Happy New Year!

Just popping in to say "HELLO! and Happy New Year!" I really didn't have any great picture to add to this post and I always think a post is more interesting with a photo or two to go along with it. Don't you think? So I ran into the guest bath, no primping, and snapped a photo of ME saying hello to you! LOL!!! So this is how I would look if you stopped by right now to wish me a Happy New year! ta da!

I am bursting at the seams with ideas, plans and exciting changes both in business and my own personal life. I love the start of something new - like a new year - to start over, change, re-arrange, re-evaluate and get re-inspired! Can you tell I'm bursting! :)

I'm also just a few posts away from my 300th post and my 1 year Blog anniversary! My goodness I've been a Chatty Cathy! So much has been cataloged here on my little blog for all to see and I've met so many great friends , customers and faithful readers along the way. (and some that stop by that have yet to voice a hello - wink)

So having said that - my 300th post with be a big celebration! Be sure to stop by SOON to party and celebrate with me if you are not too "partied out" from the Holidays!

My biggest wishes sent to you for a wonderful 2008 full of all you hope it holds for you and your family! - xo Megan

New DIY kits for 2008!

Designs for 2008 are in full swing! Next year holds so much fun and exciting news, changes and new designs! I can't wait!

I just uploaded some new DIY kits on my website for your crafty types! You can snag a Cat in the Hat or a Sweet Valentines Days kit! Hurry! I am sure they won't last long!

I've been tossing around the idea of finally offering Women's DIY kits for my Shaggy Mosaic Jeans. I know there have been several of you who have asked for them but I'm still unsure. What do you think?

I love a good quote......

During the Holiday Season there seems to be nothing but re-runs on T.V. *sigh* Most of the Oprah episodes that have been aired recently I have already seen but not yesterdays. I'm not sure when I missed it but something told me to make sure to set the DVR so I wouldn't miss it. As I sat down to watch it late last night I was so glad that I had! Oprah opened the show with by saying this, :

"Everyone comes to this beautiful planet earth with something unique, something great, something only you were born to do. That's your real job, to figure out what is your calling and then begin to honor it. What's your calling?"

Did you get alittle chill? did you feel a pull in one direction or another? I just simply loved what she said and most people know I'm a sucker for a good quote! And how pertinent this "advice" or wisdom is given/received or that I heard it at this time of year. So many of us re-evaluate the past year and vow to make changes in the new one. This quote certainly makes me take a look at what I do everyday and the what changes I can/need to make.

The second quote I loved was given right at the end -

"Be the change you want to see in the world."

WOW! did you get our second set of chills or an eye opening?? Ok maybe it's just me and my love for inspiring messages, following your passion, etc.

If you want alittle more upliftment and maybe the push to follow our passion check out these links:

Pajama Party - She was on the Oprah show and just has an amazing story - check out her video and read more about her

Living your Passion - lots of links and great stories!

Room to Read - He was on the Oprah show as well and was worth millions of dollars before we walked away from his job to pursue something higher.

Thanks for indulging me. Sometimes you just feel like you need to share............... If you know of another great story, quote, etc please leave it in the comments section. I'd love to see it!

Beautiful Baby Search

Live with Regis and Kelly is having their Live Beautiful Baby Search! Show the world your beautiful baby! Your baby could be on the cover of Parenting Magazine and win money towards their college education too! So get snapping and send in a photo today. The deadline is January 11, 2008.

We wish you a............

Merry Christmas to everyone! Enjoy the moments with your loved ones - the crazy moments, the quiet ones and the ones that make your heart smile. xo - Megan

DIY Giveaway!

Hurry! Hurry! I am giving away a DIY kit - YOUR CHOICE right now! I had the privledge to be interviewed on the popular Boutiquecafe 12 days of Christmas podcast and my interview is up and live as we speak. As an added bonus you can win a DIY kit from me and LOADS of other prizes they are giving away by simply leaving a comment in their show notes. So hurry and scoot over there, take a listen, and leave a comment on their site to snag some GREAT prizes!

I've got diy kits for boys and girls and I even have a few new kits up as well!

Where did the willpower go?

I am assuming my will power went straight out the door as neighbors and friends have dropped by with numerous plates of goodies and delicious treats. ACK! Ususally I am pretty good but not this year! *sigh* I guess that is where New Year Resolutions kick in right?............hummmmm........probably not though for me! tee hee hee. I didn't even eat dinner yesterday because I just keep snacking on these goodies. I started compiling them all onto 1 large platter and it sets on the coutner - open, avaiable and ready for comsumption 24/7. And it's soooo good too! So bring on the pounds, I'm enjoying the Holiday Season! I hope your's is just as "sweet!"

