Creative Whimsy

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!

2010-11-24T15:03:00.000-06:00

glitter-graphics.com

Wishing all those Mothers a Happy Mothers Day!

2010-05-08T16:16:00.002-05:00

To all those Mommies may your day be blessed with love,

hugs, and remembering you are indeed special.

Without Mother's love,

no one would know what unconditional love truely is!!

God Bless,

Tracy

Hope for Sweet Emma Benefit

2009-05-22T14:03:00.004-05:00

This little girl, needs some help!! I am posting this on my blog as this touches my heart, Emma lives in my town. Please visit her site, and if you are feeling generous please go to her caringbridge site to help her and her family out.

Background Story

On Januray 27, 2009 Emma was diagnosed with a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) brain tumor, located on her brainstem. Due to the complex location of the tumor, doctors are unable to biopsy or surgically remove it. She has gone through 6 weeks of radiation treatment in hopes that the tumor has stopped growing. She has done an amazing job and we are so proud of her!!

Just before Christmas 2008, Emma began noticing that her right eye wasn't keeping up with the left one and occasionally noticed double vision. We then noticed when she turned a certain way, her eye was not staying on track and immediately took her to an eye doctor. She was then referred to an Opthalmologist, who did a variety of testing and decided to consult with Emma's regular Pediatrician. A routine MRI scan was ordered on January 27th, and we were notified of the results immediately and on our way to Children's Hospital in Minneapolis later that afternoon. She loves Children's and is looking forward to spending more time there! Her positive attitude and willingness to be so compliant with the numerous tests she has gone through is absolutely amazing! It is hard to be sad when she is around, because she continues to light up the room with her energy. We are welcoming all prayers and continue to be optimistic as Emma begins her radiation on Monday, February 2nd. She will have radiation Mon-Fri for 6 weeks, and will have a repeat MRI on April 23rd to see the results. She will still be able to go to school and continue doing everything an outgoing 7-year-old does! We will do the best we can to update her progress and condition and would like to thank everyone for their love and support through this all.

Love and Prayers,

Mike, Tara, Emma and Abby

If anyone wishes to send her cards, you are more than welcome to send them to the only address I have found was where to send her donations if you are not able to do it online: Klein Bank c/o Emma Fogarty Benefit Fund P.O. Box 85 Waconia, MN 55387
Thank you for keeping a little one like Emma in your prayers and thoughts!

Ladies Weekend Fave Cards

2009-04-30T15:06:00.004-05:00

It was nice to get away from the hussle and bussle of being at home and spending time with my SIL's. We had fun and got a few things done... but the amount of crafting had nothing to do with the time well spent together...

These are my two fave cards, I had another one but already sent it before taking the picture... oops me bad...

:-) Smiles & Happy Crafting!!

Kami's 9x9 Accordian Album

2009-04-21T14:28:00.002-05:00

Now funny thing about this accordian you can see on her blog... is that this was the one of the most fun I have had, bugging my SIL in using her "pretties".

As she puts she is a collector... well her collection was getting a little too big... so I helped her downsize... Lucky her!!

I think we did an awesome job, check it out and see for yourselves!

:-)

WOW I have been busy...

2009-03-19T21:45:00.002-05:00

Sorry its been so long since my last blog!!

Between the holidays, taxes, & daily life stresses, kid sports activities, and our current 2 week vacation... We have been very busy!!

So I am sorry to all my followers and those that have popped on here recently, I plan on getting this blog all put back in order... so patience is required... :-)

:-) Smiles everyone!!
Chin UP!

Jell-O Cookies: Great for Christmas & Easter!

2008-12-13T02:31:00.003-06:00

Jello cookies... just thinking about them, makes me want to make more. I love making these cookies for Christmas & Easter. I wanted to share with you these are fun and easy to make... :-)

Jell-O Cookies

Ingredients:
3 ½ C Flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 C butter
1 C sugar
1 3 oz pkg jello, any flavor
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla

Directions:
Mix the flour with baking powder. Cream butter. Gradually add sugar and Jell-O, beating well. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually add flour mixture, beating well. Roll out and cut with cookie cutters and bake at 400* for 8 min. or until golden brown. (Very nummy!!)

Love to hear what you think when you make them... My fave is strawberry or lime... What's yours??

Celebrate Card

2008-12-09T13:22:00.001-06:00

This card was done with Chalk Embossing & using Clear Embossing powder over the image, then I added some glitter to perk it up.

Win Paper Before You Can Buy It!

2008-12-08T21:25:00.002-06:00

Win Paper Before You Can Buy It!
Do you love blogging too? Close To My Heart Founder, Jeanette Lynton, has been bitten by the blog bug! And right now, she is having a raffle for free Spring 2009 paper! Just make a post to her blog of your favorite paper packet and how you use it!

Good luck!!

Note: This was taken verbatim from Beth's blog, visit her blog for some inspiration!

Scrapper in Training.... Oh Kitty!

2008-12-08T20:58:00.003-06:00

First let me explain, Bella for some reason always wants to be with me when scrapping... She has a fascination with everything I am doing, whether it be stamping to using the heat tool. She just crawls into my scrap bag and hangs out. Now if I need something I just have to go under her to get it.. nope she won't move.

Bella's Favorite Scrapping Tools:
My sponges, My pencils & markers, Papers that fall to the floor, and my daubers.

She is a thief and I need to watch her closely for she is known to be taking away my sponges and daubers on a whim.

This was just too cute and had to share... Bella with her Furry Brothers Toby (left) & Loki (right)

Thanks for listening to me ramble tonight... :-)

Snap Shot.com

2008-12-04T12:12:00.003-06:00

I just installed a nice little tool on this site called Snap Shots that enhances links with visual previews of the destination site, interactive excerpts of Wikipedia articles, MySpace profiles, IMDb profiles and Amazon products, display inline videos, RSS, MP3s, photos, stock charts and more.

Sometimes Snap Shots bring you the information you need, without your having to leave the site, while other times it lets you "look ahead," before deciding if you want to follow a link or not.

Should you decide this is not for you, just click the Options icon in the upper right corner of the Snap Shot and opt-out.

Holiday Casserole

2008-12-04T08:15:00.001-06:00

Holiday Casserole

Ingredients

1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup butter or margarine
10 slices white bread, cubed
1 pound fully cooked ham, chopped
1/2 pound pasteurized processed cheese spread, cubed
6 eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon ground mustard

Directions:

1. In a skillet, saute green pepper until tender.
2. Combine green pepper, bread, and ham. Place in an ungreased 13 by 9 inch baking dish.
3. Place cheese in skillet. Stir over low heat until melted.
4. Pour over bread mixture.
5. Beat eggs, milk, and mustard. Pour over cheese.
6. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
7. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
8. Bake, uncovered, at 300 degrees for 1 hour.
9. Cool slightly. Cut into 20 pieces.

Makes: 20 pieces.

Meal:
Lunch & Dinner

Recipe adapted from allrecipes.com and familyfun.com, 2008.

Our Rose

2008-12-04T07:59:00.003-06:00

I love the Silhouette paper pack from Close To My Heart. It is elegant and sophisticated. I added a little bit of Notebook paper from CTMH as well, added the right touch. I added a pocket to put the poem in that was read at her grave site. Adding hidden spaces is fun, try it and see what you can come up with!!

Sorry this is short, I had allergy testing yesterday. I am still feeling a little uncomfortable... everything but 2 places puffed up like big superballs, my skin and eyes are ultra sensitive... Trust me, it wasn't any fun.

No Worries

2008-12-03T08:04:00.003-06:00

I love to be using up my scraps, and making cards is the easiest way for me to do so. What else I like to do is donate them to local schools, for they can never have enough paper to work with for varies projects.

I wanted to leave you with a quote, as I know someone who is having a rough week and think this will help cheer her up...
"Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy." ~Leo Buscaglia

Want Summer?

2008-12-02T21:21:00.003-06:00

This card was made by one of my club members Jeni. I taught her paper piecing. If you don't know what that is... it's a fun, easy, and yet can be challenging if done with tired eyes that stayed up till 2am. By the way don't you just love that stamp set!! Oh I want it... not sure who its from or whats its called...

This card, I made while Jeni was doing her own. It involved chalk embossing or at least that's what I am calling it, paper piecing, and lots of laughter... :-)

To do the Chalk "Embossing"
Stamp your image using Versamark
Then take your desired chalk colors and using an applicator tool or even a q-tip color in and around your image as desired.
In some cases, I use a clear acrylic spray to help seal it.
But mostly when I mail them I put a photo sleeve over gives it more of a professional look to it.

To do Paper Piecing
It involves stamping your image twice, once on a plain Cardstock, & the other on B&T paper (B&T= Background & Texture)
Using your scissors trim out the piece or pieces you want out of your B&T paper
Then apply them to your plain Cardstock image.

