C.C.'s Cards and Crafts

Scrapbookaholic by Abby Challenge

2011-08-22T01:01:00.003-06:00

So sad!!!!!! This is the last challenge for Scrapbookaholic by Abby for this DT. I just want to say I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be on this wonderful DT with all of the amazingly talented ladies!!!

The challenge theme is 'anything goes'!!!!!! As many of you may know I've had problems with my Cricut, so this weekend I had to go to my MIL's house to use her Cricut. I have had so many people giving me a hand with a million different things (because we all know that when it rains, it pours) so I wanted to make 'Thank you' cards. Although this is a very simple card, it was exactly what I wanted. :)

The card is 4 1/4 by 4 1/4. The heart is from Wall Decor and More. I can't remember where the stamp is from (sorry). I (of course) used gel pens for the stitching and some twine. I used some homemade foam 'pop dots' for added dimension to the heart.

Make sure you stop by Scrapbookaholic by Abby to see what the rest of the DT has created! We'd love to see what you create!!!!! The prizes for this challenge AMAZING!!! I wish I had a chance to win those goodies!! Make sure you stop by the sponsors for the challenge as well!!!!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by!!!!

I Love My Teacher Blog Hop!

2011-08-13T03:02:00.001-06:00

I'm so glad you came to stop by!! I hope you came after visiting Carley at The Real iCarley (LOVE HER!!!!) If you happened to stop here first, make sure you go to the beginning at Abby at Scrapbookaholic by Abby (LOVE HER TOO!!!!) You're not going to want to miss a thing (not to mention - AWESOME CANDY)!!

This hop is all about TEACHERS!!!!!! I'm sure each of you has a wonderful memory about a favorite teacher (I know I do)!!! It takes very special people to be able to teach. My oldest is starting first grade, so I'm a little new to the whole teacher gift thing, but I had a great idea!!!! Unfortunately, I'm afraid you might be a little disappointed (just in me). Let me show you what I have so far and explain . . .

First - I really like this idea. Three of the four sides of this container are painted with chalkboard paint (found at WalMart) and I Mod Podged the yellow paper on the last side. On the yellow side I was going to put the teachers' name (this is where the problem and disappointment come in). I was hoping that I would find out who will be teaching my child . . . no letter yet. So I thought I would just create something about A+ teachers or something . . . well, it looks like my Cricut is going on the fritz. NOT GOOD!!!!!! Well, when those ideas didn't work I started looking through my stuff for any school type stickers . . . nothing. To top it off we live about an hour from any sort of craft store (or even a WalMart). :) So, I hope you get the general idea. :)

Your next step is Christine at Scrapbooking Technique. You'll love to see what she has created for you (She's so super talented)!!!!!!!!!!

Make sure you visit everyone (like I said, you'll love the candy)!!!! Here's the line-up in case you get lost! Thanks so much for stopping by!!!!!!!!!

Big thanks to all of those amazing teachers out there!!!!!!!! :)

Abby www.scrapbookaholicbyabby.com
Alina www.neverstopscrapping.blogspot.com

Angelica http://handmadebyangelica.com/

Ashley www.myscrappinpalace.blogspot.com

Candace http://papercraftsbycandace.blogspot.com/

Carley www.the-real-icarley.blogspot.com

Celeste www.ccscards.blogspot.com <-------------- You are here

Christine www.scrapbookingtechnique.blogspot.com <------------You're next step

Emma http://www.creativetimeforme.com/

Erin www.erinleecreative.com

Gaby www.gabycreates.com

Karla www.kalittlescrapcorner.blogspot.com

Kim http://rickettscricuts.blogspot.com/

Libby http://www.psastampcamp.blogspot.com/

Liz http://www.lizspaperloft.com/

Maria Elena http://www.mariaelenaworld.blogspot.com/

Meighen www.scrappin3rdeeschik.blogspot.com

Michelle http://www.scrappinwithmybug.com/

Sandra www.365daysofcricut.blogspot.com

Theresa www.thescrapbookingqueen.com

Tricia http://lshdesigns.blogspot.com/

Zeni www.scrappyzeni.blogspot.com

Pay It Forward

2011-07-28T17:59:00.000-06:00

I'm sure many of you have seen this going around, but I really want to participate. When I stopped by to visit one of my friends, I found that she was doing a 'Pay it Forward' post. This is copied from her (Thanks Amy Jo @ Scrapping, Card Making and Living with Fibro).

"Pay It Forward" is the idea of blessing someone with a random act of kindness without expecting anything in return. It’s passing on a kindness, hoping that your recipients will do the same, and forming a never-ending chain of goodwill. But it isn’t only kindness, it is also a means to connect and share instead of just keeping it to ourselves.

"I promise to send an original creation to the first 5 people who leave a comment here. They must, in turn, post this on their blog, and send something they make to the first 5 people who comment on their status."

Here's what you need to do:
1. Leave a comment on this post. I will send a handmade gift to the first 5 people who comment.
2. Create a post on your blog offering the same.
3. Send a handmade item to your first 5 people who comment.
4. It must be sent to your 5 people sometime in 2011.

Please do not sign up unless you are fully committed to making your 5 items!

Make sure you leave your e-mail address so that I can e-mail you for your address. :)

Scrapbookaholic Challenge

2011-07-25T00:01:00.003-06:00

Hello my friends! I know it's been a VERY long time since I have posted anything!! I'm sure your lives have been as busy as mine; isn't summer always that way?!!!!!! This week at Scrapbookaholic by Abby the challenge is to create anything summer!! When I hear summer, I think camping. With camping comes fishing. :) Summer also means Birthday's for us. We have one in May, one in August and mine is July. So for the challenge I thought I would combine fishing with Birthdays.

You can see that the little fish is hiding in the waves; when you pull it out you'll see that "Fishing you a Happy Birthday" is stamped on the back of the fish. :)

The waves are from Paper Doll Dress up. I merged two waves together using my Gypsy and layered them using foam squares. The fish is from Create a Critter.

The sponsor for the challenge this week is Sakura of America, they make AMAZING Gel Pens. I used the white gel pen on the waves as well as the fish. We'd love to see you create something that represents summer!!! Make sure you stop over at Scrapbookaholic By Abby to participate in the challenge, you'll also love to see what the other DT member have created (they are all AMAZING)!! :)

As always, thanks for stopping by, and make sure you join us for some fun at Scrapbookaholic by Abby!!!

Scrapbookaholic by Abby Challenge

2011-06-27T20:12:00.002-06:00

**It looks as though this post did not go up on time, SORRY!!**

I am so excited to be able to participate in another Scrapbookaholic by Abby challenge! This week the challenge is to use red, white and blue. :)

I went for a more non-traditional approach. I have a family friend that lost her husband last week. He was very sick, but it was still hard. I made this card for her to let her know we are thinking of her.

The heart was cut from Home Decor and More and the paper is just from the scratch paper I had.

Like I said, not traditional red, white and blue; but it means something. :)

Make sure you stop by at Scrapbookaholic by Abby to see what the rest of the DT has made! You'll love their projects!!!!!! We'd love to see what you make as well!!! Please stop by and join us!! :)

Thanks so much for stopping by!!!! :)

Beach Party Blog Hop!!

2011-06-25T00:13:00.000-06:00

I'm so happy that you are here!! I am so excited to be a part of this super fun blog hop!! I love the summer time, it means running through the sprinklers with my little ones. :) Unfortunately, I don't live next to a beach, so the sprinklers are as close as I get. During this blog hop we're celebrating the summer/beach days. If you live anywhere near me, we have been freezing for WAAAAAAY too long; we're happy to see summer/warmer weather here! :)

Well, I hope you are here after visiting Celeste L. at Touched by a Butterfly; isn't she amazing?!!!!!!! I love her style!! :) If you just happened to stop here first, make sure you start at the beginning with Abby at Scrapbookaholic by Abby. You'll love to see what everyone else has in store for you (plus you'll want to know what prizes are in store)! :)

For the first day of this hop I created a card. Very simple, but fun. It seems like lately I've been having one problem/emergency come up after another problem/emergency. That was my inspiration for the card.

The paper I used is from the DCWV travel pack. The castle is from the Birthday Cakes cartridge. I tried using an Action Wobble (first time, and I think it's super cute). I used a Sakura gelly roll pen on the castle as well as to write the phrase. :)

I hope you like it, or at least I hope it makes you smile!!! You're next stop is Carley over at The Real iCarley. You'll love her project!!!!!!!!! Make sure you tell her I say 'hi'! :)

If you get lost the line-up is below. Thanks again for stopping by!!!! :)

Abby www.scrapbookaholicbyabby.com
Sandra www.365daysofcricut.blogspot.com
Pammejo www.pammejo-scrapbookflair.blogspot.com
Michelle www.scrappinwithmybug.com/
Meighen www.scrappin3rdeeschik.blogspot.com
Maria Elena www.mariaelenaworld.blogspot.com/
Liz www.lizspaperloft.com/
Kristin www.pinkldycrafter.blogspot.com
Kim www.rickettscricuts.blogspot.com/
Karla www.kalittlescrapcorner.blogspot.com
Gaby www.gabycreates.com/
Erin www.erinleecreative.com/
Erika www.cricutlove1.blogspot.com
Emily www.createserendipity.blogspot.com/
Christine www.scrapbookingtechnique.blogspot.com
Celeste L www.touchedbyabutterfly.blogspot.com
Celeste B www.ccscards.blogspot.com <----- Me
Carley www.the-real-icarley.blogspot.com <----------- You're next step!!!!
Candace www.papercraftsbycandace.blogspot.com/
Angelica www.handmadebyangelica.com/
Amber www.stayingcrafty.blogspot.com
Ashley www.myscrappinpalace.blogspot.com
Alina www.neverstopscrapping.blogspot.com

Very Delayed - but a WINNER

2011-06-02T19:21:00.000-06:00

OH MY GOODNESS!!!! First I'd like to say I'M SO SORRY!!!!!!! I have been so involved in everything going on in my life that I completely forgot to post a winner to the Bake Sale Blog Hop.

It was so much fun to participate; I hope everyone had a great time!!! :) So - on to the winner. . .

shersl84bed !!!

She said... My favorite bake sale goods are peanut butter fudge. mmm

Your jar makes me want cookies!

Smiles Sher

Thanks Sher!!! Shoot me an email at ccscardsandcrafts (at) gmail (dot) com with your address and I'll get your wall decor sent to you. :)

Thanks to everyone for stopping by! :)

Scrapbookaholic By Abby Challenge

2011-05-16T01:01:00.001-06:00

I'm so excited for this one!!!! :) The challenge this week on Scrapbookaholic by Abby is to make a gift box or bag using Hello Kitty. I loved making this one!! :)

My little girl has a birthday this week and I wanted to make sure she (we) had some 'Thank You' cards on hand for any gifts.

The box is from Tags, Bags, Boxes and More; I used my Gypsy to stretch it a little bit. The kitty is actually from the Hello Kitty Font cart. Since my little girl is our little princess, I thought this would be a cute one for her. The string is just something I had on hand. I added a bit of bling to make it sparkle (because Heaven knows my little girl loves BLING)!!! All of the papers used were from my scrap pile. :)

Now, make sure you go see what all of the other DT members have created (you will LOVE them)!!!!! We'd also like to have you play along with us!!! All of the info is at Scrapbookaholic by Abby; you'll just link your project up there. The best part is that if you participate you have a chance at a wonderful prize!!! You'll have to jump over to Scrapbookaholic by Abby for all of the details and to see the prize! :)

Thanks so much to BudgetGadgets for being our sponsor this week. Abby has all of the info over at her blog, if you get a chance go visit them of FaceBook (click here to visit them).

Remember - Jump on over to Scrapbookaholic by Abby for all of the details and to play along with us!!! :) Thanks for stopping by!!! :)

Bake Sale Blog Hop Day 2

2011-05-15T10:33:00.000-06:00

If you're looking for the Flaunt It Friday's Happy Hauntings Blog Hop Click here or scroll down.

**I have to apologize - for some reason my post didn't go live on time!**

Welcome to day two of this yummy hop!!!! For today's treat we made . . .

HOMEMADE OREO COOKIES!!!!!!

For those of you that know me, you know that I love simple. :) These cookies are VERY simple. To make the cookies you will need:

2 packages of cake mix (I used Chocolate Fudge, but any other kind would work)
1 1/2 cups Shortening
4 eggs

Mix all the ingredients together. Roll the dough into small balls, place on a cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.

For the Icing you will need:

8 oz Cream Cheese
1/2 stick butter (1/4 cup)
2 tsp. Vanilla
2-4 cups Powder Sugar

Mix all together and set in fridge. After the cookies are all cool frost the back sides and put two together. ENJOY!!!!! :)

These are really easy to make with little helpers, and they'll LOVE THEM!!!!! Remember to leave a comment for a chance to win my yummy blog candy!

Your next stop is Tracy at Craft Junkie Too.

Just in case you get lost here's the line-up:

Georgiana ~ Carson's Creations
Cheryl ~ Cards by CG
Carri ~ Doubleclick Abusybee
Me
Tracy ~ Craft Junkie Too
Tara ~ Homemade Happiness
Jenny ~ Crazy About Cricut
Pat ~ Pat's Scrap

As always, Thanks for stopping by!!!!!!!!

Bake Sale Blog Hop

2011-05-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

If you're looking for the Flaunt It Friday's Happy Hauntings Blog Hop Click here or scroll down.

Hello my SWEET friends!!!! Come on!!! I couldn't help it!!! :)

Well, the hop was supposed to start on the 13th, but due to technical difficulties we started a day late (sorry about that). I feel so honored to be a part of this hop!!!! :) I hope that you came after visiting Carri at Double Click Connections aka A Busy Bee. Isn't she AMAZING!!!!! I love her work (this time it was especially yummy looking)!! :) If you just happened to stop here first, make sure to start at the beginning with Georgiana at Carson's Cricut Creations. All of the ladies have some amazing goodies to share!!!

For today's project, I wanted to show you a favorite of mine. :) Cookies in a jar!!!!!!

Now I have to say, I sort of messed up a little bit. Like most projects, I love to have my little ones help. Well, I was trying to get them to be patient with putting the items in and they jumped the gun a bit and put the chocolate chips in the wrong order. :)

To make this yummy treat you will need:

1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup white sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Quart glass jar (aka large Mason Jar)

Combine the flour, baking soda and white sugar. Place half of it in the bottom of the clean jar. Follow with half of the chocolate chips. Next layer with the brown sugar. The next layer is the second half of the flour mixture topped with the last of the chocolate chips. You can change the order if you'd like, but you see what happens when you put the chocolate chips covered by flour. :)

You can make a tag or a card (you'll see mine tomorrow) that has the following information:

In a large bowl combine 3/4 cup of butter, 1-2 eggs (this depends on where you live and how dry your climate is), and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until creamy. Add in the contents of the jar. Drop by tablespoonful onto an un-greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes.

