Where Will He Go?

Our son's LDS mission papers have been submitted. Now it's a waiting game to find out where he will spend the next two year's of his life. I hear that the turn around is fairly quick...quick, I guess depending on your definition of time. We could hear later this week, or next. I'd be fine waiting another year or two! I'm still in shock that we're at this point of our life. It seems like the last year has been a series of reality checks. First came high school graduation. Moments later we were saying goodbye as oldest son took off for his freshman year of college. Now, I am trying to steel myself for the realization that the next phase of our life takes my son away from the family for two whole years. As hard as it is to comprehend not having him home for holiday's and summer vacations, I really wouldn't have him anywhere else.

In an effort to lighten my feelings of impending gloom, we have decided to have a lil' contest to highlight where T will be spending the next two years. Since we're billing this as a contest, we need to have a prize. What type of prize could we possibly offer that captures the essence of this remarkable event? How about the winner gets to pay for T's mission? If that's out of the question (yes, the two year's of church service are financed independently) how about the privilege of babysitting T's cat for the next two years?

Here's the map where we will post entries:

Spots called...
Me- Mongolia (I went for the spot that seems to be the most remote with living arrangements least familiar to my boy to make the actual location seem more like a vacation!)
Kev - can't make up his mind (though, I think it's his strategy to not win one of our fabulous prizes!)
Carrie - Ukraine
Colton - San Jose, Costa Rica
Heidi - Provo, Utah
Brad - Moscow, Russia
Wendy - Chihuahua, Mexico
Derek - Barcelona, Spain
Davis - Valencia, Venezuela
Melissa - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Erica - Santiago, Chile
Mike - Austin, Texas
Suni - Chile
Maureen - Keiv, Ukraine
Gary - Australia
Brielle - Montreal, Canada
Karen - Hong Kong
Doug - Boise, Idaho
Rick - Russia

Accepting all entries until our grand 'Opening' party.

You know you want the prize. You can't win if you don't play!

And the WINNER IS...

Wow! Saturday night was amazing!! Jen (recent addition to the Stories by Me team) and I spent the evening with several hundred women at the Ft. Union Deseret Book Ladies Night. There was live music, local authors and artists, yummy food, discounts galore and the main draw... lots and lots of prizes!

As promised, here are the winners of the Stories by Me drawing:

Drum Roll Please.........................

Personal History Publisher by MemoryMixer: Carole Inglish

MemoryMixer Software: Lisa Tucker

Wire Tree Kit: Anna Layton

Didn't win today? You still have a chance to pickup the Personal History Publisher FOR FREE! Lane, over at MemoryMixer, has been very generous by giving us another copy of this software package that will help you write your Personal History. We will give it away in the next couple of weeks on this blog. All you have to do is take the Stories by Me October Challenge. Find ONE Family History project that you can complete in the month of October. We'll be offering inspiration on our blog. Share your success (or let us learn with you from your less successful efforts). More prizes coming!!

For those of you who won the MemoryMixer software package (either at the event or in this giveaway) be sure to check out the MemoryMixer blog. It shares all sorts of amazing things that powerful little box can do for you!

Also, for those of you who asked... Here's the link to our Generations Pocket Book.

Love Those Family Faces Winner!

And the winner is... bethmoscreations! Just sent you an email, Beth. Thanks to everyone who left such nice comments.

We've finally got the instructional video for making the ornaments onto the website. See it here. It's much too long, but it does go into fabulous detail of exactly how to get the Stories by Me vintage look, so bear with the rambling.

'M', you are right about Brooke's misguided approach to gluing her pictures to the block. I cracked up when I watched the Studio 5 segment later and realized that the teacher (that was supposed to me) wasn't doing a very good job of teaching. It helped that Suni had already finished a copy of the ornament for Brooke just before we went on air. You will find that putting a thin layer of glue ON THE BLOCK is much easier than trying to add the glue to the piece of paper. We didn't have enough time to share all of our helpful hints on air, so be sure to watch the video.

