Local Business Turns the Page With Inspiring New Offerings

is no longer only about scrapbooking--a popular pastime in which participants use photos, text, crafts and their own imaginations to preserve their memories.

Co-owners Erika Krauthauser and Amy Campbell Musser recently announced that they have changed the business's name to Creative Therapy by Scrapbooking's Inn to better reflect the broader array of inspirational and fun activities that they offer.

In an interview with Patch, they talked about the things that inspire them, and how they're using their own inspiration to teach others about finding focus in life.

Campbell Musser said that a turning point in her own journey toward inner peace was recognizing her ability to communicate with individuals who have passed away.

"I will hopefully be able to help (clients) with that," she said.

Campbell Musser said her awakening to clairvoyance occurred after her grandmother died.

Following a period of depression and soul-searching, "I started educating myself by reading books that were recommended to me," she said.

A big fan of the John Edwards show "Crossing Over," Campbell Musser said she has continued her studies by delving into subjects such as shakras and energy fields, and by becoming a certified spirit guide coach.

Meanwhile, she's learned not to take seriously people who are skeptical of or cynical about her abilities.

"You just have to not take it personally," she said, adding that women tend to be more accepting of her abilities, at least initially.

Krauthauser said that while she doesn't share the exact same gift as Campbell Musser, she is "intuitive" and sees symbols in life that other people might miss.

"We're both very sensitive," she said. "We're educating people."

Campbell Musser said she's offering free readings for those who are interested in contacting a deceased loved one, but she encouraged others to have realistic expectations.

"You have to tell people the message may not be from who you want to hear from, or for you," she said. And "there are people that get disappointed with that," she admitted.

Both Campbell Musser and Krauthauser said scrapbooking will remain an integral part of their business, which moved in June from 403 Main St. to 405 Main St.

The move next door was into a storefront that formerly housed .

Inside scrapbooking products such as paper and ribbon are neatly displayed and large tables serve as workstations for "crops," which is what scrapbooking sessions are called.

Krauthauser said full-day crops tend to attract more participants than shorter sessions do.

For less creative types, Creative Therapy by Scrapbooking's Inn offers custom scrapbooking services, including wedding boards, graduation boards and memorial boards.

A memorial board is a tasteful, two-dimensional tribute to a recently-deceased love one that is made with photographs and other mementos in consultation with family members.

These boards--which can be framed--are typically displayed at funeral or memorial services.

Krauthauser said she has recently become a proponent of using natural, essential oils for healing, and she is eager to share this knowledge with others.

Campbell Musser, who said she can conduct spiritual readings by email or by phone, announced that she will also be taking appointments for readings.

She can be reached at 484-554-6299 and Krauthauser can be reached at 267-772-0378.

Ultimately, the business owners said, they are committed to helping people live happier lives in the midst of a world that often threatens inner "zen."

"You have to learn how to be good with you, in order to be good with every situation you're faced with," Campbell Musser said.