tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48420000865332909172024-03-13T15:53:12.598-06:00"Dabling" in DigitalThis blog is to assist you by sharing tips for Memory Manager and Storybook Creator Plus, photo tips for taking better pictures, and to keep you updated with whats new. Along with personal stories of whats going on in my life.
I am also available to assist you with your goals to get your photos preserved, safe, archived, and to get them from the computer back into your life, so you can enjoy them while your actually living.
I mean....that's why we take photos...right?Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-10575369452412086822010-03-08T22:17:00.002-07:002010-03-08T22:17:58.705-07:00Digi-Know Newsletter<strong><em>Question of the month:</em></strong><br />
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How do I ensure my StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0 project will not lose anything important when it's trimmed? <br />
<div></div><br />
<ol><li>Click the View tab.</li>
<li>Select "Trimmed View" under the Preview Section. This will remove 1/4-inch from all sides of the project.</li>
<li>Pay close attention to the edges before your order is placed. </li>
<li>On custom projects, keep all elements at least 1/2-inch from all edges.</li>
</ol><strong><em>Coupon Code Reminder</em></strong><br />
<br />
Come see why everyone's talking about Creative Memories photo books. And remember to redeem your $39.95 coupon code toward the purchase of a Hardcover StoryBook before it expires!<br />
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<em><strong>Softcover StoryBook Sale</strong></em> <br />
<br />
Create a one-of-a-kind 7x5 photo book and take $5 off when you place an order!<br />
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<em><strong>Upgrade and Save</strong></em> <br />
<br />
This month, save $10 when you upgrade to StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0 Software.Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-45817020358621302372010-01-06T22:25:00.001-07:002010-01-06T22:25:48.048-07:00This is the year to“Focus on Photos”<p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/S0VwWbtt70I/AAAAAAAABJs/LHSTsfcA6bU/s1600-h/focus%20logoCrop%20copy%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="focus logoCrop copy" border="0" alt="focus logoCrop copy" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/S0VwWzNpotI/AAAAAAAABJw/P5_kSJYqTgM/focus%20logoCrop%20copy_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="326" height="231" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p>Tough times usually brings with it perspective. It's time to begin remembering what is important in our lives and honoring them. Lots of us say we couldn't live without our pictures. I know for me my pictures helps me remember the good,  it saves my sanity from trying to remember every little moment, and brings me so much joy. </p> <p>There are always cons that come with everything. Digital has been an evolving era that keeps changing. Which means that we have to try to keep up, and with the endless possibilities with our digital files, its gets overwhelming. The past is also not forgotten, a lot of us still have printed pictures and film that we still have in boxes. They are not less important because the aren't sitting on a hard drive. All our pictures are important and deserve to be looked at and remembered. </p> <p>If this is also on your mind and in your heart maybe I can help. I have a personal mission to Focus on Photos this year. I take near to ten thousand pictures a year, including my personal and family pictures. That's a lot to edit and keep up on, and sometimes my personal photos get pushed back. So I am motivated to get MY photos in albums and books.</p> <p>There are many different styles and different process's to achieve these goals. I am offering a Free Focus on Photos introduction Class. We will go over the different types, styles, and ways to get our pictures into albums and books (including organizing) Then there will be different workshops available to sign up for to help you follow through with your goals. For additional information and a full schedule <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/my-files">Click Here</a> .  Contact me at <a href="mailto:spdabling@msn.com">spdabling@msn.com</a> to register for any workshops.</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-26629105270567318232009-12-12T08:58:00.001-07:002009-12-12T08:58:29.895-07:00Votes are IN!<p>Ok so I had a few of you comment that you would like to see me continue and some of you cancelled your subscription. SO….</p> <p>I think I will give it another chance and re-invent it, which means maybe more photography and “other” digital tips and still some tips using CM products. I am actually thinking of re-designing the layout too, so give me a month and lets see what happens :)</p> <p>Thanks for all your support, I wasn’t even sure you were still out there :)</p> <p> </p> <p>Hugs</p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-50940480941627828292009-12-06T21:56:00.001-07:002009-12-06T21:56:39.253-07:00MIA<p>Sorry I have been MIA here. Ever Since <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/">Creative Memories started their own blog</a>, (and it is way more awesome than mine) I can’t really compete, so I am not!</p> <p>Please Check out the Software Solutions and Ideas and All about images….well check them all out! You can also subscribe to them too.  I think that it might mean an end to this blog, or I might just have to re-invent it. What’s your vote?</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-80524806040659613472009-11-02T17:07:00.001-07:002009-11-02T17:07:10.711-07:00New Creative Memories Digital Center<p>Starting Nov 1 the photo center was replaced with the NEW, Revamped, and totally awesome Digital Center!! </p> <p><a href="http://digital.creativememories.com/Pages/default.aspx">Click here to go to the New Digital Center</a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/Su90KkBQsTI/AAAAAAAABFc/uV5Usbh2_FU/s1600-h/image%5B4%5D.png"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/Su90LTjf7PI/AAAAAAAABFg/Ahvlfgn7Qbs/image_thumb%5B7%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="383" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>This is a beautiful website!!! BTW November is a great month for Savings from the Digital Center.  Click <a href="http://digital.creativememories.com/Pages/SpecialOffers.aspx">Here</a> to see Special Offers!!!</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-55200796992716813572009-10-19T09:36:00.001-06:002009-10-19T09:37:55.850-06:00New Creative Memories Digital Scrapbook Calendar<p>Tech Tips, New Product Review</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHanmUKTI/AAAAAAAABEw/Fp5JLng80yg/s1600-h/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a644b1b0970c%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="365" alt="6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a644b1b0970c" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHbTobYpI/AAAAAAAABE0/whfoesC9ZQI/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a644b1b0970c_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="261" border="0" /></a></p> <p>I am so excited about this NEW product! You can download free templates for this from my site <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=productlocales&eventId=271&productGroupId=11029&categoryId=&categoryIdParm=%7C266%7C270%7C&pageTitle=Free+Downloadable+Themes&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=271">HERE</a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=productlocales&eventId=271&productGroupId=11029&categoryId=&categoryIdParm=%7C266%7C270%7C&pageTitle=Free+Downloadable+Themes&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=271"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="196" alt="147143-2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHcM694tI/AAAAAAAABE4/-5QLbIIF62M/147143-2%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=productlocales&eventId=271&productGroupId=11029&categoryId=&categoryIdParm=%7C266%7C270%7C&pageTitle=Free+Downloadable+Themes&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=271"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="196" alt="147143-1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHcmKEIWI/AAAAAAAABE8/5fSsauhZxs4/147143-1%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>These are available for purchase through the CM photo center available November 1, 2009 for 20.99! What you need to know is that this is a 12x18 Calendar with the image area being 12x12. Now the really cool part about it is that the calendar tears off and then you have a 12x12 scrapbook print!!! </p> <p>Dr. Mark Mizen Blogged about this calendar and you can read his post <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/all_about_images/2009/10/give-the-perfect-calendar.html">HERE</a></p> <p>And this is a great Tech Tip Post from the Creative Memories blog too. Here is the <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/software_solutions/2009/10/calendar-templates.html">LINK</a> but it is also copied below.