Just Crafting

Hello Friends

2011-11-30T16:59:00.003-06:00

Hi All! It has been so long since I have posted anything on here, that I almost forgot about it. Since my Masters Program is keeping me very busy, I have not had the time to do very little crafting. Especially card making! I have been using up the cards I had made last year and the year before.....and, on occasion, buying cards....gasp! Oh well.

I am loving this program that I am in......when I graduate next December, I will have a Masters in Education with an emphasis in Historical Interpretation. What that means is that I will be able to educate the public about historic sites and people, natural areas, etc. My love is flowers and gardening so, I am hoping to be able to work somewhere historical that has a garden. We shall see.

In my spare time, I am learing to sew period dresses and bonnets. This photo was taken this summer at Wilson's Creek Battelfield just outside of Springfield, Missouri. Yes, that is me in a sheer dress with a silk parasol from the early 1850's.

Thanks for taking the time to look. I think often of the friends I have left behind with crafting but, don't worry, I will be back!

Cindy

Where Am I?

2011-04-20T08:05:00.001-05:00

Well, I have not forgotten you friends, really! I working on my Masters in Education and I have no time to do much else than research, write papers and study. I will hopefully be able to have some time this summer for crafting again.

In the meantime, take good care of you!
Cindy

2010-12-24T07:17:00.004-06:00

Good Morning Friends! Well here we are the day before Christmas.....can't believe how fast the year has flown by, can you?

Wayne and I are spending this morning with my family and our son. We are looking forward to having Christmas at our home. Lunch will be our meal together and I am serving Honey Baked Ham with various sides. Mom is bringing over an assortment of cookies, fruitcake (she and I are the only ones who like it) and peanut brittle.

I am really looking forward to seeing my sister's reaction to her gift. My Mom and I have gone together to make a quilt for her that my Mom started in 1978. I will take a photo after she opens it and share here later. I really hope she likes it as it is not going to match the colors she has in her home.

After Christmas with my family, we will pack up one of the cars and make the 7 hour trip up to Wisconsin to be with Wayne's family for a week. I love my family but, I really love being with Wayne's. All those neices and nephews! Gives us a chance to really relax and get a good visit in with everyone.

A note on the board books I posted earlier, I dug through my supplies and found that I had quite a lot of embelishments, ribbon, adhesives to fill up the box. I only had to purchase some letters and a few specific Jolie's embelishments....and I had enough coupons that I could get nearly everything on sale. I will post a photo after the nieces and nephews open their gifts so you can see what I did.

Now to this card.....my Mom comissioned me to make a few of these special cards for her. She purchased the set and also paid me for making them. She was very pleased with how they turned out. Afterwards, she gave me the set. I was unable to make any cards for myself this year.....and that is because I did not start in January like I did last year! So, guess what I will be doing in 2011.

Hope all of you have a Merry Christmas and a joyous, prosperous New Year!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Angelic Joy
Paper - SU Cherry Cobbler and Gold CS, Watercolor Paper
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Blending Stumps, Baby Oil, Stickles, Gold Embossing Powder

Unfinished Board Book Dilemma

2010-12-19T16:22:00.003-06:00

Okay.....can you believe it, I am actually posting on my Blog???? I can't go into any details right now about what I have been doing but, I will later.

For now I need your help. I am trying to figure out how to finish these board books as quickly as possible.

Hubby and I have 9 total nieces and nephews. Now, not all of them are recieving these books at this time. Only 4 are. The other 5 we are either Godparents or are just being nice to one family because of their financial circumstances.

The 4 we are going to give these books to are 11-15. One child is musically inclined, one is highly artistic, one is incredibly talented in sports and one is into the theater (the only boy of this group). So, my question is this....can I get away with just decorating the front, a few ribbons on the ring, some journaling tags and either some photo corners and/or double sided tape? I had thought to just put "My Favorite Photos" or "Photos I Love" on the front.

We do not usually give to these children because they are not our Godchildren.....that is the rules of the family I married into. But, this year we feel a bit more generous and I was crafty earlier in the year.

I appreciate your comments as always!

Cindy

Summertime Thank You

2010-10-03T08:04:00.002-05:00

Hello Friends! It has been so long since I have posted here, I feel guilty for not keep this up better. But then, it is my blog, a place for expression and not a place where I sell things. So, I can let go of the guilt right?

More changes have been taking place in my life over the past few months. And without boring the crap out of all of you with the mundane details, I will just give you some bits.

I hve made the decision to stop taking horticulture classes and have decided to work on my Masters in History instead. After talking to a great many people, it just makes more sense to get an advanced degree instead of another A.S. degree. If you have read my blog in the past you know that I love history. Not sure if I will teach it or not as I still have to go and actually sit down with the advisor to discuss how I can make that work into the program they have already. It is a very promising future for me.

Clark has finally gotten his assessment for Vocational Rehabilitation Dept. help to obtain a job. The process is just starting so, I have no details. He is excited at possibilities. His health and attitude remain relatively good despite not having much to do.

Our gardens have suffered terribly this year with all the heat. Many areas have been sorely neglected. We are just now getting back out to lay down compost and take out plants that are not doing good or are in the wrong area. We will move some plants now as living where we do, they will have some grow time before it becomes winter.

And my other area that has pushed stamping and crafting out a little is my living history hobby. For those of you who have viewed Civil War Reenactors before at battlefields and events at historic homes or sites. You might know what I mean.....the men in their uniforms and the women in their hoop skirts. Well, that gives you some idea. But, I am not the sort of person to just sit on a battlefield in a hoopskirt and watch the men fight. I am more interested in dressing period correct (which means hoops, corset, etc.) and participating in events that pertain to life at these sites. I am just getting back into this after many years away. I am slowly making friends with folks with similar interests...and attending conferences and workshops in the upcoming months. I may be starting a new blog to incorporate my love of history, we'll see....I may just be too busy to do much but attend classes.

The card I have chosen was sent to my In-Laws to thank them for meeting my husband and I in Chicago for my birthday weekend in August. I love Chicago but, feel now that I have nearly exhausted all the places in that city to visit. The Field Museum had an exhibit on the baby Mammoth that was found in Siberia.....so totally facisinating!

Thanks again for looking and reading about my life....such as it is!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Feathered Friends
Paper - SU Whisper White, Close to Cocoa (retired) and So Saffron CS, SU DSP (retired)
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon (retired)

Graduation Invitation

2010-07-26T07:06:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Wayne and I wanted to have a Graduation Party for Clark and the only time we did not have something going on was August. Sad but at least we are giving him a party.

Disabled children generally do not have many if any friends that come over to their houses to 'play'. So we are inviting his teachers, nurses, therapists, the bus driver and her assistant, family and his girlfriend.

This DP at my LSS caught my eye and thought it would be great with his school's colors. Some of the mortar boards have glitter on them! Very simple and self-explanatory.

Thanks for taking a look! Have a great day!!

Cindy

Stamps - SU Celebrate Everything, Tassel Time, AYC (one of them for the invite info)
Paper - SU Confetti White, Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Best Creation Inc. DP
Ink - SU Basic Black, Riding Hood Red
Accessories - SU Dimensionals, Stamp-a-majig

New Cards to Share

2010-07-13T09:09:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I have been trying to do some work with my Prismacolor Pencils at night while I relax in front of the TV with my husband. I do like to be with him at night even if he is watching something I don't really care for.

The little girl card is for our niece Jennifer who lives in Wisconsin. It will be her 7th birthday this week. She loves bling and those colors. I took a sheet of the DCWV DP and cut it apart to get the color combination I like. Then reassembled them. I popped up the flowers and added the acrylic sparkly dots. I still don't think I have the hair technique down yet......practice makes perfect though.

The classic car is for my brother in California he is turning 51 next week. He loves classic cars. In fact, that is what he does for a living.....work with cars. I don't ge to see him much anymore. Sending him some homemade hot sauce and more jars of jams and jellies.

The house mouse was a stamped image from Linda Bronson. I want to send one of our neighbors a thank you card for a wonderful evening we had at their house recently.

Hope all is well with you and your summer is not full of too much bad weather!
Cindy

Hot Fun in the Summertime

2010-07-07T07:11:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I do not have anything new to show you today as I have been using my Prismacolor Pencils and coloring some images that a nice lady sent me earlier this year. I am trying out different papers to see what the coloring is like on them. This card is not new....only new to you. Sent it to our Nephew, Joshua, year before last. Don't know why I never posted it but, seems appropriate for this time of the year.

Anyway, I am heading out today to pick up some new pencils that match the new colors that Stampin' Up! has put into their new catalog. Quite a shake up with what they did. I am sure a lot of Demos are not too happy about having to buy all new stuff. That's business folks, keep it fresh or you loose sales.

On the home front......we had a very quiet Independence Day. Went to my Mom's and grilled burgers and brats and instead of going to see the fireworks, we played Mexican Train. I think I have told you about my sister, Lisa, who has MS. Well, she cannot tolerate the heat at all. We had fun teaching our Mom how to play. Oh, if you have never played it is a game you play with dominos.

Today I am also running a bunch of errands.....picking up my June order from my demo and heading to a friends for a muslin bodice fitting for my civil war dress I am sewing. I think I have told you about my love for the history from this era, didn't I? Well, progress is slow. I had to wait for my new corset and shoes. Now I have to wait for my hoop skirt......have to get it ordered first. Wayne thinks I should make it, then that way I could make others and sell them. Not sure about that one...the selling thing. I am also growing out my hair, which isn't taking as long as I thought. I will keep you posted on my progress.

Thanks for looking, have a great day and stay cool!
Cindy

Stamps - Imaginese, SU It's Your Birthday
Paper - Imaginese, SU Close to Cocoa, Ruby Red and Next to Navy CS
Ink - Ranger Archival Black
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Chipboard, SU Brad

Believe Christmas Album

2010-07-01T08:15:00.006-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Since today is July 1st, I thought it would be a good idea to start posting ideas for Christmas since it is only about 6 months away.....

I made this album in 2008 for my sister, Lisa, who just loves Christmas. She puts up anywhere from 5-7 Christmas trees throughout her house. She has a huge house so she can! Some years she has these big parties for all her friends and co-workers. We were invited a couple of years ago but, had to decline at the last minute because I had the flu. Sucked!

Anyway, just before I wrapped this album, I stuck little post it notes on the photo mats of the sizes of photos she would need f0r them. She thought that was really neat that I would do that and make it easier for her to finish. I told her that I know how busy her life is and I know how she likes easy. But, really don't we all like it easy these days?

I used the DCWV paper pack mostly with a few fill in papers. The stickers were a variety of them I had collected over the years. Some of the stickers that look like you cannot read them do have sentiments on them it's just the light from the flash changed it. Sorry. Hope you enjoy looking at it....who knows maybe it will inspire you to make something wonderful for someone special in your life?

I purchased the books at Hobby Lobby using the coupons. You can also find them at Scrapbooks.com they are by Bo Bunny. To make this book, I traced around the page first, adhered with a glue stick and brayer, then sanded around the edges for a nice finished look.

For the photo mats that have a tag sticking out from them, I used tacky tape on 3 sides to keep the pocket secure.

I also used dimensional dots to pop up any sentiments, journaling or embelishments around a photo mat to allow photos to slide under. In my gift to Lisa I included some sticky dots so she could adhere the photos.

Thanks for looking!
Cindy

A Delightful Paperbag Album

2010-06-28T08:12:00.009-05:00

Good Morning Friends. I played around with more of the leftover scraps from the Just Delightful Simply Scrappin' kit.....actually I made this before I made all those cards from the other day. Wasn't going to post it because I think this type of album is kind of old now. But, knew that it might be an inspiration to one of you out there.

I had a difficult time finding white bags for this album....chance find at a craft store in Wisconsin one day while visiting family. I think for the colors in this kit, white is best. I followed Jan Tink's design you can find it by going to stampspaperscissors.typepad.com I tried linking it and could not make a go of it; sorry. When you go to her site, look down on the left for the Paperbag instructions and templates.

I made my own little journaling cards using a varitey of sentiments and there are qute a few pullouts for more photos. I love these little interactive albums. This will probably be a Christmas gift for someone special this year. Folks these albums are fairly quick and inexpensive to make...unless you add a whole lot of embelishments!

I would be happy to give you any measurements or information on this project, just let me know.

Thanks for looking! Hope your week is wonderful!
Cindy

About Our Son, Clark

2010-06-27T07:32:00.006-05:00

Good Morning Friends. Yesterday I said I would post some photos of our son, Clark, and give you a bit of information on his life. Which is such a big part of our life!

Well, as you can see he graduated from High School. That is such a big deal for a child with a disability. I think one of the most difficult things about this event is that he growing up and for me that has been tough. Not from the boo hoo point but from the point of 'what is he going to do with the rest of his life?'

If you have never had anyone in your family with a disability this might be difficult to understand. But, in case you did not know, the school is responsible and mandated, federally, to provide opportunities for job and day program exploration. This means that they must go out into the community and see day programs and get evaluated for jobs. This was not done with Clark. Something for which we are very angry about.

We found out in February, at his last IEP, that there was no plans for potential jobs or day programs because of his health and other 'obstacles'. The obstacles were the medication schedule, his tube feedings (he was on continuous feedings) and hygiene issues. Well, you can't do anything about the hygiene part he wears a diaper because he cannot sit on a toilet. But, you can do something about the feeding and medication components.

I went to Clark's doctors and asked for help with solving the problems.....had that accomplished by the end of the next week. Came back to the school and demanded that they help us in the time he had remaining at school. They were able to get him to a job site, get evaluated and now he is on a waiting list. But, he still did not have anything else lined up for his days after school.

One of the things we had been working on for nearly 2 years was to find an appropriate home in the community for him to live in instead of the group home he was currently in. The agency we were working with lost their director at the end of February....suddenly....as in he quit. There was no explanation as to why, no contact with him either....no answers and left us feeling very uneasy.

Wayne and I gave it a lot of thought. What we came up with was this.....he has been living at this home for 3 years. Granted it is not the perfect home but, I don't think that exists and at least we know how these folks operate; we know what to expect. As Wayne says, "It is better going with the Devil you know instead of the Devil you don't." While Clark would be in the new home and that might be lovely, Clark would be starting all over again.....learning curve with the new staff, new staff he does not know, no plans for getting out into the community, etc., etc., etc. So, we decided to keep him at the home he is in currently.

We also decided to start talking to other people/agencies that might be able to help Clark get into the community instead of getting stuck in that home day in and day out. It was pretty dark for me for a few months.....I cried a lot. I worried a lot. But, then I got down on my knees and prayed for guidance and strength to make the best decisions for Clark. I feel that God must be guiding us else why would that door close on the school's help and the getting Clark into a home that we thought he needed. I think God has a different plan.

I think that God wants Clark to be the light at that group home. He is so happy always, despite all his issues. He is the most cognitive resident there. He is the most independent resident there as well. Maybe instead of fighting it, go with the flow.

So, here is the update in a nutshell......because I have babbled on long enough......we are re-decorating his room to fit his Construction tastes, we are exploring Day Programs (after having rewritten his Personal Care Plan to state that he needs to be out in the community), we are getting a Vocational Rehab. consult and we are on the waiting list for his job. Until we can find something out in the community, he will work on things at the home in their day program....like learning his phone number, complete address, to be responsible to tell others where he is going at all times on the facility grounds and doing little jobs as a stepping stone to the bigger one.

It has taken a lot of fighting for him.....yes, I am tired of it.....yes, I would love for everything to be in place and go smoother than it has for years. But, I have to keep thanking God for Clark being in my life, for keeping him so healthy and for giving me so much help to fight for him. Because I believe that I am not just fighting for Clark but for others in that facility too.

About all the pictures.....the cap and gown ones are from his Graduation. The girl in the pink is Brittany, his girlfriend at school. I imagine that since she still has two more years at school, the relationship will probably die due to lack of participation on her parents. Life goes on.

The other photos are of Grandparents and us at our recent zoo trip. A gift from his Grandparents (Wayne's folks). We had a great time...good diversion to the hum drum of Clark's daily life. Watched the Lions and baby elephants and sweat like pigs that day. But, it was very nice to all be together.

Thanks for listening to me. I do appreciate you so very much.
Cindy

Waaaay To Long Away.....

2010-06-26T08:08:00.005-05:00

Friends, it has been far far too long since I have posted anything....really far too long since I have made anything worthy of posting. Since April life has been a roller coaster of sorts. Most of my time was spent divided between finishing the semester at college, preparing for Clark to transition out of school and gardening.

I did marvelously well with my class in Soils....earned an A. That will look nice on my transcripts should I ever decide on looking for a job some day. During that time I took some tests to find out if I was going in the right direction....I continue to have doubts about this field for my future. All the tests I took pointed to teaching....so, I will be checking that field out within the next few weeks.

