Fabulous Flamingo Blog!

The One Year Journey.

2011-04-23T07:23:00.004-04:00

Well my Justin has found himself! Age 20, handsome and with a smile bigger than life. He is in school in Gainesville FL. Go Gators! A new beginning for him. He has big hopes and dreams. He rebuilt a car and it's engine that he pulled from a field. It runs and he has breathed life back into something that was cast aside. It's so symbolic of new beginnings. He would like to be an engineer one day and follow in his fathers footsteps. How proud I am of my only child. A survivor and he has persevered and chosen the right path. I am so excited to watch his adult life unfold.

Dancing Flamingo ~ Cathy

He's Back!

2010-02-15T14:32:00.002-05:00

The wayward child made it home safe and sound. Here is to new beginnings.

Hopeful Flamingo ~ Cathy

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T00:57:00.002-05:00

I had such fun today delivering my little Valentine Candy treats to all my friends and girlie girls at work. One little purse filled with candy treats.... yum!

Did you make your Valentine Smile yet?

Heart filled Flamingo ~ Cathy

Wayward Child.

2010-02-07T06:53:00.003-05:00

Justin Age 18

Justin Age 19

See the shirt.... RUN! And run like the wind he did! 8 long months ago my baby at age 19 left home to find himself. With a wave and lots of tears I watched him drive away.... 1000 miles away. Summer, fall and winter is almost gone and my baby is coming home. Sleepless nights filled with worry and endless prayers to keep him safe and God is bringing him home.

Spring is around the corner and with it brings new beginnings. This Tuesday, with more hopes and prayers, he will step off the plane and I can hug my baby again.

My dear blog friends, mumble a prayer for me and my family that he steps off that plane on Tuesday and we can rejoice in new beginnings.

Hopeful Flamingo ~ Cathy

Think Pink!

2009-12-19T08:52:00.003-05:00

Oh that obsession with flamingos rears it's ugly head again! Nothing like your traditional pink flamingo Christmas tree... "The flamingos were nestled all snug in their nests with hopes that Saint Nick soon would be there!" lol

Tickled Pink Flamingo ~ Cathy

K-9 Karnival!

2009-11-14T07:35:00.002-05:00

We're heading to the K-9 Karnival today! Our bank has a booth and we're going to hand out yummies for the doggies. Our dog Sam is coming with us and he will be the resident greeter! Woof! Looking forward to a day gone to the dogs!

Woofin' Flamingo~ Cathy

Blog Award

2009-11-08T06:36:00.003-05:00

So I got this great blog award from my dear friend Tina. She is a true friend... she is there for me when I need her.... I just need to say when! I love reading her blog... she is always so adventurous and humorous. She is now in Paris, how adventurous is that! I think I'm undeserving of the award but I think she just wanted to know my answers to the questions linked to the award lol.

So here are the rules:

You can only use ONE word!!!
Pass this along to 6 of your favorite bloggers!
Alert them that you have given them this award!
HAVE FUN!!!

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2. Your hair? beautiful!
3. Your mother? Rose
4. Your father? Mike
5. Your favorite food? Cheesecake
6. Your dream last night? Cheesecake
7. Your favorite drink? Margarita... ole... sorry couldn't help myself!
8. Your dream/goal? Work from home
9. What room are you in? Bedroom
10. Your hobby? scrapbooking
11. Your fear? alone
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Florida
13. Where were you last night? Eatingchinese (that's one word!)
14. Something that you aren't? Spontaneous
15. Muffins? Blueberry
16. Wish list item? House
17. Where did you grow up? Montreal
18. Last thing you did? Sleep
19. What are you wearing? jamies
20. Your TV? off
21. Your Pets? Doggie&kitty (this is ridiculous!)
22. Friends? yes
23. Your life? sunny
24. Your mood? amused
25. Missing Someone? Justin
26. vehicle? Beetle
27. Something your not wearing? helmet
28. Your favorite store? Bath&BodyWorks
29. Your favorite color? Pink
30. When was the last time you laughed? yesterday
31. Last time you cried? yesterday
32. Your best friend? Keith
33. One place that I go to over and over? Pool
34. One person who emails me regularly? Mike
35. Favorite place to eat? Angelos.... mmm.... garlic knots!

Florida in The Fall

2009-10-25T08:51:00.004-04:00

So as the north boasts and enjoys the fall foliage... the south enjoys it's own beauty. The hibiscus are in full bloom, leaves are spent from the long hot summer and changing color, and the lady finger bananas are ready for harvest... yummy!

Fall Flamingo ~ Cathy

Adventurous Cat!

2009-10-25T08:41:00.004-04:00

Really there is nothing strange about seeing a cat in the yard. However, this is our 11 year old kitty who has never ventured outside until now. Doors have always been wide open for Sam our dog and he has sat safely on the porch waiting for Sammy to come back in. Well over the past week Beau has decided to become adventurous and check out this new world. I thought I would share his adventure.

The moral of the story is never lose your sense of adventure.... be brave!

Adventurous Flamingo ~ Cathy

A Great Day!

2009-10-12T18:28:00.002-04:00

I had the greatest day off. Keith and I went out for lunch. We then came home and floated in the pool. It was 93 degrees outside today and the pool was almost 80 degrees. Then I made some glass and beach glass bracelets.... how fun is that! I couldn't have asked for a better day!

