Artistic Explorations

Babies!!!!

2009-05-14T10:11:00.001-07:00

Here are my new babies!

Miss Pearl (a frosty pearl French Angora) and her sister - who still needs a name! (blue tort French Angora) They are 9 weeks old and have very sweet temperaments.

Inspiration

2009-05-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

Rebelling

2009-02-24T15:34:00.000-08:00

Lately it seems that my body is betraying me - I have no control over it's crazy decline. So, one of the few things I feel I have control over is my hair. Thus black and pink hair. Any yes, it does make me feel better. I wish that the photo showed the pink better - but believe me, it's bright pink highlights. :)

For those who don't know, I've been searching for answers to many physical ailments this last year. As it stands I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, CFS, Menieres, Reynauds, and hypothyroid (possible Hashimoto's). We are still looking into auto-immune disorders.

Dealing with the extreme exhaustion has been a bitch, but the daily pain is really wearing me down. Enough whining! Back to knitting...

So Proud

2009-01-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

Finding the words to describe how I feel after such an amazing day yesterday is proving to be quite hard. It has been so long since I've felt proud to be an American. I've felt embarrassed, hopeless, and at times fearful these last 8 years.

Today I am PROUD to be an American. Proud.

With an amazing feeling of peace and hope.

Thank you Mr. President.

Home again...

2008-12-02T09:56:00.001-08:00

What an amazing trip! Italy, Germany, Austria, and Slovenia... WOW!!

I managed to find plenty of yarn in stores and open air markets! I loved the markets! They were a feast for the senses! And the Gelato... oh the gelato!!! My favorite was a coconut gelato in Florence. Florence was the most beautiful city - second only to Venice! As much as I loved Italy I fell totally in love with Germany, and can't wait to return! Here are a smattering of some of the photos:

Updating

2008-10-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

I really haven't forgotten this blog... or maybe I have!

The plans are set for my big Europe adventure! It still seems unreal that I will be going at all!

We will be traveling in Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia, with Italy being home base. I've learned a smidgen of Italian - hopefully enough to make due if I get lost (gasp!) or need help. :)

I will, of course, be bringing knitting with me. My goal is to fill a suitcase full of yarns and fibery goodness to return with! If the exchange rates continue to improve, I may be able to!

So, until I return - enjoy the beauty of fall!

Sanity Saving

2008-07-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Knitting Lace = Sanity

Didn't you know?

These are a few of the projects that have helped me keep my last shred of sanity these last months!

Below are: Laminiaria, Swallowtail, Voyager Lace Stole, and Rhea Lace Stole (from 101 Designer one-skein Wonders). OTN I have a few other lace projects plus socks - always a few socks otn.

Are you on Ravelry yet?? It is an unbelievably amazing knitting community. I'm desertwindsong on there - sent me a pm to say hi and so I can see your projects!

Hope you are having a fabulous summer!

THE bag

2008-04-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

So, it's not pink. I did do a different skull one, though, that is pink! Will post photos of it soon. Not sure if this one will be for sale or not...

Corriedale Wool & Silk

I apologize...

2008-04-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Aunt C,

I apologize for the disturbing photos in the last post. I assure you that I have not crossed to the dark side.

Here is what I just made.

Look, no skulls. :)

Embracing that OTHER side...

2008-04-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Sculpted these little guys to decorate a felted bag I will be knitting soon.

I've decided that since I'm living in a houseful of boys, that instead of fighting it, I may as well join the whole skull and crossbones club.

(But my skull bag will be PINK)

Spinning Fever

2008-04-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

I dyed 4 ounces of roving (Corriedale Cross). Spun singles, which I 2 plied. And the finished, hopefully self-striping, sock yarn!

Absent (minded) Blogger

2008-04-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

I'm here. And apparently you are as well. I'm not sure why. I've been very bad (baaa'd) when it comes to updating this. I've been obsessed with spinning. and knitting. I have no exciting news. Nothing. But I'll post a bunch of photos just to reward you for coming!

First on the bobbin is some bamboo that I'm spinning. The next two handspuns are merino/silk blends. Ahhhh..... fiberholicism is grand.

This felted bag was a lot of fun. I used some really crappy yarn I had found at a thrift store, and it felted up beautifully!!

The next little pouch is knit from alpaca.

Socks.... my passion.

Alpaca lace scarf. Angora blend hat and scarf.

Bamboo!! Lovely stuff!

The Kindness of Friends and Strangers

2008-02-07T08:30:00.000-08:00

I have been so touched and amazed at the kindness of total strangers. These are many of the cards that I have received these past couple of weeks - many from stampers/crafters that I've never met! Each one that I receive creates a bright spot in my day. Many thanks to Char and her online stamping group for many of these. Also, thanks to Rita for her envolvement as well.

I'm feeling better each day. The road back has been a bit bumpier than I had imagined, but I am slowly eating again!! Tiny bits and "chewing it to death" as my Dr. told me.

Thanks again to everyone who has sent get well wishes, the phone calls, visits, etc. I feel so lucky and blessed.

Tapping my Bucket

2008-01-31T10:37:00.001-08:00

I had what may have been the scarriest day of my life yesterday. In a nutshell my surgeons had me go to the ER thinking that I had a bloodclot in my lung. Long story short, it all ended up ok. I still have the shoulder/chest pain - but I'm ALIVE!!! and no bloodclot! They're discussing my case today and are supposed to get back to me with a pain med that will help.
It's a beautiful day.

Two Down

2008-01-29T11:22:00.000-08:00

Two weeks. I've made it two weeks without eating! Whewwww.... One more to go and then I see the surgeon. Hopefully then he will clear me for.... Pureed and soft foods!! Whooopeeee!!!!

Had a rocky week. The chest and shoulder pain have really been wearing me down. Had x-rays taken yesterday. Haven't heard results from those. Assuming the best. Dr. thinks that it is referred pain from irritation/trauma to my diaphram during surgery. Apparently quite common with abdominal surgery, expected to last 2-3 days... but NOT 2 weeks!!!!

Here are the fingerless gloves that I knit.

They are made from a cashmere blend yarn. SO so soft. Instead of a boquet of flowers, my dear dear friend brought me a "bouquet" of fabulous yarns. Ahhh, yarn...

Here are a few of the many flowers that have surrounded me the last 2 weeks.

