just kidding on the last one! You could also make lists of nice things to do for someone else and have your kids do it that day, like send a card, make some cookies for the neighbor, do a chore for mom, play some Christmas music, etc., the ideas are endless!

REINDEER NUGGET/CARD and WOOD PLACE SETTING PEAK

2008-11-10T14:11:00.005-06:00

If you would like to take a look at the Rodney Reindeer Nugget Make-n-Take, hop on over to Lori McCroskey's blog, Clearly iStamp, for her super-cool tutorial on how to make this project and a peak at what we will be doing at the event. We're going to use, by permission of course, Lori's tutorial to make a nugget and a card during our Craftaganza.

If you want to take a look at our wood block place setting Make-n-Take, surf on over to Lori's web site, Clear Dollar stamps (links to her site and her blog are in the sidebar) and check out her "Eat More Ham" stamp set. Click on "Go to Eat More Ham" and from that page click on the link for "Go to tutorial for Place Cards by Laurie Wilson". Laurie is a card and stamp designer for Clear Dollar Stamps and when you click on that link, it will take you to her blog, Clearly Delightful. This is a great blog to learn new techniques in stamping and to see some of the prettiest cards around! So after looking at her tutorial, check out the rest of her site! We will be doing a Christmas version of the placesetting. Both Make-n-Takes are free since we are doing a sample and not a complete project.

If you want to purchase any of the stamps we are using, we will have them at the event along with any accessories shown in the tutorials., or you can order direct from Lori's web site. If you look in the sidebar, you will see links to both her web site and her blog, just click and go!

ADVENT CALENDAR SNEAK PEAK

2008-11-09T14:03:00.006-06:00

Here is a quick peak of the Advent Calendar Countdown to Christmas. This project kit includes everything but adhesive. You'll need to bring some quick drying liquid glue (I used Scotch's Quick Dry Adhesive, available at Hobby Lobby), a full tape runner with STRONG tape or something like Terrifically Tacky or Wonder Tape (red double-stick tape)—anything that is double stick, and a package of foam squares. I don't bring a lot of extra adhesive, so make sure you bring more than you think you need! The ribbon that goes on the boxes already has adhesive, we're primarily sticking paper to the canvas and the boxes. The boxes come with a separate plastic container that holds all of them for safe keeping between seasons, I'll post a picture of that later along with some additional pictures of the calendar. This project will take between three and four hours to complete. Tools you will need are a pencil, ruler, detail (small) scissors, a corner rounder, and a brayer (if you have one). Please bring a corner rounder if you have it! I only have three, the brayer is not a necessity, but it makes things go faster by flattening the papers being glued together. A folding bone would work as well. Lots of gluing...

If you want to do this project, please let me know by Wednesday if possible. There's a lot of paper cutting... and I have a limited number of box kits, so speak up early! Your background canvas can be gold, red or white, you'll need to tell me which one! Finished size is 16" x 20" and the canvas will hang on the wall or can be set in a frame holder.

CHRISTMAS 2008!

2008-11-05T18:35:00.008-06:00

I don't even know where to start, it has been soooo long! I could lie and say I've been really busy crafting, but it's more like busy doing everything else BUT crafting! So, to remedy this situation, we are getting ready to have a Craftaganza Event at NorthBridge Baptist Church, just north of Valley Watermill Road on North Glenstone. We did this last year here at the house for a smaller group of ladies but we've already outgrown the basement space this year and we're opening it up to anyone who would like to attend. Since the church is so close to the house, I can still fetch (or better yet, have the DH fetch) anything I didn't think to bring (as IF!!). Plus, the four-footed party crashers will be left at the house, so we'll be cat free for the evening. Since there are so many details to relay, I'll dish on the generalities of the event and then continue to post on the details, including pictures of the projects available and costs for each project.

This open event will be a great time for you to get away from the everyday and spend some time working on Christmas projects and cards with friends and church family in a Christian atmosphere. We know times are tough and finding cute, economical and personal gifts for our friends and family can be difficult, so let us make it easy! Whether you scrapbook, stamp, or work on paper projects, we'll have plenty of project ideas in all areas. We will have oodles of samples on display to inspire your homemade gift giving and card making. Several of the project display samples will be available as class kits you can purchase at the event that you can work on during the event. You can also feel free to bring your own projects to work on during the event, so don't feel like you have to purchase a class kit to participate. We will also be conducting make-n-takes of several projects and cards so you get the feel of how to do a part of a larger project or how to use a new tool or technique. Bring yourself and be prepared to have a good time visiting, playing and, of course, snacking the afternoon away.

Tentatively, we are looking at Saturday, November 15th from 2p to 8p for the first date, at NorthBridge Baptist Church, at the corner of Hwy H (3765 N. Glenstone) and StoneRidge. If we have enough response, or enough people who need an alternative date, we'll schedule an additional date and time. In traditional Baptist fashion we're asking that everyone bring a snack dish, and we'll provide the drinks (tea, coffee and water, bring your own soda if you prefer soda).

Finally, here is a list of class kits that will be available. Each project will be sold as a kit with everything you need to complete the project, including instructions. Purchase and complete your first one at the event and if you want to do more, buy a few more to do in your spare time! No time? We can do them for you for an extra fee. If you are interested in doing any of the projects below, PLEASE contact me BEFORE the event to reserve your kit. Otherwise, it will be first come, first serve! You will need to bring some basic tools and adhesives, we'll detail those with each project as we finalize them this week and post final pricing for the projects.

Tools we'll have on hand will be the Cricut Expression (12"), Cuttlebug, Crop-A-Dile, Big Bite Crop-A-Dile, Zutter Bind-It-All with supplies and whatever else I can dig up. Bring your own dies, embossing folders, and cartridges. We will have some on hand.

Advent Calendar
This is an AWESOME project and I have a very limited number of kits. This is LARGE 16 x 20 canvas with pull-down containers ready to be filled with goodies and to help your family count down the 24 days before Christmas. The containers store away in a nifty box so they don't get lost or damaged during storage. We use Basic Grey Christmas papers, glitter, Star Dust pens, lots of ribbon and paper, velcro and paint for this one. You won't see another Advent/Countdown Calendar like this anywhere in Springfield! Watch for pictures of this one!

