Therapy Through Coffee & Cardstock

~Time with KFerrara~

2012-02-27T17:43:00.001-07:00

KFerrara & I got together on Saturday away from kids & made a few cards, but I am going to show you only a couple of them today for we need to add a few things on the other card.

KFerrara's little Sammie received a cute Valentine from one of her classmates & we thought we would replicate it but make a cute Easter card with it!!

Here is the outside...

the band slips off & opens to this...

Super Cute right!!

Supplies:

PP: Scenic Route

CS: AC

Stamp: Studio G & WRMK

Ink: Fresco & Memento

Punch: EK Success

This card was put in mind for St. Patties Day, but it can be a LOVE card for the man in your life to let him know how LUCKY you are to have him in your life...

Supplies:

PP: MME

CS: Misc

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: ColorBox

Ribbon: Misc

Twine: WalMart

Punch: SU Edges

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

~Friends Are Born~

2012-02-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

For the CPS sketch this week I wanted to make a friend card. I don't have enough of them where I can just pull them out & send to my dear friends. I am thankful for the friends that I have & who have come into my life & made a mark. I may not keep in touch with some, but when we do catch up, it is like time never went by!

"Friends are born, not made"

CPS sketch # 253:

Supplies:

PP: MME

CS: Misc

Quote: MME

Circles: Creative Memories & McGill Craftivity

Eyelets: AC

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Movie Night Party Decorations~

2012-02-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

I decided on something simple yet FUN for my daughters 8th Birthday party with her friends & cousins this year. A Movie Night sounded simple to the point & it turned out to be a blast for her. I wanted to share with you what I did for the party.

I bought 2 red table cloths and put one on the wall as my background & one on the table. Then the banner I made with white paper & added the red stripes. My SIL had all the big popcorn containers for me to add the goodies to for my containers & I bought the smaller popcorn containers to fill with the kids movie goodies & for them to take home as their party favor.

Side view of the table set up after I put all the rest of the food out.

Party Favor containers filled with Red vine ropes, ring pops, slinky, & party straws for the drinks. Then when they were ready they could dump their favors out & fill with popcorn for the movie or have Cracker Jacks...most liked the regular popcorn best.

& for my favorite....the cupcakes made to look like popcorn is on the tops of them with butter:

This was a fun party & the kids had a great time!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Graduation LO~

2012-02-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

It was so weird to see my Niece graduate because I watched her grow up & become who she is today. She was so excited to finally be done with High School as most of us probably were. I did this LO as a challenge over at Creative Scrappers & I will hopefully be doing a few more of their sketches. Check them out if you have pages to do & are not sure where to start.

"Graduation 2009"

Sketch #195

Supplies:

PP: Fancy Pants

CS: AC

Stamp: Studio G

Stickers: TCP

Punch: EK Success

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~A Couple LO~

2012-02-17T09:57:00.001-07:00

I have not been doing to swell on my Scrapbooking & to be honest...I have missed it. I am not one who does a whole lot with my pages, but I know my kids love when I add new pages to their books!! So I am going to share with you a couple LO's I did yesterday.

This is when my nephew turned the BIG 1 & we spent the day with him...

"Turning 1":

This next one is a 2 pg LO & is another time we went to Timp Caves in AmericanFork Canyon with Steve & Bryce & their kids...we had a great time..

"Summer Days":

It definitely felt good putting some pages together!!

Thanks 4 Stopping by!!

~HAPPY VALENTINES DAY~

2012-02-14T09:49:00.001-07:00

There were so many blogs that had amazing things for us to share with you, that you could have done for your LOVED ones or your friends or for your neighbors. I know I used a few of the blogs that we shared & my family LOVES them!! Today I wanted to share a few things that I did for this day and they are not big things, but simple that the kids loved!

First off I will show you these cute little bookmarks that I found here {which are a FREE printable} for my kids & for their cousins Amanda & Emma. They would also be perfect for teacher gifts or your friends who LOVE to read. Mique, who is the one who I found these on her amazing blog, used felt hearts & stitched them. I have to be honest I did not have time to do that on top of all the birthday & baptism stuff that needs to be done..{SLACKER MOM over here!!} So what I did was used stickers & put them onto cardboard & cut around them & then glued them onto the paperclip with a paper shaped like them behind them.

These are just the bookmarks...

Then for the kid's Lunch today for school I made these for them...they are going to be OH surprised!!

The last thing I would like to share with you is a Heart Wreath that I thought would be fun to put up on the fridge & remind the family how much I love them & how our LOVE story is the most amazing thing going on!! I {HEART} my family to bits!!

Side view of AC papers that I used...

This was fun to make!! All I did was cut 10 {2"x11"} Strips of Patterned Paper & then stapled them all together in the shape of hears. Then added the ribbon & the accent in the middle of the wreath. You can cut more strips if you want a bigger wreath. Simple & fun!!

So now for the GIVE-A-Way for 1 LUCKY winner!! The GIVE-A-Way for the 14 days of Valentines is all the {LOVE} cards shown along with a Surprise sent in the package. {I heart surprises}!!

So all you need to do is:

*become a fan on our FB page here if your not already

*become a follower on our blog if your not already

*Comment on the 14 days of Valentines

and you will be entered into the GIVE-A-WAY!!

GOOD LUCK!!

Thanks 4 stopping by today & Happy Valentines Day!!

VDay Card... Make Up Day #7

2012-02-13T15:59:00.003-07:00

‎"We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love." Dr Seuss

I love Dr. Seuss - He is an amazingly creative man that I thoroughly enjoy reading his quotes, poems, books, etc... I found this quote of his and immediately thought of Tyler and myself - our relationship is built upon mutual weirdness and I wouldn't change a thing!

This card was fun to make! I think I'll use it as a tutorial in the near future - if there is anything that JRhoades or myself makes that you would like to learn how to make yourself (don't have the tools, time, whatever)... let us know, we'd be happy to help show you how!

PP: "Chloe" (Three Bugs in a Rug)

CS: "Pink" (AC - Pastels)

Stamps: "Candy Conversations", "Seeing Spots" & "So Many Scallops" (Stampin' Up!)

Ink: "Pink Pirouette" & "Ruby Red" (Stampin' Up!

Tools: Fiskars Paper Cutter, Scallop Circle Punch, Heart Punch & 1" Circle Punch (Stampin' Up!)

Embellishments: Blue Ribbon (AC)

Adhesive: Glue Runner (Elmer's) & Pop Up (Glue Dots)

True Love Stories Never End... #13

2012-02-13T14:37:00.003-07:00

“Love is like a friendship caught on fire: in the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and unquenchable.” – Bruce Lee

As we near the end of our countdown to Valentines Day... I wanted to share with you this card I made today while hanging out in my crop room with my Sammer Jammer. I just love spending time with my girls cropping and letting our creativity loose. They love my cards and love making their own!

Remember to enter our Valentines Day giveaway by commenting on each of the 14 days Countdown to Valentines Day post. I know you will love it!

PP: "Tres Jolie" (MME)

CS: "White" (Roberts) & "Green" (AC "Brights")

Stamps: "Sweetly Said", "Think Happy Thoughts" & Mini Messages" (Stampin' Up!)

Ink: "Ruby Red" & "Close to Cocoa" (Stampin' Up!)

Tools: Fiskars Paper Cutter, 3/4" & 1 1/4" Circle Punches (Stampin' Up!)

Embellishments: Boutique Rouge (Satin with Picot Edges), White & Caterpillar (AC)

Adhesive: Glue Runner (Elmer's) & Pop Up (Glue Dots)

~CPS Celebration...Day 14 & 15~

2012-02-12T16:19:00.002-07:00

The last 2 days of CPS Celebrations have come to an end...so I am going to share with you Day 14 & 15.

These are also the cards that for March's CC cards...The theme..Masculine B-day Cards.

"Happy Birthday"

Day 14...Sketch #45

Supplies:

PP: Glitz Design

CS: DCWV & Misc

Stamp: SU

Ink: SU

Punch: Fiskars & Family Treasure

"Happy Birthday"

Day 15...Sketch #231

Supplies:

PP: Scribble Scrabble

CS: AC, The Paper Company, Misc

Stamps: Inkadinkado & Unknown

Ink: Memento & VersaMark

Thanks 4 Stopping By!!

~Day 12...Class Valentines~

2012-02-12T16:09:00.004-07:00

My sister came down from Vernal this weekend & came & spent the day with me & while she was here, we put together her son's class Valentines made out of a Pillow Box Die Cut. They were super easy to put together & turned out really cute!!

This is the front:

This is the back:

This is the candy we chose to fill them up with:

And we have a FULL box...

These were really easy & fun to make!!

Supplies:

PP: DCWV

CS: Misc

Stamp: KI Memories

Ink: SU

Punch/Die Cut: EK Success & Sizzix

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Day 11...Love Birds~

2012-02-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

Getting around a little late for you to see today's card.

{SO SORRY}

Today's card is also Day 13 for the CPS Sketch. One of my favorite things to see when I am out and about people watching are older couples who hold hands while walking & laughing with one another. They give me hope that Matt & I will grow old together & still be just as twitter patted with one another as we are today!! They were my focus on today's card...

"Love Birds"

Day 13...Sketch

Supplies:

PP: AC

CS: AC

Stamp: TPC Studio

Ink: Memories & Memento

Punch: EK Success

Thanks for stopping in tonight!!

Be Mine, Valentine...

2012-02-10T18:15:00.002-07:00

"You know you’re in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams."
Dr. Seuss

I just love Valentine's Day! I can't say "I love you" enough to everyone - my husband, my girls, my family, my friends (some aren't too fond of those 3 words - but I can't help it)... I've been taught that if you love someone you let them know - you shout it from the roof tops!

I love my new stamp sets - I've been messing around with them all afternoon! This one I am showing you today is from Stampin' Up! Candy Conversations - the picture doesn't do justice! Card is 4" x 3 1/2". I cut 3 - 3/4" circles and placed 3 hearts in them with the sayings - SWEET TALK, LOVE YOU & KISS ME!

Whose got their Valentine's done for their kids? Did your kids make their own or did you help them?

Supplies:

Paper: Green Cardstock (AC "Brights"), Ruby Red Cardstock (Stampin' Up! "Earth Elements"), "Chloe" (3 Bugs in a Rug) & White Cardstock (Roberts)

Stamps: Stampin' Up! "Candy Conversations"

Ink: Stampin' Up! "Ruby Red"

Tools: Fiskars Cutter, Scallop Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch & Heart Punch (Stampin' Up!)

Embellishments: Pink Embroidery Floss (Making Memories)

Adhesive: Pop-Up (Glue Dots) & Dot Runner (Elmers)

Valentine Box Tutorial

2012-02-09T18:22:00.006-07:00

Supplies:

Fiskars Cutter, Scissors, Adhesive, Pop Up Dots, Paper (Cardstock and patterned), Ink (color of your choice), & Embellishments (your choice).
Step 1: Cut Cardstock to 9 1/2" x 5 1/4". Score 1" around each edge and again at 4 1/4" from each side length wise.
Step 2: Fold all scored lines. Cut in 1" as indicated in picture.
Step 3: Adhere ends to create the box shape
Final Project Front View: Fill with desired candy or gift to give to your LOVED ones.
Final Project Top View: Decorate it how you choose. I had my girls help pick the colors and design to give to their teachers for V-day!

