DoodleDivaDesigns

Polar Bear Birthday Card

2012-01-25T20:36:00.001-05:00

This card was created using Santa's Village Cricut Imagine cartridge. My son-in-law loves bears, so I just had to cut this image and bring him to life! I flocked his body and added Stickles to his scarve. This is for his birthday so my mission was to detour away from making this look Christmasy (not sure if that's a word). Anyway, I was pleased with how it came out overall.

Cricut Magazine Winner

2012-01-24T15:39:00.000-05:00

Sorry this is a couple days late. I have been so busy I haven't had time to post. I want to announce the winner of the Cricut Magazine Giveaway. It is Lisa Echerd. Lisa said, What a nice start to the New Year! I hope to get more scrapbooking videos recorded and linked on my blog and get more pages done. Congratulations Lisa! PM me with your address so I can get your magazine in the mail.

Scrappy Chic Paper Doll

2012-01-17T21:24:00.000-05:00

Check out my first try at handmade paperdolls! I am in another swap where the challenge is to make paperdolls. After deliberating over this I decided to take a stamped image and blow it up (around 127%) on a copy machine. I then colored each doll with Copics and cut each one (boy this took some time and only 4 dolls). Afterward I added some flocking on the bow, gems, Stickles and DSP for the shirt. I gave it a dimensional effect by using pop dots behind it. I completed her look with a raindrop necklace that I cut in half. She stands a little over 7 inches tall. I placed her next to a Cricut cartridge box so you can see how tall she is. I think she looks pretty slick and just love her tools!

Yummy Birthday Card!

2012-01-11T18:04:00.001-05:00

I created this card for my daughter's birthday. I think she will be super happy with this one. I just love how it came out! She loves to cook so I thought the oven to be appropriate to include in this card. I used both my Cricut Imagine and Expression to create this card. The oven was created using the Cricut Expression machine and From My Kitchen cartridge. I used the Imagine and Yummy cartridge to cut the girl and the background paper. I just love these retro colors! I added some twisted ribbon at the top that I had on hand and a perfect match. I used Stickles to add some dimension to the girl's image. I think my 26 year old daughter will love this!

Giveaway - Cricut Magazine

2012-01-10T14:32:00.001-05:00

I think we should start off this year with a nice giveaway! Today is my daughter's birthday and in celebration of her day I am giving away the January edition of Cricut Magazine. If you would like to win this copy just follow me and post a comment stating what you plan to accomplish in crafting for 2012. I will announce a winner on January 20th. Good Luck!

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T21:56:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone! Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!!! I apologize for being away the entire month of December but I have had way too much going on and everytime I thought I was going to be able to blog life happened! First, my son is here visiting for the 3 weeks. He returns home next weekend, so I am enjoying seeing and spending time with him as much as I can. Secondly, I was deathly ill for 2 weeks and that really put me behind doing much of anything. I was so sick on Christmas day that my family had to cook dinner for me. Thirdly, the company where I work changed management companies and I have had all kinds of new procedures and new computer based programs to learn. Really makes one tired by the end of the day. So, it has been a sort of roller coaster ride for the month of December. I know most of you understand what I am talking about. On a happy note Christmas was awesome and I just have to share with you my new toy that my hubby got me! It's an embroidery sewing machine and I can't wait to start using it. I have a lot of learning to do and understanding the set-up because it is computerized. If any of you have one I would love to here your opinion or suggestions for using it.

Now that the New Year is here, I had made a couple resolutions to myself. The first is to take better care of myself. I saw my doctor last week about my blood sugar. Most of you know that I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes over the summer. I was fortunate enough to balance my diet enough to get off the insulin I was originally prescribed. I now only take oral meds for it. However, I am working with my doctor to eventually get off those too. If I can lose 20 to 25 pounds I should be able to be diabetes free and stop taking meds entirely. My doctor has recommended the South Beach diet. I plan to download it to my Nook sometime this week. Let me know if you have tried and what are your thoughts. The goal for me is remove carbs and all sugars from my diet. My next resolution to me is to curb my craft spending. I have a motto to "Shop my own Shelve in 2012". I recently re-organized my craft room and decided I have entirely too much stuff. I am doing a flea market this month and plan to sell some of my craft items that I no longer use anymore. I have to tell you it is a relief to get rid of things and a joy to see others get excited about using them! Lastly, I plan to continue my daily meditation with reading my Bible and prayer daily. Actually, this is the first item on my list but I am mentioning it in my blog close and want to end it with one of my favorite verses in the Bible. Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them that are called according to his purpose". I love this verse because things happen in my life that I often wonder why they happened to me. It is so easy to slip into thinking negative about situations etc. However, if I keep this verse with me and remember that my glass is more than half full instead of half empty I will have a much brighter outlook on whatever journey I am going through. I hope it enlightens you like it does me.Have a wonderful week and blessed New Year!

Ornament Tag Tim Holtz Style

2011-11-30T20:35:00.001-05:00

I created this tag using Tim Holtz die-cut shapers and movers, glimmer mist, and designer papers that I cut using the Tim Holtz snowflake border die. The ornament was cut from glassine paper and brushed with Perfect Pearls. I just love the effect it gives this paper! I made several of these for a tag swap that I am participating in this year.

Happy Thanksgiving and Ton of Turkeys

2011-11-24T18:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers! I am so thankful to have such a wonderful family to spend this wonderful holiday with. I hope you are enjoying your day! I thought I would share some funny pictures of me picking up turkeys for our employees last week. Most of you know that I am the Business Office Manager at an Assisted Living Community. At Thanksgiving we like to give our employees turkeys as an appreciation for their hard work. This year I had to go pick up the turkeys at a local Wal-Mart store. I have to tell you it was a kind of a funny experience! I forgot how funny it looked with two carts full of turkeys and then had to check each one out separately. You should have seen the stares I got from customers. It was just too hilarious! I finally told one customer that I was really hungry!!! LOL!!! Anyway, here are the pictures of my cart in line to check out. Thank goodness for I-Phones. Hope you enjoy!

Don't they just look hilarious as they are sent down the conveyor belt for checkout?

This is the back of my truck as the turkeys were being loaded. I just had to laugh!

Finally, they are loaded onto the cart at work and then placed in our freezer until ready to distribute to our employees.

Cricut Craft Room Tutorial for Pumpkin Pie Boxes

2011-11-21T07:37:00.000-05:00

I am so loving Cricut Craft Room. It is so easy to use with your Cricut cartridges or you can now choose to download digital cartridges from Cricut.com. I could hardly wait to try the digital download so I chose to purchase the Cricut Craftroom exclusive, Thanksgiving Table Decor. Boy, I am glad I got this cartridge! It has some really neat images on it and very useful for setting the perfect Thanksgiving table. I decided to make pie slice favor boxes for my first project. I thought I would put together this picture tutorial so you can see how I created this project. First, I decided to cut the pie boxes. My boxes were 4 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches in length. I added pumpkin cuts (these are on this same cartridge) to the tops of each box. This cartridge gives you cuts to add to the pumpkins to give it dimension. I chose to use patterned paper for the bottoms of the box and use the same patterned paper for the dimensional pieces of the pumpkin. I cut the pumpkin background pieces in different colored cardstock to match the patterned papers I used. You can see here how easy it to use Cricut Craftroom. I just chose where on the mat I wanted to cut and the size I wanted. Cricut Craftroom is so easy and when you are ready to cut on your Cricut machine it will guide you through to cut.

This is what the pie slices and pumpkins look like once they are cut from the Cricut machine. There are score lines to help you fold the boxes appropriately.

Once all the pumpkins were cut, I used my Xyron sticker maker to glue the pieces to the pumpkin. I just love how this this exclusive digital cart gives you alternatives to adding pieces to images!

Once the boxes are cut, scored and folded they come together like this before I added the pumpkin on top.

Once I cut the boxes, I decided I wanted to add some embossing to the lids. I think the embossing gives a more stunning look to them and makes them stand out. I picked Cuttlebug Preserves folder and used my Vagabond to emboss the lids.

Once the embossing folder is ran through the Vagabond it looks like this. You just can't beat the superior embossing power of the Vagabond!

This is the finished product. I added stickles to the pumpkins and used pop-dots to adhere them to the top of the boxes. Aren't they just too cute?

Hope you enjoyed this tutorial. I can't wait to put some goodies in these boxes! Have a creative day.

My Newly Organized DoodleRoom

2011-11-16T21:09:00.006-05:00

A little over a month ago I re-organized my craft room. I have a walk-in closet in my craft room where I store my paper, cardstock, albums and extra stuff I use. It really feels great to have everything organized and in its place. I thought I'd share my finished room with you. I am really please with how it came out.

This Mrs. Grossman's shelf cabinet that I purchased at a local scrapbook store that went out of business holds all of my cardstock. It is on wheels and the backside has the same shelving. I store all my album refills on the backside. I strived to organize the cardstock by color, but there are some overlaps.

