The things I do

testing post

2011-11-22T13:38:00.000-06:00

I just got the new fire kindle and just had to see how easy it would be to post
well its okay ..but it is hard to type. I doubt if I post much from it anyway.
it is nice to know I can.

better get back to work..my boss is standing here..

Bathroom Update

2011-11-19T21:45:00.001-06:00

Here you go Vik, as promised the picture.

I finally got around to adding some more wall art to the boys' bathroom.
Now, maybe they will find the towel rack.

I just love wall vinyl. This green I bought is for the Silhouette. I think it is much better than the vinyl I was using. This stuff is really thin and looks like it is painted on. (you can click on the picture to see it better) The other stuff I have is thicker and I don't think it looks as smooth on the wall. I am going to have to get some more colors..
I hope I can find a bright orange.

I haven't been doing much playing with paper lately. I found tucked away in my craft room closet a couple of needlework projects I started awhile back and decided to finish them up. I got one finished and hope to have the other done in a day or so.

So check back, I will probably post some pictures.

Got Color? --

2011-10-23T15:14:00.003-05:00

Isn't it great how a little color can completely change the look of a room. The boys and I decided their bathroom could use a little pick me up. Figuring painting would be the easiest and quickest way,
The three of us Curt, Levi & me head off to Menard's. Silly me not thinking that color was an issue, only because we love lime green, and as Curt said "it's the best color ever!" sure, right, what was I thinking....anyway 3hrs later we're finally back home, (sparing you the details) with ~~one~~ three colors, new towels, a waste basket.

I seen Larry cringe when I pulled the paint and other goodies out of the bags.
But, like a ~~good~~ smart man he never said a word. I'm thinking after 27+ yrs of marriage he knows when to keep quite.

As far as the colors -- here, take a look, and you decide...

here's the boring bathroom before:

drum roll please........

a few coats of lime green paint later...
the bathroom now:

Levi had to have his "best color of all time"
yellow:

and Curt, well, he really just had to have...
blue:

Then I saw those bright orange mini buckets, orange bath towels and did you notice the colorful wash cloths in the picture above? How could I not get them?

Four walls and three colors. Oh, we used the blue to paint the ceiling too.
Over all, I think it turned out great, the boys love it, and I didn't even have to buy a new shower curtain.
Now, all that's left is deciding on wall art.
With a good imagination and some removable wall vinyl the possibilities are endless...

So, tell me what do you think?

Boss's Day Card

2011-10-19T12:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday everybody! I hope you are enjoying your day. I'm at work, it's raining and cold out... other than that my day is going pretty good.

I thought I'd post this card I made for my boss. She's new in the department, and I thought it would be nice to let her know we do appreciate her and I truly like her.
She is a fellow crafter, she makes quilts, sews cute bags, and does needlework. The best part is she is easily distracted too.

Then while blogging on my lunch hour, I seen that because of the 2 flowers this card would work for the Stampin Sisters in Christ - Challenge 111 - Matt. 11:28-30. The challenge is Sharing: use 2 of everything.

Anyway on to the card.

I made the box using my Cricut and the George cart.

I put four doily coaster inside the box.
The doilies were made by my wonderful sister Vikki. She makes some of the prettiest doilies.
She had left them at my house a few years ago, after a craft show we did. I found them when I was making the card for Catherine (my boss)! and figured they were just the right size to fit in my little box card. Not to mention yellow is Catherine's favorite color.

I knew Vik wouldn't mind, knowing they were going to such a wonderful person...

Thanks for stopping in... I have to get back to work..

Pirate Party - with a Treasure Chest Cake

2011-10-11T20:26:00.001-05:00

Levi turned 3 on Sept 30th!

With Levi turning 3, and knowing how much he is "into" pirates (right now), I thought it would be fun to have a pirate themed party. He was so excited about the idea that every time we would watch Disney's Jake and the Never-Land Pirates he would remind me about his party. Did I mention that is probably the only show he watches... 3 or 4 times a day....

I need to remember not to say anything too far in advance.

"Party Day" finally arrived. The weather was just super, the sun was shining, hamburgers on the grill, Curt and Levi dressed in their best pirate clothes. I couldn't have asked for a better day.

We had a treasure hunt. Larry told the boys a story about a hidden treasure, and how it was their job to find all the treasures, and gave them the first clue.

Each clue had a picture of something hidden in the yard and a riddle leading the boys to the next treasure and clue. The final clue would lead them to a treasure to be shared by all.
The Cake:

A few weeks before Levi's birthday I was looking online for different party ideas and found a really cool website with all types of fun cakes. You can check it out here FamilyFun.go.com .
The cake wasn't as hard to make as I thought it would be. Only because Larry made the cake and I got to do the fun part - decorate it. Larry made a chocolate pound cake from scratch. He didn't think a regular box cake mix would hold up. Seeing as I'm not much for cooking, I just took his word for it, I'm glad I did. Because it turned out so cute. I stuffed the cake full of sweet treats and to make it look as if it were sitting in sand I rolled graham crackers into a fine sand-like powder and spread it around the base. Most importantly - Levi loved it.

All in all it was a great day with family and friends

I'm not sure, but I think Curt is already planning his birthday party!
And it's not until JUNE!!

What have I started?!!!!

I've been a bad blogger!!

2011-07-16T22:02:00.003-05:00

I've been told I need to post something... anything. I had no idea it's been more than 2 months since my last post. Time slips by. I really don't have any good excuses for not posting, I haven't gone anywhere, my computer works, maybe just lazy.. no not lazy either.. The only excuse I came up with is I haven't made any new cards, and I usually post cards for challenges. I was told that was not a good excuse either. My sister Vikki (check out her site just click here) said to me "you don't need a challenge to post, you should just post anything at least once a week, or just talk - everybody knows you can talk, just tell people what you've been doing." LOL funny funny sister.
Okay - a typical weekend for me is June 24th & 25th
To begin with, I should tell you it was the Rodeo weekend, and Levi just loves to watch the Rodeos on RFDTv keep in mind he is only two. He talks nonstop about how he can ride bulls and horses. He runs around the house riding one of those horse heads on a stick. We even put a horse made out of old tires on the swing set, and that is about how close he has been to a real horse or bull. So anyway, when he found out the rodeo was coming to town, that's all he talked about for a whole week, "he can stay on, he can ride, on and on and on. Friday night finally rolls around. We are off to the rodeo. Levi talked (I call it talking trash) to anybody that would listen about how he can ride, stay on, and was the best cowboy ever. But he didn't want to get to close to the animals.
Saturday is the big day, a parade, and the day Levi is going to ride a "real" horse .
Larry and Curt choose to stay home. It looks like it's just Levi and me, so excited as we head out, with temperatures well over 100, to sit in the sun to watch a parade. As the horses go by, I hear Levi talking "trash" to an elderly gentleman seated next to him. I have to say for a little guy he's very convincing. We have been sitting in the hot sun for an over hour, it's time to eat hot dogs.. Yippee!! Oh and free ice cream bars that some clown just happens to be handing out. Now, I have a little "trash" talking cowboy with ice cream melting all over him not to mention me, getting his face painted. It's time for us to get in the long, long line to ride a horse in a circle... you know, the same as the horse rides at the fair. Levi is so excited, he can hardly sit still. He is still talking the talk. I wish I was as excited as he was, I was hot I was very hot, sweat is rolling off of me and Levi's wonderful face paint is smearing off his face and onto mine from all the hugs as we stand in line. The sun is baking my brains(or what is left of them) for more than 45 minutes. I forgot to tell you... whoever organized this grand event thought it was a good idea to have the horse rides on an old, black parking lot, with no shade in sight.
Anyway, finally -
Levi's turn...................
and......................................
you guessed it.
The little @#$t wouldn't get near the horse. In fact, he let out a scream that would wake the dead! Yes, the best cowboy ever, just had the biggest meltdown on record. Every head within 5 miles turned to see what had happen. The horse backed away, people backed away.... all eyes were on us. My shirt was being torn from my body. My glasses fell to the ground. All the contents of my purse was lying around me on the ground. A half-eaten lollipop is stuck to the side of my head. I tried to gather our belongings from the ground as calmly as possible, comfort a totally terrified 2yr old boy without attracting any more unneeded attention.
The quiet came as suddenly as the screaming..not a sound or a word all the way to the car. After the seat belts were buckled, the car started, and most importantly the air conditioner cooling...
A little voice said "That was a big horse".

I turned around, smiled, and said there's always next year.....

Later that evening, after the boys were in bed, I wasn't up to playing with paper.
Instead, I picked up my Kindle to read a few more chapters of Diana Gabaldon's Dragonfly in Amber. (Book number 2 in her Outlander Series).

