LilGreenBugville

What I've been working on

2012-02-01T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
I recently reconnected with a former classmate from school. She has gone through a lot and I decided to make her a journal/mini book to encourage her. There are 6 pages with pockets and the front of each page contains an encouraging scripture. I used Laura Denison's Stack the Deck binding method (LOVE IT!) and her mini was the inspiration for this one. There are two large tags/photo mats in each page--one is punched and one was embellished by using Tim Holtz Doily On the Edge die. Everything was inked. Each page is the same, just different paper, so I'm just posting one pic to show how the pages were constructed. I used 6X9 inch envelopes as the base for the pages.

Hope you like it!

The cover

Here is one of the pages:

I also used my hand-dyed ribbons to wrap the spine and they are tied in bows.

Thanks for visiting and have a wonderful day!

Thanks so much!

2012-01-22T09:03:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much to those of you who have contacted me about this project! I really appreciate ALL of you! And thank you to those who have commented! Due to requests for more pages, I am posting a couple more for you today. I hope you are all having fun with this! I've sure had fun creating and sharing with all of you!

http://www.mediafire.com/?4tonx12j8bx728g

http://www.mediafire.com/?5d4mnyam7xayd8e

And, as a bonus, here's a sweet pocket for a tag.

http://www.mediafire.com/?2gg4pr1lu4bk3fr

Enjoy!!

More goodies for you to download!

2012-01-21T16:12:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
Well, today I have the last two downloads for the book. I didn't want to include too many pages since there are so many ways to bind the book. If you are using binding rings, a Bind It All or a Cinch, you can probably add more pages with no problem. Today the download is for a page with a different type of pocket, and a second download with the tag for the pocket and some assorted embellishments for your book. Thanks so much for playing along! I have a Valentine's book in the works, so check back for that!

Hugs!

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?6nt97jw78ur6495
http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?qoutapx6pxa9vkk

I'd love to see your finished books!!! Have fun!

A different style of envelope page!

2012-01-18T20:05:00.000-08:00

OK, here is another element for your book. This one is an envelope page. The binding portion is part of the envelope, so all you have to do is cut, ink and assemble. Easy Peasy!! Have fun!!

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?2qd46g827iu6aah

What do you think?

2012-01-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

How are you liking the book so far?? I hope you are enjoying taking this journey with me. I'm having a blast creating this for you. Today's element is a simple double-sided page, but I think it looks cool. I think it lends itself well to journaling and embellishing. Just cut it out, ink the edges, fold on the line and glue the two sides together! Easy peasy! Here ya go!

http://www.mediafire.com/?g7uvm1xur8u1r6o

Have fun with it!

Next elements ready for download! WOOHOO!!

2012-01-16T14:49:00.000-08:00

Are we having fun yet??? I know I sure am!! This is really a hoot! I'm learning SOOO much, and it's made even more fun because I have you playing along with me!!! Thank you so much!! Today's pages are diagonal pocket pages with tags. You will have two files to download for today. Any questions, as always, feel free to ask! Have fun!! (The first file is the pages, the second is the corner pockets and tags.)

http://www.mediafire.com/?84czgp3xy64vgl0
http://www.mediafire.com/?c15755iojw887p5

A few things I need you to know!!

2012-01-16T01:13:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
I just wanted to say that the books you are creating are your own! So, feel free to make them how YOU want them!!! For instance, I wanted the binding edge of my envelope page a little fancier, so I used a Martha Stewart punch to punch the edges and I like it much better. I am also considering cutting my front and back covers apart and gluing them to chipboard for durability and binding it with my Bind It All. What I am trying to say is that I want you to think of the elements as a "jumping off point"--as inspiration. Please feel free to add your own special touches and style and, most importantly, have fun with it and make it your own. I would love to see what you create!!! I have more interesting pages for your books in the works!! HAVE FUN!!

Hugs!

Here's your first element for your book!

2012-01-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday, everyone!
Today, I have the first element for the inside of your book. I hope you all liked the cover. I didn't put a title on it so that you can title it as you wish. Today's element is an envelope page! In addition to your adhesive, for today's page, you will need two eyelets and some twine, string, or embroidery floss. If you don't have those things, go ahead and make the page anyway and create your own closure of choice. (The eyelets and string are for the envelope closure.) I'm using this as the first page of my book, but feel free to put your pages and elements in any order you wish! Click the link below to get the file for the first page! WOOWEE!! This is FUN!!

http://www.mediafire.com/?ai5ulvy33x42we9

PS This is a LARGE file. If you have difficulties downloading, please let me know. I may have to zip it if it is too large.

UH OH!

2012-01-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

Something went screwy with the PDF conversion, so the original linked file may or may not print out correctly. It should be corrected now and here is the new link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?q5mp838129dbf44

Sorry about that! I THOUGHT I had checked everything!! Told ya, I'm learnin!

Another FREE GIFT for everyone!!

2012-01-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
I hope you are having a fabulous new year! I am learning some new things, which always makes me smile!! I hope you will be as excited as I am about this new endeavor because it involves a gift for all of you!! I had so much fun giving gifts in December that I decided to start the new year off the very same way!! So, the gift I have for ALL of you this month is a digital/hybrid mini album!! The cover is available for download now, then every few days, I will give you another free element for your book!! How's that sound?? Fun, huh?? For the cover, all you have to do is print it out on cardstock, cut it out (it's all one piece that includes the front and back cover and space for binding), fold in the center following the green line, ink your edges with your favorite ink color (based on the colors in the cover, I am using either Frayed Burlap or Gathered Twigs, but feel free to use your favorite!), and your cover will be ready. Just download the file and print, and you are ready to go!

http://www.mediafire.com/?q5mp838129dbf44

This project is totally free, but please don't share the file with others or claim my work as your own. It is protected by my copyright. Anyone who would like the project is free to download it from me. Wish I didn't have to put this disclaimer on here, but that's the world we live in these days!!! Hope you decide to play along and have some fun with this! Remember, this is my very first project of this type, so I will likely make some mistakes, but I will do my very best
And, if you have a moment, please comment and let me know what you think!!
Blessings and hugs!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to say how grateful I am for all of you who follow and visit my blog!! I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of my blog visitors and followers the Merriest of Christmases, stars for wishes and mistletoe kisses! Also, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanza, or whatever holiday you observe. My prayer is that the New Year will bring opportunities to create and share!

Blessings and hugs to all!

Busy Christmas Time

2011-12-08T23:10:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
If you have emailed me with your shipping information, your gift is on its' way!! If you have not yet sent me your address, please go ahead and do so! However, I am suspending the shipping of gifts until after Christmas. I stood in line for a LONG time today to send out gifts to the last two addresses I received, and have so much to do right now. So, I hope you won't mind waiting a bit for your gift if you haven't yet contacted me. Rest assured, you WILL receive a gift if you commented on my Thankful giveaway post and you send me your mailing address.

Merry Christmas, everyone!!

Hugs!

Still waiting to hear from some of you!!

2011-12-03T11:55:00.000-08:00

I have packages all ready to send out, including Penny's. If you have emailed me your address, your prizes have been shipped. I'd love to send gifts to the rest of you who posted comments on the Thankful giveaway. All you have to do is send me your address!! Just my little way of letting you know I am thankful for and appreciate each and every one of you!!

Blessings and hugs!

YOOHOO!! Penny, where are you???

2011-11-30T09:48:00.000-08:00

Penny, you won!!! I need your mailing address so I can send you your prize!! If anyone knows Penny or has contact with her, would you mind telling her she won and to send me her addresss??