Satisfied Flamingo ~ Cathy

Finally!

2009-09-26T08:36:00.006-04:00

The temperature outside is still in the 90's, the sky is blue and the water is warm. It's going to be a spectacular day. I'm looking forward to floating in the pool!

So I got up early to enjoy my quiet time and I finally scrapbooked some of last years Christmas pictures... Hallelujah ! lol I just thought I'd share.

Floating Flamingo ~ Cathy

Bridal Shower

2009-09-12T13:57:00.002-04:00

So my dear co-worker Erin is getting married next month and the girls from work are throwing her a Bridal Shower this week. I volunteered to make the card. I think it turned out pretty slick. Yup! I sure am impressed with myself lol.

Modest and Humble Flamingo ;) Cathy

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T10:43:00.006-04:00

Happy Labor Day to all my friends and family. I just wanted to share a couple of pictures of the the cards that I've been happily creating over the past couple of days. Three days off are so therapeutic and I have just enjoyed the creative time!

Creative Flamingo ~ Cathy

Absolutely Delizioso!

2009-08-29T19:12:00.005-04:00

So my dear friend Tina is traveling the globe and working. She's traveled from Chicago to New Jersey to New York and in doing so she is sampling the most world famous pizzas. From deep dish to thin crust. She posts all these great pictures of her samplings and I was becoming increasingly jealous of the amazing pizzas that sat before her.

So since I'm not presently traveling the globe I certainly can cook. So this evening I made Pizza a la Cathy and it turned out absolutely delizioso. Cheese, tomato, spinach and onions with a homemade crust simply to die for.... yum, yum, yum.

Pizza Lovin' Flamingo ~ Cathy

Florida Garden

2009-08-09T21:19:00.001-04:00

We spent a great afternoon with my friend Laura and she is an avid Florida gardener. Banana trees, pineapples, tiki hut, tropical fragrances and great ribs on the grill. What a fun day!

Happy Tropical Flamingo ~ Cathy

2009-08-09T21:18:00.000-04:00

Emporium

2009-08-09T07:49:00.005-04:00

I absolutely love to scrapbook and I had some great pictures to work with. Keith's son was down a couple of weeks ago and we took some great pictures of him that worked perfectly with Emporium paper packet. My new Florida scrapbook keeps growing and growing.

Scrapbookin' Flamingo ~ Cathy

Favorite Day!

2009-08-08T20:42:00.007-04:00

One of my favorite things to do after a busy week at work is float in the pool. There is nothing like the sound of the water... the birds chirping.. and a clear blue Florida sky. I am so blessed to live in paradise. The sun is so theraputic and relaxing.

I spent the whole day floating and regenerating today. Love it! Love it! Love it!

Tanned Flamingo ~ Cathy

Bog Award!

2009-08-08T20:03:00.004-04:00

How exciting to receive this blog award from my dear friend Tina. This is a BFF award... Blogger Favorite Friend. This is just the sweetest thing. Thank you dear Tina!

The rules of this award are:

accept the award by commenting on the blog of the person that gave it to you
pass it on to five others
reveal five things you enjoy doing

Ok so here are my five things I enjoy doing.

Floating in the pool with Keith with a clear blue sky overhead
Getting up early while everyone sleeps and have the house to myself
Scrapbooking! It's my therapy.
Talking on the phone with my best friend Tina
Eating Pizza with Justin

Awarded and excited Flamingo ~ Cathy

Do Flamingos Squeal?

2009-07-17T07:27:00.003-04:00

Those of you that know me well, know that I love Flamingos. This wacky obsession started many years ago in snowy Michigan when I was craving my old home in Florida. Friends know that if they buy me "anything Flamingo" I will squeal with delight!

Well I have the greatest friend who loves flamingos too, she sent me this fabulous print, thought I would share.... Thanks Tina!

Squealing Flamingo ~ Cathy

Circle Cards - Endless Love!

2009-07-12T08:06:00.004-04:00

So I was sitting at my scrapbook table last night trying to get inspired. I checked some of my favorite blogs and found the greatest inspirations. My friend Tina, who this card is for, displayed some of her adorable circle cards.... so I thought, how cute is that... endless love! OK get out the circle cutter! Now I'm thinking what colors do I use... Cathy, get out of your box and do something different. Well Jeannette Lynton, founder of Close To My Heart, was bringing the outside in with colors like clover meadow, heavenly blue, and bamboo. THAT'S IT!

So this cute little circle card is born. Dear Tina, if you see this post just know your adorable circle card is in the mail.... luv ya!

Inspired Flamingo ~ Cathy

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T09:36:00.002-04:00

Florida Album

2009-06-28T13:40:00.002-04:00

Just made a fun Florida album of Justin and Sarah's time here in Florida. I used discontinued papers, some of my favorite stamp sets, ooooh glitter! Thought I would share it before I mail it off to the wayward children. Enjoy!

Creative Flamingo ~ Cathy

2009-06-28T13:33:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T06:56:00.003-04:00

I just had to share the card I made for my honey for father's day. The card is from our pets and he will just be amused by the whole thing.