These are great for Valentine Day gifts for teachers, family, neighbors, friends, etc... I love how easily they were to put together! My girls are dying to make more for their friends and cousins. You can fill them with whatever candy or gift you desire!

Can't wait to see how yours turn out!

~CPS Day 12...Celebration~

2012-02-09T10:23:00.003-07:00

The Sketch for Day 12 over at the Celebration of 5 yrs at CPS was fun to put together this morning. I found these tags, who were made by My Mind's Eye, at DI {it is a thrift store here in UT} during last summer for 50 cents a bag. There were like 10 of each in the bags, so I took about $5 worth of all different sayings. I am just now starting to use them all. So here is what I came up with:

"Celebrate"

Day 12...Sketch # 118...

Supplies:

PP: MME

CS: The Paper Company

Ink: Memories

Ribbon: AC

Punches: EK Success

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~CPS Celebration..Days 10 & 11~

2012-02-08T10:40:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to show you the 2 cards I put together this morning before I head to work. They are for the CPS 5th year Anniversary.

"Enjoy Life's Moments"

Day 10..Sketch #26

Supplies:

PP: Echo Park

CS: Copic Blending, AC, & DCWV

Stamps: Penny Black & Hero Arts

Ink: Memento & Copic Markers

Embellishments: AC & Misc

Tools: EK Success Punches

"Be all that you DREAM to be"

Day 11..Sketch #170

Supplies:

PP: MME

CS: The Paper Company

Ribbon: Cosmo Cricket

Punch: EK Success

Thanks 4 Stopping by!!

~Wednesday Wants...Plus~

2012-02-08T10:11:00.001-07:00

For my wants today, I am going to share with you a line that I can't wait to get my hands on & a couple Valentines ideas..

Lets start with "This & That" line from Echo Park...I am loving all the patterns in this kit & I can already see cards that will be made with it!!

These Blocks are made from Brown Paper Packages & she gives you a list of the things you will need to make these...I think I will make these as well..they are too cute to pass up!!

I thought this idea would be fun for the Guy in your life you are in LOVE with! This idea came from Me & My Insanity.

& to not disappoint you of me making something...Here are a few things I have done as well...

This is a Bulletin Board, which is pretty big, that I put together for the Kid's school {which is one of my jobs for the PTA}. I wanted a winter theme, but many teachers were doing the same thing, so I added Valentines in with it!!

Here is an up close picture of the XO's...

Now here was an idea of putting something together for your crafting friends...

and this is a tag that I put together for a gift..

I hope your Valentine Planning is coming along well!!
Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~CPS Celebration...Day 8 & 9~

2012-02-06T16:09:00.003-07:00

Decided since today was early day for work, that I would come home & put together Day 8 & 9 sketches from over at CPS so I would be caught up on the days!!

So for Day 8 I did a masculine card:

"P.S."

the inside says:

Here is Day 8's sketch #102:

Supplies:

PP: DCWV

CS: Misc & DCWV

Stamp: Stampin' UP!

Ink: Memento & Stampin' UP!

Punch: EK Success

Now Day 9's sketch I made for my Best Friend that lives in Japan {so Becky if you see this...it is coming your way soon}because she is such a great & caring friend. She does so many things for others & when she calls me, I never answer her calls because I am busy at that time...so this is to let her know that I do think about her even when we don't talk!! {Miss you Girl}

"For my friend who's always there, who's always kind, and always cares"

Here is Day 9's sketch #5:

Supplies:

PP: Crate Paper

CS: Bazzill, DCWV, & Misc

Stamp: Close to my Heart

Ink: Memento

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~How Are You?...Thanks~

2012-02-06T09:39:00.002-07:00

For a challenge card with my card club ladies, we had to make a monochromatic card. For me this was a challenge as I have never been able to do one. Well I did it {I think} with using Day 5's Sketch at CPS .

Day 5 #38

"How are you?"

Supplies:

PP: "Nantucket" {Pink Paislee}

CS: Green {AC} & White {Misc}

Stamp: AC

Ink: "Tuxedo Black" {Memento}

Tools: Cricut with "Stamping" Cartridge {PC}, Open Scallop Punch {EK}, Scissors {CM}, Big Shot {Sizzix}, Embossing Folders {Cuttlebug}, & Pcutter {Fiskars}

For Day 7 I used the sketch to make a little something for Teacher Appreciation Week for the Teachers {getting a head start for that week}

Day 7 # 242...

"Heart full of Thanks for you"

and then I made the inside {white card} come out for a note of thanks to them

Supplies:

PP: "Totally Girl" {MME}

CS: Red {AC}, White & Blue {Misc}

Stamps: "Lighthearted" {SU} & "Thanks2You" {SOL}

Ink: "Real Red" {SU} & "Tuxedo Black" {Memento}

Embellishments: Yellow Twine {DT}, Staples, & Circle Clip {Misc}

Tools: Stapler, Scissors {CM}, Pcutter {Fiskars}, Postage Border Punch {EK}

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

~PTA Valentines...Plus~

2012-02-06T09:14:00.000-07:00

I am over Teacher Appreciation in the PTA at the kid's school & so while working on the CPS Sketches for their 5yr Ann., I came across day 6 & thought that the sketch would make a perfect holder for the teacher's Thank You's for this month.

Here is the Sketch {#37}

So for the Teachers from the PTA I give you...

A look on the inside:

& a little something on the back:

{I used MME "Love Me Do" Line & Stampin' Up! for the stamps}

Now I wanted to share with you a few Blogs I Love & share with you that you can use for Valentines!!

You can make a centerpiece with a Tutorial...

A DIY Centerpiece/ A To Zebra Celebrations

These Printable's come in a few colors...

Be My Valentine Printable/ Lil' Luna via While He Was Napping

These are great for that Artist you have in your house & so fun!! I am using these for next year for Annabelle as she LOVES to color & make things!!

Valentine Faces/ Blonde Designs

A Vintage Valentine

Vintage Valentine/ Living Locurto

I hope you are liking the Valentine ideas that you can do in your home for those you LOVE!!
Thanks 4 stopping by!!

Valentine Ideas for your LOVED ones... :D

2012-02-05T13:30:00.003-07:00

My Sister in law is always doing fun countdowns to holidays and her favorite is Valentine's Day where she spoils my brother for 14 days. I love her ideas and have been wanting to create my own countdown til Valentine's Day for my loved ones! There is still plenty of time to start celebrating your loved ones. Check out some of her ideas here:

14 Days of Valentine’s Ideas

Make your own fortune cookies with special messages inside them.

1 egg white

1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 pinch salt
1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white sugar

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Butter a cookie sheet. Write love fortunes on strips of paper about 4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Generously grease 2 cookie sheets. Mix the egg white and vanilla until foamy but not stiff. Sift the flour, salt, and sugar and blend into the egg white mixture. Place teaspoonfuls of the batter at least 4 inches apart on one of the prepared cookie sheets. Tilt the sheet to move the batter into round shapes about 3 inches in diameter. Be careful to make batter as round and even as possible. Do not make too many, because the cookies have to be really hot to form them and once they cool it is too late. Start with 2 or 3 fortune cookies to a sheet and see how they fit. Bake for 5 minutes or until cookies have turned a golden color 1/2 inch wide around the outer edge of the circle. The center should remain pale.
Remove from oven and quickly move cookies with a wide spatula and place upside down on a wooden board. Quickly place the fortune on the cookie, close to the middle and fold each of the cookies in half. Place the folded edge across the rim of a measuring cup and pull the pointed edges down, one on the inside of the cup and one on the outside. Place folded fortune cookies into the cups of a muffin tin or egg carton to hold their shape until firm.

Get up early on Saturday or Sunday morning to prepare breakfast in bed.

Give a head-to-toe massage.

Make a cd for him of you talking or reminiscing to listen to on the way to work one day.

Create a "Ransom Note." Cut out letters of the alphabet from various magazines and glue them on paper to spell a love message.

Go to puzzlemaker.com and create a personalized crossword puzzle, hidden message puzzle, wordsearch, etc. for him.

Get a children’s book at DI and personalize it by covering certain words with little word papers.

Pack a picnic basket with sparkling cider, cheese, bread, fruit, chocolate or anything else that tickles your fancy. Throw down a tablecloth on your living room floor and have it there or surprise your honey at work with a special romantic lunch.

Decorate his office walls with hearts, cupids, your hand traced and glued into "I love you" in sign language, a paper chain with sayings on each link like “BLANK is _____ (funny, smart, sexy, etc.)” and hang balloons from the ceiling.

Make a scrapbook layout featuring his 10 best qualities.

Prepare a night of dancing at home. Decorate, wear something special, play “your song” or make a CD with songs that are special to you and sip strawberry daiquiris.

Message in a bottle: write a message and put it in the bottle. Then have a hot bath waiting for him for when he gets home from work with the bottle floating in the tub. Of course you can’t forget the candles and music too.

Write “I LOVE YOU BLANK” (or some other sappy message) on the garage door with cut-out cardboard letters for everyone to see!!! Or if there is snow outside, spray paint it with red paint in the snow!!!

On Valentine's Day, prepare red or pink food. Possibly include pink mashed potatoes, pink bread, red Jell-O, a red tinted heart cake with pink icing, etc…

After a little research, I found out that a White & Red Rose Together symbolizes Unity. Give a white and red rose to your hubby with a note about unity.

I liked this poem and may use it just by itself.

The Giving Of Yourself

You don't have to give me gold or silver or anything of wealth.

The gift that means the most to me is the giving of yourself.

No need for a string of pearls, or materials of satin and lace,

the best gift you could give me, is the smile upon your face.

No need for sweet aromas, that only fill the air,

the best gift you could give me is to show me that you care.

No need for things that sparkle, for everything will one day dull.

The best gift you could give me is what lives inside your soul.

Give me what's inside your heart and it will last through time.

The only gift I want from you, is for you to always be mine.

No need to give me gold or silver or anything of wealth.

The gift that means the most to me is the giving of yourself.

Make a set of Love Tokens. On them write things like; back massage, foot rub, kisses, etc… Let him use them throughout the year.

Buy a puzzle from the dollar store and on the back write a poem or message. Have him put the puzzle together to figure out what the message is.

Write a love note on the toilet paper and roll it back up so he doesn’t notice it until he goes to the bathroom. Hee Hee

Make a bunch of love notes and stick them in places throughout the house so he can find them. For example, put one on his pillow underneath the covers or stuffed in his lunch box or underneath his pajamas, at the computer, in his shoes, shirt pockets, car, computer bag, coat, drawers to remind him how much you love him. That way it may be a few days later and he’s still finding notes.

Give 14 cards and envelopes, one for him to open each day before Valentines. Inside each one, write one reason why you truly think he is the best guy in the world. (Be a little mushy)

Coupon for shoveling the sidewalks "This season is a time for service and not just idle talk so the next time we have a snowstorm I'll help to shovel our walks."

Small stuffed lamb. "Ewe are very special to me. Ewe are my eternal love and I am so proud of ewe. I Love Ewe!"

Fill a mug with various instant soup mixes and write, "To My Souper Guy, I love you Forever."