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/software_solutions/2009/10/calendar-templates.html">Calendar Templates: Defining your time</a></strong></p> <p><em><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHdI5SLGI/AAAAAAAABFA/bprCEKckuKw/s1600-h/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31ed1970b-800wi%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="266" alt="6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31ed1970b-800wi" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/StyHdrPNiII/AAAAAAAABFE/vVZLXgeJESc/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31ed1970b-800wi_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="396" border="0" /></a> </strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>tem•plate:</strong> A pattern or gauge, such as a thin metal plate with a cut pattern, used as a guide in making something accurately. <br /></em></p> <p><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e320a5970b-pi"><img title="Corinne" alt="Corinne" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e320a5970b-800wi" border="0" /></a> Wow. I made my first calendar pages this week. At first thought it was going to be cool to show you how you can drop in 12 x 12 pages or Page Prints you've already done into the calendar templates. However, that doesn't even begin to scratch at the surface of what you can do with the new calendar templates. </p> <p>You can: <br />• import completed pages as photos and just drag and drop (or, you can copy/paste from another SBC+ file if you still have items you want to change) <br />• start from scratch and create something new <br />• make any photo or paper the background of the calendar <br />• change the calendar style <br />• change any month to a new month (switch January to July without starting over) <br />• change the color of anything in the calendar, change the fonts <br />• add photos, embellishments or text to any cell on the calendar</p> <p>I discovered all kinds of versatility within the template. Check out the screen shots below to see some of the great things you can do with calendars. </p> <p><em><strong>cal•en•dar tem•plates:</strong> a starting point, a guide to making your calendars just the way you want.</em></p> <p><em> <br /></em></p> <p><strong>Insert your already completed pages</strong></p> <p><em><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31b45970b-popup"><img title="Anypageascalendar" height="255" alt="Anypageascalendar" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31b45970b-800wi" width="381" border="0" /></a> <br /></em></p> <p>1. If you haven't already, save your pages as 300 dpi jpgs. From your calendar project, click on Get Photos. Import pages you want to use as photos.</p> <p>2. Drag and drop on to calendar template. Size to fit the upper portion of the template.</p> <p><em> <br /></em></p> <p><strong>Change the style of the calendars & adding a photo as your background <br /></strong></p> <p><em><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a6399636970c-popup"><img title="Claudia_calendar_1" height="250" alt="Claudia_calendar_1" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a6399636970c-800wi" width="392" border="0" /></a></em></p> <p>1. It doesn't get much easier than this. Right click on the calendar grid to see the pop up menu. Go to "Use a different Calendar Style", choose your favorite from the pop up window. </p> <p>2. Adding the photo as a background is amazingly simple too. From the content menu, choose your photo, right click and choose "Make background". That's it. (You can do this with paper too!)</p> <p>3. Just like any StoryBook page you create, you can add any embellishments or type you like.</p> <p><strong>Personalize the calendar grid</strong> <br /><em></em></p> <p><em><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31e2c970b-popup"><img title="Claudia_calendar_2" height="254" alt="Claudia_calendar_2" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a5e31e2c970b-800wi" width="400" border="0" /></a> <br /></em></p> <p>1. Right click the calendar grid, choose "properties" from the pop up menu. From this menu, you can change colors, fonts, spacing and more as it applies to the calendar grid. (see screen shot below)</p> <p><em><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a63996e8970c-popup"><img title="Claudia_calendar_2a" height="253" alt="Claudia_calendar_2a" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a63996e8970c-800wi" width="400" border="0" /></a></em></p> <p><strong> <br /></strong></p> <p><strong> <br /></strong></p> <p><strong>Cells within the calendar</strong><em> <br /></em></p> <p><em><a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a6399726970c-popup"><img title="Claudia_calendar_final" height="251" alt="Claudia_calendar_final" src="http://blogs.creativememories.com/.a/6a0120a5490d2f970b0120a6399726970c-800wi" width="400" border="0" /></a> <br /></em></p> <p>1. Drag and drop an image or an element into any cell within the calendar. Or, right click the calendar grid and choose "Edit Calendar Cells" to add text or make other changes to the individual days of the month.</p> <p>When you're all done creating your own unique and fabulous calendar grid, you can sample the grid and apply the same features to any other grid in your project.</p> <p>Posted by Corinne Skoog on 10/13/2009 at 07:39 PM in <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/software_solutions/software-tips-tricks/">Software Tips & Tricks</a>, <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/software_solutions/storybook-creator-plus-software/">StoryBook Creator Plus Software</a> | <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/software_solutions/2009/10/calendar-templates.html">Permalink</a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-1406594105631444912009-10-06T21:48:00.001-06:002009-10-06T21:48:02.271-06:00How to Create Your Own Embellishment Files in SBC+ 3<p>Tech Tips</p> <p><a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/digital-scrapbooking-tips-techniques/">This  tip came from the project center...</a></p> <p>From the Welcome screen click on the Manage my content Icon. </p> <ol> <li>The Content Ribbon displays. </li> <li>Select the folder where the new content will be stored. </li> <li>Next create a new package in the folder to import your content to. </li> </ol> <p><strong>Packages <br /></strong>You can create your own personal library of favorite elements, including papers, embellishments, shapes, edges, corners and colors. You can save free art, art you personally created, or single elements saved from your projects or created elsewhere. All of your saved and created items need to be stored in a package. </p> <p>To create a new package, click Create on the Content panel. Then from the pop-up menu, select Create user content package. The Create a new package dialog displays. Enter a name for your new package and choose a folder to put it in. Your new package is now displayed under the My Stuff folder. To import items into your new package click on it then select the embellishments Icon in the Get from file section. The Get Images from folders dialog box displays. Browse to the appropriate folder. Next select the images you wish to import. For this example we are choosing two images and will then click on Get selected images. The images are now imported and display in the Content manager section ready for you to use</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-63853607795130368542009-09-22T15:48:00.001-06:002009-09-22T15:48:41.897-06:00"How did they do that?"<p>Tech Tips</p> <p>Have you seen the new Fall/Winter Catalog? They have beautiful layouts in there! If you want step by step instructions they have them on the <a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/2009-fallwinter-catalog-projects/">Project Center!</a> </p> <p>Also check out the <a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/digital-freebies/">freebie section</a> for little embellishments used on some of the layouts</p> <p>Here are some of my favorite layouts...