Thoughts of a Cardmaking Scrapbooker!

Silhouettes

2012-01-27T06:00:00.002-06:00

Good morning to you! I am so glad today is Friday. I don't know why some weeks seem to drag by at a snail's pace, but this was definitely one of them. I need a bit of R and R! I have a card to share with you that I made a while back and completely forgot to post it. I had been on a silhouette kick and was creating lots of cards using them. I used my Cricut and the Child's Year cart to cut this little gal. I wanted to fill her wheelbarrow with something, and found some old Melissa Frances chipboard hearts in my stash. So I glittered them up a bit and stacked them inside the wheelbarrow. I added a bit of seambinding and a little tag I had cut using the Sentimental's cartridge. She needed a bit of "grounding" behind her so I used Spellbinder's Label's Fourteen. I inked the edges a bit to distress it.

We have a busy weekend ahead, cheerleading, and a little get together for Kyle's birthday. My "little" guy is turning 15 next week! I am hoping for a bit of relaxation though on Sunday.

Have a wonderful weekend! : )

Let's Interject Some Summer Shall We?

2012-01-26T05:56:00.000-06:00

Good morning to you! If you are here for the Cards for Kids Blog hop/blog candy be sure to click HERE! : )

I have a summery card to share with you today. I know it is only January, but I have to be honest......I am already tired of winter! I am tired of the cold, tired of bundling everyone up before heading out the door. Tired of the short days. I am longing for warmth and sunshine.....so I tried to "bottle" it up in a card! : ) I used JustRite's Sea Shell Bay set. I was going for cool water inspired colors for my card. I stamped the image in shades of green and blue using several ColorBox inks. I sprinkled it with clear embossing powder. This set coordinates with Spellbinder's Labels Twenty-Two die. I used it for the image as well as for the burlap behind it. I wanted to bring it a bit of "rustic-ness" to the card.

I wanted to create a little grouping in the corner so I stamped some of the shells from the set in brown and gave them a bit of color with my Copic markers. I also added a bit of real sand to the edges and added a pearl to the center of the one shell. I added tulle, a few acrylic pieces from Prima and a bit of "rope" from SU!

My son has an eye doctor appt. tonight. He has been complaining of numerous headaches. I am thinking it is probably his need for glasses! So we will have to see what the doc says tonight. And I got his grades for his first semester in high school. He made honor roll! I am so proud of him!

Off to work I go!....... Have a great day! : D

Cards For Kids Blog Hop!

2012-01-24T05:51:00.001-06:00

Hi, everyone! Welcome to the Cards for Kids Valentines Day Blog! If you have come from Melanie's blog, you're in the right place. If you're just joining us, please go to Faith Abigail's blog and start at the beginning.

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to show someone how much you love them. So this year, let's send a little love to those that need it most! Each of us has created a Valentine's Day card for a sick child and we're asking you to do the same! Simply, create a Valentine's Day card, link it to this blog entry (link-up will remain open until February 7 at 12:00am) and mail it to:

Faith Abigail

10621 Fuller Ridge Circle

Charlotte, NC 28270

On February 10th, all of the card's will be collected and donated to a local children's hospital. Please include a small message inside your card. Envelopes are not necessary.

My card uses Elegant Edges to create the frame. I cut two of them for a bit of layering. I cut a heart using the George and Basic Shapes Cartridge and covered the entire thing with little red pom poms. I love the dimension and texture it gives! The tag was cut using the Sentimental's Cartridge. The stamp is by Papertrey Ink. The flower was cut using the Mother's Day Cartridge. I added a bit of white twine and a red brad to the center of the flower. The background was embossed with the addition of red brads and twine for a pop of color.

I love the pom poms! It makes you just want to run your finger across it, doesn't it? ; )

This is what I am giving away! : )

I am giving away a Damask Decor Cricut Cartridge, 2 packages of red line tape, Teresa Collins trim, a Tattered Angels Album, and an adorable Valentine stamp set by My Craft Spot. I will pick a winner using random.org on FEBRUARY 1st!
What do you need to do? Do one of the following or all! Your name will be thrown "in the hat" once for each one of these you are able to do!

1.Become a follower of my blog.
2.Advertise the blog hop on your own personal blog so we can help collect more cards!
3.Make a card to send and link it back to Faith Abigail : ) Just be sure to leave a comment here telling me so I can enter your name in more than once!

Be sure to check out what these generous ladies are giving away!

Krystal Andrew has donated one of beautiful Valentine Stamps sets!

Nicole has donated The Ultimate Color Sampler Pack featuring fourteen gorgeous colors of twine!

Monique has generously donated FIVE of her fantastic Cricut Kits: The Simple Life, Toy Story, The Stampede, Mom and Me, and Catch a Wave.

Thank you for checking out my Cards for Kids Valentine's Day card! Please continue along to the next blog and check out all of the wonderful projects that our designers have created!

Michele : )

Love is in the Air....

2012-01-23T05:58:00.002-06:00

Valentine's Day is right around the corner......and I have a few projects to share with you before then! Today's card is one I created awhile back for the Circle Blog. It uses papers I printed off my Imagine using the Vintage Papers cartridge. I love all of the papers on this cartridge, and the best part is, you can scale the pattern to any size you like! I love that for card making! After my papers were printed I ran them through my Cricut Expression and cut the hearts using the George and Basic Shapes Cartridge. The Flowers were cut using the Rose/Carnation quilling kit.

I added a bit of seam binding, a vintage button, and some rose trim in the background.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for a special post! Have a great day! (Albeit a bit soggy here in Chicago! From snow to LOTS of rain! )

Hello Thursday!

2012-01-19T21:24:00.004-06:00

Today is Hello Thursday! This is the day of the month when Provo Craft releases their new Cricut and Imagine Cartridges! There are 10 this month! And each one is cuter than the next! I had the pleasure of working with one called Giant Flowers. I adore flowers. All flowers of all shapes and sizes, and find that I incorporate them wherever I can! So for me this is a dream cartridge! It will be one I use over and over again! How about decorating your presents for the holidays with them? I created this Valentine's box using the rose cut. I used less layers for the rose bud and loved how it turned out! I added some Valentine picks, black tulle, and a tag for the recipient. When using this cartridge I recommend using different shades of the same color and inking the edges a bit. In person it has such beautiful depth!

I like the back of my packages to be just as pretty as the front.....so I added more Valentine picks, lace, black twine, and pearls.

I created a LO for my daughter's room to hang on the wall. I have many scrapbook pages of her in her room. I hate to admit it, but my daughter is a bit of a narcissist! She loves to look at herself....a lot! ; ) I used the Peony cut for this page. And again, used different shades of yellow, brown inked edges, and yes.......a bit of glitter! ; )

This is her page hanging on her wall. I love it against the blue!

Since the flower is so dimensional I bridged the gap by adding layers of tulle and seam binding sort of tucked under it.

The pictures were taken by my I-phone and used the Instagram app to edit the photos. I love the warmth of the photos. I also dug out those letter beads that used to be so popular many moons ago! I love adding unexpected and fun little details to my projects!

The title was cut using CCR and the Kate's ABC's cartridge. (Still one of my all time favs!)

Be sure to check out the Cricut Blog to see all of the fun projects using PC's 10 new cartridges!

Snowy, Wintery Day....

2012-01-19T05:59:00.001-06:00

Good morning! I have woken up once again to a bit of snow on the ground. Just a dusting, but the temps have dropped, and it reminds me that it is only January. I have to admit, like most people, this is my least favorite month. It is cold. Dreary. Dark. But to try and put a positive spin on it, at least snow "looks" pretty! ; ) So here is my snowy card that I created using the Winter Wishes set by Crafty Secrets. I broke out the ole' Copics and colored away! I added liquid applique to her snowball and pom pom on her hat. The circular frame was created with 2 sizes of circular Spellbinder's dies. I added liquid applique to it as well. While I heat it and it gets puffy, I sprinkle glitter over it. The heated applique "grabs" the glitter, so there is no need for glue.

I used papers I printed from the Crafty Secret's Vintage CD. I print a bunch at a time and keep them on hand! The flower was made with felt and a Sizzix die. I added some white pom pom trim, a bit of satin ribbon, twine, and pearls. I created a little flag to balance my image a bit. I also made a little ruffle at the bottom with pink ribbon. It is a bit tricky, but I love the result!

Be sure to check back later for my Hello Thursday projects for Provo Craft's Newest Releases!

Have a great day my friends! Bundle up and stay warm! : )

It's Cold and Flu Season!

2012-01-17T05:53:00.003-06:00

I have a special post today that is up over at the Official Cricut Blog! It is a project created with the cold and flu season in mind. Most of us try and muddle through our days all the while hacking, sneezing, aching......so how about a little pick me up to fight the common cold? Think of it as your Random Act of Kindness for that fellow co-worker, friend, or neighbor! All cut info can be found on the Cricut Blog. : )

The song,"A Spoonful of Sugar" makes the medicine go down......comes to mind!

Depending on the size of your bucket here are a few items you can stock it with.......cough drops, Chapstick, Kleenex, Vick's Vapor Rub, Antibacterial hand sanitizer, Vitamin C drops........

I am back to work on this rainy, gloomy, January day.......... *sigh*

Have a great day and thank you for spreading a little sunshine when you stop here! : )

And if you are at all interested in seeing my daughter and her friends cheer, here is the link to the You Tube video.

They are so stinking cute it's ridiculous! ; )

Hodge PodgeToday!

2012-01-16T08:47:00.000-06:00

Good morning to you! I am so lucky to have today off! I am excited to get a bit of crafting done and not have to rush around! I have lots to share with you today. Some of it crafty.....some of it personal. I know it is January and I should be posting Valentine's Day projects, but I never had a chance to show you a few of my projects in the October issue of the Cricut Magazine. So here is the first project.....a pumpkin card that uses the Wrap it Up cartridge and my Gypsy to weld the pumpkins together. I also added a few flowers using the Mother's Day Cartridge.

My LO shows my kids carving/painting their pumpkins. (Giving Cort a knife would be a dangerous proposition! LOL!) I used the Autumn Celebration's Cartridge for the pumpkins and title. I added a few leaf stickers to the pumpkins and rhinestones to the cat's eyes.

My last card today is a vintage witch. She comes from the Happy Haunting's Cartridge. I applied glossy accents and black glitter to her and a purple rhinestone "necklace." The flowers were cut using the Mother's Day Cartridge. The background paper was swiped with white paint and I machine stitched around the perimeter.

On a personal note, my girl had her big cheer leading event this past Saturday. I turned from mother into crazy paparazzi lady the whole day! It is one of those days where my heart feels ten times bigger. It is such a special day for the cheerleaders and the basketball players. The local papers and TV crews were there to record the event. (as well as this crazy mother!; ) Here, Cortney was patiently waiting to go to the game!

I love these next two photos of her shaking the heck out of her pom poms!!!

The heartwarming part of this day is the local high school sends their cheerleaders to cheer with our girls. These high school students are so sweet and really helped our girls be the best they could be.

Here is the the group performing their half time show. : )

This is our little squad.....just 5 girls, but the bestest friends you ever want to see!

I love the blue uniforms this year too......must be because they match Cort's eyes. : )

I absolutely adore this picture of Cort's best friend Patty giving her a celebratory hug at her "after" party. The joy on her face is evident. It made me realize how much having friendship means to these girls. It doesn't matter what their disability is.....they love and accept one another unconditionally.

Thank you for letting me share these special moments in my life and my family's life. It means a lot to me. I appreciate your sweet comments too.....

Have a great day my friends!

The Loves in my Life

2012-01-13T05:58:00.001-06:00

There are people in your life who change you, they help you to be a better person. One of those people was my Nonnie. As most of you know, she passed away this fall and there is still a little hole in my heart. I've been sorting through photos and reminiscing about the things we did as kids, young adults, and even as older adults. My Nonnie was a special lady, and I am lucky to have had almost 40 years with her. I absolutely adore this picture of my sister and I with her. Although I tease my sister that she looks like she is playing favorites here! ; ) I used my Cricut to cut all of the hearts on the background paper. Some hearts were backed with patterned paper and some were left open. The entire background was placed on dimensional foam circles for dimension. I added the title, "Love U More...." and added a bit of lace and twine.

Cortney and I went to see "The Sound of Music this past weekend." It was the very first play she had ever seen. I was a nervous wreck! I was so worried she would start "talking" or singing during the play and people around us wouldn't understand, or get annoyed. But instead, my girl was silent during the entire 3 hour production.....silent as can be. She stared intently at the stage and broke out into the biggest smile you ever wanted to see, every time they sang on stage. By the end of the performance, I had relaxed, and seriously wanted to cry with happiness. Cort had seen a play........with me....her mom. A "normal" mother/daughter thing to do. It doesn't get any better...........

Oh.....and did I mention her best friend Patty loves her too? ; ) And Ava and Francie?

I just thought this photo was kind of funny......because she was seeing "The Sound of Music." Get it? She is covering her ears? I know......I am a total dork! ; )

I will apologize in advance because there will probably be more Cortney pictures next week. She has her "big" basketball game this weekend. She just got her new cheer leading uniform which is blue this year! She cheers with the other cheerleaders from the local high school and it is a pretty big event! So I am excited to see her shake her pom poms and look adorable in her cheer leading uniform. So I hope you don't mind indulging me a bit! : )

Have a great weekend! Thank you so much for checking in today!

Sea Shell Bay!

