Find Joy in your Creative Journey...Everyday!

CHA baby! Here I come!

2012-01-24T21:25:00.000-06:00

I've just finished packing! I have one smaller suitcase shoved...and I do mean ShOvEd into a larger one...in anticipation of all the fabulous samples, goodies, catalogs, etc. that I will be bringing home from CHA! I L-O-V-E going to CHA! It's like being a kid in a candy shoppe. Even though I'm blessed to own and operate the LBH, I'm truly a customer at heart and I just simply get giddy when I hit the show floor and am surrounded by all the products that

I SO ADORE!!! ...oh, and I should warn you...

I'm kinda of an obsessive picture taker (lol!)

So rest assured I will take a ton of pictures and share my favorites with you! I promise to keep you posted here on my blog and on the Little Blue House blog about all my wonderful finds, inspiration, unique projects, and "Must Haves".

I hope you will follow along each day! Post comments and you will have a chance to win some CHA goodies! I have been fortunate to attend now for several years and I never get tired of it. All of the Blue House Gals are coming along on this trip so it's sure to be even more FUN....I'm certain there will be all kinds

of FUN stories to share.

So follow along with us on this CreAtivE AdvEntUre

that we call CHA!!!

Keep Creating!
Miss Tracy :)

P.S. I almost forgot to share with you...Susan and I will be in a full day workshop with the "Tim"ster on Thursday! Keep an eye on my facebook page...I will post pictures during the workshop!

Wonder what he has in store for us?!?!?!

Stay tuned and I'll show you...

"Hank the Plank" transformed!

2012-01-22T22:14:00.001-06:00

Hello Everyone!

I wanted to share the project that I designed for my last Scrapstasher's Anonymous Meeting! It's a perpetual date Calendar! The Month Label is made out of Chalkcloth so that you can easily erase and write in the name of the next month. 12 tags hang off of the cuphook...(one for each month of the year). I intend to write on each tag my family & friends birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events that occur during that specific month.

Here is how "Hank the Plank" looks before he took on his transformation...

Add a little paint, a little ink, some satin cording....and waa laa....I have a fabulous surface for my Perpetual Calendar! Here's a closer look at the month label...It was made using the Tim Holtz Stylized Labels die and Chalkcloth. I used a Chalk Ink Marker to edge the label and write the month. These markers are amazing! The erase easily with a wet wipe and come in a wide variety of colors!

I embellished my calendar further with these lovely paper flowers. Everyone really enjoyed making these at our Stasher's Meeting! We had beautiful blossoms everywhere in all kinds of colors and prints!!

I embellished my tags with buttons and trims! If you create one of these calendars for yourself, just be careful not to put things on your tags that are too dimensional...it will make it difficult for all 12 tags to hang off the hook if the embellishments are too large.

"Hank the Plank" is available at the Little Blue House. He measures 5ish x 10ish inches and costs $1.99. You can also find a great selection of chalk ink markers at the LBH too!

I have another crafty-licious project in store for you next month. I hope you will make plans to join me for my next Scrapstasher's Anonymous Meetings!!! Here are the dates:

Monday, 2/13 6:30p-8:30p

Tuesday, 2/14 10:00a-Noon

Cost: $5 per Stasher

Please contact the Little Blue House to reserve your seat today!

(817) 431-7930

Stash On Sisters!!!!

Miss Tracy :)

New Year...New Way to Scrapbook!!

2012-01-13T23:18:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to share with you one of my lateset Specialty Workshops...
YEAR.O.GRAPHY ALBUM

It's a NEW Year and I want to show you a NEW way to scrapbook! Come join me and see just how easy it is to create using the NEW Variety Page Protectors from WeRMemory Keepers. You will leave with 13 page protectors filled with wonderful layouts and minis that will feature each month of the year!

Here are a few peeks at some of the pages you will be creating....

I have priced this workshop without the album to make it more affordable for you. However, those attending the Workshop will receive a 25% discount off of their album purchases on the day of the Year.O.Graphy workshop. For more information, please contact the Little Blue House at (817) 431-7930.

YEAR.O.GRAPHY WORKSHOP

Cost: $65

Sat. 1/14 10a-4p

Mon. 1/16 10a-4p
(Newly added date) Sat. 2/4 10a-4p

Instructor: Miss Tracy :)

Hope you will join me!

I know we will have a fabulous time creating together!

My Crafty Kiddos!!!!

2011-12-26T21:31:00.000-06:00

I had so much fun with my Crafty Kiddos last week at the LBH making wonderful Christmas Tree Canvases! They all did such a great job and I'm so proud of them! Each kiddo created their own Canvas as a special gift for one of their loved ones. As promised, Mom & Dad I have some special photos of your kids with their projects.

I hope you enjoy them! ...and I hope you treasure your wonderful Hand-Made Creations for many Christmases to come!

My next Crafty Kiddos Workshop will be held in February. I will post more info about it soon on the Little Blue House blog.

Happy Crafting!

Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #9

2011-11-21T22:56:00.000-06:00

Hello Friends!

I hope you are enjoying all of the LBH Ornament Tutorials!

Today's ornament is one that I have designed. It features a new technique using Art Metal, Music Paper, and some Pretty Mists! Here's a quick peek...

If you are a fan of Art Metal, then you won't want to miss this tutorial! You can view it on the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

You can also enter for a chance to WIN this ornament just by leaving a comment on the blog post. I hope you enjoy the tutorial....Let me know if you have any questions regarding the process! Here are a couple of other samples using my Transfer Technique...these are altered tiles...

If you want to learn more about working with Art Metal, you should consider joining me for my Hot Metal Mama's Workshop. The next one will be held on Dec. 22nd. There are two times to choose from...10a-Noon and 6:30p-8:30p. Contact the Little Blue House for more info or to reserve a seat.

Have a Happy Monday!
Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #8

2011-11-21T07:12:00.000-06:00

I love the ornament #8...It features a new technique that the gals and I learned when we were in Houston. When you create this ornament, you will learn just how easy it is to build dimension using paper clay! This ornament has been designed for you by Susan Tidwell.

Unfortunately it is very difficult to see the dimension in a photo...stop by the LBH and take a look in person...You will be AmAzeD!!!

You can view the entire step by step tutorial on the LBH Blog at

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

You will never want to throw away another pretty napkin after you see this tutorial!!

Happy Crafting!
Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #7

2011-11-19T07:08:00.001-06:00

Hello again everyone!
If you are wondering how to add a little glam to your trees or gift bags...you will definitely want to create these Glitzy Glam Ornaments that are featured today on the LBH 12 days of Ornaments feature! They have been designed for you by Kristyn! Take a look...

They feature fabulous glitter from P K Glitz and bling from Zva!!

Check out the LBH blog and Kristyn will show you how to get your "glam on" and you will see step by step instructions to recreate these Glitzy Glam ornaments!

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Have a wonderful weekend!

Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #6

2011-11-18T07:17:00.000-06:00

Hello again! If you are looking for an easy ornament to add a little sparkle to your tree...then today's ornament will be perfect for you! It has been designed by Rhonda Merry and I think it's.....
"Snow" Pretty!!!!!!!

It is made from these wonderful wooden doilies by Maya Road and features Pearl Pens by Viva! The sparkle comes from this wonderful new product called Sugar Dust!

It would be a fabulous edition to your Christmas Tree!
Visit the LBH Blog to see how Rhonda created this Glistening Ornament!
www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Be sure to stay tuned...I'm featuring the ornament for Day #7...Can't wait to share it with you!!

Keep Creating!
Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #5

2011-11-17T06:34:00.001-06:00

Welcome Back...It's a great day to feature another ornament

from the LBH 12 Days of Ornaments feature!

Today's ornament is designed by Susan Tidwell...

It's a charming Sugared Tart Tin Tree! Isn't it darling!

It features Tart Tins by Jenni Bowlin and little wooden thread spools.

The sugar is a great new product that we are carrying at the LBH called Sugar Dust...it is similar to Diamond Dust but ultrafine...looks just like sugar and has a beautiful sparkly look!

To see the full tutorial on how to make your own Tart Tin Tree, visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.
Remember to follow the blog and post your comments for a chance to WIN...there are still 7 more ornaments coming! You won't want to miss out on any of them...trust me...more great ornament inspiration coming your way!!!!

Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #4

2011-11-16T07:43:00.000-06:00

Are you getting in the holiday spirit??!!?? I know I am...and you will be too when you see today's featured ornament in the Little Blue House 12 Days of Ornaments Feature! Check out the Santa Star Ornament created by Rhonda Merry...

I fell in love with it at first sight! I love the vintage Santa paper and the Crackle finish on the star! If you would like to make one of these for your tree, you can find all the materials used at the
Little Blue House and you can see a full tutorial featured
on the LBH blog today!www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Leave a comment there, to be entered into a chance to WIN this ornament!

Hope your day is Merry!!!
Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament: Day #3

2011-11-15T07:35:00.000-06:00

Good Morning Friends!
If you like folding projects...then Ornament #3 is going to put a holly jolly smile on your face! Check out these beautiful Oragami Christmas Flower Ornaments designed by Elaine Howell.

You can see the full tutorial on how to make these beautiful blossoms on the LBH Blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.

She also shows how to make some fun beaded garland using fishing line and the Viva Pearl Pens! I can't wait to make some of these for my tree and other home decor projects!

Time to get folding :)
Miss Tracy :)

LBH Ornament : Day #2

2011-11-14T07:27:00.001-06:00

It's Day #2 of the LBH 12 Days of Ornaments feature!
Today's ornament is designed by Kristyn (my wonderful daughter)... Take a look...

It's an adorable Ruffled Ribbon Tree Ornament!
I think it looks fabulous! I'm so proud of her. You can see her step by step tutorial featured on the LBH Blog at
www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

All this ornament making is really getting me in the mood to Deck the Halls early this year! By any chance, have you put your Christmas Tree up yet?? I'm planning to soon!

Stay tuned more Ornament Inspiration is coming!!!
Merry Crafting!
Miss Tracy :)

P.S. Check out the LBH blog post today to see if you
are yesterday's WINNER! Good Luck!!

Ornament #1: My Little Blue House Ornament

2011-11-12T23:55:00.004-06:00

Hello Everyone!
I am thrilled to announce that the LBH 12 Days of Ornaments feature has officially begun!

I have the great privilege of revealing Ornament #1. I have designed a wonderful commemorative Little Blue House Ornament for 2011. If you would like to see a full tutorial on this cutie...please visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.

