Mmm...Cocoa Mix for Teacher Gifts!

I miss the days of elementary school when it was just a normal routine for the students to give their teachers a gift. Move on up to middle/junior high, kiddos don't want to be singled out as "teacher's pet," or anything else and they sure as heck don't encourage their moms to do anything like that either. I happened to discuss this topic with a couple of my good friends -- who, ironically -- have taught and are teaching my almost 13-year-old. The one who taught him was in elementary, and her sister is in junior high. His junior high teacher said they LOVE getting things, but the kids just don't really bring things in. Usually the moms just leave it with the receptionist. EXCELLENT IDEA! So, that's what I did!
I just LOVE this stamp set, A Sip. It is perfect for cocoa, coffee & tea drinkers. I made a batch of homemade hot cocoa mix and put them in the smaller Mason jars and created this cute tag.

Colors use:

Cranberry
Topiary
Cocoa
White Daisy

I was actually off on the day I delivered these to the receptionist at the school. To my surprise, guess who hand delivered them? I understand it was Zach! I am TOTALLY impressed!

I also delivered one to his former elementary teacher because she has been instrumental in helping him with his Pre-Algebra math, and I don't think she knows how much we really appreciate her. (SHE'S AWESOME!!!)

Share your favorite homemade gift item to give or receive and how you package it and I'll have a drawing for blog candy! Comments MUST be posted no later than 5:00 p.m. Christmas Eve!

Anyway, I hope you-all have a VERY Merry Christmas & a Happy & Safe New Year!

A Little Creativity

WOW! Several weeks have passed since my last blog post. Things seem to always be so hectic no matter how hard I try to keep things simple. Such is life, I suppose. Time definitely is flying by. It’s hard to believe that we are almost at the end of another year.

I’ve created a few cards recently and also a door prize item, and I wanted to share them with you. The first two cards are using our Clear Cards as the base and I also used my Cuttlebug to emboss the base. For the "It's a Girl" card, I used MyReflections Twitterpated, MyAcrylix stamp sets used were: Playful Fluorishes and Sweet Baby. For "Natalie's" card, I used Stardust, which -- unfortunately -- is no longer available. I REALLY love how these two cards turned out. They are so different and definitely a conversation piece.

The next item is the item I created as a door prize during a Multi-Vendor Holiday Open House I participated in this past weekend. I got the idea from one of my fellow Close to my Heart consultants and it was SOOO easy to make! I used a rectangular hinged window tin and then created a “folder” for it using Cranberry Cardstock, which I also embossed using my Cuttlebug. I used our MyAcrylix A Sip for the coffee cup and MyAcrylix Tannenbaum for the sentiment. Other paper used is from our MyReflections Mistletoe collection. I just LOVE this paper for Christmas. Can’t wait to put this year’s pictures on the Mistletoe Workshop on the Go!

Finally, today is one of my AWESOME boss’ birthday and I created this card last night. It is using our MyAcrylix Party Pennants, MyAcrylix Royal Birth and scraps of paper from MyReflections Hooligans and MyReflections Olivia. I also used MyAcrylix The Present for the sentiment that I stamped on the inside of the card and our new Blue/Green Sparkles. I really love the colors of this card. I used the sample from Page 63 of our Autumn/Winter Idea Book. The pattern is On the Edge from Wishes – although, I rotated mine to be landscape.

I'm sure I've left out some of the items I’ve used on these projects. Please don’t hesitate to ask me any questions about any of them. I hope you enjoyed the little bit of creativity I’ve had recently. Next on the agenda is to clean up my scrapbooking room as it looks like a bomb went off in it! HA! Signs of creativity!! LOVE IT!

Don't forget about my 4th Annual Black Friday Special on November 26th from 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. If you didn't receive my newsletter with all the information, let me know and I'll e-mail it to you!

Leave me a comment and I will randomly draw a winner to receive blog candy from me. Comments need to be posted by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 23rd. Good luck!

Retreat Recap -- Ready to go Back!

What a WONDERFUL weekend we all had in Alvin on our scrapbooking retreat. KW Cabin Retreat is so warm & cozy…just a great, relaxing atmosphere. I just LOVE going here and spending time with some of my really good friends. We share lots of laughs; lots of ideas and LOTS of good food!

On Friday, my guests arrived to find these Tervis Tumblers I ordered and had personalized with “Scrappin’ Girls Weekend” on the back of it. The “Live Love Laugh” was perfect because it’s what we do. Stuffed inside the tumblers was a variety of chocolate (can’t scrap without that); and a package of our new Opaques Mocha Adhesive Gems.

