Suburban Crafter

Sew Sew Sew Resolution: T Shirt Quilt

2012-01-25T13:56:00.002-05:00

This year it is my goal to use my sewing machine more and to learn my way around the sewing department!

So expect to see some attempts at sewing. I shall call them Crooked Stitches.

Here is my first attempt of the year.

Now, I am NO quilter. In fact I have never even cut a square out of fabric!

But, my Son had some t shirts from all of his adventures in the last state we lived in. What to do! He also stated that my new sewing goal was not going to include him, but his little sister would benefit. Ha. He was jealous.

I started with this tutorial: Easy T Shirt Quilt

Sooo, I used a 12.5x12.5in acrylic cutting mat to cut my shirts. And then cut 2 inch border strips and applied them the way this video showed: T Shirt Quilt Border strip Tutorial

I then added a backing and batting. Using the Quick turn Method : Since I have never quilted before... this seemed easiest.

My Son LOVED it. I mean LOVED it. He took his old comforter off his bed, and this is now his main blanket. Goofy kid.

I would say that this cost me about $20 in materials and 3 hours. So in now way is it a perfect fancy smancy quilt. But my boy is 7.

Dazzling Faith Bracelet

2012-01-21T00:46:00.000-05:00

I have been working on some fun stuff lately.

I can not wait to blog about some of the projects I have been trying to complete. haha.

Here is a Jewelry Project I started today. I have a ton of designs in mind. I will be adding them to my Etsy Shop tomorrow.

Visit Arelia's Pretties at Etsy for listings.

Making up for lost time GateFold Mini Album TUTORIAL!!!

2012-01-01T20:34:00.003-05:00

Well, you may have guessed or already know that I have had a rough few months. After pneumonia, I never quite recovered and have been down for the count!

However, this gives me lots of time to surf the web (when I am awake, but not moving around)

I found this really awesome 'Scrapbook' made from 6x9 mailing envelopes and thought. I LOVE it.

I could not find the person on YouTube that she was saying made it... so I copied hers... and here it how I did it!

This is my first, and the Tutorial is a really ROUGH draft!

This one is for a friend, so it doesn't have all the stuff added in yet... I wanted her to be able to add her personal touches and pictures etc. But... I have all the elements for stuffing it that the original has!
Click on Photos for enlargement.

Find all the stamps I used at Our Daily Bread Designs!

TUTORIAL on how to make your own pretty!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mini Gatefold Album with Envelopes.

Step One: Cut your envelopes. You need the 6x9 Mailing envies. I pulled the metal tab off.

Cut 6 off them the way the picture shows. Trimming of the sticky closure edge creating a TAB with the 1/4-1/2 inch that is leftover, and a sliver at the fold to created an opening. Score at 3in. This will be Envelope A.

Also Cut One Envie the same way but score at 1in, 3in and 2.5in. This will be Envelop B.

And one 3 inch piece for the cover.

6 Envelope A's

1 Envelope B

1 3 inch cover piece

Step 2: Start at the back. Fold Envelope B's 2.5 inch parts and Glue one A's tab to the inside of the opening. creating a back piece that is 9 inches long, 3 inches from envelope B, and 6 from an A. And a folding flab from B, and one on the right side from A.

Step 3: Glue an A to the back of 1A's right flap.Leaving both tab and 3in flap both free. Not sure why the pic came out sideways... not the way I took the photo!

Step 4: Glue the back of 3A to Envie B, leaving tab and 3 in flap both free.

Step 5: Glue a 4th A's back to the tab of 2A. Leaving 4's tab and flap free.

Step 6: Cut the tab off a 5th A and glue the back to the tab of 3A. Leaving the 3in Flap free.

Step 7: Cut the tab off a 6th A and glue the flap to the flap of 5A. If you would like to mimic the one in the video, You would glue a 6.9 Envie that had been scored at 3 and 6 for three 3in accordion folds or similar.

Step 8: Close 6A creating cover and add 3 inch piece to tab of 4A to create right side cover.

Cover your Album, and Embellish.

This Tutorial shows the Project without a chipboard cover... like the one in the video. However, mine has one. I used masking tape and chipboard to make a flexible covered (then covered it in paper) and glued the back of the album into it. Simple as could be.

Altered Box and a Card!

2011-10-13T16:35:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite Crafty activities is to participate in Secret Sister Swaps!

I REALLY miss my local South Carolina group, and Secret Sisters' we use to have! So, Fun!

I recently joined in on one in the SplitCoastStampers group.

Here is my Altered Shoe box that I filled with goodies, Black & Red theme. And my card to reveal myself to my sister!

Amazing Sentiment from Paper Makeup Stamps.

Silver fairy Digi from Wee Stamps

Altered Shoe box.

Journal, Journals, Journals!

2011-10-12T18:13:00.000-04:00

This week I finished 4 journals!

Phew! Go me!

I have some more fun projects to show you this week as well!

some are for purchase in my Etsy Shop!

Thanks for peeking in! Each journal is handstitched with imitation Sine, using a suede or leather remnant! Stamped with staz on ink. This batch were mostly Unity stamps!

Paper Makeup Stamps Monster Bash

2011-10-07T05:00:00.001-04:00

Monsters, Monsters, Monsters!

I love Monsters, I have three that live in my house... 2 cookie monsters, and a Potato Chip Monster.

The Monster's From Paper Makeup are the best Monsters around.

Now I may be slightly biased. But if you are making your way through this hop then you know!

♥

I come from a family that shows love with food. Baked goods, fresh tortillas, Tamales, Baked Goods.... if we love you, we will make you something to eat, and you will likely get fat.

I sure do miss making Katie eat my creations!!!

So here is my Love Inspired Monster!

This Monster has the right Idea! A Cookie never killed anyone, never broke your heart...have another!

Paper piecing adds such a great dimension, really brings your little monsters to life! I added a little dimension to my cutey, by piecing the hat, gloves and cookies... bet you couldn't even tell! It just pops a little more.

♥ ♥ ♥

A Note From Katie:

Today we have having a MONSTER of a Hop!!! Who doesnt love an ugly cute little monster?!

The Paper Makeup Artists, some of the Digi Artists and some of PMS's bestest fans are joining together to bring you fun monster cards using Paper Makeup Stamps!

And in honor of this hop, all monsters on the site will be on sale for 1 week using the voucher code MONSTERHOP, of 15% off!

So settle down, grab your beverage of choice and prepare to be scared, um, we mean, inspired!

Get Shopping already!

Our Hop Line up!

Sitcky fingers....

2011-10-05T18:04:00.000-04:00

I MAY have mentioned previously that I was unmounting my last hold outs - the wood mounted Stamping Up!

Now that SU has the clear mount option.... I am getting rid of the block!! I am putting all of my sets into the SU dvd cases.

There are a few ways I have found that look tedious, involving tissue paper and glue and what not. I am strapped for time! So, I am ripping the rubber off the block, tracing it on the sticky side of the EZ mount - with the paper on... cutting out the shape, still with the paper on the EZ mount, then using a block that has tack n peel on it, to stamp in Staz On on the NON sticky side of the ez mount (paper off). Then I stick the rubber to the sticky side and now it has an index. TaDa.

Also... that EZ mount sure is pricey! So, I switched to the mount found at Stampers Best!

You should give it a try if you are unmounting!

Annnddd....

Use coupon code SuburbanCrafter for 10% your order... makes it an even better deal!!!

I like the uniformity of having all my SU in the DVD cases, and I like having the inserts that go in them to match as well.

If you do too, you have to check out this thread where you can print out lots of great set templates!

SCS SU! DVD Case Inserts!

Keep it Crafty!

2011-10-02T16:23:00.000-04:00

I have been Up and Down with my health! But I am trying to keep it crafty!

I decided to unmount a large amount of stampage... so that has taken up some time!

I have a cousin who is getting married and she showed me some hair pieces that she said were $116... I told her to put the brakes on that... we can definitely make those! Duh... you crafters know what I mean.

So here is my sample for her.

These huge flowers are really in this season! I am working on some sewing projects as well! So, I am not doing to bad on keepin it crafty!

My Elegant Angel.

2011-09-05T22:21:00.000-04:00

This is my first card, in a very very long time.

I have been trying to get back on the craft wagon... but it has been hard since I have been on all my medication.

My Granny loves Angels, so I thought I would start by sending her some Angel cards. She always loves any card I send, it doesn't have to be good. :)

Today is my Dad's Birthday. So, an Angel is appropriate today.

Close-up!

This is Stampin Up ELEGANT ANGEL. She is colored with Copics, the inside is pretty as well, with the beautiful sentiment that comes with stamped inside. I will try to snap a pic of that and add it.

Long Dry Summer

2011-08-19T17:29:00.000-04:00

Summer has had its ups and downs for me. I am hoping I am all straightened out for Fall!

My boy goes back to school on Monday... tear... I will miss his smiling face all day.

I have a job lined up teaching at JoAnn's this fall. So, I will keep busy. Plus my 2 year old is still at home... so we will be busy bees. : )

Here is a peek at what I have been up to while I was under the weather recently. Gotta keep my hands busy!!

Yep, I was sick for a while. I have 3 others I did as well! phew. Glad to be up and moving about again.

You can purchase these journal at Arelia's Pretties!

Ooo wee Baby!

2011-07-19T14:47:00.000-04:00

What a long long looong month it has been!

I spent some time in the hospital, and currently have pneumonia! Go ME!

What is new though! I am so use to it, it hasn't stopped me yet!

Well, it does slow down the crafty business! hahah I thought I would show y'all some of the cutey patootey earrings I am making for the Arelia's Pretties Etsy store!

Fun right??? Well, hop on over to the Arelia's Pretties Facebook page and enter for a chance to win a free pair!!!

Summer Cupcake Stand!

2011-06-15T18:34:00.000-04:00

Love Cupcakes??

My kids are all about cupcakes this summer!

We made this cupcake stand for our neighbor and family friend who has a big do over 40th Birthday coming up!!

I picked up all of the pieces at Walmart in their summer seasonal dishes display, each were around a $1.

The top is piece is not glued, for easier storage. And for optional two cakes on top etc, or a different look.

I used E6000 glue, it was 2.47 at walmart. I stuck a big geranium in the top glass.

I put glass pebbles in the bottom glass, for weight and decor! Such an easy project. I didn't paint it or anything fancy. My kids LOVED the way it turned out and they want one for our house!