Gardening in our yard certainly keeps getting better and better. Though takes more and more work it seems like. We added one new garden in the vicinity of our Oak Tree. Wayne put in a delightful edging which just finishes things off so nicely. Planted some Knock Out Roses and Lilac bushes. Then finished up another garden that was started last fall with more Knock Out Roses in a light yellow and Butterfly bushes with seeds scattered for now. Next year we will have the $$$ to plant a few more shrubs and perennials there. Still have to finish the paver walkway and build another. But, they will have to wait for fall. I will post some pictures of our gardens soon.

Clark's circumstances are a source of much worry and concern, always. It will take too long to post all of what has gone on in the past two months to put here and I am sure that most of you would just be too bored to read it. So, I will post again tomorrow with some pics of him and the story....cuz you know, I got stories!

Okay, about these cards......I was wanting something to do in front of the TV. So, I went through my SU Simply Scrappin' kits.....folks if you have never used these, they are wonderful for making cards and scrapbook pages!! I wanted to use up some of the older ones. That is what I did with this one.....Delight in Life. One of my all time favorite SAB kits! I made 32 cards all together here......I made another 30 something when I first got it. Not listing all the supplies, if you want to know something, just ask.

Thanks for looking. Have a wonderful summer weekend!

Cindy

Chipboard Word Books

2010-04-05T14:19:00.006-05:00

Hello Friends! Well, I thought I would take a minute and post some of the older items I have made in years past. Mainly because I don't have anything new to post and mostly because I do not want to go too many days and not post.

All of these projects were made in the fall of 2008 for Christmas gifts that year. The Family books were given to my husband's siblings with pictures of their families and us on various occasions. They all live in Wisconsin and we see them maybe 4 - 6 times a year.

The Believe book was for my sister, Lisa, she loves anything Christmas and decorates her house to the hilt. So, I knew that she would be able to put holiday pics inside. I did not put any in because there were many years that we did not celebrate Christmas' together.

The Happy book is a quote book for my Mom. She likes quotes from famous and not so famous people. So this has pockets inside with very little embelishment mostly the quotes that would

pertain to her interestes, about being a Mother, etc. Not sure if she really liked it or not, never saw it around her house, nor has she ever

commented about it???

One of the things I realized when I finished them was I did not leave enough space so that you could tell what the word was....on a few of them. I did that because I wanted to get as many pictures in as possible.

I would be happy to share any information about them with you including the quotes I used.

Just let me know.

Thanks for looking today!

Cindy

All of the items use Bo Bunny Word Books.

Easter Blessings!

2010-04-04T09:12:00.004-05:00

Happy Easter Friends! I hope your day is blessed with great weather, family time and that you hear God speaking through the wonders of Springtime.

Not a church goer but, have faith that God is there always for me. All I need to do is ask for guidance and it is given; give thanks for blessings and more come my way. I am grateful for you that bless me with your continued reading of my blog and support me with your kind words.

These little treat bags are my first attempt at something like this. Not happy with the size of the bag....forgot to go to the Flower Market downtown and get some boutonniere bags (cellophane is a better bag and I have tax ID so get them cheaper)...so, had to go to Michael's yesterday for them. Thank goodness a kind soul went through the entire store looking for just the right sized bag for me. I will give them today at our family dinner.

Thanks for looking and Happy Easter!

Cindy

Stamps - SU A Good Egg, Stampendous
Paper - SU Whisper White, Barely Banana and Pretty in Pink CS, DCWV DSP
Ink - SU Basic Gray, Pumpkin Pie and Barely Banana
Accessories - SU Top Note Die, SU Scallop Circle Punch and 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Snips

Dad's Artwork

2010-04-01T08:20:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I promised to show you the painting Dad did for me quite a few years back. He took this from a little print that I had hanging in my first house in my previous life (meaning, married before). I always loved the floral still life with the huge variety of flowers.

Dad, not being a flower painter, took each flower and created it on watercolor paper, then cut it out and applied it to the already painted vase and scarf. Then he applied a fine rice paper, crinkling it ever so slightly. This photo does not do it justice. The print itself is 25 x 19 and hangs in my living room; it is one of the first things you see when you walk into our house.

When he gave this to me about 3 years ago, he also gave me all the drawings of the flowers and leaves. My Dad was extremely talented, had great creativity and good eye for color and proportion. I like to think that is where I get my talent from......I was so blessed to have him as my father!

Thanks for looking and happy crafting!!

Cindy

Sympathy Vase Card

2010-03-31T06:05:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Needed to make a sympathy card for a friend last week as her MIL passed away. I think this is an area that so many have a difficult time with....not sure if it is just the concept or finding the right colors and words to say. But, remembering the cards that our family recieved last year with Dad's death, I remember the understated ones most.

I tried to get that feel here, I hope. This stamp has been in my stash for a very long time and I have never used it. Don't know why really. It is quite large for a standard A2 card so, I went up to the next size. And the color is a bit brighter than is showing up. Popped up the hydrangea bloom for some dimension.

Made me think of a painting that my Dad did for me some time back. Back before I had met Wayne, I had seen a picture of vased flowers in still life. I loved it and wondered if Dad could make it larger for me. Of course he could and did. Then we had a seven year split.....over stupid things in retrospect. He never gave up on me and kept the painting. When I found out that he was sick and I came back to the family in 2007, the first thing he did was bring over the painting. I had no idea the work that he put into it. I will post it tomorrow and tell you all about it.

I kick myself for having missed 7 years of relationship with my folks but, especially my Dad. And I am so grateful for having had the opportunity to be close to him at the end of his life. Life is too short friends, put up with the crabbiness and things you don't like about family....one day they will not be here....live without regrets. Okay, off soapbox now......

Thanks for looking and have a happy crafting day!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Warmest Regards (hostess), Hero Arts
Paper - SU Whisper White and Lovely Lilac CS
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Dimensionals

Just Like You Thank You Notes

2010-03-30T08:53:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Finished these up last week for my sister, Lisa. I had sent her a card mid-summer last year similar to the turquoise ones letting her know how much I love her. She made the comment that I should sell my cards because "they are just so lovely." Isn't she sweet?

Took me a little over three days to get all these finished. Don't know about you but I go into production mode when I have this many to do. All the cutting one day, stamping another and another to put together. Had fun and I hope she asks me to make some more again!

Thanks for looking! Hope you all have a great crafting day!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Just Like You
Paper - SU Temping Turquoise, Certainly Celery, Regal Rose, Lovely Lilac and Whisper White CS, SU Flowers For You DSP
Ink - SU Tempting Turquoise, Certainly Celery, Regal Rose, Lovely Lilac
Accessories - Stamp-a-majig, SU Grograin Ribbons (some retired), MS Butterfly Punch, Unknown Self-adhesive Bling, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, SU Scallop Border Punch, Paper Piercer

2010-03-29T07:54:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Stamping Friends! Finally getting around to posting my St. Patrick's Day cards. When I was looking at various galleries for ideas, the thought hit me....why not use it. Family and friends loved it, especially the one with the colorful striped ribbon.

The more muted one was my attempt at doodling around the letters and making a glittery punched shamrock. It's okay.

Did you know that when you wish a Happy St. Patrick's Day to someone here in the US and you want to shorten it....you say Happy St. Paddy's Day and not Happy St. Patty's Day? Why? Well, glad you asked......Patty is a girls name and Paddy is the Irish way to shorten Patrick....Paddy. It's also how Paddy Wagon got it's name....in New York so many Policmen of the day were Irish and the name just stuck. Also, in Ireland it is a religious holiday and not a drunken brawl. Just some random thoughts on the holiday.

Thanks for looking have a great day!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Headline and Short Line Alphas, Tag Time
Paper - Unknown DSP, SU Whisper White, Gable Green, Garden Green, Very Vanilla and Old Olive CS
Ink - SU Garden Green, Gable Green, Green Galore, Pumpkin Pie, Creamy Caramel
Accessories - Stamp-a-majig. Assorted Michael's Ribbons, Miscellaneous Buttons, MS Scalloped Border Punch, MS Shamrock Punch,

A Good Egg Easter

2010-03-25T14:41:00.002-05:00

It has been far too long since I have posted on here. I feel bad about it too. Those of you who check in on me from time to time know that my life is very busy. I hope you understand.

This is my Easter card for this year. Made a dozen to send to family and very close friends. Stamped the image on the WW cardstock and positioned previously stamped, colored and paper pieced chicks to it. Ran a couple of swipes under thier feet with watercolor brush and re-inker. Very easy.

Hope you have a lovely Easter week and time with family next weekend. Hoping to post the cards I have made since February soon. Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - A Good Egg
Paper - SU Whisper White, Barely Banana and Textured Whisper White CS and Tea Party DSP
Ink - SU Basic Gray
Accessories - Stamp-a-majig

Huge Prima Blog Candy

2010-02-28T08:07:00.003-06:00

Prima blog is going to reveal something really big. So in honor of that event, they are giving away candy. Look at this....worth about $100!! Go to their blog found here http://prima.typepad.com/ You have until tonight to enter.......hurry friends!!!

Valentine's Day at the Zoo and Hope Cards

2010-02-23T06:17:00.004-06:00

Good Morning Friends! Yes, it has been a week since I last chatted with you. I have been busy, of course, working on my studies (first exam tomorrow), working on taxes, taking care of Clark's issues, always (big care plan meeting on Friday) and working on cleaning up my desk. Which means the parts and pieces of stamped cards that I never finished.

Oh, you know you borrowed a set and stamped off a bunch of images but, just ran out of time or lost interest in that project. Well, that is me (raising my hand) on both accounts. I have so many projects that I want to do or have in the works that I forget that I have other responsibilities that have greater priority.

Like on Valentine's Day, Wayne and I really had nothing planned except to spend the day with each other. Well, then you really can't spend time working on your crafts can you. It was a fun day spent a good portion in the frosty cold watching some of the penguins get to waddle out of their cages for a bit. This was the first time we had seen this. So, it was fun! The rest of the zoo animals were pretty much non-existent except for the ones in the heated houses. We are zoo members and love going and walking around one of the last free zoos in the country.

Then we went to Whole Foods for some dinner fixins. Made a couple of nice grilled steaks with baked potatoes, huge tossed salad and ice cream for dessert. We were stuffed....kind of looked like those penguins! LOL! I was such a pleasant day to just relax and not think about the other things in our lives for just a bit.

Wayne and I have been very fortunate that we have not had anyone in our family or known any friends that have had breast cancer. Known folks, including Dad, with other cancers. But, which ever form it is a terrible disease to have to suffer under. My thought is that you have to give up your will to God but, still fight the disease. I had Ovarian Cancer so long ago I can't even tell you how I felt at the time.

I was just 18 when I found out. I was stunned and really did not know what it all meant at the time. That was in 1976. And at that time the treatments were okay but, not like today. So, I agreed to have a total hysterectomy to save my life. It was tough for quite a few years dealing with that removal.....the loss of hormones and the never being able to have children. I think it weighed heavy on Dad for a long time (he told me this later).

Today, I am healthy and have an adopted son. I am grateful for each and everyday I wake in the morning and put my two feet on the ground. I know that there is hope of a brighter tomorrow for all of us......whether we face that disease or another one.

Thanks for looking at my cards (these will go into my stash and some will get donated) and listening to my story. I appreciate your loyality to my blog even with my absences. I hope you have a great day!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Hope Is
Paper - SU Whisper White, Pretty in Pink CS, Basic Grey DP and SU DSP (retired), Creative Cafe Notecards
Ink - SU Basic Gray, Pretty in Pink
Accessories - SU Pretty in Pink Taffeta Ribbon, MS Lacy Scallop Punch, Buttons

Anniversary Blog Candy Giveaway

2010-02-15T23:59:00.009-06:00

Update.........And the winner is:

Larisa

Congratulations!! Please e-mail me at cvansluys@charter.net with your address so I can get these goodies out to you this week!

Thanks everyone who played! I enjoyed looking at your galleries and blogs too!

Cindy

This will stay at the top of the page until February 15. Scroll down for newer posts.

Good Afternoon Friends! Well, I told you I would give away some candy and here it is. I am celebrating my 1 year Anniversary in Blogland (which was at the end of January).

I am giving away all this to one lucky Follower. Here is what you need to do to win..
1-Put my candy on your blog with a link back here.
2-Become a follower if your not already.
3- And leave a comment here letting me know you have done so. If you do that you will have 2 chances to win, if you do not have a blog you still have a chance to win...blog or not!! You have until February 15th to enter!

This is what you will win:
K & Co Greenhouse DP pack
K & Co Greenhouse Phrases & Icons Chipboard
K & C0 Greenhouse Embossed Stickers
Clear Scraps Friendship Stamps
Making Memories Gem Pin Findings
Making Memories Flower Pin Findings
3-Studio 18 Rhinestone Packs
9 ft. roll Ribbon
Spare Parts Alpha Buttons
Daisy D's Green Metal Photo Corners
Teresa Collins Journaling Spotz
Handcrocheted Flowers and Trims to Match

Good Luck!
Cindy

Check out all the other blog candy on my sidebar!!!!

House Mouse Valentine for Wayne

2010-02-14T10:05:00.004-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day Friends! Here at last is the card I made for my husband, Wayne. I am really trying not to buy any more stamp sets for awhile as we are nearly debt free.....and that excites us!! I love this stamp for Anniversaries and Love cards! In fact, if I am going to used a stamp that is whimsical, this is the type I will use.

Wayne loved it, in fact, he chuckled when he saw the inside. I screwed up, I had a stamp that said 'to my' and did not use it. So, I scratched out 'a' and wrote 'my'. Oh well, he knows me and it's okay!

The coloring was with inkpads and blender pen. The brads were just plain metal and needed jazzing up....so what if it's for a guy, a little bling never hurt anyone! Poured Crystal Effects over the top and dumped the glitter on. The result was just enough sparkle.

Thanks for taking a look at my card today. Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Stamps - House Mouse, SU So Many Sayings, various sets for the inside sentiments
Ink - Ranger Archival Black, SU Creamy Caramel, Blush Blossom, Basic Gray, Pretty in Pink, Bashful Blue Inks

Paper - SU Whisper White, Rose Red and Soft Suede CS, SU Throughly Modern DSP

Accessories - Stamp-a-majig, Unknown Brads, SU Crystal Effects, Pink Paislee Pixie Stix Glitter, Paper Piercer, SU Corner Rounder Punch, SU Soft Suede Grosgrain Ribbon, Glue Dots

Sorry for the screwy post.....just could not get it fixed to look nicer!!

Simple Chipboard Valentine

2010-02-13T08:29:00.004-06:00

Okay....I have done my last chipboard heart card for awhile! This one was the last and I was loosing my mojo when I did it. I used a piece of crocheted trim I made a while back when I need something to do in front of the TV. Everything else is pretty straightforward except I used some Tsukineko Brilliance around the edges of the hearts for some shimmer.

Today is a lazy day....well sort of. I have to clean up my crafting area a bit but, to me that is not really working. Then I want to get a Hawaiian shirt cut out for Wayne for his birthday next month. It will still be a bit cold for him to wear it for a few more months but, knowing him he might try to wear something underneath it!

Tomorrow I will post the card I made for Wayne.....no chipboard hearts! We are going to the Zoo to watch the Penguins waddle on the sidewalk near their exhibit. Then come home and make some French Onion Soup and Steak Dinner. I just might make that cheesecake I have been promising him for awhile now to top off our Valentine dinner.

Whatever you do today or tomorrow I hope it involves loving someone close to you! Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Stamps - My Sentiments Exactly!

Paper - SU Very Vanilla and Riding Hood Red CS, SU Candy Lane DSP
Ink - Tsukineko Brilliance Pearlescent Biege, SU Riding Hood Red

Accessories - Rusty Pickle Chipboard, SU Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon, Crocheted Scalloped Trim, SU Scallop Border Punch, Glue Dots, Dimensionals, Sanding Tools, Sponges

With All My Love & Lincoln's Birthday

2010-02-12T06:37:00.007-06:00

Good Morning Friends!! Okay here is another chipboard heart. Pretty simple and easy to mail. The green circle is tinsel glitter from MS...funny how this came to be on my card. Bought some new glitter with my Michael's coupon to match the SU Bermuda Bay color. Opened the top and this was the inside liner to the bottle. So, I trimmed it down and used it. So you could say I recycled today!!

Not too much going on here expecting another snow storm this weekend. Though only about 2-4" which if we compare to New England's latest amounts, it's a dusting! St. Louis folks get all panicky....rushing out to the stores to milk, eggs and bread. I call them the French Toast people......Ha!

