An Early Boo

I haven't really started making my "Halloween" bags yet, but I guess I better get started.  Every year, I make little treat bags and fill them with Christian tracts (Halloween tracts that tell children how they can know they're saved and on their way to Heaven), candy and treats.  I always figure that we need to take advantage of the one and only day each year that approximately 100 kids come to our door, and I have the opportunity to share Jesus with them.  I can give out candy and Halloween treats while sharing the Gospel.  It's the perfect opportunity to witness.

 

I saw that City Crafter Challenge Blog was having "An Early Boo" challenge, so I decided to use the opportunity to get myself started on the Halloween bags since I need to make 100.  I took one photo of just the bag, and then a photo of the bag filled with some candy sticks.  You can't make the bag stand up once it's filled.

 

It's a start.  I needed that "push" of "An Early Boo" to get me on my way.  Here are the challenges I'm linking up to with this little treat bag.

http://www.citycrafter.blogspot.com/2012/09/city-crafter-challenge-blog-week-128.html - City Crafter Challenge Blog - Week #128 - An Early Boo Sponosred by Freckled Fawn

http://www.craftspotbykimberly.blogspot.com/2012/10/monday-challenge-71-boo-to-you.html - My Craft Spot by Kimberly - Challenge #71 - Boo To You - Anything Halloween

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://thepapershelter.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-83-anything-goes.html - The Paper Shelter Challenge Blog - Challenge #83 - Anything Goes

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/09/challenge-37-sept-25th-oct-1st.html - Through The Craft Room Door - Challenge #37 - Autumn/Fall Challenge

Thanks for stopping by to take a peek, and whatever you're working on this week, I hope that you not only "get a start" on it, but actually get it done.  I feel SO behind that I will never get it all finished.  I keep trying. . . .that's all I can do, right?  Housework, homeschooling, and LIFE in general have to come first.  Have a blessed week.

Karen

Sew Sweet of You - Daydream Designs

I've been having SO much fun playing with all my sweet new images from Daydream Designs.  As most of you know, I just love all things vintage, sewing related, etc., so it was a sheer delight to use these images from the Sew Sweet Sentiments and Vintage Button Cards Collections.  Each of these sets comes with MANY different images, and I've used just one file from each of the darling sets on this card.  That's one of the best things about Daydream Designs images.  The prices are VERY reasonable, and each set includes MANY different files that you can use on a variety of projects.  I look forward to making many more projects with each set, but for now. . . . I just wanted to share this simple little card with you to give you a feel for the style of images you will find in these two amazing sets.  Be sure to stop by Daydream Designs to check out all the gorgeous digital files Diane has created for you.  I promise that you won't be disappointed, and that you get an awful lot for your money.  The creativity possibilities are endless, which you can see on all the Dream Team designers' blogs.  Here is my little card.

 

 

 

Besides the darling button card image and Sew Sweet Sentiment from Daydream Designs, I also used Coordinations cardstock, machine stressing, distressing, a JiliBean Soup journaling spot, a suede leave from Freckled Fawn, a painted and glittered mini clothes pin, a stick pin, some hand-made scrunched seam binding, some buttons, a Cosmo Cricket girl cut from a sheet of patterned paper, and I think that covers it.

 

I can never resist entering some challengs.  Here are the challenges I've decided to play along in with this card.

 

http://www.papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/2012/09/sketch-72-or-another-sketchie-free-for.html - Papertake Weekly Challenges - Sketch #72 or Other Sketch - I chose to use their Sketch #55 for this particular card.

 

http://www.craftymesschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/18th-challengedistressed-aged.html - Crafty Mess Challenge Blog - Challenge #18 - Distressed/Aged - I love to distress the edges of my projects.

 

http://www.kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-138-stitching.html - Kaboodle Doodles Challenges - Challenge #138 - Stitching - Sponsored by Robyn's Fetish, which I LOVE

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-158-psalm-13914.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #158 - Show Something Handmade - Stitching and Hand-made Scrunched Seam Binding

 

http://www.totallygorjuss.blogspot.com/ - Totally Gorjuss Challenge Blog - Challenge #150 - Thank You - This card says "Sew Sweet of You", and is a Thank You for a friend who did something super special for me.

 

http://www.thepapershelter.blogspot.com.es/2012/09/challenge-83-anything-goes.html - The Paper Shelter Challenge Blog - Challenge #83 - Anything Goes

 

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-4-thinking-of-you.html - Twist of Faith Cards Challenge Blog - Challenge #4 - Thinking of You - This card is to let a friend know that I am thinking about her and all the very sweet things she has done for me.

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp - Anything Goes - I keep crossing my fingers on this one.

http://papermakeupstamps.blogspot.ca/2012/09/digi-makeover-challenge-55.html - Paper Make-Up Stamps - Challenge #55 - Digi Make-Over - I used a digi vintage button card from Daydream Designs

http://www.simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-for-love-of-sparkle.html - Simon Says Stamp and Show - Challenge For The Love of Sparkle - I added lots of glitter to my mini clothes pin.

http://cardcrafterscircle.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-42-vintage.html - Card Crafter's Circle - Challenge #42 - Vintage

 

I really hope that you will stop by Daydream Designs to take a look at Diane's lovely images in her sweet shop.  She would love to meet you, and you will be SO impressed with the wide variety of fun images and sentiments available at great prices.