The one suggestion that I have before you give these as gifts (or sell them)is that you try the cookies first. Depending on where you live you may need to add more flour to the jar or tell them to add more butter or liquid (I always have to add a little more flour). :)

You can also decorate the jar to be for whatever occasion. This one is going to go as a simple 'Thank you' to a friend of mine for watching my little ones for me for a few hours. These are great for any and all occasions!!! :)

Ok, now to candy for YOU! I can't seem to get a good picture of it, but I have some kitchen wall decor to give to one lucky person. :) All you need to do is leave a comment with your favorite Bake Sale goodie!!! :) That's it!!!!

Your next stop is Tracy at Craft Junkie Too.

Just in case you get lost here's the line-up:

Georgiana ~ Carson's Creations
Cheryl ~ Cards by CG
Carri ~ Doubleclick Abusybee
Me

Tracy ~ Craft Junkie Too
Tara ~ Homemade Happiness
Jenny ~ Crazy About Cricut
Pat ~ Pat's Scrap

Happy Hauntings Friday the 13th Blog Hop

2011-05-13T21:27:00.001-06:00

Hi Everyone!!!!!!! I know I'm super late on posting!! I couldn't get this up yesterday because of blogger problems, and have been at work (a few emergencies came up at work too). I'm here, a little late, but still here. :)

So, welcome!!!!!!!!! I hope you are stopping by after visiting Monica at Simply Cricutting, if not start at the beginning at Flaunt it Fridays!! This week at Flaunt it Fridays we are challenging everyone to use the Happy Hauntings cartridge. Unfortunately I do not own that cart (although, I think I really want it); so instead I used October 31st cartridge.

I had this pumpkin wreath sitting in my closet. It was very plain (and I got it on clearance for around $1). So I decided to add the 'Beware' in the middle. It was cut at 2. The black is actually a piece of cardboard with this wonderful felt type paper. I don't even know how to explain what it is. :) I used some hot glue to attach it. I added a little bit of glitter and glow in the dark paint (just for fun). :)

For my second project (using any cut from the cartridge) I decided to do a scrapbook page. For those that know anything about me, you know that I am TERRIBLE at scrapbooking. My philosophy is plain and simple. I did cut out a headstone from the Wrap it Up cartridge at 2. Again, it's not the fanciest thing, but it a big challenge for me.

Your next stop on the hop is very talented and super amazing Carley over at The Real iCarley! You'll love what she has in store!!! :)

Now if you get lost along the way, the line-up is below. Remember - we'd love to see what you make!!!! Join us in the fun and make sure you link your project over to Flaunt it Fridays!!!

1. Flaunt It Friday's http://www.flauntitfridays.blogspot.com

2. Sandra http://www.365daysofcricut.blogspot.com

3. Sharon http://meemeescreations.blogspot.com

4. Lisa P. http://www.crop-and-create.blogspot.com

5. Corri http://www.buglvr.blogspot.com

6. Monica http://simplycricutting.blogspot.com

7. Celeste http://ccscards.blogspot.com

8. Carley http://www.the-real-icarley.blogspot.com

9. Laurel http://www.blog.littlepeaceofmyheart.com

10. Deborah www.bugjuiced.blogspot.com

11. Lisa N. http://prettypaperprettyribbons.blogspot.com

12. Mel http://scrappymel.blogspot.com

13. Yolonda http://www.craftyscentiments.blogspot.com

14. Jess http://myscrapdiary-jess.blogspot.com

15. Brynn http://flairandfrillscreativity.blogspot.com

Thanks for stopping by!! Make sure you say 'hi' to Carley for me!!!

Flaunt it Fridays

2011-05-06T01:01:00.000-06:00

It's been a while, but I'm so happy to post for Flaunt it Fridays!!! This week the challenge is to use the castle on the Wrap it Up cartridge. I'm so excited!!! I just got this cartridge on Wednesday (a two month late anniversary gift from the hubby)!! So, here's my first creation with this cart!

Since Mother's Day is just around the corner, I wanted to make a card for my Mother-in-law. Making something for family means (of course) that I have 'little helpers' that are involved. Both of my little ones helped pick colors and put it together. :) The castle was cut at 4'.

Make sure you stop over at Flaunt It Fridays to see what the rest of the team has come up with!!! We'd love to see what you create! :)

A little honesty

2011-04-19T21:27:00.000-06:00

Ok, it's time to come clean. I feel terrible to have to tell everyone, but I'm going to be cutting my posting to twice a week. It's been coming on for a while, and I know that a few of you have noticed. I have a few things (actually, a lot of things) going on in my life right now that makes it very hard to create, post, and visit others. I'm going to try to visit, but it's very difficult. I'm so sorry!!!! I wish I had more hours in the day to visit all of my wonderful friends!!!!! I hope you understand!!!

Basket Case Blog Hop

2011-04-15T01:37:00.001-06:00

**For my Flaunt it Friday post click here or scroll down**

Welcome to the Basket Case Blog Hop!!!! I hope you came after visiting Kristen @ My Fantabulous Life! Isn't she amazing?! If you just happened to visit me first make sure you start at the beginning with Rhonda over at Scrap Happens (you'll love her!!!!)!!! :) You won't want to miss anything! :)

First I have to apologize, it has been a very hard week and I had a problem with my first project. I had it all ready, and at the last minute (right before pictures) it was completely ruined. So, I created something else at the last minute. **I'm so sorry Rhonda!!**

This is something I am going to create with my little ones for Easter. For those that know a little about me, you'll know that I love to create with my little ones. :) Using the Animal Kingdom cartridge and the marker attachment I made 2 bunny outlines. You could easily do these on a computer, this was just a little quicker this way.

My little ones are going to color the bunnies (which is always a blast for them to do and for me to watch). :) After they are colored they will cut them out (using childproof scissors). If you're anything like me you have a bunch of these puff balls around.

We're going to use the puff balls to decorate if they would like. I used one on the nose, but knowing my little ones they'll decorate everything with these. :) After they're decorated put them on a paper bag, attach a ribbon and you have a fun homemade Easter basket. :)

Now if you're like me, one of the fun parts of an Easter basket is the candy! What would a hop be without candy, too? Well, I have a little bit **sorry, I didn't take a picture**. All you need to do is leave a comment on this post. You don't have to be a follower, or anything; just comment. A random winner will be picked on Wednesday, April 20th.

You're next stop is Carolee's Scrappin' Spot, and you'll love what she's created!!!!!!

If you get lost, here's the line-up:

C.C.'s Cards and Crafts <--you're here

Carolee's Scrappin' Spot <--------- You're next step!!!!!

Living Life and Loving It Every Day

Small Bits Of Paper

Cute and Some

Michele's Scrapy Creations

Country Bumpkins Scrapper

Make sure you go visit Carolee's Scrappin' Spot next! Thanks for stopping by! :)

Flaunt it Fridays!

2011-04-15T01:01:00.032-06:00

Wahoo!!! It's another Flaunt it Fridays!!! These are so much fun!!!!!! This week at Flaunt it Fridays the challenge is to use the fish from Simply Charmed. Well, like most times, this is not a cart I own. So this week I decided to use Animal Kingdom.

Recipe:
fish - cut from Animal Kingdom at 1.
paper - DCWV & scraps
ribbon - ? :)
stamp - My Pink Stamper stamps
stickles

We'd love to see what you create this week with us!!!! Make sure you stop by Flaunt it Fridays to see what the rest of the DT has created and to play along with us!!!!

Thanks for stopping by! :)

Scrapbookaholic by Abby Challenge

2011-04-11T01:01:00.005-06:00

This week over at Scrapbookaholic by Abby the challenge that we have going on is to create something with an animal and using the color orange. The reason for that is because this month the ASPCA celebrates the 'Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month'. So in honor of that I decided to make this cute little frame. I know most people would have put a cut-out of a dog or cat, but I chose a deer. We love taking pictures of them, so I thought it would be fun!

Recipe:

Deer - cut from Create A Critter at 2.0
Flower - no idea! :)
String - you're guess is as good as mine
Phrase - no brand name, just something my MIL gave me

I just put the phrase in there for now. I have too many pictures that it's hard to decide what to put in it. :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!! Make sure you stop by Scrapbookaholic by Abby to play with us!!!!!!!

Flaunt it Fridays!

2011-04-08T01:01:00.011-06:00

**Sorry for posting this late, for some reason it didn't post correctly!! Sorry about that!!!!!**

I'm so happy to be a part of the Flaunt it Fridays DT! I just love a fun challenge!! :) This week on FIF the challenge is to use the sheep on the Country Life cart. Well, this is another cart on my wish list; so I had to use a different cartridge. I decided to make this cute diaper card. The yellow part comes out for you to write on (my camera died so I didn't get a chance to take a picture of it out).

Recipe:

Sheep cut at 3. from Animal Kingdom
Diaper pattern is from Homemade Gifts Made Easy (you can see the template here)
Sentiment was just something I created and printed out on the computer
Sharpie marker to emphasize the little cuts for the face, feet and to color in the nose
Glossy Accents for the nose (to make it stand out)
Flocking on the body (a little hard to see)

Make sure you play with us at FIF or at least check out what the other DT members have created (you won't be disappointed)!! We'd love to see what you create!!! Thanks so much for stopping by!!! :)

You're Tweet - 2 Challenges

2011-04-02T18:03:00.000-06:00

Wow, this was a challenge for me! I wanted to make a card for Throwback Thursday; this time the challenge was to make use the sketch that she had and to make it 'Cricut-less'. I also wanted to make something for Serenity Scrappers; the challenge they had was to use pastels. :) So this is what I came up with. :)

Recipe:

The stamped images were from My Cute Stamps (a set I got a long time ago)
Ribbon - a WONDERFUL gift!!!!!
Paper - scraps :)

Well, I hope you like it! It was hard for me to make, but I love a good challenge!!! :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!!!! :)

Flaunt it Fridays!

2011-04-01T01:01:00.011-06:00

Wow! Is it Friday already?! I have no idea where this week has gone! Anyone else have weeks like that? I'm so excited for another Flaunt It Fridays challenge!! This week the challenge is to use 3 Birds on Parade cartridge with the Disguise Bird. Like usual, this is not a cart that I own. I'm so glad we can use a similar cut (otherwise I wouldn't be able to participate in many of the challenges! LOL!)

For my DT submission I decided to use CAC for the little chick, and fortunately CAC also had a sunglasses cut. :) I know it was supposed to be more of a disguise, but I AM READY FOR SOME SUNSHINE!!!!! :)

Recipe:

The chick was cut at 3.75
Flocking on the little belly (because I thought it would look cute)
Hero Arts "Anyone Can Stamp" for the sentiment
MS border punch
Ribbon - not sure where it's from
Misc. flowers and bling. :)
Homemade pop dot on the beak (to make it stand above the glasses)
Scrap paper

I wanted to stick with a simple card. Recently, I noticed that I kept wanting my cards to get bigger and better and more detailed; but realized that it doesn't need to be. :) Sometimes it's the cute and simple that are fun. :) So even though it's simple, I still hope you enjoy it.

Make sure you stop by Flaunt It Fridays to see what the rest of the DT has planned. You'll LOVE the creations, they are really amazing!!! We'd love to have you Flaunt your stuff with us!!!

Thanks for stopping by! :)

Sweet Magnolia's "Family" Challenge

2011-03-29T09:47:00.000-06:00

I happily came across the amazing blog, Sweet Magnolia Rose. Mistyrose has a wonderful challenge that is closing on April 1st. The challenge is to create a Family themed item - LOVE IT!!! Family is my favorite topic (as if you can't tell by my posts). :)

Sticking with the 'Family' theme, I had my little helpers make it a family card. We made a Fish card because as a family we love to go fishing!! My little boy 'helped' put the blue circle through the Cuttlebug to emboss it. My little girl 'helped' ink the edges of the card (she picked the color and didn't want any ink on the top). :) My little boy 'helped' stamp the top sentiment (hence the blur). My little girl 'helped' me stamp the bottom sentiment. We had fun!!!!

Recipe:
I can't remember where I found the card base, I do know I welded two together on my Gypsy to make it a card.
Fish - Camp Out cut at 3.0
Stamps - Pink by Design Simply Everything stamp
Embossing - PC folder, I'm not sure of the name

Make sure you go over to Sweet Magnolia Rose to enter a project! :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!

Scrapbookaholic By Abby Challenge

2011-03-28T01:01:00.001-06:00

Wow, It's Monday!!!! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!!! This weeks challenge over at Scrapbookaholic by Abby is to create anything Spring!

Is it just me, or does it feel like Spring is taking a LONG TIME to get here?! My children feel the same way. As they were running around the house (screaming and yelling) this card idea came to me. I started off by trying to think of something for Spring Fever. With my little ones running in the background I started thinking about how they have cabin fever. **Lightbulb!**

As much as I wish we had a cabin, we don't; but we love to go camping. I thought that this would be a fun card for either a boy or a girl. :)

Recipe:
A2 card
Cabin was cut at 2.0 from Camp Out
Letters were cut at 1.0 from Old West
Sharpie (fine tip) detail on the letters
The embossing folder is an old one so I don't know the name of it (I do know that it's a PC one though)
Light brown ink pad to make the embossing stand out

Abby is sponsoring the giveaway for this challenge (thanks Abby). She'll be giving away a 6x6 SEI paper stack and SEI assorted ribbon (I wish I could enter). :) So make sure you create anything Spring for the challenge. You'll want to hop on over to Scrapbookaholic by Abby to see what the other DT members have created and to enter your project!

Thanks so much for stopping by!! Have a wonderful and creative Monday!!! :)

Decorative Tiles

2011-03-26T04:07:00.001-06:00

I've mentioned before that for my MIL's family reunion they have an auction to earn money for the next year. They ask people to bring items to auction off; so to help the cause I've made a few decorative tiles. These are 12 x 12 tiles with vinyl lettering. I can't remember what size or what cart they are from. I just wanted to share. :)

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! :)

Non-Cricut Scraps Cards

2011-03-23T21:42:00.001-06:00

I spent some time at my in-laws house lately. My dear MIL has been scrapbooking for years and had a lot of stickers and borders and other things she wanted to use up. Of course, I told her I would help her make some cards. So here are some cards made without a Cricut or anything, just from scraps. Sorry - I won't be able to tell you what any of the brands are. :)

I hope you are able to craft a little today (maybe even use some of those scraps)!! :) Have fun!!!!!!

FIF Birthday Bash Bunny Blog Hop!

2011-03-18T01:01:00.004-06:00

HELLO FRIDAY!!!!!! Anyone else in need of a Friday?! I'm so happy you're here (both you and Friday)!

Welcome to Flaunt It Fridays Birthday Bunny Bash Blog Hop!!! :) I hope you came after visiting Amanda at My Scrappin Obsession. Didn't she do such a great job?! She's so talented!! If you just happened to visit my blog for the day, make sure you start at the beginning at Flaunt It Fridays. :) You'll want to make sure you visit everyone and leave a comment at all of the blogs to be eligible for the Grand Prize - a Peachy Keen Wide Eyed and Bushy Tailed assortment! YEAH!!!

On to my projects! :)

The first one isn't the prettiest thing, but I love the idea (I'm sure a lot of you can make it look even better). :) This is my way of keeping track of annual events such as Birthdays and Anniversaries. :)

I kept this one super simple. I used Create A Critter for the Bunny as well as for the present. The ribbon and the frame were from my stash, I'm not sure where they came from. I did use some flocking for the bunny (just to add a little bit to it).