Last weekend I think you remember that Wayne and I were going to take a couple of days away and head to Springfield, Illinois? We wanted to go see the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (which I highly recommend) and his home. After the tour of his home we walked around the area and struck up a conversation with a National Park Service (they are in charge of the home and few blocks surrounding it) ranger. He was off duty but, answered our questions about the homes in this area and whether there was any record of the Lincoln's having interactions with the neighbors. He did not know.

Then we asked him about the color of the house. It turns out for the longest time it was painted white with green shutters. Then in the 80's preservationists started reading newspaper accounts from Lincoln's time period and found there were mentions of a sandy brown house with green shutters. They were also able, when they were doing restorations to the attic (during the Lincoln's time in the house lighting struck the house and they had a fire) the roof had to be raised a bit to do repairs to the roof. That's when they found a brick with the original paint still on it, not seen or touched by the elements for over 130 years. Interesting, huh? I love history!!

Hope you have a great day and good start to the weekend! Happy Crafting too!
Cindy

Stamps - SU So Many Sayings
Paper - SU Very Vanilla CS, K & Co Lovely and SU Welcome Friends DPs, Creative Cafe' Notecards
Ink - Ranger's Archival Black
Accessories - MS Tinsel Glitter, Dimensionals, SU Word Window Punch, SU Melon Mambo Grosgrain Ribbon, Hand crocheted Trim, SU and Rusty Pickle Chipboard, 2-Way Glue, Sanding Tools

Wild Raspberry Love Card

2010-02-11T07:39:00.006-06:00

Good Morning Friends! I am still working with the chipboard hearts this week. Actually, I made these all in one day I am just now posting them in hopes of attracting more attention to my blog. I guess unless you are a demo for CTMH or SU or a designer for some company you are destined not to get many folks looking. It's a bit dissapointing but, that will not get me down in the dumps, I will just keep going.

I love this combination of colors together and the vintage feel. Whomever from these paper companies that design all these wonderful papers are truly brillant! I think that is something we cardmakers and scrapbookers take for granted.

I put this card on one of my Grandmother's quilts she made. My Grandmother, Mom's Mom, was not a quilter all her life, she learned late in life. In fact, she learned out of spite you could say. She was wanting a quilt to be made for my Mom and Dad when they got married nearly 54 years ago.

So, she went to the church in her area of Illinois that was doing that on a regular basis and was told that it was over a year wait. Grandma got mad and said she would just teach herself. Most folks at during that time knew how to sew already, it was the quilting that was different. This quilt is called Snowball because when you open it up, the white sections look like snowballs.

Thanks for looking and hope you have a very happy crafting day!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Baroque Motifs, Stampabilities Sentiment
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, K & Co Wild Raspberry DP
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink, Tsukineko Brillance Pearlescent Biege
Accessories - SU Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, SU Gold Cord, Unknown Rhinestone, Rusty Pickle Chipboard Hearts, Glue Dots, Dimensionals, Sanding Tools, Sponges

Ticket to Love

2010-02-10T06:15:00.003-06:00

Good Frosty Morning! I have another Valentine to show you. Again, this one evolved from the chipboard hearts. I had the background paper but, did not really like the color together with the hearts....so, I used my Weathered and Linen Background stamps to soften. I also distressed the edges.

One of the things I like to do is collect things, you just never know when you are going to need them. I collect buttons and fasteners.....oh they can't be new ones. The older the better. This button, you can only see it when you click on the picture to get a closer view, is cut from an abalone shell. I love it!!

Hope you do too! Thanks always for looking at my creations, because I know time is always a factor in our lives nowdays! So, just know, I appreciate you......love you!!

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Linen and Weathered Backgrounds (retired)
Paper - SU Very Vanilla CS, SU SAB Welcome Neighbor DP, K & Co Lovely DP and Creative Cafe' Notecards
Ink - SU Creamy Caramel
Accessories - SU Distressing Tool, Rusty Pickle Chipboard, Button, SU Gold Cord, Unknown Ribbon and Trim, Tim Holtz Ticket

Valentine Cards

2010-02-09T09:27:00.003-06:00

Good Morning Friends! I finally got around to posting my Valentine's cards. Not sure who this one will go to yet.......

All of the cards in the next few days will be using chipboard hearts. I have a huge stash of chipboard stuff and hearts were no exception. This one in particular was from Cosmo Cricket and has two holes in the center making it look like a big button. I toyed around with putting a ribbon through it and then thought the glitter would be better.

Cards like these take me a while to play around with I start with wanting to use up something....chipboard. Then wanted to play around with some SAB DP pack from SU...the heart paper and the rest just happens. I think this card from start to finish was 30 minutes. Not bad but, not one I would would want to go into mass production for.

Anyway, thanks for looking! Hope wherever you are in the world your day is sunny and bright!
Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Holiday Best - Hostess
Paper - SU Whisper White, SU DSP - retired, SU SAB Neighbors DSP and Creative Cafe' Notecard
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Cosmo Cricket Chipboard Heart, Unknown Doubleface Satin Ribbon, SU Gold Cord (retired), SU Button (retired), SU 1/4" Circle Punch, Glue Dots, MS White Chunky and Pink Tinsel Glitter, 2 Way Glue Pen

Don't forget to check my sidebar for Blog Candy giveaways!

Happy Monday!

2010-02-08T08:09:00.003-06:00

No pictures or cards this morning, sorry. Wayne and I got back yesterday from our overnight in Springfield, Illinois then we had the Superbowl to watch. So, nothing got made or downloaded. And now I have to rush off to the doctor for my annual check up. I will post later!

Have a great day!
Cindy

Happy Saturday!

2010-02-06T08:28:00.002-06:00

Good Morning Everyone! No card today.....didn't get a chance yesterday to make anything and today we are heading out of town for overnight. We have Marriott rewards points and have a free night to stay at one of their hotels. So, we are going to Springfield, Illinois to check out all the Lincoln stuff. I think last year was his 200th anniversary of his birth. See you when I get back!

Check out my sidebar as I have added some Blog Candy posts. Have a super weekend friends!
Cindy

Sweet Niece Apology

2010-02-04T10:40:00.003-06:00

Good Morning Friends! Chilly and damp here expecting 3-6" of snowy mix later today and overnight. So, good to stay indoors and craft....well, clean and do laundry first!

Back in January I was spending the week in Wisconsin (mentioned in a previous post) taking my sister-in-law's 3 of 4 children to their schools. They live in a rural community and SIL and BIL decided that their public school just weren't meeting the kids needs. So, they decided to send the two little ones to a Charter school and the older one to a different HS. It was a great decision because the kids are just learning by leaps and bounds!! But, it is a 50 mile round trip from their house to the schools and back home!

So, with kids in tow we had some pleasant chatty mornings! But, one of those mornings I got carried away with making up silly names. The middle girl got very upset.....which I learned later.....over the name I gave her. In fact, she made a big deal of it in front of other family members when she decided to reveal it. I just smiled and said "no problem, from now on I will only call you Courtney" (her real name). But, I did not apologize to her. She's 9 and I think having issues with self-esteem so maybe that is wrapped up in all of this as well. So, this went to her along with a Valentine's care package (Valentine theme Magic Pillowcases, cookies, candy, art supplies, etc.) to the whole family. Probably in 10 years she won't remember a thing...at least I hope so!!

I dug out this set which is so whimsical and child friendly. I used a bunch of older things that just need using up. Like those felt flowers and that green paper lacy trim. Thanks for looking!

Happy Crafting!
Cindy

Stamps - SU All in the Family, Family Accessories, Fundamental Phrases
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink, SU Basic Gray
Paper - SU Whisper White, Pink Passion, Gable Green CS and Colorbok DP
Accessories - SU Felt Flowers (retired), SU Rhinestone Brads, SU Orchid Grosgrain Ribbon (retired), Unknown Paper Trim, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil and Blending Stumps

Tender Friends Hello

2010-02-03T21:11:00.004-06:00

I have been buying a lot of retired SU stamp sets lately. Not that I do not like what is in the new catalogs, I do! I just happen to think that some of the older sets deserve a second look. For instance this one, Tender Toile. Love this bunny and floral image. It just reminds me of the art work done in the mid-19th century.

Having done a lot of research on floral and gardening during that time period, I guess I am just hooked on it. I wondered, still do, whether flowers were grown and brought inside like we do or not. My research has shown me that flowers were not high priority during that time period and the only flowers brought indoors might have been something wild. Then it would have been pressed or used in a "water" or similar useage.

Anyway, I suppose this curiosity is one of the reasons why I am taking college courses again.....and in Horticulture no less. I love what I have learned so far and this semester is proving to be quite interesting as well. Taking a course on Soils this semester....no it's not called dirt!

Hope you have a nice day tomorrow. Thanks for coming to look!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Tender Toile, Great Impressions Sentiment
Paper - SU Whisper White, Basic Black, Kraft and Cool Caribbean CS
Ink - SU Whisper White, Ranger Archival Ink
Accessories - M's Ribbon and SU Silver Cord, Stamp-ama- jig

Happy Groundhog's Day!

2010-02-02T06:55:00.005-06:00

Good Morning Friends! I think this is one of the silliest yet, neatest traditions that we have in this country. Don't you? I watched the movie Groundhog's Day over the weekend...silly!

Well, over the month that I did not post anything, I helped family mostly. Wayne and I had Christmas Eve day at our house. Clark was brought over by staff, Mom and brother, Louis, sister, Lisa and her husband, John, were all over. We watched our traditional Christmas movies, ate a lot and opened gifts, of course. I think everyone had a great time!

We drove on Christmas Day to Wayne's folks in Wisconsin.....nice drive, very cold! It's always good to be with them and my In-Laws are always grateful when we come for a nice long visit. We stayed until January 2. During that time we attended a Packer's Football game. That was only the second time I attened a professional football game and second time to an outdoor stadium! It was very cold and windy! Had a super time!!

Also during that time my In-Laws asked us to help out with farm chores while they were gone to a convention for County Fairs in the Dells mid January. Of course, we said yes. Well, that meant we had to come back in less than a week. But, hey, that's what you do when it's family right?

The other thing that we were going to do was take my sister-in-laws kids to school and take Brenda, Wayne's sister, to therapy 3 times a week too. Remember she had brain surgery just before Thanksgiving for a bleed on her brain stem? Well, everything went very well it just left her with some left side paralysis. So, I did the driving of family and Wayne did the farm chores (including milking a goat). We did have a lot of fun. And we sure do miss them all when we have to leave!

About the card.....I just found this retired set and bought it. I had always wanted it just never got around to getting it when it was in the catalogs. So I played with the "new set". Not sure that this card really needs the paper clip and twine...what do you think?

Later today, after I run errands, I will post my Blog Candy. Have a great day!
Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - Noble Deer
Ink - Black Staz On
Paper - SU Mellow Moss, Always Artichoke, Whisper White CS and retired SU DSP
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, SU Key Tag Punch and Lg. Oval Punch, Paperclip, Hemp Twine, Creative Cafe' Rub-ons

Your Friendship Warms My Heart!

2010-02-01T21:37:00.006-06:00

Hello Friends! My goodness it has been a long winters slumber to say the least! I had been very overwhelmed with life for so long. Feeling down and frustrated with things with Clark, my sister-in-law, the holidays and the end of my college course. That I just needed a breather. Thanks for being patient with me.

Clark is doing much better now. The special under the skin pump is working great and he says he feels much better now. We found out last week that the director of the agency that is building a new home for Clark and 3 other men got the states approval for the budget, the house plans got re-configured and the piece of property is getting closed on this week. I am sure that the building with start very soon! So that is the highlight for the New Year so far! It has to get better from here!!

Hey this card was something I have wanted to do for sometime. The background is called Serendipity. You just tear little pieces of paper and start glueing them down. when you are finished, after drying, you can stamp over the top and use a thin coat of Mod Podge if you want. Then after drying again you can use it on your cards or scrapbooking projects.

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - Espress Yourself
Paper - SU River Rock, Terra Cotta, Very Vanilla CS and miscellaneous DP scraps
Ink - SU Close to Cocoa
Accessories - Crocheted flower, Miscellaneous Trim, K & Co Ribbon, Dimensionals, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil and Blending Stumps

PS Tomorrow I will post the information on my Blog Candy!!

Wishing You a Wonderful Christmas

2009-12-24T08:31:00.003-06:00

Dear Friends, I am so sorry that I have not posted in a long time. I have been very overwhelmed with life. While that is no excuse, I just have not had the time or energy to make much nor post what I have made. Hopefully after the New Year, I can get caught back up on life.

In the meantime, know that I value all my friendships and followers that I have gathered along this year. I hope and pray that your Christmas with family and friends is truly blessed. And I hope and pray that 2010 is a better year for you and your family!

God Bless you all!
Cindy

PS Since my blog anniversary is coming at the end of January, I want to offer Candy....so, check back after Jan. 2 for more information!

Thankful Cornucopia Card

2009-11-18T16:02:00.006-06:00

Howdy Friends! I am no longer MIA.....aren't you happy? I have been so incredibly busy with Son, Clark, in hospital and rehab hospital (he's doing fine), college course (getting an A) and getting ready for Christmas (production in full gear). Just have not had the time to post nor visit blogs.

I colored this image over a month ago when I was in the mood...8 of them to be exact. Just for immediate family and BFF, Beth. Lots of work but, so worth it! I love a good Thanksgiving image with some seriousness. We should be thankful for the abundance in our lives.....this image screams that, IMHO.

Thanks for looking and happy crafting!! Happy Thanksgiving too!!!
Cindy

Stamps - Inkadinkadoo, SU Happy Harmony
Ink - Ranger's Archival Ink
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, More Mustard and Dusty Durango Cardstock, Throughly Modern DSP
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Dimensionals, SU Ribbon (retired)

Homey Chrstmas Wish

2009-11-10T06:50:00.003-06:00

Good Morning Friends! This is the last of our Christmas cards.....though I still have to finish my sons small stack (14). I love this front door scene and I really wanted to color it all in but, for the sake of mass production, I opted out.

I have been really trying to use up old products, I mean you can only hoard for so long...then it become obsessive!! So, I used the old SU In-Colors Cranberry Crisp and True Thyme. Isn't it interesting how similar in color it is to the new Soft Suede? Well, at least I found it interesting.

In talking to family this year about Christmas...you know deciding who is hosting, etc.....it dawned on me that Dad won't be here this year. While it makes me sad, it also makes me smile remembering him with his Santa hat and red suspenders on for the entire day. What a character he was! We will miss him very much this year!

Thanks for looking and have a great day!
Cindy

Stamps - Home for Christmas
Paper -SU Very Vanilla, Mellow Moss, Cranberry Crisp (retired) and True Thyme (retired)
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip, Mellow Moss, Cranberry Crisp (retired), True Thyme (retired), Old Olive, Riding Hood Red (retired)
Accessories - Paper Piercer Pack, SU Mellow Moss Grosgrain Ribbon, Blender Pens

Peaceful Christmas Wish

2009-11-09T08:45:00.002-06:00

Good morning fellow stampers! I believe I have finished up the last of our Christmas cards this weekend. It is a very good feeling to be sure.

My goal this year had been to have the cards finished by Nov. 1. I stared in January and every month I made 5-10 cards. I like a lot of variety to choose from and I have a lot of Christmas stamp sets.

This one attracted my attention in the SU catalog because of the dove and peacefulness of the scene. I knew that I could use it a variety of ways. And I knew that it was as close as I would get to making religious cards.....I just am not a religious person. Hope that does not offend anyone; sorry if it does.

Thanks for looking and I hope you have a great day!

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Home for Christmas and A Wish for Peace
Paper - SU Old Olive DSP (retired), SU Cocoa Specality DSP, Whisper White, Soft Suede and Real Red CS
Ink - Old Olive and Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Dimensionals, Chocolate Chip Marker, SU Ribbon Orginals Mistletoe, Stamp-a-majig(the perfectionist in me)

Candy Cane Snowflakes

2009-11-07T07:18:00.002-06:00

Good Morning Friends! Bet you thought I had disappered tosomewhere, didn't you. No, like always just busy with life.

I purchased this from the B/S/T board on SCS a week ago because I have always liked it. Just never had enough money to buy it when it was in the catalog. I love winter.....well, not the ice and slush....but the sparkle and crispness of a winter morning just after we have had a snow. And the morning sun just hits the snow just right.....that sparkle is what I was trying to capture here.

Used my classic ink then went over the top with Versamark, sprinkled on some Heat and Stick Powder, used my heat gun a bit, then sprinkled the Irridescent Ice over the top and a bit more heat. That was it....just enough sparkle!

