I’m back with the second part of our Feature Designer post. This one with one-half of Dear Friends Designs, Trina. She finally slowed down enough to “chat” with me.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

Back in early 2007 (yikes, can’t believe that was 10 years ago!) I was pregnant with my second child and making a wedding slideshow for my SIL of her old photos and her hubby to be’s old photos. Was having fun, then started searching for ways to make it fancier and stumbled upon digital scrapbooking! I used to sell Creative Memories, and was only about 4 pages in PAPER scrapbook for my oldest. I was instantly hooked, shortly after sold my paper supplies and never looked back!

What made you decide to design?

It has always intrigued me, I’ve dabbled with different types of designing, and never seemed to be able to leave a template alone and just use it. Got to the point where Colleen & I were both just making our own templates, so we hemmed and hawed and eventually bit the bullet and asked Ginger what she thought – she was so encouraging and excited for us, now its been 2 years! I so wish we started sooner!!

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I use Adobe Creative Cloud. I have been addicted to Photoshop since high school when I learned to use it for yearbook! I create EVERYTHING in Photoshop, fliers, applications, etc., I mean everything!

Describe your design workplace.

Wherever my laptop happens to be!! When we travel in the car, I make hubby drive so I can design and/or scrap. Sometimes in the chair or on the couch. When my back was bad before surgery I’d be laying on the living room floor! Now most often its on a desk right in my living room.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

That its work, that doesn’t feel like work, and I still get to scrapbook! Getting to know other awesome designers, and working with some pretty amazing CT! Also seeing what others create using our templates is motivation to do more! I love hearing back from our customers about how much they love our templates and how they’re perfect for them and easy to use!!

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

Oooh – always tough to choose just one…hmmm….one of my favorites is still our Nifty 50 series! They were so fun to create (and so much work too) but I love all the LOs we get from them. As far as a regular template pack goes – a more recent one would be “My Happy Place” because the name makes me smile, and I love all the banners and different sized photo places!

What was your first job?

Um, good question! Babysitting if that counts, then I worked at a Pet Store, and an Espresso & Eatery, and a cashier at a grocery store, and then in the meat dept of the same grocery store – but I’m not entirely sure on the order of those! heehee!

How many languages do you speak? What are they?

I speak English, and “toddler-ese” (haha, but I’m usually pretty good at deciphering young kid talk!) I know a tiny bit of Spanish, and a tiny bit of sign-language. Wish I could say more!!

What’s your favorite holiday?

All of them! Any time that I can spend time with my family!

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

Not sure we have too many traditions, we’re almost always in different locations for each holiday, so hard to make traditions…

What three things do you think of most each day?

My 4 kids and everything they need for the day.
My never ending to-do list
What my “photo of the day” is!

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

Warning: Hates Mornings!

Is there anything you wished would came back into fashion?

Nothing I can think of off the top of my head – not sure I really follow any fashion things anyway – I wouldn’t say I’m trendy like that – I just like to be comfortable! hahaha!

Do you collect anything?

Not really, I have a little collection of rocks from my younger days, oh but I do collect photos! haha! Of my kids and of bugs and wildlife (those are my 3 fave things to photograph!)

If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

Teleporting, flying & wiggling my nose to get the house to clean itself!

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

My family? Losing them would be horrible!

How would your friends describe you?

Depends on who you ask! IDK – ask Colleen?!

If you were a fruit or vegetable, which one would you be?

I’d like to think I’m sweet like fruit, but also pretty hardy like a vegetable. Ugh – IDK! Tough choice!

What would you prefer as a second home: Mountain cabin, beach house, or big city condo?

Mountain Cabin – with a lake haha!

What would you do on your dream date?

Funny – we were just talking about this – and I couldn’t come up with one! Depends on the day, week, month, season! I like to dress up and go out “fancy” but also like to take it easy, or rough it and camp, or go hiking, biking or geocaching, so really depends on the time of the year and my mood! haha!

Thanks Trina!!

Make sure to check out Dear Friends Designs GS Store, FB Page, and FB Group!

They have a sale running in their store until the 30th.