Days To Celebrate Book
This is a wire bound book that keeps a list of birthdays and anniversaries. A great gift with limitless opportunities to stamp and embellish, or leave plain, whatever suits you and your recipient. We'll learn how to use the Zutter Bind-It-All with this project.

Monogrammed Mini Magnetic Notepad
A cute mini notepad to fit in your purse or pocket with a magnetic flap complete with your monogram or a Bible verse. A great gift for a friend or co-worker, easy to make.

Old Time Christmas Place Settings (we will have a free sample make-n-take)
This is a unique project using wood blocks as place settings for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Make them elegant or fun, each includes a card for the name and an additional card with a Bible verse. You can even use these on a daily basis to display a picture or card. Super cute, super easy!

Rodney Reindeer Nuggets (we will have a free sample make-n-take)
This a a super cute gift to fatten up a friend! We'll be making a sample "nugget" using the Rodney Reindeer stamp from Clear Dollar Stamps and some Avery labels and Copic Markers. Once you learn how to create these super cute nuggets and see other examples on display, you won't be able to stop yourself from making them. Just don't eat all the candy first! Another Super cute, super easy idea courtesy of Clear Dollar Stamps! Of course, everything you need to make a complete gift can be purchased at the event.

We will be doing card make-n-takes throughout the event, if I get REALLY energetic, I'll post those samples, but no guarantees! We'll be using stamps from Clear Dollar Stamps for our make-n-takes, you can preview their selection at www.cleardollarstamps.com. We will have the stamps we are using for our make-n-takes available for purchase during the event, as well as some embellishments and other basic supplies.

Watch for more details and pictures of each of the projects. If you have questions or requests, email me at vconquest@conquestkeepsakes.com and don't forget to reserve your class kit, only a limited number are available. Again, we will try to have some supplies available for sale if you find yourself without, along with stamps that go with each of the projects. To reserve your seat, call 350-4569, or email me at my Conquest Keepsakes email address given above.

Hope to see you there!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-01T18:20:00.001-06:00

Here is hoping that I can post more often in 2008 than I did in 2007. OK, don't hold your breath. I'd like to say I am so busy I can't find time to post, but that would probably be a bold face lie. Possibly and exaggeration or two. I'm really too busy because I spend too much time watching my cats sleep. It's hard to be motivated when everyone around you is sleeping, and in some cases snoring and even growling in their sleep. I don't know what cats dream about, but Mr. Sniffy growls in his sleep. The rest just plain snore. Maki is the loudest, probably because of her shmushed in nose. I know that's not a word, but it fits!

So, I'm off to watch more sleeping and some HGTV. Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares is over and it would last longer if he would quit cursing all the time. The guy needs to get a vocabulary as the word he overuses isn't really a conversing type of word. I'm tired of bleeping the whole show. Oh well. I don't cook anyway! He'd have a cow in my house! Or at least tell me how to carve it...

ADVENT CALENDAR PICTURES & SCHEDULE

2007-11-29T11:13:00.000-06:00

Here are the pictures of the Advent Calendar. These pictures do not do this project justice. Right now the sample is on display at Carol Jones at 3524 Culpepper Circle Suite E. Just ask for the Hubby, Cliff. Cost is $25. Bring pop dots, Terrifically Tacky tape, a glue pen or Scotch Quick Drying Glue with the small applicator tip, a glue stick or tape runner/double stick tape and a pair of scissors to cut ribbon. A brown chalk ink pad and a brayer if you have one would be handy too.

I'll be teaching it tonight at the Carol Jones training center at 3524 Culpepper Circle, Suite B starting at 5:30p. Friday I will teach it from 1p till they run us out (3p to 4p) at Hobby Lobby south, but you HAVE to CALL to sign up. No calls and I won't be there! Friday night at my studio from 6p till we get done (again, call to register), Saturday any time, but officially I'll be at NorthBridge church from 3p to 7p doing a craft event. You can come and craft with us! Finally, Sunday afternoon from 2p to 5p at the Carol Jones training facility on south side (it's down by Cox Hospital just off of National). You have to CALL ME to come to any of these classes. I have limited number of seats. If you want to come tonight, you need to call me by 2p TODAY! Short notice but sometimes people do... The number is 350-4569 or 833-8760. Email is vconquest@conquestkeepsakes.com. I can do times next week if I have materials left and you don't mind missing a day or three...

NEW ADVENT CALENDAR CLASS

2007-11-23T23:50:00.000-06:00

Boy, we're gonna have to get on it! I've got a week and a great project for everyone! A count-down advent calendar that is SURE to be a hit. It's a 16 x 20 canvas board with 24 boxes where you can put little goodies and notes as you count down the days to Christmas. Each day comes off the board and goes into a case for safe keeping until next year. That is, after you pull out your goodies! This project is easy and lots of fun, but I only have enough materials for 8 people! The cost for the class is going to be between $25 and $30. I'll finalize it over the weekend--I'm still making my sample!!! I'll get pictures up ASAP. I'm going to be holding the class Tuesday night 6p-8:30p, Thursday 1-3p at Hobby Lobby North and Thursday evening from 6p-8:30p. Tuesday night's class will be on the south side of town just off of National behind Carol Jones. Call me for directions. Thursday night's class will be at north side at my home studio. If none of those times work, and you really, really want to do this project, give me a call and I'll see what we can arrange! I've already got 3, possibly four seats full, so CALL ME! 350-4569!

New Kits

2007-11-23T19:37:00.000-06:00

Just in time for the Holidays I have two kits ready for you to put together! Each kit sells for $12 and I have just a few left of each. Now's the time to get in and grab one!

They are both "explosion" boxes, also known as "fall down" boxes. The first one is for Thanksgiving called Thanksgiving Blessings. With this box you can record the blessings from this year and the family gathering at this year's Thanksgiving dinner. You can write down all the things you are thankful for and put in your pictures and have a treasured keepsake for years to come. The kit includes everything you need to make the box including detailed directions and pictures. The directions include a complete list of supplies and tools you will need to complete the project.