Thanks for visiting me today, and don't forget to link up at Word Art Wednesday this week.  We'd be SO BLESSED to have you play along with us and share your beautiful art.

Have a creative week, and be blessed,

Karen

Cast Your Cares on Jesus

This week at Word Art Wednesday the free scripture/word art was 1 Peter 5:7, "Casting all your cares upon Him; for He careth for you."  We hope you will stop by and save this beautiful (and free) piece of word art to use on projects and cards.  You aren't required to use it to play along, but it's there for you if you want it.  You can share pretty much anything in our challenges, and we would really LOVE to have you play along.  There are two prizes this week.  Check it out.

In addition to the free scripture/word art, I used Authentique patterned papers, Recollections flowers, a Prima pink leave, Maya Road stick pins, Sweet-n-Sassy die-cuts, and the Sentimental Journal journaling card from Daydream Designs, as well as rick-rack, laces, buttons, and lots of Martha Stewart ultra-fine glitter (which is hard to see).  This journaling card (the little card that says Description) is just ONE element in this DARLING journaling set from Daydream Designs and I encourage you to check it out.  I love using journaling squares, circles, etc., and this set is PERFECT for that.

 

I'm sharing it in the following challenges this week:

 

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-4-thinking-of-you.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #4 - Thinking of You.  This card is being sent to my friend who is about to undergo a kidney transplant.

http://crafterscafeblogchallenge.blogspot.ca/2012/09/challenge-8.html - Crafter's Cafe Blog Challenge - Challenge # 8 - Stitching - Can you see all my stitching?

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-158-psalm-13914.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #158 - Something Handmade - My Stitching and Hand-Cutting

http://jacksonsdigitalexpressions.blogspot.ca/2012/09/challenge-24-pink-or-breast-cancer.html - Jackson Digital Expressions - Challenge #24 - Pink or Breast Cancer

http://papermakeupstamps.blogspot.ca/2012/09/digi-makeover-challenge-55.html - Paper Make-Up Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #55 - Digi Make-Over - I used one digi from Word Art Wednesday, and one digi from Daydream Designs

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Anything Goes

http://www.simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-for-love-of-sparkle.html - Simon Says Stamp & Show - For The Love of Sparkle - This card is glittered TO THE MAX

 

It's so sweet of you to visit me today.  I look forward to visiting you as well.

 

Karen

 

 

Sypathy Card

I've been saying for the longest time that I need to make some sympathy cards.  And truth be known, I still need to make a lot of sympathy cards to have on hand.  But I did make ONE last night.  I used a sympathy sentiment from Daydream Designs' - God's Comfort Sentiments Set which is just one of several lovely sentiments in this versatile set.  I'm hoping to use the set again this week to make some "prettier" and more serious-looking sympathy cards, and print some of the bigger sentiments on the inside of the cards.  But for now, I made this little card.

 

This card was made with Simple Stories and JilliBean Soup papers, a Bugaboo flower image, some buttons, seam binding, and the Daydream Designs Sentiment.  I'm entering it in the following challenges:

http://www.sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/2012/09/week-226-with-bugaboo-stamps.html - Sketch Saturday - Week #226 With Bugaboo Stamps - Based on a Sketch

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-3-in-garden.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #3 - In The Garden

http://liastampz.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-25-3-of-something.html - Lia Stampz - Challenge #25 - Three of Something (I chose three buttons)

http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.com/2012/09/19th-september-challenge-lauren-curtis.html - Stamp-n-Doodle - September Challenge - Anything Goes

http://sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/2012/09/sweet-sketch-wednesday-sketch-172-our.html - Sweet Sketch Wednesday - Sketch #172

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-158-psalm-13914.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #158 - Make Something Handmade - I made my died seam binding and I stitched my card.

http://papermakeupstamps.blogspot.ca/2012/09/digi-makeover-challenge-55.html - Paper Make-Up Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #55 - Digi Make-Over - I used a digi from Bugaboo Stamps

http://jacksonsdigitalexpressions.blogspot.ca/2012/09/challenge-24-pink-or-breast-cancer.html - Jacksons Digital Expressions - Challenge #24 - Pink or Breast Cancer.  I used pink as well as an imae from their sponsor, Bugaboo Stamps.  This challenge is for a great cause, and I'm happy to participate.

Thanks for visiting my little blog today.  I hope you're having a great day, and I do encourage you to check out all the darling images at Daydream Designs and get creative with them.  I look forward to visiting your blogs as well.