Thanks so much!

Hugs!

Interesting Phenomenon

2011-11-28T03:04:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
This post will be a slight departure from the norm for me. I just had to share a couple of pictures my hubby took today of an interesting phenomenon where we live. Over the last year or so, a large solar energy farm was constructed just outside of town. The tower you see in the pictures is evidently some type of solar concentrator, for lack of a better word. It is surrounded by several acres of huge mirrors pointed skyward. These mirrors reflect sunlight onto this tower. An employee told my husband that birds that fly through the reflected rays are killed instantly. On days with higher humidity, there are rainbow colors in the rays. We just find this very interesting and thought you might like to see for yourself. We think it looks like an angel, so we call it our solar angel. Hope you enjoy the pics.

The beam of light you see shooting out to the left hand side of the tower indicates to the employees that a mirror is out of adjustment. Ever seen anything like this in your neighborhood?

If you'd like to know more about this solar project, you can see construction footage, etc, at this link:

http://gigaom.com/cleantech/solar-powered-oil-recovery-plant-starts-up-video-photos/

WINNER!!!

2011-11-26T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone!!

The winner of the Thankful giveaway is:

PENNY
I am grateful for my family. My grandchildren, DH, DS, DD, siblings, mom and all the extended family. Also grateful for all my friends. I am very grateful to my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who has loved me and blessed me so much.

Congratulations, Penny!! Please send me your mailing information and I'll get your prize on its way to you.

SURPRISE!!!!! EVERYONE IS A WINNER!!!!! That's right!!! There are 15 of you!!!! Please send me your mailing information if you are one of the 15 folks who posted a comment during the giveaway period and ALL 15 of you will get a prize!!!! You all inspired me so much with your thankful comments that I just couldn't pick one winner, so everyone wins!!! Just my small way of saying THANK YOU and bless you!! You all mean so much to me!! And, it's the season of giving, so this is my small way of showing my appreciation to my fabulous blog followers!!

So, send me your mailing information and your prize will be on its way!!!

Blessings and hugs!!

Another give-away coming!!

2011-11-25T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!!
It's November already!! Time to start thinking about what you are most grateful for!! This will be another mystery give-away, but trust me! It will be well worth your time to leave a comment!! Just ask Janice A!! To be entered to win, simply leave a comment under this post sharing something you are grateful for. I will pick the winner at 9pm on Black Friday using random.org.

To get things started, I would like to say that:

I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF YOU!! I appreciate you hanging in there with me so much!! I know I sometimes go a long time between posts and I'm sorry, but between my own health issues and helping out my 81 year old parents, I am often quite busy. But please just know that I do care for and appreciate every one of you!!

Grateful hugs!!!

OK! Now it's your turn!!

A HUGE thanks to our military and our veterans!

2011-11-11T14:41:00.000-08:00

Today I am reminded how grateful I am for those presently serving the cause of freedom around the world and for our veterans, and those who paid the ultimate price. Freedom isn't free and I am especially grateful to live in a country where, regardless of its' many problems, is still the greatest country on earth!

Wanna see what JaniceA won???

2011-10-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

OK, three stamp sets, Webster's Pages Florettes, Making Memories Halloween tiles, stickers, Mary Englebreit chipboard album, two packages of Webster's Pages Bloomers, Making Memories Toil and Trouble Trim pack, Prima Got Flowers milk bottle (Valentine), Making Memories chipboard alpha, Making Memories Halloween puffy stickers, Glitter Thickers and Love you saying, Making Memories glitter Halloween stickers, layered chipboard stickers, Vellum phrases, acrylic flip album, Webster's Pages "Threads" embellishments, Webster's Pages "Buttons and Twine" pack, 7 Gypsies Complete Border Punch Kit, Michael's coasters and journal, and 2012 Calendar kit.

JaniceA, I'm still waiting for your mailing info!

Happy World Card Making Day!!

2011-10-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Today is World Card Making Day! So, what are YOU working on??? I hope to make a couple of cards and post them before the day is over. I'm challenging myself to pull out some seldom-used items and USE them!! Think I can do it? Hope so!! I'd love to know what all of you are working on today!

Blessings and hugs!!
Linda
PS Still waiting for mailing info from JaniceA

CONGRATULATIONS, JANICE A!!

2011-10-01T00:04:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
HUGE thanks to everyone who participated in my giveaway. The winner is JaniceA. I have contacted Janice through the email address provided. I'll be doing another giveaway soon, so if you didn't win this time, please try again!!!

Blessings and hugs!
Linda

IT'S A GIVE-AWAY!! WOOHOO!!!

2011-09-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

OK, everyone! As promised, I'm ready for you to start leaving your comments for another giveaway!! I don't have everything that's in this giveaway photographed just yet, but TRUST ME!! You want this!!! I will tell you that it includes at LEAST two complete stamp sets, embellishments by Webster's Pages, some Prima goodness, etc!! It's the good stuff!!! You have until 9pm PST September 30, 2011 to enter. Please, only one comment per person. I'll be posting pictures of the goodies soon, but in the meantime, start leaving your comments for your chance to win!!

Hugs!

NOTE: This post shows a date of 9/30 only so it will stay at the top until the winner is chosen

Acrylic album!

2011-09-16T01:38:00.000-07:00

Just added an acrylic album to the box!!! There's LOTS of stuff in there!!

More goodies going in the box today!!

2011-09-14T18:22:00.001-07:00

OK, today I added a 7 Gypsies border punch set and another stamp set!!! The box is starting to fill up!!

Adding Goodies to the prize box!

2011-09-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

First off, let us all remember the victims of 9/11/01. Take some time today to reflect on the lives that were lost and those that were forever changed on that horrible day. Let us NEVER forget!

In happier news, I'm adding goodies to the prize box today!! WOOHOO!!!

Hate to say this but there's another delay in the giveaway!

2011-08-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry, everyone, to postpone the giveaway again, but my 17 year old grandson is hospitalized with a very serious and dangerous problem. They transported him by ambulance yesterday to a hospital in the bay area where they have more specialists. To say that we are all concerned, worried and praying hard is the understatement of the decade. If you are so inclined, please say a prayer for our sweet Cole. He's an awesome young man and we love him beyond words.

Hugs to all!
Linda

Whew! What a summer!!!

2011-08-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

OK, summer is winding down, schools are starting up again and cool weather can't be far behind! I'm so ready for cooler temps! As promised, I am putting together another HUGE giveaway. Details to be posted very soon. You won't want to miss this one!!!! Thanks for sticking with me and visiting my blog!!

Blessings and hugs!
Linda

Happy Mother's Day!!

2011-05-08T16:31:00.001-07:00

Hi, everyone,
Just wanted to pop in and wish you all a Happy Mother's Day. Hope you are spending your day doing something you love!

Hugs!

My paper rose bouquet!

2011-04-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
First off, HUGE thanks to JaniceA on the Cricut Circle mb for sharing her roses and reminding me about these!! To create my version, I used the 5-petal flower on the Mother's Day Bouquet cartridge, cut at 3.5 inches on my Imagine machine. Once all the petals were cut, I inked the edges with Distress Ink in Barn Door, Spun Sugar, Worn Lipstick and Rusty Hinge. Now, I live in a little town an hour from the nearest craft store of any kind and I had a dilemma once the flowers were done and how to attach stems. Lightbulb moment! Went to the little Dollar Tree store here in town where they sell bouquets of silk roses for $1. Purchased a couple of those along with some silk baby's breath. Pulled the silk roses off the stems. Removed the green plastic piece from the bottom of their silk roses and glued them to the bottom of my paper roses, then stuck the stem through that and the bottom of the rose and my roses, stems and leaves were in place. So fast and easy to fnish them this way instead of figuring out how to wrap skewers for stems plus cut paper leaves then shape and ink them. What do you think of my paper bouquet???