Buy a ceramic toothbrush holder with slots in the top for toothbrushes and put in the slots- artist brushes, mechanical pencils, & a permanent pen in it and say, "It was an eternal blessing finding a husband like you. That paints a beautiful picture of a love, rare and true. Love_______"

Purchase a favorite music CD and say "Whether classical, rock & roll or country, always keep a song in your heart. I love you so much and all that jazz. You are definitely the best on my top 10 chart."

This is a husband’s gift for sure. Put a small amount of straw in the bottom of a box or purchase a small bale of hay from the craft store. Lay a dinner roll on top of the hay and say, "I know you like excitement so this will make your day, this gift is all you could ask for here it is... A roll in the hay!"

Can of Protein Shake. "I'm so proud of you working out so hard. You are looking great and whenever I see you, I shake inside, glad we had that first date."

Love letter listing reasons why I LOVE YOU

Basket of Healthy Snacks

Date night with DVD and red vines

Clean out or wash his car

Clean windows

Find a song you like and re-write the words to be about both of you.

Decorate bedroom with Super Man theme- red and Superman logo

Drive to the park and go for a walk in the park.

Mod-Podge wooden Memory Box

Plant for office

Ways to say I love you in different languages (ASL, Japanese calligraphy, Klingon, etc.)

Fill his car with balloons while he is at work. Have a note on the steering wheel say “I am

somewhere in the city. Pop the balloons and rearrange the letters inside to find out

where to meet me. It should be a restaurant, movie, ice cream parlor, etc.

Surprise him with movie tickets

5 types of fudge from Hickory Kist

Candlelight dinner with invitation and menu

Iron his shirts

Present a Family Home Evening about him. Get the children involved. Maybe make a video.

Make a favorite dessert: cinnamon rolls, orange rolls, cheesecake, angel food cake

Prepare breakfast in bed

Give him a bag of fortune cookies with a note that says “I can’t believe my good fortune in

finding you.”

Make a paper flower bouquet or a rose bud bouquet make of red wrapped Hershey’s kisses

Buy his favorite kind of ice cream

Haircut

Tickets to Hales Theater

Valentine Ideas & Printables

2012-02-04T00:02:00.002-07:00

I'm always looking for some cute & easy ideas during the holidays... I just love Pinterest! It truly is a life-saver finding ideas! My girls absolutely love making their own V-day cards/gifts for family, their friends and especially their teachers! Can't wait to share their cute cards with you this year!

Check out these cute printables!

http://www.thebusybudgetingmama.com/2012/01/free-be-mine-garland-printables-my.html

I always love helping out with the Valentines Day party in my daughters class! I usually love creating my own games... but if you don't have the time - just use this cute idea!

http://www.theidearoom.net/2011/02/valentine-bingo-cards.html

~Hugs N Kisses...So Sorry~

2012-02-03T20:24:00.001-07:00

I am almost caught up to day 6 of CPS sketches...I am going to share with you day 3 & day 4!!

These were made this morning before I went to work & as I am taking a break with the painting of my TV room, I wanted to share them with you.

Day 3 Sketch #54..."Hugs & Kisses"

Supplies:

CS: Pink {Bazzill}, White & Blue {Misc}

Stamp: "Alphabet Soup" {SU}

Ink: "Real Red" {SU} & Sepia Black {ColorBox}

Embellishment: Yellow Button {Misc}

Tools: Cricut & "Sentimentals" Cartridge {PC}, Scissors {CM}, Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Scrapbooks Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {Glue Dots}, & Zig Glue Pen {EK}

Day 4 Sketch #220..."So Sorry" {This was made for my Card Club Ladies}

Supplies:

PP: "Backyard" & Sixth Avenue" {AC}

CS: Black {AC}, White & Green {Misc}

Ink: "Sepia Black" {ColorBox}

Embellishment: Grey Ribbon {Offray}, Half Pearls "Opaline" {BasicGrey}, Chip Shape Butterflies {Sassafras for Studio Calico}

Tools: Cricut & "Stamping" Cartridge {PC}, Scissors {CM}, & Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Zig Glue Pen {EK}, Scrapbooking Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {GD}, Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Thanks 4 Stopping By!!

~Day 3...I Love You~

2012-02-03T10:20:00.003-07:00

Has anyone done anything fun for their kids or hunny yet for V-day? I know their are some who do things for the whole 14 days & some that just do it on the day. I am the one who does it on the day of!!

Here is the card I made for Matt & it is your day 3...

"i love you"

Supplies:

PP: "Craft Fair" {AC}

CS: White {Misc}

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: "Real Red" {SU} & Brown Sharpie Pen

Embellishment: White Rhinestone {Misc}

Tools: Cricut with "G&B Shapes" Cartridge {PC}, Scissors {CM}, Pcutter {Fiskars}, & Circle Punch {EK}

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time} & Scrapbooks Adhesives

Also I wanted to share this Free Printable that I found over at Tip Junkie. It is "Top 20 things to do To Celebrate LOVE! I love the "Steal a Kiss from your Sweetheart" idea! I'm always down with that!!

Check it out!!

Well THANKS for stopping by!!

~CPS Sketches~

2012-02-02T17:13:00.005-07:00

Over at CPS Sketches they are celebrating 5 years of sketches & so for 3 weeks straight they are doing a sketch a day & who ever posts for the day, they get to pick which sketch was their favorite & then that is what we do. So I am going to share with you Day 1 & Day 2 {they are on day 5 so that puts me behind a couple of days}

Day 1: "Because I Love You" Sketch #136

Supplies:

PP: "Bittersweet" Basic Grey

CS: Pink & White {Misc}

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: "Real Red" {Stampin' Up!}

Tools: Hear Punch {EK}, Scissors & Corner Rounder{CM}& Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesives: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L} & Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Day 2: "Be My Valentine" Sketch # 166

Supplies:

PP: "A Gift of Love" {BoBunny}

CS: Green {DCWV}

Stamp: "P.S. I Love You" {SU...inside sentiment}

Ink: "Tuxedo Black" {Memento}

Embellishments: Pink Button {Misc} & Twine {Walmart}

Tools: Open Scallop Punch & Heart Punch {EK}, Cricut with "Doodletype" Cartridge {Provo Craft}, Scissors {CM}, & Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Pop- Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, & Mini Dots {GD}

Thanks 4 Stopping By!!

52 Reasons I LOVE YOU!

2012-02-02T16:54:00.002-07:00

Check out this great site for your how to and tutorial on making your own version of 52 Reasons I love you!

http://papervinenz.blogspot.com/2011/02/hi-everyone-this-is-last-of-my.html

As soon as I have mine completed I will post it here for you to view! It is an amazing journey to write down the 52 reasons you love someone! I am doing this for my husband for Valentines and I want it to be perfect... So, I'm taking my time getting it just right!

What gift ideas have you given or are planning on giving to your loved ones?

~Wed Wants & Day 1 of Valentines~

2012-02-01T09:34:00.003-07:00

Good Morning & welcome to 14 days of Valentines!! We hope you see some things in the days to come that you really like & will comment on. Today I am going to start with our Wednesday wants & show you a few things that I have found that I am loving...

These stamp sets are all from Unity Stamp Comp

How cute are the tiles & the little tags?!! So Cute!!

This one is perfect for a baby shower or to congrat someone on a new addition coming to their family!!

This saying is TRUE!!

& this stamp you would be so much fun to have...many things can be done with this!!

Now this next Line I found from Doodlebug is not Valentines, but had to share it with you because it is hard to find awesome boy lines & I can use this for my son!!

Now that I have shown you things I would like...let me show you a card that I made for a teenage girl or a lady who loves animal prints. I got the idea off of Kristina Werner's blog & changed it up a little. If you haven't been to her blog, check out how cute her stuff is, you won't be disappointed!!

Supplies:

PP: AC "Teen" & ""Craft Fair" Lines

CS: Pink & Red {AC}

Embellishments: "Handwriting Hibiscus" Stickers {MM}, Natural Twine {Walmart}

Tools: Hole Punch {McGill}, Arrow Border Punch & Heart Punch {EK}, Scissors {CM}, Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L} & Dot Runner {EG}

So like our Christmas in July Give-a-way where at the end of the month one LUCKY person received all of our cards featured, we will do the same for the 14 days of Valentines. All you have to do is comment on each day & be a follower either on our blog & or Facebook.

Thanks for stopping by!!

~Wed Wants~

2012-01-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

CHA is upon us again & that means great new lines from amazing companies!! So today I am going to show you a few lines & products I can't wait to get my hands on!!

"Sunshine Happiness" by Bella Blvd

"Baby Girl" by Bella Blvd

"Up in the Trees" by My Little Shoe Box

"Days of the Week" Stamps by Studio Calico

"Take Note" By Studio Calico

& "Miss Caroline" by My Minds Eye

I am sure I will come across some more exciting lines & products in the weeks to come as will you!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~A Year of Cards...2011~

2012-01-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

For Christmas Gifts to some family & friends last month, KFerrara & I sat down every month of 2011 & made a card & a tag to match. So today I am going to share with you the cards that we made & hope those who received them are enjoying them.

~January~

~February~

~March~

~April~

~May: Front~

~Back~

~June~

~July~

~August~

~September~

~October~

~November~

~December~

Their you go...12 months worth!! We had a fun time making these each month & am glad we get to finally share them!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~You're One of My Nicest Thoughts~

2012-01-16T16:32:00.003-07:00

A day off from work & NO school = a day with my partner in creativity!! Karen & I spent a few hours working on 3 cards & chatting it up about we have missed in the last few weeks of not seeing one another. {that is what happens when I work & Karen works & we have different hours} I miss not hanging with my girl!! But we made up for our time with the cards we busted out today!!

1st card is "Love You" & we made 8 of these...

Supplies:

PP: MME "29th Street Market"

CS: Red & Brown {AC} & Blue {Misc}

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: Real Red {SU}

Embellishment: Green Striped Ribbon {Misc}

Tools: Scissors {CM},Pcutter, Scallop & Circle Punch {Fiskars},& Hole Punch

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Pop-Up Dots {GD}, Dot Runner {EG}

2nd card is "You're one of my Nicest Thoughts" & we made 6 of these...

Supplies:

PP: Crate Paper "Neighborhood Collection"

CS: Pink {AC} & White {Misc}

Stamp: Sending My Love {Unity Stamp Company}

Ink: Tuxedo Black {Memento} & Fabercastle Pencils

Embellishment: White Rhinestone {ColorBlok} & Pink Ric Rack {AC}

Tools: Scissors & Corner Rounder {CM} & Pcutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesive {3L}, Pop-Up Strip {4 Ever in Time}, Mini Dots {GD}

3rd card is: "Give Love Away" & we made 6 of these...

Supplies:

PP: MME "Laundry Line"

CS: Deep Red {AC} & White {Misc}

Stamp: Give Love {Daisy Bucket Designs}

Ink: Tuxedo Black {Memento}

Embellishment: Green Polka Dot Ribbon & Gold Glitter Brad {AC}

Tools: Open Scallop Punch {EK}, Big Shot Machine, Photo Corner Die Cut {Sizzix}, Scissors {CM}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Mini Dots {GD}

I hope you liked what you seen today...we had a great time hanging out!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~You Rock...Teen Valentines~

2012-01-15T19:57:00.003-07:00

I was GOOGLING Valentine cards for men {for my babe} & I came across a card that was for a Teen. I never thought of a teen getting cards, but thought it was a neat idea!! So I took the idea & made one for a girl & a boy. I can't wait to make more...

