Charlotte's Sweet Shoppe

Just wanted to quickly share one of the projects I made for the PaperWorks Co. release party last night.
My lighting stinks in the picture.  Working on a new light box today.  I'm hoping that will correct my photographing issues.  The details on all my supplies are in this post.

  I made this cute little pizza box that Jen Del Muro shared the template for HERE.  These are super easy and fun to make.  Isn't that image so cute?  You can see all the images released last night on the blog.  She has a deal going on right now if you purchase all of them.  All the deets are HERE.

Side view:

  I know this is super quick, but I am having a house FULL of kids today.  I may be ringing in the New Year with just myself and a drink...hee hee.  That will probably sound heavenly this evening....the sound of SILENCE:)

  I hope you all have a fabulous new year.  Be safe my friends.  We will be heading out to Michigan for our LAST trip until the spring.  I am so tired of being in a car....I'm just going to hibernate in my craft room all winter:)

Toodles!

Howdy!

  I hope you all have had a great holiday!  Our Christmas was so FABULOUS.  My kids were the happiest little campers on Christmas day.  For me, that was the best gift I could have gotten. I treasure this year even more because I think it is the last of what a TRUE Christmas with children will be.  My daughter is in 5th grade and the "questions" have come up...if you catch my drift.  Anyways,  I hope you and your families had a MAGICAL Christmas too!

  I have a few things to share today.  First, I would like to let you know that PaperWorks Co. is having a release party tonight at 8pm in the US or 6pm if you live in Canada.  You can join us in the chat room HERE.
You will first need to register at PaperWorks Co and then you can log in. ( this is located at the top right of the screen)  Better directions and info are HERE.

  Peggy will be giving away a few prizes along the way.  There will also be some great inspirational ideas from the Design Team to get you off to a good start:)  I plan on "being there" so pop in and say, "HI!" if you like.

  Now, I also wanted to share a TIP for how I have started to store my glitter.  I am REALLY big into recycling and re purposing things.  Recently the little one I babysit started eating baby food.  Did you know that the food comes in these tiny plastic containers?

I thought these would be great for storing my glitter, embossing powder, buttons...you name it.  What do you think?  Perfect, right?  So, you either need to go have a baby or find someone who does.  If you live in the Detroit area, my SIL is pregnant with her SIXTH child.  I'm sure she can hook you up with a bunch of these babies....I mean containers:)

Now I like to use a spoon to sprinkle on my glitter or embossing powder.  How about you?  A giant plastic spoon is a bit of overkill, I think.  LIGHT BULB!  I have the perfect solution.  It's not often that I am brilliant, but I think this is a brilliant, if not, fun idea. Mini Spoons! You will need to head to Coldstone Creamery for this.  WHAT!  You don't HAVE a Coldstone Creamery near you.  Ok, let's pause for a moment of silence

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I think we can move on now.  Here's what you need to do.   Head over to Google and FIND the nearest Coldstone.  Drive, Fly, Cruise to where ever that may be immediately.  Order yourself a LOVE IT sized Coffee Lover's Sundae.  You can thank me later in either stamps or Coldstone gift certificates...I'm not picky:) 

Now, there are several ways you can acquire these MINI spoons.  I needed about 20.

YOU COULD:

1. Tell the workers the sad story of how you don't have a Coldstone near you and you would be so grateful to have (20) mini spoons as a memento of your trip to their amazing ice cream  shop.  I'm sure they will feel so sorry for you that you could get a whole case! Maybe even Free Ice Cream!

2.  Ask to sample 20 different types of ice cream and tuck each spoon in your pocket.  I'm sure this will not impress the help though.  So, you could just do what I did...

3.  Ask if you can buy (20) mini spoons.

  The people were so nice when I was there that they just gave me the spoons tucked nicely into a sundae cup.  See.....

Now I have to share my funny story about the day I went to get these.  I stopped in for the purpose of buying these spoons.  I had been out Christmas shopping and decided to get my kids a Gift Card as well.  I was really hungry and COMPLETELY deserved to buy myself a treat after battling the holiday crowds.  So I ordered my Coffee Lover's, got the GC's and thanked the girl for my free mini spoons.  It was really crowded in the shop so I decided to just get it to go and sit in my card and eat.

  When I got settled and went to pull out the spoon to eat with I realized the girl forgot to give me a normal sized spoon:)  Now, I was not about to go in and ask for a spoon when they had just given me 20 FREE mini spoons.

So I pulled a tiny spoon out .....