Oh, but did I mention that I have NO heartburn or reflux??? THAT part is blissful.

Quick (liquidy) Update

2008-01-21T17:48:00.000-08:00

First day that I've felt good enough to have a computer in bed with me (COMPUTER.. not commuter!!) :)

Finally feeling like somewhat of a person today. At noon today it had been a whole week since I've eaten. Whew... and it feels like it.Surgery went well. I'm pretty much pain free now, just sore - kicked in the ribs sort of sore.Amazing that there is a plethora of sweet drinkables, but finding it hard to find savories. Must be "pourable" with nothing "chunky" at all. I seem to be able to take in about 1/2 cup of anything at a time, then have to wait an hour or two before more.

Oh, nausea was a big worry for me before going in, and I am happy to say that it all stayed under control. I had a nausea patch that I put on the night before surgery, and the nausea meds post surgery work immediately - so only a few times were needed - but with no real "oh my goodness I'm going to puke" episodes. whew.

On one of my narcotic-induced days, I managed to knit up a fingerless glove... then lost all ability to knit for a couple of days... Off of all meds now and feeling like taking up the needles again. Thank you to everyone that has sent me cards!!! Even cards from people I don't even know!!! (thanks Char for your sneaky ways...) And beautiful flowers surrounding me. Ahh...Well, that just pooped me out.Signing off.....

Il calzino è rifinito!!

2008-01-13T09:03:00.000-08:00

The (first) sock is finished!! From tip of toe to top they measure 24 inches. I’ve used about 125 grams of DK merino on this first one. Whew! This sucker is huge!

My Stomach is in KNOTS!

2008-01-11T10:51:00.000-08:00

Well, not yet, but will be soon. Tuesday. Quite literally, in knots.

So, I keep busy. One of the projects I'm currently knitting are these. This is how far I am. I envision wearing them in November as I trek through Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Germany. Toasty, happy thoughts.

I also just finished 2 knitted/felted bags. But, can't post them until the recipients have been gifted with them. :)

I'm frantically trying to keep my mind occupied and to stave off the huge waves of anxiety that are crashing over me. busy, busy, busy..........

1/12/08 Ooooh, here's an update!! It's getting longer!! 19 inches long!!! Starting on the foot now... my goal is to finish this sucker today and start the other one before bedtime. Bouncing between sheer terror and calm confidence.....

End of a Year

2007-12-28T19:22:00.001-08:00

Christmas was quiet this year. I had no desire to do any of my usual baking and candy making - but hunkered down and knitted to keep my mind as peaceful as I could. I made the family and my parents socks which they all opened christmas eve. It was a fun moment.

I've also had the huge honor to design the covers of the new Angel Company "Inspiration book & Catalog". I also did several of the pages inside. It was a great way to get through the medical hiccups that I've had this fall. Creativity calms the mind... So, here are the covers:

As far as a medical update... this mass in my breast will have to wait a few months and then I will have another MRI to assess any changes. The problem being that my breast tissue is so dense that this "thing" doesn't show up with mammograms or ultrasounds, and so getting a biopsy proves a problem. So, with the doctors assurance that if this a common cancer that it won't grow catastrophically in the next few months, I shall wait. I will focus on the esophagus/stomach surgery still scheduled for the 15th, and healing from that. It will surely be an interesting road ahead. Anyone up for going on a month-long liquid diet with me after the surgery?!?!?! :)

An Update

2007-12-07T15:57:00.000-08:00

OK, Just a quick update (excuse) for not keeping the blog updated!

Medical nonsense. Yep, the last couple of months it's all been about medical nonsense.
I've been having such fun medical procedures that I haven't had the energy to log on here and post. Excuses, excuses, right?

In a nutshell... I will be having surgery to repair my stomach and esophagus in a few weeks (waiting for the biopsies for those was excruciating - just found out yesterday that they were fine - no cancer there). WHEW!

Meanwhile I had my first mammogram, got a call back to have another and an ultrasound as well. 2 strange lymphs inside my left breast. The radiologist told me that I shouldn't worry about it, and that I was too young (35) etc. etc. etc. HA!!! I wanted to scream! Well, thank goodness my regular doctor felt as strongly as I about it. So I had an MRI 2 days ago. And what do you know, the found something even worse in the same breast!!! I will be seeing a surgeon for it soon, and will have it removed. We're hoping that if it is cancer, then we've caught it in time. With a Sister, Mother, Aunt that have had breast cancer, I wasn't about to let this slide.

So, is that enough of an excuse for neglecting the blog?? :)

Have a fabulous holiday season!!!!!

Not really abandoned...

2007-10-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

Good grief! It's been forever since I've posted. Life has been crazy busy!

I'm currently working on a plethora of projects for upcoming holiday sales. I'm also in the process of setting up an Etsy shop. I'll put a link here when it's up and ready!

Paper crafting, dying, spinning and knitting. The wool bug has certainly bit me again. :)

Here is a bit of Mohair that I dyed.

And the resulting artsy yarn that I spun with it. It was really fun to work with.

Off to work on a knitting project - or ten. Have a great week!

Busy as...

2007-07-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

this sweet little bee working hard in our carrot field.

This is how our carrot field currently looks. Beautiful. Full of hardworking bees.

Here is a glimpse of my work area.

Still here...

2007-07-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

The new Angel Company catalog has been released!!!
It's been an exciting spring. I was so honored to be one of the designers in the catalog this year! It was hard keeping everything under wraps, but such fun! I wasn't able to go to Seminar this weekend in Kansas, but thanks to my upline, Char, I had the amazing opportunity to talk to many of the Seminar atendees, including Mischelle and Kevin, the owners of TAC!! Thanks, Char, for making it feel like I was a part of it all!!

As a side-note, here are my new wheels. I'm having a great time going on bike rides with the kids, and with the trailer we're able to go on longer rides! Our 2 year old loves riding in it. And, except for steep hills, I hardly notice that I'm pulling it!

The boys and I have went on 3 camping trips so far this year, and have a couple more planned.

This month is dedicated to 4-H. The boys are busy getting their projects finished up and gearing up for fair.

Summer is certainly here!

Busy...

2007-06-09T17:07:00.001-07:00

I've been busy.

Yes, I have.

Knitting a sock. (actually 3 different ones)

I planted out my tomato plants today.