I held a “Mystery Hostess” drawing. The winner of that was Andrea Maxwell. Since the gathering total reached $450, she was able to “Jump for Joy” as part of Close to my Heart’s October Constant Campaign. What that means is instead of $80 in FREE select product, she’ll receive $100 in select product. She got to jump to the next level. I think she was a tad bit excited! :)

The weekend always seems to go by way too fast, but it is definitely relaxing and rewarding! As always, I look forward to the next retreat. I am now taking deposits for the retreat I am hosting in Tomball at The Quilters Cabin. This will be my first time at this retreat center, but I am looking forward to it as I have hear LOTS of great things about it – like sometimes you can see deer while sitting outside. LOVE IT!!! Contact me for more details if you’re interested. This location has capacity of 12, and I have 5 people already signed up.

Are you ready for a Hooligan of a good time and ready to have pages to put your upcoming (or past) Halloween pictures on? Or would you like to create the cards to send to your little Ghosts & Goblins? Then join me in October for my Hooligans Workshop on the Go. I have a couple of dates available for you to choose from. Remember, even if you can't physically attend the event, you can still order and create on your own with the helpful guide that's included in the kit.

Workshop Kit
Item # Product Cost
_________________________________________________________________________________________
G1012 Hooligans Workshop Kit (includes):
• Hooligans Level 2 Paper Packet ($12.95)
• My Acrylix® Troublemaker ($13.95)
• Mini-Medley Accents Sunset Collection ($4.95)
• Workshop Guide ($1.00)

$29.95

Retail Value: $32.85

You Pay: $29.95

*****************************************************************
Required Tools
____________________________________________________________________________________

Item # Product Cost

D1303 My Acrylix® Classmate Alphabet $22.95
Z2105 Black Exclusive Inks® Pad $5.25
Z2190 Gypsy Exclusive Inks® Pad $5.25
Z2197 Pear Exclusive Inks® Pad $5.25
*Z1089 Black Waxy Flax $3.95
^Z134 Prisma Glitter $4.25
Z553 Bonding Memories® Glue Pen $4.50
1764 Craft Tray $7.95
Y1000 1" × 1" My Acrylix® Block $3.95
Y1002 1" × 3 1/2" My Acrylix® Block $5.95
Y1003 2" × 2" My Acrylix® Block $6.50

*If you don't have the Black Waxy Flax, I highly recommend it for this kit. In the guide, they just place the buttons on the layout; but I felt it needed the waxy flax to be a "complete button."

^I also highly recommend the Prisma Glitter. This DEFINITELY adds character to the pages.

*********************************************************************************
Workshop Date/Registration Information

Choose the day/time that works for you:

Friday, October 22 - 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 23 - 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. or
4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m*

*Stay & crop until midnight! What fun and appropriate time to work on this kit as it'll be a full moon on Saturday!! Tricks & Treats might be in order for this Howlin' Hooligan of a good time!!

Payment/Registration is due to me by Monday, October 11, 2010.

Don't forget...if total combined orders for this month's Hooligans Workshop on the Go reaches the minimum Gathering Total ($150 before s/h & tax), I'll put each person's name in drawing for "Mystery Hostess" and you could earn FREE PRODUCT!!! How Ghostacular & Ghoulsome would THAT be?!?!

Don't delay! Sign up TODAY!

Also, by purchasing the Workshop on the Go, you'll already earn October's Stamp of the Month, Share the Magic at 25% off!

See you soon!

(Sorry for the "misalignment" of my item numbers, product, cost, etc. Not sure why it didn't want to "post" pretty for me.)

Blink, and It'll Be Here Tomorrow!!

Christmas, that is! Can you believe it? We are in the last part of 2010! Where has the year gone?! Halloween is next month; then it's Thanksgiving; and then finally, it's Christmas. (In case you didn't see my FB post, there's only 98 days until Christmas. Just so you know. :) You're welcome!)

Today, I created this card. I've been in the creating mood, but haven't had much time to act on it. I saw this design on Papertrey Inc and fell in love with it. It is a bit of layering (I think I might simplify the next one), but I really like how it turned out.
Items Used:

Stamps:
A1110 A Timber
C1433 In the Month of December
D1415 Evergreen

Inks:
Z2120 Garden Green
Z2116 Cranberry
Z2135 New England Ivy

Embellishments:
Z1155 Clear Craft Buttons

Paper:
1272 Cranberry Cardstock
1385 White Daisy Cardstock
X5811 Mistletoe Creative Basics

Non CTMH Items used are: Cuttlebug swirl embossing folder, Spellbinders Label Die, white felt.
*The New England Waxy Flax is no longer available. :(

Courtney's Creation!

One of my newest young customers definitely has an AWESOME creative inner self. I met Courtney on August 15th and the way her eyes lit up when she was making cards here at my house was wonderful. She and her mom, grandmother and friend were all here making cards, and I do believe they all had a great time. I know I enjoyed teaching them different techniques.