"You Rock" Girl Teen

"You Rock" Boy Teen

Supplies:

PP: DCWV {Not sure what line..if you do leave me a comment}

CS: Red, Green, & White {Misc} & Black {Roberts}

Stamp: Thanks2You {Stamps of Life}

Ink: Tuxedo Black {Memento} & Sepia Black {ColorBox}

Tools: Heart Punch {McGill}, Scissors {CM}, Pcutter {Fiskars}, & Cricut Machine with "Paper Dolls" Cartridge

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, & Dot Runner {EG}

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

~Love U...11yrs~

2012-01-13T09:17:00.002-07:00

11 yrs ago I married the man of my dreams, the one who puts me on a pedestal & puts up with my grumpiness!! I am more in LOVE today with him than I was when we met!! For him I made this card that I wanted to share with you!! I always have a hard time making masculine cards...but this one turned out good...

Supplies:

PP: My Mind's Eye "Love Me Do"

CS: Yellow & White {AC}

Stamp: Hero Arts

Ink: Real Red {SU}

Embellishments: Ribbon & Thickers "Vera" Sticker {AC}

Tools: Arrow Punch {EK}, Scissors & Corner Punch {CM}, & Paper Cutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Dot Runner {EG}, Mini Dots {GD}, & Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~With All My Heart~

2012-01-12T15:55:00.002-07:00

I am getting super excited for Valentines Day that I can't help but make cards!! I can't wait to send them out to family members & friends!! Who doesn't like getting cute cards in the mail!! I am getting ideas as well for the Teachers to give as their Thank You from the PTA...so if you have any cute ideas for them that are cheap...please share a link or tell me where I can find your great idea!!

So here is my card...

Supplies:

PP: My Mind's Eye "Love Me Do"

CS: Pink & White {AC} & Red {Misc}

Stamps: Polka Dot Heart & I love you {Studio G} & With all my Heart {Hampton Arts "Hugs n Kisses"}

Ink: Aqua, Garnet, Red, & Yellow {Vivid} & Black {SU}

Embellishment: Red Polka Dot Ribbon {Misc}

Tools: Poker {Making Memories}, Scissors {CM} & Paper Cutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever n Time}, Dot Runner {EG}, & Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Love~

2012-01-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

I didn't quite make it to getting this card posted after work yesterday, so I will post it now!! I found a sketch of this in one of the Paper Craft Magazines that I got from my Mom a few years ago & had it tucked away in my file folder named: Cards!! Anyone else have a file or a binder that they put ideas of things they want to make when they are in a bind? I have many folders for ideas..but that is the only way I can keep things together for me. So here is the card I made...

Supplies:

PP: My Minds Eye Signature Life "Pretty Girl"

CS: Kraft {The Paper Company}, Cream {DCWV}, & Blue {Bazzill}

Stamps: "Polka Dots & Paisley" {SU} & "Family" {Hampton Arts}

Ink: Tuxedo Black {Memento} & Chalk White {Studio G}

Embellishment: Twine {DT}

Tools: Heart Punch {McGill Craft}, Arrow Punch {EK}, Scissors {CM}, PCutter {Fiskars}, Poker {MM}

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Enjoy your day!!

Thanks 4 Stopping By!!

~Cutting Fabric on the Cricut~

2012-01-09T15:56:00.001-07:00

I was trying to figure out what our January Challenge card was going to be with Fabric on it & decided I wanted to make a simple one with squares on it. Well I wanted to cut it out on the Cricut but wasn't sure on how I was going to do that. So with a little GooGling...I found what I needed to do & I wanted to share what I learned just in case you didn't know either!! {if you do know how to do this & know a few more things on it, please leave a comment & let us know}

So I started out with a new mat & a sharper blade...I placed the fabric on the mat & started to cut it & here is what it did to the fabric...{before I read up on how to cut fabric on the Cricut}

Then I read that I needed to use some sort of backing like this...

So then I started out by cutting the Heat N Bond the same size of what I needed

Then you place your fabric right side up on top of the shiny side {the other side which is just paper...goes on the bottom.

Set your Iron on the Silk setting & then iron over your fabric...let it cool & then pull the paper off.

and when you have peeled it off & are ready to cut, then add it to the mat & cut away {put your speed on Low & your pressure is to be put on Max and your blade on 4}..Much better cutting

Here is an idea of cutting with & without the backing...

& now I will show you what I made with the fabric...

I hope I have showed you something new.

Thanks 4 stopping by!

~What's New?~

2012-01-04T11:01:00.002-07:00

Happy 2012 my friends!! I started working on a new set of cards yesterday & then ran out of time due to having to get to work. So I finished them up this morning to share with you & to start 2012 off right with CREATING!!

They say "What's New?"

Supplies:

PP: DCWV "Green Stack"

CS: Kraft {The Paper Company}

Embellishments: Ribbons {Cosmo Cricut & Misc}, Staples, & Stickers {AC}

Tools: Scissors {CM}, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, Cricut Machine with "Celebrations" {Tag} & "Sans Serif Font" Cartridges, Stapler, & Ric Rac Punch {EKS}

Adhesive: Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time} & Dot Runner {EG}

I hope your New Year is off to a great start..I know mine is!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Thinking of You~

2011-12-30T13:11:00.001-07:00

I finally sat in my room this morning & it wasn't to go through my stuff, but to actually make cards!! I can't tell you how nice it was to want to be in there!! {around this time every year for a few weeks I won't touch my room} I thought I would get a head start on my January CC cards & with the theme being "thinking of you" I needed to get an idea on what I wanted. I flipped through some of the cards KFerrara & I had already made & came up with this one...the size on this card is a 5x3.

Supplies:

PP: AC Play "Dollhouse"

CS: Pink {DCWV}

Stamp: "Salutaion" {Penny Black}

Ink: Art Print Brown {Memories}

Embellishments: Green Ribbon {WRMK}, Red Stripped Ribbon {AC}

Tools: Scissors {CM} PCutter {Fiskars}, Notebook Punch {EK}, Dot Embossing Folder {CB}, & Big Shot Machine {Sizzix}

Adhesive: Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time} & Dot Runner {EG}

The 2nd card I made for CC is simple & clean, but with color!!

inside of card:

Supplies:

PP: My Little Shoe Box "Home Tweet Home"

CS: Yellow {Misc}

Stamp: Curly Cute {Stampin' Up!}

Ink: Real Red {Stampin' Up!}

Embellishments: Red Button {Misc} & Blue Twine {DT}

Tools: Scissors & Corner Rounder Punch {CM}, PCutter {Fiskars}

Adhesive: Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time} & Micro Dots {GD}

Thanks 4 taking time to stop by!!

~365...A Year of JRhoades 2012~

2011-12-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

This coming year I thought I would do what others have done & make a book about me...but something about me everyday...so whether a picture of the day or a quote of how I am feeling or maybe even some of the events that will take place in 2012.

I finished the binder & am sure I will use a few of these this year!!

Supplies:

Binder & Stickers {AC}

Blue Striped Twine {Divine Twine}

Zig Zag PP {MME}

This is going to be my 2012 Creative Challenge....What will be yours?

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Sending Love~

2011-12-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

I know we have all been busy with the last of the little things to get ready for Christmas, but I have had a few min here & there to work on a card. I am a big fan of UNITY stamps,but only have had one of their itty bitty stamps, until now. I have had my eye on this one for a while & found it for $10, so I grabbed it! If you have never used UNITY stamps, you should try them, they have tons & tons of stamps & they are always having sales on their site!! Check them out...what are you waiting for?

Here is my card...

Supplies:

PP: Fancy Pants "Crush/Head over Heels" & Blue Background {Misc}

CS: White {Misc} & Pink Card {AC}

Stamp: Sending My Love {Unity Stamp Comp}

Ink/Colors: Tuxedo Black Ink {Memento} & Colored Pencils {Crayola & Faber-Castell}

Embellishments: White Rhinestone & Yellow Ric Rac Ribbon {Misc}

Tools: Gamsol {Inky Antics}, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, & Scissors {CM}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L} & Dot Runner {EG}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

Happy Holidays!!

~Love Pop-Up Card~

2011-12-17T10:11:00.000-07:00

For the challenge card in my CC we were to make a pop-up card. This was for sure a challenge for me as I have never made one before. To be honest, I think it will be a while before I make one again.

Outside:

Inside:

I like how it turned out as it being my first time and all, but it was defiantly a challenge.

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Love Me...Love You~

2011-12-13T10:19:00.003-07:00

Card club has snuck up on me {like tomorrow} & I am still the challenge card down. So I thought with being up at 6am this morning that I had better get my butt in gear & get the cards done! The theme for this month was "Valentines or Love" & I was going to go with a Christmas Love theme, but that didn't happen at all!!

Card 1: Love You

Supplies:

PP: DCWV {unsure on the line}

CS: Red {AC} & White {Unknown}

Stamps: "Vases in Vogue" & "Time Well Spent" {Stampin' Up!} & "Family" {Hampton Art}

Ink: Tuxedo Black {Memento}

Tools: Scissors {CM}, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, & Arrow Border Punch {EK}

Adhesive: Scrapbooks Adhesive {3L}, Tape Runner {EG}, & Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Card 2: "Love me & the World is mine"

Supplies:

PP: MME Bohemia Line "Blossom"

CS: Brown {The Paper Company}

Embellishments: "Cherish" Quote {MME Bohemia Line}, Ribbon {AC}, & Rhinestone Brads {Unknown}

Tools: Scissors {CM}, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, Hole Punch, & Open Scallop Punch {EK}

Adhesive: Scrapbooks Adhesive {3L} & Mini Dots {GD}

Hope your Holidays are going smooth!

Thanks 4 stopping by!

~Owl & Girl Christmas~

2011-12-07T11:07:00.001-07:00

Before I head out the door here in just a few, I wanted to share a few cards I did in my room this morning to get ready for an afternoon of craftiness with my Partner in Creating...Karen...We have not seen each other in over a month...TOO LONG my friends, TOO LONG!!!

The first is a mini card:

I used my Copics Markers & added some embellishments...simple!!

{PP is from Fancy Pants & the stamp is from Studio G}

Next is a 4.25 x 5.50 Card:

I also used Copics Markers on her & added a few more embellishments as well!!

{PP is also Fancy Pants & the Stamp is from Penny Black}

I hope you all enjoy your day & may Creativity be your guide!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Packaging Your Holiday Goodies~

2011-12-05T16:55:00.001-07:00

I know you haven't seen much on my blog like you would have, but with starting a new job & NOT having all day long to just do what I LOVE most kinda bites!! {Some of you probably know what that is like}

Tonight I wanted to share with you a few ways that I like to wrap my Holiday Goodies for neighbors & friends & anyone else you can think of.

I love buying tins from Walmart at the end of the season when they are on sale at 75% off. I take the tin & fill it with goodies & then wrap it like a gift & add a bow with a tag.

Most know that I love Coffee {given the blog name} & so I thought it would be fun to save a couple of my cans & turn them into a goody container to give out. I put Patterned Paper on it & then made a bow to match along with a tag.

The last way that most probably give gifts out is with Cellophane & a big bow with a tag!! I bought the silver platter last year at the $1.00 store & they were all different sizes, but yet very elegant looking!

