I love 2 Create

Addicted to Stumbling

2009-10-15T10:12:00.004-04:00

I love to stumble!! Have you stumbled today?

If you have never heard of StumbleUpon then you have got to check it out. You create an account and set the categories that you interest you. Then you download a task bar to start stumbling.

I stole this from their site:

StumbleUpon helps you discover and share great websites. As you click Stumble!, we deliver high-quality pages matched to your personal preferences. These pages have been explicitly recommended by your friends or one of 8 million+ other websurfers with interests similar to you. Rating these sites you like () automatically shares them with like-minded people – and helps you discover great sites your friends recommend.

You can add your own favorite sites to stumble and keep customizing your interests. I have found websites, blogs, videos, and so much more that I would never have STUMBLED upon before.

Check out these amazing papers I just stumbled upon.

Can you imagine the amazing things you could make with this beautiful blood orange papyrus paper???

How about carrots??? See many more amazing papers here.

Favorite Magazines

2009-09-23T08:33:00.007-04:00

It is that time of year again. Our school is doing a magazine sale and our Girl Scout troop is doing the magazine sale. I have to admit I have a huge addiction to magazines. Here are some of my favorites.

Everyday Food
I have gotten this magazine since 2005. I actually do the bulk of my meal planning out of this book. The recipes don't call for a ton of ingredients and even my 14 yo son can prepare the meal. So if I am running late I can call him and let him know what we are having tonight and he is a sweetheart and starts it for me.

Country Living
I just love the images in this magazine. I haven't done any projects from it yet but I definitely start dreaming when I look at all their great ideas.

Rachael Ray
I am in love with Rachael Ray. I finally got a subscription to her magazine after buying the magazine each month. I have to admit (but don't tell my husband) that I have only tried one recipe out of this magazine and it didn't work for me. I keep meaning to try more because it all looks so yummy.

Somerset Studios
Who doesn't fall in love with the look and the feel of this magazine. The paper the magazine is made from even feels rich. So much creativity in just one magazine!

My greatest addiction is any Christmas/Holiday magazine. I have tons of issues from as far back as 10 years ago. At Christmas time I pull them all out and look through them all again and get gift and decorating ideas. It is funny but something I didn't like 5 years ago in the magazine will be my new favorite thing for this year. And of course I buy the season's new magazines. I already have Holiday Crafts 2009 and the pages are marked for the things I want to make.

I really want to try the paper mache this year. And there is the cutest Halloween and Christmas fabric mouse you ever saw. I don't usually do Halloween crafts but this year has me wanting to start.

Need More Time..............

2009-09-22T10:04:00.004-04:00

Lots of things have changed in since my last posts. I didn't start my own online store but went back to work full time. I was offered a job to be a programmer again and best of all work virtually from home. No commuting, just working in the comfort of my own little home.

The only thing lacking is the time and energy to create. I miss it so much and trying to find a way to sneak it back in between a job, 4 kids homework(wow is this a time suck), housework, soccer practice, cooking, girl scouts, church, and just the overall time constraints of life. I know you all have the same problems.

I did get a make these amazing simple and beautiful flower pins for my children's teachers. I love them so much I have made several more.

I found the instructions here Reese Dixon's Organza Flowers. I ended up not cutting the petals she suggested but made 6-9 circles in different sizes for each flower. I love the look.

My daughter helped me make them. She was very careful not to burn her fingers but we kept a ice water bowl nearby just in case her fingers got hot. She took them to school in a basket and let each teacher pick her favorite.

I sewed felt circles with brooch pins on the back of each one so they could be worn as a brooch.

First Holy Communion

2009-06-08T09:07:00.003-04:00

My twins had their First Holy Communion last month. They were so adorable. I just had to share some pictures.

Big News!!!

2009-05-04T08:42:00.002-04:00

I have BIG NEWS!!!!

I will be launching a new website and putting up my creativity kits online again. I am so excited. I love putting together kits that let others be creative.

Here is my story and I am sure we all have a story just like this one......

Last week I wanted to make these adorable cupcake bath bombs for all the teachers at my children's school.

I read the directions and wrote down my list of supplies needed and proceeded to head to the health food store where the writer of the instructions said I could find my supplies. After wandering the aisles of the health food store and being completely overwhelmed. I had no idea what the items I needed even looked like. Finally I gave up and stood patiently waiting for a salesperson to assist me.

While waiting nearby I heard in graphic detail this poor customers problem with his foot. He was going into detail about all the "natural" remedies he had tried and was asking if the salesperson if she had any other suggestions. I was in shock that someone would go through what this poor man was going through. I would most definitely be at the doctor's office yelling for DRUGS! He is very admirable for sticking to his beliefs of natural treatments. But seriously I could have done without the gruesome details. LOL!

Finally the patient and very polite salesperson was able to give me her attention. I explained my lack of knowledge of what I needed and showing her my list of supplies. She proceeded to tell me they didn't carry this, or this, or this. But she did have one item on my list, a large bottle of witch hazel for $9.99. The instructions only said to spritz with witch hazel so I am sure I did not need this huge bottle of witch hazel. Seriously I have no idea what to do with witch hazel. She was very nice and said she would be happy to order the other items on my list.

Well being a busy person like we all are I had waited till the last minute to even think of what teacher's gift I was going to make. Teacher Appreciation day is tommorrow!!! There is no way that I would be able to get my supplies in time to make the Bath Bombs.

I could order the ingredients online but couldn't find them all on one website so would have to pay shipping from several different sites. There is probably a website that lists all the supplies but darn if I could find one.

To add to all this drama I don't even know if the measurements of the supplies listed make 1 or 20 bath bombs. Can you imagine if I ordered everything and only made 3 bath bombs??? I have 4 children and a TON of teachers to make gifts for.

My bath bombs were quickly costing a fortune. Instead another parent and I are setting up a chocolate fountain in the teacher's lounge for the teachers.

You know what would be perfect! To have a kit with all the indepth instructions both written and images (for those that like visuals like myself), supplies, tools, and only one shipping cost. And to know how many bath bombs the kit would make. I would be able to create and not have to own a huge bottle of Witch Hazel.

I love putting together kits and making sure that all of us can try new techniques but most importantly not to waste our valuable time running around town looking for those supplies and tools you need. We get to spend our very valuable time on creating!!

We love Ducks!

2009-05-02T06:55:00.010-04:00

The baby ducks are growing so fast. They are not even 1 month old and they are huge. They still love to be snuggled and played with.

They are almost as big as our full-grown hens. We took them out yesterday and they were so funny to watch waddle around. But poor babies were terrified of the hens.

My adorable Wyatt holding Waddle or Quackers. We have decided on names but still waiting to see if they are boys or girls.

Too cute!
This is Maeve and she is the first hen to run and see what you are up to and see if you have her a treat. She is the skinniest of the hen and we decided it is because she "works out" so much.

You know the story of the baby duck that went around to all the animals asking "are you my mother?". My oldest son picked up this duck the day we brought it home and it settled right now and would cry if he put it down. The duck has decided that Chase is it's mother. Of course Chase would die if his friends knew this.

Sorry the pictures are a little dark it was raining yesterday and we were all getting quite wet playing with ducks.

What is up with this EGG!

2009-04-30T20:20:00.007-04:00

We have the cutest and sweetest chickens in the world. They are so tame they follow you everywhere and love to be picked up and petted. We let our chickens out during the day and they eat all the bugs in the yard.

We started with baby chicks a year ago and this year we have 9 hens laying 6-9 eggs a day. They lay ginormous eggs but this one is by far the strangest egg yet. The kids are so excited to take it to school to show their teachers.

Here is a picture of a large egg from the grocery store, then our usual eggs from our chicken, and finally our STRANGE egg.

The kids talked me into saving two baby ducks this year. The ducks were not standing on their own and so they couldn't get to the food or water and were going to die. My Noah nursed them and made sure they got food and water all day long. He saved their lives and now they are also huge.

Here is a cute picture when one of them when they are a week old.

We haven't named them yet because we don't know if they are girls or boys. And because we saved 2 ducks we had to get some cute little chicks to keep them company.

The ducks and chickens do not live in the house! Looks like they do from the picture above. They were in containers in the bathtub for 2 weeks so we could make sure they were getting their medicine and the weather was so cold here even with a heat lamp. Now they are cozy and warm out in the barn still separated from the big hens. So now we have 2 ducks and 14 chickens, a dog, and a cat. A crazy place if you ever saw one.

One of our little friends were visiting when the babies were in the tub and went on to tell his teachers that he played with baby ducks and baby chickens in the bathtub. He totally confused his teacher!

Filing Cabinet Transformation

2009-04-24T07:34:00.004-04:00

My younger son's had this horrible dresser where the drawers kept falling apart and the handles fell off. You know the ones. I have glued, stapled, and nailed the drawers back together a zillion times and couldn't take it for a second longer.

And to make matters worse they can't get the clothes out or into the 2 top drawers because the can't reach. So you spend everyday putting their clothes away and getting their clothes out. Not my idea of self-sufficient children.

I found these at a thrift store for $5. They had 4 and I only bought 2 (I couldn't fit anymore in my car with the kids) and wish I had bought all of them.

My husband thought I was crazy when I said I wanted them for my son's dressers.

A few hours with rubber gloves and lots of steel wool and my filing cabinets were showing promise. I grabbed the spray paint and went to town.
They are a beautiful glossy blue to match their red, white, and blue bedroom. They are very heavy and sturdy. The perfect dressers for 2 boys ages 6 and 8. They love them and have them all organized with their clothes. It is so cute to see how neat they keep them.

And the best part I got reuse something old and find a new purpose for it. My favorite pasttime!!!

Our Brownie Troop is Going Green

2009-04-21T08:33:00.007-04:00

Brownie's Showing their Spirit and Going Green!

I am the leader of my daughter's Brownie Troop at St. Joseph's School in Millbrook, New York. We have been working on our Big Community Service Project for the last 2 months and will finally see all our hard work pay off as we help reduce the amount of plastic bags that make it into our landfills.

We have collected 500 used t-shirts from family and friends to turn into recycled tote bags. We will be handing out our tote bags in front of the A&P in Lagrange on Saturday, April 25th 3-6PM. We are not charging for our tote bags and will only be accepting donations for our local food bank!

We will be helping our community cut down on their use of plastic bags and also gave 500 t-shirts a new purpose.

I am so proud of these 2nd and 3rd grade girls and their dedication to this HUGE project! They have worked so hard cutting, sewing, folding, and making signs for our event.

I will post more pictures after our event. And please stop by if you are in the area and pickup a t-shirt tote bag from us.

My daughter Chloe sewing her little heart out trying to keep up with mommy on how many tote bags she can make.

One of the many boxes of finished tote bags.

The Life of a Six Year Old

2009-03-09T10:35:00.005-04:00

I am addicted to Stumble and find myself stumbling each evening before I fall asleep. I saw this idea on another blog (and I cannot for the life of me remember which one) while stumbling. Such a perfect idea to see what your child thinks about you.

What is your favorite color?
All the colors except pink.

What is mom's favorite color?
Pink, of course.

What is your favorite thing to drink?
milk, juice, and water

What is mom's favorite drink?
coffee and ice tea

What is dad's favorite drink?
everything

What is your favorite snack?
goldfish and cheezits

What is your favorite food?
hamburgers

What is mom's favorite food?
chocolate

What is dad's favorite food?
chips and spicy food

What do you like to do with mommy?
crafts and cooking

What do you like to do with daddy?
play guitar and build train sets

What color are mommy's kisses?
pink and purple.

