Vanilla Bean Creations

Are you a HARD CORE crafter?

2012-02-08T15:29:00.000-06:00

Are you Hard Core?

Do you love tearing, sanding and ripping Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock EVERY chance you get???

Than we are looking for YOU!

We have been working behind the scenes creating a super cool program that is designed to give our Hard Core Crafters exclusive benefits.

Want to know more? Than keep reading.....

By signing up to be a Hard Core Crafter, you will be automatically entered to win fabulous PRIZES, view NEW product releases and watch EXCLUSIVE videos with unique product tips and technique ideas. All of this was designed just for you, our Hard Core Crafters!

Our designers have created fabulous videos that will inspire you at the click of your mouse.

Ready to sign up? It's EASY and IT IS FREE! . CLICK HERE to sign up.

And the more people that sign up, the more we giveaway so tell your friends!

AND you can start watching the EXCLUSIVE videos immediately!

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2012-01-27T06:40:00.000-06:00

Well, yesterday I got my baby fix. A co-worker on mat-leave came in to visit with her four month old daughter. Soooo cute! I had so much fun holding that darling baby. And then she did her business and I gave her back. lol. Here is a double layout I made for them as a baby gift (my co-worker is also a scrapbooker).

I'd like to enter this layout into the challenge at Fantabulous Cricut.

Have a great weekend!

gluten-free recipe share

2012-01-19T16:47:00.000-06:00

I am new to gluten-free cooking and thought I would share some recipes that I made this week. These are family-sized or good for batch-cooking a few meals for the freezer. I taste-tested all three before feezing and they all turned out great. I am not a food artist, but do have a couple of pictures to share as well. Enjoy!

GF Turkey-Pumpkin Chili

olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

4 cloves garlic, squished
2 lbs. ground turkey

In a large pot, sautee all ingredients until ground turkey is slightly browned and veggies are soft. Add:

1 796ml can diced tomatoes, with juice

1 398ml can pumpkin puree
2 398ml cans beans, drained and rinsed
(I like to use 1 can kidney beans + 1 can chickpeas or mixed beans)
1 cup water
2 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. cinnamon

Stir well. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes.

GF Mini Turkey Meatloaves

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped

1 medium carrot, scrubbed and grated

1/2 cup cornmeal

1/2 cup milk

2 eggs

2 lbs. ground turkey

hot sauce to taste

Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Place mixture into wells of mini-loaf pans or muffin pans that have been sprayed with a non-stick cooking spray. If you want to get fancy, you can baste tops with gluten-free ketchup or bbq sauce. Bake 20-25 minutes until done. Makes approx. 1.5 doz. mini-loaves.

GF Hamburger Soup

(no photo)

1.5 lbs. lean ground beef

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, squished

Brown meat, onions and garlic. Drain well. Transfer to a large pot with the following:

4 carrots, finely chopped
4 celery stalks, finely chopped
1/4 cup quinoa

1 798ml can diced tomatoes, with juice

1 156ml can tomato paste

2 litres gluten-free beef broth

2 bay leaves

1 tbsp. parsley

1/2 tsp. thyme

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

extra water or broth, if desired

Simmer on low 1-2 hours. Enjoy!

My CORE faves of 2011

2012-01-10T15:47:00.000-06:00

My top five layouts:

Texture. Fall colours. Tim Holtz Kraft core. Need I say more?

The darks collection. Love these colours.

Teresa Collins. Love all her stuff...and my little 'Harry Potter' too!

Graphic 45. One of my all time faves.

Tim Holtz essentials. Love the sanding over a TH mask.

My top five cards:

Cosmo Cricket. Adorable.

Jenni Bowlin. Love.

Jillibean Soup. Cute. Cute. Cute.

Vintage core. What a hoot!

Pearls. You can't go wrong with this gorgeous shimmery cardstock.

My top five altered items:

Graphic 45 again. I adore everything about this frame.

Tim Holtz. Lovin' the shabby-chic.

Core essentials. Perfectly spooky.

Core essentials. Sew artsy.

Core essentials. Perfect in every way.

I {LOVE} TO READ

2012-01-06T19:02:00.000-06:00

Well, it's the new year....hmmmm....I guess I should update my blog. Btw, happy new year!! Hope you have had a lovely holiday. We are back to school/work on Monday so we are trying to cram as much as possible into these last few days. Not that things have exactly been 'calm' the last two weeks. Oh no, there has been much feasting and celebrating, getting together and going out, late mornings and even later nights.

Anyway...rather than list off a bunch of new years resolutions for my first blog post of the new year, I thought that I would share about just one of the things that I cherish every year; and that is my book club. We are rather a small bunch of gals; and really not overly literary; but our monthly get-togethers are wonderful none-the-less. I so appreciate our heart-to-hearts, laughter, and being stretched out of my comfort zone (both with choice of books and conversation topics. lol.). The reason why I really go, though, is for the snacks and drinks. **Just kidding** I do love to read, and love the discussion as well.

In fact...here's a personal little story on how our book club got started. A few years back a bunch of us were in the educational assistant diploma program at university together. We had all come from varying careers or were stay-at-home moms, but were all thirty-something mothers trying to get into a new career. As we were all mothers of young children, that meant not so much reading time for ourselves but much time spent reading to our little ones stories like Goodnight Moon, Robert Munsch, Dr.Seuss, Magic Treehouse. At one time or another during those months, we all expressed our love for reading and our frustration with how the time to read 'grown-up books' had fallen by the wayside during those early mothering years. Now, friends may come and go from your life. You can have the best intentions to keep in touch with someone but still fail miserably when the busyness of life gets in the way. We were determined to keep our friendships going, so decided to start a book club. We meet every 4-6 weeks; discuss the books we have read (we take turns choosing), our various jobs as EA's, and life in general. Of course, we have some yummy snacks and drinks too!!! :)

Girls from my book club {you know who you are} these projects are for you!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-26T06:54:00.000-06:00

From me to you...Merry Christmas!

I hope your holiday is great

and your year is full of paper and creativity!!

Core'dinations: May Favourite Things - Part Two!

2011-12-23T11:06:00.000-06:00

from the Core'dinations blog:

From now until Christmas Eve Core'dinations cardstock is showcasing our Design Team’s Favorite cardstock. Each designer picked a few of their favorite lines and created some gorgeous projects for you showcasing why they love it so much.

Then, on that day, just by commenting on that post, you have the chance to win! AND some days we might be showcasing more than one line …so you need to come back often.
Here is how it works:

1.) We post every day. The following day we pick a winner and then start over so keep coming back!

2.) You have all day and night to post. Yes, you heard me! You can win up until the next day when I pick a winner when I get up. We want our international fans to be able to win and they are normally sleeping now.

3.) Want additional chances to win? Comment on Facebook and share the excitement on your blogs! If you share on your blog, come back here and link us up. Remember, you can do it every day for more chances to win!

WE LOVE our FACEBOOK FANS! And we do LOADS of giveaways over there, too. Make sure you like us to be able to win.

4.) Please note: we will not be shipping to winners until the January due to the Holidays.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today is all about TAGS TAGS TAGS TAGS!

I have been so stoked this past year for Core'dinations partnership with Tim Holtz. Two of my absolute favourites! Did you know that we have an Adirondack and a Distress line that match the Tim Holtz/Ranger inks, alcohol inks and paint dabbers? And if you have not yet played with the Tim Holtz Kraft-Core line, you must get your hands on some. Love!!! Today I am featuring four holiday tags from the Distress collection.

Tag #1: Bingo card

Supplies: Tim Holtz distress Core'dinations, Core tag, May arts ribbon, Tim Holtz mini bingo embossing folder, Tim Holtz game piece, Quickutz sentiment and gingerbread people, Glossy Accents, Pop-dots

Tag #2: Christmas trees

Supplies: Tim Holtz distress and Essentials Core'dinations, Core tag, May arts ribbon, Hemp cord, Queen&Co. Rox, Paper crimper, Tim Holtz christmas muse token, Pop-dots

Tag #3: Pointsetta

Supplies: Tim Holtz distress and Essentials Core'dinations, Core tag, May arts ribbon, Cricut Wrap-it-up, Tim Holtz ticket stamp, Ranger ink, Glossy Accents, Tim Holtz christmas muse token, brads, Sizzix starry night embossing folder, Tim Holtz memo pin

Tag #4: Lamp post

Supplies: Tim Holtz distress and Whiewash Core'dinations, Core tag, May arts ribbon, Cuttlebug snowflakes embossing folder, Stickles, Distress Stickles, Craft plastic, Tim Holtz lamp post stamp, StazOn ink, Pop-dots

Core'dinations: My Favourite Things

2011-12-18T11:20:00.000-06:00

from the Core'dinations blog:

From now until Christmas Eve Core'dinations cardstock is showcasing our Design Team’s Favorite cardstock. Each designer picked a few of their favorite lines and created some gorgeous projects for you showcasing why they love it so much.

Then, on that day, just by commenting on that post, you have the chance to win! AND some days we might be showcasing more than one line … like today!

Here is how it works:

1.) We post every day. The following day we pick a winner and then start over so keep coming back! (Except for this weekend)

2.) You have all day and night to post. Yes, you heard me! You can win up until the next day when I pick a winner when I get up. We want our international fans to be able to win and they are normally sleeping now.

3.) Want additional chances to win? Comment on Facebook and share the excitement on your blogs! If you share on your blog, come back here and link us up. Remember, you can do it every day for more chances to win!

WE LOVE our FACEBOOK FANS! And we do LOADS of giveaways over there, too. Make sure you like us to be able to win.

4.) Please note: we will not be shipping to winners until the January due to the Holidays. And winners from this weekend will be posted Monday Morning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So….ready for some inspiration and give-a-ways???? We have TWO for you again today!

Today is all about our Core Impressions Jenni Bowlin Everyday Collection AND Black Magic.

These two lines are so perfect for any paper crafter. Having some Core Impressions and Black Magic is an essential in your stash.

Let’s start with Design Team Member Char Dobson’s layout. This piece of Whitewash in the classic Country Store design is one of my faves, too! Love how Char sanded it and then inked it. Remember! Use your Dust Buddy after sanding, it will clean up the dust and keep your ink pad clean.

Char also added bits and pieces of the other cardstock in this collection, too. We all {heart} buttons, don’t we??? And that cute little August subtitle above the banner is from the mini pads of the JBS collection.

Next up is some Black Magic. There is something magical about this cardstock, for sure! You gotta love the outlining technique that Char uses on this cardstock. Also that antiquing....wow!

Char has also made a holiday card to share today. You gotta love how the text really pops when the Black Magic cardstock is dry embossed and sanded.