I'm sure most of you are much better at remembering to send cards to family for Birthdays and Anniversaries! After school started, I saw a bunch of these 3x5 card holders on sale for less than a dollar. They've been sitting in my 're-porpose' box calling my name. :) I came up with this idea to help me keep organized. I printed off all of the annual events on 3x5 cards. I also made the labels for the separators for each month and one for addresses (because I can never find them when I need them). Very simple, yet very helpful. It makes it very nice to be able see what is coming up within the next month and making the card a little early to get it sent on time. :)

For my second project we were supposed to make something using a different cut from Birthday Bash. Looking through the images online, I found a cute little snail that was holding an envelope. It inspired me to make this card.

I used Base Camp for the card shape (to look like a stamp). The snail is from Walk In My Garden, and the grass is from Paper Doll Dress Up. :) I inked around the grass, the snail and the base paper to give a little bit of dimension. The stamped message is a My Pink Stamper stamps.

Enough of my jabbering!!! I do have a small surprise for one person. All you need to do is leave me a comment telling me how you keep the important annual dates organized; I'd love to hear!!!! You don't need to be a ~~follower~~ friend, but I love friends! :)

Your next step is Carley at The Real iCarley. You will LOVE what she has in store for you!!

If you get lost, here's the line-up:

1. Flaunt It Friday's

2. Sandra

3. Lisa

4. Sheandra

5. Pam

6. Stacey

7. Glenda

8. Sharon

9. Amanda

10. Me <------This is me

11. Carley <------- You're Next Step!!

12. Jenny K

13. Laurel

14. Corri

15. Monica

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure you leave a comment on every one's blog for a chance at the Grand Prize!! :)

Guy's Card and Winners

2011-03-17T07:56:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'll share the winners first.

The winner of my anniversary post is:

Rhonda Emery!!!! She said:
happy anniversary you look so pretty.
my loves are my family, granddaughers,
crafting, my cricut and of course friends like you from the blogging comm.

The winner of Jen's Birthday Blog Hop is:

ShersL84bed!!! She said:
Beautiful card Celeste. I love the purple paper with the white flowers.

Smiles Sher

Thanks ladies!!! I'll be getting in touch with both of you to get your addresses. :)

On to my card. :) I made this for a Conservation Officer that came to talk to our Scout group. He was AMAZING! He really got the boys involved, and covered all the stuff we needed. :)

All of the images were cut from Camp Out. It's an oldie, but goodie!!! :) I can't remember sizes; I used my Gypsy to size them to fit perfectly. The smoke/cloud with thank you was done by hand.

Thanks for stopping by!!! Make sure you come by tomorrow, I have something fun for you!! :)

Scrapbookaholic by Abby Challenge

2011-03-14T01:01:00.015-06:00

Happy Monday!! Can you tell I'm super excited about this?!!!!!!!!! This is the very first Scrapbookaholic by Abby Challenge!! WAHOOOO! This week the theme is 'Pick Your Own Holiday' (think of the possibilities)! You can find several ideas for holiday by clicking here or any other website that shows national celebrations in March.

For this challenge I went with Johnny Appleseed Day! Depending on the website you look at it can either be March 11 or March 18. Nobody knows the exact date of his death so they don't know exactly when to celebrate the day. I love this time of year because you know the beautiful blossoms are coming out which means that we get to eat (and can) yummy apples!! So, in celebration of Johnny Appleseed Day I made this card. :)

The card is a normal A2. The apple is from Preserves cut at 3.25 (I tried some of the doodling/stitching - what do you think?). I found this phrase and just wrote it on a scratch piece of paper. The background paper is from Cosmo Cricket Garden Variety stack. This actually leads me to the sponsor of the challenge this week . . .Cosmo Cricket!!!

Make sure you stop over at Scrapbookaholic by Abby to see what the rest of the DT has created. While you're there, check out all of the details for the challenge! Thanks Cosmo Cricket for sponsoring the giveaway this week!!! :)

Have fun crafting and thanks so much for stopping by!!! :)

Jen's Happy Birthday Blog Hop!

2011-03-12T07:00:00.005-07:00

If you're looking for my Spring Forward Blog Hop scroll down or click here to go to it.

If you're here for Jen's Happy Birthday Blog Hop - You're in the right place!!!!!! WAHOOOO!!! :)

I'm so excited to be a part of Jen's blog hop. I hope many of you know Jen at The Purple Scrapbooker, if not - you really should!! She's so amazingly talented; I'm so honored that she let me be a part of her Birthday Blog Hop! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEN!!!!!!

I hope you are here after visiting Denine at Pumpkin & Spice. If not, that's OK - just make sure you start at the beginning with Jen at The Purple Scrapbooker (you're not going to want to miss anything)!! :)

When Jen asked if I would be a part of her hop, of course I said YES! I also asked her a few questions about her favs (favorite treat, favorite movie, etc). Well, one of her favs is the color purple (of course), but another fav is the movie Steel Magnolias. So to help Jen celebrate her Birthday, I wanted to make this card **I didn't get into town so Jen won't get this card until next wee; sorry Jen!** Yes, the flowers are supposed to be Magnolias. :)

The card fits into a legal size envelop (I think it's around a 9x4). The branch and flowers are from Gypsy Wanderings cut at 2.5. I cut the flowers out twice so that I could layer them. I inked one set of flowers (purple around the sides and yellow in the middle) to give a little bit of color; and what is a flower without a little pearl in the middle?! :) I used an older stamp set for the sentiment and used a MS border punch for the top and bottom of the sentiment. The butterflies are layered stickers; I just wanted to give the card a little more color and a little something else. :) Here's a picture of the flowers. I used homemade pop dots to pop them up a bit and curled the edges of the top layer. I liked the effect. :)

To help Jen celebrate her Birthday I have a small present for one lucky person.

I loved this little stamp and everyone loves a little bit of bling!!! :) To be entered, all you need to do is leave a comment (only one comment per person please). I'll pick a random winner on March 15. You do NOT have to be a ~~follower~~ friend; but I'd love to have you visit any time!!! :)

Well, now that you've seen my card for Jen's Birthday the next step is to go visit Cheryl at Cards by CG. You will love what she has in store for you!!!!!!!

If you get lost, here's the line-up:

Jen - www.purplescrapbooker.com

Amber - www.stayingcrafty.blogspot.com

Sarah - www.pinkcricut.com

Star - www.starspaperpassion.blogspot.com

Georgiana - www.carsonscricutcreations.blogspot.com

Tracy - www.craftjunkietoo.com

Denine - www.pumpkinspiceblog.blogspot.com

Celeste - www.ccscards.blogspot.com<---- You are here

Cheryl - www.cardsbycg.blogspot.com <------ You're next step!

Julie - www.cricutchick.blogspot.com

Jen - www.jenscraftcorner.com

Thanks again for stopping by. A big thanks to Jen for letting me be a part of her Birthday!!!

Spring Forward Blog Hop

2011-03-10T22:07:00.003-07:00

Hello my wonderful friends!!!!!!! Welcome to the Spring Forward Blog Hop.

I'm so happy you are here!!!!! I hope you are here after visiting Carrie at Double Click Connections - AKA A Busy Bee - I know, she's amazing isn't she!!!!!!! I just love her work!! If you happened to stop by here first, make sure you start at the beginning of the hop with Lora at Notes from the Scrapbooklady! You'll want to stop by all the blogs and leave comments to be eligible for the main hop candy. :)

This hop is themed around Easter or Spring. Well, I did a little bit of both. :) For those of you that know a little about me, I often 'craft' with my little ones. So, for the first project I went for Easter themed and had a 'little' help. Every year we do a scavenger hunt for my little ones **by we, I mean me - I get to create the hints because hubby can't rhyme to save his life**. :) LOL! This year I decided to let my little ones help (and they didn't even know it).

I printed off eight egg shapes (using word) and had my little ones color them.

We then cut out the eggs (with child friendly scissors of course).

I also created and printed off the hints and put them on the back of the pretty colored eggs. Now they're ready for me **Easter Bunny** to hide. :)

My second project was a fun little Easter/Spring card.

This beautiful little chick was cut at 2.5 along with the egg. The nest was cut at 1.5; all images were from Create a Critter. The background paper was a single that I had, so I don't know the brand; the rest of the papers were scraps. The stamp is an older one, so I'm not sure who made it (again, sorry)! I put some flock on the belly of the chick (for added dimension). I also added some Glossy Accents to the beak to make it shiny. Now what is a card without a little bit of bling. :)

I love to be in blog hops because I get to give things away. :) Since I wish everyone could win, I decided everyone could. I've decided to give everyone a PDF copy of the Easter Basket hints and the eggs to color. Click here to download it. :) I know most of the hints are fairly simple (for younger children), but I am more than happy to help anyone think up some rhymes for your own scavenger hunt. If you'd like help, just leave me a comment asking for help. I hope you enjoy these!!

Now that you've seen my projects I'm going to send you on to visit Karel at One by One the Flamingos are Stealing My Sanity. You'll love what she has in store for you!!!!!! Thanks for stopping by!!!

If you get lost, here's the line-up:

Lora at http://scrpbooklady.blogspot.com/

Celeste L. at http://touchedbyabutterfly.blogspot.com/
Brandi at http://joyfullycreative.blogspot.com/
Carrie at http://doubleclickconnections.blogspot.com/

Celeste B. at http://ccscards.blogspot.com/ <-----You Are Here!!

Karel at http://karelj.blogspot.com/ <--------- Next Step!!!!

Kacee at www.youhadmeatscrap.blogspot.com
Melanie at www.arkmom-scrappilyeverafter.blogspot.com
Michelle at http://peanutbutterandjellydesigns.blogspot.com
Patti at http://lilbitcreations.blogspot.com
Sue at http://susanascorner.blogspot.com/
Amy Jo at http://lv2scrapandfibrofacts.blogspot.com/
Yolie At http://www.justyolie.com/

Wahoo!!!!

2011-03-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!!!!! I tried having this post ready before my anniversary (but that didn't work). :) I'm so happy to let all of my friends know that I am now part of the Scrapbookaholic by Abby Design Team!!!!!! Make sure you stop by Abby's blog (click here) to see the rest of the DT! There will be lots of challenges and hops coming up; along with some amazing sponsors. Go check out the rest of the DT! Thanks again for the opportunity Abby!!!!!

Guest Post on The Purple Scrappbooker

2011-03-05T06:01:00.001-07:00

I am so excited!!!!! Jen at The Purple Scrapbooker let me do a guest post on her blog today. I'm so excited (yeah, you'll hear me say it several times)!!!! The only thing Jen wanted was something with the color purple. After some thought I decided on this card. :)

This one was a lot of fun to make. I have all of the info over on Jen's blog (click here to visit Jen).

Before you run away, I just wanted to share one more thing. :) Today is my anniversary!!! :) Six years ago I married this wonderful man!!!! (Isn't he handsome!!!) I'm so thankful for everything he's done for me (and our little ones) and the great years that we've had (with many more to come)!!!

In celebration of my anniversary and the opportunity to do a guest post on Jen's blog, I'd like to give away a copy of a clean romance novel called 'Catch the Morning Star'. It was written by Ruth Davidson, who happens to be my wonderful Aunt (love you Ruth)!!! You can check out more about her books by clicking here. Her books are beautiful and clean and make your heart smile! Just leave a comment here telling me about your loves and I'll pick a winner on March 14.

Again, big thanks to Jen!!!! I'm so happy I got to do a guest post!!! Thanks so much!!!

**Don't forget to go check out the directions for the card at Jen's blog, The Purple Scrapbooker!**

To my hubby - Happy Anniversary my LOVE!!!!!

To everyone - Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by!! I'm really glad you did!!! :)

Flaunt it Fridays DT Post

2011-03-04T01:01:00.001-07:00

I LOVE FIF!!!! These are so much fun; and always such a challenge (in a good way). This week at Flaunt It Fridays the challenge is to use the little ballerina dancer on Twinkle Toes. She is adorable, but unfortunately I don't have the Twinkle Toes cart. In place of the dancer I used my trusty Paper Doll Dress Up cartridge with the little dancer.

Isn't she cute?! She was cut out at 3. I used a PK Princess face for her (of course) and just used colored pencils to brighten up her cheeks and lips. :) I added a bit of bling to her waist (because everyone needs bling). :) The word 'Dance' was cut from Ashlyn's Alphabet cartridge at 1. The rest of the phrase was printed off on my computer. The phrase is one that my family and I live by. We dance while we do chores and we really love to dance for fun too (anyone else play 'Just Dance 2' on the Wii?)! I used my Crop-o-dile to punch holes and add the eyelets that the ribbon went through. Like most times, I can't remember where the background paper came from (sorry).

Make sure you stop by Flaunt It Fridays to see what the other DT members have created. We'd love to see what you make for the challenge so make sure you link it up!!!

Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by, and make sure you DANCE like no one is looking!!!! :)

Snappy Birthday Pampa!!!!

2011-03-03T09:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends! I hope everyone is doing well!! :) This card was made for my Dad's Birthday.

Sorry about the shine, it is very shiny paper and I just couldn't get the light to work with me. :)

My little ones wanted to help make a card for 'Pampa' (and of course, I let them). My son picked out the crab (because, according to my son, Grandpa likes red just like he does). My daughter picked out the blue and brown paper (because it's pretty). My son started asking what my Cuttlebug does (even though he's used it several times); so we decided to send some brown through it to make sand and add dimension. :) My daughter wanted to make the whole crab sparkle with Stickles, but I convinced her to just do the cheeks. The crab is from Create a Critter and was cut at 3.5 (I think) and the stamped phrase is from My Pink Stamper (love these stamps!!!)

I'm so glad you took the time to stop by!!! :)

Just a Note

2011-03-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!!!!! I hope everyone is doing well!!! :) I've been crazy busy! I'm a scout leader (it's OK, you can laugh), I volunteer for my Church as well as helping with my daughters class. :) I'm really going to try to stop by and say 'hi' to everyone! :)

Here's a card I made for my neighbor. She lost her Mom and has been going through a rough time. I just wanted to let her know that we were thinking about her and her family. I made it more as a 'Just a Note' instead of a 'Sympathy' card.

The flower type thing is from Home Accents. I cut it at 3.5 using the shadow, blackout and the normal cut. :) I wanted to keep it sort of elegant/flowery to fit my neighbors' style. What is a card without a little bit of bling. :)

Thanks so much for stopping by; I'm really glad you did!!! :)

You Make Me Smile!

2011-02-27T22:35:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with this one!!!! Let me explain it a little and then I'll show you. :)

One of my sweet friends told me about Debi at Dizzy Lizzy's Creations. She has a post (click here to see it) where she tells about a very special moment that she had involving butterflies. I don't want to tell her story, but you really should go read this post. When I read it, I cried; it really is such a sweet story!!!! Well, she challenged people to make a card with butterflies. So, Debi, here's my take on your story/challenge!!!!

