A Creative Space

Gorgeous Creature

2012-01-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

Parent-volunteer Sport-Team-Photographers will always hold a place in my heart! We are so very lucky that our son's team has one of the best ever talented, devoted, creative photographers! He always manages to get those up-in-the-air shots. Our tournament games this last weekend involved quite a bit of snow, which kept things interesting. Mr. Photographer sometimes adds in a few non-soccer pics for variety. He captured this gorgeous bird-of-prey during the tournament. Fabulous.

Here's another great non-sport shot heading home from a summer tournament.

I think this is Mt. Saint Helens? Makes for a beautiful background.

~Shelly

Featured Wedding Inspiration

2012-01-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

Just found out today that our cousin's wedding was featured on The Wedding Day blog; post dated January 10, 2012. Such a romantic
setting on this beautiful grass covered field.

The Wedding Day blog is a site that has free wedding websites and gives inspiration to couples planning their big day.

Isn't this gorgeous? Love, love the J & J monogram, back to back. Their names are Jason and Juanita -so sweet. Yummy textures!

What? More romantic shots? I have to get in my quota of sighs for the day. Come on -do it with me... S - i - g - h..., doesn't that feel better?

Sweet banners & chalkboard hearts - getting any DIY ideas?

And, what use is any romantic wedding without a bit of silliness mixed in?

Want to see more? Just head on over to The Wedding Day (a South African based site) for the whole story -how they met and all. You may just get a peek of some handsome groomsmen as well ;-)

And, if you feel like seeing what kind of trouble you can get into, check out their DIY section, like any good blogger would!

Here's some DIY flowers to temp you...

See you soon,
~Shelly

Anyone Lost?

2012-01-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

Address & Directions are Fake

Is it difficult to get to your house? Have a lot of numbered streets? That's what it is like for us -after living here for 11 years, I still get a bit mixed up! Yes, I know, we are living in the age of a GPS in every car... almost.

When we used to need a babysitter, I wanted him/her to be prepared! If there was an emergency -how would he/she know the info for 911 to get here? Sometimes Rescuers can use a clue in a confusing maze. For example: house color, 2-story, on the left, 2nd from the corner, etc. We have all heard about a child who has run outside to wave the emergency vehicles to the correct house quickly.

So, those few (ha!) years ago, I decided to frame directions to our home. If someone is lost, or in an emergency, all we had to do was grab the frame off the wall, right next to the phone -and read out the address. Easy Peasy. Gives me piece of mind. At the time, I thought it would be too much information to add our cell numbers to frame, so I wrote them down just inside the cupboard door. But now, I think they could be added at the bottom -away from the home phone and that would work really well. And -how about adding your names too? Bet that kind of info can fly right out of your head in an emergency.

When a lost guest calls, sometimes I still grab this little frame for reference. Guess what, teens are even less clued in than I am -pretty sure they use it too, when I am not looking. We actually keep it hung up behind the computer screen -it doesn't really match our decor, but we know where it is.

I am happy to report, everyone is safe & sound. I have only ever handed this to my husband or kids for them to help someone trying to find our home. :)

Do not follow, you will get lost!

FYI:
To print this out, I used cardstock, and "bold" print setting. The frame is 5x5, and the font size is 12p, Times New Roman.

Stay safe!

~Shelly

Almost Back to "Normal"

2012-01-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

Hey there. This place is almost back where it was, a nice & cozy familiarity. Not what I was going for, but that's alright -I will get there. I would like something lighter, in a 3-column style. An arrangement that is so much fun, that it sometimes writes itself. You know, when you fall asleep thinking about an idea or project you want to post? Then you just wake up -and hey! -there it is. Now that would be cool. You could just wake up, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy your latest post. :) Fantasy, I know -but a good one! Happy New Year, everyone.

~Shelly

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2011-12-31T16:06:00.000-08:00

What is going on?!? Yep, messing with my blog.... but have to run.... it looks ridiculous -but what can I say? I am multi-tasking and dashing off to help a friend ready her home for the evening. :)

Edible Wreath -Really!

2011-12-14T12:15:00.000-08:00

Tired of hot cocoa and S'mores? Wondering what to do with your left over, maybe even a little stale, marshmallows?

Make a wreath of course! Over at the Food Network you can see some other ideas too. I think the mini marshmallows really pop. We have so many half-eaten bags of marshmallows around here that I really need to crank one of these out... Don't want to leave my blog for fear of getting lost? No problem! The directions and guidance as given by the Food Network site are right here:

A Marshmallow World
While you’re picking up marshmallows for hot chocolate, buy a few extra bags to make this easy (30-minute!) winter-white wreath. Insert about 150 toothpicks halfway into a 12-inch flat foam wreath, then skewer a marshmallow onto each toothpick. Refrigerate overnight to set. (Birds may fancy this one, so consider hanging it inside.)

Now go and find 150 toothpicks! Make sure to show me your creations. :)

Thanks for stopping by~

~Shelly

Shabby Apple Winner!

2011-12-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

And the winner is... #16!!!!! Lorna @ Inspiration Overload is the proud new owner of the Bacciami dress from Shabby Apple. Congratulations Lorna!

Thank you so much for all of you who played along, making my contest a success. :)

~Shelly

DIY: You Just Might Need One of These!!

2011-12-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

I have great news for you... have you seen this? It is a Must Have item! Created just last week from supplies that you surely have around your own home. Awesome Ashley brought it to life over at Make It and Love It.

When you look closely, you can see that the holder fits snugly just under the plug. However, the opening does seem to have enough room to rest on top of the plug too -I imagine you will find which position works for you. I have not made mine yet, so I am just guessing here!! Just had to get this out there and give you time to make one, or two.... or three.... Be sure to head on over to Make It and Love It for the easy to follow, full tutorial!

Happy DIYing!
~Shelly

Give-Away! Shabby Apple... WHAT?

2011-11-23T10:02:00.000-08:00

This Give-Away is now closed.

Who are Shabby Apple? So glad you asked... they are an online boutique that sells vintage-inspired women's apparel & accessories. They even offer maternity and children's dresses. :) From their "About Us" page:
"We started Shabby Apple because we saw a need in women’s fashion that was not being met. A need to make women feel feminine and beautiful for what they wear, not what they bare. We offer flirty, stylish dresses a woman can wear just as comfortably in the office, at a family dinner, or on a date."

Shabby Apple is giving me, ahem.. you the chance to win a dress! Here are a few I had to choose from:

Pineapple Prince

Nothin' Like a Dame

Waimea

And my choice for the Give-Away....

... the Bacciami!

Be sure to check out their many other items -including necklaces;

Shoes;

And, oh, the swimsuits!

Ready to give it a go?

ENTRY RULES:
To enter this giveaway, you must:

1. Like Shabby Apple on Facebook, leave me a comment telling me you did so -by liking them you can get in on special promotions and exclusive discounts.
2. Visit ShabbyApple.com and comment on this post telling me your favorite item by Tuesday, December 6th at 11:59pm PST. You may enter up to 3 additional times by doing any of the following:

3. Follow or Subscribe to A Creative Space (blog)
4. Post a link to this giveaway on your Facebook page
5. Post a link to this giveaway on your blog

Leave separate comments letting me know which of the above you have done for each additional entry. Your comment(s) must include an email address to be eligible to win (either through your blogging ID or typed into your comment entry).

Due to Shabby Apple shipping requirements, this giveaway is open to readers with a US mailing address only. There will be no exchanges for the winning dress.

The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced on Wednesday, December 7th.

In a hurry to shop? Shabby Apple offers 10% just by signing up for email! You can enter their shop by using the link in my side bar.

Good luck everyone!

Linking up to: Debbiedoos
~Shelly

What's In A Name?

2011-11-17T02:40:00.000-08:00

Here is our little Peanut.

He came to live with us when he was 2, and his name was, "Patches." People kept asking if he was a boy, or a girl, so we thought a gender-specific name would be a good idea. One day shortly after, we were on a family walk, and a man admiring our little ball of fur shouted out -"Hey, look at that little peanut!" We knew right away what his new name would be. Gender-specific be darned! That day our boys gave him his full name: Peanut Patches Jet-Fighter. Since he is part of our family, he has our same last name too -not, Jet-Fighter. In the interest of his privacy, we are keeping his last name out of this post. I just noticed..... look at the thin line of his mouth -doesn't he look like he is smiling? Besides his handsome self, he has a funny side too. You can check that out here!

Thanks for stopping by!
~Shelly

Linking to: Fabulously Flawed, Photo Challenge

Are you looking for Euphoria?