Guest Posting for Passionately Artistic

2011-12-14T15:12:00.000-06:00

Wonderful news! I am the guest blogger today over at Passionately Artistic! This amazing blog is full of crafty ideas and fun. Pop on over to see the in-depth card tutorial I made for today's post. Be sure to share with us your own holiday creations through the linking party there as well. Here's a little preview of the finished product:

Let it snow!

2011-12-07T07:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the Core'dinations-Basic Grey blog swap!

I hope you have been having a fun week so far.

How could you not when two fabulous companies team up

to bring you a little holday inspiration?

And speaking of the holidays...

I have some treats for you today!

A little gift wrapping:

I had to make a card of course,

an easy peasy design

thanks to fabulous papers that did all the work for me!

Then I couldn't stop, and decorated a gift bag as well.

That adorable tag comes 'as is' from the Nordic Holiday collection.

How cute and simple is that?

Next I made a layout:

It was a cinch to add some embellies to this,

thanks to dimensional stickers, journaling tags and fabric circles.

Just had to share a close-up of my daughter's reaction to opening this gift.

Priceless!

I used the Core'dinations-Basic Grey Whimsy collection for both of these.

A very yummy and versatile collection. Love it!

Next, however, I really wanted to use some of the pinks

that came in the Nordic Holiday pack,

paired up with Core'dinations-Basic Grey Ornate collection.

And...SHOCK...GASP...

I made a layout of myself. Bookmark this now, people,

as it may be a while before it happens again.

Here it is:

A few close-ups too.

Aren't these sticker snowmen the cuteset?

I added some Glossy Accents to really make them pop.

The snowflakes....yep; they're buttons.

A bulk pack I found in the Christmas decoration aisle at Michaels.

Add a little Stickles, and voila!

Perfect snowflakes. With dimension. :)

I live in Canada, so I certainly know all about cold winter weather.

This year is no different, other than maybe a lack of snow,

or maybe I should say a lack of A LOT of snow.

Especially considering today is December 7th.

So I leave you today with these three little words

" Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!"

Hello Winter...

2011-11-30T06:30:00.001-06:00

...Goodbye Autumn.

Oh how I will miss

your lovely colours,

festive foods

and leisurely walks

that do not include wipeouts every few feet

due to ice and snow.

If you have not yet had a chance to try the new

Tim Holtz Kraft-Core Cardstock from Core'dinations

follow this link for your chance to win!

(Contest ends 12/06/2011)

Layout supplies: Core'dinations-Tim Holtz Kraft-Core cardstock, Core'dinations tag, Dollar Store cork hearts, Jenni Bowlin buttons, Tim Holtz memo pin, Scrabble game pieces, Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type alpha stickers, Embroidery floss, Fiskars paper crimper, EK Success Binding edger punch, Crop-a-Dile

A 'bee-utiful' birthday gift with Core'dinations and Pink Paislee

2011-11-14T19:08:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone, how was your long weekend? Great I hope! I was able to get away for the weekend to do some holiday shopping with my mom and my sister. Nothing can make a long weekend more fun than having a little girl time...and shopping...and maybe some wine and chocolate too! (haha) I was so tired when I got home yesterday that I crashed about 8:30pm. Very attractive, I know. I have good excuses though - mainly being that this weekend was a lot of walking for my still recovering foot (which did tire me out), I never sleep well the first night in a hotel (weird noises, not my own bed, etc.) and I also had a full day of work to go back to today. Ok. ok. I'll admit it - maybe I'm just getting older and the days of staying up late are over. That and I'm a morning person. :)

Anyways....Coredinations is doing a blog swap with Pink Paislee this week!!! If you have not yet seen this new Core line...do check it out. The colours and patterns are to die for. Be sure to stop by both blogs everyday for some awesome crafty inspiration and a chance to win great prizes. Here is the project I made for the swap:

Thanks for stopping by

have a bee-utiful day!

Graphic 45 & Core'dinations: Vive la France!!

2011-11-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

Bon Weekend!

What a better way to kick off the start of the weekend,

than with a little french inspiration

courtesy of Core'dinations, Graphic 45 'et moi'!

This was a cheap wood frame from Michaels. I used black paint for the edges and then covered it with Graphic 45 Core Impressions. I then used the Graphic 45 Signature Series and the Cricut Flower Shoppe cartridge to make the flowers. The kraft centers are from the Graphic 45 Staples line. After assembling the flowers I sprayed them with Maya Mist for a little sparkle. That fabulous doorknob is also a Graphic 45 Staple and the eiffel tower frame interior is from the Graphic 45 Curtain Call line. The glitter chipboard is Recollections. I used the same supplies to create a mini album as well. Click on any image for a close-up.

Other supplies include: Graphic 45 Envelope album, Envelope tags, Curtain Call patterned papers, cut-outs and stickers; Glue Glider Pro, Helmar Liquid Scrapdots, Tim Holtz doorknob, Tim Holtz filmstrip ribbon, Tim Holtz metal flower leaves, jewels, feathers, black lace, cotton lace, pop dots

Make sure to stop by both the Core'dinations blog and Graphic 45 blog

for your chance to win some amazing prizes!!

A bientot!

A weekend of Halloween inspiration! ~Day 4~ HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

2011-10-31T12:00:00.002-05:00

I thought a perfect way to end our little

Halloween inspiration weekend would be to share a layout.

I love carving pumpkins with my kiddos every year,

and capturing those memories is just as important to me

as the pictures of them in their costumes.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Supplies: Core'dinations Essentials, Paper Trunk alpha stickers, Sizzix Bats folder, Cuttlebug Spiderweb & Halloween Icons embossing folders, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook, Twine from The Twinery, Little Yellow Bicycle Booville felt stickers, Pop dots

A weekend of Halloween inspiration! ~Day 3~

2011-10-30T12:00:00.001-05:00

Got a few Halloween-themed gifts to give?

Don't forget the cards & wrapping!

A little bit of crafty-time can make that gift a 'wow'!

Check out these fun projects:

A weekend of Halloween inspiration! ~Day 2~

2011-10-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

How about a little Halloween home decor?

I used my Cricut and some K&Company die-cuts

to create this super-cute banner.

It is spook-a-licious!

And a close-up:

(click on image to make it bigger)

Hope you have a S-P-O-O-K-Y day!

Supplies: Core'dinations Essentials, Whitewash and Black Magic; Cricut Designer's Calendar, October 31st, Holiday Cakes, Blackletter and Storybook; K&Company Halloween die-cuts, Glossy Accents, Stickles, Pop-dots, Offray ribbon, We-R-Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile and eyelets, Cuttlebug Spiderweb folder, Sizzix Bats folder, Creative Expressions Crackle folder, Couture Creations Royalty folder

A weekend of Halloween inspiration! ~Day 1~

2011-10-28T14:45:00.000-05:00

What is Halloween without monsters?

I shared a few of these little guys on my blog last year,
but many of them are new.
I decorate my windows with these every year.
Even brought a few to school this year as well.
They are just too dang cute!!

Whip these up in a cinch using:
Cricut Mini Monsters cartridge
Core'dinations cardstock
embossing folders
googly eyes

Enjoy!

Triple-threat

2011-10-19T20:18:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the May Arts-Petaloo-Core'dinations Blog Hop!

Three fabulous companies bringing you one week of amazing inspiration.

And, of course, three times your chances to win!

Three times the fun!

Go here to visit the Core'dinations blog.

Go here to visit the May Arts blog.

Go here to visit the Petaloo blog.

And now...how about a little crafty inspiration?

Coming Soon

2011-10-14T19:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-10-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

A very happy thanksgiving to all of my fellow Canadians!

I hope your weekend has been filled with good weather, good times with great people,

and of course with good food!!!

I made a clean and simple card to celebrate:

I've also been thinking about what I am thankful for.

Of course I am thankful for my family;

you know this as I mostly make layouts about my kiddos.

This weekend, though, I thought that I would make a layout

about my other half and I . We recently celebrated our 13th anniversary,

and are in this crazy life of raising a family together.

I am very thankful for this part of my family too!

What are you thankful for?

Card supplies: Jenni Bowllin Everyday and Tim Holtz Kraft-Core Core'dinations cardstock, Ranger distress ink, Spellbinders Nestabilities circles, Papertrey Ink Tag-its #7 stamp set, Gloss Accents, Michaels ribbon, pop-dots

Layout supplies: Jenni Bowlin red/black and Black Magic Core'dinations cardstock, Maya Mist, Spellbinders scalloped circles, Queen&Co. Rox, Tim Holtz metal frame, Dollar store brads, Tissue paper, Cricut Straight from the Nest, American Crafts fabric thickers, Maya Road stick pins, Marta Stewart lattice punch, Jenni Bowlin patterned paper, Doily

Also: Glue Arts: Glue Glider Pro, Raise'n's (on flowers), U cut it 3D foam (on birds)

sew artsy

2011-10-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend to you!

I will be back on Monday with some

Thanksgiving projects for all my Canadian friends.

In the meantime, I wanted to share a 'sew artsy' project with you.

I needed a way to organize my twine; which is so trendy right now.

I just love it and use it all the time.

But frankly, the ziploc bag thing just wasn't working for me anymore.

I bought a fishing tackle/organizational box at the Dollar Store.

The dividers are already in there, which makes organizing a cinch.

Just add a little embellishment to the front of the box, and, voila!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and tags, Cheery Lynn Designs stitching plate, Hero Arts sew artsy stamp set, Twine from The Twinery, Prismacolor Markers, Ranger distress ink, Buttons

Welcome to the Core'dinations and Spellbinders Blog Hop!!

2011-09-30T07:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Core'dinations and Spellbinders Blog swap!!! Are you ready for a week long blog swap filled with loads of inspiration? Well, you came to the right place. Spellbinders and Core'dinations have teamed up and created gorgeous projects just for you. But...a blog swap wouldn't be the same without give-a-ways, right?

Core’dinations will be giving away FOUR paper packs in total!!!

Here is how you can win:

1. Visit the Core’dinations blog and leave a comment every day, Monday the 26th through Friday the 30th. We will give away two packs to TWO lucky winners.

2. Like us on Facebook and comment to win a paper pack.

3. Visit the Core’dinations Designer’s blogs and leave a comment. We will be linking them up on the Core’dinations blog throughout the week and will choose one random designer’s blog to pick a winner.
(The design team links are also on my right hand sidebar)

Make sure you visit the Spellbinders blog for more details on how to win some of their awesome dies.

And now for some inspiration!

It's Friday, and there is no better way to start the weekend

than with a little rest and relaxation...

I made a card, gift bag, water bottle cover, decorative candle and tea tin.

This would make a great gift set for a friend, yoga teacher

or even a nice treat for yourself!

This is my favourite part of the set.

There's nothing better than relaxing by candlelight with a nice cup of tea.