Our Love display is now hanging near the back door of our family room. Yesterday I overheard two of my children discussing some of the memories that have been preserved on these blocks. Just think of it, 36 more stories to tell!

Love Those Family Faces, Give Away!

What's not to love about family faces? Ok, maybe some days are better than others to answer that question! Our Family Face project will help you preserve your special memories of those faces important in your life. Tomorrow we'll be sharing how easy it is to make the family face blocks on KSL, Studio 5. (Tune in at 11:00.)

Here's a sneak peak of what we're bringing...

1. Hanging Wall Decor - Scroll to the bottom of this posting for information on how to win your very own LOVE Those Family Faces kit.

For this project, I used 5 medium and 4 small block ornaments. All together, 36 pictures document those moments near and dear to my heart! I thought the metal hanger was perfect for completing the sentiment, but the blocks would look equally great hanging from a light fixture or curtain rod.

(We attached the metal plate to a floor easle for easy setup, but soon after the segment it'll be featured on a prominent wall in my family room.)

2. Wreaths and Garland -

We loved our holiday garland so much that we decided to continue the idea into the new year and create something Valentines'y'. Super easy and if you look carefully, you'll see just how verstile these ornaments are. Some of the decorative paper in this display say "Merry Christmas." Because the display space was minimal, I decided to use all black/white pictures. I changed out previously used green ribbon for red and voila ~ I'm now ready for Valentine's Day.

3. Say it with Blocks -

Let's not forget the stacking options. If there's time, we'll show off our Say it With blocks. Since we're so close to Valentines Day, we'll display the "All Because Two People Fell in Love" side.

4. Wire Family Tree -

This is the project that got Studio 5's attention. All together our wire tree holds 40 block ornaments...that's 160 pictures when the project is completed! We're not going to pretend that this tree is fast or easy on the wallet. Coming up with 160 pictures can seem daunting for some. Our kit costs 100 big ones, but it comes with everything ...you just come up with the pictures! Don't let our disclaimer discourage you from creating your own family tree. We think our tree branch version is just as meaningful and it's a great way to get your own family face ornament collection started.

So that's what we're bringing tomorrow for our brief moment in the spotlight. Who knows what will actually make it onto the segement. Believe it or not, this is just a portion of the list of ideas that Erica came up with. We'll work on getting pictures on these other projects and get them posted at a later date.

Are you ready to start making family face blocks? Instructions for making your the ornaments start here. We've created a video that shows you each step of the process. Last time we checked, the file was 858MB. The file is SOOooo big that we can't get it off our computer and on to the internet. We'll keep trying, so check back!

As we mentioned earlier, one lucky reader will get a complete Love Those Family Faces kit. It comes with 9 wood blocks (assorted sizes), glue, foam brush, sand paper/sanding block, distress ink/chalk, decorative end papers and ribbon, metal eye screws and the fabulous LOVE metal wall hooks for displaying your finished project. Just remember, you can't win if you don't COMMENT! Leave a brief comment about this project and we'll pick a random name on Friday, January 22.

Fabric Frame Winner...and pictures from TOFW

Louisa... you are the happy winner of our Fabric Frame contest! We'll connect with you directly to see where to send the frame.

Thanks to everyone who shared their comments and a special thanks to EVERYONE who sent happy thoughts as we shared our passion for preserving family stories at Time Out For Women. What an AMAZING event!! Have you heard of it? We hadn't, but give a huge thanks to Marissa in Pleasanton, CA for getting us connected. There were nearly two thousand women at each of the events that we attended. Imagine, two thousand girlfriends with nothing on their agenda but to sit back, relax, and be uplifted through inspirational talk and music. Not a bad way to spend a weekend.

Here's a few pictures of the Logan event. They don't capture the positive energy that was there, but it will at least let you sneak a peek of a wonderful weekend. Give serious consideration to putting yourself in Time Out!