And make sure you are grabbing the daily download from this blog to get the special kit they have put together with Neverland Scraps.

Wow. We’re already a week into April. I should have gotten this posted for you last weekend. I hope everyone is enjoying the new month and the new challenges.

This month our featured designers are Neverland Scraps and Dear Friends Designs. Let’s talk to Wendy of Neverland Scraps and find out a few things about her.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

After I had my middle child, I started seeing people sharing their digital layouts on the crafting board. I asked a lot of questions, saved a lot of tutorials and scrapped my first layout using Word. It was frustrating and shortly after I attempted my first layout, I discovered I had Paint Shop Pro on my computer, which made things a lot easier.

What made you decide to design?

I figured if someone else could create kits, why couldn’t I? I mean I did teach myself to scrap, why not teach myself to design using the same concept. I worked through tutorials, creating myself a kit. When I shared it with my fellow moms, they kept encouraging me. About a month later, I was approached to sell my products in a store and thus began my designing journey.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

Mostly Photoshop CS5. I was using a tablet, but that didn’t make our recent move. I’m still waiting a reimbursement, which until then won’t get replaced. Sometimes I’ll scan items in and extract them, however my printer/scanner also didn’t make the move!

Describe your design workplace.

I have an office, however it’s also the spare bedroom. When family is visiting in town, I try not to use my office to give them space. I have a desk that my father bought for me several years ago. It’s large enough to hold two monitors and my computer tower. I love my set-up. I have a calendar just for digiscrapping/designing with due dates and what not, as well as a single notebook with ideas and other things scribbled inside.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

Seeing people using the product in their own projects. Sometimes how they transform a template amazes me. When I see my kits used, I think of all the love that went in to designing that kit and now it’s shining through on their layout. Definitely the joy comes from the outcome of the product being used!

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

You Are My Sunshine—many know a few years ago I took an extended maternity leave. That said child is also our 9-year miracle child. Since he’s been born, I’ve been singing “You Are My Sunshine” to him every time I rock him. Those days are getting fewer and fewer, since he is now 4-years old, and I cherish that song and the kit because it was created in love for the memory of singing that song, and others, to my son while putting him to sleep at night.

What was your first job?

I was a cashier at a store called Ames, which has been out of business for many, many years!

How many languages do you speak? What are they?

One – English

What’s your favorite holiday?

Valentine’s Day – it’s the day my husband and I were married!

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

We don’t really have any holiday traditions. We used to go to his family for Christmas one year and then my family the next year. However, with this current duty-station, we are too far for visits to either of our families.

What three things do you think of most each day?

1. God, how I’m thankful He allowed me another day on this earth.
2. Family, how I’m thankful they are mine to cherish and to love.
3. Home, how I’m grateful for the many opportunities that God has given our family.

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

Warning – Shy, please leave to self.

Is there anything you wished would came back into fashion?

No, I’m not in to fashion. I am still wearing the same clothes from when my oldest was a baby!

Do you collect anything?

My children collect Precious Moments, but they say it’s my collection! I did buy, as souvenirs, the “You are Here” Starbucks cups from all the parks at Disney, as well as from our time in DC, since my son was born there. But other than that, we move too much to collect needless treasures.

If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

Multiplicity – There are times I need to be in two places at once and it’s hard as a mom to decide what has more value over the other. If there were more of me, I could do more things in a day, without feeling like I had let someone/something down.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

The Bible –The verses are such an encouragement that if I did not have a copy, I probably become a different person, one that would disappoint my Lord and Savior.

How would your friends describe you?

I’m not quite sure and I don’t know if I would want to know!

If you were a fruit or vegetable, which one would you be?

Grape – because they can be both sour and sweet. While I try to be sweet in all that I do and say, sometimes my words/wisdom comes across as sour note to the listener, especially if we don’t see eye to eye. I’m not mean, but I also will stand my ground.

What would you prefer as a second home: Mountain cabin, beach house, or big city condo?

I already live in the mountains and I’m not too fond of the weather that the mountains bring every day. I don’t care for the beach or sand and my children are quite loud to share a condo with my neighboring walls! With that logic, leaves me the big city—if I could have that, can I please go back to Washington, DC?