Paper Piecing is time consuming, but is worth all the Oohs & Aahs!!
Feel free to share your paper piecing with me... :-)

Busy, Busy Bee am I...

2008-12-02T20:54:00.007-06:00

Oh, My is everyone still stuffed from Turkey Day?? I still have leftovers in my fridge. :-) Saves on our food bill that's for sure.

I hosted a Ladies get together with my sisters in laws and friends (& scrapper in training my niece) over Turkey weekend, and got a lot done!! I am so proud of myself... My picture bin is slowly getting empty, which means I am catching up!! Yippeee!! My niece over this weekend has moments of boredom, but she over came it by taking miscellaneous pictures... Some are blurry as she bounced about, but some are rather interesting in the way she would tilt the camera or get onto the subjects level. Interesting isn't it the eyes of a child... I had to add a snippet of a self photo of her, as she took a lot of photos that are going to come back to haunt us... or should I say everyone else but me... as it was my camera... Heee heee hee... *witchy laugh*

Now these layouts are just a few that I did over the Ladies Weekend... I will post more as I go... didn't want to overwhelm anyone... :-)

My sister & my son... she is his Godmother, so I thought it only fitting to get a layout done about them as well...

Now I am sure that everyone has lots of photos and is trying to catch up like me... Right??? LOL, Well, this was a way to get those miscellaneous photos when you only have one of this or one of that but didn't want to throw it away or even frame it... so I just found a way to incorporate them all into a year in review layout. I really like how it turned out!

Summer Days, Oh I wish for warmth... and its not even a full Minnesotan winter yet... sad huh...

Now, this layout since I just had a few from the weekend these were taken. I wasn't quite sure what to do... I still haven't even came up with a title for it... as you see, its still pretty blank... :-) I think the boys looking out the windows in black in white like this was pretty slick!

Are you ready for Snow?

2008-11-20T11:16:00.000-06:00

Snow, Snow, Snow...

Left Layout using Aspen paper, SOTM All decked out, Stampin Up scallop punch, Snowflake stickers (got at Target sorry don't recall the brand) & clear sparkles.

Right Layout using Aspen paper, SOTM All decked out, Stampin Up scallop punch, Snowflake stickers (got at Target sorry don't recall the brand) & clear sparkles.

Stamp set Gloria, Paper pack Everlasting, acetate, acetate markers

Paper pack Aspen, Acetate over the snowflake paper, stamp set is Bundled Up, fun flock

Perfect Day in Wyoming

2008-11-10T12:20:00.002-06:00

Wyoming layouts using Perfect Day, sorry photos are blurry as the lighting wasn't that great for taking pictures.

Love this Perfect Day paper pack, have been trying to catch up on our last year's vacation to Wyoming! :-)

Floral layouts aren't only for Girls :-)

2008-11-06T19:46:00.003-06:00

Every year my boys and I go to the Renaissance Fair, we love the atmosphere and the food isn't that bad either! It's a day of laughter and fun!! I took lots of pictures and this is just a few of the layouts that I have completed, but it gives a general idea. These papers are retired from CTMH, but they fit into my theme perfectly that I have used absolutely NO embellishments at all, that's right no ribbons, brads, eyelets etc.... I think they turned out beautifully.

Creative Club Display Board

2008-11-06T19:35:00.003-06:00

I have been scrapping a lot lately and getting ready for a big crop this weekend my sister in law and I do together. This is the display board for my monthly club that I will be displaying as well as a few things we have done in the past.
2 p Layout, 2 Cards, Calendar, Candle, Clipboard...

Let me know what you think!

Mini Caramel Apples

2008-11-05T20:09:00.004-06:00

I made these for my kids and they loved them... I was really impressed. It's an easy recipe that they can follow and make themselves... with supervision of course... :-)
Try it and let me know what you think...

Mini Caramel Apples

Bite-size versions of the fall fair treat, these tiny "caramel" apples are a great party snack.

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
4-inch lollipop sticks
Melon baller
Granny Smith apples (one apple makes about 8 mini apples)
Butterscotch or peanut butter chips
Chopped nuts, nonpareils, sprinkles, shredded coconut (optional)
Small paper candy cups
Step 1 - Mini Caramel Apples 1. First, cut the lollipop sticks in half at an angle (the pointy end will go into the apple pieces easier). With the melon baller, scoop little balls out of the apple. Each ball should have a section of apple peel. Push half of a lollipop stick into the peel of each ball. Pat the apple pieces dry.

Mini Caramel Apples: Variations 2. Melt the chips according to the package directions. Dip and swirl the mini apples in the melted chips, then roll the apples in nuts, sprinkles, nonpareils, or coconut, if desired. Place the mini apples in paper candy cups to set.

Five Friends Video... by DiCaprio

2008-10-31T14:21:00.001-05:00

It's your choice... help make it count... vote for what matters to you..... or not...It's your choice!

What does Scrapbooking mean to You? Share your stories...

2008-10-17T20:19:00.002-05:00

I found this quote and it reminded me why I started scrapbooking to begin with. My first experience of scrapbooking was with all my sisters in laws, and they were all hot and heavy into it, needless to say I was overwhelmed. All I really wanted to do was soak it in and color as I can't mess that up! ;-) But then I got hooked on dry embossing and made my first card... and have been dabbling ever since...

Scrapbooker's Verse

(Kimberly Rinehart)

We gather up pictures
and bits of our past
and scrapbook them into
a gift that will last.

We write about milestones
and travels and such--
the times of our lives
that we treasure so much.

A few special photos,
a family tree,
a few thoughtful words
and soon we will see...

The album we've made
is much more than a book.
It's worth even more
than the time that it took.

It's a gift holding memories
and made with great care
by hearts and hands
with love to share.

After reading this quote and sharing my story of scrapbooking does anyone else have one they wish to share?

Notebook & Silhouette Layout

2008-10-14T19:50:00.001-05:00

This is the layout my monthly club will be doing, I think it turned out really nicely!

Happy Trick or Treating Card & My First Acetate Card

2008-10-11T19:22:00.003-05:00

This is my very first time doing a acetate card, so be gentle with me... LOL I used White & Black staz on to stamp with.
Happy Trick or Treating! I left no sentiments on this card for now, as I know some ppl with Oct. birthdays.This technique was with the brayer and I love playing with my brayer so thought my club members might like the experience as well.

2008-10-06T20:01:00.001-05:00

Meow layout & Creative Challenges

2008-10-01T08:35:00.006-05:00

First of all, I am sorry I haven't posted in a while!! Things around my home have been just crazy. Kids going and coming, Stress of layoffs or serious job cuts, kitty injured her front paw by jumping from places to high for her, classes for work, volunteering at the school after work...and my list can go on...

profile editor

This Kitty looked identical almost to Bella... So cute..

Okay a lot of you have been waiting for the October Creative Challenge! This month's Challenge is using sparkles & rub ons. You can do a 2 page layout, single page layout, card, something out of the box etc. All entries must be in before Oct. 20th so we can vote by Oct. 31st. Winner will win a $10 gift certificate to Archivers!!
Please email me a picture of your project to creativewhimsyscrappin@yahoo.com

Creative Comments Challenge starts today as well... Oh don't we love the first of the month!! So many great things start for us to win!! The winner will win a set of 5 cards, each a different design, inc. envelopes.

myspace graphics

Good Luck to you!

How to make a No Sew Blanket

2008-09-20T23:45:00.002-05:00

Oh I love making these as gifts for family and friends... My boys, YES you heard me my BOYS love to do these while watching movies, we all snuggle under and start knotting away!! Once you start you will not be able to stop!! I will post a few pictures for you when I have a moment..

Would love to know the secret of doing a pillow like this, how to make it washable?? Do you add buttons?? Since there is to be no sewing?? Tips please..

Visit this link to check it out!!

Art and Soul is here!

2008-09-20T22:17:00.004-05:00

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!

Creative Cards

2008-09-13T19:27:00.002-05:00

Top Card I used the Stamp of the month for September, I really think that stamp set is beautiful. Stamp set "Treasure Life" Bottom Card I used Boom di Ada scraps and made a spinner card. :-)

This card was inspired by the CTMH Winter Catalog used Life Delights

Also, to see my Club projects visit Creative Whimsy Clubs & Classes.

Awesome Sites that I have been visiting... Check these out!!

2008-09-12T22:47:00.002-05:00

Free Paper Piecing Patterns--> Summer
Ideas for fun crafts & more--> add origami or other fun idea to your scrapbook project
Make fun homemade Christmas cards that look like custom snow globes
Folding a rose for scrapbooking

Another Long Day

2008-09-08T16:58:00.003-05:00

We have had a few busy weeks.I have been scrapping working on layouts and cards and will get pictures posted soon. With School starting, finding a kitten in our backyard, training for work, its been just busy all the way around.