Great American Craft off!

I just heard about this and I KNOW there are several crafty people out there who could jump on this contest! The Great American Craft off is launched by HomeGrownMarket.com and it's a unique contestthat calls for American crafters to present a one-of-a-kind creation that exemplifies their personal vision of what America is all about - whatever that may be.

They've partnered with some of the craftiest companies out there to give the winner a prize package valued at over $6000!

The Grand Prize includes:
• An all-expenses-paid trip to the John C. Campbell Folk School including one week’s tuition, room & board, and round-trip airfare. Total value over $1500.
• A Singer CE-250 embroidery/sewing machine & serger valued at $1200.
• A complete custom website design including online store and hosting from BizLandCrafters.com valued at $2100.
• A $500 gift card to Michaels Arts & Crafts • 2,500 Postcards and Business Cards from SonicPrint.com
• A $375 Premium Subscription to the Online Learning Library at Lynda.com.
• A signed copy of Nifty, Thrifty, and Kitschy Crafts by Leah Kramer of Craftster.org • A HomeGrownMarket.com Handmade Gift Pack valued at $350
• …and more!

PLUS, the winner’s creation will be featured in the Spring 2008 issue of Adorn magazine, to be seen by hundreds of thousands of readers!

WOW!!!! How exciting is that? You need to hurry though because the contest ends January 1, 2008! Good luck! Keep me posted if you enter so we can vote for you!

Winding..........

The Christmas countdown is not only almost over it's picking up speed as the BIG day draws near! I'm not sure if I am winding up or winding down this week. How do you feel? Are you ready? I feel like some things are definately winding down - dance classes, school, etc and other things like getting ready for guests, holiday parties, cooking, etc is all winding up! So maybe I am somewhere in the middle???.............hummmm......................My list for the day seems to have alot of little tasks and at the end of the day I've been able to get everything crossed off only to pull out a new sheet of paper and start the next days list. I'm definatley making a list and checking it twice! There's just nothing on my list about being naughty or nice! Errands, presents, emails, tasks, shipping packages, cleaning, grocery shopping, cooking, etc, etc, etc. No need to bore you with all the details or maybe I already have! LOL!!!

And as I sit here typing my "list" is calling to me. I hope you are enjoying the fun of the Season and all the traditions and events that come this time of year.

OH! and for those who are frequent readers - I got my hair done again! :) Highlights, shortened up.....I'm LOVIN" it! until next time..................

DIY Therapy sacks - Tutorials

(Be sure to upload your photos from trying this project into the Brassy Apple Projects Flickr group!)

This a fun, easy and quick project that is great to give a gifts anytime of the year! and easier on the figure than a plate of sweets. ;)

Wheat Sack

supplies needed:
sewing machine thread
fabric - at least a fat quarter
wheat (You can use rice too. I have been told that the Wheat holds heat better longer)
essential oil - you pick the scent

Step 1: Pick the fabric you like. You can create a pattern using paper for future/multiple use or just measure your piece and cut. I usually cut my fabric to be about 14 x10 inches.

Step 2: Fold your fabric, right sides together so you piece will now measure about 7x10. Sew down 2 sides together leaving one of the short ends open. You can trim your corner or any excess fabric if you want to.

Step 3: Turn your fabric inside out so the right side of the fabric is showing. Give it a quick press with a hot iron to press out your seams and make the fabric looks crisp.

Step 4: Pour your wheat into a large bowl. (this can be purchased in the bulk section of your grocery store for very cheap) Add a few drops of essential oil (optional). This creates a nice aroma as the wheat is heated up. Some of the favorites are lavendar, vanilla, lilac, etc. Stir the wheat to help distribute the oil.

Step 5: Fill your sack with wheat. If you are making a sack this size, I like to use about 3 1/2 cups. Anywhere between 3 -4 cups is a good amount.

Step 6: Turn under the top (open) edge about a 1/2 inch. I just hold both sides of the open edge and turn it under lining up the to seams at the top. It's quick and easy ;)

Step 7: Pin the edge you have just turned under and sew

Step 8: You are finished! You can make these in any size, shape or fabric. They work well for both women and men. I made one using the logo and colors of our local football team for a teachers husband who is a big fan!

Step 9: You can package them any way you like but I always attached a little poem with them.

Wheat Sack Poem

This little pillow filled with wheat,

Is such a comfort that can’t be beat.

Microwave for 1 to 2 minutes
on HIGH and kiss those aches
and pains goodbye.

Apply it to the troubled spot,

The heat will ease the pain a lot.

Or warm those little toes, so cold.

You'll find this nice to
have and to hold.