 

.......and proceeded to sit and eat in the parking lot.  This is the first time that my ice cream ALMOST melted before I finished it....ALMOST:)  As I was sitting there enjoying my sundae, I happened to look up and see a waitress staring out the window.  (I was parked right in front of a Hamburger Joint.)  Then I noticed that the waitress called another waitress over and they were both peering out the window and pointing.  Oh My Gosh!  They were staring right at me...eating my HUGE sundae with my TINY spoon.  I couldn't believe that people were now forming a small group at the window and peering out at me eating!  I was so self concious that I turned to look away......

AND THAT'S when I noticed the cop car sitting kitty corner from mine with his lights on.  THAT'S what they were looking at....not ME.

What an arrogant, idiot I was to think that all those people had nothing better to do than watch me eat ice cream... in my car... using a tiny spoon!  I just started to crack up at myself.  Seriously CRACKING up, laughing with tears rolling down my cheeks.

I must have looked crazy mad...sitting in my car alone, laughing hysterically with my TINY spoon.  Because then people DID start to look at me.

So here's the tip....NEVER eat with a mini spoon in public.  Instead use it for your glitter and embossing powder like this:

BTW, these little containers fit perfectly into my Sterlite 3 drawer plastic chest.  Now I just have to figure out how to keep each spoon with the container to which it belongs.  Any suggestions?  I'm thinking glue dots or tiny velcro???  What do you think?

That's it for today.  Check back here tomorrow for a project I made using one of the new releases for Little Loud Stamps.  See you then!

Snowtacular Sunday Special

Happy Sunday!  Did you all have a great Christmas?  I sure hope so.  I am writing this on Christmas Eve, but I am SURE we had a wonderful time.  Should be returning from Michigan today.  Today is another Stamptacular Sunday challenge and it's a fun one.  Make a project with SNOW!  Oh, how I love snow!  We don't get as much now that we live in Ohio.  When we do get a bunch it makes me SNOW HAPPY:)  That was so lame.

My card today is really very special.  Meet Henry......

 This is a stamp that I purchased from Paper Makeup stamps.  It was created to honor a little boy named Henry who passed away unexpectedly a few months ago.  I think this is such a beautiful thing.  If you look closely, "Henry" has angel wings and he is making snow angels.  I love to make snow angels, especially if it is still  snowing. I love looking up at all the beautiful snowflakes falling gently down and I like to feel the bit of cold as they melt on my face:)

I had a hard time getting this card to work at first.  Then I realized it was because I wasn't allowing the image to speak the message. I cut two circle shapes with my nesties and then added Shimmerz to them.  I think that is hard to see in the photo.  Don't forget you can click on the photo to enlarge it and see more details. My sentiment at the bottom was from my Unity KOTM. IRL it curves.  It was pretty hard to get it to stamp straight:(  The sentiment is a great reminder to me.  I have spent too much time this week stamping and not enough playing and laughing with my kids.

I will have 1 or 2 posts next week because they are all ready to go.  However, I will be taking next week off from stamping ( except when they are sleeping:) and won't be around for next week's Stamptacular Sunday Challenge.  I will return once my kids are back to school.

I hope you get a chance to play along in this fun challenge though.  Our sponsor this week is Card Art with these goodies up for grabs:

Have a great week.  See you in a few for a TIP and funny story that happened to me while getting supplies for my glitter storage tip.

What's In It:

Stamps: Unity KOTM Dec, Henry Snow Angel

Ink: Blue Bayou, Memento Black

Paper: Baja Breeze, white

Other: Circle Nesties, Shimmerz, snowflake EF, Polar White Flower Soft, glitter, Copics, MM brads

Snappy Birthday?

  It's only one day away....the birth of a VERY SPECIAL SOMEONE.  The card I made, however, is for another special someone...my nephew.  His birthday is coming up in January and I'm ahead of schedule this year:)  Woohoo!  You can see it over at the PaperWorks Co blog.

  If you are feeling a little crabby due to the holiday season or are really cold from the weather and are dreaming of the beach you may find my card very fitting.

It's a bit cold here too, but there's not very much snow like in other areas of the world.   It's kind of  like " The Little Engine That Could."   Jack Frost keeps saying, "I think I can (make it snow).  I think I can (make it snow)."  And then it DOES... only to melt away a short time later. So, if you have snow I am VERY jealous.  I love snow and hope we wake up to some on Christmas morning.