The second box is What Christmas Means to Me. In this box you can put pictures of your family members and have them write on the tags what Christmas means to them. You can put the pictures on the envelopes or the tags, the box is so versatile, you can use it any way you like. Again, everything is included along with complete instructions and a list of supplies and tools needed.

GETTING EXCITED...!

2007-09-18T12:53:00.000-05:00

It's getting close to the time of the NCA GIRLFRIENDS IN PARIS crop! If you have not signed up yet to go to this crop, get crackin' and click the link to the right and get registered! You can also find info at both Hobby Lobby stores. You won't want to miss the biggest megacrop in the Springfield area. Your entry fee goes to helping the school fund their new projects and it is tax deductible! There are several new vendors this year, me for one as Conquest Keepsakes, my friend Lori McCroskey and her Clear Dollar Stamps (clear acrylic stamps, affordable and awesome), and the Boutique store stocked full of goodies from your local Hobby Lobby. I never thought I could ever possibly say these words, but here they are, I am sick of shopping! I've set world records in Hobby Lobby. The cashiers have started writing my time in and time out on pieces of paper and David, the North Side store manager told me last week that pay days are on Fridays! Obviously, my accountant hubby has long since expired from sticker shock. He's getting the double-whammy as I am also purchasing product for my booth as well and for fall/holiday classes. I am SO absolutely excited about classes this fall and they will be on display at the crop. You can sign up early, and if you pay the day you sign up, we have a free gift for you! As usual, classes will be held at both Hobby Lobby's, another south side location I am working on right now so we can do evening classes, and an additional north side location we can use for evening classes. So much to tell you, so little time, so come and get the dirt at the crop.

Just so you know, the Boutique store has been working closely with the other vendors so that we don't duplicate product. So, you won't see a mini Hobby Lobby, but we will have a lot of embellishments: flowers, brads, buttons, stickers, Cuttlebug embossing folders, Bazzill cardstock, papers, paper pads, tools, chipboard, tins, storage, adhesives and other products.

To tell you a little more about the Conquest Keepsakes booth, we will be having Make-It-Take-Its throughout the event, we'll have a fish bowl to put your name in for free drawings, and I'll be selling kits to past classes and new kits too. I'll also be carrying some unique products, such as the Princess Mirah line of Batikit fabric "papers" that are adhesive and beautiful and can be used so many ways! We have a Make-It-Take-It using this product and a gift box kit that uses this product. This product can be used with a Cricut and any die cutting machine. You will love it! I'll also have a selection of the Daisey D Autumn papers, and a stunning set of papers from Creative Imaginations that are based on the hot new trend of tattoo art type papers and rubon's. These papers are great for teenagers, girls and boys, and lend themselves to extreme sports pages—they are just awesome. I've been doing some test marketing with them among teenagers and other scrapper friends and the response has been "Can I buy some now?" These papers were featured in the October PaperCrafts magazine where they discuss the new trend towards tattoo art with a flourish. Obviously there will be a paper purse on display with these papers! ;-) I am also featuring the Tonic Guillotine 12" paper cutter. What makes this cutter special? It cuts straight, and it cuts CHIPBOARD! I'll be demoing it and the Cuttlebug at our booth, as well as some other nifty tools you didn't know you couldn't live without! I'll also be carrying raw chipboard for sale in 12 x 12 packs.

You won't want to miss our Make-It-Take-Its, they are going to be extra special and a lot of fun. Some will feature stamps from Clear Dollar Stamps, so when you are done, just step over one booth to see Lori and purchase a set for yourself!

I'll have my computer gear there, and I'll be announcing specific feature demos of Photoshop 5 throughout the day. I'll also have my PictureMate Deluxe and Canon XTi digital camera in case you want a picture of yourself and friends to scrap while you are there! Cost per picture is 25 cents! We are also planning a Photoshop Elements 5 retreat, so if you are interested, let me know. Drop me an email at vickiconquest@fixthatpicture.com or give me a call at 417.350.4569. We don't have a date set yet as we would like to gauge interest first, but probably after the first of the year.

This is going to be an Ahh-mazing fall and winter season! Don't miss out!

A GOOD AUTHORITY HAS IT...

2007-08-05T22:33:00.000-05:00

That my new favorite tool, the Cuttlebug, which you can purchase at Hobby Lobby, is eligible to be purchased with a coupon! If I'm wrong, I'm sure the manager will beat me within a pulpy inch of my life, but I think my source was a very knowledgeable source. Now girls, you KNOW what this means, don't you? Don't let me call you a fool for not getting one of these nifty gadgets this week! I just LOVE those coupons that Hobby Lobby puts out. They make it so EASY to liquidate my expendable income. Quickly. Too quickly. Sigh. No fights in the aisles, please. I will be demoing this nifty little gadget this month, so watch the blog for the date (we do know it is NOT the 25th of August--I'll be at the Children's Miracle Network Crop). My guess would be the 18th at the north side store. Hint, hint, wink, wink. :-D

Along the lines of the Cuttlebug, I tried a new type of paper with it, Princess Mirah's new BatiKit fabric sheets with a versatile adhesive backing for "peel-and-stick" ease-of-use. This stuff is cotton and is 100% Acid Free and perfect for scrapbooking and crafting. I saw that they had tested it with the Cricut, Ellison Big Shot, Pazzle Creative Cutter, and Accucut, but the Cuttlebug wasn't mentioned, so I thought I would do a little experimentation myself. I used a Cuttlebug die and cut a leaf. A perfect cut, all the way through the backing, it fell right out of the material. Then I went all out--I made a cut with the ripple square provided with the Cuttlebug (it sort of looks like a postage stamp) and then put it in one of the embossing folders that also came with the Cuttlebug (the Love one) and embossed the BatiKit fabric piece I had just cut. Wow! It took the embossing! Waaaaay coooool! I peeled off the backing and stuck it on a piece of card stock and it looks as good today as it did two days ago when I did it! I am amazed! You are going to LOVE this new kind of "paper" and all the ways you can use it! They have another finish that is velvety and the colors are beautiful. They come in 12 x 12 sheets and 6 x 6 sheets. Hopefully I will have them in stock for the October 6 crop. Two new cool things in less than a week! I think I'm going to faint. But that's not all...