Be sure to leave a comment when you visit the LBH blog and you will be have the chance to WIN this ornament! We will be featuring a different ornament and tutorial each day for the next 12 days!

The House was custom designed for the LBH by the great folks at Heart of Texas Studios. So you won't find it anywhere else...It's just adorable and so easy to construct and decorate!

These little houses would be really cute for all types of crafts! I'm going to make a couple more...one for my own house with our house # on it and another one to resemble our family cabin in Red River. I'll post them when I have them finished.

Be sure to watch the blog tomorrow...the ornament for Day #2 is has been designed by my daughter, Kristyn...it's wonderful! I love to see her create and I think you will love the technique she's going to share with you. It's super easy, super fun, and super beautiful!

Hope you will join in and create right along with us during
the LBH 12 days of Ornaments feature!

Keep Creating!
Miss Tracy :)
P.S. If you would like a kit to create your own Little Blue House Ornament, please contact the House at (8170 431-7930 or stop by to pick one up. Kitting is underway...

So very Thankful Layout...now available at the LBH!

2011-10-26T20:36:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!
I wanted to share a new layout that I have designed for
the Little Blue House!

So very Thankful Layout:

This double layout features the Summer's End Paper Collection by Fancy Pants Designs. You will enjoy scrapping with overlays and learning a couple of fun flower making techniques...and check out the unique banner and fun tags! This layout will be perfect for featuring those in your life that you are So Very Thankful for! So Count your Blessings and let's get scrapping! This layout can be created in any of the LBH Buffet's or you can purchase as a kit.
The cost of this layout is $25.

Here are some close up's for you to enjoy...

Hope to see you at the Little Blue House! Have a wonderful week....and Go RaNgErS!!!!

Keep Creating!
Miss Tracy :)

Playing Possum!!!

2011-10-23T21:34:00.003-05:00

Hello friends!

Have you heard the expression "Playing Possum"?? Well Rhonda and I now know the true meaning of the phrase! As we were preparing to open the Little Blue House last Thursday morning, we did our normal routine and tasks...one of which is taking out the trash. As Rhonda, walked out the backdoor to lean over the step railing to drop the trash in the can, she let out a squeal and starts hollering for me to come quick! As I peaked over the railing, this is what I saw (of course I immediately ran over to get my camera...the obsessive picture-taker that I am!) ...It is a small possum all curled up in our grass clippings that Scott had put in there the day before...

He was all snuggled up in the grass and looked SO cute and sweet...right?!?! So Rhonda quickly deduces that he must have come up the steps and jumped into the trash can and now the "sweet" thing can't get out.....

So of course, we must help the little fella out (cause we're such kind animal-friendly peeps ya know!) So I'm taking pictures and Rhonda carefully tips over the trash can on it's side. We both expect our furry friend to go running out, but instead nothing happens, no scampering, no scurrying, not even a sound?!?!

Maybe he is hurt...we wonder?!?! So we slowly walk to the edge of the can...Rhonda in front and me with camera in hand...

and THIS is what we see! He's not so cute when he's lunging to attack you with teeth and nails gnarling and making the most AwFuL hissing noise I've ever heard! Rhonda runs, I snap the photo and run!

I'm amazed at how something that seemed SO cute and helpless in a flash turned into something so terrifying and hideous! We learned our lesson and now are a little more cautious when taking out the trash...hee hee! This little stinker must be the culprit that keeps getting into our trash at night. I'm getting really tired of cleaning up after him. If you have any tips on how I might keep him out of my garbage....PLEASE share them with me! One of my customers said to put vinegar in the cans??

Love to hear some of your critter stories??

Beware of possums playing possum...haha!!

Miss Tracy :)

Scrapstasher Tags - Creatve Leaf-Making!!

2011-10-07T21:52:00.003-05:00

Happy Fall Everyone!!

My Scrapstasher project this month was so Wonder"fall" that I wanted to share them with you! I designed some fall tags from my scraps of left over printed papers, felt, denim, burlap, and old polyester fabric! I cut my tags out of boxes that tend to pile up around the shop. Great way to recycle! I just love the look and texture that you get by peeling off the top layer to expose the corrugate! Here are some pic's of them for you to enjoy...

I Can't believe it's Polyester! Pocket Tag

Autumn Blossoms Tag

Denim Dandy Slider Tag

Burlap Bendies Tag

Embossed Elegance Tag

Recycled Splendor Tag

If you weren't able to attend Stasher's this month or don't live local to the Little Blue House, I have good news for you! I created my own little "How To" tutorials for each tag for our Stasher Workshop and if you contact the LBH, you can pay the $5 stasher fee and we will be happy to email the Creative Leaf Making Guide to you! You can contact the LBH at (817) 431-7930. I hope you have fun trying out these new techniques! You can use any of your leaf dies, punches, stamps and find lots of leaf templates online... or consider cutting them on your Cricut or Silhouette.

Oh...and before you go, I want to show you a pic of me and my Grandboy Kaden! This was taken last week at Kaden's Birthday Party. My sweet boy is now 3 years old!!! I can't believe how fast he is growing up. It's such a blessing to be his Lolly!

Enjoy your week and give a big hug to those you love!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy

(aka Kaden's Lolly)

Celebrating our 1st Anniversary!

2011-09-26T21:48:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that The Little Blue House has now been open 1 year! I can't believe how fast the time has gone by...and as for me...I have loved every minute of it!! This House and my wonderful team and customers have brought me JOY beyond measure and I hope that those of you that have spent time there, feel the same way.

We celebrated our Anniversary this past weekend at the LBH and held our Happy Fallidays Open House! It was an incredible weekend and we had a wonderful turnout! Thank you so much for supporting the LBH and we hope you enjoy our next round of classes! We have so much to teach you through this feature...I hope you will plug yourself in and have some good ol' creative fun!

As for my wonderful team, we had our own little private celebration today! We started the day off with a little work (well actually a lot of work....prepping all the Tag Sets for our Words for All Seasons Blocks) and then took a much needed break. Our first stop, Fuzzy's (I had never eaten there before)...where I do believe I had the BEST tacos ever! I had the Baja Chicken Tacos and I highly recommend them...talk about yummy in your tummy!! It was so good!!

Our next stop was A&T Nails for a little pampering...Elaine and Kristyn had manicures...Rhonda, Susan, and I chose to soak our tired tootsies and have pedicures. It was really fun to hang out together (apart from stacks of paper, trimmers, etc.) and I of course had to take a few pic's of us...here's a look at our pampering in action...

We rec'd excellent service...and Susan was thrilled to take home her paper shoes...wonder what she'll make out of them??!!?? hee hee...

It was a great day made even better by spending it with

my dear friends! They mean the world to me!

The Little Blue House is a happy house because of them and I so AppReciaTe their hard work and dedication...I feel so blessed to be able to work with them every day and I look forward to working with them for many more years to come!

Here's to a great Year #2!!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Just picked my Winning Commenter!

2011-08-30T19:15:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone--

First of all, I want to apologize for posting this so late...It seems that they last week has just been super-busy for me and I'm sure it has been for you too! I want to thank everyone for there wonderful comments on the sneak peek posts for my newest Front Porch Kit...

As promised, I have entered each commenter into a random drawing for a Little Blue House $20 Gift Certificate. I am thrilled to announce the winner!!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations Jeni Lilley!

Jeni is one of our local gals and an avid scrapbooker. Stop by the LBH to claim your prize Jeni! Maybe I will put it in one of the projects created for the Front Porch Instructional CD...

my ENJOY Goodie Bag... take a looksie...

This sweet little goodie bag was created with papers, alphas, and embellies from the Time To...Kit. Add in a simple white lunch bag and some creative cutting and voila! You have an adorable treat bag to fill with goodies, gift cards, treats, small gifts, or even an LBH Gift Certificate! You will find a full tutorial and photos on the Time To...CD which is in your kit, along with several other great project tutorials. Kits are still available...get yours quick while they last! You can purchase yours at the LBH or order online at www.frontporchkits.com.

Congrats again to Jeni!

Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

NEW from Front Porch Kits: Sneak #3

2011-08-20T07:51:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!

It's Saturday and going to be a very busy one for me...It's the FINAL DAY of the End of Summer

SUPER SALE at the Little Blue House...AND...I'm offering a FREE Mist-ables Make & Take between 10a-2p...AND...we're having an LBH Creative Buffet today...AND...an evening CROP....WheW! I'm getting more excited as I type! It's gonna be an awesome Saturday!! So before I leave this morning, I wanted to show you one more quick peek of my
NEW Front Porch Kit.

Sneaker #3:

To ensure that this fabulous kit makes it from our Front Porch to yours...you can pre-order today at http://www.frontporchkits.com/ or give us a call or stop by the LBH!

Gotta run...Hope to see you today!

Miss Tracy :)

P.S. Don't forget to post a comment for a chance to win an LBH Gift Certificate from Me! ...and if you post a comment on the LBH or FP blogs you will be entered into a drawing for a Free Kit!

Time for another Peek!

2011-08-19T07:49:00.000-05:00

Woo Hoo! It's Friday and I'm so happy to show you another peek of my NEW Front Porch kit! The name of this month's Kit is....drumroll please!!!!!!!!!

Time To...

I know you may be thinking that we forgot the rest of the title...LoL! This kit has such a fun blend of products and it will be perfect for preserving all those captured moments in TIME that you don't want to forget! Maybe it was a Time to Celebrate, or a TIME to Travel, or a TIME to Laugh...that's what's so great about this kit! It will be perfect for whatever moment in TIME that you are creating for!

Here is my Sneak Peek #2:

Pre-orders began yesterday! How do you order???

To order online, visit http://www.frontporchkits.com/

To order by phone, call the LBH at (817) 431-7930

To order in person, stop by the LBH.

Want a chance to WIN a FREE kit?!?! Visit the LBH blog or FP blog and post a comment on the sneak peek posts and you will be entered into a random drawing! and...if you would like a chance to WIN an LBH Gift Certificate...post your comment here and follow my blog! You may comment as many times as you want to up your chances of winning!

Enjoy your day! Beware of all those Tax Free shoppers out there...and if you want to take a break from the tax free crowds, come see me at the LBH! We have a free make & take going on today and tomorrow between 10a-2p featuring the new Mist-ables goodies from Pink Paislee!...and while your there, you can take advantage of our End of Summer SUPER SALE! 30%-60% off!!