What would you do on your dream date?

Go out somewhere with money and time not being an issue and I knew the children were being taken care of so I wouldn’t have to worry about them. I’d be game for whatever anyone wanted to share with me, as long as I didn’t have to worry about time, money or the children!

Thanks Wendy!!

Make sure to check out her GS Store, and her FB Fan Group. Also she has a great coupon for you to use this month:

She has also teamed with Dear Friends Designs for this month’s Daily Download.

Welcome to March. This month our Feature Designer is Maggie from Mags Graphics. She was wonderful about answering my questions so that all of you could get to know her a little better.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

I’ve been scrapbooking in some form or another since I was 15 years old. My very first albums were made with construction paper albums, Elmer’s Glue, and quotes from magazines. When I went to my first Creative Memories party, I bought just about everything, ripped apart my old albums, and re-made them in acid-free, lignon-free, Creative Memories products!

In 2001, I became a stay-at-home-Mom. I started learning Paint Shop Pro to make animated graphics and stumbled upon the now-defunct Digital Scrapbooking Place and realized that I could merge my computer skills with scrapbooking!

What made you decide to design?

Once I realized that I could use Paint Shop Pro to make layouts, I wanted to figure out how to make the kits that I needed for my own layouts. Those early “kits” were, honestly, TERRIBLE, but I kept at it, joining small stores to get better and better. I’ve been designing as my “job” since 2009.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I use Paint Shop Pro and CS2 to design. I use MyMemories Suite 8 for my own personal layouts – because it’s fast.

Describe your design workplace.

Why don’t I show you… I have my office in our basement – filled with my favorite NERD TOYS!

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I scrap with the kits I make so I love to be able to know that when my kids look through their albums, that most of the kits in there were created by me.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

I love the “NERD” kits – “Across The Galaxy” is a Star Wars-themed kit, “Wizard World” is a Harry Potter-inspired collection, and “Go! Catch ‘Em All” is a Pokemon Go set!

What was your first job?

Technically, I started babysitting when I was 9 years old. I made most of my spending money babysitting all the way up through high school and college.

How many languages do you speak? What are they?

Just English

What’s your favorite holiday?

Christmas. I could listen to Christmas music and watch Hallmark Christmas movies all year around.

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

I love celebrating Christmas with my family.

What three things do you think of most each day?

My family, my scrap business, and whether I can take nap.

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

WARNING: UNFILTERED!

Is there anything you wished would came back into fashion?

Peg-rolled jeans, and big 80’s hair 😉

Do you collect anything?

Um… Yeah! I’m a HUGE Buffy the Vampire Slayer Fan as well as a fan of Harry Potter, The Walking Dead, Outlander, Orphan Black, etc. I have over 100 Funko Pop characters and was one of Funko’s Fanatics of the week back in November.

IMAGES of my collection:

If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

Telekinesis and I want to be able to fly.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

My cell phone.

How would your friends describe you?

Loyal, quirky, definitely unfiltered!

If you were a fruit or vegetable, which one would you be?

Neither. I’d be dessert!

What would you prefer as a second home: Mountain cabin, beach house, or big city condo?

Mountain House

Thanks Maggie. These answers are just delightful and make me smile reading them.

Make sure to check out her GS Store, her FB page, and her FB group. Also, make sure you are grabbing the daily download from the blog each day. She has a few coordinating packs in the store that go with the daily download.

And – now that you’ve read this far, I have a treat for you. Her store is on sale plus she is sharing a coupon with us.

I hope you have enjoyed getting to know Maggie as much as I have. Happy Scrapping!

Welcome to February. Our Feature Designer this month is Jennifer of Little Rad Trio. She was gracious enough to answer my questions and even provide a little something for you.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

By accident! I bought Element 7.0 at Costco back in 2007 just for the ability to edit photos. It came with a Learn Digital Scrapbooking CD. I only watched the videos to help learn Photoshop and ended up falling in love!

What made you decide to design?