Hope you like it! Thanks for looking and happy crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - Inkadinkadoo (sentiment), SU Riveting, Snowflakes and Holidays and Wishes
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, Kiwi Kiss and Riding Hood Red CS, Websters Pages DP
Ink - SU Riding Hood Red and Versamark
Accessories - Dimensionals, Heat and Stick Powder, Irridescent Ice Glitter, Stamp-a-majig, SU Round, Wide Oval and Corner Rounder Punches, SU Kiwi Kiss Taffeta Ribbon

Snowflake Thanks

2009-10-27T06:30:00.006-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Finished my Christmas thank you cards this week. Not an overly complicated card, just mass-production mode.

Stamped snowflakes on top note die cut and then sponged Whisper White ink around edges. Make sure you let this ink dry awhile before using or you will get it everywhere!

I applied versamark to the snowflake then Heat and Stick Powder, heat gun to set. Then applied Dazzling Diamonds and lightly used heat gun again to set the glitter. I used a two way glue pen to adhere the letters.

This picture is not the best at showing the shine and sparkle, but if you click on the pic and it will show up better.

Thanks for looking and happy crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps -SU Flaky Friends and Savvy Stamps
Paper - SU Whisper White, Real Red, Night of Navy and Brocade Blue CS
Ink - SU Whisper White, Versamark
Accessories - Big Shot, Top Note, Snowflake and Many Thanks Dies, SU Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Sponges, SU Two Way Glue Pen, SU Heat and Stick Powder, SU Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Crafty Secrets Halloween Treat Holders

2009-10-26T12:55:00.003-05:00

Good Afternoon Friends! I finally got these finished today and wanted you to see them before I gave them away. I made them from a Crafty Secrets Postcard Kit. One of our local stamping store had them and I knew that if I didn't buy them, then and there, they would be gone! The kit did not have enough chipboard to make the backs so I had to improvise with lightweight cardboard.....can you say recycling? The handles are from 3 pieces of florist wire wrapped with floral tape.....if I had thought about it, I could have picked up black! I also tried Glimmer Mist for the first time...don't over mist the effect is not that great! One or two lite mists is plenty to give shine and sparkle.

Hey, thanks for looking and happy crafting!! Have a safe and happy Halloween too!!
Cindy

Paper - Crafty Secrets Postcard Kit, Little Yellow Bicycle DP
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink and SU Pumpkin Pie
Accessories - Glue Stick, Craft Glue, Glitter, Glimmer Mist, Florist Wire and Tape, Assorted Ribbons, Hemp Twine, Sticky Tape

My Crazy Life and Birthday Cards

2009-10-24T18:44:00.004-05:00

Good Evening Friends! I feel very bad for having been away for so long but, as many of you know, life doesn't always cooperate with your crafting! Having said that I want to show you 3 cards today that I have made in the last 2 weeks. Oh, I have been busy doing other projects as well, but let's show the cards first.

The Sparkle with love was so much fun coloring....I think I am getting better at it. Using layers and 2 or 3 colors to give depth . This card is for my sister-in-law, Brenda. Her birthday is next month. She is the gal I talked about in a previous post with the AVM.

Well, she had gone to Mayo Clinic the first of the month for a second opinion. She feels better about what she heard. And she has decided to have the surgery to remove the mass that is on her brainstem. She can have complications from the surgery but, not having the surgery could leave her having another bleed...which could lead, possibly, to death. Not a chance she is willing to take given that she has a dear husband and 4 children. Her sugery will be the day after her birthday in November.....1 week before Thanksgiving. She is hoping to be nearly back to functioning right before Christmas.

The cupcake card is for one of our nieces, Jasmine, who had her 12th birthday last week. I applied stickles to the cupcake frosting and glossy accents to the cherries.

The Cheers to You Strawberry Daquiri card was made for Jasmine's Mom, Rene'. Her birthday was the day after Jasmine's. I have no idea if she like this type of drink, I just thought it was festive looking! I put glossy accents on the glass and stickles on the strawberry. I really liked how that one turned out!

Rene' and Jasmine are a part of Wayne's brother's, Steven, family. And they are coming down from Wisconsin Halloween weekend for a visit. The schools up there have that Friday off. It will be so nice to have some alone time with all of them! Seems like we don't get to do much visiting when the entire family gets together.

Other than getting ready for family to come, I have been busy advocating for our son, Clark. And visiting him in the hospital, he had to have another G/J-tube put in. Due to a "comedy of errors" on the part of his home and the hospital, he ended up staying 3 nights in there...and he wasn't even sick! Oh yes, Icomplained to everyone who would listen! Hopefully, I didgood. You guys, I won't bore you with my long stories about who I talked to and what happened. If you are really interested, send me an e-mail and I will.

Of course, my college class is keeping me busy as is our garden and getting it ready for winter. But, I do not know what I would do without all of that to do.....oh....wait.....maybe make more cards or something crafty! LOL!

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Sparkle with Love

Stamps - Unknown sentiment, Magnolia (stamped by Linda from Linda's Crafty Creations)
Paper - SU Real Red Patterns Pack DSP, SU Whisper White and Old Olive CS, SU Urban Oasis DSP (retired)
Ink - SU Basic Gray
Accessories - Unknown Chipboard, SU Large Oval Punch, Fire Rhinestone Brads, SU Red Riding Hood Taffeta Ribbon, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, White Gel Pen

Cupcake Wishes

Stamps - SU Heard From The Heart and Darling Dots
Paper - SU Whisper White and Pink Passion CS
Ink - SU Pink Passion
Accessories - Cuttlebug Folder, SU Punches, SU Tempting Turquoise Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals, SU Markers

Strawberry Cheers to You

Stamps - SU Cheers To You and Tart and Tangy
Paper - SU Real Red, Whisper White and Green Galore CS
Ink - Ranger's Archival Ink
Accessories - Ranger's Glossy Accents, Stickles, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Cuttlebug Folder, Unknown Brads, SU Apple Grosgrain Ribbon

Two-Bottle Frappuccino Carrier

2009-10-05T11:45:00.007-05:00

Well, finally, I have this finished....though not filled yet, too early for that. But, at least if you choose to make this you have plenty of time to do so before gift giving time. I found the general idea http://laurenm.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/2007/06/01/ive-got-some-hot-stuff-my-favortie-things-is-here/ and though Lauren did not have actual directions, I got enough from her post to make it work for me.

Now, let me say, that I am not perfect....don't claim to be.....so, if you find something amiss, please let me know and I will fix it.

Supplies:

Lightweight Cardboard (I used the back of a 12" x 12" designer

paper pack and another small piece)

Adhesive ( I used a combo of wet glue, glue stick and stickytape)

Scissors Bone

Folder

Paper Cutter

Score Pal

Designer Paper

Corner Rounder Punch

Large Oval Punch (or Key Tag Punch)

Ruler

Tacky Tape of some type

Directions:

1. Cut the cardboard into an 8 1/2" x 11" rectangle (this is your carrier body).

2. Score the short end of the carrier body at 3" and 5 1/2" and score the long end at 3" and 8".

3. Using your cutter, cut the short end at the 3" and 5 1/2" score lines up to the 3" score line on

both sides. Fold on all score lines using the bone folder, making sure you line up all edges.

4. You will now cut 1/2" off of each of the 3" x 3" flaps, be careful not to catch the center flap in

the cut. This is important when you put your carrier together that these cuts are even. You

will also need to cut about 1/16" off the center flap (this is so it does not stick up when you put

the carrier together).

5. Add your sticky strip to the inside of all 4 end flaps and to the inside bottom of carrier bottom

(this is where your handle will be attached). Set aside.

6. Cut 2 handle pieces from cardboard 2 1/2" x 10". Score at 8" on each piece; this will be where

you fold out and attach to carrier bottom later.

7. Corner round each corner of one end of each handle piece. Put handle pieces together, do not

adhere yet, and punch handle out centering and down 1/2" from top. Set aside for now.

8. Now you are going to cut your designer paper; which will decorate the outside of the carrier body

and handle. Cut 2 pieces 3" x 10 1/16" (this tiny smidge will help with the corners, trust me)

and 2 pieces 2 1/2" x 7 1/4".

9. Score the body pieces at 3" and 8".

10.Corner round and handle openings on the handle pieces to match the cardboard pieces. You may

adhere the DP to the cardboard handle piece before you punch. Then adhere the two cardboard

pieces together. Fold out the scored sections, so that your handle piece looks like an inverted "T"

11.Remove the liner from the stick tape and adhere the handle to the bottom, one side at a time,

making sure that it is centered. You may need to trim a tiny bit off the end or sides to make a

good fit. *In fact, you may want to check the fit first before you stick!

12.Adhere the DP to the carrier body. Do not adhere the ends until after you have constructed one

side of the body by folding up the center flap and folding over each end on one side. Now you may

adhere those DP flaps to the cardboard end, gently creasing as you go. Complete the other side of

the carrier the same way.

13.Hooray! You have just completed your carrier and you are ready to decorate it!

I hope you enjoy making this, I did but, then I love a challenge! Let me know if I can help you in any way. The snowflake is made with a chipboard piece with Whisper White Craft Ink, Heat and Stick Powder and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter.

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

10/6/09 On a side note; the bottles will have a snug fit with my dimensions. I chose to do this because I wanted to put less effort into the bottles since the carrier was the main focus. If you want to decorate your bottles more, you will want to change the dimensions to 3" x 6" and forgo the cutting of the end flaps. You will also have to cut your strips of designer paper to 11".

Don't Forget

2009-10-05T07:33:00.002-05:00

Please check out my sidebar for Blog Candy. I just added a new one! Good luck to you!!

Nearly finished with the directions for the Frapp Carrier.....waiting for a sunny day to get a great picture!

No New Cards Today

2009-09-29T21:59:00.002-05:00

So sorry, no new cards today. I have been busy working on some Christmas gifts for school and home (where my son lives) staff. My hope, when I am finished, to be able to post my first tutorial. Now, don't expect anything fancy because I sure am not an expert at doing that sort of thing. But, I was not able to find anything out in blogging land to help me. So, I adapted.....and thought you might like it too.

What is it that I am making, you ask? Well, I adapted someone elses 2 bottle Frappuccino Carrier into something I liked a bit better....shorter and more narrow. I like the Frappuccino okay enough and don't mind buying it when it is on sale. I have stashed away about 12 bottles. But, I find that I will need about 9 more bottles.....and this week our grocery store has the 4 packs on sale for $4.99. I have enlisted the help of my DH to drink some of them.

I will post pictures when I get them finished....still have to find some great ribbon about 1" wide to accent the boxes. Tomorrow afternoon, I will stop at Michael's and Hobby Lobby (with coupons in hand) to see what I can find.

Talk to you later and Happy Crafting always!
Cindy

Pink Lemonade Bird-Day!

2009-09-24T06:19:00.002-05:00

Hi Friends! Just taking a little break from studying....another big test tomorrow in my Horticulture class...Ugh!

Not sure who I made this for??? But, a while back I was cleaning things in my craft area....kind of sounds like Area 51 and sometimes looks like it!......when I found a bunch of stamped images. I had borrowed the set from one of my Demos a year or so back. It's time I started using up these images! I bet you have of these too just laying around.

I like paring light DP with Black it really makes the colors pop, IMO! Not to mention I had 2 packs of Black CS...no idea how that happened! See what happens when you clean....no hints here, you know who you are!!! Only kidding friends!!

Anyway, thanks for looking at my stuff! Have a super day and Happy Crafting always!!
Cindy

Stamps - Tickled Pink
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink
Paper - K & Co DP, Doodlebug Borders, SU Whisper White, Basic Black and Regal Rose CS
Accessories - SU Rose Grograin Ribbon - Wide and Narrow, Basic Grey Button, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps

Hollyhocks for Mom

2009-09-22T07:04:00.002-05:00

Using one of my older jumbo SU wheels for this one. Took me a couple of tries to get a good clean and straight image that was not over stamped. I think that is why I am going to take all the rubber off the wheels and put on EZ Mount. Then use on an acrylic block. Just as soon as I have a bit of spare time....maybe when my son is in the hospital in November and I am just sitting there for hours on end.

Anyway.....stamped and cut out the butterflies from Tagger's Dozen and popped them up on teeny tiny bits of dimensionals. Now that was a challenge. I wanted to use some of the Pomegranate CS and ribbon so, that was my color scheme. Used Prismas for the flowers and sponged the blue bg and used chalks for highlighting. My MIL loved the card!

Thanks for looking and happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Edgy Eloquence, Taggers Dozen, Hollyhock Jumbo Wheel
Paper - SU Whisper White, Brocade Blue and Purely Pomegrante CS
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip, Brocade Blue
Accessories - Dimensionals, SU Pomegranate Ribbon (retired), Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, SU Chalks, Sponges

Holiday Mittens

2009-09-21T21:24:00.002-05:00

I know what you are thinking....I can't believe she is posting 2 times in one day.....yeah, well, I had a couple of moments to take a break from studying.

While this is a retired SU set it is new to me. Orginally when I saw it in the catalog I liked it but, didn't think it had enough versitility to buy it at full price. Then I saw that my SU demo had it on sale not too long ago. So.....

I made some cards for my stash that were relatively quick! Plus I am still trying to use up some retired stuff! Thanks for taking a look!

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Flaky Friends
Paper - SU Whisper White, Very Vanilla, Sage Shadow and Certainly Celery CS, Wintergreen and Certainly Celery DSP (retired)
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip, Sage Shadow and Certainly Celery
Accessories - Dimensionals, SU Ticket Corner Punch, Sponges, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Jelly Roll Pen (around the mitten images), SU Taffeta and Grosgrain Ribbons

Candlelit Halloween Card

2009-09-21T06:55:00.003-05:00

Hi Friends! This card was very quick and easy. Not the big creation I would normally like to make. But, last weekend I went to a Shoebox Swap in our area and wanted something that was just a bit challenging....the brads and wire application but, not overly because of the varying degrees of stampers. Guess you could pop up both baskets and fill with stamped goodies if you wanted.

Wayne and I took the big drive to Wisconsin this weekend (it is always long and boring...Hwy 39 North is the worst). One of his brothers was throwing a little get together for their Mom at his house for her birthday (tomorrow I will post her birthday card). We had a great time the whole weekend, we always do.

I think I mentioned that they live on a farm, right? Well, they had hay cut (which has to stay on the ground for a week drying) and Saturday was the day to bale. Our brother-in-law came over with his tractor and extra hay wagon to help my FIL. It was neat to watch, as I am a city girl and have never seen this. They have this cool kick baler that after the hay is baled, the machine, that is pulled behind the tractor, shoots out the bale into the wagon. Which is pulled behind the baler. What a process it all is. Wish I had taken a photo!!

I don't think I could be a farm girl but, having In-Laws who live on a farm has given me an appreciation for what farmers must go through on a day-to-day basis. I am very fortunate to have a wonderful set of In-Laws; I love them both very much!

Thanks for looking and have a great day!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Carved and Candlelit, Inkadinkado Sentiment
Paper - SU Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White CS, 7Gypsies DP
Ink - SU Pumpkin Pie and Basic Black
Accessories - Paper Piercer, Brads, Jewlery Wire, Dimensionals, White Gel Pen

Margarita Note Card

2009-09-17T07:10:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I have been so incredibly busy these past few weeks, it makes my head spin just thinking about my packed days!!

I have gone back to college! Don't know what I am really going to do.....just decided to take a course that interested me.....Introduction to Horticulture! I has been fun so far!

Our son has kept us busy too....though more with worry than anything fun. He has been having problems with his feeding tube over the past 3 weeks. Yesterday we think we solved the problem!
We are keeping our fingers crossed!!

About the card this was for the Newlyweds for the wedding on September 5 that we were invited to. I had planned to get them the Margarita set they had on their registery at Target, except the one they wanted was plastic and the one at the store was glass. So, I went out and bought the Margarita Mix, Tequila and Rim Salt....put it in the box with this card. I let them know that the set was getting shipped to them. I haven't heard from them yet as to whether it was a hit or not.

I use Crystal Effects on the glass first, let it dry then did Crystal Effects again on the rim with the chunky glitter. You can't see too much in the photo but, I did put some stickles on the lime (which turned out a bit darker than I wanted!)

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Cheers To You
Paper - SU Whisper White and Sahara Sand CS, Textured Whisper White CS and Bazzill Textured Green (unkown name) CS
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Crystal Effects, MS Irridescent Chunky Glitter, Lime Green Stickles

Wedding Card

2009-09-03T07:05:00.004-05:00

Our neighbor's son is getting married on Saturday so, I needed a card. He is their youngest son and is marrying into a family of three already. His Mom, my friend and neighbor, is always so nice....well, his Dad is too! I haven't been to a wedding in ages so, hope this will be fun!