All you need is a piece of B & T paper size 8 1/2 x 11. The rest is just a matter of folding. I used Boom-di-ada paper. Love it!

He is also an avid reader and he marks his page with a grocery store receipt. I think he'll love his bookmark. It's all about love and simple things.

Flamingo Wishes ~ Cathy

Michigan here he comes!

2009-06-14T07:24:00.004-04:00

As a parent we have our children's lives mapped out for them in our brains. We only want the best for our children and we have high hopes.

Well this week my hopes for my son came crashing down... he packed up and moved back to Michigan with his girlfriend. He is going to live his life his way.

So with waves and a tear I watched them go with safety primarily on my mind. They made it back safe and sound and now they are going to carve out their lives their way in the Midwest.

Flamingo with new dreams ~ Cathy

Where does all the time go?

2009-06-06T08:03:00.004-04:00

Where does all the time go? One minute they're little 4 year old kids.... cute, curly haired, tanned and with not a care in the world. Then you turn around and they're 19! My Justin just celebrated his 19th birthday this week and I keep wondering where has all the time gone? Life for Justin and I has been quite eventful. Where people we loved have come and gone... but we are survivors! I hope that as he ages and matures the good parts of growing up and the values I have tried to instill will live on. My wish is that my legacy lives on with the child I love so dearly.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUSTIN!

Sentimental Flamingo ~ Cathy

I had a great Birthday

2009-05-26T06:23:00.003-04:00

I had a wonderful birthday and to end the day my sweet honey baked me a yummy carrot cake. look how beautiful it turned out with some awesome cream cheese frosting. Yum! Yum! Yum!

Happy Flamingo ~ Cathy

Happy Birthday to ME!

2009-05-25T07:08:00.005-04:00

Daisies! What is it about that simple flower that I love so much? I even named my car after the daisy. A dear customer at work gave me these flowers from her garden... they make me happy every time I look at them. I am surrounded by the nicest people and such dear friends that my birthday gift to all my friends is that I will be a better friend.

I sat at my work table yesterday during a rain storm and I made a pretty card for a dear friend that is also celebrating a birthday this month. I hope she loves the card as much as I do.

The birthday Flamingo ~ Cathy

Godfrey

2009-05-24T10:58:00.003-04:00

So Godfrey our resident gopher turtle lives in our side yard and keeps the weeds at bay. He's a pretty big boy already.... he's got to be at least 20 years old. Fun to watch and one of the great Florida Natives. He was out today while we sat our porch and I thought would snap some pictures of him.

Picture Taking Flamingo ~ Cathy

It's been forever...

2009-05-24T07:52:00.002-04:00

I was just looking at my blog and I haven't posted since March 1st! Where does time go! I have been so busy at work that I haven't given my blog or my personal live much thought.

So since this is my Birthday weekend, I decided to turn over a new leaf and be a better friend to the people I care about, post on my blog regularly and have a little more fun.

Check back often 'cuz this Flamingo will have lots to post about.

A much older and wiser Flamingo ~ Cathy

A Chilly Florida day.

2009-03-01T15:16:00.003-05:00

Florida is a little chilly today... I don't believe the temp is more than 50 degrees. The wind is whipping around and it's just not a pretty day to be outside. So I figured it would be a great day to cook and bake. Keith is preparing the ham for dinner and I made some dinner rolls and some awesome beer bread. I though I would share the recipe for the beer bread... it's yum! Yum! Yum! and Super Easy! Enjoy.

1 hour 3 min prep

SERVES 6 -8

3 cups flour (sifted)
3 teaspoons baking powder (omit if using Self-Rising Flour)
1 teaspoon salt (omit if using Self-Rising Flour)
1/4 cup sugar
1 (12 ounce) can beer
1/2 cup melted butter (1/4 cup will do just fine)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Mix dry ingredients and beer.
Pour into a greased loaf pan.
Pour melted butter over mixture.
Bake 1 hour, remove from pan and cool for at least 15 minutes.

UPDATED NOTES: Sifting flour for bread recipes is a must-do.

The final result should be a thick, hearty and very tasteful bread, NOT A BRICK! ;).

Baking Flamingo ~ Cathy

Breakfast of Champions

2009-02-08T13:39:00.002-05:00

Sunday morning breakfast has always been a very important tradition in my adult life. There is just something comforting about a big breakfast on Sunday morning... a cup of coffee, the newspaper, a great restaurant, and no agenda.

Sunday morning breakfast started when my son Justin was just a baby and continued on over all these years.. Justin is almost 19. Keith and I developed our relationship together over Sunday morning breakfast. Our boys, Jamie and Justin, were just in high school. Keith took his son Jamie out for breakfast on Sunday mornings and I took my son Justin out for breakfast. The boys were buddies and we thought it would be a good idea to breakfast together. What fun our little dysfunctional family had on Sunday mornings.... we laughed so hard that our stomach's hurt. Well the boys are getting older and are not always around to have breakfast with us. The memories linger, the laughter fades a little, but Keith and I still have amazing Sunday morning breakfasts together... maybe a little quieter but certainly still a lot of fun.

Enjoy our pictures!

One happy and stuffed Flamingo - Cathy

2009-02-08T13:37:00.001-05:00

It's been forever...