2011-11-16T11:47:00.000-08:00

I am posting this recipe in honor of Monica. She is a friend of mine, who among other things, would rather be making cards, than hanging out in the kitchen. Or so she says.... My recipe books are always calling my name, so I sometimes find it hard to believe that everyone does not hear them. I guess Monica's cards shout louder! You can visit her here, and see the beautiful cards she creates. :)

If you would like to join up to the Sweet Swap -head over to my introduction post and sign up. The swapping is still going on! {Ends: Dec. 31, 2011}

All of the ingredients and kitchen tools are pictured here. You can see that I set out the Almond butter, because I actually used almond butter. However, do not do this -it will be too sweet! Make sure to use peanut butter, as called for in the recipe. Well, maybe you could use the more sour granny smith apples to counteract the almond butter. I am pretty sure I used a Fuji apple and a Braeburn apple. (Might have used a Jonagold instead of the Braeburn...) Let's play a little reverse "I Spy" -can you see what is missing from the tools?

It has 1 or 2 sharp edges..., definitely a handle.....

Yep! An apple peeler/sharp knife! You need to discard the peels before you plop them into the crock pot.

Mix everything together, and if it wasn't for the sweet smell -you would be convinced that you were making an Indian panner dish. Doesn't the caramels look like they could be cheese?

The directions call for you to slice each apple into18 wedges. My apple corer/slicer cuts fruit into 8 slices -so I cheat and cut those slices in half, only coming up with 16 slices each. Sorry if I am leading you down a dark path....

Ta da! Now go and do something fun for 5 hours. If you lose track of time while you are goofing around, the post-it note will help bring you back to reality.

When you remove the lid, you will feast your eyes on the mouth watering concoction that is, Caramel-Apple Euphoria.

You can serve it with ice cream (my favorite) or...

with angel food cake. OR, with whatever you like!

Your recipe awaits.....

Caramel-Apple Euphoria
                            Makes 7 Servings

INGREDIENTS
2 medium (5 to 6 oz. each)
1/2 cup apple juice
24 (about 7 oz.) caramel candy squares, unwrapped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup cream-style *peanut butter (*I prefer almond butter)
7 slices angel-food cake or 1 quart vanilla ice cream

DIRECTIONS
1. Peel, core and cut each apple into 18 wedges; set aside.
2. In 3-1/2 quart or smaller slow cooker, combine apple juice, unwrapped caramel candies,
    vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon.
3. Drop peanut butter, 1 teaspoon at a time, over ingredients in slow cooker; stir.
4. Add apple wedges; cover and cook on LOW 5 hours.
5. Stir contents of slow cooker thoroughly; cover and cook on LOW 1 additional hour.
6. Serve approximately 1/3 cup of warm caramel-apple mixture over a slice of angel-food
    cake or vanilla ice cream.

Source:

The Crockery Cook by Mabel Hoffman

Recommendation from Mabel:
"Treat yourself to this people-pleasing dessert. Try substituting ripe peach for apples and 1/8 teaspoon almond extract for cardamom."

Because I care about your health, I chose this apple recipe to help you incorporate fruit into your diet.
Each healthy serving contains:
216 calories; 4g protein; 32g carbohydrates; 9g fat; 1mg cholesterol; 67mg sodium

Get Ready -I'm Co-Hosting The SWEET SWAP!!

2011-11-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hey there! Thinking about coming to the party? Excellent! I'm hosting this month's Sweet Swap along with Becca, Emily, Kate & Megan, of Crumbs and Chaos. They even have a recipe for Breakfast Cake -how can you go wrong starting off your day with cake? The Sweet Swap originated at Pressed Down & Shaken Together on October 1st and will be going strong until December 31st. Please try to visit at least 2 other guest posts -thank you! Also -linking up an old post is perfectly acceptable. Go HERE to find my post, linking up to the party! I am so excited to see your recipes and choose some for features!

Today, I am adding this recipe which is specifically for NOV 1ST -really! I found it in {The New Calendar of Desserts; 365 Answers to the Daily Question: What Shall We Have For Dessert?"} -Revised and Prepared by Elizabeth O. Hiller; circa 1920. Not a lot of explanation in this collection of recipes, but they are really fun. :) Today's suggestion:

Parisian Bread Pudding
Butter thin slices of bread and spread with raspberry jam, quince or apple jelly. Arrange them in qt. buttered pudding dish, lined with macaroons. Fill dish half full. Pour 1 qt. boiled custard and stream 1 hour. Remove from steamer, spread with meringue of whites - 2 eggs beaten stiff with 2 tbsps. sugar. Brown in oven. Serve hot with Hard or Foamy Sauce.
[If you figure out what "Hard or Foamy Sauce" is -please let me know!]

I also love a good cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate. Tastes so wonderful on a cold night! You have to click on the picture (recipe card) to read the recipe. If you have trouble, just let me know. :)

~Shelly

Fall Luminaires

2011-10-26T16:14:00.000-07:00

Our front steps are not lit very well. So, on each Halloween night, I like to find ways to keep them safe for the Trick-or-Treaters. A couple of years ago, not having planned ahead, I just lined up a few flash lights and called it good. That didn't work very well, as some of the little-tyke Trick-or-Treaters grabbed a flashlight for their travels... Last year, I used large canning jars filled with candy corn and tea lights. I made them early and kept them inside for a few weeks -smelled yummy! This year, I wanted to see what would be the more festive! The inspiration idea came from My Chic Life and her Boooo-minaries. I wish I would have thought of that name!

Here are all 4 that I experimented with~ Each has a submersible LED tea light

1. Cold water, orange food coloring. (1/2 drop red, if you can, to about 30 yellow drops.)
2. Cold water, neon green food coloring.
3. Orange Glow Stick bracelet.

4. Neon yellow Glow Stick tube, bend to activate, cut open and drizzle into the jar.

I was in the back yard, so they are lined up on the deck steps. They will actually be placed on the front steps and walkway, where the porch light will be on. I am looking more for atmosphere here, and a little hint that you are going up a step. The jars without water were the brightest, but the least interesting.

Orange colored water

It is more orange than this picture shows. Just take a look at the first pic, #1.

I like the green best. It looks murky here -a good effect to know about -but it won't last. It looks better clear, but I accidentally added warm water when I was topping it up and didn't want to wait for it to cool. I was figuring all this out while I was cooking dinner! You know how it is!

No water in this one. The fabulous LED light took all of the glow away from the stick. This would not do the trick at all.

No water in this one either. I cut off the end of a green/yellow glow stick and emptied it into the jar, rolling the jar around to coat the inside. I had not thought about cutting the stick open, and when I saw it here, it seemed like something fun to try. [It worked really well for Christina -not so well for me. Even when I took the LED light out.]

My favorite is the green. Which one do you like? I think I will try purple too -like the Booo-minaries!

Update: Well, sort of. I actually just saw a really fun Halloween Luminaire project. Less of the "glitzy-spooky" I was going for, and more of the goofy-fun type. You really need to go take a look. After, that is, you spend a bunch of time looking around here. I know you really can't help yourself. I can tell. Go take a look at Condo Blues' Solar Milk Jugs. Tell Lisa that I sent you! :)

Partying at:

Whatever Goes Wednesday

Crafty Scrappy Happy

~Shelly

Magazine Inspired Halloween Tags

2011-10-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

You pick up a magazine because it has a fun cover, and teases you with yet another article about freeing yourself of clutter -then what happens? The cover happens to be your favorite part of the magazine! I am sure I liked the inside too, but to tell you the truth -I cannot remember much about the articles. Well, except that to make cake balls, you actually scrap the cake with a fork and mush it all up between your palms to form a ball. Might have been some icing mixed in there too -not sure.

This is what happens when the cover is more fun:

You cut it out, and use it! For what? I thought you would never ask. To make tags, of course!

Take a bit of Elmer's glue & water, scissors, jar of water w/paintbrush, Polished Pigments "Pure Mica" from Lumin Arte, a good movie, and you are all set. Mix the glue & water (start with about 1/3 glue to 2/3 water) and add in the powdered pigment to a consistency that you desire. Desire, you didn't know that this was a sexy project too -did you?

Here are the tags that I came up with:

Can you tell where my pages came from? What "type" of book? (Answer is at the bottom -unless I forget to tell you by the time I get to that bit!)

Most of the backs just had my paint mixture on them. This one has a bit of book page on it. Later I added Halloween themed ribbons to them, before I used them for Thank You's.

All in a row~

Wish I had kept one for myself -I could use it to keep my place in a very scary book....

Linking up to:
Halloween Haunt: Dream Home DIY
Get Your Craft On
Show Me What Ya Got
Make it Yours Day
Idea Sharing Wednesday
Whatever Goes Wednesday
Crafty Scrappy Happy

Answer: An Almanac.

Have a fantastic day, and thanks so much for stopping by!!
~Shelly

10 Minute Owl Decor

2011-10-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

Oh say, some of you may possibly have viewed yesterday's posting by the Graphics Fairy. But just a few -she's not really that well known. So, you probably do not know about her Brag Monday either. :)
GF mentioned Suzanne's of WhyCuzICan, BOO to You Project, created with the above owl image. It is very cool, sheet music and all! Inspiration found.