Anyway about the card.....I just could not find my own inspiration so I turned to the incredibly talented folks on SCS. I found this card by Amy Rohl
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1437017?&cat=500&ppuser=37423 I made my sentiment piece a bit too small but, I think it worked. I did not have a 1 3/4" punch so, I used a chipboard circle, covered it with CS and attached the punched Monagram circle over it....I think it gave the look of a nestability die. I could not find a charm to add that went with the look of the card.....they all looked either too cheap or were the wrong color. I gave up and found a nice looking button, which I cut the shank off. I think it is needing something else but, I don't want to "junk" it up too much. So, I stopped.

Thanks for looking, I always appreciate your comments.
Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Stamps - SU Baroque Motifs, All Year Cheer III, Lovely Letters Alpha
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, Sahara Sand and Chocolate Chip CS
Accessories - Cuttlebug Folder, Big Shot, Score-Pal, Dimensionals, K & Co Pearls, SU Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Offray Wide Ribbon, Bo Bunny Chipboard, SU 1 3/8" Circle Punch

Happy September Everyone!!

2009-09-02T15:10:00.003-05:00

Yes, again it has been way too many days since I last posted. No excuses here other than my busy life! Gardening, volunteering, getting Clark ready for school, making a decision to go back to school myself......yada, yada!

Just wanted to post something I made with my new purchase.....my birthday was August 1....thank you (bowing)....and I bought a Big Shot and some dies. I love how easy it is to use....having had a Cuttlebug for a couple of years. Now I have to have all these neat dies from Stampin' Up!

I made this card because I will have need for some guy cards soon. The button and arrow are some chipboard pieces I have been hoarding for some time. And I can't tell you when I bought the ribbon??? It was fun and very easy to make....something different for me!!

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Fundamental Phrases
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink
Paper - SU Basic Grey, Kraft and Kiwi Kiss CS, SU Urban Oasis DSP
Accessories - Bo Bunny Chipboard, Twine, Dimensionals, Bigz Top Note Die, Big Shot, Unknown Twill Ribbon

Rosey True Friend

2009-08-19T09:33:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I bet you thought I forgot about you? Well, rest assured, I did not. Summer always is so busy for us with Gardening, Traveling and Loafing! HA!

Anyway, I needed a card for my SIL who was just diagnosed Monday with AVM. Arteriovenous Malformation is a snarled tangle of arteries and veins that disrupts the process of blood flow. There is still much we do not know at this time; she still needs to see a specialist soon. This is the SIL that has 4 girls and one of them has special needs. We are all very worried but, are trying to think positive for her sake.

I have been trying to do my best to work on stashes of DP, I am nearly finished with this pack! You cannot tell by the picture (no sun today) that I had used glitter for the flower center....looks better IRL!

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Stamps - SU True Friend, Curvy Verses
Paper - SU Whisper White, Old Olive and Rose Red CS, SU Petals and Paisley DP
Ink - SU Pretty in Pink and Rose Red
Accessories - SU Key Tag Punch, Non-SU Glitter, Glue Pen, SU Rose Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red and Old Olive Markers

Bright Cardinal Christmas

2009-08-10T08:46:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I have had this stamp for a very long time! Still love it and probably will never get rid of it! I like this image much better than the one that was offered by SU!

Used Prismas and Baby Oil for the coloring....took quite sometime to get the best color combo down. Had to cover up the sentiment on the orginal stamp and I can see now that the one I used to cover it up is a bit crooked....oh well! Hope you like it!

Make it a great day!!
Cindy

Stamps - PSX, All Year Cheer III
Paper - SU Ivory Naturals, Whisper White and Close to Cocoa CS, SU DSP retired
Ink - Ranger Archival Black Ink, Ranger Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories - Dimensionals, SU Key Tag Punch, SU Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps

Blog Awards I Have Recieved

2009-08-09T10:08:00.004-05:00

I want to thank the lovely ladies for bestowing on me these Awards. Thanks for sending them my way and supporting me in this adventure in the world of blogging. You are both very creative ladies and so sweet too!

The I Like Your Style came from my friend Julie at Special Craft Mom to 4 http://specialcraftmom.blogspot.com/ Julie is so very sweet and creative. I know her from the SCS Shoebox Swap here in St. Louis. Every month we get together at a different person's house to have fun and share a card with each other.

Her rules are that I have to give this to 5 other bloggers. So, here's to Dina, Jo, Steph, JD and Rebecca. You five ladies are creative, supportive and sweet...and I love your style!! Thanks!

This award came from Linda at ~Linda's Crafty Creations~ http://lindascraftycreations.blogspot.com/ Another super creative lady who does some amazing coloring on her images and embellishes with relish! Thanks Linda!

Maybe you can pass one, or both, of these on to someone you know that deserves to be recognized for the sweet creative person they are!

Make it a great day!
Cindy

True's Gift Blog Candy

2009-07-31T06:37:00.003-05:00

Trudy is giving away blog candy until the end of August. Go see for yourself at

www.truesgiftsfromtheheart.blogspot.com don't you love surprises?? Good Luck!!

Cindy

From Our Krafty House to Yours

2009-07-30T07:15:00.004-05:00

Good Morning Friends! I have another Christmas card to share with you today. I have been on a roll with these type of cards because of the goal I have set for myself. I got another 6 done yesterday... making about 24 remaining to be made. It makes me feel very good!

I really liked this set last catalog and so ordered just before retiring. I love Kraft cardstock, reds and brown together. It looks so comfy homey together. What I am not so crazy about is that I took this pic outside under the patio table umbrella....the shadow is funky. And I am not so sure about that white oval sentiment. But, it was quick and easy and will ship well. What do you think?

Went out last night with one of my Husband's co-workers, Kevin. He has to come in once every 6 weeks or so to work here but, he works from home the rest of the time. So, it is always nice when he comes because we get into such deep conversations about life, religion and politics.....yes, I know...we should not talk about some of that stuff!

He is from New Jersey where he and his wife raise their 8 children....no he is not Octo-dad! They had 4 naturally and adopted a sibling group of 5 from somewhere in Russia. The sibiling group has had many mental issues to deal with because of the home they came from and the one son, who does not live at home, has severe mental issues. The family is not safe when that son is around. Anyway, Kevin and Christina do a heck of a job taking care of them all! And, btw, they go through 3 gallons of milk a day!

Well, hope you have a nice day today. Tomorrow we are heading to Chicago to celebrate my birthday. Did not want a party of any kind this year...it's just not the same without Dad!

Thanks for looking!
Cindy

Stamps - To You And Yours
Paper - SU Kraft, Whisper White and Chocolate Chip CS, Riding Hood Red DSP
Ink - SU Riding Hood Red
Accessories - SU Scallop Border Punch and Large Oval Punch, SU Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon, Fiskars Oval Cutter, Dimensionals

Merry Holiday Candles

2009-07-29T15:01:00.004-05:00

Good Afternoon Friends! Just when you thought I was finished using Big Birthday Candle, I found another way to use it! My inspiration was the floral paper. And one of the complimentary colors was Garden Green.....this was the first time I used it in about 2 years! Guess it was time, huh?

It's difficult to see but the red patterned paper has glitter on it so, to compliment that I used Stickles on the candle flame. I am really lovin' this gradiated flame, if I don't say so myself!!

Thanks for taking the time to look at my creation. Hope your summer is going great and that you are not too hot and bothered!

Cindy

Stamps - SU Big Birthday Candle, Lots Of Thoughts
Paper - SU Garden Green, Basic Black and Whisper White CS, DCWV DP
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink, SU Real Red, Summer Sun, Pumpkin Pie
Accessories - MS Scallop Border Punch, SU Scallop Circle Punch, SU Grosgrain Ribbon, Gold Stickles

Christmas Card Assortment

2009-07-27T08:27:00.005-05:00

Good Morning! I wanted to share with you some ideas for easy cards. Last year I took a Big Picture Scrapbooking class with Kolette Hall. The class was wonderful and so was Kolette. I have some pictures of my class creations on my SCS Gallery if you care to take a look (Mosaic Christmas Frame, Acrylic Frame, Family Word Books and Page Protector Calendar). These cards are from 2008, BTW.

However, I did not post these cards, don't know why, just did not. But, what I wanted to tell you was that I have these sentiments in a PDF file that I can share with you. If you let me know your e-mail I can send them to you.....there are 4 colors!!

As you can see there are loads of variety and ways to use up ordinary papers and supplies...look at that Merry Christmas with the little bird....isn't that cute?! And I used SU and 7Gypsies papers and retired In-Color ribbon. Well.....you let me know if I can help you make your Christmas cards easier....okay?

Yesterday, I met one of my friends, Gillian, at the DeMenil House....it was in one of my earlier posts for a book signing about the Lemp Mansion, which is situated right next door. It was wonderful to hear Stephen Walker talk about the interesting Lemp family. They were one of the early brewing families in this part of the country.

They must have had some mental illness in their family tree because 3 of them committed suicide in that house. Now the house is haunted by several ghosts, one of them is a dog!

Patrons have reported all sorts of strange noises, sightings and occurances as the house is now a Bed and Breakfast and Restaurant. Yes, people do come and stay there simply because it is haunted!!

Just to let you know...I do believe in the paranormal....someday, I will tell you my stories!!

It was a nice day and being with my friend was a great way to spend Sunday! Take care and have a great week!
Cindy

Stamps - SU Short & Sweet
Paper - Assorted SU and 7Gypsies, SU Cardstock
Ink- Ranger Archival Black Ink
Accessories - Dimensionals, Asst. Ribbons and buttons, SU Corner Rounder Punch, Bunny Tails Springs, Brads and eyelets, Computer Generated Sentiments

We Three Snowmen

2009-07-26T06:52:00.003-05:00

Good Morning! Can you believe it, I am posting 3 days in a row!! Me either!! Well, I had been making a bunch of Christmas cards and I am finally getting around to posting them. So...Enjoy!

Wayne and I spent the day yesterday working in our gardens. We took out a small retaining wall on in one of our shade gardens and replaced it with new brick. What a back-breaking job!! The left over brick will be the back of another garden.

When we moved into our house, our first together, there was nothing. Save for 2 trees and a very sloped yard with a chain link fence. Now we have several gardens and it is a place where we spend much time in the summer. I hope you have a place to enjoy your summer even if it is hot and humid, you still need a place to relax and watch the world go by. Some day soon I will post my garden pics.

Thanks for looking! Make it a great Sunday!!
Cindy

Stamps - PSX, Judith, Short & Sweet
Paper - SU Soft Sky and Whisper White CS, Soft Sky DSP
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink, SU Whisper White Craft
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Stickles, SU Soft Sky Double Stitched Ribbon, Stampabilities Paper Clip

2009 Christmas Spruce

2009-07-25T07:23:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas in July!! I hope that all of you are starting to put your thinking caps on about what will take place in 6 months??!! Well I have been as you can see. I have about 30 or so cards remaining to make by Nov. 1.

I generally make 3-5 of each design, that way I have lots to choose from and I don't get too bored with the same design.
I have a couple of sets still to use and I am looking for a great religious stamp. I think I found one in the new mini coming up starting Sept. 1. I saw it at my Demo's house the other day.....I drooled all over that mini....sorry Dina.

I have quite a few friends and family that really appreciate a card with the holy famly, nativity, etc. But, in the past few years, I have not found one that was not "cutsie". Is anyone else having that problem? I love Stampin' Up! but, I think they are lacking in this area.....in general.

Any way, this was fun to make. I used the paper and ribbon as my inspiration....hint...curlys on the ribbon tie into the garland on the tree! And I am really lovin' how the addition of a couple of black layers makes the other colors pop. Super easy and quick....and no bulky embellies to mail!

Hope you have a great day. Thanks for looking too!
Cindy

Stamps - Fun & Fast Notes
Paper - SU Old Olive, Basic Black, Real Red and Whisper White, DCWV DP
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Blending Stumps, Stickles, Ribbon (michael's)

Christmas in July

2009-07-24T18:11:00.004-05:00

I have been working on my Christmas cards for this year for quite a few months. I waited until the last minute last year and it was awful hurrying like I did. So, I set my goal of 80 to be finished by November 1. That way I could get them all in the mail by December 1. I thought it was a doable plan!

I bought this set used from my Demo, Dina Lanzendorf not too long ago and am loving it. Guess you could tell with all the cards a few days ago!!

Well this one I cased from Jan Tink, have I told you that she is so very funny, sarcastic humor and very creative....well I did now. Anyway, I wanted to use up some scraps. Dug through my stash of ribbon and found this metallic eyelash cord. I reverse masked the candle flame and used my index finger to get the gradiation of the flames. It was fun and only a bit time consuming!

Thanks for looking!!

Cindy

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle, Many Merry Messages
Paper - SU Real Red, Handsome Hunter and Whisper White, DCWV and Peebles DP
Ink - Ranger Archival Black, SU Barely Banana, Summer Sun and Pumpkin Pie
Acessories - SU Square Scallop Punch, Paper Piercer, Silver Brads, Stamp-a-majig, Post-it-note, Metallic Cord

I Just Love You!

2009-07-22T07:11:00.009-05:00

I just wanted to take the time to tell all of you who visit me, that I Love You! I appreciate that you read my rambling mind, the fact that I am opinionated (the political post, which I probably won't do again) and my issues with family. But, I especially love that you make such nice comments about my cards and crafts!

In the very near future, I will be posting for Blog Candy. Yes, I didn't think it was necessary but, have changed my mind. So, I have been shopping around for just the right mix of goodies!

Making this card is helping me reduce the amount of DP I have and use a set that I have not used yet. I see that all the time on B/S/T on SCS that folks have them unmounted and unused. But, when I bought this paper and set, I loved that it was whimsical looking, had flowers and a butterfly. It's difficult to see in the picture but, the butterfly has stickles on it.

BTW, I am selling some of my retired SU sets. I am trying to figure out a way to post them but, in the mean time you can go to cvansluys on SCS in the B/S/T thread to find my ad if you are interested.

Hope you have a great day!

Stamps - I Just Love You
Paper - SU Flowers for You DSP, Whisper White and Tempting Turquoise CS
Ink - SU Regal Rose
Accessories - SU Tempting Turquiose, Regal Rose, Old Olive and Lovely Lilac Markers, SU Grosgrain Ribbon, SU Scallop Border Punch, Paper Piercer, Dew Drops, Stickles

Make a Wish

2009-07-19T08:56:00.005-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Yes, it has been awhile since I posted something but, it had been awhile since I made something. I think it's that thing that cardmakers talk about.....loosing your MoJo?

Don't how I lost it...maybe it's this sadness I have been feeling for so many things I cannot change in my life right now, maybe it is the lack of funds to buy something new to stamp with or maybe it is something entirely different, like gardening that takes so much time. At any rate, I needed to make some birthday cards last week and took a day to myself to make some.

I bought this set used from my Demo. I thought it would be pretty handy for some masculine cards or maybe even a christmas card. I perused the Big Birthday Candle set gallery and found 2 cards that I liked for the design just the way they were. The one to the left and the green and black near the bottom, both by HamiltonGal on SCS.

Designer Paper by 7Gypsies has always been one of my favorite lines. I bought this in a paper pack before last Christmas to work on a project, but realized that it would take too long for the time I had and be way over the amount I wanted to spend. So, I shelved the whole thing. But, when I was looking for some guy type paper I spotted it and thought...hmmm, this will be fine!

The 50th card I sent to my brother out in California. He and I were so close to each other for so many of our childhood years. Then when I went to high school, things between us changed. He got into some not so good relationships with "bad boys" and nothing I said made any difference. We spent many years not talking to each other...the last time I saw him was at our sisters wedding in 1993. He was starting a new relationship with a really good woman, Rose....I think she saw the good man that he really is. They are married now and happy.

Then when our Father passed away 2 months ago, we were thrown back together. We started talking again.....I told him life is too short to be mad any longer. So, we are trying to reconnect our relationship again. I am grateful that he has found peace in his heart and has forgiven himself for the wrongs he has done and is moving forward. As it should be.

The other cards are for future birthdays in the family....older niece, nephew and sister-in-law. They are not masterpieces but, I had fun making them and I hope the recipents will like them too. I really liked that I sponged the flame of the candle, that was fun!

Hope you have a great week! I appreciate you looking too!