The remaining designer papers that I collect are stored on a couple of smaller wire shelves. Again, these I purchased from a LSS that was going out of business. I also purchased the storage units at Michael's to house tools, etc. Love those Jetmax cubes that you can store stuff in too! The remaining area in the upper part of my closet houses plastic bins where I keep chipboard, paints, chalks, etc. Outside my closet is the large dark shelf that my hubby made years ago. I have my Cricut library and stamps here. I also store on top of this shelf my Sizzix dies that I have had for many years. Sizzix was my very first die-cutter. Along side the wall is some white shelves that my hubby made me. I recently found those cute white and green wooden boxes at Joann's. I thought them to be perfect to store glitter mist, glue, and other things I use regularly.

I hope you enjoyed touring my craft room or DoodleRoom as I may sometimes call it. I am very pleased with the outcome and it makes crafting a lot more enjoyable. Have a wonderful day!

Treasure Trunk!

2011-11-16T21:00:00.001-05:00

After work today I decided to stop at a local outlet store. I was shopping in the home section of the store for some throw rugs for my house. While carousing the sales, I stumbled on this awesome trunk! When I saw it I knew exactly what I would use it for! It so matches my new Tim Holtz Vagabond machine and I thought it to be perfect to hold my collection of Tim Holtz dies. I am so proud of this find! Oh, and it was only $20.00!

Winter Foilage

2011-11-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

I love the soft, elegant look to this card. It turned out better than I had expected. I used the Winter Foilage stamp set by GinaKDesigns to create this card. I heat embossed the pinecones with gold embossing powder and cut them out. I stamped the pine images on cardstock and added red liquid pearls to the holly. This card makes me in the mood for Christmas.

Believe

2011-11-12T16:27:00.000-05:00

This card was created using Santa Believe set by Seaside Stampin' Ink. I decided to heat emboss the Santa with silver and then I cut snowflakes and added some bling and ribbon. The black background paper is dry embossed and I added some desinger paper behind the Santa.

Noble Deer

2011-11-11T07:19:00.000-05:00

Here is another card that we will be making in my upcoming card class this weekend. This card can be used for Thanksgiving, Christmas, masculine birthday, or just a note card. I am bringing various sentiments to be stamped inside. I used Stampin Up Noble Deer for the image and stamped on the Top Note die by Sizzix.

Fresh Cuts

2011-11-10T07:33:00.000-05:00

I cleaned out my craftroom this past weekend and discovered some things that had been waiting to be used. Amazing, isn't it? Anyway, I created this card using Stampin Up Fresh Cuts stamp set. I stamped the purple background paper using Versamark and used purple ink to stamp the card and sentiment. The background behind the image is yellow mulberry paper. Yep, I totally forgot I had this stuff! I forgot how much fun it is to use this on cards and such. I love the soft effect it gave this card. I am teaching a card class this coming weekend and we will be making this card. I hope everyone loves it as much as I do.

Cricut Magazine Winner!!!!

2011-11-09T19:08:00.003-05:00

The winner of the Cricut Magazine is..............Scrapin Dhilly - Congratulations! I will be emailing you for your addy. Enjoy your magazine!Scrappin Dhilly said... I am so thankful for my family and our health. We have had a very rough year and things are finally starting to turn around, I can only be grateful for that!

Cricut Thanksgiving Card

2011-11-07T12:47:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the new Cricut Magazine? If not, you should check it out! In fact, I will be giving a Thanksgiving edition away. Click on this link to see how you can win. This card was actually cased from the Cricut Magazine. The original designer is by Theresa McKinney. I just loved the yummy look to this card! I used an Autumn Embossing folder for the background and the Cricut Thanksgiving cartridge to cut the die. Makes one hungry for a piece of apple pie!

Weight Watchers Recipe Cards

2011-11-06T12:56:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again when I get involved with swaps. I joined a recipe swap using Weight Watchers points plus recipes. I am trying to drop a few pounds before the end of the year and always looking for new recipes. These cards were super fun to make and I can't wait to get ones back that I am swapping! I plan to make a recipe album when I receive them.

Tim Holtz Style Tag

2011-11-06T12:37:00.000-05:00

I have been experimenting and playing with the Tim Holtz Vagabond dies and the recommended mediums that he uses. This tag is my first version of I hope many more. I just love playing with this stuff! I cut the Carved Ornament die using the Noel Movers & Shakers die inside the ornament. Awesome way to get a lot of many uses out of diecuts! Thanks Tim for this ingenious idea!! I used Kraft Glassine paper to cut the dies and sprinkled with Perfect Pearls copper powder. You must use the glassine paper to make this work. I then diecut patterned paper using the Scroll diecut for the bottom of the tag. I took the Tim Holtz tissue paper and distressed it and crinkled it up a bit for a bit of worn look. The tag itself is colored using Stormy Sky Distress Stain by Tim Holtz. I must say, I am so in love with this stuff! Finally, I put the tag together and added the ribbon and a star charm that I stained with alcohol ink. Just love the way this turned out! I am working on more tags for a swap that I am involved with on SplitCoastStampers. When I am done I will share it with you. Have a great day!

Getting Grungy Birthday Cards

2011-11-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

Being I am the new owner of a Vagabond I have been using it to emboss and cut dies from my old stash of Sizzix. I decided to make a couple of birthday cards and opted to use Tim Holtz grungeboard. This is some really cool material. It's kind of like flimsy chipboard because it bends. I wanted to try embossing using a my Cuttlebug Birthday folder. So, I cut and embossed two pieces of the grungeboard. Then I decided to spray both pieces using different colors of Tattered Angels spray mist. This stuff is totally wicked! It really brings a project to life! I cut my dies using Sizzix Build A Flower and Ice Cream Cone and Cupcake. I reallylike the muted affect the spray created on the first card below with the flower!

This card was just as fun as I added some Stickles to the cupcake! I hope you can see the embossing on the chipboard that says "Happy Birthday". It is really better in person to see. Have a great day!

Cricut Magazine Giveaway

2011-10-30T21:39:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! Today I am doing a giveaway in celebration of Thanksgiving. If you haven't seen the new Cricut Thanksgiving magazine you are truly missing a boatload of inspiration. So, here is your opportunity to win the November edition of Cricut Magazine. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and let me know what you are most thankful for. I will select a winner on November 9th. Good luck!!!

Market Finds and A Vagabond

2011-10-30T21:11:00.004-04:00

My Saturday market went very well. I sold some much loved stamps and things, and I even ended up with a few goodies to take home. I found this Close To My Heart Cherish book & clear paint bucket full of chipboard for only $5.00 each! I thought they were some pretty good deals.

The highlight of my week is I now am the proud owner of the Tim Holtz Vagabond machine! Have you seen or heard about this incredible tool? If not, just go online and search for it and you can see what all it can do. I have been embossing, cutting and playing with it and I am so in love!!! I am now pulling out all my old Sizzix dies that were collecting dust on the shelf and having a great time playing. It cuts like butter and the embossing is incredible. I even did some embossing of grungeboard. I will have to do another post to show you that.

Markets of Marion

2011-10-28T16:32:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post to let you know that I will be at the Markets of Marion located between Ocala and Belleview on Saturday. I will be selling several of my much loved stamp sets for dirt cheap prices. There will be others there selling too. If you are in the area, stop by and say hello.Once I get my craft room cleaned out of all the extra I will be ready to craft!

McIntosh Craft Show

2011-10-23T13:45:00.007-04:00

This weekend has been absolutely gorgeous here in the south. Yesterday, hubby and I took a motorcycle ride a bit north of here to a place called McIntosh, Florida. Once a year the historical, small town of McIntosh has a craft show in October and it is only on one day. There are all sorts of crafts and food and fun for everyone! I enjoy it because you can see some of the townspeople dress up in 1890 period clothes and parade down the main street. Really neat!

I was pretty good on my spending. One thing, I was limited for space being I was riding the motorcycle. Maybe I should ride a motorcyle to scrapbook conventions and stores...HA!!!! Then I couldn't take home so many new toys.

Anyway, I did find a vendor who was selling these beautiful vintage style aprons. They are all handmade and she also makes other gorgeous items. When I spotted the cupcake apron I knew my daughter would love this for Christmas. I purchased the other one for myself. I just love the whimsical material and the big pockets on it!

The vendor's name is Retro Revival and you can go to her store and see all the other gorgeous items she makes including flat iron cases and fun, colorful shower caps! I am even thinking of getting some of these as Chrismas gifts.

I thought I would share some pictures of some of the things I enjoy visiting when I go. I love taking pics of old barns and this carriage house is a classic to me!

McIntosh Presbyterian Church is so quaint and beautiful with the stained glass windows inside. Hubby and I went inside to hear some local youth singing and playing their guitars and saxaphones. Really very nice!

Isn't this wheelbarrow so cheery looking? I love snapping shots of gorgeous flowers!

Hope you enjoyed viewing pics of my adventuresome day. I will have more crafting stuff for you in a few days. Have a great week!!

Button for Breast Cancer

2011-10-18T07:39:00.001-04:00

Have you noticed my cute, pink button to the right of my blog? October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. Please be kind to yourself and get your mammogram done. Have a wonderful day!