2009-01-24T08:10:00.004-05:00

Well dear blogger friends it seems like it's been forever since I've posted, but actually it's only been three weeks. I have been feeling very under the weather since Christmas and all I've been able to do is go to work and put my creative side on the back burner. Right now I have to say that I am definitely on the road to recovery and ready to create. I got up early this morning and created this "My Creations Circle Album" with my favorite paper - Life's Delight ... oh my gosh what fun I had!

Cutting the circles were a little challenging since I don't have any of the fancy machines to cut circles... all I have is the manual Fiscars Circle cutter. Well it worked and I thing it turned out great! Now all I have to do is find some fun pictures to mount in my album.

So dear friends I'm glad to be back creating and I look forward to seeing you at my next workshop.

Recovering Flamingo ~ Cathy

Grateful

2009-01-04T08:38:00.003-05:00

Well dear blogger friends, the holidays are over and all the preparations have come and gone. I spent a good part of the past two weeks very quietly and it was exactly as I like it. I am very grateful for a new year and I wish all of you a very healthy and prosperous one. I thought I would share a card I created which represents new beginnings.

Happy Flamingo ~ Cathy

Yee Haw! Ornament Fun!

2008-12-13T14:28:00.001-05:00

Ornament Fun!

2008-12-13T12:51:00.011-05:00

WOW! I wish I could take credit for this little cleaver thing but I saw something similar on someones blog... I can't remember where... if this is your design please let me know so that I can give you credit!

I had such fun making this ornament and I just had to share.

You need the Evergreen Close To My Heart Stamp set in order to create this cool thing.

Cut a piece of cardstock 6 x 6 and then stamp four trees next to one another lining up the edges.
Add a tab to the stamped trees and cut out the entire image. Score between the trees and fold to form a little pyramid box.

Cut a strip of cardstock 1/2 x 12 and scallop one edge.

Glue the scallop to the edge of your pyramid of trees.

Glue the tab and form your tree.

OH AND HOW FUN IS IT TO EMBELLISH! I punched small holes in the sides and I used some fine wire to form the handle. I used ribbon to embellish....SUCH FUN! Make some of your own and see what I mean.

Busy Creating Flamingo ~ Cathy

Box Bag!

2008-12-13T12:25:00.010-05:00

I have been wanting a pink Christmas tree since I saw some at Big Lots at the beginning of the holiday season. I thought it would be so much fun to have to hang all my flamingo ornaments on. I still haven't found the the extra money to purchase my frivolous tree so I thought I would stamp one up today.

How much fun is this little trinket! These little solid bottom bags are great to give away. Fill it with a cute little gift or some yummy candy and you will hear the squeals of delight.

Here are the instructions for you to make many and give away to make someone fabulously happy! Enjoy!Cut a piece of cardstock 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 and score at 1 inch on all four sides. Then score the four corner squares diagonally to form two triangles. Glue to form a box. I used liquid glass to glue the box together for strength.

Cut a piece of Background and Texture paper 5 1/2 x 11 and adhere to the bottom of the box to form the sides. Cut a strip of cardstock 1 1/2 x 11 to decorate the bottom of the box bag. I used decorative scissors to scallop the long end of the strip.

I punched two holes in the top of the bag and threaded some ribbon through to close the bag. Embellish your bag with some stamping and ribbon or whatever your heart desires. Voila! A fun little bag to give away.

Busy Creating Flamingo ~ Cathy

HELP! We've been Elfed!

2008-12-06T11:43:00.003-05:00

Ava and her purse!

2008-12-02T19:39:00.003-05:00

So I just had to share the great picture I got today. My lovely Canadian niece Audrey, who loves to scrapbook and papercraft, asked for my purse gift bag pattern the other day. Woohoo! Look what she created! One fun purse for her little girl Ava. Ava will be the envy of all her friends.... she has an "Audrey Original"!

Dancing Flamingo ~ Cathy

Flip Accordion Album

2008-11-29T18:11:00.015-05:00

Are you getting ready for the holidays? Well here is one Amazing Holiday Album to create just in time for your Christmas pictures. Happy Creating!

Supplies:

9 x 9 Memory Showcase Album

Level 2 Background and Texture Paper ( I used Aspen)

Assorted Aspen My Stickease

Bonding Memories Glue

Score two inside pages at 4 1/2 and fold like mountain peaks.

Cut: 2 pieces of cardstock 6 x 9 and glue to the left side of the mountain peak.
Cut two pieces of cardstock 3 x 9 and glue to the right side of the mountain peak.

Cut Background and Texture Paper:

Cut 4 pieces 9 x 9 for the front, back and inside covers.

Cut 2 pieces 6 x 9 for pages 1 and 3

Cut 2 pieces 3 x 4 1/2 for pages 1 and 3

Cut 4 pieces 6 x 4 1/2 for pages 2 and 4

Cut 2 pieces 9 x 3 for pages 2 and 4

Glue Background and Texture paper to the pages and embellish with My Stickese and Pictures. ENJOY!

Festive Flamingo ~ Cathy

Thanksgiving at my house....

2008-11-27T16:11:00.012-05:00

.... well this thanksgiving things don't really resemble the traditional family time. Keith is trucking across America to provide for the family. He may splurge and stop at a truck stop and have some turkey and fixins'. God bless you Keith... be safe!