7Gypsies card

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle, So Many Scallops

Paper - 7Gypsies Zanzibar DP, Sahara Sand and Basic Black CS

Ink - Ranger Archival Ink

Accessories - 1 3/4" circle punch

Make a Wish card

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle

Paper - Confetti White, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze and So Saffron CS, SU Sweet Slumber Speciality DSP

Ink - SU Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze and More Mustard

Accessories - Paper Clip, Zig Marker and SU Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon

Birthdays are the Best

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle and It's Your Birthday

Paper - SU Pumpkin Pie, Real Red, Whisper White and So Saffron CS, Washington Apple DSP

Ink- SU More Mustard, Ranger Archival Ink

Accessories - Paper Clip, Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon, SU Small and Large Tag Punches

Amethyst Happy Birthday

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle and It's Your Birthday

Paper - SU Almost Amethyst, Whisper White and So Saffron CS, SU Tea Party DSP

Ink - Ranger Archival Ink, SU Almost Amethyst and More Mustard

Accessories - Wide Ric Rack, Cotton Thread50th Birthday card

Stamps - Big Birthday Candle, So Very, Wonderful Favorites, Short Order Numbers

Paper - SU Basic Black and Kiwi Kiss, SU Rockabilly Speciality DSP

Ink - Ranger Archival Ink

Accessories - SU On Board Lots of Letters Chipboard, Zig Marker, Crystal effects

So Very Loved - Always

2009-07-01T14:28:00.004-05:00

It has been nearly a month and a half since my Dad passed away. I think I am doing pretty good dealing with his not being at home when I go to see Mom. I keep expecting to see him sitting in his chair when I open the door. Mom is having a very difficult time dealing with it, which is to be expected since he was her life's partner. She has most of her grief when no one is at home. She was worried that she was crying too much but, I think as long as she is crying, that is a good thing.

Anyway, I decided to make a couple of cards to send to Lisa, my younger sister, Chris, my younger brother and Mom. I wanted to let them know how much I love them and to apologize if I said anything in grief that has caused them pain. I feel I did, don't remember what it was but, I can feel there is distance. I am hoping to say some kind words to 'mend fences'.

The Orange and White is for Mom. I cased this from Leigh Ann Baird off of SCS. I change it a bit but really liked the flowers on the panel. Wished the 'loved' showed up better. I used my markers to color the small prismas because I did not have the color I wanted.

The Blue and Kraft is for my sister, Lisa....she loves these colors. I cased this from Putri on SCS, I really like her style of cardmaking.

This one is for Chris, he lives out in Mid-coast California. He was not able to come home to visit with Dad prior to his passing away. But, he came for a week staying with Lisa and my BIL, John. He helped Mom do some repairs around the house that Dad just was not able to do. I think they had a good time catching up.

Thanks for looking and I hope that you have a great holiday weekend!!

Cindy

The supplies are in no particular order this time....sorry.

Stamps - SU Embrace Life and So Very; Hero Arts Printers Type Alpha
Ink - SU Tempting Teal, Chocolate Chip and Pumpkin Pie
Paper - SU Bali Breeze, Parisian Breeze Speciality and Washington Apple DSP, Whisper White, Confetti White, Tempting Teal, River Rock, Pumpkin Pie, Baja Breeze, Kraft, Blue Bayou and Textured Tempting Teal CS
Accessories - SU Ribbons, Punches and Buttons (except for the brown one, it is from my collection of antiques), Unknown Blue ribbon, Making Memories Button Brads and Lil' Davis Chipboard

Freedom and Garland

2009-06-27T13:20:00.005-05:00

Happy Saturday Friends!

First let me preface what I am going to say with an apology and a warning. I am going to say things that may or may not be something you want to talk about or that may offend your sensibilities. I love that you come to check out my crafts and that you leave me feedback.....and I know that I may be risking your friendship by speaking my mind.

I wanted to make something for July 4th to decorate our home. So many other holidays get decorations that this one needs it too. I also wanted to remind friends and family how important our Freedom is....this is where I stand on my soapbox and say....

I am not happy with many of our current members of Government and I am afraid that a good deal of our freedoms may be in the process of getting taken away. If we do not stand up and let our feelings be known, by talking to our legislators, we may end up in serious trouble 4 years from now and we will only have ourselves to blame. I believe that we have been heading down this road for many years so, it is not something new.

As I watch events unfold on TV about our country (the incredible amounts of money being spent, the bailouts, continued loss of jobs, etc.), I am reminded of our Founding Fathers....what they faced to stand up to King George....what they risked! They loved their native country, England, but, they could not stand by here in the colonies and be dictated to....and taxed to death. So they not only revolted once but twice!!

If this Cap and Trade (Tax) Bill passes the Senate you can expect our taxes to go up to the tune of about $3,000 a year! How do you think government will get the money to fund all the things they want to do? Now, I do not know about you but, I think I pay just enough taxes already!

What I am asking you to do is be informed about what the real truths are about what is going on in our country and what our government is trying to accomplish....mainstream TV does not give you the complete answers, please try to watch Fox News. They are fair and balanced! And no I do not get any kickbacks for saying any of this!! Call or e-mail your legislators and tell them you are mad as hell and not going to take this anymore! If they do not hear from you then, they will think you are okay with the status quo.

Thank you friends for listening to me I just need to speak up and say what needs to be said....I love my country very much, I would not want to live anywhere else but, I am not willing to lay down and let them walk all over me and my family!! Here are some links to find your House of Representatives and Senators
http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

Stamps - None
Paper - Moxxie, Creative Imaginations, Graphic 45 DPs and SU Confetti White CS
Ink - SU Creamy Caramel
Accessories - Cricuit, SU Rough Edges Wheel, Dimensionals, Metallic Pipecleaners, K & Co Glue, Grungeboard Letters, Colorbok Chipboard, Basic Gray Sanding Tools, Assorted Ribbons and Fabric Strips

Have a great weekend (off my soapbox for now)!
Cindy

More Father's Day and a Lovely Surprise!

2009-06-22T07:50:00.005-05:00

Spent part of the morning with Clark has his home. The day before Clark and I worked on his gift to Dad, a Chili Grill. You hollow out Jalapeno peppers, stuff them then set the whole thing on the grill. Wayne loves hot peppers!! Anyway, I had this stamp of the grill and that is what Clark chose to make the kraft paper wrap and the paperbag card. Not very sophisticated but, Clark thought it was funny. I you notice something weird about Clark's teeth, he had been drinking blue Gatorade!

After time with Clark we drove to the cemetary to see Dad's plot. When we got to his section and started looking for his number, I was so surprised to see that his headstone was there and grass had started growing. In fact, it made me cry.....well, maybe it was because it was Father's Day and I was missing him. That look on my face was me crying.....asked Wayne to take another, he did and it was worse.

We spent part of the evening together, no one cried but you could feel the tension. Everyone is trying so hard to be supportive to each other but, there are already some hurts happening because of things that have been said. All I can do is pray for guidance for each of us to be strong and know that Dad is okay.....and so will we.

Hope you had a nice weekend! Have a great day!

Cindy

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T09:17:00.004-05:00

I made this for my Father-In-Law, Will, this year. Liked this paper and thought it would be nice

for him since he is a really uncomplex sort of guy. I cased this from Wendy Janson on SCS.

Heading over to my Mother's house today, kind of weird/sad to think that Dad won't be there. We are having dinner together anyway. Someone mentioned that we might go over to the Cemetary, see Dad's grave and talk to him. We know that his headstone will not be there yet, the govenrment takes up to 6 months to get it made and installed. My father was buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetary. He was in the Navy for 2 years and the Air Force for 4. He loved his country and served it with honor.

Happy Father's Day and God Bless you Dad!

Stamps - Lovely as a Tree, AYC II
Paper - Baja Breeze, Kraft, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White CS, Baja Breeze DP
Ink - Chocolate Chip
Accessories - SU Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon, Unknown hardware

Thanks for looking!

Cindy

Leisurely Sunday with Mom

2009-06-08T07:01:00.005-05:00

Yesterday my Mom and I went to the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion in downtown St. Louis for their 19th Century Ladies Crafts Day. The original farmhouse that was on this spot was built in the 1840's by Henri Chatillon. It was sold to Dr. Nicolas DeMenil in the mid-1850's and was completed to look, as it does today, in 1863.

The Mansion was saved by an association who bought it from the State of Missouri Highway Commission who was going to tear it down to build Interstate 55. It is one of the only remaining examples of Greek Revival architecture in St. Louis.

We toured the home inside and was amazed at the beauty of the architecture and details. The ladies that were showing off and demonstrating crafts and that would have been done during the time period around 1850 included White Work (a particular embroidery), Crocheting, Spinning, Ribbon Work and Doll Making, Knitting (this gal was really talented, she was making socks), Hairwork and Cameo Carving, and Wet Plate Photography. There were also two ladies that were preparing to play period parlor music. It was nice to chat with all of them.

We left to have lunch at Bread Company....Pannera in other parts of the country. It was nice to have a day alone with Mom. She is doing her best to get life going again. All I can do it pray for her, offer to help her with various things and just be there when she needs to talk.

Hope you had a great weekend and hope your week goes smooth!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Lovely Sympathy Cards

2009-06-07T09:38:00.011-05:00

These are the sympathy cards that friends made and sent to me for my Dad's death. They are in no particular order....all were much appreciated and treasured. Thank you ladies for thinking of me and my family.

Sharing in you Sorrow is from Michelle. I love the softness of the pink and gray together. Michelle has an amazing SCS gallery; her name is momis mama. We have not met each other in person but, have developed a friendship over time.

The 5 petal Dahalia card is from Dina. She is a wonderful friend and is my SU Demo. I really appreciate how dedicated she is to keeping and increasing her business. You can check out her blog http://inkinwithdink.typepad.com/ .

With Caring Thoughts is from Gillian. I have not met Gill, yet, either. She is in the SCS St. Louis Shoebox Stampers. We get together once every month to share, stamp and exchange cards. I love how Gill used all these papers to create such a unique card. You can see her SCS Gallery going to Jill with a G.

The last one is from Dianne or deelite from SCS (she is in the SCS St. Louis Shoebox Swapers too). First I must appologize for the rumpled appearance of her card. The post office delivered it in a plastic bag...yup, got damaged in the process. I tried to clean it up some but, could not get rid of all the stains at the bottom nor the distressed edge. I am still loving this watercoloring of the sailboat.....my Dad was a sailor! We owned boats when I was a child and my Dad taught my brother and I to sail.

Hope you enjoy these cards and will go see their galleries. They are lovely talented ladies!

Hugs to you!!

Cindy

True Blue Friends Forever

2009-06-05T14:35:00.006-05:00

Today I have this lovely attempt at something vintage for you. I actually made it last week and posted earlier this week on SCS but have not had the time to post it here. I loved this bird image when I saw it in a little shop in St. Charles, Missouri.....a place that I have wanted to check out for about a year. Finally got up there a couple of weeks ago when my brother from California was in town for my Dad's funeral. My siblings and Mom took a much needed day away from the stress and shopped.

Anyway, I played around with the coloring for quite sometime until I came up with the blues..similar to baby bluebirds. I kept the template for the shaped kraft paper from a project I did last year. Just added the piercing because it looked too plain without something. The crocheted flower is mine and made with DMC floss (I am thinking I might like to make these and sell them, what do you think?).

Well, want to get outside and enjoy this lovely weather....especially while the humidity is low and there is a breeze. Hope your weekend is a pleasant one.

Stamps - Birds - Inkadinkado, sentiment - Red Lead
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, Not Quite Navy and Kraft CS, SU Bella Bleu DSP
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink, SU Not Quite Navy
Accessories - SU Small Oval Punch, Stamp-a-majig, Button, Trim, K&Co Urban Rhapsody Template, Paper Piercer, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Crocheted Flower

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Many, Many Thanks!

2009-06-01T22:36:00.004-05:00

Well, I am finally back and feeling like posting again. Though just like everyone else that has lost a parent, or loved one, you have good days and bad....sometimes good minutes and bad ones. I just wanted to say to all of you who extended a thought or prayer my way a couple of weeks back, thank you so very much.

I have posted on my SCS gallery many of the cards that I have been making using the Gamsol techique and Prismacolor Pencils. Though I must confess that I really like using the Baby Oil instead of the OMS. I feel it blends better and has a much nicer fragrance!

Hope you enjoy these for now. Tomorrow when I am not so tired I will post another of my cards and the Condolence cards that were sent to me.

Stamps - SU Short and Sweet, Inkadinkado
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink, SU Rose Red
Paper - (Yellow and Blue ) SU Very Vanilla, So Saffron and Pacific Point CS, SU Jackpot DSP.....( Pink and Green) SU Whisper White, Basic Black and Regal Rose CS, Provocraft CS, SU Textured Whisper White CS, SU Raspberry Tart DSP
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, SU Small Oval Punch, Fiskars Scallop Scissors, SU Corner Rounder Punch, Grosgrain or Gingham Ribbon, Vintage Button

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

A Sad Day

2009-05-13T20:40:00.003-05:00

Friends I just want to take a moment to tell you that my Father passed away just after midnight this morning. He is relieved of his burdens here on earth and able to see God and loved ones who have gone before. I will not post until after his funeral on Monday; I will be with my Mother and rest of our family.

It will not be easy seeing Dad in that flag draped casket but, I know he is not there anymore. It is just his ragged old body....and Dad is free now! Hallelujia!!

Cindy

He Will Always Be A Great Man!

2009-05-08T21:51:00.006-05:00

Folks this is me and my Dad last year at my 50th Birthday celebration. At this time he had been battling Lung Cancer for 2+ years. This was definately one of his better days. Two days ago we had Hospice started for him. I can't tell you what I am feeling.....angry, sad and feeling powerless to make things be different for Dad. If you have ever gone through this you know exactly what I am talking about.

This is the way I want to remember my Dad not the man I saw today....still able to be at his home. Angry, short-tempered and impatient. While my Dad had all those qualities while I was growing up they are magnified because of his disease and the shutting down of his body. Today was the day the equipment showed up....the hospital bed (probably the one he will die in), a bedside commode, oxygen tank and a wheelchair. Along with a bunch of medications for pain, anxiety and sleep. It was so much to take in, I knew I had to be strong to help Mom.

The Nurse today gave us all the information about which drugs to start having him take, she told us about how bad it will get before he passes....no sugar coating.....I guess that is what we need to hear. She also said based on his statistics, it may not be too long before he passes. I still like to think no matter what anyone says, I think God knows when and how he will go.....my faith tells me to rely on him.

So, I cry in private now....in the shower, in bed before I fall asleep, here at the computer telling you my story.....I can't seem to stop once I get started. This is Dad's choice not to fight the disease anymore. I don't blame him....he's my Dad and I love him. No matter what he did or didn't do, he will always be the greatest man I have ever known.

I love you Daddy...I will miss you but, will never forget you!!

Cindy

Thanks friends for letting me get this out in the open, cry on your shoulder....don't know what the next few weeks or months may be like for posting so I will hopefully post once in awhile to de-stress. I guess it is a good thing that I do not have a job right now, huh?

Time Well Spent Flower Pot Card

2009-05-06T16:56:00.006-05:00

Howdy Friends! I took the TLC215 challenge on SCS and made this card for my MIL for Mother's Day. She told us this year to not send her anything, not even flowers. Usually we send a potted planter for her deck or porch, because in the past she has always said she loves it. Well, dog gone it......she's gettin' 'em anyway!! And she's getting bling and pink because she's not into that either. I hope she laughs!!!

There was a lot of cutting and sponging going on yesterday to get this to look better. I even looked at one of my clay flower pots to get ideas on how to make it look more realistic. What do you think?

In my haste to get this in the mail box, I forgot to take a picture of the inside card. You know, if you have made this one there is not much room for more than a for a few words. If you haven't made this one you can find the SCS post here and the directions here. Try the challenge yourself.

Stamps - SU Time Well Spent, Best Blossoms
Inks - SU Basic Black, More Mustard, Really Rust, Whisper White, Bravo Burgundy, Mellow Moss, Always Artichoke
Paper - SU Very Vanilla, Blush Blossom, Mellow Moss, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Really Rust, So Saffron and Bazzill Chili Pepper CS
Accessories - SU Mellow Moss Taffeta Ribbon, Doodlebug Rhinestones, Black Stickles, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Sponges, Zig Marker

Thanks in advance for looking at my card! I appreciate you very much for leaving your nice comments too!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

More Crocheting

2009-05-04T06:56:00.004-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Well, again I do not have a card to show you.....this has been a busy week...again! I have not been able to get out into the garden to do very much because of all the rain we have been having. Today and tomorrow promise to be rain free but the gound is so saturated, I can't plant only weed, trim and fertilize.

The first photo are the various flowers made with DMC floss in the Stampin' Up! In Colors. I think they match very well. The largest flower takes nearly 15 minutes to make and the smallest about 5 minutes. I have used one of the flowers on a card, which is posted about 2 weeks ago.

The second photo is the edging I created from various sources...you know a bit here and a bit there. I made it about 8 inches long because I do not know where I want to use it just yet. Though I am thinking it will be on a Mother's Day card....which hopefully I will post today!!!

And the last photo is a String of Flowers. I think they would be good to go around the edge of a circle or oval with sentiment. Or you could run a ribbon through the centers and use as embelishment on a card. Or, as one SCSer pointed out, attached to a headband for a sweet little miss.