All of the papers are scraps (sorry, no brand names). I cut the butterfly from the Hannah Montana cartridge at 3.5. The card base is from the the Preserves cartridge. Of course, I had to bling it up and use some Stickles. It smudged a little. My little ones were getting ready for bed and kept giving me hugs, which made for a very unsteady hand. :) Oh well, I LOVE THOSE HUGS!!!!!!

Debi, I hope it makes you smile!!!!!! Thanks so much for stopping by!!! If you get a chance, please go visit Debi and say 'hi'! You'll love her work, she really is amazing!! Thanks again for taking the time to stop by!!! :)

Flaunt It Fridays DT Post

2011-02-25T01:01:00.004-07:00

Hi my friends!!!!! This week on Flaunt it Fridays the challenge is to use the matchbox from Tags, Bags, Boxes and More. My first thought ended up working perfectly (which is not always the case). I thought about my little girls' Kindergarten teacher. She does so much (as do all teachers), and I wanted to make something for her. At the beginning of the year I made her little index cards to use (click here for the post), but wanted to make her something nice. I know she has several helpers and thought it would be nice to give her a 'Thanks' card set. What better to put it in than the matchbox?!!!

The Matchbox was cut at 5. That way it fit the 3x3 cards perfectly.

I put an eyelet in the hole in the part of the matchbox that slides out. I just put a ribbon through the hole and tied a knot on both sides of the paper (so it doesn't fall through on either side).

I can't remember where the paper is from, and the school decor is all chipboard stickers. I thought they went perfectly with it. The cards were made from scratch paper and some border stickers. The stamped 'Thanks' is from a stamp set I got a long time ago (I don't remember who made it).

I'd love to hear what you think! Do you think a teacher would like something like this? Or would it be too much clutter on a desk? Thanks for stopping by! I'm so glad you did!!!!!! Make sure you stop by Flaunt It Fridays to see what everyone else created and to show us what you create!!!

Thanks again for stopping by!! :)

Oh, What a bad friend!!!!!

2011-02-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

I felt so bad. I was looking at my fridge and realized that I missed one of my friends Birthday's. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!! I felt terrible (let's be honest - I'm terrible with Birthdays). I made this card for her. I wanted to type the sentiment, but I didn't have time (I was running into town and knew that I could stop off at her house before she went to work).

I stamped the swirls on the front of the card (just to give it a little something). I can't remember where the card cut came from, but the frog was from Create a Critter; and what is a frog without googly eyes?!!! :) The bling on the front was given to me by Albert @ A.Go's Craftomonium. He is so creative, and such a sweetheart!!! I thought they worked perfectly for this card. The rest of the paper is from my scraps pile. :)

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! Have a great day!!!! :)

Kids Crafts Blog Hop

2011-02-20T06:00:00.016-07:00

WELCOME!!!!! I'm so happy you were able to stop by today for the Kids Crafts Blog Hop!!

I hope you just came from visiting Kelsey @ One Creative Teen; she did an amazing job didn't she!!! :) If you happened to stop by my place first, make sure you start at the begining with Jen @ The Purple Scrapbooker. You really won't wnt to miss a thing!! :)

I am the Mommy to two beautiful little ones (ages 3 and 5). Our projects were very simple, but of course, very heartfelt. My Husband's Birthday is coming up in a few days so of course our little ones wanted to make something for their Daddy!!! :) We're going to have a surprise** fish themed party for him. **My little ones are decorating and helping me make a fish shaped cake for him, but my hubby doesn't know about it yet - that's why it's a surprise (yes, it's being planned by my little ones)** LOL!

Ok, so for the "surprise" party my little ones made some tissue paper flowers and fish shaped cards. :) Here are a few pics of the fun we had. :)

Yes, children friendly scissors.

My little ones cutting the tissue paper.

Of course, Mom had to help do a zig-zag fold with the tissue paper and pipe cleaners (so no pics of that).

Pay no attention to the dirty shirt; she helped me make some bread earlier. (I couldn't get a picture of my little boy, he wouldn't hold still). :)

The final result. The fish are cut from Camp Out. The backs have cute pictures that my little ones made. I'm sorry, it's not the best picture. My little ones wanted them back so that they could hide them for their Dad's party (so he doesn't see them before). I was lucky to get a single picture.

Your next stop is the talent Nicole at Simple Scrappin to see what they have in store for you! Thanks again for stopping by!!!! :)

Flaunt It Fridays DT Post

2011-02-18T01:01:00.001-07:00

Hello my friends!!! I'm so glad you are here!!!! This week on Flaunt it Fridays we have a fun challenge this week. This week the challenge is to use the Forever Young cartridge. The cut is Model 1, Emblem (Silhouette feature). Unfortunately, I do not own Forever Young, but that's not a big deal (even though I really, REALLY wish I had this one). You can use a similar cut. I ended up using Gypsy Wandering for the cut. It's very similar, so I thought it would work perfectly! :)

The silhouette was cut at 3. I used non-brand Stickles to glitter it up. :) The background paper is from DCWV Linen closet (awesome stack)!! I've never made a tag before and Heaven help me try to make it look 'vintage'. I love the vintage look, but I just can't seem to get it right. I'm still happy with how it turned out. :) The corners with the flowers are from Home Accents, but I can't remember what size they were cut at (sorry). I tried doodling/stitching a little more too. Obviously I'm still learning. Like I said - I'm still happy with how it turned out. :)

We'd love to see what you create for FIF!!!!! Make sure you stop by Flaunt it Fridays to see what the other DT members have created; you'll be amazed at the talent!!!! :)

Thanks again for stopping by!!! I'm so glad you did!!

Lady Bug Hugs!

2011-02-17T21:11:00.001-07:00

I made this for one of my friends. Her Birthday is today, so I thought this would be a fun card. She loves polka dots and lady bugs. :)

The lady bug is from Walk in my Garden (such a cute cartridge). I wish you could see how beautiful that green paper is. It's all shiny and such a beautiful shade; it's one of my favorites. I got it at a local paper store so there's no brand, sorry! I thought it would work well for My Pink Stamper's blog hop too (click here for details). You're supposed to use black and your favorite color or colors. Red, Dark Green and Pink are some of my favorites (especially with black). I hope you like it!!!

Thanks so much for stopping by!!

Blog Awards (WAAAAAAAY Overdue)!!

2011-02-16T23:03:00.001-07:00

Oh, my dear friends!!! It's been too long!! I mentioned earlier that I had been sick and getting better. Well, I was, then it got worse (a lot worse) but much better now. I was barely able to get out of bed (or couch) to feed my little ones (seriously). I'm just grateful for a wonderful husband!! We've had a lot of yucky bugs going through our community and EVERYONE is getting EVERYTHING!! Ok, so enough of the excuses!!!

Over the last while I've received several awards. I am sooooo honored!!!! I know it did take a while for me to post about these; but that doesn't mean that I'm not excited!!! I can't tell you how much it means to me. So without further ado (is that how it's really spelled?), here are the awards:

I received the 'My Blog has Attitude' award from the AMAZING Runnergirl Creations. She is so talented, I love her work!!!

I received the 'Stylish Blogger Award' from (in no particular order):

Again, my wonderful friends, I can't tell you how humbled and honored I am!!! If you haven't seen these amazing crafters, I suggest stopping by their blogs!!! You'll be happy you did (tell them I said 'hi')!!! :)

With these awards you are supposed to pass them on and tell a few things about you (the numbers vary). :)

As far as passing them on, I would pass either one to anyone and everyone that visits me. :) All of the sweet comments inspire me; and you KNOW you have to have attitude to hang with me (or at least a good sense of humor).

Here's a few things that make me . . . me! :)

I am a Scout leader (Bear Scouts - 9 year olds). Isn't that funny?! I absolutely love it!! :)
I love being a country girl!!! Of course, that means that I have attitude and can hold my own (good thing my hubby understands me)!!!!!!
My children and I dance around while we clean; we love to sing and dance!!!
My favorite color changes with my mood. It will change between dark crimson red, deep blue, or forest green. Is that weird that my favorite color changes?
Those that know me really well compare me to Donkey on Shrek. I remind them of the part where Donkey jumps up and down "Oh, pick me!! Pick me!" I always volunteer for things. I love to stay busy!!!

Well, I think that about sums me up!! :) A BIG thanks to those that gave me these awards!! I truly am honored!!!! :) If you want to know anything else about me, let me know. :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!!!

**If I missed any of the awards, please let me know!!!! I have the older ones posted here, but please let me know if I missed anyone!!!!!!!!!!**

Blog Hop Winner

2011-02-07T11:27:00.001-07:00

First I want to thank everyone for stopping by and leaving such fun comments. Yes, I really did read each and every one of them!!! Ok, so the winner is . . . . .

Karen said...
I love your plate!! it is awesome because I am a read between the lines person too...lol
Happy Crafting!!!
Karen dkolopez@msn.com

I stopped by Karen's blog, Learning With My Cricut, she's so talented. Stop by and tell her congrats!!! :)

Thanks again everyone for stopping by; I really appreciate it!!! :)

Sweethearts Blog Hop!!!

2011-02-05T05:00:00.036-07:00

WELCOME TO THE SWEETHEARTS BLOG HOP!!!

If you happened to come visit me you're welcome to stay and visit, but you'll want to start with Georgiana @ Carson's Cricut Creations. If you did start at the beginning, then I'll bet you came here after visiting Carri @ Double Click Connections - AKA A Busy Bee. Isn't Carri AMAZING!!!! I love her work!!!! :)

I am so excited to be in this hop. I starting thinking about my Sweethearts (hubby and our two little ones); and what makes them/us so special. As my mind starting running (sometimes it's hard to keep up), I thought about the play on word images. For example "Read between the lines" has the word 'read' with a line on top and on the bottom. **Hmmmm, maybe I'm the only one that loves those.** :) Well, (extra) long story short, I came up with this idea. **Sorry about the picture, it is a very shiny plate.**

So this one is supposed to be "Family surrounded by love". I know - it's super cheesy!!!!! I thought it was cute. The four hearts under the word 'Family' are supposed to represent my little family; you might notice that all of the hearts are linked as well (you can click on the picture for a closer look). Not perfect, but perfect for us. :)

I started with a decorative plate. It was given to me as a gift; but I know that you can find them for a dollar or less at places like WalMart, or even a dollar store. Normally I would use white (or even cream colored) vinyl; but I do not own any and I don't have money in the budget for it right now (very strict budget). Instead I used paper and my other favorite item - MOD PODGE!!!

The letters are from the Birthday Cakes cartridge. I used my Gypsy to weld and slightly tip the letters in the word 'LOVE'. They were cut at 1. The word 'FAMILY' is from the same cart and cut at 1.75. The hearts are from Accent Essentials cut at 1.5.

Well, if you're still reading (WOW!) then here's what else you're looking for . . . CANDY!!!!!! Sorry, it's not a lot, but it sure could add to some cute Valentine's Day cards. :)

All you need to do is leave one comment; Nice, funny, symbols, whatever (just not mean). :) US residents only, please (again - budget). I'll pick a winner on Monday February 7th; that way I can get the candy sent before Valentine's Day.

Now you're next stop is the wonderful and talented Libby @ Beach Creations. You'll love what she has in store for you (click here)!!!!!! Thanks so much for stopping by!!!

Here's the line-up (just in case):

Georgiana
Cheryl
Jen
Carri
Celeste <-----This is ME!
Libby <-------------------Your next step!!!!
Heather
Lisa
Tracy
Star

Yucky!! Sorry!!!

2011-02-02T23:08:00.001-07:00

I'm so sorry to all of my friends!!! I've been very sick for the last week; and haven't had a chance to visit! I've only been able to craft a few things. I'm feeling better and I am hoping to craft a little tomorrow. Thanks for all of the sweet comments!!!!!!!!! I hope to post something crafty soon!!! :)

Scratch Tickets - update

2011-02-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! I just wanted to let you know I sent an e-mail out to everyone that gave me their e-mail for the PDF. If you haven't received it, please let me know!!!!! I want to make sure everyone that wanted it, gets it!!! :)

I got thinking about other scratch tickets you can make and I think I'm going to make a few for my hubby (although they will be PG-13 rated). I'd be happy to share these with anyone as well. I'll post what they look like when I'm done with them.

Like I said - If you haven't received the children's scratch tickets, please let me know!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks again for all of the sweet comments!! :)

Inking It Up Crazy DT Post

2011-01-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

WOW!!! First I just want to let Kassidy know that it has been such a pleasure to be part of the Inking It Up Crazy DT!!!! I have had such a fun time!!! Kassidy thought it would be fun to do a altered item. Well, this one has a really cute story.

My little girl just started Kindergarten this year and loves it!!! She has been doing her 'homework' at the kitchen table *the homework is usually just a notebook to practice letters, or a workbook we got at WalMart*. My husband and I told her that if she was old enough to keep her room clean, we would get her a desk. Well, she kept her end of the bargain, so we kept ours. We found a really nice desk at a second-hand store (D.I.) for only $15. We did a little bit of work on it, but it now looks like new. Well, the other day she asked if she could keep pencils and crayons in her room (we've had trouble with her writing on the walls) so we told her that we will give her a chance. We don't live near any big stores, so I started thinking. I've been under the weather (stupid head cold/cough thing!!!) so I've been eating a lot of soup. So I decided that the soup cans would work perfectly!!! So here's what I made for her. :)

Like I said I started out with a soup can. Since it has an edge I used some extra material I had lying around to put over the edge. There might be another way to do it, but I just used hot glue.

I glued it around the top, then put some glue on the inside and pushed the rest of the material down. (I hope that makes sense)

After that I just used Mod Podge to glue the paper to the can. I used my Cricut to cut out the words and added those onto it using a little more Mod Podge. Add a ribbon and it's done!

Very simple and yet so useful. My little girl picked out the papers and ribbon which made it even more special for her.

Make sure you stop over at Inking It Up Crazy to see what the rest of the DT came up with!! As always, thanks so much for taking the time to stop by!!!! I love having my friends visit!!! :) Thanks so much!! :)

Birthday Cards

2011-01-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

I can't remember if I've mentioned it before or not, but I'm helping my Mom out with Birthday cards. She is in the Relief Society presidency in her Ward (she helps with the ladies in our Church). They wanted to have personalized Birthday cards for all of the ladies in the Ward (Church group). My Mom asked me if I would help since they don't have anyone that is willing to help; of course I said yes. Here are a few that I made. What do you know, I decided to enter them in for My Pink Stamper (Robyn's) Birthday (click here for the post). I hope you like them! All of the cuts are from (of course) Create A Critter and are all cut at 2. The phrases were computer generated. I had to make around 30 cards, so I made them as easily as I could.

They are very simple, but personalized. I hope they put a smile on their owners face!

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! I'm so glad you took the time! :)

Bitten by the Love Bug Blog Hop

2011-01-29T08:00:00.003-07:00

Welcome to the Bitten by the Love Bug blog hop!!!!! I'm so glad you made it!!! If you came here after visiting Erika at Cricut Love that means you're in the right place. :) If you came here first make sure you start at the beginning with Kassidy at Inking It Up Crazy (you can click here to start at the beginning).