Justin and Sam are working hard warming up the couch... Sarah is nowhere to be found and the cat is taking a suntan! Yup... just your traditional Thanksgiving.

Well in all seriousness I am truly thankful for all that I have. Justin decided to get off the couch and make an apple and pumpkin pie. Yum! Yum! Yum! Sarah is now out getting ingredients to make the all famous Green Bean casserole. The turkey and stuffing are in the oven thanks to me.

We may not be the Cleavers but we have a roof over our heads, food on the table and love in our hearts... what more can we ask for?

Happy Thanksgiving from the Flamingo Hut to yours!~ Cathy

Happy Thanksgiving.

2008-11-23T06:37:00.011-05:00

This thanksgiving I was going to make a list of all things I am thankful for but the more I thought about it the list was endless. God knows how thankful I am for all the blessings in my life and for all the trials to keep me humble. There are, however, a few people in my life that bring stability and love that I just could not live without and I am so thankful for that.

My beloved Keith. I love him. He is my friend and my partner. He loves me in good times and bad. He is fair and level headed. A hard worker. A great father. He is a ferocious reader. He is intelligent and funny. What more can I say... I love him! Happy Birthday today darling!

My crazy son Justin. I love him. He is bright. Funny. Challenging. Even through all the trials and tribulations over the hears I cannot begin to express how much I love him and cheer for him. I can hardly wait to see his adult life blossom. My dearest Justin had to grow up so fast. It was just him and I for many years.... I am so hoping that God will bless him with a bright future.

My dearest brother Mike and my sister-in-law, Ella. I love them. They are my rocks. They are the people that listen to me laugh and cry. They are kind and fair. They have journeyed with me through many trials over the years and have never run from me. They worry about me, they rejoice with me, they love me. They are a part of me. I am so thankful that they are a part of my life.

One thankful Flamingo signing off ~ Cathy

We All Love Handbags...

2008-11-15T09:57:00.002-05:00

If you're anything like me you love handbags! My budget just doesn't allow too many purchases, but how fun would it be to make these great handbag gift bags. Tuck some tissue paper into them and hide the perfect gift and you'll have one great Christmas gift for someone! Can you just hear the squeals of delight when you hand this to someone?

I can show you how to make these great handbags in December. Just join my mailing list and I will send you my December Workshop schedule so that you can join the fun at the Flamingo Hut.

One delighted Flamingo toting a handbag ~ Cathy

Creative Time in the midst of beauty...

2008-11-09T08:56:00.008-05:00

The weekend is here and partially complete. It's early Sunday morning and I just love the early morning quiet time that I have when my family is asleep. I perk up some wonderful coffee... let the dog out and enjoy the beautiful serene morning. Like most of you know I have recently moved back to Florida and what a blessing that has been. I find myself renewed and rejuvenated.... I love Florida! The weather is amazing! In the fall the sky becomes this deep deep blue that we just rarely saw while living in the Midwest. I tried to capture the beauty this morning from my backyard. I think I didn't thoroughly appreciate things until they were taken away, now that it's restored, I am doing the Flamingo Happy Dance!

So during my quiet weekend time I love to create. I was looking at my boring Rolodex and thought of it as a blank canvas. This is what I came up with. Now when I reach to call someone this little creative thing will bring a smile to my face and remind me what a blessing my creative time is.

Thankful Flamingo ~ Cathy

Office Space...

2008-11-02T21:23:00.002-05:00

So as I gear up for Monday morning and another work week ahead, I contemplated on how I was going to personalize my space. Since space is always limited in a cubicle, I decided I would work on a small scale. I made two tag frames with my favorite pictures... my animal children, Beau my kitty and Sam my dog and then I made another of my two favorite guys... Justin and my honey Keith. Both tags are 4"x9". I also made a fun little candy dish filled with yummy candy to sweeten up someones day.

Well, I believe my mission is accomplished by being able to share my creative side with those that will enter my little space in the working world.

Creative Flamingo ~ Cathy

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T19:52:00.004-04:00

Let's Get Together!

2008-10-26T10:00:00.011-04:00

Now that the holidays are drawing near I always get a little more sentimental. I think of old family traditions, the people that have come and gone from my life and all the fun times from years gone by. When families and friends get together it's almost always around food at the dinner table or around the buffet counter.

So what better way to document these great momories than with a recipe album. So when Aunt Mary comes to your door at Christmas with her famous Angel Pie... snap a picture of her and the pie and have her jot down her recipe in your Close To My Heart Recipe Book. It's a memory and a recipe that will be cherished forever!

Sentimental Flamingo ~ Cathy

Oh My Goodness!

2008-10-19T13:55:00.007-04:00

So just a few short months ago my dear son Justin had some long locks of hair. He has had long hair for years and it became part of his identity. He was definitely easy to spot at Graduation!

Well he got up one morning this week and went to the local barber and look what he looks like now! Can you believe he cut his long curly locks! It's kind of fun to see him with short hair.

Well just had to share this life altering event with all of you.

One surprised Flamingo ~ Cathy

Frosty Friends....