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning to you my crafty friends! I hope you are enjoying all of the new releases from JustRite so far! They have come out with a summer set that is sure to knock your socks off! It is an absolutely gorgeous set and makes me want winter to speed by just a bit faster! It is called Sea Shell Bay. My card today uses the sentiment and frame from the set, plus this little seashell. The panels were cut using Spellbinder's Labels Twenty-Two. I used Helmar's crackle medium for the orange back panel. It gives the paper such a cool distressed look! I added this nautical bow I've had in my stash forever and tied a button and rustic twine. I also added a hanging clear drop under the bow.

Isn't this the most beautiful summer set you've ever seen? I have another card using this set to share in the near future! : )

JustRite Inspiration
Becca Feeken
Sharon Harnist
*Michele Kovack*
Beate Johns
Kellie Fortin
Kazan Clark
Linda Duke
Sankari Wegman
Kathy Jones
Barb Schram
Angela Barkhouse

Thanks so much for stopping by today! Have a great day my friends!

Starburst Medallions!

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! I have another JustRite card to share with you today! It is a brand new set called, Starburst Medallion Labels. It has a bit of country charm to it, but I decided to go with that bright color scheme I've been attached to lately! ; ) I stamped the background medallion in turquoise and embossed it with clear embossing powder. I added a little rolled flower nestled in a vellum flower. I added a bit of tulle and a few acrylic pieces from Prima.

The sentiment was stamped in an avocado color and the banner was hand cut. The main image was cut out using Spellbinder's new Nested Medallions Die. I backed it with another piece of cream cardstock to break up the busy background.

Be sure to visit the other designer's blogs for more creative inspiration! And I apologize if my post today is a bit wonky. Blogger has changed their format and I was like a fish out of water trying to post! ; )
JustRite Inspiration
Becca Feeken
Debbie Olson
*Michele Kovack*
Kellie Fortin
Sankari Wegman
Eva Dobilas
Kazan Clark
Angela Barkhouse
Heidi Blankenship

JustRite's New Release- Warm and Cozy!

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday to you! I have another JustRite release to share with you today called, Warm & Cozy! It is a fun set to color as well as gorgeous fonts! I stamped my image on vellum with black Staz On ink and then colored the back of it with my Copic markers. I flipped it over when I was done to give it a stained glass appearance. I used Spellbinder's new Nested Medallion die to create the pink frame around it.
With my Sakura glue pen I added a hint of white glitter. It sort of has the look of snow I think! I added a few pearls to dress it up a bit!

I also added a Prima flower, ribbon, and a couple of stick pins. The sentiment was stamped in black and the banner was hand cut.

Here is the entire set! : )

For more ideas on how to use this fabulous new stamp set, be sure to visit the other designer's blogs! : ) Don't forget to check out JustRite's sale too!
JustRite Inspiration

*Michele Kovack*

JustRite's New Release-Your Special Day!

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

I have another fabulous set to share with you today that is by JustRite. It contains the best sentiments and fonts! The set is called, Your Special Day!

I decided to go a bit whimsical with my card this time. I have been drawn to the brighter colors lately. Maybe it's my wish for winter to hurry up and spring to arrive! ; ) I had these cute flowery bottle caps and decided to dust them off and create a flower center with it. I stamped the sentiment and cut it out with a circle Spellbinder's die. I placed a dimensional foam circle in the cap and placed the sentiment on top. I added glossy accents and while it was still wet, added my 3 rhinestones. I added a bit of white paint to the edges of the cap and added glossy accents. I sprinkled a bit of glitter over it. The flowers were cut using my Cricut Machine and vellum. I cut the leaves from my Cricut machine as well. The pretty frame that is part of this set was stamped in turquoise and cut out with Spellbinder's new Nested Medallion Die. I used a larger die for the pink paper and stacked them. The orange piece was cut using the Label's Six Spellbinder's die.

I snuck a bit of twine tied into a bow in there! ; )

As always.....another lumpy, bumpy card!
See this background? It is a new background stamp that will be released soon! It is called Fleur De Lis . I stamped it in Versamark on turquoise paper and sprinkled it with white embossing powder.

Here is the entire set. : )

Be sure to check out what these talented designers have come up with using this set!

*Michele Kovack*

I have a busy weekend ahead of me! I am getting tubes in my ears today.......isn't that ridiculous? Am I the only adult on the planet to get tubes in their ears? ; ) But hopefully, I will be able to hear a bit better! Cort has cheerleading this weekend, and her and I are going to see a play, The Sound of Music. Somewhere in between the business, I am hoping to find a wee bit of time to craft. What are you up to this weekend? : )

Warm Winter Wishes

2012-01-05T05:56:00.004-06:00

Good morning! I am popping in with a quick post! I have a card today that I created for the Cricut Circle Blog last year. It uses the Christmas Cards Cartridge. I created a shadow box for my skates using creamy glittered paper and old sheet music. The tag was cut using the Sentimental's Cartridge and the sentiment is by Crafty Secrets. I added a bit of seam binding and an old vintage button.

The laces were tied with a thin twine to add to the realistic effect.

I am back at work and life is busy again! Kyle has finals this week and Cort has her big cheerleading event next weekend. So needless to say time is short, but it's all good. Someday, I will have a lot of time on my hands. For now, I am happy to give it up while my kids are still growing up. : )

JustRite's New Release Day 2-Keep Calm!

2012-01-04T08:00:00.002-06:00

Okay, not you......that is the name of the set that JustRite has come out with! If you are not familiar with the Keep Calm craze, click HERE to see what I am talking about! It is so fun! I love that JustRite has come out with this versatile set! The possibilities are endless!

For my first card, I chose a dieting card, since so many of my friends and colleagues are constantly dieting and worrying about their weight. ; ) It is kind of a fun card that I've incorporated a fork and spoon cut from my Cricut machine. I stamped the sentiment and cut it out with an oval die by Spellbinders. I stamped the frame that comes in the set, in gray, to emulate a plate. and cut it out with Spellbinder's new die, Nested Oval Medallion , and then again with blue paper.
It needed a pop of color so I chose this bright orange! I stuck some pink pom poms underneath, just for a touch of whimsy!

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This second card was created for all my crafty friends out there! When in doubt, create art! It is definitely therapy for me. When the day stinks and everything is going wrong, I just hide away in my lil' craft room and create! I stamped the frame in brown and cut it out with Spellbinder's Nested Oval Medallion die. I inked the edges a bit and covered it with Helmar's Crackle Medium. Once both steps were completed I ran my brown ink over the cracks. I swiped a bit of cranberry ink over the edges as well.

The little scissors and spool were stamped and cut out very carefully. I took cream twine and colored it with my Copics to get a perfect cranberry color! I wrapped it around the spool and adhered it to my card.

I added a flower that was cut using a die from Papertrey ink and book paper. I covered them with a bit of glossy accents and sprinkled with Clear glitter. I tied black seam binding into a bow and glued it to the bottom of my image. I adhered the flowers to the center of the seam binding. I added a resin piece, by Melissa Frances, under it.

Here is this fun set in its entirety! Don't ya love it?!
Pin It

Be sure to visit the other designers to see what they've done with this set!

*Michele Kovack*

Well my Christmas break is officially over....it is time to join the real world again! ; ) Have a great day my friends!

JustRite's New Release Day 1- With Sympathy

2012-01-03T06:32:00.017-06:00

JustRite has a boatload of new sets being released! One is more fabulous than the next, and I am so excited to share them with you over the next couple of weeks! This first set is such a beautiful set, called With Sympathy. It is a set that we hate to break out, but is so necessary to help ease the loss of a loved one. It is tastefully done and the artwork is gorgeous. I colored this rose with my Copic Markers and cut it out using Spellbinder's Nested Medallion die . I sprayed the entire image with Goosebumpz and inked the edges in brown. The Goosebumpz leaves clear rain drops on the image and dries quickly!
You can see it a bit closer here. The sentiment was stamped on vellum with black Staz On ink. I cut the strip and added a pearl to hide my adhesive underneath. I added seam binding, twine, vintage lace, and a few pearls to finish it off.

Here is a peek at the set in its entirety.

And a bit of info for ya!
You can pre-order the 2012 catalog here!!

The 2011 Catalog is now 50% off on our website and you can purchase it here.

JustRite needs to make room in their warehouse for their 2012 CHA Release which is 21 New Cling and Clear stamp sets with 2 New Custom Dies. So they are having a $10 Retirement Sale to retire all our JustRite Original 1 5/8" stamps and 2" stamps!

Be sure to visit the rest of the DT blogs to see their beautiful work with this set!

JustRite Blog

Becca Feeken

Michele Kovack<- ---- Me! : )

Linda Duke (Linda's our new DT member! YAY! Welcome!!)

I am trying this new function for Pinterest. I am not sure if I did it correctly, so if you try it and it does/doesn't work, can you let me know? Thanks so much!

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Have a great day my friends!!!

The Fun in Art is Playing!

2012-01-02T08:56:00.012-06:00

The fun part of creating is playing and experimenting! Sometimes it is a complete flop (okay....many times!), and other times, it is a stroke of genius! I have been playing with alterables and even dabbling in a bit of photography. I am not great, but the fun is in the learning!

My project today is another glass bottle similar to the one I posted the other day. I changed up the colors a bit and used the Vintage Labels set by Crafty Secrets for the little tag. I added some flowers that were created using a Sizzix flower die. I added green stamens I purchased off of Etsy.
I mentioned the other day, when using alcohol inks, that I used two different colors. Here I used purple and a bit of silver. After it dries, which is pretty darn quick, I rubbed a bit of glossy accents over the bottle and sprinkled clear coarse glitter over it.

The leaf was cut using my Cricut and Mother's Day Bouquet Cartridge.

Someone recently asked if the ink washes off, and the answer is no. It is permanent, at least with soap and water. You can fill the inside of the jar with candies, embellishments, etc. The sky's the limit! : )

I am working on a Valentine's jar right now and will post soon!

I found this interesting technique on Pinterest called Bokeh. I decided to experiment a bit with it. As I said before, I am not great at it. I don't even think I am good.....but it was fun to play! Here is my feeble attempt at using the Bokeh effect with my camera.

And one last picture before I take my lil' family to see the Muppets movie.......Brian and I on New Year's Eve......... : )

Have a great day! Thank you so much for stopping by! It means the world to me...... : )

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Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T09:17:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to wish all of you a very happy, healthy, prosperous New Year!

Altered Glass Bottles....

2011-12-30T08:37:00.014-06:00

Good morning and happy Friday to you! I am finally getting my crafting mojo back and I am such a happy camper! I have an altered glass bottle to share with you today that I picked up from Hobby Lobby awhile back. I wanted to change the color of the jar, so I pulled out my Tim Holtz Alcohol Inks. These work fantastic on glass and the dry time is super short! Just take out the colors that you prefer. I usually pick two coordinating colors to give it a bit of depth. Here I picked a green and turquoise color. I squirt my stamp pad and swiped and pounced on the glass. You can go over it endless times, until you reach the desired effect!
After the glass bottle changes to the colors you like, it is time to embellish! I used my Sizzix flower die and Papertrey Ink felt. I added pearls to the centers of the flowers, added a bit of glossy accents, and sprinkled glitter over the flowers. The leaf was cut using my Cricut Machine and the Thanksgiving Cartridge. I added these stamens that I ordered off of Etsy.

The labels on the bottle are from Crafty Secrets and is part of the Vintage Labels set. (Which by the way, Crafty Secret's is having a HUGE sale....so be sure to check it out!!) I stamped the frame on vellum with Staz On ink and cut it out by hand. The sentiment was stamped on yellow paper and hand cut into a banner shape. I adhered both to the jar. To give the jar itself a bit of sparkle, I rubbed the bottom of the jar with glossy accents and sprinkled a bit of glitter on that too!

See that cool little flower tucked underneath the yellow ones? That was cut using window screen! Yep! Totally cool huh? I love experimenting with different items to make my flowers with!

I have a couple more jars in the works that I will share with you shortly!

In case I don't get a chance to post, have a very Happy New Year!!! Hugs to you all!

Brrrrr!

2011-12-29T08:00:00.003-06:00

I have to admit........I am in a bit of a creative slump. I think I have been so busy with holiday stuff, family obligations, keeping the kiddos entertained etc.....that my priorities have been elsewhere. I am slowly trying to get my creative juices flowing.....but I am finding it a bit of a challenge after a week's break! Hopefully, with things returning to normal, that I will get back into my regular crafting routine! : )

I have a card from last year's Cricut Circle Blog. It was created with a cartridge called Christmas Cards. It has all kinds of shaped cards to choose from and I liked this oval shape! The snowman was also from this cartridge. I added some snowy hills for him to sit on and covered them with a generous amount of glossy accents and mica flakes. I added some seam binding and my sentiment was created with rub on letters. I added a pom pom to the top of his hat too!
I added glossy accents to his eyes and nose to help them stand out just a bit more!

I have so many things that still need to be done in my house today.....cleaning, laundry......maybe I can craft in between loads? ; )

Have a great day my friends!!!

Presentation is Everything!

2011-12-27T07:25:00.003-06:00

Did you have a good Christmas? I did. I have to say that this Christmas reminded me just how blessed I am. There were a few unexpected surprises along the way that showed me just how much people care. It was a reminder that came at a perfect time. : )

I have a little altered paper sack that I snuck gift cards in for my sister and brother in law. Gift cards in itself are not the most exciting gift, so I thought I'd make the packaging a bit more special. I used Provo Crafts Crown Rosette Quilling die using blue polka dot paper and sheet music. I cut a small snowflake using the Winter Lace cartridge. I adhered the pieces together and added a doily to the top of the sack. To keep it closed, I tied pretty vintage lace and glued the rosette to that. This way it easily slips off without ruining the package. I added a few swipes of white paint, glossy accents, and glitter to the edges of the bag as a finishing touch.

