Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year? Cricut Gypsy, Perfume, thread, handmade gifts from my girls and a new oven!
2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received? I've gotten so many and I love them all but I think the bracelet my daughter made for me last Christmas.
3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle? A quilt!
4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child? a bicycle
5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year? Bumble Bee Transformers,Caring Corners Happy Camper, Zhu Zhu Hamster and the Furreal Kitty
6. What is your favorite holiday food? Christmas cookies of course!! Nothing says Christmas more than cookies for me!
7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays? Camera strap cover, wine charms, coupon holder, fabric postcards and more. I better get busy!
8. What is your favorite holiday movie? A Christmas Story
9. Favorite holiday song? While You were Sleeping by Casting Crowns has become my favorite
10. Favorite holiday pastime? As a little girl, my grandfather would play Santa the morning of Christmas by handing out each gift. As I got older, Grandpa would let me hand them out with him. It was wonderful!

You too can enter!! What are you waiting for? Link back here if you do so I can see your answers!

Cricut Meme!

Do you have a Cricut and want more cartridges? Do not have one and you want one for your very own? If so, read below!

This is contest entry for those crazy folks at TodaysMama and Cricut. Be sure to check out Cricut's cool new cartridges and the chance at $30,000 in travel for you and your friends at the Great Gypsy Escape site!

Great Escape Meme
1. If you could escape to anywhere in the world where would it be? The Caribbean!
2. What song do you play when you are by yourself in the car? Jeremy Camp Speaking Louder than Before
3. If you had a night to yourself, and money was no object, what would you do? It would either be a spa night or scrapbooking shopping spree!
4. What is your guilty pleasure? Scrapbook stuff
5. What is the farthest place you have traveled away from your home? St. Lucia
6. Last book that you couldn't put down? Shanna Swenson's Once Upon a Stilletto
7. When you want to escape into another time, what movie do you watch? Pirates of the Caribbean
8. What is your favorite local escape? The Scrapbook Barn or Stamp Asylum
9. How do you escape on a budget? Into our den and scrapbook/make cards or watch a downloaded movie with hubby.
10. Best food you've ever had while on vacation. FRESH coconut.


Good luck!

Cutting Above Blog giving away TWO Gypsies!

Cutting Above launched a new blog and to kick off their new blog, they're giving away TWO Gypsies!

Here's how to win per their blog:

So how can you win? Well it's really easy.

1. On your blog, Facebook, Twitter, Yahoo or email groups and /or forums (where allowed), create/bump an existing post about the show on HSN airing September 24th. Please also post about the Cutting Above blog and its debut. (Note: If you do not have a blog, please get the word out in at least 3 ways to be eligible)

2. Become a follower of this blog

3. Put our blinkie on your blog or any other forum/group etc. you belong (again where allowed)

4. Comment to this post with your follower information, links of your 3 shout-outs along with a description of where your blinkie is located.

5. Comments should be posted by 12:00 midnight EST on October 2nd


So, head over to Cutting Above by clicking HERE and follow the steps for your chance to win! Don't forget their blinkie while you are visiting!

Good Luck!

Home

Just a quick post today!

We recently traveled to see some family for my little brother’s graduation.  I needed to send my dad back his memory stick so I created this quick little card to say thank you for hosting us in his home. 

 

Paper:  Rustic White Cardstock and Bitty Dots Polka Dots Parade paper PTI

Stamps:  PTI Boards and Beams

Other: Memento Ink, PTI twine, Nestabilities and miscellaneous button

I love this set from Papertrey Ink.  The sentiment is so perfect!

Have a great weekend!

Hey Cupcake!

I love cupcakes and polka dots lately.  So after visiting the message board, I stumbled upon a post where a mb member used this video from Fabulously Artsy to make cupcake gift card holders.   My niece’s Bat Mitzvah was coming up and thought this was an extra special way of presenting her gift.

The money holder and Star of David was created using a Cricut .cut file and the circle using my nestabilities.

It’s not hard per se but is time consuming.  I love the end result and will probably make more of these for special friends.  You know, the ones that understand and appreciate hand-made gifts?

Check out the video and her website.  Pretty creative!

Until next time,

Playing with my camera

I am trying to convince J that I NEED a new camera. You know, one of those fancy schmacy DSLRs like this one here:

(That's the Canon Rebel T1i. Isn't it SWEET?)