Hobby Lobby just got in their own brand of silk and felt flowers and shapes, along with new brads in sports themes, volleyball, baseball, football, soccer, tennis, golf and basketball. They also have paisley's, some gorgeous new copper leaf brads, felt, crystal, pearl, felt flower, hollow stars, and hollow hearts brads and others too numerous to mention. They also now have their own chipboard shapes. All of these things are under their Spare Parts Embellishments, which you know are cheaper than their name brand counterparts. If you are reading this on August 5th, you will know they are half off this week! Go get'em girls! Stickers too (and lots of new ones there as well!). So you have no excuse to not go blow the budget at Hobby Lobby this week. I give you permission. Don't blame me though, if you have to sleep in the cat house (we don't have dogs here, but we do have a cat house where we put the naughty kittties for a time out).

I've added links to the right for the New Covenant Crop, Hobby Lobby, and Princess Mirah. Print that Hobby Lobby coupon as many times as you like. But try to follow the rules. One per day, per customer. And although you can use it on the Cuttlebug, you cannot use it on either of the Cricuts. Bummer.

A PURSE REFRESHER

2007-07-31T21:06:00.000-05:00

As I scrolled through my site, it became apparent that there were no pictures on this blog of my paper purses. I believe they are probably back on my personal blog so I'll post them here. I did spend today with my good friend Kerry Welch and we did some heavy shopping at the FM Store checking out it's FINE selection of beads and trim. Don't, and may I repeat, DON'T go in there thinking you're only going to buy a yard or two of beads/trim after you have made your first purse. That place can suck your bank account dry! I LoVe that store! Those ladies that work there are lots of fun, too, but don't listen to them. They can sell an Eskimo a snowball. Even if I weren't shopping for "sac a main" accessories, I could spend all day just looking at fabrics. I love to sew (I'm not saying I am doing any sewing), and looking at all those fabrics just gives me so many ideas! If I could only follow through on those ideas... I could go on about the days where I had to make my clothes because I was too skinny to buy them off the rack in high school, but I know someone would start throwing virtual tomatoes at me. You can read about that on my macsncats blog.

So, without further adieu, here are two of my paper purses:

GEARING UP FOR FALL

2007-07-31T18:54:00.000-05:00

Summer is nearly gone and it is time to start thinking about fall; pretty leaves, cool evenings, pumpkins and mums, cornstalks and horns-a-plenty. Speaking of plenty, we have plenty of things happening this fall that I should take a moment to mention.

First, the Children's Miracle Network "Scrapbooking for Kids" event takes place at the Wesley United Methodist Church on August 25th. The fee for this 9a to 7p event is $35 which includes breakfast, lunch and a couple of drinks, drawings, raffles and goodie bags. There will be vendors on site, and you can get a vendors-only pass for $5 if you just feel like shopping. All the proceeds from this crop, which is co-sponsored by the Scrapbooking Momeez, Cox Health Nursing and Cox Health North Outpatient Therapy Services, go to the Children's Miracle Network. Check out the Scrapbooking Momeez website for more info about this crop [www.scrapbookingmomeez.com]. It sounds like fun to me!

Coming up October 6 is the New Covenant Academy crop "Girlfriends in Paris." I will have a booth at this event and will also be teaching three classes, a Photoshop Elements 5 seminar, the funky Fantasy Box class, and the ever popular purse class. This class is high-style beads and trims, the creme de la creme of sacs a main—purses in French (don't say you didn't learn anything here). Everything is prepared for you, you'll have lots of choices, and we'll have lots of fun! I'm also going to be helping with the trés bien Girlfriends In Paris Boutique, complete with cardstock, paper, supplies, embellishments, tools, ribbons, and more. This year the store will be accepting credit cards. So, if after you've taken the Cricut class and you think you can't live without one, we'll have one waiting for you at the store, and the wide-format one too! And the Cuttlebug, and... well, better not list it all. Suffice it to say, with all the wonderful vendors that are going to be there, you will not want for anything! We're all working together to bring you unique products without too much duplication so you'll have a wonderful range of products to "augment" your scrapbook! Inside joke there. I know we "embellish" but every once in a while I just feel the need to shake it up, so I pulled out a new word. A friend hastened to point out to me that you "augment" your anatomy, not your scrapbook. After I snapped my mouth shut, I had to agree. :-) I tried to explain it away as too much HGTV but they weren't buying... too smart for my own good!

Things to look for in my booth will be new class projects for fall and holiday classes so you can sign up early and save your spot, some exclusive products from some very cool vendors (I'll blog more on that later), and the Conquest Keepsakes canvas bags! Carry your goodies home in limited edition canvas tote on sale at the Conquest Keepsakes booth!

The NCA crop is $40 and includes breakfast and lunch and you can purchase an optional dinner. The crop starts at 9a and runs until Midnight! Hopefully they won't have to run you out like they did last year to me. Too much of a good thing! This is a fund raising event for the new fine arts building, so come out and support this crop. There are several classes available besides the ones I am doing. I'll be passing along more information in later posts. Trust me, you won't want to miss this crop. Especially if you would like to win a Cricut that is being given away...

LADIES, START YOUR FAVORITE SCRAP TOOL!