I have to admit that I haven't crafted in a few days, and it is a bit difficult trying to get back into the groove of things! I better get back on the saddle quick with CHA right around the corner! ; )

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T07:03:00.003-06:00

It is official.....Christmas is here! I have a few last minute things to get done today and then in the blink of an eye we will be visiting with family, opening presents, and eating way to much! ; )

I have a card to share with you that I created for the Cricut Circle last year. It uses the Gingerbread Cartridge. I used pearls for the eyes and liquid applique for the frosting. I added a doily, seam binding, and a vintage button to finish it off.

Chances are, I probably won't post this weekend, so I want to take this time to wish each and every one of you a very merry Christmas!!!! I hope you create wonderful memories with your family and loved ones! : )

Western Christmas Tree

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that Christmas is almost here! I feel pretty organized this year (for a change) and the only thing I have left to do is finish wrapping my gifts! Today is my kids' last day, so last night I got their teachers' gifts ready for this morning. Cortney has her Christmas choir concert today. There is nothing better than hearing these kids sing.........they don't hold back and definitely embrace the Christmas spirit!

I have an altered project to share with you today. I used a styrofoam cone and completely covered it in lace, glitter, and twine. I found these rusty stars at Michaels and used them here. The star is on rosette that is brand new by Provo Craft. It is called, Crown Rosette. I used sheet music to create it.
I used a spray adhesive over the entire tree so that the glitter wasn't lumpy or too thick. I just wanted a light coating!

Have a wonderful, productive day today! : D Thank you for popping by during this busy time of the year!

Merriest Wishes.....

2011-12-21T05:52:00.004-06:00

Good morning to you! Today is my first official day off! I am still in my jammies and I LOVE it! Now mind you, I have a zillion and one things to do.....laundry and cleaning my house would be a good start....but maybe later! ; )

I have a Christmas card to share with you that uses the Cricut Craft Room. I absolutely love this program by Provo Craft! And the best part is? It is free! You just have to sign up for it and start creating! I used the Christmas Cartridge and cut the holly at 1" and used the layers. This is what is decorating the top of my ornament.....along with some seam binding and jingle bells. The ornament was also cut using the Christmas cartridge at 4". I used all of the layer functions and added a piece of vellum behind the openings to soften the look of the patterned paper behind it. The oval was cut at 4 1/2" using the George and Basic Shapes cartridge. The scalloped oval was cut using the Elegant Edges cartridge at 5".
The sentiment is by Amuse Stamps.

I added a clear acrylic piece by Prima to the bottom of my ornament.

I am off to get something done today......... : )

Have a wonderful day and thank you for stopping by for a visit!!!!

There Are Days.....

2011-12-20T05:43:00.009-06:00

There are days when my heart aches with knowing my daughter will not be able to do many things. Sometimes I allow myself to go into a deep dark place and I can't pull myself out. But there are also many days where my heart aches with joy. Today was one of those days. Every year Brian and I bake with the kids. Or should I say; "kid." Cortney usually lasts all of about 5 minutes and then she starts to crab and whine and has no desire to be in the kitchen with us. This year was different. She "wanted" to help. She stayed in the kitchen with us for nearly 2 hours! She helped us bake, and belted out her singing voice to sing along with the Christmas carols playing in the background. She stirred..........

.....She helped Daddy put the Hershey Kisses in the bowl while waiting for the cookies to bake.....

....She helped put the rolled up dough into the sugar.......

....So she can shake the bowl! She needed a wee bit of help to ensure the sugar didn't go flying everywhere....... ; )

Our first batch.......Cranberry, white chocolate oatmeal cookies! YUM!

The second batch were these Peanut Butter Blossoms. Which, by the way, Cortney LOVED! The chocolate all over her face was proof of that!

My son is going to be 15 soon, and I am so glad that he isn't too "cool" to bake with us. He loves to cook and such and is actually pretty good at it! Someday when he is all grown up, he will be a self-sufficient bachelor! ; )

.....Never trust a man with an orange spatula! ; )

Today is my last day of school! I am so excited to have two weeks off! I love not having a rigorous schedule to follow, and spending a bit more time as a family, instead of heading off into 25 directions, like we normally do! : D

Have a great day!!!!

JustRite Christmas....

2011-12-19T05:52:00.005-06:00

Good morning to you! I am fortunate enough to be able to spend the day with hubby while the kids are at school. He worked 6 straight 14 hour days and decided to take the day off. We are going to finish our Christmas shopping, have lunch, and just recharge the ole' batteries!

I have a Christmas card to share with you today that uses the O' Christmas Tree set by JustRite. I embossed it in silver embossing powder. I used my paper cutter to slice around the tree. The edges were inked a bit. The trunk was stamped in brown Memento ink. The snowflake is by Spellbinders. I did a bit of machine sewing and added mica flakes everywhere!

For the bottom of the card I hand cut the pink paper, added glossy accents and loaded it with the mica flakes. I added pink pom poms to the bottom of my tree. I tied seam binding and added a smaller snowflake, also by Spellbinders. I tied 3 of my self-painted jingle bells, (tutorial HERE) with twine, and added a little "snowball" to the center! ; )

I loved hearing about all of the projects you are working on! I would love to see them! If you post your pics on your blog, please let me know so I can stop for a visit! : )

Off to get ready for my big "date!" :D

Ribbons and Rosettes Winner!

2011-12-19T05:46:00.003-06:00

Random.org chose number 45! This means that Cathy has won!
Cathy said...

Homemade ornaments are so special, most of what is on my tree is homemade. I love yours, sooo pretty.Right now i am working on cards and decorated treats for a few customers. Merry Christmas.

Thank you everyone for playing along......I will have another giveaway later this week, so stay tuned! : )

Ornament Number 5 and a Giveaway!

2011-12-17T06:30:00.009-06:00

I probably should have said, Giveway first and then Ornament Number 5! ; ) I wish I were wealthy enough to give loads of cartridges away to all of you, to thank you for your visits each day, your kind words, your votes these last few weeks.....but alas....I am not. But over the next week I will be doing several giveaways, to at least a couple of winners! : D This weekend I would like to give this fabulous Ribbons and Rosettes Cartridge......

......and Cricut Cards Magazine to one lucky winner!

All you need to do is become a follower (If you are not already), and tell me what crafty project you are working on at this very moment! That's it! I will select a winner Sunday night at 10 P.M. CST.

I have this last ornament to share with you that I created last year for the Cricut Circle Magazine. It was created with the Winter Woodland cartridge and cut at 2". I needed it small enough to fit in this ornament that I had picked up at Hobby Lobby. I added buttons and loads of glitter to the roof and a bit of doily peeking out from under the eaves. I used teeny tiny brads on the doors.

I added white batting at the bottom for fluffy snow. And cut a lil' tree because the house looked a bit lonely all of itself. Where the two pieces of the ornament met, I added a piece of vintage lace and painted the cap white. I sanded it a bit to give it a distressed look. The tag was cut using the Sentimental's cartridge and the sentiment is by Papertrey Ink.

The sentiment on the back was stamped using Memento Ink, and cut out using a Spellbinder's Circle and scalloped die.

I had a hard time photographing this because I kept getting glares off of the plastic....but I hope you can see it well enough!

And as far as what crafty project I am working on? I just got loads of stamps and am preparing for CHA! It is like Christmas getting all of the new stamps to play with!

We are off to a Christmas dinner today with my dad and my sister. Tomorrow is going to be a crafty kind of day, with an occasional load of laundry in between! : )

Hope your weekend is wonderful!!!

We Interrupt our Usual Scheduled Program....

2011-12-16T05:48:00.013-06:00

.....to bring you brand new cartridges by Provo Craft! I had the pleasure of working with this cutie.....The Good Old Days. It has to be one of my favorite Imagine Cartridges ever! Just take a peek at these retro images.........

Seriously.....could it be any cuter?

I love, love, love, the patterned papers on this cartridge too......and let me tell ya....they print like a dream!

I created two cards......my first one is this lady skier! This gal was dressed up a bit with lots of glitter, a doily, ribbon, and pearls. The snowflake paper was from the Imagine.....isn't it pretty?

And who doesn't love a "Retro Flying Santa in an Airplane?" ; ) I used some liquid applique for his beard, glitter, some ribbon, rhinestones, and a stick pin. I am just realizing right this second that one of my rhinestones fell off. Darn!I wish I had caught that before taking the picture!

Be sure to visit the Cricut Blog for all of the other releases this month! You are gonna love them!

I do have one more ornament to share with you, so be sure to check back tomorrow for my last one AND a fun giveaway!!

Sometimes Simple is Better.....

2011-12-15T05:42:00.003-06:00

I have a tendency to complicate things. I am usually not satisfied with a project until it's been glittered to death, given a gazillion layers, reworked until I can't stand the sight of the project any longer. And sometimes.....just sometimes....the stars align, and the project comes together quickly. Today's project is fairly uncomplicated......at least for me. I created it last year for the Cricut Circle Blog. It uses the Elegant Edges Cartridge to create the Rosette. The circle was cut from the George and Basic Shapes Cartridge, and the snowflake from Winter Lace. I added some Teresa Collins blingage to finish it off. Okay.... I admit, I did glitter it, but compared to most of my projects this was pretty simple. ; )

I am so glad you stopped by today! : )

Ornament Number Three!

2011-12-14T05:46:00.006-06:00

I can't believe we are midweek already! Today is our "ugly" holiday sweater day at school! I love seeing everyone's festive sweaters with the real jingle bells, pom poms, glitter, lights that actually light up! ; ) We all have at least one in our closets right? ; ) It is such a fun week, and the kids get a kick out of seeing the teachers act silly and participate right along with them!

OH! and guess what? Because of all of YOU....I WON the Blog Guide Book's Top Blog spot!!! : D I can't thank all of you enough for voting so many times and putting up with me! Your comments have truly touched my heart and have made me a very happy girl! So from the bottom of my heart.......thank you.

I have my third ornament to share with you today. It is similar to Monday's post, but a slightly different technique for the ornament. The box was cut from the Sweet Tooth Boxes Cartridge at 6". After the top was cut, I spread glossy accents across the entire thing and sprinkled coarse glitter by Martha Stewart over it. The snowflake was again cut using the Winter Lace Cartridge and green glitter was applied. I added hot pink tulle, a button, and a pearl to finish the top off.
To cover the ornament, I used this green polka dotted tissue paper by Pink Paislee. I tore it into small pieces and adhered it using Modge Podge. Once it was covered I sprinkled clear German Glass Glitter over it. I added a snowflake that was also covered in glitter with a pearl in the center. I used an acrylic Prima flower and some soft pink tulle to finish the top of the ornament off.

I adore the look of these Prima pieces! They remind me of ice and add a special touch without taking away from the rest of the ornament.

I used more of the green tissue inside of the box to give to the recipient! : )

Off to dig my "ugly" sweater out of the closet! ; )

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!!!

Ornament Number Two!

2011-12-13T05:43:00.003-06:00

Good morning to you! I am especially excited because today is pajama day at school! What could be better than wearing your warm, cuddly PJ's to work? ; ) We also have a Christmas concert in the morning and it definitely puts me in the mood for the holidays! : D

I have ornament number two to share with you today. I created this project for the Cricut Circle Magazine last year. This ornament uses a paper mache ball that I first painted white. I cut about 75 snowflakes using the Winter Lace Cartridge. I glittered each snowflake and added a rhinestone to the centers. (I won't lie.....it took a wee bit of time to do!) I then used my hot glue gun to adhere the finished snowflakes to the ball.
I topped it off with a pretty sheer ribbon!

Off to get dressed for work.......oh yea......never mind! ; )

Have a great day! Thank you so much for stopping by!

Glittered Ornament with Box....

2011-12-12T05:44:00.008-06:00

I have had an amazing, yet exhausting weekend! Saturday was filled with not so fun stuff, like doctor's appointments and car repairs. (again) But Sunday more than made up for it. Brian and I headed to Misericordia bright and early and spent several hours packaging cookies to be shipped out. Jen's friends were all there to support us and each of us wore our white chef coat and hair net. ; ) We reminisced about Jen, laughed about growing older, and talked about life in general. As a group we were able to contribute 58 hours of volunteer time to honor Jen and give to my daughter Cortney. On top of that everyone brought Santa gifts to the residents. My heart must have grown a hundred sizes this weekend.

I have a week of ornaments for you! This entire week, I will be sharing ornaments with you that I have altered. This first one uses my most favorite thing in the whole world.....German glass glitter! I just used an ordinary glass ornament that you buy in an 8 pack. I covered the entire ornament with Modge Podge and rolled it in the glitter. I let the ornament sit in the "glitter bowl" until it was dry. I painted the ornament top with white paint.
I used the Sweet Tooth Boxes Cricut Cartridge to cut the box at 6". I folded it and adhered all of the sides. I decorated the top of the box with a bit of tulle and a large glittered snowflake that was cut from the Winter Lace cartridge. I cut the poinsettia at 3" and added pink stamens to the center and attached that to the center of my snowflake. To hide the tulle's knot I tied 3 jingle bells together and hot glued it to the back of the snowflake.

To dress up the ornament, I cut another poinsettia at 1 1/2" using hot pink paper. I inked the edges and glittered it. I added a Prima acrylic flower to the center using my hot glue gun. I added a few additional Prima acrylic sprigs, and tulle to dress it up.

Love these Prima pieces!

I am headed to work! This week the teachers and myself are doing special themed lunches all week. Today I am partly responsible for our "potato bar." Yum!

Have a wonderful day!!!