My little ones aren't so little any more and they rarely stand still which makes it quite difficult to get a good NON-BLURRY picture. A new camera with faster fps (frames per second) would come in so handy, especially since the girls are getting into sports! Mostly, I'm tired of shooting on Auto and want more control over the camera. While I would LOVE a non-crop DLSR, it's just not in the budget now. Maybe. Later. In. Like. Ten. Years.

I have been trying to get more out of my little P&S and using Photoshop Elements 3.0 (come to think of it, it's time to upgrade that too!). Tell me your honest opinions. What do you think of my images below?

E's first time back on a bounce house since she was diagnosed with cancer in 2007

Can you guess how old S is right now?

Our peach tree blossoms

Do you think I could convince him? Give me some suggestions on what I should say to him. When I bring this up, his standard answer is, "But honey, you already have a camera. You don't NEED another!"

Grill Master

I can’t believe it’s been since OCTOBER since I last posted! I know I’ve been busy but I didn’t know it had been THAT long. I’ve still been crafting, scrapping and creating, just not blogging! I’m setting a goal of posting at least once a month to get me motivated again. Maybe I’ll post more than that! We’ll see.

I’ve finished several projects: Seattle Mini book for big sis, graduation cards (2) and several cards including another wallet like this one, but alas, have FORGOTTEN to take pictures of them. *EEK!*

So, I thought with this being Father’s Day this weekend, I would start the new year of blogging with my gift to J and a chance to win over at Today's Mama and Cricut:

This was so incredibly EASY to do!

I think I've mentioned I have a die-cutting machine, right? It’s the Cricut Expression. I’ve not used it as much as I would have like as I got it right before E' was diagnosed but I’m trying to make up for lost time using it whenever I can!

Do you remember freezer paper as a child? We used it as kids for arts and craft projects. It’s so versatile! Well, I saw (on a blog of course!) tee shirt creations using freezer paper as their STENCIL. What an awesome idea. The shiny side of the paper adheres to your fabric so it makes a great barrier and when you’re done you just pull it off.

So, I used:

• Cricut Expression
• Freezer paper
• Acrylic paints
• Fabric Painting Medium
• Iron

I designed what I wanted in Design Studio, remembering that text must be REVERSED and FLIPPED in order to be able to read the text after it’s ironed on:

I then cut it out on a 12x12 mat with the freezer paper shiny side UP as the shiny side will not stick well to the mat.

Then once cut out, you then place it on your fabric item where you want it and take a hot iron and iron it on place. Don’t forget if you have letters I, E, O etc that you need those INSIDE pieces.

I then took my arsenal of acrylic paints (if I lay them out it’s like a rainbow!) and mix two parts acrylic to one part fabric medium. The fabric medium is what makes them fabric paints! No need to go out and purchase the expensive fabric paints. Just mix in a little medium and volia! Then paint away! Here’s what I used in case I’ve confused you.

Here is a picture of E’s shirt to her daddy just after she painted it before we took off the stencil.

Isn’t the freezer paper so cool? Will you try it? Come back and comment if you do! I’d love to see what YOU create.

Cards for our Troops

I've always wanted to participate in sending cards over to our troops but haven't had the time with E's treatment. I finally made the commitment to do 10 cards. It's not much but at least it's a start. Right now they're asking for holiday cards with BLANK insides so the troops can use these cards to send back home to their loved ones.


Knowing not everyone celebrates Christmas, I did 5 Santa cards and 5 snowmen cards. I figured the snowmen were pretty generic to use if someone didn't celebrate Christmas. The inside of the Santa cards say "Merry Christmas" and the snowmen cards say "Happy Holidays." I decided to jazz them up a little and use crushed velvet for the snowman's scarves and hats and for Santa's hat and coat.

I appreciate each and every member of our armed services for keeping our country safe. They put their lives on the line every day because that is their job. Thank you!

Sweet Baby

While I post mostly cards, I do scrapbook. I've been doing more cards I think just because it's faster and I get instant gratification!




However, Loreen at Wish on a Scrap has changed things for me. She has these AMAZING scrapbook kits that make putting a layout together so easy. Here is one of mine:






Everything but the "little giggle" stamp (Studio G) and the journaling stamp was used for this kit. And the title, Sweet baby? THICKERS! These things are awesome. Maybe you'll see more layouts from me soon!

Thanks for checkin' in!