Blessings,
Karen

Daydream Designs Recipe Book

As I've mentioned before, I have recently started as a Design Team Member for the amazing and darling Daydream Designs as part of Diane Noble's "Dream Team".  I am super excited, and very humbled, that she would ask me to be part of the team.  And the best part is that I get to play with her ADORABLE digital images.  I hope that you will fall in love with her darling images as much as I have.  Any of the images I've used on this Recipe Book can be found in her shop, Daydream Designs and you WON'T be disappointed.  These are high-quality, crisp images.  Well, here is my first project.  I combined Cosmo Cricket's Early Bird line with Daydream Designs' digital images to create this book.  It is made from cut chipboard scraps (you know, the kind you get that separate pieces of scrapbook paper).  Nothing fancy here, just use what you have.  I also used the following Daydream Designs' digital sets:  Vintage Recipe Cards, Kitchen Clatter, Kitchen Clatter Comments, and Kitchen Cabinet Bingo.  I didn't use all the digis from each set.  You'd be amazed at how many different images you get for the money.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for stopping by to say hello and take a peek at my first project for Daydream Designs.  When you stop by the shop, you will also find links to all the other designers' blogs (or, you can find them on my sidebar).  They have so much fabulous inspiration.  Diane is excited to meet you all.

http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.ca/2012/09/19th-september-challenge-lauren-curtis.html - Stamp-n-Doodle - Anything Goes

 

Before I sign off, I am sharing a card that a bloggy friend of mind made with her Granddaughter.  This is Carole's card.  She is in the process of setting up her own blog, and in fact, I will be helping her learn how to set up her blog this weekend.  But in the meantime, she wanted to enter this card into our current challenge at Word Art Wednesday and so I'm happy to help her.  I think they did a great job, and I look forward to seeing what they will create once the new blog is made.

Oh, and another bit of praise for our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  My childhood friend, Mary, who I've mentioned needs a kidney transplant. . . .just learned that God has provided her with a DONOR MATCH.  That is the best news I've had all day, and I just want to PRAISE GOD.  Her transplant is tentatively scheduled for October 23.  We serve an AMAZING God.

My Cup Runneth Over,
Karen

Blog Hop

If you're looking for a super fun and inspirational Blog Hop this week, please take time to check out Daydream Designs Fall Blog Hop, which starts here:  on Diane Noble's Blog and there are prizes to be won, a free digi, and lots of great inspiration.

 

I am honored that Diane has asked me to join her "Dream Team" (group of designers).  I didn't get myself set up in time to participate in the Blog Hop, but I did want to give you all the opportunity to hop along and check out her darling shop.  Please let her know that I sent you, and again. . . .to get started, just click here:  Daydream Designs Blog Hop

Have a blessed day,

Karen

Cake Anyone?

I think I need to get invited to a Birthday Party or a wedding real soon.  I've had cake on the brain.  So when I saw this week's challenge at One Stop Craft Challenge Blog, I knew I just had to play along.  Their challenge calls for CAKE.  I figured, if I can't eat some, I might as well create with some.  I used the adorable Pretty Party line by Crate Paper including the patterned papers, chipboard elements and stickers.  Then, I machine stitched everything, inked it all, added some buttons with Baker's twine, seam binding, and gems.

 

I have SO many projects to get done this afternooon, but I can't focus now that I'm thinking about cake.  I could really go for some moist cake with rich, sweet, buttercream frosting piled on top.  Doesn't that sound wonderful?  I saw this picture of a cake that I am definitely going to make for my husband's next birthday.  It's absolutely adorable, not too difficult to make, and it suits him SO perfectly.  He is our family's true "Cookie Monster".

Here are the links to the challenges I'm entering, as mentioned above:

http://www.onestopcraftchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/lets-bake-cake.html - One Stop Craft Challenges - Let's Bake Cake

http://crafterscafeblogchallenge.blogspot.com/ - Crafters' Cafe Challenge Blog - Stitching Real or Faux (Mine is Real)

http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.com/2012/09/12th-september-challenge-claires.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Stamp-n-doodle+%28Stamp-n-doodle%29 - Stamp-n-Doodle Challenge Blog - Stitching Real or Faux (Mine is Real)

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-38-its-stitch-up.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #38 - Stitch It Up/Real or Faux  (I Used Real Stitching)

http://digitaltuesdaychallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/177-sweet-treats.html - Digital Tuesday Challenge Blog - Challenge #177 - Sweet Treats (YUM. . . I Want Cake)

Thanks for stopping by to say hello.  If you'd like to come to my house with some cake, please feel free.  I will make a big pot of hot fresh coffee.  I hope to hear that knock at my door soon, and see someone standing there with some cake.  Somehow, I think I may be waiting a while.  LOL

 

Blessings,

Karen

When All Else Fails. . . .

I love all things shabby, vintage, antique, lacey, frilly, and cute.  I've had several of these vintage looking images for a long time now, but never really know what to do with them.  So I decided to use one to create a shabby little card.  I love these little girls that remind me of days gone by. . .a quiet and more innocent time.   It's just so sweet.   I inked and sewed the card, put it on a doily inked with tea stain, added some seam binding, lace, velvet trims, Melissa Frances patterned paper, a miniature wooden spool wrapped in DMC floss, added a couple of stick pins, more vintage lace, and some other goodies.  As I usually do, I machine stitched this as well.  It doesn't really have a sentiment.  I just like the card the way it is.  I can always add a sentiment later when I decide what I'm going to use this card for.