Generous Hearts...

2011-12-09T05:42:00.005-06:00

If you have been following my blog for awhile now, you know that two years ago I lost my very best friend, Jennifer at 38 years old. It was extremely sudden and shocking. And even two years later I think about her all the time and miss her terribly. This weekend, Jennifer's sister, mother-in-law, and about 13 of her closest friends are volunteering at Misericoridia this weekend in their bakery. They are doing this in Jen's memory to help me. Misericordia is the place where I am hoping someday, Cortney will live. It is a beautifully run home for the mentally and physically disabled. And these women, who barely know me, are doing this for me and for Cort. I am speechless. Touched beyond belief. Words will never be enough to express my gratitude for this group of women. I hope I can thank them enough on Sunday..... : )

Today's card is using some of those painted, sugary jingle bells that I showed HERE a few days ago. I used a chipboard frame and skates from Tattered Angels. I painted the skates pink and silver and gave them a generous dose of glitter! The poinsettia leaves were cut using my Cricut machine. The snowflake (which you can barely see in front of the poinsettia) was cut from corrugated cardboard and a Spellbinder's die. I swiped some white paint over it. The oval and scalloped oval frame are also by Spellbinder's.
I added a bit of brown tulle, twine, and a button to finish it off.

I have a busy weekend ahead of me.....two Christmas parties, another doctor's appt. and volunteering at Misericordia! : ) So not much crafting this weekend.....but it's all good!

Have a fabulous weekend my friends!!!!

Holiday Wishes...

2011-12-07T05:38:00.002-06:00

There are some days where I am overwhelmed with people's kind spirits and generosity. Like all of you voting for me repeatedly....and instead of getting annoyed, you have become my biggest cheerleaders. The comments you have left for me, the reposting of my lil' contest.....all of it has left me speechless. I am so grateful for you all....... : ) If you haven't voted today, please jump HERE to vote!

I have a project to share with you today that I created for the Cricut Circle last December. I found some cute paper mache boxes at Hobby Lobby. You know the ones that are brown, plain, and bit ugly? But they only cost .99 cents? I covered them with some candy cane paper that was in my stash....for a looooong time. (Think retro!) ; ) The top was covered with glittery paper by American Crafts. The circles were cut using the George and Basic Shapes Cartridge. The candy Canes were cut from the Simply Charmed cartridge. I added a tag cut from the Sentimental's Cartridge and my sentiment is by Papertrey Ink. I added a green jingle bell for contrast and some of this fuzzy, sparkly twine.

I did go to the doctor the other day and was told I have a sinus infection. I was placed on an antibiotic and steroids. Unfortunately, the antibiotic made me break out in a blotchy rash all over my body! : ( I had to stop those immediately! I am not sure I feel much better......but it has only been a couple of days, so I guess I need to give it a bit more time.

My van is also sick and going in the shop today. The exhaust system.....again...for the zillionth time! Blech!

It is happy hump day though.....so I am one happy camper! : ) Hope you have a great one today!!!

Exciting News!

2011-12-06T12:00:00.001-06:00

Guess who's blog made it to the final two in the Blog Guide Book's Top Blog? ; ) And it is all because of YOU! I can't thank you enough for putting me there! Voting for will resume at NOON today for the top spot! I appreciate you sticking with me and voting so many times for me......I hope you can stick with me a bit longer and vote one last time! Click HERE!

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!

Baby Cards.....

2011-12-05T05:44:00.006-06:00

Good morning to you! I am heading to the doctor's office today to hopefully figure out why my ears have been clogged for over a month! It is really frustrating to not be able to hear! I've tried all of the tried and true remedies.....nasal sprays, decongestants etc. with no luck!

Just to keep you in the loop.....There are still 8 hours left to vote for the Top 2 over at the BlogGuide Book! Thanks to all of you, I have made it to the top two! I know I said I was done asking you to vote for me.....but I do believe there is one more round. ; ) (blushing)

I have a couple of baby cards to share with you today that were featured in the October issue of Cricut Magazine.
The first one is this onesie card I created using my Gypsy and the Wrap it Up cartridge. It was cut at 5". The flowers were cut using the Mother's Day Bouquet Cartridge. The tag was cut from the Sentimental's cartridge and the sentiment is by Papertrey Ink.

I did a bit of paper piercing around the perimeter of the onesie as well.....oh! And a bit of glitter too!

My next card uses the Just Because cartridge and the peas were cut at 2", popped up and glittered. I added a bit of lace, seam binding, and a little flower by Maya Road to finish it off.

The tag was again cut from the Sentimental's Cartridge and this time the sentiment was computer generated and the tag was run through my printer.

I have a couple more projects in this issue I'd like to share with you, so maybe tomorrow I will have to do that before I get back on the Christmas track! ; )

Thanks for sticking with me through all of this voting and such! I appreciate it so very much!!!

Have a great day my friends!!!!

Jingle Bell Tutorial!

2011-12-02T05:52:00.017-06:00

Before I start my tutorial, I just want to remind you that there are 3 days left to vote over at The Blog Guide Book! And actually, I am about 10 votes behind 1st place.......so if you don't mind popping over there, I would REALLY appreciate it! : )

I have had many requests for a jingle bell tutorial. It has sort of become my new obsession lately. (Like I needed another obsession!) ; ) I picked up a couple of packages of these babies, in two different sizes. I got them from Hobby Lobby for a pretty reasonable price.
When I took this picture, I thought I had wanted 3 different colors of jingle bells but ended up changing my mind and actually made 4 different colors. But in any event, you need to separate them onto different paper plates. I found this worked better than newspaper, as newspaper tends to stick.

I used Krylon spray paint in four different colors. I loved this minty green color!

See? Newspaper? This is how I know not to use it! (I was peeling off the red sales add for quite a while!) ; )

This part takes a bit of patience. You spray the color lightly, let it dry, shake your paper plate, and spray again. It will take a few times to get an even coverage over the entire jingle bell.

Once all of your bells are covered, and you are satisfied with them, bring them indoors to give them a sugary coating. This part is a bit messy! I used glossy accents to coat each bell and then roll it in glitter. A spray adhesive would work too. The only problem I found with the spray, is it has a tendency to move your jingle bell around the plate too much. So I had to keep my distance a bit.

....Place them in a bowl full of glitter and roll those babies around!

It is a bit messy, but the results are worth it! And honestly, I will probably have jingle bells till I'm 80! : ) Oh! And see those brown textured bells? That was sprayed with Suede spray paint! I love the cool look of it!

Here is a Christmas card using my lil' bells. The chipboard house is from Maya Road and I covered it using the Helmar Crackle medium. It is such a cool effect! I added a bit of texture paste for snow and sprinkled it with glitter. The sweet image in the doorway is from Crafty Secret's Creative Scraps. I even added tiny curtains to the windows!

I also added some tulle, twine, rhinstones for smoke from the chimney, and a Melissa Frances flourish. And of course, those sugary jingle bells! ; )

The family and I are headed downtown tomorrow to see the Christmas lights, ice skate, and have lunch. I know the days of my 14 year old wanting to spend time doing this with us may be coming to an end. So I will take advantage of it while I can!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!!

A Little Christmas Cheer

2011-12-01T05:47:00.003-06:00

Voting continues over at The Blog Guide Book........4 more days to cast your vote! : ) For those of you who have already voted, thank you for taking the time to do it! : ) I really appreciate it! If you haven't voted and would like to, just click HERE!

Good morning! I have a little Christmas card to share with you today that uses this darling stamp by Amuse! My friend Simone bought it for me last year and he was begging to be used again! I colored his cute self with my Copics and glittered his hat, beard etc. I cut him out and placed him on a small card that was actually a left over piece from another card. I added a doily behind him, added some mica flakes around his feet, and a couple of my sugary jingle bells tied with twine.
I am addicted to these jingle bells and can't seem to stop using them on my projects! ; )

My girl has a beauty shop appt. tonight. She is getting highlights in her hair for the holidays. It is so cute to see her enjoy being fussed over!

Thanks for popping by!!!

An Unusual Way to color Felt!

2011-11-29T22:34:00.006-06:00

First I want to thank you for voting for me over at the Blog Guide Book's Top Blog Contest! It is a tight race and I am among some very talented ladies! If you haven't had a chance to vote, I would be so grateful if you took a minute to vote for my blog! Just click HERE! : )

Every now and then I have a moment of genius. (It doesn't happen often, so when it does I get pretty darn excited!) ; ) I wanted to make an ornament using this Spellbinder's mitten die and some felt I had. I cut two pieces of cream colored felt and used red floss and a blanket stitch all around the edges. After it was done I thought it looked too flat. (I wish I had taken a picture of it before!) I needed a way to age it......so what better than to rub the whole darn thing in used coffee grounds! AND, it gives it a nice smell to boot! ; ) Who knew there were so many things to do with coffee?
Once it was all dry, I just shook off the excess and continued to embellish the top of my mitten using Spellbinder's snowflake dies, twine, jingle bells, and a sprig of berries. I added a bit of mica flakes at the bottom with a bit glossy accents.

See those jingle bells? Watch for a tutorial on how to create your own colored, sugary jingle bells of your own!
Thank you for stopping by! I always appreciate your visits and sweet comments! : )

Please, please, please?!

2011-11-28T13:00:00.001-06:00

.........vote HERE?

........ For me?

It only takes a minute and this is honestly the LAST time I will aske you to vote! I promise! ; ) I would be soooooooo grateful for your help!

Just Rite's Topsy Turvy Cake!

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday weekend! I was fortunate enough to have an extended weekend and enjoyed every minute of it! I hosted our Thanksgiving meal, and Friday was spent decorating the house for Christmas. I love the cozy feeling of the twinkling lights and putting out all of my Christmas treasures for display. Saturday the family and I decided to head to the mall and get our Christmas shopping done. We were quite successful and got almost everyone on our list done. When we got home and unpacked our gifts, we made a big bowl of buttery popcorn and watched Super 8. It was a great movie and pretty action packed. Yesterday was a "stay in your pajamas" kind of day! I got a bit of crafting done and tried to relax for a change!

Today, it's back to work! I'm not complaining though....... : )

I have a birthday card to show you using a fun set by JustRite called Topsy Turvey Cakes. This is the second card I've created with this whimsical set. The first card was HERE. I colored it in using my Copic markers and added teeny rhinestones to the centers of the flowers. I also colored additional colored flowers to add to the side of my "frame." This was created using the Beaded Oval's Die by Spellbinders and cutting out the center with an oval die. The large flower was cut using Cuttlebug's Daisy Quilling kit.
I added a bit of twine and some leaves cut from corrugated cardboard. I swiped a bit of white paint across them to bring out the texture.

I also have GOOD news to share! I have made it to the TOP 5 in Blog Guide Book's Top Blog Contest! It is all because of YOU! Thank you, thank you for all of your votes!!! The last round starts some time today, and if you get a chance to vote again (the last time I promise!) I would SO appreciate it!!!!! Please help me if you can by spreading the word on Facebook, your blogs etc! THANK YOU!!!!! : D

Vintage Dress Form

2011-11-25T07:42:00.007-06:00

Good morning and happy Black Friday to you! Did any of you go shopping in the wee hours of the morning? Not me.......I definitely am not a crowds kind of gal! ; )

I have another Crafty Secret's card to share with you using the new Vintage Illustration's CD, which is available for purchase TODAY! If you love vintage papers and illustrations, this is a definite must have! I printed some paper and decided to print this darling dress right over it! I cut it out, inked the edges a bit and applied some Helmar crackle medium. (Such a cool product!) After it was all dry, I took my dark brown, inky sponge and filled in the cracks to make it more visible. I added a bit of felt, seam binding, a tiny spool, stick pins, and some machine sewing to finish it off!

This product works great on paper, chipboard, etc. You will definitely be seeing more using it!

And just a peek into my Thanksgiving......flowers that my Dad sent.....

My table before the bomb of food hit it! ; )

And my living room, with my new fireplace screen from Pier 1. Love the flicker of the candles...

Be sure to visit the Crafty Secret's website for Sandy's big announcement and a HUGE sale!

Today is the transformation from Thanksgiving decor to Christmas decor! Bring out the tree, lights, knick knacks etc!

I will be back tomorrow, so be sure to pop on by!

So Thankful For.....

2011-11-23T07:46:00.008-06:00

I am in the lead over at The Blog Guidebook thanks to you! If you haven't voted yet, please click HERE! It only takes a minute and I would be so grateful, if you voted for my blog, Thoughts of a Cardmaking Scrapbooker! (Voting ends on Friday. You can vote from as many computers as you own too!) ; )

Before I start my creative post.....I just want to take a moment to thank you! So many of you have voted for me and have left me the sweetest comments here. It is truly so heart warming to hear these things. Honestly, I am just a 5th grade teacher, a mom, and a wife who likes creating with paper. It is my sanity, my therapy, and has literally saved me. Life isn't always what you want it to be, and this hobby of mine has given me an outlet that I am grateful for on a daily basis. Add to that, the support I get from you......and the whole thing is just overwhelmingly fulfilling.

The project I am sharing today was in last year's Cricut Circle magazine. It is a mini album sharing some of my blessings in life. The title was created using the Opposites Attract Cartridge for the words, So and Far. Storybook was used for the word, Thankful. I included some vintage papers I had on hand and some glittery leaves cut from the Thanksgiving cartridge.
I am grateful for my lil' family. We have been through a lot, and it has made us closer and more appreciative of this life we've been given.

The wheat stalks were from the Country Life cartridge and glossy accents was applied to make them pop off the page a bit more. I attached a little tag to it.