However you dress up your Holiday Goodies, I hope your Goodies taste good!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Advent Can Tree Tutorial~

2011-11-26T14:14:00.001-07:00

Hey friends- How was THANKSGIVING for everyone? any one do any BLACK FRIDAY shopping? I hope you found some awesome deals!!

As some of you know for the last 2 years I have started a tradition with Annabelle & Curtis to have an Advent Calendar that would help them with the Days til' Christmas & they are always different. This year my MNL was talking about keeping some of her cans so she could put treats in them for the kids with a little gift & the thought came to me that I needed 25 cans to make our Advent Calendar for this year. I am so excited to show you just what I did & I can not wait to start using them this coming week!!

Lets of course start with the Supplies we will need:

*25 Cans emptied & cleaned {keep the lids}

*25 sheets of PP cut at 2.5" x 12

*25 Circles that fit the top of the lid

*Punches

*Adhesives Including Glue Gun

*Embellishments of choice

*Scissors

Start with opening of your cans & emptying out the contents & then cleaning them up & making sure they are dry.

Add Adhesive's to the sides of the back of your Patterned Paper & wrap around tight to fit the can.

Now you can add all the embellishments you want. I used a punch for the front of the can to put the number & the top of the lid I used another punch. Make them simple or really go all out! Up to you!!

When you are finished decking your cans out, you will need to add in all your papers of what you are going to do with your family for the 25 days!! If I am good this year I will blog on my family blog everyday, so we can look back on what we did!!

Here is a final look at what it will look like to start {without the star} & then we will take a can away a day!!

Here is an up close look to the cans:

I hope I have inspired you to do something fun with counting down the days til' Christmas!!

Thanks 4 Stopping by!!

Tutorial Thursday... Awesome Book

2011-11-17T15:30:00.005-07:00

Today I bring you a fun little project that I have been wanting to make for quite some time... And the reason being: How many of you get down on yourself for whatever the reason may be... from parenting struggles, spouse problems, inner disappointments, to little and/or big mistakes, etc? I totally do this to myself - feeling as though I have failed in various areas of my life - Wishing I had done things differently - Feeling moments of regret - the list goes on and on! I've decided and have come to grips that this is my LIFE - I chose it and I am going to make the best of it! And in doing so - life is so much BETTER! I feel accomplishment rather than disappointment... I feel hope rather than regret... I feel love rather than anger... It's truly a blessing in my life and I wouldn't feel this way if it weren't for the loving support from my amazing husband, beautiful daughters, wonderful sisters, and incredible friends. I cannot forget to mention my partner in creativity JRhoades who has been an integral part of my life - reminding me of my passion for crafting! Pushing me to the limits on various projects we have shown and have yet to show!

When I thought about making this project and using it as a tutorial - I wanted it to be epic (well in the limited time frame I have with being a Wife, Mother, Parent Helper & Working nights - It will be epic over time and I will give updates on it's epic-ness)... So without further adieu - I give you Karen's Awesome Book!!! It's my way of reminding myself that I am an amazing wife, mother, friend, neighbor, co-worker & person... :D

Supplies: Card stock, Patterned Paper, Stamps, Ink, Cricut, Cartridges, Punches, Ribbon, Brads, Eyelets, Adhesive, Paper Cutter, Stapler and whatever size book you would like to make.

Step 1 & 2: Figure out what paper you want to use - I determined mine based on the size of book & pages... Then cut them to the size of the book, glue the paper to the page and then punch the holes.

Step 3: Once you have them all glued and holes punched... place the rings in the holes and work at making your book your own by adding embellishments, distressing it, etc...

As you can see it isn't close to being finished... but over time it will be amazing!

Thanks for stopping by today... :)

~Merry & Bright~

2011-11-17T10:53:00.001-07:00

Seen this sketch over at CPS-Sketches & it gave me a chance to use my new "Saint Nick" Kit from Fancy Pants! I love this kit!!

I hope your day is bright!

Thanks for stopping by!

Uno... Dos.. Tres... Christmas

2011-11-16T20:52:00.003-07:00

I was fortunate enough to share my love of cardmaking with some friends from work today... We'd been planning to get together and crop an afternoon away with good food, fun projects and great conversation since we found out we shared similar interests/passions... and it just happened to be a perfect day to do so!

I had gotten a couple of these stamps a while ago and hadn't had an opportunity until today. I love how they turned out! I figured I would use these for my neighbor/friend gifts this holiday season.

What fun projects have you been working on?

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas...

~100 Facebook Fan Give-A-Way~

2011-11-12T09:14:00.001-07:00

Here is a little of what your getting...we have added much more to this!!

I am in AWE!! When I checked out our Facebook Page & seen we hit 100 Fans....I screamed to my husband in excitement! We wouldn't be having this Give-A-Way if it wasn't for you!! Thank You for that!! Now for the winner...I went off of Random.Org & picked 1-100 & it picked #65....& that would be

Kayla Stoops!!

Congrats Kayla!! Please Email me @: jkkreations11@gmail.com & give me your info of where to send your goodies!! You also have until Monday by 12pm to respond to this Give-A-Way before it goes to another winner!!

For everyone else....thanks so much again for all you have done with our Blog & just being apart of us!!\

Let's keep our Fans coming!!

~Give Thanks...Frame Tutorial~

2011-11-10T17:39:00.001-07:00

Most who know me, know that I do a "Thankful" tree every year this time around to say thanks for everything we are thankful for every day. Instead of cutting paper leaves out on the Cricut & cutting a few branches...I decided to do something a little different. I have looked all over the blogging community to see what others may have done {& can't find who it was from...Sorry} But came across this idea!!

So let us get started....

Supplies:

*Frame of any kind {I bought mine for $1.50 at the Thrift store}

*Paint of any sort & Color...I used Krylon Gloss & an Acrylic Protective spray}

*Vinyl of any color choice

*Sand Paper

*Scissors & Paper Cutter

*Adhesive & Mod Podge

*Any Embellishments to add to your frame & mat

Step 1:

Sand your frame if you bought an already used one...if not move to Step 3.

Step 2:

After you have sanded your frame & wiped it all down, lay out paper & spray your choice of color. When done spraying to your liking, apply a protective spray over that.

Step 3:

Now we need to cut out our Vinyl in the color of your choice. I had just picked up yellow & so I thought it would go great with the Patterned Papers & embellishments I chose for the mat . I flipped my writing so I could put it on the inside of the glass. In doing this, I cut out the size letters that I wanted & then tapped them to the top of the glass. Then cut out my Vinyl & was able to line it up straight without guessing where they were going to go. {saved much time}

When you are done, add all the embellishments that fit your style of what you want & then put it all together & hang on your wall for your family to write on it with a dry erase marker. I used Crate Papers "Neighborhood" Collection Kit for all my embellishing.

I love how this turned out...& of course when I was looking for my black dry erase marker I couldn't find it {but have it know} so what we are thankful for today is kind of light....they say,

Annabelle: For Friends

Curtis: For Sports

Me: For Family

My husband is still at work, but will write his when he arrives. I hope I have inspired you to do something fun & creative to just let those around you know what you are most thankful for everyday!!

I am Thankful 4 you everyday...

Thanks 4 stopping by...

{JRhoades}

~Gobble, Gobble~

2011-11-08T17:19:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to share with you a card that I made for this coming Holiday. Our Challenge card for Card Club was to make a card that had Punch Art on it...& so this is what I came up with...

I was able to cut everything off the "George & Basic Shapes" Cartridge for the Cricut. He is such a cute turkey!! Gobble, Gobble my Friends!!

Thanks 4 Stopping by!

~Baby Give-A-Way Winner~

2011-11-07T20:06:00.007-07:00

We have a winner of the Baby Give-A-Way....

I went to Random Org.com & put in the 3 ladies who commented on the post & Number 3 was our winner. Heather was our 3rd comment & she commented on our Facebook page saying,

" Oooh that's a hard one. How about there chunky little legs and feet. Some babies I guess."

I want to say THANKS to those who participated!

You are why I give things out!! Enjoy your evening!!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:3Powered by RANDOM.ORG

~Tis' the Season~

2011-11-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!! It is that time again this coming Wednesday for Card Club to meet & I figured I needed to get my other card finished for that day!! {I still need to get my Challenge card done...but I will do so this afternoon..if not by tomorrow} This card I made is based on this weeks challenge sketch at Card Patterns.

"Tis the Season to Be Jolly"

Supplies:

PP: Fancy Pants "Tradition"

CS: Green {Misc}

Stamp: "Large Christmas Circle" {Hero Arts}

Ink: Art Print Brown {Memories}

Embellishments: Red Ribbon {CTMH}, White Ribbon & Blue Snowflake Eyelet {Misc}

Tools: Scallop Cirlce & Postage Stamp Punch {EK}, Circle Punch & Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, Scissors {CM}, Hole Punch {McGill}, Crop-A-Dile {WRMK}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {GD}, Dot Runner {EG}

**Remember to leave a comment on the BABY post to win the give-a-way**

If your not a fan on our Facebook Page...we would love to have you!!

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

~Baby Papercrafts Give-A-Way~

2011-11-05T08:52:00.000-06:00

Their are many people I know who are pregnant & as I was going through my room the last couple of days I have come across many baby things that I would love to give away!! I have also added in 4 baby gift cards as well. What I love most about babies is the way they smell & how cuddly they can be. I am so excited for those who are expecting or have just had their babies!! CONGRATS!!

Here is a picture of what is in the stash & what you get in it...

You get...
* 3 8x8 baby boy layer layouts from MME
*Pink Twine from MME
* 3 Sets of Baby Stamps
*4 sheets of Stickers
*1 Sheet of Rub-On's
*4 gift cards

All you have to do is leave a comment on what you LOVE most about babies & I will pick a winner come Monday!!

Thanks 4 Stopping in today!!

~Hanging Picture Ornaments~

2011-11-04T12:05:00.001-06:00

Sorry about the delay in posting this....between end of the season Football Parties & a Daughter not feeling well, I am just now getting this posted! So thanks for being patient...You guys are the best!!

Today I am going to show you something you might or might not know how to do, but once you get the hang of it, it is easy to do more. {I had a bit of trouble, but that's not hard...he he!!} This is a 3D kind of ornament to hang from your tree as a an ornament or to give as gifts..I am going to hang mine of my banisters when I put my Garland up at the end of the month.

So lets get started with what you might need...

Supplies: {AKA: Step 1}

*20 Circles cut out on the Cricut with George & Basic Shapes at size 3" on Paper Saver {I used like 8-9 different prints}

*1 Triangle cut out at size 2 1/2" on the same Cartridge as Circles

*Bone Folder

*Punch of any shape

*15-20 Pics {Thumbnail size printed off my printer}

*Glue Gun

*Twine

*Embellishments of any kind

Step 2:

Cut out circles. Then line up the Triangle to make sides even & then use the bone folder to make the creases of where to fold. Then before you fold all sides, use your punch & punch out in the middle of your triangle. {try not to punch where you are going to fold}

Step 3:

Now fold on the creased lines...Get your pictures cut out & see how they are going to fit your punch, Mine were a little small on some sides, so I added red paper behind all of them. Then attach them to the backs of your circles to show through your punch.