For my project I wanted to make something for my little girl to use for Valentines Day at school. This was inspired by Cheryl at Cards by CG. She made these cute Halloween scratch tickets (click here for the directions); I bookmarked the page because I KNEW I was going to use the idea (thanks again Cheryl)!!! :) So, here is my take on the scratch tickets. :) ** You can click on any of the pictures to see them closer.**

I had these business cards (from Avery) that I got for practically nothing. I used Microsoft Word to create the cards using one of my pictures and a little bit of tweaking. :)

The next step is to put some tape over the cards. This is so that you can put the scratch paint on the heart. :)

Next you mix acrylic paint and dish soap in even parts. You don't need much. Paint the heart with the mixture. **I'm really sorry there is no picture of this, but it was pretty simple.** You will want to let the paint on the cards dry overnight.

I thought they turned out super cute. :)

I know, you're curious what the blog candy is. I thought about how I could let everyone win something (without breaking the bank). So I decided that everyone can be a winner. Just leave a comment with your e-mail address and I will e-mail you a PDF copy of the cards; this way you can make some cards for yourself. Nothing else! Just make sure you put your address as 'address at service dot com' to help make sure spammers can't easily pick up your e-mail address. :)

Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by!!!!!!! Your next step is Kacee at You Had Me At Scrap. You will love what she has in store for you!!!!! :)

If you get lost along the way, here's the line-up:

Kassidy @ Inking It Up Crazy
Jessie @ Scrappy Jess

Denise @ Lala's World
Jamie @ JME Creations
Sherri @ Sherri's Crafty Place

Erika @ Cricut Love
Celeste @ CC's Cards

Kacee @ You Had Me At Scrap
Lisa @ My Lil' Bits

Amanda @ My Scrappin Obsession
Rebecca @ Creations With Becka
Michelle @ Purple Monkey Moments
Jenny @ Crazy About Cricut

Flaunt It Fridays post

2011-01-28T01:01:00.002-07:00

I am so happy to do this post today!! I love being part of the Flaunt It Fridays DT!! These ladies are amazing, and we love having everyone craft along with us!!!

This week on Flaunt It Fridays we are using the Paper Pups cartridge. It is the border feature with the cat and dog on page 104. Since this is another cartridge I don't own (unfortunately) I went to my default cartridge; Create a Critter.

I went through so many phrases and sayings and ended up just leaving it blank. :) Here's another picture of what it looks like partially open. :)

Ok, so here's what I did. Using my Gypsy I used a rectangle (5.5 x 8.5) and welded the shadow of the cat and dog to it. I then I scored at 2.25 in from each side.

I added the pattern paper on the outside. I then added the animals (cut at 2.0) to were they need to be

I added the inside. Used a MS corner punch and inked the edges.

It's very easy; you could easily make it without a Gypsy. Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure you join us at Flaunt It Fridays!!! I'd love to see what you come up with!! :)

A Guest Designer and the Winner

2011-01-19T06:00:00.002-07:00

WOW!!! I am so completely honored to be able to be a guest designer over at More Than Favors. I absolutely love Paula's work; she is so amazing!!! So . . . here's my guest post. :)

This is a simple A2 gift card holder.

The cake is from the Smiley Cards Gypsy download (so much fun). I hid the face (using my Gypsy) and used a super cute PK Princess face. I used Stickles on the flames. :) I used a MS punch for the borders. The stamp is Pink by Design Simply Everything.

The gift card holder on the inside was actually very simple. Here are the steps:

Take a 3 1/2 x 11 inch piece of paper and score it at 4 inches from each end and fold (you will want to use a bone folder). The paper can be taller than 3 1/2, but has to be at least 3 1/2.

Take the 2 mountain folds and put them together making the letter 'M', or 'W' (depending on how you look at it). This will give you the tab that sticks out. (Pay no attention to my fingernail polish - I need to take it off)

Cut a line on the middle fold starting at 1/2 inch from the top to 1/2 inch above the bottom. It's easy if you mark it with a pencil.

Glue down each part of the tab at the very edge of the inside of the card. It will be a little short (doesn't go all the way to the middle), but that's what will help it stand up.

I thought it was simple yet different. :) I'd love to know what you think! :)

Now, for what some of you may be waiting for . . . the winner of the 'A Few of My Favorite Things' blog hop! I hope you had fun! It looks like the winner chosen by random.org is . . . .

Christel AKA Scrappin Sista!!!! She said:

Love all the wonderful touches. You have given me a wonderful new technique with the glossy accents on the glitter. Why didn't I think of that! I'm so using that real soon. TFS and the chance to win!

Congrats Christel; I'll be sending you an e-mail!!! Let me just give a big thanks first to all of my new and returning friends!!!! I'm so happy you came by!! Also, a BIG thanks to Kassidy @ Inking It Up Crazy for hosting the hop; it was so much fun!!!!

Thanks for taking the time to stop by!!!! It means a lot to me!!! :)

A Few of My Favorite Things Blog Hop

2011-01-15T08:00:00.025-07:00

WELCOME!!!! I'm so happy you were able to stop by!!! :) Welcome to A Few of My Favorite Things blog hop (go ahead, you can sing the song)!!! :)

I'm hoping you came after visiting Erika at Cricut Love; I know you loved her project!!! If you happen to just stop by make sure you start at the beginning with Kassidy at Inking it Up Crazy. Truth be told, all of the crafters on the hop are SOOOOO talented, you won't want to miss a thing!!!! :)

So for my project I made a card. I'll show you what it is and then explain 'My Favorite Things'. :)

Isn't she cute?! This cute little card was made using some of my favorite things and actually picked out by one of my favorite things. :)

My little girl (one of my favs) picked out the little lamb. It is from my favorite (so far) cartridge - Create a Critter. **Cut at 2.41 on my Gypsy - which is another favorite tool.**
I used some flock on the white part of the wool (close-up below) which is a fun favorite addition.
The face is (yep, you guessed it) a Peachy Keen Princess face - I LOVE PK Stamps, they are a favorite!
I used the Xyron technique (click here to see that step by step) for the hair bows. A Xyron, Glitter and Glossy Accents are 3 favorites that work really well together. :)
I used pop dots so that my little lamb would stand out (like the bling and the cute face didn't do that enough). :)
I used my Zig glue pens to adhere the parts of my little lamb; Zig pens are an ULTIMATE FAVORITE!!
I used Stickles to add bling to the hearts; because I love a little glitter added to my projects and Stickles are a favorite!
The stamped phrase is a My Pink Stamper stamp - one of my top favorite stamp sets.
The ribbon is one my favorites; it is from American Crafts.
I used a white pen to add a little to the PK face and to do the stitching/doodling. I'm not the best at it, but I LOVE how it looks!!
The background paper (light green with polka dots) has some glitter to it and is from one of my favorite stacks from My Mind's Eye! :) Another one of my Favs! :)

Here's a close up of the little lamb. :)

Well, these are a few of my favorite things (HAHAHA - I couldn't help it)!!!! On to my blog candy. :) I'm giving away a few spools of my favorite ribbon as well as some chunky glitter. :)

All you need to do is leave one comment letting me know which of my favorite things is also one of your favorite things (or in your top favorites). You'll need to have a US address; sorry, I can't afford to have it shipped outside the US (unless you would like to pay the difference). :) One comment only, please. Don't worry about being a ~~follower~~ friend, it is NOT required. If you like my style or just want to click the follow button - I would love to have you as a FRIEND!!! :) I love having friends! :) If you'd like, I'd love it if you'd leave your blog address as well; it's always fun to visit others (especially if they take the time to visit me)!!! :) That's it. I'll pick a winner next week.

Your next stop is going to be Amanda at Amanda's Crafts and More! You will LOVE what she has in store for you! Thanks so much for stopping by!!!! I'm so glad you did! If you do get lost, here's the line-up!!

Kassidy @ Inking It Up Crazy
Lisa @ My Lil' Bits

Kristin @ The Crafty Kitchen

Jessie @ Scrappy Jess

Jaime @ JME Creations

Susan @ It's Me Susan P
Erika @ Cricut Love
Celeste @ C.C.'s Cards & Crafts <----- You are Here
Amanda @ Amanda's Crafts and More <----- You're Next Stop!!
Meagan @ Beyond Paper Designs
Rebecca @ Creations With Becka
Theresa @ The Scapbooking Queen

Flaunt it Friday's DT Post

2011-01-14T01:01:00.002-07:00

This week on Flaunt It Fridays the challenge is to use the skull on Mini Monsters cartridge (pg. 65); and to create something that is NOT a Halloween project. So even though I VERY OFTEN refer to my little boy as a MONSTER (LOL) I do not own the Mini Monsters cartridge. Instead of the skull on Mini Monsters I decided to use the skull and cross bones from Indie Art. Since I created a hair thing holder for my daughter (click here to see it) I told my little boy I would make something for him. :)

Right now my little boy is into pirates so with the skull and crossbones I made a money jar for him with a pirate theme.

I wanted to make sure you got a shot of the lid (I loved it). This was very simple to make. Normally, I would have painted the jar and the lid; but since it is going to my little boy I thought I should probably leave it see through so that I can make sure I know what's in the jar. :) The skull and crossbones were cut out at 3 and the 'Warning' was printed on my printer.

I used Mod Podge to glue the paper to the jar. I've tried other glues and they didn't seem to work very well on glass. I also used Mod Podge to adhere the warning sign and the skull and crossbones to the paper. After the Stickles (on the eyes) had dried I Mod Podged all of the paper.

I used Mod Podge on the skull on the lid as well. For the lid, I just cut the bones off so there was only the skull. :) Again, I waited until the Stickles on the eyes had dried and put Mod Podge on top of it (yes, my son watched me put the Stickles on the eye "Oh, cool Mom"*touch, smear*)

Now the picture below looks terrible! I'm so sorry about it. A 12 inch piece of paper will not reach all the way around the jar so I added a black strip (should have used gray). I put "Koda's Loot" on the back and didn't like it so I actually was going to change it a little. Unfortunately my son will not let me touch it again! He knows it's his made especially for him and there is no way he will let me get near it (yes, he slept with it)!

Make sure you stop by Flaunt It Fridays to see what the other DT members came up with (you'll love their projects)!!!!!! :) I'd love to see what you make, so make sure you link up on Flaunt It Fridays!!!

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! :)

A Card and a Shout Out

2011-01-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

As a tradition I make a family video every year. It's just pictures and video footage of our family put together with music. It helps highlight the last year, showing all of the fun moments we've had. When I sent a copy of the DVD to my grandparents (love them!!) I sent this card to them:

Part of me wanted to add a PK face to it, but I just couldn't do it; I thought it looked cute just as it is. The snowman is from Gypsy Wanderings. I'm not sure how big I cut it at (maybe 4 or 4.5); I just cut it out and didn't pay attention to the size after I cut it.

I also wanted to give a quick shout out to Amy Jo at Scrapping, Card Making and Living with Fibro. She's on her way to 75 followers and wanted to do a giveaway when she had that many followers. I love Amy's style; she's soooooo talented!! You'll love to get to know her and be inspired by her style; you won't be sorry! When you visit, tell her I say 'hi'; she's so much fun!!!

Thanks for stopping by; I'm really glad you did!! :)

Preserves Cartridge DT Post

2011-01-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

Did anyone else have a short weekend?! Mine felt like it!!!! :) Today is my DT guest post over at Ink It Up Crazy!!! Kassidy has asked the DT members to go through the older cartridges and create a project. For mine, I'm using the Preserves cartridge. I really like this cart; the layers are super simple, and it has so many unique card and label cuts. I know that if I did a lot of canning (which I'm learning to do thanks to my in-law family) I would use it even more! So - here's my creation!!!! :)

It is a very simple card! Every single cut was made from the Preserves cartridge. Although I used my Gypsy to space everything on my mat (I love using scraps); I didn't tamper (stretch, skew, or weld) any of the images. Here are all of the pieces before it was assembled.

So super simple; here are the measurements:
card base: 5.25
polka dot base: 3.0
red label base: 1.25
cherry (and layers): 2.5

Now I did add some eyelets to the label (I didn't have the right color of brads) as well as some Glossy Accents to the cherries and non-brand Stickles to the cherry leaves. Throw a few pop dots on the cherries and the label and . . . voila!!

I'm so happy you were able to stop by!! Make sure you go over to Kassidy's blog (Inking It Up Crazy) to check out what cartridges the other DT members have and will be revisiting (I promise you won't be sorry)!!!!! Make sure when you stop by over at Inking It Up Crazy you tell Kassidy 'hi'!!! :)

Thanks so much for stopping by!!!!!!!! :) Kassidy - thanks for having me!!

Flaunt It Fridays Blog Hop

2011-01-07T01:01:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!!!!! I'm so glad you stopped by! I hope you came by for the Flaunt It Fridays Hello Kitty Blog Hop. I'm so excited! If you are here from visiting Jen @ Honeybean Creations than you are in the right spot; if you just happened to stop here first make sure you start from the beginning please go to the Flaunt It Friday's. For this week's challenge we were asked to flaunt the Hello Kitty with Airplane on Page 65 from the Hello Kitty Greetings Cart.

Unfortunately I do not own the Hello Kitty Greetings cart (although according to my daughter it is one I 'have to ask Daddy to get' so that I can make projects for her). For my first project I made a hair band holder for my daughters' hair things. Her hair has a mind of it's own and so we're always running around trying to find her hair things at the last minute (usually right before the bus gets to our house for school).

The kitty is from Create a Critter and the 'airplane' is actually the rocket ship from Paper Doll Dress Up. The ribbon at the top is so that my little girl can hang it on the wall or the door handle; and the ribbon at the bottom holds a open metal ring (you'll see in the picture below) that we purchased with some hair bands.

For the 'airplane' I cut the rocket ship out twice (once in a reddish color and once with the flowers). I cut the shell top and the exhaust off of the red one and the shell top, exhaust, wing, and front off of the flower one so that they could layer.

I used a small box lid (my Mother-in-law had sitting around) for the sign. I measured the box and added in the sides so that it covered the five sides (front and four edges). I used Mod Podge to hold the paper to the box lid. I made sure to cut the side so that I had flaps to glue down (made it look nicer).

I Mod Podged the kitty and 'airplane' to the front (leaving room for my daughters' name in the top right corner). I hole punched two holes in the top and bottom, and put brads in for the ribbons to go through.

Here's a picture of the back. I left the bottom ribbon long because I can add any cute hair clips to it as well (if we ever find them again - or when we have to go buy more). :)

I did Mod Podge the whole front of it, I'm sure most people wouldn't have to but my little ones aren't exactly 'soft' to things I make. They think because it's homemade it's indestructible. :) At least they have faith in me. :)

For my second project we got to choose any cut from the Hello Kitty Greetings, again, since I don't own the cartridge I decided to use Create a Critter. I saw that the Hello Kitty Greetings cart had a cut of just the face on page 29 (super cute), so I cut the cat from Create a Critter and cut off the rest of the body to make it look similar.