2008-10-18T09:27:00.007-04:00

Many of you have asked if I have a favorite Winter stamp set. I have put a lot of thought into that and the answer would be "Frosty Friends"! That question got me thinking about a new project for Christmas. I love our little 3 x 3 scrapbooks too so I just had to create something with both these items in mind.

Here you go! Frosty friends, on and in a 3 x 3 album... a little prisma glitter to bring those little snowmen buddies to life and voila! A fun little album to keep or to give to someone special. What a great little album for a teacher, a mom, a boss.... or just for yourself! Come to my "Workshop at the Hut" on November 4th and I can show you how to create this fun little album. I can also show you how to order more of these great albums because they make great Christmas gifts...so don't miss out!

Flamingo Smiles ~ Cathy

More Christmas Cards...

2008-10-11T17:09:00.007-04:00

DONE! My Christmas Card Workshop is finished! 16 Cards! I love it and I hope everyone will love it too! We have rustic in Twilight Blue and elegant in Cranberry... Evergreen stamp set and Alfresco stamp set.... two extremes and I love them both! What do you think?

Festive and tired Flamingo ~ Cathy ;)

Christmas is Coming...

2008-10-11T08:49:00.004-04:00

...well technically not yet!

If any of you are familiar with Close To My Heart workshops, November is Christmas Time! Woohoo! This week has been quite a busy week. You probably figured that since I've been quite quiet. I have been working diligently on Novembers' workshops. I am having such fun creating for the holidays with all the great holiday paper Close To My Heart has to offer. I have posted a little sneak peak at a few of the Christmas cards we'll be doing at our Christmas Card Workshop. I believe they turned out great! The colors are a little out of my element but I think that's what's caught my eye and got me thinking outside the box.

I have a lot of fun workshops coming up over the next couple of weeks and November is going to Rock! Ho! Ho! Ho! Check back often to see what I've been creating.

The Festive Flamingo ~ Cathy ;)

Not Your Ordinary Scrapbook Pages

2008-10-04T08:35:00.007-04:00

Critters! Yikes! Let me start by saying I'm not crazy about critters. Actually I can't stand touching them. I do actually love to watch them from a distance... oh and maybe snap a picture or two.

Since arriving back to Florida... we have become reacquainted with all the local varmitts.... oh how I've missed them so! Yes I have! I missed the sun, the warmth and even the varmitts!

So I have put my family on a mission... you see a Florida critter you get the picture. They have done a fabulous job getting some remarkable shots. My favorite is the one of our "Gate Keeper" and his name is "Godfrey the Gopher Turtle". Oh did I forget to mention we've named them all as well.

Here are all their names:

Godfrey the gopher turtle

Ted the tree frog

Lizi the lizard

Fred the spider and door keeper (now Fred may be a girl... but how would one know? He keeps all the bees away from the front door)

Buttercup the butterfly

Daryl the Dragonfly (he generally brings his brothers... if you ever watched Bob Newhart many moons ago you will remember Larry and his brother Daryl and his other brother Daryl... that memory still makes me laugh!)

Molly the moth.

So there you go... you have now met my Florida extended family.... critters and all!

Flamingo Laughter ~ Cathy

A Day of Discovery

2008-09-30T19:21:00.006-04:00

So I had a pleasantly creative day today and I created this great card. The pattern is an original design by Jeannette Lynton... she posted the directions on her blog. So how cute is this 6 x 3 card! I used Discovery paper (it's not super current but I just love it!). I'm wondering who I should send this card too... who will be the lucky one... oh and what will the insert say?

Mischievous Flamingo ~ Cathy ;)

October Training and Events

2008-09-28T09:52:00.002-04:00

2008-09-28T09:51:00.002-04:00

October is upon us oh how quickly the summer went! Florida weather is absolutely beautiful. After a summer of watching the Doppler for upcoming storms... this is just such a wonderful reprieve. The sky is a deep blue and generally there is not a cloud in the sky.

I have been working diligently at the October schedule and I finally have my workshop schedule and ideas all worked out. I though I would share some pictures this morning of my upcoming workshops. It's going to be an absolutely fabulous month! You can check out my event schedule on my website to get some full details.

Flamingo Smiles ~ Cathy

Happy Hour

2008-09-24T07:57:00.008-04:00

Last night was my "Happy Hour Flamingo Style". Happy Hour was designed to make scrapbooking and paper crafting accessible to the busy "on the go" woman. I had 8 at my table to make our little tag book. Ity bity pieces to create this fabulous Tag Book. I'm so excited... they all turned out Great!

Flamingo Cheers ~ Cathy

Pleasantly Creative With September Stamp of the Month...

2008-09-23T15:33:00.006-04:00

I was feeling quite creative today and I still hadn't created anything with the September Stamp of the Month.... oh I could hear it calling my name! It looked just way to clean, so I had to pull out some stamp pads and start creating. I had a favorite card nearby... it was from my son Justin on Mothers' day. It's the one on the left. If anyone has an 18 year old son knows how special this card is... they are not always very thoughtful. This card was beautiful and he spent $4.00 for this card! I should teach that boy to stamp!

Well I created this look-a-like for just pennies today with a free September stamp of the month (Treasure Life). Just ask me how to do that and I can show you how the get the stamp set for free!

Frugal Flamingo ~ Cathy

Moving those all important French Fry Bags....