</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a59173e8970c-popup"><img alt="You are my sunshine - Page 074" src="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a59173e8970c-350wi" /></a> Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>StoryBook Creator Plus 3 Software </li> <li>Cottage Garden Digital Kit </li> <li>Digital Freebie Cottage Garden Flower Border (<a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/2009/08/digital-freebie-cottage-garden-flower-border.html">click here</a> to download) </li> <li>Font - Clingy 26 pt. </li> </ul> <p>How to Create:</p> <ol> <li>Create a new 12x12 project. </li> <li>Add photo to background. </li> <li>Add second photo to page and use the custom cutter to cut out around the person. Use the blur feature to blur the edges and make them blend with the background photo. </li> <li>Add ribbon 1 to each edge of the page leaving just the blue scallop edge showing on page. </li> <li>Add digital freebie Cottage Garden Flower Border to bottom of page. </li> <li>Add corner 1 to each corner of page. </li> <li>Create text box and journal. </li> </ol> <p><a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a504997f970b-popup"><img alt="Cg1_already1 - Page 001" src="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a504997f970b-350wi" /></a> Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>StoryBook Plus Digital Software </li> <li>Cottage Garden Kit </li> <li>Digital Embellishments Cottage Garden </li> <li>Fonts used: Georgia Ref </li> </ul> <p>How to Create:</p> <ol> <li>Create a new 12x12 project. </li> <li>Add Paper15 to background. </li> <li>Next add GreenButterflyCard to the background and expand it to it is much wider and stretches across the page as shown. Give it a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Place two photographs onto the layout, both with a red mat with the width of three next to one another. </li> <li>Add FlowerPaperClip to the left top corner of the green card as shown. Give it a heavy shadow and using the green circle when you right click on it, tilt it a bit. </li> <li>Add the EpoxyTag to the page and resize it to 1.79. </li> <li>Copy and past the tag 6 more times. </li> <li>Place each tag at the top of the layout with half of the circle off of the page to make a scallop border as shown. </li> <li>Give each a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Add FlowerSwirl above photographs. Tilt it so that it is level and give it a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Add Ribbon1 across the layout just below the photographs as shown. Give it a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Create a text box inside the ribbon and add journaling. </li> <li>Add LiveLaughLove embellishment to the right of the photographs. Give it a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Add flower embellishments to the right bottom corner of the photographs. Give them a heavy shadow and layer them. </li> <li>Add StitchButterfly1 to the bottom of the layout three times in three different sizes. Give them all a heavy shadow and tilt them so that it looks like they are flying around the flowers. </li> <li>Add eyelet embellishments to the centers of some of the flowers as shown. </li> <li>Add Button1 to a couple of the flower middles as shown. </li> <li>Add Ribbon2 to the bottom of the layout, letting half of the ribbon extend off of the page. Give it a heavy shadow. </li> </ol> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrlGNZSiB5I/AAAAAAAABEo/Klroi9_bu8I/s1600-h/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a5910d6b970c-400wi%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="362" alt="6a00e54f77ee1388340120a5910d6b970c-400wi" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrlGOJtxxyI/AAAAAAAABEs/fFud-UaQF3Q/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a5910d6b970c-400wi_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>StoryBook Creator Plus 3 Software </li> <li>Black & White Digital Power Palette </li> <li>Font Used - Mia's Scribblings (dafont.com) </li> </ul> <p>How to Create: <br />Drop paper #4 in the Background.</p> <p>Drop in Photo and enlarge.</p> <p>Under the "Format Photos" Ribbon Apply the Soft Edge (note: be sure to use the drop down menu, there you will locate two options - frames and cutouts.  The Soft Edge is found under "Cutouts".</p> <p>To further the softness of the photo go to the Format Ribbon and under Filters select the "Soften Edge" filter you can slide it all the way to 100% if you still find you need to soften more go back in to the same filter and apply it for a second time and it will apply even more softness. <br />(this will allow the background paper to appear as though it is penetrating through the photo!</p> <p>The next step is to draw portions of the background paper to the forefront... <br />To achieve this look you will go to the "Cut and Fill Ribbon" and select the background paper. <br />(be sure to unlock the background paper first or it will not allow you to select it)</p> <p>Once you have the paper selected and opened the cut and fill ribbon you will select the "Wand Tool" <br />(you can leave both of the sliders at 50%) <br />Then start selecting portions of the paper in the white border (if you click on the black it will select too much and it will not work) just keep clicking on the white swirl etc... and then click on "COPY the selected area".</p> <p>Now you will have a portion of the background paper that you can "overlay on top of the photo"</p> <p>TIP:  if you happened to select a little too much and it is conflicting with the image in your photo just select the "overlay" you have just created and go BACK to the cut and fill ribbon - click on an Oval or Rectangle shape and cut away the portion that is covering your photo!!  works like a charm!</p> <p>The bursts were cut out from Paper #1.  I used the wand tool once again... zoomed up on one of the bursts and began wanding it out.  Once you have one burst you can change size, color, copy, paste etc... so all you need is one.  In this case I made one larger and changed the color to white and one black which is small and sits in the center of the white burst.  I have one in the upper right corner and one attatched to the piece of ribbon at the bottom close to the center of the layout.</p> <p>For the snippet of ribbon I used Ribbon #7 I shrunk it down quite small and applied the Soften Edge Filter to it so that it faded out on both sides (under the "Format Ribbon" you will locate Filters and in that category you will find Soften Edge).</p> <p>For the title "Beautiful" go to the "Insert Ribbon" and select the "FANCY" text, use your drop down menu, choose "Select a different alpha set" and locate your Black and White Alpha Set!  Then type your title!</p> <p>To change the size and color of the individual letters just select the title - right click and choose "ungroup".  Now your letters will be individual elements... you can then adjust size, color etc... I adjusted the color to take on a brown/taupe color and the applied a "Cord" surface to them (find "Surfaces" under the Format ribbon next to FIlters.</p> <p><strong>Tip</strong>:  You will NOTICE under SURFACES that YOU NOW HAVE two options "Scale Texture" and "Amplification".  Play with the NEW ampification feature as it will "amplifty" the appearance of the textures quite considerably if you desire!</p> <p>Beneath the Word "Beautiful" I added the "Black Flower" and then placed a tiny version of the "White Flower" inside and then scattered a few more around.  </p> <p>The eyelet in the center of the Flowers were created with a small black circle shape filled with a two tone (black and white) gradient (found under the "Cut and Fill Ribbon").</p> <p>One other embellishment I added that is barely noticeable is the "Black Text Flower" - it is hovering in the bottom left corner beneath the snippet of ribbon and the "Beautiful" Title... on top of the photo.</p> <p>All I did was add the flower on to the layout, enlarge it quite significantly so that the writing across the flower would appear quite large and then apply the "Soften Edge" Filter to it so that all you are left with is the writing angled across the bottom left hand side of the photo!