Thursday, December 29, 2011

Simply Ask

I hope that you are all having a great week.  I've been enjoying this time having my son on Christmas break, so we're not doing any home-schooling, and it has given me extra time to make cards and blog.  I'm really enjoying it.  I hope that you are all enjoying your time off (if you got any time off).  I never take for granted that I am able to stay at home.  I worked at an office job for many years.  So, I can relate to those of you who work, and my hat goes off to those of you who work so hard and do it all so well.  It's difficult, and I'm behind you all 100%.  I encourage you to remember that when you need that extra boost of strength, or energy to get through it all - you need only ask.  Many times in life, we don't have the strength we need to carry on, or we live without other things we need, simply because we do not ask for it.  God is able to give us what we need.  Matthew 7:1 (a) says, "Ask and it shall be given unto you".  Then, when you ask, you need to believe that He is able to provide it.  Trust Him in all things.  His love for us is unfailing, and our faith in Him should be no less than that.  I encourage you to SIMPLY ASK.

I made this Get Well card for a friend at church who has been hospitalized.  I know we make a lot of cards, but I often have to remind myself to SEND the cards to people.  What good does it do to make cards if we don't use them to encourage others.  So, this one goes to my friend.  And, while I'm at it, I'm entering it in a challenge.

Since Simon Says Stamp has an Anything Goes Challenge this week, I am entering it again.  This is the one I dream of winning each week, and I am going to SIMPLY ASK.  I love playing along in challenges anyway, and love making cards, so why not keep trying, and trying, and trying.  LOL  I asked God to allow me to win, and I believe it will happen - in HIS perfect time.  Here is the link to their current challenge:
http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Anything Goes

Sweet Stamps Blog is giving away a $20 Gift Certificate to the awesome store.  You can enter this challenge in an attempt to win a shopping spree for their beautiful rubber stamps.  I couldn't resist that offer.   Read all about it here:  http://sweetstampsblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-template.html - Celebrate

Diana L has an amazingly fun blog, and is hosting a wonderful challenge.  There is a $15 prize from Michaels, not to mention LOTS of great inspiration on her beautiful blog.  You can read about, and enter, her challenge by clicking here:  http://www.dianamlarson.blogspot.com/2011/12/thankful-thursday-challenge-and.html - Thankful Thursday Challenge  -   You are allowed to enter this challenge three times, so Diana, please expect to see me again.  God bless you for being SO generous.

I wanted to congratulate my new friend, Omega, whose name was randomly drawn to win the antique floral frog in my drawing.  Please contact me by Friday, January 6, 2012, and I will get your mailing address.

Have a blessed week, everyone.  And when you need something, don't forget to SIMPLY ASK.

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

New Friends

It's always so nice to meet new friends in blog land.  This week, I have had several new friends stop by to follow, leave a comment or words of encouragement, and I want each of you to know how much it means to me.  I think I've visited each blog and followed everyone that followed me.  If I ever miss someone, please let me know.  This is how we grow our blogs - by visiting new people and gaining inspiration from their creations, and then encouraging them, following them, and having them follow us.  I thank you for being a part of my blog, and I am always so blessed by yours.

I'm entering the Simon Says Stamp Challenge.  Each week, they give away a $50 Gift Certificate to their amazing store.  I am always in great hope of winning this amazing challenge, which you can enter here:  http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Anything Goes

I found a new challenge blog called Skipping Stones, and I decided to enter their challenge this week.  It is based on a sketch, and you can read all about it, and even enter it, by clicking on this link:
http://skippingstonesdesign.com/sketch-challenge-108-happy-new-year/ - Sketch Challenge #108 - Happy New Year!!

Something New, well - I have made several new friends this week (as I mentioned), but I also used a new word art file on this project, so I entered at Little Red Wagon here:
http://lilredwagon.blogspot.com/2011/12/something-new.html - Something New

Also, I might as well Pile It On since it's still December, and I LOVE their challenges too.  You can check that one out by clicking right here: http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/pile-it-on-49-december-month-long.html- December/Bling It Up
Since I got this Bible verse art from one of our generous sponsors at Word Art Wednesday, I thought I would link it up and enter it at www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com - Challenge #9.  I encourage all of you,  PLEASE stop by Word Art Wednesday and enter the challenge, and make it a part of your weekly routine to play along with the fun challenges there.  We need you.