What are the color of daddy's kisses?
blue, green, red, and yellow

What does mommy do when you are at school?
chores

What does daddy do when you are at school?
work

What does mommy and daddy do when you are asleep?
snore ALOT

What is daddy's favorite chore?
cleaning his room

What is mommy's favorite chore?
Cleaning her craft room.

What chore does daddy hate?
emptying the dishwasher

What chore does mommy hate?
cleaning her room, just look at it.

What chore does Wyatt hate?
picking up the dirty clothes.

Happy Birthday Chase!!!

2009-03-06T09:25:00.006-05:00

My first child turned 14 yesterday! I cannot believe that he is growing up so fast. It is strange to have a child that is towering above you.

I made this wonderful cake I found on foodgawker. You can find the recipe here.

The cake was a huge hit with everyone. I was a little worried when the recipe was in grams and ml instead of cups and tablespoons. A little converting and I will make this recipe again and again. Everyone one wanted a second piece of cake and that never happens.

I think there are 3 pieces left from last night and a few fork marks in it this morning.

This is my crazy group. I wish I could say they are just acting but they are always like this. Goofy, goofy children.

Learning to Customize my Blog

2009-02-16T08:10:00.003-05:00

I am learning how to customize my blog. I will be playing with it for a while to find the look I like. I am having too much fun right now to decide on the perfect look.

Here is a place to get some great free backgrounds.

http://simplychicblogs.blogspot.com/

I have been tweaking the HTML to get each look and will be posting information on how to do it as I learn myself.

Coupons, Coupons, and other ways to SAVE!

2009-02-09T08:56:00.003-05:00

I don't know about all of you but I am having to find creative ways to save money everyday. Today is a grocery shopping day and I have to figure out how to get my grocery bill down, really down. I have meal planned for a few years and have really seen the impact it has on my grocery bill.

Now I am going to give coupons a try. I have never been that good at coupons. They seem like so much trouble and most of the time the coupons are for things I don't use. It is time to change my attitude and go for it.

I have just discovered the multitude of online coupon websites. How easy it that???

coupons.com
coupon Mom
Coupon Surfer
Coupon Savings

Meal Planning is definitely the way to go. I have no waste, no stress on what is for dinner, or a missing ingredient. Sunday evening the fridge is completely empty and I clean it out and wipe down all the shelves and drawers.

I started meal planning when I got the Martha Stewart Everyday Food magazine. The recipes in the little magazine all come with a picture and the ingredient list is never more than 10 items long.

The recipes are for the most part super simple to make and tasty. My son and husband have even made a few on nights when I am unable to prepare the meal.

I have about 2 years worth of magazines and hand them out to the kids on Sunday and they each pick something they want for dinner. I then write down all the ingredients needed for my grocery list. On another sheet of paper the recipe name, page #, and which magazine it came from. This is posted on the inside of the kitchen cabinet door.

The kids love they picked what they want for the week!!!

We are having Skirt Steak with Crispy Garlic Potatoes tonight.

$5 dinner - Lentil Soup

2009-02-06T15:43:00.004-05:00

I am trying my own version of $5 Dinner s. Take a few minutes and check her out.

This is such a great idea in these hard economic times. I will be seeing how many other $5 dinners I can come up with.

Lentil Soup

1 lb dried lentils (.79)
8 cups cold water (free)
1 (16 ounce) can tomatoes, chopped(found on sale for .89)
1 lb. sweet sausage ($2.00)
1 medium onion, chopped (.12)
2 medium carrots, chopped (.19)
1 garlic clove, minced(.10)
3 stalks celery (.32)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Jerk Seasoning or whatever favorite seasoning you have.

Brown sausage in dutch oven. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Saute for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Then add water, tomatoes, lentils and seasoning. Simmer for 1 hour. Serves 6.

Total $4.41

I made homemade bread to serve with the soup. My children love lentil soup on a cold day.

Waiting for Spring

2009-02-04T11:28:00.006-05:00

I am getting tired of the cold, ice, and snow. I want to see Spring flowers and little green shot of new grass. The snow is pretty and all but I am ready for Spring. My driveway has been an solid ice for too long.

I created my little pillow out of scraps to help me get out of the winter "blahs". It is working and when I feel cold and housebound I just look at my pillow when I can find it. My daughter fell in love with it and immediately put it on her bed.

I used the Japanese technique of Kanzashi. I have a tutorial somewhere that I will post soon. As you remember my computer crashed and I need to dig through my backups for the file.

My quest to Learn to Knit

2009-02-01T08:48:00.008-05:00

I am working hard on my resolution to knit. It has been a little frustrating, a little daunting, and finally I think I am going to love it.

I have a few tips I have discovered for those who would love to learn to knit.

1. Don't use any fancy yarn. Plain inexpensive yarn is best when learning so when you rip it all out you don't waste your good stuff.

2. Nice big needles are best when starting out. I tried with small needles and couldn't see the stitches to tell what I was doing.

3. Use the wonderful learn to knit on YouTube. It is definitely easier to learn with a visual.

4. Pick a super simple pattern to start with. Nothing too fancy.

5. Knitting is not an inexpensive pastime. Look for coupons for your supplies.

I am still trying to figure out the best type of needles to use (aluminum, acrylic, bamboo, etc). I have decided I don't like the acrylic, they don't slide the yarn well for me. Of course it could be my stitches.

** I got my yarn at The Christmas Tree Store for $1 each. It is very loopy and definitely not the yarn to start on. I dropped a stitch and it was so hard to fix. Don't look too close at all my mistakes. The other side of loopy yarn is that it hides the mistakes a little. LOL!!!

Free Pattern Sites

Lion Brand Yarn

KnitPicks

Ravelry some are free

I want to learn to knit those socks but definitely need to practice a whole lot more!!! I will be making alot of scarves till I get it down. I love the fluid motion of knitting when I do it right. I got lots of knitting done during the Super Bowl. Definitely worth learning.

Our Super Bowl snacks. Each year the kids pick a snack and help me make it. We have fun and make lots of messes.

Buffalo Wings

Eggrolls

Potato Skins

We are all still stuffed from last night. I hope everyone enjoyed the game.

Recycled Wool Scarf

2009-01-30T09:50:00.006-05:00

I love using old wool sweaters in new ways as many of you know. I had scraps from some of my favorite sweaters and saw Betz White's book Warm Fuzzies where she made a wool scarf from her wool remnants.

I was looking at my huge bag of scraps the other day and saw the perfect colors for my husband. He never wears a scarf but decided that he just never had the perfect scarf to wear. LOL!!!

First my felt scraps were felted in the washing machine. I cut them all to the same widths but varying in length. It was very simple to cut with my rotary cutter and mat.

The only issue i had was that my scrap pieces were different thicknesses. I found the back were I sewed them together was just too lumpy for my tastes. So I found the perfect dark Grey super soft flannel and backed my wool scarf. I really love how it turned out.

And the best part is my hubby wears it!!! See I was right he was just waiting for the perfect scarf.

Finally........................

2009-01-20T20:09:00.002-05:00

My hard drive crashed in my computer and I finally have it fixed. I have learned that I truly have an addiction to my computer. The withdrawals were BRUTAL!!!

I know I check my email about 20 times a day and it was very hard not checking my email but twice a day when I bugged my husband to let me use his laptop when he wasn't working. But I didn't realize how many other daily things I used my computer for.

I am constantly planning my dinner menu from my favorite food websites. I love them when I am short on ingredients and need to see what I can prepare with what is in the cupboards. My poor family hasn't been eating as well as they usually do. I have all my favorite recipes filed on my computer and browse them daily for ideas (I did lose all my information on my hard drive).

I have horrible hard water stains in the bathroom tub and normally after I have tried everything I look up on the internet for ideas I haven't tried. Still hardwater stains on the tub. Time to look for the perfect solution to my problem.

And then there is the daily inspiration I get from Etsy and so many other blogs. I swear I haven't done anything creative lately without my trusty computer to inspire me.

You have got to see my sad attempt at learning how to knit. I have been using youtube to learn to knit. I couldn't check out what I was doing and my poor piece is a mess. I kept it so I can laugh at it. I am still determined to learn to knit and will be checking out those youtube videos again.

So many things have fallen apart without my poor computer. I am truly lost without it!!!

I can't wait to load my pictures from my camera and start playing again.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-05T07:50:00.004-05:00

I am a little late posting a greeting for the New Year. Life is so busy with the kids home during the Christmas break. And then there is the issue of my hard drive crashing. I thought long and hard and decided that I was not going to succumb to the idea of getting a new laptop but to replace my hard drive for a lot less money.

I am sure many of you are doing the same thing with our current economic condition. We are all learning how to be save those pennies!!

This Christmas with all the handmade gifts my family saved over 50% from what we spent last year. I knew I would save a little money but was really shocked at the amount we saved. And I really have to say my children were so excited passing out their gifts to friends and family. The children are planning what they are making for next year already.

I can't believe it is already 2009!!

I make resolutions every year on New Year's Eve and I swear they are the same every year but I still get hopeful this year is the year I will keep them. Here are a few of them. (Do you think if I post about them I will be better this year????)

Eat healthier and exercise. (same one every year)
Read to my children. (I do a lot of things with my children but sitting and reading a book just never happens. I did read several books last night.)
Learn to knit (My grandmother has tried to teach me forever. I can do it when she is sitting next to me but as soon as I am not with her I forget how and have never finished a knitted piece.)
Organize my studio space. (same one every year)
Create everyday (again a repeat every year ::::: I know I am happier when I create but never find a lot of time to do it.
Learn to make cheese. (I always try to learn new things every year. This one I am good at doing.)

And many more but I won't bore you to death.

Handmade Holidays Part 2

2008-12-24T14:08:00.005-05:00

Handmade Holidays Part 2

My husband has been working all day on a burst pipe in our basement. The pipe goes to my kitchen and I haven't been able to wash dishes or cook since yesterday. The kitchen is looking like a disaster as all the dirty dishes pile up. I am giving him one more hour then hauling dishes to the very small bathroom sink for some hand washing.

I had to share these adorable blankets I made. I got the blankets from Old Navy for $3 each!!! I thought it would be cute to add a little embellishments to give them to each of my children.

I added some felted sweater scraps, buttons, and funky sewing to give them a little more character. I am thinking I might have to go and buy a few more and make some Valentine gifts with the red blankets.

These cute trains are from my 8 year old son for his little brother. He his brother's favorite train cookie cutters and cut the shapes out of clay I fired for him and he painted with acrylic paints. We put twine through the holes so they can be hung on the Christmas tree and connected to each other.

This is a picture of the trillion ceramic pendants I made. I fell in love with all of them but now they are wrapped up and on their way to their new homes. :)

Hopefully I have my kitchen soon. I wanted to get a jump on some holiday baking for tomorrow.

Handmade Christmas

2008-12-24T08:48:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of my family we did it!!!! We made all our gifts for family, friends, and teachers completely ourselves. I was wondering if we were going to make it because a few of my children got sick this past week.

With many crafting evenings we pulled it off. Teachers got handmade ornaments and homemade orange marmalade. Friends got gifts of goodies (divinity, fudge, cookies). And family got an array of paintings, ornaments, jewelry, sewn items, and whatever we could dream up.

We really had a great time and lots of family bonding. My children are so excited for everyone to open their handmade gifts. I swear they are more excited over everyone seeing their handiwork then they are of opening their own gifts.

I need to take a picture of my studio to show the destruction our crafting spree made. It is going to take me a long time to get it back in order.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Flower Fairy Ornament

2008-12-17T11:51:00.003-05:00

Flower Fairy Ornament

We are making these adorable Flower Faeries for the Girl Scout Christmas meeting today. My daughter and I made 6 of them in no time at all and had so much fun. We then packaged up all the supplies to take to the Girl Scout party today for the girls to make them. They are super cute and addicting to make. I will try and get a picture of the girls and their flower faeries.