Below is the picture of the kitten we found in our "fenced" yard. Actually my dog Toby found her and was playing with her right before Labor day, I called around for 7 hours trying to find a shelter that would take her. After calling varies vets etc, I finally got a hold of a sweet woman "Vet Tech" that took her. But that didnt last as you can tell she found out she was pregnant and since she already has four cats and a toddler she couldnt keep the kitten. So we got her again last Thursday evening...
We have named her and have vet appts lined up and everything. And my dogs seem to like her and be jealous of her at the same time... its very interesting dynamics.

Meet Bella she is about 6-8 wks old. Isn't she sweet...

She is hiding in a Close To My Heart box that we bent the flaps into triangle for feet on the bottom so its raised, and the main flaps as to a point to give room of movement...

Will get pictures of my creative moments soon!!
Thanks for your patience and thank you everyone for your awesome comments!!

I will be doing the Creative Comments starting Oct. 1st-31st. Prize will be spooktacular!!
Creative Layout Challenge will be also starting Oct. 1st more info to come... theme will be School Layouts (daycare, preschool etc counts)

A Walk to Remember

2008-08-22T21:39:00.004-05:00

I love this photo! My husband & son were walking to to the park one fall afternoon, and the colors were intense and the smell of the leaves, freshly cut grass and the crisp of cold air. It was a perfect day!! The look these two gave each other was priceless. They didn't even know I was there as I got out of work early and surprised them... Again it was a wonderful day!! ;o)

If I was to do this photo over again, today, my husband & son would be about the same height and my son wouldn't be smiling... He is going through that I don't want to smile phase. And he would never hold hands with dad, thats just not "manly". :-)

I kept my layout simple as I want to have the Memory of the "Walk to Remember" and every time I see this photo I feel tears in my eyes how blessed I am! I may not have had the daughters most mom's wish for, but even with a house full of "guys" (including the furry kind), my life is full and I wouldn't trade a moment of it for anything!

Note: I put my journaling on the back of this layout on a note card that pulls from the top.

Love is Spoken Here

2008-08-21T13:13:00.004-05:00

Septembers Stamp of the Month is AWESOME! I couldn't help but play with it the moment I got it!

We got back from the Dells in Wisconsin, we had a wonderful time. We highly recommend going to Noah's Ark over Mt. Olympus though, but thats just my families opinion. We went to Noah's Ark for two days then got FREE tickets to Mt Olympus from our hotel as its the end of peak season (best time to go, folks! You get awesome perks!). We were glad we didn't have to spend the extra money on Mt Olympus, but we did only do the waterparks (indoors & outside), we didn't participate in the theme park (roller coasters etc. as that wasn't part of the FREE package).

Noah's Ark Fave's: Mr. J's pick The Stingray, loves the free fall! Mr. M's favorite was the Bermuda Triangle & the Big Kahuna (we spent a lot of time there and the Kahuna we timed went off every 8 min, compared to the Wave which was a longer wait)... way cool! Hubbies favorite was the Time Warp... even though it was like being flushed, he thought that was "The Best". My favorite hands down was the Black Anaconda, it was a toss up between the stingray and this ride, but since I am a big roller coaster fan, this was my Fave!!

Mt Olympus Fave's: Mr. J's pick Poseidon's Rage, he loved just sitting and waiting for that 9 ft. wave to just crash on him. It was wild, he didn't seem to care about any of that "Wave Rash", from being rubbed on the bottom or the occasional person on you, highly recommend you stay in your own area or you are doomed to get run over...!! They didn't offer surfing on it though, just a throng of ppl waiting to get crushed in its power! Mr. M's favorite was the River of Troy it has a pretty fast current, but it was fun just to relax. My Hubbies favorite was the indoor slides!

We did the infamous Duck Tours, Upper Dells Boat Tours, shopping, eating... and just hanging out as a family should! We have three more days of enjoying each other's company... Now that we are home we plan on going to the Science Museum to see the Star Wars Exhibit!! And not sure what else... probably school shopping as that is almost a week away... Sept. 2nd is coming fast... I am looking forward to it, yet it will be so incredibly quiet!!

There is another Sky

2008-08-10T14:47:00.004-05:00

by Emily Dickinson
There is another sky,
Ever serene and fair,
And there is another sunshine,
Though it be darkness there;
Never mind faded forests, Austin,
Never mind silent fields -
Here is a little forest,
Whose leaf is ever green;
Here is a brighter garden,
Where not a frost has been;
In its unfading flowers
I hear the bright bee hum:
Prithee, my brother,
Into my garden come!

Boy, Oh Boy

2008-08-10T14:21:00.004-05:00

Mr. J had a sleepover with his friend after the fair, needless to say its been a long weekend already. And the house is destroyed. I have a 1/2 hour before bringing him home and resalvaging my house. The boys will love that!!

Pretty soon we leave to go to the Wisconsin Dells, for our family summer vacation... Haven't been there before, so we are looking forward to it... Anyone have any tips or suggestions what to do or see? I am anxiously awaiting the time to get away.
This layout needs a title and journaling yet, but I think it turned out really well. My son at almost 2 years old, he went through that "loved to take off his clothes" phase. So I have a before and after shot! He is so cute... when he was from infant to toddler his nickname was Furby, since his hair and big blue eyes just had that look... Now he is Peter Pan (for waking up with Peter Pan head, and not wanting to do his hair) or Muffin man for if there are muffins about he will eat them!

More Laughter Cards

2008-08-08T23:15:00.001-05:00

As I said earlier today, I love this stamp set!!

FREE Backgrounds for your blogs

2008-08-08T23:03:00.004-05:00

Cutest Blog on the Block
I ran across this site a few days ago, and every night I have been tinking with my site... giving it different backgrounds, colors, etc.

I wanted to share it with you, its simple all you do is follow the directions after clicking on the Free Background of choice and copy and paste into the "Add a Page Element" to try it out... it doesn't lose any of your codes and is sweet!

My only draw back was having to change colors to suit the background, and since my site is packed with fun stuff.. I didn't like the look of the scroll unless it was a one page type of background, too distracting... someday I may change my site all about to make it fit... but for now I plan on keeping it the way it is and just tweaking from time to time.

Let me know what you think of the site and how simple it is to use!! When I checked yesterday they mentioned a maintenance thingy going on from what I read, so if you can't access it don't fret just try back again later.

Laughter Makes the World go Round

2008-08-08T20:51:00.002-05:00

The winner for the July Buttons Challenge is Kim O. She is a winner of a $10 prize!! Your layouts were outstanding! Thank you for joining the Challenge and I hope you play here at Creative Whimsy again. Congratulations!!
Also the winner for the Creative Comments is Melanie Carroll! Thank you for your wonderful comments! Your positive spirit is a blessing!

I love this stamp set! I was given it as a gift from one of my Club Members, she is so thoughtful! I can't praise her or this stamp set enough. Thank you Miss Batt!

Stamp set used C1319 Laughter
Paper was from Scrap N Time

Enjoy & Have a wonderful weekend!

Make your own Fossils

2008-08-08T07:55:00.003-05:00

Make your own Fossils
What you need:

* clay
* items to imprint
* leaves
* coins
* bugs

Make a rock or plaque shape from the clay or use the dough recipe (included below). Use water to make a smooth surface. Make imprints with different objects. Try leaves, coins, shells, or even a small toy. When it dries, rub on a bit shoe polish and acrylic sealer to make it last for months and months. Bury them in sand or dirt and have a expedition to dig up fossils like an archaeologist. Combine with a treasure hunt, and use as clues to a treasure.

Dough Recipe
* 1/2 C Salt
* 1 C Flour
* 1 C Water
* 1 Tbsp oil
* 2 tsp. cream of tartar

Mix all ingredients in a pot and stir over medium heat. Mixture will be soupy with lumps, suddenly it will form into a ball. Remove from heat, and knead on a non-stick surface. Useful for many types of projects. Store in fridge, or allow creations to air dry.

My kids are in the process of doing this today, hopefully I can take some decent pictures to share with you.

Hairy Heads

2008-08-08T07:51:00.003-05:00

Hairy Heads
What you need:

* old knee hi or cut off panty hose
* grass seed
* dirt
* 2 small elastics
* decorations

Put 2 tsp of grass seed in the bottom of toe of the panty hose. Add 1-2 cups of dirt. Make sure the seeds stay in the top of the head, otherwise you’ll have hair sprouting from under the eyes. Use the small elastic to pinch off a nose about half way up the head. Use the second elastic to tie off the bottom. Decorate by pasting on eyes, mouth, ears, or what ever else intrigues the kids. Use paper, felt, colored plastic, markers, pipe cleaners, any materials you have on hand.