Vinyl Transfers and Birthday Cards

2011-10-16T14:31:00.001-04:00

I have been busy in the DoodleRoom today making Halloween vinyl transfers for my sliding door. If you have never used vinyl to cut with your Cricut machine you are truly missing out! I used the Happy Haunting cartridge to cut these cute, spooky designs. This picture may be a bit difficult to see because I was taking it from inside the house and facing the sun coming in the porch area. I saturated the photo as best I could, so hopefully you can see the designs and my cat sitting to the left of the pictures. He was very curious about these "creatures" on his door. LOL!!!

I wanted to share and also thank the wonderful gals that sent me these AWESOME birthday cards! I am so lucky to have such wonderful card-making friends. Thank you so much for my wonderful cards from the SplitCoastStamper gals and my sister-in-law Jan. I will cherish each card!

A New Craft Resource

2011-10-13T07:55:00.000-04:00

I have been enjoying the new My Craft Channel for inspiration. They feature loads of wonderful ideas and ways to create things. Check them out!I am off to work for now. I hope my new IPhone comes today for my birthday! I can't wait to get it!

Happy Hauntings Pumpkin Treat Boxes

2011-10-12T07:22:00.001-04:00

I thought you would enjoy seeing these cute little treat boxes I created using Cricut Happy Hauntings cartridge. These are perfect for putting small treats inside and giving as party favors! I plan to make more of these and a couple other Halloween designs that I will share with you later. The sentiment is from MyPinkStamper Spooky Puns. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Put Your Best Foot Forward

2011-10-09T21:36:00.000-04:00

I just love this classy witch from the Wicked stamp set by Close To My Heart! I wanted to make something a little different with this image so I used alcohol inks for the background and then stamped the witch using black Staz-on. You must use glossy cardstock for this technique to work properly. I couldn't decide what I wanted to add as an embellishment then remembered I had purchased these cute little spider stickers by Recollections. I painted a white flower with orange and purple acrylic paint and when it dryed sprayed it with Tattered Angels Indian Corn spray. They are awesome! I had no idea it would give me a porcelain effect. I was completely happy with how it came out and then added the spider. I have been pretty busy this weekend. My hubby and I finished painting our kitchen that we started the prior weekend. My kitchen used to be pink. I switched to Lemongrass and Olive by Sherwin Williams for a contrast of color and a brand new look. It is almost like having a new kitchen I must say! Now, we have to finish the trim and the rest of the house. It will take time but is coming along.I am also taking an online workshop from Big Picture Class. It is called Textuality and taught by Amy Sorensen. I just started yesterday and have already gained a wealth of information. There are several workshops and classes on this site. Some are free and others charge a fee. I am eyeing several others that I would like to take. Of course, you have to take the free ones! You never know what new things you may learn. By the way, I am not an advertiser for Big Picture; I am just sharing with you a useful site that I think you may enjoy as much as I do. Today my dear hubby took me shopping to upgrade my IPhone for my birthday. It is on Thursday but he wanted to get it today since we have limited time during the week. They didn't have the phone in stock I wanted so I had to order it. I chose an IPhone 4. I decided I didn't need the newest one that is arriving this week, but I really wanted one with the video camera. I am so excited! I also got an accessory bundle that included a pink case with extra battery (so I can do my email and won't worry about using up my battery so fast) and a car charger. I don't know how I managed to put so much into 2 days but I did. We have had lots of rain this weekend and expecting heavy winds tonight. I think our temp is going to drop a bit. At least I hope it does. Have a great week!!!

Happy Anniversary

2011-09-29T07:38:00.001-04:00

Eleven years ago today I boarded a cruise ship to Mexico and married my dear hubby at the southern most point in the United States, beautiful Key West! I have to say that my life changed that day for best. Together we have had a lot of adventure, fun and hard work! I have truly enjoyed every minute of my life with him. He is such a blessing in my life and I know my dear Lord sent him my way. I hope we have many more years together going forward.I wanted to create him a fun loving card for our anniversary. I decided to use my Cricut Imagine machine for this card and when I saw this cute little gal on the Yummy cartridge I knew it would be perfect. I added the glitter cardstock to give it a sugary look. This was a quick and simple card to make and has inpsired me to want to use the Imagine machine even more. Have a wonderful day!

Inchie Calendar Swap

2011-09-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year for me to do a mini calendar swap. I made the following calendar pages for the months of March and June. This time the challenge was to use an inchie on the 3 1/2 x 2 1/2 inch page. I had to dig through my craft supply to find a stamp small enough for both my pages. I have to say I found all kinds of things during my digging. Now, I can't wait to see what everyone else has created in this swap!

Halloween Project

2011-09-25T18:58:00.001-04:00

I found these paper mache Halloween coffins at Micheal's the other day. I painted them and sprayed with Pumpkin Tattered Angels mist and added the bling and chipboard letters. I am going to stuff with goodies and send them to my kids.

Another Nautical Picture

2011-09-20T16:00:00.000-04:00

I am having a boat load of fun taking the Creative Color Workshop with Christy Tomlinson. I made one picture to match my guest bedroom in a sort of nautical theme. Well, I just had to make another to compliment the first one. Here is what I came up with. I have to tell you that you can't be afraid to get your hands inked up!

A Tisket A Tasket, A Cute Little Basket

2011-09-18T18:44:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had a day where you are going through your stamp sets and come across a set you forgot you had? Well, that happened to me yesterday while searching for a stamp to use for another project. I found a set from Papertrey Ink that I rarely use. I didn't realize it had great images for holidays and birthdays. So, I started stamping and ended up making actually three cards (two are the same, so I only posted one of them). I used Copics to color and added some embellishments. I really like how these came out.

Hero Arts Birthday Gift

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000-04:00

I created these cards using the paper piecing technique by stamping the image on five different sheets of designer paper from K&Company and then cutting out the pieces I wanted for each block of the birthday cake. I stamped the image on Kraft paper and rounded the edges of the cardstock. I ended up making two of these cards since I had several pieces left over. I cased this idea from a card I saw in Stamp It magazine that was created by Mary Dawn Quirindango. I have found paper piecing to be a relatively fast and easy technique that is simplistic yet charming!

Color Inspiration Workshop

2011-09-10T17:50:00.000-04:00

I have been taking an online course about color inspiration by Christy Tomlinson. One of my blogger buds put me onto this wonderful course and I thank her so much! I have totally enjoyed Christy's tips and techniques on getting inpsired by color and then creating a canvas collage picture. I must say that it totally makes you create outside the box and going outside the lines!

My creation actually evolved into a nautical theme. I chose this because I have no pictures on my guest room walls since I changed the bedspread. I adore the blue and white colors in this spread and had planned to find pictures to go along with it. I wanted to keep the pictures nautical but with a feminine twist.

I also took a couple of pottery bowls from my kithen that inspired me as my accent colors. I just love the orange/yellow color to match the blue. When I finished the canvas I wasn't sure if it was going to work but my sweet hubby couldn't wait to take a picture of it! I am pleased with how it came out being it is my first of hopefully many projects that I plan to do on canvas.

Labor Day Weekend Vacation

2011-09-06T21:00:00.008-04:00

My sweet hubby and I decided to take a mini vacation and head to the panhandle of Florida last Thursday morning. We visited with friends and stayed in Destin, Florida. While in the area we took a trip over to Pensacola to visit hubby's sister. On our way to his sister's house we stopped at Blackwater River and snapped some pictures. Then we visited the bayou where my hubby was born and raised. We got some great shots of the area. Unfortunately, a lot of the area is still trying to recover from Hurricane Ivan.

The rest of our weekend we had actually planned a deep sea fishing trip. However, Tropical Storm Lee would not go away and we were unable to do any fishing or sunbathing. Overall, the trip was a wash out! However, it was fantastic in other ways as I got some much needed rest. I hope you enjoy these pictures. I plan to get back in my crafting mode now that vacation is over. I hope everyone had a wonderful Labor Day.

The first two pics is the coast at Destin. See how barren it is since the wind and rain kept everyone away! Check out the waves in both pics.

This is Blackwater River. Isn't it gorgeous?

I didn't know my hubby took this behind the scene shot of me! LOL!

I so want to go back and do a camping trip along this river. Those Cypress trees are awesome!

This is the bayou where my hubby grew up.

Cartridge Winner for Fall Blog Hop

2011-08-29T21:33:00.003-04:00

Drum Roll please............the winner is

Jan.schmeckpeper
Jan said,
"I love the changing colors of the trees, and wearing my favorite sweaters.

Loved your scarecrows.

Thanks for the chance to win."

Thanks to everyone who visited my blog and I hope you enjoyed the fall inspirations. Stay tuned for more fun stuff to come!

Cricut Circle Sisters Fall Blog Hop

2011-08-27T00:01:00.010-04:00

Hello everyone! Today is a fabulous day for a fall blog hop and several Cricut Circle sisters have joined together to share some awesome projects with you! I hope it gets you in the mood for fall and inspires your creative juices.

I decided to create several scrapbook layouts using various cartridges in my collection. My hubby and I visited a pumpkin farm a couple years ago and I have been dying to get these pictures scrapbooked. I don't know what it is about those big orange pumpkins but they just make you smile!