Or freeze it for a little while,

And fix that boo-boo up in style.

Instead of a compress made of ice,

Use this pillow of wheat that feels so nice!

Flat Betty's been spotted in Washington!

This just in! Flat Betty has been spotted in Washington decorating trees, hanging out by the pool and sipping spanish coffee with Kim of Scrap to my Lu and Today's Creative Blog. How divine!

You can read up on all the details of her second destination HERE. If you'd like to jump on board as a miles sponsor, comments sponsor or HOST Betty shoot us an email!

Flat Betty would love to attend some craft/Blogging/market type events in 2008. If you headed to something like this and wouldn't mind a 12 inch FLAT tag along let us know! tee hee hee

GIVEAWAY time! Just by adding your comment about Flat Betty's latest adventure on HER blog you can win a FREE membership to ZNE art. An amazing mixed media art group with over 1,000 members worldwide! Get to typing and please leave your comments and feedback for Betty and Kim too!

It's Beginning to look alot like Christmas!

Nothing like freshly fallen snow to really bring on the Holiday Spirit and the feeling of the Season! We don't get alot of snow here locally - well that stays around long anyway. So it was fun to see the white stuff flying all afternoon. All nestled inside this evening watching a Holiday movie with the family there comes a knock at the door. How appropiately that in all the "holiday spirit" of the day it's our neighbors with a plate of Christmas goodies! I hope everyone is spreading Holiday Cheer and enjoying your families. I have been and also been busy on some "behind the scenes work." No telling just yet what is coming......... tee hee hee.

So how is your house decorated? It was very fun to share Fall decor ideas so I'd thought I'd invite you in for a peek around my house.






Enjoy your weekend and the colors, sights and smells of the season! If you've shared photos of your hoilday decor on your blog leave me a link in the comments so I stop by!

The wish of a gift

A conversation I had in the car the other day while driving my daughter (age 7) and her friend to a dance performance.

Me: "Miss K, what you want from Santa this year?"

Miss K: "Um, I don't really know, but I would really like $100.00"

Daughter: "Whoa!"

Miss K: " I know."

Me: "What would you do with $100.00?"

Miss K: "Go shopping and stuff."

Daughter: "Yeah, with $100.00 you could buy like a whole building or something."

Miss K: " I know!" giggle/big smile

Oh the cute innocence of kids and the BIG wishes they have this time of year!

Tis the Season!

Can you believe it? Only 18 days until Christmas! yikes! are you ready? I'm not, but strangely enough, I'm not feeling stressed about it. Just taking each day as it comes and enjoying all the fun that comes along with it.............well so far ;)


So as we all enjoy this fun time of year I'd thought I'd pass along some Holiday sites.

Elf Yourself! - tee hee hee

Which of Santa's Reindeer are you?- Fun quiz

What's your Elf Name? - Fun quiz

Northpole - Fun for the kiddos

Make a snowflake - LOVE this one! If you ever watned to really make an out of this world snowflake - try this site! It's addiciting and so FUN!

do you have any fun Holiday sites you'd like to share? Post them in the comments so we can all enjoy them!

Resell

What's black, white and red all over? Plus totally stylish and original? My Shaggy Mosaic Jeans! I've spotted a resale from a very sweet gal. You can snatch up this pair of jeans ready to go for this Season and more!

click HERE to view the auction - no reserve too! yippeee!

Grab bags!!!!!

I thought it would be fun to pass along some extra fabric to someone else who might be able to use it. Just some random pieces, sizes and fabric patterns that I am clearing out. There is some Funky Monkey fabric, Summer in the City, Boys construction themed fabric, Cherries, Mary Englebreit and more. I have 4 small "Grab bags" each with their own mix of fabrics. You can "grab" a bag for only $1.00 plus $4.6o shipping in the USA. Any takers? First come first served. Post a comment or email me! info@creativeoutletdesigns.com

Great scraps for piecing, applique and other crafty projects!

**EDIT - All the Grab bags have been "grabbed" up! thank you!!!!**

and if you are still feeling alittle "grabby" how about a FREE apron from me? The Apronsita is holding weekly apron giveaways and this week one of mine is being given away to 1 lucky blogger! So scoot on over there and post a comment to WIN!!! good luck!

Sweetness

A new design perfect for the girly girl in your house. A pair of jeans full of sweetness, love, heart and enchanting patterns. Custom sizes now available in my ebay auction. These jeans are great for Valentines Day and more. The very sweet and feminine top has been created by the talented Monalisaboutique. You can find her auction here.

I've also just added 2 designs for womens jeans on my website by populardemand. Snatch up your hubbies and get a pair added to your wish list this year!

and miles to go before we sleep.........