Keep the Hairy Head in a small dish with water in the bottom. The ‘hair’ should sprout in less than a week. Kids can style the hair with elastics, clips and scissors.

Feel free to send pictures of your children's versions of the Hairy Head Sock

Happy Birthday Card

2008-08-06T13:37:00.003-05:00

This card was fun to make, I used Promise of Spring paper that I had left over. For the dry embossing on paper, I just scored every 1/4 in. with an embossing tool, and did the pattern of choice, flipped it over and sanded so the pattern popped.

These colors I find very soothing!

2008-08-06T13:21:00.003-05:00

Beautiful Soul :Top Left
I love scrapbooking photos that have meaning to me. I look back over the years and reminisce the good ole days. This first layout is of my youngest sister, Miss K.

It's true what they say about the baby sister, she is the most giving of the three of us, never was one to be selfish when we thought she always got things we didn't, she always turned around and split it three ways. I look back on things and see now how lucky we were and that I am lucky to have a baby sister like her!!

Together: I have a picture of my sister and I, but don't want to add to this as of yet, its framed and I don't want to take it out as its on display. When it is on this layout the title will make sense... but for now we deal...

This layout is about my middle sister Miss H, she was a witchy girl growing up always fighting for her place. But no matter what, the three of us were a tight sisterhood. Even with 6 years separating us, we did have our ups and downs of course. But if you saw us now, we are still as tight as we were growing up.

We will always be there and have each others back when we need each other! And that is what I hope to see pass on to my children, that even though things may be rough at times. It all comes down to those patches in life where only family can be your rock, your laughter, and peace.

I love my sisters to pieces... if you can't tell... :-)

MyCTMH Summer Sale stamps etc starting at only $2

2008-08-04T19:09:00.003-05:00

Starts: Tomorrow--- SIZZLIN' HOT SALE HURRY--stuff is going to sell out quickly!!

FREE shipping with $75 order!!

You cannot order regular priced items nor the Stamp of the Month special with this special. Contact me for questions!

Sizzlin' Hot Summer Online Sale:
Get your hands on some blazing deals during August! Purchase popular retired products at incredible savings on my MyCTMH website*.

FROM Tuesday, AUGUST 5-28-WHILE supplies last, ALL MYCTMH SHOPPERS can purchase a selection of favorite retired products from the shelves of our warehouse at unheard-of savings.

You'll want to get in on great deals like My Acrylix® stamp sets and My Reflections® paper packets starting as low as $2!!

Not only can you get amazing product at unbelievable prices, you can get free shipping, too! Purchase $75 or more and your
shipping and handling will be FREE. For best selection, shop early! Mark your calendar and set your alarm clock for tomorrow so you'll be one of the first to fill your shopping cart with first-rate Close To My Heart products during our sizzlin' hot summer sale!

Weblog Award 2008

2008-07-29T19:31:00.005-05:00

Kisha nominated me for the Weblog Award! WOWSA! I never thought I would win an award as my blog is always a work in progress, so I am always changing and adding new things. I am glad to know that you are all enjoying my blog and hopefully getting something to take with you out of it.

THANK YOU KISHA for this award!! It means a lot to know someone is liking the effort and work I put into my blog!!

So now I have to nominate 7 other bloggers, what a tough decision that is! Please feel free to visit these blogs I nominate and congratulate them! And don't forget to visit Kisha's blog as she is a very talented woman herself!!

Okay, the drum roll please... dum da da dum dummmmm
The talented blogger Nominees are and in no particular order:

Kami @ Scrappin' 4 Memories
Kim @ Clearly Inspired
Michelle @ Creative Treasures
Caroline @ Recipes of Friends
Noelle @ The Scrap Pirate anyone want to buy me one of her adorable shirts!! :-)
Vicki @ Wizards Hangout
Rachel @ High Desert Crafting Loft A world of stamping, paper & digi scrapping, beading, knitting

Here are the rules of the nomination and award acceptance:

1) The winner can post the logo on her blog
2) Link the person you received your award from.
3) Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4) Put links of those blogs on yours.
5) Leave a message on the blogs you've nominated

CONGRATULATIONS to the next in Line to receive this Weblog Award!!

And THANK YOU KISHA for nominating me that just totally brightened my day!!! You are one talented lady yourself!!

Thank you & please feel free to take part in the on going July Challenge and sign my guest book before you leave!!

Have to have this.... CRICUT JUKEBOX

2008-07-24T17:38:00.003-05:00

On my list of must haves!

What OhMyCrafts.com Product description:
The Cricut JukeBox will allows you to use up to 6 cartridges at a time without swapping them in and out of the machine. Just conect it to your Cricut Original or Cricut Expression Machine and insert up to 6 cartridges. You can also stack 2 Cricut JukeBoxes and use up to 12 Cricut cartridges. The Cricut JukeBox works exceptionally well with Cricut Design Studio. The storage bin below the cartridge rack is for books and keypads makes this a unique storage system also.

Also, check out the Scrapbook Farm great deals and low prices!!

This will be a hot item, be sure you order early before they are gone!

If anyone has this already, please tell us what the pros & cons are! Would love to hear!!

The Dark Knight

2008-07-21T17:37:00.004-05:00

My family went and saw the Dark Knight on Friday night 7/18/2008. Even with all the hype it was an awesome movie and left a lot of discussion afterwards. My 13y thought it was awesome, he even said it was better than Live Free Die Hard, which is a compliment as he watches that movie often. As this movie is rated PG-13, keep that in mind. As my 9y is usually thick skinned, from seeing Orcs, Vampires, and can even put up with Spongebob's voice... ;-) but he loved the movie except the part with two face (Harvey Dent). It is pretty graphic, when two face is revealed (think of the first terminator movie but with our computers in today's world it is much more graphic, very realistic) yet my son understood the make up and digital world of computers helped make that a reality in the movie. We had a discussion before and after the movie, I didn't send him to bed right when we got home either. We watched something uplifting and fell asleep. (You can never be too sure!)

Things to discuss before and some after watching this movie:
1. Losing someone close to you and positive ways to cope with the loss.
2. Revenge is it really worth it?
3. Why did the Butler tear up the letter from Rachael?
4. Why did the Batman want Harvey Dent to be the good guy that people could look up to and see?
5. What do you think of the people in the boats having to push the button to blow up the other boat? What would you have done? Do you understand how they felt?
6. What is different between Batman & the Joker? What is the same?
7. How do you think those that maintain the order from chaos (cops, etc) deal with things every day?
8. Talk about media coverage and how they interpret the role of Batman as being a criminal, Why?
9. Does keeping the public safe from harm justify curtailing the publics right to privacy?
10. Talk about movie magic and about reality how they differ.

My review of the Dark Knight is this I give it Five Stars out of five stars!
For children over 13, if your child is around 9 on up talk to them YOU know your children best. Read reviews, discuss, and pay attention to how they watch the movie if they are scared, talk with them...

Busy Busy being Creative...

2008-07-17T13:22:00.016-05:00

BonVoyage Card: I used scraps from varies projects and used ricrac ribbon on a dimensional elements arrow, turned out pretty cool I think!

This is my example for the Buttons, Buttons & More Buttons challenge for July!!

Buttons & Bows: I used chalk on these b/w photos to pop some color, to help tie them into the layout. Cute pictures!

Family Adventures Layout: I found everything but the main 12x12 CS at Archivers in there Clearance racks... I love things on Clearance!!

Summer Layout Left, used beads as the bling on this layout. This whoops a daisy paper pack is growing on me... Did this 2 p. Layout for June Club

Summer Layout Right, used True fit folios

Beach Babes Layout Left: Used the Laid Back paper pack
Did this 2 p. Layout for June Club

Beach Babes Layout Right

Peace & Birthday Cards has a Mardi Gras feel to these.. Needs a feather or two don't you think...

Summer's Blast

2008-07-12T23:49:00.013-05:00

HI EVERYONE!
Hope everyone is enjoying their summer and staying safe! We had a wonderful July 4th spent it with family which is the best way to celebrate!!

What I have in this post:
Summer Storms, Creative Layout Challenge & Tips, Creative Comment Winner Announcement. And My Birthday Special!!!

I have been busy lately from trips to the beach, library, and planning our summer vacation. I have done some scrapbooking and hope to get it posted tomorrow, since I have nothing going on... Yippee! Summer really keeps you busy doesn't it... but then you have to appreciate it as soon Minnesota's winter is upon us again... :-)

We had some Summer Storms roll in the last few days...
Thursday 7/10; we got hail damage on our siding, roof, & broken tree limbs. Other neighbors have holes in their siding... we got off lucky! 60+ mile and hr winds, and hail bigger than nickels... the straight line winds hitting hail on our windows sounded like someone throwing huge rocks, the windows shook really bad... After coming up from the basement our kitchen was sopping wet to the middle of our floor... rain came right in the seams...Again very LUCKY! Went outside later in the day noticed my garden smooshed, bird nests out of the trees some with broken eggs... but our family was okay and our friends are too... The insurance company is going to love us... and we are already getting flyers and phone calls from people that want to have our business... crazy how word gets out... before we even call...