There were certain themed kits that I wanted and couldn’t find. So I started playing around and took some classes on designing.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I used Photoshop 6.0 and Illustrator 6.0. I’m fairly new at Illustrator so I still have lots to learn from that. Occasionally I’ll use a tablet for drawing too.

Describe your design workplace.

I don’t have a typical work space. I do most of my designing anywhere. Have laptop, Will Travel. I also do some occasional designing on my IRL work computer from time to time. Having dual monitors makes a world of difference.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

My favorite thing about designing is seeing people creating beautiful layouts with my products. It is so rewarding when I create something that someone just loves and then creates stunning layouts.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

Historic USA – Civil War kit is still my favorite. I love how the elements turned out and the color scheme is one of my favorites. Plus I’m a sucker for the Civil War history.

What was your first job?

In between my 10th & 11th grade in High School, I spent the summer working at my dad’s insurance business as a file clerk. All I did was file and pull files for the underwriters. Now, I run the place with a staff of almost 50 people and 3 locations.

How many languages do you speak? What are they?

I only speak English. I’ve taken some Spanish classes, but unfortunately I haven’t even come close to mastering.

What’s your favorite holiday?

4th of July! I love the warm summer days, spending time with the family at the beach or on the lake. And I love fireworks and celebrating our Nation’s Birthday!

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

Christmas Eve! We gather at my parents, eat dinner, then we have to sing Christmas Carols before we can open presents. We then start with the kids. Once they are all done, we spend the rest of the evening with the adults opening gifts. Then, we may watch home movies or old time Christmas Movies like It’s a Wonderful Life or White Christmas

What three things do you think of most each day?

My children, my husband and my parents. They are all whole world!

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

WARNING! Needs plenty of sleep, so let her sleep in!!

Do you collect anything?

I used to collect Precious Moments figures. But once I had children, that stopped. However, now that they are older, I might have to start back at it.

If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

There’s so many, I don’t know if I could pick one. Speed was be awesome! Being invisible would come in handy from time to time. Strength would also be a plus. The ability to freeze time would be a benefit too, especially when I have a deadline and I’m running out of time.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

Water! I’ve been addicted to it. I can’t seem to have enough of it! Of course, Water is a necessity, so next I would say the internet. I’m constantly online for a variety of things from designing, shopping, checking the weather or getting directions, etc/etc.

If you were a fruit or vegetable, which one would you be?

Any kind of fruit! Because everyone loves fruit over vegetables!!

What would you prefer as a second home: Mountain cabin, beach house, or big city condo?

Mountain Cabin with a lake. The views would be stunning and so peaceful and quiet. But I would have to have internet!! When I was in high school, my mom painted a picture of a mountain cabin by a lake and this has been my dream place ever since and by far my absolute favorite painting!!

What would you do on your dream date?

There are so many things I could do, that it couldn’t be limited to one. I love the romance with candles and soft music, but I also love doing things like zip lining or ATVing.

Thanks Jennifer!! Make sure to check out her GS Store, her Facebook page, and her blog. Also make sure you are grabbing the Daily Download every day from the GS blog to get all the pieces of this awesome kit.

And, just for reading all the way to the bottom, make sure to take advantage of this great coupon she is offering:

Happy 2017. Hard to believe it’s a new year. With a new year (month) comes a new GingerScraps Featured Designer. This month we are talking to Natasha of Ponytails Designs.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

After my daughter was born I was looking for something quiet to do while baby napped. A friend had tried digital and I thought it was a cool idea. I gave it a try and was hooked.

What made you decide to design?

I’ve always been a creative person and so I thought I’d give it a try. I love the whole process from planning to the actual design work itself.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I mainly use Photoshop CC. I’ve been trying to learn AI but am finding it really frustrating.

Describe your design workplace.

I have a small desk in the kitchen where I set up my laptop. From there I’m fairly central in the house and can keep an eye on my daughter, as well as be a part of whatever else is going on in the house.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I love the creative process.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

My favorite is probably Country Girl. I designed that completely for myself. It reflects who I am and what my life is all about.

What’s your favorite holiday?