Before I go any further, I have to tell you all an important piece of advice.  "WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS".  I entered the challenge this week at The Shabby Tea Room twice already (this will be entry number three), and I BLEW IT on my frist two entries.  The directions clearly said to "add lace, fabric and a button".  Oh my.  Well, you all know that saying, "THIRD TIME'S A CHARM", right?  This is my third entry, but the only one that will even count.  I followed the theme, colors, and added fabric (a suede leave from Freckled Fawn, and a wool felt flower cut from a PTI die-cut).  I also added two different vintage laces and used a vintage pink button with some PTI jute tied in it.  It's always good to READ the instructions.

 

 

http://theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/09/week-131-creative-candy.html - The Shabby Tea Room -Week #131 - Photo Inspiration (see below) plus use lace, fabric and a button (see above).

 

Thanks for stopping by.  Before I go, I wanted to share one last picture.  This is my handsome 13-year-old son, Andrew.  He looked so nice in his new suit when we went to church this morning.  And here's the best part:  I didn't "make him" wear (or even buy) this suit.  It was completely HIS idea, and he LOVES it.  I'm one lucky Mama.

 

 

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

Scrap Addict

 

My dear friends, my name is Karen, and I am a scrapbook addict.  Of course, it's a great comfort to me to know that most of you understand this strange addiction.  We all have, I'm quite sure, more than enough supplies to last us until Jesus returns.  And yet, we continue to buy more.  As I always say, "if they'd quit making such cute new things, I wouldn't need to buy it all".  But as the new stuff arrives, we often tend to forget our old favorites. Well, this card was a visit to some of "those old favorites".  For me, one of my most favorites companies is October Afternoon.  My BFF, Patti Lyn, lives in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, and so when October Afternoon has their warehouse sales, we buy even MORE of it.  I just sat down and used up some of my October Afternoon stash including three different patterned papers, a rubber charm (tree), the cute Happy journaling card, two little stickers (under the word BE), and then I added some vintage trim, yellow seam binding, and green/white Baker's twine and a vintage button.  The glittery BE stickers are from American Crafts, and the chipboard heart cut-out is Maya Road (which I painted red, distressed, and glittered with Martha Stewart ultra-fine white glitter.  A little machine sewing, and that's about it.



 

I've had my eye on several challenges this week, which I'm sure you have see in my recent posts. A girl can dream, right?  I always wish my bloggy friends the best of luck in entering challenges.  It's what makes this craft SO fun.  Well that, and the addiction thing. . . . .shopping all the time.  It's a good, clean obsession.  I don't let it interfere with what's truly important.  My daily devotions, Bible reading and studying, family time, homeschooling, attending church, taking care of my husband and family, and. . . .well, as you all know, that list is pretty much never-ending - just like our laundry pile.

Here are the challenges I'm entering:

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-19-tree.html - Creative Card Crew Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Tree

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-156-romans-323-24_9.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge Blog - Challenge #156 - Bright Colors

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers

Well, my friends. . . .I'm off do throw in a couple loads of laundry, fold some dry clothes, run the vaccum, make some lunch, head to the YMCA to work out, and hopefully this evening, do some more crafting.  Thanks for stopping by, and have a great weekend.

Blessings,
Karen

Date Night

Well, I had a really nice evening.  My 13-year-old son took me out on a date.  We haven't done that in a while, so it was really nice to spend some special time with him.  He's such a little gentleman and wanted to open doors for me, and show me a good time.  My hubby was sleeping (he works nights, and tonight is a work night).  We just got back home in time to make some dinner and chill out.  I realize that I won't have him around forever, so I am very grateful for these special "date nights".  My husband does them with the girls as well.  It's an opportunity to make precious memories.

 

Close-up of JustRite Stamps' Nested Sentiment stamp:

 

I'm entering a few challenges with this card, including the challenge at JustRite Stampers which you can find here:
http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/2012/09/justrite-friday-challenge-081-charm-me.html - JustRite Stampers Challenge #081 - Charm Me

They have asked entrants to follow the theme "Charm Me", and use a charm on your card.  My metal charm is in the center of my hand-cut felt flower.  It's a silver filagree charm and it's tucked in the flower center with a button attached to the top of it.  My stamp is from one of their lovely Nested Sentiments collections.

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-156-romans-323-24_9.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge Blog - Challenge #156 - Create With Bright Colors

 

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenges - Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers

 

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-19-tree.html - Creative Card Crew Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Trees

 

 

And last, but by NO MEANS least, the awesome fun challenge at Sweet Sketch Wednesday.

http://sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/2012/09/sweet-sketch-wednesday-171-103-and.html?showComment=1347674700215#c8038854722078717395 - Sweet Sketch Wednesday Challenge Blog - Challenge #171-103 - Based On The Above Sketch - This was a really fun sketch.  Arlana and her sweet Design Team are an AWESOME bunch of gals who will BLESS you with their kind words and generous blog visits if you should choose to play along in their delightful challenges.