Hugs!

Forgot to mention, I plan to wrap the vase and add a big, puffy bow like the florists use.

Trying to get my Mojo back!!

2011-04-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
I've really been in a creative slump and trying desperately to claw my way up and out of it!! I did manage to make a couple of much-needed get well cards today and thought I would share. I've been experimenting with my new Cricut cartridges and these two cards are the result. Hope you enjoy!!!

Blessings and hugs!!

Cricut Expression 2 Give-Away at Everyday Cricut!

2011-04-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
Are you all excited about the launch of the new Cricut Expression2? Want a chance to WIN one of your very own???

http://www.cricutholiday.com/

Click on the link for details!!

Hugs!

Inkjet Printable Shrinky Dinks in the Cricut Imagine! Who knew??

2011-04-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

OK, did some of you know that you could do this??? If so, why didn't someone tell ME??? haha I am so thrilled with how these came out. The printing is perfectly detailed and the Shrinky Dinks cut like a charm setting the multi-cut on 3 or 4. They popped right out of the sheet and I'm so happy with the vibrant colors and the detail. I think my favorite is the little bird on the perch. The cut outs in it make it even more detailed. I cut mine at 3 inches, but it really depends on what you want the finished size of your charm to be. I was able to get everything but the butterfly out of one sheet. So, if you haven't tried this, you need to get yourself some Shrinky Dinks and go to town!!! You can use a coupon on them at Michael's, which brings them down to around a buck a sheet. Too fun!!

Without further ado, here's the pic:

What do you think???

NOTE: No, I haven't forgotten about the promised give-away! It is a work in progress. Hope to post it soon!!

Hugs!

No foolin'!! There's another giveaway coming!!!

2011-04-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!!!
Just giving a heads-up that I'm putting together another big giveaway!!! Hope to have details up next week!!! Thanks for stopping by!!

Hugs!

My tiles for the Reece's Rainbow fund raiser hosted by Marion Smith

2011-03-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
I mentioned in an earlier post about Marion Smith's fundraiser for Reece's Rainbow, a Christian charity that helps people adopt special needs children. I have my four tiles finished and ready to send off to Marion, so I thought I would share them with you here first. What do you think???
Hugs!

Birthday projects for a friend

2011-03-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Thought I would share some pics of a couple of projects and a card that I just finished for a friend's birthday. It was a challenge to photograph the captured fairy. Shooting a picture of a glass jar and getting a good picture of the contents proved very challenging. I did the best I could. The captured fairy and the card are also my projects for the March challenge over at http://www.sugarsweetpapertreats.blogspot.com/. The romance card on the captured fairy says: "This precious fairy was captured on a chilly spring morning, deep in the lush, green forest above Avila Bay, where she filled her days collecting bits of sea glass from the local beach. She is a shy little nymph, who prefers to keep her face turned away from the outside world. She has remained silent, therefore, I have been unable to determine her name. Perhaps you will be able to find it out." The bottom of the jar is embellished with moss and bits of sea glass. The lid is covered with muslin fabric, which was stencilled using a paper doily and Vintage Photo distress ink. The same fairy stamp was used on the lid and on the romance card. The third item is a wall decor piece., created from items from Crafty Secrets. Thanks for dropping by my blog today and if you like my projects, please feel free to leave a comment!

Blessings and hugs!
Linda

WINNER!!! lanejoy1@windstream.net

2011-03-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, lanejoy1!! You are the winner of my blog candy giveaway! Please contact me with your mailing info so I can get your prize package in the mail to you!

Thanks SOOO much, everyone, for participating and I will be doing another giveaway VERY soon!!!

Blessings and hugs!

HUGE blog candy giveaway!!

2011-03-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Finally got my video uploaded! There was just too much stuff to fit into a picture! Simply follow the instructions in the video for your chance to win! Don't laugh because all you see are my hands. I was in my pjs and didn't want to be on camera!! haha

Disclaimer: I am not employed by, sponsored by or in any way affiliated with any of the companies mentioned in this video. I received a question about why this disclaimer is necessary. Unfortunately, this is the letigious world we live in and I have to do this to protect myself.

UPDATE: As is customary with my blog candy giveaways, I am continuing to add yumminess to this prize pack as surprises for the lucky winner!!

UPDATE #2: I have continued to stuff goodies into a flat rate box and don't think I can fit one more thing in there! This box is really stuffed with goodies!!! WOOHOO!! I think the winner will be very happy!
Hugs!

UPDATE #3: OK, friends, I think I have officially DOUBLED the amount of goodies in this candy!! I'm going to have to reinforce the box when I send it because it is literally bursting at the seams!! LOTS of sweetness that isn't in the video.

Proud Great-Grandma strikes again!

2011-03-15T22:54:00.001-07:00

Just have to share one more picture of our precious great grandson, born 3/14/2011.

OK, I tried not to do this, but,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

2011-03-15T01:28:00.000-07:00

I just have to brag and show off my new great-grandson! Yep, great-grandson! And he's actually my second great-grandchild!! I just think he is the sweetest little boy and I'm totally in love with him! Born March 14, weighing in at 8 pounds 4 ounces and 21 inches long. Here he is about an hour after he was born. This was taken right after his first bath. Wide awake and ready to take on the world! Welcome to the world, Baby Shane!! MWA!!

And heartfelt congratulations to Jordan and Jason! You two did good!!!

Hugs!

And to my blog visitors, thanks so much for indulging me and allowing me to share this awesome news!

Marion Smith's Fund Raiser for Reece's Rainbow

2011-03-09T17:06:00.000-08:00

Hello, my crafty friends!!
I was so moved by this fund raiser that I just had to share the concept with all of you! Marion Smith (http://www.apieceofcraft.com/ and also of Prima) is hosting a fund-raiser for Reece's Rainbow, a Christian charity that assists with adoptions of orphans with special needs. It's so easy to participate. Take a 4"X4" piece of chipboard, embellish and grunge it up and send it to Marion. All the 4" X 4" pieces will be made into collages and auctioned off. If we each do a little, together we can do alot!! Marion explains the entire concept in this video. I hope you will find it in your heart to check out the video and consider participating. And even if you can't participate, will you kindly help us spread the word? Thanks so much!!

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13189569

Blessings and hugs!!

Here's what I've been working on. Short video

2011-03-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
This is what I've been working on today. It's a mini for a sick friend to encourage her. Hope you like it!

I forgot to mention in the video that I used the BellaBella stack for the papers and used Pearl, Iridescent Gold and Old Lace Glimmer Mist on all the pages. The wired bling I cut from a garland that M's had on clearance. I kept this mini very simple because I wanted the focus to be on the scriptures themselves and not the embellishments.

Short video!

2011-03-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone and thanks for stopping by my blog today! I have a short video for you today of a project I just finished. I will post it as soon as it is finished uploading.

Check back in a few!
Hugs!

Almost ready!!

2011-02-23T10:08:00.000-08:00

Hi, crafty friends!!
I will be posting my next BIG blog candy give away soon! I had to make a video since I couldn't squeeze everything in to a picture!! So, as soon as my video is done uploading, I'll be posting it so you can start leaving your comments!! It's a lot of stuff!!! The video took over 8 minutes!!!