Knitting on lacey shawl.

Planted some flower seeds.

Knitting with some special stash yarn. (from a couple of my favorite people in Italy)

Deciding if the pattern being used for this special stash yarn is worthy of special stash yarn.

Dreaming (drooling) over the stack of Rick Steves travel guides to Italy, Germany.....

Ripping out a sock that was WAY off gauge.

I've been busy.

Oh yes, I've also been busy beating myself up for not figuring out some way to get to the Yarn Harlot's book signing. NEXT YEAR!! (hope she comes next year)

I have no photos. Too busy to take them. Too dang busy.

Ciao

Dreaming and Planning

2007-06-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

I've been a dreamworld as of late. My friend and I have decided that we will be taking a trip to Europe. It won't be until November 2008, but the planning is well under way. I love to plan, so it's consuming every waking minute that I can spare right now!

We will have the perfect travel guides, as my Brother and Sister in law live in Italy! We will tour parts of Italy, visiting Venice, Florence, Pisa, and Rome to name a few Italian stops. Then we will travel to Slovenia, Austria, Germany and Switzerland.

This is such a dream come true! My goal will be to collect yarn and other crafting goodies throughout those countries. If anyone has any advice on this, let me know your tips!!

Oh, this is a photo of Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany which we'll be visiting.

Remember Them

2007-05-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

Even if you don't support Bush's war, please don't forget our soldiers.

Here are two links that make it easy to let them know of your support for them.

Page of Thanks

"Regardless of personal politics, there is a tremendous desire in our country to express thankfulness to the many sons and daughters deployed overseas in the military."

Operation Gratitude

"OPERATION GRATITUDE sends packages to members of all military branches deployed anywhere in the world. To date, packages have been sent to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Korea, Africa, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, Guantanamo Bay and onto ships in international waters."

Gasp...

2007-05-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

(Yes, I heard you gasp, Aunt Cheryl! )
I am actually adding a new post!

We just got back after a few days out of town. We made it to the beach on a beautiful day. Saw many good friends. Visited with relatives from out of state. Took flowers to the graves of loved ones. And, started the process of designing my parents headstone! Yes, that's right, down to the color of the stone. They want me to design the images to be etched on the front. We visited the plot that they have bought as well. A beautiful site, I must say.

I managed to fit in some knitting time. These tiny socks are made of a baby alpaca wool from Italy. They are so soft and sweet.

I also started a lace shawl with the pattern from Stephanie Pearl-McPhee. The snowdrop shawl. Can you see that I've already made a couple of mistakes? What to do? I think that I can hide them when I do the stretching/blocking when it's finished. It would be a real beast to rip out now. Hmmmm..... (NOTE: I continued on for a few more inches... then RIPPED it out.) :)

And last up (finally) is a pic of the felted hat that I posted a while back. It's the one that my 2 year old is wearing (down to his knees).

A Finished Pair!

2007-05-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

I did it! I did it!

The second sock syndrome didn't get me this time!

I started a new project this weekend. A lacy, fingerless glove. I have 3 fingers left to do. I have also discovered that it is incredibly hard to knit with fingering-weight BLACK yarn! Good grief! Especially in the evenings, it is less than enjoyable to knit with! I just can't see what I'm doing! SO, I broke out my reading glasses. Now, a year ago when I filled the prescription for the glasses, I was in a bit of denial about needing them, so I got the least expensive lenses - heavy glass. So, when I need to use them I have to debate on which kind of headache I prefer. The kind I get from eyestrain, or from wearing heavy glasses.

I also started reading a book last night. It's a hoot! "Yarn Harlot, the secret life of a knitter", by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee. It had me laughing out loud. Oooh, I just found her Blog.

Knit on!

Springy

2007-05-18T08:15:00.001-07:00

This is a page that I recently submitted to The Angel Company.

(click to see the components used)

It was a fun little page.

Books!

2007-05-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

I had a blast creating these first two books. The paper from Cosmo Cricket made it even more enjoyable! :) I used my bind-it-all to bind them.

Next is a book that I made this weekend for my Mother for Mother's Day. It is all about thanking her for many of the things that she taught me to love growing up. Sewing, cake decorating, gardening, books & reading, camping... I used one of the new board books from The Angel Company, along with their paper and stamps.

Happy...

2007-05-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

National Scrapbooking Day!!

Now, go scrap a page or two!

A Finished Pair!

2007-05-03T14:15:00.000-07:00

I finished the wool knitted/felted clogs! And love them!

This is a photo of one finished, and the other in the pre-felting stage. It's amazing to see the transformation of a felted item.

I also finished the hat I was working on.. but have yet to get a picture of it felted... Just to see how huge it was after knitting and before felting, here is my 2 year old wearing it:

Tagged

2007-04-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

It seems that I have been tagged (see comment in last post). I guess this means that I am supposed to name my top 5 favorite blogs... this is proving to be extremely hard. So, I must put more thought into it.

I did finish the felted hat I was working on. I'll try to get photos of it posted later.

I have the paper crafting bug today... off to play!

As Promised...

2007-04-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my latest WIP's - first I'll start with the knitting:

My favorite sock so far. It has little shells and is oh-so-soft. I'm using one of the naked wool yarns from knitpicks (see sidebar).

Next is a sock that I started to play with stripes. The pattern is one of Cat Bordhi's in the soaring on 2 circulars book. I have two other socks in the making, but they are at somewhat boring stages, so photos will come later on those.

And here is my first felted clog! Made from the Fiber Trends felt Clogs pattern. It was SO fast and easy to knit up! Unfortunately I ordered the wrong amounts of yarn so have to wait to make it's pair.

Oh, and this is a HUGE huge hat... that will be felted when done. Pattern from "Knit One, Felt Too".

Now, on to paper goodies. I recently I got a new little toy - the Bind-it-All by Zutter. Such a fun little friend! So, many of these are bound with it.

GOALS!!

2007-04-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

It is my goal to update this thing tomorrow!! I've got many WIP's - including 4 different socks! I finished my first felted clog - but ordered my yarn wrong so will have to wait to make the mate until the yarn fairy comes again. (hope it's soon!) Busy, busy, busy, with more designing as well (paper-wise).

More tomorrow....

The Farming Life...