  Today is my last post I think until after the Holidays. If I don't get something posted tomorrow I hope you all have a very blessed holiday!

Sneak Peak of my card:

Merry Christmas!  HO! HO! HO!

Mum's The Word

Well, not exactly. 'Cause I did tell me Mum about this.

Today I get to share a secret I have been keeping since OCTOBER.  Can you believe how long I've had to keep my mouth shut?  Torture I tell ya!  Today though the "cat's out of the bag" and we are going to CELEBRATE!

  Back in October I was picked to be part of a Design Team for Paper Works Co.  They are a really fun company based out of Canada.  I have been busy creating a few things using some of the really fun stuff that Peggy sent to me.  Today and tomorrow my creations will be featured over on THE BLOG!  Please go take a peak and then check out the online store.  My card for today was inspired by their website.  It is super fun and I had a blast making it.  Let's just say it made me "sparkle" ALL DAY:)

  Here's a sneak peak at what you will see on the blog.   Edited:  The Time difference in Canada means my post there won't be up until around NOON.  Oops!  Now I know for next time.  Take a look then ok?

Edited AGAIN:  Apparently there is a little trouble with the post due to an update that was installed.  Such is the story of my life..hee hee.  Big Debut......NOT!  LOL  Scroll down to see my card.  Hopefully at some point the post will be up and you can read a bit about me and the supplies I used.  IT'S UP NOW....YEAH!!!!

I'd like to share a few of the details of this company.  One of the things that impressed me was how easily I could maneuver through the online store.  I love how organized it is.  Paper Works Co. also offers a monthly card kit at a phenomenal price of only $11.99.  Paper Works Co. is home to their own line of cute stamps.  They also sell Little Loud Stamps and Basic Grey.  This was my first time using Prism paper for coloring with Copics and I'm in love!  It's actually the first time I have EVER used Prism papers.  Love them!  One other thing I'd like to share is that Peggy and the girls all seem to be so much fun.  You can check out their sketch challenge on Sundays.  I hope you will choose to play along.  There will be something to see on the blog each day over there to inspire you.


Because I am so excited for this fun adventure and was blessed enough to get some free stuff I would like to "share the wealth" so to speak.  So I am offering up some blog candy.

  Up for grabs:

2 cuttlebug embossing folders
1 stamp set
1 package flowers
1 box jeweled brads
Birthday Sprinkle brads
Assorted Googlie eyes, brads and buttons
A sampling of Polar White Flower Soft

All you have to do is leave me a comment on this post by Jan 8th.  That should give everyone enough time after the BLUR of the holidays.  I would also love it if you would leave me a link to your blog so that I may visit you.  That's it!

Make sure you check back here tomorrow to see my other card featured over at PaperWorks Co.  

I will be taking a few days off to go see family for the Holidays.  I do have an organizational tip for storing glitter and other small things next week.  It is a VERY SILLY post.  One that should have you at least smiling by the time to get to the end.  So check back next week to be educated AND entertained!

A Pleated Gift Card Holder

It's SUNDAY!  That means it's time for another Stamptacular Sunday Challenge.  This week the challenge is to make a card or project with multiple folds.  My card today has multiple folds in many different ways.

 First I created this pleated fan shape that I have seen Kelly Lunceford do many times  ( she actually called them an ACCORDIAN FLOWER).  Directions on her blog HERE  I think they are so stunning.  I wish now I had added some glitter to it.   The hardest part about making these is having PATIENCE as you score your strip every 1/4".  Then having the PATIENCE to redo the circle many times because it's hard to hold together and glue.  I kept letting go.  AHHH!  Kelly recommends using a glue dot in the center to hold the little spiral together, but I say grab your trusty glue gun.  I'm not a big fan of glue dots if you are looking for "STAYING POWER!"  Sure, you may get burned a bit, but that baby is not MOVING!

  I created 2 of these fans.  One I punched the edge and the other left plain.  It's fun to play around with different borders.

Next I created a side border by using a punch and then scoring to create a pleated look there as well.  I added some lace trim behind it.  The only real directions I can give you is to create a mountain and valley type of fold.  I just allowed my MS border punch to dictate where I scored.

 On the inside I created a pocket by altering the directions from Nichole's blog HERE.  Her directions are for cute little Valentine sized cards.  I needed something bigger to hold a gift card.