I decided to give it a quick try on some scrapbook paper. Although I do have several pads of paper, I could only find one at the moment, I think the paper suits Mr. Owl very well! If you look closely at the image, you can see that a couple of the dots landed in his eyes -not a look I was going for. And, since I could not find my mini punch either - I used the Martha Stewart Lady Bug punch to punch out solid green circles to cover the brown dots. You do not really notice the cover up as you walk by. Some will say it is an intended effect, I will go along with that.

I started out with a wooden silver frame and rubbed on some black craft paint, wiping off the excess. Easy stuff.

Embellish with a few bats, and that's it!

Please excuse the poor lighting. The lights caused too much glare. And there is not a single ray of natural lighting to be found in today's sky!

Need some more owl inspiration? How about popping over to visit Cute Polish and find out how to create an owl that you can take with you everywhere and that matches my paper!

Remember to stop by the on-going Holiday Sweet Swap. I will be co-hosting in November!

Linking up to: Debbiedoos & Graphics Fairy

Thanks for stopping bye~
See you soon!
~Shelly

Holiday Sweet Swap

2011-09-28T23:46:00.000-07:00

{holiday sweet swap} is starting
THIS SATURDAY, OCT. 1st and lasting all the way through December!! Official party time is October 1st - December 31st, plenty of time to showcase your finest sweet treats. Our fabulous hostess is Keri, over at Pressed Down, Shaken Together.

This is a low-calorie way to enjoy the rest of 2011. :) Really, I probably won't try any of the recipes. Just look...

Keri has several Hostesses, and I will be one of them! I am hosting for the month of November. Maybe, just maybe, some of those pumpkins I planted will be ready. A girl can dream.

Add your seasonal holiday treats -old and new posts are welcome!
You can join the party fun now.. get ready to hang out in the kitchen!

Sweet Swap Linky Party

Free Fall Recipe Cards

2011-09-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

Do you write or type out your recipes? Like to give them as gifts? Set them out on a stand like Martha Stewart while you are creating your masterpiece? You never know when someone will stop by in the middle of your preparation, and admire your kitchen recipe decor.

HP (Hewlett-Packard) is here to help you out. Each project, uses their software backgrounds, your words and photos. Adding a photo is not required. Some projects high lighted are: Fall Inspired Recipe Cards; Autumn Word Scramble (use view to enlarge and check it out); Family Newsletter (not really a Fall theme); and, Creative Studio for the Home to see ALL of their choices. You can sort by Project Type, Project By Brand, Themes and Occasions and Tips, Learn & Share.

This is what MS does in her spare time... Martha Stewart Egg Cozies!

I tried out the Fall recipe card. Really simple, since I already had this recipe in a word doc. I just used cut-n-paste, easy-peasy. And since I did not have a tempting aromatic cup of cocoa to enjoy a photo shoot with, I relied on Google and found a photo here. Mine would have looked just as tempting -don't you think?

I think the Fall colors go perfectly with a steaming cup of Mexican Hot Cocoa... Yum!

Tell me about your creations, what did you come up with? To see my other HP projects go HERE.

Linking up to: Somewhat Simple, Crafty, Scrappy, Happy, Gluesticks, Fireflies & Jellybeans, While He Was Napping, Polly Want A Crafter, Tales From Bloggeritaville, Delightful Order, Finding Fabulous, Creation Corner, Fun To Craft, French Country Cottage, Stuff and Nonsense, Fingerprints on the Fridge

Enjoy!
~Shelly

October Is On It's Way~ Let's make some cards!

2011-09-15T23:47:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't done anything Fall-ish around the house... yet, I dug out the ole card making supplies and came up with a couple of Halloween themed cards.

After I cut and scored the cardstock, I punched out a circle for the moon in orange and colored it with a yellow chalk marker. I placed the front of the card in the embossing folder, gently closing it and moving the moon around until I decided where I liked it best and lightly glued it to the front. Some beginners might not realize... what to do with that pesky back side of the card when you are embossing? Just fold it around the back side of the folder, and slide it on through your machine. Really. I used to be a beginner, I should know.

Inking up the raised/embossed tree, makes the moon look like it is behind it. Magic. My original idea, I am sure of it.

I had intended to use my spider web embossing folder, like this one...

however, it has gone missing -jumped right out of my binder. Hence the tree!

Some close ups of my first try~

You get extra points if you noticed the piece of lint on my owl. How on earth did that get there?

Just a tiny peak of the inside too. I should probably add a sentiment.

Supplies used:
Stampin Up!: Dark and Dreary cling stamp set (2010) and Crumb Cake cardstock
Sycamore embossing folder, Craft Concepts
Chalk Ink, Wet Wipe marker, yellow (color name not specified on marker)
Ribbon from Michael's Crafts
Circle punch, 1.25 inch; Xyron -Create-a-Sticker; Crop-A-Dile corner rounder; Score Pal
Ink: Memories Chalk Ink, Creamy Coffee
        Brilliance, Graphite Black
        Versafine, Vintage Sepia

And this is what I came up with on my second try:

Supplies used:
Stampin Up!: Howl-o-ween Creeps & Spooky Bingo Bits cling Stamp sets (2011); Crumb Cake cardstock
Sycamore embossing folder, Craft Concepts
Chalk Ink -Wet Wipe marker, yellow (color name not specified on marker)
Ribbon from Michael's Crafts
Circle punch, 1.5 inch; Xyron -Create-a-Sticker; Crop-A-Dile corner rounder; Scor-Pal
Ink: Memories Chalk Ink, Creamy Coffee
Brillance, Graphite Black
Versafine, Vintage Sepia

If you would like one of these cards -just send me your address and I will pop it (mailing envelope included) in the mail to you -just let me know which one you would like. I only made 2, so supplies are scary! (You know I mean scarce, right? :)

Thanks for stoppin' by!
~Shelly

Last Summery Post

2011-09-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

I admit it!!! It is a bit late for this post.... I had a ton of pictures to choose from of the After, but kept forgetting to get the details taken care of. Oh, well. Some of you still have a ton of light to carry you deep into February.

We happen to have numerous steps leading up to our front door, without flower beds aka "dirt" to add solar lights. These happen to be tiny bulbs, so they are more like "glow" lights, but they glow oh so beautifully!

Supplies needed:
-smallest size clay pot
-ORB (oil rubbed bronze) spray paint or, any color you choose
-drill
-masonry drill bit the same size, or slightly smaller, as the base or your solar lights
-solar lights purchased from the garden center of your favorite store

Your bit will look something like this one from Bosch

Now all you need to do is take out the stake that is tucked inside the solar light tube.

Turn the clay pot upside down, center the tube on the drainage hole and trace the end onto the pot. Not all of my circles were centered, and were used more of as a guideline. (I skipped this step and just guessed.) Note: The enlarged hole you are making for the stake should be smaller than your tracing mark. The stake needs to fit snugly, or it will tilt. I know, because I over-widened the hole on a couple of the pots! Learn from my mistakes. :)

Choose a drill bit that is just slightly smaller than your traced circle. (My bit was a lot smaller, but still worked. It just took me longer, as I had to move the bit up and down along the edges of the hole until the stake fit snugly.)

From the inside, your pot should look like this

And here is the finished product!

Again, here is what they look like during the day

And here is what they look like at night!

This was a fast, fun and easy project! I bet some of you more brave at heart can come up with a rainbow of clay pot colors and it will look fabulous. Be sure to share!

~Shelly

~Linking up to~

Beyond The Picket Fence

Someday Crafts
Kreations By Kara
Twin Dragonfly Designs
Katie's Nesting Spot
Somewhat Simple
SevenThirtyThree
French Country Cottage
Polly Want a Crafter
House of Hepworths
The Shabby Creek Cottage
All Thingz Related

A Refreshing Partnership

2011-09-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

Want to put a smile on your face? Be inspired by elegance and indescribable talent? Well, then you have come to the right place! In this clip are the fabulous Fred Astaire & Ginger Rodgers, staring in the 1936 RKO musical comedy -Swing Time. They are so light on their feet, the tippity tappity just makes you giddy! Mr. Astaire is impeccably dressed down to the minutest detail. Miss Rogers' dress is gorgeous as it flows with every movement, and when she lifts it up to show a flash of leg..... WOW! They are perfection right up until the moment of their spectacular exit! Pop on over and take a look, Swing Time.

Enjoy~
~Shelly

Estate Sales - Did you know....?