In the first two layouts I used the following cartridges; Paper Lace, Simply Scarecrow and Thanksgiving. I decided to emboss the yellow strips of cardstock using the Branches embossing folder from Provo Craft. I inked the leaves and pumpkins with a couple of chalk inks for added dimension.

On this Fall layout I used Cricut cartridge Country Life to create the barn scene. I cut the sentiment and leaves using Simply Scarecrow.

Simply Scarecrow was used on this layout for the scarecrow himself. Isn't he just adorable?

I glued a finished scarecrow to a popsicle stick. I can see myself using these as plant stakes or other projects around the house as I decorate for fall.

Finally, I created a simple fall card with a scarecrow.

Now, since you took the time to hop over here today I am offering a chance to win a free Cricut cartridge Sweethearts. All you have to do is leave a comment telling me what you like about fall on this post and I will pick a winner on Monday. The winner will be announced Monday evening on my blog. Good luck!

Here is the complete list of blogs to visit. I hope you have fun checking them out! These ladies are super talented!
1) Kristen http://fantabulouslypink.blogspot.com/
2) Michele www.michelegreen.com
3) Roberta http://www.txscrappermom.blogspot.com/
4) Mary http://www.marebearscraps.blogspot.com/
5) Renee http://icameisawicreated.blogspot.com/
6) Carolyn http://cccscraproom.blogspot.com/
7) Gamma http://gammascreativecorner.blogspot.com/
8) Colleen http://www.scrappycol.blogspot.com
9) DoodleDiva www.doodledivadesigns.com
10) Kimbe http://kimberliscreations.blogspot.com/
11) Lisa http://addictedtothecricut.blogspot.com
12) Gonecampn http://www.scrapcavecreations.com/
13) Momto2cuties http://www.inlovewithpaper.blogspot.com/
14) Scrapalette http://scrapalette.blogspot.com/
15) Paper Memories http://papermemories4u.blogspot.com/ (New Blog)
16)Darcy http://dlmbscrapping-time2create.blogspot.com/
17)Lavendergal http://ibecircled.blogspot.com
19) HappyScrapper64 http://happyscrapper64.blogspot.com/
20) Madylyn http://inspiredbycolor.blogspot.com/21)Nancy http://lanancyworkshop.blogspot.com/
22)Debbie http://bugginattheseams.blogspot.com/
23)Tracy http://www.scrappininthewoods.blogspot.com/
24)Sharon http://designsbysharon.blogspot.com/

Fall Blog Hop Countdown!!!

2011-08-26T16:56:00.007-04:00

Yep, it's me again! I thought I would post the line-up for the Cricut Circle sisters fall blog hop. This will begin tomorrow! I hope you enjoy visiting the blogs.

1) Kristen http://fantabulouslypink.blogspot.com/
2) Michele www.michelegreen.com
3) Roberta http://www.txscrappermom.blogspot.com/
4) Mary http://www.marebearscraps.blogspot.com/
5) Renee http://icameisawicreated.blogspot.com/
6) Carolyn http://cccscraproom.blogspot.com/
7) Gamma http://gammascreativecorner.blogspot.com/
8) Colleen http://www.scrappycol.blogspot.com
9) DoodleDiva www.doodledivadesigns.com
10) Kimbe http://kimberliscreations.blogspot.com/
11) Lisa http://addictedtothecricut.blogspot.com
12) Gonecampn http://www.scrapcavecreations.com/
13) Momto2cuties http://www.inlovewithpaper.blogspot.com/
14) Scrapalette http://scrapalette.blogspot.com/
15) Paper Memories http://papermemories4u.blogspot.com/ (New Blog)
16)Darcy http://dlmbscrapping-time2create.blogspot.com/
17)Lavendergal http://ibecircled.blogspot.com
19) HappyScrapper64 http://happyscrapper64.blogspot.com/
20) Madylyn http://inspiredbycolor.blogspot.com/21)Nancyhttp://lanancyworkshop.blogspot.com/
22)Debbie http://bugginattheseams.blogspot.com/23)Tracy http://www.scrappininthewoods.blogspot.com/
24)Sharon http://designsbysharon.blogspot.com/

Big Fall Blog Hop Announcement & Giveaway!!!!

2011-08-26T07:23:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, August 27th (that's tomorrow) I will be participating in a HUGE blog hop with several members of the Cricut Circle. This is going to be centered around fall designs for cards, scrapbook layouts and other projects. Several Circle members are in the hop and I am sure you will be stunned by their many fabulous designs! I will be posting their links and my project on my blog tomorrow. I hope you get a chance to check out all the fun stuff!

Also, I will be giving away a Cricut cartridge on my blog with the hop. All details will be posted tomorrow so stay tuned!!!

Have a fantastic Friday!!!

Hana Ami and Beach Trip

2011-08-22T21:10:00.005-04:00

This past weekend my hubby and I spent some time at the beach. We had a fabulous time! I even splurged on a pedicure/manicure at the spa!

While at the beach I took along my Hana Ami flower loom. This was my first attempt at making flowers with it and I really have a lot to learn. I could not believe how fast and easy it is though! I am anxious to try and make several more flowers and create double flowers too. These will be fantastic for paper projects and other crafts including hair decoration.

These are the first flowers I created with the loom. Learning how to get a nice center is quite the challenge!

This is the beach behind the hotel. It was very nice and extremely hot!

My hubby and I pose as someone offered to take a picture for us.

Cricut Scarecrow Cartridge

2011-08-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

This card was made using the Scarecrow Cricut cartridge. I just think this pumpkin is so scary cute!!! I used the designer paper scraps from the Halloween House I made over the weekend at the bottom of this card. I added the black twine (lovin this stuff from Karen Foster) to the buttons for eyes. The sentiment is from MyPinkStamper Spooky Puns that I purchased last year.

I am so in the mood for fall! Can you tell?

Have a wonderful day!

Make A Wish Card

2011-08-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

There's something about balloons and a bicycle that just brighten things up! What better way to use them but for a fun birthday card!

I created this card using a Unity stamp bicycle image. I heat embossed the image and used H2O's to color the balloons. I added the birthday sentiments (there is one inside that says, "May your birthday be filled with excitement, joy, and laughter"}by Fiskars. You can pick these sentiment stamps up pretty cheap at Joann's with a 40% sale or coupon. I used Nestibilities to cut out the image and the designer paper that I added. Instead of layering the card I kept it simplistic and used pop dots to make the image stand out.

Halloween House

2011-08-13T19:28:00.005-04:00

I love reading scrapbooking and cardmaking magazines and books. They inpsire me to create my cards and projects that I make. Last month I was browsing a magazine when I spotted a Halloween House decorated. I just had to try making my own! I was able to purchase my pre-cut chipboard houses by Doodlebug Designs. I painted the house purple before I covered it with designer papers. I used spider stickers to cover the door, steps, and windows and added a couple of bats. I gave them a bit of dimension by glueing them on to appear as though they are flying. The kit did not have the window or door trim so I used my Cricut machine and Pop-up Neighborhood cartridge to cut the trim. I found the witch and moon die-cut in my old stash of fall embellishments that I have had for a long time. I thought it to be perfect for this house.

This house was so much fun to make and my dear hubby just loves it! This is putting me in the mood for Halloween and now I want to make some more fun stuff to put out around my house. I have another chipboard house but thinking of making it a candy or gingerbread theme. What do you think?

Penny Black - Minding Shelty

2011-08-09T21:17:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. I finally made it to my craft room to create a card. I am still having issues with my health and I would have never guessed it would take this long to heal. I am seeking a second medical opinion for my issues since the stent has been removed from my urinary tract. I just hope I can get some resolution soon.

I stamped the following image by Penny Black called Minding Shelty in Black Memento ink. I then colored with various colors using Copics. I embossed the yellow background cardstock with Houndstooth by Provo Craft and added the designer paper by K&Company. I hope it makes you smile. I just love this image! I plan to put a sentiment inside for this card.

Birthday Winner!

2011-07-18T20:59:00.001-04:00

Drum roll please!!!! The winner is Josie0602 she said...
I have been wanting that birthday folder for a while!! Thanks for the chance to win it! My favorite type of card to make is shaped cards...if you mean occasion, it would be birthday cards!
Tracy

Email me at dinnerdell@yahoo.com with your addy so that I can put your package in the mail! Congratulations!

Birthday Giveaway!

2011-07-06T07:47:00.003-04:00

There has been plenty of birthdays this summer. My dear hubby's birthday is on the 18th of this month. In honor of him I would like to have a giveaway for you! All you need to do is follow my blog and post a comment here to win this birthday stamp set, Cuttlebug birthday folder and the Sizzix stencil. When you comment tell me what your favorite type of cards are to make. I will choose a winner on July
18th. Good luck!

Stone is Gone and A Couple of Cards

2011-07-03T15:10:00.004-04:00

I returned to the doctor last Thursday and he took another xray. He is convinced the stone is gone; however, I am still having spasms from having the stint in my urinary tract. This is supposed to be normal and can last several weeks. I am doing much better. The past three days have been my best so far since June 7th. I will be glad when I am completely healed. The spasms strike me without notice and usually daily. They are very painful and similar to kidney stone pain. Thanks to everyone who has said prayers for me. I am finally on the road to recovery. I even managed to straighten my disorganized craft room yesterday.