I got the instructions from Maize Hutton here.

Snowmen Cupcakes

2008-12-16T10:03:00.003-05:00

Snowmen Cupcakes!

I found these on food gawker and knew they would be perfect for a school treat to celebrate the twins birthday. The kids just loved them. And they were fairly simple unless you are injured like I was. LOL!!

I got a huge splinter all the way under my fingernail that had to be removed in the ER. It was awful and hurt so much. I would show a picture but it was really horrible. My finger is still numb!

Trip to NYC!

2008-12-15T11:38:00.008-05:00

11th Day of Christmas

We went to NYC yesterday to see the tree Rockefeller, Christmas lights, holiday windows, and Times Square. We do this every year and love it. Yesterday was cold but not unbearably cold. We were layered and did lots of walking.

Chloe said all the walking is good for our "buns and thighs" in her cutest accent.

We ate lunch at the cellar in Macy's. It was a wonderful day.

Window at Macy's

The ceiling in Saks!

Rockefeller Tree. It was so crowded you couldn't hardly get near the tree.

Happy Birthday to my babies!

2008-12-13T19:11:00.005-05:00

12th Day of Christmas

My twins turned 8 today!! I cannot believe they are 8 already. It feels like yesterday they were just 2.

We had a wonderful day celebrating and playing. On their birthdays they get to pick what they want to have for dinner. Noah wanted Hot Wings (my whole house smells like hot wings) and Chloe wanted Nachos.

Then they picked their cakes. Noah picked a cheese cake, Chloe picked Brownies. So we all have ingestion. But they are very happy.

Then we bundled up for the holiday light parade in Millerton, NY. The kids rode on the wagon for the Cub Scouts. It was a whopping 19 degrees tonight. We all had on so many layer of clothes we could hardly move. They had such a great time with big chilly grins on their face.

The cub scouts are dressed as toy soldiers. They all looked so cute. The surrounding fire departments put lights all over their engines and drive in the parade also.

Happy Birthday Noah and Chloe!!!

Crochet Scarf and Snow Day

2008-12-12T19:33:00.003-05:00

12th Day of Christmas

We had a snow day today so my plans for the day got a little changed, but for the better. We started the day off with these amazing Breakfast muffins from a new cookbook from Grandma.

Then the rest of the day was watching Christmas movies, making more ornaments and crocheting a scarf for a gift.

I have one more ball of this amazing handmade yarn to make another scarf. I love this scarf! It is extra long and so colorful. I was able to purchase the yarn and the NY Sheep and Wool festival this year. I sure wish I had bought more.

The scarf was super simple to make with just a repeating triple crochet. Perfect for moving watching and finished in just a few hours.

Handmade Ornaments for Kids

2008-12-11T16:34:00.004-05:00

11th Day of Christmas

Each year my children and I make lots of handmade ornaments. Sometimes daddy joins in the fun when he can sneak away from work. We started making ornaments yesterday and hope to make many more before Christmas.

I thought I would share some great places and ideas to find ornaments to make with children.

Family Fun Website (I love this site, all ideas come with instructions and pictures)

We made these snowflakes and hung them from the dining room light. Ours are quite as perfect as these ones but still adorable. Click on the image to go to the instructions.

Cinnamon Ornaments
We are doing these tonight. They make the whole house smell like cinnamon.

Santa Claus Clothspin Ornament

Better Homes and Garden always has some great ornament ideas.

Handmade Gifts under $10

2008-12-10T11:34:00.005-05:00

10th Day of Christmas

There is still plenty of time to give a handmade gift. I thought I would list some great ideas for gifts under $10 each. And the best part is many of them you can make with children.

Gifts in a jar. Check out these recipes with printable gift tags. They have cookies, muffins, soups, and my favorite Chai Tea.
Recipes
Solid Perfume
Reusable Shopping Bag Lazy Girl has a one hour, one yard bag.

4. Sock Monkey or Sock Dog from Handmade by Jill

5. Crochet a skinny scarf in an afternoon. I just finished an adorable one while waiting for my children and there many activities. I haven't gotten a chance to take a pic yet.

6. I just watched the new Martha Stewart episode with an adorable child's pull toy. There isn't a picture but trust me they are super adorable.

I will add more to this list as I think of more.

Christmas Stockings

2008-12-09T09:16:00.007-05:00

9th Day of Christmas

I am making my children new Christmas stockings this year. I always make them something special just from me and the stockings I made 5 years ago are looking a little ragged. One year the little ones were wearing them on their feet as "stockings". They are such goofballs!!!

I have been searching for inspiration and thought I would share what I have found.

Click on the image to see where I found these Christmas stockings.

Handmade Perfume

2008-12-08T08:58:00.007-05:00

8th Day of Christmas

Yesterday was the perfect cold winter day to stay inside with a nice cup of tea and make perfume. My daughter and I gathered all our supplies to make our own custom perfumes. This is a very simple project and perfect for gift giving.

Chloe mixed and smelled to create a unique perfume scent to give to her girlfriends. She named her custom scent Cookie. She mixed vanilla, pear, and mandarin orange. I think she is going to have to make me one also. I just loved how it smelled. We are working on her labels tonight after her homework.

I mixed a unique scent for a each of my girlfriends and named them after the person I am giving them to.

Solid Custom Perfume

( I didn't put the pictures of the actual perfume since they have the names of my friends. I didn't want to give the surprise away. :) Using these cute lip balm containers makes putting on your new perfume so fun and simple.)

Here are the supplies you will need:

1 Tablespoon Beeswax pellets (order them online or at a craft store)
1 Tablespoon Sweet Almond Oil
Fragrance Oils ( I use these over essential oils. They are less expensive and safe for my daughter to handle. Please read the cautions when handling essential oils.)
Containers
Toothpicks

I order my supplies here. They ship very quickly and have great prices. Read their resource section for some great recipes for other great gift ideas.

Getting Started:

Mix the beeswax and sweet almond oil in a glass dish. Heat until beeswax is liquid. I do this in the microwave in 15 second intervals.
Place 10-15 drops of fragrance oil into your liquid and stir with a toothpick. Mix your favorite scents to create the perfect perfume.
When you have the perfect scent pour into your containers and let sit for an hour. I find that this recipe makes 2 1/2 ounce perfumes.
Create a label and you are done!!!!

Some of my favorite combinations:
Ginger with Eucalyptus
Vanilla with a citrus
Jasmine and vanilla
And LAVENDER!!!

If you don't want to make your own. Check out these on Etsy.

Christmas Photos

2008-12-07T14:50:00.004-05:00

7th Day of Christmas

It snowed for the first time this season and it is beautiful outside. I have been busy finishing the decorating. I wanted to get some holiday photos of my kids but it is so COLD outside I cannot get myself out the door to take some snow pictures. So I took a few around the tree. I wasn't able to corner my oldest child for a photo yet.

My husband is going to put together individual photo albums for each of the kids as his gift to them this holiday. I load the images to photobucket and he selects the ones he wants printed to put in their album. Even daddy is required to make all handmade gifts.

Craft Show Today

2008-12-06T07:26:00.003-05:00

I am off to do a craft show today. I do it every year and it is tons of fun. So if you are in Millbrook, NY you have to check it out.

6th Day of Christmas

I am cheating and sharing a favorite website of mine today. Wee Folk Art

Don't you just love these cute Gnomes and Trees. I have got to make them this year.

Lavender Chocolate Kisses

2008-12-05T09:06:00.003-05:00

Lavender Chocolate Kisses

5th Day of Christmas

I promise this is my last lavender project of the holiday. I found this amazing recipe from the place I buy my lavender from. It is simply divine. And now I have used my entire stock of lavender up with wonderful projects.

I am putting together a gift baskets with the lavender bath bags, lavender dream pillow, and now the chocolates.

I did the entire basket with for under $10 a basket. A wonderful beautiful gift and very economcal.

Lavender Dream Pillow

2008-12-04T15:15:00.004-05:00

4th Day of Christmas
Handmade Lavender Dream Pillow

I was on a roll with my lavender bath bags and made Lavender Dream Pillow for my girlfriends. The pillows are filled with organic flax seed and organic lavender. They feel so wonderful resting on your eyes at the end of a long day. The lavender and cool weight of the flax seed make all the stresses of the day just drift away.

I added in 1 cup of flax seed and 4 Tablespoons of lavender.

Herbal Bath Tea Bags - Gift Idea

2008-12-02T10:03:00.006-05:00

3rd Day of Christmas

I am busy making those handmade gifts for everyone. My goal this year is to go 100% handmade and to use supplies that I already have on hand.

Bath Tea Bags

A bath tea bag is perfect for those wonderful soakings. The stress of the world will just go away. The perfect gift for your girlfriends. And truly an economical gift idea.

Lavender Bath Bag:

1/2 cup lavender (I use wonderful organic lavender)
1 cup epsom salt Tea Bags (I purchase mine from FNWL 50 for only $6.75)

Mix ingredients in a bowl. Add in a few spoonfuls to each bag and heat seal them close with your iron. Put a few of your newly create bath bags in a gift bag or box. I like to add a tag with instructions.

I put 2 of the bags in a cute hand stamped muslin bag with a tag. The tag has directions for use on it.

Additional recipes

Lavender Oatmeal Bath:

1 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup dried lavender

Lavender Oatmeal Milk Bath:

1/2 cup powdered milk (or the milk bath starter recipe above)
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/4 cup dried lavender

Rosemary Oatmeal Bath Tea

1/2 cup Oatmeal
1/4 cup Rosemary (dried)
1/4 cup Chamomile (tea is fine)

2nd Day of Christmas

2008-12-01T14:26:00.008-05:00

My daughter and I are going to our first cookie swap tonight. I have always wanted to participate in a cookie swap. The rules said we had to bring 6 dozen cookies. 5 for swapping and 1 for tasting. YIKES!!

I don't think I have ever made 6 dozen cookies at one time. I wanted to have a simple cookie and yet bring something that no one else would be bringing. So the Brownie Truffle was invented.

I borrowed the idea from Bakerella's cupcake on a stick. I had made the cupcakes on a stick for a Girl Scout Halloween party and the girls went crazy over them. This time I have changed it a little for the Christmas holiday.

Here is where you can find her recipe. You have got to check out her website it will have you drooling. I love her turkey pops. I heard a rumor she will be writing a book.

Here is my version.

Brownie Truffles

Brownie Mix (cook as directed for 13 x 9 pan of brownies)
Softened Cream Cheese (room temperature)
Chocolate chips (I like dark chocolate)

After the brownies have cooked and cooled, crumble in a large bowl.
Add in the softened room temperature cream cheese and blend together. I use my Kitchen Aid mixer.
Form the mixture into walnut size balls, placing them on wax paper.
Once you have all your balls made you will put them in the freezer till firm.
Melt chocolate chips or dipping chocolate.
Using a toothpick dip the balls into the chocolate placing them on wax paper when done. Decorate with sprinkles.
Place back in the freezer to firm them up again.

I covered them in a toffee chocolate, dark chocolate, and a butterscotch chips.

These taste so rich you will swear they are truffles. When you are short on time these are super simple to put together. Perfect for those last minute goodies and they look and taste like you slaved away.

25 Days of Christmas

2008-12-01T09:21:00.005-05:00

I am completely addicted to all things Christmas!!! I love the corny Christmas movies, holiday music, crowded malls, making holiday candy, decorating, and of course handmade gifts.