 

Thanks so much for checking out my blog today.  I look forward to visiting yours as well.  If you aren't already a follower of my blog, PLEASE become a new follower, and I will pop on over to your blog and do the same there.

 

Blessings,
Karen

Trees, Leaves and Autumn

This is one of those times of the year when I really miss my hometown, Duluth, Minnesota.  Right about now, I can picture all of leaves changing color up the North Shore Drive along Lake Superior on the drive into Canada.  It's absolutely beautiful this time of year, and I miss it SO very much.  I took my kids to Minnesota one October to visit when they were a bit younger, and they LOVED it.  We took hay rides, corn mazes, jumped in piles of raked leaves, and took lots of photos.  My son still talks about what a great time he had.  He really wants to go visit Grandma; especially in Autumn and Winter.

I have been falling more and more in love with these delicious patterned papers and goodies from Simple Stories.  The Fabulous line as well as the Harvest line from Simple Stories have been calling my name for several weeks now.  I was super inspired by Melissa Phillips, Candace Pierce, and Melissa Bove who have all used these sweet papers recently on their lovely blogs.   So, seeing their inspiration caused me to make the purchase and create something for myself, but they definitely inspired me to do so.

 

 

 

Here are the challenges I'm entering:

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-19-tree.html - Creative Card Crew Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Tree Challenge

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers

If you've been inspired by someone on a project that you've created this week, I'd love to hear about it.  This is one of the great things about visiting other people's blogs.  We get so many great ideas that get our creative juices flowing.  Let me know what has inspired you recently.

And have a BLESSED day,
Karen

More With Pink and Black

After making the friendship card for the JustRite challenge yesterday, I had all this pink and black cuteness sitting on my scrapbook table.  So, I decided to make a mini album using some really cool paper bags my Mom had given me.  She got them at some darling little shop she visited in Ohio.  I tried taking a few close-up shots so that you can see the cool bags.  They made a great background for this vintage-style mini album, and. . . .of course, whenever you use paper bags, you get those amazing pockets where I tucked in some photo mats.  I tried taking a few pictures of those as well so you could see.  I used two bags total, so there are 5/6 pages so to speak.  I realized that it's difficult to read those little Making Memories letters, so. . .just to let you know, it says, "my sister - my friend" in the frame, and down toward the bottom, it says, "I like your style".

 

Front Pocket Card:

Inside Page/Pocket Card:

I know that some of you have asked me to show the inside pages of my mini albums, but I always feel like it's just too many photos for one blog post.  They are basically just photo mats with journaling tags and floral embellishments.  You'll have to use your imaginations.  Tee hee.

And of course, here are the challenges I am entering with this little paper bag mini alnum:

http://www.everybody-art-challenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/205-schwarzpink-blackpink.html - Everybody-Art-Challenge Blog - Black and Pink

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Patterned Papers

http://theribbonreelchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-36-vintage-black-white-pop-of.html - The Ribbon Reel Challenge Blog - Challenge #36 - Vintage Black, White and Pop of Pink

Before I go, I want to mention something WONDERFUL that happened to me this week.  As many of you know, Simon Says Stamp is one of my most favorite on-line scrapbook stores.  I've entered their challenge faithfully for SO long, and have yet to win.  But, this last week - both Simon Says Stamp Blog AND Simon Says Stamp & Show Blog, each had a Blog Hop for their 3rd year, and I won a $25 gift certificate from May's blog on Simon Says Stamp & Show, AND a $25 gift certificate from Laurel Beard's blog at Simon Says Stamp Blog.  How awesome is that?  I now have $50 to spend in their awesome store.  I can't wait to go shopping, and I give God ALL THE PRAISE and thanks.  (and of course, a big shout-out and thanks to SSS for being so awesome).

 

I hope you're all having a great day, and I thank you AS ALWAYS for stopping by to say hello and leave me some love.  I look forward to visiting each of you this week.

 

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

"Charming" at JustRite Stampers - *Edited

One of my favorite challenges to enter each week is the one at JustRite Stampers Challenge Blog - and. . . . this week, their challenge is to "add a charm" to your project.   This was a great challenge for me because I had bought dozens of cute little metal charms years ago from a company called Maude & Millie (now out of business) that I seldom use.  Yet, they really are cute, so I don't know why I don't use them more often.  This challenge got me using something old and somewhat forgotten; so that's always a good challenge.  Not to mention, their prizes are JustRite stamp sets, which I LOVE as well.  So, you can't go wrong.

*Edit:  I have added my friend's name to the card.  There is a close-up of this also.  I knew just who needed to get this special little card.