I cut the cat at 4.5 so that the face fit the card perfectly. I used a MS border punch for the pink paper and a My Pink Stamper stamp for the Purr-fect. Sorry about the glare on the bow, I used the Xyron technique (click here for my step-by-step directions) and the Gossy Accents really made it shine. :)

Remember - you must leave a comment on every one's blog to have a chance to win the Grand Prize Giveaway which is the Love Always stamp set sponsored by Pink By Design. The grand prize will be on Sandra's blog! You will have all weekend to complete the hop and we will draw the winner sometime on Monday or Tuesday.

I'm so glad you stopped by for my first Flaunt it Fridays Blog Hop!! I can't wait to see how you 'Flaunt' your Hello Kitty project this week at Flaunt it Fridays. Your next stop is Carley over at The Real iCarley. You will LOVE her project (she's so amazing)!!!!!!!

If you get lost along the way, here's the lineup of the AMAZING carfters that you will visit (you really don't want to miss any of them)!!!!

SANDRA

JEN

CELESTE (YOU ARE HERE)

CARLEY (YOUR NEXT STOP)

AMY

Winner and Schedules

2011-01-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! I hope all of you are doing well! I have several things coming up (so exciting)!! I'm trying to post every other day (but obviously I'm not staying on top of that). First things is first - the winner for the Rockin' New Year Blog Hop. I would, again, like to thank Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen for allowing me to participate in the hop! It was so much fun to hop with all of the amazing ladies!! Ok, so the winner of the blog hop is . . .

Samantha J Designs (Wife2TJ) said...
LOVE the card!!! my 13 year old brother who think that rocks!!!
We were supposed to have my sil, bil, and their two little boys here for new years, I was so excited, cleaned the whole house, etc. Just found out they can't come the littlest one has chicken pox (poor thing) so now I'm not sure what were going to do. TFS!!! -Sam :-)

If you haven't checked out Samantha's blog, you'll want to!! She's so talented!!!

Next up is a list of upcoming activities!!

I've mentioned that I'm now part of the Flaunt It Friday Design Team (EEEEEEK - so excited)!!

I'm also part of the Inking It Up Crazy Design Team (EEEEEEK - so excited)! I get to do a guest post on Kassidy's blog next week!!! I can't wait!!

I also have another guest post coming up on Paula's blog, More than Favors! I'm so excited for this one too! :)

I know - I'm just waaaaay too excited!! :) There are just so many things coming up! I hope you'll be here with me! I'd love to hear any suggestions on cards (or styles) that you'd like to see. :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!! :)

Happy Dance and More to Come

2011-01-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to say that I have been doing the happy dance for a few days now! We had a wonderful New Year celebration; some of the family wasn't able to make it because of the weather and the roads, but we're going to try to get together another time. I hope everyone had a wonderful and safe New Year!
I also had some fun news to share - I made the Flaunt It Friday Design Team!!! EEEEEK!!!

I can't even tell you how excited and honored I am!! If you haven't been over to Flaunt It Friday you really should!! They have some fun challenges and the DT is amazing **I still can't believe I get to be a part of it**!!!! We have a fun Blog Hop coming up on January 7th as well (you won't want to miss it).

Here's another card I made. This one is for one of my friends; she just had a baby and I thought this might make her day. :)

I used the baby from the Smiley cards (download for the Gypsy). The face is a PK face (thanks again Lisa)!!

I just wanted to share my exciting news and share a card! Again, I hope everyone had a fun and safe New Year! Thanks for stopping by!! Make sure (if you haven't already) you go to my previous post (Rockin' New Year Blog Hop) for a giveaway!!!

Rockin New Year Blog Hop

2010-12-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

WELCOME!!!!!! I'm so glad you're here for a Rockin' New Year blog hop; hosted by the AMAZING Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen. I hope you just came from Carol @ Carol's Sweet Creations isn't she amazing?!!); if you didn't just make sure you start out with her (click here to start - you won't want to miss a thing)!!!!

Growing up I never really did anything for New Year's; it wasn't a big holiday for my family. The funny thing is that for my husband's family it was a complete opposite. His family set aside New Year's to have a BIG party; they combined family Christmas present trading and New Year's celebrations together (that was a BIG change for me). What is a party without (lots of food and) a TON of games. We play a ton of games ranging from board games to card games to our recent favorites of Guitar Hero and ROCK BAND!!!!! So in order to celebrate our family totally Rockin' Out on New Year I made this card!! (HEHE - I like it)! :)

The guitar is from the Hannah Montana cartridge and is cut out at 2.81 (as the height on my Gypsy), but you could shrink it down to 2.75 and it would look just fine. The stamp is actually something I found in a dollar bin at Michaels. I used some Pearlescent water colors **Thanks Nicole* to color parts of the guitar to look more like flames. You could use markers, but I love the shimmer that the water colors give it.

Now onto the Blog Candy - I know it's not much, but everyone likes free (and pay no attention to the mess in the background). All you need to do is leave one comment telling me what you have planned for New Year's. :) You do not have to be a ~~follower~~ friend; if you like my style, I'd love to have you as a friend (but it is NOT required)!! US residents only, unless you would like to pay for shipping (I'm sorry - I truly hope you understand).

Your next stop is Court @ Court's Crafts!! You will love what she has created (I LOVE her work)!!!!!! Here is the rest of the talented ladies in the line-up, just in case you get If you get lost along the way; like I said - You won't want to miss a thing:

Carol @ Carol's Sweet Creations

***ME!!!!!*** - you are here!!

Court @ Court's Crafts

Dorcas @ 4 Crafty Angels

Gloria @ Girlia's Card

Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen

Karen @ The Busy Bug

Norma @ Pink Bling Crafter

Roma @ Roma's Creations

Saundra @ Luv Scrapping Together
Jeanine @ Scrappin with JC

Karey @ Creative Craft Corner

Thanks again for stopping by, make sure you go visit

Court @ Court's Crafts next!! :)

Flaunt It Fridays and a HELLO!!!!!!!!

2010-12-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of my friends!!!!!!!!! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas (or any other holiday you celebrate). We had a great time, the hubby had the 24th and 25th off so we were able to spend some time with him (he works so hard - we take what we can get). We had some of our family come over later on Christmas day and (luckily) I had enough food for everyone. My little ones wanted to go to my In-laws' house and my Mother-in-law was nice enough to take them; lucky me - I get to have a little bit of me time. :) I'm so glad (thanks Mother-in-law)!!!

With my 'me' time I decided to participate in Flaunt It Fridays challenge. The challenge is to use the turtle from Create a Critter. They also challenged to make something other than a card. Well I used the turtle; I made a card that has a gift card (or money) holder inside. The turtle didn't turn out exactly as I wanted (the colors didn't quite work right), but it's still cute. I had a wonderful friend send me a set of Peachy Keen stamps (EEEEEEEK - LOVE THEM)! I stamped half of the face on it; I thought the face turned out super cute!! I cut the clouds out by hand and inked the edges with silver (I know, it's a little hard to see it).

(below) - picture of the inside to hold a gift card

For the gift card holder part I glued the bottom of the pink paper (so the gift card wouldn't fall out the bottom); and then attached the four corners. All of the paper I used was from my scrap box, so I'm not sure of brands (sorry). If you have a chance stop by Flaunt it Fridays to check out the challenges (they're so fun)!!! :) Thanks so much for stopping by! I'm so glad you did!!!!

Still Alive and a Merry Christmas!! :)

2010-12-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

I just want to say a quick THANK YOU to my dear friends!!! I've been super swamped lately and went out of town (twice); so I haven't had much time to craft. I'm still here and everything is fine!!!! :) I am participating in two blog hops after Christmas so I'll have some things posted at that time.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!!!

Chance for a Free Mini Album

2010-12-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted a creation (I have a ton of ~~excuses~~ ~~reasons~~ excuses for that). I was finally able to take a few moments to visit some of my friends and found out something that I really wanted to share!!! I hope most (if not all) of you know Rhonda from Scrap Happens. She is one of the most amazing crafters I know (not to mention one of the most giving/generous ones).

She is (as of this morning) only FIVE followers away from 300. Once she hits 300 followers she will be making a special album for a special person. Right now there are only 18 comments (and she posted it on Wednesday). I'd love for any of my friends to win, Rhonda's albums are TREASURES!!!! :)

If you do stop by and become a follower make sure you comment on her 300 follower post (click here); make sure you tell her that I said hi and make sure you mention what you'd like to see her create (I'm amazed at how she takes your idea, runs with it and makes it better than you could even imagine)!!!!!!!! I know this is something you should try for; you'll love her work!! Make sure you look at all of the albums she's made!

**Hugs to you Rhonda!! I hope you hit 300 followers!!!**

Believe - yes another card

2010-12-12T09:44:00.001-07:00

Sorry this is short! I've been out of town and won't be back until Wednesday. We had something come up (family thing).

Ok, so I'm sure all of you are sick of my cards being based around the movie 'Polar Express'. We just love the movie and I love the wonder and amazement in my little boys eyes when the little boy gets the jingle bell. Such a fun story. So (of course), here's another card inspired by the movie.

I added some buttons to the bottom right corner, but forgot to take a picture. The 'Believe' is from Gypsy Wanderings, the jingle bell is from Christmas solution.

Thanks for stopping by!!! :)

Best Card for Little Sis! - Religious

2010-12-08T20:44:00.002-07:00

This post is Religious - if it bothers you . . . just look at the picture. :)

I also forgot to show you this one!!!! I've mentioned before that my little sister is serving an LDS mission in Buenos Aires. My little ones and I were able to go visit my family before she left. In our church the leaders usually ask the person getting ready to leave for a mission to speak in church before they go; so we were able to hear her speak!!! My little sister was so nervous that morning (actually most of the week), but she did an AMAZING job!!!! Her talk was very touching! She spoke about the fire of testimony and how it starts with the little spark in your heart; she talked about how it can grow and what can help to fuel the flame. For a 22 year old woman to give a talk like that . . . well, let's just say I was a very proud older sister!!!! So I ended up making this card especially for her to let her know how proud I am of her!! **Did I mention my sister loves pink and brown together, and polka dots are her FAVORITE!!** :)

This was cut from the Create a Critter cartridge (yes, again) cut at 3.5 (I believe; I didn't save it, sorry). Of course I added stickles to it :) The purple ribbon is actually something that I got from the very talented Nicole at Primped in Paper. She is so talented, you should go tell her I say hi (and check out her creations while you're there). :)

Thanks for stopping by!!!!!

Another Deep Breath and Good News

2010-12-08T14:44:00.001-07:00

I promised to show these pictures. These are a FEW of the cards that I sent my little sister! She's serving an LDS mission and loves to give cards. Well, I don't have much to give; but I knew I could help with the cards! I ended up making around 100 different cards for her. She should have received them (hehehe - she had no idea they were coming)! :) It's not the best picture, but you get the idea. :)

I also gave a few similar ones to my Mom, hehehe - she didn't know it was coming either! :)

**The hehehe's can also be read as mwahahahaha (evil scientist laugh); either laugh is appropriate!** :)

After all of that fun stuff I can't tell you how frustrated I am. I was watching my little girl sing during our Church Christmas party (so cute). When I got a text from a friend (thanks again - you know who you are) letting me know I had won some blog candy (YEAH!!!!!!)! So I got home and got online and find out that I won it from the wonderful and talented HoneyB. You really have to see her - she is AMAZING (click here for her blog)!!!!!!! As I start reading through I question why in the world did I not see this a few days before. I'd been doing better at commenting and reading blogs (I was terrible there for a little - sorry - again working on sisters' cards). I finally figured out that all of the blogs that I had 'followed' over the weekend were not showing up on my reader list.

GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So I ended up going back through the hops that I participated in and that I had hopped along for the ride so that I could re-follow them. Has anyone else had that happen?!

So I have to say to those I hopped with and those others that I came to visit - I'm sorry!! I really thought I was following, it just didn't work for some reason. Ok, I think I'm done (for now). :)

Thanks again my wonderful friend (again-you know who you are *LISA*). Thanks to HoneyB I am so excited for that cartridge (I REALLY wanted it)!!!!!!!!!! :) I also want to say a BIG THANKS to my new ~~followers~~ friends!!!! I'm so glad you stop by, and I'd love to see your work! Ok, I really think I'm done for now. :) Thanks for stopping by (and listening to my ramblings)!!! :)

Winners!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry this is a day late!!! I really didn't forget about it, I just got too busy!

WOW!!! How fun was this last weekend?!!!!!!! I had so much fun! I want to give a big thanks to Jen over at Simply Chic Design by Jen and Dorcas over at 4 Crafty Angels for allowing me to participate in these wonderful blog hops! I had so much fun! I also wanted to give a big thanks to all of you!! I read every single comment and loved them! I'm so happy that so many of you wanted to be my ~~followers~~ friends! I would be honored if you went to 'My Inspiration' page and added your blog! I would love to come and visit you!!! Thanks so much!!! OK - on to the winners!!!!!!!!

Christmas Card blog hop winner is . . . . . . . Stefeni!!!!

stefeni said...
Great card! I love wrapping presents during Christmas. Shopping for them is another story..

Snowy Winter blog hop winner is . . . . . . Susan!!!!

Susan said...
Thank you for being so sweet I love all your projects and the fact you called us friends and not followers even though I love to follow everyone! Thanks for you surprise giveaway too!

For the Snowy Winter blog hop winner I'm actually going to let you pick. I was originally going to give away this:

It's a cute little storage/travel scrap bag with 4 things of non-brand stickles (that I love), some pearls, and 6 of these stick-ez (so cute and fun to use). But, it seems like a lot of people loved the countdown calendar. So if you would like the countdown calendar I'd be happy to give that to you (you'll pick what the countdown block will say, for example: Christmas Countdown, Birthday Countdown, Anniversary Countdown, Vacation Countdown, etc.)

Congrats Stefeni and Susan!!! I'll be e-mailing you shortly!

Again, thanks so much to Jen over at Simply Chic Design by Jen and Dorcas over at 4 Crafty Angels for allowing me to participate in these wonderful blog hops; and to you for making them so much fun!!

Don't forget to link your blog on 'My Inspiration' page!!! Thanks again!!! :)

Snowy Winter Blog Hop!!!!!!!! :)

2010-12-04T07:07:00.003-07:00

I'm so excited to be a part of this amazing hop. The Snowy Winter hop is being hosted by Dorcas over at 4 Crafty Angels. I hope you came over after visiting Norma at Pink Bling Crafter. She's amazing isn't she! I love her work. If you just came to my blog by chance make sure you start at the beginning with Dorcas at 4 Crafty Angels; we've got some great blog candy!!!!!! :)

On to my projects; yes, PROJECTS. Sorry, I couldn't pick just one (go figure)!! :) The first one is a card. This time of year my family and I start thinking about Christmas. One of my favorite stories is The Three Trees. It is a very sweet story and means a lot to me. With that story in mind I decided to make this card!

All of the paper is from my scrap pile so I'm not sure of the brands. I used the Christmas Solutions cart for the trees and they are cut at 3 1/2, 2 1/2 and 2. I used a marker to ink the branches and then used an ink pad to ink the outside edges. The white (of course) has some flock to look like snow.

My second project is a countdown calendar. I made it so that it can be used as a countdown as well as a regular calendar. My little ones love it!!!