2008-09-23T08:58:00.005-04:00

I do have a funny story to share this morning. A few months ago we moved back to Florida from Michigan. Now, if any of you have ever moved before, what an ordeal that is! By the time you're done packing you're just about ready to throw everything away! You're exhausted, crabby and you just want to get the heck out of there.

Well, as my honey was loading the truck, there was a small box ready to go on the truck and it was labelled french fry bags... needless to say my honey said "what on earth is this!" I don't think he posed it quite that nicely but you get the drift. I told him it was my box of french fry bags that I use for my Close To My Heart business. For those of you that don't know... they are plain white and I usually random stamp the bag. They are ready to use as little bags for candy or in today's case I stamped them with Cottage Floral and my guests can eat some popcorn out of them... so how cool is that!

So the moral of the story is "The next time you're packing and getting ready for a move... don't forget to pack the french fry bags 'cuz you never know when you'll need 'em!"

Flamingo laughter~ Cathy

Open House!

2008-09-19T09:10:00.004-04:00

Well it's the morning after my open house and how great is Close To My Heart! Our Fall/Winter Idea Book/Catalog rocks and how fun it is to meet new people. This was my first event since I moved back to Florida and it's always a little nerve wrecking no matter how long you've been doing this. But I met some new people and got re-acquainted with some former friends. I have girls coming to my workshops and the excitement is on! Woohoo! I'll have Citrus County Scrappin' Flamingo Style in no time!

I do have to say... no matter where you go.... no matter where you are in this world... the Close To My Heart Mission Statement rings true:

"We show you how to celebrate relationships through the art of scrapbooking and stamping. Faster. Simpler. Easier."

Doin' the Flamingo Happy Dance ~ Cathy

Art and Soul is here!

2008-09-17T09:27:00.007-04:00

I am just so excited! A brand new Scrapbooking show that you can view on my Close To My Heart Website!

On Tuesday September 16th, a show called Art and Soul aired and you can watch Jeanette Lynton and her craft team demonstrate a great project. A new project airs every other Tuesday. The episode takes about 15 minutes to view. You can watch this episode anytime and it is filled with great tips, techniques and ideas. They also have step by step instruction on how to make this project! Oh and I saved the best for last.... you can buy all the items to make the project at a 20% discount.... oh I'm doing a Flamingo Dance!

In this first fun episode, you’ll learn to make this fabulous keepsake Memory Keeper, that holds your favorite 3-D treasures. Plus, get the inside scoop on unique mini books made from cards, fun ideas for capturing sound, and much, much more!

Just click here now to view this Fabulous First Episode!

Flamingo Smiles ~ Cathy

PS Let me know what you think after you view it by posting a comment.

Slide Show of Navarre Crop

2008-09-15T09:11:00.000-04:00

Navarre Crop By The Sea

2008-09-15T09:08:00.001-04:00

Oh what a wonderful weekend I had. I spent the weekend with my dear friend Tina. We laughed, we talked, and we cropped. Tina had a wonderful Close To My Heart Crop scheduled for Saturday, September 13th. It was held at the Navarre Conference Center. 50 ladies attended and they cropped till they dropped from 9am - 11pm. I compleded 6 perfect day scrapbook pages, one mickey album, and 10 Just Because cards... woohoo what a productive and fun day! You can view my slideshow above.

~Flamingo smiles ~ Cathy

Woohoo! Look what I accomplished....

2008-09-10T11:32:00.009-04:00

Just thought I would share one of my most recent successes.

It's the Bachelor's of Close To My Heart Business. I'm so thrilled to have it all completed.

Well it's now on to my Masters!

One Studious Flamingo ~ Cathy

Discovey Tag Book

2008-09-09T22:36:00.006-04:00

Well I had a very creative day... I made the Tag Book, seen below, for my next "Happy Hour Flamingo Style". "What is Happy Hour?", you ask. Well, Happy Hour was designed to make scrapbooking and paper crafting accessible to the busy "on the go" woman. If you have an hour to spare you can come and create this fabulous little project. If you need to just swing by to grab and go, this kit comes with step by step instructions that will be easy to follow anywhere you may be.

Come and make this quick tag book all in under an hour on Tuesday, September 23 at 7pm at my house, the Flamingo Hut.
Cost is $5.00

Flamingo Smiles ~ Cathy

Discovery Tag Book

2008-09-09T22:08:00.007-04:00

Close To My Heart "Happies"

2008-09-07T08:42:00.006-04:00

Good Sunday Morning to one and all!

Well I am just so excited... I made these "happies" for my customers. I will share them at my open house. They are bookmarks!

What is a "Happy" you ask? It's a little something that you get that makes you smile and makes you happy. It's given with heart and made by Close To My Heart. That's it in a nutshell. They turned out so cute and they are only 6 cents a piece! So go and get out your stamp sets girls and make some "Happies" to share.