Check back soon!

Hugs!

Getting ready to post my BIGGEST Blog Candy EVER!!

2011-02-21T23:42:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
I'm just waiting for a couple of items to arrive, then I will be posting my most extravagant, biggest, sweetest blog candy EVER!!!! You definitely won't want to miss this one!!! I'm hoping to have the details and pictures posted by the end of the week!!! This prize package is STUFFED with awesome goodness. There will be 12 X 12 papers, 8 X 8 papers, stamp sets, chipboard, etc, etc. And yes, even a brand new Cricut Cartridge!!! WOOHOO!!!! Make sure you check back often for your chance to win!

Hugs!!

Laura Denison Romantique-inspired box

2011-02-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
Thanks so much for stopping by my little corner of the web today! The project I am posting today is a box I learned from Laura Denison at http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/. Laura is a genius paper designer and I really enjoy her online classes. This box is based on her Romantique box. The paper is from a stack from Hobby Lobby. You can't tell in the pictures, but it is heavily foiled gold and black paper. I used two contrasting papers to create the box and lid. I made the black and gold roses on the top using a method taught by Kathy Orta at http://www.paperphenomenon.blogspot.com/ using the McGill flower molding tools and mat. The flowers were cut with the Cricut Expression using Kathy's Gypsy file. The feet, keyhole, metal corners and hitchpost are by Tim Holtz. The feet come in silver, so I inked them with gold ink from Viva Decor, then distressed them using brown and black Memento ink to make them match the other hardware on the box. The bling is some that I purchased at CHA in January, 2010. It is very sparkly IRL. I love comments, so let me know what you think. This project was difficult to photograph and the colors are much richer in person.
Hugs!

CHA Announcements! Very interesting!

2011-01-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
Have you been like me and glued to Twitter and Facebook for the latest CHA news?? I've even stalked Terri O on CHA-TV!! The most exciting new products for me are the new Cricut Expression 2 and the Cricut Craftroom software. The Expression 2 eliminates the need for keypad overlays and has a color touch screen! Way cool!! And it can cut from the Imagine cartridges, as well as the original Cricut cartridges! It will even have WIFI capabalities with an optional Wifi adapter.This new Cricut will launch on HSN on April 26 and has an MSRP of $399. I don't know for sure, but HSN usually has the same price, but you get a bundle instead of just the machine for the same price. The Cricut Craftroom software will be an online design tool and is in beta testing right now! Cool thing about this?? You can use it anywhere you can connect to the internet and it will be FREE! Who doesn't love free???

So, what are YOU most excited about that was announced at CHA so far???

Hugs!

So excited!!!

2011-01-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone!
Thanks for stopping by! I am excited because, as some of you know, I'm a "kitchen table" crafter and have never really had a dedicated place to craft. While that is still the case, at least I am getting my supplies more organized, thanks to a BUNCH of JetMax cubes that my sweet husband has been assembling for me! I have a wonderful, heavy duty entertainment system type cabinet that my dad built for me years ago. It has always held stereo components. Now that most of those components are no longer used, I got rid of all of that and am converting the cabinet into storage for my craft supplies. What a big job!!! But it will be so worth it once it is done and I can find what I'm looking for!!! I have a long ways to go to be finished, but once I am, I will post a pic for you. I'm loving these cubes because no matter which one I'm using, it seems to hold things perfectly, size-wise! I had a hodge-podge of different types of containers for various items before and it's going to be so much nicer to have everything at my fingertips and all in the same type of storage!!

OK, gotta get back to it!!

Hugs!

I am BEYOND SAD!!!

2011-01-26T11:57:00.000-08:00

Well, my crafty friends,
Something I have been worried about has come to pass. According to the director of consumer sales at CHA, there will be no more consumer Supershows connected to CHA. The awesome Supershow that my bff, Lacy, and I attended last January in Anaheim was such an awesome experience and something we had planned on and looked forward to doing again. Initially, when I contacted CHA about a Supershow in LA this January, I was told that they were having difficulty securing a location close to the tradeshow, so there would be no Supershow THIS JANUARY. I just received word this morning that there will be no more Supershows. Instead, CHA is partnering with existing craft shows to see if they want to include some of the vendors that would normally participate in the Supershow. I'm just SOOOO disappointed! The CHA Supershow in Anaheim last January was an experience of a lifetime. I met so many wonderful people, including many of my online friends and creative crafters whom I follow online on YouTube and Ustream. Lacy and I had planned on going again this January. When we were told there would be no Supershow this year in January, we began making plans to attend in 2012. This is no small feat since Lacy lives in Wisconsin, I live in California. We met in person for the first time last year at CHA.

So sad..........................................................................

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY!! SWEETHEARTS cartridge!!!

2011-01-25T12:59:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!!
January seems to be a month with TONS of birthdays in my circle of crafty friends!!! Robyn (http://www.mypinkstamper.com/) and Karlee (http://www.karleekrafts.com/) both have birthdays this month (just to name a couple!) and so do I!! I believe Karlee's is the 22nd, Robyn's is the 24th, and mine is the 11th!!( BTW, I would love it if you would stop by Robyn and Karlee's blogs and wish them happy birthday!) So, seems like a perfect time for ME to give one of YOU a gift, right??

So, how about a brand spankin' new Sweethearts Cricut Cartridge to prepare you for all those awesome Valentine's projects???

For your chance to win, all you have to do is sign up to follow my blog (if you aren't already a follower) and post a comment on this post telling me that you are a follower, and also what Valentine projects you have planned.

That's it!! Easy Peasy!!

I will pick the winner on Robyn's birthday, January 24th at 9pm PST. I had planned to pick the winner on MY own birthday, but got this posted too late. And, as usual with my giveaways, there will be a few surprises thrown in just for fun! Good luck, everyone!!!

Hugs!

WINNER!!!

2011-01-24T23:39:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
First, let me say how much I appreciate each and every one of you who take the time to visit and follow my blog!! You all mean so much to me and I thank you!!

OK, without further ado, the winner of the Sweethearts cartridge is:

Melissa at http://www.disneydreamerdesigns.blogspot.com/

Melissa, please contact me with your address so I can get your prize on its' way to you!!

Thanks, again, everyone, for participating! I will be doing another give-away SOON!!!

Love and Hugs!
Linda

Happy Birthday, Robyn!! (My Pink Stamper)

2011-01-24T10:56:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
In honor of Robyn's birthday, I thought I would share a quick video and Robyn and Karlee from one year ago today at CHA! You can tell by the amount of laughter that we were all having a great time!! And if you haven't already, why not hop on over to her blog and leave some birthday love!
http://www.mypinkstamper.com/

Make sure you check back after 9pm PST tonight when I will post the winner of the Sweethearts cartridge!!

Hugs!

Hubby is happy!

2011-01-17T23:54:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone!
Thanks for stopping by. I intended to post earlier today, but we spent the day at our friends' car dealership. Hubby is very happy to have a new-to-him truck to tow our fifth wheel with. His truck was 16 years old, so he's happy to have something quite a bit newer! I'm exhausted tonight. Who knew spending all that money could take a whole day and make you so tired??? I've been trying to work on my challenge project for SSPT for February! Maybe tomorrow!
Hugs!
'night

Congratulations, Monique!!!

2011-01-13T19:53:00.000-08:00

Just had to post a note of congratulations for the lovely Monique Griffith who just finished her treatment for breast cancer TODAY!!! WOOHOO!!!! This is so awesome, and I am overcome with emotion!!! If you would like to leave a note of congratulations for yourself, you can visit her blog at:

http://www.monkeydoodlecricut.blogspot.com/

Hugs!