Courtney had a homework assignment this past week...to decorate her notebook. Her dad said it took her a few hours to work on it. In my opinion, she created a masterpiece. Her masterpiece served as a distraction that she so needed. Take a look at what she created and share your comments. I know Courtney would love to read them as much as I would.

I look forward to teaching Courtney and her family more exciting techniques. The creations & possibilities are ENDLESS!!

Billie, Lana & Courtney -- Tons of hugs coming your way!

Sticky Boy! | CTMH My Acrylix Clear Stamps -- Clearly the Beginning!

Sticky Boy is where it all began for Close to my Heart's MyAcrylix stamp sets. Watch the short video below and then post a comment telling me what your favorite thing about the video AND about Close to my Heart MyAcrylix stamps by end of day Monday, September 6 and you'll be entered in drawing for special gift!

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

...all about Close to my Heart's 2010 Autumn/Winter Idea Book, that is! FINALLY...it will be available to you starting TOMORROW, September 1st! I am SOOO excited! I can't wait for you to see the new papers and embellishments and the NEW colors we're introducing! You can also view the products on my website here starting tomorrow, too.

I will be having a "Catalog Kick-Off" party at my house on Saturday, September 11th. There'll be door prizes, food, fun and "Mystery Hostess" depending on total sales that day!

Contact me for more details!

August is Something Splendid!!!

I absolutely love sunflowers; and when I saw this month's Stamp of the Month, I knew it was going to be a beauty! Check out this quick and simple card I made using the stamp of the month, Something Splendid and our Cherry-O Level 2 Paper. I really like how using the Honey ink gave this card a little pop. I even created another one using base/shade stamping using Tulip ink as the Base (outline). I'll try to get a pic uploaded of that one, too.

If you'd like to purchase this month's Stamp of the Month and/or the other supplies used, call or e-mail me and I'll get you set up or you can shop online 24/7 on My Website.

Thanks for stopping by! Now, post a comment about what you think of when you see sunflowers and cherries and I'll hold a drawing. The winner will receive this card from me! Comments need to be submitted by 12:00 noon on Friday, August 20th. Good Luck!

New Blog Name!

Yay! I'm so glad you found me! I wanted a new blog name and LOVE that I was able to create one with some "bling."

Be sure to bookmark my new page! Have a great weekend!

Appreciation Sale -- Ends on Wednesday!!!

Hey Scrappin' Friends! There's still lots of GREAT items at AWESOME prices on my website! This FABULOUS sale ends on Wednesday, August 11th! If you've been thinking about getting one of the items still available, don't wait too long or it may be too late!

Click on over to My Website to take advantage of Close to my Heart's Appreciation sale!

Thanks in advance!

$2, $4, $6 for 8 Continues...but Ends SOON!

Just a reminder that our the Super Scrapbook Sale is still going on! Click on over to my website ----> Melanie's Website and take a look at what's left! Once these items are gone -- they are GONE for GOOD!!!

This sale ends on Wednesday, August 11th. Your purchase even qualifies you to purchase this month's Stamp of the Month, Something Splendid, either outright, at a discount, or earn it for FREE!!!

Happy Shopping & Have a GREAT weekend!

$2, $4, $6 for 8 Starts TOMORROW @ 10:00 a.m. CST!

Click the link below for all the details on the HUGE Appreciation Sale that Close to my Heart is offering YOU, our WONDERFUL customers! This sale is ONLY available via my website, http://melanieboyer.myctmh.com

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

Don't hesitate to e-mail or call me with any questions before tomorrow! :)

Have a GREAT evening!

$2, $4, $6 for 8....It's YOU CTMH Appreciates!!

Close to my Heart has JUST released the items slated to retire at the end of December, 2010; and we want to show you all how much you are appreciated, our AWESOME customers! This will be a SALE like nothing you've seen from us before!!!

For 8 days only - from Wednesday August 4th at 9 am (MDT -- 10:00 a.m. CST) through Wednesday August 11th (while supplies last), you can place an order on my website to get....

CTMH MyStickease assortments for only $2

CTMH MyReflections Level 1 kits for only $4

CTMH MyReflections Level 2 paper packets for only $6.

CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT?!?!? I am STILL in disbelief!!

This offer is phenominal! Don't miss it - - mark your calendars for August 4 - 11th, start making your wishlist, and get ready to stock up!!

UPDATE: Here is the actual list/prices of the items that will be on the Appreciation Sale. It is shorter than the actual retiring list as it only contains the MyReflections Level 1 & Level 2 paper packs & MyStickease.