Have a Wonderful Tax-Free Weekend!

Big Hug,

Miss Tracy :)

Front Porch Sneak Peek #1

2011-08-18T12:19:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone!

What a great day to start off the Sneak Peeks for our newest Front Porch Kit!

This kit is such a unique blend of products and just loaded full of "HaPpY", make you smile, kind of goodies! You will love the fabulous papers, textures, ribbons, ....I could go on and on but can't...cause the full reveal isn't til Monday 8/22. In the meantime though, I will be posting a sneak peek each day until then...Here's a look at Sneaker #1:

I can't wait to show you more!!

Pre-orders begin today! You can stop by the Little Blue House or give us a call at (817) 431-7930 and we will be happy to reserve you a kit! If you prefer to order online, you will not be able to do that until tomorrow 8/19 at www.frontporchkits.com (due to a slight technical delay).

I am offering a special give-away, here on my blog to my followers...so please leave a comment and become a follower today and I will be drawing one lucky commenters name from all of the Sneak Peek posts and that follower will WIN a $20 LBH Gift Certificate! Awesome...huh?!?!

and...everyone who leaves a comment on the LBH and FP blogs will be entered into a drawing for a FREE Front Porch Kit! So keep those comments coming...

Okay gals...stay tuned...

Another peek is coming your way soon!!

Have a WoNderFuL WeDnesDaY!

Miss Tracy :)

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

www.frontporchkits.com

www.frontporchkits.typepad.com

Made a BiG SpLaSH in Waco this weekend!

2011-08-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! After returning from my week of R&R in the mountains on Friday, I grabbed my class kits and headed to Waco to teach my "Splash" Beach Ball Book Workshop at

Crop Paper Scissors! It felt so good to get back in the swing of things and I want to thank Emmalie for the opportunity to teach once again at her store!

Miss Tracy & Emmalie

We had such a wonderful time and everyone's Splash Books turned out SUNsational!!

I promised to give a quick ShOuT OuT to the CPS gals that attended my workshop!! These gals were amazing and I really enjoyed our creative time together!! We talked about almost everything under the sun...from our kiddos to books that are a must read!! I just love hanging out with kindred crafty spirits! Here are a few photos from the workshop for you to enjoy!

Thanks again ladies for such an enjoyable afternoon! I hope you enjoy your books!

Hope to see you again soon!

Miss Tracy :)

p.s. I still have a few Beach Ball Book Kits left. If you are interested in creating one for yourself, you can join me at

The Little Blue House for any of our LBH Creative Buffets. Simply contact the LBH to reserve your spot!

http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

Ready, Set, Retreat!!!

2011-07-19T09:45:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Miss Tracy here and today I am posting from the Oak Street Cottage in Roanoke, TX. I am currently on the Little Blue House Team Retreat and having an amazing time!!

The Cottage is over 100 years old and is filled with charming character (the kind you don't see much of anymore). Mary, the owner, has done an outstanding job of making us feel so welcome and right at home!

We opted to bring our own food but Mary will feed you some yummy meals if you prefer that option. The Cottage is located right in the heart of the up & coming Old Town district of Roanoke and there are several great restaurants all within walking distance (such as Babe's, Twisted Root, Mi Familia, Tortilla Flats, and even a German Restaurant)...and lots of unique boutiques, book store/coffee shop, candy store, etc. if you're in the mood for that kind of thing!

The Bedrooms all have twin beds and your own little personal basket filled with fluffy towel/cloth and ...hee hee...ear plugs! Just in case somebody in the group happens to snore (like Susan..lol!). There is even a massage table set up upstairs for anyone that wants to set up an appt. for a massage in the midst of all that major crafting and scrapping that you will be doing during your stay here. Probably won't be spending too much time in these comfy beds though...too much other Crafty Fun to be had!!!

Okay, enough with the blogging! I've got to get my CrAFt oN ladies! Here are a few shots of us in action...EnjOy! I just love it when me and my gals can hang out and create together. We are working on all different kinds of LBH projects that we've been dying to make but have been a little too busy to do so for ourselves.

We will put the crafting on hold a little later today to plan some amazing creative opportunites for our Fall and Holiday Season at the LBH! It's always an exciting time when we put our crEaTivE miNds together!! You never know what we may

come up with and I have to say that's my favorite thing

about this fabulous TeAm!!

Have a wonderful week friends! Be sure to stop by the

Little Blue House this week for our first-ever Looky-Do Page Kit Sale! It begins today, Tuesday 7/19 10a-5p. The entire back studio has been transformed into "Kit Corner"...go check it out! You will also enjoy FREE Open Cropping this week at the LBH!

Tues. thru Fri. from 10a-5p.

Oh ...I almost forgot to tell you!!! The best part about being on Retreat at Oak Street Cottage is that you and your friends will enjoy a 15% shopping discount when you come visit the LBH

during your stay here!

Stay true to your Passion -- Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

"Float Art" Frames

2011-07-13T16:36:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I had such a wonderful time yesterday with my fellow Scrapstashers! I wanted to share with you the projects that I designed for our July Workshop...I call it "Float Art"!

You can create all kinds of images for your Float Art pieces. They can be shapes, letters, really any kind of icon. Here are a few projects that I designed featuring "Float Art".

The first one features a floating button heart and papers from Graphic 45 Fashionista. I love the vintage look of these papers!

Here is another "Float Art" project featuring a Beachy theme! I used a variety of Sea Shells and Crushed Shells to fill my heart...

Now take a look at this Float Art project using letters...This will look great hanging in my Scrap Shack (aka...the building in my back yard otherwise know as my studio).

Look a little closer...see all the little beads among the buttons?!?

This was just too much fun! You have to give it a try! Visit the Little Blue House blog here to see the simple steps that I took to create these and you can begin creating your own Float Art Frames today!

Check out these fabulous Float Art projects that were created by my fellow Stashers. I'm always so inspired by the creative energy that is unleashed every time we meet!

Lynette Chiles

Angelia Counts

Danna Genske

Debbie Boudreau

I hope you have been inspired by these projects and will join me next month at Scrapstashers! To reserve your seat, stop by the Little Blue House or give me a call at (817) 431-7930.

Remember to check out the LBH blog for intructions on how to create your own "Float Art" frame!

Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

P.S. Become a follower today to ensure you don't miss out on upcoming creative tips, techniques, and projects!

Calling all Scrapstashers!

2011-07-07T22:38:00.001-05:00

Join me for Scrapstashers!

Scrapstashers Anonymous is special workshop aimed at helping us use our "Stash" of Supplies in inspiring, creative ways! I will design a specific project each month and provide you with a list of "what to bring" to create that specific project! You will bring the items on your list from your own "Stash" of supplies! There is an interesting twist with this workshop...You won't know what we are making until you come to class! ...but hey, a little mystery in life is good for you! You will really enjoy seeing everyone's finished projects in a variety of papers, colors, etc. and it's a great opportunity to put your "Stash" to good use! So come and let me show you how to achieve "Success with your Excess"!

The cost to attend is only $5 per Stasher.

Please contact the LBH at (817) 431-7930

to reserve your seat.

July's Scrapstasher Meetings:

Tuesday July 12th

10am-Noon

6:30pm-8:30pm

JULY - "what to bring" list:

Happy Summer Everyone! Hopefully you're finding a way to keep cool this summer. Temperatures are definitely rising and so will your creativity when you come to Scrapstasher's this month! I have a fun project designed for you and...yes...this month it is a SuRpRisE project! Here are the items you will need to bring with you to class:

*one Unfinished Wood Frame (5x7)

*one 5x7 piece of glass or acrylic sheet

(we sell the acrylic sheets at the LBH if you need this)

*Assorted Scraps of Coordinating Printed Papers

(about a dozen 3x3 in. pieces will be perfect)

*LOTS of small to medium buttons or bling

(same color family will work best)

*Ink Pads for edges of papers

*Paint for frame & foam brush

*Mod Podge or Tacky Tape

*Fast Grab Tacky Glue

*Scissors & Trimmer

I will provide you with the rest of the items that you will need to complete your project. Please let me know if you have any questions. If you would like to join us but have not yet reserved a seat, just give us a call at the LBH and we will be happy to sign you up.

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Follow me to...

The Little Blue House

118 W. Olive St.

Keller, TX 76248

(817) 431-7930

http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

Join me TONIGHT on the FRONT PORCH!

2011-07-06T08:14:00.001-05:00

"Welcome" ...A Front Porch LIVE Tutorial!

Hello friends!

Join me on the Front Porch for a LIVE Tutorial with Lolly Chessie! She will show you how to create this adorable "Welcome" sign...You will love learning how she created these beautiful blossoms!

Here are the details:

When: Wednesday, July 6th @ 8:30pm CST

Where: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

Lolly created two templates that you can use with this tutorial!

You can find them on our Front Porch Kits Blog here! This project was created out of the newest Front Porch Kit release..."One Sunny Day". You can see the full kit and other fabulous projects here!

So come and sit a spell with me on the Front Porch
and prepare to be inspired!!!!!!

Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Artsy Pockets for your Studio!

2011-06-29T22:17:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Today I thought I would share a little of my Front Porch Inspiration with you! These are what I like to call my

Artsy Pockets!

I made two of them for my Studio out of my "One Sunny Day" Front Porch Kit. Take a looksie...I love how they turned out!

I used wood planks (aka Hank the Plank), you may remember him from the first Front Porch Kit. If you are interested in re-creating this project, you can always find "Hank" for sale at the LBH for only $1.99...great deal huh?!!! I used two of the canvas pennant banners that were in my FP kit and opened them up to create pockets...like so...

I then covered them with some fun fabrics and trims from my FP Kit. I used Echo Park (Lemon Dot) & Crate Paper (Toy Box) papers from my kit to cover my Planks. I chose fun bright colors!

Here is what they looked like before I added the final touches... I couldn't wait...had to put my brushes and colored pencils in the pockets to see what they looked like...of course, I loved the look but didn't want to stop there...

I took my Artsy Pockets to a whole new level by adding the words, CrEaTe & CoLoRs!

I cut individual letters our of my Toy Box paper and mixed in a few alpha's (Pink Paislee) that also came in my kit. I really like to mix up foNts...something about it just makes me SmiLe!!

Added a button here and a button there...and waa laa...my Artsy Pockets were complete!! Anxiously waiting to hang on the wall and inspire me to create!!