I covered an Altoids tin that I got at the Dollar Store to make the tea tin.

I love this idea, and personally keep one in my purse at all times.

It also makes a great small gift for teachers and friends!!

A little close-up here to show the

embossing on the inside of the tea tin

and the

debossing on the candle decoration.

I used the debossing technique on the card and gift bag as well.

You can do this by reversing your embossing plate or folder so that

you will be embossing and sanding the opposite, or upside-down impression.

I also love the calming effect you get using this blue-core whitewash.

So pretty!

Again, this would make a lovely gift.

Add some yoga class gift certificates into the bag and you are good to go!

Another close-up:

Thanks so much for stopping by today.

I hope you enjoy the rest of the blog hop,

and have a great weekend!

Complete project supplies: Core'dinations Essentials and Whitewash Cardstock, Spellbinders Labels18 Nestabilities and Pebbles Impressabilities, My Favourite Things Serenity Now stamp set, Tim Holtz distress ink, Prismacolor markers, Cotton lace, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook (for gift bag), Dollar Store glass candle holder and Altoids tin (for tea tin), Water bottle, Tazo tea bag, Votive candle

Reminder: Core'dinations September Colour Challenge

2011-09-28T07:00:00.003-05:00

You still have two days left to get your entries in

for the Core'dinations September colour challenge!

You have this adorable photo as your jumping off point:

A rainbow of crayons.

How about a little inspiration?

Be sure to link up to the Core'dinations blog or Facebook page

by September 30th for your chance to win! Go here for all the details.

Don't forget about the Core'dinaitons and Spellbinders

blog hop going on everyday this week!

Leave comments everyday on the Core'dinations blog, Spellbinders blog

and the designer's blogs (links also on the right hand sidebar) for your chance to win.

Check back here as I will be posting my project for the swap on Friday.

Thanks for stopping by!

Card supplies: Core'dinations Stacey Julian cardstock, Xyron sticker maker, Martha Stewart flower punch, various buttons

Happy Anniversary

2011-09-27T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone. So sorry (again) that I've been MIA. The back-to-school, back-to-work, back-to-running-the-kids-to-lessons-several-evenings-a-week and keeping-up-with-everything-else always throws me for a bit of a loop in the fall. Plus I still have physio two or three friggin' times a week and am working hard on recovering and getting back to normal mobility. Needless to say my life right now is very busy! Unfortunately it takes us all a while to get used to a new routine after two months of summer vacation. Routine is good, though, and I am looking forward to the day we all finally settle into it. Anyways, today is my anniversary! I thought I'd make time to share a card.

Here we are this summer at Lake Louise. In the rain.

(Thank you to my darling 8 year old daughter for this picture

she took of us with her little pink camera)

And of course 'the feet shot'! Thanks to dear hubby who

stepped up to the plate, helped out, encouraged me and took care of me

in order to get me through an entire summer

of wearing of this lovely cast and walking with crutches.

Happy Anniversary!

Don't forget about the Core'dinations-Spellbinders blog hop!

Leave comments everyday on the Core'dinations blog, Spellbinders blog

and the designer's blogs (links also on the right hand sidebar) for your chance to win.

Check back here as I will be posting my project for the swap on Friday.

Thanks for stopping by!

Card supplies: Core'dinations essentials cardstock, Sizzix 'sugar' embossing folder, Making Memories rose trim, American Crafts pearl brads, Hero Arts 'everyday sayings' stamp, Tim Holtz distress inks

Don't miss out: Core'dinations and Spellbinders Blog Hop

2011-09-26T08:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Core'dinations and Spellbinders Blog swap!!! Are you ready for a week long blog swap filled with loads of inspiration? Well, you came to the right place. Spellbinders and Core'dinations have teamed up and created gorgeous projects just for you. But...a blog swap wouldn't be the same without give-a-ways, right?

Core’dinations will be giving away FOUR paper packs in total!!!

Here is how you can win:

1. Visit the Core’dinations blog and leave a comment every day, Monday the 26th through Friday the 30th. We will give away two packs to TWO lucky winners.

2. Like us on Facebook and comment to win a paper pack.

3. Visit the Core’dinations Designer’s blogs and leave a comment. We will be linking them up on the Core’dinations blog throughout the week and will choose one random designer’s blog to pick a winner.

Make sure you visit the Spellbinders blog for more details on how to win some of their awesome dies.

Please check back here as I'll be posting the projects I've done for this blog hop later in the week.

BaCk tO sChOoL: PaRt TwO

2011-09-13T14:45:00.000-05:00

Things have been insane at our place over the last few weeks getting ready for the start of school. I can hardly wait for a little more routine and normalcy in our lives. Hopefully within the next week or two we will have our new schedules down pat. In the meantime; how about a little back-to-school inspiration?

Not only are these cute, but they make great teacher gifts too! They also fit perfectly with this month's colour challenge over on the Core'dinations blog. Click here for all the deets. Hope you get a chance to enter, as there is always some fabulous Core'dinations cardstock to be won!

Supplies: Core: Essentials (brights), Core tags (brights), Cuttlebug Measure by Measure and Number Collage embossing folders, Scor-pal, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook (stars), unknown button brads, buttons, hemp cord, alphabet beads, pop dots, pencils, sticky notes

BaCk tO sChOoL

2011-08-26T10:29:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again....back to school!

Of course I am running around like a mad woman trying to get

everything on the dreaded school supply lists.

And then there's the clothes too!

Can't forget a few new outfits, gym clothes, indoor shoes, outdoor shoes...

the list goes on and on and on.

We still have about a week and a half before the first day.

I hope I get everything ready in time! lol.

Here's my kiddos last year on their first day;

bulging backpacks and smiling faces!

And how about a little gift for teacher appreciation?

Today I'm going to leave you with a little back-to-school quote

from one of my favourite chick flicks: You've got mail.

"Don't you love New York in the fall? It makes me want to buy school supplies.

I would send you a bouquet of newly-sharpened pencils

if I knew your name and address.

On the other hand, this not knowing has its charms."

Have a great weekend!

Thanks for stopping by.

GO RED

2011-08-23T11:01:00.000-05:00

Each one of us has been affected by heart disease in some way.

A friend, a family member, even ourselves.

The Design Team and Core family

has found a cause near and dear to their hearts.

Help us by making it your mission, too, to fight heart disease in women.

Stay informed. It could save your life or the life of someone you love.

Go here to visit the GO RED for Women

from the American Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Go here to visit THE HEART TRUTH for Women

from the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation.

My card today is based on this logo,

from THE HEART TRUTH

The silver border and flowers are Cricut cuts. I hand-cut the dress, by enlarging the logo and printing it off my computer. I cut the print-out of the dress and lightly traced it onto my cardstock. Then cut it out again. All cardstock is Core'dinations Pearls. The stamp is Hero Arts and stick pins are from Maya Road.

GO RED!

She's got 'the look'

2011-08-15T08:30:00.001-05:00

Continuing with my little vintage kick, today I am showing off the new Core'dinations Basic Grey. Love these patterns and colors. There are two collections to choose from. Today I am using the Ornate collection, with cut-outs and embellies from Basic Grey's Curio.

Here at the lake, there are always a couple of days of rain. With no tv, the kids are forced to find indoor things to do like reading, making a craft, playing a board game or doing a puzzle. Not necessarily a bad thing. Lol. Grandma has provided a box of old toys and dress-up clothes for just such occasions as well.

Vintage kick

2011-08-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

With my recent injury, I put in a little extra crafting time before leaving on vacation. (yes, I'm still away and bringing you today's blog post from the lake). I've been on a vintage kick, so have a couple of shabby-chic projects to share with you.

First off is this layout featuring a vintage cook stove. Now, I am admitting to all of you that this contraption still works and is used daily here at the lake. My in-laws are quite sentimental about it. And even though modern conveniences, like a gas BBQ for example, are used for daily cottage cooking as well, we are treated to breakfast every morning, made by my father-in-law, on....you guessed it....the cook stove. I've tried cooking on this thing myself, and it is no easy task. It gives a whole new meaning to the term lake food.

Next up is a little bookmark I made for myself using the mini sized Tim Holtz bingo embossing folder. Love this! It is certainly the right size that you could use this as a tag or to embellish a layout. I've been reading about book a week right now in my incapacitated state. Nothing like a new bookmark to brighten someone's day!

A perfect day

2011-08-03T08:30:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Core'dinations and Paper Trunk have teamed up this week to bring you some fabulous crafty inspiration? Be sure to visit each of their blogs for some crafty goodness and a chance to win some great prizes!

How about a little swim?

2011-08-01T08:30:00.002-05:00

Happy August! I can't believe that summer is half over. Yikes! There's still a couple of weeks left to hit the beach before school starts, so here's a little swim & sunshine themed layout to brighten your day.

Oh the places you will go!

2011-07-31T00:04:00.000-05:00

Hey guys! There's a reason I've been MIA. I'm on holidays. In fact, I am blogging to you this very moment from my hotel room at 11pm. Things have been pretty busy these last couple weeks, but I thought I'd do a quick check-in to share a little CORE love, vacation style! I like our family to keep a travel diary while we are away. Even though I have usually hundreds of photos to sort through after a big trip, it is sometimes easy to forget the exact words a family member has said, or capture in words our reactions and feelings about the places we've visited. Keeping a log may take a little extra time every day, but it certainly makes my work easier when it comes time to scrapbook all these awesome memories. And if you're anything like me, sometimes I am up to a year behind on scrapbooking certain events, so the more organized I can be ahead of time, the better. Lol. My hubby recently spoiled me with a new iPad, so I am keeping notes on it this time around. I did however, still make a couple of journals for the kids. Here's what I came up with:

It's one HOT summer!

2011-07-21T10:33:00.000-05:00

Not sure what the weather is like where you live, but we have had some crazy hot weather here! The kind that makes you stay inside your comfortably air conditioned home or absolutely drives you into the water if you are hanging out near a lake or pool. The last two days have been +34 F; feels like +48 F with the humidity. Yikes!

So, we've been having a lot of ice cold treats. Freezies, Slurpees, Ice Cream.

Hmmmm.....I think I see a sugar addiction here. lol.

Of course we balance it all out with fresh veggies and fruits, etc. etc.

But what can say summertime better than a little ice cream?

Maybe even four scoops?

Yum. Yum. Yum.

For the birds

2011-07-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

So how about some cards on a Thursday?

and...they're both bird themed!