Item Number Name Price
X7045A My Reflections Vintage Travel Level 1 $4.00
X7045C VintageTravel My Stickease $2.00
X7056A My Reflections Discovery Level 1 $4.00
X7060A My Reflections Heirloom Level 1 $4.00
X7060B My Reflections Heirloom Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7061A My Reflections Floral Impressions Level 1 $4.00
X7061B My Reflections Floral Impressions Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7061C Floral Impressions My Stickease $2.00
X7062A My Reflections Laid Back Level 1 $4.00
X7069A My Reflections Just Chillin Level 1 $4.00
X7069C Just Chillin My Stickease $2.00
X7070A My Reflections Simple Pleasure Level 1 $4.00
X7070B My Reflections Simple Pleasure Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7070C Simple Pleasure My Stickease $2.00
X7071A My Reflections Best Friends Forever Level 1 $4.00
X7072A My Reflections School Zone Level 1 $4.00
X7072C School Zone My Stickease $2.00
X7073A My Reflections Abundance Level 1 $4.00
X7073B My Reflections Abundance Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7073C Abundance My Stickease $2.00
X7075A My Reflections More To Adore Level 1 $4.00
X7075B My Reflections More To Adore Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7075C More To Adore My Stickease $2.00
X7076A My Reflections Sonata Level 1 $6.00
X7076C Sonata My Stickease $2.00
X7077C Sweet Harmony My Stickease $2.00
X7078A My Reflections Cutie Pie Level 1 $6.00
X7078C Cutie Pie My Stickease $2.00
X7079B My Reflections Rough n Tumble Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7079C Rough n Tumble My Stickease $2.00
X7080A My Reflections Route 66 Level 1 $6.00
X7080C Route 66 My Stickease $2.00
X7081A My Reflections Majestic Blue Level 1 $4.00
X7081B My Reflections Majestic Blue Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7081C Majestic Blue My Stickease $2.00
X7082A My Reflections Expedition Level 1 $6.00
X7082C Expedition My Stickease $2.00
X7083A My Reflections Let's Get Together Level 1 $6.00
X7084A My Reflections Floral Tapestry Level 1 $6.00
X7085A My Reflections Everlasting Level 1 $6.00
X7085B My Reflections Everlasting Paper Packet $6.00
X7085C Everlasting My Stickease $2.00
X7086A My Reflections Caprice Level 1 $6.00
X7086B My Reflections Caprice Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7086C Caprice My Stickease $2.00
X7087A My Reflections Enchanted Level 1 $6.00
X7087B My Reflections Enchanted Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7087C Enchanted My Stickease $2.00
X7088A My Reflections Free Spirit Level 1 $4.00
X7088B My Reflections Free Spirit Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7088C Free Spirit My Stickease $2.00
X7089A My Reflections Lifes Delights Level 1 $4.00
X7089C Life Delights My Stickease $2.00
X7090A My Reflections Silhouette Level 1 $4.00
X7090B My Reflections Silhouette Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7090C Silhouette My Stickease $2.00
X7091A My Reflections it’s a Guy Thing Level 1 $4.00
X7091B My Reflections it’s a Guy Thing Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7091C it’s a Guy Thing My Stickease $2.00
X7092A My Reflections Good Times Level 1 $4.00
X7092B My Reflections Good Times Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7092C Good Times My Stickease $2.00
X7093A My Reflections Sweet Pea Level 1 $4.00
X7093C Sweet Pea My Stickease $2.00
X7094A My Reflections Paper Garden Level 1 $4.00
X7094C Paper Garden My Stickease $2.00
X7095A My Reflections Boom-Di-Ada Level 1 $4.00
X7095B My Reflections Boom-Di-Ada Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7095C Boom-Di-Ada My Stickease $2.00
X7096A My Reflections Blue Ribbon Level 1 $4.00
X7096B My Reflections Blue Ribbon Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7096C Blue Ribbon My Stickease $2.00
X7097A My Reflections Game On Level 1 Kit $4.00
X7097B My Reflections Game On Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7097C Game On My Stickease $2.00
X7098A My Reflections Sarsaparilla Level 1 Kit $4.00
X7098B My Reflections Sarsaparilla Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7098C Sarsaparilla My Stickease $2.00
X7100A My Reflections Perfect Day Level 1 $4.00
X7100B My Reflections Perfect Day Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7100C Perfect Day My Stickease $2.00
X7101A My Reflections Magic Moments Level 1 $4.00
X7101B My Reflections Magic Moments Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7101C Magic Moments My Stickease $2.00
X7102A My Reflections Notebook Level 1 $4.00
X7102B My Reflections Notebook Paper Packet $6.00
X7102C Notebook My Stickease $2.00
X7103A My Reflections Aspen Level 1 $4.00
X7103B My Reflections Aspen Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7103C Aspen My Stickease $2.00
X7104A My Reflections Evensong Level 1 $4.00
X7104B My Reflections Evensong Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7104C Evensong My Stickease $2.00
X7105A My Reflection sEmporium Level 1 $4.00
X7105B My Reflections Emporium Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7105C Emporium My Stickease $2.00
X7106A My Reflections Unforgettable Level 1 $4.00
X7106B My Reflections Unforgettable Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7106C Unforgettable My Stickease $2.00
X7107A My Reflections That’s Amore Level 1 $4.00
X7107B My Reflections That’s Amore Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7107C That’s Amore My Stickease $2.00
X7108A My Reflections Daydream Level 1 $4.00
X7108B My Reflections Daydream Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7108C Daydream My Stickease $2.00
X7109A My Reflections Stardust Level 1 $4.00
X7109B My Reflections Stardust Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7109C Stardust My Stickease $2.00
X7110A My Reflections Back Country Level 1 $4.00
X7110B My Reflections Back Country Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7110C Back Country My Stickease $2.00
X7111A My Reflections Moon Doggie Level 1 $4.00
X7111B My Reflections Moon Doggie Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7111C Moon Doggie My Stickease $2.00
X7112A My Reflections Animal Cookies Level 1 $4.00
X7112B My Reflections Animal Cookies Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7112C Animal Cookies My Stickease $2.00
X7113A My Reflections Tinkerin Level 1 $4.00
X7113B My Reflections Tinkerin Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7113C Tinkerin My Stickease $2.00
X7114A My Reflections Bella Level 1 $4.00
X7114B My Reflections Bella Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7114C Bella My Stickease $2.00
X7115A My Reflections Jingle Level 1 $4.00
X7115B My Reflections Jingle Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7115C Jingle My Stickease $2.00
X7116A My Reflections Sweet Home Level 1 $4.00
X7116B My Reflections Sweet Home Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7116C Sweet Home My Stickease $2.00
X7117A My Reflections Grace Level 1 $4.00
X7117B My Reflections Grace Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7117C Grace My Stickease $2.00
X7118A My Reflections Twitterpated Level 1 $4.00
X7118B My Reflections Twitterpated Level 2 Paper Packet $6.00
X7118C Twitterpated My Stickease $2.00