Friday 7/11 There was a wide band of storms all the way North to South of us... It produced a few tornadoes. Here we just got, hail (again...) high winds, rotating clouds and possible funnel clouds, lots of lightening some even touching the ground. Once the storm passed through it was a rather quiet night...

Here are some pictures from Friday's storm:

#1
Picture taken from the North side of my home as it was rolling in, pretty impressive isn't it!

#2
You can see the trees how they are moving..

#3
Impressive isn't it!

#4
These clouds were rotating, dipping, and acting so alive! This picture shows a possible funnel cloud, it was rotating and going up and down...

#5
This picture was taken from the drive way on the South side of the storm as it was rolling in...

#6
This was taken again from our driveway looking straight up... these clouds were spinning in circles, my neighbors 5 houses down were yelling for people including myself to go inside as it looked like it was coming down... the sirens went off just as I took this picture and I headed downstairs with my children and fur babies, as my hubby sat upstairs watching the storm. He loves to watch these things... Why I don't know... I grew up in a trailer home and storms terrify me!!

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Creative Comment Winner for June is: Sandra T. CTMH sister!
Sandra contact me with your address and I will get your creative comment prize in the mail for you!!
Accepting JULY Comments and will have the name randomly drawn on the 31st! So Comment away!!! GOOD LUCK!!

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Creative Layout Challenge for the Month of July:
Buttons, Buttons, & More Buttons!!

Any theme, any colors, any products... but must have buttons.

Ideas you can use buttons for:
~Inside Flowers
~By themselves as an accent
~to dot i's or inside a letter
~use for ladybugs etc
~use to frame a photo
~create a mosaic
~ if you're able cut button in half and use for shoes on a figure
~use with ribbon
~hang tags or other varies things
~use hemp, wire, or waxy flax, or even sewing string inside
ETC...
As this is getting posted after July 1st, ALL Challenges to be accepted for this challenge must be submitted by August 7th! Please email me a photo I can use to put on a slideshow for people can vote for their favorites.

Email me creativewhimsyscrappin@yahoo.com
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July 22nd is my Birthday!! Exciting isn't it! So I am offering a Birthday Special
I am requesting donations to be given to the ASPCA
An Honor Gift is a wonderful way to celebrate the special people, animals and events in your life—and give the gift of life for animals in need.

As an animal lover, and an owner of a puppy mill/abused dog (Toby). It pains me to see those animals suffer because of people unwilling or unable to care for them properly.

To those that donate online, send an ecard my way for my birthday! It means a lot to me and to those animals in need of food, patience, & tlc!

Thanks, it means a lot!

Your First Scrapbook Page

2008-06-22T01:50:00.003-05:00

Your first page will the most difficult when starting out. You have all the supplies your friends and store clerks have suggested. So now here are some tips on how to get started.

1. Find 5-8 photos that you wish to add to this layout. (layouts can be a single or two page spread)

2. Since your new at this endeavor, make copies of these treasured photos... better to be safe than sorry.

3. Crop the photos down, removing any elements that take away from the subject.

4. Choose complimentary papers (B&T= background & texture paper/patterned paper)that work with your theme or even the clothes of subject. (Don't forget cardstock for your base)

5. Find a template for help or scraplift; suggestions are PageMaps.com, magazines, or one of the varies types of Close To My Heart scrap help books. Even surfing the web you can find talented people and please if using someones ideas please give credit where credit is due!

6. Have fun, get together with others that love scrapbooking and even if you don't know anyone get out there and go to crops, etc. You're bound to find someone to share your newfound hobby with...

Jolly Rancher Cookies: looks like stained glass!

2008-06-17T13:53:00.004-05:00

Ingredients

* Make Sugar Cookies
(Click on the Title at the top to be directed to a Sugar Cookie Recipe)
* Jolly Ranchers
* Plastic sandwich bags & meat tenderizer (for crushing)

Cooking Instructions

1. Make your cookies into shapes ex: circle, then cut out center with smaller shape ex: heart.
2. Sort the Jolly Ranchers into plastic bags by color. Crush them with a meat tenderizer (good stress reliever). Use the crushed jolly ranchers to fill in your cookie centers.
4. Bake at 375 F for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned & Jolly ranchers are melted. Cool completely.

Be Creative and have fun!!

Layout Challenges went Postal!

2008-06-16T15:09:00.005-05:00

Since our Layout Contest was a tie on poll votes, Kisha & Kami both got to split the $10 prize! Congratulations to both of these Ladies! I mailed out your prizes to you ladies, so please let me know when it arrives to you! Picture to the right is the prize they won with a card, may vary by color and type.Thank you again for joining in on the fun and would love to see more of your works in Challenges to come!

Another Layout Challenge will be posted next weekend between June 20-22nd, so check back often!! You may be the next LUCKY WINNER!!

Also, Don't forget to leave comments to be added to the Creative Comments Challenge for the month of June!

Firefighter Badge

2008-06-13T13:56:00.006-05:00

My Brother in law did it, he received his firefighter badge!! All his hard work and persistence paid off.

As the kids say "He Rocks!!"

A Firefighter Poem
He Stares in the Face of Death
Without a Second Thought
to Save That One Special Life
That He So Bravely Sought
He Has Walked as Close to
"Hell on Earth"
as Any Man Could Do
and He's So Proud of the Job He Did
for People He Never Knew
He Puts His Life on the Line
Every Time Duty Calls
Always Doing What Needs to Done
Without Even a Pause
He Is a Fireman
With Overwhelming Pride
Never Afraid to Take a Chance
When Saving Someone’s Life
Often He Says
"It's My Job"
but We Really Know
That He Is Very Special
and Always Ready to Go
So When You Hear the Sirens Wail
or See the Flashing Lights
Stand Aside and Look with Pride
He's Going to Save a Life.

Glitterfy.com - Glitter Graphics

Strawberry Lemonade

2008-06-10T18:39:00.000-05:00

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/4 cups water
3 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 16 lemons)
1 pint fresh strawberries, stems and caps removed
Ice
1. In a pitcher or container, whisk together the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Add lemon juice and stir. Puree the strawberries and strain to remove the seeds. Add the strawberry puree to the lemon mixture and stir. To serve, pour into 10-ounce glasses filled with ice.

This is nummy for a family get together!!

Homemade Ice Cream in a Bag

2008-06-10T18:36:00.002-05:00

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup half and half
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup salt (The bigger the granules, the better. Kosher or rock salt works best, but table salt is fine.)
Ice cubes (enough to fill each gallon-size bag about half full)
1 pint-size ziplock bag
1 gallon-size ziplock bag
1. Combine the sugar, half and half, and vanilla extract in the pint-size bag and seal it tightly.

2. Place the salt and ice in the gallon-size bag, then place the sealed smaller bag inside as well. Seal the larger bag. Now shake the bags until the mixture hardens (about 5 minutes). Feel the small bag to determine when it's done.

3. Take the smaller bag out of the larger one, add mix-ins, and eat the ice cream right out of the bag. Easy cleanup too! Serves 1.

I tried this last year during the summer with the kids they loved it!! For flavor you can add different extract flavors, or even cherry flavored pop (w/o fizz is the way we tried it)

Starry Night Background/ Salt Background

2008-06-10T18:01:00.000-05:00

Starry Night Background:
Apply about 3 drops of Embossing fluid to a clean toothbrush.
Turn the brush upside down and use your finger to spray the embossing fluid onto the cardstock.
Use a very light hand.
You will find that you have a lot more than you expect.
Pour embossing powder over, dump and heat.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Salt Background:
Spray matte cardstock liberally with water.
While still wet, run a brayer loaded with dye ink over the cardstock.
Cover with sea salt.
If necessary, spray on more water.
Allow drying.
When dry, brush the sea salt off.

Stamp on Salt Dough fun for Kids too!

2008-06-10T17:58:00.003-05:00

Make up a batch of “Salt Dough”and let them stamp in it—this is really easy and really cool!
You can stamp dry and then paint it when the dough is hard, or you can stamp ink directly into the soft dough and let it dry.

I would use two batches for 25 students.

Salt Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour (not self-rising)
1 cup Morton Salt
1 cup water
Food color optional

Combine flour and salt. Mix well. Form into a ball by mixing in a little water at a time. Knead 7-10 minutes, until the dough has a firm, smooth consistency. Add a little more water if necessary.