</p> <p><img alt="Scrap lift challenge - Page 087" src="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a591b1e7970c-350wi" /></p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>StoryBook Creator Plus 3 Software </li> <li>Discover Baby Boy First Year Additions </li> <li>Discover Baby Boy Arrival Additions </li> <li>Black & White Digital Power Palette </li> <li>Digital Freebie - Circle and Flowers overlay (<a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/2009/08/digital-freebie-flower-circle-overlays.html">click here</a> to download) </li> <li>Digital Freebie - Wavy Frame (<a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/2009/09/digital-freebies-wavy-frames.html">click here</a> to download) </li> <li>Font - Jane Austen 14 pt. </li> </ul> <p>How to Create:</p> <ol> <li>Create a new 12x12 project. </li> <li>Add paper 3 from Discover Baby Boy First Year Additions to background and enlarge paper so the stars do not show. </li> <li>Add black digital freebie circle and flowers overlay to page and then add the red overlay on top and align the flowers so they match up. </li> <li>Add ribbon 8 from Black & White PP to middle of page and enlarge ribbon so it is wide enough to journal on. </li> <li>Place red digital freebie wavy frame to page and then add your photo on top of the frame. Add white wavy frame on top of the picture and give both frames a heavy shadow. </li> <li>Add flourish from Discover Baby Boy Arrival to page and use the custom cutter to cut away the stars. Copy and past three times to have a total of four flourishes. Change two to black and two to red and then place two under the upper left corner of the wavy frame and two under the lower right corner of the wavy frame. </li> <li>Add title "Welcome Baby" from Discover Baby Boy Arrival to the upper right corner and change the color to black. </li> <li>Add text box on top of the ribbon and journal. </li> </ol> <p><strong>This one is my most favorite!!!</strong></p> <p><a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a58fcfd4970c-popup"><img alt="Myfavoritepages - Page 012" src="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a58fcfd4970c-350wi" /></a>  </p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>Storybook Creator Plus 3 Software </li> <li>Cottage Garden Digital Kit </li> <li>Digital Embellishments - Cottage Garden </li> <li>Digital Overlays - Discover Youth </li> <li>Digital Emb.- Office Supplies - Gold </li> <li>Swirly Digital Alpha Set </li> <li>Pet Digital Kit </li> <li>Freebies: Scalloped Paper (<a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/digital/2009/06/digital-freebie-scalloped-paper.html">click here to download</a>) </li> <li>Digital Emb - Sewing Room Stitches </li> <li>Fonts: Aswell, Impact Label </li> </ul> <p>How to Create page 1:</p> <ol> <li>Start with a new 12x12 project. </li> <li>From the Cottage Garden Kit select Paper18 as background. </li> <li>Add the freebie Scalloped Paper as shown and fill with paper8, approximately 4.25 inches from left hand side of your page. </li> <li>Now we need to create a rectangle using the shapes cutter.  This rectangle is 6.45 wide X 8.71 high.  Place on page as shown, approximately 1.5 inches from left hand side of your page.  Change to desired color and add the Block Surface that can be found under the Format tab. </li> <li>Add Ribbon1 from the Cottage Garden Kit Emb. as shown, approximately 2.25 inches from the top of the page. </li> <li>From the Digital Emb-Sewing Room Stitches add four 2_StraightStitches as shown on your blue rectangle. </li> <li>Add DelightYouthOverlay3 from the Digital Overlays-Digital Youth Emb. as shown to your page.  I added extra flowers to my overlay by cutting, copying and pasting some of the flowers from the overlay. </li> <li>From the Digital Emb-Cottage Garden kit add the yellowflower to the upper right hand corner of your photo. </li> <li>To the top of the flower you just added also add EpoxyBrad2, this is found in the Cottage Garden Digital Kit Emb. </li> <li>Using the Swirly Digital Alpha set add your title as shown, flatten the title and fill with Paper11 from the Cottage Garden Kit. </li> <li>You may also add two black rectangles using your shapes cutter and add text boxes, adding journaling using Impact Label. Place on page as shown. </li> <li>Now you can add your photo as shown, this photo measures 6.28 wide X 5.62 high. </li> <li>From the Cottage Garden Embellishments add Corner1 to all four corners of your photo. </li> <li>Add three SilverBrads to page as shown, these are found in the Cottage Garden Emb. </li> <li>Lastly add text box and journaling as shown, for the text use Aswell as the font!! </li> </ol> <p><a href="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a5395cae970b-popup"><img alt="Myfavoritepages - Page 013" src="http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/.a/6a00e54f77ee1388340120a5395cae970b-350wi" /></a></p> <p>How to create page 2:</p> <ol> <li>You can copy and paste most of the elements from page one to page two and arrange as shown. </li> <li>The top photo is 5.88 wide X 4.41 high. </li> <li>Add eight GoldStaples to the edges of your first photo. </li> <li>Add your second photo, 4.26 wide X 3.19 high. </li> <li>From the Cottage Garden Kit right click on Paper5 and select cut out a new shape.  Using the rectangle cutter cut a piece 4.55 wide X 3.45 high and place behind the second photo you added to your page. </li> <li>Use four more SilverBrads to the corners of your second photo as shown. </li> <li>You may add the Crown to your title, this may be found in the Pet Digital Kit. </li> <li>Lastly add the blueprong from the Digital Emb.-Cottage Garden to the upper right hand corner of your blue box. </li> </ol> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-14694789413732359372009-09-18T20:34:00.001-06:002009-09-18T20:34:32.116-06:00Creative Memories has a BLOG!!!<p>News</p> <p>I can't believe it!! I haven't been on Facebook in weeks. I thought tonight I would go and see what was going on and WHAM....I see a post from Mark Mizen with a link and so of course I love links....So I clicked and the Heavens opened up and this <a href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/">site</a> <a title="http://blogs.creativememories.com/" href="http://blogs.creativememories.com/">http://blogs.creativememories.com/</a> and I thought had died and gone to heaven. It looks like this is new this week and it will be amazing!!! I am so excited, I have been preaching blogs to Creative Memories for a year and a half now....(even though my blog is less than a great example) and here I am looking at it on my screen! I cannot contain myself and I knew this was blog worthy asap!! So check it out and keep your eye on it! Great info and such a great platform for us to get even more personal with the staff at Creative Memories home office. </p> <p> </p> <p>Yippee!!!</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-70034785449072993772009-09-15T23:31:00.001-06:002009-09-15T23:31:09.923-06:00Creative Memories Storybook Creator Plus 3.0 new cutting tools<p>Tech Tips</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4AMbroeI/AAAAAAAABD4/XDG-S-js36A/s1600-h/blog%20-%20Page%20009%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="309" alt="blog - Page 009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4AvXHJ4I/AAAAAAAABD8/aqnqa4Fxwbs/blog%20-%20Page%20009_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="390" border="0" /></a>Under the new Cut & Fill tab you will  see new options for cutting and cropping. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4BDLGoyI/AAAAAAAABEA/jh7tLV-drWA/s1600-h/Cut%20and%20fill%5B5%5D.png"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="133" alt="Cut and fill" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4Bgem9TI/AAAAAAAABEE/YK7iOBTSYAQ/Cut%20and%20fill_thumb%5B3%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="396" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Looks about the same, but see all those little arrows, there are some awesome new options there.</p> <p>So lets dive in some more....</p> <p>There are some awesome new options with the straight tool... (pretty self explanatory) </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4Cb0JK2I/AAAAAAAABEI/edJA_KAj6ck/s1600-h/straight%5B4%5D.png"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="406" alt="straight" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4DObyf0I/AAAAAAAABEM/KK5ZLap8Z2c/straight_thumb%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="317" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Of course our standard shapes but the new edition is the custom. And here is my confession, I was never NEVER (at all) good with the wand. This just made my life easier.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4Dn-62dI/AAAAAAAABEQ/mZwzlP4zdLw/s1600-h/custom%5B7%5D.png"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="220" alt="custom" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4EE6PFCI/AAAAAAAABEU/PGwFmtpQU9U/custom_thumb%5B3%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="307" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>so now you can control your cut, point by point! Its amazing!!!!</p> <p>moving on to More...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4E42UYwI/AAAAAAAABEY/9PNp3AT4iqo/s1600-h/more%5B3%5D.png"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="315" alt="more" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4FmhytFI/AAAAAAAABEc/PyE7VKMJ754/more_thumb%5B1%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="390" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>WhoHoo!!! I won't even go into details about what I would go through to get a rounded corner. This is amazing and even more than you see. There are several corners to choose from. And you have the ability to get very creative with this tool. You can choose which corners and the size of the cut. And this also works on papers..etc.! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4GUcrmUI/AAAAAAAABEg/dfTBEluboLk/s1600-h/corner%5B3%5D.png"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="360" alt="corner" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SrB4HDkXecI/AAAAAAAABEk/1k9ghZWrIi4/corner_thumb%5B1%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="395" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Well Creative Memories, I think you have out done yourselves!!! And this is only the tip of the iceberg</p> <p> </p> <p>Now the upgrade is $9.95 for a limited time and then goes up to $19.95! So get going and head over to my <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=subcategories&eventId=11817&productGroupId=&categoryId=&categoryIdParm=%7C267%7C269%7C&pageTitle=Digital+Scrapbooking+Software&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=269">site to get the upgrade</a>!!! (available on a disk or as a instant download)</p> <p><a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Happy Cutting</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-88432336151591798232009-09-11T08:07:00.001-06:002009-09-11T09:06:24.659-06:00Creative Memories DigiKnow Newsletter September 2009<p><font size="1"><em>(This is the Newsletter sent out from the Photo Center. If you don't get this in your email inbox every month, check your account at the Photo Center to sign up.)</em> </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZlRwN_UI/AAAAAAAABCo/NAJ2zf1ewUI/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_03%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="40" alt="DigiKnow0909_03" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZl_QT_sI/AAAAAAAABCs/v9NIVcE-8x0/DigiKnow0909_03_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="370" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0 <br />September is here! And at the Home Office, we've been fast at work readying the launch of <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2005&&&http://creativememories.com/MainMenu/Our-products-and-services/Digital-Scrapbooking/Digital-Scrapbooking-Software/StoryBook-Creator-Plus-3.0-(Full)-CD">StoryBook Creator 3.0</a>. If you thought you loved StoryBook Creator Plus before, get ready to fall in love all over again. Here's a quick look at some exciting new features:</p> <p>• <strong>Decorative Editing:</strong> Twist and wrap text to fit around photos or page embellishments. With the new grid-cutting tool, corner cutters and straight-cutter option, create blended patterned edges. <br />• <strong>Auto-populate:</strong> After selecting photos, you can choose to auto-populate your project with them – a unique smart feature that populates templates based on photo dates and times. <br />• <strong>Spread Editing:</strong> View both pages of a two-page spread at the same time for easier alignment and design.</p> <p>A perfect pair, <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2006&&&http://creativememories.com/MainMenu/Our-products-and-services/Digital-Scrapbooking/Digital-Scrapbooking-Software/StoryBook-Creator-Plus-3.0-(Full)-CD">StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0</a> and <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2007&&&http://creativememories.com/MainMenu/Our-products-and-services/Digital-Scrapbooking/Memory-Manager%E2%84%A2/Memory-Manager-3.0-CD">Memory Manager 3.0</a> give you the freedom and flexibilty to create timeless treasures for all to enjoy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZmd4RrrI/AAAAAAAABCw/gOWRu9S-tD8/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_07%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="203" alt="DigiKnow0909_07" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZm68MiSI/AAAAAAAABC0/HFVV2yy8x40/DigiKnow0909_07_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="370" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZnfziDwI/AAAAAAAABC4/Bukke7CL3-k/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_11%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="25" alt="DigiKnow0909_11" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZn6wAd2I/AAAAAAAABC8/mZquW-r6W0w/DigiKnow0909_11_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>FREE Webinars Available <br />Learn more about how to use StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0 to it’s full potential. With all the great overviews and step-by-step tutorials, you’ll be a pro in no time! Check out the <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2009&&&http://www.creativememories.com/LandingPages/Page?folder=LiveWebinarsSBCPlus">Webinars</a> today!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZoKkVxzI/AAAAAAAABDA/wJ2ZwVbiJ90/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_23%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="12" alt="DigiKnow0909_23" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZomIukwI/AAAAAAAABDE/Ca7iWLWdJjU/DigiKnow0909_23_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="358" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>New Cover Choices <br />Creative Memories book cloth is replacing our current linen and leatherette album covers. The new <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2010&&&http://www.creativememories.com/LandingPages/Page?folder=DigitalInfo/StoryBook">book cloth</a> is available in eight colors, with optional window, for the same great price of $39.95 US/CAN. We think you’ll be impressed with the book cloth’s exceptional durability! <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZpJsUWCI/AAAAAAAABDI/fXXbV7eBOtQ/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_16%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="216" alt="DigiKnow0909_16" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZpp5dfwI/AAAAAAAABDM/tGHannPXUDw/DigiKnow0909_16_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZp5Hd0fI/AAAAAAAABDQ/XK1d7WeXJYE/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_23%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="12" alt="DigiKnow0909_23" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZqcSsynI/AAAAAAAABDU/fusyoLhqzu0/DigiKnow0909_23_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="358" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Black & White Digital Power™ Palette </p> <p>Rich in design and expression, the <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2012&&&http://www.creativememories.com/MainMenu/Our-products-and-services/Digital-Scrapbooking/Digital-Content-Downloads/Digital-Power%E2%84%A2-Palettes/Black--White-Digital-Power-Palette">Black & White Digital Power Palette</a> is a stunning new addition to September's product launch. It’s versatility makes it a great buy for numerous projects. Purchase the traditional system and get a free 28-page idea booklet. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZqzaQSRI/AAAAAAAABDY/Ye0arNGF9J4/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_26%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="155" alt="DigiKnow0909_26" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZrbc4Y2I/AAAAAAAABDc/u3LdeIepR4k/DigiKnow0909_26_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZsIInU-I/AAAAAAAABDg/tzfNsRltjiM/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_32%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="29" alt="DigiKnow0909_32" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZslvqANI/AAAAAAAABDk/H8lBHJT2-_w/DigiKnow0909_32_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="367" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZtDQ6jjI/AAAAAAAABDo/KyG60_P8Mxw/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_36%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="159" alt="DigiKnow0909_36" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZt64PhEI/AAAAAAAABDs/Gycri0uWXKk/DigiKnow0909_36_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="346" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Feeling the Project Pinch? The <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2015&&&http://creativememories.com/MainMenu/Help-Zone">Help Zone</a> offers a variety of solutions for your photo dilemmas. From getting started with digital or traditional to supplemental Webinar training, let the Help Zone be your scrapbook 411. Be sure to check out our new <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2016&&&http://www.creativememories.com/MainMenu/Help-Zone/Videos">videos page</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZudP4f5I/AAAAAAAABDw/uiXJC9xWGtg/s1600-h/DigiKnow0909_45%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="28" alt="DigiKnow0909_45" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SqpZu6BbLKI/AAAAAAAABD0/Sj0LllZYhw4/DigiKnow0909_45_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="370" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Free Stuff on the Project Center <br />Visit the <a href="http://smail01.creativememories.com/track?type=click&mailingid=963&messageid=766&databaseid=986&serial=1229457977&emailid=spdabling@msn.com&userid=6851&extra=&&&2017&&&http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/">Project Center</a> often to download free, fun elements! Check out all the free artwork available now that can be used with any of our digital predesigned pages, Power™ Palettes, kits and more in StoryBook Creator Plus.