I appreciate your kind comments, and just the fact that you are here visiting my little blog.  Please let me know what you've been creating this week, and I look forward to stopping by to visit YOU.

Blessings,

Karen

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Hello

I just wanted to share a couple of things with you all.  I have decided to take on two new Design Teams starting at the first of the New Year, an'd I wanted to just share the Challenge Blogs with all of you so that you can check them out and get involved.

First, I was approached by Cassandra at Word Art Wednesday to join her Design Team.   I was so humbled and honored that she was able to see my love for the Lord through my blog enough to desire to have me join her Design Team.  Her Challenge Blog uses "The Word - God's Word" to create art each week.  I would like to invite each of you to check out this wonderful Challenge Blog and join in the fun.  It's a growing Challenge Blog, and YOUR participation would be a blessing to us, and. . . . hopefully to you as well.  I know that using scriptures in my work helps remind me of what is truly imortant in life.  Please take time to check it out.   You can read all about it here:  www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com

The other Design Team I am joining is Shelly's Images.  It all started when I won a challenge there - what an honor.  Then, Shelly asked me to be a Guest Designer, and from there - she invited me to become a Design Team Member.  Shelly's images are AMAZING, and if you've never seen them, you will want to stop by and check them out.  You can see all her amazing art work here at:  www.shellysimages.com

I hope I haven't bitten off more than I can chew.  I don't ever want to be so busy, or so overwhelmed with deadlines, that I stop loving what I do.  So far, that hasn't happened.  I think I can handle it all if I'm careful with my time.  Of course, my first priority will always be my family.  I'm still home-schooling my son, Andrew.  My duties here, in the home, will always be my first priority.

I am also sharing this little card with you.  I wanted to enter the challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room again.   This card uses an adorable digital image from www.digitaldelightsbyloubyloo.com and it is called Dilly the Duck.  I used Simple Stories patterned paper and stickers (again).  The Shabby Tea Room is a beautiful blog.  Their challenges always offer lovely prizes, and inspire you to be creative.  You can read all about this super fun challenge here:
http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2011/12/week-94-colorful-shabby-new-year.html - #94 A Colorful and Shabby New Year



Thanks for stopping by.  Please do check out Word Art Wednesday.  There is a new challenge every week, and we need YOU.  I hope it will be a blessing to you.

Have a great week.

Karen

Monday, December 26, 2011

All Things Bright & Beautiful

I absolutely LOVE Christmas, and all that it entails.  But I must admit that I am ready to start making some other cards and projects.  So, when I found out about these challenges, I decided to enter them, and to make/enter something a bit less "Christmasy".  I'm sure you can all relate to this.  I'm not finished with winter projects, just taking a break for today anyway.

Simple Stories has so many amazing lines.  This card was made primarily from their Summertime line, along with Bo Bunny double dots paper, a Jenni Bowlin journaling card and ruler sticker, a Kaiser Crafts rub-on, some buttons, and my much-loved hand-made scrunched seam binding (which I seem to be outting on everything these days).  I also machine stitched on this card which is another touch that I just love.

I'm entering it at Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog, Paper Playtime and The Shabby Tea Room.  You can read about these wonderful challenges by clicking on the following links.

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/simon-says-bingo.html - Let's Play BINGO (I used ribbon/seam binding, gems/buttons, and sparkle (hard to see, but it's there as I glittered the edges of the green leaves).

http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2011/12/week-94-colorful-shabby-new-year.html - #94 A Colorful New Year (I used red, green, blue, and yellow)

http://paperplaytime.blogspot.com/2011/12/ch-63-say-it-with-sentiments-anything.html - #63 Say it With Sentiments - My Sentiment is "Thinking of You"

Thanks for stopping by.  Hope you're not too busy cleaning up the Christmas wrapping and trim.  I also hope that each of you had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends.