Here's the inside:

 Here is a (really bad) picture of my template that I used:

This is super simple.  Take a piece of card stock measuring 8 1/2" X 8 3/4".  Measure up 3 1/4" on the longer side ( 8 3/4") and score across.  Measure halfway across (4 1/4")  on the shorter side ( 8 1/2") and score down.  Then remove the bottom left section.  Fold up the bottom right section and glue the edges to create the pocket.   Capisci? (Kapeesh)

BTW, this card is not something I would mail.  It is very big and bulky.  This is something that should be hand delivered or attached to a gift.(Well, not attached to a gift if you have a GIFT CARD inside.  Unless you are, like, REALLY generous:)

Alright, are you ready to play along?

It's a busy week coming up, but I hope you get a chance to play.  At least take a few moments to check out some of the really neat projects the design team has to offer.

I hope you have time to stop by next week.  I have something really special to share.  Stay tuned for that.

 Hey, any other crazies headed out to battle the crowds today after church.  Raising my hand.  But, then I will be ALL DONE shopping and able to spend some time baking with my kids.

Toodles!




What's In It?
Stamps: Fancy Flourishes CDS, Vintage Ornaments PTI
Ink: RHR, colorbox brown, TH distress ink Vintage Photo
Paper: burgundy, Basic Grey Wassail
Other: MS floral lace border punch and ??? MS border punch, Build a brad, lace trim, Spellbinders Fancy Labels, Recollections brown pearl, sponge.

Christmas Totes A Plenty!

Today I woke up to SNOW!  Yeah, I am so happy.  It is just the thing I needed to add to my already happy mood.  Last  night we went to IKEA for the first time.  We had such fun.  My daughter wanted to "get lost" in there.  Well, we did.  We went to look for ideas for a new bedroom remodel for her.  She is entering the preteen years (sniff, sniff) and Tinkerbell just isn't her idea of her style anymore.  I was also happy to get some organizational stuff for my craft room.  I will show some pictures once I get things up and in place.  My husband has been so amazing at doing things to make my craft area better.  He also spent the entire day helping me pop and bag corn for our school just so he could spend the day with me.  He said he may even help me again.

Ok, enough babble.  Here is a picture of the totes I made using Lauren's My Timeless Templates called Around the Town Tote.  Lauren has recently branched out to start her own company.  You should go check out some of the free things you can download by signing up for her newsletter.  My Time Made Easy is the company and you can find it HERE.  Warning: Due to high volume traffic the site is quite slow right now.  They are working to amend this.

 

This tote is unbelievably BIG.  I was able to put a bag of the Buttered Toffee Popcorn from yesterday's post in here along with a trial sized trio of Mary Kay's Satin Hands and a full size MK lip balm.  The totes were really fun to make.  I did learn along the way though to READ THE DIRECTIONS on how to put them together.  I'm not much for doing that sometimes.  If you don't, I guarantee you will be a bit baffled as to why it doesn't fit together correctly. Hmm?

I used some pretty PTI spring rain ribbon and their set called Holiday Tree again.  Those rhinestones are just extra gems from my kids crafting area.  I also just used some leftover rub ons for the sentiment.  Each teacher's was different.  They really liked the totes.  I think more than the actual gift.

Here is a pick of all of them. 
However, you can only see the 2 in front.

I still have just a bit more holiday shopping to do.  Yeah for me! How about you?

Today is the best kind of day.  My kids are being kind to each other ( yes, it is still early, but I have hope), they are playing nicely and I am spending the entire day crafting with and without them.  We have no plans to go ANYWHERE.  It may be a PJ day!  Love that! I hope you have a relaxing day doing what you love.

Check back tomorrow for a Stamptacular Sunday!

What's In It?

Stamps: Holiday Tree PTI

Ink: Wild Wasabi

Paper: MME Penny Lane Pink Stripes, Wild Wasabi, Spring Rain, White

Other: Cuttlebug EF, Oval nesties, dimensionals, Holiday rub ons, Janome sew mini, PTI ribbon, oval punch

Joy Comes In A Bag of Buttered Toffee Popcorn

Good morning!  I am popcorn lady again this am so I have to make this quick:)

I'm passing out my teacher gifts today and wanted to share what I made for all the "extra" teachers.  You know who I mean....art teacher, gym teacher, music. ect....

I made my fabulous Buttered Toffee Popcorn ( you can find the recipe for it in THIS POST) and put it into some glassine bags by Papertrey.  I wanted to share the recipe for this fabulous stuff with the teachers and thought I could include it inside the tag.  They turned out really cute I think.

Here is a  just the tag:

You can see the recipe inside.  I used some new paper over at The Digichick.  It's called Snow Much Fun.