</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-662468094751515672009-09-11T07:26:00.001-06:002009-09-11T07:26:34.966-06:00Summer, School, and Salsa....<p>Personal</p> <p>Well that pretty well sums it up.....Summer was crazy with the kids home and with the new neighbors next door it was all day play day, some days there would be up to 12 kids over. Then of course school had to come and boy was I ready! Labor day weekend my poor hubby had to get his wisdom teeth out, which happened to be the same time our tomatoes came on and so for about 4 days I was canning salsa.....maybe now I can actually turn on the computer. </p> <p>Sad to say I did not reach my goal of 100 pages. I really thought I would have more time in August, but did not. So I will keep reaching for that goal. </p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-35432974000029335162009-08-03T22:35:00.001-06:002009-08-03T22:35:06.807-06:00Creative Memories Showcase Convention<p>News</p> <p>Last Weekend was CM's Regional Showcase. This is where they release all sorts of new products, revisions, and give all the big news! I wasn't able to make it this year, but I have been scouring the Internet for any info I can find. I will be going to a post-showcase lunch meeting tomorrow, where I will get the scoop. </p> <p>The most exciting is the Storybook Creator Upgrade to Storybook 3.0!!! I have been keeping a huge secret. I have been on the beta testing group for a month or so using and playing with this version!!! Amazing!!!! </p> <p>New Features include....text wrapping, extra matting features, more precise cutting tools, which includes a tearing tool! Direct upload to facebook! Viewing pages side by side! The list goes on!.... expect a more detailed post later this week about all things NEW!!!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-72790892584956850342009-07-28T09:21:00.001-06:002009-07-28T09:21:39.424-06:00A Challenge of Hundreds<p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=9806&uid=109191656111#/group.php?gid=109191656111"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="303" alt="blog - Page 008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/Sm8XgYax-lI/AAAAAAAABCk/6XdI7Doj2c4/blog%20-%20Page%20008%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="393" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p>This is my 100th post!!! So it seems that is challenge is appropriate!</p> <p><strong>100 pages in 30 days!</strong></p> <p>are you up to it?</p> <p> </p> <p>"Accept the challenges so that you feel the exhilaration of victory." -George S. Patton. </p> <p> </p> <p>I finally realized that without a push I won't get much done. So this challenge is as much for me as for anyone else. I know that I am one of those that has a lot of ideas and intentions, but not much action or progress. I am really tired and discouraged that I never actually do much. </p> <p>This summer has been a experiment for me. I have been trying a lot of new things, and the key is that I have been trying to change that feeling of anxiousness and that feeling that begins in the pit of my stomach that says its easier to say no than to try. </p> <p>Well after a low week in June I realized that I needed a change, and I was the only one that could make that change... so starting with a vacation to Lake Powell I decided to start my experiment. It started with the water. I have been quite the baby when it comes to water. I have issues...lets just say its not just water but also what's in the water. So when the first opportunity came I grabbed it. I was going to attempt surfing... fall after fall, I finally got it! Then the next time I graduated to trying wakeboarding! And surprising enough I picked that up easier than surfing, it only took 2 tries and I was up. </p> <p>Crash after crash instead of feeling tired and defeated I felt exhilarated. I may not have been that good at it but I did it. The experiment was as simple as just jumping in! I realized a lot about myself that week. And now it is time to extend that experiment into other aspects of my life. </p> <p>Last post I told about the milestone my daughter is reaching the the change in me that it has caused and this challenge came about as a result. I am more committed to creating life. Through images and words I have felt inspired to explore life and observe it and create something that shows our life. 100 pages and I will have a completed book. 100 pages and my kids will have new memories and a new confidence. 100 pages and I will feel accomplishment and inspiration to spread. 100 pages.....what is 100 for you?</p> <p> </p> <p>What is your challenge? What is holding you back? Do you feel like if your life was a book, would it be a story, would it tell the details of your life, would you have the photos and words to go with it? What is your story? </p> <p> </p> <p>To make it official and maybe get a community effort going I have created a Dabling in Digital Facebook Group. Already posted is this challenge. Join the group, share with us your story. We can share our efforts. Post your pages, post your struggles, post your accomplishments....join.</p> <p><a title="http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=9806&uid=109191656111#/group.php?gid=109191656111" href="http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=9806&uid=109191656111#/group.php?gid=109191656111">http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=9806&uid=109191656111#/group.php?gid=109191656111</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Happy Creating</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-43291105082524972152009-07-27T15:56:00.002-06:002009-07-27T16:52:35.135-06:00The Guilt Trip<p>Random musings</p><p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/Sm4inwDryHI/AAAAAAAABB0/zJXGykbgnXs/s1600-h/JR2G7962%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px" height="263" alt="JR2G7962" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/Sm4iot8YA0I/AAAAAAAABB4/qaZ71kDcqRQ/JR2G7962_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="390" border="0" /></a> </p><p>Just thought I would be a little real today. My eldest just turned 8 and will be getting baptized into our religion. It has begun a guilt trip. As time goes on and I keep taking pictures and putting them on the hard drive and not really getting anything done. I have also noticed lately that my memory is failing more and more. I have been feeling like I am also forgetting the stories that goes with the pictures. They are as important and the photos. </p><p> </p><p>The photos are meant to trigger memories and send us on a walk down memory lane. That thought has got me exploring the why...why is that photo important. Why am I taking the picture and also who is it for? Is it for me or my children, will they remember, will I tell them the story? </p><p> </p><p>My son just said the funniest thing to my husband the other day and I don't want to forget it but I know if I don't hurry and write it down it will be lost with all the other things he has said, or how he got that scar on his knee. </p><p> </p><p>I am finding that life is so hectic and time just goes by and while I'm folding laundry or vacuuming the carpets I realize that I am not taking the time to keep track of what's really important. So I am challenging myself! I am also going to extend that challenge here too. My next post I will announce the challenge and all that goes with it and I hope you will come aboard and take the challenge to remember life!</p><p> </p><p>Just thinking out loud....</p><p> </p><p>Shannon</p>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-91068913772531861612009-07-09T10:51:00.001-06:002009-07-09T10:51:52.898-06:00Written instructions for Downloading<p>Tuesday Tech Tips</p> <p>I have written out instructions for Downloading and Importing Digital Downloads into your software. This can be very helpful. I have also attached a download that you can print off and put in your CD cover or keep it by your computer. If you are a consultant you are welcome to download and just change your information for your customers.