2007-04-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official... we're farming for ourselves. My husband has always worked in farming, and we've finally taken the plunge to be on our own. The farmer that he works for now (and will continue to work for for the next few months) is ready to retire, and has been great in helping us get started. This year we will be growing carrots for seed.

Were you ever curious about how carrots were planted? Well, let me show you a little bit of that world.

First, a load of carrots - yes, whole carrots - are loaded into the planter. They go over the whole field and plant the male carrots first. Then they go back and plant the females. I'm still not sure if you can tell by looking if it is a male or female carrot... :)

Four workers sit and drop carrots into a spinning carousel.

Oh, did I mention that the planter, the dumper and the roller were all made by my husband? Pretty cool.

The last photo is of the carrots being rolled over to make sure they are firmly in the ground. Now, if the deer will just stay away.....

Oh, and this makes me a bookkeeper... Yikes...

Felting Away

2007-04-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

Here is what I made using the roving that is pictured in the previous post. It spun up beautifully! I then knitted an oversized bag and then felted it. I added in some natural colored handspun yarn to add more bulk for a thicker "fabric" when finished. The darker contrast color is some wool that I had on hand. I love the results!! It's quite sturdy and fuzzy!

Fiber-liscous!

2007-04-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

Spring break ended with a fabulous trip to a fiber fair! I picked up some scrumptious goodies. This is some lovely roving that I began spinning right away. It's just beautiful!

Next is a felted wool bag that I made while away on spring break.

And, I finished my first PAIR of socks!!! I started a toe-up sock (also from the "Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles", by Cat Bordhi), but lay it aside for a while. I think that I need to make another pair of top-down socks before attempting toe-up.

The last photo is of the silly deer that entertained us at my parents house. They come right into the yard to beg for apples! At one point there were 8 of them chasing each other and racing about all over the field, and in and out of the woods. They put on quite a show for us!

Still in Action...

2007-03-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

I have been so very busy I haven't managed to take the time to post! There are so many things that I'd love to show here - but for various reasons - can't! Some will be able to be revealed in a couple of months...

Here is a couple of my current knitting projects. Yes, that is going to be a PAIR of socks!!! I am amazed at how my knitting has progressively gotten better. When comparing the sock tops, it looks like two different people knit them! I've also started on another wool felted bag, which is below the socks. A dear friend, who was my midwife's assistant with my last child, requested it!

Happy Spring!!

Cheers... to great guys!!!

2007-03-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, there are still some good ones out there!

This weekend two of my friends and I had a fabulous time at a scrapbooking convention. On our first day we had an amazing - but exhausting - time traversing the huge amounts of booths. When we got to the friend's house that we were staying at, her husband (great guy #1 of the weekend!) made us some very pretty blue drinks! The name of which won't be mentioned here... ahem. Then he made us cosmopolitans and finished up with chocolate covered cherries (also a drink). After we were sufficiently relaxed we took out our knitting and had a great time just kicking back.

The next morning we went to the local cafe. It was the greatest place with an amazing atmosphere. We had breakfast and coffee there and were off to another day of fun at the convention. We had a little mis-hap, though, only one block away from the convention center! Parking was already full in the garages, and we were searching for a place when it happened. My friend was driving, and I must say did an amazing job at keeping her wits about her!!! :) The front bumper of the car was tore away leaving the metal part of the bumper hanging by a thread. The man that we collided with wasn't exactly nice.... but then enter great guy of the weekend #2!! He was a vendor heading in to the convention center. He stopped and helped us, when nobody else did! He ripped off the fiberglass part that was left, and wired up the metal part of the bumper for us!! He was our hero!!! Dan, you're the man!! We were able to drive the car home safely without any trouble.

It is refreshing to know that there are still people out there that are truly caring.

I must also mention a thank you to my husband for watching the kids so that I could get away.
This was the first time in about 7 years that I was able to be away overnight without kids!
All in all it was a really fun weekend. I came home with some delicious papers and other goodies.
Cheers!!!!

One is a Lonely Number...

2007-03-05T08:28:00.000-08:00

For a sock!
I did it! I knit a sock!! I must say it was quite an accomplishment for me! Now, if I can find it in me to make another! In most things, I find it hard to make two of the same exact thing. I did come across a way to knit 2 socks at once, on 2 circular needles... may have to try that!

Next is a simple scarf that I made the last 2 evenings.

Last, is a hat. I still haven't closed up the top - and then am not sure if I will felt it or leave it as is. If felted, it would end up quite small - and should fit my youngest.

What to knit next?? :)

Published...

2007-02-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

Well, kind of... You can see one of my creations here. The one on the left. It was a fun project. Three of us were sent the same supplies. We had creative freedom to make whatever we wanted.

I also have a project here. See, I have been busy - just haven't been able to post most of it here!

Oh, and I'm still knitting... almost finished with my first sock!!!! And I made a hat!

Jeez....I hate to post without a photo... hmmm... what can I add? OK, here is a card I recently made for a TAC challenge. The green frame is matboard covered with TAC paper - popped out with foam dots. Love the tiny paper flowers.

Grass like waves...

2007-02-27T07:57:00.000-08:00

I recently participated in an art swap - I believe there was almost 70 of us - from all over the world. It was a 5x7 swap - we all used 5x7 envelopes to send whatever we chose to make to one person. I received mine yesterday - simply amazing! And from a gal in England!! I am SO amazed... you can go here to see my full post of it. What a great experience!! Thank you again, Sarah!

Bits & Pieces

2007-02-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

These are a couple of tiny cards made with Bazzill papers and stamps from TAC. The ribbon is from the "dyeable" line from Making Memories. I ran it over a stamp pad for the color.

For Fun...

2007-02-23T10:57:00.000-08:00

I made it here.

Back to Paper...

2007-02-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

This is a thank you gift set that I made for the hostess of one of my workshops. I found the template for the bag online (I'll try to find the link). They are such fun to make!

The pen is covered with TAC paper and encrusted with glass micro beads. The notebook is also covered with TAC paper ("Catelynne" collection). The stamp sets I used are from the "petalpack", "younique", and "awesomeABCs" sets.

Bagged...

2007-02-19T10:16:00.000-08:00

I did it!! I finished my bag!!
I love how it felted.
I'm addicted to knitting right now...

Infectuous...

2007-02-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

I caught the bug... I'm knitting...