 

 

I also used up some old products on this card.  This line at patterned papers, glitter papers (which you can't see, but the background is big black glitter circles on black cardstock, as well as the black frame, and the letter stickers are all from the Making Memories Sabrina line, which is several years old.  Yet, when I have something old that I know I love, it's always a treat to revisit that line and get creative with it.  I knew I wanted to use this black and pink theme, so these were just the right fit.   Use up your stash, right?

Here are the challenges I'm entering with this card.

First, and most obviously:  http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/2012/09/justrite-friday-challenge-081-charm-me.html - JustRite Stampers Challenge #081 - Charm Me - I used two metal charms as well as the JustRite Nested Friendship Sentiments Stamp Set

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenges - #37 - Patterned Paper

http://www.everybody-art-challenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/205-schwarzpink-blackpink.html - Everybody-Art-Challenge Blog - Black & Pink

http://theribbonreelchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-36-vintage-black-white-pop-of.html - The Ribbon Reel Challenge Blog - Challenge #36 - Vintage Black/White & a Pop of Pink

I had a lot of fun creating this card, and I thank you for stopping by to take a peek at it.  It's always so sweet of you all to leave your comments, and I look forward to visiting your blogs to say hello as well.

Blessings to you all,
Karen

Roll Your Burdens Over to Him

This is the free word art file/scripture this week at Word Art Wednesday and you are invited to stop by the blog, right click, and save this free scripture file to use when you desire.  This verse simply means that if we will roll our burdens (the works/worries in our lives) onto Jesus, He will give us a lear mind and a sound head.  It's the way we find true peace in our lives.

 

Although welcome to do so, you're never required to use it play along in our challenges.  You can link up any uplifting or encouraging project you choose.  It would be SUCH a tremendous blessing to have YOU stop by this week and play along with us.  Word Art Wednesday warmly welcomes you to stop by.   And finally, here is a close-up of this week's word art file.

 

 

. . . . . . and here's the rest of my card:
 

So, you know me. . . .I have to enter a few challenges, right?

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-156-romans-323-24_9.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #156 -  Create With Bright Colors

http://uniquecrafterschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/september-challenge-anything-goes.html - Unique Crafters Challenge - September/Anything Goes

http://twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-2-comfort.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #2 - Comfort

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers/Layers and Layers of Them

 

Thanks for visiting today, and please don't forget to stop by Word Art Wednesday to play along with us.  And, as always. . . .have a blessed week.

 

Karen

Shabby Vintage Notions

One of my most favorite things to look for at antique stores are all the sewing notions.  I have a few antique sewing machines, and I like to collect antique wooden bobbins and spools, vintage button cards and buttons, vintage needle holders, and all sorts of neat shabby vintage sewing notions.  So, whenever I see a challenge that is inspired (either in photo image or in theme) by this genre, I try to jump on board and play along.  I found this inspiration photo today at The Shabby Tea Room and was so inspired by this sweet image that I just had to get out more of my goodies and play along.  Isn't this just yummy?  All my favorite things. . . .including lace, trims, vintage thread spools, and more.

http://theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/09/week-131-creative-candy.html - The Shabby Tea Room - Werk #131 - Creative Candy Inspiration Photo

My card was made using several different patterned papers (JilliBean Soup, Prima, Girls' Paperie, the Material Girl stamp set from Crafty Secrets, and the sentiment is from Mark's Finest Papers I'm in Stitches stamp set, I used a vintage button, seam binding, DMC floss, Cat's Eye ink, and Freckled Fawn washi tape, not to mention. . . .some good old-fashioned machine sewing around the edges.  I chose to use the Material Girl stamp set from Crafty Secrets because they are sponsoring this awesome challenge at The Shabby TeaRoom, and I just LOVE their products.  I would be so thrilled to win this one.

 

I'm also entering the following challenges:

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-156-romans-323-24_9.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge Blog - Challenge #156 - Create With Bright Colors

http://redcarpetstudiochallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/rcs-2-pun-card-challenge.html - Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog - Challenge #2 - Pun Card

 

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile it On Challenges - Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers

 

http://uniquecrafterschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/september-challenge-anything-goes.html - Unique Crafters Challenge Blog - September Challenge is Anything Goes.  And, if they like what they see on our blogs, we may be invited to Guest Design.  How exciting is that?

 

Well, I thank you once again for stopping by to take a peek and say hello.  It's trying to rain here in Las Vegas today.  So, we're all tucked inside for now.  We're having a Restore America Revival this week at our church, so hopefully it will clear up by evening.  Hope you're having fun whatever you're doing today.

 

Blessings,

karen

Bright and Cheery

I have a very special friend named Noni.  I know I've mentioned her before, at least once back when I made a pocket card with all her kids' names tucked inside.  Well, I've been thinking about her a lot lately, and so I decided to make and send her this card.  She is the best example I have ever met of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31.  If you haven't read this Proverb lately, I encourage you to get it out, read and study it, and ask yourself how your life is measuring up to become that virtuous woman.  It's such a blessing to have an example in our lives to help encourage us to live our lives the way God has designed for us, and to realize that we CAN become all that God desires of us.  This card was already sent out to Noni.