I really seem to like this teal color for Christmas.  Goodness!  I hope that doesn't mean I am reverting back to the 80's!  The BIG HAIR I've still got so I'm good there.  Leg warmers might be kind of nice right now too since it is sooooo cold.

I also used PTI aquamist and 2 of there stamp sets: Snowflake Serenade and Holiday Tree.  My die cut snowflakes were made using some Sizzlets, glitter, button and twine.

CLOSEUP:)

I wanted to mention that if you don't already subscribe to THE DIGICHICK newsletter you should.  Right now they are doing a countdown to the 12 Days of Christmas.  Each day there is a free download, as well as, a sale!  

Gotta go!  Please stop back tomorrow to see the cute totes I made for "other" teachers and the secretaries.  It was hard to give them away:)

FOREVER On The Hips

This is going to be so quick!  Today is my last day to finish up all the teacher gifts and get all my mandatory crafting done.  Of course I took time out this am to make a card the the CAS challenge on Splitcoast.  The challenge was to use curves.  My card is curvy and cupcakes will GIVE you curves.  I used this cute set by Hero Arts that I got from ABC Toys and Crafts.  All their stamps are 25% OFF  right now.  Also, if you order over $50 TOMORROW you can get free shipping.  Just use the code FREESHIP.  Plus they really do have toys.  So you could get the kiddos something and justify the splurge for yourself...hee hee.  See how I work things?

Here is the inside of my card.

The inside says," A moment on the lips, FOREVER on the hips."  Then it says, "I'm ok with that!  How about you?"

This was just something I had to make to get out the Christmas crafting rut.  I love cake and the frosting is my favorite part.  What to know a dirty secret about me?........

I keep a can of frosting in my pantry and at certain times will just dig in and eat right out of it.  It's kind of like my tub of Ben and Jerry's:)

Gotta go!  It's the BUSIEST time of the year.

What's In It?
Stamps: Clear Design Cupcakes HA
Ink: rich cocoa memento
Paper: white, ME Penny Lane pink stripes
Other: Mega Nesties Curvy Rectangles, Labels??, Copics, Crystal Effects, liquid applique, dimensionals, MM epoxy sticker, May Arts White satin ribbon, PTI button

Christmas with a Twist!

First I need to start my post with a bit of an explanation.  My card today doesn't really "fit" the challenge.  You see I had another project started for this.  Then the mini remodel on my basement started and some things got lost and I just didn't have the time to finish it.  I had already started this card idea many weeks ago and decided I would use that for the challenge since I was running short on time.  The challenge this week at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge is to make a Christmas card using non traditional colors.  No Reds or GREENS!

 

OOPS!  I noticed when I was photo editing that there were GREEN snowflakes on my DP and then it occurred to me that TEAL is really just a bluish GREEN!  Hmmm!  My excuse is the chaos of how things have been lately.  I've had a bit of a mental fog....well, more than usual for those that know me.  The story I am sticking to is that this is still not the TRADITIONAL green that people would use on a Christmas card.  I don't think it resembles anything I have TRADITIONALLY seen..........Did I convince you?*wink*

I love this card for the sheer combination of shimmer and grunge.  I've added glitter and bling and then distressed the snowflake embossed papers.  My ornament was also glazed over with UTEE.  I tried the cracked glass technique but it didn't crack much.  I also just LOVE the big shimmery bow.  I have to run out and get more of the ribbon from Hobby Lobby.  Crossing my fingers that they still have it.

Hopefully you can play along this week and follow the rules:)

We have Funky Fairies as our sponsor with a Free Chocolate Covered Christmas Downloadable KIT , as well as, Lauren Meader with a Free My Timeless Template from PTI.

Check out all the wonderful creations by my fellow design team members for some great inspiration!

Today I am heading home from the FIRST of 3 trips to Michigan during this holiday season.  Never move far away from family...that's my free advice to you all:)

Toodles!




What's In It?
Stamps: Vintage Ornaments PTI
Ink: TH vintage photo distress ink, bermuda bay, versamark, aqua mist
Paper: Jolly by Golly, DCWV teal, vanilla
Other: corner rounder, fiskars border punch, MS glue pen, dazzling diamonds,Utee, ribbon, twine, snowflake EF, cuttlebug,sponge, Taylor's Tiny Twinkels,  horizontal slot punch. dimensionals

Merry and Bright!