This house was supposed to be our "starter" home. We were meant to stay for a bit and then move on.......but our hearts belonged here, so we added an addition and decided to stay. It is customized for Cortney's needs and it is warm and cozy inside. It isn't the biggest home, or the newest, but it is perfect for us. Our memories, our laughter, and our tears, have been shared in this house.

The tree was cut using the Simply Charmed cartridge and again glossy accents was applied. I tied another tag to it.

And lastly, this little guy. We rescued him from the shelter after our Pug, Bruno passed away. He was a scroungy dirty 8 month old pup that stole my heart immediately! He is honestly, the best dog I've ever owned with the most loving personality.

The hearts and circles were cut using the All Occasions Cake Art Cartridge. I added a bit of stitching with black floss. His name was done on the computer.

I am off to clean and start cooking for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow!

I wish all of you a very HAPPY and BLESSED Thanksgiving! : )

Finally!

2011-11-22T05:43:00.002-06:00

I know I have been asking you to vote.....and the poll wasn't up and ready until today! So I am sorry for that! It is FINALLY up and working! Could you please, please take a minute to click HERE and vote for my blog, "Thoughts of a Cardmaking Scrapbooker?" THANK YOU so much!!!!

Crafty Secret's Creating Vintage Illustrations CD!

2011-11-20T23:01:00.004-06:00

It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just a few days away and the holidays are here! It is true, that the older you get the faster time seems to fly. I remember waiting with very little patience, for Christmas to arrive with my record player and Milton Berl Christmas albums! The days right before Christmas were painfully slow! What I wouldn't give to have those days back! ; ) Now I blink, and the day is over!

So now that I've chatted on and on about the holidays, I bet you were expecting a holiday card today? Yes, that would make sense. But, no, I don't have a holiday card.....at least not today anyway! Instead I have a Crafty Secret's card made with a brand new product that will be available THIS Friday for purchase! It is the new Vintage Illustrations CD! I adore the images and designer papers available on this CD. What are the advantages? Well, one thing I love is you can scale the paper to any size you want, which is perfect when you are paper piecing and such. The other thing I love, is you never, ever, have to worry about running out of paper! Just print some more!!!
The images was lightly colored with my Copics and the edges were inked. I spread glossy accents over the entire image and sprinkled course Martha Stewart glitter over it. I added a bit of tulle and some pieces from a Prima flower sprig.

Here is what the CD looks like. It will be available for purchase this Friday!

As some of you already know from the weekend, my blog made it to Round Two in the Blog Guide Book's Top Blog contest. The voting was temporarily closed, but should reopen sometime this morning. I would greatly appreciate it if you could take a minute to vote for my blog, Thoughts of a Cardmaking Scrapbooker! Just click HERE! If you really want to make this gal super happy, share the link on Facebook etc. I need votes to get to the final round! : )

Thank you so much for stopping and taking the time to "visit" me!!! It does my heart good! : )

Altered Night Light Lamp!

2011-11-18T05:50:00.004-06:00

I so appreciate the advice yesterday on what to do with those scraps! I wish I were as organized as some of you are, but truth be told, I am simply not. I am disorganized. I am a tornado in the craft room. I am messy. And honestly, I am starting to come to terms with that side of me! LOL!

Last fall for the Circle Magazine I took an inexpensive night light at Michaels and prettied it up a bit using Provo Craft's Daisy Quilling kits. The flowers were layered, inked, and glittered. The leaves were cut using felt for a bit of texture and softness. The swirls were cut from one of my cartridges, but it has been so long, that honestly, I can't remember which one! (Sorry!) I adhered a wide piece of lace around the lamp shade to help draw the eye into the center.
These Quilling kits really do make the most gorgeous flowers!

mmmmmm......I love anything that sparkles! ; )

I have lots of shopping to do to prepare for Thanksgiving! And I need to clean my very messy house! I certainly can't have people over in the state it is in now! ; )

Have a wonderful weekend! Thank you as always for stopping by!!!!!

Made From Leftovers!

2011-11-17T05:44:00.003-06:00

My desk is never clean. Ever. It usually has stuff piled high from one corner to another, and I am terrible about cleaning it up in between projects. As a matter of fact my whole room right now is just a variety of piles here and there. I know it's bad when I start inching towards the hallway because there is literally not even 6 inches of square space to work! Now because I am a "glass half full" kind of gal, I look at those piles on my desk or (floor), and sometimes I see "leftovers" from other projects that look kind of good sitting next to each other, and I get inspired! So this is the reason for today's little card. Just leftover, unwanted pieces that found their way onto today's card! ; )

.........A leaf cut from my Cricut that was too large for my other project.....cuz really, who has the heart to throw away a perfectly good leaf? ; ) Then there is this pretty flower that I created from the Mother's Day Bouquet Cartridge that I decided was too busy for my other project, but here it was perfect! I had a piece of this embossed cardstock that was pretty, but a bit short, so I lenghthened it a bit visually with designer paper and a doily peeking out.
The tag was stamped previously too but I had decided on a different color other than brown for my other project, so instead it found its way onto this card!

I would LOVE to know what you do with your leftover pieces! I would love to tell you that I keep them in cute little organized bins or something, but then I'd be lying! So instead they are just everywhere, totally disorganized and crazy. But maybe if you could give me a tip or trick that is easy to use, those pieces could find their way into organizational bliss!

Have a great Thursday! (Only 1 week until Thanksgiving! Can you believe it?!)

I Chair-ish You!

2011-11-16T06:00:00.006-06:00

Good morning to you! I have a Crafty Secret's card to share with you! It uses the chair from the Take it Easy set. I stamped the chair on polka dotted designer paper and cut it out. I decided to create a fringe for the bottom of the chair like I remember seeing in my Grandma's house years ago. I also made my very own pillow for this chair with a circle punch, my Scor-Pal, and floss. I popped it up with a foam dimensional circle. The little pup was colored with my Copic Markers and cut out. I popped him up too! The frame was created from the Spellbinder's Label's Thirteen die. I used two of them to create a shadowbox frame for my chair.
I added a bit of ribbon, a tag, and little pearl to my pillow. : )

I have Cortney's parent/teacher conference today. I always love hearing all the good things they have to say about my girl. This school she attends focuses only on the positive instead of telling me all the things she can't do....which I am painfully aware of on a daily basis. This is why her school is such a special place!

Have a great day! Thank you for stopping by!

Bountiful Blessings

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

It is that time of year that makes us reflect on our blessings in life. Life as you know isn't perfect, and it knocks the wind out of you at times, but in between those rough patches are those rays of light. My rays of light are my family, my friends, my co-workers, neighbors, and you my sweet blog readers. Your encouragement, kind words, and "cheerleading" on my behalf is incredibly heartwarming. Thank you so much for your sweet sentiments these last few days over my new DT position. I can not tell you enough how much it means to me. So yes, I count you as one of my many blessings in life. : )

My card today was in last year's November Circle Magazine. I used the Thanksgiving cartridge to create the card base at 5". I hand sewed the perimeter with orange floss. The pie was cut at 3" and I added a bit of glitter to the steam. I used a SU! punch to create the "table cloth." The sentiment was cut at 2".
I added a sweet little bow and button to the top of the pie. : )

I am still sick, and literally had no voice this past weekend except the occasional squeak! But I am finally starting to feel a bit better. I am not pushing to stay up as late and trying to rest a bit more....which means a wee bit less crafting time! ; )

Have a wonderful, blessed Tuesday! (And everyday!)

Exciting News!!!

2011-11-11T19:00:00.001-06:00

Before I share my project today with you, I've been bursting at the seams to share some exciting news! I have been selected to be a part of Northridge Publishing's Cricut Magazine Design Team! I am literally over the moon about it! It is so exciting to work with such talented ladies! It is always such a thrill to see my projects in print! So thank you so much for letting me share this news with you! : D

My project today is created from the Sweet Tooth Boxes Cartridge. It is the sunflower image that was cut at 5". I added Flower Soft to the center for added texture. I added a bit of ribbon, stick pins, and a tag cut from the Sentimental's cartridge. I am not sure what little items I am going to put in the box.....but I am sure I will think of something! ; )
I love the look of the black Flower Soft!

I am still fighting a bad cold, which the doctor says is just viral. Unfortunately, my asthma is acting up because of it. So right now I have a very "sexy" raspy voice and a hacking cough.....but it isn't stopping me from going on a scrapbook weekend in Wisconsin with my girlfriends.

Thank you again for letting me share a bit of my life with you!

Have a great weekend!!!!

JustRite's New Release!

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Today is Part II of JustRite's new release! The set I am sharing with you is called Winter Words. This is a perfect set for creating something on its own, or incorporating into other paper projects. I love anything that is so versatile!

I know Valentines Day is a looooooong way off, but I just couldn't help myself with this card! I created a shaped card using my Cricut Expression, the Gypsy to weld the image together and the I Love You a Latte Cartridge. I used liquid applique and glitter for the foam. I bought a zillion paper straws off of Etsy and have been having fun incorporating them into my projects.......like I did here! : )

The heart is part of the Winter Words set and was stamped in a pale pink, glossy accents applied, and glitter sprinkled over the top. The sentiment was stamped in Pure Poppy by Papertrey Ink and the banners were hand cut.

I added a bit of tulle, a doily, and a pearl to finish my cup of coffee up!

Be sure to visit these other talented designer's blogs! They have some beautiful winter inspired projects for you!

JustRite Inspiration

Michele Kovack <------ Me! : )

New Release by JustRite and a Tutorial at Splitcoast!

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning to you! My head cold is turning into a chest cold....ick! I was hoping to wake up this morning coldless.....but no such luck!

I have a few things to share with you this morning. The first order of business is JustRite's new background stamps. The first one is called Scrolled Vine and the second is Vintage Wallpaper.
Unfortunately, I only have one sample using the Vintage Wallpaper set.

I stamped the background image in Versamark and sprinkled it with white embossing powder. I then took a brayer and applied 3 different fall inspired colors. Lastly, I took a cloth and wiped off any excess ink. I used a little bit of glossy accents to the edges and sprinkled with a bit of glitter. The leaves were cut using Spellbinder's dies and the Autumn Words set....also by JustRite. The sentiment is part of the same set.

I also wanted to let you know that I have a tutorial over at Splitcoast Stampers on how to make this fun little ornament! It uses the Christmas Treasures set by JustRite. I hope you will pop on over there to take a quick peek! ; )

Please be sure to visit these talented ladies blogs for more inspiration on using these beautiful new background stamps!

JustRite Inspiration

Debbie Olson

Kellie Fortin

Michele Kovack < -----Me! : )

Angela Barkhouse

Sharon Harnist

Heidi Blankenship

Barb Schram

Have a wonderful day my friends!!!

Publication.....

2011-11-07T05:42:00.004-06:00

Good morning all! I have a terrible head cold that kept me out of my craft room most of the weekend.... : ( My head and body were achy, and all this gal wanted to do was rest!

But I do have a LO of my girl that was featured in the September issue of Cricut Magazine. : D
Cortney is all dressed and ready for her very first prom.......waiting for her "date" to arrive! I look at these pictures and realize how grown up she is looking.....how pretty she has become.

I used Flower Shoppe for all of my flowers and leaves. I used Storybook to cut the title. The hot pink trim is by Teresa Collins as well as the papers.

I am going to keep this post short and sweet today......I have some exciting news to share with you later this week! I don't want to spill the beans early! ; )

Have a wonderful day my friends!

Vintage Rooster

2011-11-04T04:48:00.003-06:00

Good morning peeps! Thank you for all of your cyber hugs of support yesterday! Some days just aren't stellar, but yesterday was much better! : ) I have a Crafty Secret's card to share with you today. It uses this fun rooster image from the Farm Fresh Creative Scraps. I used all designer papers from the Vintage CD collection. I adore these papers because I can print them when I need 'em and never, ever have to worry about running out! ; ) I inked all of the edges, layered them, and did some wonky sewing along the perimeter. I found this old rusty buckle and knew I had to incorporate it into my card. The background chicken wire was stamped with the Farm Chicks Clear Art Stamp set for added interest!
The little banner was cut from my Cricut Expression and was stamped with the Artsy Banner set.

I am very, very glad it is Friday. I am ready for the weekend to begin already!

Have a great one!!!! : )

Harvest Blessings

2011-11-03T04:43:00.004-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days where truly the entire day is wrong? I had one of those days yesterday. It was a trying day at work, my husband called me on the way home to inform me that he lost his glasses. Which by the way, were only 9 months old! Then I walk into my front door to find my 14 year old laying on the couch upset and teary eyed. His girlfriend broke up with him..... : ( So needless to say, much of the night was used to talk to him, console him, and convince him that life will go on!

Today is a brand new fresh day, and hopefully a wee bit better than yesterday! ; ) I have a card to share with you that I had created for the Cricut Circle Magazine last November. It uses the Thanksgiving Cartridge. The grapes and leaves were cut at 4". I popped up parts of the grapes with dimensional foam circles. They were glittered too. ; )
I used the Cuttlebug to emboss the background for added interest and texture.

Here's wishing you a GREAT day! May you have a FABULOUS day at work, not lose your glasses, and not come home to a sulking teenager! ; )

Fall and Christmas!

2011-11-02T04:43:00.007-06:00

Good morning to you! I have a couple of things to share with you today. The first one is this little fall card I created using the Autumn Words set by JustRite. I stamped it in various fall colors on cream cardstock and then embossed with a woodgrain impression plate by Papertrey Ink die. I added some fall like seam binding, a bit of twine, and my sentiment. It was a fast, easy card to make!
I also sprayed the surface with some new stuff I picked up called Goosebumpz.....it makes it look like rain drops.....which looks waaaaay cooler in person!

