tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16343242837093227922024-03-18T18:24:51.390-05:00Patacake DesignsInk colors my fingers, And glitter coats my hair.
My craft room’s like a crime scene With Copics everywhere.
I seem to’ve lost my scissors
I should clean, but where to start? It really doesn’t bother me ‘cause my heart is in my art.
Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.comBlogger1980125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-12190881022314746492024-03-18T13:11:00.001-05:002024-03-18T13:11:00.141-05:00Another One Bites the Dust<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4M1SqFFo7bb93_y50HPfe-jm3r3YNZROF7dCFMp2xKU1BGeQjfh4tdyeMv_hzE9f3ncVCri3XBSxZct7lrJaZUfmwS1V6CGrnZsX3N4Gdi2a471xONvzkZdj_HTmabIWinfHab9-6fNnh_E_AJo0YMZ4UGUhYKwXze8-9hLPDCj3E0A-pAy0XaC8yWopR/s1080/1%20asstd%20cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1080" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4M1SqFFo7bb93_y50HPfe-jm3r3YNZROF7dCFMp2xKU1BGeQjfh4tdyeMv_hzE9f3ncVCri3XBSxZct7lrJaZUfmwS1V6CGrnZsX3N4Gdi2a471xONvzkZdj_HTmabIWinfHab9-6fNnh_E_AJo0YMZ4UGUhYKwXze8-9hLPDCj3E0A-pAy0XaC8yWopR/w400-h289/1%20asstd%20cards.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Today's decluttering produced 7 cards and a bookmark. The only reason I stopped was to feed and walk the dog, then jump on my spin bike! I now have two large bags of craft supplies for a budding new crafter, a full recycle bin, several more empty containers/drawers, and less anxiety knowing that my basement has a chance to be a livable space again.<p></p><p>I started with the bookmark since I found a watercolor that I had made last year. When I'm not happy with my watercolors. I cut out the part(s) that I like and keep them for future projects. Using leftover die-cut stars, macrame string and a die-cut butterfly, I finished off my bookmark with a sticker that reads <i>dream</i>.</p><p>I had two pre-cut cards and envies that I discovered in my decluttering and used leftover papers as card fronts. I cut out the birthday cake from a transparent sheet of scrapbook paper and added small paper flowers and a sticker reading <i>wish; </i>I used a stamped Thanks sentiment on the other large card and added a die-cut paper butterfly.</p><p>The card in the very front has a pop-up vase of flowers in the middle. I created this card from a leftover card kit I had made for a workshop before Covid. The others are card and envie sets that I used patterned papers, ATCs, stickers and flowers to create feel-good note cards. The one on the very left is actually a three-fold; I decorated the front and left the inside clear in which wo write a note to someone special...</p><p>During this declutter so far, I have learned that:</p><div style="text-align: left;">I buy supplies impulsively, mostly when things are on clearance or offered at thrift stores. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I am a paperholic and since decreasing the number of cards I make after Covid, is not a good trait.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I save too many "pieces" and "ripped" or "broken" supplies thinking I can find a use for them.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I don't have as much space as I have craft supplies.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I should have bought real crafting storage i/o thrifting for furniture/bins/shelving haphazardly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Does this mean I won't visit a craft or thrift store or buy supplies before I really need them? Probably not, but I will have a good think before I get to the cash register and hand over the cash for it all!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Keeping it real, crafting peeps!</div><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-128791531896050882024-03-15T10:00:00.001-05:002024-03-15T10:00:00.141-05:00Birthday Cards Today<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGvcU7M5-DK0iYGeMZV9UHTx89MYVptZVqxbnXOAroHxPz5c_J_mV9qPasp7OvMloARYvJ8_rzzaDLlaUXJaEZFlvbNB_BmgVTLEH_bWz0qoEpq5JSMrKMcNC3t8vefKHplYC6fD6NHb2Jv10dXmKtecyhgK8kiue1wM3Q5IqO57pIeinTvvjkZ4WVoWQ/s1080/1%20bdat%20cards.