I hope you'll consider making some for your creative space! Thanks for reading...hope you have been inspired! Be sure to follow my blog to ensure that you don't miss out on any future creative FuN!!

"One Sunny Day" Kits are still available. Check them out and be sure to take a look at the Project Gallery...It's loaded with fabulous projects created out of this kit.

http://www.frontporchkits.com/

Remember...Stay true to your passion--Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Yummy Treat Towers!

2011-06-25T13:56:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to share some really yummy Treat Towers that we are creating over at the Little Blue House! These Treat Towers were designed by me and our custom cut for our LBH customers. I designed them so that they can be easily taken apart for storage if you don't want to leave yours our all the time. These Treat Towers would be so CUTE for your next Party filled with treats, cupcakes, etc. or if your like me, I'm always looking for creative ways to display and store my art supplies in my studio! These towers look great with jars filled with this & that...anything from Buttons to Tools...it all looks fabulous!

With any of the Home Decor projects that we create at the LBH, we always let you choose your own paint colors and papers! This way you can create something custom that matches your taste and decor. Take a look at these Towers created by

Elizabeth Bray and Linda Kratzert...

If you would like to create a Treat Tower for yourself, just give me a call at the LBH (817) 431-7930 and you can reserve a seat at any of our LBH buffets. Have a creative weekend!!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

follow me to the...

Little Blue House

118 W. Olive St.

Keller, TX 76248

http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

Wedding Affaire - "Lovely" Altered Dress Form!

2011-06-12T21:16:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone -- Welcome to my blog! After visiting with several of my customers, I'm hearing more and more about upcoming Weddings! So I thought I would share a project that I designed a while back...an altered dress form! I altered this metal dress form with beautiful beaded paper to create her dress. I then adorned it with wonderful hand made flowers, ribbons, sequin trim, and a touch of bling here and there. I think she would be lovely greeting guests near the Wedding Guest Book or directing people to the Wedding Gift Table at the reception. I adorned her with some torn paper flowers using the Theresa Collins paper collection, Mr. & Mrs. I created one of the flowers specifically to leave the "lovely" word revealed...

I also wanted to add some texture and interest to my dress form so I used the new Tim Holtz Tattered Florals die cut and cut out a variety of flowers out of art metal. I used Rock Star Black and Kiss Me Pink metal from Ten Seconds Studio. I embossed my metal flowers in a variety of Cuttlebug Embossing Folders and simply layered them and shaped the petals so that the blossoms are nice and dimensional.

To add even more texture and interest, I created unique rosettes out of Pink Crepe Paper and charming white rosettes out of used dryer sheets...yep, that's right...Re-Cycled Dryer Sheets!

Here are the items you will need to create these lovely blossoms for yourself...

To create the embossed metal flowers, I simply cut a couple of pieces of art metal (Rock Star Black & Kiss Me Pink:Ten Senconds Studio) and die cut flowers using the new Tattered Florals die (Tim Holtz) and my Cuttlebug. His dies work great using the two B plates.

Next, I embossed the flowers in a variety of Cuttlebug Embossing Folders (Provocraft). Be sure to emboss your metal with the color-side up...

Next, I sanded over the embossed design to expose the silver core...

The metal is quite soft so you can form your petals and really make your blossom come to life...

Now, on to the re-cycled dryer sheet and crepe paper flowers...to create these you will cut your dryer sheet into strips and tear a piece of crepe paper off the roll...

Next, you will need a scrap piece of paper and some tacky glue. I really like using Fabri-Tac for making flowers..it's super tacky! Spread a circular glob of glue onto your scrap paper like so...

Let's start with the dryer sheet strip first. Simply twist the strip...

Now begin coiling the end of the strip (kind of like a snail's shell), place in the center of the glob of glue and begin twisting and coiling around and around and around...

When you reach the end of the strip, tuck the end up under the flower and set aside to dry...

The same process is used with the crepe paper rosettes. First, spread another glob of glue and twist the crepe paper...

Once again twist and coil the end of the strip and place in the center of the glue glob...begin twisitng and coiling around. When you reach the end, simply tuck it under your rosette and set aside to dry...

To add a little more pizzazz to your rosettes, dab with some stickles to create a lovely sparkly effect...

When the rosettes are dry, take your scissors and cut at a slight angle around the base of the flowers...

And now your blossoms are complete... They make such beautiful embellishments and are quite inexpensive to create!

I hope that my "Lovely" Dress Form and hand-made blossoms have inpired you! ... Good luck to all who are hearing those "wedding bells" in you near future!!

Stay true to your passion -- Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Full Reveal - One Sunny Day and NEW FPK Blog!

2011-06-06T08:41:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone--

The wait is finally over and I can now show you the entire Kit n Kaboodle of what's coming to you in your

One Sunny Day

Front Porch Kit!

It is truly "sun"sational! With this kit, you will also receive an Instructional CD which includes full pictures and step by step instructions for 6 projects and templates for our new Build-a-Flower design in 3 different sizes! To purchase your kit and to view the Front Porch Project Gallery, visit our FPK website at www.frontporchkits.com

I'm also happy to announce that our Front Porch Kits BLOG is up and running! You can check it out at

www.frontporchkits.typepad.com

Become a follower today and get ready for some awesome projects, tutorials, and some fun challenges too!

THANK YOU to all who came to see us at GASC!

Have a Happy Monday!

Miss Tracy :)

More Sneakers....

2011-06-01T06:12:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!

There's only 1 more day until the BIG REVEAL of the newest Front Porch Kit release....yay!! It is so appropriately called "One Sunny Day" and it is so bright and cheerful! I can't wait for you to see all of it! But for now....how about a couple more sneak peeks!

This fabulous kit is now available for pre-orders. You may visit the FP website at www.frontporchkits.com and order TODAY! If you are local to the Little Blue House in Keller, TX you may call us and place an order by phone at (817) 431-7930. We will also be selling our Front Porch Kits at GASC which is being held at the Arlington Convention Center this Thurs. thru Sat. We will be located on the back wall in Booth #1111....come see us if you can! We have a special Make & Take that you will LOVE!

Have a Wonderful Wednesday!

Miss Tracy :)

It's Front Porch Sneak Peek time once again!!!

2011-05-30T07:56:00.001-05:00

I am so happy to announce that we have another fabulous Front Porch Kit for you this month! It is called "One Sunny Day" and it's sure to brighten even the cloudiest of days!

I can't show you everything just yet, but I do have a couple of peeks for you to enjoy! Take a looksie...here's a peek at some of the goodies in your "One Sunny Day" kit...

Here's a peek at a couple of my "One Sunny Day" projects that I designed...enjoy!

Because we have made some changes to our website cart feature, pre-orders will not begin until this Wed. 6/1 and the full reveal of the kit will be on Thurs. 6/2. We will also be selling the kits at the Great American Scrapbook Convention. We will be on the back wall in Booth #1111. Come see us...we have a fun

Make & Take for you to create!

www.frontporch kits.com

Become a follower and post your comments about your favorite summer colors here for a chance to win a special prize!! Want another chance to win?!?!! Go post comments on the LBH blog for a chance to win

a FREE Front Porch Kit!

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Good Luck!

Happy Summer!

Miss Tracy :)

NSD Photos!

2011-05-23T23:31:00.000-05:00

Summer Surprise!!!

2011-05-18T22:53:00.001-05:00

Please join us as we kick off the start of Summer

at the Little Blue House

Summer SuRPriSe Open House!

Friday May 20th

10am-5pm

Saturday May 21

10am-5pm

Hmmm...Why are we using the word Surprise?!?!

Well, you'll just have to come and see...

We have reset the store with Sizzling new collections and class offerings that are sure to melt your creaive hearts! You will also enjoy a free Make & Take & Prize Give-Aways!

So put on your favorite pair of flip flops & grab your shades because it's gonna be a SUNsational event!

We hope to see you at our

Summer SuRPriSe Open House!

Miss Tracy :)

Follow me to the Little Blue House

118 W. Olive St.

Keller, TX 76248

(817) 431-7930

CraftMasters Mini Workshops...there's still room!

2011-05-03T23:18:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone! I hope that you all have made wonderful plans to celebrate National Scrapbooking Day. I would like to personally invite you to join me this weekend at The Little Blue House where we will be celebrating CreAtiVitY in all it's many forms!! Currently, our NSD Crops for Friday and Saturday are full but we do still have some room in our CraftMasters Mini-Workshops. Here are a few pic's of the projects and info regarding the techniques you will be learning.

DIY (Distress It Yourself)

9:30am-11am

Cost: $25

Come and create this adorable altered wooden embroidery hoop, while learning artful distressing techniques. You will play with lots of lotions & potions including Distress Stains, Distress Inks, Grunge paper, Glassine paper, Sticky canvas, Balsa Wood, Tim's tissue tape,Perfect Pearls and so much more! Your level of creativity will surely blossom in this unique "Distress It Yourself" Workshop!

Texture Time

11:30am-1pm

Cost: $25

Want to WOW up your next Layout or Altered Project?!?! If so, then you will want to join us for Texture Time at the LBH. You will learn a variety of Texture-Adding Techniques while creating these mini-masterpieces! They will truly jazz up your layouts or look great on a canvas or frame too! This workshop is all about adding texture...and loads of it! You will love what you learn in this class and I think you'll be surprised about some of the products (expected and unexpected!) that you will be playing with!

Build-a-Border Workshop

1:30pm-3:00pm

Cost: $20

No need for construction hats in this Build-a-Border Workshop! Just bring your basics and a smile! You will create 6 unique borders in this amazing paper-crafting workshop while learning some great border building techniques! You can mount them to create a great reference board or add them to your next layout or altered project!

Glitterocity

3:30pm-5:00pm

Cost: $25

Glitter makes everything look better...that's Elaine's motto! She will be your Glittertrician in this sparkle-filled Workshop. You will enjoy creating a unique banner while learning ways to use the fabulous products from PKGlitz. You will be amazed at how easy it is to add a little shimmer and shine...and you will love the awesome techniques in this Glitterocity Workshop!

We have so many prizes to give away...thanks to our wonderful sponsors and vendors! We also have a special LO kit desigend by me for everyone that purchases $25 or more in product on Fri./Sat. (while supplies last)

We will also be serving up Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Coke Floats and Lemonade during the day on Saturday! Hope you can join us!! Give us a call at the LBH to reserve your Workshop at (817) 431-7930.