Blessings,
Karen

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Guest Design Spot

A special THANKS goes out to Shelly at Shellys Images.  You can visit her blog and challenge info here:   www.shellysimagesblog.blogspot.com   I am so grateful to Shelly for inviting me to be a Guest Designer this week for their Christmas Garland Challenge.  Shelly gave me this beautiful image to create a card for their current challenge.  THANK YOU, Shelly.  I enjoyed creating this little card, and now you can get this darling little image at a reduced price AND enter this fun challenge for another chance to win more of Shelly's Images.  You can also check out the store at Shelly's Images.  She has dozens of lovely images, as well as some FREEBIES.  Who doesn't like Freebies?  Check it out here:  http://www.shellysimages.com/freebies.html

Just for this week, I am having a special give-away.  It's one I've done before.  I am giving away another antique floral frog (as shown in this photo).  All you have to do to be entered to win this antique floral frog to help display your cards is:

1.  Become a follower of my blog if you are net yet following
2.  Leave a comment on this blog post
3.  Check back here at the end of Shelly's Challenge to see if you're a winner.
The actual floral frog I'm giving away is slightly bigger than this one, it's the one in the above card photo, but I wanted to show another photo of an antique floral frog for those of you who are not familiar with the term.  Many of us see them, but just never knew what they were called.

I'm also going to enter this card in a couple of challenges.  You can read all about the various challenges by clicking on the links.
http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/pile-it-on-49-december-month-long.html - #49 December Month-Long Challenge - "Bling it Up"
http://scrappinchicschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/december-challenge.html - Scrappin' Chics December Challenge
http://raisethebarchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-86.html - Raise the Bar - Christmas

Thanks for stopping by.  I hope you will take the time to pop on over to Shelly's challenge blog to check out her beautiful images, and to enter this challenge.  Each of the challenges I've entered are well worth checking out.
Blessings,

Karen

Saturday, December 17, 2011

A Sweet Invite

I thought it was SO super sweet that someone from Digi Darla's stopped by my blog to personally invite me to their challenge blog, so I decided to take a chance and enter their current challenge.  They are having a "Cat Christmas" Challenge, and she is even offering a FREE digi if you need an image in order to enter.  How sweet is that?  You can check out her blog and the current challenge by clicking on this link:
http://digidarla.com/cats-christmas-challenge/ - Cats Christmas
I really hope you will check out this fun blog and adorable challenge.  And don't forget the FREE digi image.  That doesn't happen very often - it's like a little Christmas gift for you.  Digi Darla has amazing digital images for sale as well.  It's well worth checking out.

Here is the card I made for her challenge.  I used a Wags-n-Whiskers digital image.  I am on the Design Team at Wags-n-Whiskers, and they also have several cute images available for sale on their blog/store.


I am also entering the following card in the challenge over at the Farm Fresh Challenge Blog.  They, too, have amazing and adorable digital and rubber stamp images for sale.  Their store is easy to access, so take a moment to check it out.  While you're there, look into this challenge.  It is a photo inspiration challenge.  Here is the card I made for the Farm Fresh Spy Day Challenge.
And here is the link to their challenge.  There's still time to play along.
http://farmfreshchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/farm-fresh-friday-spy-day-11.html - Farm Fresh Challenge - Spy Day #11

Blessings to you all,

Karen

Thursday, December 15, 2011

The Signs and Smells of Christmas

It's almost Christmas.  Can you believe it?  You can see the shoppers scurrying about, view the beautiful lights and decorations everywhere, and at my house, you can smell Christmas in the air because I've been doing some Christmas baking.  What a fun time for family and friends.

I created this card for several challenges this week.  I will mention them all, add a link so that YOU can join in the fun as well, and explain a little bit about each one.  I am so blessed by all the fun blogs and creative bloggers out there.  Here's to hoping that you all have a very Merry Christmas.


Well, my week just wouldn't be the same if I didn't take a whack at the Simon Says Stamp Challenge.  This week, the challenge is based on a sketch.  It's a cute sketch, and their DT gave some great inspiration.  You can check it out and enter by clicking on this link:
http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/simon-says-sketch-time.html - Sketch Time

The next is a blog that is always sure to excite you and get you inspired.  The challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room calls for "stockings" to be hung.  I used my Papertrey Ink stamps for this.  Here is the link for their challenge:
http://theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2011/12/week-92-stocking-were-hung-by-chimney.html - Challenge #92 - The Stockings Were Hung By the Chimney With Care