Several of my friends are amazing knitters. They've inspired me to pick up my needles - which haven't been touched in many years. I'm slowly re-learning! I'm starting with a simple wool handbag which I will felt when finished. My thinking on this is that the felting will hide my many mistakes!

An Afternoon of Fun

2007-02-12T16:09:00.000-08:00

This is my friend Char and I after an afternoon of papercrafting challenges! We made the most amazing little boxes within a box contraption. We've both seen them several places on the internet (with different names) and loved the look. What a load of fun!! I still haven't finished decorating mine - but so far I have used Bazzill papers, and stamps from the sets "Forget Not", "Deco Designs", and "The Good Life".

Piano Hinged Wisdom

2007-02-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

This is a piano hinged book that I filled with inspiring parenting quotes, such as:
“Every parent should remember that one day their son will follow their example instead of their advice.” And...

“To understand your parents' love you must raise children yourself." Chinese Proverbs
And...

“It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength."
Maya Angelou
And...
"If you raise your children to feel that they can accomplish any goal or task they decide upon, you will have succeeded as a parent and you will have given your children the greatest of all blessings." Brian Tracy

Functionally Red

2007-02-08T11:38:00.000-08:00

I just love altering objects - especially functional objects such as the notebook on the left. I used the "peaceful heart" TAC stamp set - it's currently one of my favorites.

Not much to say today... it's been a coffee-spilling kind of week. I'm slowly learning a lesson the hard way... not to drink coffee at the computer and on my workdesk. One computer mouse and TAC catalog down....

Off to refill my cup....

February Class

2007-02-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

Another exploding scrapbook box! I will be teaching this at a workshop this month. All of the papers are from the Matchmakers Brights Cardstock Stack. Love these papers. They are textured and white cored. Great for distressing! I used several TAC stamp sets including the "decodesigns" set. I also used the tiny "mini-bet" alphabet set. I filled it with photos of childhood friends.

Creating, Creating, Everywhere... and not a thing to show!

2007-02-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

Well, not exactly not a thing! I've been quite busy creating, but I can't show many of my projects for various reasons! (contests, surprises, birthdays...) So, I will show the cutest idea that my friend JJ showed me last weekend. As you can see it is a little pad of sticky notes! Such fun to cover and embellish! Ribbon ties it closed for a finished look.

Tea Time

2007-01-30T10:12:00.000-08:00

I hosted a small tea gathering yesterday.

The Menu:

Assorted Teas

Scones

Assorted Preserves

English Clotted Cream

Devonshire Cream

Cucumber, Pecan, Egg, and BLT Tea Sandwiches (lol, I know, BLT's are not exactly traditional tea fare... but cut into miniature hearts... such fun!)

Butter Cookies

Mini Peach Tarts

Mini Blueberry Tarts

Mini Lemon Meringues

Mini Cream Puffs

One of the fun parts was opening presents. As this was a Birthday Tea, I asked all to bring a gift to exchange - preferably handmade. I was pleased that so many brought beautifully handmade gifts!

This is my dear friend that came and helped me with the preparations. We lost contact with each other for 20 years, and just re-united this winter. I am still amazed at how much we still have in common. Her help with the party was amazing. This is a photo of the handmade gift that she brought... she knitted these beautiful wool socks!! I am in awe!!

Of Note...

2007-01-25T17:49:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of altered notebooks... first one being a prize for a drawing at an Angel Company workshop that I held last night. I used all TAC papers on it from the "Genevieve" collection. (scrumptious papers) The tag on front was included in the paper collection.

On the second notebook I used various papers from my stash. I used my Cricut to cut out the flowers and lettering. Used the "flourishes" stamp set (TAC) on both.

A Different Sort of Crafting...

2007-01-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

My Father just finished re-furbishing his old tractor. I grew up riding with him on this! I'll try to rustle up a photo of the yesteryears... Isn't it the sweetest little thing!

B is For...

2007-01-22T10:11:00.000-08:00

These exploding scrapbook boxes are so fun to make!! I didn't realize, though, until I was uploading these photos, that I had the "boys" upside down!
The papers that I used are from the TAC "Kamalaht" collection. Beautiful papers. Stamps are from the "flourishes" set and one of the sayings sets.. I can't think of the name right now - but it is from one of the hostess rewards sets. The large lettering is from the alphabet card stock stickers that come with the "Kamalaht" paper set.

Treasures

2007-01-18T10:42:00.000-08:00

Here are the beautiful treasures that my friend Tammy made! I am still in shock that she sent them to me!! They are amazing handmade wonders!!

Fabulous Purple Fancies

2007-01-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

I have an incredible friend, Tammy, that sent me some incredible things that she created... in return I made her a few things. Here are two of them. First an album that I made from scratch. I used mat board, padded it with fleece fabric, and used TAC papers from the "pop rockz" collection. The "hinges" are chipboard that I painted then embossed. There are sparkly jewel brads along with a variety of fibers. I made the flower from a wire rimmed piece of silk ribbon. As you may have guessed, she loves purple!! The monogram was cut with my Cricut, "doodletype". Oh, and I used a fiskars embossing plate to emboss the papers, and then distressed them.

Next is a tiny... the tiniest I've ever made... needle felted bear. Standing he is probably about 2". He has a tiny purple silk ribbon tied around his neck. The box behind him was a tiny paper mache box that I covered.

**I will post a photo of the things that she sent me as soon as I get my camera back from where I left it!! They are amazing!!**

Lovely Love

2007-01-14T17:32:00.000-08:00

This is the project that I will be teaching at my next workshop.

I used bazzill paper. The letters are cut out on my Cricut. Stamps are TAC. There is also glitter involved, of which I have a very hard time getting to show up in photos.

Catching Up

2007-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

It's about time I posted something, isn't it!! I've been ever so busy on some fun projects, but can't post them until the recipient receives them! :) (I'm sure that she would peek otherwise...)

First up - the invitation to my Tea Party later this month. I wish that I could have all of my fabulous friends from all around the globe come to it. It's kind of hard to see in the photo, but I used the tiny glass beads on the vase - and crystal lacquer on the hearts. Love the swirly stamp set - from TAC.

Next up - I stole this idea from my friend Char. :) Thanks Char! It is a calendar that you use with an empty cd case. Just take the lid off and flip it around and display! Keep the rest of the months behind in the tray. Pretty fun idea!