Good Morning to you all!  First I want to thank everyone for your kind words of encouragement and prayers since my last post.  They meant the world to me.  I was so touched by the fact that "strangers" would jump up with offers of help and advice.  You guys are so great!

 I am feeling so much better.  Today I really do feel "Merry and Bright."  I think there are several reasons for that.  My basement is almost completely reorganized.  We got rid of a lot of clutter.  A good purging always makes me feel better.  I don't live well in clutter and chaos. I love the way my stamp area looks now.  No, it still isn't pretty and all " matchy, matchy."  It's an unfinished basement.  However, it "feels" good.

  There are a few other things that helped cheer me up this week that I'll share in a bit.  First, I want to show my card.

I bought this stamp quite awhile ago to use for Christmas.  I finally got to ink it up....4 times.  I had to color this little guy FOUR times.  For some reason my Copics got sticky at the end when I would add just a bit more shading.  I'm not sure why.  So I would have to start all over again!  However, I think he looks adorable.  I needed practice coloring anyways.  I did decide at the very end to add shading with some Prismacolor pencils (the 4th time).  I really like that look of Copics used with Prismas.  I also added Icicle Stickles to the lights.  I just think this is the sweetest image ever!  My ribbon is recycled from a bouquet of flowers that I got years ago. I have another Christmas card to add to my stash.  Yeah!  I decided that this year I am not going to stress about Christmas cards.  I am only sending to my immediate family.  I think I may do New Year's Cards for all my extended family and friends this year.  I'm sure they only want the picture of my kids anyways.

  Let me share a story that I heard this week from my friend.  It was kind of an epiphany for me and raising me out of the funk I've been in.  It's a tiny Christmas miracle...sort of.

  My friend has a daughter who got into a lot of trouble with drugs and such when she was younger.  She has since really been trying to clean up her act.  It is not easy.  Things that she did back then still come around to "haunt" her and her family is slowly learning to trust her again.  She now has 2 small children.  My friend M was telling me that a church chose her daughter as their "Christmas project" this year.  They bought the family some of the things they needed.  All the stuff is being kept at my friends house since the entire family will be spending Christmas night together.  M realized that the diapers and wipes were something that her daughter might need beforehand so she had her husband drop them off to K...their daughter.  K wasn't home so he just left them inside by the front door.  In the meantime, K has been stressing because she has no money to buy diapers.  She didn't want to tell her mom because she felt like she had already asked so much of her financially and wanted to do it on her own.  She had been praying and praying so hard for diapers for her kids.  She didn't know what she was going to do.  When she came home that day and opened the door to find boxes of diapers and wipes she just started to cry/laugh. She didn't know her dad had dropped them off.  She had prayed and prayed and there they were.  She now knows her dad put them there, but they were definitely given to her through the wonderful little "angels" on Earth.  It's amazing how God works His wonders isn't it?

  I can't imagine ever being so desperate.  I have been fortunate enough to never know the worry of, "Where will I get  food, shelter, clothing and diapers?"  I felt like that story being told to me was a wake up call to get my butt out of slump because there is always someone else who has it so much harder. My "problems" are nothing but slight inconveniences that will all work out.  That story really reminded me of what Christmas is about. I really pray that K stays on the right track and that life will get that much better for her.  I think she is probably going to have the most wonderful holiday celebrating the real "Reason for the Season."  I know that I will too!

Many Blessings to all of you!




What's In It?
Stamps: Rachel Ann Miller Moose, PTI Holiday Tree
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa, Choc Chip,
Paper: Kraft, White, Spring Rain
Other: cuttlebug, embossing folder, sponge, Copics and prismacolor pencils, stickles, paper piercer, dimensionals, ribbon, trim, circle punches, circle nestabilities, button, twine

Just Talk

Good Morning !  I don't have anything to show today.  I wanted to share that it may be a few days before I do.  My husband built shelves in the basement this weekend.  That means that my craft area is under some reconstruction.  It looks like a bomb went off down there.  My mom is coming in to visit for a few days so I'm not even sure WHEN I'm going to get things cleaned up.  That's ok.  I need to see my mom.  It will  all still be there when I am ready.

  I find that I am sinking under the pressure of the holidays.  I don't normally get like this.  That is another reason I have been a bit silent on the blog.  I want my blog to be a happy place.  I've been feeling a bit blue...that's not fun to read.  I decided that I would share a bit though.  I am also asking for a few prayers.

Please pray for Priscilla.  I'm not sure how much I can share at this point.  Just know that she needs them..