Summer holidays for sure. Does that count? lol

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

Our annual summer RV trip we take with friends. We take 2-3 weeks and explore new places and definitely new wineries!

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

Do not attempt to approach in the morning unless coffee has been consumed.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

Coffee, for sure.

How would your friends describe you?

Friendly, warm, welcoming, and always smiling

What would you prefer as a second home: Mountain cabin, beach house, or big city condo?

Beach house for sure. In my dream world I’d have a ranch next to a beach on Maui.

Thanks Natasha!!

Make sure to check out her GS Store, Facebook page, and blog.

Also make sure you are checking out the GS Blog every day to grab pieces of the special kit she is sharing with us this  month.

Welcome to December. It’s time to catch up with our featured designer, Keley Designs and learn a few things about her.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

I started in 2006 to work with my son’s photos. In 2008 I started to create my own kits, I was never without the scrap in my life.

What made you decide to design?

A friend encouraged me to create some freebies and soon I was already creating commercial use products and today I work only with the digital kits.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I use Photoshop, Illustrator.

Describe your design workplace.

I have a desk in my room. I have lots of papers and colored pencils and pens because I like writing, drawing and painting. Besides that, there’s my desktop computer, the printer and some decorative stuff.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I like to see the end result of each job, which starts by choosing the palette and then the theme for each kit.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

My favorite is Pure Happiness Collection.

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

I create kits, today is a great therapy.

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

It was January of 2015 when we were able to travel the whole family. My mother, I, my son, my brother and nephews.

Which is your most cherished childhood memory?

Being able to play in the street, today unfortunately children can not due to violence.

Do you believe in ghosts?

No.

Who is your celebrity crush?

I don’t really have one.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

I never go to Starbucks. It’s not a very common cafe here in Brazil.

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Chocolate with Chocolate Chips

How old were you when you had your first kiss?

18

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I used to be a pessimist, always worrying and complaining about things, even though I thought I was an optimist. Nowadays I think I?m very positive.

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

No.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Chicken with catupiry (soft Brazilian cheese).

If you could give the world one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t judge people. You don’t know what they’ve been through.

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

My mother always wakes me up. LOL

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

Today is to eat sweet. I have cut because of my weight.

What did you want to be when you were small?

Teacher.

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

I do not like household chores … but among these may be washing the dishes.

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

Cooking.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I help the family. Being able to work with what I really love designs without needing a job to pay the bills.

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

The sky and some buildings, I live in an apartment on the 5th floor.

Share your favorite recipe with us.

I love oven noodles.
https://br.pinterest.com/pin/84935142951477526/

Thanks to Keley for answering my questions. Make sure to shop in her GS store and check our her FB page. Also make sure to grab the Daily Download from the blog post each day to get the kit she is sharing with you!

Welcome to November. This month our feature designer is one of our newer designers, Laurie’s Scraps and Designs. I asked her some questions so that you can get to know her a bit better.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

My sister told me about it so I downloaded some freebies and loved it!

What made you decide to design?

I have always been creative. So Designing was just another creative outlet for me.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

PS CS4, Illustrator CS5.

Describe your design workplace.

Desk in the playroom so I can be with my kids too.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I love the color palettes. I love to see how it comes to life with a color palette!

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

It is a tie between Fall Harvest and Fright Night. I love the watercolor elements.

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

Design, and eat chocolate

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

I used to live overseas as a child in Malaysia. So we would travel a bunch while we lived over there. So traveling on that side of the world was amazing!

Which is your most cherished childhood memory?

Playing Hide and go seek in the dark with my family.

Do you believe in ghosts?

No, not really.

Who is your celebrity crush?

I don’t really have one, but if I had to choose, it would be Thor.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

I rarely go there because it is far from my house, but I usually get a smoothie of some sort.

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Chocolate with Chocolate Chips.

How old were you when you had your first kiss?

14? I think?

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Optimist for sure!

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

No. My Mom used to tease my Dad after I became an adult, that I was named after his old girlfriend. Good thing my Mom was an independent woman, because I know she must have liked the name too, or I would be named something else.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Sausage.