2007-07-31T18:22:00.000-05:00

I couldn't think of a tool that would be everyone's favorite, although my personal favorite continues to be the Crop-a-dile. But, hold on to your seats, I just played with a new Cuttlebug and I may have just been bitten. It did indeed use all my old dies (Sizzix, Sizzlets); and the new dies they have are affordable, but what makes this tool ROCK is the embossing folders. Small ones and LARGE ones. CHEAP! Did I say cheap? Let me say it again, CHEAP! Five bucks-ola for a large pattern embossing folder and they make nice, deep impressions. Even my husband (I would say even a caveman...) said it was cool. Can I get an Amen ladies? When the hubby says it's cool, there is nothing stopping you from robbing your bank account blind and buying out the store! And the folders are cool, and even better, they are matched to some of the dies. Even the dies are reasonable, five dollars for a single die and $12 to $13 for set of four small dies. There are several alphabets for sale around $75, which is much more reasonable compared to past die-cut alphabet dies. I like the crank handle, better than the push handle of the old Sizzix and more durable than the Sidekick and takes the extra wide dies too, from just about any brand of dies. The width of the carriage area is 5 7/8' wide, and it has a nifty handle and sides that fold up which makes it pretty portable. Overall, I give this tool ten thumbs up (since I'm all thumbs most of the time, I'll let you figure that out...). You can come and see this 'bug at the New Covenant Academy Girlfriends In Paris Crop October 6! I'm doing lots of posting tonight, so hang tight, lots of news...

MOTHER'S DAY MAKE-N-TAKES

2007-05-10T19:26:00.000-05:00

Well, we couldn't just do something at north side Hobby Lobby and not do something at south side Hobby Lobby, could we? Noooo, so this Saturday we will be at the south side Hobby Lobby from 11a to 3p working on some more make-n-takes perfect for a last minute Mother's Day gift! We will also have the Greatest Mom Mother's Day 6x6 mini-album project available as a kit. It includes everything you need plus the instructions to put it together in about an hour and a half. It's a great gift for Mother's Day, but can be a great gift anytime. All it needs are your pictures! And if you are wondering how to spiff up those old pictures, visit our sister site, fixthatpicture.blogspot.com for classes on using Photoshop Elements to fix your pictures!

Here are pictures of our Saturday make-n-takes and the album project.
Our first make-n-take is a Matchbook Album made using the new Bazzill Bling Cardstock, the Pocket-Full-of-Posies glitter pad, Paper Studio Pastel Flower brads, a Sizzix bookplate die and some garden department butterflies! We'll use the Crop-a-dile with this project, so if you haven't had a chance to get your hands on one, now is the time to see how easy it is to use! Cost for this project is $3.

The second make-n-take is the Initial Flower Accordian Album using the Old World paper pad and matching self-adhesive ribbon, a bit of chipboard for the covers, a chipboard flower, Paper Studio letters and some inking techniques. Just add pictures! Several different colors available. This project costs $2.

The third make-n-take is the BFF booklet (Best Friends Forever). This is for the girls! It has a crystal flower and lots of fibers and some more of that sparkly Pocket-Full-of Posies paper and some Bling Card Stock. This book is perfect for putting all those small pictures in from school! Your girls will love it! Cost for this project is $1.

The forth make-n-take is a Mother's Day card. This is a quick project and free, and the card will fit in a standard invitation envelope.

Supplies for all of the projects are limited and the first project will start at 11:30a. We also have a limited number of the Mother's Day Mini Albums, so get there early!

Mother's Day Mini Album Kit—$14
This 6x6 mini album features the My Minds Eye papers, Prima paper flowers, Swarovski Crystals, some glitter glue, and quotes about mothers with corresponding Bible verses. There are four spreads for you to put pictures of your mom to make it special. A little aging around the papers and loads of ribbons and fibers on the binder rings make this a beautiful, finished project. Complete instructions come with the kit. All you need is adhesive, silver glitter glue, copper glitter glue and a brown chalk pad for inking edges.

NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY AT HOBBY LOBBY

2007-05-03T17:47:00.000-05:00

We're going to be celebrating National Scrapbooking Day at Hobby Lobby north side this Saturday from 11am to 4pm. We will have a table set up to demonstrate some of the cool new tools they have just received as well as showing off some of the other new products they are carrying. They now have the Phoebe line of Basic Grey papers, the Bazzill Bling and Cardstock with an Edge cardstock packages (on sale this week half off—a steal compared to the local scrapbook store prices!), along with Glitter Pads, the new Ribbon Iron and other new products.

We will also be doing Make-N-Takes during this time. We have some cute stuff lined up, some with a Mother's Day theme, a MBFF mini book (your daughters will know what this means)—so something for the girls, and other items. You know me, no telling what I'll use. Some of the projects are free and others run $1 to $3. There will be a sign up sheet at the tables. We will be situated back by the scrapbooking aisles, so come find us. If I have time, I'll post the make-n-take projects, but no promises! Time is of the essence...

APRIL CLASSES ARE HERE

2007-04-02T21:42:00.000-05:00

April is here and so are the April classes. We're on a bit of short notice for the Beady Easter Basket, but I enjoyed making it just the same. My cat Pewter REALLY liked it—he tried to make off with the Butterfly and ended up with a face full of glitter. He truly is the glamour kitty of the house now! I'll be posting some alternative dates and locations for these classes shortly (except the Beady Easter Basket—time has run out for him). :-( The samples for these classes are on display at the Hobby Lobby southside store, pictures only at the northside store. I found out it takes too much time to make two samples. I'd rather have that time to teach more classes! On to the classes...

HOBBY LOBBY CLASSES

BEADY EASTER BASKET—$6
A cute little Easter basket with glitter and beaded wooden eggs in a small painted pail, with a butterfly to watch over the eggs—all glammed up for the Easter!
CLASS DATES: Northside—Thursday, April 5, 1p - 3p; Southside—Friday, April 6 1p-3p
TOOLS & SUPPLIES TO BRING: paint brush (not a sponge brush), liquid glue (glitter glue or other clear-drying glue), glue dots, and scissors.

BUTTERFLY CLOCK—$12
Back by popular demand! Spring is here and this 8" x 8" Butterfly Clock is sure to bring some spring into your home. You can display it on your desk or table or hang it on the wall (wall hanger included)
CLASS DATES: Northside—Thursday, April 12, 1p-3p; Southside—Friday, April 13, 1p-3p
TOOLS & SUPPLIES TO BRING: Terrifically Tacky Tape 1/2" (red line tape) or tape runner, pop dots, glue dots, brown chalk ink pad or tear drop (Colorbox has one), paper trimmer and scissors.