Happy Scrapping!

Miss Tracy :)

Zipper Trim Flowers...gotta love them!!!

2011-04-29T21:17:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone--

Want to learn how to make these fabulous Zipper Flowers?!?!

Thanks to the great folks over at Maya Road, they have provided a video tutorial that I want to share with you! Take a look...you will love how easy these flowers are to make! I think they would be so cute as a pin or even attached on a bag or your favorite pair of flip flops! I carry this wonderful zipper trim at my Paper Arts Store, The Little Blue House (in Keller, TX)...perhaps you've heard of it!! I have the Maya Road zipper trim in black, lt. blue, white, and chocolate. You can view the video tutorial here!

Enjoy!

Miss Tracy :)
P.S. on the video they use a needle and thread but you can eliminate this step by just using your hot glue to instantly hold your pieces in place....(just a quick tip from me to you)

Altered Window Workshop

2011-04-27T23:24:00.001-05:00

A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to obtain the original old windows that were removed from the Little Blue House when the original owners were renovating it. I was so excited to "bring them home" so to speak...lol! I love old windows! They have such wonderful, vintage charm.

I recently transformed one of the windows and it will now be a Specialty Workshop at the Little Blue House. I have kept most of the accents in neutral colors so if you want to customize the colors to match your decor, you can bring in a couple of printed papers of your own. Here are a few close-up's of the unique details on this 32x32 in. window...

Here are the dates for the Window Workshop:

Saturday, 4/30 10a-2p

Thursday, 5/5 10a-2p and 5p-9p

Cost: $125

I have a limited number of windows available so if you are interested in joining me for this unique workshop, please don't delay, contact the LBH to reserve your window today

at (817) 431-7930.

Hope we can create together soon!

Miss Tracy :)

More inspiration from the Front Porch!

2011-04-21T22:57:00.002-05:00

Hello friends! I hope you are having a Happy Spring and enjoying all of the beautiful flowers that are in bloom. It's such a special time...life renewing itself! Here is a project featuring one of my all-time favorite Springtime photos that I created from my Front Porch Kit, Fresh from the Garden.

Maddi's Boots

I just adore this photo and if you have a minute, I would like to share the story behind it. This photo was taken back in the Spring of 2004 at my parent's farm, my Mom had already been diagnosed with Parkinson's at this point but was still managing the disease fairly well. My youngest daughter Maddi had gone down for a visit. Maddi loves the farm, always has, and the first thing she would do when we got there was run to the closet to get her rubber boots. She loved those silly boots and this particular Spring they had finally become too small and were getting really uncomfortable. My Mom finally convinced Maddi to "let them go" and that she had some gardening for them to do together. Of course, Maddi moped about not wearing her boots, until my Mom told her they were going to plant some flowers in them so she could enjoy them even after they were too small! Of course, this thrilled Maddi...and I think it was such an adorable idea! Maddi still has such wonderful memories of this time she spent with my Mom and soon after, her disease took a turn for the worse and this was really the last thing she and Maddi were able to do together.

When I was working with the Kit this month, it just kept reminding me of my Mom and her love of Spring. I decided to create this canvas for Maddi so she would have a wonderful keepsake of this memory that she and her GrandMommy shared.

Here is a closer look...

I painted the canvas first with a base coat of Red paint and then applied a Crackle medium with a top coat of Black paint. I love how the crackle effect looks...very rustic! I used some of the LilyBee paper from my kit and distressed the edges with an edge distresser (Tonic). Next , I adhered the fabric swatch which had the word LIFE and definition on it with Helmar Fabric stiffener (works great as an adhesive too). Before adhering the fabric, I did remove a few strands of thread from the sides of the fabric to create a frayed edge. I added the Front Porch Kutz Leafy Vine Flourish to the canvas and applied Glossy Accents to it for dimension. I kept the embellishments minimal on this project because I really wanted the photo of Maddi's boots to be the star of the show (so to speak). I simply added the Butterfly pin, and a little twine and the red crochet trim. I created the little banner for my title from the new Tim Holtz Sizzix Banners die.

I hope my project inspires you to preserve a Springtime memory of your own! I am going to make a companion canvas for this one featuring a photo of my Mom and Maddi (one that shows her wearing the boots) and attach the two with a couple of hinges and type up the story, print it off, and put it on the back of the canvases.

I think Maddi will treasure this for years to come! Now that my Mom has passed, I have decided that every Mother's Day I will create a project that is tribute to her memory and give to one of my kiddos...this year it will be Maddi.

Thanks for reading...and I hope you have a blessed day!
Miss Tracy :)

P.S. If you are interested in this month's Front Porch Kit and want to see more projects created with it, please visit www.frontporchkits.com. It's a fabulous kit and there are only a few left, so don't delay...order one today!

Non-chocolate Easter Treat!!

2011-04-18T22:19:00.001-05:00

I know...I know...Why in the world would

anyone ever want such a thing?!?!?!

Well, even though most of us can enjoy loads of chocolate...

My grandboy Kaden is only 2 and I have been trying to think of alternatives to candy that I can put in his Easter Basket. I was blog hopping and came across this adorable Easter Carrot!
Take a look...

I was so excited to stumble across this!!! These carrots will be perfect for him and they will be so easy to put together! I just had to share it with you in case you were looking for any simple Easter Treat ideas. If you have any other non-chocolate,

toddler-friendly ideas, please post them.

I would love to hear your suggestions!

Hoppy Easter!

Miss Tracy :)

Live from Keller, TX...it's Friday Night!!!!

2011-04-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

Tune in tonight on Ustream as we introduce the

NEW Front Porch Kit...Fresh from the Garden!

Here is the Ustream Link:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

I hope you will join in for some good ol' fashioned crafty fun! Old McDonald is making a rare appearance...yay!...and we will show off the NEW kit & projects, share some crafty gardening techniques, and show you just how easy it is to create an adorable bird cage out of paper and a recycled ribbon spool!

Here is a peek...

Today the Kit is officially released and you can view the Full Contents, see the display board, feature projects and the Inspiration Gallery on the Front Porch website HERE!

I will be posting my creations over the next few days...Here is one of the layouts that I designed from the kit...

A Kiss & A Hug

These photos were taken at the LBH when the Bluebonnets were in full bloom. Let me tell you, my hat goes off to you professional photographers out there...'cause taking pictures of toddlers isn't easy! However, I did manage to capture a KISS and a HUG. I love how this layout turned out and it will be very simple for you to re-create! Here is a closer look at the details...

I inked and folded my Front Porch Kutz butterflies to create depth and dimension. Notice the leaves, they are cut from the beautiful Spring Leafy Trim made by Webster's Pages...You will recieve 24 in. of it with your Fresh from the Garden Kit!! I just love their ribbons and unique trims!

I will post more Front Porch Fresh from the Garden creations over the next few days. So stay tuned and become a follower today to ensure you don't miss out on future projects and I have a few tutorials coming soon!

Remember to post your comments here and on the LBH blog for chances to WIN! To purchase a Fresh from the Garden Kit, you can order online at www.frontporchkits.com or you may order by phone or in person at the LBH. (817) 431-7930 Kits are only available while supplies last. So don't delay... order today and we will happily send this kit to you from our Front Porch to yours!!

Hope to see you at Friday Night Live!!

Keep Creating!!

Miss Tracy :)

Final Countdown to the NEW Front Porch Kit!!!

2011-04-14T11:48:00.001-05:00

Woo Hoo! I'm counting down the minutes for the Big Reveal of this month's NEW Front Porch Kit! I have one final

sneek peak for you to enjoy...

Also, if you are curious who the Celebrity Guest will be for our Friday Night Live webcast?!?!!? The suspense is over...You can find out WHO it IS!!!! Visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

and read all about it!!

Don't forget I have some special Garden goodies for one lucky commenter...Keep your comments coming! Post comments on the LBH blog for a chance to win a FREE kit! Winners will be announced during our Friday Night Live webcast!

Here is the Ustream Link:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

There are still a few seats left in our Friday Night Live CROP if you would like to come and join us! I have a few special goodies for all the croppers! Contact the LBH if you would like to reserve a seat!

Have a creative day!

Miss Tracy :)

p.s. pre-orders have already begun...don't miss out!

www.frontporchkits.com

Another Day...Another Peek!!

2011-04-13T08:39:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Miss Tracy here, posting another couple of sneaks for you from my NEW Front Porch Kit...

I'm just bursting at the seams....I just can't wait to show off this freshly picked kit to you! Only 2 more days til the Big Reveal! I'm counting the minutes!!!! What about you?!?!

I hope you will make plans to join me this Friday for Friday Night Live! The webcast begins at 8:30pm CST (but tune in early for a few giggles). Here is the Ustream link:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

I have loved reading your sweet comments about the LBH! You gals really know how to bring a smile to my face...Thank You for that! Keep them coming...for a chance to WIN a

special goodie from ME!

I will annouce the winner during FNL!

More later...stay tuned!

Miss Tracy :)

P.S. Did you hear about the Celebrity Guest?? He will be making an appearance on FNL...hmmmm...wonder who it could be?!?! I'll tell you tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Another Front Porch Sneaker!!!!

2011-04-12T08:56:00.000-05:00

As promised, I will be posting a few sneak peeks each day this week of our NEW Front Porch KIT!

Fresh from the Garden is now available for pre-order!

To pre-order, visit the Front Porch Kits website at www.frontporchkits.com...or if you are local to the Little Blue House in Keller, TX then you can order via phone or walk in. I am so excited about this kit! It is jam-packed with the most fabulous array of papers, embellishments, and a few other "unexpected" treasures!

The full reveal of Fresh from the Garden will take place this Friday 4/15 and we will also air our 2nd episode of Friday Night Live. Here is the Ustream link:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits.

Show begins at 8:30pm CST. Please join us!!

I have a special give-away for you this week! Everyone who posts a comment on my sneak peek posts will be entered into a drawing to win a prize! I will announce the winner during our Friday Night Live webcast! Share with me why you love creating at the
Little Blue House...you may post as many comments as you wish to up your chances of winning! Looking for more prize opportunities?!!? Visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Have a Fabulous Day and Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Sneak Peek of the NEW Front Porch Kit!

2011-04-11T07:44:00.004-05:00

Good Morning Friends and Happy Spring!