I thought this year I would try and post everyday for the next 25 days some of my favorite things (crafts, ornament making, recipes, and handmade gifts) about the holidays.

1st Day of Christmas

Making Orange Marmalade for family and friends. My son and I did this last year and everyone loved it so much we decided we need to make another batch again this year. Oranges are a little expensive this year but I found some nice ones on sale.

I love how the whole house smells like oranges and lemons while you are cooking. Orange marmalade is not as complicated to make as you might think.

Ingredients

10 oranges (peels thinly sliced, pulp chopped)
3 lemons thinly sliced
2 quarts Water
7 cups Sugar

Directions

Add water to fruit and simmer 5 minutes.
Cover and let stand 12-18 hours in a cool place.
Cook rapidly until peel is tender, about 1 hour.
Measure fruit and liquid.
Alternate sugar with each cup of fruit mixture.
Bring slowly to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Cook rapidly, about 25 minutes.
When mixture begins to thicken, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Pour hot into hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch head space.
Adjust caps.
Process 10 minutes in boiling water bath.

Ceramic Jewelry

2008-11-25T09:29:00.009-05:00

I have been keeping one of my new goals - Keeping that kiln loaded and running!!!

I am loving the new pieces that keep coming out. I had to share a few with you all. I am loving opening the kiln lately. It is such a fun surprise to see what happens.

Getting Ready for Thanksgiving

2008-11-24T08:44:00.006-05:00

My family loves Thanksgiving. We start talking about it the day after Halloween, discussing what we want on the menu.

We don't live near family so we invite our neighbor and anyone else who doesn't have a place to go for the holiday. I hadn't realized how important it was to my children that we invite others to our meal until this past week when they were drawing pictures of Thanksgiving. They had drawn pictures with all these extra people around our table!

Don't get me wrong...I don't have a fancy Martha Stewart table, rather, a simple table with mismatching plates, silverware, and a well-worn tablecloth. I have always wanted to do a Martha Stewart table, but with three of my children still very young I think it is more important they learn to set the table and help with the meal.

I shopped yesterday for all the fixings and we will begin our preparations today. Each of the children get to help make a part of the meal. It is so cute watching them beam with pride when their part of the meal is passed around the table. Even my 13 year is proud of himself. LOL!!

On the big day my husband's job is to keep the children who are not helping at the moment entertained (I have a very small kitchen and cannot fit more then 2 people at a time), keep the holiday music playing, and of course he is official taste tester!

Here are a few of my favorite table settings for that year when I do go all out. I love the colors and natural look to them all.

I might have to do this with the candles. I love candles on the table!

What do some of your favorite table settings look like? Post them here!

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

2008-11-21T12:03:00.004-05:00

This is one of the amazing little letters and cards I got from my children this morning. They all brought tears to my eyes.

This is the present I made for myself!!! I finally stopped blowing up things in my kiln and have had so much fun creating ceramic pendants.

The color is so hard to photograph. The glaze on this pieces has golds, greens, and blues in it with a little crackling to it. It really picks up the colors of what you are wearing.

I fell in love with the Kazuri ceramic beads several years ago and have been wanting to create my own ceramic beads for so long. My husband likes this ideas much better then the 1.5 hour drive to a store in CT that sells the Kazuri beads. It is only a 40 minute drive to the ceramic warehouse for more glazes. They are truly addicting.

They take almost a week to make from beginning to end but so worth it!

Recycled Sweater Project

2008-11-20T10:35:00.006-05:00

I found this amazing sweater at our local thrift store. It is all wool and I put it in the washing machine and felted it down to a nice thick soft sweater. Don't you just love those cute sheep????

Then I decided to make a pillow out of the main body of the sweater.

I made mittens out of the sleeves. They are really are nice and long and go well over my wrists. I am trying to tell myself not to keep them and give them as a gift. But when I walked the dog they were the only thing keeping my hands from freezing.

Then I took more sweater scraps and made some cute purple mittens. I think they will be adorable for my daughter for Christmas.

And because I was avoiding housework I found more things to do. I have been wanting to make homemade marshmallows forever. I bought the gelatin months ago and never got around to making them. I used this video on to for my recipe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRjgJ_gUZHY

They turned out wonderful.

Can you see those small dried up things next to the plate??? I don't think I can eat those store ones ever again.

They taste so amazing. My oldest son usually makes goodies for all his teachers at Christmas (last year he made orange marmalade) and he was thinking of doing hot chocolate kits. These would be perfect to go with his kits. And they really were simple.

I do have to try a recipe that uses egg whites. My curious mind just has to see if they taste better or not. I will let you all know what I think. I am off to unload my kiln and see if anything I put in there yesterday turned out. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Handmade Holidays!

2008-11-19T08:21:00.005-05:00

I am a little behind in my handmade holidays pledge but with no job to worry about I have more time then ever!! Of course that means I have no money to spend. I am looking forward to where my imagination takes me on this journey.

I may have to take a few hours off each week to stand in line at the "soup kitchen" for dinner though. Just teasing!!

While working I didn't have much time for creating with all spare time being taken up with housework, cub scouts, homework, soccer practice, and all that jazz. But in the evenings I would work on my binder of inspiration. I went through all those magazines I have been hoarding and started cutting out things that inspired me or I wanted to try. It is sitting in the middle of my craft room table right now just calling my name.

For those of you that don't have a binder of inspiration you have got to see all the amazing ideas I have run across on the internet.

First check out this site. http://www.oneprettything.com/

One Pretty Thing is a daily website dedicated to bringing you inspiring projects for a handmade life. Rachel is so good at finding the most amazing ideas. Make sure you make yourself a large cup of your favorite seasonal beverage (mine is tea with lemon right now) because you are going to be there for a loooonnnggg time looking at her site.

And after you have recovered from her site don't forget to check out Sew Mama Sew's blog for their daily handmade gift ideas. It started on November 1st and they have some great ideas all with tutorials.

I am off to work on some projects while the washing machine is going. My goal is to show post something tomorrow. If I put it in writing then I have to do it. That is the idea anyway.

I am BACK!!!!!

2008-11-18T08:33:00.002-05:00

I was laid-off from my job last week and decided I could be bummed or look at this as something positive. This is the beginning of new doors opening for me I can just feel it!

There are many positives right now about not working and I intend to only focus on them right now.

My dirty laundry will be tamed. It has become a beast with a mind of its own taking over every room of the house.
I will find my pie and cake pans and start baking more. I have really missed baking.
My craft room will be organized at least for a day, then it will be cluttered with all the wonderful projects that have been lurking in my head.
My kiln is going to be used every week firing all my creations. My poor head hurts trying to hold them all inside.
My children will have all their homework done, checked, and turned in. We had a few weeks where someone was missing something.
Holiday gifts are going to be started and wrapped up. We hand make all our gifts to each other, friends, and teachers. I have usually started with each of the children by now. We have a meeting with hot chocolate, mom's secret holiday notebook, and discuss all their ideas and what we need to do to complete them. Every year I am so amazed at their creativity.
New blog look. I learned some cool graphic stuff at my job. I can't wait to apply it to my blog.

That is the beginning of my list of positives. I have many more that I will post later.

Where Have I Been?

2008-04-17T07:20:00.003-04:00

I am finally back!!! So much has been going on for the last couple of months making them just fly by.

First I went back to work full-time! It is quite an adjustment from working for yourself with flexible hours to having to be in the office on set hours. I had forgotten how many things could go wrong when you needed to rush out the door to make a staff meeting. Today I am having to take the day off because the children are not in school and I couldn't get child care. Looking forward to a day of being just a mom. I see brownies in my future.

I really love my job and happy with my decision to go back to work. I am working for a Design company. They do everything from web design, logos, signs, books, advertising, promotion, and pretty much anything you need to promote and support your business. It is exciting to see a new client walk through the door and watch everyone go to work to developing the perfect plan for that particular client. They have big name clients (many broadway shows) to the local landscaping business.

I am learning so much each day. Got to love a job like that!!!!

On another front - I have been getting a ton of orders for my silver wrapped rings and sweater monsters! All my free time has been going to fill orders. My husband is wondering if I will ever clean my house again.

And lastly - I have had to shut down my website and sad to see it go. But, I was not able to give it 110% and that is not acceptable to me

Thank you to all who have supported me through the years. I know I couldn't have done it without all the wonderful women I have met through both The Scrapbooking Society and I love 2 Create!

Now the big question is what is next for me????? Because all who know me, knows I can't stop here.

First, I am working towards a work/life balance and hope to find it very soon. LOL!!! Don't we all????

But, I have a new passion in my life!! And because there is probably something wrong with me I am working on a business plan to see if I can make it fly. I can't imagine my life without at least some time each week in my studio, housework will just have to wait. And this is gives me the perfect excuse to spend time in my studio.

Here is my new motto: Take your passions and spread your wings to fly. You may not soar but just dust off your wings and try again. Each attempt will bring you closer to passions and to your true self. You never know when you will feel the wind beneath your wings!

Newest Creativity Kit!! - Glass Pendants

2008-02-20T20:19:00.012-05:00

I am so excited and relieved to bring the newest Creativity Kit. We had a little issue with our wonderful glass tile clocks that turned into a big issue. I have several kits I am working on in advance so I pulled out one we were going to do in a few months.

And it just so happens I read a great article a few days ago about fashion week in NYC and that big jewelry and pendants are going to be all the "rage". If you check out any of the newest jewelry magazines you will see all the wonderful "oversize" pendants.

And of course we are always ahead of the game or at least try very hard to be. So without further ado.........................Our latest Creativity Kit!!!!

The kit will feature everything needed to make these two wonderful pieces of art. As you can see in the images the larger pendant measuring 1.5 x 1.5 inches has a different look to each side of the pendant. Very Cool!!!! And the smaller pendant is made with a 1 x1 inch beveled glass piece.

I have been playing with different looks for these pendants for a while and wanted to share some of the others I created.

The kits will be shipping this weekend. I am so sorry they are a little late this month but think you will agree they are worth the wait.

You can see all our Creativity Kits in the store!!

February Creativity Kit

2008-02-12T20:12:00.000-05:00

I am a little sad that we have a small delay in the release of our February Creativity Kit. One of the parts we ordered was wrong and we had to get the correct parts shipped. We are expecting the new part any day and off they will go to everyone who has them ordered automatically.

The February kit is so COOL!!!!! It is a class tile clock. Perfect on a night stand or in a kitchen window where mine is sitting. The glass is a beautiful frosted blue/green. I can't wait for you to see it.

As soon as the part gets here we will put the kit up in the store and I will post a picture on the blog. Thanks everyone for being so patient.

A Few of my Favorite Blogs

2008-02-06T19:30:00.000-05:00

It as been forever since my last blog entry. I have many new projects to show off but my photo booth is broken. I have this very cool little light booth setup and need to find a few replacement parts so I can take some photos. It hasn't been a great day for a while to take outdoor photos.

I have been making my Valentine gifts and can see light at the end of the tunnel. I hope to have them to share very soon.

In the meantime I thought I would share some of my favorite blogs!!

http://smittenkitchen.com/ - She has this recipe for chocolate covered orange peels that look perfect and amazing. Did I mention they are Dark Chocolate!!!! The photography on her site is beautiful.

http://allsorts.typepad.com/allsorts/ - You will love the vibrant colors, amazing projects, and all her wonderful ideas. I made the little scotty dog as a Christmas ornament for a few friends. It was perfect! The paper spinner below would make the perfect birthday party decoration.

http://heatherbailey.typepad.com/heather_bailey/ - Heather designs the most beautiful fabric. Her blog is so much fun to read! I think I need to add these little goodies to my Valentine Gift list. They would also look wonderful on my mantle for Easter decorations.