Sale prices available only on website orders! Click HERE to shop my website! Items are expected to sell fast!!

Remember, this sale is ONLY available via my website. Contact me with any questions!

Tomorrow Came & Went -- Several Days Ago!

Well, I had every good intention on posting an update "tomorrow" as I stated on Tuesday; but, things have been a bit busy in the household and at work! But on with the good stuff!

Sneak Peek at what you're going to LOVE! EXCITING, INVITING & YUMMY new colors (*note, Topiary is moving from "Summer Celebration" to "Summer Carnival";


FABULOUS newly redesigned albums -- say, "Bye-Bye, Linen";


and WARM fall paper, exquisitely entitled, "Olivia."

Are you drooling yet? Well, guess what? I have a MAJORITY of the new stuff in my hands! Yep, and I LOVE EACH AND EVERY BIT OF IT! Can't wait to see it? Well, mark Saturday, September 11th down on your calendar. I'll be having my "National Stamping Day/Fall Open House"; and you can see what all you CANNOT live without! More details will be posted as well as ways to earn tickets for DOOR PRIZES!!! Plus, there's a GREAT special that we'll be having to CELEBRATE National Stamping Month!!

Time Marches On...

...and it AMAZES me at how fast it marches!! What about you? I keep thinking that one of these days it'll slow down, but that hasn't happened yet.

I recently attended Close to my Heart's annual convention in Washington, D.C. It was SIMPLY amazing! The convention was held at the BEAUTIFUL Gaylord National Hotel. I got to meet so many of my CTMH Sisters that I've been corresponding with via e-mail for the past four years as well as some of my Bloggin', Facebookin' & Tweetin' friends. It was great! There were so many aspects of convention that were unforgettable. Over the next few days I'll share them with you. I'll start off with entertaining.

During General Sessions on Opening Day, several CTMH Corporate staff members provided CONTAGIOUS entertainment, evidenced by this video. This was so much fun and really set the mood for convention! There were also spinoffs from The Apprentice, Ellen, & Sham Wow!

The theme for convention was "Picture This." Now, in my head I am picturing all sorts of goals I'd like to accomplish. Along the way, you can, in fact, help me:

Come back tomorrow where I'll share more about Close to my Heart's Annual Convention.

Jumpin' Jackpot June -- Here's the Scoop!

Jumpin' Jackpot June -- the Goodie Boxes are Back in Town! That's as good as "the toys are back in town!" (Yes, I can't WAIT to go see Toy Story 3...but that's another post...LOL!)

I'm excited to share with you the details of Jumpin' Jackpot June. I hope you're as excited as I am. I ALWAYS LOVE getting surprises -- and this is even better because it's surprises that contain items for scrapbooking, cardmaking and/or papercrafting! Can it get any better than that? I think not! See details below.