Also, please pray for my Dad.  He is going through so many struggles right now.  I am amazed by his strength to push through.  Without divulging too many details I will share a few things.  First, his wife has Alzheimer's.  She is only 60.  Each time we go to visit you can see how she gets a little bit worse.  Some days are better than others.  My dad is only 59.  He hopes to be able to retire and care for her.  The daily struggles of figuring out when and if it's time to have someone intervene are very trying.  My dad is amazingly patient.  Much more than I find myself being at times.  It is a balancing act everyday.  Juggling the possibilities of what she will or won't do.  His wife still wants to be independent.  That is a tough line to cross since there are days she has a hard time being that way.  My dad also has a very demanding job.  It has gotten worse over the years.  With no one around to help him with his wife it is even harder. Alzheimer's is a sad, stressful disease.  I don't think anyone really knows how hard it is for both the person and the caregiver until you SEE it.

 My dad also recently did a good deed for someone that ended up with some bad consequences.  His heart was in the right place; his luck was not.  So you see, he really needs some prayers.

I promise that my blog will not always be this much of a downer.  I REALLY hate getting like that.  I thought if I wrote about it I might feel a bit better about it.  So THANK YOU if you have read this far!

The holidays are always a little bit stressful for everyone. That may be why I feel so edgy.  Or maybe it's because of this conversation that I had with my son:

Let me set up the story first.  My friend, Mrs L (she reads my blog) substitutes at the school. She regularly fills in for Mrs. B. Last week was a BIG testing week for the kids.  The IOWA test...no we live in Ohio.  I'm already confused.  Then this conversation took place after waiting with 8 kids in the hallway of the school because my other friend was running late to pick her kids up.   Then SIX of those kids came home with me!  I felt the need for a drink that evening BTW!  Here's the conversation:

Dalton: Hey Mom, Mrs L. was in my room today!

Me: Oh yeah, I think she was Mrs. B today.

Dalton:  NO, it was Mrs. L.

Me: Yes, I know, but she was Mrs. B at school.

Dalton: No she was Mrs. L!  It was Mrs. L in my room.

Me: What I MEAN is she was working FOR Mrs. B today....in her room.

Dalton: No because I saw Mrs. B today.  She came in and got "so and so" to take him to her room.

Me:  Oh, she must have been taking him to do some testing.

Dalton: MOM, we are all taking a test.

Me:  Yes, but she does special...oh never mind.  

This is MY rendition of a "Who's on first, What's on second" skit.  When we saw Mrs. L that night Dalton told her she should wear a mask of Mrs. B when she works.  That might make it so much less confusing for our next conversation at home:(

Speaking of my son, he is having some difficulties at school.  He is such a hard worker, but he struggles so much with reading.  We are looking into extra help at school and tutoring.  It is tough to see him work so hard and have such a hard time.  So please pray for him too!

Thought I'd share a few picture of our trip to be a bit more cheerful.

  This was opening day of hunting.  My son went almost every morning with my husband.  My dad, uncle and cousin are also pictured.

My daughter went almost every evening.

We all spent a day hanging out in the barn, cutting and packaging meat.

Hopefully, I'll be back towards the end of the week with something to share.  In the meantime, I'm feeling better already.  Thank you!

Give Me A Bit A BLING!

Happy Stamptacular Sunday to you!  Our challenge today is to make a card using some BLING!  I'm in a bit of denial that Christmas in only 3 weeks away.  Therefore I just couldn't make anything with a Christmas theme:)  I have been wanting to make a card using a technique I saw on Splitcoast a few weeks ago.  My flower is made using some glimmer mist and a paper towel.  Fun, huh?  I also used the Elegant Flourishes set from Clear Dollar Stamps.  I love flourishes!  Isn't this one beautiful?  I also used a sentiment from a new set by PTI called, "Giga Guidelines."  Please excuse my photo.  For some reason I feel like my pictures are being compressed when I load them onto my computer.  Still trying to figure that one out.  The top of the card uses a Fiskars border punch and some black satin ribbon.  I decided to add my bling using some Taylor's Tiny Twinkles, a rhinestone from my stash and dazzling diamonds.

  Please join us this week.  Everyone can use a little BLING in there lives.  Head on over to the blog so you can see all the DT's projects.

Our Sponsor this week is our own DT member, Paula.  She is giving away this.....

Also Emma Lockley is sponsoring this...

Well, that's all for me today!  We are finishing up our Christmas Village.  My kids can't wait!

Warm Wishes to you!