The numbers are cut at 3 inches and the words are cut at 3/4 inches using the Old West cartridge. The months and numbers are just paper that I mod podged on. I love it (and it helps my little ones with numbers)!! :)

Now onto blog candy. I couldn't get a good picture of my candy, sooooo . . . we're just going to keep it a surprise!!! All you have to do is comment on this post. That's it!!! If you love my work and I can help inspire you then I'd love to have you become a ~~follower~~ friend; but it's NOT required!!! US residents only, I hope you understand!!

Now that you've seen my projects hop on over to Blanca @ Sweet Scrapping With HoneyB, she's got an amazing creation!!!!!

Here's the lineup for the amazing ladies that are hoping along (in case you get lost):

Dorcas @ 4 Crafty Angels
Georgina @ Carsons Cricut Creations
Ive @ All About Me & My Scrapbook
Momo @ Made by Momo
Court @ Court's Crafts
Ivette @ The Little Things
Jennifer @ Purple Scrapbooker
Molly @ Army Wife Learns the Cricut
Norma @ Pink Bling Crafter
ME!!
Blanca @ Sweet Scrapping With HoneyB
Cheryl @ Cards by CG
Cristi @ Scrappin 5 Little Cupcakes
Carri @ Double Click Connection AKA abusybee
Trish @ Techniques by Trish

Thanks again for stopping by!!! :)

Did You Hear?!

2010-12-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

**Click here or here for my posts for the Christmas blog hop**

EEEEK! I can't believe it!!!! I'm sure many of you know Kassidy with Inking it Up Crazy (if not you should go check out her work)!! Well, a few days ago she announced her Winter Design Team . . . AND I MADE IT!!!!! I couldn't believe it - I still can't believe it! I'm so honored to be a part of this amazing team!! Here is my first creation as a member of her design team.

The project is themed around Snowflakes. I've seen these around before, but I can't remember exactly where I saw this type of card. This card was so much fun to make! The picture on the left is what it looks like before you pull the ribbon, the one on the right is what it looks like when you pull it to open (times like this make me wish I had a video recorder - Hubby - are you reading this?) :) HAHA! Ok, so on to the directions.

You start with two pieces of cardstock at 4 1/4 x 5 1/2. To cut the partial window you put the paper at 3 1/2 and cut between 3/4 to 4 3/4. Flip the paper over and repeat the cut. After that cut in between the two lines (making the partial window).

On the flap score at 1 1/4, 3 and 4 3/4 all from the bottom and only between the cut lines. Here's what the backside looks like with the score marks.

Fold so that it creates a mountain.

Next, cut a tag out. The dimensions for the tag are 3 x 4 1/4. Line up the bottom of the flap to the bottom of the tag. Only glue the bottom part of the flap, otherwise you won't be able to move the tag. The tag is a little bit wider than the flap - that's fine! You can see the red edges of the tag in the picture below.

The next thing you'll do is to use your ATG gun to tape the front of the card to the back of the card. Just make sure that you don't glue too close to the tag. After that decorate however you would like. I just added a snowflake onto a blue piece of paper and used my ATG to tape it to the flap. Only tape part of it, remember it will fold up.

I also stamped 'Tis the Season' on the tag part using a stamp from Pink by Design Simply Everything stamp!! I love these stamps!! They are AMAZING!! They pick up the ink so well! I'm so impressed!!!

Thank you so much for stopping by! Make sure you check out the rest of the DT creations!!

Lisa @ My Lil' Bits

Jessie @ Scrappy Jess

Jamie @ JME Creations

Erika @ Cricut Love

Amanda @ My Scrappin Obsession!

Rebecca @ Creations With Becka

If you have any questions just leave a comment and I'll replay ASAP!! Thanks again for visiting! :)

Another Christmas Card for the Christmas Blog Hop

2010-12-02T10:00:00.001-07:00

First - I just want to say thank you to everyone for your sweet comments yesterday!!! I really wasn't look for reassurance, I was just . . . frustrated; it was hard to have it not turn out the way I wanted. All of you were so sweet with the comments - you truly made my day!!!!!!! Ok, since I was so frustrated with my last card I decided to make this one. I'm really happy with the way it turned out. Yes, it's the same background paper. Sorry, it just reminds me of a winter snow storm; not to mention I only have a few pieces of Christmas paper. :)

I used the Christmas Solutions cart for the Church and it was cut at 3 1/2. The border punch is an old Martha Stewart one I got YEARS ago. I stamped 'Dream' on it, I think I need one that says something about 'The Reason for the Season'; but I thought Dream would work OK. I used some flock for the snow (isn't it cute?)!!!

Well, I'm so glad you stopped by!!! I was invited to participate in a blog hop yesterday. I'd love it if you made sure you stopped by the rest of the AMAZING ladies that participated in the hop!! It was hosted by the wonderful and super talented Jen over at Simply Chic Design by Jen. Stop at her blog first (if you haven't already). Make sure you stop to see everyone else; here's the line-up:

Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen

Carol @ Carol's Sweet Creations

Momo @ Made by Momo

Nicole @ Canadian Nickel Scrap'n

Karey @ Creative Craft Corner

Karen @ The Busy Bug

Saundra @ Luv Scrapping Together

ME!!!!

Jeanine @ Scrappin With JC

Roma @ Roma's Cards

Norma @ Pink Bling Crafter
Court @ Court's Crafts

I also had blog candy for the hop; all you have to do is comment on yesterday's post (click here). Thanks again for stopping by!!! I really appreciate the support! Thanks friends!!!

Christmas Card Blog Hop!!!

2010-12-01T01:35:00.001-07:00

WELCOME!!!! I'm so glad you are here!! I hope you've been having a great time!! This wonderful hop is being hosted by Jen over at Simply Chic Design by Jen. If you came to my blog first - thank you - but make sure you start at the beginning with Jen!! So this hop is for Christmas! YEAH!!! I'm assuming you just came over after visiting Saundra at Luv Scrapping Together . Isn't she amazing?!!!

So here's my card. I'll be honest - I'm a little disappointed. It didn't turn out the way I saw it in my mind. I used the Christmas solutions (the one downloaded to the Gypsy). I tried it with the part on the inside of the sign and didn't like it (again - not quite what I though). I added a bit of bling to liven it up. I'm so sorry it's not the best card I've ever made; I actually have a cute one tomorrow.

I know it's not much to offer for candy, but I thought it might be nice for someone to have (even if you re-gift it . . . I won't tell). :)

All you need to do is leave a comment letting me know what your favorite part is of Christmas. Mine is the tree. :) We go up the mountains to go get a real tree. We enjoy doing it as a family (I think my kids just like playing in the snow)!! You do NOT have to become a follower! I'd love to have you as a ~~follower~~ friend if I can help inspire you! The only other thing is that is for US residents only - I'm so sorry, I hope you understand. I'll announce the winner on Monday, December 6. Please just leave one comment. :)

Here is the line-up just in case you get lost along the way:

Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen

Carol @ Carol's Sweet Creations

Momo @ Made by Momo

Nicole @ Canadian Nickel Scrap'n

Karey @ Creative Craft Corner

Karen @ The Busy Bug

Saundra @ Luv Scrapping Together

ME!!!!

Jeanine @ Scrappin With JC

Roma @ Roma's Cards

Norma @ Pink Bling Crafter
Court @ Court's Crafts

Thanks again for stopping by!! Make sure you head on over to see Jeanine @ Scrappin With JC! You'll be glad you did!

Fun Stuff!!!!!

2010-11-29T19:32:00.002-07:00

First I have to apologize for not posting or visiting any of my creative friends in a while. I have been extremely busy! Without boring you with details - let me just say that I am participating in two more blog hops and have finished around a hundred cards for my mom and sister. I am truly sorry that I haven't been able to stop by and comment on every one's blog!!!

Let me just tell you how excited I am!!! Jen over at Simply Chic Design by Jen asked if I would like to participate in her Christmas Blog Hop that she was hosting. Of course I said YES!!!!!!!!! (I think I may have answered her with that many exclamation points too!!) :) I am so honored that she would ask me to participate, she has such amazing talent; to be invited by her is such an honor!!! Here is a list of the amazing ladies I get to hop with:

Jen @ Simply Chic Design by Jen

Carol @ Carol's Sweet Creations

Momo @ Made by Momo

Nicole @ Canadian Nickel Scrap'n

Karey @ Creative Craft Corner

Karen @ The Busy Bug

Saundra @ Luv Scrapping Together

ME!!!!

Jeanine @ Scrappin With JC

Roma @ Roma's Cards

Norma @ Pink Bling Crafter
Court @ Court's Crafts

Can you believe it?!!! All of these amazing ladies in one blog hop!!!! So don't forget to check back early on December 1st for the Christmas Blog Hop!

So I am super excited about this one as well!!!!

Dorcas over at 4 Crafty Angels invited me to join her (along with some more amazing crafters) for her Snowy Winter Hop on December 4th! EEEEK! Again - I had to say YES!!!!!!!!! Who wouldn't want to create with this amazing group:

Can you believe it?! Two super fun hops so close together! I'm excited! I hope to see you at both! :)

I'm excited too - I found out that I won Emma's (My Creative Time) Gypsy Magic and More DVD from Paula at More Than Favors! I'm so excited!!!!!! :) Thanks again Paula!!! :)

Sylish Blog Award

2010-11-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

I just found out that I was given this award from Minta over at Minta's Creations! I am so honored!!!! Thank you so very much!!!!

I did list 8 things about me two posts down, but I can list even more if you'd really like (I'm sure I probably shared too much info already - I mean who really wanted to know that I sing all the time, but still get stage fright?!)!

I'm still trying to narrow it down to 8 blogs; I'll post with those as soon as I know who to give it to! :)

Thanks again for this amazing award!!!!!!! :)

An Amazing Giveaway

2010-11-23T00:09:00.000-07:00

It's not mine, but belongs to Kimberly over at My Craft Spot!!

You will love the video she has posted!!!!!! Please hop over for a chance at the Giveaway!!! :)

Feel the LOVE!!!!!!

2010-11-22T23:01:00.001-07:00

OH MY WORD!!!!!! I am completely humbled!!! I don't even know what to say . . . well, I do, but I'm almost speechless!!!! :)

I would like to thank (ok, this feels like I just won an Emmy or something **yes, I'm LOL**)

Jean at Jean's Crafty Corner

Rebecca at Buzzy Bee Designs

Pam at Simply Pam

Jen at Simply Chic Designs by Jen

Jamie at JME Creations

Each one of these amazing ladies awarded me the Stylish Blogger Award! I am so honored and shocked!!! They all have very stylish blogs, they always inspire me!

In order for me to accept this award I am supposed to do the following:

Thank and Link back to the person that gave the award
Share 8 things about yourself
Pay it forward to 8 bloggers that you have recently discovered
Contact those bloggers and tell them about their award

So 8 things about Celeste (ME!):

I LOVE hunting, ATV-ing and doing just about anything outdoors!
I chop and haul wood every day during the winter to keep my house warm (it's less expensive than the gas and a lot more fun); believe it or not - I LOVE doing it!!!!!
I have a hard time telling someone 'no' when they ask for help - a strength yet a big weakness!!!
I am the oldest of 8 children and the oldest of 80+ Grandkids and I have two of my own (you should see our family reunions)!!
I love making photo videos (like you see at weddings), I make one every year for both sides of the family for Christmas.
My favorite treats are the candy cane hugs, I buy a few extra because their only around during Christmas (yes, there are some in my cupboard . . . and I hide them or my little boy climbs on the table to steal them)!
I love making salsa and homemade chips!!! It's my favorite snack and it's one of few things that can actually make in the kitchen (I'm not a good cook)!!!
I always have to have some background noise, usually music; and you will usually hear me singing to it at any time - just don't ask me to sing in front of people (I get terrible stage fright)!!!!!!

I am trying to narrow down the 8 people I would like to send this award to; it's really hard (plus I want to make sure they haven't received it yet). I hope you don't mind, but I'll post the 8 blogs as soon as I figure out who they are! :)

Thanks again ladies!!! I'm so honored!!! You have no idea how much each of you inspire me; thank you for sharing your amazing talents!!!!! :)

My Thanksgiving Blessings Blog Hop Winner!!!

2010-11-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

I want to let all of you know I appreciate the sweet comments and a big hug and welcome to my new ~~followers~~ friends!!! I'm so honored and happy that you found/find something fun to make!!!!!

On to the winner . . . the winner of the Thanksgiving Blessings Blog Hop is . . .

Karelj said...: What great projects! I especially like the colors you chose for your grateful card. I love your blog and I'm now a follower. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.

Karel - I just sent you an e-mail.

You should really check out Karel's blog (here)! She's so creative!!!! :)

Thanks again for all of the sweet comments!!! A big thanks to Kassidy at Inking it Up Crazy for letting me participate in this hop! Kassidy - you are truly a blessing to me!!!! Thank you!!!! One more big thanks to all of the wonderful ladies that participated in the hop with me!! You are all inspirations to me!! Thank you!!!!

Thanks again to all of my ~~followers~~ friends!!!! You're sweet comments always make my day!!! I hope you all have a great day! :)

My Thanksgiving Blessings Blog Hop

2010-11-20T08:00:00.016-07:00

WELCOME!!!! I'm so glad you're here with me for My Thanksgiving Blessings Blog Hop hosted by the talented Kassidy from Inking It Up Crazy!

I'm sure you came here after visiting Jenny at Crazy About Cricut (isn't she AMAZING?!), if not - make sure you start at the very beginning with Kassidy at Inking It Up Crazy!! Make sure you stop by all of the blogs for inspiration and BLOG CANDY!!! :) Here's the line-up (I know - can you believe I get to do a blog hop with all of these AMAZING crafters?!!!!)

Kassidy @ Inking it Up Crazy

Theresa @ Juicy Creation 808 By Theresa

Jenny @ Crazy About Cricut

Celeste @ CC's Cards and Crafts (YOU ARE HERE!!!!)

Raven @ Love 4 Stamps

Rebecca @ Creations With Becka

Debbie @ DD's Crafts

Elisha @ Stamping with Sweet "E"
Sherri @ Sherri's Crafty Place

Susan @ Its Me Susan P

Sandra @ 365 Days of Cricut

Kathy @ Kathy and Kids

The theme is My Thanksgiving Blessings, each one of the amazing ladies in the hop has created a project centered around the blessings they have had this past year. With that intro I'll explain a little about my projects; since we've been super blessed this year I was only able to narrow all of my ideas down to these two. The first is a photo block, in order to explain this one I'll have to give a little bit of our history. My DH lost his job almost 2 years ago - don't worry, he was able to find a new one . . . we just had to move to a different state. The company I worked for allowed me to work from home for a little bit, but eventually they let me go as well. During the last two years we've really come to realize that our family comes first. We always knew that our children came first; we just started giving of ourselves and our time to our children instead of gifts. So to celebrate everything we have, I have decided to make a photo block each year (I think it might be fun to go back and do this with some older pictures). It just has the highlights from this year - our little girl going into kindergarten and our little boy fishing. The other sides have my little girl playing at the park and my little boy shooting a BB gun with my DH. I put the year '2010' on the top and all of our names on the bottom. I didn't show the faces of my little ones just to be safe (and yes, her hair curls in ringlets naturally . . . it's OK, a lot of people are jealous!!)!!