If you could give the world one piece of advice, what would it be?

Be nice to everyone, and don’t gossip behind people’s back. It just makes you look bad!

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

Check my emails and Facebook.

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

Ice Cream. I lost about 50 pounds a couple years ago, and I try to not eat it, but I have to sometimes.

What did you want to be when you were small?

Teacher, Lawyer, or a Doctor.

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

VACUUM! I love it, It is immediate satisfaction. I should go vacuum now!

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

Cleaning for sure! When I get designing, I sometimes never have the desire to stop and go clean!

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Buy a new house! And pay Bills!

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

The neighbors…. like the whole street! It is good when I am looking for my kids to come home from school.

Share your favorite recipe with us.

ohhhh, I have so many. But since it is getting cold outside. I will share my favorite soup recipe. You can leave out the cream and sour cream to make it more healthy. ENJOY!

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon canola oil
2 cans (15-1/2 ounces each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

In a large saucepan, saute the chicken, onion and garlic powder in
oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add the beans, broth, chilies
and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for
30 minutes.
Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and whipping cream. Yield: 7
servings.

Thanks so much Laurie. Make sure to check out her GS store, her FB page, her FB group, and her blog. Also, be sure you are collecting each of the Daily Downloads from our blog to get this fun kit she is giving to us this month.

Welcome to October. Our Feature Designer this month is Lori of BoomersGirl Designs. She slowed down a little from the DSD preparations to answer a few questions for me!

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

I wanted a way to preserve the precious memories of my kids so that watching them grow up so fast wasn’t quite as painful. My oldest son is 21 years old and I’ve been scrapbooking since he was a baby.

What made you decide to design?

Although I’ve been a nurse for 25 years now, I had always been blessed not to have to work too much so that I can stay home and raise my kids. I had tried making and selling a variety of items (from flavored lip balms to beaded leather bracelets to soft sculpture dolls) to supplement our income so I could continue to stay home with the kids most of the time. Everything was an epic fail. I finally decided to try my hand at creating my own digital scrapbook kits. It’s been an adventure of continual learning and growth over the past 4 years, but it allows me to be productive while at home, helps provide for our family and gives me a creative outlet.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

PSE 11

Describe your design workplace.

A large desk in our living room with my personal computer that I do all of my designing on.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I have met so many wonderful people from customers to fellow designers to my Creative Team members who I would never have met otherwise.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

That’s tough – I would have to say either “Lords & Ladies” because the medieval time period fascinates me, “Garden of Eden” because it celebrates God and the Bible or “Totally 80s” because that is the decade I grew up in.

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

I like to eat – LOL.

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

We haven’t had the opportunity to take actual vacations because we have a large family (6 kids), a limited budget and several pets. But our favorite family day trip so far has been to Washington DC via the MARC train. Unfortunately, only 4 of our kids (plus the girlfriends of the oldest two boys) were able to come along, but it was so much fun and we can’t wait to go back!

Which is your most cherished childhood memory?

I would have to say that the magic of Christmas was my favorite memory.

Do you believe in ghosts?

I have never personally seen one, so I’m not convinced.

Who is your celebrity crush?

I would have to say Johnny Depp.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

I’m not a Starbucks fan.

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Either No-Bake Cookies or my daughter’s Panera Bread-inspired chocolate chip cookies.

How old were you when you had your first kiss?

Mmmm… 16, I think. It’s been soooo long ago!

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I try to be an optimist, but life gets in the way sometimes.

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

Tabitha. It’s a Bible name that you rarely hear, but isn’t too unusual.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Banana peppers.

If you could give the world one piece of advice, what would it be?

Your kids will grow up way too fast. Don’t waste a single moment with them, because before you know it, they will be teenagers and not want to be seen with you. 😉

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

Alarm clock and coffee.

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

I don’t think I treat myself to any luxuries as I always prefer to do things that our entire family can benefit from and enjoy.

What did you want to be when you were small?

A nurse or a psychiatrist.

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

I’d have to go with vacuuming.