Have you ever been over to Paper Sundaes?  Each week, they have a fun new challenge, and this week is no exception.  Their theme this week is "Anything Christmas".  My card is most definitely ready for that challenge.  Here is the link for their amazing blog and fun challenge:
http://papersundaes.blogspot.com/2011/12/paper-sundaes-challenge-99-anything.html - #99 Anything Christmas

I found Joanna Sheen Challenge Blog through my blog friend, Hazel.  What a generously amazing store they have as well.  Free shipping and handling - all the way from the United Kingdom.  My jaw about dropped.  How generous is that?  You can read all about their fun blog and challenge here:
http://joannasheenchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/its-beginning-to-look-lot-like.html - It's Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas

Another great challenge blog is Aud Sentiments.  They have a great DT to inspire you.  Check out their inspiration, and find out about their current "Winter Holiday Sentiments" Challenge here:
http://audsentimentschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-43-and-winner-of-42.html - #43 Winter Holiday Sentiments

This next challenge is one that I already entered once, but since it's a whole lot of fun over at Party Time Tuesday- I've decided to post another entry.  I'm working on giving myself a Christmas gift (though the generosity of somebody's challenge I HOPE), so here is the link to their Red & Green challenge:
http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/2011/12/winner-ptt44-ptt46-challenge-red-green.html - Red & Green Challenge

I've also linked up at Jingle Belles Challenges where they're on a mission to help you all year long to get your Christmas cards finished (without that last-minute stress).  Their challenge this time is "Wrap it Up".  Since I used the baker's twine to hang my stockings, and "wrapped up the stockings" in the hopes of getting those gifts wrapped and in the stockings, I dedcided to play along.  Here's the link:
http://jinglebellesrock.blogspot.com/2011/12/wrapping-it-up.html - Wrapping It Up

OK, for the next challenge, I need to post another photo.  Let me say first that this was not my original idea.  I will never take creative credit for an idea that is not mine.  We should always give a shout-out when someone comes up with an idea, and we should always get permission from them before "lifting" their idea or posting it anywhere.  Michele graciously allowed me to share her idea with you.


This spoon project is an idea I got from a wonderfully talented blogger named Michelle.  You can see her tutorial on how to make these spoons by clicking on this helpful link:
http://chelemom.blogspot.com/2011/10/altered-wooden-spoon-tutorial.html  The base of the spoon holds several photos.  You simply make an "accordian fold" and attach them to seam binding to adhere them to your spoon.  Michele explains it all in the tutorial.

I am entering this little project in the challenge over at TOP TIP TUESDAY.  They not only have fun challenges, but they encourage you to share your crafting tips with others.  You can read all about their current "A Gift" Challenge by clicking on this link to their blog:
http://toptiptuesday.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-64-gift.html - #64 - A Gift

TOP TIP:  To make these wooden spoons, you can save LOADS of money by purchasing your spoons at your local Thrift Store or Goodwill.  I picked up my spoons at Goodwill for only $0.25 each.  You simply take them home and paint them to cover the signs of age and imperfection.  You will save money this way.  Many times, you will find other crafty surprises at your local Thrift Store.  I once picked up a HUGE bag of vintage buttons for $4.  This is a valuable TOP TIP - CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL THRIFT STORES.  There are bargains to be found, and they are a valuable resource in your community, not to mention you are supporting a worthy charity by purchasing goods there.

I am super excited about EACH and EVERY one of these awesome challenges.  I am crossing my fingers cuz. . . .guess what?  I need a Christmas gift, too.  Winning one of these amazing challenges would be the Christmas gift I'm looking for.  Well, that and a new digital camera.  (Just being honest).

Thanks for stopping by, and I do appreciate your comments.  I will always take time to visit your blog and will always follow those who follow me on my blog.  I wish you all a very blessed week.

Hugs,

Karen

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Taking Back My "Mojo"

I've been SO incredibly busy lately that I've started to feel like I'm "losing myself" in being so overwhelmed.  So, whe I saw the sketch over at Mojo Mondays, I made a decision to "take back my mojo" and enter this challenge with something a little more "me".

I made this Birthday card for a dear friend named, Cindi.  She is a police officer here in Las Vegas (as is my hubby), and we've known her for almost as long as we've been here in Vegas (22 years).  She's always been there for us, and I want to let her know how loved she is - on her birthday, and always.