Happy Flamingo ~ Cathy

A Time to Celebrate

2008-08-29T08:49:00.002-04:00

September is National Stamping Month, and to celebrate we’re off ering two exquisite Close To My Heart My Acrylix® stamp
sets from now through September 30 at substantial savings—or even FREE! The elegant new My Acrylix Friendship Alphabet
Large stamp set and the new My Acrylix Friendship Alphabet Small stamp set are perfectly suited for all your stamping needs.
The E-size My Acrylix Friendship Alphabet Large stamp set (retail value $34.95) and the C-size My Acrylix
Friendship Alphabet Small stamp set (retail value $18.95) may be earned in one of these ways:
• When you spend $125, you get the set FREE (CC1000-1B).
• When you spend $75, you can purchase the set for $15 (CC1000-1A).
Be sure to join the stamping phenomenon during National Stamping Month in September with these irresistible
My Acrylix stamp sets.

Click Here to Shop Now!

Flamingo Smiles~ Cathy

It's Time for a Close To My Heart Party!

2008-08-27T11:05:00.007-04:00

I was up late last night stamping my party invitations. Just thought I'd let you read the invitation this morning.

WOOHOO! Come on In! It's An Open House!

Hi! My name is Cathy Bambek or formerly known as Cathy Grumbir. I lived in Citrus County for 10 years and I left for Michigan a number of years ago.... but I'm back!!!
I've been teaching scrapbooking, stamping and paper crafts for a company called Close To My Heart for about five years now. So I'm gathering up all my old friends and some new ones to come to an
Open House at my house in Pine Ridge.

Do you like to scrapbook or wondered how to begin? Make cards to save money? Make some great “Wowee” project to enjoy or give to a friend? Well I can definitely show you how to make it faster, simpler, easier with Close To My Heart.

Take this invitation and pass it along to all your friends and family and come to my house on:
Thursday, September 18th from 7pm - 9pm.

I am so anxious to see all of my old friends and to make some new ones. Please don't be shy and swing on by to say “Hi” and I will show you how to become scrap happy in Florida with some food, fun, prizes and a great take home hands on project! Fun! Fun! Fun!

Please RSVP because I'd love to hear from you!

See you soon!
Cathy or also known as Close To My Heart's “Fabulous Flamingo”!
PS Bring a friend and receive a free gift!

CATHY BAMBEK
http://www.fabulousflamingo.myctmh.com/
fabulousflamingo@myctmh.com

Friendships

2008-08-26T06:36:00.009-04:00

There is nothing like a good friendship. The memories that you share from a time in your lives are yours... it's something that not a soul can take away. I spent a day making more memories with an old friend. Lucie and I go way back... I was in First Grade and she was in Kindergarten.... like I said.... way back! She wore pig tails and glasses and I wore pony tails. We were inseparable.... sisters! She is a part of who I am today.

We met in Tarpon Springs, FL yesterday and had a great day boating, catching up (it's been about 10 years since we've seen one another), laughing and eating. We still have many of the same characteristics, that's probably what brought us together in the first place. Oh and she brought me a wonderful gift from Bath and Body Works.... her favorite fragrance.... Coconut Lime Verbena....of course it would be her favorite fragrance because it's mine too! Well I'm probably boring you with all the friendship dribble, but oh what a great day we had so I just had to share.

I will leave you with one thought:

Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things" Author Unknown.

Go do a Flamingo dance with one of your BFF's today! Cathy

Peek into my scrapbook closet

2008-08-24T22:53:00.001-04:00

It's about time...

2008-08-24T15:42:00.003-04:00

Well it's about time... says the manatee! Tropical Storm Fay is finally moving out. We are all happy! We actually had some sunshine in the Sunshine State today.

It's been a lazy day... we went to breakfast and I brainstormed, over a cup of coffee of course, about my next Close To My Heart open house. It will be a time of fun and friendship... I'm so excited! I will keep you posted and let you know all the details just in case you want to come. It will be some time in September.

Well got to run... a feel a swim in my future.

Flamingo and Manatee smiles to you! Cathy

New Scrapbook!

2008-08-23T08:42:00.008-04:00

Oh I'm just so excited! I started a new scrapbook! I've been working forever on a scrapbook for my son Justin... "is it finished?" you ask. No but it's getting pretty close. We just recently moved back to Florida and I thought what a great time to start brand new. So here is page 1. Keith (my honey) took the picture of the flowers growing outside of our screened porch and Voila! I've made a commitment to keep up with current events in our life and not fall behind on this scrapbook... let's say it's one of my goals. I've set quite a few goals for myself over the past week. I'm not ready to share quite yet... maybe in a couple of days.

Well it looks as though Tropical Storm Fay is moving out... it's heading across the panhandle. We haven't seen the sun in over a week... I can hardly wait to get rid of this storm! I know it's reeked havoc all across the state... we are so fortunate that we live high and dry.

Well got to run and start the day.

Sending you Flamingo Smiles - Cathy

Rainy day dreams....

2008-08-22T23:01:00.000-04:00

What a day! Tropical storm Fay has been sitting on top of the state of Florida for about 5 days. It has been raining horribly all day and I just feel bad for all those living on the water. The picture is of apartments next to Crackers in Crystal River. This was this morning... high tide was scheduled for 6pm. I'm so glad we live inland... all we had to do was let about 6 inches of water out of the pool.
So I decided today was the perfect rainy day to start something new... blogging! I thought this would be a fabulous way to keep in touch with my customers, my downline, friends and family. This of course will be a work in progress, so stick with me I promise it will get better.

Flamingo Smiles,
Cathy