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

Definitely cleaning.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I would quit my job to be able to stay home with my kids full-time and move us into a nice house out in the country (in a better area with better schools). I would definitely spoil all of my kids with the money – even the grown ones. And go on some awesome family vacations.

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

Probably our “mini” potbelly pig destroying the back yard with his all day grazing.

Share your favorite recipe with us.

These are called “Halfway to Heaven Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies” (yep, it’s a long name – feel free to call them whatever you want). They taste like chewy Nutter Butters!

Cookies:
1 1/2 c. quick oats
1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. butter, softened
1 egg

Filling:
1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 c. creamy peanut butter

For cookies, preheat oven to 350.

In bowl, mix oats, flour, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside.

In another bowl, mix butter, sugar, egg, peanut butter and vanilla. Add the oat mixture, stirring just until blended.

Drop by rounded teaspoons 2 cm apart. Pat down to make flat circles. Bake x 8 minutes (or until lightly brown on edges). Cool

Whisk powdered sugar and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Approx. 5 minutes.

Place frosting between 2 cookies and press lightly.

Thanks Lori!! Make sure to check out her GS Store, her FB page, and her blog. And don’t forget to grab the pieces of the Daily Download every day from this blog!

Welcome to September. Seems like the turn of the calendar to September brought cooler weather to my part of the US, but rumor has it the heat is back this week. I have a great treat for you today. I have an interview with our featured designer – Across the Pond. You might be wondering who this is. It’s an awesome collaboration of Seatrout Scraps and Mandy King. I was able to “talk” to both ladies this past week and they have answered my questions. I hope you enjoy getting to know each of them a bit better.

Let’s talk to Mandy first.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

I’ve always been fascinated with digital graphics – I distinctly remember being amazed when I discovered that a PNG existed! When my children were very small, paper scrapping seemed messy and overwhelming and I was blown away when I realized the world of digital scrapbooking existed.

What made you decide to design?

I don’t think there was any one thing – I just knew I wanted to from the time I realized it existed.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

Photoshop, Art Rage and a nifty little program called Photo Scissors

Describe your design workplace.

Most of the time it’s one of those boring, white folding tables that’s set up in my bedroom, although I have a laptop, so am often found in other parts of the house as well.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I love coming up with an eclectic mix of things and then seeing how it all comes together.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

That’s tough…probably Bohemian Spirit. I love the colors and the mix of vintage and bright…the whole mindset behind it was so free and, well…bohemian!

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

Pray.

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

I love the mountains – my family used to drive out to Colorado every summer. This past summer my girls and I traveled to the Smoky Mountains and I was able to meet my friend and fellow designer, Rachel Pearce and her husband, Nev. That was special!

Which is your most cherished childhood memory?

I have so many…it’s hard to choose! After losing my mother nine years ago, I’d have to say that anything with her in it is special and cherished.

Do you believe in ghosts?

No.

Who is your celebrity crush?

I don’t really have one, but if you twist my arm, I’d have to say Matthew McConaughey.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

I don’t, lol. You may find me driving my daughters to the drive thru, but I’m not a big outside-the-house coffee drinker.

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip.

How old were you when you had your first kiss?

15.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Optimist.

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

Fiona Treymore. This was the “stage name” I chose as a child when I thought I’d run away and become a broadway star.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Pepperoni or green olives.

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

Coffee and quiet time with a devotional.

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

Hmm…I guess I’d say a fountain Diet Coke – although it’s more of a daily staple than a treat!

What did you want to be when you were small?

A stay-at-home-mom.

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

Mow the lawn.

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

None of the above…I want someone to do my laundry!!

What would you do if you won the lottery?

See the above question!

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

Woods.

Share your favorite recipe with us.

Aunt Patti’s Potato Salad

1 cup Hellman’s Mayo (not Miracle Whip)
2 tablespoons vinegar
1-½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon pepper
4 cups cubed, peeled potatoes (5-6), boil with skins on
1 cup celery
½ cup onion
2 hard boiled eggs, chopped

In large bowl stir first 5 ingredients until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and toss to coat well. Cover and chill. Makes 5 cups.