I have many more of my favorite blogs to share but will save them for another day.

Amazon Wish List

2008-01-25T06:54:00.001-05:00

Kyuuto! Japanese Crafts!: Woolly Embroidery: Crewelwork, Stump Work, Canvas Work, and More! by Unnamed et al

Warm Fuzzies: 30 Sweet Felted Projects by Betz White

Quick And Clever Felting by Ellen Kharade

Fabric Jewelry: 25 Designs to Make Using Silk, Ribbon, Buttons, and Beads by Teresa Searle

My Amazon wish list is growing with all the wonderful books coming out soon and some that were just released. I definitely need to check a few of these out.

Cupcakes!

2008-01-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

My children absolutely adore cupcakes. I had forgotten the joy a good cupcake can bring you. And you can make and decorate 2 dozen cupcakes quicker then most cakes.

If you haven't made any cupcakes in a while then make up a batch to share with those around you. I guarantee you will get loads of smiles.

Chocolate Cupcakes from Martha Stewart

Cherry Vanilla Cupcakes from Chockylit

Bake me I'm Yours....... Cupcake Book by Joah and Graham Belgrove

Felt Cupcakes from Betz White!!

Sterling Silver Pendant

2008-01-15T12:11:00.001-05:00

I have been playing with stamping into Sterling Silver. I just wish that it wasn't so expensive or I would be doing it all day long. I made a few of these sterling silver pendants for friends with different words stamped on to them.

I learned that you need a special drill bit for your Dremel to make a hole in the silver. LOL!!! I broke many bits until I finally realized I needed to find a bit made for the metal. Not sure why it took me so long to figure it out.

I love how when you stamp you can't get the letters perfectly aligned. It gives it such a nice "not made in China" look.

The ends have been filed down (again a special tool) and all polished to make it shine so pretty. Learning something new is the second greatest joy in my life next to my family.

Perfect Snow Day!

2008-01-14T16:53:00.000-05:00

We figured yesterday that we would have a "snow day" today.

So I made all these plans last night of things I would get done. I was working on a new pattern for my Sweater Monsters and was looking forward to seeing how he turned out. Then I was going to put in a few hours of work. Finish it off with a nice cup of hot tea and more crafting.

But the snow was so perfect for building snowmen and hot chocolate!!!

I can craft tomorrow.

More Valentine Goodies

2008-01-09T13:23:00.000-05:00

My little Valentine Monsters are looking for homes. Do you know anyone who wants a cutie pie to snuggle with??

Valentine Monster

2008-01-08T09:49:00.000-05:00

Valentine Monster - Isn't he cute??? He is made from a recycled felted wool sweater and is so soft and snuggly.

I love working with old wool sweaters and creating my little monsters. I think he is my favorite right now.

Create 2 Amazing Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Rings

2008-01-07T12:05:00.001-05:00

Order your Kit today!

Our Sterling Silver Ring kits are finally here!!! They are to die for! We have included simple step by step photo instructions.

The first ring is made with an Amazonite semi precious stone bead.

Amazonite is a gem variety of microcline feldspar and is usually polished as a cabochon. It displays a schiller of light which is caused by inclusions. Schiller is a lustrous reflection from planes in a mineral grain and is similar to what is more commonly known as iridescence. The schiller is caused by a feature of the stone's crystal structure. Orthoclase feldspar and albite are present in close association, arranged in layers. This causes an interference effect of light.

Amazonite is found in the United States, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Russia, Australia, Namibia.

Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties:
Enhances creative expression, aligns astral bodies, unity with life. Improves self worth. Amazonite is considered a soothing stone that offers confidence and works on the throat chakra. It is called the "hope stone" because it inspires confidence and hope. One source says it is useful to activate lazy teenagers. Just teasing. ....

A semi-opaque stone that was used extensively by the Egyptians it is called the stone of courage and is said to be named after the Amazon women warriors. Some archaeological evidence suggests that the Amazonians were a matriarchal society during the Bronze Age.
Another legend says the name Amazonite comes from the belief that it was found in the Amazon river Amazonite is usually light green to blue-green, mottled and sometimes contains light striations.

The second ring is Rose Quartz. I just love anything pink and we all need a little pink in our life. This is such a light color that even if you don't love pink you will love the bead.

Rose quartz is one of the most desirable varieties of quartz. The pink to rose red color is completely unique, unlike any other pink mineral species. The color is caused by iron and titanium impurities.

Rose quartz is found in Madagascar, India, Germany and several localities in the USA. Much rose quartz was extracted from a famous site near Custer, and South Dakota.

Order your Sterling Silver Ring Kit today!!!

39 Days till Valentine's Day

2008-01-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

I plan on keeping my handmade pledge throughout the year.

I solemnly pledge to only give handmade gifts
either ones I have made myself
or purchased from talented artists.

There is only 39 days till Valentine's Day so I figured I had better get started. I found some adorable Valentine Gifts on Etsy I wanted to share with you.

How about and adorable Button Bouquet by Little Bit Funky's shop.

A Sweetheart Towel Set by Art Goodies.

A Valentine Sock Monkey by Adopt a Sock Monkey.

I made sock monkeys with my daughter for Christmas and everyone who didn't get one were begging for us to make them one.

Become more Creative in 2008!

2008-01-03T09:56:00.000-05:00

Becoming more creative or at least spend more time using the creative side of my brain is my #1 New Year resolution.

I find that I am a more relaxed and happy person when I do something creative everyday. And organizing my stuff is not being creative. The problem I have is finding the time to be creative. There always seems to be so many other things that need my attention. I am sure you know exactly what I am talking about.

With every New Year's resolution I need to make it attainable or I will give up and go back to my cranky stressed out self. Are you reading this my dear husband?? You do not want a cranky stressed out wife.

So I will be putting on my weekly calendar a 2 hour time slot 3 times a week. I definitely think I deserve 6 hours a week to relax and take care of myself.

I hope that many others will be able to find the time to take for themselves and do something they enjoy. I will be rooting for you!

I have the perfect kit for you to jump start your creative juices.

Sterling Silver Beaded Rings!!

If you read my blog regularly then you have seen this picture already. I had every intention of showing you 2 new rings today but I wore them yesterday and one I gave to my son's teacher who gave me a huge bag of her old and broken jewelry. There are so many treasures in the bag I will have a blast making new pieces with all of it. And the other ring was bought right off my finger. LOL!!!

I have sold quite a few rings off my fingers this past month. My husband just laughs and has decided that women are strange creatures. I don't think we are strange just know what we like when we see it.

The kit for these rings will be debuting on January 10th. They can be reserved now for shipment on the 10th.

http://store.valueweb.com/servlet/il.../Detail?no=231

The kit will include everything needed to make 2 beaded rings. We have a ring mandrel for you to work with so that the rings you make are the perfect size, full color step by step instructions, sterling silver wire, and beads!!!

I will also be listing additional sterling silver wire for those that will want to make additional rings. The sterling silver wire and ring mandrels are not found in your local craft stores.

The perfect kit for you to steal a few hours to yourself and make a wonderful and unique rings.

Wouldn't these rings make the perfect Valentine Gifts for someone special???

Happy New Year!!

2007-12-31T18:19:00.000-05:00

Wow I knew I was taking a little blog break over the holidays but didn't mean for it to go on this long.

My husband was off work and I totally took advantage of his extra time and got him to help me paint our kitchen. I thought we could paint my very small kitchen walls and cabinets in an afternoon. But it never works the way you think it will and it took us 3 days to paint and I am still not done. We had to prime the cabinets and paint many coats. I guess if I was a professional painter I would know that painting when it is damp is not the way to get it done quickly. The paint took so long between coats to dry and in the meantime we had the kitchen torn apart.

I can say that I am loving my new bright kitchen and so glad we did it.

Our handmade holiday went over so well we have many friends and family members that will be giving it a try next year. I have to admit I got many strange expressions from my friends when I told them what I was going to do.

The kids had a great time making gifts and are so proud of themselves. I did buy a few things for my children (PJs, books, and some small little things) and they all made a comment that I was suppose to make everything!!! They actually seemed disappointed that I had given them a few store items. I guess I will need to work on my sewing skills so I can sew PJs next year!!

I hope that everyone has a wonderful New Year and it brings you all much happiness.

We are spending the evening with a few extra children sleeping over for a total of 7 kids in the house. We have a stack of movies, cards, and munchies to pass the time till everyone falls asleep.

3-D Snowflakes and Origami

2007-12-20T13:42:00.000-05:00

I found this wonderful 3D snowflake pattern in a vintage magazine. The pages with the instructions were too old to scan well. I got all ready to write up my version of how to make one and thought I would double check to see if there were any instructions already out there.

And I found some wonderful instructions. Check them out here.

Another 3-D Snowflake.

If you are a little Origami challenged like myself this women Gretchen Seigchrist makes wonderful videos of origami animals. Go to www.familycrafts.about.com and do a search on her name. You will find animals, birds, and flowers. I set the computer on my kitchen table cut a bunch of squares from copy paper and my children had a blast making their zoo or origami animals.

Cat Origami

Goldfish Origami

Crane Origami

...................... and many more

Handmade Holidays

2007-12-19T12:09:00.000-05:00

We are still busily making our gifts for our Handmade Holiday pledge. I have really enjoyed seeing my children get into the spirit. They are making all the gifts for their teachers, friends, and family. I made the mistake of suggesting we give the teachers gift cards (I am in charge of selling gift cards for our school's fundraiser) and was promptly told that "WE" are making handmade gifts this year.

This weekend we are putting the finishing touches on the gifts to each other. Each of my 4 children have a written list of what they are making for their siblings. My husband and I divide up and assist where needed.

One son is making a canister of Russian Tea (the tang version) for his twin sister and his oldest brother. They both love tea and he is so excited to surprise them.

My daughter made sock doggies last year (alright I sewed she stuffed and designed) for her brothers and this year she wants to make sock monkeys. We found some socks at the dollar store and all ready to get them done.

My oldest son, Chase is making a wonderful fused glass necklace for his brother. The glass piece he designed is perfect for a boy and not very large. I am very lucky to have a kiln for those fun glass projects. Just not enough time to play! Chase is also making a charm bracelet for his sister, a leather journal for his father, and a train book for his little brother.

Chase made orange marmalade for all his teachers. The house still smells like oranges and lemons. He has to finish the handmade tags for them but I wanted to share a picture of how pretty they turned out.

I have made several lavender/flax seed eye pillows for a few of my girlfriends. They are so nice to pop in the microwave to warm them a little and then rest on your eyes. The lavender smell is amazing.

And finally what do you do when it is 10 degrees outside and there is no school!! You make an origami zoo.
I have absolutely no talent at making origami so I made 3D snowflakes. I made a few for the mantle and some hanging in my front windows. I used the beautiful white glittery Prism paper from the December SBS kit. Holler if you would like the instructions for these snowflakes.

Good-bye to The Scrapbook Society

2007-12-15T07:55:00.000-05:00

Dear Scrapbook Society customer:

I'm so glad we had this time together,
Just to have a laugh, or sing a song.
Seems we just get started and before you know it
Comes the time we have to say, “So long..."

In the 1970s, entertainer Carol Burnett would close her television show with this sweet little song. It was a perfect way to acknowledge the fun and excitement had come to an end. I feel this song is the perfect way to say 'so long' to our Scrapbook Society Kits and 'hello' to our new Creativity Kits!

The December 2007 Scrapbook Society kit will be our last monthly scrapbook kit.