CheeseCake Cuppycakes

2011-06-12T22:00:00.000-04:00

Who loves Cheesecake? You will love these cupcakes. I like to make the mini ones. 2 Bite size Delights!

Filling/Frosting
8oz Cream cheese at room temp
1/4 cup Sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1 cup heavy cream whipped to stiff peaks.

Beat all but cream together until well creamed. Fold in cream gently. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Fill bag, and pipe into center of cupcake and top cooled cupcake.

Crust/Bottom of Cuppycake
3/4 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs (or you can use chocolate cookies!)
3 TBS butter
3 TBS brown sugar
Mix well and press one spoonful into bottoms of cupcake liners.

Topping
1/4 cup strawberry preserves
3 TBS sugar
Mix well and microwave for 30 seconds. After cooled drizzle on cupcakes - or use chocolate instead.

Cake- or use a box mix
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1 3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup milk

Press bottoms of cupcake liners with graham cracker crust, fill with cake mix and bake for 15-18 minutes at 350. Let cool. Pipe filling into center of cupcakes and top with a generous portion. Drizzle with topping.

Soaring Heart Small Journal

2011-06-06T19:24:00.000-04:00

Small Soaring Pocket Journal. I love making these journals. They are hand stitched and not difficult to put together. They make great gifts.

The metal stud is used as the closure with wrapped imitation sine and a leopard bead.

Listing is found here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/74225377/soaring-heart-suede-pocket-journal

Missing Our Granny!!!

2011-05-31T13:52:00.000-04:00

Granny came to visit. She was sad when she came (that is why she came!), but no one can be sad for long when Arelia is around. Granny and Arelia spent every second together. They are both ornery as ever.

When the weather cools down here in Texas, we are hoping Granny will come back.

We are mailing these to her for her little Memory Book!! Along with some goodies we made for her!

Granny & Arelia!

Arelia dancing for Granny!!! :)

Join the Our Daily Bread Scrapbook Challenge!

After a brief intermission.

2011-05-27T17:26:00.000-04:00

Posting after a brief intermission. I had to make a short visit to the Hospital. The friendly staff tried to keep longer than I wanted to stay... but I am home now and feeling better.

My Takayasu's Arteritis was acting up, and I had to get under control asap!

My Daughter has recently decided she is a Fairy Princess. We had a fabulous time making these Fairy WINGS, WAND and TUTU together!!!!

Flower Wand with dollar store flower, Simply hot glue to a foam ball 6 for a $1 at dollar store and shove onto a dowel covered in ribbon Dowels 10 for .98 at Walmart!

TuTu: Elastic From Walmart, Tulle From Walmart, Ribbon from Walmart. I followed these Instructions: HOW TOOOOOOO It is Pinker than it looks in the picture.

Wings: .35 cent knee high nylons in white, Home Depot Wire (way cheaper than craft store, look by the nails) $5 for more than you could ever need, unless you have to make a thousand pair, like I do. I copic Airbrushed using a Mask made by Cricut Cartridge Rock Princess. Flowers from the Dollar Store.

I followed this How to!

My Craft Room

2011-05-13T22:40:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted a whole lot lately... My craft room was being painted and then I was slightly ill, so I took my time getting back in order.

I have some re-organizing still to do. But I am happy with the color. not something I would put anywhere else in the house. But that is indeed the fun of having your own craft room.

Too bad I took my pics at night!

Arelia and I chillin, I have a cool post in which we MADE her tutu, wand and wings!!! Stay tuned fellow mothers of princesses.

Copic Station, minus my air compressor, I keep that under my desk away from tiny fingers that like to turn it on and off. There is a HUGE closet full of more stuff to the left there. Shhhh, don't tell. It's a walk in with shelves and stuff... so fabulous!

Where I keep my Arelia's Pretties Jewelry, while in stock in the store and between shows.

Cricut storage, stamps of all kinds magazines and other buggie machines!

Entrance to the room, Jewelry making, sewing and leather journal area to the left. copic station and jewelry display to the right.

My Desk. Paper, tools and more.

Thanks for hanging in my room today. Hope you visit again soon!!!

Celtic Cross Journal

2011-05-10T20:02:00.000-04:00

You may have viewed my previous post for my Sister... she went off on a trip to Ireland WITHOUT me!!

The nerve she has. Well, I know she had the trip of a lifetime.

And being that I could not be there, I thought I could make her some mementos that she could journal her pics and memories in.

I made her this gorgeous suede journal in her favorite color.

Small Celtic knot book marker. Cat eye closure.

This book was hand stitched and has gp110 with distressed edges.

The Cross is from Our Daily Bread Designs.

Easter Blessings...

2011-04-15T15:38:00.000-04:00

I love this time of year! Texas is just beautiful!

Granny flew back to Michigan this week :(

Here are few Easter Pages for her book!

she Loooooooves Butterflies!

Stamps From Our Daily Bread. Cross of Christ.

May the Road Rise Frame....

2011-04-01T22:26:00.000-04:00

Ooo weee. My Our Daily Bread Stamps Came in a little bit ago. And I must say, they are just as amazing as I expected. I am never disappointed!

I have been coveting the gorgeous May God Hold You set for some time... I have quite the wishlist going there! And I just adore the quotes, perfect for more than St. Patty's Projects!

My Little Sister just went on a trip to Ireland with her College pals.... I made her a gorgeous Bracelet... which will only come in sideways for some reason...

And this Frame...

which was inspired by one I saw on Becca Feeken's Blog!

I found these Coins at Hobby Lobby On clearance in the Saint Patrick's day goodies! The backs of the coins have great inspirational words on them!!!

Thanks for visiting!!! I will post the Hand Stitched leather Journal with the Celtic Cross later!! :)

Monster Appreciation Blog Hop (Make up Your Own Holiday!!!)

2011-03-26T00:05:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my little stop on the Make up Your Own Holiday Blog Hop!

We will be Celebrating Monster Appreciation Day!

Have you hugged a Monster Today???? I hug my little Monsters multiple times a day!!!

You should have Hopppppped on over from Ellen's Fabulous Blog! Amazing Right!

My Project today are little Felt Monster Stuffies!!

So Cute, and the kids decorated them all by their sweet little selves!

First pin to felt pieces together, trace a Monster shape onto the top. I used Cricut cartridge Mini Monsters and selected the shadow shapes cutting them out to 8.5 inches. Using these as templates.

Then use your sewing machine or hand stitch all but a small opening on the traced pattern. Then cut out leaving 1/4inch all the way around the pattern. Turn right side out. And stuff with fluff. Hand sew the leftover opening.

Decorate however you like! My monsters went simple, but you could sew on a mouth with yarn, add other felt shapes... it is endless!

Your next Stop on the Hop is Monica... be prepared to be awed! :)

“Karelj is offering an over-all blog candy for those who are hopping along with us. How to win ? Follow along the blog trail, leaving a comment on each and every blog. On Monday, Karelj will ask her buddy Randy (random.org) to select a blog number (from the list), a day (Saturday is one, Sunday is two), and a comment number from that blog. Please make sure you have left a reliable way to contact you (email is best, in the safe format of **** at **** dot com ) so you can be notified by her personally. If you don't, she’ll have to select another winner.”

Adding to Grannies Brag Book

2011-03-24T16:05:00.000-04:00

I have been adding to Granny's Little Brag Book!

It has been a minute since I have blogged, but I have had some things going on!

I got a new Vascular Surgeon and Cardiologist (for my Takayasu's Arteritis)... so lots of tests and appointments!

But I have managed to craft a little, so I will have some blogging coming up!

I will be in Karel J's Blog hop this weekend too! So swing by!

I just got this set from Our Daily Bread Designs! One of my 3 favorite stamp Companies! With all of my Medical Bills, stamp cash is in short supply... so I must say, the Our Daily Bread Blog is FABULOUS!!! They are giving away stamp gift certificates WEEKLY!!! How generous is that!?!

This set is May God Hold You, and I have been coveting this set!! My little Sister just went to Ireland with her College pals, and besides that, it is just spectacular, you would be surprised at the usefulness! The quotes are two of the most beautiful possible!

Peanut Allergy Warning!! Just reading this post may send you into shock!

2011-03-01T09:27:00.001-05:00

CuppyCake Anyone????

I should say StuffCakes, that is what we call them round here. Cause all my Cupcakes have 'stuff' in them according to my kids. It's true, I don't make ordinary cupcakes. And today is no exception!

I recently had a cupcake at Crave here in Houston... and decided I needed to make something like myself. You know, cause one is never enough!

Without Further Adieu...

Peanut Butter Overdose Stuffcakes!

Cupcake:

1 Cup Firmly packed Brown Sugar

6 Tbs Unsalted Butter

1/2 Cup Smooth Peanut Butter

2 Eggs

1 tsp Vanilla

2 Cups Flour

3 tsp Baking Powder

1 Cup Milk

1 1/4 Cups Chocolate chips

Cream together first 3, then add Eggs, Vanilla. Beat until combined. Mix baking powder and flour separate and then add partially to your mixture beating while alternatively adding the milk, until all is added and combined well. Then stir in chocolate chips.

Bake at 350 for 20-22 minutes. Let cool.

For Ganache:

1/2 cup Heavy Cream

3/4 Cups Chocolate Chips

2 Tbs Unsalted Butter

1/4 + 1/8 cup Powdered Sugar

1/4 Cup smooth Peanut Butter

Combine all but peanut butter in a small saucepan. Bring to a very light boil, stir to create a shiny chocolatey heaven. Reduce heat, add peanut butter and stir to combine. Remove from heat. Cool completely stirring occasionally. Dip Cooled Cupcakes into Cooled Ganache and let rest.

Chocolate Butter Cream Frosting:

1/2 Cup Margarine

1/2 Cup Shortening

1/8 tsp Salt

1 1/2 tsp Vanilla

4 Cups Powdered Sugar

1 Cup Cocoa Powder

1/2 Cup Milk

Combine all in a mixer or beat until light and fluffy... try not to consume all before icing your cooled, dipped cupcakes.

Now you may be saying, but I can BUY all of these things in a box and make them, by all means go ahead, I am sure they will be tasty.... but give it a try the old fashioned way... you may never go back!!!

Monday, Monday!

2011-02-28T09:12:00.000-05:00

Ick. Monday already? Where does the time go!

I have been busy busy!

New doctors and New Medicines,which leave me feeling less than crafty yo!