 

 

I made this card using the "I'm In Stitches" stamp set from Mark's Finest Papers -a Heinrich Co. and also used some JilliBean Soup patterned papers, a Pink Paislee wooden spool button, scrunched seam binding, and washi tape by Freckled Fawn.  This is my Hostess project for the Sketch With a Twist Challenge on Speedy TV.  You can sign up to play along by clicking on this link:  Sketch With a Twist - Speedy TV  -  It's FREE and easy to sign up, and it gives you access to all the challenges on the blog.  I hope you will join us.

 

I'm entering Noni's little friendship card in the following challenges:

http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/09/week-131-creative-candy.html - The Shabby TeaRoom - Week #131 - Creative Candy Inspiration Photo

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-156-romans-323-24_9.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #156 - Create With Bright Colors

 

http://divasbydesignchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-51-friendship.html - Divas by Design - Challenge #51 - Friendship

http://uniquecrafterschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/september-challenge-anything-goes.html - Unique Crafters Challenge - Anything Goes

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/pile-it-on-37-patterned-paper.html - Pile It On Challenge #37 - Patterned Papers

 

http://redcarpetstudiochallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/rcs-2-pun-card-challenge.html - Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog - Challenge #2 - Pun Card.  I'm SUPER excited to enter this challenge for this amazing new challenge blog.  My "pun" is the sentiment about "the quilt of life" because my friend Noni (who I made this card for) is one "square" in my quilt that I couldn't live without.

 

Thanks for stopping by today.  Hope you're having a blessed week.

 

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

Cosmo Cricket - Lil' Boy

It's always fun to go back and use an old favorite scrapbook product that you may have forgotten.  You know.....the one in the lower drawer underneath some other stuff you've been meaning to re-organize and try to use.  I remember when I first bought this Lil' Boy line by Cosmo Cricket.  I just HAD to have it ALL.  I made several layouts with it for my son, as well as several cards.  I came across it this morning while looking for a little boy's Birthday card that I needed for a party we were headed to this afternoon.  I sat down and made this card in about 5 minutes (we were running late).  I also like using square-shaped cards when I will be hand-delivering a card/gift.  If you mail them, square cards required two stamps.  So this worked out perfectly.  We had a fun time.  My son ice skated while I sat with some other Moms from our church.  That nice cold ice arena was a VERY welcome break from the Las Vegas heat; which is still very near 100 most days.

 

I'm entering my Cosmo Cricket Li'l Man card into the following challenges:

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-155-birthday-blog-hop.html - Stampin Sisters in Christ/Challenge #155 - 3rd Birthday Celebration & Blog Hop - Make a Birthday Card

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-4-go-team-go.html - Eureka Stamps - Challenge #4 - Go Team Go/Sports & Teams

I better go.  Time to watch Wheel of Fortune's final puzzle.

Have a great day, and thanks for stopping by.

Karen

When Blessings Abound

I've been sharing a lot lately about how blessed I have been by the kindness of others since I started blogging.  God has brought so many lovely people into my life, and I thank Him for the goodness He shows me through each of these new friends.  So, when blessings abound, I just want to share it with you all as I praise Him for His goodness.

One of the many sweet crafty friends I've made is Kimberly from My Craft Spot by Kimberly.  If you've never visited her lovely blog, you will definitely want to take a moment to stop over and say hello.  Kimberly offers so many cute products in her lovely shop including hand-made scrunched seam binding, beautiful clear rubber stamps, baker's twine, and so much more.  She also has TONS of inspiration from her amazing Design Team, tutorials, and a weekly challenge.  Kimberly will be sponsoring some of upcoming challenges at Word Art Wednesday so that you can have the chance to win some of her delightful items.  If you do stop by her lovely blog, please let Kimberly know that I sent you her way.  She would be SO delighted to meet you.

 

I made this little card with Kimberly's Challenge Blog in mind.  I used several different patterned papers, some ribbon, lace, scrunched seam bind, a button, jute, and the lovely Inside & Out Stamp Set #2 from My Craft Spot.

 

http://www.craftspotbykimberly.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-craft-spot-challenge-67-hope-is.html - My Craft Spot by Kimberly - Challenge #67 - Sympathy or Encouragement.  Mine is an encouragement card using Kimberly's darling Inside & Out Stamp Set #2.

 

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-1-this-is-day.html - Twist of Faith Challenge Blog - Challenge #1 - This is The Day/Joy

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-put-stamp-on-it-challenge.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge and Blog Hop - Put a Stamp on It

http://divasbydesignchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-51-friendship.html - Divas by Design Challenge Blog - Challenge #51 - Friendship (This is for my friend, Mary, who is suffering from kidney failure).

http://twistedtuesdaychallenges.blogspot.com/2012/09/2tc22-labor-of-love.html - Twisted Tuesday Challenges - Labor of Love and use Lots of Color.  We were asked to make a card with the one we love in mind.  The One I love the most is the Lord, Jesus Christ.  And this card is for my dear friend, Mary.  I want to let her know that I am praying for her.