I hope you enjoyed looking at my creations. Give me your e-mail address and I can send you the directions to any of these flowers. Some day I will find a way to post them on my blog to make life easy for you...until then...sorry.

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Friend Quote Book

2009-04-27T08:36:00.006-05:00

These photos are from a little quote book I made for one of my friends at Christmas. Without telling her whole story, she was going through some trying times....health okay. I felt she needed something to lift her spirits. So, I created this for her.

The 9 quotes are from various internet and quote book sources I have. After formatting and printing, I added backgrounds and used a few embelishments for fun. I used cereal boxes cut them 3 x 6 for the base then used my Xyron to adhere the DP to the cardboard...rounded the corners and sanded for that distressed look. Hope this inspires you to start thinking about Christmas.....it will be here before you know it!!

If you would like me to send you the formatted quotes, just let me know.....I will need your e-mail address so be sure to put that into the note. Stamps - Hero Arts, SU Wild About You, SU Tagger's Dozen, SU Just Love You

Paper - Basic Gray, SU So Saffron, Cool Carribean, Tempting Turquoise, Pretty in Pink and Whisper White CS
Ink - SU Cool Carribean, Tempting Turquoise, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink
Accessories - Binder Ring, Various Ribbon, Chipboard - SU and Maya Road, Asst. Buttons and Brads, SU Dimensionals

Thanks for looking, if you leave a comment just know that I appreciate you very much!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

A Sunday Hello

2009-04-26T22:13:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to tell you that Wayne and I worked in our front yard all day putting in a stone ring around our Ash tree. The grass was encroching on the little mound around the tree and starting to envelope the Ajuga I planted there last year. What a job that was....but, so rewarding to see the finished project. Tomorrow I will plant with red Salvia and white Alyssum.

When we moved into our house over 5 years ago, there was no curb appeal. Slowly we are turning it into something to be really proud of. Last year we had to replace the ugly teal green garage door. It had been bent and finally refused to work anymore. We replace it with a nice Ivory insulated door. Eventually we will replace the siding and match it to the door. Now when we drive down the street and are not struck with that dated color door.

It just amazes me how much work a house takes to keep it well maintained. On top of the mowing and putting in little gardens we have to maintain the back and side gardens too. Now I know why so many folks just keep it simple....not that there is anything wrong with that! Wayne and I just happen to love working in our gardens....in fact it is the one area where we never fight (not that we do much of that even in our house!). It is so nice to have a true partner in life.

Our favorite things about our house....the paver patio under the deck where we sit many nights drinking wine and watching the cars go by; our open floor plan that includes the family room, dining room and kitchen and the fact that no one will ever be able to build behind our lot. Our least favorite things about our house.....the noise level that the street gives off (it's about 100 yards); galley kitchen; unfinished basement and no fireplace.

Well, that was just a little slice of our life...no cards, no photos, no complaints...for today at least. Hope you had a good day today and an even better one tomorrow. If you don't hear from me much, it is because I have to get so much done in our garden on the nice days we have before it turns really hot and muggy! I will try to take photos along the way for you to see.

Happy Spring and Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Thank You Fairy Much!

2009-04-25T08:43:00.005-05:00

Good Morning Friends! Found this lovely stamp at one of my local stamping stores. I know it will come in handy for our nieces as they are totally into Fairies right now! But, this is going to my husband's boss for inviting us to their Greek Easter celebration last weekend. Heading out to run errands...the mall, over to my folks to dig up some plants my Mom no longer wants and dinner at a friends house tonight. Hope you have a great weekend!

Stamps - Whippersnapper, SU Short and Sweet
Paper - Colorbok DP, Provocraft CS and SU Very Vanilla and Bashful Blue CS
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink
Acessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Jelly Roll Pen, Dimensionals

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Happy Sweet Friday

2009-04-24T07:30:00.004-05:00

Good Morning Everyone! Here is another attempt at the Gamsol technique I am trying to perfect. This one I used Baby Oil with my Prismacolor Pencils. I think I am getting the knack of it....using a very fine shading of the area I want to color and then a very dark line to shade. The whole process is taking a bit longer than I like for a single card. But, I guess if you are entering challenges or sending one to a special niece, it is worth it.

I am still working on trying to find a better way to take the photos of my cards and edit them. We are having scanning issues....the scanner I was using for such a long time is no longer compatible with my computer. Our other scanner, Wayne's, is foreign to me....he's not so great with knowing how to use it either (not that he can't figue it out....he's a computer genius!!!!). I am just not satisfied with the washed out look of my cards! He promised we would work on it this weekend.

Here are the details:

Stamps - SU So Very, Magnolia image (don't know name as this was from Linda)
Paper - SU Whisper White Textured CS, Provo Craft, Creative Imaginations and SU Bella DP
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip
Accessories - SU Chocolate Chip Marker, Prismacolor Pencils, Baby Oil, Stumps, Cotton Lace, SU Pretty in Pink Taffeta Ribbon, Bazzill Brads, Handmade Crocheted Flowers, SU Corner Rounders

Thanks for looking and leaving comments. I appreciate you very much!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Nature's Flowers

2009-04-23T17:00:00.008-05:00

Howdy Folks! Yep, it's me.....I am finally going to post a card after it seems life forever! Those of you who responded to my state of mind last week; thank you so much. I have been going though so much mentally to figure out my place in our corner of the world. Well I can report that I still have not done so but, I do feel better about the lack of my having a job.

I just keep thinking that I must be meant to do something than just sit at home, craft, garden and manage my son's life. Though friends of mine say that is my purpose, because without me no one else would be doing it. Beth, you could be 100% correct. I will keep praying for guidance to find my purpose.

About the card.....Linda sent me this image. I liked it straight away because of the sunflower and country look. I have been practicing using my Prismacolor Pencils and OMS and Baby Oil. I like them both but, I think I prefer the Baby Oil because of it's pleasant smell. But I think the OMS blends better. And I have been trying different peachy/pink/cream pencils to get the coloring right on the face. What do you think? If you have any tips, please let me know.

Stamps - Vases in Vogue

Paper - SU Bashful Blue and Whisper White CS, Colorbok DP, Unknown deep blue CS

Ink - SU Brillant Blue

Accessories - Dew Drops, SU Scallop Border Punch, Fiskars Scallop Scissors, Dimensionals, Prismacolor Pencils, OMS, Asst. Stumps, White Gel Pen

Thanks again for looking, I always appreciate you kind and generous comments too!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

I am still here!

2009-04-16T06:20:00.003-05:00

Good Thursday Morning to you! Yes, I am still here....though not working on making cards right now. So, I have nothing to show you. But, I can tell you I have been working on some sewing projects and crocheting more flowers. I hope to show those to you in a couple of days with some watercolor cards.

But, I think I have just been feeling out of sorts these last 2 weeks. So much on my mind and plate that I have hardly had time to sit and create. The job I was excited about was not what I expected. It was about as much fun as watching grass grow! So, I quit it....with an appology to the owner of the agency....the day before I started. I was asked to work 2 weeks until they found someone. I will be out of work again on Saturday at 5pm. It's okay.

This experience has left me feeling like a fish out of water.....I don't know what I want to do when I grow up! Do you ever feel like that? Okay, I have 2 college degrees....don't want to do either of them that I trained for. Part of me knows it's okay and the other part wants to slap my face and say, "snap out of it!" Yes, that sounds like I am being hard on myself and I shouldn't be.
So, I guess I need to keep doing more soul searching, praying for guidance and relax more. Oh...yeah....and eat more chocolate!!

We will talk again soon!

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Lookie what I got!!

2009-04-01T21:29:00.007-05:00

Look what Linda from Linda's Crafty Creations sent me to play with. I was bemoaning the fact that money was super tight here and that I would love to have some new images to play with, but I did not have the cash to buy any new stamps. This was only part of what she sent me, I just did not have room to take a photo of everything. Thanks sooooo much Linda!!

This is the card she sent me as well. So sweet!! Love those flower brads too! She always does such a nice job coloring her images. Go over and check out her blog sometime!!

I will be gone a few days....heading up to Wisconsin to see hubbies family. New baby in town and, of course, we want to see her. My husband's cousin's first child! We have to pack our winter gear as Wisconsin is much colder than St. Louis this time of year. In fact, anytime we go we always take long pants and sweatshirts or sweaters...even in July!!

Hope you have a great Palm Sunday weekend.

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy

Scalloped Easter Eggs

2009-03-31T18:02:00.007-05:00

Hello Friends!! I needed to make some more Easter cards for friends and family. This is what I came up with...not too orginal or exciting from some of you extremely creative artists out there. But, the ones I am sending to will get a kick out of the chicks.

Hope that you are getting some Spring where you live and not getting that horrible snow in the upper mid-west the TV folks have been talking about. If you are....stay safe!!

On a side note, hubby, Wayne, and I both excited as we both found jobs!! He in the IT field working for the USDA and me in Home Health Care as an Aide. At least it will keep a roof over our heads and the bill collectors at bay....not that we were that close to loosing everything...I just always wanted to say that. Hope and pray it never happens!!

Stamps - SU A Good Egg
Ink - SU Basic Black
Paper - SU Delicate Dots DSP, Certainly Celery, Winter White and Bashful Blue CS
Accessories - Prismacolor Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen, Dimensionals, SU Brads, MS Lacy Border Punch, SU 1 1/2", 1 3/8", 1/16", Scalloped Circle and Word Window Punches

Thanks for looking and leaving your comments....I so appreciate you!! Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

One Of A Kind Bouquet for Mom

2009-03-27T10:08:00.006-05:00

Good Morning All!! I am so happy that I finally got this card finished....it took a long time to cut, as you can imagine! But, I love to cut like this, always have. In fact, when scherenschnitte (see here) was really popular, I did it....still have the itty bitty scissors! Anyway, the inspiration was the paper and that really great Kiwi Green!! I have included a close up for you. Sorry it is a little dull looking but, IRL it is much better!!

Stamps - One of a Kind
Paper - K&Co Amy Butler DP, SU Rockabilly DSP, SEI, Basic Gray Periphery, Basic Black, Basic Gray and Naturals Ivory
Ink - Ranger Archival Ink and Shabby Shutters Distressing Ink
Accessories - SU Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Unknown Black Organza, 2 Way Glue, Dimensionals, SU Scallop Border Punch

Hope you have a great day and as always thanks for looking and leaving a comment if you wish.

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Crochet some flowers, why don't ya!

2009-03-25T17:09:00.010-05:00

Alright, I posted these babies because of the interest stirred on a SCS thread I started a while back looking for directions for them. I saw them in the new Stampin' Up! catalog and loved them. I knew I could make them but, as someone else said, "Why reinvent the wheel?" These were my first attempts. I really love the 2 layer flowers best!

Only one thing I would change would be the size of the openings on the other flowers. Someone said to try the Magic Ring Method. Tonight I will give that a try to see if that makes a difference...I will let you know. Here is the link for the Irish Double Crochet Flower for those of you crafty enough to pick up a hook and "go for it!"

I want to tell you that I did not create the directions for them, sadly. I wish I had!! But, I am grateful for those before me who did because they are a neat way to add texture to cards!!

On another note....our son, Clark, has gone home from the hospital today!! Wooo Hooo!! I am sure that no one is more happy than he is!! Thanks for your thoughts and prayers for him!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Signs of Spring

2009-03-24T14:27:00.009-05:00

Hey there! Yes, yes, I am working on more cards but, I needed to take a break and show you what is going on in our garden, so far,this spring. I don't know which season I love more here....Spring or Fall. How about you?

This Bradford Pear tree is a different variety than the ones you normally see. We chose it a couple of years ago because when bad weather strikes, this tree holds up better. I love looking at the showy blossoms, too bad they don't smell as good as they look!

The violets are transplants from my Mom's house....she tells me she treats them as weeds! My mouth dropped open. I love violets, pansies and johnny jump-ups. Just something about the cute faces!!

Finally, this geranium is about 4 years old. We winter it over in our basement under grow lights starting about February. That's when we start giving it water and fertilizer too. We bring all our tropical plants....hibiscus, plumeria, jasmine, passion flower, bouganvilla and geraniums Oct. 1. They don't get any water or fertilizer until March. It is so nice to see a bit of summer so early!

Okay, okay....I will get back to making something now. I wish I had the finances to get some new stamp sets! I am getting tired of using old ones.....like Spring, I need something Fresh!

Went to see Clark at the hospital today and he is going home tomorrow. He is so happy and so are we not to have to sit one more day in that hospital!!

Have a great day and Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Easter Bunny Wagon

2009-03-23T17:39:00.007-05:00

Howdy! Here is my take on the SFYTT for the week of March 21. It really challenged me to use colors I would normally not use. Having said that.....I LOVE Pink!! Weird, huh?

Anyway, I started this by crocheting my own flowers( I used a #10 thread and a #7 steel hook)....actually I have been making them for a few weeks and I finally used one! YEAH!! Then I wanted to make something with the new SU DPs I had bought in a Paper Share that my Demo started last month. You get one 6x6 sheet of each of the DP.....1/2 one month and 1/2 the next. Sweet, huh?

Stamps - Stampendous, Memory Box (flower row), SU Taggers Dozen

Paper - SU Whisper White and Soft Sky CS, SU Bella Birds DSP

Inks - SU Basic Black and Basic Gray

Accessories - Handmade Crocheted Flower, Basic Grey Button, Making Memories Brads, All Night Media Punch, SU Scalloped Border Punch, Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen, Dimensionals, SU Taffeta Ribbon

And just to let those of you who have been thinking about my son, Clark.....I am happy to report he was smiling and joking around today with everyone. The hospital staff had a couple more tests today to make sure he was well. But, I think he will go home tomorrow....at least I hope he does!

Hope all is well with you and that you have Spring Fever too!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Sunny Easter Wishes - Mojo78

2009-03-21T08:37:00.007-05:00

Okay....finally....after several days of trying to get this finished.....I did!! I think it is gorgeous! I wanted an Easter card that reminded me of when I was younger....the purples, lavenders and yellows, like the Easter dresses I wore to church on Easter morning.

The flowers are done on watercolor paper with a wash of Barely Banana re-inker. Then I used my Twinkling H2Os for some shimmer. Finally, I had difficulty coming up with a suitable flower center....so, I combined an orange colored brad and several layers of Crystal Effects and a liberal dose of chunky MS glitter. I think they look like little gumdrops.

Stamps - SU Delight in Life, All Holidays and Bud Basics
Ink - SU Barely Banana, Wild Wasabi and Certainly Celery, Basic Black
Paper - SU Barely Banana, Whisper White and Wild Wasabi CS, DCWV and Colorbok
Accessories - SU Grosgrain Ribbon, Making Memories Brads, Crystal Effects, MS Coarse Glitter, Twinkling H2Os - Sunburst and Gold Dust, Dimensionals, Aquapainters

Thanks to all of you who responded to yesterdays post with your kind words and prayers. I do appreciate you very much! Clark is still in the hospital, still with Pneumonia. He will be in over the weekend. He looks a bit better and yesterday he even managed a weak smile. He let me know he misses his school friends.

Have a great weekend and Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

A Quick Note

2009-03-20T06:42:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that I have been very busy and that I have not forgotten you. But, sadly, I am not posting anything but this today. Clark, our son, is in the hospital with Pneumonia and I have been spending all my time there. He is doing a bit better yesterday evening...sleeping at least....which is the best medicine for him!

I have been working on challenges, Mojo and SYFTT, in spurts. But, I am so tired that I just cannot get much headway. Hopefully, this weekend I can get them finished. They will be my Easter cards so, I have to get them done!

Hugs to all and Happy Crafting always!!
Cindy

Orlando and St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-13T13:10:00.012-05:00

So sorry that I haven't posted before now. Just seems like everyday since we have been back has been something going on. Two Birthday parties....one for Clark, who turned 20, and one for my Mom and brother, Louis. Both parties were fun, of course!

And we have been getting ready for tax time as well....I bet some of you feel the same way.....YUCK! The only good thing about it is getting money back...Yeah!! Too bad it is already spent...boo hiss!

This is a pic of Wayne's sister and her family, my brother, Louis and us getting ready to board the monorail at Magic Kingdom. It was a chilly day and it never seemed to get any better
either.....the wind picked up later in the day! But, it was still good to be away from stress and troubles at home!!

Here is Louis at Sea World, again, another chilly day. But, everyone had fun watching and feeding the dolphins! Wayne and I went on the Kraken ride....OMG that was nuts! I screamed the entire time. By the way, my brother is a special needs fella too. He has Williams Syndrome which involves similar facial characteristics. He was a hoot..everyone was his friend!

Wayne and I in Canada at Epcot. Not quite as cold there, thank goodness. We ate Mexican and English pub food. We have been there before and this time was a bit of a let down, nothing really
exciting going
on. We probably won't go back for a while now.