2011-08-11T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hey! I was just stopping by the Tiny Tudor, and Melanie recommended a fabulous site! She gives tips regarding shopping etiquette and best times to arrive, here. The site is Estate Sales (dot) net. All you have to do is choose your state and zip code for a list of sales near you. You can sign up for notices a few days before, and of course it is FREE! I just found a local 3-day sale that started today, and they even linked to a video on YouTube of a walk-through! The family is moving out of the country and seem to be selling everything. I will not be going, but I sure had fun looking. :) Our already-full-storage is safe for a few more days....

Happy Hunting!

~Shelly

I Do Tricks

2011-08-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Hey there!

How's it going? This is me helping my mom plant the veggie garden. I am showing her where the sun is. She can feel my warm coat and know that the soil will be warm for her plants. My coat is good that way.

When we are taking a break from our serious fun, I do tricks. I am really good at this. Check me out!

I am a potato! Duh!

~until next time,

Staxie

UPDATE: Mini Greenhouse Progress

2011-08-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

Surprise, surprise, it worked! We all knew it would, right? Look at these happy pumpkins!

What am I talking about? Check out here for the original post. So, 15 days later, this is what is going on...
Yep, that tall one in the back is a "pie" pumpkin -yum! They have grown so much in the last few days that I had to prop the lids open with a chopstick.

I started this with the notion that you plant more than you want, because some do not take, right? Usually due to Gardener-error, as in, maybe wetting the seeds and letting them dry out? It happens. However, I consider this a huge success! What does that really mean??? Ahem, glad you asked.

It means that I now have 9 pumpkin vines!! My garden has 3 prolific lavender bushes next to all of the veggies and the bees are being ever so helpful... Each vine will yield at least 1 pumpkin, and they need room to grow! I am considering cutting out some of the lawn -it is all yellow anyway. Not really. Maybe I could let the vines grow across the lawn and we could just mow around them. Why couldn't the carrots grow? They are nice tight little packages!! I think the seeds were old. Definitely tossing them in the compost. I'm gonna
try again...

On second thought, I guess I could wait for the plants to flower before I start counting my pumpkins... nah!

Cutie pie zucchini waiting to be planted into the fabulous earth.

The white pumpkins have just come out in the last few days. The onions are taking a bit longer too. If you squint, you can see them next to the pumpkins.

Seed Statistics:
Spooktackular Pumpkin; planted 2, sprouted 2
Cinderella Pumpkin; planted 3, sprouted 2
White Pumpkin; planted 2, sprouted 2
Pie Pumpkin; planted 3, sprouted 3
Zucchini; planted 4, sprouted 3
Green Onions; planted 4, sprouted 4
Carrots; planted 4, sprouted -big fat 0
**3 Ready-for-seeds-wells; planted 0, sprouted 0

**Maybe that's why it only took me 15 minutes! I wrote the type of seed planted on the lid of each container -and somehow missed 3. I didn't notice until about a week ago that nothing was written on those 3 lonely domes. I do not have enough room in my garden anyway! It was meant to be!

Just Another Day in Paradise

2011-07-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived!!! Ta Da! I was lucky enough to enjoy the morning of beautiful sunshine on my friend's dock. I even had to don my sunglasses, which is unusual for me. Whenever I visit, I get to bring my pooches too, which is very cool. Pictures are courtesy of my cell phone in sepia mode. :)

Here is Peanut. He is actually finished visiting and would like to go now.

Staxie is enjoying the sun, and trying really hard to stay in one place for me so that I can snap a seemingly natural pose.

And what would a visit be without hanging out with Molly too?

Enjoy the sunshine!!

~Shelly

Linking to: Seasonal Sundays

UPDATE: No such thing as too much of a good thing...

Mini Greenhouse ~Quick 15 Minute Project!

2011-07-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Can you guess what this is??? A mini greenhouse! {I guess the title kind of gave it away...} I have been staring at these containers for a while now, just knowing they could be re-used for something. I actually keep recycling them, these are just the latest to bring fruit into our home. They have such potential for molding material, they are see-through, they are slick!

I have been planting a vegetable garden out front -because that is where we have sun. :) And while the bees are busy buzzing around our lavender, I thought they would probably pop over to our veggies too. So far, so good. However, the sun has been staying behind the clouds a lot and I am planting the rest of my seeds a bit late. Why not create mini green houses to give the seeds a boost?

Start with your ingredients: Fruit container (mine is from Costco); garden soil; seeds; small piece of wood; nail & hammer. Set the container on top of your scrap wood and hammer a hole in the bottom of each "well."

Fill each section liberally with soil, sew your seeds. Note: with the larger container, I added some holes for venting, as it was airtight.

Label each section of the lid with a Sharpie;

Place in your garden and voila!

I think it took me all of 15 minutes -while I was on the phone talking to a friend. :) And I should probably mention that my soil was already soaked, as I had left it out in the rain. I have never done this before, so if it fails... I will let you know!! Be sure to show me your mini greenhouse designs!

UPDATE: Go here to see the results!

~Shelly

Linking up to:
Debbiedoos
Lil'Luna
Todays Creative Blog
Sundae Scoop
The Shabby Nest
Handy Man, Crafty Woman
Home Sweet Farm
Nap Time Crafters
Hazel and Honeysuckle: Scrap Box Sunday

Hey Chica! ~A fun paper piecing card~

2011-07-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Chicas! (Y Chicos!) I found a card that I remembered to take pictures of, but I forgot to post. I think that must be due to fear of my blog becoming a "cards only" blog -and that just cannot happen!! It is just that so many of my larger projects are still in my head, you know, in the "~~fantasizing~~" "planning" stage. Also known as not-yet-ready-for-posting stage. So another card it is! Do you mind?

Here's a close up of the paper piecing of her hair and ribbon. I just used liquid glue, like Martha Stewarts glue pen or Stampin Ups 2-way glue pen. Worked really well to hold her hair down over the ribbon.

Inside I added a tab for fun and a lacy die cut. And as you can see, I had already written in this by the time I took the picture!

The ribbon, ready for her close up...

Enjoy your day!
~Shelly

A Happy Accident!

2011-06-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

This morning I popped over to Wild@Heart to see what Tania had cooked up -no she doesn't have a recipe blog. :) I was delighted to realize it was Freebie Friday, and she had created four fantastic floral notes! Her directions say to print out on white cardstock, yet I am so addicted to my creamy cardstock that I had to try that too... they both looked great. (Please note: Tania's designs are for personal use only.)

Since the image was ALREADY creamy, I decided to re-use my creamy cardstock for another of her creations, "pillow box" -(girl-with-pink-umbrella). She is super cute!

Well, I was kind of groggy... my husband had woken me up an hour early by putting both dogs on the bed and they really wanted to play!!! I really had no business trying to print something... Can you guess what I did? Yep, re-loaded the paper, wrong-side-up, and printed the Pink Umbrella Girl on top of the Floral Notes. Who knew a bit of extra background would blend in so well?

Here she is all fluffy and folded in her original state...

folded flat for mailing, etc.

And here she is with some room to make notes....

More room for notes on the back...
I really like BOTH versions. :) Thanks, Tania!

Here's something I figured out when I was using my Scor-Pal for scoring/folding the box. For the curved lines, I started out holding the scoring tool in a groove while pulling the paper in a curve toward myself. Sometimes the tool slipped out of the groove, but once you get the hang of it, it works really well!

Have a fantastic day!
~Shelly

"Antiquing" Finds and an Extremely Desirable Display Case

2011-06-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

Who knew that soccer tournaments and antiquing would go together? Well, I do now! Last weekend we had about 3 hours in between soccer games for our son, so we took along the motorhome to hang out and have the comforts of home with us. And, just a couple of blocks up from the field is a little town with one of the best street of shops for antiques in the area.

At our very first stop, I was in love...
with an Early General Store Flatware Display Case. To use for storing eating utensils? Not a chance! I might even be tempted to store tools in this. Of course, I would have to keep it in the house, not the garage. I know my etiquette.

And all for the mere price of $2,900.00.... {sigh}

Now on to more affordable items -aqua canning jars. You know the type! These were $6.00 each, which I felt really great about when I saw one for $10.00. :)

I couldn't resist a close-up of these beauties~

At the same shop, I also found myself a Frog. Not that I will be using it for flowers... I plan to use it to help me out in photo-shoots with my cardmaking.

Here's a close-up that I included even though it is blurry. I kept the flowers in the background in so that you could see that I was actually focusing on SOMETHING!

On our next stop was at a shop with over 50 vendors.... I came across something labeled "cake separator." I didn't buy it, but I took a picture and just had to know more about it. The tag says $7.00.
Turns out that even though it looks like a hair pick, it is actually called a "Cake Slicer." This one is a vintage butterscotch-colored Bakelite brand circa 1927(?)I think it was very helpful when slicing an Angel Food cake.

When we headed back to the fields, we saw this sign:

Someone at the Art Gallery has a great sense of humor. ;)

I want to go back..... I need more aqua jars, and aprons, and old keys, and jewelry... What do you need?