And last, but not not least...how cool is it to travel more than an hour from home just to run into good friends from the neighborhood? I LOVE how our paths always cross in the most unique ways.

Fabric Frame Instructions and GIVEAWAY!

You have patiently waited... it's time to roll up your sleeves and create your very own fabric frame.

First you'll want to gather:
Unfinished Wood Frame (our rim measures about three inches across)
Fabric (enough to completely cover the frame)
Black Paint (spray paint or brush on)
Decoupage Glue (we recommend Mod Podge - Matte finish)
Wide Foam Brush
Razor
Sandpaper
Sanding Block
Distress Ink
Distress Chalk

Step 1:
Paint all the edges of the frame. We find that spray paint works great, especially when you're painting several frames at the same time. Over-spray typically doesn't affect your final project since you're covering the frame with fabric. Just be careful if you're using a light-colored fabric. Let the paint dry.

Cut your piece of fabric to be slightly larger than the frame.

Step 2:
Use the wide foam brush to apply an even coat of decoupage glue to the front of the frame. Be sure that the coverage is equally applied to all areas of the frame. The trick here is to not use too much glue, though not enough will cause the fabric to lift.

You'll need to work quickly since the glue will start to dry. Once all the glue is applied, pick up the cut piece of fabric and place it over the frame. We typically start in one corner and move in a clockwise position to make sure that fabric properly covers the entire frame. Try not to reposition the fabric more than is necessary. Smooth the fabric into place rubbing out any air bubbles that might appear. Rub your finger along the edges of the frame to ensure proper adherence.

HINT~ Be sure to lay your frame in front of you in its upright hanging position. This will allow you to properly place the fabric.

Step 3:
Let the glue completely dry. Use a razor to cut off the excess fabric around the outer edge of the fabric. It will cut easily if you hold the excess fabric taut while running the razor blade against the wood frame. Cut out the center in a similar fashion. Start in one corner by feeling the edge of the frame with your finger and creating a small incision with the blade. Once the hole is large enough, you'll be able to hold the fabric tight while continuing to cut away the excess fabric.

Step 4:
Sand all the edges of the frame. We like to use a sanding block (it saves the hands). Just wrap a piece of sand paper around the block and your sanding block will last longer. It is helpful to place the frame over a sink or between two tables especially when sanding the center of the frame. Always sand away from the fabric. If you're sanding the outer edge, start with your sanding block on the edge of the fabric. Slide it towards the back of the frame. Don't sand side to side. You'll notice little stray fibers sticking out; keep sanding! The inner corners can be a bit tricky. You might want to use just the sanding block (without any paper) to clean up the inside corners.

Step 5:
Distress the edges. We like to apply a vintage look to everything we make. Our favorite distress ink color for this project is Vintage Photo. You might want to experiment with different colors based on your personal preference and fabric choices. This pad wont fit into the inside corners of the frame. Use a cat-eye (like our favorite Chestnut Roan fluid chalk by Colorbox) to darken the corners.

Hint ~ A Q-tip works great for getting color into the corners of the frame. Rub a little ink color or paint on to the Q-tip and dab on the frame.

Step 6:
All that's left is to apply a a couple coats of decoupage glue and you're ready to enjoy your efforts. Make sure that you let the ink dry before adding glue to the top of the project. If ink streaks into the middle of the frame you can typically pull the brush back to the edge and remove it. As you apply the glue, the distress ink will darken the fabric; this gives instant age to your project and makes the frame look like it's been around for years!

I think I mentioned that I already found a perfect spot for my new frame. Of course, now I want to paint my walls a new shade of teal. Considering that I never finished the paint job that I started two years ago (maybe it was three) I doubt I'll attempt this room!

Now for the important stuff...
Who wants to win one of these beautiful frames? I bought enough fabric to make the winner their own frame. They can pick either size (we offer sizes with a 12x12 and 8x8 opening). Just add a comment (including the size of the frame that you want) to this post and we'll pick a winner late Wednesday night and post the winner's name on Thursday.