I have been working on getting my scrap-book projects up to date. I have almost completed 2007!
Maybe tomorrow I will post one of my layouts... who knows..

Thanks for stopping in.
My Kindle is calling........

Opus - Challenge #100 - Matchbox Swap

2011-05-13T12:50:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday!
I see a have a couple of new followers.. How cool is that!
Welcome to my blog and thank- you!

I made these matchboxes for the Opus-Gluei. challenge #100-matchbox-made-in-heaven. They are also doing a matchbox swap. This will be the 1st swap I have participated in. I made 4 of these and can't wait to swap with any of the other girls that may have made a few extra. It was really hard for me to decide just what to put inside them. I ended up making little matching books, that can used for notes, pictures or just whatever. They are also filled with a few other little goodies. I can't show you everything in them or it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it? I will say I can't believe how much can be stuffed into such a small box.

There's still plenty of time if you want to play along.
Just click on the link above, it will take you to the Opus blog.

Thanks for stopping in.. and have a super weekend!

The Crown Jewels

2011-04-30T23:07:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it, I am posting for three more challenges.
The first is Opus - Challenge #99 - THE CROWN JEWELS. Jana and Rosemary requested us to make something in jewel-tones, with lots of lovely blingy-ness...whatever my heart and mind take from this theme..... I love those girls.. they never have any rules, or if they do, they aren't very strict, you just have to share it with the rest of them.
The second is Whimsical Wednesdays - Challenge #4 - It's A Royal Celebration. Follow the Royal Theme
The third is Bitten by the Bug2 - Home Decor - the Crown
This is my first time play in WW and BB2, when I seen there was no really must haves I said cool..
Here it is:
THE CROWN has been emblazoned upon the royal entrance to the Queens "playroom".

I really love this gold Holographic adhesive paper, I bought sometime back, and never really new what I was going to do with it, I just knew I had to have it. I didn't realize it was super thin stuff I don't think it's really paper more like a really thin foil. (Whatever it is it sure is pretty) I had to cut the crown (Home Decor cart) on the gold paper and some removable wall vinyl, then stick the gold on top of the vinyl.

I do a happy dance whenever my crazier creations fit with challenges.

Simple Mother's Day card

2011-04-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it's the last day of April already! Where did the month go?
It seems time just flies by so quickly. I remember my grandma telling me "the older you get the faster time passes". I didn't understand what she meant by that, then, I understand now
.
In between playing with the boys and laundry I manage to get a card made. Yippee!
This is just a simple mothers day card. That also works for three different Challenges:
First - Cricut Cardz Challenge #72 use any cartridge with a card feature for Mother's Day and include a flower. Wild Card was the cartridge used. The flower and ribbon I recycled from a box of Godiva Chocolates my DH gave to me. The ribbon lasted way longer than the chocolates - LOL
Second - Celebrate the Occasion (CTO) challenge #11 - The theme - Mother's Day.
Third -Sisters in Christ challenge #86 Create a round card.

I have a couple other little projects I'd like to finish up tonight and maybe even get them posted.
But right now two little ones are waving Wii controllers at me.. looks like we are going to play a little baseball LOL gotta go I'm up to bat....

Thanks for stopping in.

Blog Award

2011-04-14T10:13:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it, I got on my blog this morning and had two surprises! The first surprise was to see I have more new followers! Welcome, and thanks for becoming a follower.
The second surprise.. I received another blog award from Linda over at: http://www.lindaspinkcraftroom.com/

If you have time, go check out her blog. It's full of inspiration. Thanks again Linda

A Girly Birthday Card

2011-04-08T22:04:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's Friday already. I came into my playroom with every intent of putting away last week-ends mess, so tomorrow it would fresh and ready to get messed up again. Something happened when I started sorting through the large scrap pile, you know putting like colors together. I came across this pretty pink glitter piece and WAA LAA. I have a birthday card for a good friend that will be celebrating her 50+ on the 20th. Not only that this card is perfect for the Kaboodle Doodles Challenge #61 - Let's get Girly. What's more girly than pink with glitter? I am also going to post it over at Celebrate the Occasion (CTO) Challenge #8 - Anything Birthday (must have a flower). There's lots of talented ladies at both blogs, you should hop on over, I promise you won't be disappointed
Here's the card:

Now that I have created a bigger mess than I started with, I think I will go get a bowl of Ice Cream. My DH just so happen to bring home my favorite Mint Chocolate Chip, YUMMY

Thanks for dropping by, and have a super weekend.

Two Bunny Cards

2011-04-07T18:52:00.000-05:00

WOO WHOO I managed to get a couple of cards made in the middle of the week! I think that's a first for me. They also can be posted in two challenges too! Cricut Cardz Challenge #69 was to create a card, LO or craft project for Easter. Stampin Sisters in Christ Challenge #83 was to make a card/project for a child.

Well, I'm out of here for tonight, need to fix dinner and American Idol will be on soon.

Thanks for dropping in

Blog renovations

2011-04-02T01:19:00.000-05:00

I just discovered pages! So, I just had to renovate my blog. I figured out how to make each page have it's own header and background. It's only taken me all week. My goal was to have it completed before Saturday... well it's after 1am, and offically Saturday - Maybe I will get it done later this weekend. ;)

I am heading to bed, the boys will be up in less than 6hrs.
This silly little project has taken up my whole week, and taken me away from my crafty projects.

Blog Award!

2011-03-30T13:09:00.001-05:00

I am honored that Lisa over at http://www.lmdstampin.com/thought of me

Thank you Lisa

There are rules after receiving this reward:

Thank the person who sent it to you (done)
Tell Us 7 things about yourself (done)
Send/Reward this to 15 bloggers (done)

So here we go. 7 things about myself.

1. My mom is by best friend
2. I've been married to a great guy for 27 years in September.
3. We have 3 grown kids - He came with 2, and me with 1(which he adopted).
4. We have 6 grand kids, ages 20 – 2 , 4 girls and 2 boys
5. My favorite colors are purple and lime green.

6. I am planning on retiring and become a SAH-Gma December 2012. Maybe sooner! On May 3^rd I speak with a SURS retirement councilor. When I know the exact date I will let everyone know!

7. I am a gadget girl. I love new toys!

Now here are 15 blogs I want to pass this award onto

First of all, let me say this was hard to choose 15 from my followers. It sounds funny to say followers LOL –it’s cool I have followers! I just hope they don’t expect to much out of me! They all such super blogs and they all are inspiring me with their creativity. How does a person choose? Okay here it goes.

Sherrie K. at http://sherriescraps.blogspot.com/
Linda S. at http://smilin2.blogspot.com/
Karen at http://kathiscreativetherapy.blogspot.com/
Joann at http://craftywithjoann.blogspot.com/
Ashley at http://welchcreations.blogspot.com/
Diana at http://dianescrafting.blogspot.com/
Smiley21 at http://bugalooscraproom.blogspot.com/
Lu at http://www.craftingwithlu.blogspot.com/
Sandy at http://www.papertransformer.com/
Chloe at http://chloeandherclipons.blogspot.com/
Kristin at http://www.scrappingmamahen.blogspot.com/
Linda at http://www.lindaspinkcraftroom.com/
Stacy at http://www.mycraftingtime.com/
Karen at http://reflectionsofapaperaddict.blogspot.com/
Carlene at http://www.misspinkcricut.blogspot.com/

Check out their blogs, you'll be glad you did and send them some love!

Back to work I go... Thanks for dropping in.

TWO blog GIVE AWAYS

2011-03-28T12:43:00.000-05:00

Charlene at Me 'n' Miss Pink Cricut and Chloe and her clip on Koalas have both reach their goals of more than 100 followers! Isn't that super. I am very happy for both of them. To celebrate they are both having blog give aways. So drop over and visit them both you won't be disappointed.

New Blog Challenge starting April 6th, and a blog award!

2011-03-26T23:46:00.001-05:00

while blog jumping I stumble across a new blog challenge!
Go check out the girls at Whimsical Wednesdays it looks like could be a fun one.

I have also so graciously received the Liebster blog award from Ashley at http://welchcreations.blogspot.com/

Thank you!
The Liebster Award is designed to bring new blogs to light. It is a great way to share blogs that might not otherwise be seen or ones you may want to share with others.

As a recipient you must share the love and pay it forward by:

1-Creating a post where you blog about the Liebster award & reveal your 3-5 blog picks

2-Let them know you chose them

3-Copy & paste the blog award on your blog

4-Have faith that your followers will rally & show their crafty love back out to those you awarded

5-Have fun!

Here are my picks!:

Fran at: http://justacuttnup.blogspot.com/
Vikki at: http://byhooks4u.blogspot.com/
Dee at: http://cardwithd.blogspot.com/

Please be sure to pay these wonderful crafters a visit by checking out their blog! Congrats Ladies!