Here's what I've been doing today!

2011-01-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
Hope you are all having a blessed Sunday!! It's so cold and dreary here that I really got into a creative mood, so I decided to dye some rayon seam binding. I've been seeing this all over the internet and couldn't wait to try my hand at it. It is so easy and I love the look!!! Have you tried it yet??? Here's a tip for ya: WEAR GLOVES!! haha Ask me how I know!!!

Hugs!

Another tool caddy!

2011-01-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone, and thanks for stopping by. Well, sometimes I just hit at something that's fun and useful. After altering the coffee can for the SSPT January challenge, I started looking around for other useful items that could work to hold my ever-expanding supply of necessary crafting tools. So, I found this Cascade dishwasher detergent tub and decided to decorate it with coordinating papers. I love the look, but, as you can see, I need MORE!!! So, I'm on another search for items to alter for tool caddies!!!

Thanks for visiting my blog!

Hugs!

SSPT Challenge update pics

2011-01-02T22:21:00.000-08:00

OK, I couldn't leave well enough alone!! haha After I posted the first set of pictures, I remembered my Viva Decor Pearl Pen and thought some pearl dots would add to the dimension. The pictures aren't great, but I think you can tell a difference. I think the pearl pen gave this project a more finished look and added some dimension to the design. What do you think??

Hugs!
Linda

Sugar Sweet Paper Treats Challenge Project

2011-01-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
This is my project for the January challenge at Sugar Sweet Paper Treats. The challenge was to alter something. This is a simple coffee can. I covered it with paper, then fussy cut the border and added that to the can, then used TONS of Stickles to make the flowers all shimmery! I even used my Imagine. I discovered that the color pallete of Lori's Garden matched my papers perfectly, so the back is decorated with cuts from that Imagine cartridge and also lots of Stickles. The "ribbon" actually isn't ribbon at all. It is rayon seam binding that I colored using alcohol inks, then scrunched and dried with my heat gun. This project was simple and will serve as a tool caddy since I have filled up every available container with scrapping tools!! haha

I love comments, so let me know what ya think!

Blessings and hugs!
Linda

Here's a close up of the front showing more of the shimmer

Here's the back:

I photographed this project before all the glue was completely dry which is why the edges appear to be sticking up. As the glue dried, they are now flush with the paper, but I just couldn't wait to share the pictures!! haha

My Pink Stamper Design Team Challenge Project

2011-01-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

Ok, let me just say right off that I by no means feel qualified by any stretch of the imagination to be chosen for Robyn's awesome design team, but it was a rainy day here in California and I was bored, so this card was born! My focal image was cut at 2 3/4" from the Elegant Cake cartridge. It is called Accent 8 and is on page 37 of the handbook. I first cut the base in a soft sage green, then cut the layer in a pale pink. I then inked the green layer with Forest Moss Distress Ink and inked the pink layer with Victorian Velvet Distress Ink. I was really happy with the result, although it is difficult to photograph. Then I cut the brown layer from Chocolate Stardream cardstock. I LOVE this cardstock! It is so shimmery and beautiful and is awesome to work with. The brown layer is 7" X 3 1/2 ". The card base is also Stardream cardstock in Opal, which is a beautiful shimmery off-white. The card base is large-- 12" X 8 1/2", folded in half, making the card front 6" X 8 1/2". The brown mulberry flower is from iamroses.com. I love their flowers. This one is the 2" gardenia in brown. Now for the ribbon. It actually isn't ribbon at all. It is rayon seam binding that was white. I put it in a zip bag and added alcohol ink in Mountain Rose and Hazelnut, dried it with my heat gun as I scrumched it so it would look wrinkly, then misted it with Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Mist and tied it on my card! So, that's it. Hope you like it!
Hugs!

Happy New Year!!!!

2011-01-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, bloggers!!! My prayer for you all is that 2011 is your happiest and healthiest ever!!!

Hugs!

SOOOO Underwhelmed!! :(

2010-12-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally made it to Hobby Lobby and I was seriously underwhelmed!! I was expecting all these fabulous paper crafting supplies. NOT!! 99% of the store was home decor and floral!!! What's up with that??? Other people rave about their Hobby Lobby stores. Obviously, their Hobby Lobby stores are different from this one. It is a huge store, but the papercrafting section was SMALL!!! Michael's has a TON more stuff than Hobby Lobby!! I'll bet there weren't even 20 different punches to choose from, all the same papers that M's carries, I was just seriously disappointed!!! Are all Hobby Lobby stores like this one???

IS IT WRONG??

2010-12-27T11:47:00.001-08:00

Is it wrong for me to be so excited about a Hobby Lobby opening up 1 1/2 hours away??? I've never been to one and I'm so excited to go check it out later this week!!! Maybe I'll even score some additional goodies for my next giveaway!!!

What's YOUR favorite crafting shopping spot???

Hugs!

:( Giveaway may have to wait a bit! SORRY!!

2010-12-02T10:27:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
Well, test results are starting to come in and I have been diagnosed with San Joaquin Valley Fever. I won't go into detail here, but suffice it to say, I'm not feeling so hot. I've never coughed so much in my life!! The good news is, I'm on the meds for it now, so hopefully will begin to feel better soon. This explains why the 3 rounds of antibiotic didn't phase this. The bad news is, I may have to postpone my next giveaway for a bit. We'll see how it goes. I'd still LOVE to do it before Christmas!!! So, stay tuned, bloggers!!!

Blessings and hugs!

Belated Thanksgiving wishes!

2010-11-28T11:16:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
I know this is late. That's what being sick for 3 weeks+ does to a person! Anyway, I hope you all had a blessed Thanksgiving! I also need to announce that there is another give-away coming up! This will bring a Merry Christmas to someone who comments!!! Watch for details coming soon!!

Blessings and hugs!

My "Winter-Time" Mini inspired by Laura Denison's Steampunk Time Machine

2010-11-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone!
Thanks for stopping by today!!! I'm pretty excited about how this project turned out! I love it when I picture something in my head and can actually make it happen!!! A million thanks to the uber-talented Laura Denison at http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/, for the awesome instructions and class she did on a similar mini that she called Steampunk Time Machine. I needed a hand-crafted gift for a family member who takes TONS of pictures and this fills the bill. The mini inside has "tons of real estate" as Laura likes to say. She should be able to put between 50-60 pictures inside. Thanks for checking it out!!!

Thanks so much for visiting my blog!!

Giggles and hugs!

UPDATE: I'm getting lots of questions about where the mini is, so I took a picture the best way I could think of to show you how it slides out of the center portion. If you watch Laura's Ustream class on this, you can see how it's done.

UPDATE #2:

I'm getting questions about the inside of the mini. I just made the pages in Laura's pattern from silver, shades of blue and gray. I left the pages very plain so that the recipient can fit lots of pictures inside. So there are no embellishments or decorations on the inside at all. All the "goo-gaw" is on the outside! ;)

Mini album for our Granddaughter who will be in the Macy's Parade!

2010-11-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Our granddaughter, Taylor, was selected to partcipate with the National Cheer Association in the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and we are so proud of her!! She asked me to make a scrapbook to keep all the mementos and photos of her trip in. Ever had one of those projects that should be simple and that you struggle with like there's no tomorrow?? Well, that was THIS project!!! Just a basic mini! Should have been able to whip it out in no time!!! 14 hours later, I'm still not thrilled with the result, but I just can't bear to deal with it anymore, so I'm calling it done!!

