Some More Elemental

  This month at the classic workshop class we had a lot of fun with the Elemental workshop on the go kit.  We created 3 - 2 page layouts. The fun doesn't stop there.  The Studio J class also created an additional layout using the Elemental kit. I created 2 versions of the same layout. One more masculine while the other more feminine. It is so easy on Studio J to swap out paper, change colors of accessories and customize a layout for your pictures. So which is your favorite?

  Would you like to learn more about Studio J? Call or email me. (435.787.0125 iotamaker@gmail.com) Classes are held monthly live and online so you can participate from the comfort of your own home. Try out Studio J today.

  Oh one last thing - today is the last day to take advantage of the National Stamping Month promotion and to get the September stamp of the month (details in the post below this one). You can order online or you can call or email me.

Mischief Workshop

  It is time for a little Mischief! At this month's workshop class we will be creating 3 2 page 12x12 layouts that will be perfect for all your mischievous pictures. Workshop classes are held the 3rd Tuesday and Thursday of the month. You are welcome to join in the fun. Please email or call me before the 5th of October. Below are the other 2 layouts as well as the shopping list. All items can be purchased either on my website or by calling or emailing me (iotamaker@gmail.com 435.787.0125).

3 More Days! Then it is OVER!!

  I am not kidding when I say we are down to the wire! There are only 3 more days left until the National Stamping Month promotion is OVER! Gone! Adios!!! Don't miss out and be sure to take advantage of BOTH promotions this month!  Here are the details.

1. National Stamping Month FREE Double Stamp Set: With September being National Stamping Month, Close To My Heart decided to celebrate by creating their first ever DOUBLE stamp set called "Pair-a-Phrase" (two "D" size stamp sets combined...making it a "Double D"! lol) and letting YOU earn it absolutely FREE ($35.90 value) 


with a $75 order. I've included a photo of the set below (both carrier sheets are 6" x 6" in size) and a card at the top of the post that the super talented art department at CTMH created with the set.  I especially love using the water colored pencils with this stamp set. I also love that there are not only great lined images, but wonderful sentiments to match!




2. September Stamp of the Month ("Limited Edition"): 
As always, the Stamp of the Month is only $5 ($17.95 value) if you spend $50. Well, if you've already spent enough for the FREE "Pair-a-Phrase" set, then you've already qualified.In fact, I'll let you in on a little secret, the $5 Stamp of the Month can count toward the $75 required for the FREE set too. So, if you've chosen $70 in products to purchase, add the Stamp of the Month for $5, then you get "Pair-a-Phrase" free! Cool beans!

I've added a photo of the carrier sheet here (which is actually 6" x 6" in size) and a photo of a card my upline Karen Pedersen made using the stamp set and paper from the  Sonoma papers.

You can order on my website 24/7 (just click on Shop Online. You will be prompted to add both sets before the end of your order) or by calling or emailing me (435.787.0125, iotamaker@gmail.com). Have a great day!

Some More Beautiful Faces

  This first little guy has the sweetest little smile and perfect little face.  Don't you just want to pick him up and snuggle!  He was your typical 1 year old that made you work for his smiles and his attention. That said I think we have a few winners.

  Now it is the big sisters' turn.  This first sister is a fun, full of life 8 year old who came excited and ready to have her pictures taken.  She was so sweet and helpful throughout the entire session.

  Finally on to the teenager! I love photographing teenagers. They are easy to work with and make gorgeous models with the perfect combination of youthfulness and maturity.

Fantastic Easy Granola Bars!

I have a yummy recipe to share with you today. I can cook and I wouldn't say I am a bad cook but I don't LOVE to cook so when I find something that is yummy, somewhat healthy and REALLY quick it is a winner in my book.  These homemade granola bars fit the ticket perfectly.  It probably took about 5 minutes to gather my ingredients, mix these up and slip them into the oven.  The mess was minimal and the results were fabulous.  It is called a granola bar but it could easily be called a cookie. It is pretty sweet. If you don't want it as sweet I would just leave out the chocolate chips.


Fantastic Easy Granola Bars
3 cups quick rolled oats
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons butter melted
1 cup coconut
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup mini chocolate chips (frozen)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 pan. Mix everything but the chocolate chips. (I mixed it in my bosh with my cookie paddles). Add chocolate chips and mix. (The reason I froze my chocolate chips and added them last is so that they didn't get too warm and melt while mixing.) Press into prepared pan and bake 20 minutes (more chewy) - 25 minutes (less chewy). Let cool 5 minutes before cutting into squares.

Adorable 2 Year Old

  I love a two year old. They have that mischievous sweet innocence about them as they explore their world. This adorable 2 year is no exception. I mean look at those eyes!  Here are a few  more of my favorite.

 I had to get a picture of her cute shoes. She was so excited to show them to me.

Don't balloons just make you smile. 

For Sandra - Sophia Layout

  Seriously, forever and ever ago I created this layout for a young women activity.  I had it on my shelf in my scrapbook room during my workshop classes.  Sandra asked if I would be posting it on my blog and I said I would as soon as I changed the title  (It had said "Friend") and added the journaling. Well FINALLY I did finish the layout and I am posting in on my blog.
  I created the layout using the Sophia paper packet.  I very popular kit from a few catalogs bag. Although you can no longer get this paper via the traditional way you can still create with this paper in Studio J.

New Born Photography W_Murdock

My camera and I have been very busy! Wednesday I posted a few of my favorite from a back to school photo session. Today I am going to share a couple of newborn photos I took of my new nephew (the same one I photographed at the hospital) on the same day as that back to school session.  He is such an adorable little guy. I can't believe how much he has already changed.

Love Your Layout: September 2011

It is time for another episode of Love your Layout! These short videos walk you through creating a gorgeous layout in just minutes.  I love the title on this layout. So dang cute.  I also really like how were the journaling is. Check it out then jump on over to my website and login to your Studio J account and start cracking. Those pictures won't scrapbook themselves!

Back To School Pictures - Floyds

  I had so much fun last Saturday photographing 4 amazing siblings that each have their very own personality.  All 4 kids were great to work with. Take a peak at my favorites.

  I am running a back to school special! If you are interested in scheduling your own photo session with me give me a call or drop me an email. (435.787.0125 iotamaker@gmail.com)

Happy Mail

I love receiving "happy mail" especially when it comes from my good friend Karen Pedersen.  She makes the most beautiful artwork and inspires me to try new things. This gorgeous card features the September stamp of the month: Limited Edition. It also features a number of new products found in the Autumn/Winter 2011 idea book. All the items can be purchased on my website or by calling or emailing me.  The stamp of the month is only available through the end of September so if you would like to get your ink covered fingers on it be sure to do so today! You can check out the full SOM set as well as the other September promotions here.

Also, tomorrow, Wednesday September 14th is the last day to sign up for the Crafty Club Night - Typeset cards. Be sure to let me know if you would like to participate.

Love Your Layout: August 2011b

I just love the Studio J video series that Close To My Heart put out called "Love Your Layout."  The always highlight some great features and teach time saving techniques.  This month's video features an adorable layout with lots of pictures that is perfect for really any theme but especially vacation pictures. Check it out! 



If you would like to learn more about Studio J or attend one of my free live online classes be sure to email, call or post a comment with our contact information and I will send you all the details.

My Adorable Little Nephew - Newborn photography

 This little guy is my new nephew! I had the opportunity to go take his picture at the hospital when he was just over 24 hours old.  He is one adorable hairy strong little monkey.  He could not be any sweeter if he tried. Congrats Calving and AnnMarie!!!  There are quite a few pictures but I just couldn't narrow it down any more. He is just too sweet.