I'm so excited about this month's Front Porch Kit! Each day this week I will be posting a new sneak peek for you to enjoy! Then on Fri. 4/15 the full kit and projects will be revealed! Here is Peek #1:

Please join me for another episode of Friday Night Live!

It airs this Fri. 4/15 on Ustream and the show

begins at 8:30pm CST. Pre-orders for Fresh from the Garden will begin tomorrow Tues. 4/12. You may pre-order at www.frontporchkits.com

or if you're local, contact the LBH at (817) 431-7930 or

stop by and see me!

Check back tomorrow for another great peek...

Happy Monday!

Miss Tracy :)

My Pretty Mists! - Front Porch Inspiration

2011-03-30T18:21:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! I wanted to share another little bit of Front Inspiration with you today! One of my new favorite things in my scrappy stash of supplies is Maya Mists! I just love the beautiful colors (especially the metallics) and I'm quickly adding to my stash with one bottle at a time...(ok, maybe its more like 3 or 4 bottles at a time..lol!). I'm a big fan of reference swatches so I decided to make a Mists reference book out of goodies from my Front Porch Kit (A Little Birdie Told Me). I love swatch books and I use them all the time...it's so easy to quickly look at it and color match with ease! It's also a great way for me to keep up with which colors I have so I don't accidentally buy something I already own...(hmm..wonder if that ever happens to anyone besides me..hehe)

I used the Chipboard tags (Maya Road) that were in my FP Kit and covered them with some of the papers in my kit. I then used the tag as a template to create my swatch tags (I cut them out of the cream cardstock in my kit). I misted each cardstock tag with my Maya Mist, dried them with my heat gun, and then wrote the name of each color on the back of each tag. I also misted my chipboard alphas (Maya Road) to create my title on the front of my book.

I further embellished my cover with some crocheted lace trim and ran some of the black ribbon thru the center. I created a rosette out of some fabric from my kit and then simply cut slits to create the frayed petals. I topped it off with a teal silk fower, button, and a little knotted piece of the black ribbon.

I put it all together using a binder ring and I am so happy with how it turned out! It's really a quick and easy project. I hope you'll try making one for yourself! To view more fabulous projects created with this month's Front Porch Kit, please visit the website at www.frontporchkits.com.

Stay true to your passion--Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Teal-riffic Memories!

2011-03-25T23:52:00.010-05:00

I wanted to post a few pic's from our premiere of LIVE with Prima from the Little Blue House! It was a blast and I want to thank Lolly Chessie and Daniella Dobson for joining us!

Everyone was decked out in Teal from head to toe... even the cupcakes were Teal...LOL!

I can't wait to do it again!! Lolly and I are working out dates for the next LIVE show and I will post it soon!

Take a look at these Teal beauties! Thanks ladies for making the night so memorable...love you gals!!

The Prima Big 10 Cards were lovely! If you missed out on this fabulous workshop, no worries! We have added a second date in April.

The Prima Card Workshop will be held on Wed. 4/20
from 6:30p-8:30p and you will create all 10 cards and get loads of Prima goodies! The cost is $40 to attend.
Please contact the LBH at (817) 431-7930 to reserve your spot.

Enjoy your day!

Miss Tracy :)

Home Tweet Home! Front Porch Inspiration!

2011-03-23T22:01:00.002-05:00

Happy Spring my friends! I just love this time of year when everything begins to bloom and color springs forth in the grass, trees, and of course...I love to see flowers in bloom! As I looked through my Front Porch Kit, I knew that I simply must create another Birdhouse to add to my ever-growing collection. I have such a love for them and I especially love this one! My little birdhouse is attached to the top of an old bed spring...If you are a "junker" like me than you'll love this project! It so fun to watch it bounce on the Spring. Next time you're out "junking" be sure to pick up one of these beauties. Sometimes they are a little rusty but that's nothing that a little clear sealer won't take care of. Here is a closer look at the crafty details...

With just a few simple steps, you can re-create this project!

Miss Tracy's How To:

1. First, I painted the birdhouse. I used 2 colors, Metallic Espresso and Metallic Aquamarine. Once dry, I inked the edges and the opening with a little black chalk ink (Quick Quotes).

2. Next, I punched multiple 1 in. circles out of this gorgeous floral print (Fancy Pants/Its the Little Things) and then cut them all in half and inked the edges with Black chalk ink (Quick Quotes). I then layered them row by row to create shingles on my rooftop. I only adhered the top so that I could flip up the edges of each shingle.

3. I then wrapped the pink ribbon (Creative Impressions) around the base of the house and tied off the tails in a pretty bow.

4. I created two Spiral Roses (one is smaller than the other) out of my pretty printed paper (Echo Park/For the Record). I embellished the BH with them and some of the silk flowers and a leaf from my Front Porch Kit. Here is a link to one of my fellow crafter's tutorials on how to create these fab flowers.

5. I covered two of my Front Porch Cutz Birds with fabric and their wings with burlap... These goodies were all in my Front Porch Kit! Then added a little inking to create dimension and adhered one to the birdhouse and the other to the bed spring.

I hope my project inspires you and brings you a little creative joy!!

Please share your comments and let me know if you have any questions. Please visit the Front Porch website here and click on the Project Gallery to see more fabulous creations from

this month's FP kit..."A Little Birdie told Me...".

Remember friends...Stay true to your passion--Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Front Porch Friday...Big Reveal!

2011-03-18T09:24:00.000-05:00

YAY!!! The Big Reveal Day is finally here! I'm so excited to share with you my "Watch Me Grow" LO that I designed using my "A Little Birdie told Me..." Front Porch Kit! This happens to be one of the Feature Projects that you will receive a full tutorial on for those who purchase the FP March Kit. There will be a total of 5 projects with full "How To's" on your Instructional CD and this is one of the 5:

Don't Forget!!!

Friday Night Live is tonight....airing from the LBH!

Click here to get to the U-Stream

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

If you would like to log into the chat,

you will have to open a U-stream account if you don't already have one. (No Account needed to just watch.)

Lots of Prize Give-Aways and we will share some

Creative FUN with you too!!

"A Little Birdie told Me..." that kits are flying away by the minute so don't delay, order your Front Porch Kit today!!!!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

A Little Birdie Told Me...(to post more sneaks!)

2011-03-17T06:33:00.000-05:00

Only 1 more day til the Big Reveal of the Front Porch March Kit!! Here are a couple sneaks of some projects that I created

with my March Kit...and...I hope you will make plans to join us tomorrow night for our first ever LIVE webcast from the

Little Blue House!

Friday Night Live will begin at 8:30pm and here is the link:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/front-porch-kits

We will show off the FP Kit and featured projects...AND...

teach you a fun project...AND...share our famous

"Mush & Skwush" technique with you!

Enjoy the peeks!

Have a Creative Day!!!

Miss Tracy :)

If you would like to pre-order "A Little Birdie Told Me" please visit http://www.frontporchkits.com/

Front Porch Sneakers!!! March Kit releases this Friday!

2011-03-14T08:40:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled to begin the official countdown this week to our Big Reveal of the first Front Porch Kit!

I will be posting new sneak peeks each day until Friday...then I can show you the whole enchilada!!!! This is an amazing kit...to find out more about Front Porch Kits, please visit the website at www.frontporchkits.com . This is an awesome Kit Club with "no strings" attached!

I hope you will join us this Friday at 8:30pm for our Live webcast from the LBH..."Friday Night Live"! We will be showing off the kit and have a fun project to share with you! I'll post another Sneaker tomorrow! Share a comment today for a chance to win a special prize from this month's kit...I'll be collecting the names all week!

Happy Monday!
Miss Tracy :)

Spring is in the Air!!

2011-03-09T07:09:00.000-06:00

Come join me this Friday and Saturday at the

Little Blue House

Spring Fling Open House!

Here's a quick peek at one of our upcoming class projects...His name is Chuck (because we can't decide if he looks more like a chick or a duck..LOL!)

Loads of NEW product from some of your favorite vendors will be available and you can see all of our NEW Spring/Easter Class projects. While you're there, you can enjoy some refreshments and a free Make & Take! Hope you can join me!

Miss Tracy :)

Lucky Me!

2011-02-23T21:42:00.001-06:00

Hello Friends! I wanted to share one of my most recent creations with you...it's my "Lucky Me" Minibook. I thought it would be fun to create a special book to fill with photos and journaling about everything I feel lucky to have in my life!

My book features the wonderful papers from the Twig Collection by Little Yellow Bicycle and the Lucky Bingo Card from Jenni Bowlin. It has a great "natural" feel with lots of fun embellies and a few acrylic pages...Here is a peek inside...

"Lucky Me" measures 6 1/2 x 8 1/2 in. It is a project that you can create at any of the Little Blue House Creative Buffets.

The cost is $30 and kits are still available.

You'll even receive a "lucky" penny with your kit!

As I reflect on what I feel lucky for, one of them is that I have made so many wonderful friends...like you!

What do you feel lucky to have in your life?

Stay true to your passion--Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Creating Keepsakes Top CHA Picks!

2011-02-18T22:40:00.001-06:00

I just recently found out that Creating Keepsakes picked

Ten Seconds Studio as one of their Top Picks of the CHA Winter Show. I was super excited when I looked at the blog post and saw one of my LO's that I designed for TSS! It's a LO of my most favorite guy....yep, you guessed it...my GrandBoy Kaden.

Here is the LO and the link if you are interested

in finding out their other picks :

Here's a closer look...

http://www.creatingkeepsakesblog.com/blog/2011/02/05/editors-picks-new-scrap-products-from-cha-winter-2011/?utm_source=Feb15_2011_CKNF&utm_medium=eletter&utm_content=CKBlogContent&utm_campaign=Feb15_2011_CKNF

All of the NEW TSS Design Molds are fabulous! I can't wait to share them with my Hot Metal Mama's group that meets on March 1st at the Little Blue House. There is still seating available if you would like to join me! All of the NEW molds and Stamps are back in stock at the LBH...Stop by sometime and I'll show you my fav's!

Here is another LO that I designed for TSS

using one of their NEW Kabuka Molds...

Look at the beautiful detail in this design...

Consider adding a little art metal to your next project! You won't be dissappointed. It will take your creativity to a whole new level!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Repurpose your Packaging!