DAYS TO CELEBRATE—$12
This gorgeous little accordion tag book made with beautiful Daisy D papers and watermark embossed stamping will help you keep track of birthdays and anniversaries of friends and family. It's just the right size to keep with you all the time. Don't miss another important date! You have to see this project in person to appreciate just how cute it is, so take a drive to the southside.
CLASS DATES: Northside—Thursday, April 19 & 26, 1p-3p; Southside—April 20, 1p-3p
TOOLS & SUPPLIES TO BRING: Scissors, corner rounder, glue dots (regular & mini), adhesive runner or glue stick, Terrifically Tacky tape 1/2", brown chalk ink pad, and folding bone.

LOVABLE YOU JOURNAL—$12 (Picture Coming Soon)
Another project you will have to see and touch. This cute envelope journal spells out how lovable your family and friends are to you. Its cute design includes a pull-out tag with word hint to write about the person who is the object of this journal. This would be a great Mother's Day or Father's Day gift, or a gift for any special occasion!
CLASS DATES: Northside—Thursday, May 3, 1p-3p; Southside, Friday, April 27, 1p-3p
TOOLS & SUPPLIES TO BRING: Scissors, glue dots, glue stick or adhesive of your choice, brown chalk ink pad, and folding bone.

THANKS FOR BEING A MOM—$14 (Picture Coming Soon)
This chipboard mini-album is all about mothers! On each spread is a quote about mothers and a corresponding Bible verse. You'll have room to put pictures of your mom along with embellishments, glitter and bling! A must-have gift for your mom! You might have to make one for yourself too! Again, drive to southside and check it out to fully appreciate this project.
CLASS DATES: Northside—Thursday, May 10, 1p-3p; Southside—Friday, May 4 & 11, 1p-3p
TOOLS & SUPPLIES TO BRING: Scissors, paper trimmer, glue dots, adhesive of your choice, brown chalk ink pad, folding bone and brayer (if you have one).

APRIL IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

2007-03-28T10:01:00.000-05:00

It's already the end of March! It just seems like it was January yesterday! Maybe it is all those tree limbs still piled up on the sides of the road...

I'm putting together the April Class Schedule and do we have some GREAT classes coming up for both April and May! Lots of stuff for Mother's Day already in the works. I'll give you an idea of what the classes for April and May will be, but you'll have to wait for pictures and full description to be posted as they're done. I'm putting the finishing touches on several of the classes while working on the Mother's Day classes. Here is a list of the classes, with times, dates, descriptions and costs coming later. Most classes are $12,but some are less! Some of these will be offered at Hobby Lobby, but since I only have two time slots with them, I am offering them here at the home studio too. A few of these classes can also be taken at Stampers Studio, and several are exclusive here at the Conquest Keepsakes Studio. I am also planning a three-project all day bash with dinner and a movie May 5th. They will all be Mother's Day Projects, but we'll have some swap options too. Look for the Hobby Lobby board to be up sometime this weekend (March 30/31). Without further ado, here is the list:

Beady Easter Pail (a $6 class and too cute! Comes with a bag of candy—of course!)
Butterfly Clock
Days to Celebrate (Birthday/Anniversary book)
Lovable You Journal
Greeting Card Pail (be ready with a greeting card at your fingertips!)
Altered Clipboard
Paper Purse (break out those Crop-a-diles again and make a spring purse!)
Spring Keepsake Box
Travel Pail with Journal (Picture Pail)
Mom in Flowers Mini Album
Thanks for Being a Mom Mini Album
Support Our Troops/Patriotic Pail (for pictures, letters, and memorabilia)
Love Mom/Love Dad Wall Hanging
Reasons We Love Mom/Dad Explosion Box

New Classes!

2007-03-13T10:39:00.000-05:00

Ok, better late than never. Nothing like a few health issues to mess up a good plan! But here we are with the long-awaited chipboard purse! Ta Da! So, the two classes I am doing for what's left of March at Hobby Lobby are the Recipe Pail and the Chipboard purse (yeah, the schedule says Explosion Box but I bumped it to the following week). As you know, you can always call to see if we have any alternative dates for these classes. My good friend Kristi has volunteered to let us use her training room when she is not in class if we need to do a class on a date that is not open at Hobby Lobby. Later, I'll be posting the classes we are doing at Stamper's Studio, so you'll have all kinds of choices for crafting! We have lots of good projects just waiting to burst onto the scene, so be watching. Kristi got KO'd by the flu last week, so here is praying that she will continue to feel better every day! We just LOVE her awesome attitude! To register for any class you see here, call 429-4059. If we can't get to the phone, PLEASE leave a message with your name and number and we will get back to you as soon as possible! You can also email me at conquestkeepsakes@mchsi.com.

RECIPE PAIL
This is a cute pail to put all of your recipes in. The outside is decorated in fabric and ribbons and the inside has divider cards using the Daisy D papers with each of our favorite selections of food across the top of the cards. Inside you will also find four plates with magnets to hold your favorite recipe while you are cooking.

What you will need to purchase: the pail (Item #180729, $3.99) and the ribbons you want to decorate your handle with. It doesn't take much, you can purchase by the foot of each color and have enough to use. I used 7 different ribbons plus one really wide ribbon. Ribbon runs about 25 cents a yard, so it should be pretty cheap! I'll provide everything else, including the ribbon on the pail itself (red velvet and brown/cream stripe).

Cost of this class: $12 I only have enough to do 9 pails with this fabric, so sign up early!

Dates: North Side: March 15th & 22nd, South Side: March 16th & 23rd

Supplies and Tools you must bring: Modge Podge, scissors, emery board (finger nail file, big one), pop dots (foam ones), glue dots, mini glue dots. paint brush for Modge Podge.

CHIPBOARD PURSE
This purse is the same size as the paper purse, but now it has the strength of chipboard! With this purse, I've used hard handles and we've sandwiched chipboard between the papers. You'll have to see it to believe it! A great gift for Mom for Mother's day. This class is not for the faint of heart. It will take approximately four to five hours to complete (maybe longer depending on how fast you work). Lots of punching with the Crop-a-dile, sewing is probably easier on this one than paper. The class is on the schedule either as a two-part class at south side, or a 4 hour class at north side. You can call to see if I have added a weekend workshop, which would be on a Saturday.