It has been a fun and exciting four-plus years in scrapbooking. I have learned alot from you, and together, we have created many new trends which the industry has adopted along the way. I will keep the Community Board and Gallery open for the next three months and I hope we will continue to chat, swap, and learn from each other like we always do.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your patronage! And thank you for your willingness to try new things.

I invite you to check out my new monthly Creativity Kits on www.ilove2create.com today where you can learn to make boutique-quality items in a single evening. Learn how to bring out the DIY in you!

Sincerely,
Melynda Tetpon

My Twins are 7 today!!!

2007-12-13T11:01:00.000-05:00

I just can't believe how fast time is flying by. When I was pregnant with them I felt like it was the longest pregnancy ever and these last 7 years have flown by.

I love that they are best friends. They tell each other all their secrets, watch out for each other, and hug and kiss each other every day. Chloe won't kiss her other two brothers but Noah always has her heart!!

I wish with all my heart they always stay as close as they are now.

Happy Birthday to my two ANGELS!!!!

Newest Creativity Kit

2007-12-10T09:22:00.000-05:00

Create a "one of a kind" handmade suede leather journal. The perfect gift for a friend or a special place to keep all your notes.

The journal is 180 pages of white matte recycled paper and measures 5x8 inches. The leather is a beautiful dark chocolate suede leather, dark chocolate leather tie with beads for closure, and waxed string beaded bookmark.

This kit is only $24.99 plus $5.00 shipping!

We also offer a reduced membership pricing for those who want a new kit shipped to them each month.

Read more about it here.

Another Handmade Leather Journal

2007-12-09T19:34:00.000-05:00

This journal is made from deer skin and is super soft. I love it but the tie to close it needs to be longer. So it was back to the drawing board.

I am sure that I will find a home for the journal in my Christmas list. Even if the tie is a little short. :)

Tomorrow is the big day and the reveal of the handmade Leather Journal Creativity Kit. The journal will be 8 x 5 inches and contain 180 pages. I was thinking of making it smaller but love the 8x5 size of the Deer Skin one so decided that I wanted that to be the size.

The kits will ship this week so if you haven't reserved your kit then grab one quick while we have them in stock. The kits come with everything needed to complete your journal in just an evening. So still time to complete one and give as a gift!!!

Handmade Holidays

2007-12-08T21:28:00.000-05:00

I am still working hard on my Handmade Holiday pledge. I completed a few more gifts this week. Not as many as I wanted and feel a little behind schedule. Hopefully I will catch up this week and get back on schedule.

Here are some great ideas for all of us.

Printable Gift Tags - these are from Sew Mama Sew

Sew Mama Sew also have a ton of tutorial for sewing projects. The projects are so darn cute and even with my limited sewing ability they look quite fun to make.

This adorable scotty is from AllSorts. I am making a few for my children as a stocking stuffer. I love how easy they are to cut out and I can hand sew while laying in bed. She also has some adorable scotty dog ornaments.

If you have never checked out this blog is most definitely one to bookmark.

Many of my gift recipients are getting Felted Merino Wool scarves and handmade journals. LOL!!

Another Leather Journals

2007-12-05T16:59:00.000-05:00

Here is another of my "trial" journals. I loved the leather of this one but it was really hard to work with and it doesn't want to lay flat. I am sure over time and using it that it will lay down better. So it was back to the "drawing board".

I did perfect the lacing of the book with this one.

I am giving all my journals away as gifts and I have the perfect person for this one. The leather is "tooling" leather and I will be adding the person's name to the front of the journal. I have shown many of the journals to friends and family and they are all trying to put their names on their favorite one. LOL!!

I can't wait for you all to see the actual journal for the Creativity Kit. It is by far my favorite and so beautiful.

Handbound Leather Journal

2007-12-04T11:01:00.000-05:00

I am putting the finishing touches on the Creativity Kit for December. The kit is available for purchase on December 10th. Or we have a monthly membership where you get the kit delivered automatically each month and you save money! How wonderful is that???

We release a new Creativity Kit each month. This takes many months of preparation and loads of trial and error.

I wanted to share one of my leather bound journals that I made in perfecting the technique for the kit. This is very similar to what the one in the kit will be but I really love the leather for the journal in the kit more!!!! I played with loads of leather types to find the one I loved the most.

I will be sharing a few more journals I made with you in the next couple of days. And then it will be time for the GRAND UNVEILING.

And since I am spilling the beans a little early. I thought I would give you a sneak peek at the progress of the January Creativity Kit release. Can you guess what I am working on???

Click on either image for a up close and personal look!

Scrapbook Society December Kit

2007-12-02T18:33:00.000-05:00

December Scrapbook Society Kit

The December kit ships December 3rd!!! I love this double sided paper from Deja View. It is really hard to decide what side of the paper to use.

And if you haven't had a chance to see the gallery with the amazing creations from the Design Team you have go to take a peek.

The kit is all about Glitter, Foil, and Flock. The perfect kit for the holiday layouts, cards, and all your papercrafting projects.

Starting a new Challenge

2007-11-27T12:08:00.000-05:00

Several years ago, I had been obsessing on trying to remember my childhood and was getting very irritated with myself because I just couldn't "picture" my childhood in my mind's eye. I felt like all my childhood memories were connected to photos I had seen or stories that I heard from others. Last month, after my sons brought home some rewards/prizes from school, I had a memory that rose to the surface of my consciousness and decided that I needed to include it in my scrapbook. I have an "All About Me" scrapbook started that includes a section on childhood memories. So over the next few months, I challenge you to travel back in time with me as we relive some of those stories from the past. Welcome to ...

TIME TRAVEL TUESDAY

The scrapbook/journaling challenge designed to help you capture the past and preserve it for the future. Every two weeks, I will be posting a specific time travel challenge on the IL2C blog. This week's challenge is to document a memory from your life when you were between the ages of 5 and 10 years old. If you would like to participate (and have an opportunity to receive a RAK), create a NEW scrapbook page or journaling entry (this can even be done as an electronic journal entry on a blog). Once you have completed the challenge, post a comment on this blog entry by midnight EST on December 10th that includes a link to your challenge entry "memory". I will be selecting one participant to receive a RAK and I will announcing the name of the recipient when I post the following challenge. Also to kick off this new challenge and celebrate Rachael's 80's themed Girl's Night Out tomorrow night, I am going to be giving away a bonus RAK to one person who completes the challenge by midnight EST tomorrow, November 28th.

I hope you will join me for a stroll down memory lane.

More Handmade Gifts

2007-11-26T18:54:00.000-05:00

I am working hard to keep up on my handmade gift making. I have completed a several more gifts to give to family and friends.

Everyone needs a felted bracelet to wear with their favorite jeans!

This piece is the simplest I have made so far and I swear it is my favorite. I was worried that it would be to simple looking but the simplicity is what makes it perfect. Do you think my friend I made it for will mind if I wear it a couple of times before I wrap it for her????

I made this one from one of the Kazuri beads like the one in the Kazuri Bead kit. I included blue seed pearls and a Swarovski crystal.

Lastly is this adorable wool felt lamb. I found the pattern here. I also found a pattern here for a horse that I have to make for my nieces that are crazy for horses.

I still have alot more to make to keep with my pledge to make handmade gifts this season. But starting to see light at the end of the tunnel.

Handmade Gifts for the Holidays

2007-11-21T18:46:00.001-05:00

My pledge to make all handmade gifts this season or buy handmade is in full-swing. I do have to cheat a little for the children that want Lego's for Christmas. I don't think they will appreciate my attempt to make Lego's!

I have completed several gifts and wanted to share a few of them.

Here is my version of a felted cobweb scarf. It is super soft and I really love how it turned out. I added zigzag stitching to make it even stronger. The person I made it for has small children and I wanted to make sure she would wear it with no worries of the kids pulling on it.

And of course I have been very busy making the Merino Wool Felted Scarf. This one is done using the Midnight wool. Some may recognize it from the instructions for the Felted Scarf kit I used this scarf for the instructional pictures..

This is a 100% wool coaster. It is backed with cork and is needle felted with embroidery. It will be a set of four for a special friend. I have a few other patterns that I will share later this month.

I have received many requests for additional Merino/Teucel Wool roving to create more scarves. I have a few available. This one is called Harvest and you can purchase it here.

This one is called midnight. Definitely my favorite next to the blues and greens that came in the kit. You can purchase it here.

This one is called Berry. My daughter is begging for a scarf made from this one. I want one for myself!! You can purchase it here.

Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. And don't forget to Make Handmade!!!

December Scrapbook Society Sneak Peek

2007-11-15T13:22:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe it has been so long since my last post. I have been one busy lady as I am sure you all have been also.

We are shipping the amazing Merino Felted Scarf Kits today and seeing if we have any left for those that may still want one.

They are super simple to make and indeed only take one evening. But your friends and family will think you are the most talented artist they have ever met. Trust me I am telling the absolute truth. Just make sure you do not let them know how simple it was to create such an amazing scarf. You will have to be prepared for all the requests for them to make you one also. Just give me a holler if you want to make another one which I am sure you will want to do. You won't need the entire kit to make an additional scarf as you will see in the instructions. :)

The December Scrapbook Society Kit is all about Glitter, Foil, and Sparkle. Perfect for the holidays! I love the paper we chose and I am sure you will also. I am giving a tiny peek so you can fall in love with me. Can you see these papers are double-sided??? YIPPPEEEEE

My Angel is 5 today!!!

2007-11-07T09:17:00.000-05:00

My sweet angel is turning 5 today!! It seems like yesterday that he was that little baby fighting for his life. I still have nightmares about those first 3 years and a fear of what is still ahead for him.

My baby was born with hypoplastic right heart (he only has 1/2 a heart), Transposition of the Great Vessels (his aorta and pulmonary artery are switched - Wyatt's had to be rebuilt), Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum(he is missing the center of his brain that connects the two hemispheres), hydrocephlus (he has a shunt that drains off the fluid that builds up in his brain).

My angel has been through 4 open heart surgeries, 2 cardiac catherizations, and 3 brain surgeries in his short life. And we don't count the little hernia operation he had when he was 1.

Sounds like too much for one little guy to overcome. And believe me there was many times when the doctors didn't think he would pull through. I have watched too many times as doctors and God have brought my baby back. I have pleaded with God many times to give my baby just a little more strength to fight and in the same breath pleaded that he not go through anymore pain. It is most definitely not something I want any parent to ever go through.

Wyatt has fought through all the odds and amazes his doctors every day. We were told he would never walk, talk, or take care of himself. Today at 5 he is in preschool and acts like any other child in preschool. He does tire easily and cannot play as much as the other kids but his amazing bright personality keeps him active.

He smiles at everyone and loves to talk to anyone who will listen. You would not know there is anything wrong with him unless you saw his scars.

We still do not know what the future holds for Wyatt but know that whatever it is in God's hands.

Every child's birthday is a celebration of LIFE and LOVE!!!!

2007-11-06T20:07:00.000-05:00

Why do I pledge to buy handmade?

Buying handmade is better for our environment, lets us connect with the producer, and lets us give a truly unique and special gift for our loved ones. In the day of child labor issues, poor working conditions, and mass produced items that leaves no room for individuality it is time we all become more aware of how our purchases have an environmental and social implications.

Buying handmade could not be easier!!

There are so many wonderful craft shows to shop from. Etsy, and many handmade artists with their own websites.

And of course you can make your own gifts which I plan to do plenty of this year. No mass produced purchase can replace the beauty of a handmade item.

Join me and Pledge to buy Handmade!

Wool Felted Scarf Kit

2007-10-30T11:28:00.000-04:00

Click on images for a larger picture.

Felted Wool is all the rage right now and after creating our November Creativity Kit I know why!