PS: I just can't say enough good things about "Really Reasonable Ribbon". I love that place!!! You can find a link to them on the righthand side of this page.

Layers of a B

2007-01-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Faux chipboard! I used my Cricut to cut out several layers of cardstock at the 4 inch setting of a capitol B. Glued them together - distressed, stamped, glittered... and presto!! A faux chipboard B!!

Sparkly & Pink

2007-01-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

In a house full of boys, making something sparkly and pink is my way of standing up for my girlness. :)
They are both quite tiny - just about 2"x3". The papers used on them are from the TAC "Catelynne" collection.
I've been very busy - but will be entering some of my creations into contests. So, will post them at a later date.
I'm also creating a tutorial for folding paper around edges for perfect results.

Happy New Year!

Petite Putty Tat

2006-12-28T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a wee kitty that I needled felted from alpaca wool. She's just the tiniest little thing, measuring about 2 inches long and 1 inch high. I used green glass beads for the eyes as well as the collar. Her tail is curling around the other side of her.

This is the wool as I was washing it. Alpaca is so easy to work with, as you don't have to contend with lanolin - and it's super soft. No scratchiness that you may have with sheep wool. The last photo is when it is dry - but before being carded. OH - after I took the photos I remembered to add whiskers - tiny pieces of fishing line!

Laughing ALL the Way!!!

2006-12-22T11:19:00.001-08:00

OK - One of my goals in life is to make a real candy cane!!! A few years ago my dear SIL and I began this adventure. Today I tried again - by myself. I knew that working with 2 colors would be too much for me... so I ended up with a lovely shade of pink. :)
Alas, it is not to be.
As you can see I attempted to be really smart and try some ribbon candy as well. One (1), LOL, kind of resembles a ribbon... of sorts! I was happy with the tiny little spiral that I wound around a long wooden skewer, though!
Aly, I need you!!!

Transferred Love

2006-12-22T07:43:00.000-08:00

This is an album that I'm working on. It is chipboard, file style, and wire ringed.
I used the transparency rub-on technique to apply the album cover photo. I also used it to apply the titles to the file tabs. If you haven't used this technique - it's great!! You simply print out - mirror image - onto a piece of clear acetate. Wait until the shininess of the ink is gone, then hold firmly onto the object that you want to transfer the image to. Rub with a bone folder until the image has transferred! It works great on tiny tags and other things that you can't send through a printer!

Tiny Friends

2006-12-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

These are my wee needle felted wool bear friends that I created. If you are a felter, and have never needle felted, you must try it! It is so much fun to sculpt with wool! I used glass beads for the eyes, and wool and cotton thread and yarns to make the faces and hands/feet. They are all jointed.

Four more days...

New Look

2006-12-20T10:52:00.000-08:00

Well... after a few pulled hairs, I was able to change the look of things a bit. I still need to figure out how to tweak a few things. I'm relieved that I didn't loose the whole thing when messing around with the html. Whew!!!

Busy Festive Weekend

2006-12-18T07:36:00.000-08:00

I started the weekend out having a candle lit dinner on Saturday night. It turned out beautifully. The photos just didn't do it justice. I wanted to get photos when it was dark, but by then I was running around too busy to think of it! I decorated the tables (seating for 24) with fresh greenery, bowls of caramel corn, almond brittle, nougat, cookies, and lots of candles. I also have a candle chandelier that was lit from above. With the candles burning and the Christmas tree lights on, the lighting was perfect! And who doesn't like edible center pieces!

The next day I decided to throw a surprise birthday party for my son - instead of waiting until the day before Christmas Eve to do it!! So, within 2 hours I had it all set up, including baking a cake and having everything ready! The cake is somewhat comical. He wanted a snowflake cake this year - and working with a fresh out of the oven cake was a nightmare!!! I iced what I could, then sprinkled on the very forgiving coconut and edible glitter. He was very surprised!! Whew!! Now, I'm ready for Christmas!!

YoooooHooooo!!!!

2006-12-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

Yes, this is another product review for the German made UHU adhesives! UHU was kind enough to send 2 types of their adhesive for me to try. I was sent the glue stick and glue roller. I have used them on several projects this week. Today I will showcase an accordion card file that I made.

I used various papers, including bazzill - which I figured would be one of the toughest to test this glue out on. I was a bit unsure of using a glue stick. It's been years since I've used one on a project. In the end I was surprisingly pleased with the results. I used it to apply paper to the large areas - and it didn't buckle, and dried smooth.

As for the tape roller. I loved the ease in which it dispensed. It was effortless!! There wasn't any problem going around curves either. So far everything that I used it on is staying!

Here you can see the accordion folds - I used the roller to adhere each "folder". I applied eyelets and ran a ribbon through each "folder" so that it can be easily expanded.

All in all I was pleasantly surprised at how well UHU performed!!

Spirited Fun

2006-12-13T11:38:00.000-08:00

I don't know why I haven't tried the odorless mineral spirits and prismacolor pencils technique sooner! I love this!! I have had the same set of prismacolors for at least 20 years. They still work great!

Basically, with this technique, you color in areas with the pencils, and then using rolled paper "tortillons" dipped in odorless mineral spirits, you blend. I found that using a different tortillon with each color family worked well. I kept finding myself trying to "rinse" each time in the spirits as if I were using a watercolor brush! LOL! If you don't color in the whole image, but instead color in the shaded areas, and then bleed the color out into the white areas, it will have a watercolor effect.

Oh, and I was pleasantly surprised that the odorless mineral spirits were really odorless!! Another tip is to have a nail file handy to sand down the paper tortillon's as needed. Happy creating!

Croaking what?

2006-12-11T07:29:00.000-08:00

Croquembouch!!

I came across this photo of one of the croquembouch's that I made last Christmas. They aren't as intimidating as they may seem to make. The spun sugar always looks beautiful! One tip, though, is to apply the spun sugar at the last possible moment. If there is humidity in your work area, the sugar will melt pretty quickly. By the time I transported this just a block away, on a cold snowy day, the sugar had disappeared! There was no problem with it being eaten, though!

Be Merry!!!

2006-12-09T15:08:00.000-08:00

What a fun project this was!!

I used wooden blocks - cut out from my father's scrap wood pile!