Granny has been staying with us again... which is really nice. My company usually consists of small children, so other adults are a treat!

We have been baking and having a grand time. I will post some new recipes shortly!

But here is a little page from the Mini Scrapbook I am putting together of her favorite Great Grandchildren... MINE of course.... not that she will admit that!

Stamps by Our Daily Bread.

I have a DREAM Blog Hop!

2011-01-14T20:51:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my little stop on your Dream Hop!

Do not forget... “The Grand Prize Blog Candy is the Dreams Come True Cartridge, donated by an anonymous donor!! In order to be eligible to win, you need to leave a comment on each and every stop on the hop, along with a way to contact you. Karelj will choose a winner by random.org on the 18th and announce it on her blog, as well as contacting the winner personally.”

I have a dream... a Dream Journal!

Hand Stitched using the Coptic Stitch. There are 6 signatures with 60 pages. The Journal measures 4.5x6 and is made from a leather Remnant.

The front is stamped with a Giant Sun from Unity.

The Closure is a Metal "DREAM" Imprinted Circle and a Stone Bead.

"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible."
T. E. Lawrence

"A Dream is not a Realized until it is shared by Love."

Anonymous

This is my second project. A Rosary style Bracelet, Red Spot Jasper Stones, with One Mahogany Stone. Toggle Clasp

Up close LOVE Charm!

In Celebration of Our Fabulous Hop. I am offering coupon code DREAM to our hoppers for 15% off in my Shop, Arelia's Pretties!

1. Karelj at One By One The Flamingos Are Stealing My Sanity

2. Nicolette at Beyond Scrapping

3. Christel at Scrappin' Sista

4. Celeste at Touched by a Butterfly

5. Rachel at Suburban Crafter << YOU ARE HERE

6. Stephanie at SS Crafter

7. Col at Col's Creative Corner

8. Jessica at Overjoyed Scrapper

9. Krista and Kori at 2 Crafty Chicks

10. Gina at Gina Thornton Stamping

11. Monique at Unique Monique

12. Kathryn at Creations with Kathryn

A little Scrapbook Challenge!

2011-01-12T11:45:00.000-05:00

I am SO behind on my Scrapbooks. Pretty much a whole child behind! ha.

But Scrapbooking doesn't always have to be in a book!!!

My family just loves when I gift them these scrapbooked Canvases... with pictures or without, they are so great!

This canvas was Copic Airbrushed, Masked with Cricut Rock Princess Cartridge vinyl cutouts and stamped with Our Daily Bread Images!

The Cross is a small wall cross that I removed the hanging parts.

Join the Challenge! Our Daily Bread!

Our Daily Bread Stamping in Time Challenge!

2011-01-05T15:48:00.002-05:00

This year, I am going to try to get back on track!

I fell a little off on my crafting time and motivation when I got sick this summer.

But I have a great room in my new house, and plenty of time to make some time for myself!

I plan to RING IN THE NEW YEAR... by stamping and stamping and then stamping some more!

Here is my first go at it!

Suede Prayer Journal, Hand Stitched, Hand Stamped. Colored with Copic Markers.

Copic Colored

Hand Stitched with Waxed Imitation Sine.

I love this set, I have others.... but this is my favorite. Something about it.... just gets me right here! hahahha

Join the Challenge!!! Our Daily Bread Designs Stamping in Time Challenge!

Today's Recipe... do it yourself for less.

2011-01-03T17:25:00.001-05:00

Lately I have been to a few Holiday parties, and people have been raving about this Cheese dip.

I tried it, it was delish. The only problem is... it is from one of those Seasoning companies.

Personally, I think is a Fabulous Idea.... sell me the seasoning I need, and make them so yummy.

However, I make all my own seasonings, and I own most of the ingredients already.... and, wait for it...

I am cheap!

This dip was from Epicure... and I priced it out to buy the three you need... at 8.95 a piece, for stuff I could likely pull out of my pantry... I couldn't justify it.

Sooooooooo, without further ado. I share with you, my Imitation Epicure Seasoning mixes.... I am sure the real thing is better... but mine were darn tasty.

Here is the recipe for the dip From Epicure.

Now there are three seasoning mixes you need to make the dip. I use my husbands old coffee grinder, you can get one of these for the price of one of the spice mixes, and make your own blends forever!

The first is a

Bacon/Cheese/Chive Seasoning.

3 Tbs Parmesan (the powdery kind)

2 Tbs Imitation Bacon (the crunchy hard kind)

2 Tbs Dried Chives

Lightly pulse in the spice grinder/coffee grinder/food processor. Keep it a little lumpy.

Next is

Lemony Dill Seasoning.

2 Tbs Dried Dill

2 Tbs Granulated Garlic

2 tsp Onion flakes

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp lemon granules

lightly pulse in the grinder.

and finally:

Onion Mix.

2 Tbs Onion Flakes

2 Tbs Dried Chives

1 Tbs Dried Parsley

1 tsp Granulated Garlic

Lightly pulse in the grinder, keeping it kinda lumpy.

Okay, now, once you have whipped those up. store them airtight, You only need a tsp of each for the recipe.

I add a tsp of each, 1/2 cup of cheddar shredded, 1/2 cup of mozzarella shredded, 8oz brick of Cream cheese, and 1 cup of mayo to the food processor and blend well.

I then bake at 350 for close to 40 minutes.

I serve with homemade pita bread.

My sister came to visit and we cooked and cooked... we also update the Seasonings/Sauces Recipes download I have on the sidebar... If you haven't picked it up... take a looksie!

Recipe Book Spices/Sauces Download!

Loving my Sewing Machine?

2010-12-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I was very very excited to get my new sewing machine.

But I will say, that Sheila and I, Sheila is my Sewing machine. I named her that, because when my kids are around, I can not say Shhhhh you know the rest. So now its Shhhhhhheila.

I have broken a needle already. And what the flip good is the zipper foot???

okay, so other than that. I think I am getting the hang of it. It is not a miracle machine, that can do everything on its own, and you can only sew so many things! Limitations... not my strong suit!

I did manage to sew these cutey patootey little Super hero capes.

Here is the Tutorial I used! So many great FREE sewing beauties out there!

Caught between TWO

2010-12-13T19:24:00.000-05:00

Oh Y'all, this Holiday Season has me all twisted up Emotionally.

I am so happy to be so unbelievably blessed.

But, I am also Sad... missing my Dad.

Today, I was out and about... visiting with new friends and running errands. Being in a big city again, there are a plethora of well... homeless.

Well.... I live in a very nice little Suburb... SO NICE.... I am often amazed that I live here.

As I walked into a building today, a man came up and asked for change. I didn't have any. He asked a pair of Ladies behind me, and they also refused. But then one lady said to ME, ME!... "oh I HATE that, You know he is a JUNKIE anyway."

Now, those of you who know me personally, know that this word bothers me so. Not because it is not true, but because it breaks my heart.

Soooo, there my breathe gets taken away.

And I spend the rest of the day in quiet contemplation. Mostly about the two worlds I live in.

I remember so WELL the day I was shopping with my best gal pal, not that many years ago... in my little bubble in South Carolina. My phone just started blowing up, like crazy calls. On the other end: Grown men Sobbing uncontrollably... telling me My father was gone!

My Dad.

Not a hero by anyone's standards... but he went to battle everyday.

My Dad, maybe a Junkie to you.... but he was a FATHER to me, and 3 other brilliant children.

So there I stood, knowing my Father was gone, leaving 3 other CHILDREN behind, how would I tell them our Dad was dead. How would I bury my DAD having passed at only 45.

Here is my quiet suburban life... a 3 year old son, playdates and bundt cakes... and I get dragged back to a really pleasant (NOT) city outside of Detroit. A city plagued with gang violence and currently FBI raids.

How do I exist in these two worlds simultaneously... is it possible?

So anyway, here I stand before two women who very obviously had no first hand Junkie experience.... and I am thinking how dare you, Somebody loves him, Somebody could be dying inside not knowing if he will be okay! But really, I just smile and move on.

After my Dad Passed, I decided I wanted to have another child.... he would have ADORED her. She is so rotten.

Anyway, So that is me feeling pretty torn today. And maybe a little guilty for having it all.

On the crafting side, I of course found some quiet meditative solace in creating two sets of 12 step Serenity Prayer Recovery Prayer Beads. Honoring my Father's Memory, and praying for the Recovery of others.

The back has praying hands on it... like the next set.

Sorry if I bummed you out! Happy Holidays anyway!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-12-07T17:33:00.000-05:00

Woah Friends and Blog Buddies, it has been a Looong Month.

This month was busy busy busy.

I had family come into town spread out for the last month, maybe a little more.

My Granny is still here visiting... but she is 'craft' friendly!!!

My sweet darling husband (you know he musta did good to deserve those words) got me a sewing machine for my birthday! Woo hoo.

So Exciting... here are my first two projects!!!

I apologize for the sideways photos... I think something is kooooky with blogger,because I tried 8 different ways to upload my UPRIGHT pictures.... and they always come in SIDEWAYS!
Any hoosit... My little apron has some issues on the trim, it was the first thing I ever sewed! Is sewed a word?
and my little dress, has one hem on the outside on one of the sleeves, I am going to fix that tonight :)

Veteran's Day Blog HOP!!!!

2010-11-10T13:40:00.000-05:00

I love blog Hops that are Close to my Heart!

I went a LITTLE crazy making all kinds of Military apparel!

I carry most of these pieces in my shop on Etsy!

I was thinking about all of the Wonderful Military Folks that I know... and I realized most of the servicemen I know are WOMEN! What an amazing time we live in!

A few of my Sorority Sisters are US Army Sisters! Rock it out Kappas!

My First Project was Inspired by my Army Sisters:

These are Five Decade Memory Wire Rosary Wraps, with Saint Christopher United States Army Medals. Made from Unakite and Red Sesame Jasper!

My Second Project is Marine Inspired, I have more than a few Marines in the Family and well, it is their Birthday!

This is a Hand Stitched Red Leather Journal with Red, white and blue Page marker with a hanging Vintage Gold Cross!

For my Air Force Buddies:

Saint Christopher Land Sea Air Pocket Rosary in Red Sesame Jasper. Perfect for travel.

And for all of those Veterans and Active Military Personnel and family, I am praying for you!