What's In It?
Stamps: Elegant Flourishes (CDS), Giga Guidelines (PTI)
Ink: Colorbox Maroon, Versafine Black
Paper: Black, white
Other:Taylor's Tiny Twinkles, rhinestone, black satin ribbon (HL), glimmer mist, paper towel, fiskar border punch,dazzling diamonds

Working Up Some MOJO

Good Morning to you all!  I made a simple card today for the Mojo Monday Sketch. It has been so long since I have done one of those. I also used the colors from the TCP challenge.  So soft and pretty. I think that this color combo is one of my favorites.  Of course, anything with Kraft card stock is good.

My old DT member Carly was getting rid of some things.  I was able to get 5 Unity sets from her.  I used a few on this card.  I know that feeling of cleaning house.  We are doing a little organization in the basement and my craft area is undergoing some change.  I am trying to get rid of lots of stuff that I'm not using.  I think it's going to be great.  I'll have an area to keep my printer and set up my laptop.  Plus pegboard!  I can't wait for that!  I am soooo glad to have my husband done with his Master's finally.  He will now have time to do some of the remodeling we need to do.  Plus he is able to spend more time with us.

I wondered what you all are doing to get into the spirit of Christmas?  We didn't watch Polar Express yet, but we got our tree up.  I hope to finish decorating by Sunday.  We have a busy week.  It's beginning to feel a bit more like Christmas

Thought I'd share a few pictures of my kid's in their Santa hats.

 

They always wear these hats when putting ornaments on the tree.

Christmas Cheer has finally begun!  Have a great day!

What's In It?
Stamps:Gratitude=Joy, Trinity ( Unity), Sanded
Ink: Colorbox Dune, Sahara Sand, Colorbox Pink
Paper: Kraft, Watercolor, Vanilla, DCWV Pink
Other: MM heart brads, Copics, dimensionals, Nestie Circles and Scallop Circles, Chipboard, Paint, QK embossing folder, cuttlebug

Forgot to Mention

I am getting rid of a lot of stamping stuff.  I have things listed on Ebay HERE.  Take a look if you like.  I will have much more after the first of the year too.

Finding My Way Back to Reality

 It's been a bit quiet here on the ole Blogarooni.  Sorry!  Do you know what the worst thing about getting back from vacation is?  All the stuff you left behind is STILL there smacking you right in the face when you return.  I've spent the last few days trying to catch up on laundry, getting the kids geared up for the return to school, organizing my school volunteer work, trying to find some stamping mojo and, OH YEAH, there's this big holiday coming up that I JUST started prepping for.  Wowzers!

I absolutely LOVE Christmas.  It is the thing that warms my heart.  However, I haven't really gotten in the spirit of the season yet.  So, I decided to listen to some Christmas music today while finishing my card.  The radio station had this big discussion about how most people would really rather get the money than a gift.  WOW!  Haven't we really LOST what Christmas is about?  THAT sure didn't help to get me in the spirit.  I think we may have to watch Polar Express tonight.  That is my all time favorite Christmas movie.  I also love the song in it by Josh Grobin.  It gets me....right...here.  Have a listen ....

BELIEVE

I had to add this song too.  I know I'll find it.

Where are you Christmas?

Now onto my card

 

 I made this for the Everything But The Kitchen Sink challenge.  We were to use a toothpick on our card.  I was in the process of making this card for another challenge and just trying to figure out how to do my arms.  VOILA!  I colored them with Copics.  The nose is also a toothpick.  I love the "idea" of this card, but not this one in particular.  I messed up underneath that pink panel.  I already had everything hot glued so there was NO starting over.  Just imagine it without the pink panel and I will be happy:)

I'm off to try and catch up on my GIANT "To Do" list.  It is seriously longer than my kids' Christmas lists.  I know you all can relate.  I'm not sure how much posting I will get done in the next few weeks.  I have some changes in my life going on that I can discuss more later.  They are all good.

Hope you have a blessed day.  We are supposed to get snow flurries tomorrow.  I'm crossing my fingers for it.  I KNOW that will help put me in the spirit.

What's In It?

Stamps: Itty Bitty Backgrounds

Ink: Fresh Snow

Paper: Kraft, Soft Sky, Jolly by Golly, Bazzill Pink

Other: Buttons from TPS and PTI, dollar spot chipboard, grommet, Janome Sew Mini, sharpie marker, Sakura Stardust gel pen, distressing tool, toothpicks, dazzling diamonds, paper piercer