They are about 2"square. I covered them with paper from the TAC "Vintage Holiday" wing it collection. The letters I cut out with my cricut - Doodletype font. I used mod podge to adhere the paper on most of them. On some I used tacky glue, which worked just as well. I distressed the edges by sanding and applying a walnut stain. I applied ultra fine glitter to the B and the M as well as to the edges of the blocks.

Have a Merry Day!

Red & Green

2006-12-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

Two versions of a similar card. I used watercolor crayons on both. The faux nameplates are from the "hip hardware" TAC stamp set. I embossed them and then cut them out. Great set! I also used the paisley set to watermark the back ground with versamark. Pansy's are from the "flower collage trio" TAC set.

The colored background papers are Bazzill.

Whimsical Ribbit

2006-12-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

I just LOVE this little guy!! He's a great stamp from the "just smile" TAC stamp set.

I used watercolors on him, and then cut him out! Those little feet and "fingers" took some time! The little cutter bee scissors worked great cutting them out. This is a tiny litte tag/card - about 2"x3".

Matchbook Magic

2006-12-06T07:53:00.000-08:00

These are some little matchbook style cards that I made as thank you's for customers. I'll add my sentiment on the back with sticky notes, so that they can use them! The snowflakes are glittered, and the postage stamp has crystal lacquer around it.
Love, love, love the "Vintage Holiday" Angel Company papers. They're delicious!!!

Snippin' Snowflakes

2006-12-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a snowflake tag/ornament that I made last night during a snowflake challenge! I filled some of the areas with crystal lacquer and sprinkled with glitter while still wet. I pierced the holes with a handy little piercing tool that I found on the notions wall of a fabric store! Here is a link to some great snowflake patterns:
http://www3.ns.sympatico.ca/dstredulinsky/samples.pdf
Now, if we would only get some REAL snow here!!

Holiday Swap Card

2006-11-29T07:48:00.000-08:00

This is one of the cards that I recently made for an Angel Company swap. I can't wait to see the ones that I receive! I watercolored the stocking image (from the "Christmas Joy" TAC stamp set). It is a matchbook style card.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Toot Tut(orial)

2006-11-26T18:31:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone that has sent me great feedback on my watercolor tutorial!!

Now, I would LOVE to see your results!!!

Come on!!

Watercolor Crayon Tutorial

2006-11-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

OK - Here it is - my Watercolor Crayon Tutorial.

Let me know if it makes sense!!

First - It is very important to stamp your image with an ink that will not end up bleeding when water hits it. Palette pads are great for this. If you're not sure if yours will work, just test a stamped image first by wetting it a bit and seeing if it bleeds. Also, using watercolor paper is ideal - but heavy cardstock will work fine as well.

Next: I am using watercolor crayons from The Angel Company. I have found that I really like using the crayons versus the wc pencils. Much easier to blend without leaving a hard line on the paper. The Gerbera Daisy stamp is also from The Angel Company. (Did I mention that I was a demonstrator for them?) :)

Pick 2 colors - a light and dark - for your flower. Also, a light and dark for the stem and leaves. Using colors from the same family will work great.

Start by applying the darker of the flower colors to the center of the petals. Don't be too careful - just scribble in. :) Apply the lighter color to the ends of the petals. Do the same with the leaves and stem. Keep the darker color to where the deeper veins and shaded areas are. As you can see in the flower at right - I added a touch of the flower color to the leaves.

Now we're ready for the fun!

I used a 1/2 inch round watercolor brush. Starting on the petals: wet your brush - you want a wet, but not soppy brush. Start in the center white area of a petal. Using small circular motion head toward the end of your petal. When you hit color it should bleed back onto the wet white are you were just in. Go around doing the same with the other petals.

Now, reverse what you just did - but work from the center of petal toward the center of the flower - working to blend in the darker crayon color. Add the same petal colors to the center of the flower and work those in as well.

Blend in the leaf and stem parts using the same technique.

TIPS: Make sure you use a light hand when blending in the crayons - make sure that you leave lighter (or even white) areas. Don't blend too much or you may end up with a muddy flower!!! Use darker colors in shaded areas.

Below is a blue version using the same technique.

Gerbera, Gerbera, Gerbera...

2006-11-17T14:20:00.000-08:00

Try saying that five times fast!!

I've been playing with watercolor crayons and loving them! Here are a couple of cards that I may use for a workshop. I used the Angel Company gerbera daisy stamp. Stamped with noire Palette ink - then used 2 compatible watercolor crayons on each flower. Two greens on the leaves as well. Use the darker of the 2 colors you choose on the shaded parts of your image, and always try to keep white areas when using any watercolor technique!

Also, using the Palette stamp pads are great because they are a hybrid ink - "blending the best of dye and pigment into one ink pad" - they will not bleed when using watercolors over them!

The blue card has bazzill papers - It's hard to see, but I used VersaMark on the background with the same gerbera daisy stamp. The orangish gerbera has a delicious background paper from the country cottage designer paper collection - TAC.

Have a great weekend!!!

Hooray!!!

2006-11-13T08:29:00.000-08:00

I'm back! And the sale was a success!! I sold two thirds of what I brought!

I had a fabulous time visiting with friends that I hadn't seen for 20 years!

I had a few minutes to sit down and make these "hooray" froggy cards. They're mini's - only about 3"x4". The frogs are from an Angel stamp set - "Hoppy Frogs". The papers are from the "Pop Rockz" soar with it collection. Delicious papers!!

Have a great Monday!!

Off to the Races

2006-11-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

I think I have everything finished for the sale... I hope!! Here are my 2 last projects. They're not spectacular - but usable!! I put a chalk board finish on both!

I'm off for a few days to go to the sale... wish me luck!!! TTFN

Tagged

2006-11-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

First up are the tags that I promised to show. I stayed up late working with a set of stamps that I borrowed so that I could enter a Christmas card swap using Angel stamps. I tried many different techniques, and decided that instead of throwing them away, to use the scraps for tags! I used watercolors on these.

These are some simple cards that I made to send out to my friends to let him know that I am now an Angel Company consultant. I used the Impress markers to watercolor with - color out onto a plate or other non porous surface, then use brushes and water to pick up the color and use just like you're water coloring! The background paper is from a delicious line from TAC, "Uptown Girl". The flower stamp is from the set "Friendship Flowers". Fyi is stamped from the "Classic Alphabet" set.