The top photo is the front cover and the bottom photo is just one of the pages inside. They are all pocket pages and I cut her tons of photo mats and tags to use inside. Two pages have the city skyline, one has the Statue of Liberty, one has word art, etc.

Thanks for checking it out!
Hugs!

I need suggestions for my next blog candy give-away!!

2010-11-03T00:22:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
You know I love to give stuff away, right? No, my blog is not sponsored and all the goodies come directly from me as a thank you to all of you who visit because I appreciate you all SOOO much!!! So, what I need to know from all of you now is: What would you like to see in my next give-away? You never know, I might even give something away to a lucky winner whose comment is chosen by random.org!

So, what kind of prize would YOU like to win????

Thanks for playing along!
Hugs!

WINNER!! WINNER!!!

2010-11-01T01:18:00.000-07:00

The winner of my blog candy is..............................................................................

Scrapsofstuff/Daphne said...

WOW! That's a great blog candy!! I would love to win! I hope you enjoy your Imagine!!

October 5, 2010 7:49 PM

Congratulations, Daphne!! Please contact me with your mailing information and I will get your prize on its way to you!!

Thanks to everyone who participated! I appreciate each and every one of you SOO very much!!

Hugs!

BOO!!!! How about some Halloween Blog Candy???

2010-10-31T11:48:00.000-07:00

This give-away is the one I've been waiting for awhile to do. I had to give everything time to come in, then life got in the way. Now I am ready to post it! WOOHOO!!!! This is my biggest blog candy EVER!!! So, in celebration of the arrival of my new CRICUT IMAGINE MACHINE, Here's what the winner will get:

A PINK ATG GUN WITH TAPE!!!! WOOHOO!!! I'm not kidding!!!

DCWV TIN MINI-ALBUM KIT!!--this is a BIG kit with everything you need to make 4 mini albums in tins!!!

A SET OF PERFECT PEARLS!! 'nuff said

COLOR BOX COLOR TOOL BOX with Stylus and TEN tips! This is really cool. If you haven't seen this--the tips are moldable--just heat with your heat gun or over a lightbulb and create stamps. I'm also including the Stylus Tip Molding Mat, to get you on your way to creating even MORE great designs. And, because it's almost Halloween, a tri-color Color Box Pigment Stamp pad in Lime green/Orange/Purple!!

And, as is customary with my give-aways, there will be ADDITIONAL goodies not pictured!!! After all, everyone loves surprises, right??

So, what do you have to do for a chance to win this sweet goodness???? Not much at all!!!!! Leave a comment under this post!!! That's it! I would LOVE, LOVE, LOVE for you to sign up to follow my blog, but it's not necessary to be entered to win!!

And, since it's CANDY, I'll pick the winner using Random.Org on...........................HALLOWEEN at MIDNIGHT PST!!!

So, leave your comment and you'll be entered to win!!!

WOOHOO!!!!!!
And thank you so much to all my faithful followers!!! You ROCK!!! You all encourage me more than you will ever know!!! And I love you all!!!!

Blessings and Hugs!

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Just a quick post. If you know anyone who hasn't entered to win the blog candy, today's the last day as the winner will be chosen at midnight tonight!!

BOO!!

Hugs!

Here are my "Think Pink" cards!

2010-10-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
I have a dear friend who had her first chemo for lung cancer today. So, I decided to make a card for Monique and one for my friend, Novie. Of course, my card base is PINK! I used the Lacy Labels and Lovely Floral Cricut Lites cartridges and several different cuttlebug folders on these cards. Cardstock is Bazzill.

Thanks for checking them out!

Have you made YOUR cards yet???

Hugs!

It's "Think Pink for Monique" Week!!

2010-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Many of you probably already know that a member of our crafting community, Monique Griffith, is fighting breast cancer. Monique will have a double mastectomy on Thursday of this week. Robyn, at http://www.mypinkstamper.com/, suggested that we have a Think Pink for Monique week! What a great idea!! The idea is to make a card for Monique or someone else you know who is fighting cancer and send it out this week! If you would like to send a card to Monique and learn more about her journey, you can find her address and more at : http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/moniquegriffith.

Thanks, everyone!!!

And don't forget, you have until midnight PST on Halloween to enter to win my blog candy giveaway. Just scroll down to the October 4 post and leave a comment!!

Hugs!

WOW!!!! Hello, Thursday!!

2010-10-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hello, my crafty friends!!!
Did you see the new releases for this Hello, Thursday??? I love, love, love Ornamental Iron and Paper Lace!!! And Wrap It Up will probably end up in my stash, as well!!! If you want to see details of these cartridges and the others that were released this week, you can visit Joy's blog at http://www.obsessedwithscrapbooking.com/. So, what's YOUR favorite???

Don't forget to enter to win my blog candy. Just scroll down to the October 4th post and leave a comment before 10/31!

Hugs!

What I've been up to!

2010-10-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

Hello, loyal bloggers!!
Hope you are all doing well! I've been creating centerpieces for a bridal shower for the last few days and finally finished them up today. WOOHOO!!! If I can get a decent picture, I'll post one for you to see. I was able to utilize my Cricut Expression, the Sweethearts cartridge, and a Tim Holtz Texture Fade on these centerpieces, along with lots of other goodies.

So, what have YOU been creating????

Don't forget to enter my big give-away if you haven't yet!! Scroll down to the October 4th entry and post a comment for your chance to win!!!

Hugs!

Printmaster and the Imagine!

2010-10-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Thanks so much for stopping by today! I just wanted to share something fun I learned this week. I don't know if any of you use the Printmaster program, but I use it a LOT to print sentiments inside my Cricut cards and just to make quick cards and add Cricut cuts and text to them. My granddaughter asked me to make birthday party invitations for my great-grandson this week. And that's when I made this amazing discovery!! Did you know that Printmaster includes RGB codes for the colors used for text??? Or the color you use to fill shapes??? Well, it does!!! I had printed text on the invitations using a rope font in kind of a straw color.
By clicking on the paint bucket that you use to select the text color, then on the button that says "Define Custom Colors" you will see the color wheel and right underneath it on the right hand side, are your RGB codes for any selected color. Using this information, I was able to print and cut rope loops from the Old West cartridge, using my Imagine machine, that were a perfect match to the text on the invitation. I then ran those cuts through my Xyron machine to turn them into stickers for the envelopes! Sounds WAY more complicated than it actually is!!! Please feel free to email me with any questions!!! Hope this helps some of you with your crafting!

DON'T FORGET TO SCROLL DOWN TO MY BLOG CANDY POST TO ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!!
Hugs!

Playing with my new Imagine machine!

2010-10-09T17:55:00.000-07:00

Today I have spent a little time familiarizing myself with the Imagine and its' functions. If you own an Imagine machine, I'm sure you recognize the floral bouquets from the Imagine More cartridge. What I thought was fun was that the "Thank You" sentiment is from Beyond Birthdays. I opened the sentiment, then filled it with one of the prints on the Imagine cartridge. I'm sure you can't see it in the pic, but I thought that was a pretty cool thing to be able to do! I printed and cut two of each bouquet to give them more sturdiness. I do wish the Imagine could cut chipboard. I'll have to continue to use my E for this. I tried it today in the Imagine and no matter what I do, the chipboard won't even stick to the mat. This project is my very first ever candy bouquet and is for a nurse at my doctor's office who has been particularly helpful to me. She is moving away and I wanted to express my appreciation for all she has done for me. Think she'll feel appreciated???
(Had a couple of questions -- Yes, I used FULL SIZE candy bars, not the minis, so this bouquet is HEAVY!!! haha)

Thanks for stopping by, and don't forget to scroll down to my blog give-away post and leave a comment for your chance to win all of that yummy goodness!!