Oh, Dear.

2011-06-09T18:31:00.001-07:00

Picture Credit via Google/Flickr

Ever have any moments like this? How about days? :)
Well, my excuse is that I cannot find my battery charger for my video camera. It is SO SMALL that it can hide rather easily, know what I mean? I am anxiously awaiting a replacement in the mail. Maybe I will find it before the new one gets here. I think I will have to chain it to the outlet, never to be let loose again.

Birthday Turqouise & Cocoa Combo

2011-05-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Howdy! Since all of my other projects are still in my head making big plans, I thought I would post this birthday card instead. I added Mr. Owl with dimentionals, but he still doesn't pop off the card enough. I think I will go back and add some Glossy Accents to him, and maybe outline the Happy B-day squares too.

Some more shots of the details and the inside~

For the bottom, inside border, I used the "negative" of the oval chain die cut. It was the left-over just crying out to be used. (The peaks from the scallop die cut were too close together.)

My working surface was just as organized as this photo depicts. I swear.

Supplies:
Cuttlebug
Acrylic block: Lawn Fawn
Ribbon, Michael’s Crafts
Ballpoint-tip glue pen, Martha Stewart
Foam tape used for owl, Scotch Mounting Squares, cut to size
Dies: My Favorite Things, Simply Scallops & Oval Chain Border
Cling Stamps: Stampin'Up Punch Bunch **(Sale-A-Bration); Create a Cupcake
Ink: Stampin’Up Classic, in Tempting Turquoise & Close to Cocoa
Cardstock: Papertrey Ink, Aqua Mist
Patterned paper: K & Company, Best of Brenda Walton
**note: Sale-A-Bration stamp set is only available as purchase w/purchase.

I realize this post is kind of "dry" but I just don't know what to do about it! I have got to get going! If you have any questions, just ask. :)

Glittery Chipboard Letters and a Giggle~

2011-05-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

Chipboard letters can be made into anything, they are a fantastic starting point for any number of ideas -especially in Blogland. These glittery LOVE letters were created by none other than Miss Mustard Seed in preparation for Lucketts Fair next week. They are even magnetic! MMS is so generous that she even shares her methods, tips, supply specifics and ideas for creating such letters in this video posted on her blog. After watching you will feel absolutely brilliant with knowledge and totally inspired! Thank you Miss Mustard Seed!

And now on to the day's giggle. A use maybe you haven't thought about for those chipboard letters... :)

Working with a Dark & Beautiful Face and Showing Off My New Chair!

2011-05-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Staxie! ~Here to tell you that I do indeed have a beautiful face, even though you cannot really see it! My body is beautiful too, if you were wondering. And, today, I have something new to show you - I have a new chair!! My mom thinks it is a photography prop, but I plan to use it when my family isn't even around...... Want to see it? Here it is...

I swear, that is me! Giving a shadow a run for it's money. We tried the flash, but it just turned my eyes blue. And since the gray clouds are not allowing much light through the sky light, this is as good as it gets.

I am sharing my chair over at Lucy's Party at Debbiedoos. Come see all of my furry friends! Hope to see you there!

ALSO... a quick note from Peanut. "I know, not the best quality pic of me -I am actually WAY more photogenic.... So let's just go with it~ Happy Cinco de Mayo!"

Mother’s Day Inspiration via Lawn Fawn's Video Series

2011-05-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

Well, seeing as I have not yet come up with a Mother’s Day card to share, and that MD is this coming Sunday... I thought I would share a creation from Lawn Fawn's "Lawn Clippings" series on YouTube! In creating this card, 5 stamps sets are used. Yep, I said, 5. How often are you able to incorporate that many all in one card? FYI: stamp sets used: Lunar Lights, Critters in the Forest, Fly Free, Say Cheese and Say Cheese.

This is such a cute idea! The designer creates a Polaroid photo card, “developing” right before your eyes. Her card size fits a standard size business envelope, great for first class postage and the video is entertaining as she shares her thought process and ideas. Enjoy!

Lunar Lights http://www.lawnfawn.com/products/lunar-lights
Critters in the Forest http://www.lawnfawn.com/products/critters-in-the-forest
Fly Free http://www.lawnfawn.com/products/fly-free
Say Cheese http://www.lawnfawn.com/products/say-cheese
Say Cheese, Too http://www.lawnfawn.com/products/say-cheese-too More

Blog Break -only for the next 12 days or so!

2011-04-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone~
I am taking a short break from posting... as we are having some family things to sort out. I will be back soon. :)

Before and Afters Seem to Have a Strong Pull...

2011-03-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to blog about and/or view other blogs are Before and Afters.... along with tutorials in case I someday have the time to try it out myself! Yes, lots of dreaming. :) I just found Better After. This blog has over 3,000 Followers, so you may have already found it! HOWEVER, it is absolutely worth mentioning... I have even signed up to receive emails of new posts... Am I obsessed? A Welcome quote from the Blogger, Lindsey: "This site is inspired by you! This is a showcase of my favorite part of any design project or makeover: The before and afters! It's always better after!"

This just posted the other day. A lucky grand daughter is enjoying a new kitchen, with a fabulous view!

There are actually Zebras in the window view to match the curtains - ha!

To see this specific post at Better After, go HERE. Love it!

UPDATE: Creator of the kitchen, Denise Adams, now has the tutorial set up on her new blog! Go HERE to visit her blog, Stitches and Nails.

Welcome Spring!

2011-03-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

The first day of spring is here, and I am ready for it!! Flowers, come out, come out wherever you are! Here's an inspirational picture from the Beauty Finalists over at the photography section of the Pioneer Woman's Blog.

Happy Spring everyone!

Happy Saint Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

It's the greenest day of the year again, and I've made up a card to celebrate! I am sure I have a bit of Irish in my background somewhere. :)
I kept a cream background so as not to overwhelm with green. Headed over to the Graphic Fairy for this wonderful image.

All the usual tools!

Stamp from Stamping up.

Some of the images I printed out were too big at first. By big, I mean that you have to make your own envelope, as they do not make a standard size to fit my card! What!?! I have to play with more paper? Well, that doesn't seem too bad.... Here's a much simpler version, and it happens to be one of the "big" cards. :)

Enjoy your "green" day, wear some green and don't get pinched!

Linking to:
Free For All Friday
The Answer is Chocolate
Naturally Me Creations

Hats Are Fabulous! It's a Bookmark & Favorite Saying~

2011-03-05T11:53:00.001-08:00

The saying and hat lady stamps are inked in 2 different colors, although it looks like the same color... hmmmm.... The front/back are glued together with Stamin' Up's 2-way glue pen, it works really well for this step. I rounded the corners to discourage them from peeling apart, distressed the edges and inked them with Rangers Spiced Marmalade. To add the ribbon at the bottom, I used the Xyron mini sticker machine. I have not yet found a glue that does not show through on ribbons.

This is a close up of the back where I used VersaMark ink to stamp my hat wearing lady in an all-over pattern. The ink shows up just slightlty darker than the paper, if you look closely, you can see her. I then ran the paper through an embossing folder, and applied ink directly from the stamp to the raised areas before adhering it to the front. Lastly, blinging it up a bit with Stickles glitter glue. I just had to add some sparkle to this spunky gal!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Isn't she cute and sassy?

Materials:
Front cardstock: Berry Sorbet, Papertrey Inc.
Saying inked with Momento: Desert Sand
Hat Lady and raised embossing inked with Fresh Ink: Fig
Back cardstock: Scarlet Jewel, Papertrey Inc.
Stamp Saying: River City Rubber Works
Hat Lady Stamp: Etsy.com; TerBearCo
Embossing folder: Cuttlebug's Victorian pattern
Stickles Glitter Glue: Yellow
Ribbon: Random selection from Michael's Crafts

Linking to:
Naturally Me Creations
Debbiedoos Blogging and Blabbing

Sign Up To "Bee" In The Blog Guide Book!

2011-03-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

Have you heard? Your blog can be listed for FREE in the blog directory? The Blog Guidebook is an excellent resource for bloggers. A favorite section of mine - "Blogging Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and How-To's." Well, guess what? They have a section where you can list your blog. As Katherine said it, "Buzz on over and add your blog to the list today!"

A Hawaiian Thank You

2011-03-04T15:21:00.000-08:00

We were so fortunate to spend last week's school break in Maui!! We stayed in the Kaanapali area and enjoyed a really wonderful trip for our family. Our stay was made possible with the help of Gigi, and I was inspired by the islands to create this card for her.

I started out with solid colored card stock and printed out a palm tree image from The Graphics Fairy directly onto the linen color. Next I painted on Twinkling H2O in Solar Gold to the image and a dark brown "Twink" to the green cardstock base. (The green paper just happened to be handy, you can use any color, as I painted over it.)