 

Today, I'm headed to the gym to work out, and then I have a long list of errands to run.  I know that everyone has busy schedules, and with that in mind, I just want to thank each of you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to stop by my blog to take a peek, and say hello.  I appreciate your sweet comments, and I look forward to doing the same this evening when things "settle down" a bit.  I hope you all have a great day.

 

Blessings to you all,

 

Karen

 

 

We Love Him Because He First Loved Us

Happy Wednesday, everyone.  It's the middle of the week again, and that means a new challenge at Word Art Wednesday Challenge Blog where it's a double prize week.  This is a great week to share your art with us because there are two really awesome prizes to be won this week.  Our sponsors this week are Shabby Cottage and Jelly Park.  I hope you will stop by and play along with us this week.

 

I made this card using an adorable image from Jelly Park, and the free scripture word art file available this week at Word Art Wednesday.  You are not required to use the word art file in  your project in order to play along.  You can share any project with an uplifting or encouraging sentiment.  We would really love to have you join us.

 

Here are the challenges I am entering with this card:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/08/simon-saysanything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp - Anything Goes

http://crafts4eternity.blogspot.com/2012/08/r87-less-is-more.html - Crafts 4 Eternity - Less Is More

http://twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-1-this-is-day.html - Twist of Faith Cards Challenge - This Is The Day. . . .JOY

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-4-go-team-go.html - Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #4 - Go Team Go - This is my kind of celebration.  I'm on the Lord's team.

 

I love hearing your thoughts and comments, and I thank you for visiting my blog today.  Thank you for being such a blessing and encouragement to me.  I really appreciate it.

 

Blessings to all,

 

Karen

 

 

I Love Stamped Cards

I completely recognize that I am NOT the world's most talented crafter, nor am I the best stamper by any means.  But I do LOVE stamping even though I don't do enough of it.  I try to throw in a  little bit of everything, and to try my hand at various techniques and styles of crafting.  It's all a process, and I just enjoy the experience.  Creating is just plain fun, and I'm SO grateful for challenge blogs that encourage us to try new and different things.

 

I made this card using stamps from Mark's Finest Papers -a Heinrich Co.  This card is for the Sketch With a Twist Challenge that I host for them.  It's completely free to sign up at Speedy TV to play along in their challenges.  So, take a minute to stop over at Mark's Finest Papers and sign up.  I'd really LOVE to have you play along in this challenge, and you can win some wonderful stamp sets.

 

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:

http://nicholeheady.typepad.com/capture_the_moment/make-it-monday-81-participants.html%20 - Papertrey Ink's Make it Monday Challenge #81 - Clay and Stamps.  This was a real challenge for me as well.  My PTI product is the banner die-cut.

http://everybody-art-challenge.blogspot.no/2012/09/203-vintage.html - Everybody Art Challenge - Vintage

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/08/simon-saysanything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-read-all-about-it_4.html - Simon Says Stamp and Show Challenge Blog - Read All About It - They're having a wonderful blog hop and are asking for cards or projects that are stamped.

If you've tried a new technique or crafting project recently, I'd love to hear about it.  I encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.  I know it may not be my best work, but it's something different, and that's what I'm going for. . . .just to push myself a bit.  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

 

Have a great week, and I will see you all at your blogs tomorrow.

Blessings,

Karen

Fun With Folds

Happy Sunday, everyone.  I hope that you have all been enjoying this beautiful Lord's Day, or "Day of Rest".  We just got home from church and out to lunch with our friends, The Spencer Family.  We had a wonderful time, and our son went home with them to enjoy some time with his BFF, Matthew.  Which means that we have a VERY quiet house this afternoon.  So, I got my photographs taken, I'm making this blog post and linking up to some challenges, and then. . . . I will turn on  a sappy Lifetime movie and fall asleep.  Ahhhhhhh.

 

The challenge this week at JustRite Stampers Blog is to create a card with more than one fold.  This is NOT a technique I've ever done before (I don't think), so it was a real true "challenge" for me.  I followed a tutorial, and came up with this card.  I used Basic Grey Lemonade patterned papers and embellishments, Baker's Twine from The Twinery, hand-made scrunched seam binding, some buttons, and of course - JustRite stamps from the Friendship Nested Sentiments collection.

 

Front View:

 

Back View With Card Closed:

 

Open View:

Here are the challenges I'm entering with this folded card.

http://www.papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-bit-of-free-for-all.html - Papertake Weekly Challenges - A Bit Of A Free-for-All/Based on Sketch #46

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/08/simon-saysanything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Simon Says Anything Goes

http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/2012/08/justrite-friday-challenge-080-more-than-one-fold.html - JustRite Stampers - Challenge #80 - More Than One Fold

Thank you for visiting me today.  I hope you're all having a wonderful Lord's Day and getting some weel-deserved and much-needed rest.   It feels so good to have a nice quiet afternoon to relax before we head back to church this evening.  Have a blessed week, and I look forward to visiting your blogs to say hello.

Blessings to you all,

Karen