Roll with a rolling pin or let the children roll it with a smooth bottle or can etc.

Press the stamp into the dough. Cut out around the shape (can us a plastic knife).

Poke a hole with a toothpick if it will be something strung or hung.

Bake on a foil-covered cookie sheet at 325 degrees for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool, then paint with water color, acrylic, or enamel if you haven’’t stamped with color.

You can also just let the dough sit for a few days on a screen to dry, turning it once in a while—it won’’t be a nice brown color though.

Have fun!! My kids love doing this... and it washes off your stamps with warm water!

Blog Headers

2008-06-09T21:17:00.004-05:00

Click on the above Title to see where you can get some really easy pictures Blog Headers, already sized and ready to go! I used the "how to blog headers" I had in a different "Blog Tech" post. Click on the Label Blog Tech to view it and it really is easy!!

Video Game Diet

2008-06-08T13:46:00.002-05:00

Now that school is out my children are on the Video Game Diet. Just for their record they don't like the diet, but they know it is for their own good! ;-)

From DS's, Nintendo (the original), computer games, to now the Wii.... just so I know the kids are not just sitting in front of screens all summer ... we started this Diet 3 years ago... Every summer!

Rules of this Diet:
1. Limited amount of play time a week. 1 hr total M-Sun.
2. All systems are in the parents possession, so they need to ask to play. The Wii is harder to take away... but thankfully it has a history so we can see how much they have played and what...
3. If they exceed the amount alloted ALL systems are taken and boxed up and put away for the following week.
4. If they exceed it 2x the systems are gone for a month. Ouch huh!!
5. If they continue to be stinkers it will be gone for the summer... Oh the life!!!

We are trying not to take it away completely if we can help it as we too like to play, but we want to limit it so they spend more time playing outside, being physical , and hanging with friends. They are signed up for a lot of extra summer activites as well; soccer, track, video game design just to name a few... but we want them to not come home from those activities and "veg".

So far so good, they are doing "Wickedly Awesome"... quote from them...:-)

What do you do to help keep your child active and outside motivated and away from those screens of varies types... :-)

It's a TIE!!

2008-06-07T21:49:00.003-05:00

For the Layout Challenge using Green, White, & Black... it was a tie!! WOW!

Kisha & Kami both received 2 votes each!

I loved both of your layouts and appreciate both of you taking the time and playing along. The Winner was to receive a $10 gift, due to the tie I will split it to each of you will receive a $5 gift! Sweet huh!!

I will email you both privately asking for your addresses.

CONGRATULATIONS LADIES!!!

THX again for playing!!

Has anyone made a custom Blog Header?

2008-06-06T18:18:00.002-05:00

I found this using photoshop... I am interested in trying it... does anyone else know anything similiar... keeping it on the simple side... LOL

Visit what I am seeing... Custom Blog Headers
or
Create a Custom Header

Check this out... :-)

2008-06-06T06:28:00.001-05:00

Loon Cam from KARE11
One of the babies hatched, so cute!!

NEW Close To My Heart Videos

2008-06-05T18:31:00.002-05:00

Did you miss seeing Close To My Heart’s recent appearances on PBS? Or would you like to see them again and share them with your friends? Well, it’s now possible! CTMH is making web videos available that demonstrate fun tips, techniques, and product highlights as seen in video segments from the PBS show “Scrapbook Memories.” Every few weeks they will add more episodes from “Scrapbook Memories” or PBS’s “Paint, Paper, and Crafts,” so you and your friends can watch them at your leisure.

(Don’t forget the popcorn!)

To see these informative and entertaining web videos, simply visit any MyCTMH website or www.closetomyheart.com and click on “CTMH TV.”

Happy viewing!

Favorite Poems/Quotes

2008-06-05T14:18:00.002-05:00

When the first baby laughed,

for the very first time,

that laugh

shattered into a thousand pieces....

and that was the beginning of fairies.

(excerpt from Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie)

Only as high as I reach can I grow,
Only as far as I seek can I go,
Only as deep as I look can I see,
Only as much as I dream can I be.

Karen Ravn

When things go wrong as they sometimes will;
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill;
When the funds are low, and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but have to sigh;
When care is pressing you down a bit-
Rest if you must, but do not quit.

Success is failure turned inside out;
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt;
And you can never tell how close you are
It may be near when it seems so far;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit-
It's when things go wrong that you must not quit.

"Don't Quit," Author Unknown

I was angry with my friend:
I told my wrath, my wrath did end.
I was angry with my foe;
I told it not, my wrath did grow.

And I water'd it in fears,
Night & morning with my tears;
And I sunned it with my smiles
And with soft deceitful wiles.

And it grew both day and night,
Till it bore an apple bright;
And my foe beheld it shine,
And he knew that it was mine,

And into my garden stole
When the night had veil'd the pole:
In the morning glad I see
My foe outstretch'd beneath the tree

William Blake (had to memorize a poem for Literature in High School, this is the one I picked..)

The Strangest Dream

Last night I had the strangest dream,
I never dreamed before.
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war.

I dreamt I saw a mighty room,
The room was filled with men.
And the papers they were signing said
They'd never fight again.

And when the papers were all signed,
And a million copies made
They all joined hands and bowed their heads,
And grateful prayers were made.

And the people in the streets below,
They all danced round and round.
And guns and swords and uniforms
Were scattered on the ground.

Last night I had the strangest dream,
I never dreamed before.
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war.
Ed McCurdy

What's yours?? Feel free to leave your faves in the comments!!

Blog Tech: Tag Clouds

2008-06-04T19:07:00.003-05:00

I just figured out how to make the tag clouds thanks to this site New Blogger Tag
Sweet huh... takes up less room and looks a lot better too... :-)

Anyone have anything they wish to share or comment on?

Sleep Little One Sleep Layout

2008-06-03T20:14:00.003-05:00

Scrapbook Month Layout Contest at Scrappin' 4 Memories . Kami is having a contest, and it sounds like fun! Hope you can join in and get a layout done!

Kami this Layout still needs something...
Anyone have any suggestions??

6/7/08 Since I posted this I have sanded the top black portion to help tone it down... Looks really good! Thank you everyone for your suggestions!

Another Layout Challenge Entry

2008-06-03T16:48:00.005-05:00

Kisha didnt get hers in on time but we are adding her to the entry. View her blog "Kisha's Sharing Something"
to see her entry and don't forget to vote for your favorite!!

Visit Kami's entry visit her blog Scrappin 4 Memories its in her Scrapbook Album titled "Flower Girl"

:-)

Comment Challenge Winners

2008-06-01T20:56:00.005-05:00

Thanks to Random.Org for picking these winners.
Winner: #6 bellameabhn
Runner Up: #12 Jamey

Winner needs to contact me within three (3) days of this posting, and I will send you your Creative Comment Prize!

If Winner doesn't contact me Runner Up has the opportunity to win. Email will be sent out to the winner & runner up.

Thanks for playing... ready to do it again?

:-)
Ready...
Set.......
Go.........

Comments placed June 1st-30th are accepted for the Creative Comment Challenge

My Movie Review: Indiana Jones & the Crystal Skull

2008-06-01T20:18:00.003-05:00

We went and saw the Indiana Jones & the Crystal Skull. It had a lot of hype so I had misgivings on seeing it. I loved the other Indiana Jones movies all except Temple
of Doom which I really didn't like at all.

Everyone wants to know was Harrison Ford up to playing Indie again, I would have to say yes! He did a great job, and we all know he had a stunt double this time around if you didnt you do now. :-) He did a good job and it was wonderful to see him with his fedora hat and whip. It was cool to see his "flame" back into the picture too!

Shia Labeouf was awesome and cute as ever! Oh if I was younger... He did an amazing job at playing Mutt! Mutt's character is great!! Enough said...

Cate as the villian was awesome! Everytime she was in the scene it was hard to not watch her. And the action between her and Shia's character was sweet!!

Note: It is another PG-13 movie, for Adventure and Scary Images... My boys all loved it but I know my boys best. The only time I squirmed in my seat was the red ant scene...Not my kids though... they were like "That is so Cool" and "Wicked", so if you explain to your kids how its not real and all done with "Movie Magic", they too might have the same reaction... LOL

Let me know if you go see it and what you think of it! Any other good movies out there... ??

Challenge Layouts: Accepting thru this weekend

2008-05-28T08:54:00.003-05:00

Due to everything going on right now, I will accept the Layout Challenges till this weekend, May 31st.
I will set up a poll to Vote for the winner on Sunday. Vote the first week of June!!
Get those layouts in to me, soon to be qualified to win a FREE GIFT $10 Value!!

What a weekend ....

2008-05-25T12:20:00.006-05:00

Well, this four day weekend was not only Memorial weekend but our wedding anniversary on Friday the 23rd... 10 years and we have made it through with bumps and some bruises, but every one of them have made us stronger.

