Getting Started on my CTMH Contest Album 2013

Well....it's that time of the year again.  According to my CTMH convention countdown clock over there on my right side bar CONVENTION IS IN JUST 43 DAYS!!!

Each year CTMH has an ALBUM CONTEST for those attending convention.  Last year (at my first convention) 

I decided to make an album to enter.  I made the decision at pretty much the last minute and spent the two weeks 

before I left for Dallas scrapping till the wee hours of the morning.  

It was SOOO worth it, I made it into the finalist and had my album displayed "in the room"......

but even better, in the finished product, I have an album that I lovingly began referring to as "my labor of love".   I truly believe will be THE ONE that my children fight over someday!

This is the link to my 2012 Album "The Stars Shine Bright"

Well.....Here we go again!  43 DAYS!  and I haven't gotten past the planning stages yet.  I actually have ideas for TWO different albums floating around in my brain and can't decide on which one.   I want to focus more closely on the RULES while I'm working on this year's "labor of love"

THIS is where you come in my dear bloggy friends!  Take a look at my album from 2012 and let me know what YOU think I need to improve upon and keep in mind during the creation of my 2013 entry.  The RULES (I copy & pasted the rules below) were very similar to this year, the only difference being that last year the theme was "Stars".

With all that being said....if I am MIA a bit during the next 43 DAYS....

well that's because I will be staying off the computer and 

“VIVA!” Album Contest

With the theme “VIVA!”, we are looking for albums that embrace the theme of “LIVE” in unique ways. How you translate that theme onto your pages is completely up to you!The album contest is a fantastic way to document memories and challenge your creativity all while being recognized, and possibly rewarded, for your efforts.

There are no specific components for each layout; however, we will be judging the albums on their creative interpretation of the theme through titling, journaling, photography, and unique use of product.

---

RULES

• Create 5 two-page 12" × 12" layouts.
• Use Close To My Heart products. No products from other scrapbooking, stamping, or craft companies will be permitted. Exceptions will include found objects (fabrics, zippers, office supplies, etc.) Please note that if it is something Close To My Heart carries (buttons, ribbons, etc.) you will be required to use our product over others on the market.
• You do not need to send your album to Close to My Heart, unless you prefer that we bring your album to Convention. Albums can be submitted onsite and must be turned in to the Information Booth no later than 7:00pm on Wednesday, June 26, 2013. You must submit the actual layouts (no electronic submissions). If you choose to send your layouts to the corporate office, submissions must be postmarked by Monday, June 3, 2013. Mail your entry to:
  Close To My Heart
  Album Contest
  1199 West 700 South
  Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
• Layout patterns can be your own creation; however, it is not required. All patterns from Cherish™, Imagine™, Reflections® and Magic™ are welcome.
• In order to enter the contest, you must be registered for Convention 2013, and you must be present to win.

---

AREAS OF FOCUS

• Photography: quality photos (lighting, contrast, focus, etc.)
• Journaling: all layouts must include some form of journaling
• Creative techniques: unique uses of Close To My Heart products
• Color: unique color combinations and color coordination between photos, papers, and embellishments

---

PRIZES

The top 5 albums will be on display for Consultants to judge at Convention. Close To My Heart will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. A Consultants’ Choice prize will also be awarded. (Consultants’ Choice winner may also be one of the prize winners.) Winners will be announced at Convention. You must be present to win. Products awarded will be determined and selected by Close To My Heart

1ST PLACE

Close To My Heart products valued at
$1,250 US

2ND PLACE

Close To My Heart products valued at
$750 US

3RD PLACE

Close To My Heart products valued at
$300 US

CONSULTANTS’ CHOICE

$500 US cash

Of course the ultimate goal is to win one of those prizes but my personal goal is to meet the challenge of
1. Finishing an album I will cherish
2. I'd REALLY like to make it "into the room" again!

Participating in the "Anything Goes Linky Party" at Sew Crafty Angel
Linking to Fluster's Creative Muster #20
Oh What a HAPPY Day Link Party! @ Not Done Growing
Pimp-Out/Showcase Hop!!! @ Deezy Does It!