Think Pink

As you know, E was diagnosed with cancer last year. In that time, I've had so many people that have supported my family, prayers spoken and just shoulders to cry on. One of the ladies, whom I consider a dear friend, was diagnosed with breast cancer two weeks ago. She wasn't going to tell me (!) because of all I've been going through with E, but I asked how she was doing. In talking to her, I felt a sense of peace, not panic, that things will be OK for her. She is an amazing woman and I am blessed to know her.

After she told me of her diagnosis, I immediately felt the need to make her a card. This is what I came up with:



I took my Papertrey Ink Perfect Match paper (background and paper piecing) and ribbon, Spellbinder Nestabilities & Tags, and My Favorite Things stamp set, Think Pink to make this card just for her so she knows how much I care and am praying for her.

Warm Heart

In the last year since E's diagnosis of cancer, I haven't had a lot of time (or energy) to scrapbook. Only recently have I started to really spend some time at my table. Since I am a mom that works outside of the home, I often feel bad if I do any type of creating when my little ones are awake. I feel that time should be devoted to my family, not doing something for me.

So, I decided to put a small table in my room so that the kids can craft, color, cut, etc in the same room with me. Previously it was in the kitchen and I just spent too much time going back and forth to get what I needed from the other room. They have their own set of stamps and stamp pads (washable but I disagree with that label!!), paper, makers, scissors (though I keep those away until requested) and glue. This makes it much more productive for them to get their "supplies" out and create and less hassle for me too!

So I took a picture the other night of the girls at their table. It warmed my heart to see them together, concentrating so intently on what they were doing. The table? The table my sister and I used as kids! E is getting so meticulous with her scrapbooking (or card making), spending hours (if she could!) on one project. Many times I must gently prod her to finish up! I get requests constantly, "Mommy, can we scrapbook tonight?" and that just melts me. S is still in the "what can I stick down with glue" and "how many pieces of scrap can I make using my scissors" but like her sister, I know her time for creative genius is not far behind!

Tell me, what hobby do you like to do and how have you included your family into it? How does that make you feel? I know that life is so precious that it is hard for me to waste a minute!

Lauren ROCKS

Have any of you checked out Lauren's blog? I am a FAITHFUL reader and just a little bit ago she posted a tutorial on glass etching here. I tried it and am SO happy with the results.

A few things...

• read the directions ALL THE WAY THROUGH! ;) Though I missed the first line "shake before using" it still worked.
• I put it on and waited 20 minute (directions say 3-4 but Lauren suggested longer; I go with Lauren!)
• The paste is expensive (~$20-25/bottle) but if you have a craft store near you that you can use their 40% off coupon then it would make it much more affordable. I expect this bottle to last a LONG time.
• Make sure you have a clean brush (I used foam) on hand as well. Took me FOREVAH to find one in my house. It's now with the bottle of etching cream! LOL
• Don't worry when you rinse your piece if you don't see it. The water kind of "hides" the etching and you won't really see it until it's dry
• Try not to use short strokes, long ones are better and make sure you use a good bit of the cream. In the light of day, I can see where I did too light of a coat. It's not noticeable to the naked eye; only to mine 'cuz I was looking for it!
• You don't have to have stamps and embossing powder. You could use vinyl and if you have ability to do die cuts you could cut your shape out that way.

Here is my 99 cent votive holder using Papertrey Ink's Women of Life stamp (the flower).

What do YOU think? What are you waiting for to try this?

Women of Life

For E's teachers, I made each of them a special card to say thanks for all they've done for her and for us. I used Papertrey Ink's Women of Life set.
They were all simple to make and it was enjoyable to do the paper piercing. I need to work on the straight line part though! The yellow and green one kind of went a little off kilter!

Birthday and Mother's Day

I struggle with a "stash" of cards so I am usually making one right before an event. Here is the one I made for my MIL's birthday:

I LOVE this sheer ribbon with the DCWV glitter paper! The stamp is paper pieced and stickles were used on the present's bow. I also used my dew drops to accentuate the bottom of the card. She LOVED it!

How do you "get ahead" with cards? Do you find a simple forumula and then make a batch of them? Tell me your secret!!

Birthday Card

Seems like the last couple months have been birthday central: S's 3rd, DH's XXth, E's 5th and mine coming up Saturday.

Lesa has a card challenge and here is my entry:

I used the cupcake from a PIF thread over on SCS. I was so excited to finally be able to use one my images just sitting around in my stash! I even used the Liquid Applique for the first time. Haven't decided if I like it or not. What do you think?