5 Decade Red, White & Blue, Crown of Throwns Sacred Heart Rosary.

BLOG HOP LIST:

1. KarelJ at One By One The Flamingos Are Stealing My Sanity http://karelj.blogspot.com

2. Celeste at Touched By a Butterfly http://www.touchedbyabutterfly.com

3. Deb at Tidbit’s Place http://tidbitsplace.blogspot.com

4. Michelle at Peanut Butter and Jelly Designs http://peanutbutterandjellydesigns.blogspot.com

5. Jennifer at Young’s Scrapping http://youngsscrapping.blogspot.com

6. Diane at Crafting This Moment http://craftingthismoment.blogspot.com

7. Judy at Be Present Be Real http://bepresentbereal.blogspot.com

8. Marianne at Life From Marianne’s Table http://number1aunt.blogspot.com

9. Deb at If It’s Groovy http://ifitsgroovy.blogspot.com

10. Christel at One Scrappin’ Sista http://onescrappinsista.blogspot.com

11. Belinda at Queen Bee’s Musings http://queenbeesmusings.blogspot.com

12. Colleen at Col’s Creative Corner http://scrappycol.blogspot.com

13. Summer and Jennifer at Cricut Diaries http://cricutdiaries.blogspot.com

14. Rachel at Suburban Crafter http://www.rachelstampshappy.blogspot.com/ ***YOU ARE HERE***

15. Gina at Gina Thornton Stamping http://ginathorntonstamping.blogspot.com

16. Becky at Susan’s Blog http://sewingstitches.blogspot.com

17. Rebecca at Creations With Becca http://creationswith becca.blogspot.com

18. Bobbi Jo at Sassy Sweet Diva http://sassysweetdiva.blogspot.com

19. Angie at Gypsy Paperie http://gypsypaperie.blogspot.com

20. Linda at The Tulip Collector http://thetulipcollector.blogspot.com

BLOG CANDY INFO:

*Our amazing Blog Candy (2—count ‘em! TWO Chances to win!!) are brought to you through the generosity of Marlo, who created the marvelous Scrap’NTote and Anne, from Paper Patch Crafts.

The rules for entering are the same for both prizes: Hop along our path and leave a comment AND a way to contact you on each and every stop. Please leave contact information in a safe manner ( ie, written out, rather than a direct link). On Friday, November 12, KarelJ will use random.org to first select a blog number (1-20) and then a comment number from that blog for each prize. She will post the winner’s name on her blog and notify the bloggers, so they can also post the winner. KarelJ will contact the winner, using the information left in the comment. If there is no information available, she will choose another winner from the same blog. It is up to the winner to contact KarelJ at ksjennings(at)gmail(dot)com. If she has not been contacted by Monday, November 15, another winner will be chosen.

Now, on to the good stuff! Our first prize is a wonderful Pink Scrap’Ntote to store your Cricut Cartridges in! It comes to us from Marlo, at ContainYaCrafts. You can see the wonderful way this binder system keeps all your carts together, and ready to go in a flash on this link: http://www.cricutcartridgestorage.com/index.htm Need more than one? Put it on the Christmas Wish List and have the hubs order NOW, as they are simply flying out of stock! We got one of the final donations for the year, and are so grateful to Marlo!

Our second terrific prize is a set of Spellbinders Nesties in the Crown Circle Shape. It comes to us via the generosity of Anne, whose family has an incredibly strong military heritage. You can read more about Anne and her husband on Linda and Gina’s Blogs. You can also check out paper Patch Crafts here, to see what other incredible things Anne has to sell! http://stores.ebay.com/Paper-Patch-Crafts?_rdc=1 *

READ ABOUT A MILITARY FAMILY:

Interview With Julie

1. How are you connected to the Military? My father is retired from the USAF and my husband is currently serving in the USAF.
2. How has this connection impacted your life? It has given me a wonderful opportunity to live abroad in other countries. To live in another country is a different experience than to just visit for a short stay. When it comes to assignment time I get anxious to find out where we are going next. To me, its like a new adventure and I always look forward to it.
3. What’s the hardest part of being a military relative (wife? Child? Friend?) One would be being away from family and close friends. But with the military, you find new friends that you build strong friendship bonds that are as dear to you as family. hardest part...the thought of that dreadful knock on the door or the phone call.
4. What do you do to make it easier? With technology now days it’s a lot easier to keep up with family and friends. I even still chat with close friends from overseas, which is nice. Get out and meet people. Get involved in local activities. Just try to mingle and get to know others in the area.
5. Do you think Veterans and Service personnel get the respect they deserve? For the most part, I think they do, but I do feel as though the older Veterans sometimes don't get as much respect as they should. In the towns and cities where there are bases i feel as though the respect is higher.
6. What kinds of things do you think could be done to better support Veterans and the Military?
I would like to see more done for those serving our country who are injured while serving. Also, the families of those who have lost a loved one or are caring for a loved one who was injured need support.
7. What do you think artists and crafters could do to support the Military? Artisits and crafters have always been good supporters and I hope they will always continue sharing their talented gifts.
8. What else would you like to share with the people reading this? I would just would like to say that I am proud of my husband for his commitment to his country during these difficult times. Even though he works long hours and is sent to do tours, in the end it’s all worth it . We have traveled places and experienced things that most people would never dream of. We have 3 wonderful boys, each born in different countries, to share in this experience. I wouldn't change a thing. OK… maybe just the leaving family part...

Who is Hungry??? This Girl.

2010-11-01T14:46:00.001-04:00

As many of you know, my recent and off the wall diagnosis of Takayasu's Arteritis has me on a HIGH dosage of steroids... so who is hungry? THIS GIRL for sure!

I have packed on about 45 lbs... don't worry, I started well below the hundred mark... so I could use it!

Luckily for me, my neighborhood offers FREE cooking classes!

I love to cook, I have not learned any new techniques, but tasting the recipes first hand, makes me more likely to try NEW things in my kitchen!

This recipe is a modification of one that I got from the class... which is offered by Chef Tim feel free to contact him, he is supremely friendly. He shares his recipes freely! His original Recipe was called 'Hatch Green Chile & Potato Soup'

Here is my Version:

Chorizo, Chile & Potato Soup

3 TBS Butter or Margarine

1 Yellow Onion

2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

1 tsp Oregano

2 Bay Leaves

2-3 links Chorizo Sausages (no meat in original) cut open skin removed

5-6 cups Stock

7 oz. can of Green Chiles (orignal recipe had 20oz.)

3-4 Russet Potatoes, Diced

1 tsp Kosher Salt

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp Black pepper

1/3 cup Heavy Cream

Roux: 1/4 cup veg Oil and 1/3 cup Flour. Heat oil and whisk in flour for 2-3 until flour is cooked out.

or you can use a cornstarch mixture.. your choice.

In your stock pot, heat your butter, saute your onion and garlic until translucent. Add the chorizo, breaking it up into chunks. you can use pork sausage or any other meat or no meat here if you like. Add Oregano and bay leaves. stir. cover for 5-10 minutes. stirring occasionally.

Then add the stock, potatoes and chiles, seasonings. simmer for 25-30 until potatoes are soft. Add the cream. Make your Roux. Add your Roux Mix until combined, thickened.

Serve with strips of corn tortilla that have been fried in oil until crisp, top with your fave Mexican Cheese (Muenster, Oaxaca, Monterrey Jack). Straight Cheddar is good too!

I love this as a leftover with a nice Mexican Panini.

Leather Bound Hand stitched Journal

2010-10-22T16:05:00.000-04:00

I have been saying I was going to make some hand stitched journals for forever it seems. I bought all the supplies. I researched, I learned a few stitches.... I was ready... then nothing! Lost my Mojo, I guess!

Well, I finally did one today. So simple, elegant and I can not wait to do some more... I have some designs in mind, and a few ways to embellish!!!

Here is my first crack at it....

This one has 100 pages 4.25x5.5 size. The journal was hand stitched and has snaps for a closure.

I think these will make great gifts!!!

I am still searching for my two blog candy winners... Java Jen and Becky... I will redraw next week if I do not find them by Wednesday!!

Where my winners at???

2010-10-19T11:29:00.002-04:00

I am still looking for my blog candy winners, Claim your prizes this week pleeeeeeease! I will have to redraw soon!

Think Pink Blog Hop candy Winner...

2010-10-12T18:17:00.000-04:00

Let me say a few things first...

1. I am still looking for my winner from my last Candy... scroll down to find that post!

2. This Hop was TOTALLY awesome... what a Fabulous group of bloggers and hoppers!!! Y'all rock!!

I am slowly making to all of your blogs... I want to favorite each of you!

3. The stamp set I used was from VERVE. On sale here for $20 and $10 goes to Susan G Komen!!!

4. I am having a sale on Breast Cancer Awareness bracelets in my etsy shop. These Bracelets were inspired by my very own survivor, My Granny! She loves hers!

Now, onto my WINNER!!! I had my son pull a name from a Hat... he loves to do it that way, he gets practice writing all the names on slips of paper, counting each one, and then drawing a name!

My Winner:

Java Jen Creations!!!

I can not wait to see you all for the Veterans day hop!!! And I am sure I will be doing some more posting and candy before then! At least I am hoping so!

THINK PINK BLOG HOP!!!!! BLOG CANDY!!!!

2010-10-08T14:27:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my little stop on THINK PINK hop!!!

This Hop goes from October 9-11th!

You came from Here, and have found your way to the end!

Since you held on for so long, I want to reward you!!!

My Blog Candy will be at the end of this post!

And do not forget the Pink Cricut Blog Candy Giveaway, Finish your hop Here!!!

For this hop, I have prepared some of my favorite things!!! Jewelry and some cards of course!

This cause is close to my heart, as I know it is for many of you! So, Think Pink this Month and check your TaTa's.

Hug your Survivors (yes, one can hug ones self) and Remember those who fought bravely and taught us all to live.

Think Pink Rosary Bracelet!

Think Pink Pandora Style Leather Necklace!

Now, I carry these pieces in my store... Arelia's Pretties.. but here is your chance to win ALL of the projects featured on my blog.

To win my Candy, Follow me if you do not already...

kindly visit my little etsy shop and Heart me!

Find us on Facebook and like us there!

And then leave a comment letting me know you did one of those!

I will random.org my winner On October 12th!

Arelia's Pretties' Giveaway Winner!

2010-10-06T11:27:00.000-04:00

Morning y'all. Or afternoon.... perhaps where you are!

My Winner today from the Arelia's Giveaway.... is

drumroll.... NUMBER 1...

Becky!