What you will need to purchase: 3 pieces of decorative 12 x 12 paper for the outside of the purse, 3 pieces of smooth (not the Bazzill or cardstock with texture) cardstock to coordinate with your outside papers to put on the inside of the purse, approximately 7 yards of 3/8" ribbon to match your papers (no bigger or smaller--you can also cut fabric at about 3/8" wide and use fabric strips to sew your purse as I did mine), any trim you want at the top (still 1 yard for that), and hard handles (or you can still use ribbon--1 1/3 yard for each set). Everything else provided (contact paper, chipboard, grommets, chains, needle, clips, Xyron/Spray Mount and templates).

Cost for this class: $20

Dates: North Side: March 29th 1-5p, April 19th 1-5p, April 26th, 1-5p
South Side: March 30th, 1-3p, Part 1; April 4 1-3p Part 2 at North Side; April 20th 1-3p Part 1, April 27 1-3p Part 2 (all South Side).

Tools and Supplies you must bring: scissors, ruler, pencil, brayer (not a must, but extremely helpful), Tacky Tape and a Crop-a-dile.

FEBRUARY CLASSES

2007-02-16T02:16:00.000-06:00

We were supposed to do the new, FANTASTIC paper chipboard purses this week at Hobby Lobby, but due to illness, the Conquest has been laid low. I would be doing better if someone was around to give me the Heimlich maneuver every time I had to swallow the horse pill antibiotic. :-) And fix me dinner. A backrub would be nice, too. Yeah, I'm dreaming. A girl can hope...

So, here are the new dates for the Chipboard Paper purse. But before I give them to you, (does that sound like Ryan Seacrest or Survivor?), let me tell you a little bit about this particular class and how it is different than the original paper purse class that we did last fall. (Insert 10 minutes of commercials here.) Now we're back. This version has three different sizes; an 8 x 6 x 3.5 size for $12 done exclusively at Stampers Studio and Stuff on Scenic and Republic Road and the Conquest Keepsakes Studio, an 8 x 10 x 4 for $15 and a full size 9 x 12 x 4 for $20, with both purses being available at Hobby Lobby, and the Conquest Keepsakes Studio. I will be providing the chipboard, laminate, Xyron (to put paper onto chipboard), punch templates, ribbon needles and grommets. You will need to provide your papers, inside and out, 6 pieces for the large size (I used smooth cardstock on the inside of mine), ribbon or fabric strips (I can tell you more about the fabric strips and you will see it when I post pictures). I can't tell you at this very moment how much ribbon yet. I am putting together all three sizes this week and I will know more by Friday and post that information. You still need a yard of trim for the top if you are doing the large size (hopefully you can extrapolate for the smaller sizes), and you can choose to either do ribbon handles or hard handles. I am doing hard handles on all of my example purses, I might do a fourth purse in the smallest size and use ribbon handles. That's up to you and what you want to spend. For tools, you will need to bring scissors, paper trimmer, double-stick tape (Tacky Tape for trim and to tape down loose ends), brayer (rolling pin thingy we use to really press down the paper and laminate to the chipboard and paper, $9 in tools in Scrapbooking, slightly higher in the architectural art section because they are interchangable), a folding bone and a Crop-a-dile. I have a few that can be borrowed and it's first come is first served.

The purse class being done at Stampers Studio will not require you to bring paper, it will be provided. You will stamp designs on your purse and learn a few new techniques from the stamp diva herself, Kristi Van Doren. We are doing the small size only for this class due to the extra time required to stamp your masterpiece. You might want to visit the store first and talk with Kristi about the type of purse you would like so you can get a better idea of what type of ribbon and handle you will need.

There will be a 40% coupon next week at Hobby Lobby, so if you want a Crop-a-dile ($25), Brayer ($9—I use it a lot in classes), or hard handles (they're about $4 to $5), this is a great time to take advantage of those coupons. You can go to the Hobby Lobby website and print them to your heart's content. Go to both stores in one day! Rubber Stamps and Making Memories are on sale next week too. If they are out of what you want, and it is on sale, you can get a rain check and still get the sale price. Find an associate to help you do this. I don't know for sure if this would apply to a coupon you wanted to use on an out-of-stock item, but worth a try. The worst they can do is say no. I'll be sure to have them order some Crop-a-diles in.

Also, the VersaMagic Jumbo Java ink pads that I use exclusively to age my projects is now available in TWO places here in/close to town. Forever Memories in Ozark ordered some just for us (lots of begging from me involved) in two sizes, full pad size and a small size that looks like a Cat's Eye, perfect for getting into small spaces. Debbie also ordered Midnight Black, my other favorite. I'm going to purchase some to have with me for you to buy. I'm SOOO excited! Kristi also carries the FULL line of VersaMagic chalk inks, includes my two favorites, but they go fast. She also carries the VersaFine pads as well.

Now for the dates for the Paper Chipboard Purses:
Thursday, February 22, Hobby Lobby north side, 1-3:30p small, medium and large

Friday, February 23, Hobby Lobby south side, 1 to 3:30p small, medium and large

Saturday, February 24, Stampers Studio and Stuff, at Scenic and Republic Road, 10:30A, she is advertising the small size only $12, and it will be a stamped version. If you haven't been to her store, GO! She has stuff in there you will not see ANYWHERE ELSE! Plus she's funny!

Wednesday, February 28, Conquest Keepsakes Studio (my house), 2:30p, any size

Tuesday, March 6, Conquest Keepsakes Studio, 5p, any size

Recap on Cost
Small 8x6x3.5 $12
Medium 8x10x4 $15
Large (same as original in size) 9x12x4 $20

If it makes you feel better, I see the paper ones being sold on eBay for $40. Wonder what a chipboard version would go for? :-)

I am going to an every other week schedule at Hobby Lobby starting in March as I begin to ramp up my Photoshop Elements Courses. I will be offering classes paper crafting classes here at the Conquest Keepsake studio (fancy name for my house) that will not be offered at Hobby Lobby, and I am also now teaching some classes at Stampers Studio. At Stamper's Studio, we are taking some the classes I have already done and altering them for stamping and using some of the other goodies that Kristi carries that no one else does, so even if you have done a class before, what I offer at Kristi's will be a different product. You NEED to see some of her stuff. I made a polymer clay pendant last night and it was waayyyy cool.