These 2 layers were adhered with sticky tape which I added to the front of my white cardstock base. You can see where the green shows through the Twink paint, but it doesn't matter, as it will be covered up.

On the left is the base card colored with Stamping Up's Close to Cocoa. I just applied the stamp pad directly to the card to color it. Again I used sticky tape to adhere the image to the base.

Some close ups of my Gratitude stamp (Hero Arts clear stamp), ribbon, alphabet stamp (Stampin' Up Broadsheet Alphabet), and sea star from Marth Stewarts sand dollar punch.

For the inside I used a flourish Thank You sentiment & corner flower flourish(clear stamps from Inadinkado)~

Because I colored the images on the inside.... the ink showed through on the back!! Ugh! I enhanced (covered up!) the back by using a piece of cream colored cardstock, coloring it with Momento desert sand ink, applying the pad directly to the paper. Then I added the "outside" of the sand dollar punch to the top, to off-set the made-for-you-by stamp placed at the bottom. I tried to keep the ink lighter at the bottom, where I stamped the image in the same color ink, for a subtle effect.

Now you know more that you ever needed to about how I made this card! If you are a beginner or a very enthusiastic card maker, you would really enjoy all of the details, right? :)

Linking to:
The Graphics Fairy
Naturally Me Creations
Lovely Crafty Home
Hodgepodge Life
Saturday Mornings
Patches of Pink

Newbie (that's me!) Linky Party Fun!

2011-02-01T07:45:00.000-08:00

"I know, I know! I just found Shelly's blog too!"

Hey there! Party over at Debbiedoos! Debbie is inviting bloggers with under 100 Followers to link-up. So here I AM! I have come to find so many talented and inspiring bloggers out there, on so many topics -wow! And, of course, making new friends is awesome. :) Thank you Debbie for the party!!

Take a look around, and let me know you were here! I will come back and visit you too.
Adios!

Love Blog Award -A blog hop of sorts, to show some Luv!

2011-01-28T21:22:00.000-08:00

A new blogging friend, Monica, has passed on a Love Blog award! Thank you! :)

The four blogs I will award are.... drum roll please...

Valita,Valita's Designs & Fresh Folds, She hails from Australia and has the most amazing video tutorials on card-making techniques. You must check her out on YouTube.

Cheryl, Sew Can Do, She has many fun and practical sewing projects. Her blog is a great source to find inspiration.

Jess, Frugal with a Flourish. Jess is always sprucing up her home, with a lot of DIY. She shares her ideas and research on the latest home decor ideas. Lots of fun

Jen, Simply Living, is seems to be a fairly new blogger... I found her today via the Liebster Blog {Award} -her latest post is about tiling a table top, with some money saving tips. Something I have always wanted to try.

Lisa, Her Beautiful Mess, And if you ever wanted to learn how to build our own lamp, take a look. Also found via the Liebster Blog hopping around.

There are a couple of conditions for the award :
The aim of this award is that we bring unknown, good blogs to light, so I would ask you not to blog fellow bloggers that already have 3,000 followers.

Have you been TAGGED and want to participate?

To play along, create a post where you use the 'LOVE BLOG' image. Include the persons link that gave you the award and inform her/him that you accept the award.

Then choose and link to, 3 - 5 favorite blogs. Each blogger can then link back to you if they choose to participate. :)

And, most importantly... It is okay if you are too busy to accept this award, Bloggers understand!
Note: Not sure why, but the "You might also like:" photos are not showing up in the post.... only the words. Anyone know why? (Feature is still working for other posts.)

Show Off Your Fur Babies Linky Party!

2011-01-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are fellow animal enthusiasts... Debbie at Debbiedoos is having a pet party. Started off by her Lovely Lucy! Last spring, we had just lost our beloved Rosie, and we were very sad. :( Then Staxie came into our lives to help cheer us up! This is Staxie Blossom Cuttle-Bear.We do not have too many pics yet.. well let me clarify -picures where you can actually see her face! Her fur is so black, it usually looks like a shadow. :)

And of course she came along to keep our Peanut company as well. Here he is on a friend's dock on the lake, very proud of himself that he went for a swim.

And in memory of Rosie, how she was that same day on the lake, having a bit of a "surf." {sniff}

And, here is Tigger, but he seems to be hiding behind the curtain....

To see more of Peanut, and how he would look if he were an owl.... go here. Thank you Debbie for the partay!!

If Peanut Were An Owl...

2011-01-17T14:16:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have noticed Peanut having a tea party with Rosie at the top of my blog. Just so you know, this was not his first photo-shoot. Peanut was previously made famous due to a volunteer photo-shoot with freelance photographers, Sharon Eide & Elizabeth Flynn. He was featured in 3 different calendars from Browntrout Publishers. The calendars were from 2006 and 2008. Peanut's "fee" was a free calendar for his family!!! And of course, we had to buy a few extras for our extended family! LOL!

Here he is driving around town with me as my partner-in-crime.

I was viewing images today, thinking about a project I want to attempt and I came across this picture. And I thought, "If Peanut were an owl, he would look like this!"

Do you see the resemblance? Does your family's furry companion have a double?

Falling Hearts blog enhancement!

2011-01-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

February is just around the corner, you know!!! If you would like to add some falling hearts, head over HERE for the code! :)
Have fun~

Image from Karen's Whimsy, found here.

A little Off-Topic, How to Fold a Fitted Sheet!

2010-12-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

I found this video by accident, and I am so glad! (Link to video is in this title.) I always fold my sheets and place them inside the pillow case which makes it easy to grab a set and quickly make a bed. However, I must admit... the fitted sheet is quite bulky and causes problems! This is a great way to smooth things out~

The video comes from the site LivingOnADime.com. I haven't had a chance to thoroughly look at the site ~Their categories are: Frugal Living; Recipes; Housekeeping; Freebies; Chit Chat and Coupons.

UPDATE: Here is another video -I actually like the details he provides. He goes a little slower too! :) I do not know his name, but the comments say that everyone is in love with him. He is wearing a wedding ring, and the speculation is that his wife is one lucky woman! Link: Fitted Sheet Folding video by "He"

Remaining on the subject of sheets... To keep organized, I always place sheet sets in their pillow case. Queen size has the top & bottom sheet, plus 1 pillow case INSIDE the 2nd pillow case. Twin size keeps the top & bottom sheet inside the matching pillow case. And of course there are strays... which I keep together by size. :)

Altered Christmas Card -Quick Changes to Personalize Your Cards

2010-12-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

Do not have enough time to make your own Christmas cards? How about adding some personal touches to store-bought cards. Here’s a quick easy way to make a few changes and fancy things up! Start out with this plain card.....

**[Disclaimer! I know it is already late into December..., but this post is very appropiate for me because I am still writing our Christmas cards. There must be someone out there on my schedule? :) Wish the pictures were a little better too. :)

You will need:
Simple store-bought cards
corner rounder
embossing folder –border type (polka dots) {Oops, not pictured}
white Enamel Accents, dimensional faux enamel

I chose the border embossing folder because I wanted to be able to write on both sides inside the card. After embossing the card, I added accent dots with the white Enamel Accents and rounded the top corners only, with the ½ inch size.
Quick and easy!

Close-up of the bottom front, embossed with the polka dots and white accents.

To jazz up the envelope, I ran it through a different style border embossing folder. Sorry, not a great pic. (Wondering what the circle is? Just covering up our address!)

And now you have a completed Work of Art! That's what it feels like, anyway. :)

Linking to:
Naturally Me Creations: Who Made What?
It's a Hodge Podge Life

Painted Glass Ornaments and Faux Mercury Glass

2010-12-14T00:48:00.000-08:00

A quick and fun way to spruce up your ornament collection! Above are small ornaments only. I made a few of the larger ornaments as well, individual pics follow. You get to be as creative and daring as you want! All you need for adding your color is water and spray paint. Just spray the paint directly into the bulb by holding the nozzle almost touching, and then hold a finger over the hole and shake it around a bit. I found the clear glass ornaments at Joann's Fabrics at 60% off, and used spray paint that I already had. Well, I fib..... I did buy 2 new colors. :)

Inspiration for this project came from Birgit Kerr at Scrapalicious Bytes. She uses Krylon Looking Glass Mirror-Like Paint to create her Mercury Glass. Her post shares 3 different awesome tutorials full of pictures, ideas, details and humor. Thank you, Birgit!

An example of the Mercury Glass look~

Same ornament, different angle~

You start out by adding water to the inside of the bulb, and pouring most of the water out. (Trial and error here as to the look you want.) For this red and gold one I experimented with acrylic paint too. If you use too much of the acrylic, it can take over -I know, this happened to me! Not to worry, add a bit more water and "rinse" out the extra. Below are 3 examples of what a first layer may look like.

First layer of green...

First layer of black...

First layer of blue...