Step 4:

Use your glue gun & glue 4 circles together as shown in the picture below....Punch a hole so you can add the twine after you glued your circles together. Then add all your embellishments or just leave it plain.

Here is what the final outcome of the Ornament should look like:

I am so excited for the holidays!!

Thanks for following along with us & Stopping By!!

Tutorial Thursday... Star Wreath

2011-10-27T19:46:00.002-06:00

Tis the season to start prepping for the Holidays... I always get so excited to see what everyone is making to hang in their home or give away as gifts to loved ones!
This project was a fun one for me to make - all the while enjoying a quiet afternoon at home :)

Supplies:

PP: "Season's Greetings" {Echo Park}
Ink: "Chocolate Chip" {Stampin' Up!}
Embellishments: Red Ribbon {American Crafts} & Blue Ribbon {Misc}, Buttons {Basic Grey}
Tools: Cricut Machine & "George & Basic Shapes" Cartridge
Adhesive: "Mini" {Glue Dots}

Can't wait to see what projects everyone has going on this time of year... Happy Holidays!

~Card Challenge + Wed Want~

2011-10-26T11:25:00.000-06:00

Before I head to work here in a few...I wanted to post a challenge that I did for over at CardPatterns. I liked the sketch because it was perfect for my Card Club cards for next month where the theme is "Christmas". This card fits a 4.25 x 9.5 in Envelope {like the ones your bills come in!} I used Paper Studios Mat Stack "Happy Hootin' Holidays" which you could find at Hobby Lobby.
"Season's Grettings"

I haven't done Wed Wants for a while, so I thought I would show you a couple things I found that I would love to have...
this Paper pack is from We R Memory Keepers & is called "Peppermint Twist"

It also has a Cardstock Pad to match it.

& a 4x6 pack as well...

This stamp set is also great from Unity:

Super cute right!!

Well I guess I better get to work!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Coach's Thank You's~

2011-10-25T11:26:00.002-06:00

I volunteered to do my son's Coach's thank you cards for the end of the season party. I did them in the VIKINGS colors. & of course my son loved them:

Supplies:

PP: Holy Sole "Cougar Words"

CS: Kraft {Paper Company}

Stamp: Stampin Up!

Ink: VersaMark

Embellishment: #1 Ribbon {AC}, Red Ribbon {CTMH}, Embossing Powder {Black}, Staples, & Football Stickers {SandyLion & Remarks AC}

Tools: Notebook Punch {EK}, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, Scissors {CM}, & Stapler

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {GD}, & Pop Strips {4 Ever in Time}

It is also someones Birthday I know today, & so I made her a little jar of her favorite {mine as well} York Peppermint Patties....MMMM!!! The paper is "Out of Print" by Basic Grey & the stamp is Inkadinkado & Stampin' Up!...

Time for WORK!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Star Wars Halloween Party Ideas~

2011-10-23T12:53:00.002-06:00

Kferrara was in charge of the Annual Halloween Party this year & she put a theme to it this year...Star Wars!! With Invites, banners, food, & partry games & favors the party was a blast!!

Here are some of the things made for the party...

"Welcome You Are" Banner

Lightsber Napkins {I found them on Pinterest}but added my own version of the handle...

And here is all 60 of them...

& now the Party Favor bag toppers:

And now I am going to share with you the cake that was made for the party by a very talented lady who is Kferrara's sister-n-law, Abby Isaacson!! You can find some of her other cakes here. This cake was Cherry with Chocolate frosting...AMAZING!! Thanks Abby!!

Hope we have inspired you for your next party whatever it might be!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~So Thankful 4 U~

2011-10-21T12:36:00.000-06:00

Kferrara & I got together & we were able to put a few cards together & catch up after about a month of not seeing each other!!

I really liked the papers on this one: "So Thankful For You"

& Kferrara liked the papers on this one:

We also made tags to match:

Supplies:

PP: Studio Calico "Destination & Telegraph

CS: Blue {Unknown}

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: Topaz {VersaColor} & Tuxedo Black {Memento}

Embellishments: Ribbon {AC}, Staples, Silver Brad {Misc}, E Line Black Pearls & Crystals {Prima Marketing}

Tools: Cricut with "Sentimentals" Cartridge, Paper Cutter {Fiskars}, Scissors {CM}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Mini & Micro Dots {GD}, Dot Runner {Elmer's Glue}

These are perfect for the month of November!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~To Be Frank Card~

2011-10-15T09:42:00.001-06:00

For my last CC card that I made {& the ladies loved} I used CPS-Card Sketches challenge card #239. I loved making changes to this card & using embossing powder to bring out Frank!!

Supplies:

PP: DCWV "Midnight Spell"

CS: Purple & Green {Misc}

Stamp: Craft Smart

Ink: Versa Mark, "Sepia Black" {Colorbox}

Embellishments: Black Embossing Powder {JoAnns Craft Essentials}, Ribbon {Doodlebug}, & Staples

Tools: Cricut with "George & Basic Shapes & Sentimenals" Cartridge, Paper Cutter {PC}, Scissors {CM}, Stapler, & Heat Tool {Dorice}

Adhesives: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {GD}, Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}, & Pop Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Thanks 4 stopping in today & REMEMBER....

we are giving our Blog Candy {which we have added items} away as soon as we reach 100 Facebook Fans....{we are only 7 away from this Give-A-Way} Help us out & send your friends! You ROCK!!

Tutorial Thursday... Candy Brooms

2011-10-06T13:55:00.004-06:00

It's that time of year where I love to make a little something for my girls classes while helping out for Halloween parties... I chose to make something I made back when my oldest was in Kindergarten. I love the presentation when giving treats... The creativity that is involved in each sweet treat given to a friend, neighbor, family member or complete stranger is endless! It's all in the service rendered to those around you.
Supplies: Candy of your choice, Patterned paper and cardstock, Stamps, Ink, Paper cutter, Punches and Adhesive
Step 1: Cut your patterned paper to desired size (completely dependent upon candy chosen). I cut mine at 2 1/4" x 6"

Step 2: Cut slits and ink to give it the broom look

Step 3: Punch out cardstock and stamped papers (ink if you want) and adhere together - add a 1/4" x 4" cardstock for broom handle

Final Project: Mix and match - they don't all have to look the same!

Thanks for stopping by and Happy Halloween everyone!

~World Card Making Day Weekend Cards~

2011-10-03T12:28:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone! So who else took part in WCMD this past weekend? I got together with my Sister & Sister N Law yesterday {due to Saturday being such a busy day} & we put together some Thank You cards for my SisNLaw to give to her son's Kindergarten Teacher. It is always nice to make things with others!! Here are the cards we made:

This card was made for a challenge over at Card Patterns #135:

"Heart Full of Thanks for You" {Stampin' Up!} & PP is Scenic Route

Here is a Tag that I made to go with it:

This is Basic Grey paper & the stamp set is from Stampin' Up! as well & the Cricut machine was used for the flowers...I really like how this card turned out...

This next card was perfect to make for the teacher from the Cricut & PP is Scenic Route:

& here is the last card made with Scenic Route PP as well:

Would love to see what others made this weekend...leave me a comment on this blog with were I can see your projects of the weekend!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Pumpkin Place Setting Tutorial~

2011-09-29T11:57:00.004-06:00

Welcome back to another Tutorial Thursday where I will show you how to make a Pumpkin Place Setting with or without the treats!! {I am taking the treats!!} It is that time where we all start having parties in celebration of Halloween & this would be fun for that or if you are having a book party, or holding Card Club {which I am this month} or if you just want to give it as a gift to a teacher, friend, or neighbor!

Lets start with our Supplies:

Patterned Paper of Choice {I am using "Midnight Spell" By DCWV}

Pipe Cleaners

Scissors

Ink {optional}

Small Hole Punch

Punch to Make Tag {optional: you could use a leaf for the name or something else}

Step 1:

Cut out 12 strips of 5"x 3/4"

If you want bigger pumpkins after making this one, then you will have a measurement to go off of for sure to make it bigger.

Step 2:

I decided to ink my edges & rough it up some to give a little more definition to the pumpkin. Then added a hole at the ends {about 1/4" from the top & bottom}

Step 3:

Now you are going to stack all the strips together & then take your Pipe Cleaner through one end of the strips & tie a knot on the outside for the bottom of your pumpkin. Then take the other end of the pipe cleaner & lead it through the other side of holes pulling to make a "U" shape out of the strips of paper. This makes for the center of your pumpkin.

Step 4:

Take the pipe cleaner & make a knot to secure the pumpkin so strips of papers don't come out. After you have made a knot, fan your strips of papers out & make the shape of your pumpkin!!

Add a Name tag of your choice & design & then curl the rest of the pipe cleaner with a pencil to make your stem!

I also made it to where you could add candy into it while it is still a place setting. I love treats!!

I know you can find this tutorial all over the web, but I sure am glad you came here to see how we put it together!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Rock N Roll~

2011-09-26T08:55:00.004-06:00

Today is my hubby's Birthday & so I thought before I head out to do my many errands today I would do a challenge over at CPS-Sketch in honor of his day!! I love you babe!!

CPS-Sketch #236

~Rock & Roll~

Supplies:

PP: Cosmo Cricket "Get Happy"

CS: White {Misc}

Stamp: Inkadinkado

Ink: "Art Print Brown" {Memories}

Tools: Paper Cutter {PC}, Scissors {CM}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L} & Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Annabelle made Matt a card as well for his big day today & she couldn't be any more proud of herself...{Grandma C is Smiling at her right now}

I love that she love's to create!!

Thanks 4 Stopping by!!

~Slip-N-Slide...with Cousins LO's~

2011-09-25T14:41:00.001-06:00

How nice that I get to spend all the day long in my room working on LO's today. I finished 2 LO today for a couple challenges I found online.

My first LO is from the challenge over at Page Maps & if you haven't tried one of their sketches, you need to...it saves you time on how you want to put all things onto your LO...LOVE IT!! I am a huge fan of them. For this Challenge I did the Slip-N-Slide pics when we had a family outing up at my Brothers house...JOY...

Supplies:

PP & CS: Imaginisce "Let's Pretend"
Stamp: "Journaling" {Autumn Leaves}
Ink: "Art Print Brown" {Memories} & Sharpie Markers
Embellishments: "Tres Jolie/ Joy" Quote {My Mind's Eye}, Sun Eyelets & Blue Splash Stickers {Misc}, Yellow Felt Ribbon {Making Memories}, "Summer Chipboard Shapes" {DCWV}
Tools: Punches {EK Success}, Crop-a-Dile {We R Memory Keepers}, Scissors & Paper Cutter {CM}
Adhesive: Mini Dots {GD}, Dot Runner {Elmers}, Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, & Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

The next LO I worked on this morning is of Curtis & his Bestie Easton {Cousin} together. This Challenge is from Creative Scrappers & is #175...