You can read all about the sketch, the challenge, and this awesome blog by clicking on this link:
http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/2011/12/mojo-monday-219.html - Challenge #219
I just thought this sketch was really cute, and when I use October Afternoon products, I always love the outcome.  Their products are one of my most favorite of all.

I'm also entering this Birthday card in the weekly challenge at Stampin Sisters in Christ.  Their challenge is to create a Birthday card in honor of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Since I made a birthday card for a special friend for whom I thank God often, I am entering the card in their challenge.  You can read about this amazing blog and challenge by clicking here:
http://stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-119-luke-211.html - #119 Birthday

Thanks for stopping by, and if you have the time this week, stop on my Mojo Monday and link up your project for this challenge.

Blessings,

Karen

Monday, December 12, 2011

Oh, How I LOVE Generous Blogs

Since I have been blogging, I have met some of the most generous, kind, giving and cheerful people you could ever hope to meet.  From personal blogs and company blogs to challenge blogs and beyond - it has been SUCH a tremendous blessing to get a peek into the lives of so many wonderful people.  One of these special people is Cath Edvalson, Trends Editor for Paper Crafts Magazine.  Although I have never met Cath personally, I have had the honor of being allowed to glimpse into her generous heart through her lovely blog at:  www.moxiefabworld.com where you can learn about the newest issues of the magazines, get inspiration, enter challenges and give-aways, and SO much more.  If you have never visited this Moxie Fabulous blog, please take the time this week to check it out.  You WON'T be disappointed.

I have decided to enter TWO of the current challenges at Moxie Fab World.  They are both based on a photo inspiration.  I will post the photo inspiration, then my entry, followed by the link(s) so that you can check them out, and even enter them if you should so choose.

First Inspiration Photo:
My Entry:
http://www.moxiefabworld.com/2011/11/card-creations-get-inspired-week-get.html - The "Get Inspired by Fashion" Challenge
I used October Afternoon products on this project.  I took a glassine bag and decorated it with their adorable papers and embellishments.  I will use this little treat bag to fill with goodies for one of the special children in my life.  It's always nice to have a special little treat to give away.

Second Inspiration Photo:
My Second Entry:

http://www.moxiefabworld.com/2011/11/card-creations-get-inspired-week-pot.html - The "Potpourri" Challenge
I used an inexpensive rub-on set from Michaels, a Sizzix die, some Recollections flowers, sewing around the edges, Tim Holtz ink, a Making Memories journaling page, Prima lace and a snippet of October Afternoon patterned paper.

Again, I hope you will check out this moxie fabulous fun blog.  There is SO much from which to gain inspiration.  Thank you, Cath, from the bottom of my heart for giving us such a fun place to visit.  I can never get enough.

Thank you all for stopping by, and for your kind comments.  I cherish all of you as well, and look forward to visiting your blogs to see what you've each been creating this week.  Have a blessed day.

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

Friday, December 9, 2011

A New Day

Well, today is a fresh start.  I got up SUPER early to take my oldest daughter to the airport.  She's off to Knoxville, Tennessee, to see some dear friends.  I'm hoping she has a super time, but my house is VERY quiet.  My precious little boy is still asleep (because we stayed up TOO late last night). 

I was making paper, and this card, for a new challenge blog I found yesterday evening.  It is called Cupcake Craft Challenges Blog, and here is a link to their lovlely blog:  www.cupcakecraftchallenges.blogspot.com and you can read all about their current challenge, and all the fun at this blog.  They've challenged us this challenge to make our own background paper.  I have not made paper in a very long time.  It was a fun challenge for me.  I made a cream color, and inked it with a green Tim Holtz ink, used some Papertrey Ink stamps, baker's twine and buttons.

Here is a direct link to the challenge so that you can enter it as well:
http://cupcakecraftchallenges.blogspot.com/2011/12/cupcake-171-diy.html - Challenge #171 "Do It Yourself - Create Your Own Backing Paper"

Party Time Tuesdays has a fun Christmas Greetings Challenge.  You can read all about their fun challenge by clicking on this link:  http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/2011/12/winner-ptt43-and-ptt45-challenge.html - Challenge #45

I absolutely LOVE playing along at Frosted Designs - they always have a fun challenge.
http://frosteddesigns.blogspot.com/2011/12/fabulous-friday-challenge-glitter.html - Use Glitter (There is red glitter around the very edges of my image and sentiment, but you can just barely see it in the photo).