Please shoot me an email at wannascrapallday at hotmail and I will mail this out to you! Let me know if you need it smaller or larger. :)

Arelia's Pretties' Giveaway!!!

2010-09-22T15:27:00.001-04:00

You know what I think... I think I love to do blog candy. Yep. Guilty.

I think I need to do some Arelia Candy. She loves sweet things too.

Arelia says we should give away a pretty!

So, How about a pretty little Rosary Style Wing & Prayer Bracelet?

This gorgeous 7.5 inch Bracelet (which I am happy to re-size), has the prettiest 6mm Mauve pearls and 6mm faceted fire polished smoke beads that just sparkle like no other!

The Rosary style connection is super fashionable right now, and the charms are too cute, they are not as bulky as my DELUXE wing & prayer bracelet... so even if you rarely wear jewelry, you will love this bracelet.

Wanna win my little giveaway... super easy... Here are few ways to enter the giveaway, Each qualifies as one entry... so do multiple if you like!!! Leave me a comment, letting me know which you did!

1. Visit Arelia's Pretties Etsy shop ... and Favorite us while you are there!

2. Visit us on Facebook and 'like' us while you are there!

3. Follow my blog if you do not already!

4. Leave me a comment, telling me what your favorite item in my shop is, what I need more of... how I can improve... etc etc.
5. Blog about Arelia's Pretties and/or add Arelia's Pretties badge to your blog >>>> found on the right column!

I will random.org a winning entry on Wednesday, October 6th!

Little Felt House

2010-09-20T16:18:00.000-04:00

I may have mentioned a little while back that I was planning to make a felt dollhouse for my pumpkin pie. She is almost 2...

She really likes this one, you may be able to tell, it is already 'played' with!!!

It was easy peasy, Just some felt pieces cut to size, and messy hand sewing!!! It opens up and has velcro on the top to seal her 'babies' in there.

My New Craft Room

2010-09-14T09:10:00.000-04:00

Today, I thought I would show off my new room!

Our move to Texas has had many benefits.... new doctors for my stupid rare condition, top notch schools for the kids, and well a bigger craft space!

What more could a girl ask for?

I am a scrapbooking, stamping, book binding, jewelry making, crafting fool. If you can make it yourself, I will.

So, here is my studio!

I have a GIANTASTIC walk in closet, that I could fit a King size bed in and walk around! haha. So it helps keep the clutter to a minimum, I have my paper rack, hanging punches, and some drawers in there. Not too much. Lots of space to lock the kids in there, when they are bugging me. haha.I do find them hiding in there, it has a light, so they camp out.... God Forbid they play in their Massive Game room!

Fiska-Blog-Candy- Winner

2010-09-13T15:31:00.000-04:00

Do you know what one of the coolest things about being a Fiskateer is? Now, there are TOO many to count, but one is getting to use the term FISKA in so many fun ways. You can add it to any word... Fiska-Fabulous (someone left that one on my comments - awesome!), you can use it as a partial replacement in a word to make it sound FISKAlicious or Fiskatastic.

There are just too many Fiskariffic ways to use it!

The HOP was awesome! Thank You Debby for putting it on!

I have not even made it all the way through yet - Saturday was my hubbies Birthday, so we had a busy week of planning and festivities!

So, My Fiska-Winner is....

Drum Roll.....

KellyStar!

My Fiska Friend please send me a message on Fiskateers #667 or shoot me an email at wannascrapallday at Hotmail, with your address, so I can mail this baublydo to you!

Thanks to EVERYONE for your comments! Y'all rock. . . My inbox was flooded, I did not expect so many! :) FiskaLove to you all!

Fiskateers Blog Hop with a Jewelry Project of Course!!! GIVEAWAY

2010-09-09T23:59:00.003-04:00

Hiya Fiska Friends and other blogger readers! If you are not a Fiskateer... then join already!

I know you started your hop at the Fiskateers Blog, but if you didn't... you should!

And you should have arrived here from Judy's Blog, which is superb by the way!

My Project today inspired by Fiska Orange of course, is a Jewelry project!

I have been OBSESSED with my new hobby. I know, I know... but it is so fun. If you have not dabbled in the bead world as a crafter, you should!

I used my handy Fiskars tools, as always, because they are the best quality. I use them often, and wish there were a few more Fiskar Brand Jewelry tools!!!

I created a linked Necklace, in none other than ORANGE!

I made one for myself and engraved my fiskateer number on it, to match my Scissors!

Now on to the giveaway!

Do you want this bauble to call your own?

Follow me for your chance to win! Just click Follow, and let me know you did, or you already do... and I will draw a winner on Monday!

Your Next stop is Tami!!!! Enjoy the hop!

Guess who?

2010-09-03T15:19:00.000-04:00

Guess who made Arelia into a Rubber stamp? Bet you already guessed, or you probably already knew!

Katie Did!

Swing over to Paper Makeup Stamps and take a peek!

So Adorable.

When I told Arelia to take a look, she immediately pointed out the purse in the picture of Katie's Card.

She was already dressed in her Dora Princess Pretend Dress and and Shoes, so she ran to get a purse... or 4.

Yes, My Daughter has problems. Odd thing is, I wanted a boy! And I am kind of a hippie. She is ALL girl. Good thing Grandma and Aunt Marissa are so girly.

Arelia's Pretties Etsy Shop launch!

2010-08-26T18:41:00.000-04:00

So I did it, I launched the Etsy Shop, you may have seen in my last post!

So this week I will be adding to it like crazy!

And Wait for it, Wait for it!

I am going to make some cards this week too!

OOOOOOOoooooo Somebody pinch me!

Or at least mail me some MOJO!

Well Hooowdy Y'all

2010-08-23T09:39:00.001-04:00

Or is it Hawwwdy Y'all...

I am not sure.

Well, it is official... by boy is off to school, and we are all moved in to our New house in Texas!

And Truthfully, no one has said HOWDY to me, in the stereotypical Texas format!

Now, my new house, has a HUGE crafting space for me... all to myself, walk in closet and all... but don't you just know, I am having trouble getting the space the way I want it!

Until then, here is some other exciting news - I opened an ETSY shop!!!

Check me out, if you have an ETSY - 'heart me' and I'll 'heart' you back!!! :)

Arelia's Pretties!

Here is a Rosary Style Necklace that I made, it is all the rage right now... my gal pal Kel and I have been eying them and she has made a few, so I thought I would give it a try!!!

BLOG CANDY WINNER!!!!!!!

2010-07-25T20:36:00.001-04:00

This weekend has flown by!! My husband flew home from Houston Friday and has already left :( to go back to work. We will not be joining him until the first week in August.

So without further hesitation... My blog Candy winner is, by random 6 year old boy drawing method :

McCine!

Soooo, send me a message with your address and your choice of blog candy deliciousness! :)

Thank you to everyone who entered, shared your fabulous indulgences with me... and to all of you who had kind words for me! :)

Blog CANNNNNNDY!

2010-07-18T22:32:00.001-04:00

I think it be time for some yummies.

If you have followed my blog recently, you may have read that I was hospitalized and diagnosed with Takayasu's Arteritis... the 'cure' for that is lots of steroids! SOoooo. I LOVE yummies, I have been getting festively plump over here!

So tell me what you love to indulge in... whatever that may be!

Leave your comment here...and the winner will get a stamp-a-licious package from me!

If you are not a stamper or would prefer, please let me know in your comment and I will send HANDMADE JEWELRY in its place!!!

Follow me and you get an extra entry into the random pool!

I will draw a winner July 25th!

And if you wanna indulge in some more blog candy... Hop on over to Anita's Blog! - Delicious!

So I lied.

2010-07-15T19:34:00.000-04:00

Well, I lied. I promised to slow down on the jewelry and stamp something... but I haven't. I have just lost my mojo... I am GOING to stamp. Tomorrow!! :)

But for today how about some more jewelry!! Hhahahah

And... I started a facebook group for my jewelry and crafts. Come on over if you are a fan of Arelia's Pretties!

Onto the Jewelry!

Yummy handmade goods by yours truly! :)

2010-07-08T15:51:00.001-04:00

I have been enjoying my jewelry making adventures. I stumbled upon a store I have passed a million times... but never realized what it was! A beading store! I took this FREE beading club class project there on Tuesday!

Panda's Crossing and the beading club! Just about the nicest group of ladies alive!

Check them out!

I am not sure if 'beading' is my thing, but I tried my hand at it!
The one on the left is my 18 month old daughters, she LOVES it, and wears it non stop!
There are no beads missing on the edges, they are just tucked under... for quick photo, I didn't adjust it - cause the baby wanted her 'pretty' back.

Whoo Hooooooo! And a Craft!

2010-07-07T08:36:00.001-04:00

Hello All... or Y'all!

I've got NEWS! My family has a contract on a house in Houston!! Whoo hoo! It is Beautiful and I am thrilled!

Sooo, we will be relocating around the second week in August!!

Here we come Texas!

This week has been a slow craft week for me, I have a friend in town... and my jewelry bug seems to have bitten her as well, so we have dabbled a little in the bead world! And done a little too much shopping!

Onto my crafts!

Here is my first Rosary... I liked my second better... and I have 4 more to make!

And then I played with some wire chains and a lampwork bead or four!

Last night, I took a right angle weave beadwork class... I am not sure if that is my thing, I may stick to bending wire!

I am hoping to stamp tomorrow!!!!!!

Jewels, jewels, Jewels. I just can not get enough!

2010-07-02T13:36:00.000-04:00

By Now you have noticed, I am a little into this Jewelry making bidness.

It is true, I like it a little!!!

Flash on

This piece took me a little longer than usual. I started it late last night and finished it this morning.

It turned out nice and is prettier irl of course.

Flash off

I have a guest in town, who I make sleep in the scrapbook room!!! So, I will have more craft bidness when she has to leave! :(

Until then, she and I will be out shopping for craftigoodness.

Mama's Birthday Pearl Bracelet

2010-06-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

I am off on a jet plane tomorrow at 4am ... headed to Houston to House Hunt!!! Wish me luck y'all!

Today I thought I would show you what I made my Mama for her Birthday.

Yes, Her Birthday was last week, so it is LATE.

Ah, well. better late than never!

I made 7 or 8 strands and went crazy twisting them together, and viola!