On Jackpot Days -- FIVE products will be offered for sale at special discounted prices. On each Jackpot day, Corporate has selected one of the 5 products to be the Jackpot item for that day, but you won't know which one it is (isn't it exciting!). If you happen to order the Jackpot item, lucky you! Corporate will reward you with a fabulous Close To My Heart jackpot, which may be one FREE product or a bundle of several FREE products! For those of you who aren't risk-takers, you'll want to purchase all 5 items to guarantee you'll hit the Jackpot! Just click on over to my website -----> Melanie's Website.

If you purchase multiple quantities of the Jackpot item, you'll receive multiple products FREE. So, buy as many as you'd like of each item—there's no limit—and you could be a big winner!

The free items will be featured on the Jackpot June shopping page, alongside the 5 discounted products. We'll send your FREE items with the products you've ordered—and we'll pay the shipping/handling for your free items! Special shipping is offered on the discounted products you purchase: just $0.99 US for each item.

So, how do you know if you've hit the Jackpot? Each day Corporate will announce what the Jackpot item was for the previous day on www.facebook.com/closetomyheart and at www.closetomyheart.com.

On Goodie Box Days -- you will be able to purchase a Goodie Box filled with wonderful Close To My Heart products at 50% or more off retail value. The Goodie Box contents will vary by day (Corporate’s not revealing specifics but you'll be thrilled!) and will include favorite current and retired stamp sets, paper packets, embellishments, and other great scrapbooking, stamping, and cardmaking items.

Corporate has made every effort to differentiate the Goodie Box offerings by date so you can purchase boxes on different dates and receive a wide variety of products. The prices of the boxes will vary but each will be at least 50% off retail value. The higher the box price, the greater your savings from the original retail value. Corporate’s also offering discounted shipping. Again, just head on over to my website ---> Melanie's Website

Important Notes: In order to give you, the shoppers, the best possible deal on products and shipping, Jackpot June purchases must include ONLY Jackpot June items (the Goodie Box or the discounted items) and nothing else. This will streamline the shipment of orders and is also how we’re able to offer discounted shipping for this exciting promotion. This means:
On Goodie Box days, only one Goodie Box and no other items may be checked out in a single transaction.

On Jackpot days, only the discounted items may be checked out in one transaction; no limit on discounted items per transaction.

June is going to be an EXCITING month filled with LOTS of surprises! Don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions!

Jumpin' Jackpot June!!

Who can't forget the AWESOME special Close to my Heart had last year via my website Melanie's Website?! Remember the Goodie Boxes? Well, we're doin' it again -- and with a JACKPOT this time! Beginning on June 1, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. CST, our Corporate office will -- oh, darn...that's all the time I have for now.

Check back soon for details to see what Jackpot June is all about! See ya soon!

Celebrating & Scrapbooking!

Tomorrow I am hosting an All-Day crop celebrating National Scrapbooking Month! What a FUN time we'll have! I'm really looking forward to it; and I hope my attendees are, too. There'll be door prizes, make & take, lots of ideas shared -- and MUCH, MUCH, MORE!

Below are the little "gifties" I made for my attendees that RSVP'd. I think they turned out REALLY cute! I got the little jars at Michael's in the wedding section.

Stamp Sets Used:
Tender Tags
Ms. Scrapbook

Colors:
Tulip
Black

Ribbon:
Chocolate Polka Dot
Juniper Gross Grain (from Jingle Creative Basics pkg.)

Flowers:
Summer Posies
Just Blooms Big Pinks
Just Blooms Spring Blossoms

I also used some non CTMH flowers!

Have you forgotten about the specials for May? If so, click here for a refresher. Help me reach a monthly sales goal of $2,000 that will qualify me into a drawing for a Scrapbooking/Spa Getaway with the founder of Close to my Heart, Jeanette Lynton! Drawing to be held during our annual convention in July!

Cherish the Moment

During the month of May, there are SO many things to celebrate and cherish -- birthdays, graduations, Memorial Day along with new celebrations -- weddings and new family additions. It's very fitting that the Stamp of the Month for May is entitled, "Cherish the Moment." It is an extremely versatile stamp set that can be used for an unlimited number of occasions.

You can purchase this set outright for $22.95, or click ----> Cherish the Moment Stamp of the Month to see how you can earn it at a GREAT discount or even get it for FREE! (Who doesn't like a discount or FREE item?)

Call or e-mail me to order your set soon because it's only available through May 31, 2010!

CELEBRATE NSM WITH A MIRACLE!!!