Here's another AWESOME FUN challenge blog you will certainly want to check out:
http://abcchristmaschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/y-is-for-yipeee-christmas-is-almost.html - "Y -is for YIPEE, It's Almost Christmas" - Anything Goes

http://craftycreationschallenges.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-147-card-with-sentiment.html - Challenge #147 - A Christmas Card With a Lovely Sentiment - Why not join in the fun since you're making all those lovely Christmas cards.  Hop on over to check out Crafty Creations.

http://thepixiecottage.blogspot.com/2011/12/pixie-cottage-challenge-99-last-minute.html - Challenge #99 - Last Minute Christmas Cards.  We're ALL working on those.



I made six of these little paper mache houses for Christmas.  The roofs come off so you can place cookies, candy, or a small gift inside.  They are just adorable, and I'm really happy with the way they turned out.  I am entering these houses in the SUPER FUN challenge over at City Crafter Blog.  You can read all about this challenge, and even enter it if you like, by clicking on this link:
http://citycrafter.blogspot.com/2011/12/city-crafter-challenge-blog-week-86.html - "Home For the Holidays" - This is a fun challenge where you enter a project with a house on it to symbolize how we all long to be "Home For The Holidays".  I know that my heart longs to be in my Mom's kitchen with her - baking cookies and talking - just like we did when I was younger.  This challenge really made me think of how dear and precious it would be to be at my childhood home for the holidays.  But I am grateful to be here in the home my family and I have built together.  But, my heart is there with my Mom at this special time of year.  Thanks, City Crafter, for a wonderful heart-felt challenge.

Thanks for dropping by today.  I always appreciate your comments, and will always be sure to visit your blog, and comment in return.  I also always follow others who follow me/my blog - it's just more fun that way.  Right?

Blessings,

Karen

Thursday, December 8, 2011

A Bitter-Sweet Day

Today is December 8 - a date that will forever remain one of the most bitter-sweet in my life.  On this date in 1985, my husband Darren and I gave birth to our precious identical twin boys, Nicholas & Benjamin.  They told me that natural twins are 1 in 100 births, and that identical twins were 1 in 1,000 births, but that sadly, our twins being identical and developing in the same sac occurs 1 in 10,000 births.   But what is worst, is that what happened to them occurred 1 in 1,000,000 births - since they were in the same sac, as they grew and got bigger, they tied themselves into a knot, and around Benjamin's neck.  They were stillborn.  That is why it is bitter-sweet.  While we got to see them, and hold them, and love them, we had to say good-bye far too quickly.  They had brown hair and brown eyes, they weighed 2 lbs. and 2 lbs. 3 oz.  They were perfect and beautiful, and loved.  We miss them SO much.  Our comfort came in knowing that they are in Heaven with the Lord.  In 2 Samuel 12, we read the story of when David's infant child died.  In verse 23, David reminds us that the child cannot come back to us, but we can go to be with the child (in Heaven).  This is our assurance that we will be together again - all because of what Jesus Christ, God in human flesh, did for us when He died on the cross to pay the price for our sins.  I am SO looking forward to seeing them again.

I am entering this card in the following challenges.

http://mymindseye.typepad.com/blog/2011/12/blog-challenge-30-card.html - #30 - Card
http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/simon-says-christmas-photomontage.html - Christmas Photomontage Inspiration
http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-194-anything-goes.html - #194 Anything Goes
http://mimchallegeblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/mmm-week-27.html - Seasonal with Glitter

Thanks for stopping by today.  I sure didn't mean to bum anyone out with my story, it's just a part of who I am - and I wanted to share our story.  The twins were not the only babies we lost.  I've found, over the years, that it's fairly common for women to lose children, and I believe we go through these trials so that we can help one another and encourage one another when we do have suffering.  If you've lost a little one, my heart goes out to you today as well.  Remember them with a smile - they are in the arms of Jesus.