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="1080" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGvcU7M5-DK0iYGeMZV9UHTx89MYVptZVqxbnXOAroHxPz5c_J_mV9qPasp7OvMloARYvJ8_rzzaDLlaUXJaEZFlvbNB_BmgVTLEH_bWz0qoEpq5JSMrKMcNC3t8vefKHplYC6fD6NHb2Jv10dXmKtecyhgK8kiue1wM3Q5IqO57pIeinTvvjkZ4WVoWQ/w400-h381/1%20bdat%20cards.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Today I'm showcasing the birthday cards I made from the misc. stash leftovers I've been cleaning out, organizing and donating. Again, I mostly used die-cuts and a few pre-colored images I had from leftover projects. It was a quick and satisfying chore. <div><br /></div><div>I also managed to go through a few small tubs of trading cards o take to Geek Toys, whose owner bought a nice amount from me earlier in the year. They are all from my mom, bless her soul. She loved non-sport trading cards, especially of her favorite sci-fi shows, like Star Trek, Babylon 5 and Stargate. Unfortunately, they didn't generate as much cash as I had hoped, but I got rid of another bin taking up room in my basement. Yay me!<br /><p></p><p>I have another appointment with my Whole Health coach. I'll continue to work on decluttering my craft supplies (Lord knows I have enough to keep me busy for another few weeks). My next target is punches and scissors and wooden-block stamps. But I'm seriously trying to get my A1C numbers down as well as cholesterol, which ties in with weight loss. Luckily, I have access to a dietician, kinesiologist and my very own spin bike (okay, the spin bike is an old Schwinn without a working display, but I can still pedal).</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-90600631944258193422024-03-13T19:53:00.001-05:002024-03-13T19:53:36.208-05:00Using My Stash <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMtMKhh_rYNyzRkPa-LrRqc3A4eCF_wtYKsDcEds3j_PzM0sGZ425pG0YwvSmhDtrIrNunaLK6QkD1C4GfdM7wKGDgMz1q-3d3wto-hFlrEJqu3EQqMXgffvZh8ZLMCE6zDHWnQTJVENlt6AYHhxmav7NutrYp7wZ3pMGhdIV2e4L40yLjN0SftUDYvEK/s1363/1%20notecards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMtMKhh_rYNyzRkPa-LrRqc3A4eCF_wtYKsDcEds3j_PzM0sGZ425pG0YwvSmhDtrIrNunaLK6QkD1C4GfdM7wKGDgMz1q-3d3wto-hFlrEJqu3EQqMXgffvZh8ZLMCE6zDHWnQTJVENlt6AYHhxmav7NutrYp7wZ3pMGhdIV2e4L40yLjN0SftUDYvEK/w318-h400/1%20notecards.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><p>Today I created 10 notecards from a pile of misc. crafting supplies I left out on my desk last week. I mostly used die-cuts, ATCs and stickers, so it went pretty fast. The history behind the cards is interesting...</p>I have a habit of naming the New Year. 2024 is the year of Whole Health, I joined a program offered by my hospital and they offer so many programs that touch on the concepts of whole health: physical health, emotional health, personal development, weight loss, mindful meditation, sleep therapy, spiritual awareness, kinesiology, surroundings and social activity.<p></p><p>I even have a coach who guides me to plan out how to reach my goals, which also means accountability. If I don't reach my goals in the time allotted, we revise the steps I need to take to succeed. For the next two weeks, I'm working on my surroundings. </p><p>My house has become a storage building, holding furniture, collectibles and items from my mom's and my gram's houses, which my sisters and I cleaned out and sold after their deaths. Most of my basement and garage are filled with furniture and things that my sister can't let go of, but doesn't have room for.</p><p>I admit that the rest of the overcrowding is from my ever-growing stash of craft supplies. This situation is making me feel overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. My mission is to declutter, organize and label my crafts, creating order out of the chaos. I listed the craft supplies by category; for instance, this first week I went through my alpha stickers, printed images, 12x12 papers, diecuts, lace, ribbon, trim, buttons and envelopes.