One Card and Eight Challenges - WOW

2011-03-26T22:35:00.001-05:00

I have new few new followers thanks to Momo's blog. That is so cool, Thanks.
I'm having fun lurking in all the blogs. I haven't visited in all of them, not even close. Last time I looked there was close to 300 blogs linked on her site.. How fun.

Okay, on to my card. After last week Opus challenge, I decided to use my stash that is still cluttering my workspace. So, this card is made using all scrap paper. The flowers were cut using my Create-A-Critter cart, and my Peachy Keen smiley stamps. The tag was cut from TBBM.

here's the list of challenges I have posted with:

Opus: Challenge #95 - Summer in Paris I skipped the Paris part
Peachy Keen- Lets Face it Friday - Flower Power
The Cuttlebug Spot - Buttons Buttons Everywhere
Sisters in Christ - Challenge #81 - Something hidden from first view.
Kaboodle Doodles - #59- Color Challenge, use yellow, blue, pink and green
Totally Gorjuss - #73 - Spring Has Sprung
Fun-At-Fairy-Knoll Challenge #43 - Happy
CTO - #6 - Theme is "Thank-you" and must have a Tag Okay I blew the "Thank-you" part, I must of had a brain fade when I stamped the Happy Birthday, at least I got the tag. LOL

Thanks for dropping in.

Happy Friday - just a quick hello

2011-03-25T14:24:00.001-05:00

I started blog "lurking" today at noon (not a good idea). It's now way past my lunch hour, and I'm still playing LOL.
Because, I am at work I will make this short and sweet.
I just had to tell you all about a fun blog idea I found at Made by Momo's blog.
She is doing a "Link Your Blog" for bloggers with fewer than 200 followers. She will be giving away prizes to lucky participants. Check it out, what a awesome way to discover new blogs, get inspired or just get distracted!

Back to work.......... Have a great week-end.

What a Great Saturday

2011-03-19T19:07:00.003-05:00

The sun was out, temperatures are up. Larry took the boys to the park for the day. I was home most of the day alone. I haven't been home alone for ...well, I have no idea how long it's been. I took full advantage of it too. I started the day with good intentions. The plan was to clean my "playroom". You know, put things away all the unused ribbon and other sparklies tossed randomly around the room, into drawers and cubbies. Toss out scraps of paper left laying around, hang the scissor... Oh, who was I kidding? It wasn't going to happen. I did give it some serious thought. Especially, since The challenge over at OPUS this week was "Reach out and get a handful" - The girls asked us to use "bits and bobs" that are still sitting out from our last few projects and make something. That's pretty easy considering, I have stuff from Thanksgiving still sitting out. Once again I was distracted. LOL. I found some paper circles in bright colors that were left over cutouts from something my grandson and made sometime back. I have a hard time throwing things like that away, who knows I might need them for something. I found some button (hidden under a mass of pile paper) from how long ago.. I couldn't say. Everything I needed for Challenge #94 take a look at these:
you can click on the pictures to see them better.

I lifted the basic idea for these cards in the weekly email from Scrapbook Etc. if it wasn't from them it was from one of the many others I subscribe to. Anyway, it was an article showing "easy cards made in 5 minutes" which still took me longer than 5 minutes, do they truly think somebody can make a card in 5 minutes? Shoot it takes me longer than that just to find the scissors!
I ended up getting 3 more made after this picture was taken. 7 cards in 6 hours -- I am on a roll.

Never did get anything put away - I think I made it worse. See for yourself:

The night is still young! I may still get it picked up -- always the optimist.

I hope your day was as productive as mine.

My 1st U-Tube and OPUS Challenge

2011-03-12T15:58:00.076-06:00

The Opus challenge #93 was "Show Us Something New"
This card is my attempt at two new techniques, yes TWO (and it only took me ALL day, good thing I don't work for Hallmark, or I'd be fired for sure.
This first: spray on ink.
I got some Smooch Spritz on clearance, and thought I give them a try... I watch a "how to" video on the web, looked easy enough... I should have known when the girl on the video had a little box build just to use these things, that they are something I should just walk away from..LOL Oh my GOSH - what a mess, I had that stuff sprayed everywhere! I better stick with paper and ink pads, don't think I will use them again.
The second: My first downloaded video.
Over the past few years I have received really cute birthday cards from friends and family that were to cute not to find a way to re-use them. They have these little noise boxes in them, that sing, or talk. I decided to take one apart, and figure out how to put them in one of my own. I've had this little flip share video camera for a while now. I haven't taken the time to really figure out how to download the videos on the computer. I guess I never had a reason too. Until I made this card, I wanted to share with you what it sounds like when you open it.
This is what it looked like inside the Hallmark card after I peeled back the layers, it has a replaceable battery (did they really think people were going to change it?

here's the front with the new spray stuff,

AND the video of the inside ------ drum roll please........

I know it's kinda lame .. I need to work on this video stuff, now that I am somewhat familiar of getting it on the web, I need to concentrate on the content and editing. Oh goody a new hobby LOL.

Well that's it for today.. and thanks for stopping in.

I got a Kindle!

2011-02-26T16:04:00.000-06:00

A few months ago I finally broke down and got myself a Kindle.
And I must say I LOVE it! It goes everywhere with me. My personal library on wheels. Here's an example of why it's so cool - I started reading this 5 book series Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning, and, last night I mean super late last night I finished the 2nd book Bloodfever. You would think that would be enough for one night, nope I could let it go. I needed more.. I didn't have to wait until morning, I didn't have to get dressed, and go out in the bitter cold to get the last 3 books. I had them downloaded and was reading Faefever with in seconds LOL, maybe not the smartest decision I made.. only because the boys were going to get up in less than 4 hours LOL -- now it's 3:30 in the afternoon, I am tired, and my living room may look like world war 3 was fought in it, toys are everywhere, but, have finished yet another chapter in Mac's life..
I managed to pull myself off the couch, and move on in to my playroom, telling myself I need to do something creative while the boys are lost in the war zone. I decided to go blogging.. and low and behold.. the girls at Opus did it again! a challenge just right up my alley.. Challenge #91 -- Well Read (Books, Books, Books)
this week they are asking to use the theme of Books -- LOL LOL and to let imaginations run wild, then share. I couldn't pass this up.... My Kindle:

Sorry girls I could resist. But as readers yourself I'm sure you understand.

Opus Challenge #89 -

2011-02-12T16:51:00.001-06:00

2 post in one day... I am on a roll
Mom said I should post the valentines Curt and made in the Opus Challenge #89, when I seen that the challenge was to "Create some sort of decoration for your home." I did that for Levi already. Since we took custody of the boys we have decorated many spot around the house. This is the hallway outside their bedroom door.. I think this removable vinyl stuff is so cool. We have stuff on door, walls, ceilings. My DH said I get a little carried away sometimes LOL... but the boys love it..

and I do too.
thanks for stopping in. I need to get busy, I have a few more valentines to make before the day is over.
Who know I may post again LOL...

School Valentines

2011-02-12T16:35:00.000-06:00

Boy, I can't believe I haven't posted or even blogged since November..WOW how time flies.

Curt and I have been busy today making valentines for his class. We made 20 of these fun little pencil holders and 15 littler hearts for Levi's daycare class. These were super easy to make, using my expressions and the Doodlebug cart.

Birthday card & a NEW blog challenge

2010-11-20T14:39:00.002-06:00

While checking Opus to see if the card I made qualified for the Sundays challenge I started "lurking" in the other Opus "groupies" blogs and found Hazel's and there she has a link to her NEW Saturday Christmas Theme Challenge. Yep, she is going to start her own challenge beginning January 2011. (something I told mom she ought to do) Go check it out, http://craftyhazelnutschristmaschallenge.blogspot.com/ looks like fun. To start things off she is giving away a chance to win some the paper pack from My Eyes - Christmas Glitter book.
You know me, I became a follower, mom I know you always told not be be a follower but, I can't help myself.

On to Opus Challenge #80: Men Men Men Men Manly Men - like always with Opus my card qualifies. All they asked of us was to create a project with the theme of men. Once again I am so glad Jana and Rosemary don't expect much from their groupies.
Man cards are usually pretty hard for me. I just so happen to have made a birthday card for my wonderful brother-law Rich's 40th birthday. He is an engineering for CSX Railroad, and lucky for me he is a big kid, making this one a lot easier. I still struggled not using glitter or any of that other "girlie" bling I am so fond of.

Here it is:

Thanks for stopping by.