(I do have just a wee obsession with owls)

Card supplies: Core'dinations Essentials & Jillibean Soup cardstock, Cricut Storybook and Straight from the Nest cartridges, Cuttlebug Forest Branches, Herringbone and Just my type embossing folders, Maya Road felt stickers, Papertrey Ink Wise Owl stamp set, Colorbox black ink, Sakura white gelly pen, Tim Holtz edge distresser, Stapler, Button

And don't forget about July's Peachy Keen Colour Challenge over at Core'dinations. You can find the deets on the original post here. Thanks for stopping by!

Tim Holtz-Core'dinations Kraft Core!!!! {love}

2011-07-11T16:00:00.001-05:00

If you love Core’dinations, Kraft paper and Tim Holtz, than you will LOVE this line!

Introducing....

Core’dinations and Tim Holtz have teamed up to bring you
an amazing cardstock collection featuring a KRAFT core!

There are twenty-four rustic colors that will be available in
open-stock and in a collection pack

Available this fall at a retailer near you!

And all that jazz

2011-07-09T20:47:00.001-05:00

I recently attended the Winnipeg Jazz Festival with my daughter. It was gorgeous day near the end of June, and we were very priviledged to see some great local bands on the free mainstage downtown.

Here we are, having a great time:

And did I mention that with her little pink camera,

my daughter is very serious about her photography?

As soon as I saw the release of Curtain Call by Graphic 45, I immediately fell in love! I adore the vintage styled papers with all the music, dance and cinema icons from the past. Of course, I also just can't get enough of how complimentary this line is to the Core'dinations Graphic 45 paper pack!

Here's a layout I came up with using these fabulous papers:

Have a fabulous weekend!

Layout Supplies: Core'dinations Graphic 45 cardstock, Graphic 45 Curtain Call patterned papers and envelope, Tim Holtz memo pins, Twine by The Twinery, Crop-a-dile & eyelets, metal photo corners, flowers, bling

Are you up for a Core'dinations {colour} challenge?

2011-07-05T10:04:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for summer?

How about a Core'dinations challenge based on this fabulous photo from Pinterest?

Can you say Summer? Can you say Delicious? YUM!

It's Peachy Keen and it just screams summer in every way.

And here is the colour palette from ColourLovers...

What can you do with this colour palette?

The rules for our monthly challenge are super simple.

You must use this ColourLovers palette as your inspiration

(feel free to use the Pinterest photo as well),

Core'dinations must be recognizable on your project

(can be a layout, card, anything paper crafting)

and we want to see some technique.

You know how we love to see how you work that Core!

Link up your projects to this post

or our Facebook account by July 27th

for a chance to win some Core'dinations Cardstock!

Here's what I made for the challenge:

A cutie patootie baby card for my newly adopted cousin from Ethiopia!

And you know those scraps I had left over from making my card?

I used them to decorate the gift packaging!

How cool is that!?!?

Have a wonderful day!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T08:00:00.004-05:00

Happy Canada Day to all my fellow Canadians!

I hope the weather is warm and sunny where you are,

and I wish you a wonderful day full of festivities shared with family and friends.

And, should you be in Ottawa, I hope you get to see Will & Kate!

What a wonderful way to celebrate!

We are going to check out some of the festivities today with the kiddos,

have a bbq dinner with friends back at home, and then head out once more

for what I'm sure will be a fabulous fireworks display.

Here are some of the decorations I made for our bbq:

Also thought I'd share this fabulous Canada Day card
that I had made last year too!

Have a fabulous weekend!
Happy Canada Day!

All about Me: My Core'dinations DT Intro

2011-06-28T09:00:00.003-05:00

All about me

I am a mother

I am a wife
I adore coffee - large, two milk, one sugar
Tim Hortons, Starbucks, even President's Choice
Vanilla Hazelnut from Costco is the best -
It's how I got my blog name!
I love working with kids
I have a day job - I am an Educational Assistant
I am an avid storyteller
I am really loud
I like to sing
I love to dance
I'd rather watch a movie than a tv show
But my favorite tv show is GLEE
I like many different styles of music
I'm still driving a mini-van
I am the queen of sarcasm
But I am cheerful too
I love to laugh
I could not survive a week without chocolate
I have hazel eyes
My favorite colour is burgundy
I've had jobs as a waitress, make-up artist, office assistant & preschool teacher
I went back to school in 2009 to get my EA Diploma
I was born on the ninth day of the ninth month, and was nine days overdue
I tell it like it is
I am a morning person
I love to give hugs
I own a Cricut and a Cuttlebug
I have always been a crafty person
I like to play with ribbon, twine, bling, buttons, jewels, vellum, felt and chipboard
I am addicted to paper
My scrapbooking philosophy is inspire.dream.create.
I am honored to be a part of the 2011/2012
Core'dinations Design Team

Owl it be your birthday?

2011-06-26T20:48:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! So sorry I've been MIA this month. We have had the craziest ever month with an insane soccer schedule, family and work comittments, end of year get-togethers, vacation planning, vehicle issues and some major setbacks with the renovations we're doing here at home. And that's just to name a few!! It really has been crazy over here! But, school's out for both of the kids, and myself, in just four days. Woot. Woot. I am very much looking forward to some extra time & fun with them, extra time to read and to relax, and extra crafting time too, of course!!

I'm sharing a couple of adorbale birthday cards with you today. Both of these feature the Jillibean Soup Core'dinations Cardstock and the new Spotted Owl Soup line from Jillibean Soup as well. Love, love, love those owls!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-16T17:12:00.001-05:00

Just sharing a few Father's Day cards...featuring some yummy Core'dinations cardstock of course! We have a busy weekend ahead of us with two soccer games, a bbq on Sunday and maybe even take in a few of the free concerts put on by the Winnipeg Jazz Festival. I sure hope the weather holds out!

Of course I'd like to enter a few challenges!!! Still time on some of these; hope you play along too! :)
1. Pile it on - What's your angle?
2. Wee Memories - #59: Free for all
3. Cooking with Cricut - Father's Day
4. Cricut Cardz - #79: Father's Day
5. Passionately Artistic - Father's Day (linking party)
6. Getting Kricky with K Andrew - Designer's Choice

Supplies for Card #1:
Core'dinations Vintage and Jillibean Soup cardstock, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook cartridge, Fiskars corner edge punch, Hero Arts Happy Graduation stamp set, Autumn Leaves License Plate stamp set, Memento black ink, pop-dots

Supplies for Card #2:
Core'dinations Essentials, Black Magic and Graphic 45 cardstock, Cricut Heritage cartridge, Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante patterned paper and cut-out, Glossy Accents, cork frame, brads, pop-dots

A few cards for a sunny day

2011-06-07T06:50:00.000-05:00

Sending you wishes for a warm & sunny day.

I hope these cards make you smile!

Have a good one! :)

Are you up for a challenge?

2011-06-01T21:04:00.000-05:00

Core'dinations is having fun challenge right now!

Here are a few details to wet your appetite:

Journaling is such an important part of a scrapbookers journey to preserve memories and tell stories. So for this challenge….we want to see your Journaling.

There are a few things you must do:

1) JOURNAL

2.) Use Core’dinations Cardstock (it must be a visible component of the layout).

3.) Link your project to THIS blog post or post it on our Facebook page. Make sure you “like” us, too!

4.) Show off a cool Core technique and we will throw in an additional chance to win!

The rest is up to you!
And how could I forget??? Of Course a random Winner will win some CORE’DINATIONS CARDSTOCK!

For more details and to link up your entry, visit the Core'dinations blog or Core'dinations facebook page.

Good luck! I'm off to do a little scrapping and journaling myself....

Oh my pretty darling

2011-05-26T15:59:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the new My Mind's Eye Core Impressions line? It is absolutely wonderful, with a variety of papers in just one pack that are suitable for both girl or boy-themed layouts. Love that. I'm all about choices! This layout is being featured over at Core'dinations today.

I also used MME embellies. I love their brads, stamps and pretty lace trim. Of course tearing all those lollipop flowers was fun too!

Well, I am off to yet another soccer game. Hope you have a great evening!

Teresa Collins/Core'dinations Blog Swap: A tribute to Harry Potter

2011-05-20T16:03:00.000-05:00

Our family just loves Harry Potter! My son even dressed up like Harry Potter for Halloween. As soon as I saw this new line of Teresa Collins Core'dinations cardstock, I just knew it would be perfect for a Harry Potter layout. Here's what I came up with:

Pop on over to the Core'dinations blog as we've teamed up and have had some awesome Teresa Collins-Core'dinations inspiration all week long. Leave a comment for us there or on the Core'dinations facebook page for a chance to win a fabulous prize package.

I have a little giveaway on my blog too, with just one more day to enter! Go to this post for the details. Have a fabulous weekend!

GIVEAWAY REMINDER

2011-05-15T12:16:00.000-05:00

Hope you are having a great weekend!

Just a little reminder that I have a GIVEAWAY

for some yummy blog candy here on my blog.

Go to this post to enter.

Good luck!

NSD Challenges: Jenni Bowlin Scraplift

2011-05-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY here.

Here's my last entry for National Scrapbooking Day challenges. I've had a lot of fun with some of these, and hopefully, maybe, fingers crossed, will win a prize or two! :) Wish me luck! ha haha. I'd like to enter my projects in the Jenni Bowlin NSD Challenge #1: Scraplift. I got so inspired peeking through the Jenni Bowlin galleries to choose my scraplift that I made both a layout and a card for the challenge.

Doris Sander - September 2010

My take:

Danielle Flanders September 2010

My take:

Supplies: Core'dinations essentials & Jenni Bowlin brights cardstock, Jenni Bowlin patterned papers, journaling cards, star & alphabet stickers and butterflies, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook, Fiskars corner-round punch, Crop-a-Dile, Queen&Co felt flower, Ranger Distress Inks in peeled paint and spiced marmalade, PomPom trim, Buttons, Twine

NSD Challenges: Noel Layout

2011-05-08T15:16:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY here.

Happy Mother's Day once again to all you Moms out there! I am spending my day with a little family time and a lot of crafting! Been so busy recently with the kiddos, and their soccer schedule, that I am super thankful they are letting me get some extra crafty time in today. Woot. Woot. Tonight I am taking my Mom out for dinner to a fabulous Greek restaurant and then to a movie. We are going to see Something Borrowed. It has been a great weekend with Mother's Day today and National Scrapbooking Day yesterday. I wanted to enter a few NSD challenges (this is my second NSD post today. Ha!). Here's my layout based on a previous sketch from Sketchabilities:

And the challenges I am entering are (still time on some of these - you should play along too!):

1. Jenni Bowlin - NSD#2: Stamping on Vellum

2. My Pink Stamper - NSD#6: Tag

3. Crafting for Caitlyn - NSD #1: Bingo-die cutter, dimension, ink

(Not sure if I am late with this last one - I think it may be past the deadline, but Mr. Linky is still up)

Supplies: Core'dinations Jenni Bowlin cardstock, Jenni Bowlin patterned paper and Bingo card, Vellum, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook, Martha Stewart Doily Lace edger punch, American Crafts fabric Thickers, Rhinestone brads, Unity Burlap stamp, Ranger Distress Ink in Fired Brick

Tips & Tricks: I made the vellum flowers by running them through my Cricut machine. I used low speed and low pressure. Then just punch them out of the vellum like you would punch something along a perferated line. I found that medium speed/pressure or combinations of low/medium tore the vellum; so low/low is best. To stamp, I placed my stamp on my crafting mat and inked. I placed the delicate vellum flowers over top and lightly pressed them into the upturned stamp with my fingertips. I would not recommend traditionally pressing the stamp down onto the vellum as it is too light & delictae and will move on you.