We are back and alive! We had the best time! I haven't walked that much in so LoooOOOOoong! LOL!!!! Overall the trip was superb! We definately had a few hangups - lost luggage, missed flights, cab rides that took 2 hours instead of 12 mins, etc - but it didn't overshadow the Magic of being in Disneyland and kicking off our Holiday Season as a family.

The kids were such troopers and so good the entire trip! I just about cried when my daughter got to meet Cinderella and she took the time to talk with her for a few minutes. The bet the women who play those princessess have cheeks that hurt by the end of the day! That is ALOT of smiling for them! ha ha!

I also surprised the kiddos with "custom" outfits made just for them to wear to Disneyland our first day there. The best compliment I received that day other than the HUGE smiles on their faces and the all the hugs and kisses when they saw the outfits, was the endless compliments/questions from people asking me what store in Disneyland I had purchased their jeans at. (insert BIG smile on my face here). The kids got alot of attention that day.

Time Flies.........doesn't it?

WOW! has it really been a week since I have posted? Everyone else must have been busy as well with family, shopping, eating, eating and then more eating because I didn't get any "nagging" emails from my sister to post on my blog! LOL!!!

But yes I did enjoy my Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping with Mother in Law. We made good use of those early hours. It's amazing how much shopping your can get done between the hours of 4am - 10am and still have SO much day left - well........mainly enough day left to nap ;) tee hee hee.

I am transitioning from Fall to Winter/Christmas Decor and yes my tree is up. It's not decorated yet but it's up! I can't wait to see how you decorate your house, tree, door, etc. Be sure to share your great ideas, tips, tricks and let me know when you do!



Hopefully this short little post will do because I am headed out the door for a 4 day family trip to Disneyland!!!!!! It's been in the planning stages for a LOOoooong time and we just surprised my daughter at school right as she was headed to lunch. We had her read the two signs Dad was holding to her little brother out loud.


We captured the moment on video and it was priceless!!!! See you next week! Don't cause too much trouble while I am gone! and don't forget about posting your comments on FLAT BETTY's Blog to help her raise money - and you can win prizes too - for the kids in Haiti! thanks!!!

America's Next Top FLAT Model...........

here we come!!!! and by FLAT I don't mean in the chest. *snicker* I mean "Betty"!!! Part Deux of Betty's travels to Utah have been posted and Betty had lots of questions about photo shoots, modeling, etc and got some expert advice and experience from "Erica." Look how stylin they are!


** don't forget - give a comment HERE and you GIVE to Betty's Cause. In return our sponsor Boutiquecafe will GIVE you a chance to win some of their great prizes! ***

Betty has been spotted....................

in UTAH!!!! Betty's first travel destination has been revealed and posted HERE! Check out the FLAT Betty blog for all the fun details!

***Betty needs your help! for each comment you make by following this link, you can help Betty earn extra donations!!! Boutiquecafe.com has joined up as comments sponsor for her first destination. For every comment left they will donate .05 towards Bettys current cause. It's a great way for YOU as the blog readers to get involved. Just post a comment and "cha - ching" - you've helped raise money for the kids in Orphange and infant Care Center in Haiti. Hurry up and post today!!!!

Boutiquecafe is also giving away a few prizes to someone who comments - check out what the prizes are by clicking here

How Savvy are you???

I've just discovered a few new show - The Savvy Organizer. "Answering the call heard around the world for organization, and practical ways to streamline your life. The Savvy Organizer is on the case and readily available on your ipod or over your computer speakers.....The Savvy Organizer is a free, downloadable and portable online radio show."

As the host Maja says in show #1, "these shows will be short and simple. We are not going to beat around the bush. " I love that! Quick tips and ideas to get organized and stay that way are perfect for busy women! do you have some questions for Maja? Just leave your comments and questions in the show notes on their site! She's ready and willing to help you!

Can we say it yet????.................

I LOVE christmas time! Playing holiday music 24/7 and getting in the spirit! I can't wait! I'm not the only one getting in the mood either. Sandi is right there along with me! tee hee hee. Yes I love Thanksgiving and I am not overlooking it, but for me it's like the kick off of the season! Growing up we always put up the Christmas tree either the day after Thanksgiving or on Thanksgiving night. It's just part of that Holiday - BUT the tree definately has to come down the day after Christmas. *shudder* It just has to. HA!

Ok so why am I blogging on about Christmas? Well,for one, it's just a few short days until my tree will be lighting up my living room AND I couldn't wait to share a few fun ideas with you!