But as it was our wedding anniversary, it was also a time of family. As Grandpa Don (hubby's side, Great Grandpa to the kids), passed away at 11:30a. He will be so missed! He wanted to go a few years ago when his wife died 1/23/04, and I know she was waiting for him on Friday. We will miss you Grandpa!!

Dream Eternal
Dream Eternal
Dedicated to Donald “Grandpa” Boys

As you close your eyes to nap,
Family you know surrounds you.
Angels come to hold your hands,
Your Love has gone ahead before you,
And come back leading you the way.

You tell us,
Do not fear
Do not cry,
Do not be sad even as I dream eternal,
I am with you while you live your day,
And when you dream by night.
I will always live on in your memories,
Be with you in those moments of strife,
And Love you always!

I am with you,
Even while God’s hands are surrounding me now.
Where there is no pain or suffering,
Just peacefulness and love.
I will always be with you.
Even when you close your eyes to nap.

By Tracy E. Welter

FYI: Oh My Crafts SALE

2008-05-22T23:19:00.001-05:00

Oh My Crafts is having some awesome deals right now.

I really want a Cuttlebug, anyone have one that can tell me more about it the good, the bad, and the ugly... LOL

Check out the deals on all the great stuff!!

My Movie Review: Iron Man

2008-05-22T23:07:00.004-05:00

We went and saw Iron Man last weekend, and we loved it! My boys and I even want to see it again. Robert Downey Jr. is so cute! And did you see the clip on American Idol with him alongside Ben Stiller & Jack Black singing to a Gladys Knight song... quick blurb is that if you buy it on Itunes money will go towards a charity they are helping out.

Okay about the movie, its PG-13. And yes there is some violence. So, again you know your children better than anyone else. My boys have seen all LOTR movies, remember Goonies & Monster Squad (old 80's movies). My boys love them! And watch them all under 13.

But really this movie rocked! And I am going to see it again with one of my girlfriends!

If anyone has seen any cool movies and would like to add to the Movie Review, please email it to me and I will post it. I will edit if necessary if not family friendly wording. Just an FYI!

Tutorial: Milk Cartons

2008-05-22T13:43:00.004-05:00

Milk Carton directions by Katie Vaughan

Start with a sheet of cardstock cut to 7x11 dimensions.
Step-by-Step

Score at 2", 5" and 6 1/2" on the short side of the cardstock.
Turn cardstock 90 degrees and score at 2 1/2", 5", 7 1/2" and 10" on the long side of the cardstock.
Arrange cardstock with the long side at the bottom of the work surface.
Now cut on vertical scores lines ( 2 1/2", 5", 7 1/2" and 10") up to the first horizontal score lines.
This will make the bottom of the box.
Cut part of the 1" scored strip on the left hand side, leaving only the 3" piece to create a glue tab for the sides of the box.
On the top of the box, cut the third panel of the 1/2" x 2 1/2" rectangles off as pictured. This will be the milk carton spout.
On the remaining three 1/2" x 2 1/2" panels, use a stylus and ruler to add a score down the middle of each panel.
Use ruler and stylus to add diagonal score lines to the box as shown.
The lines have been traced with a marker on the back side of the cardstock here.
Stamp cardstock.
Use bone folder to pre-fold all score lines, including the diagonal ones.
Add Sticky StripT to the glue tab.
Adhere the glue tab inside to the other wall to form the box.
Fold the bottom flaps in one at a time and add Sticky StripT to the last two flaps to close the box.
Add Sticky StripT to the back half of the 1/2" panels at the top to hold the milk carton closed.

Now finish the box by adding embellishments.

Tutorial: Create your own transparency using Packaging Tapet

2008-05-21T20:17:00.005-05:00

Transparency using Packaging Tape

This is so cool! It's like magic, my kids love doing this!

What you need:
Packaging tape
Image (from photos, etc)
Scissors
Bowl of Warm water

Take your desired image and adhere it to the packaging tape.
Make sure it smooth.
Place the packaging tape with image place into bowl of warm water, let is soak till it curls.
Test a corner if you rub and back of image paper comes off nicely your good.
The result of this is the image will appear on the packaging tape without the background, its pretty cool.

I have used this on brochures from trips etc. to put on my layouts etc.

Enjoy and let me know how your projects turned out!!

Tutorial: Waterfall Card

2008-05-21T09:32:00.006-05:00

Waterfall Card

You will need:

Cutting Guide:
1- Standard card 5 ½” x 4 ¼” (from a 5 ½” x 8 ½” piece of cardstock)
1- 1” x 4 ¼ “ Brad Strip
1- 5 ½” x 4 ¼” Layering Piece
1- 5 ¼” x 4” Layering Piece (Patterned Paper)
1- 1 ¾” x 8 ½” Waterfall Strip
3- 2¼” x 2 ¼” Squares
3- 2" x 2" Squares

Stamp images onto your white squares, and color your images. In my example, I used watercolor pencil crayons and blended with brush & water

Layer your patterned paper on top of the red cardstock

Add the red strip, measuring in 1” from the right side of the card. Mount brads ½ inch from top and bottom of card

Mount the top layer of your matted patterned paper, to the top of your white card

Mount images onto red matting

Score the waterfall strip at 1 ¾, 2 ¾, and 3 ¾. There will be an area of 4 ¾ remaining

There is 4” of space for you to add a sentiment or a picture. Add the image of your choice, ensuring you only use 4” measured from the right

Flip your waterfall strip over so that the score lines are on the right hand side

Add your first image, on the first score line, as shown in the photo

Add your second image, on the second score line, as shown in the photo

Add your third image, on the third score line, as shown in the photo

Fold your waterfall strip in half and slip it under the verticle paper held with brads

Add a tab at pull end of waterfall strip.

Now your finished, time to share it with friends, family or just keep it for yourself! :-)

Pretty Cool Layouts if I do say so myself!

2008-05-20T13:34:00.010-05:00

Have a Favorite? Let me know which it is... :-)

This is the main page for our May Club Layout, the hostess of the month choose a layout she always wanted to try out of a catalog. Sorry to say I am not sure who the credit goes to as its her catalog and she took it with her but I remember this much the catalog was over 4 years old and the lady that did the layout was from Minnesota.

This is the second page for our Club Layout of Fingerprints.

My son's 9th birthday, I know my pictures are still not on here but I am working on it. Every time I think of it we are low on ink in the printer!

This is the second page, yes I tied 9 knots for his 9th birthday.

Using what you have on hand and mixing with scraps from my scrap bin, doesn't turn out all that bad!

Lots of Cards ...

2008-05-20T12:30:00.015-05:00

Which one is your favorite?

Thanks for taking a peek... :-)

Happy Saturday!

2008-05-10T08:30:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to wish all those Mom's out there a Happy Mother's Day today as tomorrow will be busy doing the usual: cleaning, relaxing, etc.
I hope to get more scrap related pictures on here soon! :-)

Wish all of you that are in the "Mommy" role a Happy Mom's Day!!

Enjoy your weekend!
& Happy Scrappin'

My Challenge Layout

2008-05-03T19:59:00.005-05:00

For the Black, Green, & White Challenge Layout, it took me a while to think of what to do for this challenge. Hence the name Challenge :-)!
But over all I like how it turned out.
The story of this is my older son was bored waiting for his brother to get done with his football, it was a cold, wet, dreary day. With all those birds just hanging out by the near by field eating pebbles & worms were a temptation.
I decided to follow him and take these candid shots of him chasing the birds from one field to the next. They even chased him a few times, I was laughing so hard. I even got a rare glimpse of a REAL smile from him on the way back!!

For this challenge when entries are received, those with the most votes will win a prize!! So Good Luck and have fun! See the other post on the challenge rules!

National Scrapbooking Month: Fun & Goodies

2008-05-02T12:05:00.011-05:00

National Scrapbook Month

There are lots of good things going on this month, this is what I know of...
CTMH- tidbit calendar different than last year! Awesome fun!
Archivers has wonderful sales this weekend!!

I will be doing a drawing from those that leave comments at the end of the month, the one that gets drawn will win a gift. I will post the winner on here as well as email if available in their profile, if the winner doesn't email me within three (3) days of the post a runner up will be announced. Good Luck & Happy Posting!!

Have anything else you know about for Scrapbooking Month feel free to share!!

Card Using Laid back paper & Paradise stamp set

Color Challenge: Black, White, Green

2008-04-29T21:21:00.003-05:00

May brings you for this month a Color Challenge Layout contest!

To qualify you must:
Be a 12x12 either a 2page layout or single.
You must show 1 or more techniques.
Follow the color challenge colors given.
Embellish as must as desired.
You may submit as many layouts of different techniques as you like.
When you email me the picture you must attach a note on the technique used & how you accomplished it. In case people ask.