Little Christmas tree boxes

2010-11-06T21:15:00.000-05:00

I am trying to get a jump start on my Christmas projects. I usually wait until the last minute. For some strange reason I think I work better under pressure. The truth is ...I am a procrastinator.
Anyway where was I oh --
I made these little boxes (using Cricut Cart TBBM) with the intention of making 40 for the boys to give to their classmates at Christmas. After making 9, I changed my mind. I think we are going to find something that isn't so time consuming.
LOL, yes I am always looking for the easiest solution.
As I was blog lurking this evening I seen that these cute little boxes were perfect for
the Opus Gluei's challenge #78...Trick or Treat, smell my.... The TRICK is to incorporate a TREAT in the project.

These are filled with plain and peanut M&M's. I wasn't going to fill them up until closer to Christmas. But if I didn't the M&M's would disappear in this house.
Hey - thanks, Jana and Rosemary for another great challenge!
If you haven't already, check out the girls at Opus .

1st Crhistmas card made!!!

2010-11-02T17:40:00.001-05:00

Okay now that it's November, I need to get a start on my Christmas cards.
And here is the 1st of what I hope to be many more......

this is the front of the card, I tried getting a little creative and carried the decorations on to the back

so, there you have it.......... thanks for looking

Halloween goodie bags

2010-10-10T01:03:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the girls at Opus-Gluei and PK Stamps for having a weekly challenge that inspired me to get the goodie bags for the boys' Halloween parties at school finished up.
Opus's challenge is: Make Something, Anything that has to do with Halloween.
PK's challenge is: Fall is in full spring, using the month as inspiration, create a project. The only catch is it can't be a card.
Here's 2 out of the 40 goodie bags I made up today using the MS dippy-goo punch,
and of course "the BUG" (my cricut).

The challenge wasn't the only thing that got me motivate. I just got a sticker machine. Man, I don't know why it has taken me this long to get one, (except I had a 40% off coupon and a gift card burning a hole in my pocket). LOL just put your cut in the tray thingy, turn the handle and WAALAA you got a sticker... no more gluey messes, cool. (it doesn't take much to get me excited).

Now that I have the treat bags finished up, we can get the porch looking Halloweenie, Curt bought some cobwebs and spiders from the dollar store with his allowance he wants to hang out on the porch. I'm guessing the ones in the living room aren't good enough.. and they're the real thing -- oh well what can I say except......

Thanks for stopping by.

Another birthday card

2010-10-04T14:15:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's October already, it seemed like September just got here and now it's gone.
My Gma said when I got older that time would just fly away. I didn't really understand what she was saying then, but, I understand it now.
Yesterday we celebrated the last birthday for the month of September. Mr. Levi turned 2 on the 30th, but it was on a Thursday, and not a good day to get family together. Yesterday was a perfect day, the sun was shining not a cloud in the sky.

here's the birthday boy checking out his cake before the guest arrived.

he is such a sweetie, he has my heart wrapped around his little finger. He is the youngest of my 6 grand kids and I have a feeling he will be the orneriest too!.

This card was made using the Cricut Elmo Party Cart. This cart is such a "happy" one, it has some of the cutest candles, balloons, and other cuts on it. I told myself I didn't need anymore carts, but when I seen this one I could help myself. It just made me smile.

Hey, thanks for stopping by, and have a super week. I am heading off to go blog lurking maybe find a challenge or two.

1 birthday card and 3 challenges!!!

2010-09-25T22:47:00.001-05:00

I just love it when I make one card and I can post it in multi challenges, don't you?

1st Challenge - Mojo Monday #157 Sketch :

2nd Challenge - Peachy Keen Stamps #37-sketch with a twist: it is to create a new card, or layout using this sketch and KRAFT cardstock

and the 3rd - Opus-Gluei Challenge 72 EASE(L) into fall

This is the card I came up with, the coloring is way brighter than it really is. I made the little bow myself too. Mom told me to check out this blog showing how to make a bow with a fork. Instead of a dinner fork, I used our meat server, the bow made with the dinner fork was smaller than I like. I am so happy, you don't know how hard of a time I always had making little bows. In fact I usually ended up buying them. Not anymore! I now have little lots of little bows.

Front view

side view

Okay, back to the card - I think it made all 3 challenges. It's new - came pretty close to both MOJO and KP sketches, the base of the card is made using KRAFT cardstock, it's a EASEL (first one I've ever made) and I used fall colors..

I am giving it to a friend that is celebrating her 50th birthday on Monday.

*** yes SUE this is your card - I know you are lurking... remember what you did to me on my 50th? LOL -- beware...... my friend...beware.. what comes around goes around LOL -- see ya' Monday Suzie , your mom and sister sent me some really good ammunition... LOL

Thank-you MOJO, Peach Keen, Opus and MOM for inspiring me and all you others that peek in.

2 more cards finished - and another Challenge... I'm on a roll!!!

2010-09-11T11:44:00.001-05:00

I finished 2 birthday cards late last night, for the party this afternoon. Nothing like waiting until the last minute. The first one is for my nephew Colton he is celebrating his 4th birthday. I'll post this one first because it is also my submission for the Monday Peachy Keen Challenge #36 Color Combo and sketch.. Here's the Colors and Sketch:

And here's the card I made:

If you have the time jump on over to Peachy Keen Stamps, it's a great site, mom plays with them a lot and she told me to check them out. I do have the their Basic Paper Doll face stamps.. and I love them.

This next card is for my DH's baby brother and Colton's Grand-dad ...
He and Colton share the same day, how cool is that.

the inside of this card says WOOOOO DAWGY...now that's old! LOL

thanks for looking.

Mojo Monday's Challange #155

2010-09-09T22:00:00.000-05:00

I needed some inspiration for an anniversary card, so I decided to use Mojo Monday's #155 sketch it looked like it would be a fun, I liked the idea of a tag. Plus, I've only participated in one other of Mojo's challenges.
Here the sketch:

and here is what I came up with:

The cut was made using the Cricut Cart Happily Ever After.

Thanks Mojo for the sketch.

A very special anniversary card

2010-09-08T21:01:00.002-05:00

This card was made for me and my DH, for our anniversary, by my grandson. I think it is the best card ever.

front

back

He told me he got the idea from the Opus Challenge #70 - Fair Well Summer earlier in week when we were lurking around in a couple of blogs, and I was explaining to him how the different challenges worked and that his Granny and I have even posted in a few of them. He seemed to think it was a cool thing to do, he enjoyed lurking around all the different sites . He told me he needs a blog now. LOL

The challenge was to was to let the colors from the picture inspire you.

I think he did a wonderful job. I think he will be even more excited tomorrow when I show him I posted his card.

Thanks for stopping in

One card - a simple thank-you

2010-09-06T18:41:00.003-05:00

Did your week-end go as fast as mine?

Yesterday we played at the park for most of the day. The boys love to slide, even Grand-dad couldn't resist LOL

Today I manage to get one card made out of the five, that I need for the month of Sept. . I thought I'd post it - I haven't posted anything in a long time. It isn't any thing fancy just a small thank- you for the guys in the machine shop where I work.

I left work early on Wednesday only to find I had a flat tire... and the guys from the shop were more than willing to stop working just to change it for me. I am so thankful to work with a great group of guys. To show my appreciation I made this small thank-you card along with an apple pie. I hope to sneak the pie and card into their breakroom before they take morning break. If I know the shop guys they will enjoy the pie more than a card.. if truth be known I would TOO!!

I also got five months of 2007 scrapped during my five days off... I'm getting it finished slowly..

I just need another five days off.........

Happy September.

Peachy Keen Stamps - Blog Hop

2010-08-30T13:10:00.000-05:00

Okay I know it's been a long time since I have posted.
But today my mom sent me a link to Peachy Keen Stamps she said I needed to check out the new stamps.. and blog hop. LOL does she know I'm at work LOL -- but like a good girl I did what she said. (boss may might not be happy)
Boy - I am glad I did.. those girls are so talented. I got so many neat Halloween ideas. They made me want to go home and get busy
I have been neglecting my hobby for to long. And have decided to make this a short work week.. I just put in for a few days off -- starting this Wednesday Sept 1 I am leaving at 1:30, and won't go back to work until Sept 7th -- lol yippeee

I should get a few projects completed -- or at least I hope too.

Thanks mom for getting me motivated --

Look what I found while blog lurking

2010-06-02T16:59:00.001-05:00

Win this cool Color Cubbie from CPC-- just click here.
It can't be much easier than that....

You can win this plus 3 Copic markers of your choice.I don't have any Copics but this seems like a good reason to get some. I do have lots of other pens that could fill it up.

LOL - you never know what you will find when you spend a few minutes blog lurking!