Have you seen these? Custom Printed M and Ms! how fun are those! You can have 2 different messages placed on them and colors???? There's LOTS of color combinations to choose from! I think it's a fun way to get a chocolate fix and spread some Christmas cheer........or let someone know you are thinking about them. How "sweet" (wink)

With Christmas, of course, comes traditions. My sister just passed along a fun little gift that will become a new tradition this year at my house and I wanted to give you a heads up if you wanted to start it as well. Everyone..........meet Mr. Peeps. tee hee hee.

He came to our house in a small brown bag labeled " Open Thanksgiving night after the kids are in bed. " Oooh! sounds sort of fun! HA! But it's all for the kiddos and it's all in good fun. Inside was a little elf and the following poem:

Christmas is approaching, and this is the day

Santa has sent Mr. Peeps to your house to stay.

He send this small elf to your house and mine.

The day after Thanksgiving, He must be on time.

Mr. Peeps has a purpose. His purpose will be,

To whisper to Santa all the good that he sees.

Soon after he gets here, he moves only at night

To high places, low places, he stays in plain sight.

In the kitchen, for instance, he sits high on a shelf.

Mr. Peeps can sit anywhere, for he is an elf.

He holds very still when he thinks you are watching.

His magic is precious, it fades with on touching.

He sits on the tree on Christmas Eve day.

He knows that Santa is soon on his way.

He waits and he waits without making a noise.

He waits until Santa arrives with the toys.

So you better be nice and mind what you say

Because Mr. Peeps will tell Santa when he comes with his sleigh.

Once Christmas is here and Santa has come,

Mr. Peeps must leave, for his job is well done.

But, he will return next year on the very same day,

To watch your behavior as you work and play.

- Sharon Reynolds

So whatcha think? It's a fun way to keep the little ones good because Mr Peeps is watching to tell Santa if you are good or not and how fun for them to discover where he has moved to during the night.

If you are feeling a bit "elfy" now I found a few elf DIY projects.

clay pot elf

Elf poop anyone? *snicker*

Elf Pixie Hat

Lightbulb Elf

Elf coloring page

And if you are still not in the Christmas mood after all THAT - take a peek outside my window here this morning! what a SURPRISE!!!!

DIY Picture this - tutorial

(Be sure to upload your photos from trying this project into the Brassy Apple Projects Flickr group!)

I'm not sure if anything is faster than this quick DIY project. If you want to add a some color or something unique to your home decor try this!

1. Pop some fabric that you love behind a frame and you are done!
2. Group several frames together, each with a different fabric, for a more dramatic display.
3. AND these are sooo quick and easy to make a quick change when the seasons change, holiday time, etc.


Many of you have seen photos of my entryway. Don't stop at just frames! There are several options of "objects" to place fabric behind besides just picture frames - how about windows?

Here's some ideas for picture frames too! They can go anywhere in your house including the bathroom like these:

You should always surround yourself with things that you love. These are great ways to pops of color, design and pattern anywhere in your house. Now if you want to get a bit more crafty, break out the supplies and lets get started!



Framed silhouettes -



Supplies needed:

Fabrics - or patterned scrapbooking papers
fusible fleece or interfacing (optional)
iron
picture frame
fabric marker
silhouette pattern
fun things to embellish with - ribbons, etc

Step 1: Pick your fabrics. (or papers. in this project I will be referring to fabrics) You will need one for the background and one for the silhouette.

Step 2: Apply the interfacing or fusible fleece to the back of your silhouette fabric per manufacturers instructions. This step is optional but if you want to add dimension to your silhouette use the fusible fleece. If you want to keep the edges neat, crisp, clean and free from fraying without any dimension use the interfacing.



Step 3: Using your Fabric Marker, trace your silhouette on the back side of your fused fabric and backwards too. This will ensure when you flip it over it's not facing the wrong way in the case of an alphabet letter, etc. ** Your Silhouette can be of ANYTHING - an initial letter, your child, favorite animal, favorite shape. Look to magazines, books, die cut shapes, stencils, etc to help you find a pattern.



Step 4: Cut out your silhouette and place it on your background fabric. Place the glass from the picture frame on top of your design and trace around it with a fabric marker. Set the glass aside and cut out the background fabric.



Step 5: Your design might look complete now but if it doesn't and you feel it still needs alittle something - now's the time to embellish! I used black ribbon to set it off from the frame. I simply cut 4 lengths and placed them in the pattern I liked. I used a bit of a glue stick to keep the pieces in place too. You don't have to use a lot. It's just a quick easy technique to keep it together before you place it in the frame.



Step 6: Cut any ribbon, fabrics or other embellishments that are hanging over the edges and place it in your frame. Polish the glass and display!