NSD Challenges: So Artsy Layout

2011-05-08T12:56:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY here.

First off, Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms out there! Hope you are having a great day! It has been a busy weekend with Mother's Day today and National Scrapbook Day yesterday. Of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to enter a few NSD challenges. Check out this cute layout I made:

My son is so young here! Makes my heart ache to rememeber his toddler days. lol. This is one of his first self-portraits on a very well-loved Magna-Doodle. So cute! Here are the NSD challenges I'm entering my layout in (Still time on some of these - hope you play along too!):

1. The Play Date Cafe - PDCC80: colour challenge

2. Cosmo Cricket - mini deck

3. My Pink Stamper - NSD #12: kid's theme

Layout supplies: Cosmo Cricket Material Girl patterned papers, mini deck and chipboard, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook and Locker Talk, Core'dinations cardstock, Sakura journaling pen, Hemp cord, Staples

Happy NSD, DT Announcement & A GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-05-07T17:03:00.001-05:00

* Please read to the end of this post for the GIVEAWAY details*

Happy National Scrapbooking Day! I have some GREAT NEWS! I am honoured to say that I have made the Core'dinations Design Team! Working with them over the last six months has been an amazing experience, and I am so thrilled to be continuing on with them.

I'd like to give a big shout out to all those who applied - good for you! I know it takes a lot of courage; and you are all so very talented - I know that our Core'dinators had a very hard time choosing.

I also wanted to give a big shout out to the new team! Congrats!!! I look forward to working with you and getting to know you over the next year.

Here is the announcement from the Core'dinations blog:

We wanted thank each and every person for applying for the Design Team Call.

It was not easy and the Core’dinations Team spent endless hours going through the entries. There were so many amazing entries and narrowing things down was extremely difficult.

Without further ado, here is the new Core’dinations Cardstock Design Team (in alphabetical order).

Andrea Amu

April Derrick

Char Dobson

Leica Forrest

Lydia Jackson

Kim Jeffress

Brianne Nevill

Melissa Oliveira

Debbie Standard

Shaunte Wadley

Sarah Hodgkinson, DT Core’dinator

Ellen Sosnoski, Blog Core’dinator

Core Teachers:

Vicki Boutin

Cari Locken

Kimber McGray

I'm in the MOOD to CELEBRATE; so how about a GIVEAWAY!!!

I've put together a little package for one lucky follwer. :)

With summer only a couple short months away,

I've got the perfect card-making kit for you.

This kit contains:

-10 A2-sized pieces of Core'dinations cardstock - 2 Black Magic (blue core), 2 dark blue, 2 medium blue, 2 light blue, 2 Whitewash (blue core)

-6 2"square pieces of pre-embossed/pre-sanded Core'dinations cardstock in light pink

-18 2"square pieces of double-sided patterned paper from the Imaginisce Splash Dance line

-8 pre-cut flowers from Core'dinations cardstock in dark pink

-1 large blue felt flower

-1 pkg. Bo Bunny Double Dot ribbon in light pink

-1 pkg. Critters in the Sea stamps by Lawn Fawn

-handful of clear dewdrops embellishments

HOW TO WIN:

1. Become a follower & leave me a comment - that's one chance.

2. Post about my giveaway on your blog, and leave me a (second) comment with a link to it -

that's two chances to win.

I will leave this contest open for two weeks. You have until May 21,2011 Midnight CST to get your comments in. Good luck!

Happy Trails!

2011-05-07T14:30:00.001-05:00

Just squeaking into the deadline with this cute project I just whipped up. Been freezing my butt off all morning at my son's soccer game, and now I get a bit of time to craft on NSD (National Scrapbook Day). Yay!
I am entering this into the Getting Campy challenge over at Getting Cricky with K Andrew and My Pink Stamper NSD Challenge #2: Kraft cardstock.

Supplies: Cricut 'Create-a-Critter', EK Success 'Ledger' Punch, Fiskars 'Carpet' Embossing Plate, Cuttlebug 'Herringbone' Embossing Folder, Kraft Cardstock, Core'dinations Cardstock, Ink, Brads

Once Upon a Springtime

2011-04-29T13:05:00.000-05:00

Spring is in the air! I am so excited as we have had +20 weather all week. Out came the sandals and capris; which has been awesome as I am not a socks person. Unfortunately the forecast is 0 and snow for the next two days. Just in time for my daughter's year-end dance recital. Yikes! Oh, the joys of living in Canada.

This layout is being featured over on the Core'dinations blog today. I mixed some of the beautiful patterned papers and cut-outs from the new Graphic 45 Once Upon a Springtime line with Core'dinations Essentials and Whitewash. Love, love, love how the Whitewash looks all antiqued (crumpled). So pretty! For more layouts featuring antiquing, pop on over to the Core'dinations blog today.

I {heart} Core'dinations & Tim Holtz!

2011-04-25T12:39:00.000-05:00

Did you know that Core'dinations has teamed up with Tim Holtz for some fabulous new cardstock colors? They now have not one, but TWO Tim-inspired collection packs. Go here to view the Adirondack collection and here to view the Distress collection. Chcek out this crazy cool layout, as shown on Friday's post over on the Core'dinations blog.

Now this layout features not only some yummy Tim Holtz goodies such as his philosophy tags and game spinners, but some amazing Core'dinations techniques as well. Of course you can see that I used several of the Tim Holtz embossing folders on the circles to the right side of the layout. My fave technique in this layout, however, is outlining which is sanding over chipboard or other objects. I placed some Tim Holtz masks onto my workspace, and then secured my piece of cardstock overtop. Sand & wipe, and voila! I {adore} how this background turned out!

If you have never thought of using masks for more than just inking or misting...give this a try at home. Core'dinations is great for playing with - I have sanded over everything from chipboard and masks to LEGO and even wire mesh.

FYI - yes, that is a real brain in the picture! We were fortunate enough to visit the Science Museum of Minnesota in Minneapolis last summer where they had a human bodies exhibit, hence the brain. It was very cool.

Making a Splash

2011-04-21T16:34:00.000-05:00

I needed some thank you cards for our swimming teachers as my kiddos are ending their current session of swimming lessons. They have improved so much this year and I am psyched for them to try out their new skills at the lake this summer. Here are the cards I made:

I'd like to enter these cards in the current challenge

over at getting Cricky with K Andrew, Getting Campy!

The prize is the brand new Campin Critters cricut cartridge.

Fingers crossed!

Have a fabulous day!

Easter Tutorial with Core'dinations

2011-04-19T21:52:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

Want to make some super simple, super cute treat bags for Easter?

Here is a fab tutorial I made just for you,

also being featured over on the Core'dinations blog today.

Step 1: Cut a 4” x 12” piece of Core’dinations cardstock. Using the back side of your cardstock; score at 4.5”, 6.5” and 11”.

Step 2: Using your scoring tool, make a grid line pattern on the 4” x 4.5” section.

Step 3: Fold along 4.5”, 6.5” and 11” scored lines. Turn cardstock over and sand.

Step 4: Cut a window into the grid section using your Nestabilities, Coluzzle or other cutting tool. The window should be slightly closer to the fold line.

Step 5: If desired, add an alternate piece of 2” x 4” cardstock on the 1” end flap. This is what your treat bag should look like so far.

Step 6: Line up cardstock and punch holes through the 4” x 4.5” grid section and 2” flap. Embellish. I used my Cricut to cut out tiny egg shapes, and ran them through my Xyron sticker maker.

Step 7: Place treats in a small plastic or cellophane bag. Staple on to the inside of the 4” x 6.5” section.

Step 8: Fold treat bag together and place the flap over top. Run a cute ribbon through and you’re finished!

Now go ahead and try this out at home!

Feel free to leave me a link to your creation in the comments section.

I'd love to see what you some up with.

Have a great day!

My Core'dinations Creative Frenzy

2011-04-10T19:07:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Core'dinations is having a Design Team call? I have been extremely privileged and honoured to have been a Guest Designer with them last summer and now also a permanent Design Team member for the past six months. I am completely smitten with this cardstock, and would of course, love to continue working with them for another term. There are simply not enough words to express how fabulous this product and company is. So without further ado, let's move on to the Core projects I created specifically for this call.

A layout

Core'dinaitons techniques: antiquing, paper tearing, dry embossing, sanding, as is

Core'dinations supplies: Core Essentials, Black Magic, Graphic 45 Core Impressions

Other supplies: Cricut Straight from the Nest, Cuttlebug Herringbone embossing folder, Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante patterned papers & cut-outs, Tim Holtz timepiece & spinner and philososphy tag, Queen&Co pearls, Helmar 3D zapdots

Notes: Antiquing is one of my fave techniques to use with the Black Magic line. It is a little extra work, but the end result is always stunning. I have learned to mist the paper slightly before crumpling so that I don't unintentionally tear it. I am thrilled with how many lines and techniques I was able to incorporate into this layout - which just goes to show how complimentary each Core'dinaitons line is to the next. Love that. And yes - this photo is of me with my crazy family. Good times!

A card

Core'dinations techniques: sanding, as is

Core'dinations supplies: Core Essentials, Cosmo Cricket Core Impressions

Other supplies: Cricut Cindy Loo, Hero Arts Everyday Sayings stamp, Colorbox black ink, cotton lace

Notes: While my layout showed many lines and techniques, sometimes clean and simple is best. As much as I love the play factor with Core'dinations, I also love that it can be my basic go-to cardstock as well. Whether I need to make a quick card for a friend who is sick, or just a basic cardstock for scrapping and cutting with my Cricut, I know that even without any special techniques Core'dinations will look great and get the job done.