Here are a couple cards that I created for a card class that I taught. They were relatively quick and simple using both dry and heat embossing techniques on one card and tearing on the other. I also used border punches for both cards.

Update - Kidney Stone

2011-06-28T20:58:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. I just wanted to update everyone on what is going on with me. The laser surgery did not work. In fact, the stone chased itself away from the laser back to the kidney, leaving the doctor with no choice but to leave it alone. Of course, he had to leave the stupid stint in my urinary tract for several days. Talk about pain!!!!!! I have had a lot of bad days over the past 3 1/2 weeks. In between, trying to work and some days just not managing to make it in the office at all! It has been a horrible roller coaster ride for me.

Last Tuesday I went home from work after processing payroll (important stuff) with a 102 temp and in severe pain. On Thursday, I went back to the doctor and he removed the stint in his office. Well, that was another whole experience and one I don't ever want to repeat again!! Ever since the stint has been removed I have been having a lot of pain. I had excruiating, fetal position pain a couple days last week and over the weekend. I am managing somehow to try and hold myself together. I am so over all this!

Actually, I thought I passed it last Thursday night. I have what I think appears to be a stone. However, I am still having a lot of pain. So, I think either I have 2 stones or the one stone broke into two pieces. Something is really strange with this whole thing.

The doctor seems to think I can pass this stone and says it should happen in about 2 weeks. I go back to seem him this Thursday and they will take another picture of my kidney to see where the thing is. I just really want this to pass. My craftroom looks so abandoned as I just haven't felt like doing anything at all. In fact, I need to close this post as I am not feeling well again.

Thanks for all the prayers and support. Please keep them coming. I will hopefully update soon with good news.

Kidney Stone Blast

2011-06-19T22:34:00.002-04:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know I am still here but not completely well yet. They are blasting my kidney stone in the morning since the darn thing won't move. I am looking forward to some relief! I haven't felt like crafting too much since the pain meds give me a headache and make it hard to see. I will be so happy when all this is over.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Seahorse Card

2011-06-13T20:02:00.003-04:00

Here's another card I made using Cricut Life's A Beach cartridge. I used glitter to bring it to life. The background embossing folder is the Shell by Cuttlebug.

Tell me what you think.

Life's A Beach!

2011-06-11T09:22:00.003-04:00

What a week it has been for me! Tuesday morning I woke up in excruciating pain of my left side. I tried several times to overcome it only to succumb to nausea & throwing up. Yuk!!! I ended up lying on the tile floor and my dear hubby decided to take me to the hospital. He normally would have called 911 but being a fireman/paramedic he knew what needed done. We both had suspicions I had a kidney stone.

When I arrived at the hospital they immediately took me back and got pain meds going. Sure enough it was a kidney stone, but I had other issues with high blood sugar. So, to make long story short, I ended up in the hospital for 3 days. Needless to say, being in a foreign environment did not help my blood sugar or the kidney stone. I am not one to take pain killer meds but this time I was ready for anything to relieve the pain. I am home now and still have the stone. The doctor wants me to pass it on my own if I can. If not, he might do the laser surgery next week. So, here I sit drinking my gallons of water and trying to overcome all this anxiety! My blood sugars are being controlled with insulin and pills until the stone passes. My regular doctor seems to think that my body is under a lot of stress from the stone thus causing my sugar to elevate. Once the stone is gone then I should be able to control the sugar with oral meds only. At least, I hope that will be the outcome. Now that I am back home I have to watch my diet very carefully and I am trying to up my exercise. I normally do a lot of walking and I plan to get back on my bicycle starting today. I have already dropped two pounds!

Anyway, enough about my health issues. I was supposed to be at the beach this weekend but due to this happening our trip has been postponed. I did manage to make several cards last weekend using my Cricut cartridge Life's A Beach. I cut this octupus and ran the diecut through my Xyron machine upside-down. I then took Bo Bunny Bubblegum Sugar Coating glitter and sprinkled it over the diecut. I embossed the background cardstock with Tiny Bubbles embossing folder and used GinaK Designs Just Keep Swimming for the sentiment. I really like the cheery effect this card exudes! I hope it makes you smile!

Blown Glass Technique

2011-06-09T19:59:00.001-04:00

This past weekend I managed to play with a new technique I learned from Butternutsagedesigns blog. The technique is called blown glass. You take paper diecuts and turn them into faux blown glass. The cost of the tutorial was very inexpensive.

I cut several diecuts from my Cricut machine and practiced the blown glass look on them. I embossed each image with various embossing folders using my Cuttlebug to add a bit of dimension. I then got busy giving each diecut the blown glass effect. The horse and birds were a lot of fun. The butterfly was my first creation.

This was quite a bit of fun to do and I think will make great tags or card and scrapbook embellishments. These would be perfect for beach type layouts!

I encourage you to visit Butternutsage's blog if you want to learn how to do this technique. She also has several other wonderful ideas on her blog. Let me know what you think.

Wire Dress Form

2011-06-07T11:43:00.001-04:00

When I was a little girl I did not know what a store bought dress was until I was about 9 years old. My mother used to make all my dresses. I remember having to be fitted with the patterns of dresses. My mother was a seamstress and made not only my dresses but clothes for other people.

I remember wanting to be like other kids and wear a dress that came from a department store. One day while shopping at a local Army/Navy Store I found a cute little sundress that she purchased for me. I think that was one of my first store bought dresses. At that point on, I don't remember too many hand sewn dresses after that unless it was for a special occassion.

I do remember all the dress forms in those days though. It's funny how you see many of the wire dress forms as decoration nowadays. When I made the card below I couldn't help but think of a time long ago. What do wire forms make you think about?

Here is the mini wire form that sits in my craft room. It holds a Hawaiian necklace that my daughter brought back from Hawaii to me.

Easy Rider - Pennyblack

2011-06-05T11:37:00.002-04:00

Doesn't this little gal just make you want to smile? I created this card using an image called Easy Rider from Pennyblack. I used Copics to color the image and the IRock tool (thank you Kathleen, secret sister) to add the bling. I added some embossing to the background cardstock and PapertreyInk ribbon. I am very pleased with how this card turned out. This little gal motivates me to do some bicycle riding.

Proud to be an American!

2011-05-30T14:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day everyone! In honor of our soldiers and veterans I created this card using an older Stampin Up set called Libery For All. I embossed the background using Stars Cuttlebug folder and embossed the frames around the eagle using Nestibilities rectangle dies. I really like how this card turned out.

I hope you enjoy your day!

Wild West Cards - Tim Holtz Stamps

2011-05-29T14:02:00.002-04:00

I have a few masculine birthdays & Father's Day coming up, so I thought I would get started on a few cards for the men in my life. I decided to make these cards using Tim Holtz Wild West stamp set. I just love this stamp set! I used a bit of embossing on both cards and embellished the Wild West card with a star charm I found in my stash. I am trying to use up items that I already have on hand. Anyhow, I can see where I will be pulling this stamp set out over and over again. Once I decide what card goes to who I will put a sentiment inside.

Tell me what you think.

A Card & Baby Album Project

2011-05-25T21:37:00.003-04:00

I have had two fantastic weekends! Two weeks ago my son surprised me with a visit home. It was so much fun seeing him and getting together as a family. As a "thank you" for all his effort to make my day so special I decided to put this card together for him. The stamps and stickers are by K&Company. I just love this whimsical gator and thought it perfect for a card from Florida!

Last weekend I got together with a dear friend of mine and we scrapbooked all day. It was really nice having the downtime and being able to chat with her! I took my Expression 2 to her house and let her play with it. I think she got a bit addicted! LOL!!

Anyway, I was able to get a few pages done of my son's baby scrapbook that I wanted to redo. This is the first page that I created. The theme is Winnie the Pooh as that was what his nursery was decorated when he was little and I was lucky to snag a Pooh album years ago! I am going to try and put a deadline on myself to get this project done before the end of the summer. I have tons of pictures that will go into this album. Believe me, my son is 26 years old and I am so happy to be able to work on this project. How many of you are working on projects of your kids, family, or animals that date back many years? Hey it's never to late to start!

Extended Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-15T16:26:00.002-04:00

I am having a blast of a weekend! My son surprised me with a flight home for the weekend as my Mother's Day gift on Thursday night!! So we all decided to go to Rainbow Springs and tube down the river on Saturday. My hubby, and two girls joined us and we had a picnic in the park. I took pictures down the river with a water camera but they didn't come out. That was a bummer..but good thing I had my regular camera in the park. Anyway, here is a pic with my wonderful children! I am so proud of each of them.