OPUS challange # 52

2010-04-30T12:23:00.001-05:00

As you all know I have been working on getting my scrapbooks caught up. I am currently working on 2007.. WOOO HOOOO. This has made me neglect the weekly blog challenges not to mention my blog all together.
I was blog lurking yesterday, (things have temp. slowed down at work)and was happy to see the Opus's challenge was "MAKE SOMETHING" .. so here it is.

this is a page from my 2007 scrapbook. The die cuts were made using the Cricut Cart Zooballo. I love this cart.
I also want to say Happy Anniversary to OPUS and thanks for 52 super challenges. If you haven't already you should check them out. Sometimes I think Rosemary and Jana make their challenges easy just for me.

Dairy Queen Blizzards!!

2010-04-22T22:06:00.000-05:00

I am in heaven, LOL
Did you know you Dairy Queen has buy one blizzard and get one for quarter?
Yep until April 26th.. I am eating a mint oreo as we speak. My DH had an errand to run this evening and surprised us with blizzards. I didn't tell him that for lunch I had a Turtle blizzard (my favorite) and yesterday I had to try the new Cappucino Heathbar for lunch, the day before it was a M&M blizzard. Tomorrow I'm thinking Strawberry Cheesecake. The best part, it's only a 7 minute walk from my office to Dairy Cream. Maybe the walk will help keep the calories from going to my hips. At least that is what I am telling myself. Ice cream is my big down fall. I don't think I could sleep at night if I didn't have my ice cream "treat" before going to bed. I think it's hereditary - I bet mom and dad had a bowl of ice cream at 8:00 tonight when they settled down to watch CSI. (Am I right, mom?)
Got to go.... the house is quiet, and the couch is calling my name. I am going flop down with DH, finish my treat, and stare at the TV.
I am such a fitness/health nut..........NOT lol
Good night all, don't forget to get out tomorrow and enjoy a blizzard.
after all you do deserve it

I made my own background!

2010-04-18T20:01:00.000-05:00

I have been looking at all the pretty and creative backgrounds that have been popping up in the craft blogs, and decided I could make my own. I found a website with a great tutorial, Kevin and Amanda's blog, the only problem the tutorial was for Photoshop Suites and I have an older version of Photoshop Elements. I didn't really know to much about it either. I just knew how to crop pictures and make a few changes in them. I didn't understand anything about the layers and extras for editing that was possible with Photoshop Elements . After mom's encouragement I thougth I'd give it a try ... and guess what (after weeks of doing and redoing) I DID IT! I found out there isn't much difference in the two programs, and the tutorial from Kevin and Amanda's blog was super. After figuring out the basics and finding websites that had lots of free embellishment downloads like the Shabby princess , Computer Scrapbook and Digi Scrap Kits this last one has some cute graphic, with a small fee, but shoot, I got the ones I used in my header for $1. I didn't think that was bad. I made a bunch of backgrounds and headers before I was ready to put one on display..
I have figured out how to make my own background paper using a scrapbook program I already had, Scrapbook Factory, I am slowly learning how to make my own embellishments too.
My next project is going to be how to change my fonts in the HTML -- (thanks to another tuturial I found, I don't remember the website off hand. But, it is bookmarked on my computer at work.) I know nothing about changing HTML, unless of course it's copy and paste. I figure if I can change my blog from a 2 column to 3 column, and install a background, I can change the fonts. I just need to see what needs to be changed and how to change it.
This project has taken up all my free time, taking me away from cardmaking, not to mention, I am now behind in my scrapbooking, I don't think I will ever get out of 2007 LOL.. oh well, if it wasn't this it would be something else.

My DH says he never sees my face anymore, because it's stuck in the computer. What he doesn't realize is I bought a laptop just for him - so- I can sit with him in the evening, while he sleeps in front of the TV. We won't event talk about the death grip he has on the remote -- LOL -- men, you got love 'um......

Opus Challenge 41 - Let your LOVE show

2010-02-10T16:56:00.006-06:00

Because we've been snowed in for 2 days, I managed to make a few valentines for the boys to give to their teachers.

Curt and I also made it to level 4 in the New Super Mario Wii game.... boy, what a fun game. It's like the old Mario games except 4 people can play together at the same time, you can work with each other or against on the same screen, it's not all separated like some of the other multi player games. There is also a coin battle, cool game, so cool I got it for our DSi's too. LOL my ADHD made me get it for both systems... LOL at least that's what I tell DH (can't help it, I have a disability).... :)

okay back to the purpose of this post. The valentines were also made for the Opus Challenge 41.
For this challenge we were ask to use the colors pink, white and red in our projects.

This one Curt and I made for his teacher. I just love this paper, it's K&Company "Smitten". It was cut using the Cricut TBBM cart. And filled with Dove chocolate hearts.

I made 10 of these for the teachers at Levi's daycare. The paper is from SEI -- and cut with the cricut using George and India Art cart, I really like this cart too, I wasn't sure if I really "needed" it, but bought it anyway, and glad I did.

funny story about the SEI paper: Mom and I got it from Michael's for a penny, YEP a PENNY!! One day I heard that items in M's clearance would sometimes ring up for a penny..... Naturally, mom and I had to investigate this, and did we ever score. I think we got 38 (maybe more) pads of good card stock for a penny each. We we so excited I know the little check out girl thought we were nuts, not to mention the other people in the story. We were laughing so hard, we couldn't breath.............................Like we needed more paper....
After our big score, I was told that M's isn't suppose to sale items that ring up for a penny, the employees are suppose to throw it away! My niece works there I told her to call me when the trash gets taken out. - Can you say DUMPSTER DIVING!!! - she said she won't call me, because she's afraid I would really do it. Hey, M's has lots of good stuff in the clearance isle.

Got to run - Curt and Mario are calling -- Thanks for peeking in. B

Finally, I finished the "Therapy Room"

2010-02-06T21:45:00.006-06:00

Wow, what at job! I have been organizing and reorganizing this room forever. I didn't know how many supplies (crap) I have managed to collect over the past couple of years. Reorganizing the Therapy Room was one of the many projects I wanted to accomplish while I was off 12 days during Christmas. WOO HOO finally almost 2 months later it is almost done. I say almost because I haven't touch the stash in the closet yet. I'll get to it later (like maybe next year). LOL

A few a my friends have asked to see pictures when it was finished. - They didn't think I would ever get it finished.... well here's a few pix to prove to you guys --- I did it .. I did get it done.. How long it will stay organized is a whole different story.

if you think I went a little over with my wall art you should see the hallway(that's where the littles ones play when I am playing in the Therapy Room) I do love those wall pops. .. maybe I will post pix of it later....

To think I was going to screw 4 towel rods on the wall, when my sweet hubby Larry came in with this wonderful rack he made for me to hang all my punches on.
I painted an old printers drawer for my stamps. I don't stamp, but, one day I might, until then they make good decorations.

looking in from the hallway

This is the Wii Wall -- I love my video games too. what can I say.

this is the heart of the room, the control station, the captains chair, the queen's throne...............

Well that's it... "Grandma's Playroom" the "Therapy Room"

Now that my play space is done, my Dear MOM has started in on her play space.....
I don't think she will every forgive me for getting her started...
Hey mom if you read this, I think when you get done you should post yours too. LOL
Larry will have your punch ready soon.

The tree is up -- gotta love the wall

2009-12-19T23:04:00.005-06:00

I just thought I'd share my tree, Curt and I worked hard on this wall, he said it's his best wall yet. LOL the whole house is decorated with his art work.

All the ornaments were my gma's, the angle on top was the one my DM and DD bought for thier first tree together.......it's been on every tree I've ever had.
I ended up putting the baby gate around the tree (thanks to Mr. Levi), and decided it needed to be decorated too.

I'm off to start cleanning up the therapy room.. I hope I don't get side tracked.

I am sorry -- I have been a bad blogger!!!!

2009-12-17T21:19:00.003-06:00

Time has been flying by! My last post was AUGUST 30th...... wow, I am a bad bad blogger.

My days turn into nights, my nights into weeks, my weeks into months before I know it, it will be a new year.

My Gma always told me that it would happen, I didn't believe her, boy, was she ever right.

The good news is I have 3 more work days and I am off for 12 full days... YIPPEEE
My goal is to get my "therapy room" cleaned out, some cards/crafts made, and post them in some of my favorite online challenges.
I got 8 new cricut cartridges and a storybook binder that I haven't been able to really play with to see what all they can help me create. LOL

My grandsons Curt (5yrs) and Levi (15months) have been living with us on a full time basis. They are probably the biggest reason I have neglected my blog. I don't know how working mothers find time to craft. By the time I get off work, get the kids fed, TV time, story time or Wii time, bathed, and in bed, my brain is mush. DH says it's always been mush, I'm just notice it more now, LOL - he thinks he is funny, he isn't any better because by 8pm every night you can find him in his chair with the remote in his hand asleep... LMAO.