Altered/Home Decor

Core'dinations techniques: scoring, dry embossing, sanding, as is

Core'dinations supplies: Core Essentials, Whitewash

Other supplies: Cricut Preserves, Cuttlebug Measure by Measure and Swiss Dots embossing folders, Scor-Pal, Helmar 3D zapdots, hemp cord

Notes: I would have to say that the techniques I use with Core'dinations the most are dry embossing and scoring. Even though I love to play and try new methods, these two seem to be what I always go back to. They are the 'classics' for me! lol. And I suppose you can see why; because really, how cute are these!!! I used my Scor-Board to score the lined background for the green labels as well as the two stripes on the jam belly-band. The strawberries and adorable measuring tape were embossed with my Cuttlebug. Just looking at this picture makes my mouth water. Yum!

Here's a close-up

Well, that's it folks! Wish me luck!

Thanks for stopping by,

Char

Sending warm fuzzies

2011-04-10T15:53:00.000-05:00

Had a big day yesterday scrapping with my peeps. I got a lot done and I am so thankful for that. Was hoping to spend some time today outside with the kids - and, although it is warming up and the snow is finally on its way to being gone - there is not much sun to be seen and its simply making us all a little depressed. Sigh. We are gonna bbq for dinner though, so I am excited about that. :)

This is one of the cards I made yesterday, which I'd like to enter in several challenges (love it when I can combine challenges!). I have so much going on right now and often I wish I had the time to make individual projects and enter more, but c'est la vie, that's life with work and kids and whatnot. Here's the card:

Isn't that little deer adorbale? One of my girlfriends has the Cindy Loo cricut cartridge and I borrowed it to cut the deer/frame. So cute! The stamp is from Hero Arts, twine from The Twinery, embossing folder is Sizzix/Basic Grey, and cardstock is Core'dinations of course! Last but not least, Here are the challenges in which I'd like to enter my card (maybe you can play along too!):

1. Wee Memories - #51: Tangled Up (use of twine)

2. Die Cuttin Divas - #9: Sketch Challenge (& use of cricut)

3. Simon Says Stamp - Spring colors or Easter (& use of stamps)

Jenni Bowlin Core'dinations Yumminess -take three!

2011-04-07T13:54:00.000-05:00

I hope you are enjoying our Core'dinations blog swap this week with the very talented Jenni Bowlin. Today on the Core'dinations blog we are featuring cards. I am so thankful that spring is finally on its way, I just had to make a card in honor of spring warmth and sunshine! Here it is:

This cutie features Core Essentials, the brand spankin' new Core'dinations Jenni Bowlin Essentials line, and of course some adorable Jenni Bowlin patterned paper and embellies. I just love those butterflies!

If you haven't yet visited the Core'dinations blog this week, it's not too late! Make sure you stop by for some amazing inspiration from our design team, and leave a comment for a chance to win some fabulous prizes. There might just be a little giveaway on the Core'dinaitons facebook page as well. Check it out!

Jenni Bowlin Core'dinations Yumminess -take two!

2011-04-06T19:28:00.000-05:00

Are you having fun yet? I hope so! Here is another layout I made featuring the brand spankin' new Core'dinations Jenni Bowlin Everyday line:

Layered with some Jenni Bowlin patterned papers and embellies, and a little machine stitching, this layout is just so yummy! I do have to say that the Jenni Bowlin vintage buttons are one of my faves...and that button print Core as well...I am in heaven!

Make sure that you visit the Core'dinations blog and facebook page everyday this week for more inspiration and a chance to win! Thanks for stopping by!

Jenni Bowlin Core'dinations Yumminess

2011-04-05T13:31:00.004-05:00

Core'dinations and Jenni Bowlin have partnered together once again! If you have not yet checked out the new collections, go here to see the new Jenni Bowlin Everyday collection and here to see the new Jenni Bowlin Core Amour collection. Yummy!

For this layout I used papers from the Jenni Bowlin Core Amour collection, mixed with some awesome Jenni Bowlin patterned papers and embellies. I made the flowers from the new Core'dinations Pearls line, which has such a beautiful shimmer and is just so, so very pretty.

Make sure that you visit the Core'dinations blog and facebook page today, and everyday this week, for our amazing blog swap featuring some fabulous Core'dinations - Jenni Bowlin inspiration and a chance to win some amazing prizes! Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Easter & Hello Spring!

2011-04-02T20:52:00.002-05:00

I can't believe spring break is nearly over. I've been super busy with the kiddos all week - which has been great!!! - but I'm also ready to have some routine back in our lives again! This week has been all about them and I haven't had much time to myself at all, but I think I was going through crafting withdrawal because I had an uncontrollable urge to do a little crafting tonight while they were occupied watching a movie. I've made this cute little card which I'd like to enter in the following challenges:
1. Jitterbuggin - Follow the Sketch, Easter Card, Cricut (I made an Easter card following the sketch & using several cricut cuts)
2. Wee Memories - #50:Color Inspiration (I used spring colors)
3. Fantabulous Cricut - #53:Looks like Spring, Cricut (Cricut was used to cut bunny & spring flowers
4. Die Cuttin Divas - #8:Hippity Hoppity, Easter card, Cricut (I used my Cricut to make this Easter card)

Card supplies: Core'dinations Chocolate Box cardstock, Core'dinations Core Couture glitter cardstock, K&Company Urban Rhapsody patterned papers, Cricut Holiday Cakes cartridge, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder, Fiskars Corner Round punch, twine from The Twinery, Kaisercraft rhinestones, pop-dots

Cardabilites #28 Final Reveal

2011-03-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

Good morning!

This post is somewhat bittersweet as it is

my last post with the Design Team at Cardabilites.

I would love to give a shout out to Karan, a very lovely lady,

the sketch designer and creator of Cardabilitites and Sketchabilities.

My two terms with you have been amazing - thank you so much for having me.

Congrats and best wishes also to the new Design Team.

You will love it there and I look forward to seeing your work!

And now...without further ado...here is latest sketch:

I used the Core'dinations Black Magic for the base of my card. Combined with the Cuttlebug Clockworks folder and a little sanding, I love love love how this turned out. The little border is also Cuttlebug, but I can't remember which folder. lol. The chipboard gears are from Maya Road which I coloured with my Prismacolor Markers and blinged up with some Glossy Accents.

GO GREEN!

2011-03-26T09:52:00.000-05:00

I know that St. Patrick's Day was just over a week ago now, but sometimes life gets in the way and I am not able to post things as swiftly as I'd like. Here are some cutie patootie hairclips and a festive shamrock pin that I made to celebrate, also featured here on the Core'dinations blog.

These were so super simple to make and could easily be adapted for other holidays and occasions. I bought the hair clips and badge from the dollar store. I cut the shamrock shapes with my Cricut (Designer's Calendar cartridge) and used my Scor-Board to score the paper for the accordian flower. The embossing folder I used is the Sizzix Plaid from the Sizzix Basic Grey Plaid-Snowflakes set.

My daughter sure had fun wearing these to school for the day!

Here she is modeling them for us.

And all that jazz...

2011-03-19T22:43:00.003-05:00

It's nearing the end of March and we are busy preparing for my daughter's end of year dance recital which is only one month away. Costumes have been sent home and those last few crucial practices have been scheduled before the big show. The teachers work so hard and we always like to show our appreciation with a card. Here is what I made, using the Cricut Twinkle Toes cartridge and brand spankin' new Core'dinations papers:

*edited* I updated the picture - this one is so much better! Thanks for your patience - I had to wait three days for the sun to come out. :)

I do apologize for the poor picture. It is nearly 11pm here and not a spec of daylight to be found for decent photography. Don't you just love the couture look of this card, though? I used the new Core'dinations Glitter Silk and the new Core'dinations Pearls papers. Love, love, love these! The glittery ribbon is from Michaels (a Valentine's clearance buy!) and the cute pearl brad is from American Crafts.

I would like to enter this card into not just one, but two challenges. Love it when that happens! The first is for Sweet & Sassy at Getting kricky with K Andrew. The second is for Scrapfit #39: Glitter & Glam. Both have fabulous prizes to be won, so wish me luck, and I hope you play along too!

Thanks for stopping by & happy weekend to you!

Char

Cardabilities Reveal #27!

2011-03-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

Hey there!

Thanks for stopping by my little blog.
We finally have some + weather here in Canada,

so I am thrilled that spring is on its way!

Check out this latest card & sketch from Cardabilites!

Supplies: kraft cardstock, K& Company patterned paper & chipboard butterflies, tissue paper flower cut with Nestabilities scalloped circles, Tattered Angels glimmer mist, leaves cut with Cricut Straight from the Nest, Maya Road trinket pins, pop-dots, sewing machine & thread

What's cooking?

2011-03-10T14:28:00.002-06:00

Here's a fresh idea on a mini-album/recipe book!

Isn't this the cutest?

I cut the tab pages on my Cricut,

using the From my Kitchen cartridge.

The title is cut from it as well.

The papers are Core'dinations, of course!

I used Core Essentials, Vintage and Cosmo Cricket Core Impressions.

The cute chipboard is Cosmo Cricket as well,

from the Garden Variety line.

I used my Crop-a-Dile to punch holes into the pages,

and then simply attached with ribbon to a mini rolling pin.

Both the ribbon and the rolling pin are from my local Dollar Store!

I think this idea could be adapted to make a

super-cute wall hanging as well.

How yummy would that look in your kitchen?!

And now...I'd like to invite you to save the date.

Core'dinations and Maya Road are teaming up

for a blog hop with loads of inspiration,

techniques and prizes to boot!

Be sure to visit Core'dinations every day next week!

Thanks for stopping by!

i-spy with Imaginisce

2011-03-04T14:43:00.000-06:00

Hooray!

A layout of mine is being featured over at Imaginisce today for Click it with Cricut.

Imaginisce + Cricut are two of my favorite scrapbooking must-have's.

(AND Core'dinations of course!!!)

Thank you, Imaginisce for this wonderful honour.

Here is the layout being featured:

I made this back in the summertime.

(Oh how I wish for summer to hurry back...)

You can visit this post on my blog for all the details.

Have a great weekend!

Celebrating Mardis Gras

2011-03-02T15:16:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!

Today over at Core'dinations we are showcasing

a Mardis Gras mask I made for my daughter.

Here is the mask:

Step 1: Use your Cricut or hand-cut the mask base.

I used Black Magic cardstock and Cricut Designer's Calendar cartridge.

Step 2: Tear strips of cardstock for the feathers.
We used the Gemstones collection for this. Adhere to mask base.

Step 3: Finish off with some ribbon and embellies of your choice.

We made some roly-roses and added pink pearls from Queen&Co.

And here is my little model:

So cute!

Thanks for stopping by!

Cardabilities Reveal #26!

2011-02-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

Check out the latest sketch from Cardabilties:

Once again, we were fortunate to work with some fabulous images

from our current sponsor company, Paper Makeup.

I made my cards using the Oo La La Corset and Sentiment Set.

Here are the two cards I made:

Don't you just love these?

So adorable!!!