A Shadow Box Project

2011-05-10T20:28:00.002-04:00

I created this simple scrapbook page for my daughter and her hubby. I am putting it inside of a scrapbook page shadow box. It is going to look great with the black frame. This was so simple to pull together and I can't wait to see the look on their faces when they receive this! It is their new puppy, Apollo, a Siberian Husky. He is getting so big so fast that I thought I would capture him at this stage for them to remember. I used Cricut Classic Font to cut the letters with my Expression II.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T20:33:00.003-04:00

I have had the most wonderful Mother's Day and I hope all the mother's out there that read my blog have had an enjoyable one too! My hubby and I have 3 wonderful children between us. Our two oldest kids are both grown and have proven to be very successful and independent. My son lives out of state; and my daughter is married and a nurse in another town several miles from me. Both kids called and texted me today to wish me happy mother's day. I am very proud of both of them!

Our youngest daughter (actually my step-daughter) is such a sweetheart and at the fun age of 16! She created a most wonderful meal for me on Friday night of pan-fried talipia, asparagus and salad. It was so yummy!!! Today she spent mother's day with her mom. However, she left a card for me with my dear hubby. It is the most special card I have ever received and I will cherish it forever! I thought I would share it with you below.

The inside of the cards says:
I know this card isn't all pretty and great but I just wnated to tell you your the best stepmom anyone could ask for! Thank you for everything you do for me! Daddy better treat you good today for being so great to me! I love you and hope you have a great day! Love, Rebekah

Cricut Expression II & Just A Note

2011-04-30T14:25:00.004-04:00

I am so excited to announce that I am a proud owner of a brand new Cricut Expression II! This little jewel of a machine can do anything a Cricut Expression can do and more! I can now use my Imagine cartridges with this machine to cut on regular paper. Another bonus is that it actually takes up less space than a regular Expression and you have a digital screen for your overlays. I am so loving it!

Check out this quick and easy card I created using the Just A Note cartridge that came preloaded with my machine. My mom is a bit under the weather and I am taking her this card today. I can't wait to create more fun cards and scrapbook pages with my new toy!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Easter Everyone! Have a beautiful day as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I hope you enjoy your family and friends this weekend. Our family is a bit scattered so hubby and I will have a nice quiet Easter with our youngest daughter, Rebekah. Even though she is 16 we still color eggs and get into the spirit of it all! Some of my fondest memories as a child are of Easter celebrations.

Since Rebekah loves cake I decided to play with my Cricut Cake machine and make a whimsical Easter cake. I used the Martha Stewart Seasonal Cake cartridge to cut the eggs, grass and chick. I am a bit rusty with my cake decorating but my hubby and Rebekah simply adored my creation.

Fairy Tags

2011-04-21T14:56:00.000-04:00

I am in the process of creating a fairy journal book. The idea came from a swap that I joined on Splitcoaststampers. You have to make an element that involves a fairy stamp image. It can be anything from a tag, card, bookmark, etc. I decided to make an ATC tag card in a bag.

I found these cute tiny paper bags at Michael's and decided to decorate them on the outside and create a journaling tag for the inside. The designer paper is from Once Upon A Springtime Collection from Graphic 45. I used Papertrey Ink Aqua Mist & Stampin Up Very Vanilla cardstock. I embossed the butterfly on the Aqua Mist cardstock using a butterfly Cuttlebug folder. Before I embossed it through the machine I inked the butterfly with Dark Moss Cat Eye chalk ink. Then I inked the edges before attaching to the designer paper. I punched the mini tag of the fairy with a Stampin up punch and used an eyelet and hemp to complete before popping it to the side of the butterfly.

The ATC tag inside the bag was stamped with a fairy image by Hampton Art. I tried a different technique and used Orange Paper Color Soft to ink the image before stamping. I have to say that I am now totally in love with this new product. I am going to have to order some more of this cool stuff. It is so easy to use and you can create several different effects with it. I can't wait to use it again! After the Color Soft dried I inked the edges with the Dark Moss Cat Eye and attached to the Designer Paper. I found the cute brads to attach that say, "Don't Pick The Flowers". I thought they were perfect for this card!

I can't wait to see what everyone else creates in this swap. Once I finish my book, I will share with everyone. Have a great day!

Easter Blossoms

2011-04-19T14:53:00.000-04:00

I am so enjoying this new stamp set by Stampin Up called Easter Blossoms. I adore this little girl and the patterned paper that just blends so beautifully. This was another simple card I made while on vacation a few weeks ago.

Easter Cards

2011-04-17T14:45:00.006-04:00

Easter is fast approaching us this year and spring is in full bloom! At least it is here in the south where I live. Before you know it will be summertime and the heat will be unbearable. I guess that is more excuse to stay inside and craft. Hee!! Hee!

While on vacation a couple weeks ago I made these simple Easter cards. I hope you like them. I was unable to bring but a few products and paper with me, so I kept them pretty basic. Sorry about the lighting in these shots. I was in a hurry and should have re-took some of these pics.

Vacation and a Model A Car

2011-04-12T21:00:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone! I have been away on a much needed vacation with hubby last week. We went to our favorite spot in the mountains. I will share some pics over the next few days with all of you. We love getting away and riding the motorcycle in the hills. It is awesome!

Of course, coming back from vacation is always such a whirlwind! There is so much work to be done around the house and at work, that there is not enough of me to go around. I suppose most of us feel this way. Oh well, you can only eat an elephant one bite at a time; right?

Okay, now on to other things. I thought I would share with you a special picture of my late father's Model A car. Currently, it is undergoing the final touches of being refurbished. I am pictured inside, but sitting on a milk crate as the seats are not inside it yet. Pretty soon it will be on display at antique car shows. Isn't it gorgeous?

Catch everyone later this week. I will be posting some stuff I have been working on.

A New Basket & Imagine

2011-03-27T19:22:00.006-04:00

Hi everyone. I am battling allergies and a sore throat this week. I will be so happy when the oak pollen subsides. It is already quite warm here in the South. I see where other places it is still quite cool. I am so not ready for the sticky heat and humidity here. I will have to find ways to stay cool this year.

Meantime, my neighbor took an adventurous trip to Hawaii with her family a week ago. She had a blast going down a zipline and biking downhill for over 30 miles! Did I mention she is in her mid 70's? I hope I am that adventurous when I am her age! While she was out of town, we took care of her 35 lb cat. Yes, I said 35 1bs!!! He is a hoot! Anyway, for watching her baby she brought me back this lovely handmade basket. She watched the guy make the basket and he said it would be green for a while and eventually turn brown. So, I decided to take a picture of it while it is green.

Now on to crafting... I have to introduce you to my new toy, the Cricut Imagine! I am so excited about getting this machine! I took a few pictures so you can see what it looks like closed and open. If you have a regular Cricut Expression, you have to double the size for this machine. So make sure you have space to put it. I made my first card project below and even made my own background paper. I have to tell you I love this feature of making my own papers. I still have much to learn on this machine and mastering the calibration is something I am working on.

I created this card using Imagine More cartridge and Meow. I like being able to utilize both my regular cartridges with this machine. What do you think?

Spring Tulip

2011-03-24T16:33:00.000-04:00

This is the third and last card I created in the Copic class that I attended. The most important thing I learned is that the more you use and practice with your Copics the better you will become. If you haven't used Copics before I highly recommend getting a few. They are worth the investment since they are refillable. There are some great websites that sell them and also provide valuable information for using them.

Have a wonderful week everyone.

A Little Birdie Told Me

2011-03-22T16:30:00.000-04:00

Isn't this little girl just the life of spring? Don't you just love this image? This is another card I made at the Copic's class I attended. What do you think of my coloring on this one?

Copic Class

2011-03-20T16:21:00.003-04:00

I attended a Copic class at one of the local scrapbook stores near me. I have had a few Copic markers for a little over a year now and wanted to learn a bit more about these wonderful markers. Funny thing is that I got to meet a gal I had spoken with on a forum that I am a member. She turned out to be the instructor!

The biggest thing I learned is about shadowing and how to take your markers to the next level to make your images more lifelike. I also picked up some great tips on how the blender pen works and how to change my nibs on all my markers and refilling them. I am so happy I took this class. Over the next few days I will post some of the cards I made. Let me know what you think.

By the way, my grandpuppy's name is Apollo. I forgot to mention that in my last post.

My New GrandPuppy!

2011-03-14T18:44:00.002-04:00

My daughter who recently got married decided she wanted to get a puppy. She was so excited when she called me a little over a week ago to tell me she was getting a Siberian Husky! She was totally elated and one would think she was bringing home a human baby. It was just too funny!

Well, being that it will be a while before my hubby and I have grandkids we had to go and visit our new grandpuppy! He is absolutely adorable and I just had to share some pics I took of him.

My daughter has already made him a bona fide Gator fan too! Check out his doggy tag!

2011-03-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

This was another challenge card where it was required to use vellum paper and emboss it. I decided to dry emboss my vellum for this challenge with Cuttlebug Bird Call folder. I am going to use this card for Easter since it has a spring like affect.

By the way, did I mention that all the challenge cards had to be made in 45 minutes or less? That is a challenge within itself!

Quarter Note - Cricut

2011-03-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This card was another challenge card that required you to use something to incorporate music on a card. When I read the instructions for this challenge I had to use my Cuttlebug embossing folders with sheet music and vintage lettering. I cut the diecut from Cricut Quarter Note and used MyPinkStamper stamp for the sentiment. I thought embossing the pianist would add a little different twist to this card.