My friend conned me into helping her start up a craft show for our town's Mental Health Dept.. (hoping it will turn into a yearly event) I then conned mom into helping, mom then conned my sister Vik into setting up a booth with her crochet. She does beautiful work
I don't think it was really worth all effort, I like to make stuff just because, not because I have too, it becomes work, and takes away from the fun. I do like sitting around watching and talking to the people. I think mom took some pix, I will try to get copies from her to post in the next 12 days I have off.

OH and I also turned 50.. 4 more years until I can retire.. Oct 01, 2014 *big grin*

C U Online. Bobbi

Opus Gluie Challenge #21

2009-08-30T04:19:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it's 4:30am and I am up posting... I had to get up with a sick baby, and couldn't get back to sleep. So I headed into my "therapy room" and decided to work on my 2007 scrapbook. This layout is of my son Matt, my grandson Curtis at the at of 3, and my son's ex wife Julie. The pictures were taken last June out at mom's house, Curt was so happy he caught a big catfish, but wasn't so happy when Matt released it back into the water.
The Opus Challenge #21 was to create something with water. It was total unplanned, I didn't think I'd get to post for any challenge this week. But here it is...

I love it when things work out like that.
Well, I think I am off to bed, doing a little happy dance that I did manage to get at least one challenge in this week.

thanks for taking the time to peek in.

Nice Surprise

2009-08-23T13:09:00.002-05:00

I returned home late last night from the Scrapbook Expo in St. Charles and what a wonderful surprise to find on the table from Opus Gluei this wonderful little package of goodies just for participating in their 17th Challenge.
THANK YOU!!

Opus Gluie is a fun blog with fun challenges, I love to play along, because their main objective is to have fun and be creative.

You should check them out, I am sure you will love them too.

What a busy month this has been!

2009-08-16T12:41:00.005-05:00

My little niece Nik is getting married September 19th (the day after my 50th bday) Mom and I helped out with her bridal shower. Somehow we were nominated to make the decorations. That is a big job, I think we were cutting, gluing and taping what seemed like forever. Naturally, we waited until the last minute, when we first starting planning it seemed like we had plenty of time, the next thing we knew ---- we had 3 days LOL. I guess it's good that I work better under pressure.

Any way on to the reason I am posting.
I was lurking in some of blogs I like to play in, and looking at the posts for challenges. I am inspired by all the talented women out here in blog land. Then it dawn on me... I can submit a post for the Order of the OPUS - August 9th's - Challenge #19 - Book 'Em!

* you can click on the pictures to get a up close look.

this is the poster I made for the shower, it has a storybook beginning and end.
below are the flower center pieces mom (Fran) made for the tables, we gave them away as little gifts to the game winners. HUGS to you MOM, I would have never gotten them all made if it wasn't for her. I am very blessed to have her as a BBF.

I hope I will get more time to play this week.
Today I am getting "grandma's playroom" in better order, I just got a new flat screen tv for my Wii and the old old old NES. DH is hanging it as I speak. So I decided I needed to reorganize my space. I love to play in all my stuff, its almost like Christmas I found things I've misplaced or forgot about. LOL

got to go, hey thanks for taking the time to peek in every now and then.

Another busy day.... But I manage to get 1 card made for 4 challenges

2009-07-25T23:51:00.008-05:00

I didn't get to really sit down to play this evening until almost 8:30.
After dinner, dishes, bathed both kids, and got them tucked snugly into bed, then it's grandma time.. I hide in my little space to cut, glue, and create. I call it therapy.

Tonight I managed to get one card made but it fits into four different challenges.

#1- Sunday: Order of the OPUS GLUIES's challenge was Christmas in July. That's a snowflake in the center, the inside says Seasons Greetings

#2- Monday: Mojo Monday's was to use the follow sketch for inspiration:

minus the bow off to the side, I think it passes. This is my first time posting for MoJo Mondays too.

#3- Wednesday: 365 - DAY 144 - You Raise Me Up: for this we were to try to incorporate at least two ways to add dimension to our cards. You really can't tell by my picture. The larger tag is raise by pop dots, the snowflake in the center is two layers both raised with pop dots also, and the center has a rhinestones all giving it a 3-d effect.

#4- Thursday: 3Clovers: This challenge was BLING!, we were to use glitter, rhinestones, shinnerz...etc... anything that sparkles. And my card sparkles, lots of glitter paper here that for sure, and a little rhinestone in the center.

Here it is!

Now I have three Christmas cards done.. how about that, I'm on a roll LOL

thanks for peeking in.

BBTB - Indie Art Ice Cream Cone

2009-07-24T22:50:00.002-05:00

My grandson Curtis is going to a birthday party tomorrow and needed a card for a little girl, who's turning 5. He told me he wanted to help me make her a special card. He picked out all the paper and ribbon. He even help load and unload the paper from the cricut. When the time came to put it all together we went into Bitten by the Bug's blog and looked at all the other ice cone card so he could see all the different ways he could lay it out.
This is what he came up with with a little help from gma:

He did most of it on his own.
We didn't get the inside done tonight, little guy pooped out, and had to go watch Blues Clues with Grand-dad...
I think he did a wonderful job. Click on the picture to a good look. for some reason my pictures post small.
Thanks for taking the time to peek in.

365 Day 136 and ICS #25

2009-07-19T11:31:00.007-05:00

This is for 2 challenges: 365's Tuesday July 14th challenge.
For this challenge we were to use only black, white and red on our cards.
and ICSketches #25 below:

Here's what I came up with--
the outside:

the inside:

I know it's a little late, but being late kinda' goes with the card....
and I didn't even plan it that way.....
let me know what you think,
and thanks for peeking in.

2 Challenges in 1

2009-07-18T20:56:00.002-05:00

It seems like forever since the last time I posted.

This card can be combined for 2 different challenge
365's day 134: Super Sketchy Sunday

and 3 Clovers #22: Christmas in July

the trees were cut using the Cricut JOS cart. I have no idea what the paper is, I have so much paper I gave up trying to remember what's what. LOL

and I have a Christmas card already only 40 or so more to go...

thanks for peeking in, got to go, my house is quite, kids are all in bed and I'm in the mood to make a few cards. Who knows maybe I'll even sneak in a new post before morning.

Thanks for peeking in.

It's only Monday and I've completed the a challenge for Order of the OPUS

2009-07-06T20:48:00.009-05:00

Boy it seems like forever since I manage time to post. I was checking out some of the challenges for this week, and printing a few off, thinking I might have time this week to complete a few.
I clicked on in to Order of the Opus Gluei...

Sunday July 5th - Challenge #16 - Picture Play: this week's challenge is a bit different, play with your pictures digitally

This is right up my alley, I love to play and manipulate my pictures.

I had a hard time decided which pictures I wanted to post, so I decided I would post the following two..
both are from a trip my DH and I took with mom and dad to Williamsburg VA in May 2006
This first one is of a shoemaker, who was demonstrating how shoes were made, and the style of the time. As he was talking all I could think about was the story about the Shoemaker and his elves.

so how could I resist when I was putting my scrapbook together. If you take a close look you can see I took a picture of some old guy off the corner cabinet and add one of me. LOL

This next one is at the Courthouse, during a reinactment of the arrival of the Govenor, men of the court were stepping out to great him, while this was going on, mom and I had been talking about the wigs the men had to wear.
When I got to looking at the pictures I seen this one and found the one of mom patting the wall of an old church, and again how could I not cut out the church and let her touch that mans wig.

did you noticed I used the same picture of mom as I did in the picture of the shoemaker?
This is so much fun, I have a few pictures some people didn't even notice I added items. Its fun to see how people react when something it the picture just looks a little off. LOL
It's kinda like messing with history, imagine when my great grandkid are going through old pictures like we all do, and they stubble across one, what kind of reaction will they have?? LOL

This is a fun challenge, and it nice to know I am not the only one that like to mess with pictures.
I hope other post with picture manipulations too.
FYI - if you click on the pictures you can see them full size.
Thanks for peeking in.

Another card - 4 Challenges

2009-06-26T23:09:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday.

Every morning before settle into my daily work routine, (I hope my boss doesn't fine out),I go to my favorite challenge blogs and print the challenges for that day or week which ever it might be. My personal challenge is by the end of the week to have at least one card made for one challenge. It seems that my one card will fit into at least 2 of them if not more. Tonight this card fits into 4! How cool is that??

1st challenge: 365- Day 114 - Lovin' Lavender: make lavender the dominate color.

2nd challenge: CaardVarks: Create a window card. It must be a *NEW* creation. It is my own pattern I created it using the Cricut Design Studio and the George Cart.