~Cousins~

Supplies:

PP: Bo Bunny "Blast Off"

CS: Orange {DCWV}

Stamps: Fiskars

Ink: "Art Print Brown" {Memories}

Embellishments: "Tres Jolie/Cousins" Quote {My Mind's Eye}, "Cogsmo" Ribbon {Cosmo Cricket}, Bottle Cap, "Blast Off" Stickers {BO Bunny}, & Red Eyelets {Misc}

Tools: Notebook Punch {EK Success}, Scallop Circle {Martha Stewart}, Scissors & Paper Cutter {CM}, Paper Cutter {Provo Craft}, & Crop-a-Dile {We R Memory Keepers}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Pop-Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Mini & Pop Dots {GD}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Happy Halloween...31st~

2011-09-24T09:34:00.000-06:00

This morning while all the others in the house were sleeping in, I decided I needed a little "ME" time to start the morning. To start my morning I flipped around the computer to see what kind of card I was going to make with my new stamps that just came in the mail from Stampin' Up! & I decided the Challenge over at Unscripted Sketches would be a fun one.

Here is my take on sketch #125:

I also made a tag to go with it.. isn't he cute?!

Supplies:

PP: My Mind's Eye "Boo to You" Line

CS: Purple & White {Misc}

Stamps: "Lighthearted" from {Stampin' Up!} & Studio G

Ink: "Orange & Hydrangea" {Close to my Heart} & "Art Print Brown" {Memories}

Embellishments: Green Ribbon {Misc} & Stars, Web, & Spider {My Mind's Eye "Boo to You"}

Tools: Paper Cutter {Provo Craft}, Scissors {CM}, Hole Punch { & Flourish Square {EK Success}

Adhesive: Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}, Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, & Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Thanks 4 stopping by!

~This Way~

2011-09-23T07:49:00.001-06:00

My sister sent me some Copics to play with & to be honest they were fun yet intimidating at the same time. I love how Copics are used & if I keep playing around with them maybe I will get the hang of the many ways they could be used! The card I made today is for the card challenge over at CPS-Card Sketches & it was an easy fun card to put together.

As soon as I seen this stamp & knew I had to play around with it & I like how it turned out...

Supplies:

PP: My Minds Eye "Lime Twist" Lines

CS: Blue & White {Misc}

Stamp: V.I.P

Ink: Memento "Black Tuxedo" & Copics Markers

Embellishments: Lime Twine {MME "Lime Twist"}

Tools: Corner Rounder & Scissors {CM}, Paper Cutter {PC}

Adhesives: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

Tutorial Thursday... Halloween Bingo

2011-09-22T20:21:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again where the school parties start up and kids get excited for their parents to come help out the teacher with various stations... My girls absolutely love the kick-off school carnival that leads to many more individual class parties.

I always get excited to make something new for the kids to enjoy during one of their rotations. I opted to make Halloween Bingo this year and thought I would use it as my tutorial for this week. I've made these in the past for other holiday & birthday parties.

Supplies: Paper (I chose Orange, Black and Purple cardstock), Stamps (I chose various stamps the fit the Halloween theme), Ink (Black), Adhesive (Elmers Dot Runner & Glue Dots), Paper Cutter

Step 1: Determine what size you would like your BINGO card (I chose an 8x8.5 - to allow room for all my stamp sizes) and measure and line out your card.

Step 2: Stamp your BINGO cards

Final Project: What do you think?

Thanks for stopping by...

~Oh Snap!...Happy Halloween~

2011-09-14T09:07:00.000-06:00

I sat down to do a couple card challenges yesterday before my day got crazy busy & I thought I would share them with you...

This 1st card is from Card Patterns #132:

"Oh Snap!" & on the inside it says...Sorry I forgot:

Supplies:

PP: Studio Calico "Armstrong & Aldrin"

CS: White {Misc}

Stamp: Studio Calico

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown & Cherry Red"

Embellishments: Staples {X-Acto}

Tools: Scissors {CM}, Paper Cutter {Provo Craft}, & Stapler {Swingline}

Adhesive: Mini Dots {GD} & Pop Up Strips {4 Ever in Time}

The 2nd card I put together is for CPS-Card Sketches #235:

Candy Bag "Happy Halloween":

Supplies:

PP: Fancy Pants "Trick or Treat"

CS: Gray & White {Misc}

Stamps: Stamps of Life "Spooks2Scare" & Hero Arts "Happy Halloween"

Ink: Stampin' Up! "Basic Black" & Studio G "White"

Tools: Cricut with "Doodlecharms & George & Basic Shapes" Cartridge, Flourish Square Punch {EK}, Paper Cutter {Provo Craft}, & Scissors {CM}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}, & Pop Up Stips {4 Ever in Time}

These were fun challenges to do...if you get a chance & haven't done a challenge in awhile, head over & check these out.

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Falling 4 You~

2011-09-08T12:25:00.000-06:00

Here is just a quick card I put together for the challenge over at CARD PATTERNS because Matt feels I need to chillax in my room today! {thanks babe!} So I made this for him...

Supplies:

PP: My Mind's Eye "Quite Contrary"

CS: Kraft {The Paper Company}, Purple & Yellow {DCWV}, & White, Blue, & Orange {Misc}

Stamps: Studio G

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown"

Embellishment: Yellow Rhinestone {Studio G}

Tools: Cricut w/ Stamping Cartridge, Scissors & Circle Cutters {CM}, Paper Cutter {Provo Craft}, Circle Scallop Punch & Open Scallop Border Punch {EK}, & Hole Punch {Misc}

Adhesive: Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Mini Dots {GD}, Pop Strip {4 Ever in Time}, Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}

Thanks 4 Stopping by!!

~2012 Calendar Tutorial~

2011-09-08T07:41:00.001-06:00

I bought the calendar stamp from Stampin' Up! when I first moved back to Utah & every year I pull it out to make myself or someone else a gift for the following year...& yet every time I attempted it, I threw it all out because it wasn't to my liking & I had NO idea what I was going to do. Well, this past week I had NO problem at all with putting a 2012 calendar together for myself to enjoy for the following year. It is nothing huge with embellishments, but just right with birthdays & the way it is displayed. So today I wanted to share with you what I did & how you can do it as well. {p.s. If you need to borrow my calendar stamp...let me know} :D

Let's start with SUPPLIES...

Patterned Paper of Choice

White Cardstock

Calendar Stamp or Printed Image

Ink of Choice

Board for Calendar

Mod Podge & Brush

E6000

Knobs {like off of a dresser}

Hole Punch

Thread of Some Sort

Paper Cutter & Scissors

Adhesive

Vinyl
Cutting Machine

Step 1:

So now that we have all of our supplies, we are going to stamp {or if you want to print your blank calendar}12 images of the Calendar in your choice of ink & then cut them out.

Step 2:

Let's cut our patterned paper to be bigger on the sides & the edges, so we can punch holes at the top & have a decorative mat for our calendar. I picked most of my papers off the theme of the month or close to what I thought the color of the month should be.

Step 3:

We are now going to adhere the calendar to the Patterned Paper.

Step 4:

We are going to ink the top part of the calendar again & cut it out & then put it on a coordinating paper that matches the mat on the calendar...it will look like this... I added the month & a little embellishment that went with it.

Step 5:

You can now add the days of the month & I used the small holiday stamp set also from Stampin' Up! to help add holidays & birthdays to my calendar. As soon as I know what next year brings I will add more events & holidays as I will know what days they are going to land.

To know whose birthday was when on the calendar, I flipped my calendar over & added journaling lines so I could write the dates & names..

Step 6:

Now I will put my board together so I can have my calendar displayed nicely! So grab your board {mine is an 8x8}, of which I found at the $ store 2 years ago or some thick cardboard {whatever you have chosen to use}, & mod podge your paper onto it. Let it dry...

Step 7:

Now add your Knobs of choice onto the top & glue with E600 or a hot glue gun & let dry. Cut out your Vinyl lettering in choice of color & add it in between the 2 knobs...

Add eyelets & thread to your calendar so it can hang without tearing & you now have a 12 month calendar to your liking!!

Here is a look at all the months I did:

{you might have to click to enlarge it to see it better}

I had a fun time making this & I hope it gives you one more idea of a gift or something just for yourself!! Thanks for coming & visiting with us today!! We LOVE our VISITORS & our FOLLOWERS!!

Remember you can follow us on here or on our FB Page under "Therapy Through Coffee & Cardstock"!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Batty 4 You~

2011-09-07T13:34:00.000-06:00

I needed a little something to do in my room this morning, so I did a challenge over at CPS and with Halloween coming up next month, I chose to make a card to celebrate it coming around again!!

The tag comes out so it can be added to a gift...

Supplies:

PP: DCWV "Midnight Spell" Stack

CS: Yellow, Purple, & White {misc} & Kraft {The Paper Company}

Stamps: Stampin Up! "Tricky Treats" & G Studio

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown" & Stampin Up! "Basic Black"

Embellishments: Purple Button {Fancy Pants}, Green Thread, Orange Eyelet, & Googly Eyes {Misc}

Tools: Bubbles Border Punch {EK}, Tag Punch {Stampin Up!}, Hole Punch, Scissors & Paper Cutter {CM} Circle Punch, & Crop-a-Dile {WRMK}

Adhesive: Pop Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Mini Dots {GD}, Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, & Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

Tutorial Thursday... Money Jar

2011-09-01T20:57:00.003-06:00

First off I want to thank my partner in creativity for covering me and picking up where I was lacking for the past little bit with school starting, changing jobs and working both for 2 weeks, etc... It is truly appreciated!

Getting back into the swing of things... Tutorial Thursdays are always fun for me to see what we come up with and how we decided to create something that would not only benefit us, but also those that take the time to read our blog, those that are interested in learning new techniques and practicing making their own personal projects {which we would love to see - so remember to post to our FB page your various projects}.

Today we bring you something that is incredibly needed in our home... My girls have been begging to go to Disneyland again {we haven't been since my youngest now nearly 6 was 18 months old}... I told them that we have to save all our extra money so we can go again. With my husband recently graduating and the accrued student loans flowing through the mailbox begging to be paid back asap - it's been hard to save!

Supplies: Cricut Machine, Cricut Cartridges {I used Mickey Font and George and Basic Shapes}, Patterned Paper {your choice}, Cardstock {coordinating with your PP}, Fiskars Paper Cutter, Scissors, Adhesive, Ink {coordinating with colors chosen} Embellishments: Stickers, Ribbon, etc

Step 1: Cut out your font... I chose to write Disney Vacation. Cut your shapes... I chose to cut out 3 circles and Mickey head with $.

Step 2: Cut out the PP to the size you want for your money jar...

Step 3: Adhere your paper and sayings...

Step 4: I couldn't leave the lid out - so I topped it off with circles distressed, inked and a popped up Mickey head.

My girls couldn't be more excited to start saving for our next family vacation... This was incredibly easy to make and you can choose whatever size of jar you would like!

Thanks for stopping by...

~50% off @ 4 Every Body Candle Outlet~

2011-08-30T11:27:00.000-06:00

If you live in the Utah County Area & want some inexpensive candles, candle warmers, Cute wicker baskets, Holiday accents, & more...then head over to 4 Every Body Candle Outlet on Geneva where they are having a 50% off everything in their store. They are closing their doors & leaving to Kansas where their main head quarters are! This is a great time to stock up on gifts for the teachers, friends, family, or even your neighbors for the upcoming holiday!

Here is a flyer I received in my email:

Check them out...you know you want to!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!