Sarah Kay - VSN Challenge

2011-03-08T08:00:00.002-05:00

Here is another challenge card that I created for the Splitcoaststamper VSN. The challenge was to create a card using an image with your favorite childhood toy or your own child's favorite.

Every little girl has a favorite teddy bear! I remember having a favorite stuffed bear as a child and you won't believe this but I have a HUGE bear my dear hubby gave me that sits in our bedroom on his chair! Yes, I love bears. Funny thing is though my daughter also had a favorite bear growing up and I actually purchased her a grunge bear at a craft fair so she could dress him up to match her outfit. So, this challenge made me remember this adorable Sarah Kay image.

I colored with copics and accented the card with buttons. The sentiment is from Stampin Up Vintage Labels.

Flopsey Flowers

2011-03-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

This challenge was just that, a challenge! You had to create a sooty kind of card for you hubby of the things that make him happy and leave the pink behind. My dear husband loves so many things, but if he had to choose he will tell you that I am his favorite! Now, I am not trying to pat myself on the back here, but honestly that is the way he is. So, for my sooty kind of love I chose the My Favorite Things stamp set called Flopsey Flowers. My hubby loves to bring me flowers and this bunny so represents him and the things he loves to do! Okay, enough of that...

I used Papertrey Ink cardstock for this challenge, no pink whatsoever! The coloring was done using Copics and I did some dry embossing using Cuttlebug Swiss Dots and Floral Dots. Great combination, or so I think it is. What do you think?

Hangin With My Peeps

2011-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

A basket of goodies, mainly Easter and Valentine was shown for this challenge. You were to make a card based on whatever jumped out at you from the basket. The peeps jumped out at me for this challenge and I knew immediately what image I would use! My Favorite Things Hangin With My Peeps was perfect!

I colored the image with Copics and used a border punch for the bottom edge along the bottom of the designer paper. I added the cute little chic brads which complimented the card. What do you think?

You Make Me Happy Challenge

2011-03-05T08:00:00.004-05:00

The challenge for this card was to make a card with "a kid at heart" in mind and you had to use a heart on your card. I just adore this image by Sarah Kay! Being a kid at heart; for this challenge I had to include these cute kids. Kind of reminds me of days long ago when I was just a shy little girl.

I chose this image cause it is adorable and I love kids in overalls! I chose this paper because I love flowers and embossing. I chose the blue card color because that is my favorite color.

The images are colored using Copics and the sentiment is from LoveALicious from My Pink Stamper.

VSN Heart Health Challenge - Sweet N' Sassy

2011-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Here is another VSN card challenge and I thought this little gal would be adorable for the Heart Health challenge. Using a red dress as inspiration alone is quite the challenge!

I created this card using Sweet n' Sassy Sweet Gretchen stamp set. First, I heat embossed the image then I colored with copics and cut the image out using Nestibilities. This is such a cute little girl image to me!

Sing, Sing, Sing - Stampin Up Punch A Bunch

2011-03-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was so happy when I saw this challenge. I walked our dog on Sunday morning before anyone was stirring in the neighborhood and was so excited to hear birds singing. In fact, I paused in my driveway and looked up in a tree and sitting on a branch was a sweet little bird singing to his hearts content this morning! I decided however, to use an owl for my inspiration and what a great way to use the new Stampin Up SAB Punch Bunch and punch!

Along with the SU image, I also used Taylored Expressions Branching Out to stamp my branch and sentiment. The brad is from Stampin Up and the designer paper is from DCWV Spring Pack.

Heart Songs VSN Challenge - A Moment Like This

2011-03-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

This challenge was to use your wedding song as an inspiration for a card. My wedding song is "A Moment Like This" so I was inspired to pull out a couple of retired Stampin Up images Seaside Sketches and Summer by the Sea stamp sets. The image of the couple is so similar to me and my dear hubby. I just love this!

I decided to use Tim Holtz alcohol inks and glossy cardstock to create this fun card. I stamped the image with black Memento Ink and added the ribbon and charm. I really like this card and hope you do too.

VSN Challenge Card - A Heart Start

2011-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

The inspiration for this card was a sketch using four images (like the four chambers of your heart) as a guide. When I saw this challenge I knew just the stamp set I wanted to use! I chose Inkadinkadoo Spring Garden to stamp my images using SU Elegant Eggplant & Pixie Pink ink and cardstock. I added a flower and some designer paper to enhance the look. Makes one ready for spring!

VSN - Dreams Come True

2011-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

I just adore this fairy stamp image by Inkadinkadoo. When the VSN challenge to make a card that inspires you for Dreams Come True, I immediately thought of this image!

Here are the deets:
I had great fun making this card! I had to pull out my fairy stamp by Inkadinkadoo and a sentiment from Brave Girl by Unity Stamp Co. Everytime I think of dreams and wishing I think of a fairy granting just that. The image was heat embossed using Zing Mustard powder. The background was created dry embossing using a Cuttlebug folder and I used DCWV designer paper from the Whimsy pack.

Virtual Stamp Night - Mash Up

2011-02-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

I am having a great time creating cards for the Splitcoaststampers Virtual Stamp Night or VSN. The challenge to make this card is called Mash Up. You must use a couple different techniques to make this card. My technique is as follows:

I inked the entire background card with Tim Holtz Mustard Seed Distress Ink. Then I used Tim Holtz embossing ink and inked my stamp to create an aged paper look by spritzing with water and stamping on the yellow ink. I used a heat emboss tool to dry. Afterward, I re-inked the image with Tim Holtz Barn Door Red and stamped the entire background page. I really like the affect it gave. Finally, I dry embossed the Asian image and gave it an aged affect by tearing and using Tea Dye ink along the edges and over it. The sentiment was stamped and aged to tie the look together.

Stamps used are from Unity Stamp Co - February KOTM kit
Cuttlebug embossing folder - Asian

Arabian Nights

2011-02-26T13:29:00.008-05:00

Hi everyone. As promised I finally managed to download my pictures from the dinner show at Arabian Nights that we took our 16 year old daughter to see. Unfortunately, the lighting inside and the motion did not produce too many good pictures. In fact, most of them did not come out well at all. Good thing we got bought the program guide as it has very nice shots of some of the horses. Here are few pictures that I consider good to show. If you ever get the chance to go to a dinner show I highly recommend. Just remember, you go for the show and not necessarily the food.

I am about to head over to Splitcoaststampers to check out some of the challenges for Virtual Stamp Night. I hope to play in my Doodle Room today so I can post some things for later. If you get the chance come join. Have a great weekend everyone.

Weekend Update

2011-02-20T20:59:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone. Just a quick note to say I didn't get to do any crafting this weekend. We celebrated our daughter's 16th birthday and really been on the go for the most of it. We took her to Arabian Knights dinner show and she loved it.

Also, been busy cutting up some patriotic items for President Day and open house where I work. My Cricut has been chirping and using the Stand & Salute cartridge which is perfect for this. I will be putting a card basket together for our silent auction. Once all this is done I can get back to my normal routine of things.

Hopefully, there will be more crafting time this week. My DoodleRoom is kind of in chaos right now. I have also decided to start bumping up my exercise routine. I am going to start doing a walk/run exercise in the mornings before I head to work. That means going to bed a bit earlier so I can get up. Wish me luck!

Have a great week everyone. Catch you later.

More Valentine's and Cartridge Winner

2011-02-15T16:58:00.005-05:00

Here is a quick card I made using the scraps I had left over from the challenges I have been doing for Valentine's Day. This is my last Valentine Day card for the year. I placed the sentiment inside the card this time.

I have to share with you how my Valentine's Day ended with my dear hubby yesterday. He brought me these lovely flowers and then we went to a Japanese resturant for dinner. Someone there was kind enough to snap a picture of us together. He is definitely a keeper!

Now for the good stuff!!!!!! I want to thank everyone for all the wonderful comments on my blog and for celebrating three years of having a blog! I enjoy sharing crafty creations.

The winner for the Cricut Cartridge Sweethearts is:

Tracy Suzanne said...
Hi Dell. I just came across your blog. Your rose card is so pretty. And congratulations on 3 years of blogging. I had no idea how addicted I would become when I first started either.

Thanks for letting me enter. I'm now following you on GFC as tonasun.

Hugs...Tracy :)
Congratulations Tracy! Please email me your address at dinnerdell@yahoo.com

Heidi Swapp Heart Shadow Box

2011-02-13T13:57:00.005-05:00

I don't know about you but I am having a wonderful Valentine weekend! My hubby is truly Cupid! He cleaned the entire house yesterday while I went to have a massage. Now, just when you think it doesn't get any better than that, I woke up this morning and he asked me what I would like for dinner! Did I mention he also made a homemade breakfast with bacon and eggs? He is now on a trip to the grocery store to purchase dinner items. I didn't want to make it hard on him so I suggested we eat what he made me when we first met. Since he has been in the fire service all his life he does know how to cook! What a bonus for me! Anyway, we are having breaded pork chops, green beans, and potatoes. He is such a sweetheart.