2011-02-17T14:56:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone! I wanted to share a couple of the projects that I designed for my Scrapstasher's Group. This month I decided to re-purpose something...and for those of you who don't know me all that well, I'm here to tell you that I am the World's Biggest Packaging Nut! I just absolutely LOVE packaging...If it's in a cute, creative package...this gal will buy it (sometimes regardless of what's inside...heehee). This being said, the choice for me was an obvious one and I repurposed these two tins into adorable Shadow Boxes...Take a looksie...

This tin originally held a set of clear stamps...

I transformed this tin into a hanging shadow box. I think it's a great way to show off your favorite photo!...this photo I'm especially fond of because it is my super cute GrandBoy Kaden! He has such an expressive face and I just love this photo of him!

I decided to stay away from ribbon and used twine instead...I love the natural look of it...

You may recognize this tin! It is from Maya Road...this is how they package a lot of their Chipboard pieces that they sell! It's perfect way to store momentos, keepsakes, a minibook, recipes, or use it as a functional item and store some of your Scrap Stuff in it...

I'm going to give this one to my good friend, Valerie. This is a picture of her daughter, Jordyn on her first birthday. I thought it would be a great tin for her to keep Jordyn's birthday photos, and momentos (such as her invitation, a keepsake napkin, or maybe even candles, etc.) from the party.

A wonderful little keepsake birthday box!

Here is a closer look at the details...

What's great about these tins is that the handles are removable, so it makes it very easy to cover with paper and you're not having to cut and piece around the hardware. After you add your paper, just pop the handle right back on...super easy!

I hope these projects inspire you to think twice before throwing your packaging away. You can transform them into fabulous projects and use up those scrap papers you have laying around in the process. They were so fun to make!

If you would like more info on Scrapstasher's, please visit the Little Blue House blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.

Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Kids + Snow = Great Day!

2011-02-04T19:22:00.001-06:00

Hayden, Noah, Taylor & Maddi stopped only for one quick second to pose for a photo...then the snowball wars began!

Lookin' good in that hat Maddi!

Of course Hayden (14 yrs.) refuses to put on his coat...He didn't last too long out there....ha!

Maddi better watch out...I think her BFF Taylor is about to give her a snowball surprise!

The kiddos made a sign for their Snowman directing you all to

The Little Blue House! Isn't that cute! I guess i've trained them well...heehee.

Enjoy the snow while it lasts!

Travel with me to CHA!

2011-01-27T20:40:00.000-06:00

Well, I don't mean travel in the literal sense...although I would pack all of you in my suitcase and sneak you in if I could! However, there is a way for you to see what's going on...just visit the LBH blog and I will be uploading pictures every day from the showroom floor! I will post some of my favorite finds here too! Lots of shopping to do...planning on filling that Little Blue House with loads of the latest and greatest products CHA has to offer!

Have a wonderful week!

Miss Tracy :)

Hot Metal Mama's January Project!

2011-01-17T20:48:00.000-06:00

Hello friends!

Hot Metal Mama's is meeting on the 24th of this month and I wanted to share the project that I have designed for those of you who are coming! Take a looksie...

Isn't she lovely?? I can't wait to teach you how to make these fabulous metal flowers! Here is a closer look at them...see all the beautiful detail...gorgeous!!

If you would like to join me for this workshop, please visit the LBH Blog and click on the Hot Metal Mama's tab and scroll down to get all of the class info. Hope to see you then!

Joyfully Yours,

Miss Tracy :)

Bring on the Ribbon piles!!!

2011-01-10T22:41:00.000-06:00

I made a commitment this week to "Get it Together" in 2011

and I am taking part in the Little Blue House

8 weeks of Organization...Want to join along with me??

Visit the LBH blog and find out more...

This week we are tackling our piles and piles of Ribbon...

I have a wonderful system for my ribbon organization and

I would love to share it with you!

Step #1: Gather all your ribbon together

Step #2: Do a quick sort of your ribbon into color families

Step #3: Cut some chipboard to fit into a photo box; I cut mine 4x7in. Now wrap your ribbon around the chipboard and secure with a pearl head pin. Keep your color families together.

Step #4: Place your ribbon cards into the photo box.

You will be amazed at how much ribbon you can fit in these boxes!

Believe me, I have tried so many different ways and bought so many different organizers for my ribbon...all to end in disappointment. Trust me, this works and if you are a visual person (like me) then place the lid under the box so you can see the beautiful colors of ribbon. If you would rather keep a tidier appearance in your creative space, then simply place the lid on the box and create a label for your ribbon box with the color group listed on it. I hope you will give it a try...it's sure to bring you much creative JOY!

Enough typing...time to go work on my PiLeS!

Happy Ribbon Sorting!

Miss Tracy :)

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:11:00.002-06:00

Wishing you all a wonderful, blessed New Year!

Stay true to your passion...Keep Creating!

Much Love,

Miss Tracy :)

Altered Canvas & Art Easel

2010-12-31T23:25:00.000-06:00

This is the project that I designed for my Hot Metal Mama's Class this month. It was so much fun!

Here's a closer look at some of the details...

If you are interested in joining me for Hot Metal Mama's next month...we will be meeting on January 24th (10a-Noon & 6:30p-8:30p). The cost is $25 and I will be showing you how to create some beautiful metal roses and we will be playing with some of the NEW design molds from Ten Seconds Studio. Please contact the LBH at 817-431-7930 to reserve your spot.

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Snowflake Dazzlers Winner!

2010-12-15T23:21:00.000-06:00

Thank you for all of your wonderful comments about my Snowman! As I mentioned in my earlier post, I have some fabulous Snowflakes to give away. Aren't they a frosty delight??

These sparkly beauties will be going to Diana. Congratulations Diana! They will be waiting for you to pick them up at my Art Studio, The Little Blue House in Keller,TX. We carry these Dazzlers as well as others...cute penguins, reindeer, and poinsettias. Perfect for your Holiday/Winter creations!

Merry Crafting!

Miss Tracy :)

I would like to introduce you to a very special Man in my life...

2010-12-08T20:36:00.001-06:00

My hubby will be jealous but I just can't help myself...

I have fallen in LOVE with this MAN!

My Frosty Wishes Snowman...How could anyone resist him?!?!? It was "snow" much fun creating him and watching him magically transform from a bunch of fabric to this adorable, irresistable SnowMan! Come join me and I will show you how to make one of your very own. He's about 2 ft. tall and glistens just like snow! You will also create the banner and the small bucket of snow. He is being offered as a LBH Buffet class this month at the Little Blue House! For more info, visit www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

or call me at (817) 431-7930 to reserve your spot!

Warm Winter Wishes!

Miss Tracy :)

P.S. Do you have a "thing" for Snowmen?? If you do leave a comment and I will enter your name into a drawing for some very special Snowflakes!

Join me for the LBH Little Somethings this weekend!

2010-12-01T07:49:00.001-06:00

Enjoy a Creative Christmas this year! Make plans to join us for the LBH Little Somethings Holiday Workshops! You will create 5+ Little Something projects and receive a very Merry Goodie Bag! Cost is $25 a person. You may want to bring your camera with you...Santa will be stopping by!

We have 5 sessions for you to choose from... Here are the dates & times: limited seating - they are filling up fast!

Fri. 12/3 10a-1p & 2p-5p

Sat. 12/4 10a-1p & 2p-5p

Sun. 12/5 2p-5p

All you need to bring is one pair of scissors and your Christmas Spirit! We will provide everything else. Please contact the LBH to reserve your spot at (817) 431-7930...

Introducing our "Little Something"

Corporate Sponsors:

Bella Blvd

Bazzill

Helmar

Plaid

Pink Paislee

Maya Road

Crafty Secrets

P K Glitz

Crate Paper

Sure Cuts-A-Lot

The Little Blue House

Each person attending this magical event will receive a "Little Something" from our corporate sponsors!...Sure hope you've been nice this year (and not naughty) because Santa will be passing out these wonderful goodie bags to you!

Come join us! I promise you will have a holly jolly good time!

Miss Tracy :)

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Looking for Creative Inspiration?? check out this Blog Hop...

2010-11-28T19:38:00.000-06:00

If you are looking for more holiday inspired creations and would love to win some great prizes...then you will want to participate in this Blog Hop sponsored by Want2Scrap!

I am a member of the Design Team for Passionately Artistic.com and will be featuring some fabulous projects and tutorials on their site. For this blog hop, they will be featuring the Day 12 Ornament from the LBH 12 Day's of Ornaments Extravaganza! Thanks to Elaine for her participation and to Maggie for making it all possible!

Stay tuned for more projects and tut's...Happy Hopping!

Miss Tracy :)

A Thanksgiving Riddle for You!

2010-11-24T21:44:00.001-06:00

Why did the Pilgrim's pants keep falling down????

Because they wore their buckles on their hats!!!!

hahaha.....

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Count your blessings!

Miss Tracy :)

Quilted Paper Ornament - Day 8 & Waco Pic's

2010-11-21T14:34:00.001-06:00

Hello fellow bloggers! Well, today is Day 8 over at the Little Blue House' 12 Days of Ornaments Extravaganza and I have another Hand-Crafted Ornament to share with you...this Ornament features a Paper Mache Circle and the vintage Christmas Past paper collection by Graphic 45.

Please visit the Little Blue House Blog to see a full "How To" and you can create one of your very own! Remember to post a comment there and you will be entered into a drawing to win the Ornament!

I want to send out big hugs to everyone that attended my Embossed Metal Ornaments Workshop at Crop, Paper, Scissors in Waco yesterday! I really enjoyed hanging out with you fabulous ladies and I love, love, love your ornaments...you gals are so full of CreAtiviTy!! Here are some pic's...a few of you managed to "hide" from the camera..heehee...I'll catch you next time :)

Hope you enjoy your Ornaments ladies! Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Teaching at Crop, Paper, Scissors this Saturday!

2010-11-18T08:02:00.000-06:00

If you happen to be in the Waco area this weekend...stop by and see me! I will be teaching an embossed metal ornaments workshop at Crop, Paper, Scissors which is located on Waco Dr. There is still some room in the class if you would like to join us. Just contact them at (254) 754-7020. One of the ornaments I will be showing them how to make is the Day 2 Ornament from the Little Blue House 12 Days of Ornaments Extravaganza. We will be creating two other embossed metal ornaments during the workshop too and I will be teaching some special techniques using the art metal from Ten Seconds Studio.

Remember to visit the LBH blog to see all of the other fabulous ornaments and their tutorials, please visit www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.

Today is Day 5...7 more still to come!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Coming Home...the return of the Windows!