Thanks for the inspiration Lesa!

National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day

Did you know that today is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day? Unless you’ve had someone affected by this horrible disease, you might not have realized this.

Did you know:
• Cancer is the #1 cause of death by disease in children, cutting short the lives of more children under the age of 20 than any other disease.
• 1 child out of 5 who is diagnosed with cancer dies.
• 3 out of 5 children suffer from long-term side effects.
• Every school day, 46 young people, or two classrooms of students, are diagnosed with cancer in this country. More than 12,500 children are diagnosed with cancer each year and over 40,000 children and adolescents currently are being treated for childhood cancers.
• The average age of a child diagnosed with cancer is six years old; saving the life of a child with cancer gives our children a future; approximately, 66 years of life’s milestones and dreams to celebrate.
(Taken from CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation FAQ)

Many of you know that my daughter, 10 days before her 4th birthday last year (9/20/2007) was diagnosed with cancer. While she’s currently cancer-free, her journey is far from over. We have met many families that are traveling down the same road of having to watch their child go through things no man or woman should endure, much less a child. It makes you feel quite helpless.

Won’t you stop for a minute today and say a prayer for those children and their families? Give them the strength to battle this monster and balance life. It’s a tough battle and it never seems to end.

If you also are able, would you consider donating for research? I am participating in the CureSearch Virtual Walk for 12,500 to conquer childhood cancer. The 12,500 represents the number of children diagnosed with cancer each year. Every donation, no matter how small or large, brings us one day closer to reaching the day where every child with cancer can be guaranteed a cure. Follow this link if you’d like to donate. (Participant name Dana Jones). I am "walking" in honor of my daughter.

One last thought from Senator Hillary Clinton:

"We have made tremendous strides in the fight against childhood cancer, but far too many children still suffer and lose their lives to this illness. The more we know as a nation the better able we will be to prevent and treat the disease and help those who are battling and surviving pediatric cancers. National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day is an opportunity to reach out to all Americans with the facts about childhood cancer, and this day will be an important symbol of our commitment on all days to find a cure," said Senator Clinton.

Hi and hiatus again for a little while

Hi to my faithful readers! ;) I am sorry that I have been absent so long but things have been crazy for me! My daughter is doing great but will have to have another surgery in a week (a week from yesterday). We are hoping and praying that this will be the end (plus one outpatient procedure) of this journey.

I have been busy. I was able to go on a scrapbook retreat and get over 30 layouts done! Whoo hoo! I have not been making as many cards I would have liked though. I am having a hard time dividing my time (work, husband, kids, family time, crafting etc). I am hoping things settle down soon and praying for a quieter hurricane season!

I made a card for my sisters birthday with Dress Up Lily. I absolutely ADORE this set as there are so many different options with this set. I even used fun flock on the hat to make it soft and fuzzy! Hope you all enjoy!

Blog Candy Winner!

Thanks everyone for you patience and the lovely comments! I really appreciate it. So, I had over 80 folks which really suprised me!! Thanks everyone! Without further ado our winner is...

Fiona W
Check out her blog! She has some really beautiful creations!!

Send me your addy so I send out your package. I believe you are as we say, "across the pond" and I am extremely excited to send it off to you!

Now, a few of you have asked about the google doc/spreadsheet. It worked great BUT I would only use it again if I was asking for one entry. Since I had said you could do 1-3 things, it made things a little more time consuming to figure out how many entries each person got then have to add another line item. Additionally, I'd turn comments OFF on the blog so that all folks would know to use the form to submit their entry rather than in the comment form. All in all, I'm really happy with GoogleDocs and will use it again.

Be back this weekend with a few creations!!!

We're Home

So sorry to have left ya'll so quickly! We made it home and are trying to adjust again. E's surgery went as well as expected thought didn't expect to stay two weeks nor for her to have two surgeries! Unfortunately, her journey is not yet over. The surgeries performed didn't help so we're now looking for a specialist (anyone know of a pediatric endourologist??).

I'll draw the name in the next day or two. Just need to get unpacked and settled.

Thanks everyone for your well wishes and patience!!!

Be back soon

Sorry for not drawing blog candy... We had a slight change of plans and had to fly out this past weekend for my daughter and her surgery. I hope to draw the candy in the next day or two. Stay tuned!!!