I had such a fun time yesterday cutting out all of my new stamp sets! My fingers are a bit sore, but what's a little discomfort compared to all of the fun I'm having!!

Beautiful Fall

2006-11-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

I just love fall! The brilliant colors, and the crisp coolness in the air is just delicious!
I made this birthday card for my dear SIL Barb. Chipboard "B", a variety of cardstocks, a leaf sticker, and a green silk ribbon were used.
Today I'm in the Christmas mood... they had the "Santa Clause" movie on last night - I am so ready for the holidays!! I'll be working on Christmas tags today - I'll post a photo tomorrow!

Baby Daze

2006-10-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of cans that I made up today - Baby theme. I used a variety of papers and fibers. Cricut the letters, flowers, and tags. I've found that using a spray adhesive to apply the main background papers works great. I would like to find a spray adhesive that doesn't have such awful fumes, though! Ick!! When I used Mod Podge for the first layer, I struggled with wrinkles and buckling. So, in the end I'm happy with the spray. To apply little letters I either run them through the Xyron, or use the Tombow Mono Multi liquid glue. Love that stuff.
Have a great Halloween tomorrow! I'm off to decorate!

An Apple a Day

2006-10-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

Ooooo... it's looking like fall!
Here are a couple of my projects I made today:

To the left are candied apples...
and below...
Homemade caramel-walnut-milk & white chocolate covered apples... Mmmmmmmmm

Clowns & Angels

2006-10-27T18:46:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting week... a week of firsts. At the left is my first attempt at face painting. :) My dear friend's daughter and her friend went to a Halloween dance as rodeo clowns!! It was a fun learning experience doing their faces! I must say that they're much prettier under the makeup!

My other big first is something that I never dreamt that I would ever do. I signed on to be a consultant for a stamping/scrapping company - The Angel Company - TAC. I fell in love with their stamps and other goodies! I'm eagerly waiting on my first shipment of stamps and papers. I just can't wait to get them and start playing! One of the best things that have come out of this is that I met a new neighbor (an Angel) just a few streets away that helped me with my application process. I think that we'll have a lot of fun together in the future stamping and scrapping!

Have a great weekend!!

"Fall"ing For You

2006-10-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

After doing so many Christmassy things lately, I was feeling in the mood for fall last night. Cardstock is a chocolate Bazzill - love the texture of Bazzill... The leaves and "for you" are cut on my cricut. Distressed with my trusty walnut stain distress ink. The background stamp is a Stampin' Up stampin around - leaves and swirls. Ribbons were from the Target $ bin. :) Happy Fall!

Tea or Coffee?

2006-10-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

I created the inserts of these mugs today. Each one has
3-d components - although it's kind of hard to see on the purple flowery one. They were a fun project... I think I may make more! I think they'd be great for gifts.

On to the next project!

Bitty Baseballs & Burgers for the Birthday Boy

2006-10-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

It was party day today for the 2 year old in
the house. I made miniature burgers - buns and all-, homemade fries and a baseball cake. The cake certainly isn't as detailed as most of my cakes, but for a bitty boy that loves balls, it was a hit! The surface is a bit "uneven"... a hem... little fingers just couldn't keep out of if!! I fixed it a couple of times before I remembered to take a picture! :)

I've been crazy busy working on projects for the upcoming craft sale. I'll post some of the goodies as I finish them.

Memories

2006-10-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

I had a heck of a time trying to get a decent photo of this can. I think it looks better in "real life". Oh well! I used patterned papers, ribbons, and other embellishments. I cricut the letters for "Memories" and used mod podge to seal it.

eToday was my baby's 2nd birthday. He's just growing up so fast. Always wants to do what his big brothers are doing... and many times does! I felt a bit sad today knowing that he is my last baby, and pretty much isn't a baby anymore! Thinking back to his birth brings back a lot of precious memories. He was my second home birth and it was near perfect. I'm one of those crazy gals that love giving birth. I spend 9 months sick and miserable, but when it comes to the birth I truly enjoy it!

Happy Birthday sweet boy.

Circle of Love

2006-10-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

I worked on another miniature book today - commissioned by a friend for her Grandmother. I used a beautiful Anna Griffin floral paper, vellum, sage green & deep red card stock, 3 different fibers and a rose bead for the bookmark ribbon. The heart was a special piece that the granddaughter wanted included. I used my cricut with the doodletype font for the letters.

Well, I've agreed to be part of a craft sale in 3 weeks... I'm starting to think that I may be more than just a little crazy!

Tiny Alterations

2006-10-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Altering these mini theme books are a load of fun! For this one I again used Basic Grey papers. Using the Xyron machine to run the components through first, makes it really quick and fun! Flowers were punched, and the monogram and tag were from BG. I used the printer made rub-on trick again on the tag. I distressed all edges with walnut stain distress ink. All in all it measures about 4 1/4 x 3 1/2.

Treasured Memories

2006-10-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

This is a special box that I've kept for many years. I finally decided that it was time to alter it's apearance, and use it. I received it from the man that

was the first one to ever give me chocolates for Valentines day. My dear Grandpa Ernie. :) I never knew either of my Grandfathers, and Ernie is my close friends Grandfather. So, I adopted him. I altered the box with Making Memories papers, fibers, and cut the letters out with my Cricut.

It's time to start another busy day! This is Max's art class day. He's taking a 2 hour art class every week at a local art studio. He's loving it!

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Birthday Fancies

2006-10-10T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest project.
It was created with Basic Grey papers, various ribbons, and lettering done by my beloved Cricut. It was such a fun project for my dear friend's daughter who just turned 1. Happy Birthday Rachael!

And what might be in the pail? Well, with 3 of my son's help we made a nursery rhyme book - illustrations done by them. I used a Basic Grey matchbook kit, along with ribbons and tags. I used a technique of making my own rub-ons for the first time. I just love the possibilities of it. I used it on the little tags hanging from the book. If you haven't tried it, basically all that you do is print a mirror image onto clear acetate, wait a few minutes, and then rub it onto your paper.

Here are a couple of the pages from inside:

This one "Ring a Ring o' Roses" was illustrated by my 6 year old son.

And this one, "Hush Little Baby" was illustrated by my 8 year old son.

It was such a fun project. Now, on to designing my Christmas cards!!!