A layer of blue, then I let the paint dry for awhile. Added a dash of water and sprayed in some white.

These bulbs are in "Stage I" of my drying system!

Stage II~ After they are dry, you can decide if you want to add more color, or a different color. Most of mine are only 2 colors.

This bulb is the exception ~3 colors (blue, white & gold) give it that "globe" look. :) I sprayed in quite a bit of the gold and swirled it all around so that it would show through enough.

Another Mercury style~

This is one of my favorites! Black first, then gold~

An nothing is complete until you get some help from a furry friend! Tigger is happy to oblige~

Linking to:
The Shabby Chic Cottage
Savvy Southern Style
A Glimpse Inside
Poppies At Play

UPDATE: I came across another method of creating Mercury Glass using silver leaf, adhesive and umber glaze. Bethany at Remodel This House shares with you her trial and error and has even posted a video. She has great results!

Holiday Gift Tag, Twinkling H2o's and Ribbon!

2010-12-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

This is a simple gift tag where I got to do 2 of my favorite things -color/paint and add ribbon! The corners are rounded on the bottom layer and the image size I used is 1 3/4" x 4 1/2 " -I think I printed about 4 per page. The edges on both layers are distressed by using a dab of water on your finger, and running it along the edges until you get the desired effect. And the ribbon is wrapped around both layers and adhered at the back along the edges with a tiny bit of sticky tape.

For both layers of the tag, I used an Ivory cardstock. (Wausau paper, 67 lb., acid free.) I ran this image from The Graphics Fairy through my inkjet printer directly onto the paper.

I cut the background out from an 8 1/2 x 11 page of Ivory that I had randomly painted, using LuminArte Twinkling H2O's. Colors: Mustard Green, Sunburst & Garnet. (I did not paint the image.)

A little bit of glue to hold them together...

An eyelet, some dazzling ribbon and a string harvested from some burlap... (Don't worry if you do not have an eyelet handy.)

And you have yourself a gift tag!

Linking to:
The Graphics Fairy -Brag Monday :)

On-line Magazine Perusal and Inspiration!

2010-11-05T09:58:00.001-07:00

Yes, I know, it is still November. I realize this. Yet, as I put away the Halloween décor, toning it down for November, I need to be thinking about December! Fortunately, Karen at The Graphics Fairy mentioned an awesome magazine today... What better way to get started than by checking out Amy’s on-line magazine? Viewing this magazine is very User Friendly, with a clear table of contents. The tutorials are well written with easy links to downloads and to authors’ blogs you may want to visit. You are able to zoom in to see every detail! You will not even need your reading glasses. Ha, ha!

My favorite article (so far) is “Sweet Baskets” by Jone Hallmark. (p. 46-47) Jone uses the “cup” of an egg carton, newspaper/patterned paper and creates gorgeous mini baskets.

Enjoy!
Shelly

Note: To view Inspired Ideas mag, click on this post title, then click on the magazine cover when you get there.

Winner of Thursday's Give-Away!!

2010-10-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Danielle, winner of the Martha Stewart Glitter Kit! And thanks to Poppies at Play for the fun week!

Give-Away at Poppies at Play!

2010-10-11T20:33:00.001-07:00

Andy is celebrating her 1000th Follow, can you imagine? Whoo Hoo! Pop on over and wish her congratulations and enter daily to win prizes! Vinyl, a blog make-over, and a hand-made baby onesie are a few of her prizes. She is also giving a special 10% off code for any purchases at Overstock.com.

On THURSDAY, I am participating with a Martha Stewart Glitter Kit! Look around at Poppies at Play and stay awhile! Andy has so many great posts to choose from. Her Before & Afters are fabulous inspiration.

Halloween Decor, DIY Vinyl and Cbsession with Crows~

2010-10-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

I've been really thinking about stenciling, lately -checking out my blank wall space, wondering... Then I began thinking about vinyl, maybe some branches, and birds -crows in particular. Then I wandered over to Kimberly's interesting post using contact paper, and the rest is history!

I found an inspirational picture from the newspaper, of all places. (I have some ideas for a moon, but haven't gotten to that yet.)

You will need some standard black contact paper, pencil, permanent marker, repositional glue (I used Scotch 3M repositional glue stick), tape, scissors and any desired silhouette shape. I Googled "crow silhouette" to find the shape I used.

Print out your shape on standard printer paper, and glue it to the colored/non-sticky side and cut around it. Of course for the image to face the opposite way, just place on the backing side. :) If you are going to use your silhouette a lot, maybe use cardstock instead.

Since I wasn't sure how close I could come drawing out the tree I had in mind, I started off with pencil and traced over that with the marker.

I taped the tree to the wall and kept moving the branches around until it was "just right" then peeled the backing off a bit at a time. Because the color is solid black, I had no problems adding to the length of some of the branches and the too narrow parts of the trunk. I even made the trunk longer -sorry not pics of these developmental fixes!

A few leaves for the finishing touches, and that's it. My tree is so inviting, but I guess not tall enough to entice my crow over to it!

I let the light fade too much and had to lighten the first photo a bit, then added leaves to the tree and tried the flash.
And here he is around the corner, sitting on another picture.

Have you tried this before? Let me know what you come up with! I'm off to write to Magic Cover (contact paper company) and ask them to make more solid colors to choose from...

UPDATE:
I couldn't leave well-enough alone, and had to try some more silhouettes! All of the shapes or patterns I found were via Google. If you have any problems, I would be happy to help you out. I added a Skull, a pair of Witch's Boots (stockings included), and a Witch Flying Past the Moon. ~

For the Witch, I drew a circle on clear contact paper and colored it with a sponge and alcohol inks. I cut it out at set it aside. I added the Witch directly onto the moon. If you look closely, you can see that I added the broom handle separately. I should have just extended it from her body instead of setting her over it -she has a line-bump! Oh well.

I am linking to:
The Thrifty Home
Someday Crafts
Frou Frou Decor

Halloween Pumpkins, Stairs and Mice

2010-10-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Our stairs are all dressed up and ready for October!

After~

Here is my stand-in "Before" -sort of! These are actually our steps to the downstairs -same number of stairs, same style. Sorry! (I really do not know what happened to my before picture!)

I picked up some orange craft pumpkins from Michaels, and gave them about 2 or 3 coats of Creamy Ivory, and painted the stems black. I used pencil to draw the letters on and "painted" them with a standard "fine" point permanent black Sharpie marker. Holding the marker on it's side allowed for the best flow of ink. The pencil was so forgiving -any mistakes, and they erased right off of the paint! Lucky me, I think it took me about 5 trys before I got my "O's" how I wanted them. Because I was marking over paint, I did manage to wear out my older marker. I found that the new marker seemed to be going that way too, so I just gave it a few good swipes over a paper towel, and it came back.

Since our risers are also wood, I starched some muslin fabric on to create more of a contrast. After the Fall, I will be starching on a new fabric! (Sorry, no pictures of this step, "somehow" I missed it. ) You can just peel the fabric right off and throw it in the wash when you need a change! I discovered this idea at Sew Can Do.

The mice silhouettes are a Martha Stewart product that I found at Toys-R-Us. Each package includes 12 pieces. The mice are made from a thick cardstock and are adheared with double sided sticky dots, which came in the package. I am sure you can easily make your own too. Aren't they cute?

If I were more ambitious, I could also paint the back of my pumpkins to spell out "E-e-k-!" Then we could change them around depending on our mood! And just where did this great idea come from? Kellie, at This Blessed Nest. She has a more detailed tutorial, and a lovely loooooooong staircase where she spells out H-a-l-l-o-w-e-e-n, alternately with T-h-a-n-k-s-g-i-v-i-n-g -so creative! Thanks, Kellie!

And of course my trustee supervisor, Staxie, was helping me all the way~

Check out these links, there is so much to discover~

I am linking to:
Between Naps on the Porch_Metamorphosis Monday
Cottage Instincts-Make It 4 Monday
C.R.A.F.T-Making Monday Marvelous
Sew Can Do
All Thingz Related
Thrifty Decor Chick

****

This post has been tagged! Thanks All Things!

Bringing Nature Indoors

2010-10-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

We have a flowering cherry tree growing through our deck in the back yard and each year it sends up new branches. And, if you do not get around to trimming them, they get a little bigger! We had a few of those, and I managed to find enough beauties to make this bunch for our master bedroom. I could definitely use a larger bucket, but haven't run across one yet.

My favorite price for this decor item? Free! We have quite a few small pine cones too, just haven't done anything with them lately. (I remember painting some gold, but am not sure what I did after that....) Jess, at Frugal with a Flourish, has posted some inspirational pics for Decorating with Leaves and Branches. Makes me want to go shopping out in the yard again! :)

Featured Favorites ~ Benches

2010-09-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

This past week I have been inspired by a lot of Before & Afters. These talented bloggers are generous as well in sharing process and results. Here are some of my recent favorite benches~
Lexi at Paper Flower Drive takes a free couch and transforms it into a 6 foot long bench! Her tutorial is excellent and will have you dreaming of finding that free couch for yourself. :) Take a look at her post HERE.