Okay, finally here are two cards I just finished for St. Patrick's Day. Neither are very exciting but, I wanted to show you that I was doing something for the holiday.

I wanted to buy a cute lepruchan stamp but, we just cannot spend for luxuries right now. So, I made due with what I had on hand. I have had the Irish Blessing for quite some time and never used it. So, I guess it was time!

I love the Irish people, their country and personalities Wayne and I were there in 2006 and have been wanting to go back again. But, the economy is preventing us from going just yet.

Stamps - My Sentiments Exactly, SU Tag Time, Linen BG, Itty Bitty Backgrounds, Hero Arts
Paper - 7Gypsies, SU Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Khaki and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, Rust and Pumpkin Pie
Accessories - MS Lacy Border Punch, Cricut Die Cut Tag, Cording, Dimensionals, Sponges

I hope that life is treating you fairly and that blessings come your way too! Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

More About Clark

2009-02-24T08:20:00.004-06:00

After I re-read my post from yesterday I realized that I wanted to say more about Clark and his condition. For those of you who don't know Cerebral Palsy just keeps getting worse as one gets older. In addition, there is no cure for it.

One of the things that I constantly struggle with is "getting right" with CP and things I cannot change or fix. As a parent you want the best for your child, in all things, and when they grow up and move away, as in the natural order of life, you still worry. But you know that they are an adult now and can take care of themselves. That is not so with Clark, I will always worry about him! Is he warm enough, are his teeth clean, when is he going to have to have a G-tube replacement (I hope it doesn't happen while we are away), etc., etc. I think the best way I can help you understand is if you have every had a parent or grandparent in a nursing home.

You walk in to see them, maybe (depending on their condition and the nursing home staff's attentiveness) you smell urine or feces, maybe you see them in not enough clothes or too many, maybe they did not get their nails clipped or hair combed today. Your first instinct is to "fix" whatever is not right. It is like that for me....always. Part of me wants to turn that off but, part of me can't...because if I stop caring for him (even in the smallest way) who will?

It has been a constant struggle and fight for his nearly 20 years. But, I do not give up hope!

Now he is in a State run home, this was only to be a temporary placement...he has been there for a year and a half. We have been working with an agency to find him his own home. Just last week, we found out that this agency, while they haven't given up on finding something, has hit some road blocks. So, we have to start exploring another agency.....that was 5 months of nothing! Meanwhile, Clark is getting older....when he turns 21 school will be over for him and he should go into a day program out in the community. But, because he lives at a state run facility, they have to provide everything for him. They cannot because while he has physical needs that they can take care of, they can't meet his social needs very well. If he ends up staying there, we will have to find some $$$ somewhere to get him out into the community.....we will cross it when we, if we, get there.

As far as his physical body and travel.....he had a spinal fusion (rods and pins from T2 to the Sacrum) due to scoliosis about 3 years ago...saved his life! He also has had a Femoral Osteotomy about 2 years ago due to his legs windsweeping to the sides and causing one of the hip joints to come nearly out of the socket. Because of those surgeries, he cannot get in a comfortable position for a long period of time....his power wheelchair helps with tilt and recline features. And because of the power wheelchair we cannot get him into many homes....including Grandma and Grandpa's. Not to mention monitoring the meds, feeding, dressing and toileting....well, I think you get it.

So, Wayne and I make the best effort we can to provide him with the best life we can. Clark always has a smile and an "I love you, mama" for me and a fist bump for Dad no matter how he feels. He is a gift from God and we are grateful!

Mojo75 Challenge and Family Weekend

2009-02-23T21:55:00.008-06:00

We had a very busy weekend after a very busy week. My husband's parents came in for the weekend from Wisconsin. They generally come a couple of times a year depending on what is going on at their farm. Right now they are waiting the arrival of baby goats. My In-Laws milk goats, show goats and sell goats....in addition to doing other things on their farm.

We had a short but nice visit and spent sometime with our son, Clark, too. They brought him an early birthday gift. It always makes him sad that
he cannot go visit them anymore....due to his physical condition.

On Sunday, after they left to return home, we went to my parent's for Dad's 76th birthday. Right now he is feeling a bit better....he has been struggling with lung cancer for over 2 years now....but, he is still so much thinner than he should be. I am so grateful that he is stil with us!! The doctors only gave him a few months a little over a year ago.

Wayne left in the early afternoon for Phoenix. He will be there for another week at least. So, I went downstairs to make this card. It took me much too long to make!! I found it on Dannie's Designs Blog and inspiration from Mojo Monday Blog. I hope you like it!
Delightful 5-Petal Flower Card

Stamps - SU Just for You
Paper - SU Cameo Coral, Mellow Moss, Whisper White and Simply Scrappin' Just Delightful Kit
Inks - SU So Saffron, Basic Black, Cameo Coral, Mellow Moss, More Mustard
Accessories - 5-Petal Flower Punch, Small Oval Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, Fiskars Punch, Hole Punch, Brads, Dimensionals

I really appreciate you coming to see my stuff, it makes me feel good! Leave a comment if you wish.

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Cards To De-stress By

2009-02-20T08:39:00.013-06:00

Howdy! A couple of days ago I was feeling stressed over the things in my life that are taking precedence... my Son's situation, hubby's stress, In-Laws coming to visit this weekend and getting ready for our vacation next Friday. So, I decided that everything could wait while I made a few cards and zoned out!!

This one is my attempt at Mojo74. For my Dad's 76th birthday today....but, we will celebrate on Sunday after the In-Laws leave. I turned it on the side...could have used a smaller card base as this one is 5x7. Details at the end of this post.

I needed some masculine cards for upcoming birthdays and a thank you. I have to say that I CASED both of these from texasjodylynn on SCS. She did such a nice job. On the Wanted card, I wanted to make the embossed paper look like suede and I stitched with embroidery floss around Wanted. I am planning on sending this to Wayne's brother for his birthday and I will put something cute inside like... wanted for another birthday, loosing more hair but gaining more friends, etc. I have a couple of days before I have to send it. Any ideas??

This stamp set is one of my all time favorites for so many reasons...mainly guy cards. And as you can see I am using up old DP and CS. For some reason I have 2 rolls of hemp twine and I don't know how that happened...regardless I have to use them. Rather than put Happy Birthday on everything, I like 'celebrate life' because we should!

This is a photo of a case for my Iris cases that my super sweet husband made me. He found a photo in a woodworking magazine and then adapted it. The only problem now is I have so many cases that are not filled I have to figure out what to put in them! Ha!

But, seriously I finally feel that I have worked sufficently on my stamping space that I can work now and find (and use) everything!!

Happy Heart Mojo74

Stamps - SU Happy Heart Day, Everyday Flexible Phrases, Itty Bitty Backgrounds, Sanded BG, Weathered BG, Short & Sweet, A Little Birdie Told Me
Paper - SU Old Olive, Ruby Red and Very Vanilla, Daisy D's DP
Ink - SU Old Olive, Ruby Red, Creamy Caramel, Basic Gray, Basic Black
Accessories - Prismacolor Pencils, Blending Pens, Unknown Fiber, Dimensionals

Wanted

Stamps - SU Wanted, Itty Bitty Backgrounds
Paper - SU Always Artichoke, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip
Inks - SU Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Ranger Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories - Cuttlebug, Dimensionals, Making Memories Brads and metal thingy, SU Chocolate Chip Grograin Ribbon, Unknown Ribbon, DMC floss, SU Chipboard

Memories Wanted

Stamps - SU Wanted, Itty Bitty Backgrounds, Sanded and Tres Chic BG
Paper - Baroque DP, Always Artichoke, River Rock, Chocolate Chip and Naturals Ivory
Inks - Whisper White Craft, Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Ranger Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories - Making Memories Brad, SU Chipboard, Distressing tool, Dimensionals

Celebrate Tree

Stamps - Lovely as a Tree, So Many Sayings
Paper - SU Buckaroo Blue, Kahki, Confetti White, SU Retired DP
Inks - Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Hemp Twine, Old Olive, Always Artichoke and Chocolate Chip Markers

Thanks for looking, hope you have a great weekend....I know we will with our family. Maybe I will post some photos of our family for you Monday!

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Humble Gratitude

2009-02-15T08:01:00.006-06:00

This has been one of the best weekends with my hubby. He got home on Thursday night, Friday he had to work from home, I ran errands and then we went out to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Not a real expensive place just a comfy, good italian food.....where we know most of the wait staff....says a lot doesn't it?

We had the staff in an uproar this time. We are into history and trivia so, we wanted to pass the time waiting for our food by trying to remember the placement of each state in relation to all the other states and the capitals. We started writing on our place mats.....got all the states in the right order but, were stumped on some of the capitals. So we asked our waitress and busser if they knew.....they didn't. But then they started asking some of the other staff...we were stumped on Montana, West Virginia and South Carolina's capitals. I know what they are now....see if you know them. We made our waitress laugh and she made the comment that we made her week!

For Valentine's Day we had a very relaxed one....hung around the house, took a nap, exchanged cards (he gave me a mushy one that made me cry), fixed some Kansas City Strip Steaks for dinner and watched a movie....Iron Man. Normally he gets me a funny one, so it was a nice change. Hope you had a nice Valentine's Day too.

Now to the card....this is a SFYTT Jan 10 challenge. My SCS friend, Michelle from western Indiana, turned me on to it. I liked the layout because it did challenge me to do something I would not normally do....that is design with more. Hope you like it!

Stamps - SU Sidekick Sayings
Paper - SU Kahki, Wild Wasabi and Really Rust CS,
Ink - SU Chocolate Chip, SU Retired DSP
Accessories - Assorted Buttons, Hemp Twine, SU Ivory Taffeta Ribbon, SU Old Olive Marker and White Gel Pen

Thanks for looking, always am grateful for your comments.

Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Happy Valentine's...a Day early!

2009-02-13T15:29:00.003-06:00

Wayne came home from Phoenix last night late. He works as a consultant in the IT field and is contracted for a while in that city. He decided to stay there last weekend and visit an old college roommate who was also best man at our wedding. His 2 weeks away was tough on both of us...he missed me, our bed and life at home....notice I said me first? That is what he said when he walked in the door and gave me a HUGE hug.

But, get this....I asked him to get a box of See's Candy (for those of you who have never had it, you are missing the freshest, best tasting candy West of the Mississippi!) for my parents for Valentine's Day. You would think he would have been able to get one for me as well?! After all tomorrow is one of the biggest days to give Chocolate! Nope, unless he is keeping it a secret until tomorrow, I will be without. Oh, but wait.......he is going back to Phoenix next week!! I guess I will just have to drool thinking about it until next Thursday! I love the Dark Chocolate and anything nuts and chews.....drooling now!!!

This morning I went to Clark's school early to meet him when he got off the bus so he could give Brittany her Valentine gift. He had the biggest smile when I handed him the bag...it brings me much joy to see him happy, especially so early in the morning!!

I went to a meeting last night at his school to talk to agencies from our community that work for or provide for the disabled, in some form. And as much as I knew it already, hearing last night that Clark will not be able to be supported in a work setting just broke my heart.....I nearly cried. He has so many things physically that prohibit him from working at a job...feeding tube, wheelchair, communication device and needing help with incontinence. I guess I always hoped that there would be some way around those factors. But, after talking with Wayne this morning, I decided not to give up.....there just has to be a way to give him his dream. I may have to fight for what Clark needs but isn't that what parents do.....I know I am sounding like a broken record! LOL!!

Wayne and I are having a really nice dinner at home tomorrow night.....steaks, twice-baked potatoes, salad and then probably off to Ted Drew's Frozen Custard for dessert. Never heard of that? A St. Louis tradition dating back to the 1920's....to die for!! No gifts this year and we are both okay with that. The card above is for him...simple and easy.

Stamps - SU Around and About and Happy Hearts
Paper - SU Kahki, Basic Black and Whisper White CS
Ink - SU Real Red Classic and Basic Black
Accessories - SU Dimensionals, Making Memories Metal Love Tags (this one says Hugs and Kisses) and Creative Impressions Rub-Ons

Happy Valentine's Day and have a wonderful weekend! Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Blog Candy

2009-02-12T21:31:00.002-06:00

No not me but, Jean over Here has some DGS stamps to give away. She also has some really cool cards to check out too.

Valentine's Tin For Brittany

2009-02-12T13:32:00.010-06:00

I have finally finished the gift Clark is giving to Brittany...I had to get his approval yesterday. I filled it with shades of Pink nail polish, chocolates and a stretchy valentine's bracelet. Because Clark lives in a group home and I can not trust that this will get to school in one piece (or even get to school at all)...I will take it tomorrow myself. Meeting Clark at his school when he gets off the bus allows him the opportunity to carry it into school on his own.

All the extra work can be frustrating at times, but

what am I supposed to do? As much as I would

like to yell at the folks at his home, I can not or

otherwise I am afraid that they will take out their

possible anger at me on Clark.

I have learned, through much experience and time, that I have to pick and choose my battles. Better yet, I measure everything on the "On a scale of 10..." or "In 6 months will this really matter?" Guess we all do that in some manner or another.

I guess the bottom line is...Clark is worth the extra effort!! Dissapointments, frustrations and all.

So, now you know what I have been working on, crafty wise, the past few days. In addition, I am getting ready for my In-Laws visit next weekend and preparing to go on vacation the following weekend. I have been shopping for the trip...in Orlando...and cleaning like a crazy woman.

Oh yeah, I am still organizing downstairs in the evenings too. I think I am more busy since I quit work than before!!! Why is that? Let me know if you come up with something. LOL!

Ok, I have rambled enough...here is all the details on the tin - In the close-up of the heart on the front of the tin, I cut paper flowers in thirds and glued them to the back of the heart, doodled around the edge of the heart, added stamped hearts and dots of Stickles. Kept wanting to put some type of word there but stopped to keep it simple.

Paper - Scrappy Cat
Stamps - SU Short & Sweet, Rubber Paper Tapestry, Happy Heart Day
Ink - SU Whisper White Craft Ink and Pixie Pink Classic Ink
Accessories - Rusty Pickle Chipboard Heart, Paper Flowers, Assorted SU and Non-SU ribbons, Large and Small Tag Punches, Foam Tape, Modpodge - Matte and Glitter

Thanks for looking and Happy Crafting!!

Cindy

Confetti Hearts

2009-02-08T08:02:00.004-06:00

I don't remember where I found this inspiration....it wasn't the colors but the layout I suppose. My sewing machine has been in storage since the beginning of December when I was sewing Magic Pillowcases and Hawaiian Shirts for gifts. It was time to dig it out.....looks like I need to practice more as the stitches are not laying so well. And I appologize for the color....our scanner program has been sick so, I have to find another way to get better pics. C'est la vie!

I have to tell you about the great sales I picked up on yesterday. Oh you know, the stuff you could live without but, would rather not. One of the places I stopped was Michael's the 40% off coupon was burning a hole in my pocket! They have put in a Dollar Deals (I am not sure if that is the name....it was more seasonal stuff) section towards the back of the store....not the one they usually have towards the front. Anyway, for a $1 I found chipboard (feeding the addiction) house, heart, flower, splat, star shape books. I picked up the houses and stars....thinking ahead for July 4th with a "Liberty" garland.

Also for a dollar I picked up a organdy bag (about 5x7) that can be 'dressed' up with stamping.....ooooo....better yet....how about putting those jars of Denise's Lotion in (the jars came in Thursday and I bought the things needed to make a batch yesterday)? There were some cools glittered stickers in flower, butterfly and star shapes (July 4th banner??) Well, I think you get the idea here....some really great ideas came flowing when I did not have to rush about yesterday. Now I just have to get busy and get crafting!!

Stamps - Inkadinkado, SU Short & Sweet, Rubber Stamp Tapestry (tiny heart)
Ink - SU Real Red, Basic Black
Paper - SU Kraft, Basic Black and Whisper White
Accessories - Brads, Sewing Machine, Dimensionals, SU Stampin' Pastels, Blender Pen

Hope you have a great Sunday with family and friends!

Happy Crafting!!

Loaded with Valentine Love

2009-02-07T08:47:00.004-06:00

Good Morning crafters!! I wanted to post this one this morning as a tribute to my brother, Chris, who is in car sales in California. Like nearly everyone else, he is struggling right now with the crappy economy. I wanted to cheer him up and send a Valentine too.

For the longest time, until I told him one day on the phone, he did not know that the cards were handmade. So, he was throwing them away. And for a while, that bothered me. But, then I had to tell myself that I did my part in sending a the creation, what he did with it afterwards is up to him. He's just not a saver.

Well, I am off to run errands and hit my LSS, they are having a big sale today to get ready for all the new things from CHA. Have a great Saturday....I hope to post a couple more Valentine cards later.

Happy Crafting!!
Cindy