2010-11-15T21:10:00.002-06:00

I was so thrilled when I rec'd a call that the ORIGINAL windows to the home (which is now my business - The Little Blue House) were still hanging around in storage! I couldn't hardly believe that they would still be here considering the house was built in 1954. I calmly tried to keep my composure as I made an offer for them...I wasn't about to let them slip out of my hands!!

Upon picking them up, I found out they had more from another old property....YAY for me!!! I now am the proud owner of 25 windows and a bonus...one was a beautiful, old, stained glass window! (I'm keeping that one for myself) I can't wait to design something with these windows in mind...don't be surprised if you see a NEW class opportunity come up this Spring...hint hint!

Anyway...I just had to share my moment of joy with you! It was such a great feeling knowing that the windows had returned home, so to speak...sleeping peacefully now up in the attic of the LBH!

Hope joy finds you today!

Miss Tracy :)

LBH 12 Days of Ornaments -- Day 2

2010-11-15T17:26:00.000-06:00

Here's a look at the Day 2 Ornament...visit the LBH blog at

www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com to see a full tutorial...

Remember to post a comment! You may be the lucky one chosen to take home today's lovely creation!

Make it a Merry Day!

Miss Tracy :)

LBH 12 Days of Ornaments Extravaganza!

2010-11-14T09:59:00.000-06:00

12 Days of Ornaments begins today!

Please visit the Little Blue House Blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com to see Ornament #1 designed by LollyChops.

Here is a peek...

Every day for the next 12 days, myself and the other designers at the LBH will be posting a hand-made ornament with a full supply list and instructions on how to re-create them! If you want to see them in person, just stop by the LBH...we will be putting them on our tree each day they are revealed.

Make sure to post a comment...one lucky commenter EACH day will be chosen to receive that day's ornament!

Stay true to your passion -- Keep Creating!

Miss Tracy :)

Hear those Jingle Bells????

2010-11-12T08:16:00.000-06:00

They are coming from the Little Blue House! Our Creative Christmas Open House begins today! Come by and join us...see all of our upcoming "Merry" classes & workshops, enjoy a free Make & Take and some refreshments! Maybe you will even walk away with a fabulous PRIZE!

The Little Blue House

118 W. Olive St.

Keller, TX 76248

(817) 431-7930

Hope to see you there this Friday & Saturday...stop by any time between 10a-5p!

HoHoHo,

Miss Tracy :)

Frosty Easel Card

2010-11-07T22:41:00.001-06:00

Frosty Easel Card

This whimsical easel card is perfect for sending a small photo and then the recipient can set it out and enjoy it throughout the Holiday Season! This card features the Snow Day collection by Crate Paper and an adorable snowman created with Glitter Paper by KI Memories. It's so fun & easy to create these fabulous easel cards ...here's a closer look...the cute little"snowball" trim from Maya Road is what holds it in place...

This card is part of a unique Card Workshop being offered at The Little Blue House. You can create 6 of these cute Frosty Easel Cards for the low cost of $20. You may make additional sets of 6 if you like. If you would like to sign up or have questions, please give me a call at the LBH (817) 431-7930.

To see other cards being offered, visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

"So Thankful" Minibook

2010-11-03T15:16:00.000-05:00

So Thankful Minibook

Count your blessings this Fall and share them! This fabulous minibook would be perfect for preserving all of your wonder"fall" photos and memories of Fall &Thanksgiving! This project will be offered at the Little Blue House and the cost is $35. For more info, please visit the LBH blog at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com . It will be offered on any of the LBH Buffet dates. I will teach you how to work with different textures & fabrics and show you some unique ways of altering chipboard...as well as some other fun techniques...like creating a "leaf" page...hmmm?!?! Sounds interesting huh! Come see if for yourself ...it's too cute! Here are a few pic's for you to enjoy...

I hope to create with you soon!

Miss Tracy :)

Carving up Memories!

2010-10-27T22:12:00.000-05:00

Go Rangers!!!!

Altered Autumn Charger

2010-10-23T21:29:00.001-05:00

Are you interested in learning the art of metal embossing?? If so, you may want to come and join my Hot Metal Mama's Workshop. We meet once a month and create a project featuring Ten Seconds Studio art metal. This month's project is this beautiful altered Charger. Here are the class times:

Mon. 10/25 6:30p-8:30p
Tues. 10/26 10a-Noon
Tues. 10/26 6:30p-8:30p

You will learn some basic embossing techniques, tips on die cutting your metal, and play with alcohol inks! To reserve a space in this workshop, please call the Little Blue House at (817) 431-7930. For more info about this workshop and other classes, please visit www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com.
I hope to see you there!

Miss Tracy :)

Calling all Page Builders!

2010-10-20T23:39:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!

Just wanted to let you know that I have added another Page Builders Workshop in November over at The Little Blue House! It will be on Mon. 11/29...two sessions to choose from. 10a- Noon and 6:30p-8:30p If you are interested in attending, don't delay, contact the LBH at (817) 431-7930 to reserve your seat. The cost to attend is $5 and seats are filling up fast. I hope you will make plans to join us!

Happy Scrapping,

Miss Tracy :)
http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

In Loving Memory of my Mom

2010-10-14T12:39:00.017-05:00

I have been truly blessed by the outpouring of prayers, cards, and flowers that you have sent my way this week. My family and I have been so touched by your amazing kindness! I wish you could've known my Mom...I know you would have loved her. She always had a smile on her face and held such a positive outlook on life. Sadly, her life was cut short by illness but she never once doubted God...she always chose to trust in him. I'm sure some of you may be facing stormy times in your lives, I hope you will choose to trust like she did. Here is a slide show of a few pictures of her...

In Loving Memory -- Sue Carol Stephens

May 28, 1941 to Oct. 12, 2010

Customize a picture slideshow

Altered Tree Canvas

2010-10-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!!

I wanted to post a couple of pieces of inspiration for you today! For those of you who weren't able to attend my September Scrapstasher's Meetings, I want you to see what you missed out on...I designed this wonderful Altered Tree Canvas with the assistance of Lolly's mad computer skills and Sure Cuts Alot software. The cardstock Tree Silhouette was provided to each Stasher and then we all put our scraps to great use to create colorful leaves for our trees...take a looksie...

Scrapstasher Tree Canvas

Lolly is featuring this Tree Canvas, and a couple of other Stasher canvases... and of course, a couple of her own on her blog tomorrow and on her next live webcast. She has a whole forest of inspiration to share with you...check it out at www.lollychops.com.

I have one more that I would like to share with you! It features a clear flocked transparency (by Fancy Pants) and fabulous glitters from P K Glitz. Take a look...

Fabulous Fall Canvas

I will be featuring several projects this week for P K Glitz...for a full tutorial on this project, please visit their blog at http://www.pkglitz.com/blog/ . I love the glitter effect beneath the transparency....pretty fantastic huh?!?

Stay tuned...I have lots of great techniques to share with you this week on ways you can "glitz" up your projects!

Keep Creating,

Miss Tracy :)

Be Inspired Wednesday's!

2010-10-07T11:45:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone...Miss Tracy here and today I have a fun Pocket/Tag Card to share with you. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness, the Cuttlebug DT and myself were asked to create something Pink. I chose to do something a bit brighter than the traditional breast cancer soft pink...I just wanted to create something fun & cheerful! I have many friends that I'm happy to say are Breast Cancer Survivors due to self-awareness. I have much love for these great gals...so I used the word love on my card...take a looksie...

I used some Core'dinations paper and sanded over it to create this lovely distressed finish...

I embellished the top of my tag with a few die cut felt and paper flowers and tied them off with a pretty bow...added a few jewels for a sparkly effect...

So girls, ladies, women, I hope you were inspired by my project today but more importantly...please be inspired to check your TaTa's regularly! For more information on Breast Cancer Awareness, please visit ww5.komen.org

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Miss Tracy :)

The Bewitching Hour!

2010-10-03T17:25:00.002-05:00

October 31st will be here before you know it...so I have designed a spooktacular LO for you this month!

"The Bewitching Hour" Layout:

This LO will be great for showcasing your Halloween Memories ... Costumes & Painted Faces...Pumpkin Carving ... or your Haunted Decor! This LO features the Toil & Trouble paper collection by Girls Paperie, Glitter Dot paper by Best Creation, and some unique LBH embellies, a Bendy Border and a Freaky Frame! You will also enjoy playing with Shimmerz
while creating this frightfully delightful layout.

Come and join me at any LBH Buffet to create this LO for yourself or you may purchase it as a kit. The cost is $25. Contact the Little Blue House to reserve your seat or kit today at (817) 431-7930.

Here's a closer look at the details...

Happy Halloween!

Miss Tracy :)

http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

Happy Birthday Kaden!

2010-09-29T13:26:00.000-05:00

Two years ago today, my sweet grandboy Kaden arrived! I can't believe how fast the past 24 months have flown by! It has been such a privilege to watch him grow through all the happy milestones...sitting up, crawling, first steps, and first words. I will cherish every moment as they seem to be on to the next in a blink of an eye. I also treasure watching my daughter Rachel grow into such a wonderful Mom. Happy Birthday Kaden....big hugs from your Lolly!!!

Grand Prize Winner!!! Woo Hoo!!!

2010-09-28T16:10:00.000-05:00

Congrats to Linda Kratzert!!! Lucky Linda has just won THE CINCH for the Little Blue House Grand Prize drawing!

For more info about the LBH, please visit www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

"Prize-a-day" Winner #3 Woo Hoo!

2010-09-23T07:40:00.000-05:00

Woo Hoo! Congratulations to another prize winner over at the LBH blog. Look at these cute goodies one lucky follower will be taking home...

This time ...I just know the winner will be YOU! www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

"Prize-a-Day" Winner #2!!!!

2010-09-21T21:24:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to another lucky follower over at the Little Blue House Blog! Here's a look at the prize....

Hurry over to the LBH blog and see if the WINNER is YOU!!!!

http://www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com/

Prize-a-Day Winner!

2010-09-20T22:07:00.001-05:00

Woo Hoo! Congrats to the first "Prize-a-Day" winner...Kimberly Read! Here is a looksie at the fun prizes she will be receiving:

Would you like to be a winner just like Kimberly?!?!? It could be you! -- Just hop on over to The Little Blue House blog and become a follower. Another prize will be given away tomorrow night!!! Check it out at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com

Good Luck!

Miss Tracy :)