Do you know what NSM stands for? It's National Scrapbooking Month! May 1st was NSD -- National Scrapbooking Day (it's always the first Saturday in May). Close to my Heart is celebrating NSM with "Miracle" from now until May 31st (while supplies last). You can grab your "Miracle" a few different ways; but, first, here's a peek at what Miracle is:

The kit contains:

5 - sheets of Colonial White cardstock;

1 - sheet of Bamboo cardstock;

1 - Floral B&T paper;

1 - Strip B&T paper;

1 - Crystal Blue B&T Duo Die-Cut;

1 - Sweet Leaf B&T Duo Die-Cut;

1 - 6x12 MyStickease Assortment;

1 - 6x9 Irresitibles Chipboard Die Cuts;

1 - Mini Medley Accents Colonial White Collection;

12" - Colonial White Waxy Flax;

3 - 4x6 Memory Protector Flip Flaps;

2 - sponge wedges; and

1 - Brochure (which you can create the layouts shown)

As I mentioned, there are several ways you can grab this beautiful kit:

1. Purchase it outright for $19.95;


2. Purchase $40 in Close to my Heart product and purchase "Miracle" for $10;


3. Purchase $60 in Close to my Heart product and purchase "Miracle" for $5;


4. Host a Home Gathering and when your Gathering sales reach $300, you, the Hostess will receive "Miracle" FREE; or


5. Join my team during the month of May and receive "Miracle" FREE in your New Consultant Kit. Should you choose THIS option, take a look at what you'd receive in your kit for ONLY $99.

You also have the option to purchase one or both of the following bonus kits. One is scrapbooking oriented and the other is cardmaking oriented. We have something for EVERYONE!

Scrapbooking Bonus Package:



Cardmaking Bonus Package:



If you love scrapbooking, cardmaking or paper crafting and would like to get paid to do it, this is the gig for you! Give me a call to find out more details! I'd love to have you on my growing team!

Remember, "Miracle" is available only through May 31, 2010 or while supplies last. Don't let a Miracle pass you by!

Summer Idea Book & Studio J -- NOW AVAILABLE!!

WOW! They're FINALLY here, and I'm so excited to share with you what they are!

First, Studio J is now available via my website -- melanieboyer.myctmh.com. Studio J is Close to my Heart's Online Scrapbooking. There is no software to download or purchase. The only cost to you is when you decide to purchase the layout(s) you create using Studio J. You don't even have to print the layouts. Corporate will print them for you and ship them to you in a nice, sturdy box. Anyone that creates and purchases a Studio J layout(s) from my website during the month of May will receive a small token of my appreciation. I would also LOVE to have feedback from you, too!


Second, Close to my Heart's Summer Idea Book is LIVE! If you haven't taken a look at my website to see what all is new, I encourage you to do so! As usual, there are LOTS of BEAUTIFUL items! I am LOVIN' all the new paper packs -- Cherry-O, Splendor, Zippidee & Passages! I can't wait for you to see them either!

May Stamp of the Month -- Cherish the Moment



















Finally, the Stamp of the Month for May -- Cherish the Moment. I just love stamp sets like this that are so versatile. Don't forget -- it's only available during the month of May. You can purchase it outright for $22.95 or at a discount. Contact me to find out about earning it at discount -- or FREE!!!









And isn't this artwork adorable? I've made several cards using this stamp set already -- birthday, thank you, congratulations.

Dare to Dream; Join My Team!

We LOVE CTMH--it's like our Chocolate Cake, right?

One of our global team leaders, will be leading an "Opportunity--Is CTMH Your Piece of Cake? Information Conference Call" for any of my potential recruits to dial in and learn about what this amazing company has to offer. The call is on Monday, March 8th, 8:00 p.m.!!!! The call will last approximately 30-45 minutes.

**During the month of March, anyone that joins Close to my Heart receives approximately $92 in free stamps when you order your Basic* Consultant Kit for only $99! You'll receive almost $400 worth of new CTMH product to help get your business started -- or to add to your hobby. SWEET!!**

What is the "Is CTMH your piece of Cake Call"? It's a "No pressure, sharing information/questions" kind of call. It's a Free call, no registration fee -- only long distance fees for your phone is the only cost.

Give me a call or drop me an e-mail letting me know you'll be on the call so I can pass that information on to Jillene. She will be putting all potential recruits in for a drawing for a FREE stampset. Don't delay!! I have to give her your information TODAY (do you work, new to CTMH, new customer, etc.) and I'll pass on the Dial In and Participant Access Code to you.

I look forward to having you on my team; and you'll absolutely LOVE being a part of our global team, "Scattered Hearts."

Happy Birthday Zach!

Today is Zach's 12th birthday! It's hard to believe that he's already 12. Seems like just yesterday we were bringing him home from the hospital. How time flies! My family came up for the day yesterday and we had barbecue brisket, ribs, sausage, pasta & potato salad, beans, rolls, etc. for lunch! It was ALLLL yummy! The best part, though, would be dessert -- CUPCAKES!! We LOVE cupcakes and so I ordered cupcakes from our FAVORITE cupcake boutique Sugarbaby's Cupcake Boutique on S. Shepherd in Houston. If you're in the area, stop by and treat yourself. Flavors alternate on regular basis and each month has one or two "special" flavors (like this month they have my favorite...chocolate covered strawberry cupcake)! You wont regret stopping by! Take a look below at how yummy they look!