3rd challenge: Pile it on - Challenge #3 - Let's see some PURPLE! and at least one other challenge.

this is also my first time posting in CaardVarks and Pile it on. I have been lurking both of them for some time now. I am impressed once again with all the talent and creative in these card blogs.

and the 4th challenge: ICSketches #22:

this challenge blog always have great sketches to help get my creative juices moving.

I just noticed I don't have a band or something on the lower bottom -- hummmm

oh well here it is anyways:

I haven't added a sentiment yet, not sure what it's for, all I know is I think it's pretty. Purple just happens to be one of my favorite colors.

In the center of the circle in the inside is a large lavender heart shaped crystal. The picture doesn't really show it very well. I should have taken a better picture of the inside, I guess I still can and post it later.

well that's it for tonight.

Thanks for looking. B

365 Challenge Day 113 - Super Sketchy Sunday

2009-06-22T21:29:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it, it's only Monday I have actually completed a card challenge...
below is a copy of the sketch to be used as inspiration

This is what I came up with:

I am pleased with how it turned out. This one is for my neice's wedding shower in August. Her colors are blue and white.
The white on this card is a satin paper I found on clearance at Michael's, the rest is from my scrap pile (which is a big pile). I hate throwing away anything I might be able to reuse. Anyway, the cuts are from the "Cricut" Beyond Birthday cartridge.
Thx for taking the time to peek in ... I'm off to do some blog lurking.. who knows I might find another challenge or two.............:)

This is the way to do it, 3 cards 6 challenges

2009-06-20T19:28:00.009-05:00

I hope everybody is having or had a nice weekend. I know I did.

I managed to get 3 cards made last night for a some of the weekly challenges I lurk around in. I still have 3 more I'd like to get made, but I don't see that happening. I'm happy I got these 3 made.

this first card is for the 3 Clovers Thursday Challenge #18: No Layer Card- take a piece of cardstock, fold it in half...stamp and add embellishments...NO More paper or card stock

This is what I ended up with

Card 2: is for 3 different challenges:

ICSketch #21

365-Day 107 - So Girly: the word "GIRL" had to be used somewhere on the card and - very girly

365-Day 111 - Say it with Stripes: it had to be bold colors and striped

This is it, I think I hit it on all 3. What do you think?

Card #3 is for 2 more challenges:

Order of the Opus Challenge #13- How does your Garden Grow?: capture something representing GROWTH.

365-Day 109-Color Scheme: this was to use 5 colors throughout the card: green, yellow, orange, brown and aqua and it had to be feminine

here it is:

I don't think the pix do them justice, somehow they lost the sparkle. I think I need play with the settings or maybe the lighting when I take them. I was told there is a trick to taking them, instead of point and click, (that's what I do). Looks like I have a new project ..... just what I need I just dicovered you can click on the pictures to get a bigger view. that's cool.....learn something new everyday

Another day and still no cards were made.

2009-06-13T21:46:00.003-05:00

Today my plan was to do minor housework, (who am I kidding), settle in to make a few cards, post in a challenge or two.
Remember how I said I am easily side tracked. It happened once again...
(no surprise there)
I went to Bloomington IL to shop for things I "need" ... okay...I think I need.
My friend Janet came by about 8:30, with coupons in hand, we loaded the grand baby in the car and were off. The best part, Michael's had a few of the Martha Steward border punches ( I "need), I happen to have plenty of coupons, (thanks to http://scrappincricut.blogspot.com/ for taking the time to post them) the sweet cashier rang each one up separately so I could get 50% off on all 3 of them along the much needed adhesive. How nice was that? The Michael's I usually go to would have never let me do that. No way, I would have had to run in and out of the store 3 times. LOL
Anyway, we hit the all the bead, (Janet makes beautiful jewelry), craft and thrift stores Bloomington has. By the time we got home at 3:45 I manage to add 8 punches, mass quantity of buttons, ribbons, stickers, bow and O' lets not forget paper to my "collection".
I managed to add to mom "collection" too. Unknown to her she will be getting a small bag of "candy".
That's why I'm the GOOD daughter :) (right mom?)
Tomorrow, I am taking the grand-kids over to Great Granni-Fran's for a visit, and to update the software on my Wii -- it doesn't look good for crafting tomorrow either.......;)

My 1st Blogger AWARD

2009-06-09T12:40:00.003-05:00

How cool is this.
Thanks Mom :)
I know I'm suppose to link sites, list things, and send it out to 7 others....
BUT, how am I to choose 7 blogs when all of them I lurk around in are great.
so, me being the procrastinator that I am - this is something I will post later.
I promise..
Thanks again Mom (Fran)

3 Challenges in 1 -- HOLY COW!

2009-06-07T19:11:00.005-05:00

I started this card for the ICSketches #19
then I looked at the 3 Clovers Thursday Challenge #16
it is to use "hardware:... anything metal. (brads even)
So, heck, challenge #11 for Order of the Opus was Sun/Sunshine - and I figured why not post for it too, it's not technically a sun but a sun-flower, and a day late.. but that's okay with me.
I'm just happy I posted 2 cards today in 4 challenges. Yippee

Day 99 - Super Sketchy Sunday

2009-06-07T14:39:00.003-05:00

Can you believe it, I posted for a challenge already this week.
The 365 challenge for today was to use the following sketch for inspiration

Here's what I came up with

I used Black Magic paper and the Cuttlebug embossing folder. This paper is really cool, it has a color core and all you have to do is sand off the black layer to reveal the color.

5th birthday

2009-06-07T14:22:00.005-05:00

As I promised earlier this week I'd post a picture of the party
This is the birthday boy, more than happy to pose for Gma.

Here is the HB banner that flew proudly in the back yard
both banner and poster are still happily on display in his bedroom.

Wow can you believe it's JUNE already..

2009-06-01T12:54:00.002-05:00

I hope you had a good weekend.

I was planning to post pictures from my grandson Curt's 5th birthday party that I hosted Sunday. (I want you to see the decorations I made using my bug)
But, I looked in my purse just now --- I left the camera at home..ugh - I guess I'll post them later.

Until then I guess I will go blog lurking for the rest of my lunch hour.

Check out the blog candy being offered by Caique.. I just happend to stumble across.
We can all use a little candy, right?

I promise to have the party pictures posted tomorrow...... until then
Have a WONDERFUL day.

3 column blog

2009-05-26T12:54:00.002-05:00

Yipeee!! mom and I finally figured out how to change our blog template into 3 columns. It wasn't as hard as I thought thanks to LawrnsDesigns (not sure it this is the correct name, I will check when I get home.)Yes I am playing at work LOL. Anyway
Now our big project is going to figure out how to make cool looking templates and embellishments, using the photo and scrapbook programs we already have... If you really want to know the truth, I am letting mom do most of the work. Once she gets it figured out, she can show me. LOL LOL she is retired and has lots of free time - right mom? I LOVE YOU! hehehheheheh
I best get back to work or I will have lots of free time too.. hummmmm I might want to rethink that...... okay I'm going back to work.

I just wanted to stop in and say HI, and I hope everybody had a great weekend.

Where is the time going?

2009-05-24T12:41:00.010-05:00

It's been almost 10 days since my last post. It doesn't seem like it, all my days just run into each other. I have made a few cards, am truly sad to say none for the 365 challenge.
I don't think a daily challenge is for me. I just can't keep up, and I hate to fall behind on anything.
What I have decided to do, is just post what I have made, not worry about keeping up with 365 daily.
I am still going to make note of the challenges, but make the cards on my own time. That will be a challenge in it's self.
I really love all the different and wonderful ideas the ladies have posted, so I will be lurking in and out of the site daily.
With that being said take a look of what I have been working on.

This bee card is one of my favorites. I copied the .cut file from the cricut MB, I'm not sure who made the original, I'd like to say thanks. The bees are from the Pooh cart and are attached with thin jewelry wire to make them appear in air. I think it turned out pretty good. It was a fun and fast one to make too.

hello friend was made while I was on vacation with mom. I made the cuts from the WIMG cart, paper is all scraps.

next is a simple Happy Birthday card, the HB cut was one I made using the George Cart, the gift cut is from Christmas Cheer.

last but not least. The butterfly, I bought the DCWV Nana's Kids stack, I truly LOVE the bright and colorful paper designs in this stack. It has 2 full sheets of butterfly and flowers in neat little squares, all I needed to do was cut and decorate them for fast fun cards. I think they will be great for 'just because cards".

Thanks for stopping by.
Enjoy your week... I know I will.
My grandson Curt has his first TBall game Tuesday, I think I am more excited than he is. -- I let you all know how it goes.