Don't forget to link up your creations to Cardabilties

for a chance to win a fabulous prize,

courtesy of Paper Makeup.

A few things to share...

2011-02-23T16:11:00.000-06:00

So I'm behind in my blogging again. Shame on me! I do have a few Core'dinations projects to share with you today that have been shown on their blog/facebook and/or CHA over the past couple of months. In no particular order:

DH makes wine and we often give a way bottles here and there as gifts.

I'm sure you remember the

Core'dinations 12 Days of Christmas Techniques

where I showcased some beautiful wine wrappers using the

Black Magic collection and the antiquing technique.

Here are some more wine wrappers I had made this past Christmas.

I used the Whitewash collection and debossing.

So lovely. Here's a close-up:

Did you have fun Superbowl Sunday?

Personally, I was just as excited about the return of GLEE

as I was about the big game!

Here's a couple of cards I made for the occasion:

Last but not least I thought I'd share a couple more projects

that were displayed at the Core'dinations booth at CHA a few weeks back.

I LOVE this layout! DD adores ribs in the summertime,

and it was so great to get these pictures of her!

All of this paper (even the embellies) are from the

Jenni Bowlin cream & brown paper pack. It truly is a gorgeous collection.

I confess that I tend to hoard it, just a little bit,

because I am so enamoured with the colors and textures.

This cutie card uses paper from both of the Cosmo Cricket collections.

The chipboard chicks and sentiment are from Cosmo Cricket's

Garden Variety chipboard sheet. Adorable!

Cardabilities Reveal #25

2011-02-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Here is the latest sketch from Cardabilities:

Our sponsor for this round is Whimsie Doodles.

I was priviledged to be able to work with a few of their digi images.

They are so adorable!

There is even a special offer for Cardabilities Fans - use the discount code CARD10 at the Whimsie Doodles online store and receive 10% off your next order! Code expires Feb 25.

And don't forget to visit Cardabilites

to see all of the Design Team's takes on this fabulous sketch,

and link up your creation too.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T15:55:00.001-06:00

So I went to a monthly crop yesterday that I sometimes attend with a few gal pals. It has been an insanely busy week for me, so with hardly any time to plan and pack, I didn't even bring any pictures or layout supplies to the crop. I did however, bring an armful of Valentine's colored cardstock, my Cricut and my Cuttlebug. I had too much fun making Valentine's for a few of my students and co-workers. Check it out:

I made ten of these cutie patootie Valentine's + treat bags for the students that I am assigned I work with each week. They were all cut from the Mini Monsters cartridge (not just for Halloween!)

I also made some quick, but adorable cards for my co-workers. These punny little sweeties were all cut from the Sweethearts cartridge (not just for weddings!)

I think that these are all adorable, but the 'smitten kitten' one is my fave. I'd like to enter these projects in the current 'Share the Love' challenge over at Fantabulous Cricut. And of course, I'd like to wish you a very Happy Valentine's Day! Thanks for stoppping by.

Core'dinations + Tim Holtz = pure yumminess!!!

2011-02-11T13:35:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone! Did you know that Core'dinations and Tim Holtz have teamed up to bring you an awesome cardstock collection featuring exclusive Tim Holtz colors? I am so excited about this! I love that all of my distress inks now have paper to match. Woot. Woot. So...I thought I'd share a few pictures of some Core'dinations - Tim Holtz projects that I had made for this past CHA. You can also see all of the Core'dinations design team projects by visiting this post on their blog.

Here's a card featuring Core'dinations, a Sizzix - Tim Holtz embossing folder, and a Tim Holtz fragment tag with alcohol ink. I cut out that fabulous antique chair on my Cricut (the Heritage cartridge) and scored it on my Scor-Pal.

I also made this fabulous wall hanging. I worked so hard on this, and ...love...love...LOVE... how it turned out. I have to admit that I was almost sad to ship it off to CHA. I guess I'm gonna have to make another one for myself here at home. lol. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to hang it up and photograph it properly, so here it is on my craft mat.

This project started with a basic wood plaque that I picked up at my local dollar store. I used Tim Holtz crackle paint around the edges. The main background is Core'dinations (of course!) which I trimmed to fit and sanded over a Tim Holtz mask. Love this technique and will definitely use it many more times in my crafting projects. I also used one of Tim's amazing embossing folders which are just so perfect with Core'dinations cardstock. Add a few Tim Holtz embellies and you get this amazing shabby-chic wall decor. Love it!

Don't forget to visit the Core'dinations blog to see the rest of the design team projects for more Tim Holtz - Core'dinations inspiration. Have a wonderful weekend!

Cardabilities Reveal #14!

2011-01-30T07:47:00.000-06:00

Good morning

and happy Sunday to you!

It's -42 C here with the windchill today. Yikes!

Here's my cozy Valentine's themed card

based on the latest fabulous sketch from Cardabilities!

Don't forget to link up your creations to Cardabilities.

We'd love for you to play along too!

Want to win some Core'dinations??????

2011-01-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Of course you do!

We are very excited to announce that

Core'dinations has teamed up with Tim Holtz

for some amazing cardstock collections!

Visit Core'dinations to enter for a chance to win.

Good luck!

& Happy weekend to you!

Giveaway WINNER

2011-01-18T06:34:00.000-06:00

Random.org has picked #4

Congratulations to SILVIA!

silvia said...

Adorable card!! I love the blue and brown

January 15, 2011 7:41 PM

Silvia, please send your mailing address to

craftychick99 at yahoo dot com

and I will get your prize to you shortly.

Cardabilities Reveal #21 & Blog Hop {GIVEAWAY INSIDE!}

2011-01-15T08:00:00.005-06:00

edited: please note that unfortunately due to some missing links, the cardabilities blog hop has been cancelled. that said, you can still win a fabulous prize by leaving a comment on their blog. i will be giving away a small rak as well, so please feel free to leave me a comment also with a way to get a hold of you should you be the lucky winner. thank you so much for your patience and understanding in this matter.

Hey there!

Welcome to my little blog.
You should have arrived from Elizabeth's blog It's my thingy.

I am one of the Design Team members over at Cardabilties

and am very excited to show off our latest sketch,

and to wish you much fun and the best of luck on our blog HOP!

I'd also like to take this opportunity
to extend my warmest wishes to Cardabilties
on their first birthday!
Congrats to you!

I have to say that I am lovin' the clean lines of this sketch!

Sometimes simple is best, don't you think?

I used DCWV and American Crafts patterned papers.

The stamp set is Hot Stuff from My Favorite Things.

Of course, I take one look at this card

and all I want is a cup of coffee!

Mmmmmmm....

Which brings me to a little RAK...

One randomly chosen commenter will receive this lovely card

AND a $5 Starbucks gift certificate!!!

Please note: Although I truly appreciate all comments,

I am unfortunately only able to send this little gift

within North America.

Thank you for your understanding.

Now on to the deatils of the hop!

This blog hop is run a bit differently than others. There is an order for you to hop!

Firstly: Begin hopping to Design Team Blogs as listed at the bottom of each Designer Blog. Your first hop is over to Karan's blog. Beware…there is an order for you to follow.

Secondly: For our followers to be considered for the final Sponsor Giveaway, you need to hop to all the Designers participating in the hop …On those blogs, you will find a highlighted word in BLUE. Find the highlighted word and leave some feedback. All these highlighted words, form a catch phrase about Cardabilities.

Thirdly: You need to comment on each Designer Blog to be considered for each individual RAK the Design Team Members are offering.

Lastly: You will need to put that “catch” phrase together and bounce back to the Cardabilities site to leave your final comment and the “catch” phrase to be considered for the Sponsor Giveaway.

You'll have three days to complete the hop… January 15th-Jan 17th

Winners of each DT Blog Rak and the Final Sponsor Giveaway prize will be posted Jan 20th

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE

Your next stop is April Walker at Scrapper Forever.

Thanks for stopping by!

Some holiday goodies

2011-01-12T19:59:00.000-06:00

Well, Christmas is over and the new year is into full swing, but...

I thought I would share a few holiday goodies I made this past season

that are being featured over on the Core'dinations blog today.

Enjoy!

Yummy treats!

I used the Core Essentials line for these first two projects.

Simply place the cardstock diagonally on your score board,

score and sand! Love this effect. :)

This adorable mitten card was made using the Core Essentials,

Vintage, Whitewash and Cosmo Cricket Core Impressions lines.

I really love how Core'dinations has so many great lines to choose from -

there is something for everyone!

Thanks for stopping by!

Inspired by Books! (& a Sketch)

2011-01-09T15:55:00.000-06:00

Happy Sunday! Just got back from tobogganing with the kiddos, and what a better way to warm up than with a cup of tea and a little crafting! Using sketch #19 over at Cardabilites and the challenge theme (Inspired by a Book) from The Cuttlebug Spot, I came up with this adorable card:

Supplies: DCWV The Green Stack, Recollections cardstock, VersaFine Vintage Sepia ink, Colorbox Black ink, Prismacolor Markers, My Favorite Things I {heart} Books stamp set, Cuttlebug Script embossing folder, Cricut Storybook cartridge, Pop-dots, Button & Twine

Slime!!!

2011-01-06T16:17:00.000-06:00

I've been MIA for so long, and here you get two posts from me in one week!

Check out this fab layout for the Core'dinations - Helmar blog swap:

Love these bright & happy colours. :)

All of the papers are from the yummy Stacy Julian Core Impressions paper pack.

I used the Helmar 3D Zap Dots for the stars. Love how these really pop!

Don't forget to visit the Core'dinations blog

every day this week.

For some fabulous inspiration and

a chance to win some awesome prizes!

Slime Recipe: Mix one bottle of white school glue with 3/4c. water in a bowl. In a seperate bowl mix 1 tbsp. borax with 1/4c. water. Add up to 1/4c. tempera paint to colour. Pour borax mixture into glue mixture. Stir. It will be stringy at first. Keep stirring and mix with hands until blob of slime is formed.

Snowman Love

2011-01-04T09:36:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

Winter is in full swing here in Canada,

-32 C with the windchill. Nice....

What better way to celebrate another wintery day than with

this adorable snowman card!

I used the Core'dinations Whitewash collection

against the Black Magic collection for the card base.

A little dry embossing, sanding and paper tearing

and you have one gorgeous wintery card!

Gotta love that cute button snowman and his little felt hat too!

All of the bling are the Core'dinations match line from Queen&Co.

And the fun snow landscape got that 'pop'

from the fabulous 3D Zap Dots by Helmar Adhesives.

Don't forget to visit the Core'dinations blog

each and every day this week for our

Core'dinations-Helmar blog swap!

There are fabulous prizes to be won!

Cardabilities Reveal #18!

2010-12-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

'Tis the Season!