Best of luck to you!

Coming Soon!

Yes, I know that I promised several of you the instructions for making our fabric frames. I thought I'd have time to get this posted before taking off for my Time Out for Women event. Once again, my 'to do' list was much longer than my available time to accomplish said tasks. I was able to get my hands on a few yards of the fantastic teal/brown fabric that was voted most favorite at Swiss Days. I whipped up another frame using this darling fabric. (This one is going to look PERFECT in my kitchen!) The pictures are all taken. Now I have to decide between the clearing the cobwebs in the 'ol brain long enough to write up the process, or catching 4-5 hours of sleep before the kids need their mother to shoo them out the door for school. Sorry guys, bed won!

I pinkie-swear that I will share every last detail (of how to make this frame --of course!) before the weekend is over!

And, because I hate to break a promise, I'm going to make it up to one lucky reader. How about the chance to win your own vintage frame in matching fabric? The winner can choose between our 12x12 or 8x8 size. I personally think our Old Clock Memory Calendar looks like it was made for this fabric!

Check back on Sunday...or Monday to learn how to make your own frame. Be sure to leave a comment if you want the chance to win. We'll pick a winner on Wednesday.

Oh, and please think happy thoughts for Suni and I. It's going to be a BUSY weekend!

And the Winner Is....

We are excited to announce the winner of our Family Tree 3-Dimensional Tree Giveaway! Thanks to ALL the people who made their way to our Swiss Days booth and showed their support and excitement for our products. You made the hard work leading up to this event well worth it!

TRACY LASSCHE will receive the box filled with everything needed to create her own fabulous tree. Watch for an email Tracy so we can get your kit on its way to you!

For those who ordered their own tree kit; start gathering pictures! Your kits will arrive in the next couple of weeks. Check back as we'll share how we made our ornaments later this week. Right now we're enjoying a few minutes of well-deserved R&R with our families!!

Swiss Days Countdown

Is it possible that Swiss Days is exactly one week from today? Where has the summer gone? For that matter, where has the last year gone? We are looking forward to September 4-5 and have been working hard getting ready for this amazing event. We can't wait to hear what you think of our new projects. We have just about put all of the finishing touches on the many one-of-a-kind, just-for-Swiss Days products that we're also excited to share.

As an extra enticement, we're giving away one of these brand-spanking new Wire Tree Kits. This beauty retails for over $100, but one lucky visitor will take it home for FREE! The 3-dimensional ornament holder is over two-feet in height. We'll set you up with enough wood blocks and needed supplies to comfortably fill your tree. Our tree currently holds twenty block ornaments... each ornament displays four pictures. That's 80 stories begging to be told! It makes a POWERFUL statement!!

We know that it has been a tough year for many! Everyone has their own opinion of how to get the economy back on track. While we can't offer any Cash for Clunkers or other trade-in deals, we can provide a discount coupon that will let you pick up one item in our booth for a 30% savings. Christmas is right around the corner and we think this is a perfect way to put you in the gift-giving mood!

Ladies Night

Each year during the LDS General Conference, Deseret Book Company hosts a Ladies Night. It's held Saturday evening while the men attend the Priesthood session of Conference. We found this picture of October '08's Ladies Night in the Fort Union store on the web. That's Suni in the lower left corner! If you've never attended a L.N. here's a couple things to keep in mind:

1. You gotta be a lady! We've seen a few of the male species, but they are typically accompanied by their mothers.
2. Don't be late! This is a busy day and we are always cutting it close by arriving 30 minutes before starting time. By then lines have formed for the freebies and don't even think about parking close to the store!
3. You have to go home with something! We know...we're in a recession, but with everything in the store on sale, it's ok to pick up an item or two for that upcoming birthday or holiday gift.

We will be at the Ft. Union location of Deseret Book from 6pm - 8pm Saturday, April 4th. And new for this year, we will be at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building ALL DAY on Saturday!!

If you can't get over to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, we'll also be at the Church History Museum doing demonstrations throughout the day as well.