I don't have a Christmas card to share with you yet, but thought I'd pass along this information so you can join us in the fun! : )

Today the JustRite team is having a Christmas Linky Party on the JustRite Inspiration Blog!! It's been snowing in Maine where our fabulous coordinator Kellie lives, so we've decided it's time to get moving on making this year's Christmas cards! Why don't you play along with us and use your JustRite stamps to create a Christmas card and link it to the JR Blog!! To kick the party off we are celebrating with a JustRite Christmas Stamp Sale - 25% off every JustRite Christmas Stamp Set - JustRite Original Christmas Sets, JustRite Cling Christmas Sets and JustRite Clear Christmas Sets!! These are some of our most popular stamp sets ever!! Christmas Stamp Sale ends November 17th so shop early for the best selection!! Now for even more fun -- we also added 6 New Stamp Bundles to the Super Sale Section of our website!

Have a GREAT Wednesday!!!! : )

The Day After......

2011-11-01T05:00:00.001-06:00

Seriously, is there anything more wrong than having Halloween on a Monday? Because really, who wants to go to work for FOUR more days afterwards?! ; )

I have a few pictures to share from our day.......the first few are of Cortney. She absolutely loves Halloween and loves picking out chocolate from the buckets offered to her. My mom and I take her every year and we walk, and walk.......and walk for 2-3 hours until we can bribe Cort with pizza to come back in. I love that she has such a sweet innocence about her. Her pirate "ARRGH" just comes out so sweet and sing songy.....no one would ever take her seriously as a real pirate! (Plus, I don't think pirates ever smile like this, do they?) ; )

My girl.....filling up that bucket of hers!

And here is my teenager who really doesn't understand why you have to dress up to go trick or treating for Halloween. He wants the candy, but doesn't want to participate in the dressing up portion! So I "forced" him into this referee costume. A last minute super quick costume. It did the trick and served his purpose!

And then there is me. Can you guess who I am? I've been told I looked like Annie, Olive Oil....and a few other characters I can't remember. But if you guessed Lucy, you would be correct! And the prop (the vacuum) is actually used at my school......it looks like it might be from the 50's too! ; )

And that's all I have for you today.....nothing crafty, just the family today! Tomorrow I will be back with something creative.....I promise! : ) As always, thanks for letting me indulge. (And Sue and Patty.....thanks for the GREAT costumes!)

Funky Fall Card!

2011-10-31T04:43:00.004-06:00

Good morning and Happy Halloween to you! I don't have anything "Halloweenie" for you today.....but I do have a funky fall card to share! I can't decided if it is a success or a failure. It was literally made with scraps and leftovers from other projects....and for some odd reason, I kind of liked the bright colors together. Maybe it's a full moon today? ; )
The leaves were cut from the Spellbinder's die. The tag was cut using my Cricut Machine and the Sentimental's Cartridge. The sentiment is by Papertrey Ink. It is an odd color combo......I know.....but maybe it works? Maybe?

Well, I am off to get my costume on for school today........I will have pictures to share tomorrow! Have a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

JustRite: Fleur De Lis

2011-10-27T21:16:00.011-06:00

Before we start the November Release, JustRite would like to say thank you to all of our loyal blog and facebook fans!! JustRite appreciates each and everyone who visits and reads our posts. As their way of saying thank you, the blog team has an exclusive coupon code for our blog readers and facebook fans. Simply use this code JRBLOGTEAM (use all CAPS) during check out to receive 20% off your entire order including sale items. Coupon Code expires October 31st and can not be combined with any other Coupon Code offers.

Happy Friday everyone! Today is Day 4 of JustRite's newest November releases! Todays set is called Fleur De Lis. It is a deliciously vintage inspired set that fits perfectly with the Spellbinder's Labels 20 die.

Here is my card....... : )

I stamped the pretty frame with Versamark and sprinkled a chocolate brown embossing powder over it. I used the Spellbinder's Labels Twenty die to cut it out. The edges were distressed a bit with brown ink. I stamped it a second time and cut out the circle. I created a background for it using a large cream oval and a larger Labels twenty using yellow paper. I also used Spellbinder's Eyelet Squares and Spellbinder's Labels Twenty Two for the background. I just love all the different layers!

I used a Sizzix die to create the rolled flowers. I added pearls to the centers, seam binding, twine, tulle, and some pretty glass pieces from Prima.

The sentiment was stamped on a tag that had been cut with my Cricut Expression and the Sentimental's cartridge. I love tucking tags into my little groupings of "stuff!" ; )

Be sure to visit these other talented designers for more inspiration using this set! Have a great weekend my friends!

JustRite Inspiration
Becca Feeken
Kellie Fortin
Heidi Blankenship
Sankari Wegman
Angela Barkhouse
Michele Kovack

Day 3 of JustRite's New Release! Topsy Turvy Cakes!

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

Before we start the November Release, JustRite would like to say thank you to all of our loyal blog and facebook fans!! JustRite appreciates each and everyone who visits and reads our post. As their way of saying thank you the blog team has an exclusive coupon code for our blog readers and facebook fans. Simply use this code JRBLOGTEAM (use all CAPS) during check out to receive 20% off your entire order including sale items. Coupon Code expires October 31st and can not be combined with any other Coupon Code offers.

Today is Day 3 of the November release and this one is such a fun, fun set! It is called Topsy Turvy Cakes! Could this set be any cuter? really? ; )
I used my Prisma colored pencils and Gamsol to color it with bright happy colors! The flowers were stamped a second time, colored, glittered, and carefully cut out. I popped them up a bit with dimensional foam circles. It was then cut out using a Spellbinder's oval die. I wanted my main image to take center stage, so I chose soft yellows and creams for the rest of the paper. I used my Cuttlebug to emboss the paper for added texture.
I added some self dyed seam binding in bright colors. I then added my sentiment and several pearls that were colored with my Copic markers to get a perfect match! The "frame" was created with a large oval Spellbinder's die inside a rectangular piece of paper. I popped it up and glittered it.

For more inspiration using this fun whimsical set be sure to visit the other designer's blogs!

JustRite Inspiration
Becca Feeken
Sharon Harnist
Sankari Wegman
Kazan Clark
Kellie Fortin
Angela Barkhouse
Eva Dobilas
Kathy Jones
Michele Kovack

Barb Schram

Have a great day my friends!!!! : )

Musical Notes!

2011-10-26T07:00:00.003-06:00

Before we start the November Release, JustRite would like to say thank you to all of our loyal blog and facebook fans!! JustRite appreciates each and everyone who visits and reads our posts. As their way of saying thank you, the blog team has an exclusive coupon code for our blog readers and facebook fans. Simply use this code JRBLOGTEAM (use all CAPS) during check out to receive 20% off your entire order including sale items. Coupon Code expires October 31st and can not be combined with any other Coupon Code offers.

Now......on to my card! Day 2 of JustRite's Newest release is called Musical Notes and works perfectly with the Spellbinder's Labels Twenty die! I love the music notes and the vintage feel of this set.
I stamped the each layer with Versamark ink and heat embossed it with red, black, and blue Zing embossing powder. The two layers were cut using the Spellbinder's Labels 20 die. The banner portion was hand cut. (I told you I have been on a banner craze lately!) The musical note was heat embossed in black and carefully cut out. I added a tiny red Doodlebug flower and black twine.
See the center of my flower? It is window screen. ; ) I had a small roll of it and decided to use my Sizzix flower die on it.....and voila! A pretty cool looking flower! To make it pop a bit more, I added another red Doodlebug flower to the center of it. To "ground" the flower I added a bit of black tulle behind it.

Be sure to visit these other talented ladies' blogs........their projects are out of this world gorgeous!!!

JustRite Inspiration
Becca Feeken
Debbie Olson
Heidi Blankenship
Kellie Fortin
Michele Kovack
Sankari Wegman
Angela Barkhouse
Barb Schram
Have a wonderful day!!!!

Introducing Botanical Butterflies by JustRite

2011-10-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

Before we start the November Release, JustRite would like to say thank you to all of our loyal blog fansBlogs!! JustRite appreciates each and everyone who visits and reads our post. As their way of saying thank you, the blog team has an exclusive coupon code for our blog readers and facebook fans. Simply use this code JRBLOGTEAM (use all CAPS) during check out to receive 20% off your entire order including sale items. Coupon Code expires October 31st and can not be combined with any other Coupon Code offers.

Today is Day 1 of JustRite's newest release for November! I am so excited to share with you this new set called Botanical Butterflies. It is a truly gorgeous set that has so many possibilities!
For my card I embossed the butterfly with black embossing powder and sponged it with 2 different purple inks. I glittered the butterfly with glossy accents and course glitter by Martha Stewart. I covered a tag with vintage book paper and sponged the edges in purple. I stamped the small leaf from the set around the perimeter of the tag in olive ink.

I stamped the sentiment on cream cardstock and hand cut the banner. This has been my new craze lately..... ; )

Be sure to visit the other talented ladies' blogs to see their gorgeous projects!

Becca Feeken
Debbie Olson
Sharon Harnist
Kellie Fortin
Michele Kovack
Heidi Blankenship
Kathy Jones
Angela Barkhouse

Thank you for stopping by for a visit!!!

Crafty Secrets Design Team Gift Bag/Envelope Challenge

2011-10-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday to you all! Today the Crafty Secrets Design Team has a fun challenge for you! The challenge is to take an ordinary envelope and make it a gift bag! Pretty cool huh? ; ) I have a link to a tutorial in just a little bit for you, so you can make your very own!

I used a kraft envelope and added a few swipes of white acrylic paint to the sides. I also stamped the flowers using the Lacey Patterns set, and added clear embossing powder to give a bit of texture to the bag. The angel was stamped using the Born to Fly stamp set on cream cardstock and colored in with my Copic Markers. I carefully cut her out. Her dress was paper pieced using a piece of paper I printed from the Vintage CD collection. I added some bubble gum Stickles to her neckline and the waist of the dress.
I stamped the sentiment, also from the Born to Fly set, on vellum with Staz On ink and hand cut the banner. Some seam binding and a doily were added to dress up my bag.

My little angel girl was adhered to the bag using a straw behind her and a hot glue gun. I used a straw because it was narrow and acted as a sort of "Pop Dot." I didn't want her to be flat on the bag......I am all about depth and texture!

Here is the link to the tutorial on how to make your very own gift bag from an envelope!
http://www.incrediblethings.com/art-design/dont-spend-another-dollar-on-gift-bags/

Be sure to stop by the other gals' blogs to see their fabulous projects!

Vicki Chrisman-DT Leader

Pam Hooten

Heidi Blankenship

Linda Duke

Michele Kovack <---- Me!

Victoria Warren Mears

Viola Mahr

Have a great day my friends!!!

Blog Candy Winner!

2011-10-23T20:49:00.002-06:00

Random.org randomly selected number 14 as the winner! This means TINA is the lucky recipient!

She said:

oh my lovely card so beautiful and the details and colors just blow me away...thanks for the chance to win...you all have such wonderful hearts..thanks for the chance to win some yummy goodies..happy to be a new follower.

Thank you everyone for leaving such inspirational comments. It makes my heart happy to know that there are so many good people out there!

Blogiversary Blog Hop and Giveaway!

2011-10-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

I got an e-mail last week from a gal named Heather to be a part of a blog hop to celebrate her Blogiversary. At first I was a bit reluctant to participate, but after visiting her blog and seeing what she does with the money she makes selling her cards, I had to say yes. In a time where all you seem to hear and see is sadness, violence, and people hurting one another, it was touching to see someone reaching out to others. I will share her story in just a minute.

So I created a card using my Cricut Expression and the A Child's Year Cartridge. I also used the Mother's Day Bouquet cartridge to create my flower. I added some glitter to her wand, and rhinestones to her wings.
I added flower stamens to the center of my flower and a bit of black twine behind it.

Heather had some connection through her church to a ministry called Sister Connection that works in Burundi Africa to bring hope and healing to the widows and orphans of the Civil War that happened in the 1990’s. One of the ways they do that is by building homes – at an incredible cost of only $600! They hire local builders, and purchase supplies locally as well, fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community. In Burundian society, widows are viewed as outcasts, and have no one to advocate for them. The miracle of a new home is a testimony to the widow, her children, her community, and ultimately, to the country at-large. “Widows and orphans deserve healing, dignity, and hope!”

I would like for you to meet someone very special. Her name is Charlotte (Ndimurwanko Charlotte). She is the first recipient of a home through sales of Heather's cards. She has also committed to partnering with her as a sponsor for $30 a month to help provide her and her family with food, seed to plant, clothing, household necessities, medical care, and education assistance.
Charlotte has 3 married children, and she cares for 3 orphaned grandchildren. Her husband passed away in 1983. Her health is not good. This new home will help restore dignity and hope for Charlotte and her children. It is a true testimony of God’s love to the widow and orphan and a constant reminder that they are not forgotten.

To help Heather celebrate her Blogiversary, I am giving a bit of blog candy away! How about a full package of Teresa Collins Timeless paper, Teresa Collins trim, a Cuttlebug folder, a stamp, and a full distressing tool kit?!

What do you need to win this little prize package? Become a follower if you are not already and leave a comment telling me how you help people in your community or globally. On Sunday night at 9 P.M. EST, I will pick one winner randomly.

Be sure to visit these talented ladies' blogs!
Heather (Blog candy here too!: )

Amanda

Bonnie

Savannah

Michele - Me! : )

Have a wonderful weekend my friends!

Hello Thursday!