</p> <p><b>Digital Content <br /></b></p> <p>The Digital Pre-Designed Pages are great for those that like working with templates. Price for Pre-Designed pages is $7.95 per book design.</p> <p>The Digital Power Palettes, Digital Power Palettes Additions, Digital Power Palettes Kits, Digital Kits, and Digital Embellishments include digital papers, stickers, and/or embellishments so you can create your pages from scratch. They can only be used using the Plus software. Prices are $3.95-$9.95</p> <p>You can also find FREE Downloads that are complete templates.</p> <p>Tip: Visit my Site www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling,</p> <p>Go to Help Zone>Digital>Digital Content to open and view PDF’s of each Digital Kit or Pre-Designed pages.<b></b></p> <p><b>To Purchase Digital Content:</b></p> <p>1. Go to my site <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a></p> <p>2. Go to Go to Shop Products (top bar) > Digital Scrapbooking (left column) > Digital Content Downloads, and you can see from the main page all of your options. Click on each category to see all that is available. </p> <p>3. Click on the Digital Content you want to purchase and add to cart.</p> <p>4. Then View Cart to Checkout</p> <p>(you can sign up and make an account so you can save your information for the next time)</p> <p>5. For rest of the checkout process the site will guide you through it.</p> <p><b></b></p> <p><b></b></p> <p><b></b></p> <p><b></b></p> <p><b>For Free Downloads:</b></p> <p>1. Go to my site <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a></p> <p>2. Go to Shop Products (top bar) > Digital Scrapbooking (left column) > Digital Content Downloads >Free Downloadable Themes</p> <p>3. Click <u>Download now</u> on the desired theme </p> <p><b></b></p> <p><b>Download instructions:</b></p> <p>1. Download the package to your computer or external hard drive <br />2. Open Storybook Creator Plus software <br />3. From the home page, click on “CM Content” in the Art section in the top left corner <br />4. A CM Content box will display the content currently installed <br />5. Click on “Import Package” at the bottom of the box <br />6. In the “Look In” drop-down box, browse to the location where you saved the package <br />7. Double-click on the package. This will begin the install procedure. <br />8. Repeat from steps 5-7 for each package you have downloaded.</p> <p><b>Other Tips:</b></p> <p><b></b></p> <p>Webinars: Go to my Site and Go to Help Zone> Webinars</p> <p>You can view recorded Training Webinars or see a schedule for Live Webinars. These are very helpful for getting the most out of your software.</p> <p>Also Visit the Project Center for all kinds of ideas!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/file/drzjtnyzqmh/CD">http://www.mediafire.com/file/drzjtnyzqmh/CD</a> insert.docx</p> <p> </p> <p>Happy Downloading</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-34658363314661727242009-06-30T22:44:00.004-06:002009-06-30T23:27:26.244-06:00Navigating my web site...Tuesday Tech Tips<br />I know this is going to be short and sweet, mainly because my daughter turns 8 tomorrow and still have a lot to do for her party. But anyway I just wanted to tell you whats available from my site.<br /><br />Getting to know the site:<br />First of all, the top navigation bar will be where you will want to look first.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Home>Our Company>Shop Products>Host a Get Together>Join my Team>Project Center>Help Zone>Host Connection</span><br /><br />When you start on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Home</span> Page you will notice that near the bottom of the page Creative Memories is always updating the NEW stuff that is going on, ex. what deals are going on, projects, inspirations, and more. So check there often because that changes. On the right column it has my name and CM ID. That Id number is what you use when you are at the CM photo Center. That area is where I can update my page and share files....of course non of that is set up yet, but check there soon because I will work towards getting that done.<br /><br />The<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Our Company</span> page has basic Creative Memories info.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shop Products</span> is where you can either purchase products online or view and see what is new. At the top of the left column the first option is New Products, then as the list goes one it categorizes product into section. Spend some time there and browse around. Then its easy to just add to bag. And when you are ready to check out look near the top right corner under the navigation bar there is a View your Shopping Bag link. Once you click that link it will show you what is in your bag. You can sign in or create an account. When you create an account it keeps all your info saved so its easy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Host a Get Together</span> section shows you all the benefits of Hosting a Get together.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Join my Team</span> gives more info on becoming a Consultant like me.<br /><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Project Center</span> is somewhere you really should spend some time! When you click it, it will open a new window where you can click either Digital or Traditional sections. When you click on the Digital section> NEW digital project ideas is updated every few days with full instructions on how to create that look! Awesome! Plus this is where you can download Digital Freebies. I can't even go over all the great info available from this part of the site. You will have to visit it for yourself and see what I mean.<br /><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Help Zone</span> is also a very exciting place to visit too. From the Help Zone>Digital>Digital Content you can view all the PDFs of the Digital Content before you buy or Print and catalog them in a binder for reference. The training webinars are also available from the Help Zone. I challenge all my customers to view two webinars a month. You will learn so many tips and tricks you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner.<br /><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Host Connections</span> is the part of the site for my hosts. Hosts can go into the Host Connection with there password and create guest list, email invitations, and other things to help make your Get Together great.<br /><br />At the Very, Very top Right Corner you can Sign in, View Cart, and Contact Me.<br /><br />Also, down at the bottom-right of the site there is a link to the Photo Center.<br /><br />So thats it....for now.<br /><br />Happy surfing<br /><br /><br />ShannonShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-56256924014012251872009-06-29T21:20:00.001-06:002009-06-29T21:20:28.497-06:00I think I fell off the face of the Planet....<p>Well it could be true if you base it off my blog entries!  I have gotten a little behind, therefore, I totally shove it to the back of my mind and pile even more on top of it. Then when I finally decide to revive myself....I just have to dive it and do it! So here I am diving!!!</p> <p>I think I am going to switch up the schedule though because Monday blogging just doesn't work for me. I usually have to put all my attention on my house from the crazy weekend. </p> <p>So I am thinking I will just keep Tech Tuesdays and add a little note of something on Thursdays or Fridays....we'll see. Maybe just Tuesdays during the summer. But it will feel good to get back on a schedule.</p> <p> </p> <p>So keep coming back!</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-14868115572757409772009-05-03T21:10:00.001-06:002009-05-03T21:10:16.091-06:00Instructions for installing and upgrading to Memory Manager 3.0<p>These are all tips shared from other consultants and our wonderful Tech Support.</p> <p>If you already have Memory Manager 2.0 and you are upgrading you need to take these precautionary steps.</p> <p>1. Open your Memory Manager Vault. (if you have more than one you need to do this with each one, open each vault one at a time and do steps 2&3)</p> <p>2. On the top tab go to Memory Vault>Manage your Memory Vault. Then click on Run Health Check. If their is any thing that needs repair the program will walk you through it and it is really simple. If it is healthy it will tell you nothing needs to be done. Now this is important so that when your running 3.0 all your information will convert over.</p> <p>3. Then you need to make a back up of your vaults. (I am NOT talking about a shadow copy. You need to go wherever your vault is stored and make a copy. This could take over an hour or so to copy depending on how much information there is.  (I get it started and go do something else) Do this for each vault. This is really just a extra safety step, not necessary but advised because your shadow copy for 2.0 will NOT work in 3.0. </p> <p>4. After you have made your back ups it time to install 3.0. Either you have Ordered a <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=productdetails&eventId=1286&productGroupId=&categoryId=260&categoryIdParm=%7C259%7C260%7C&pageTitle=Memory+Manager+3.0+Upgrade-CD&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=-2147483648">Disk</a> or a <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/shannondabling/catalog-index?event=productdetails&eventId=1285&productGroupId=&categoryId=260&categoryIdParm=%7C259%7C260%7C&pageTitle=Memory+Manager+3.0+Upgrade-Download&relatedItem=N&qtyOrdered=&productId=&itemSku=&act=&selectedCategory=-2147483648&itemQuantity=1&itemAddedToCart=true&itemAddedToCartSku=642055">Download</a> from my site (<a href="http://www.mycmsite.com.shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com.shannondabling</a>)</p> <p><em>NOTE: You need to have your serial number from 2.0 to activate your 3.0 upgrade. Either have your original 2.0 case with the serial number on the back OR find your serial number by going into MM 2.0 and go to Help>About</em> </p> <p>If you have a disk just insert the disk and follow the prompts. If you are going to Download a copy you can either save or run right from the link that you click to download. I first clicked on Run, but I also re-visited the link and saved a copy so and made my own disk. Be sure to write down the serial number. You will also get a link to download the user guide. </p> <p>5. Once MM 3.0 is successfully installed you can remove and uninstall 2.0. Once your vault is moved to 3.0 it will no longer work in 2.0!  To remove or uninstall  go to your control panel and go to add or remove programs and find Memory Manager 2.0 on the list and click remove. (these instructions may differ if you use vista) </p> <p>and that's it! Easy Peesy!</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-51183468986167666252009-05-03T11:30:00.001-06:002009-05-03T11:30:23.191-06:00I think I am in Love... with the New Memory Manager 3.0<p>The new features of this program make me want to sing. I seriously had butterflies in my stomach when I was playing with it this morning. Last night I got upgraded right before I went to bed, and this morning I was in heaven.  I really haven't gotten this excited about something since Storybook Creator Plus came out...granted I am sort of geek. (Especially when I go into best buy and run for the hard drives. )</p> <p>But the interface of this new version is beautiful! Its easy to navigate and I love the one click features. Its amazing!!! </p> <p>I *heart* this program</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-73553592904623570552009-05-02T21:42:00.001-06:002009-05-02T21:46:19.091-06:00New features of Creative Memories Memory Manager 3.0<p>top ten reasons to upgrade...</p> <p>1. It's only $9.95 to upgrade! In May and June. But come July it is $15.95. </p> <p>2. It detects duplicates!</p> <p>3. You can now import your photos into any project new or saved to Storybook Creator Plus! </p> <p>4. You can now delete a photo in the edit screen!</p> <p>5. Memory Manager now has the same look as Storybook Creator Plus with the Ribbon menu across the top!</p> <p>6. When importing photos you now have the choice to maintain that file structure you created, now you don't have to start over! </p> <p>7. You can now clone from one photo to another!</p> <p>8. Share with other 3.0 users! It now keeps all your star ratings and tell the story message when you send a image to another 3.0 user!</p> <p>9. You can now quickly change all or a portion of a photo, ex. change a part or all of a colored photo to black and white!</p> <p>10. IT'S ONLY $9.95! (only until the end of June!) </p> <p> </p> <p>The NEW Memory Manager is NOW available at my website <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-188603782955087782009-05-02T13:50:00.001-06:002009-05-02T13:50:28.031-06:00its May?<p>umm where did April go and where was I....I know I didn't sleep through it because it seems like I didn't get any sleep but where did the last 2 weeks go?</p> <p> </p> <p>But today there is a digi National Scrapbook Day on Facebook! I am trying to get some pages done while online at facebook and will be submitting what I get done and then I will post them here too!</p> <p> </p> <p>This <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=540416781&v=feed&story_fbid=82058236781#/event.php?eid=79537308856">link</a> to the event should work! </p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-50419371489380328872009-04-14T20:11:00.000-06:002009-04-15T08:12:00.893-06:00my Anniversary<p>9 years and counting! So I will post Tuesday Tech Tips tomorrow....wow that is a tongue twister :D</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-44661588897536578862009-04-13T22:58:00.001-06:002009-04-13T22:58:19.247-06:00Cute Quotes!<p>Monday Product Review: Digital Expressions</p> <p>Hey guys, sometimes when I am designing pages, the pictures tell a pretty good story and don't need much journaling. But sometimes a little saying or quote would just add that something special to it. If you feel this way too you should check out Creative Memories Digital Expressions. These cute saying and quotes are designed almost like a logo. They use a variety of fonts and design elements. </p> <p>These all run $5.95 from my site <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a></p> <p>These are the newest addition featuring BABY</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SeQX5c0E4CI/AAAAAAAABA0/eEx7kAeu5_c/s1600-h/WCM056216%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="251" alt="WCM056216" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SeQX5wUNEII/AAAAAAAABA4/Mbd8R24M6hY/WCM056216_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="349" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SeQX6A8vf5I/AAAAAAAABA8/8_YIVYqXFko/s1600-h/WCM056224%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="252" alt="WCM056224" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_JmSXa79t4Mg/SeQX6qCyARI/AAAAAAAABBA/G4Qn3qPCZCg/WCM056224_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="349" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Remember to see all the digital expressions in a PDF go to my website <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling">www.mycmsite.com/shannondabling</a> then go to the Help Zone>Digital>Digital Content then scroll down until you see Digital Enhancement category and Digital expressions is the first ones listed.</p> <p> </p> <p>Happy Monday</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4842000086533290917.post-14335379600972887432009-04-13T22:45:00.001-06:002009-04-13T22:45:40.871-06:00I must be Crazy!<p>Do any of you watch Oprah? I confess, I sort of do a little (which means I DVR the episodes and pick and choose which ones I want to watch, late at night, while folding laundry) </p> <p>Well they have been having this series on her show about cleaning up your messy house. So this months challenge was the Home Office. (Which if you saw my office you would know that its going to take more than a month ) </p> <p>SO... I started my project and realized I need to separated my home stuff, like paying bills, etc from my work. I decided that it would be great if I were to put an computer armoire in my dinning room and use that as Control Headquarters. (since the table is where most of the stuff lands anyway.) </p> <p>SO.... I found a used armoire  a local classified website for a reasonable price and went to get it. But now the spot where I want it there is a china hutch. So I decide to list the hutch on the classified site. Which means that I have to clean out my kitchen cupboards to fit the set of dishes and other items the hutch houses. Then I think in my head that it will look so weird to replace that china hutch with such a small armoire. But if I paint the room maybe it won't look so weird. (since this hutch has been in the same place for 27 years, yes I live in my childhood home)</p> <p>SO....I decide on a paint scheme and go to Lowe's and buy paint. The next day I start to prep the walls, spackle and all, and totally dismantle the whole room. I get it all done in ONE day!!! That's not easy on a Saturday with 3 kids. </p> <p>Then, after moving things around I realize that the hutch will work  so now that I have completely emptied it and cleaned it I can now put everything back. </p> <p>But all in all, the dinning room looks great! But wait a minute, the office is still a disaster!</p> <p> </p> <p>Just thought this might make you smile,</p> <p> </p> <p>Shannon</p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15810877312118062538noreply@blogger.com