Over at Twice Lovely, Ann Marie has taken a pediment style headboard and transformed it into a fantastic bench! Her tutorial is very detailed, even explaining how she transfers a computer designed "stencil" and carves it out for some beautiful detailing. You can find her post HERE.

At Red Hen Home, Korrie has been busy! She takes a bench with a bit of caning missing and works magic on it. Her results are gorgeous. You can view her post HERE.

And, sadly, I cannot find my other favorite bench! I can picture it in all of it's rust colored glory and black stenciling hanging out on the front porch.... I shall keep searching and update this post WHEN I find it!

UPDATE: Today I found another bench, created from a very old, and beautifully styled crib. You just have to see it! Click HERE to see Sommer's post at Design Garden.

Before & After -tiny corner table

2010-08-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

Our front entry, is has a large floor space, but not a lot of "usable" wall space. Even if I had a lot to work with, I would have to be creative. Why? A lot of soccer playing happens in this space! The 2 front doors are one goal, and the entry into the kitchen is the other goal. If the ball bounces down the step into the living room, it is considered out of bounds. Then there is the closet side, and stairs leading up, which usually keeps the ball in play. :)

So, I was tired of the look my little table came with, and gave it an update!

Here is my After:

I cannot really have anything breakable in the front entry, so I used my shiny red bucket for color, and a butterfly for some whimsy! I think the butterfly is actually from the garden center and actually "goes" outside.

I used products inspired by THIS Hutch Redo from Traci at Beneath My Heart.

I gave the table a light sanding, 2 coats of the Valspar Premium Enamel -Satin Black (Latex Enamel, interior/exterior) and 3 coats of the Zinsser Polyurethane, Satin, oil-base, on the table top. And, a little more sanding.... The inside drawer is a fun turquoise (Rivers Edge, Behr/Home Depot.)

Your turn to find something just the right size to update!
Linked up to the Before and After Party: Debbie-doos~
Frugal Friday at: The Shabby Nest
Primitive & Proper ~Piece of Work Wednesday
Sassy Sites ~Free For All Friday
Naturally Me Creations: Who Made What

A Silhouette Giveaway is Going on!

2010-08-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

Are you itching to get your hands on a Silhouette? Great for home decorating projects, scrapbooking, and probably numerous other things that I haven't thought of yet. When I go to their site, I get too distracted by what I am interested in. :) Just pop over to A Soft Place To Land blog and enter the contest -you have 5 chances to win. Once there, scroll down to learn about the special Silhouette is having right now. DEADLINE: This giveaway will end on Monday, August 9th at noon (eastern time). Giveaway open to US residents only. Silhouette is not Mac compatible. Good Luck!

What Would YOU Do With This Duck?

2010-06-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

Cheap Chic Home is having a bit of fun with a "Duck Challange!" Contest ends: Saturday, July 10th. Hop on over and take a look, leave a comment THERE with your awesome ideas. :)

Does Your Glass Table Need a New Look?

2010-06-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday my mom & I were talking and she brought up how much she wanted to replace her coffee table! It is black metal with a glass top. I have seen so many changes made with spray paint lately that I suggested she paint the under-side in black. And, it just so happened that she had a can left over from another project. We hung up and she got to it! About 3 coats later, this is the result! The sun was creating a glare, but you get the idea. :) I think it looks great! (Sorry, no "before" picture.)
Update: Aparently their cats did not realize the table existed before, and now they think it is fantastic and want to sit on it all of the time!

Garage Sale Finds

2010-06-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

We are having our annual neighborhood wide garage sale this weekend. Just around the corner, I found a fantastic round side-table with caning as it's top and base. It needs a bit of TLC, but I am happy to use it as-is for now. I love the way it looks in our front room! We are so lucky to have it! And my favorite part, it only cost $5.00!

I found 1 more side table for only $2.00. I am not sure where I am going to put it right now. But I will definitely try out my re-finishing and painting skills. I'll keep you posted....

Linked to:
Garage Salen @ Debbiedoos
My linking properties are stubborn right now! Sometimes it takes 24 hours to work again..
To find Debbie, go here:
http://debbie-debbiedoos.blogspot.com/2010/06/both-feet-on-ground-garage-salen-party.html

Punch Storage

2010-06-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, my craft room is getting there, little by little. After a lot of thinking.... I finally decided where to set up my punch storage - yeah! I also have mini punches and will probably keep them in a drawer, where I can slide it out and see all of them at a glance. I also keep a cardstock sheet on hand with my mini punch shapes glued on, in a contrasting color for easy reference. (I have a few more punches lurking around still waiting to be found.)

These punches are tucked in right behind my door and fit perfectly on the Bygel rails, found in the kitchen section of Ikea. They do not come with the screws, so I used drywall screws which were black. No problem, I got out my handy dandy silver spray paint and ta da! Just take your standard plastic grocery bag, place it on the lawn and push the screws through the bag, anchoring them in the lawn. Spray away! When they are dry, just pull the bag up and carry it inside -extracting the screws out as you need them. They won't roll away or get lost. Easy peasy.

For those of you who would like a visual...

Ikea Metal Bygel Rail Product Info:
Cost: $1.99
Length: 21 ¾”
Height: 2 “

Also comes in 39 ¼” length.

Ikea Hanging Container Product Info:
Cost: .99 cents each.
Length: 5”
Width: 5”
Height: 5”

Katie's Sketch Challenge

2010-04-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

I finally put together my card version from Katie's Craft Corner sketch challenge! Here is the sketch I used to create my version and what I came up with. Click on the title to head over to Katie's blog~ (Ends 04/30/10.)

A second version as a birthdayy card...

Bookmarks & Fun Sayings~

2010-04-29T17:14:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite stamp saying right now! Just cracks me up. So I thought I would make a couple of quick bookmarks. I stamped on cardstock and used colored pencils for my cocktail lady, flowers, and to add some color to the background. (The wavy vertical lines are due to the lighting I used. The original is a solid color!)

On-line Photo Frames & Collages

2010-03-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

One of the Hewlett-Packard sites: HP Creative Studio for Home; Photo frames and borders offers free photo templates. Simply choose a template, upload a picture(s) and print out your creation! Other projects and decorating ideas are also available, and there is an email feature provided to easily send the project link to a friend. Most of the frames come in 2 sizes, i.e. 4x6 and 5x7. The collage style frame I am using as an example only comes in the 8x10 size. You are able to customize the frames according to the colors that compliment/contrast your photos, previewing as many colors as you like before printing. I printed out my finished projects on Kodak Premium Photo Paper, Glossy, Instant Dry. Visit the HP site HERE.
I first tried a collage of family photos from a recent birthday dinner. Some of the pictures are a bit dark, but they have great sentimental value! I chose black, as I often use it and really like the results. With these photos though, I ended up liking the brown much more.

Here are 2 versions using a brown frame.

~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
Next, I played with color using some of my favorite photos, and my current favorite, ~turquoise.

You can see where the horizontal version doesn't look quite right, and some of the photos do not fit well. I am much happier with the vertical version! The photos used in this turquoise frame are a mix of my own, and a couple of shared photos from the web. The fabulous turquoise sugar/creamer/white rose photo is from Leslie’s, A Creative Mint blog:
http://acreativemint.typepad.com/a_creative_mint/2009/06/playing-with-avocado-turquoise.html

HP displays this heart frame in red ~the photo I used did not look good in red, so I used their color re-set option. I was in a mono-chromatic mood and I thought I would like the green, but the photo looked washed out. I ended up with the orange/peach shade.

And, finally I played around with a colorful Easter Lily frame.

Have you used this site before?
What do you think?

Let me know what you come up with!

Blog Hopping

2010-02-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

Just completed my first Blog Hop, on The Everyday Scrapper's first Blog Hop. You see some ideas you might have otherwise missed.:) To participate just head down to my right corner and click on their button.

Found a new blog to check out...

2010-02-02T09:47:00.000-08:00

Found a new blog today, Can't Stop Making Things, by Gail. Given are~ "..instructions to make crafts that don't require special skills or expensive materials yet result in professional looking items that you can use or proudly give as gifts." The most recent projects have a Valentine theme. She has interesting ideas and has even given instructions to make a Greenhouse Cloche out of picture frames. Weekly posts are added with free downloads. Great instruction and photos -take a look!
http://www.cantstopmakingthings.com/

2010-01-21T16:54:00.000-08:00

Still trying to figure out how to set this up! Not a lot of time to play around with it; Yet, plenty of time to browse other blogs! :)

Email

2010-01-01T15:34:00.000-08:00