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Jesus Is The Reason

Well. . . .Santa, if you can hear me, I would REALLY like a new (better) camera for Christmas.  I'm grateful for the little camera I have, but I want a "real" camera that can capture the fine details.  A good photo makes a BIG difference.  There, I said it - Can you hear me, Santa?



I want to mention a few new challenge blogs I've found this week.  First, I would like to talk about Scrapbookers Anonymous.  This challenge blog encourages you to use up items from your stash.  Heaven knows we all have WAY too much of that, and being encouraged to utilize what we have is always a good thing.  You can learn more about this fun challenge blog by clicking on this link:
www.scrapbookers-anonymous.blogspot.com
Their current challenge calls for three things - Holiday, a Tag, and Glitter.  What a fun combination.  Obviously, my card celebrates the true reason for the Christmas Holiday - it's ALL about Jesus.  I have a red tag under my image, and I glittered my star (as well as using glittery background paper from my old stash, and I also used a digital image I had been saving and needed to use).  Here is the link for that challenge:
http://scrapbookers-anonymous.blogspot.com/2011/12/december-challenge.html

The next challenge I'd like to mention is Stamp, Scrap, and Doodle Saturdays - they have a fun Holiday Card challenge going on right now.  It's the perfect time to enter this fun challenge since we're all working on our Holiday cards.  You can enter this challenge by clicking on the following link.  You won't want to miss out on this one.
http://ssdschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-card.html - Holiday Card

The challenge for December over at Pile It On is a "Bling It Up" challenge.  My star is VERY blingy, even though my mediocre camera doesn't really capture the bling.  You can read about this challenge by clicking here:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/12/pile-it-on-49-december-month-long.html - December "Bling it Up"

Sparkles Forum Challenge has a challenge called "The One You Love At Christmas", and I am not at all ashamed to say that the One I love at Christmas (and always) is my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  So, this image of our Lord in the manger is being entered in this challenge:
http://sparklesforumchallenges.blogspot.com/2011/12/ch-26-one-you-love-at-christmas.html - The One You Love at Christmas

Last, but by NO MEANS least, is the super exciting challenge going on over at www.lollipopcrafts.blogspot.com where they are hosting a color challenge.  You need to use Dark Red, Chocolate Brown, and Cream.  I used dark red on my tag and accents, chocolate brown in my background paper, ribbon and accents, and cream on my image mat, vintage sheet music and accents.  I always love trying to make a project meet requirements for several challenges.  You can read all about, and even enter, this fun challenge by clicking on the following link:
http://lollipopcrafts.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-60-color-challenge.html - #60 - A Color Challenge

Before I go, I want to give credit to Freshly Brewed Designs for the image I used.  I won this image in a challenge quite a while back, and it just wouldn't be right to not tell you about their amazing images.  You can check them out at:  www.freshbreweddesigns.com  So, thank you, Heather, for this image.

I am so excited about these three challenge blogs.  I hope you will check them out, and enter the challenges.  The more, the merrier.  Right?

Have a great day.

Karen

Monday, December 5, 2011

Chasing a Dream

Hello, blog visitors.  If you've found my blog, I'd like to say THANK YOU.  I cannot express to you enough how much it would mean to me if you would please become a follower of my blog.  In return, I promise to also follow your blog, and to visit and comment regularly.  I just love getting to know new people through blogging, and to gain inspiration from other crafters.  So, thank you in advance for stopping by to say hello.

I have been entering the weekly challenge at Simon Says Stamp for a long time now.  It's my dream (perhaps a Christmas gift to myself at this point) to think that I could possibly be drawn one week.  I also love entering other challenges from all the awesome blogs out there.  I'm chasing the dream of not only winning a challenge here and there, but also of gaining new followers and meeting new friends.  I have been honored and humbled to be invited to three Design Teams.  Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe that anyone would desire to utilize my designs for their blogs, but it a great honor - not to mention a whole lot of fun.