Hope you have had a wonderful holiday so far...

and thanks for stopping by my blog today.

Here's the latest skecth from Cardabilties!

If you still have some holiday cards to make and give,

this sketch is both simple and eye-catching.

I hope you play along too!

Visit Cardabilties to link up your creation

and for more details.

12 days of Christmas: Antiquing with Core'dinations

2010-12-21T16:30:00.000-06:00

I hope you all have been having a great week & a bit so far over on the Core'dinations blog. There are awesome tutorials and daily prizes, so pop on over there for some truly amazing inspiration!

I am honored to be showcasing today's technique: antiquing

To achieve the antiqued look with your Core'dinations paper, you first crinkle it.

Then sand.

(I use an old baking sheet because it helps to catch some of the dust,

and keeps my countertops scratch-free.)

Embellish...

And Voila!!! You have a gorgeous project:

Here's an example where I used antiquing for the background of a card...

And finally these gorgeous wine bottles!

Love the way the Black Magic line looks with this technique!

Don't forget to visit the Core'dinations blog and leave a comment!

We have a few more days of fabulous techniques to share with you,

with even more chances to win!

Thanks for stopping by and..

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Cardabilities Reveal #17!

2010-12-15T06:56:00.000-06:00

Here's the latest fabulous sketch from Cardabilities!

And here's my take:

I wanted to go with a chic & classy look for this card,

which I am using as a

Christmas Eve Dinner Party Invitation.

The sketch has so many wonderful possibilities, though,

so if you haven't got those Christmas cards finished yet,

I hope you take the time to get creative and play along!

Don't forget to share with us by visiting the Cardabilities blog.

Happy Holidays!

Core'dinations/Graphic 45 Blog Swap

2010-12-10T16:44:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone...check out this fabulous card that I made

for the Core'dinations/Graphic 45 blog swap.

I used Core'dinations Graphic 45 Core Impressions cardstock

along with Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante patterned papers.

Love this look!

Don't forget to stop by the Core'dinations blog all next week

for 12 days of Christmas techniques

with fabulous giveaways everyday!

*Edited*

Another quick note for all of my faithful followers:

Due to some personal matters over the last few months,

I have made the decision that

Scrapbooking: A Family Affair

will be put ~on hold~ until further notice.

I truly apologize and thank you

for your patience and understanding.

Cardabilities Reveal #16!

2010-11-30T07:00:00.010-06:00

Here is the latest fabulous sketch from Cardabilities...

I love this one! Here's my take:

Play along and you could win an awesome prize pack from

Technique Junkie! Visit Cardabilities for all the details.

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Thanksgiving to my American Friends!

2010-11-25T16:16:00.000-06:00

Just popping in to share a card

that was featured over at Core'dinations last week.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cardabilities Reveal #15!

2010-11-15T07:00:00.001-06:00

Can you believe that Christmas is only six weeks away?!?!

We haven't had even an inch of snow here in Canada yet,

so I am having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit and

am way behind on my shopping, preparations, and card-making!

I decided to try out my new Tim Holtz stamp set

using this month's awesome sketch from Cardabilities:

I hope you play along too!

Visit Cardabilites for all the details.

Supplies: Tim Holtz patterned paper, Stampers Anonymous Tim Holtz Festive Sounds stamp set, Core'dinations cardstock, Acetate, Black StazOn ink, Tim Holtz Distress Ink in Tea Dye, ColorBox Cranberry ink, Glossy Accents, Silver and Orange Peel Stickles, Making Memories pearl flowers, Dollar Store red paper flowers

Design Team Announcement!

2010-11-10T14:26:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone, sorry I have been MIA. I have been swamped with work and some unexpected life events; so have not had nearly enough time this fall to craft or blog. Sorry. :(

But, I do have some good news to share! I am honoured and excited to say that I have been accepted as a permanent member of the Core'dinations Design Team! Woot! Woot! I just wanted to give Core'dinations and the gals over there a BIG shout-out and say THANKS! I look forward to working with you!

*edited*
That said, I have decided to postpone the next Scrapbooking: A Family Affair until December 10th. We are working on something special with the holidays just around the corner, and need a bit more time to prepare. Thank you for your patience. :)

Blog-a-versary WINNER!

2010-11-01T18:32:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Veronica!

VeronicaA said...

Happy Blog-a-versary! I love your blog and have gained much insight into the world of crafting. I have been a follower ever since I found your sight. Thanks for the opportunity to win.

Veronica

October 5, 2010 7:47 AM

Veronica, I emailed you for your snail mail address.

Congrats again!

Cardabilities Reveal #14! {& Happy Halloween!}

2010-10-30T08:00:00.004-05:00

Here's the latest awesome sketch from Cardabilities:

And here's my take:

I hope you play along too!

Create a card with sketch number #13 or #14,

link up to Cardabilities, and you could win

a $35 prize package from Scrap Shotz!

Happy Halloween!!!

Don't forget to enter my giveaway here...

you have until midnight October 31st to enter.

Supplies: Recollections cardstock, K&Company seasonal paper pack,

K&Company Tim Coffey Halloween die-cuts, Brilliance black ink, Pop-dots

The Monster Mash

2010-10-25T15:06:00.000-05:00

What is Halloween without Monsters?

Check out these adorable monsters I made;

featured over on the Core'dinations blog today!

I used my Cricut and the Mini Monster cartridge to create these little guys.

I then ran them through my Cuttlebug with various embossing folders

to create the different textures.

Do a little sanding and add some googly eyes;

and you have the perfect project for Halloween!

Here they are individually:

Don't forget to enter my BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY here!

It's a 'Rock Princess' birthday!

2010-10-22T15:35:00.001-05:00

My daughter recently celebrated her 8th birthday.

I thought I would share some of the things we made for her party.

The invitation:

The banner:

The cupcake wrappers & cupcake picks:

The loot bags:

Thanks for stopping by!

Don't forget to enter my blog candy giveaway here!

Cricut cartridges: Rock Princess, Cupcake Wrappers,

Plantin Schoolbook (bag & tag), Straight from the Nest (banner)

Paper: Recollections cardstock, DCWV Teen Prints & Glitter paper packs

Cuttlebug folders: D'vine Swirls, Skeleton Scroll

Other: VersaMagic Purple ink, Offray ribbon, Black Stickles

Cardabilities Sketch Reveal #13!

2010-10-15T07:00:00.003-05:00

It's that time again....another awesome sketch from Cardabilities!

.....and here's my take!

Have a fabulous weekend!
Don't forget to eneter my blog candy giveaway here!

Scrapbooking: A Family Affair #2 Backgrounds

2010-10-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the second post of Scrapbooking: A Family Affair!

I am so excited to have you here, and hope you are able to use the tips and

techniques I'll be sharing to get your family involved in

your paper craft creations.

Today we will focus on backgrounds. Steps we do all the time like stamping or distressing can be made into fun, age-appropriate tasks that your kids would love to do. Now is the time to let your kids get messy, get creative, and (with your supervision) play to their heart's content.

Kids love to paint. My seven year old made this dotted background by

painting on bubble wrap and pressing it onto the cardstock.

Older kids can have a little more freedom. I gave my nine year old some twine and a stapler, and he created this cool background entirely by himself.

Toddlers & Preschoolers: With so many mediums to choose from, it is easy to get even the smallest child involved. Perhaps you would like to paint your child's hand and have him/her make handprints on the paper. Maybe you'll get out some stamps and ink and let them express their own creativity. Even some well-placed 'scribbles' with a copic marker can add the perfect touch. Another option is to have your child practice their fine motor skills by cutting or tearing bits of paper to make a mosaic background.

Early Years: Paint and ink is an excellent choice for this age group. Maybe you want to make footprints on a layout about a trip to the zoo, or paint a frosty white snow, complete with sparkling glitter, on a winter-themed layout. For more variety try crackle paint or unique stamping techniques (such as using cheesecloth or bubble wrap). These kids love to draw and doodle too! Let them use your gel pens to draw a few doodles of their very own. Trace around various sized plates, bowls, and cups to create a fun modern-looking background.

Older Kids: Can do pretty much everything you can! Show them how to distress a page. Let them choose some patterned paper, cut it into strips and create a paper weave or quilt background for you. You can even teach them how to use the sewing machine! Take a whirl at using glimmer mists - maybe even have them create a mask of their own.This group will still love to ink and paint and can handle multiple steps. Let them emboss, emboss resist, use alcohol inks, etc.

Now, it's your turn!

Get your kids involved making a background for your next layout.

We would love to see what you come up with. Feel free to share a link with us to your family-made memory pages (that include a family-made background) in the comment section. Be sure to add the ages of your children and how they helped when posting.

Although this is not a formal challenge, my kiddos and I are committed to sharing the love when it comes to family scrapbooking and we would love to have the chance to comment on your creation. Plus, you never know when we might award a lucky family with a small RAK in the mail!

It's my Blog-a-versary! {& a GIVEAWAY!}

2010-10-02T13:35:00.002-05:00

It's my Blog-a-versary!

One year already!

This year has been a true learning experience for me.

From {still} trying to learn the ins and outs of blogger,

to {attempting} better photography,

entering numerous challenges but also challenging myself,

making online friends, blog-following {or should I say stalking?},

being blessed with guest design team positions...

and now a couple of permanent ones as well!,

and recently starting a new monthly venture of my own

{sharing my passion for both family & creativity}

which you can find here on my blog

Scrapbooking: A Family Affair

It has been an amazing journey!

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of my followers.

Thank you!!!!

I love sharing my creative projects with all of you!

Of course the

best way to celebrate

is to have a

GIVEAWAY!!!!

Here's how you can win:

1. Become a follower AND leave me a comment telling me you are!

{If you are already following, just leave me a comment.}

(that's one chance!)

2. Mention my giveaway on your blog

AND leave me a comment with a link to it

(that's two chances!)

3. Participate in Scrapbooking: A Family Affair

AND leave me a comment with a link to it on both

this post & the pertaining Scrapbooking: A Family Affair post

(Go here for our inaugural Sept.10th challenge

& stay tuned for our upcoming Oct.10th challenge)

(that's three chances to win!)

You have until October 31st

at midnight CST to enter.

Good Luck!

On a side note......

if I reach 100+ followers by October 31st

I will add in a second prize

with more chances to win!!!

Blog Candy includes: Cuttlebug 5x7" Dominoes Folder, Cuttlebug Formal Squares 2x2.75" Folders, 2 packages of Crafts Rhinestone Stickers, 1 box K&Company Kazoo Kids Chipboard, Imaginisce Polar Expressions Felt Shapes, Imaginisce Polar Expressions Hot Chocolate Stamp, American Crafts Always Stamp Set, 2 spools of American Crafts Elements Ribbon