2011-10-19T19:56:00.014-06:00

Today is Hello Thursday! The day Provo Craft releases their brand new Cricut cartridges! I had the pleasure of working with two of them for this month's release, Paper Trimmings the new exclusive Circle Cartridge, and Cricut Stencil.

This first card uses the Paper Trimmings Cartridge. It is full of lacy borders, circles, squares etc. To see the cuts be sure to visit the Cricut Blog for pictures! The acorns also came from this fun cartridge! I layered my cuts and did a bit of glittering and embossing to my pieces. I added a satin bow and a tag that was cut from the Sentimental's Cartridge.

My next two projects uses the Cricut Stencil Cartridge. Again, to see the cut page be sure to pop on over to the Cricut Blog! This cartridge has such fun images that are intended for stenciling, and an airbrush system. But it is fun to use the "postive" images as well! For the title I used the "negative" space and used Colorartz airbrush system in pink.

The crown and wand were created using the "positive" images and glittering them up!

Oh! and the little cutie pie is my little niece, Katie. She is definitely a little princess who is headed for diva-hood! ; )

My last card uses the wood grain cut and muslin fabric to create the background panel for my giraffe. The giraffe was cut using the Everyday Pop-up Cards Cartridge.

And because even giraffes should have a little glitter......... ; )

Be sure to stop on by the Cricut Blog to see all of the fabulous new cartridges that have come out! You are going to want them all!!!

Be sure to stop by tomorrow for a special blog hop and giveaway!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-19T04:40:00.003-06:00

It is a rainy, windy, dreary day here in Chicago. Fall is definitely here, and you can feel that winter is right around the corner! And with it, is Halloween! I have a Halloween card to share with you today that I created for the Cricut Circle last year. It is a fun little card that uses the October 31st and Winter Woodland cartridges. The window was backed with a piece of vellum, so the the spider was just a soft shadow behind it. The branch was cut from Winter Woodland several times to give it extra dimension. I also embossed the branch with the Distressed Stripes folder and a bit of white acrylic paint. The leaves were rubbed in a gold ink after being crumpled and then flattened.
The papers are by Cosmo Cricket. The pumpkin was inked a bit with brown ink and glossy accents applied to the entire image. The sentiment is an old stamp of mine from Inkadinkadoo.

Off to get my rain gear on and head out the door this morning! ; ) Have a great day my friends!

Halloween in Disney

2011-10-17T04:46:00.007-06:00

Good morning to you! I hope you had a great weekend! I spent the majority of it cleaning, doing laundry, and sorting clothes. I did manage to squeak in a bit of crafting here and there though. I have this habit of NOT scrapping in order.......just another part of me that is totally disorganized and chaotic! ; ) I usually scrap what I am in the mood for.....what inspires me at that moment. And since Halloween is creeping up I thought I'd pull some old photos of my kids from 5 years ago. It made me a bit nostalgic to see how little they look in these pictures. How 5 years has flown by.........

We spent our Halloween at Disney World, which we absolutely loved! The kids loved dressing up, trick or treating there, the parade, and seeing their favorite characters walking around. I used my Cricut Expression and the Happily Ever After cartridge to cut the castle at 11" I used all of the layer functions for the castle as well. The title was cut using the Mickey Font cartridge.
I love popping up smaller photos with dimensional foam circles for added depth and interest.

My castle was dressed up with rub ons, sequins, and pearls.

The title here was also popped up.....and a couple of pumpkin stickers were added. Oh! And did I mention glitter was added to the stream? ; )

I have a busy day ahead of me! Work, therapy with Cort, dinner, homework.......you know, the usual! Have a great day my friends!!!

Altered Wooden Spoon Tutorial!

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

Hi there! Happy Friday to you all! I have a tutorial on how I created my altered wooden spoon photo album! If you missed my first altered wooden spoon, click HERE to see it! Since it is October I thought I'd create a Halloween photo album to share some of my favorite photos!

Here is my Halloween Spoon...... : )

Step 1: I purchased several spoons at Wal-Mart. I took spray paint I had on hand and sprayed it a cream color. After the paint is dry, lightly sand the edges to distress it.

Step 2: I took my designer paper (My Mind's Eye) and Modge Podged it to the handle of the spoon. Again, when it is dry, lightly sand the edges to distress it.

Step 3: Cover the designer paper with glossy accents and sprinkle with glitter.

Step 4: Depending on the size of your spoon, the Spellbinder's ovals can vary. Just find the size that fits inside the spoon! I used the Petite scalloped oval as well. : )

Step 5: I printed my pictures at a 2 x 3 size, but again, this may vary depending on the size of your spoon.

Step 6: I took my oval die and placed it over my image. I took artist's tape, which is a low tack tape, and taped the die down, so it doesn't shift while I am die cutting.

Step 7: Here are all of my pictures die cut! : )

Step 8: Using my scalloped oval die, I die cut 9 pieces.

Step 9: Adhere the photos to the scalloped ovals.

Step 10: I took black seam binding and glued my pictures to the seam binding side by side. Be sure to leave "tails" at both ends of your album.

Step 11: My cover which is an image from the Crafty Secret's Halloween Journal Booklet, was glued to the backside of my first image.

Step 12: Since the spoon has some depth, I added dimensional foam circles, and added a bit of glue to make sure it was more secure.

Step 13: Since this spoon was particularly deep, I added circles......

Step 14: Add a bit more glue, so the album doesn't go anywhere!

Step 15: Place your last image on those dimensional foam circles.

Step 16: To keep my album closed and secure I use some velcro cut into small pieces.

Step 17: To fold your album, use an accordian fold. (Back and forth, back and forth). Between folds use a small piece of velcro on the top layer and bottom layer.

Step 18: Tie the seam binding into a bow to secure the album's closure. Then embellish the spoon and pretty it up! I used my Cricut Expression and the Happy Haunting's cartridge to cut the bat. I added black glitter to his wings. The sentiment is by Crafty Secrets and is part of the Costume Cuties' set.

I hope my directions were clear! If you have any questions please feel free to leave a comment here and I will answer any questions you might have!

Have a wonderful weekend my friends!

Halloween Altered Printer's Tray!

2011-10-12T04:38:00.007-06:00

Good morning to you my friends! It is Wednesday already and almost half way through the work week! : ) I picked up a mini printer's tray at Hobby Lobby earlier this month and decided to decorate it for Halloween. I love these new papers by MME, Mischievous line! I love the softness to them and their vintage feel. I used my Cricut Expression and the Happy Hauntings cartridge to cut the pumpkins. I popped the second one up using a dimensional foam circle. I added a few leaves that I cut using the Mother's Day Bouquet cartridge, some buttons and twine. I added a bit of Spanish moss for my pumpkins to rest on!
These are my two goofy guys last year with their finished masterpieces!

......and my girl dressed as Hannah Montana! Is she rocking that wig or what?! ; )

I used a paper drinking straw to hang my lil' banner from. I bought a bunch of them and now am dreaming up ways to use 'em! The owl image is by Crafty Secrets. I enclosed it in a Melissa Frances frame and added crackle accents to it.

In my house, Halloween wouldn't be complete without taking some silly pictures of my dog in his costume. This year we opted for a squirrel! Doesn't he look absolutely thrilled?

......such a good sport my Skippers!

I am so glad you stopped by! I appreciate your visits!!!

Best of Cluck!

2011-10-10T05:18:00.003-06:00

Good morning! I am so excited to have today off! This means I get to stay in my PJ's and craft allllllll day! Yahooooo! Cort has school, Kyle is off too, but unfortunately has been down for the count since yesterday. Poor kid is running a fever and has a sore throat. He fell asleep about 6 last night and is still sleeping. (12 hours and counting).

Today I have a country inspired rooster card to share with you! I used Crafty Secret's Farm Chicks set. I colored it with Prismas and Gamsol. I did a bit of hand stitching around the rooster with black thread to make him pop a bit more. I pulled out a little kraft envelope and stamped the wire fence image on it. I swiped it with a bit of white acrylic paint. I added some cute rooster paper I had in my stash and did some crazy machine sewing around the perimeter! ; )
I added a bit of lace, ribbon, twine, and a stick pin to finish it off!

Wishing you a very happy Monday!!

Homecoming.....

2011-10-08T22:48:00.007-06:00

Kyle had his first homecoming dance. My neighbor's daughter, Amanda, was going as a senior and these two have known each other since the day Kyle was born. She used to come around my house to see the "baby." That baby was Kyle. They have always been friends despite the fact that there is a 3 1/2 year age difference. She is like his older sister. They have fought like brother and sister, but have always been loyal to one another.......like a brother and sister. I think maybe the fact that her brother has special needs has built a certain camaraderie between them.....an understanding that most kids don't have. They can be comfortable with each other and never have to explain themselves. They have a special bond these two.......

Amanda went her separate way to be with her date.......And my handsome guy waiting for his date..........

Kyle and Nah on their first "date." : )

Kyle had a great time, met up with friends, danced the night away, went for pizza afterwards.........*sigh* When did he grow up?

Fairy Dust.....

2011-10-07T04:45:00.002-06:00

Good morning and happy Friday to you! It is going to be an exciting weekend here in the Kovack household, as Kyle goes to his very first dance.......Homecoming! The suit has been bought, the flower ordered, and we are embarking on a new stage in his life. As a mom it is exciting, and scary........and even a wee bit sad. I am leaving my baby behind and embracing the man he is becoming.

Today I have a card that appropriately uses the cartridge, A Child's Year. I added several rhinestones, and glitter to her wand. The scalloped oval comes from the Elegant Edges Cartridge, and the flowers from Mother's Day Bouquet. I added pops of red here and there, and a rhinestone swirl for the end of her wand. (Some magic is happenin' there!)

This card was featured over at the Cricut Blog, if you are looking for specific cut info take a peek over there! ; )

Have a great weekend my friends! : )

Do You Like Cotton Candy?

2011-10-05T04:36:00.005-06:00

I was wondering through the aisles at Michaels one day and came across a package of wool felting. The color was a perfect cotton candy pink.....and it made me wonder if I could make a "cotton candy" card? I cut the base of the cotton candy using my Cricut Expression and the Carousel Cartridge. I pulled and tugged at the wool felting to soften it a bit and to make sure I had covered the paper. Once it was the right shape and size I glued it down to the paper with Aleen's Tacky Glue. I rubbed a bit of glossy accents over the top of it and sprinkled a bit of glitter. The paper is by Imaginisce. I loved the ticket paper and cut out a strip of it and popped it up on pop dots.

So......what do you think? Cotton candy good enough to eat?

My card was posted on the Cricut Blog, so if you would like detailed cut info, please pop on over there! ; )

Have a great Wednesday my friends!

JustRite's New Release Day 6! And Blog Candy Winner!

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning and happy Tuesday to you! Today is JustRite's last day of new releases! Today's set is a clear set that stamps beautifully! I adore the leaves which look so incredibly realistic when stamped! This set is called Autumn Words.

For my project today, I decided to make a couple of fall ornaments. I filled the insides with Spanish Moss and painted the tops a cream color. I added a bit of vintage lace to tuck just under the top. I stamped the leaves with ink in shades of red, brown, yellow, and orange. I folded the leaves and inked the edges a bit in brown. I had some small sticks from a floral arrangement I had received last year and hot glued them to the side of the ornament. I added my leaves, twine, and stamped sentiment.

For more inspiration be sure to visit these lovely ladies' blogs! : )

Sankari Wegman

Michele Kovack <------ Me! : )

Heidi Blankenship

And last but not least.........my blog candy winner is........#8! Janee you are the winner!

She said: Thanks for the chance to win a great cart. My fave costume is what my mom made for me when I was a kid. It was an almond Hershey's kiss. You would stuff it will newspaper and have a hat with the ribbon hanging down. It was so cute. And all the love my mom put into it meant a lot.

Thank you so much everyone for playing along! I so enjoyed reading about your favorite costumes! : )

JustRite's New Release Day 5!

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to JustRite's Day 5 of new releases! Today's set is called O' Christmas Tree. I love the variety of gorgeous trees here! I am even thinking "banners" in my near future! ; )
I stamped the image with Versamark and heat embossed it in silver. I cut the tree out using my scalloped scissors and inked the edges in silver. The star was stamped in silver, colored with Copics, and glitter was generously applied. I attached it to the top of the tree with a pop dot. I cut the box using my Cricut machine and the Tags, Bags, Boxes, and More Cartridge. I decided on a nontraditional color scheme. I glittered the top of the box and then adhered my tree to it.

I added some silver ribbon, a hot pink flower to match the box, and a wooden swirl.

Before I folded the box, I stamped the sides with the Lace Borders set. (Released last week!) It was stamped in Versamark and embossed in silver.

Be sure to visit these talented ladies' blogs! I love what they've done with this set! : )
JustRite Inspiration

Michele Kovack <----- Me! : )

Angela Barkhouse

My Blog Candy ends tonight at 9PM! Click HERE for your chance to win the October Cricut Magazine and the Happy Haunting's Cartridge!

Have a great day!

WCMD Giveaway!!!

2011-10-01T12:49:00.005-06:00

In honor of World Cardmaking Day! AND since Halloween is right around the corner, how about some some October inspired goodies? I have an October issue of the Cricut Magazine and one Happy Hauntings Cricut Cartridge for ONE lucky winner! All you need to do is become a follower of my blog, if you aren't already, and tell me the best Halloween costume you've ever worn is! That's it! : ) If you would like your name "thrown in the hat" twice so to speak, post the giveaway on your blog! The drawing well end on Monday night at 9 PM. The winner will be announced on Tuesday morning. : )

Have a GREAT day my friends! : )

JustRite's New Release Day 4!