I have put together a beautiful, super-soft, luxurious scarf kit like no other you will ever find. The kit comes with everything you need to make this one-of-a-kind, boutique-quality wool scarf that you can complete in a single evening!

I saw a similar scarf in a NYC boutique for $75.00!! Believe me...when you see, feel and wear this scarf you will understand why.

Our Creativity Kit include both Merino and Teucel wool that are hand-dyed on a family farm in New Hampshire. Merino wool provides an amazingly-soft sensation and Teucel wool has an elaborate series of curls that are visually stunning. The combination is both uptown fashion and downtown functional.

If you haven't tried one of our famous Creativity Kits, this is definitely the one to try! I work very hard to find unique and high quality supplies for our kits to inspire your creative side and to support other small businesses.

Reserve your Wool Scarf Kit today!

Makes an excellent gift for you or a loved one this holiday season. The kit ships November 10th - 15th.

November Scrapbook Society Kit Preview

2007-10-26T09:28:00.000-04:00

Here it is in all it's glory!!!

Diane will be showing us how to create velvet holiday ornaments with this kit complete with images for you to choose from, courtesy of TwistedPapers.com. You are most definitely not going to want to miss this kit!!

Order your kit now!

Give the gift of a membership!!

Scrapbook Society November Sneak Peeks

2007-10-25T10:14:00.000-04:00

Hello Card by Rachael Chamberlain

Swing by Rachael Chamberlain

Happiness walks on sandy feet by Amy White

Friend Circle Tag by Rachael Chamberlain

This is such a fun kit and the technique is DIY Velour Accents. The kit ships on November 1st. You are going to love the Webster Pages paper and all the goodies.

November Project Kit - A Calendar

2007-10-23T16:32:00.000-04:00

This month's Project Kit is a Maya Road 6x6 Chipboard Album that Rachael Chamberlain turned into an adorable Calendar. The perfect gift to make for the holidays.

Rachael made this a easy project you can complete in an evening.

You can order your Project kit now to be included with your November kit for no additional shipping charges.

Order your Project Kit today! Only $13.99

Congrats to our Winners of Scrappin Survivor

2007-10-22T09:43:00.000-04:00

Scrappin Survivor is finally over. It felt like it went really fast this year but of course I wasn't having to create any of the challenges. LOL!!

I want to thank Tracy Polacheck last year's Scrappin Survivor for hosting this years. She put in many long hours and it was wonderfully executed. Even with my little delay in shipping the top 10 kits. :)

And I want to thank the Design Team; Amy White, Rachael Chamberlain, and Diane Knauff for participating, judging, cheering, and offering support. You guys are amazing!!!

Now for our winners....................

3rd Place ------------ Natasha

2nd Place -------------- Alicia

1st Place ------------- Mimi

Mimi and Alicia will be our guest Designer for November!!!!

Winners receive:
3rd place - guest designer for 1 month
2nd place - guest designer for 2 months
THE SCRAPPIN’ SURVIVOR - guest designer for 3 months

Our first Virtual Girl's Night Out

2007-10-16T18:25:00.000-04:00

Design team member, Tracy Polacheck is getting ready to host our first Virtual Girl's Night Out this Sunday, October 21. Everyone is invited to her house (in a cyberspace kind of way) from 7:30-10pm EST. Check out all the details on the IL2C message board, which is also where Tracy's Virtual house can be found on Sunday, and make sure to put it on your calendar. Not only will there be a lot of fun and great ideas for the upcoming holidays, but we will also be announcing the winners of the Scrappin' Survivor III contest that has been in progress for the past month.

Grand Prize Winners!!!

2007-10-14T19:19:00.000-04:00

We have finally finished putting in all the tickets earned for the month of September. We had so many tickets and we wanted to make sure we didn't miss anyone.

So without further discussion.........................................

Here are our winners!!!!

Linda Flickinger - 6 month membership to our Creativity Kits

Daniele Beale - 6 month membership to our Creativity Kits

Silvia - 6 month membership to the Scrapbook Society Kits

Jen Watkins - 6 month membership to the Scrapbook Society Kits

Thank you everyone who played with us and helped to celebrate our 4th Anniversary!!!

Lavender Bath Salt Creativity Kit

2007-10-11T10:12:00.001-04:00

We are getting ready to ship the October Creativity Kit!!! I love how it came together and it smells divine.

The kit has everything needed to make 3 small paint cans of lavender bath salts. The ingredients in the kit are all natural, perfect for that perfect warm bath. I know you are asking why 3 cans. We just wanted to make sure you had enough for yourself and enough to give to a friend or family member.

Order a Creativity Kit for yourself now!

Or start your membership and never miss out on a Creativity Kit.

Haunted House

2007-10-08T08:57:00.000-04:00

This past 10 days have really gotten away from me. I get ready to update the blog everyday and then my "to do" list grows and the blog gets shoved to the bottom of the list. I am sure you all know how that is.

We have been so busy getting the Scrapbook Society October kits out, putting the finishing touches on the October Creativity Kit, checking on all the items ordered for the November kits. You have no idea how many months we have to completely rework the kits due to items not arriving when they say they will. Of course if you are on the Design Team you know exactly what I am talking about. Each month our Design Team works under so such a short time frame and still manages to completely blow my mind. I love them all so much and would really be lost without them.

I did manage to sneak away this weekend after the soccer games and take my children to a haunted house. A little town near us has this amazing haunted setup that they have built over years. It isn't really a house but a several structures. My children would be much too frightened to go through it at night with everyone dressed in costumes, spooky noises, and monsters jumping out at them. So each year I take them through it during the day when no one is there just us.

I have a few photos of this amazing haunted house to share with you.

They have a full train engine that they have steam coming out of and sounds that it is moving. At night they have amazing lighting that really makes it all come alive. But this is alive enough for my children.

You walk through this part and into a room where they have fake blood and mannequins. Very scary!

Have a great day!!!

Trivia Winner.... More October Peeks

2007-09-28T09:28:00.001-04:00

The winner of the soldered glass pendant is .................. Julie Gastelum.

Congrats. Please email your mailing address to melynda@ilove2create.com.

And now for more sneak peeks at the October kit. The kit ships this Monday.

Rachael made this album using metal switch plates covered in Friendly Plastic.

I love the ribbon buckle that Rachael created with the Friendly Plastic. And we all know her love of Stickles so she covered the felt thickers with her favorite stickles for some extra shimmer. Click on the photo to see a closeup and all her amazing detail.

Rachael used the Friendly Plastic to mold a flower and leaves. She stamped the flower to give it even more texture.

Friendly Plastic has become a new favorite technique for me!!!!

The winner is..... And Friendly Plastic

2007-09-27T17:29:00.000-04:00

The winner of Wednesday's stash is.................Linda F. Please email me at melynda@ilove2create.com your mailing address.

I have been busy playing with Friendly Plastic today. And I can't tell you how much fun I had. It really is Friendly. LOL!!!

The plastic is heated and then you can swirl it together, add beads, add glitter, stamp in it, and so much more. I haven't gotten a chance to stamp in it and put it on my "to do" list for tomorrow.

I did get to make a little mini book (2x2 inches) with Friendly Plastic covers.

And Tracy has a completed Project kit to show you. October we are featuring an Altered Clipboard.

You can have the project added to your kit for only $12.99. The kit includes the 5x7 clipboard, chipboard scroll, buttons, 3 yards of velvet ribbon, and 3 Notes to Self Cards.

Orders your now!

Here is a sneak peek at a layout from the October Kit.

Thank you to Diane for creating the Picnic Perfect Layout.

If you haven't ordered your October kit yet we have a few left.

Wednesday Stash Giveaway!

2007-09-26T13:02:00.001-04:00

I am having a little issue with my camera talking to my computer today. I don't have a picture of Wednesday's stash but I know you will love it.

This is the last one for our CELEBRATION month. Please drop in and say hello in the comments. I will draw a name tomorrow from the comments for a winner.

We are very busy this week packing the October Scrapbook Society Kits. I love the fresh colors of the American Craft papers. The technique is Friendly Plastic!!! You will be amazed at what you can create with it.

Tutorial - Fabric Rose

2007-09-25T13:31:00.000-04:00

We have finished up our Fabric Flower swap at I love 2 Create. I am just waiting on a few more flowers to arrive and then I will get them back out to everyone who participated.

I wanted to share my Fabric Roses. They are super simple to make and perfect to use your fabric scraps on.

First you will cut out 6 - 8 petals in 2 sizes. The pink rose is with 6 petals and the black roses are made from 8 petals.

I will be happy to send you a PDF with my pattern. Just drop me an email at melynda@ilove2create.com.

You are going to handsew with a running stitch each of the petals together. Start by sewing the smaller petals and end with the larger petals.

Pull the running stitch a little to gather to petal as shown in the photo. I tie a knot when the flower petals are gathered.

Next you will start to wind the flower petals around creating your rose. You can gather in your fingers and then sew it all together. You will be matching the edges together on the bottom. The bottom will be wide but flat. I think that makes sense.

Or my favorite way to wind it is to take your low-temp glue gun and use a little glue as you wind your way around.

I also attach a small piece of felt to the bottom to hide all my rough edges. Perfect to add a pen to and wear as a brooch.

Now it is your turn to create your own Fabric Roses. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Last Trivia Question of the month!!!

2007-09-24T09:58:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for the new trivia question???

Monday's Trivia Question -

How many people are competing for our Ultimate Survivor in the Scrappin Survivor III challenge?

Please email your responses by Thursday to melynda@ilove2create.com.

I will be drawing a name on Friday and the winner will be receiving a beautiful handmade soldered pendant.

Tomorrow I hope to have a wonderful tutorial for fabric roses to show you. Crossing my fingers and toes that I don't have any issues today and can get the final touches done.

Monday's Trivia Winner

2007-09-21T06:33:00.001-04:00

Monday's Trivia winner is ......................... Alyson Oberman

Congrats to our winner!!!!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone. And don't forget to signup for your membership this month for the Scrapbook Society kit or the Creativity Kits and receive 1 month FREE!!!!

October Kit Preview and our winner!

2007-09-20T17:49:00.000-04:00

The winner for the Wednesday stash is .................................. mara.

Please email your address at melynda@ilove2create.com

We are busy getting the October kit ready for shipping on October 1st and I wanted to share a few pieces of the kit.

The technique is Friendly Plastic. You are going to love all the amazing creations you will be able to create with this medium. It has been around for some time and I just now got hooked myself. I can't believe I somehow didn't realize how cool it really was.

Wednesday Stash Drawing

2007-09-19T09:31:00.001-04:00

First I want to thank everyone for coming to our Girl's Night Out!!! It was a great time, great food, great challenges, and loads of fun. Just an all around GREAT time!!

Congrats to our winners this weekend!!

1st Place Winner - JenWatkins 135 - $25 Gift Certificate

Tie for second place - Natasha & JoeLaw - $15 Gift Certificate.

Third place was Paperheart - $10 Gift Certificate

Bingo Winners - Ann Burns with 17 words

Mara Gross - 9 words

The Scrappin Survivor III kicked off on Sunday evening and our Survivors are working hard to make it through their first challenge. Check them out in the gallery and cheer them on with some comments.

And finally Wednesday's Stash Giveaway!!!

2 packages of Petaloo Flowers and some lovely Twinkling H2Os. Just leave a "hello" in the comments and we will draw a name tomorrow.

Monday's Trivia Question

2007-09-17T09:25:00.000-04:00

Today's Question: What are the two featured items in our store?

Please email me your answer by Thursday evening to melynda@ilove2create.com.