~Best Wishes Plus A LO~

2011-08-29T13:29:00.000-06:00

My sister in Oregon bought me the cutest stamps from "Penny Black" & I simply fell in Love with them & have been looking places for more lines by her. Well I ended up coming across the Penny Black Challenge Blog and found that all the challenges are based off of her stamps. I only have 2 stamp packs of this line, but it still works for now. So here is the card I came up with for the Penny Black Saturday Challenge for this week:

"Best Wishes"

If you have some stamps from Penny Black, try a challenge if you haven't!

Supplies:

PP: Cosmo Cricket "Girl Friday" Line

CS: White & Blue {Unknown}, Purple & Drk Pink {DCWV}, & Lt Pink {AC}

Stamps: Penny Black "Betsy Bluebell & Salutations"

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown", & Copic Markers: Burnt Umber {E29}, Lipstick Red {R29}, & Pale Fruit Pink {E000}

Tools: CM Scissors & Circle Cutter & Blade, PC Paper Cutter, & Heart Punch & Open Scallop Border Punch {EK Success}

Adhesive:Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, Pop Strips {4 Ever in Time}, Mini Dots {GD}, Tape Runner {Elmer's Glue}, & Zig Glue Pen {EK Success}

I put myself into doing a 2pg LO this morning before the kids get home {which will be here in a few} & I actually had a fun time putting this one together. I took the sketch out of Creating Keepsakes Jan 2010 Magazine & loved how it all came together! This isn't for a challenge, but for myself & having 1 more set of pics done!! Most everything on this LO is from My Mind's Eye lines "Tres Belle" & the Green CS is DCWV.

I hope I inspire some of you to get in & get some of your pics done! I know my kids love that I do ours & they could spend an hour or so just looking at their albums!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~Scary...Say Hi~

2011-08-28T10:48:00.001-06:00

I have some down time between Football & other errands that I wanted to get in a couple Challenges in for the week already! I would like to get a couple LO's done today as well, but hey I will take what time I can get huh? The first challenge I will share with you is from Card Patterns #130 & I made the card into a 4x4 card then just a regular size. It is a Halloween card to get me pepped for the holiday to come upon here soon & I can start decorating!! Anyone feeling the urge already?!

Supplies:

PP: My Mind's Eye "Boo To You" Line

CS: White {Misc} & Purple {DCWV}

Stamps: Studio G

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown"

Embellishments: Tag Types Tile Stickers {Sticko EK Success}

Tools: Circle & Hole Punch {McGill Craftivity}, Scallop Circle {EK Success}, & PC Paper Cutter

Adhesives: Pop Strips {4 Ever In Time} & Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}

The 2nd Challenge I did today is for Unscripted Sketches # 121 & I like how this card turned out when it was a sketch I knew I would never think to do on my own!

"Just wanted to say HI"

Supplies:

PP: Cosmo Cricket "Girl Friday"

CS: Pink {AC} & Purple {DCWV}

Stamp: Studio G

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown"

Embellishments: Lemon Twine {DT} & Green Eyelet {Misc}

Tools: CM Scissors, Hole Punch, Crop-a-dile, & PC Paper Cutter

Adhesive: Dot Runner {Elmers Glue} & Pop Strips {4 Ever in Time}

Thanks 4 stopping by!

~Tutorial Friday...Countdown Blocks~

2011-08-26T14:28:00.002-06:00

I am really excited to share the tutorial with you today because it is the countdown blocks from Christmas in July that you seen. We have had a few people ask us for the measurements of the blocks & how you put it all together....so ask no further & I will tell you how to put these fun things all together!! Since I already have a Christmas Countdown, I wanted to make a Birthday Countdown for my family & pull it out the 4 months of the year till we get to celebrate with presents & fun!!

Let us start with the Supplies:

~ 2: 3.5 x 3.5 Blocks

~1: 7 x 3.5 Block

~Sander & Sandpaper

~Mod Podge

~Printed Paper of Choice

~Paint Brush {one for paint & one for MP}

~Ink {optional}

~Vinyl of Choice Color

~Cricut or Other Machine to Cut out Vinyl & Cartridge of Choice {I used Mickey Mouse Font for my blocks}

~Paper Cutter

~Newspaper {for when painting}

Step 1:

We are going to start with the cutting of your blocks ,which when you buy your wood it will be sized at a 4 x 4, when they are actually sized a 3.5 x 3.5!! When you have cut your blocks you are going to sand them up with sand paper. I used fine grain & hand sanded them myself because my sander sucks!! As you see in the picture the sand paper I used & what it looked like when I got done!! Round your edges & make things smooth.

Step 2:

In this step you have the option of keeping your wood color natural or if you want them painted a color that you really love & blend with your decor. I am using black because I had it on hand from all the other shelves Matt has made me that I have painted. You don't have to use paint from Home Depot or other places like that you can use acrylic paint if that is all you have. I found that a sponge brush works best for painting these blocks, but feel free to use what you have on hand.

Step 3:

You are now going to cut our papers into the sizes that we want & the patterns you feel you want to use. As you see in the picture below, I used 3 patterns for each block. You do not have to, but I really like the way it looks. {I used My Minds Eye "Dreamer 2" Line for my PP} I cut the small squares at 3.25 x 3.25 & the 4 long ones at 6.75 x 3.25 & then I inked the edges.

Step 4:

You can now Mod Podge all your papers to your block. It took me about 30 min with letting it dry & then flipping to do more papers to get them finished. {no bubbles!!}

After you have let all your papers dry, you are going to take the corners & sand them down. You can do this step or you can skip it & go to the next step!! Your choice on how you want it to look...I am all about the distressing of things so sanding was a definite! When you have decided what you are doing, take your sand paper & sand the tops of your paper lightly. This will help with no bubbles in your paper & allow the Mod Podge to adhere better & keep your paper down!!

Step 6:

You are now going to cut out your Vinyl however you planned. I cut my letters at 1 1/4 & my numbers out at 3 using the Cricut & the Mickey Mouse Font Cartridge. You will then take them & place them on your blocks to your liking!! {Note: On one block you need the #'s 1,2,3,4,5, & 0...on the other block you need #'s: 1,2,6 {which will play as your 9 as well}, 7,8, & 0} Then on your long block you will place the letters of your saying}.

Here is my finished Birthday Countdown:

I am in love with how this turned out & the reason 31 is on their because Matt is already counting down to his birthday next month!!

I really hoped this answered some of your questions on how you do this...if you have anything else you would love to see, please let us know! I had fun making this & can't wait to do more!!

Thanks 4 stopping by!!

~CC Card #2 & Wed Wants~

2011-08-24T15:04:00.000-06:00

I just finished up with CC Card #2 {fall birthday theme} & also a challenge over at Stamping 411. This was a simple to the point card & very much a fall card.

Supplies:

PP: DCWV "Fall Stack"

CS: Yellow & Orange {Misc}

Stamps: Studio G

Ink: Memories "Art Print Brown

Embellishments: Felt Ribbon {Making Memories} & a White Button {Misc}

Tools: EK Punch, CM Scissors, PC Paper Cutter

Adhesives: Dot Runner {Elmers Glue}, Zig Glue Pen {EK}, Mini Dots {GD}, Pop Strip {Forever in Time}, & Scrapbook Adhesives

Now onto our Wednesday Wants... Today my wants are focused on one blog called {Capture the Moment} & they show you a ton of cute cute things. I went to their shop {Papertrey Ink} & here is what I found:

This Stamp set is perfect for the up coming holiday! It is a stamp set for Tini treats

and here is a die that you buy separate for $5.00 to Mat with:

Here is another Halloween set..It is a set of tags & this is a 2009 set of stamps...they are just so cute:

Now a Christmas Greetings Stamp set...

& last are some frames with greetings:

Well I hope you check out this blog of where these great stamps came from!

Thanks 4 stopping by today!

~Sept Card Club Card Set 1~

2011-08-22T16:15:00.000-06:00

How is everyone doing with getting the kids back into swing for school? My kids start tomorrow & I just finished up a few PTA things at the school & met the teachers! It is going to be a FUN year!! In between all the school stuff I wanted to get a challenge done today & as for our September theme for CC it is "Fall Birthdays" & so I made this card for one set of the cards {as we do 2 sets plus a challenge of some sort}. It is also a challenge over at CPS-Card Sketches that was fun & easy to put together with everything else I have going on! {It was for sure a nice break}!!

Here is my card:

and here is an up close look at the flowers with a rhinestone in the middle of it:

Supplies:

PP: My Minds Eye "Where the Heart Is" Mat Stack {Hobby Lobby}

Cardstock:Green & White {Misc}

Stamps: Penny Black "Salutations"

Ink: Fresco "Forest Green" & Memories "Art Print Brown & Cherry Red"

Embellishments: Blue Rhinestones {Misc} & Staples

Tools: Stapler, PC Paper Cutter, CM Scissors

Adhesive: Zig Glue Pen {EK Success}, Scrapbook Adhesives, Pop up dot {Misc}, & Mini Dots {GD}

Thanks 4 stopping by today!

~Pencil Boxes..Tutorial Thursday~

2011-08-18T11:37:00.000-06:00

School is upon us here in the next week & PTA comes along with for me. If you were to ask me when Curtis started school if I would ever be apart of the PTA I would have said NO!! But now, I am apart of it & the GREAT thing I get from it is I get to do what I do best & Create for the School! So for today's tutorial I am going to show you how to create a cute pencil box for the teachers at VALLEY VIEW ELEMENTARY to get their school year started off WRITE!!

So let us begin... SUPPLIES:

*Patterned Paper of choice

*Cardstock to match PP

*Pencils

*Scissors

*Adhesive of choice

*Paper Cutter & Bone Folder {if you have a Scor Pal that would be even better}

*ink, Stamp of choice, Twine, & Punch for tag {any of this is optional...it just depends on how you want to embellish your pencil box}

Step1:

Begin cutting your PP at 6 3/8" x 5 5/8". We are now going to score at 1/4" {from the 5 5/8" side of your paper}, then at 2 5/8", again at 3", and then at 5 1/4". Now you will flip your paper & score the bottom at 1/4".

Step 2:

At the bottom of your paper you need to cut the scored lines & then cut off the left little corner because it is an extra piece not needed. Fold on all the scored lines..

Step 3:

We will now add the adhesive to the left side strip & the bottom strip & fold the box together.

The last step is to decorate your box to your liking or the liking of the person you might be giving it to!! I used a number of lines from American Crafts & used my Ric Rack punch to go around the box!!

Thanks 4 stopping by today!!

~Flowers Say Hello~

2011-08-16T16:46:00.000-06:00

Time again for a challenge...This one is from CPS & I used a new stamp set that I bought at Archivers from Jillibean Soup. I am not a huge fan of flower stamps, but I really liked this set from them.

Here is my card:

"Flowers say Hello from the Heart"

Supplies:

PP: Creative Imaginations "Double Vision"

CS: Pine Cone Brown {Bazzill}

Stamp: Jillibean Soup "Blackbean Flowers" & Hero Arts "Flowers Say Hello"

Ink: Fresco "Golden Parchment & Florentine Rose" & Memories "Art Print Brown"

Embellishments: White Ribbon {Bridal Elegance} & Rhinestone Brad {Misc}

Tools: CM Scissors & Paper Cutter, Provo Craft Paper Cutter, Hole Punch, & Heart Punch {EK Success}

Adhesives: Mini Dots {GD}, Scrapbook Adhesives {3L}, & Pop Strips {Forever In Time}

Thanks 4 stopping by!!