Hugs!

300 FOLLOWERS!!! WOOHOO!!!!

2010-10-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks SOOO much to all of you who have signed up to follow!!! I appreciate it so much!!! In honor of reaching 300 followers, I'm adding TWO clear stamp sets to the prize!!! Think we can reach 350???? If we do, there are more goodies in store!!!

Thanks, again!!! WOOHOO!!!!

To enter to win, make sure you post a comment in the post BELOW, which talks about the blog candy give-away, not on this post!

BIG GIVE-AWAY coming!!!

2010-10-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

Hi, crafty blogger friends!!
The BIG GIVE-AWAY I've been promising is just about ready to go up. I just need to photograph the prizes and we will be good to go. I gave some hints about what's coming during Kathy Files class this morning. There will be even more goodies than what was discussed there!!! So, give me some time to get the pictures taken and I'll be posting the goodies!!! Things in the family are still pretty tough right now and probably will be for some time, but I'm trying to focus on positive things and not dwell on what is going on.

Hugs to all!!!

Sorry I've been MIA!

2010-09-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hello, my creative blogger friends!!
I've missed you!! I've just returned from a trip to Utah and Wyoming with my dear husband to visit family and friends. We've had an extremely emotional upheaval in our family and we are all still trying to come to terms with it, so I appreciate your patience while we all rally round and help each other through this. There will be a huge give-away coming as soon as things calm down around here. I love you all and look forward to returning to more creative pursuits soon!

Sorry about venting yesterday!! New focus!

2010-09-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone!
First I would like to apologize for yesterday's post. I was upset and let my emotions take control. Please forgive me. My focus, today, is totally different! The first thing I did today was say a prayer for the person who saw fit to destroy my fairy house. What a miserable person that must be, to think it would be fun to destroy it. I have compassion and sympathy for whomever it was. Isn't God great?! That he can, in the blink of an eye, totally change our perspective back to what's REALLY important!! Thank you to all of you who posted comments of support! You gals ROCK!!! OK, now on to better and more productive things!!!

Blessings and hugs to you all!

I'm SOOOO bummed and angry!!!

2010-08-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, maybe this isn't a big deal, however, I made so many wonderful memories with my great-grandson and the fairy house I built, so I brought it home and set it up under my coastal redwood tree in the front yard. Branches come down really low and I thought it would be perfectly safe under there. WRONG!!! I took my dad back for his post-surgery follow-up today and came home to bits and pieces of it all over the street where it had been getting run over all day. Apparently, some punk kid on his way to school just couldn't resist smashing it to bits in the street. Had no monetary value, but it was sure precious to my sweet Chase and I!

Need some new ideas?

2010-08-15T12:33:00.001-07:00

Check out what my design teammates are up to at:

http://www.sugarsweetpapertreats.blogspot.com/

My take on Laura Denison's "Life's A Picnic" mini album

2010-08-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
This project is an original Laura Denison design. I love this project. It was so much fun! The most interesting thing about this is that it is actually a mini album!! The lid of the picnic basket forms a portion of the mini album cover. Laura used gingham fabric for her cover and trim but since I live in the "sticks" and don't have access to fabric, I used bandanas instead. I called my mini "A Taste of Summer" and did my inside pages differently. Laura created a barbecue grill with hotdogs and other picnic-type pages. I did my inside pages in a summer theme so that it could be used for all those summer funtime pictures. The pattern for this project, if you would like to make one of your own, is available at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/followthepapertrail To see more of Laura's designs, check out: http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/. Hope you like it!! I love comments!!!

EDITED TO ADD: I've had some questions about the picnic basket itself. It is part of the project and is made of chipboard and woven kraft cardstock, inked with distress inks.

Hugs!
Linda

So sorry!!!

2010-08-04T17:52:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry, everyone, that I haven't been able to post my next BIG giveaway!! I'm still waiting for items to arrive!!! I promise it will be worth the wait, though!!! So, please keep checking back. I will post the give-away as soon as everything comes in!!

WINNER!! WINNER!!! #10- AMY!

2010-08-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

AMY, post #10, you are the winner as chosen by random.org!!

Please send me your mailing info so I can get your prize on its way to you!!! I need to hear from you within 2 weeks!!

Congratulations, Amy, and thanks to everyone who entered!!! I have another BIG giveaway in the works, so check back often!! As soon as all the items I plan to give away arrive, I will post the next giveaway!!

Hugs!! And thanks, again, everyone!!!

Check back for another give-away!!

2010-07-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
I'm making preparations for my next give-away! It will be a GOOD one, so make sure you check back often!! I'm waiting for a couple of items to arrive before I post the details. You might want to follow my blog to make sure you don't miss out!!!

WOOHOO!! Don't ya just love surprises???

In the meantime, make sure you post a comment under the Songbird Tshirt giveaway for your chance to win this blinged out T!!

Hugs!!

Neck Pouch designed by Laura Denison

2010-07-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

Hello, bloggers!
Have you ever attended any Ustream classes or watched any YouTube classes by the uber-talented Laura Denison? Well, if you haven't you are totally missing out on a paper crafting/quilting genius!! You can find her at http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/. You owe it to yourself to check it out!! My project today is a neck pouch that Laura designed after making them for years in fabric. Mine is made of Grungeboard and inked with Mountain Rose and Pearl Alcohol Inks. The embossed design was already in the Grungeboard!! How cool is that??? This little treasure is just the right size for carrying your driver's license, a credit/debit card, some cash and even your cell phone. Perfect for expos or conventions. I actually made two just alike, one for me and one for my bff, Lacy. Full instructions, dimensions and tutorial video can be found on Laura's blog.

Thanks for stopping by today!!! And please don't forget to post your comment under the previous post for a chance to win a Songbird Tshirt from Cricut Rewards.

Hugs!!

Songbird Tshirt Give-away!!

2010-07-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today!! I appreciate you all so much!! For this giveaway, I have a brand new Songbird Tshirt, from the Cricut Rewards program. The twist is, I have embellished the design with genuine Swarovski crystals!!! Not too much, but it sure added a lot to the adorable Songbird design, IMHO! The Tshirt is size XL. These are very limited now, so I thought this would work for most people, since if you are small, this would make a great nightshirt!!

As usual, all you have to do to be entered is to leave a comment under this post. If you'd like to sign up to be a follower, I would love that, but it's not necessary to be entered. I will pick the winner on August 1, 2010 at 9pm PST.

Good luck, everyone!!!

Hugs!

A FAIRY HOUSE!!

2010-07-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today! I thought I would share a picture of a project I did while I was on vacation. When I found out that our 3 year old great-grandson was coming to stay for 3 days, I decided to build a fairy house. I cut some willow branches all to the same length and using a hot glue gun, created what was basically a little log house. I cut some thinner willow branches and bent them for the supports for the roof. I then covered the roof with bark and cedar boughs. I nestled the house at the base of a giant cedar tree and created a "fairy ring" yard around the house using white pebbles. I then created a sidewalk using pea gravel. Inside, I sprinkled glitter, along with some pink iridescent beads that I also sprinkled along the sidewalk. There is a sign on the front that says "Fairy Manor" that I couldn't get to show up in the picture. Everyday, I added some shiney new bauble to the "yard" for my great-grandson to find. We called it fairy treasure and he had such fun going out there in the morning to see what kind of treasure the forest fairies collected during the night. The little sticker on the front is actually a chandelier that lights up and blinks. We had great fun with it. An RV is a pretty limited space for such an energetic camper, so this gave him something fun to look forward to that was an outside activity.