We would love to meet you and hear what you think of our new products. Stop by and say hi!

Giveaway!

Another giveaway is in full gear! Head on over to Elegance Redefined for the details. You've got a week so get on it! (And get 5 extra entries when you blog about it.) Who doesn't love free stuff?! (And the chance to win our newest product!)

Thanksgiving Giveaway Winners!

Did you note the plural use of WINNERS? We only had a few contestants so we say EVERYONE's a winner!

If you left a comment for last week's drawing send us a note at http://www.mythoughts@storiesbyme.com/ and let us know your preference of the Thanksgiving tins. (Pick between Turkey Boy and Pumpkin Girl) Be sure to tell us where to ship your prize so we can get it to you right away!

Here's who we're looking to hear from:

elizabeth

nana sue

trent

and janis

Thanks for taking the time to send us your comments. We're not done playing. Christmas is right around the corner and our Vintage Christmas tins are every bit as cute as the Halloween and Thanksgiving collections. Check back soon.

Random Giveaway: Thanksgiving Vintage Tin

Why not? We had such a great time hearing from you during our Halloween giveaway that we thought we'd do it again. These tins have been very popular and we think you'll enjoy displaying one in your home or office. Each tin measures 8x8 inches and includes two hand-finished magnets. These sweet images were once featured on Victorian era greeting cards and they are a great reminder of simplier times.

Here's how the giveaway works: Leave a comment on this post before midnight on Thursday, November 6th. We'll choose a random visitor and post the winner on Friday the 7th. The winner will be able to choose one of the above Thanksgiving Vintage Tins. Best of luck...we look forward to hearing from YOU!

We have a WINNER!

Thanks everyone for participating in our Vintage Tin random giveaway. We loved reading your comments and look forward to hearing from you in the future!

Thought it would be fun to pick an extra winner, so not one but two of you get to contact us at www.mythoughts@storiesbyme.com to determine your Halloween Tin preference. (Pick between Halloween Witch and Scared'y Cat.) Be sure to tell us where to ship your prize and we'll get it in the mail pronto!

Drum roll please..........................
and the WINNERS are:

sharee72 said...

I love these products. I was thinking of making a box to put all the extra buttons in and wow here it is on the blog. I'm so excited. It will be so much fun for the kids to learn their family lines.

Niki said...

What a fun and unique way to showcase your craft business! I'm new to your blog and plan to be a frequent flyer!

If you didn't win this round, have no fear! Thanksgiving is right around the corner and our Thanksgiving Tins are every bit as cute as the Halloween variety!!

Thanks for visiting!

We are moments away from picking a winner in our first, of what we hope will be many, giveaways! A special thanks goes out to each of you who shared your thoughts about our products and your own passion for preserving memories. Recently, we heard a simple statement that eloquently defines our mission

"There is no tomorrow to remember if we don't do something today." ~ Thomas S. Monson

Life is amazingly full of things to remember. Together, let's explore ways to make remembering a reality! We might not do it all, but we can all DO SOMETHING.

Here's a little something to remember... you have until midnight tonight to add your comments to the list. Tomorrow, we'll post not one...but TWO WINNERS!

Random Giveaway: Halloween Vintage Tin

That's right - we're giving away one of our Halloween Vintage Tins. The tin measures 8x8 inches and includes two hand-finished magnets. The Holiday series feature vintage greeting cards from the Victorian era. We would love to hear your thoughts on our products so tell us what you think!

Here's how it works: Leave a comment on this post before midnight on Tuesday, October 14th. We'll choose a random visitor and post the winner on Wednesday the 15th. The winner will be able to choose one of the above Halloween Vintage Tins. Good Luck!

Watch for more random giveaways in the next few months - keep checking back!

Yeah, we know...you can't find these tins on our website. We have been sooooo very busy trying to fill orders that we've not had time to put our own house in order (literally, not just figuratively!). We hope to have this fixed soon. There's another reason to check back!