Here are the beads closer up.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY NINE SIMPLY BETTY

2010-06-24T13:55:00.001-04:00

Crazy Company Countdown is BAAaaaack. I am still counting down all of my stamp companies... it is a sickness. I know you are ill too! :)

Today, I have a new one, well NEW to me!!! I picked up this pretty little betty from Simply Betty Stamps! Her name is London, and she is adorably Emo!

She reminds me of My petite blonde sister... who looks sweet and innocent even with skulls in her hair!

The teal color is a copic custom color created by my friend Kel and I, BG 43!

Run, do not walk over to Simply Betty Stamps for a WICKED sale she has going on now!

Cricut Vinyl Water Bottles!

2010-06-17T11:11:00.001-04:00

Today I cut adhesive vinyl for some fun aluminum sport bottles that I picked up t the $1 store... yes the $1 store!

Tinkerbell Energetic is for my son's girlie bff, the soccer one has a soccer kicking boy on the back, and the other is for my 18 month old - she calls it her 'dink' (drink)! She loves it.
What is nice - the design peels off when we want a new one, and it washes by hand with light soap.

Knotted Jewelry!

2010-06-13T14:46:00.002-04:00

Add to list of things I love... ribbon and beads!

ooh La La.

These Necklaces are just ribbon and beads! The ribbon is double over and tied in knots to hold beads in place!

These are for my Mom's Boutique. I put Arelia's pretties tags on them... My daughter Arelia, calls these her pretties... she LOVES pretties. She has one of her own!

These are super easy to make and Hobby Lobby has bags of these beads in variety for really cheap and they were 50% off!!! The ribbon was the .25 cent kind!

Can you spot my little Arelia's hand, as she grabs her pretty off the mat.

Big Happenings.

2010-06-12T21:55:00.000-04:00

I am home from a relaxing week of Island living... ahhhhh. Now that is the life! My husband is ready to retire to the beach!

We took off as soon as school was out, and before our big MOVE.

Yes, I said MOVE!

We are relocating to HOUSTON!!!

It seems my crafting just can not catch a break with all of the excitement lately!

But, I do plan on doing LOTS of crafting this summer before our move!

If you are a Texas crafter.... leave me a comment or let me know your fave Texas hot spots!!!

If you are a Houston area store owner, in need of copic certified instructor, or just a rockin' crafty chic extraordinaire... I am available! Ha.

We will be house hunting at the end of this month, and moving before the school year starts!

In re my bag below: some answered questions...

It was super easy... I stamped with memento, and then put a piece of cardboard in the bag and colored it, I went featherlite with the ink. Then I heat set it. It was super fast.

Stamped Canvas Bag

2010-06-07T06:57:00.002-04:00

My Little Sweet pea is a little over 1 1/2, she LOVES purses. She has quite a few, but we found some canvas ones in the 'alter box'. So she and I stamped on some... lots of fun. She loves her new purses!

And I did one with the fantasy art stamp line from Sweet Pea Stamps!

I stamped with Memento ink and colored with Copics, followed by heat setting!

We are on vacation right now! Edisto Island.... a much need break from life!!!

All Natural Beauty Recipes!

2010-06-03T05:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday Y'all!

Today is a special day ... My son is officially a Kindergarten Graduate today!

We are off to our Awards Ceremony! :)

Today, I thought I would show you the Teacher gifts I made... I also did some for the Bus stop Moms, and a friend who needed a pick me up!

These are Beauty Recipes using all Natural and Organic Ingredients!

Here are a few of my Favorite sites for Recipes! Beauty Buffet & All Natural Beauty!

If you would like to Download my circle words and recipe print outs... Feel FREE!

My Downloads are on the right sidebar, and top PAGE feature as well!!!

Scarves are HOT!

2010-06-01T17:13:00.000-04:00

My Mom likes to be fashionable. Why not... she is young... in her 40's, I won't give away her age. But she is a good looking woman - I won't call her a cougar either! Ha.

She was recently in New York... Shopping... and I was put in the hospital while she was there. So, she came right from New York to see me, with all of her shopping bags... she is from Detroit, and I am in South Carolina.

Well, as usual, she had a bunch of stuff she wanted me to 'replicate'.

One of the items was a scarf like this:

Scarf Link.

Now, the one she brought me had beads tied into the ends too.

So here are my replicas... they look so cute tied all different ways, and even worn as a skirt over pants. Ooo So Cute.

I dare you to do a search for jersey torn knotted scarves and see how many looks are out there with these scarves and how easy it is to replicate your own... with cheap material and some craft beads!

Back in Action!

2010-05-31T02:19:00.000-04:00

I am unstoppable! You can not keep me down... ladahdahdahdahdah.

I have been home from the hospital for a little bit now. It is nice to be home. I had them release me earlier than they wanted... but I have a RARE disease... so they want to poke at me, when I could be at home... taking the meds and getting well. So I went home, since they were just giving me meds I can take here anyhow. I have been doing well. My Takayasu's is being monitored by some great doctors and I am taking my steroids like a champ!

I have some projects to show you this week! My mom brought me some fab finds from New York while I was in the hospital... she wanted me to replicate the goods. So, I have some crafty beauties for you.

Thank you so much for all the well wishes etc... I SO appreciate it.

All of your prayers and positivity really keep me upbeat about my prognosis.

And a special thank you to the amazing rock star who left the beads and more for me at the Funkie Munkie, Stephanie couldn't remember who... poor gal is so busy with the closing of the store!

In other news. My boy graduates Kindergarten this week!!!!!!!!

Such a crazy Month it has been!

We are having a celebratory BBQ at our House on Friday.... stop on by if you are local!

Hospitalized.

2010-05-17T22:31:00.000-04:00

OH Lovelies. I tried! I pushed through and did a lot of crafting, but the pain proved to be too much. I held steady until my husband was back from his trip out of town... and then went in for a CT scan.

Turns out I have Takayasu's arteritis or something similar.

So... I am hospitalized until further notice.

Keep me in your thoughts, if you think of me normally!

Handmade Jewelry for Tuesday.

2010-05-04T09:20:00.001-04:00

A little while back, my friend Kel sent me the links to some jewelry online that was very pricey. She said, "Now, that could be made for less!"

She is right. And she is a perfectionist who would make stunning jewelry, and when she does, I will link you to hers... because mine is amateur night!!!

I used what I had in my supply closet, so these are not necessarily the colors I would choose, all I purchased was fasteners, etc.

I will post the link to the inspiration underneath the piece.

Inspired By this piece!

Thanks for all of the well-wishes yesterday!! :) Y'all are too sweet! I am feeling a little better everyday, and my lump is going down... hopefully it STAYS down!!!! :)

Monday, Monday.

2010-05-03T11:04:00.000-04:00

Monday is here, and rainy as ever! I have been a bad bad blogger and crafter.... but I have a good excuse. I woke up last week, with a huge lump on the back of my neck. Ugh. My luck right. So, it is a lymph node or whatever. Lots of meds. Lots of rest. Lots of praying that it goes away, so that it isn't something serious. Boo.

I am feeling better. So, this week... I m dedicated to crafting.

A craft a day and back to my crazy company countdown. Those are my goals!

A Card for Monday!

Make-up, meet Crafter.

2010-04-26T17:12:00.005-04:00

Hello 'Make-up Addiction', I am a MAD CRAFTER. I will find a way to make you into a craft project... I WILL.

So, with that said, I did. I recently fell in love with Mineral Make-up. They are loose powders. So I decided to 'press' them into a palette. I took Bare Escentuals 'Get the Look' Color combos... let's just say I 'face-lifted' them... kinda like scrap-lifting. I pressed them into an empty makeup tin... so they are no longer loose powder. I decorated 2 sets with my cricut and some vinyl... this is the cherry blossom palette.. one holds 12 and the smaller holds 4 colors and has a mirror/applicator.

This Set is Cupcake/Beautiful. Same number of colors 12 and 4.
What I love about the vinyl is that I can peel it off easily and change the look... just like you can with the removable colors!!!

Here are the colors that I pressed inside if you are interested!
'The looks' are in rows of three going top to bottom. I used the far less expensive than BE colors from The She Space Clearance Section.

If you need an empty palette for your own makeup, or one that you can choose your colors... check out Coastal Scents or Stars MakeUpHaven.

PS. I also used my airbrush on some vinyl pieces..... I am in heaven.

Loving the EARTH this week!

2010-04-21T13:29:00.001-04:00

It has been a long few weeks for me! Phew. I am more than exhausted. We had a whirl wind trip to Disney this weekend... I am talking 2 days!!! With two kids (6 and 1) traveling by myself as usual!!!

We arrived back home on Monday, to a clean house - but no Daddy - he had to fly out on Sunday to Texas for work! So, I am on my own all week with the kiddos too!!!

My project today is for Earth Day! Why not?

Bind-it-all Cereal Box Notebook.

Why Not turn those cardboard cuties into some notebooks!! I recently saw ones like these on SALE on Etsy. And I thought, who would PAY for that... so Recycle your boxes/etc today!

Update on my 1 year old Daughter: The Doctor would prefer not to Xray, But she severely injured her ankle and can not walk on it or flatten it out. We have another check up on it this week!

YIKES....

2010-04-16T19:50:00.000-04:00

So my week has been mad crazy. Spring break ended and my boy had 2 field trips this week, and an awards ceremony at school, he also had a fundraiser!!

We are suppose to fly to disney tomorrow to meet up with my Mom, just the kids and I... and of course... life is hectic.

Today my One year old fell off a high bed, and is currently being checked out at the hospital right now!

Pray for my pretty if you the praying type!

Spring is HERE... time to share a few of my favorite things!!

2010-04-08T06:27:00.007-04:00

Every season, it seems that I find new things to love... clothes-makeup-more!!!

This season I love TOO much!!!

Warning: I am NOT Trendy! I do not think that KNOWING what is Trendy actually MAKES you trendy... in fact, I have NO desire to be Trendy! I have a 15 year old Sister = Trendy! I am into simple, sophisticated and pure looks. Trends come and go, I want timeless grace... does anyone know if there is an online retailer for that?

First MINERAL Make-up, I LOVE it.

TSS Colors are on Clearance for $2! Go Vegan at Orglamix!

Top it off with the best Gloss ever!!

Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish My Fave: DOLLY!!

I am OVER my dry winter skin! On to spring! This 2-minute miracle is AWESOME! - Watch the video at the website!!!

I have tried the Aloette version of the enzyme peel, and it is great... this is cheaper and you get the big pump of the body version, which is GREAT for my dry feet!