Thanks for checking out my blog today. I will be posting a new give-away this week-end! You won't want to miss it!!!

Hugs!
LilGreenBug

Here's how we celebrate Independence Day at 6700 feet in the Sierras in California!

2010-07-05T18:01:00.000-07:00

We are vacationing in our RV at an RV resort at 6700 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains. As we are in the forest, no fireworks are allowed, so I decided to share the parade at the resort. It was so cute. This is only the second time they've done it. It was fun!! So, here ya go!

WINNER!! WINNER!!

2010-07-01T22:07:00.001-07:00

I just picked the Gypsy package winner using Random.org. The winner is...............................

LEANNE!!

Congratulations, Leanne!! Please send me your mailing info so I can get your prize sent off to you!!!

And thank you to everyone who played along!! Check back often. I will be doing another prize giveaway SOON!!

Hugs!

NEED SOME INSPIRATION??

2010-06-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

We all need a little inspiration from time to time, right?? There are so many talented crafters out there and a wealth of information via Ustream and Youtube. A couple of these uber-talented artists inspire me and I thought I would share their links with you so you can check them out. You will NOT be disappointed. First is Kathy Orta. You can find Kathy and her video classes by going to her blog at http://www.paperphenomenon.blogspot.com/. The other is Laura Denison. Check her out at http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/. Both of these ladies offer wonderful inspiration, classes and are just all-around classy and talented artists in their own right. Laura is also a quilt designer and teaches quilting classes. You can purchase her papercraft and quilt patterns from her Etsy store, also accessible from a link on her blog. Be prepared to spend some time watching these ladies at work. You will be amazed!!!

Hugs!
Linda

GYPSY PRIZE PACKAGE! WANNA WIN???

2010-06-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
It's been awhile since I've done a give away, so I decided it's time!! WOOHOO!!! Wanna win a new outfit for your Gypsy??? I am giving away a Gypsy skin and a package of the Gypsy Stylus!! (and, as usual, I will put a few extra goodies in for the winner, as well!) The skin is the one that is called Gold, but to me it's more orange and black and white. I can't take a pic right now because my camera is acting up. As soon as I can, I'll post a pic for ya, though!

What do you have to do to be entered to win all this Gypsy goodness, you ask??? Easy Peasy!! Leave a comment under this post. That's it!!! I'd really appreciate it if you would follow my blog, but it's not necessary in order to be eligible to win the prize!!

Deadline for entries will be 9:00pm, PST, on July 1, 2010!!

Good luck, everyone!!

Hugs!

A CHALLENGE!

2010-06-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find yourself in a rut, using the same colors or similar colors on every project? I sure do! So, today I challenged myself to create a project using colors I never use. This card is the result.

So, now I challenge you! Think outside the box and create something using colors you don't normally use!!

Hugs!!

My First Card with Lacy Labels Cricut Lite Cartridge!

2010-06-16T15:47:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone!
Wow! Two posts in one day!! I'm on a roll!! haha Just thought I would share my first card made with Lacy Labels, one of the new Cricut Lite cartridges available only at Walmart. I really love this cartridge!! The layers cut beautifully and are so easy!! Gotta love that! The cuts on this card were cut at 4 1/2". For the card base, since I can't load these carts on my Gypsy yet and I didn't want to have to drag the E close to the computer, I just traced my card front and fussy cut it with scissors. Easy peasy!! I used lots of dimensionals on this one, Victorian Velvet Distress Ink, Crushed Olive Distress Ink, and my white gel pen. Thanks to Elizabeth at 217creations.blogspot.com for her tutorial on using the Fantastix with the Distress Inks! Works like a charm!!!! Oh, and the sentiment is one of the new SOLO stamps from Michael's!

Hugs!

Guess I spoke too soon!! haha

2010-06-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
Apparently, I spoke too soon about feeling better. My knees are still pretty bad and the doctor says they probably won't get a lot better! :(

But, not to worry! Thanks to the electric carts at Walmart, I was able to pick up two of the new Cricut Lites cartridges and I LOVE THEM!!!! Seriously!!! They are AWESOME!! I got Lacy Labels and Botanicals and they are both wonderful! I love the packaging and inserts, too!! You really gotta check them out!!! Elizabeth (217creations.blogspot.com) asked that I share a couple of cuts from Botanicals on the mb and I decided I might as well share them here, too!

Please indulge me just one moment to mention my special friend, Monique Griffith, who was just diagnosed with breast cancer. Love you and praying for you, Monique!!

Hugs!

Sorry I've been MIA!

2010-06-11T13:01:00.001-07:00

Hi, bloggers,
Sorry I've been "missing in action" for awhile! As some of you know, I've been recuperating from knee surgery and am just now starting to feel better!!! SOOOOOO..................................................
I will be doing a give-away!!! I'll be posting pictures and the details in the next few days!! This is a good one!! So, check back soon!!

Hugs!

Some Mother's Day projects I made

2010-05-11T14:25:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share the Mother's Day projects I made for my step-daughters and granddaughter. It's not a very good pic but I am having camera issues!!! But I still wanted to share!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Hugs!

SSPT Victorian Challenge project!!

2010-05-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that the SSPT Design team is up and running again!!! WOOHOO!!! Health issues have prevented us from creating for a bit, but we are back in style!!!

Our challenge, issued by Miss Lacy, was to create something with a Victorian theme. I recently purchased an embossing powder tin from T!m Holtz. The box it came in was just too cool to toss, so I upcycled it. First, I painted it with my ColorArtz airbrush system in cranberry to match my cardstock because I wanted all the edges and corners to match my paper. Then I cut and applied cranberry cardstock to the box. I then cut the Cameo from the Heritage Cricut cartridge, once in chipboard and once in black cardstock, misted it with Pearl and Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Mist, then applied 3 coats of Utee. I created her pearl jewelry using my Pearl Pen from Viva Decor. I wrapped the box with 1" strips of black cardstock, then applied some gimp lace, topped off with flat-backed pearl trim. The two lace pieces were misted with Red Velvet Glimmer mist in a method that creates an ombre effect. I then added a satin flower created using my heat gun, some feathers and black pearl bling. I plan to use this box to store greeting cards. Thanks for visiting my blog today! I love comments!!! Check back soon! I have another great give-away in the works!!!

Hugs!

Winner of the Sentimentals cartridge is........................

2010-05-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

SHARI!!! You are the winner of the brand new Sentimentals cartridge!!! Please send me your mailing information so I can get your prize in the mail first thing Monday morning!!!

I was really surprised that there weren't more entries!! This cartridge is SOOO awesome!!! Thank you to those who did participate!!! And congratulations, Shari!!!

Hugs!
Linda

No Entries in the Give-away!!! What's up with that???

2010-05-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone,
Thanks for stopping by my blog!!! Well, I really wanted to give away the Sentimentals cartridge on National Scrapbooking Day! I thought the challenge was a simple one! Make at least one of the flowers from my video, use it on a project and post a picture! Doesn't seem too difficult, does it? Anyway, I haven't received even one entry for the drawing. So, unless someone posts a project before 9pm tonight, I will have to come up with another way to give away this cartridge. So, if you have a project ready to post, please do so! Looks like you'd have a really good chance to win!!