For larger groups, cook 5# potatoes and triple above recipe.

Thanks Mandy!! Be sure to check out her GS Store, her FB page, and her FB Group.

Now let’s chat with Rachel of Seatrout Scraps.

How did you get started in digital scrapbooking?

I was a paper scrapper for a few years and discovered digital scrapbooking by looking at galleries online.

What made you decide to design?

I was doing a lot of layout pages and people started asking me to make templates for them to use from the pages I had made .. and it went from there.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

Photoshop CC and Illustrator.

Describe your design workplace.

Corner of the sofa.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

Being able to have a creative idea and actually put it into action.

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

Usually the last one I make but I do love Lavender and Lace.

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

I’m a glass half full kinda gal so tend not to get that way too often.

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

We do a road trip in the USA every year and I love them all, but maybe Wyoming based one where we saw Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore etc.

Do you believe in ghosts?

No.

Who is your celebrity crush?

Timothy Olyphant.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

Nearest Starbucks is about 40 miles away + I am not a coffee drinker !!

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Not into cookies, love a cheese cracker though.

How old were you when you had your first kiss?

Maybe 13 ?

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Optimist.

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

No.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Ham and Pineapple.

If you could give the world one piece of advice, what would it be?

Stop killing each other.

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

I usually get licked on the face by a small dog .. that wakes me up.

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

Diet Coke.

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

None of the above. Loathe housework.

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

My husband does all of these so I am covered !!

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Pass Out !!

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

My lovely garden, there is always something new.

Thanks Rachel!! Check out her GS Store, her FB page, and her FB group!

And don’t forget to grab the Daily Download each day from our blog. At the end of the month you will have a wonderful kit designed by Mandy and Rachel. Here’s a sneak peek!

Whew! What a post, but how much fun are these two ladies? Have a great day!!

Wow – August is flying by and I’m running way behind on this blog post. August’s featured designer is the amazing Connie Prince. I finally slowed each of us down long enough to get some questions to her. Let’s see what she had to share with us.

What made you decide to design?

When I started designing there weren’t that many digital scrapbook stores or designers. I wanted to be able to create things to use in my own scrapbooks and it just took off from there.

What do you use to create your designs (program, additional tools, etc.)?

I design in Photoshop & Illustrator.

Describe your design workplace

I have an office / craft studio where I do my design work.

What is your favorite thing about designing?

I enjoy the artistic freedom that it gives me. It’s a fun job!

What is your favorite kit currently in your GS store and why?

I love my #2016 August collection, the colors make me happy!

What do you do when you are feeling very sad or depressed?

I usually go to Zumba. It’s my happy place

Which is the best vacation you’ve ever had in your life?

Our family went on a cruise a few years ago to the western Caribbean. It came after a particularly trying time in our lives and we really reconnected on that trip.

Which is your most cherished childhood memory?

I love curling up beside my mom each evening to watch television or read a book. It was our special time.

Do you believe in ghosts?

No way!

Who is your celebrity crush?

Justin Timberlake

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

I never go to Starbucks.

What is your favorite kind of cookie?

Chocolate chip

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Eternally optimistic!

Would you change your name if you could? If so, what would you change it to?

No.

What is your favorite pizza topping?

Pepperoni

If you could give the world one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t take it too seriously – have as much fun as you can for as long as you can!

What do you do to wake up in the morning?

Straight to make coffee!

What is a small luxury that you treat yourself to?

I love getting my nails and toes done!

What did you want to be when you were small?

A mom. That’s really all that I ever wanted to be!

Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean the bathroom, or vacuum the house?

Mow the lawn!

If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with cleaning, cooking, or yard work?

Cleaning

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Travel, travel, and travel some more!

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out of your office or kitchen window?

This little old man who power walks every single day for like 2 hours (even on the hottest and coldest days of the year), he’s phenomenal!

Share your favorite recipe with us.

Creamy Italian Chicken is the big favorite here lately: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/creamy-italian-chicken

Thanks Connie!!

Make sure to check out her GS Store, her Blog, her Facebook page and her Facebook Group.

See you all soon with another interview!