We all know I am kind of a Hippie-Chic... I love organic... yada yada.

This is my new fave: Gaia Conceptions! Everything there is amazing.

I LOVE it... and I will own it soon!!

This is my Favorite necklace currently! I get a lot of Compliments when I wear it.

When I am in Michigan visiting 'home', I always make a trip to the Jewelry store by Forever 21... it is a whole shop full of shiny stuff... and I am easily distracted by shiny objects!!

I am all about looking better, and adding some embellishments to myself! And this is the cheapest and most selection I have found!

Baby Leggggs - I love these... Yes it is spring, but it gets cold at night still! Sydney So Sweet has the best price and the cutest bows, clippies and crocheted head bands!!!

These baby legs work great as leg warmers or arm extensions... you can not even tell that your kid doesn't have an undershirt on under that short sleeve top! And they slide off with ease!

Last but certainly not LEAST, my LOVE for spring was a gift from my LOVE.

He brought me some Luscious SOAP AND LOTION from Spain - From Enjabonarte! It is amazing, I promise... not into international shopping? - check out LUSH!

Yes, I love and adore Bamboo shirts, organic fabric, handmade soaps and vegan make-up.... and am so glad that the going green is far more popular now! It makes my favorites affordable!

Wednesday... keeps showing up every week!!!

2010-04-07T08:03:00.000-04:00

Morning Sunshines!

We are slowly getting back into the flow of the school week here, spring break was fun-fun-fun!

It was also exhausting!

Today, I have an Easel Card with a hidden drawer to show you!

My son loves this one!

You can see why! I filled it with jelly beans!!

TGF Royal Battle and SPRING BREAK!!!

2010-04-05T12:50:00.001-04:00

Well Lovelies, My son has been on spring break... today is the final day off!

I thought this would mean lots of crafting time for myself, while the boy entertained his sister!

Well, I forgot how much fun it was to have him home!!!

We did SO SO SO SO Much... we were exhausted all week!

I am going to get back to crafting this week :)

My team made it to the next round in the The Greeting Farms' Royal Battle!

Thanks for the votes y'all!!!

If you would like to show us some more love, we would appreciate it!!

Here is our Card, Carefully Crafted by Genetta! Isn't she just fabulous!!

If you would like to vote: Go here! All you have to do is leave a comment on our pretty, voting is that easy!

Good Morning Sunshines!!! TGF BATTLE ROYALE

2010-03-28T09:06:00.001-04:00

Calling ALL Voters!!! My team the FAUX FARMERS, wants NAY needs your votes!!!

Our Card was designed by Jodi Stanisch !!!

We would LOVE LOVE LOVE if you commented/Voted for our card!! Go HERE and Vote today!!

Do you Love the Chair that Jodi used??? It is adorable right! Well, Melissa turned into a Digi Download. She rocks right? Go get it!!!

Thanks so much for your comments/votes in advance!!!

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-EIGHT STARVING ARTISTAMPS

2010-03-26T13:18:00.001-04:00

The best of intentions keep failing me!! I fully intended on posting this week! But we have been super busy!

So, without further excuse... company number 28 in my stash... sad isn't it!

Starving Artistamps

I LOVE these fun stamps. They were on of the first companies I bought!!! My son loves them too!!

Here is a shirt he stamped!

It's Monday, blah, How about a Recipe!

2010-03-22T09:59:00.001-04:00

Today, I thought a recipe was in order! I am going to get Crafty later today! But until then, if you Enjoy AUTHENTIC Mexican Cuisine... then perhaps you have had Mole. A cocoa chicken of sorts. Here is a way to have that at home! (For those of you who do not already!)

A Quicker Mole

By Carolina Pena Nacianceno

Ingredients:

· 10+ Chicken Drumsticks & Thighs

· Orange Peel

· 1 Jar Dona Maria Mole Sauce

· 2 Heaping Tbs. Peanut Butter

· 1 Tbs. Chili Powder

· 2/3 tsp Cumin

· 2/3 tsp Garlic Powder

· 2/3 tsp Paprika

· 2/3 tsp each Salt & Pepper

· 2-3 Tbs. Flour

Directions:

Cover Chicken in large pot with water and Orange peel, boil at low simmer. Remove Chicken from water. Keep covered to maintain warmth. In the water, dissolve jar of Mole Sauce, Peanut Butter & Seasonings. Stir until completely dissolved. Dissolve 2-3 spoonfuls of flour in water, and add this to thicken the sauce. Re-add the chicken and simmer.

I use about 15-20 skinless drums/thighs depending on size! The picture above was my first time with my Grandma's recipe and it was SUPER saucy with LOTS of sauce left over!!!

Where MY Belles 'n Whistles Live!!! Updated

2010-03-16T15:57:00.001-04:00

The Bells 'n Whistles Blog is having a little fun... so I thought I would join in!!

My Beautiful Belles live in South Carolina, with the sweetest little princess. She calls them her 'babies'. All mamas stamps are 'my babies'... I love to hear her sweet little voice laying claim to my stamps already!!!

My little shirt was stamped with Memento and colored with copics. I then heat set it and it was ready to go!

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-SEVEN MY FAVORITE THINGS (MFT)

2010-03-15T16:35:00.000-04:00

As far as acrylic goes, I am not a real big fan. I started on acrylic, but have come to prefer unmounted red rubber! I do like HIGH quality acrylic, but I am a knit picky stamper, and hate the 'stains'.

I will sacrifice my preference in the name of cute stamps though!

So today, I submit for your approval... a fabulous acrylic company for my countdown... My Favorite Things (MFT) Stamps.

I love this set... BOHO BLOSSOMs. I sprayed my card with smooch spritz... I am an official addict.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-SIX FLOURISHES

2010-03-10T17:50:00.000-05:00

Today I whipped up a sketch challenge card for scs!

I used Flourishes for my company countdown!

I LOVE this set.

I sprayed this card with smooches spritz AFTER I took this picture, and I LOVED it more, so I will update the photo.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-FIVE BOMBSHELL STAMPS

2010-03-09T16:43:00.002-05:00

Warning... I come from a HEAVILY tattooed family!!! I have a cousin that has tattoos covering his entire body... scalp and toes included. I am the ONLY one of my cousins, without a tattoo. No worries, I made up for that by putting holes in my body as a kid! Ah Youth.

Today I am featuring Bombshell Stamps in my Crazy Company Countdown!

This notebook is for my Aunt... she is going to LOVE it.

She is a Harley, tattooed Fun Lovin Mama.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-FOUR CC DESIGNS

2010-03-08T16:37:00.000-05:00

I am back in action!! It is a sunny 70 and my kids went outside to play! So I opened the windows in my Scraproom and got BUSAY.

Today my number 24 company in the Crazy Countdown is CC Designs!

This is another Card designed for my Granny. She loves Angels and Pink. So, I am always drawn to stamps that have sentimental value - and that she will like when I send her the card!

My blog needs help.

2010-03-05T10:50:00.000-05:00

No worries! I plan on rescuing it shortly!

I need a make-over (for my blog, I personally am super hott, hahahhahahahahahha)

And I need a title!

I originally started my blog as a family/crafting blog... but the hubster wanted me to do a separate family one. He is not into the crafty, but the family he loves. Ha.

I am open to suggestions if you have some!

Maybe I should have a contest!

Today I am the Suburban Crafter!

I took a deep breath this morning... breathing in the South Carolina air.

And I thought, I am a long way from Detroit Baby.

I grew up 'urban', back then we called it 'ghetto'.

A little Mexican girl with big dreams to leave it all behind, and be the me I always wanted to be!

I did, I did leave. But you know you can never leave it all behind.

(My Dad and I 1987, THE ONE AND ONLY Birthday my Dad was not locked up for! Ha.)
Today I LOVE being a Suburban Mama. Educated, married to the LOVE of my life with two beautiful kids, a beautiful home and the best friends and family a girl could ask for!

(My Dad and I, a year before I buried him. I am never without him.)

I have begun to loathe hearing others complain about the ho-hum life of the suburban gentry. Seriously... I worked hard for this station in life... APPRECIATE IT... count it is as a blessing. Stop wishing you were somewhere, someone else! There is nothing better out there... I promise!!!

Lost my Mojo... New Copic Mini Journal!

2010-03-04T18:52:00.003-05:00

Being sick has killed my Mojo. Hellllp.

I did decide my Copic Mini journal needed some more fun!!

So I revamped it, with the new downloads!
The Downloads were printed and then cut to 4.25x5.5 for the inside pages!

I of course added the plastic page (using a discarded package)... the page is removable and snaps into the book under the page that I am coloring under! I simply added the holes for binding and then clipped the edge on each hole with scissors!

The downloads I used: Copic Mini Journal, Spica Chart and this book I used the Labeled Recommended Marker Families by Copic Munkie (instead of Page one from the original download of the Journal)

Still Dying... Another Download!

2010-03-03T13:48:00.001-05:00

Here I am, still dying. I coughed so much this morning that something horrible happened, I will spare you the details!

So, today I have yet another downloadable for ya!

For those that love copics and have downloaded the Mini Copic Journal, found on my blog or Copic Munkie, I have a page Addition for those wanting to keep ALL of their markers in the journal!

Copic Inventory Pages

If you have not downloaded the original Journal... and would like to... the link here, is completely updated, and includes this and all other page additions... so you only need to download once!

You likey my font??? I changed up the font for the journal in celebration of the new ALICE in WONDERLAND movie!!! Which I may be seeing alone, since my 6 year old told me he is not interested.

Not the Best Luck AND a Download for you!

2010-03-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Well, Since our return home from Michigan... My family has been sicker than sick!

That will teach me! We do not usually visit in the winter, this is probably why!

My one year old is now taken with vomiting/diarrhea, I have strep and my boys are over what can only be described as bronchitis. Lucky us.

So for you today, I do not have another countdown or new project! I thought I would share a DOWNLOAD!

Recently I taught this Bind-it-all Recipe book class at the Funkie Munkie.

The books came complete with pages of recipes!

So for a Limited time... the pages to my smaller book... Sauces & Spices!!!

Print pages 1-10, then flip those pages over and print page 11 ten times! For a double sided recipe book.

The pages can be trimmed to 4.25x5.5, 4 pages per sheet!

These recipes were gathered from many places and tested on willing participants who gave the thumbs up to 99% of the tastings!

I hope you find these sauces and spices a fun addition to your kitchen!