Today was an In-Service day for teachers. So, Zach gets the day off for his birthday...how sweet is that?! Have great day, Zach!

I love the birthday card I made for Zach this year. It is using Close To My Heart's February Stamp of the Month, Piece of Cake. (The cupcake on the envelope is from our set, Cupcake Sprinkles.). I used pieces from Animal Cookies Level 2 paper pack and several embellishments (twill ribbon, natural hemp, Foundry Bookplates). The "Happy Birthday" sentiment that I stamped on the twill ribbon was from our promotion we had during "National Stamping Month" in September and is no longer available, but Happy Birthday set would be a PERFECT alternate you could use. You can purchase these products directly on my website here or you can call or e-mail me directly. Just remember: The February Stamp of the Month is just that...stamp of the month and will disappear after February, 28! We also have a special on our Textured Cardstock Combo packs this month...Buy 1 Textured Cardstock Combo pack, get one FREE. $2 from each promo goes to Operation Smile Haiti.

See...didn't I tell you the cupcakes looked SCRUMPTIOUS?!?! Trust me...they are!! :)

It's Here -- Close to my Heart's 2010 Spring Idea Book!

First of all, I want to wish all of my blog readers a very Happy New Year and hope that this year brings you lots of love and laughter...that's what makes life wonderful!

It's hard to believe 2009 has come and gone; and now we're in 2010. I have great expectations for 2010 and am ready to begin!! How 'bout you? And don't you LOVE starting off a NEW year with lots of NEW stuff? Well, keep on readin' and see what's in store!

What a GREAT way to start off the New Year than with Close to my Heart's latest and greatest idea book! Yep, that's right. The 2010 Idea Book is now available! Take a look at all the new and exciting products on my website, or contact me TODAY to receive your very own hard copy of it. You can also order from this catalog by clicking here.

Take a look at January's Stamp of the Month, True Friends (D1406 - set of 11).

This set is available starting today (through January 31). There are several ways to get it:

• earn it FREE when you spend $100 or more (before shipping and tax)
• earn it for 75% off ($5.74) when you spend $75 or more (before shipping and tax)
• earn it for 50% off ($11.74) when you spend $50 or more (before shipping and tax)
• earn it for 25% off ($17.21) when you spend $25 or more (before shipping and tax)
  purchase it for full retail price ($22.95)

Another great way to start off the year...


New Sign-Up Special: Along with the current Felicity Special (click here for more information), comes an awesome Sign Up Special. During the month of January, when you sign up to be a new Consultant with Close To My Heart, you get the Felicity kit absolutely FREE with your New Consultant Kit. It's only $99 for your New Consultant Kit (before shipping and tax) and you will not believe the great stuff that comes in it. In fact you get over $350 worth of products for that $99. Here is a photo of what comes in your kit and a list of the products.

In addition to Business Training and Marketing Supplies, the products you will receive are:

· My Acrylix® Beautiful Day Incentive Stamp Set
· My Acrylix® Bee Mine Petite Perks Stamp Set
· Veranda Workshops on the Go™ Guide
· Spring 2010 B&T Duos® Sampler
· Connections Club™ Reward: Sprinkles
· Connections Club™ Cards (25)
· Color Swatches
· My Reflections® Veranda Level 1 Kit
· My Reflections® Veranda Level 2 Paper Packet
· My Reflections® Veranda Level 2 My Stickease® Assortment
· 12" * 12" White Daisy Cardstock (24)
· My Acrylix® Follow Your Heart Stamp Set
· My Acrylix® Authentic Stamp Set· My Acrylix® One of a Kind Stamp Set
· My Acrylix® Cherished Flourishes Stamp Set
· 2" * 3V" My Acrylix® Block
· 4" * 4" My Acrylix® Block
· Barn Red Exclusive Inks® Pad
· Cocoa Exclusive Inks® Pad
· Garden Green Exclusive Inks® Pad
· Juniper Exclusive Inks® Pad· Filigree Charms
· Just Blooms® Spring Blossom
· Brown StazOn® Ink Pad
· Mini-Medley Antique Copper Accents
· Double Scrubber
· My Acrylix® Spritz Cleaner
· Bonding Memories® Glue (1.7 oz.)
· Sponge

To sign up right now, click here. Close To My Heart notifies me quickly when you sign up and I will contact you to set up some time to do training, answer questions and help you get started. I have a wonderful team of consultants with Close To My Heart called Scrappin' SweetHearts of Texas. We have lots of fun together creating and building our businesses.