This card was created for several different challenges.  They are:

http://frosteddesigns.blogspot.com/2011/12/fabulous-friday-challenge-music.html - Music
http://heartsonginspirations.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-27-christmas-andor-red-green.html - Christmas and/or Red, Green and White
http://bythecuteandgirly.blogspot.com/2011/12/december-let-it-snow.html - Let It Snow
http://stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-118-matthew-120-22.html - #118 - Angel
http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/2011/12/mojo-monday-218-contest.html - #218 Sketch
http://cupcakeinspirations.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-139.html - #139 Red, Green & White
http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/is-it-snowing-at-sweet-stampin.html - It's Snowing
http://deepoceanchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-14-let-it-snow_06.html - Let It Snow
http://cutedaisymay.blogspot.com/2011/12/snowflakes.html - Snowflakes

I am truly honored that you would stop by to visit my humble little blog.  I certainly don't consider myself to be an amazing artist, but I do my best when I enter a challenge, and I really try to put my heart into it and give it my best effort.  Your honest opinions are greatly appreciated, and again, if you would please consider becoming a follower, I would not only be thrilled - I would do the same for you because I truly LOVE meeting new people.

I hope you're all having a great week, and I look forward to popping over to your blogs to see what you're all up to.  Thanks so much for visiting.

Hugs and Blessings to you all,

Karen

You're Turning 5

It feels so good to be back "on track" with my life.  I like being able to get back to my regular routine without all the stress.  I enjoy entering the fun challenges at various blogs that I've come to know and love.  Today is no expection.  I'm so thrilled to be able to enter the following challenges with this little card I made using the adorable October Afternoon papers and accessories.  I just LOVE their products.


The first challenge for this card is over at Cute Card Thursday where they are looking for cards with a specific number on them.  I made this card for a friend's daughter who will soon be turning 5.  I can't wait to give it to her.  You can read all about this awesome challenge by clicking on this link:
http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-193-its-just-number.html - It's Just a Number

The other challenge I'm entering with this card is over at Scrapbook Sisters.  You can read about that super fun challenge here:
http://scrapbooksisters.blogspot.com/2011/11/card-challenge-62.html - Challenge #62 - Anything Goes

Thanks so much for stopping by to take a look.  Have a blessed day!

Hugs,
Karen

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Not So Traditional

Well, the boutique is over and WHEW it was a lot of hard work, but well worth it.  I had a great time, got to meet a lot of nice people, and made some Christmas money.  A special word of thanks to all of you for your encouraging words.  Now, I'm looking forward to getting my life back to "normal" - whatever that is.  LOL

This is one of the (many) Christmas cards I made for the boutique.  This particular card did not sell.  But that's quite alright because I need cards to send out myself.  So, I will use what's left over from the sale.  I hope that all of you had a relaxing weekend.

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:
http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/2011/11/christmas-no-red-or-green.html - No Red or Green
http://thepoodlesparlour.blogspot.com/ - Holiday
http://sweetnsassydigis.blogspot.com/2011/12/snsdc31a-christmas-gift.html - A Christmas Gift
http://www.hidinginmycraftroom.com/2011/12/himcr-23-blue-color-challenge.html - Blue Color Challenge
http://paper-craftingjourney.blogspot.com/2011/11/anything-goes-at-pcj.html - Anything Goes at PCJ
http://dreamvalleychallenges.blogspot.com/2011/11/challenge-21-sparkle.html - Sparkle
http://totallypapercrafts.blogspot.com/2011/12/challenge-95-let-it-snow.html - Let It Snow

Thanks again for your encouragement.  I appreciate hearing  your sweet comments, and visiting all of your lovely blogs.

Blessings,

Karen

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Simon Says Anything Goes

Well, I'm busy beyond belief, but I can't resist making one final post before the craft boutique this weekend so that I can enter the AWESOME weekly challenge at Simon Says Stamp Blog.  I keep praying that one of these weeks, I will finally be drawn as the winner.  This is a little mini album I made using October Afternoon products.  I thought I would share the pages, and enter this project.


I absolutely ADORE October Afternoon products, and can never get enough of them.  This album will be sold at the boutique.  Thanks for taking a look, and please leave a comment.  I have really enjoyed visiting all your blogs to see what you've all been up to this week as well.  Here's to hoping for a big WIN this week.  Good luck to each of you in the challenges you have all entered this week as well.
You can read all about this amazing challenge by clicking on the following link:
http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2011/11/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Anything Goes Challenge

I truly appreciate your sweet comments, as well as all the encouragement I've received from all of you regarding my boutique this weekend.  God bless each and every one of you.

Blessings,

Karen