For the rest of February, here is what I have on tap:
Monday, February 19, 6p Fantasy Box, Stamper Style $12 Stampers Studio, Scenic and Republic Road. Wait till you see what we do to this box! You can't have just one!

Tuesday, February 20, 2p Lovable You Pocket Journal, $15 Conquest Keepsakes Studio. You have to see this, it is waaayyyy cute and can be altered to use for Mother's day, Father's day, Birthdays or just any occasion where you want to show someone you love and appreciate them. I LOVE this journal and I think you will too. It has fibers, beads, stamping, and all kinds of embellishments. It is a kit class. I'll let you know later when the picture is up what tools you'll need, but count on adhesives (glue stick, glue dots, pop dots), scissors, Crop-a-dile or eyelet setter for sure.

Wednesday, February 21, 2p, 8x8 Clock with TIME FLY's theme, $15 Stampers Studio.
This version is completely stamped and uses several techniques (like Twinkling H2O's and a few surprises) not seen anywhere else. Definitely worth the dinero! Scenic and Republic Road.

February 22, 23, 24 Paper Chipboard Purses (see detail above)

Friday, February 23, 5:30p, PJ Party at Stampers Studio $17—You will not want to miss the 2nd annual PJ Party! Wear your PJ's and come and have a lot of fun and chow some Pizza! I'll be doing a Accordion Book as a part of the evening's festivities and Kristi has some other things planned as well. I hope you all like pink and cats...that's what my PJs look like.;-)

Tuesday, February 27, 1p, Lovable You Pocket Journal, Stampers Style, $15 (again, some added touches), Stampers Studio, Scenic and Republic Road.

Tuesday, February 27, 6p, Lovable You Pocket Journal, Conquest Studio, $15

Wednesday, February 28, 2:30p, Paper Chipboard Purse, Conquest Studio, all sizes $12 to $20

There will be samples on display at the south side Hobby Lobby store for the purses, pictures at the north side store and whatever Kristi lashes me into doing for Stampers Studio. :-) For sure you can see a sample of the Purses, Clock, Journal, and Fantasy Box. If you go to Kristi's web site , you can see the box she did with the Princess Mirah papers. Too CUTE!

I look forward to hearing from you! Call if you have questions or want to sign up for any of these classes. 350-4569, or email at conquestkeepsakes@mchsi.com. I'll get pictures up as soon as I can. Both the Chipboard purses and the Lovable You Journals also have dates in March.

New Covenant Academy Red Hot Crop

2007-01-24T20:42:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to let you know that Conquest Keepsakes, that would be me, is attending the Red Hot Crop at New Covenant Academy. I am officially cropping with my buddies, but I am also advertising in the directory and giving away two free craft classes and two free Photoshop Elements classes (check out our sister blog, fixthatpicture.blogspot.com). This is a great fundraising event for New Covenant Academy. In addition to the 9a to Midnight crop with a 50's theme, they are having make-n-takes by the Paper Princesses and vendor booths so you can see the latest and greatest and buy the stuff you need to work on your projects. Hope to see you there!

Current Hobby Lobby Classes

2007-01-24T20:24:00.000-06:00

CHECK OUT THE NEW DATES!

Our first project is "Love Letters" and it is truly LOVE in letters on a wall plaque. We'll be using decorative papers to cover wood letters, stickers, stamps and flowers, and a new technique with Gel Medium to give an artistic look to our wood letters. In the center of our piece, there is a plaque quoting parts of 1 Corinthians 13, all about love. Hang this on your wall and remember what love is truly about. This project is a kit class. Tools you need to bring are glue stick, exacto knife, cutting mat, paint brush, glue dots, pop dots, folding bone, scissors and sand paper.
Class Cost: $12
Class Dates: February 1, 1:00-3:00p Northside
February 2, 1:00-3:00p Southside
Other dates/times by arrangement (conquestkeepsakes@mchsi.com or 350-4569)

Our second project involves customizing a single letter for a family member. Use it to pick up on a favorite hobby or personality of the person you want to honor. There are many techniques we can use to decorate your letter and we'll have several examples on hand. Purchase your 9" letter in the wood craft section and paper or embellishments you would like to use on your letter. Bring a paint brush, Exacto knife, cutting mat, scissors, and glue dots and we'll show you all the things you can do to decorate your letters. We'll have plenty of scraps, rub-ons and embellishments as well. This particular example is one honoring my neice Delaney who passed away last January from SIDS.
Class Cost: $5
Class Dates: February 1, 1:00-3:00p Northside
February 2, 1:00-3:00p Southside
Other dates/times by arrangement (conquestkeepsakes@mchsi.com or 350-4569)

Our third project is a familar project brought back for Valentine's Day. Yes, the Valentine's Fantasy Box! Pick out your favorite Valentine's paper and let's make a box that you can stuff with candy or jewelry or lovenotes, or all three! As usual, your imagination is required! Supplies you need to bring are 2 pieces of patterned paper (inside and outside of box), 2 pieces of card stock (lid and boxes inside), glue stick, folding bone, scissors, and a trimmer. Class Cost: $10
Class Dates: January 25 1:00-3:00p Northside
January 26, 1:00-3:00p Southside
Other dates/times by arrangement (vconquestcrafts@mchsi.com or 350-4569)

Welcome to Conquest Keepsakes!

2007-01-19T19:41:00.000-06:00

This is the first post to our new blog. Here you will find upcoming papercrafting projects, classes and events. You can preview classes being held at both Hobby Lobby stores and view the schedules as well as getting a first look at other projects we will be doing in the home studio. So, check back with us soon and see our current and future projects!