This is my second project. After we moved I was able to meet some of the most amazing people that live in my little town. There are many of them that will do and give everything they have to help someone. I made this card was made for one of my friends that lives near me! She is such a kind and giving person and I just wanted to let her know how grateful I am for her!

This card was made using Gypsy Wanderings. I cut out the tag out once using the brown cardstock and once with the colored cardstock and the shadow for the phrase 'Grateful'. I cut 'Grateful' out and colored the leaf (and added a little non-brand Stickles for bling). For the card holder I just took a 12 x 5 1/2 inch piece of paper, folded it into thirds. I cut the two sides down at an angle and used a punch to add a little bit to it. The flower was given to me, I think it's an SEI flower, but I can't remember for sure (sorry)!! :)

Moving on to the blog candy (because everyone loves a little candy)! All you have to do is leave a comment. That's all!!! If you like my style, I'd love to have you as a follower; but it is NOT required! :) You have until 8:00am Monday Nov. 22 to leave a comment, the winner will be posted that afternoon. One comment per person, and US residents only (I hope you understand). Now I know it's not much, but here's the candy:

You're next stop is Raven over at Love 4 Stamps!!! You'll love it, she is so amazing!!!! I love her style (I'm sure you will too)!!! I just want to give a big Thanks to Kassidy for letting me join in her blog hop! I am truly blessed with so many things (it would take FOREVER to name them all), and I hope that your lives will be blessed all year long! Thanks again for stopping by and don't forget to go and visit Raven at Love 4 Stamps (tell her I say 'hi')!! :)

My Thanksgiving Blessing Blog Hop - coming soon!

2010-11-18T08:14:00.029-07:00

I'm so excited!!! I have been invited to participate in very fun blog hop!!!

The hop is hosted by the wonderful and talented Kassidy at Inking it Up Crazy! I'm so excited to participate!! Here's the line-up of all of the ladies that I get to participate with:

Kassidy @ Inking it Up Crazy

Theresa @ Juicy Creation 808 By Theresa

Jenny @ Crazy About Cricut

ME!!!!

Raven @ Love 4 Stamps

Rebecca @ Creations With Becka

Debbie @ DD's Crafts

Elisha @ Stamping with Sweet "E"

Sherri @ Sherri's Crafty Place

Susan @ Its Me Susan P

Sandra @ 365 Days of Cricut

Kathy @ Kathy and Kids

I can't tell you enough times . . . I'M SO EXCITED!!! I hope you can join me! (Don't forget there will be something that starts with a Blog and ends with Candy. HAHAHA)! :) I hope to see you there!! :)

A Few More Birthday Cards

2010-11-17T22:33:00.040-07:00

Those that know a little about me or have hopped with me know that my little ones have a lot to do with my cards. I am first and formost a Mommy! Well, the following three cards are very simple (VERY, VERY SIMPLE). I must appologize for the . . . interesting color schemes. These cards were made for my family and so it means the world to my children to pick the colors and design the cards.

This one is for my youngest brother. My little boy designed it and wouldn't let me put anything else on it. Made using Create A Critter.

This one was made for one of my Aunts. She's very special to me, and has a very special place in the heart of my daughter. So of course my little girl designed this one. She let me add a little bling to it, but not much else. This little lady is from Walk in My Garden.

This one is for my Niece. She lives in Canada so we don't get to see her very much, but she happened to be down for a little over a week. She loves the Twilight series (which is the reason for the Apple), and the butterfly is because my little girl wanted it on there. Again, my children picked the paper. Well, what do you do?! :) Both are from Create A Critter.

Thanks so much for stopping by!! I'm so glad you did, and I hope it put a smile on your face!!! :)

Happy Birthday

2010-11-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

Within the first two weeks of this month I've had 5 Birthdays and 1 Anniversary. To add to that I had a neighbor ask for 12 Thank You cards for some people that work for her husband. I was able to get the Birthday and Anniversary cards done (pictures will come) and I'm working on the Thank You cards. To top it all off, my little sister is leaving on an LDS mission. She's going to be serving in Argentina and is leaving today. So Sunday was a very big day for my family; by tradition we have all of the family gather along with very special friends. We were fortunate enough to have a lot of people help with food for the gathering of friends and family on Sunday, when you come from a family as big as mine (my mom is the oldest of 15 children and that makes me the oldest of 80+ Grandkids). To help my mom out I told her I would make a bunch of Thank You cards for her to give to family and friends that brought food, and more for my sister to Thank people for coming and supporting her. So until I get the rest of the card posted I'll show you one that my little girl helped with! This is for my Mother-in-law's Birthday. Enjoy!!!

Thanks so much for stopping by (I'm so glad you did)! Have a wonderful day!!! :)

Attitude Blog Award

2010-11-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

AWWW, Thanks ladies!!! I feel so honored!!!!!

I've received the 'Attitude Blog' award from Cheryl at Cards by CG and Celeste at Touched by a Butterfly.

(From what I can tell, both thumbnails go for the same award even with different names)

To accept this award I need to say three things that make me different from everyone else and then I have to pass it on to five other blogs. After that I'll display the award (on my blog award page) and I can receive a $5 gift certificate from Digi's With Attitude (click here for details).

So here you go:

3 thing that make me different:
1. I tell it like it is - I hate beating around the bush (it's a blessing and a curse)
2. I love when I get to dress up and look pretty, but love going hunting and camping, and playing in the mud with my ATV!!!!!
3. Only a very small portion of my creations actually turn out the way that I originally thought they would (even less make it to my blog).

5 people I want to award this to (in no particular order):
1. Lisa at Lisa's Scrap'n
2. Jen at The Purple Scrapbooker
3. Ana Maria at Teach U 14
4. Adrian at By Adrian 4 U
5. Diane at Scraps by Ownhomedog

These are a few of the blogs that I absolutely love! All of these ladies are so amazing - they will inspire you with their creations! Thanks for sharing your amazing talents ladies!!!! I'm a big fan! :)

PS - (Rhonda - I wanted to pass it onto you, but I noticed you had already received it from Carri - ABusyBee). :)

Tunnel Card How To - long and lots of pics!

2010-11-10T17:20:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure if that's what they are called; I just had someone call it that - so we'll roll with it. :) Now I did this using my Gypsy, but I'm sure there's a way to do it without a Gypsy - it may just take some practice. The square used is from Platin Schoolbook and the phrase, phrase shadow and tree are all from the Gypsy download, Christmas. I will apologize to all of you - I tried to take pics of each step, but I have a bad habit of never planning and just rolling with it so you'll see I added a ribbon and one more cut after everything.

**You can click on the pictures to see them close up**

First figure out how big you want your card. I make all of mine so they fit into an A2 envelope (4 1/4 x 5 1/2). So all you do is grab a rectangle to fit on the inside of the card, mine is 5 x 8 1/2. In order for me to make things a little easier I centered it over the 6 inch line.

You can use any image in the middle as long as the width is less than the width of the final card (does that make sense?) Simple terms - for my card the image couldnt' be wider than 4 1/4. To be on the safe side I keep it even smaller than that. :)

I also cut a smaller tree (to hang in the middle) as well as a phrase and phrase shadow.

Cut the images out (don't throw away the middle of the image - we'll use it for the front of the card) :)

Next step is to take whatever background paper you want for the base of your card. Cut it to the size of the card. Double sided cardstock would work really well, but if you don't have any (like me) you can cover the front and it will look just fine. :) Fold the card so that the background paper is inside, not out like it normally is.

Now you will take the paper that has the image cut out and fold it into quarters. The easiest way to do this is to fold the cardstock/paper in half so that the pattern to it is up, then fold the outside edges in.

Next, glue down the outer rectangle parts only. It's easiest to put the glue on one side, place it, and then put down the opposite side. Just make sure your card will lay flat (I've messed up on this part before). :)

Next (tired yet?) - take the smaller cut (mine was a smaller tree) and tape or glue a ribbon to the back of it. Attach the other part of the ribbon to the top of the fold. (super simple) :)

I just made a matching rectangle for the front of the card and sides to the inside (sorry, I forgot to take pics of the inside rectangles and decided to add a ribbon).

I placed extra paper on the outside of the card along with the above rectangle, a ribbon, the phrase and the leftover Christmas tree part (the shadow that was cut out for the inside). I ended up using an extra cut I had lying around of this same tree in green (since I didn't like just the red) - I hope it doesn't confuse anyone!!!

PS - don't look at the edges of my white cloth in the picture - I didn't notice it until now.

It's not the exact same as the leaf card, but the same concept. I hope this helped!!! Let me know if you have any questions about it! Thanks so much for stopping by!!! I'm so glad you did! :)

Three Things - real quick!

2010-11-10T08:34:00.002-07:00

First - THANK YOU!!!!!

To all of my new ~~followers~~ friends!! Thanks so much for joining me!!! I truly hope you had as much fun as I did!!!!! I loved all of the comments! All of you are truly amazing!!! Thank you!!!

Second - YEAH!!!!! ANOTHER BLOG HOP!!!!!!!

I am so honored!! Kassidy over at Inking it up Crazy has invited me to be part of the Thanksgiving Blessings Blog Hop!!! I'm so excited!!! As it gets closer, you'll hear more about it!

Third - Step by step on it's way!!

I had a lot of requests for a step by step on how to do the leaf card (click here to see it) that I made. I took the pics and everything I'll get it up in a little bit - Thanks for being so patient!!! :)

Winner of the Fabulous Fall Blog Hop!!!

2010-11-09T09:19:00.000-07:00

WOW!!! Three hops in a very short amount of time! (I'm exhausted - how about you?!) :) With the three days for the Fabulous Fall Blog Hop there were a total of 206 comments! Using Random.org the winner of the candy is . . . . .

# 157 is Khristen!!!!

Khristen said...What a great idea, to customize the tree for each month. Great project, thanks for sharing! You should go check out her blog (click here), she's so creative!!!!!!

I also wanted to thank everyone for all of your amazing comments. I really do read all of them!!!!! They make me smile! :) Thanks so much!

Big thanks also for all of my new followers!!! It wasn't a requirement, and yet you decided to follow anyways! Thanks so much!!!!

Hopefully later today I'll be able to get the step by step picture directions for the leaf card!! Thanks so much for being interested! :) Have a wonderful crafting day!! :)

Big Thanks to Cheryl for hosting this hop as well as Jen, Georgiana, Star and Yvette!! I really enjoyed doing this hop, and feel so honored to participate with such AMAZING crafters!! Thanks so much ladies!!! :)

Winner of the Dia de los Muertos Blog Hop!

2010-11-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

Yeah for the winner!!! Are you ready? The winner for the Dia de los Muertos Blog Hop is . . .

#64 is -

Charlotte said...: You are so right. We should learn more about other cultures and celebrations. It will make us better people.; November 1, 2010 4:35 PM

Congrats Charlotte!!! I just sent you an e-mail to get your address. Congrats!!!!!

Fabulous Fall Blog Hop - Day 3 (Last Day)

2010-11-07T01:00:00.005-07:00

Oh, so sad!!!! This has been fun! I love the Fall and this blog hop was indeed FABULOUS!!! :) If you came here first make sure you start at the beginning with Cheryl at Cards by CG. :)

So for the last day of the blog hop I wanted to make something that reminds me of blessed I am (especially with Thanksgiving just around the corner). I decided to make a Thankful Tree. This tree will actually be hanging on our fridge year round. This month we'll write our blessings (one a day) on the leaves, next month we'll cut out some Christmas ornaments, January will do snowflakes and so on.

The background paper is from the DCWV Recyled pack (again - I know, I just love it) :) The tree is cut from Paper Doll Dress Up. My Mother-in-Law gave me the leaves a while ago (she said she'd never use them), so I decided to use these instead of cutting more out (although I could have used the Gypsy Wanderings to get the same type of leaf).

Thank you so much for stopping by and for your sweet comments (and yes, I read EVERY SINGLE ONE)!!! Don't forget about the blog candy I'm offering (click here for more info) as well as the blog candy from our wonderful sponsors (click here for that specific post on Cheryl's blog).

I hope you've enjoyed this blog hop as much as I have!!! Here is a list of all of the creative ladies that have joined in the blog hop (just in case you haven't seen their projects)! :)

Cheryl @ Cards by CG

Jen @ Purple Scrapbooker

Georgiana@ Carson's Cricut Creations

Star @ Stars Paper Passion

Yvette @ The Little Things

Celeste @ C.C.'s Cards and Crafts (YOU ARE HERE)

Thanks again for stopping by! I'm so glad you did!!! Have a Fabulous Fall!!!! :)

Fabulous Fall Blog Hop - Day 2

2010-11-06T02:05:00.001-06:00

Welcome to Day 2 of the Fabulous Fall Blog Hop!!! I hope you're having fun!! I'm guessing you just came over after visiting Yvette at The Little Things. Remember - if you came here first make sure you start at the beginning with Cheryl at Cards by CG. :)

For those that know a little about my style you'll know that my little ones often 'help' with my creations; I am first and foremost a Mommy!! Well, the post today may seem a little cheesy so I hope you don't mind!!!

This coming up week we will be visiting my Parents and my siblings (my dear sister is leaving for an LDS mission), so she will be gone for two years. Since we are not able to visit my family as often as we'd like, we try to bring cute little homemade gifts from my little ones to give to the family. It may be as simple as a card or a picture; but with Thanksgiving coming up we wanted to make something a little different. So here's what we made. :)

ROCK TURKEYS!!!!!!

My little ones had a blast making these fun little guys! We went for a walk and found some rocks that were a little bit bigger than the palm of their hands and a smaller one as a head. I traced their hands onto white cardstock and let them color them. I cut them after they were colored because I knew that there was no way my youngest would be able to just color the paper (my whole table would have been blue). :) They didn't want me to paint the rocks (like I had originally wanted); instead they wanted to color them with crayons. We did use a sharpie for the eyes; my little girl is old enough that she colored the eyes and mouth on hers (the turkey on the right). I just hot glued the rocks together as well as hot glued the 'feathers' to the 'body'.

Like I said, a super cheesy post!!! Nothing fancy, just a fun activity to do with any child. :) I'd love to hear about fun craft activities you've done with a child in your life!

Thank you so much for stopping by!!! Don't forget about the blog candy I'm offering (click here for more info) as well as the blog candy from our wonderful sponsors (click here for that specific post on Cheryl's blog).

Now that you've gone through all of the blogs in the hop - make sure you start again with Cheryl at Cards by CG tomorrow morning for the last day of our Fabulous Fall Blog Hop!!!!

Just in case you need it - here is a list of all of the AMAZING ladies that are participating in the hop:

Cheryl @ Cards by CG

Jen @ Purple Scrapbooker

Georgiana@ Carson's Cricut Creations

Star @ Stars Paper Passion

Yvette @ The Little Things

Celeste @ C.C.'s Cards and Crafts (YOU ARE HERE)

Thanks again for stopping by! I'm so glad you did!!! I hope you've had fun, and don't forget to stop by again tomorrow!! :)