OH MY GOODNESS!!!

2009-05-15T13:39:00.005-05:00

I just looked at all the 365 challenges' for this week. I am going to be busy this weekend. I don't know how all you ladies keep up. This week has just flown by. I have a very busy home schedule right now, sometimes I don't know if I am coming or going. For the past few months I have been keeping my youngest grandbabies, I had forgotten how hard it is, getting them up, fed and dressed in the morning. I don't think I have been to work on time in the past 5 months. And in the evening, picking them up from daycare, feeding, bathing and bedtime... I am worn out by 9pm.
Last night I did get 4 graduation cards made for a co-worker, she is needed them for her niece and nephews. I used the same design for them as the one I posted. Just in their school's colors.

Okay enough of that, I have cards to make. To bad I'm at work..
To all my followers, I am hoping to have new cards posted tomorrow evening.

Day 69- Glad for the Grad

2009-05-09T23:12:00.004-05:00

today's challenge -create a graduation card-
I have 2 granddaughters graduation this year.
This is Alyson's card it's so hard to believe she is graduating High School! They grow up so fast.
She is leaving our local school system and Curt is going in to kindergarten

Kassidy is graduating 8th grade. I'll post her card later.

Thanks for looking

Day 67 - Think Pink

2009-05-09T22:46:00.001-05:00

The challenge for Wednesday, May 6th was Think Pink - A whole lot of pink
this is pretty easy for me, pink is one of my favorite colors. I decided not to add a sentiment to this card. I like to have a few generic cards just to have on hand, 'cause you never know when you might need one.

The paper is DCWV Blossoms and Butterfly and Bazzill Bling.

Hope you like it, thanks for looking

Day 66 - A Certain Sentiment #2

2009-05-09T00:22:00.005-05:00

I'm doing good with personal challenge of posting all weeks cards by 11:59 pm this saturday -- 2 cards in 1 evening, posted before midnight is pretty good.

Tuesday May 5, 2009 the 365 challenge is to use this sentiment
"you are there, and I am here"
I made this for my oldest sister Terri's birthday. I copy the map inserts from Mapquest.com, the candles were cut using the Cuttle Bug, paper was scraps.

this is the outstide
this is the inside

once again thanks for looking

I like to say thanks for all the wonderful comments I have gotten on my cards.
I am new to blogging and I haven't figure out how to reply to the comments, or even if I am suppose to... so thanks again.

** to my 4 (yes 4 count them) followers -- I hope you don't expect to much out of me, thanks for following, it's cool I've never had a following before.

Day 65 - Mother's Day Card

2009-05-08T23:47:00.003-05:00

Okay it's friday time for me to get this weeks cards made for the 365 Challenges.
This is like a challenge inside a challenge. Can I get all six cards made and posted before 11:59pm Saturday night? I think so, no problem, right? ummmm...

Monday May 4, 2009 the challenge is to make a mother's day card.. easy enough.

Mom I know you are going to take a look that's why I am not going to post the inside of the card. You need a little surprise this Sunday.

The picture doesn't do the paper justice. I used Debbie Mumm "Baby Boy" paper with glitter. this stack has some really cute prints.
The bow is a recycle from a box of chocolates. The border punch is Fiskar.
I am giving this information because mom says I should say something other than this is a card. LOL

Thanks for looking

Day 64-Super Sketchy Sunday

2009-05-03T19:52:00.005-05:00

It's Super Sketchy Sunday today for the 365 challenge
we are to follow the sketch shown below..

This is what I came up with. I'm not all that happy with it. It's a little plain.
I've walked away a few times; each time I came back, it looked a little better.
I decided to post it as it is.

Day 63 - Floral Fest

2009-05-03T15:23:00.004-05:00

May 2nd 365 challenge is to include 8 flowers on your card
I cheated and used printed paper, with a little more than 8 flowers.

Thanks for looking

Grandma's little helper

2009-05-03T15:06:00.003-05:00

Today Levi "helped" me make my cards for the 365 day 63 challenge... he likes pretty paper too.

Day 56 - Challenge See Through

2009-05-03T00:12:00.004-05:00

Another late post.
The April 25th challenge: an acrylic (clear) card???? Use it as the card base - front, back, or all - otherwise anything goes.
This was a hard challenge for me, I ended up just using the acrylic for the jar on the top of the card.

agian -- better late than never.

Day 62- Age is Just a Number

2009-05-02T23:22:00.004-05:00

May 1st 365 challenge:
A number should be on the card - a date, age, whatever - but the number should signify the importance of the event.

I made this for my grand-daughters 13th birthday;
I never did give it to her because I was reminded she was turning 14!!

Day 59 - A Certain Sentiment

2009-05-02T22:55:00.005-05:00

365 Tuesday April 28th's challenge was "I miss you" or something similar.

This card was made using the Paper Pups and Walk in my Garden Cricut Carts.
Wow 3 cards posted in 1 day --- I may get caught up yet.
Sorry the picture isn't very good. I think I over cropped.

Day 58 - Something Fishy

2009-05-02T21:13:00.004-05:00

Monday April 27th-challenge 58 for the 365 - was to put at least one image of a fish on the card.

I made a shawdow box card; I call it the fish bowl card. I lifted the idea from a post on the Circut Message board. I don't remember who's but I would like to say thanks. This was a fun card to make.

Day 57 - Super Sketchy Sunday

2009-05-02T20:52:00.004-05:00

I am FINALLY posting the April 26th challenge -- better late than never is all I can say.

Thanks for looking

TO ALL THE LADIES OF 365

2009-04-25T09:56:00.008-05:00

Our mini "retreat" has come to an end :( Mom and I are heading home, I would like to thank all you wonderful ladies for the sweet comments. This is a fun challenge. I am going to try my hardest to play along when I return back to my daily grind. I may not be posting everyday; I will be checking in everyday . My personal challenge is to make time for me, so I can post five cards on Saturday!!

hugs THANKS 2 YOU ALL hugs
** C U online **

**Bobbi**

Day 55 - Recipe Card

2009-04-24T17:19:00.005-05:00

The 365 Challenge for today is to follow this recipe:
1 - 5x5 cardstock
1-4x4 decorative paper
3 embellishments
Alpha Stickers
I don't usually use stickers on my cards; off to Wal-Mart...
this is what I came up with for day 55 .........

the stickers are "Foamies Glitter Stickers" found in the children's crafts.
they are so cute I bought two packs I know I will use them again.

Day 54- Recycled Elements

2009-04-23T21:05:00.003-05:00

Today's 365 daily challenge was to make a card from recycled items. Normally this would have been a breeze; I save most everything I think can be reused for scrapping..only I am not at home this week; mom and I are our mini retreat in Galena, IL. Lucky for me yesterday we went shopping, I bought these really cute earings and some other little treasures. But, check out the nice shopping bag I got! It could not have been more perfect for today's challenge.

I think I am addicted to this blog's challenge just like some of you said would happen :). I can wait to see what's in store for tomorrow. Thanks again for all the nice comments.

Day 53 Fun with Fruit

2009-04-22T17:54:00.002-05:00

When life gives you lemons..... make a card! I made the bee from Pooh and Friends, paper once again was scraps; the straw came from the lounge downstairs... that's what inspired me today :)

Day 52 - Trio Tuesday/Brads, Blossoms & Circles

2009-04-21T18:28:00.002-05:00

This is my first entry for the 365 challenge. Mom and I are a on a mini retreat. She has been submitting a few of her beautiful cards. I didn't think I would have time to make a card everyday, with work and family taking up most my time; but now that I understand the rules, I can play too!

I used the Celebrations cart for the tag and blossom, the paper is all scraps, the brad is Friendly Forest.

yes... I brought most of my craftroom with us Galena, IL; what I didn't bring mom did.

Gift Card

2009-04-18T22:14:00.002-05:00

This is a gift card I think turned out pretty good so I thought I'd post it too.

The cut was from the Christmas Cheer cartridge, paper is DCWV Sweet Stack.

Thanks for looking, if you did look.

Birthday Card

2009-04-18T22:02:00.005-05:00

at the encouragement of my mom I am posting this card I made for my grand-daughter's 14th birthday. The idea was inspired by a card mom made for my niece, I think she got the idea from Susan Blue Robot's blog.. thanks, mom & Susan.

Exploding Box

2009-03-26T14:03:00.005-05:00

My grandson needed something that started or ended with the letter Y for his PreK

show 'n' tell day --- this box is what we came up.

Stand alone pop-up card I made for a co-workers birthday

2009-03-26T13:49:00.004-05:00

I got the idea from the Cricut Message Board - that is a great place to get inspired and find new ideas if you are having a creative block.

2009-03-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

UNDER CONSTRUCTION