All entries need to be emailed to me by May 26th. I will post them in a slideshow and you all vote on the best.

Happy Scrappin'
Tracy

~I will post mine as soon as I am done...

Awesome template websites...

2008-04-28T21:05:00.004-05:00

Chia's Rubberstamp Art Templates
http://www.houseofstirfry.com/chia/templates/tempI.html

Mirkwood Designs Templates
http://www.ruthannzaroff.com/mirkwooddesigns/templates.htm

If you know of any great sites to visit for templates or even tutorials feel free to share! :-)

Happy Monday!
Tracy

What everyone needs to get started in Scrapbooking

2008-04-27T16:53:00.005-05:00

It is easy to feel lost and overwhelmed when you start scrapbooking. Even for myself who has been scrapbooking for 4+ years can still be lost and overwhelmed... (No Comments needed from the peanut gallery ;o)) So you have those pictures, you've seen others do it, you see all the wonderful works in catalogs... and you are now inspired to dabble. Here is what you need to get started in the scrapbooking and cardmaking world!!

And if you ask your friends that are scrappers they are usually more than welcome to share some stash till you get on your feet! As well as make a point to look for garage sales. Sometimes you can get some high quality stuff at those.

1. Album, look at the varies types and themes and pick what's best for you. Don't forget to take an Album that lets you add refill pages, as well is durable for little hands to get a hold. I use CTMH and theirs is very durable, and all my kids drag my albums around and they are in perfect condition. So browse before buying.

2. Scissors that are comfortable with your hand. I use micro tipped ones, they are comfortable and long lasting. Keep these scissors only for scrapbooking as the life of them will last you longer.

3. Adhesive, Oh what can I say about adhesive. There are so many brands out there the trick to finding whats the best for you is sometimes trial and error. Just so you know my faves I use Tombow Permanent brand & get in with Tombow refills with friends so it is more cost efficient! Anyway you can save money in my book is a BIG PLUS!! I use glue dots as well they have all different sizes mini, medium, vellum kind, and pop up ones. Your friends are your best resources and if you have no friends that scrapbook, don't be afraid to talk to other people at crops or in scrapbooking stores. Scrappers Stick Together! It's the best club in the world!!

4. Cardstock, Textured & Patterned paper. Pick based on the projects your working on or future projects. When you are starting out, I suggest you start project to project so you don't overwhelm yourself. My favorite is to purchase CTMH Level 1 kits, as they come with prelaid out paper plans, and stickers. And as you get more advance you can add more bling (embellishments) and eventually stamp if you choose.

5. 12" paper trimmer, again price them out and find one that suits your needs.

6. Embellishments, This is like topping on the cookie to me. Find what you are working on use from the same color family, you can use brads, eyelets, ribbons, buttons, and so much more... If your not sure keep it simple, I suggest ribbons and brads are a must have.

7. Pens for journaling, I highly suggest adding journaling on the page as it not only says who the person(s)are and the date but describes feelings, and tells the story of the picture to the viewer. If you don't like your writing, then I suggest printing out your journaling.

8. Idea Books, Online Galleries, etc. to help inspire you and give you ideas. If you are to take an idea and use it online you MUST give credit where credit is due!! It's common courtesy.

If you go to crops where you scrapbooking with a bunch of friends outside your own home, you will need a tote. I know for my first year, I made due with a suitcase... till I got a nice one at a garage sale. Find what suits you and your needs cause now, I have two rolling totes, one backpack tote, and my little supply tote.

These are just the tips of the iceberg, you can get as heavy as you want into this. By getting cutting machines, watercolors, stamp sets, lots and lots of paper etc. Now you know why my husband calls me a pack rat.

Everything I stated here is based on my opinions, but I believe its a wonderful way to start out!

I wanted to share two really cool sites..

2008-04-24T21:01:00.004-05:00

Addicting to Scrapbooking is having a 10% off sticker sale... I love shopping there they always have great deals....
http://www.addictedtoscrapbooking.com/Specials

My sister in law told me of this one... at the moment they are having maintenance but check back often... she got a great deal on the "Big Bite"
http://www.fromflowerstoflourishes.com/servlet/StoreFront

Let me know what your favorite place to shop online...

Happy Anniversary Toby!!

2008-04-23T14:46:00.007-05:00

Toby's Story
Toby was known by a few names before finding his FOREVER HOME with us: Barney I would say was the worst, and Heinz. He was rescued from a South Dakota puppy mill but in the worst way, they being the shelter (unsure of name), found him and his three brothers tied up outside their door on a long holiday weekend in winter. And being in Minnesota, we know how cruel winters are. We were watching him right as he was rescued and waited for him to come to MN so we could meet him. It was a long two weeks as we wanted him from the moment we saw this poor guy's photo below.

But now he is nothing like the scared, skittish dog we met when he came. He was never in a house before as he didn't understand windows at all, yes you pictured it... poor guy went smack a few times trying to get outside. We had to coax him to go on the stairs. And,Yes, he still has some quirks, is deathly afraid of trucks, loud noises, and drains on the ground. He now knows how to play and we are working on fetch... he gets it but isn't that great on bringing it back... it turns into tag for the kids! :-) He now has a big brother Loki, and they get along wonderfully!

He is very loved and a little spoiled, where he never wanted to go into the van for a drive, he now loves it! He loves to chew on his bones, and is such a cuddle bug. He loves the kids, and going for walks. His weirdest game by far that he does is he likes to catch bees and play with them... getting stung doesn't phase him at all. And after it rains he likes to look for worms... Gross huh....

Before when he was in South Dakota

TODAY

Love you Toby!
Love, Mom

No matter what situations
Life throws at you,

No matter how long and treacherous

Your journey may seem...

Remember,

There is always a light

At the end of tunnel!

How to Make a Origami Shirt Card: You Only Live Once Make It Count Card

2008-04-22T13:06:00.010-05:00

I have attached pictures of how I did my How to, if you have any questions let me know. Its very simple and not as advanced as other Origami Shirts I seen out on the web... But works for me and being able to show others how to make this cute card!!

Here is the final product!

I really liked how it turned out,
I used the It's a Guy paper pack, Make it Count stamp set (random stamped),
Edge Distressed the CS pieces.
Turned out rather nice for a Father's Day or other masculine card.

A Night at the Movies

2008-04-19T09:41:00.004-05:00

Last night we went to go see "The Forbidden Kingdom". We really enjoyed it, I loved the scenes between Jackie & Jet. Lots of laughter, wows, and a few tears. Its a wonderful family film. I highly recommend taking your family to see it. It's rated PG 13 so you know your child(ren) best. So read up on the rating before taking them, I took my 9y & 13 yr, & 34yr old.... :-) Can you guess which is my husband. hee hee

Growing up with my step father who is Vietnamese, we got to watch Chinese Kung Fu movies all the time, and this story line totally reminded me of sitting there with my family at home watching those movies. Very Nostalgic!!

Let me know if you get to see it and what you think! :-)

Terrific Thursday!!

2008-04-17T12:41:00.004-05:00

Well we made it over the middle of the week!! The weekend fast approaches, what are your plans?

I know this weekend we plan on seeing that Jackie Chan & Jet Li movie.
Going to my kids sports activities: Soccer & Track.
Hanging out with my sister and friends.
Scrapbooking & relaxing with a good book (unsure of what book, may just have to re-read ones that I already have)

What about you?

No Lion You're the Best!

2008-04-15T13:36:00.007-05:00

I made this card today for my Godson's birthday on Thursday.
Its pretty simple but as he is turning 3 he won't mind. :-)
I used the July stamp of the month as I love this new set
I couldn't resist trying it out... :-)
Happy Birthday Mr. J!

Happy Monday!

2008-04-14T10:25:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to wish you all a Happy Monday and hope you all have gorgeous weather as the sun is shining and its looking to be nice and warm highs in the 50's here...How's it going in your neighborhood? I am so thankful for spring. I cannot wait to get in the garden, not only to weed ;-) but to plant and the kids love searching for worms! :-)

Seeds of Love Card

2008-04-14T10:10:00.014-05:00

This card is so pretty, my scrapbook club made these and loved it!

Directions:
1. Stamp image with Versamark
2. Sprinkle Clear Embossing powder, tap off excess, and heat set
3. Sponge garden green ink as desired, wipe off over stamped image, chalk using color of choice on the flowers.

Looking for a Manly Card look no further!

2008-04-14T09:59:00.011-05:00

I know Father's Day is right around the corner and I wanted to get a head start. I love this card, sorry its not the best picture looks so much more vibrant in person this picture doesn't do it justice.

With this card I used the Majestic Blue paper pack, and New Horizons stamp set.