The prize is valued at $40!!! It includes the 7gypsies Scroll Stamp, Creative Imaginations Swatch Book (28 sheets), Bohemia Rubons, Tim Holtz Fancy Flourishes unmounted stamp set.

Monday's Trivia Winner

2007-09-14T10:24:00.000-04:00

The winner of the 3 Mobile Kits is ---------------- Silvia!!!!

Thank you to everyone who played.

Now get ready for a fun weekend at our Girl's Craft Weekend. Starts Today!!!

This is similar to the cybercrops we have held in the past but with a few new twists. Envision three days and two nights at a wonderful Bed & Breakfast with your best bunch of girlfriends -- there will be a goody bag waiting for you, along with scrumptious meals and fun challenges and games, complete with fabulous prizes. Be sure to check out the Community Board to get all the details.

Girl's Crafting Weekend!

2007-09-13T10:43:00.000-04:00

First the winner for Wednesday's blog drawing is ...................... Charisma3103. Congrats!!!

Please email me your shipping adress so I can get your jewelry items right out to you.

I did a random number generator and it chose 1. I have never had that happen before so I guess it reall is a random number. :)

You are cordially invited to a Girl's Crafting Weekend at the IL2C virtual Bed and Breakfast.

It will be a weekend of crafting, creating, snacking, playing games, and winning prizes!!! Check out our Community Board for all the details!

Bingo words will be posted later today, so make sure you stop by and pick your bingo words.

Wednesday's Giveaway - Jewelry Kits

2007-09-12T07:02:00.001-04:00

Perfect for a rainy afternoon. Wednesday's CELEBRATION giveaway are 4 jewelry kits. They are super simple to put together and fun to make. There are 2 bracelets, 1 necklace and 3 rings. I believe you can click on the image to get a larger picture.

Drop by and say "hello" in the comments and I will draw a name from the comments tomorrow.

We also have loads of fun going on at our Community Board. This weekend is a Girl's Crafting Weekend with games, challenges, prizes, and loads of fun. Be sure to come visit us at the IL2C "cyber" bed and breakfast. Check in starts on Friday and don't forget to pick up your free goody bag.

And don't forget to answer Monday's trivia question to win 3 wonderful Mobil kits. These are very popular and hard to find.

Monday's Trivia Question

2007-09-10T07:02:00.000-04:00

Today's Trivia Question: What city and state is our Design Team Coordinator from?

Please email your answers to melynda@ilove2create.com by Thursday evening. I will draw a name from the correct answers on Friday. Good Luck!!!!

I am off running to get kids to school and doctor's appointments this morning so I will post a picture of the prize when I return this afternoon. I should have taken the photograph yesterday but that would have meant I was planning ahead. LOL!!!!!

Edited.... I finally got the picture. The prize is 3 (THREE) mobile kits. Retail value $70.00!!!

The Winner is...........

2007-09-07T12:58:00.000-04:00

Monday's Trivia winner is ...........................................................

Ann Burns!!!!

Congrats and thank you to all who played. We will have another trivia question on Monday and anther great prize.

Our first Creativity kit is shipping next week!!! We have "sold out" twice so far and just ordered in more supplies to put a few more kits together. If you have ordered yours yet, grab them now. The kit comes with everything needed to put together your very own "one-of-a-kind" necklace and earrings!! You will love the amazing Ceramic focal bead handmade by women in Kenya.

Order yours here!!! Or join and get a new Creativity Kit every month!

Creativity Kit Memberships

Wednesday's Winner

2007-09-06T06:04:00.000-04:00

Here are your random numbers:14
Timestamp: 2007-09-06 11:04:35 IST

Marshan

Please email me your address so that I can get your prize out to you. melynda@ilove2create.com

Still one more day to email me your answers to our Monday trivia question. The prize pack is the Bernie Berlin ATC book and the foam stamp set from Tim Holtz. The stamp set is in a nice wood box.

Monday's Trivia - What was the technique of the January 2007 Scrapbook Society Kit?

Have you checked out the September Gallery? We have some amazing layouts, projects, and cards from our Design Team. Here are just a few of my favorites. Of course I love them all.

I love how Amy White used the Daisy D rubons to free hand the leaves and the colors are wonderful. Tracy Poloacheck used August's Doodling Template. And the Earth Elements look amazing on the number five. We most definitely have the most talented Design Team on earth!!!

First Day of School

2007-09-05T12:51:00.000-04:00

I am so excited and sad at the same time. Today is the first day of school and the first time I will have all my children in school. No more little ones at home. I look forward to getting more housework done, time to create, and many other things so that I won't get so sad and miss them too much.

Each Wednesday we are giving away a prize package with a value of $25. Just leave a little hello comment and I will draw the name of the winner Thursday morning. Sorry I am running behind today and didn't get the picture of the prize yet.

Sorry the picture isn't the greatest. The Wednesday drawing is for an entire roll of Maya Road Velvet Ribbon in red, Joy of Stamping Cleaner, Metallic Rubons, and Rusty Pickle Stickers. All fun stuff.

Good Luck and have a wonderful day.

Happy 4th Anniversary to us!!!

2007-09-03T12:15:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to kick off our month long celebration with our first of 4 trivia questions. Each Monday during the month of September we will ask a trivia question. Email the correct answer to the question to melynda@ilove2create.com and you will be entered in the Friday drawing for a prize.
Too simple to not play with us.

Trivia Question: What was the technique of the January 2007 Scrapbook Society Kit?

hint: You can find the information on the Community Board, Gallery, and through our newsletters.

Email you answer to me at melynda@ilove2create.com by Thursday evening and I will draw a name from the correct answer on Friday morning.

The prize for this weeks trivia will be the Artist Trading Card Workshop by Bernie Berlin.

And also the wonderful large foam alphabet stamp set by Tim Holtz.

This is all in time for you to sign up for Amy's ATC swap and start earning your tickets for our CELEBRATION Grand Prizes. Read all about the swap on our Community Board.
Check out the Fabric Flower Swap and our Survivor Swap on the Community Board. Still time to join in the fun.

Read all about our huge CELEBRATION in our Scrapbook Society Newsletter.

Welcome Ana Cabrera - Our September Guest Designer

2007-09-01T16:30:00.000-04:00

We are so excited to have Ana Cabrera (of Scrapbook Answers and now, CK Media fame) as our guest designer for the month of September. Ana has an amazing sense of style and we are thrilled that she is sharing it with us in celebration of our 4th Anniversary of the Scrapbook Society kits. She has been one busy lady lately since she has just moved from California to Utah for her new position with CK Media. Last weekend she was busy teaching at Creating Keepsake University in Nashville and after returning home she whipped up some beautiful creations with the September kit that features Daisy D's patterned papers and Earth Elements by Art Glitter. Before her busy week, we were able to interview Ana to see what makes her creative juices flow.

IL2C: Tell us a about you and your family.
Ana: I am a single mother of three lovely little divas. Sierra 9, Savannah 8, and Sedona 4. We have recently moved to Utah...though I will always be a California Girl. I am also a Mormon Filipino Republican American.

IL2C: How did you get started in scrapbooking?
Ana: haha. I started out as a wedding singer.. then a hip hop dancer.. then a professional chef.. then I ended up as a freelance graphic designer.. and then.. I landed the job for Scrapbook Answers.
BUT I have been a paper lover for ever. I have been keeping "scrapbooks" for as long as I can remember.. I started scrapping in the form we know it today back when I was pregnant with Sierra.

IL2C: What are your favorite subjects to scrap?
Ana: everyday life. My kids, my food, my home. i really like my scrapbooking to be a snapshot of my world.

IL2C: Describe your scrapping environment. Do you have any special items in your scrap space that give you inspiration?
Ana: haha... cramped. My scrap space is generally a wall in a shared space. Most recently.. my bedroom. (since that's the only magic going on in there!) But what inspires me... is my collection of vintage rhinestones and fabrics. Even though I don't really scrap in a vintage style.. these items are so rich. So full of a life of their own. I just know that these pieces have a story.

IL2C: What are your 3 favorite products to use when scrapbooking?
Ana: chipboard... plain brown chipboard. i love the way it looks and feels.

rhinestones...but they have to be vintage glass or crystal. I have used plastic.. but.. it doesn't
have the same bling.

Clear overlays... i can not get enough of the clear stuff. it just begs to be played with. I wanted to be rubbed on, painted, stitched...

IL2C:
Our members love to try new techniques, what techniques do you love to use in your artwork?
Ana: machine sewing and painting. there is something so primal about adding a splash of paint to a layout. and what I love about machine sewing is its unpredictability. I admit, it is only unpredictable because I don't sew that great... but I am always happy with the results.

IL2C: You have been involved in the publishing side of the scrapbooking business, previously with Scrapbook Answers and now with CK Media, what advice can you give those scrappers who want to be published?
Ana: Ah... so you want to be published. :) I am sure that there are more educated answers than the one I am going to give you... but here it is.
Love what you do. IF you scrap only for the sake of trying to get published... you wont. The reason... the best pages, the most engaging layouts are the ones that have an intangible quality about them. I think that the quality is the love behind it. It may be the love of the creative process, love of the subjects...whatever. And honestly.. that is what this craft is all about. Now, I do understand the desire to be published.. so in a more practical bit of advice. Watch for the calls. AND do your own thing. Editors are always looking for something fresh.. not necessarily totally new... but fresh. And that comes with finding your own style.. your own way of doing things.

I love 2 Create

Addicted to Stumbling

Favorite Magazines

Need More Time..............

First Holy Communion

Big News!!!

We love Ducks!

What is up with this EGG!

Filing Cabinet Transformation

Our Brownie Troop is Going Green

The Life of a Six Year Old

Happy Birthday Chase!!!

Learning to Customize my Blog

Coupons, Coupons, and other ways to SAVE!

$5 dinner - Lentil Soup

Waiting for Spring

My quest to Learn to Knit

Recycled Wool Scarf

Finally........................

Happy New Year!!!

Handmade Holidays Part 2

Handmade Christmas

Flower Fairy Ornament

Snowmen Cupcakes

Trip to NYC!

Happy Birthday to my babies!

Crochet Scarf and Snow Day

Handmade Ornaments for Kids

Handmade Gifts under $10

Christmas Stockings

Handmade Perfume

Christmas Photos

Craft Show Today

Lavender Chocolate Kisses

Lavender Dream Pillow

Herbal Bath Tea Bags - Gift Idea

2nd Day of Christmas

25 Days of Christmas

Ingredients

Directions

Cover and let stand 12-18 hours in a cool place.

Cook rapidly until peel is tender, about 1 hour.

Measure fruit and liquid.

Alternate sugar with each cup of fruit mixture.

Bring slowly to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.

Cook rapidly, about 25 minutes.

When mixture begins to thicken, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Pour hot into hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch head space.

Adjust caps.

Process 10 minutes in boiling water bath.

Ceramic Jewelry

Getting Ready for Thanksgiving

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

Recycled Sweater Project

Handmade Holidays!

I am BACK!!!!!

Where Have I Been?

Newest Creativity Kit!! - Glass Pendants

February Creativity Kit

A Few of my Favorite Blogs

Amazon Wish List

Cupcakes!

Sterling Silver Pendant

Perfect Snow Day!

More Valentine Goodies

Valentine Monster

Create 2 Amazing Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Rings

39 Days till Valentine's Day

Become more Creative in 2008!

Happy New Year!!

3-D Snowflakes and Origami

Handmade Holidays

Good-bye to The Scrapbook Society

My Twins are 7 today!!!

Newest Creativity Kit

Another Handmade Leather Journal

Handmade Holidays

Another Leather Journals

Handbound Leather Journal

Scrapbook Society December Kit