A little while ago, I was in my craft room and the song by Bryan Adams "Everything I Do, I Do For You" came on. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to dance with hubby in the living room. I know it sounds a bit corny, but we enjoy doing silly things!
Anyway, enough of my love life. I have to share what I have made my hubby for Valentine's Day.

I had the opportunity to take a class under Heidi Swapp last year. She did a shsdow box heart that you can decorate to your choosing. I must say that I was so fascinated watching Heidi and listening to her stories that I did not manage to complete my shadow box. Actually, it has been sitting in my closet in a bag waiting for me to find just the right picture to fill it up with. Well, our daughter was married this past fall, and what better time to get great pictures, so I got what I thought was a pretty good one of me and hubby and cut it down to fit in this adorable heart box! I just love the designer papers we used and the dimensional chipboard. I added the black ribbon and the crystal embellishment. I can't wait to see where he hangs this!

Butterflies & Fresh Cuts

2011-02-09T17:00:00.000-05:00

I am so late in getting this gift out to my dear sister. Her birthday was a week ago, but hey better late than never, right? I have entirely too much going on right now. Anyway, I think once she gets this she will love it!

I created this butterfly card, actually a couple of them along with several other cards that I think she will love to give to her as part of a card keeper box. Below the card you will see the box or should I say book that opens. You can store any kind of goodies you like and even stand it up like a real book on your bookshelf! I decided to put several assorted hand-made cards inside so she can give them out to others.

For the card I used designer paper and Stampin Up Fresh Cuts to accent the paper. The cardstock is from Stampin Up and I added ribbon and the metal butterflies that I found at Michael's.

Yudu Card Shop

2011-02-07T16:09:00.005-05:00

I purchased the Yudu Card Shop a few weeks ago and decided I would try and use it. Click the following link to find out more information. I am in the process of trying to get a video downloaded so you can see how it works. I am having issues downloading right now, so not sure if that is going to work or not. Anyway, here are couple cards I created using the birdcage screen print. I really enjoyed making these cards and can see myself purchasing more screen prints. I like the final image once it is transfered to the cardstock. It gives a very clean, crisp look and is kind of in between embossing and basic stamping. Tell me what you think.

Colored Horses and Cricut Cartridge Giveaway Reminder

2011-02-05T21:43:00.010-05:00

Aren't these horses just gorgeous? There is a town near me that is known for horses and because of this there are a lot of painted horses placed throughout town with different artist designs on them. My hubby and I met up with some friends in town at a local Cajun restaurant that is downtown. In the town square are these painted horses. I just thought they were so beautiful and I wanted to share them with you.
Also, going into the restaurant there is beautiful horse railing. I took a close-up pic of one. It was a very rainy day today, so you can see the water on the rail.

Also, thought I would remind everyone that I am doing a Cricut cartridge giveaway on February 15th. Here is the post and instructions if you want to enter for a chance to win. http://www.doodledivadesigns.com/2011/01/challenge-cricut-giveaway.html

Cricut Quarter Note - Luminary

2011-02-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

Here is another challenge project I made for VSN on Splitcoaststampers. I created this luminary and used Cricut Quarter Note cartridge to cut the designs using silver glitter designer paper. I used a navy cardstock to offset the silver glitter paper. The tealight is battery operated and you can pick these up at any Micheal's or dollar store. If you would like to challenge yourself and make your own luminary just follow this link at splitcoaststampers

I can see making many more of these for upcoming holidays. This was a very quick and easy project to put together once you have your design in mind. The first picture below was taken after the luminary was lit and the other is without it lit.

Cricut Cake - Seasonal Cake Art Martha Stewart

2011-01-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone. I hope you had a great weekend! On Sunday, I played with my Cricut Cake machine. I wanted to create a cake using regular cake mix and store bought frosting, while cutting a design using Wilton fondant to place on top of the cake. So, I started with a strawberry cake mix and a tub of icing to make the cake. Then I colored some fondant with red coloring and rolled it out on my pastry mat. Mind you I was trying for a red color but it came out a pinkish orange. I wasn't sure how that was going to look over pink icing. Anyway, I decided to cut hearts for my design since it is close to Valentine's Day. I used the Martha Stewart Seasonal Cake Art cartridge and cut some doily hearts. I then cut matching trim for the sides of the cake. Now, I have to say that when you use store bought icing you don't get the smooth affect on the base the of the cake. Unless, someone else knows any tricks, I did the best I could to get it as smooth as possible. It's much easier to get smooth icing when you make it yourself. But, my purpose overall was to be as simplistic as possible and that is why I wanted to try it this way. I have to say I really like how the Cake machine cut the designs so smoothly. It was actually quite fast and easy. The hardest part was getting the fondant pliable and colored. I have posted pictures of all the cuts below and the cake before it was decorated and after. Tell me what you think or laugh if you like! By the way, the cake was pretty tasty!

Slim Down Card

2011-01-30T10:52:00.003-05:00

This challenge card was to use Kraft or tan paper and make your card as simple as possible. I used a stamp image from ClearDollarStamps and GinaKDesigns tan leather paper. I colored the image using Copics. I just love this horse! Of course, being a horse lover I would..

Heart Shapes

2011-01-29T12:36:00.003-05:00

Here's another card I made for the VSN Mini Challenge on Splitcoaststampers. The challenge was to make a card using assorted heart shapes and things that you love. Basically, bringing out the shape of your heart.

Well, I love glittery paper and my Cricut machine. So, I cut the glitter paper with Cricut cartridge Paper Lace. The smaller hearts I used Nestibilities to cut and emboss and then I added a sentiment. I love how all the colors for this card came together and they are some of my favorites; pink, red and black.

Two Hearts

2011-01-28T17:36:00.003-05:00

Here's another card that I created for the VSN mini challenge on Splitcoaststampers. This time I used a stamp by GinaKDesigns. It's hard to see in the picture but the black cardstock is embossed with hearts too. I just love this image!

Paper Piecing - My Favorite Things

2011-01-26T19:23:00.006-05:00

I created the following card as part of the mini stamp challenge on SplitCoastStampers that I participated in this past weekend. The challenge was to stamp an image and paper piece it together. I have to say this was my first time paper piecing and I know I want to do this even more. In fact, I have been looking at other stamps in my collection that I can try this technique on. The key is cutting the designer paper once it is stamped precisely and then putting it all together like a puzzle. Actually, it was a lot of fun.

I used Maid For You stamp set by MyFavoriteThings for this card. The designer paper that I cut for the television, couch and apron are from Stampin Up's Patter Pack II. I actually added a bit of dimension to this card by popping up a part of the couch, tv, and the apron. It is hard to see in my picture though.

I have to say if you ever want to try something different with your stamps, paper piecing is a great way to get extra creative!

By the way, guess who gets this card for Valentine's Day?

Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone!

A Challenge & Cricut Giveaway

2011-01-23T17:37:00.008-05:00

I have been super busy crafting this past weekend. I was busy doing the Mini Stamp Challenge on SplitCoastStampers. I must say that if you love stamping and you want to challenge yourself you should try some of the challenges on this forum. The hostess are wonderful and the challenges really make you think.

The first challenge was to use punches or die cut flowers to make a card. There was a sample sketch to follow and you had to use ribbon and borders. Here is my card below. The die-cut is from Cricut Walk In My Garden. I added stickles to the rose to add a bit of dimension. I was pretty pleased with how this card turned out overall.

Over the next few days I will post all my creations so you can see them. I always appreciate your comments, so let me know what you think. If you are SplitCoastStamper let me know if you participated in any of the challenges over the weekend. I would love to sneak a peek at your creations too!

On another note, I am fast approaching my 3 year blog anniversary! Can you believe that next Sunday, January 30th I started my blog? I am amazed at myself at my ability to continue to blog. I really did not know how long I would continue when I started. Too funny when you get hooked on something how far it takes you!

In celebration of my blog anniversary and Valentine's day I have decided to have a Cricut cartridge giveaway. I so enjoy using my Cricut machine I thought what better way to spread the love of this craft. I decided to giveaway the Sweethearts cartridge. If you want a chance to win all you have to do is "Follow" my blog and leave me a comment for a chance to win. If you share this link with a friend and they follow my blog and leave a comment and mention your name I will double your chance to win. Only one comment per person please. I will pick a winner on February 15th. Good Luck!!!

Life Is About Creating Yourself

2011-01-15T19:44:00.006-05:00

I have had a busy day editing and downloading pictures so that I can get them printed to add to several projects I plan to work on. It really takes a lot of time to get your pictures edited and sized right before you send to print. At least it does for me. I am kind of picky.

After working on pictures, I decided to make a card using my Tim Holtz stamp set called Mini Classics and Provence designer paper by GCD. I really like the way this card came out. I embossed the yellow background paper using Tim Holtz embossing folder called Cracked. I used Nestibilities to cut around the image and sentiment. I think the Cracked folder is going to be a favorite of mine. The best part of this card I think is the sentiment; "Life isn't about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself". How true!!!

Have a blessed day!