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning to you my crafty friends! Today is Day 4 of JustRite's new releases! Today's set is called Kaleidoscope Medallions and it is gorgeous! It was so much fun to create a card with this set!
I decided to use my very neglected and dusty Twinkling H2O's. It is a medium I don't use very often, but let me just say, in person they give such a pretty sparkle to your project! I stamped the image 4 times in Versamark and heat embossed it in black. (This helps keep the watercolors from bleeding.) I cut each layer, watercolored them, and stacked them using dimensional foam circles. Once again, I created a flower out of the stacked image. I "squished" some seam binding, twine, and pom pom trim under my flower, as well as a dangling chandelier. The larger image was also stamped in Versamark and heat embossed in black. I added teeny pearls to its perimeter. The designer paper is by Echo Park.

Can you see the shimmer and sparkle? Not sure my photograph really captures its true beauty!

Be sure to visit these ladies' blogs for more inspiration using this set!
JustRite Inspiration

Becca Feeken

Kellie Fortin

Michele Kovack < ----- Me! : )

Be sure to check back this weekend for some surprises, as I celebrate World Cardmaking Day! : )

JustRite's Newest Release Day Three!

2011-09-29T04:38:00.007-06:00

Good morning to you my friends! Are you ready for day three of JustRite's newest release? I am excited to share my card with you today using Grandma's Doilies. This is a set that is right up my alley! Doilies are all the rage right now and this set will definitely be used over and over again!

For my card, I stamped the image in Versamark and embossed it in white. I did this twice so I could layer my pieces. I used a circle Spellbinder's die to cut out the middle of both pieces and popped them up with dimensional foam circles. The center piece was also stamped in Versamark and embossed in white. I used my Copics to give it a bit of color. I decided to turn that center image into a flower by adding stamens to the center and cutting a couple of leaves using my Cricut Expression. The sentiment is part of the Just Because Mini Sentiment's set and the banner was hand cut. I added a bit of twine, tulle, and some vintage lace to finish it off.

The paper was printed using the Crafty Secret's Vintage CD collection. It just seemed very "Grandma-ish" to me! ; )

Be sure to visit these ladies' blogs! Their projects are gonna knock your socks off!
JustRite Blog

Michele Kovack <----- ME! : )

Have a wonderful day! Thanks so much for popping on by! : D

JustRite's New Release Day 2!

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning friends! Today is Day 2 of JustRite's new releases! Today's release is called Lace Borders and is absolutely gorgeous! The details in the stamped image is amazing!
I decided to use the scalloped lace stamp in a sort of rainbow pattern. Apparently, rainbows have been my thing lately! ; ) I wanted a fun happy card! After stamping it repeatedly using the ROYGBIV color scheme, I used Spellbinder's Labels Twenty-Two to cut it out. I also used Spellbinder's Lacey Square to use behind it.

Using the new Grandma's Doilies set I created a butterfly. I added a fabric brad for his body, some lace for his wings, and a rhinestone.

The other exciting news I have is that with JustRite's October Release they are introducing QR codes to all their new packaging and their catalogs.
QR codes are popping up everywhere and you may have wondered what they were. What is a QR (Quick Response Code)? QR codes are pixelated squares that you can scan with a smart phone app. Scannning the QR code with your phone will bring you directly to a website or landing page. The JustRite QR Codes on the packaging and in JustRites Catalog will link a stamp set to JustRite's Design Gallery for that set. Now you can scan the code with your phone to see what your favorite designers have created with a set before you purchase the set in your favorite store. You can use your smartphone to access the design gallery for your stamp set from your craft room when you are ready to use your set or from our mini flyers or catalogs when you are sitting in a car waiting to pick up your child from a sporting event!!

Here is a smaller version of our Shabby Chic Labels Four QR code for you to play with if you have a smart phone!! Very cool huh?

You may already have a QR code scanner already on your phone - if you don't you can upload any of these apps - for your iPhone - Red Laser (free), NeoReader (free), Optiscan ($1.99) For your Android Phone - QR Droid.

Blog Candy Alert - Today's Blog Candy on the JustRite Blog is a $ 50.00 shopping Spree. To enter to win go to the JustRite Blog and answer the blog candy question. The Blog Candy is open for comments until Friday Night at 12 pm EST. The winner will be announced on the JustRite Blog on Monday October 3rd during the release post. Good luck to everyone!

For more inspiration using this set, visit these fabulous ladies! : )

Debbie Olson

Michele Kovack < ------ Me! : )

Kathy Jones

Mona Pendleton

JustRite's New Release Day One!

2011-09-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! Today is JustRite's first day of their new releases! The first set is perfect for the cooler temps that have settled over Chicago these past couple of weeks! It is called Autumn Labels Twenty Two and coordinates with Spellbinders perfectly!

I decided to experiment a bit while making this card. First I embossed the image in white and watercolored it using my Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists. I used a brush to add color to each area, using less water for the darker areas. I love how sparkly the image is in real life! When I was done I used the Spellbinder's Label 22 to cut out the main image. I stamped and colored a second pumpkin and carefully cut it out. I popped it up with dimensional foam circle and added a bit of twine to the stem. I cut a doily using kraft paper from Papertrey Ink and inked the edges in white. I added a bit of lace and tulle for a finishing touch.

Be sure to stop by the other gal's blogs! Their projects are absolutely fabulous!!!

Michele Kovack <------- Me! : D

Heidi Blankenship

Off to a doctor's appt. this morning! Have a great day my friends!

A Couple of LO's!

2011-09-26T04:35:00.005-06:00

Good morning! I have a couple of projects to share with you that I created for the Cricut Circle Magazine last September. Not a circle member? Click HERE to read more about it and join!

I decided last year to do a mini photo shoot of my freshly turned 13 year old. In addition to the photos, I did an interview with him......just some questions that reveals who he is. I used my Cricut Expression and the Street Sign cartridge to create the title. I also used my Cuttlebug and the Distressed Stripes folder to add extra dimension to the letters. The papers are from My Mind's Eye. The circles were cut using the George and Basic Shapes Cartridge. And to be perfectly honest, I can not remember for the life of me where the leaves and flowers came from! Eeek!
So here's to my future history professor! : )

A second LO showcases my lil' nephew playing with his wheelbarrow and doing a bit of pretend gardening! I just love that cheesy grin........can you tell that he and Kyle are cousins? There is really no resemblance! ; )

Thanks so much for stopping by for a visit today!

Have a great day!

Unusually Bright!

2011-09-23T04:04:00.000-06:00

Hi all! Happy Friday to you! I have a busy weekend of apple picking and Dutch Days at Cortney's school! I love going with the family to get our bushels of apples, and with Kyle being 14 now, I wonder how much longer he is going to want to go with us. For now I am going to enjoy this little tradition we have!

I have a card that is a bit out of my norm. I tend to like the softer more vintage inspired colors. But I had this cute little sticker and wanted to make something with him! I used my Scalloped Square by Spellbinders to cut the card. I used 4 colors of cardstock and wove them together. I adhered them to white cardstock so they wouldn't move around, and then cut it out with my square Spellbinder's die. It gives it a nice clean edge. The tag was cut using my Cricut and the Sentimental's cartridge. The sentiment was computer generated. I tied the image with Twine from the Twinery, added a few rhinestones, and my card was complete!

Here is the inside of the card....... : )

I hope I didn't blind you with my card today! ; )

Have a great weekend my friends!

We are Sisters and a Tutorial! Sort of.... ; )

2011-09-21T04:37:00.019-06:00

Good morning to you my friends! I think my birthday "month" has finally come to an end! Saturday night marked the end of a wonderful, wonderful birthday. Nothing like spending the evening with family, laughing, eating cake, and having a glass of wine. (Thanks Mom and George! ) And Thank you so much for your kind, kind response to my altered spoon! I was literally smiling from ear to ear! Many people have asked for a tutorial and I am definitely going to work on getting one done! : )

Today I have a LO to share with you that I created for Noel Mignon's LO Tag. This is where one person gets an inspirational photo and creates something from it....and then passes their LO to the next person who will be inspired....and so on and so forth! It is always fun to see the progression of LO's! I chose some old photos of my sister and I, along with a new one taken at my 40th birthday. Don't ya just love the lovely hairstyles? The clothes? Gotta love the 70's! I did a bit of misting on my paper using Glimmer Mist and a large chipboard swirl. Love the subtle effect is gives!
I am truly addicted to all types of flowers......gotta have 'em on just about everything! This one was made with cream felt and 2 Papertrey Ink dies. Oh.....and a bit of glitter too! ; )

Here is a close up of the misting.......

I absolutely adore these resin flowers.......and guess what? This green one? Was made by yours truly! I got sucked in to the whole Ice Resin craze and had to try it for myself!

I have a tutorial of sorts on how you make these adorable little resin flowers.....not perfect....but I tried! When you get your kit, it comes with 2 bottles, A & B. Plus mixing cups and stirrers. Like me, you may think you can wash the cups out and reuse them......but you can't. It leaves a coating on the inside of the cup that even soap can't cut through. (Cuz, I've tried.....being a bit frugal.....and it was unwashable!) You mix 50% of A with 50% of B.

Your ratio needs to be perfect.....you can see A and B here.......

Then you stir your resin mix until all is blended......

You can customize your colors by adding ink, pigment pearls, or paint to your mix. I chose a green paint for my project. Just a drop......a little goes a long way!

Okay......maybe you noticed that this one was blue? I separated my resin after it was mixed into two cups.....one green, one blue. For some reason, I didn't take any pics of the green being poured into the mold! Duh! See these air bubbles? Gotta pop those....or they harden just like that. (again.....not that I would know that from experience or anything....) ; )

The directions tell you to wait about 10-12 hours to let them cure. It is dependent on the climate you live in. So I would recommend making a batch ahead of time and having them on hand for your projects. Once dry you simply pop them out of the mold!

The molds can be found in various Etsy Shops....... So many cute molds.....so little time!

I am sure you will be seeing more of these cute lil' flowers popping up here and there on my projects!

Have a great day my friends!!!! Thank you so much for stopping on by!

Crafty Secret's Retro Style Group Post!

2011-09-19T08:00:00.002-06:00

Today is the day for Crafty's Secret's DT group post! This month's theme is retro style! My project today is retro Christmas! Have you ever had a crazy idea that actually worked? I had this moment while cooking that I could do something really cool with a wooden spoon. (My husband just shakes his head a lot......) I wanted to make a photo album from the spoon and with a bit of experimenting, it worked! I painted the entire spoon with cream paint and sanded the edges. I also inked the edges with a bit of brown ink to distress it. I covered the handle with patterned paper from the Vintage Papers CD collection. After it was adhered, I sanded the edges a bit, applied glossy accents to the entire handle and sprinkled Martha Stewart's course glitter over the top. I added a piece of lace too! : )
To create the mini album, I cut 6 ovals using my Spellbinder's die and patterned paper from the Vintage Paper CD collection. (LOVE this paper!!!) I used a smaller oval to cut out the pictures of my kids and the nieces and nephews decorating their gingerbread houses at Christmas last year. I cut out my retro Santa from the Retro Christmas Vintage Cuts. I adhered all of the ovals to seam binding. I just folded it up and tied the bow to keep it shut! I stamped Happy Christmas in red using the Christmas Mail Clear Art Stamp set. I adhered it to a stick pin and tucked it behind my ribbon/snowflake combo!

To open the photos just untie the bow and pull! Here are all the photos encased at the bottom of the spoon! : )

I hope you enjoyed my altered spoon........you'll never look at your cooking utensils the same way again! ; )

Be sure to check out the rest of the DT's fabulous projects!
Vicki Chrisman Team Leader

Pam Hooten

Heidi Blankenship

Linda Duke

Michele Kovack <;------ ME! : )

Victoria Warren Mears

Viola Mahr

Sunflowers......

2011-09-16T04:42:00.007-06:00

Good morning and happy Friday to you! This week flew by and I am so glad to see the weekend! I have finally been getting into the groove of crafting again and created a few things to share with you. : ) I used my Cricut Expression and the newer Sweet Tooth cartridge to create this sunflower. I used Jillibean kraft paper for the flower and black tulle to create the center. I used one of those sticky Grueber thingys. I added a few pearls to the center too. The leaves were cut using the Mother's Day Cartridge. I inked the edges, folded the middle, inked that, and pinched it between my two fingers to add dimension. The background is a new Cuttlebug folder called Fancy Frames. The edges were inked with Ripe Avacodo from Papertrey Ink, and a bit of brown Memento. Kristen Swain was kind enough to send me some of her gorgeous dyed seam binding which I used here!
I love the toned down color pallette........

I have a busy weekend ahead of me that does include some "ME" time on Sunday. Which means this gal will be up to her elbows in glitter and glue! ; )

Be sure to check back on Monday as we are having our Crafty Secret's group post then! It's gonna be fabulous! ; )

With Appreciation.....

2011-09-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

I first have to thank my scrapbooking friends for this lil' treat for my birthday! ; )

I especially love the crying cookie......

Gotta love my friends! (Which I do!)

With school in full swing I like to have a few teacher appreciation gifts in hand. I love altering bags because I can slip just about anything inside for a nice surprise! I broke out the Imagine machine and the Enjoy the Season's cartridge to print this cute worm and his apple. Every time I use my Imagine, I remember why I love this machine so much! I glittered the apple up and added a bit of twine topped with a pearl. I backed it with a library card, some seam binding, and a tag cut from the Sentimental's Cartridge.

Now when the time is right for a little gift giving, I will have this to present it in! : D
Have a wonderful Wednesday!