And hopefully, I shall return tomorrow with a new crafty post!

Wish me luck.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-THREE RILEY AND CO.

2010-02-25T12:11:00.002-05:00

Whoo Hoo. Post 23! Riley And Company!

The Moose attraction is one that I have avoided for a while... My friends over at SCS passed along some well Loved Riley's and Sophie's. I thought why not show them some love myself.
My card today is clean and simple.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-TWO KRAFTIN KIMMIE STAMPS

2010-02-24T13:46:00.002-05:00

Oh. What a week/weekend!
My whole house has a nasty cold! Yikes. My poor baby girl is taking it the hardest.
She is napping now!

This brings me to post 22 in my Crazy company Countdown!
Kraftin Kimmie Stamps!!The stamps are amazing... and these are not rinkydink stamps! These stamps are wonderful, voluptuous and adorable. Not to mention I can brag that I received the most amazing customer service on my recent order!!! THANKS so much Kimmie!!

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-ONE GINA K DESIGNS

2010-02-22T13:47:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday Y'all.

I hope your weekend was Splendiferous.

My number 21 company in the countdown is Gina K Designs.
Adorable stamps and she currently has a hope for Haiti set for sale!

I masked the butterfly and sprayed (copic ABS) a background. Then added a cut out of a butterfly on top for dimension.

BLOG CANDY WINNER!!!!!!!

2010-02-17T19:52:00.002-05:00

I am home from my trip to Antarctica... I mean Michigan. Brrr.
The kids and I spent the day decompressing from our long flight!!
I had 54 stamps companies last I counted... When I arrived home there was yet another one in my mailbox... waiting for ink! So stay TUNED!!!

My Winner is :

The Mama Monkey said...: Yup, you are quite the enabler! I really want that airbrush system! These are darling Rachel! Have fun on your trip!

Oh, and my guess (this is stamp companies, right? Not like paper/eyelet/embellie companies, too?) is that you have 53 different vendors in your stash. :)
Expect Goodies from me Soon Siobhan!

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY ARTFUL INKABLES

2010-02-12T06:19:00.003-05:00

My Countdown is starting to get CRAZY!!!

Don't miss my BLOG CANDY at the Bottom of this post!!
Today My company is Artful Inkables.

I used Darling Dragons and Sunburst Dandies, to decorate these dominoes. Y'all already know that COPIC AIRBRUSHED these ... I have a 'small' Airbrushing problem. Please don't intervene. I think I am going to add hardware to the back of these and make leather necklaces out of these for my little sister for Valentines Day.
I will be seeing my siblings (well some of them, I have A LOT) this weekend. As I head up to Michigan for a quick 4 day visit!!
While I am away How about Some BLOG CANDY!!!
Leave a comment here telling me how many stamp companies you think I actually OWN... I am not sure how many I am going to get to POST before I die. Hehehehehe.
The closest to the number I have (may be more than one winner if you guess correctly)... will win some alterables... I am cleaning out my 'Alter' box. I have NIP albums and more!!!
PS I acquired some new companies this week!!!
AND this is post number 20!!!

I will pull random winner(s) on Wednesday when I get back from sunny, I mean SNOWY Michigan. brrrrrrr.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST NINETEEN SWEET'N SASSY STAMPS

2010-02-11T10:58:00.006-05:00

Today on Crazy Company Countdown...
Sweet'n Sassy Stamps!
Hurry and get there fast if you like acrylic stamps.... they are going all DIGI, and discounting their stamps to a 'must have' price!!!

Today, I made these quick and easy mail boxes for my Son's Teachers! We love to 'make' candy together, we have a bizallion molds. My husband is not a fan of the melting candy wafers... so we buy 'good' chocolate, so he can eat the rest!!!
These are peanut butter filled... reese cup style. One large Scoop of peanut butter and two of powdered sugar, mixed well... makes a stiff and sweet peanut butter filling for your molds.

Whatta Wednesday!!

2010-02-10T12:24:00.002-05:00

Wednesday is usually pretty quiet around here!
I take my one year old daughter, Arelia, to Mother Goose on the Loose at the Local Library.
My son, James, is in the weekly 'groove' of Kindergarten. Still unbelievable to me.
This morning was exciting! When I woke and checked my email... mostly spam... I had two really fun messages!
One from Betsy at Innovative Stamp Creations, So kindly leaving a comment on my ISC post. YIKES. I was thinking OH MY... I should have done a better job! Ha. And WOW, how amazing of Betsy to take a moment to comment on my little ole Journal.
My second fun email, no offense Mom (who sent me 3 forwards-grr), was from Angela at Our Daily Bread! My card is up on the blog there!!!
What an honor! Thank You for choosing my card for today's Post!

I have no project for you today, I have been unmounting 40+ SU sets over the past two days. And My son had to make a Valentine shoe box.... ours has taken on a life of its own. Thank Provocraft for the Cricut. Our box is covered in over 60 hearts and then has dinosaurs ALL over it, eating the hearts... taking bites out. So cute.

Crazy Company Countdown... POST EIGHTEEN INNOVATIVE STAMP CREATIONS

2010-02-08T06:18:00.001-05:00

Phew! What a LONG weekend. We had Birthday Celebrations and Super Bowl Eating, that is what the Super BOWL is about right? Filling up a bowl, Eating it until it is empty and then filling it again!

We of course eat a lot of Mexican for our Super Bowl Feast! Pretty sure that is why my Husband married me. He loves spicy Mexicans, I mean Mexican food!
HeHe.
I made Tamales last weekend. So we of course still have about 3 dozen of those left over. Yummo.

Back to the Crazy Countdown!!! Innovative Stamp Creations!
I have been LOVING my BIA lately. I have made a dozen fun notebooks lately. My airbrush is overworked but LOVED.
Stamps Used... Distressed Bg and Elegant Artsy Swirls.

Here is another Notebook I made with the Great Impressions February Stamps of the Month.

BLOG CANDY WINNER!!!!!!!

2010-02-05T17:41:00.004-05:00

Thanks to all who entered my blog candy.
I will have more very soon, I have lots of love to spread around.
:)

My winner today is #12

Brenda said...: HHHHHMMMMM...this is SO hard!!! When I first started, all I knew was Stampin' Up. My eyes have been O-P-E-N-E-D!!!!!!! There are so many awesome companies out there, but I'd have to say the my favorite at this moment are CC Designs and Whiff of Joy (Sugar Nellie and Belles...basically Elizabeth Bell designs). Thanks to my ladies on SCS for showing me the way....
Shoot me a message Brenda and I will mail out some yummies to you.

I myself have a hard time naming my favorites. I love every stamp I own. My one year old daughter calls them her 'babies'. I guess I can share with HER.
I have some more crazy company countdown coming your way... My son turned 6 yesterday, and we have lots of festivities!!

BY REQUEST!

2010-02-04T16:06:00.011-05:00

This is a little addition to my previous post below.

Here are the rest of my mini book pages for those of you who asked...

3 markers that pair well together for shading were chosen from each family, and put in sets of 36 based on the 4 family criteria: Basics, Mutes, Earth, & Brights.Here are a few alternatives, times when you might like a different selections better:

Basics:
R32,35,37 and BV02,13,17 instead
Pastels:
Y00, 11, 13 and E51,53,55
Brights:
RV13,04,06 and YG21,13,17
Earth:
B95, 97,99 and E44, 47,49

Suburban Crafter

Sew Sew Sew Resolution: T Shirt Quilt

Dazzling Faith Bracelet

Making up for lost time GateFold Mini Album TUTORIAL!!!

Altered Box and a Card!

Journal, Journals, Journals!

Paper Makeup Stamps Monster Bash

Sitcky fingers....

Keep it Crafty!

My Elegant Angel.

Long Dry Summer

Ooo wee Baby!

Summer Cupcake Stand!

CheeseCake Cuppycakes

Soaring Heart Small Journal

Missing Our Granny!!!

After a brief intermission.

My Craft Room

Celtic Cross Journal

Easter Blessings...

May the Road Rise Frame....

Monster Appreciation Blog Hop (Make up Your Own Holiday!!!)

Adding to Grannies Brag Book

Peanut Allergy Warning!! Just reading this post may send you into shock!

Monday, Monday!

I have a DREAM Blog Hop!

A little Scrapbook Challenge!

Our Daily Bread Stamping in Time Challenge!

Today's Recipe... do it yourself for less.

Loving my Sewing Machine?

Caught between TWO

Happy Birthday to ME!

Veteran's Day Blog HOP!!!!

Who is Hungry??? This Girl.

Leather Bound Hand stitched Journal

Where my winners at???

Think Pink Blog Hop candy Winner...

THINK PINK BLOG HOP!!!!! BLOG CANDY!!!!

Arelia's Pretties' Giveaway Winner!

Arelia's Pretties' Giveaway!!!

Little Felt House

My New Craft Room

Fiska-Blog-Candy- Winner

Fiskateers Blog Hop with a Jewelry Project of Course!!! GIVEAWAY

Guess who?

Arelia's Pretties Etsy Shop launch!

Well Hooowdy Y'all

BLOG CANDY WINNER!!!!!!!

Blog CANNNNNNDY!

So I lied.

Whoo Hooooooo! And a Craft!

Jewels, jewels, Jewels. I just can not get enough!

Mama's Birthday Pearl Bracelet

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY NINE SIMPLY BETTY

Cricut Vinyl Water Bottles!

Knotted Jewelry!

Big Happenings.

Stamped Canvas Bag

All Natural Beauty Recipes!

Scarves are HOT!

Back in Action!

Hospitalized.

Handmade Jewelry for Tuesday.

Monday, Monday.

Make-up, meet Crafter.

Loving the EARTH this week!

YIKES....

Spring is HERE... time to share a few of my favorite things!!

Wednesday... keeps showing up every week!!!

TGF Royal Battle and SPRING BREAK!!!

Good Morning Sunshines!!! TGF BATTLE ROYALE

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-EIGHT STARVING ARTISTAMPS

It's Monday, blah, How about a Recipe!

Where MY Belles 'n Whistles Live!!! *Updated*

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-SEVEN MY FAVORITE THINGS (MFT)

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-SIX FLOURISHES

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-FIVE BOMBSHELL STAMPS

Crazy Company Countdown... POST TWENTY-FOUR CC DESIGNS

My blog needs help.

Lost my Mojo... New Copic Mini Journal!

Where MY Belles 'n Whistles Live!!! Updated