</p><p>I emptied 12 containers and bins, and found a ten year old girl whose passion is crafting. Her mom works with my sister, and she has received a large bag of craft supplies from me. She and her mom created a vision board together and had so much fun. I have filled another large bag with papers, stickers and card kits I made for some workshops. And I am just beginning!</p><p>So now you know how I came to create these notecards. I also made 9 birthday cards which I'll post another time. Meanwhile, happy crafting, y'all!</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-73594479446403301172024-02-24T17:35:00.000-06:002024-02-24T17:35:00.678-06:00Gearing Up for Spring<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDy9Ci3Q0kdV9fuyebHjmwUsCL476j1cONCJhd7Co4xpSod5zkNQ92lpcLEI6h7h_5wnCZ1Av8AqH1dVc-3M7uCvPhOjQMD7Eak4RWWyLzsiaDBnNI_rDNPKQaRbC1M353Y6K2YVXonjNopXB4escRnOYxC0sPPZ29THgDe4ck-8gMzEBVlRy1mt3kzsW/s1097/spring%20deck%20decor.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1097" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDy9Ci3Q0kdV9fuyebHjmwUsCL476j1cONCJhd7Co4xpSod5zkNQ92lpcLEI6h7h_5wnCZ1Av8AqH1dVc-3M7uCvPhOjQMD7Eak4RWWyLzsiaDBnNI_rDNPKQaRbC1M353Y6K2YVXonjNopXB4escRnOYxC0sPPZ29THgDe4ck-8gMzEBVlRy1mt3kzsW/w394-h400/spring%20deck%20decor.jpg" width="394" /></a></div><br /> I have a bone to pick with that groundhog! He said we can expect a mild winter. Yes, it has been mild...until last night!! I spent yesterday wearing a light hoodie outside while running errands and walking my dog. This morning I wake up to SNOW!! I had to dig out my icy melt and throw it on a couple icy patches of sidewalk! It's cold out there. I heard we got 2 inches; not a lot, just enough to remind us that it is still February and the groundhog is not always accurate...<p></p><p>Meanwhile, my crafting mind hsas already turned to Spring projects. I pulled out a rusty metal wall decor from my garage yesterday (pre-snow). I had bought it sometime last year and forgot about it until now. I had to sand it, using WD-40, and clean it well, before applying gesso and paint to it. My front porch is painted blue, and the railings are white. So that's the colors I chose for this project.</p><p>I used spray paint as a base, then went over areas of the leaves with acrylic paint in a few shades of blue for some depth. After I got the effect I wanted, I sealed it with gloss varnish so it can weather the weather. It looks great on my back door right now, and as soon as it warms up a little, I'll place it on the front of my house.</p><p>Oh, forgot to mention the wire butterfly I added to my decor. I actually used gloss varnish on it as well in hopes of making it last long into the Spring and Summer. Have fun crafting, peeps, and don't trust that groundhog!!</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-34694709776074036922024-02-10T08:32:00.001-06:002024-02-10T08:32:00.156-06:00From Thrift Store to Living Room<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnZFgehBgE23KCPgQ4Hx3PYjE3jcF0JnugZAxKPf_X9imCpZ44W1HHCgslE519N3_56aIviD3L49-Vzc6FC3Zu6sqY3r-1qI4xyWyd_jcrQZagIz5tHeCoH8KYzoQ5te1yYISurwP44xHgcP6saAl1gxsoSnJ72Ki8R8V-z3hwUSSwcp31I1zryxGsj8G/s719/credenza%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="719" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnZFgehBgE23KCPgQ4Hx3PYjE3jcF0JnugZAxKPf_X9imCpZ44W1HHCgslE519N3_56aIviD3L49-Vzc6FC3Zu6sqY3r-1qI4xyWyd_jcrQZagIz5tHeCoH8KYzoQ5te1yYISurwP44xHgcP6saAl1gxsoSnJ72Ki8R8V-z3hwUSSwcp31I1zryxGsj8G/w400-h314/credenza%201.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another day, another thrift store upcycle. I had stored this credenza in my garage, where it waited for inspiration to come. It came to me this week, so I had my daughter help me move it into the house, where I assessed the damage. Dirty, of course, with a few tears.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I decided to paint it white as a base color, when what to my wondering eyes should appear, purples splotches and dots, as if someone had shaken a bottle of purple hair dye and the cover slipped off! That dye or whatever it was bled thru three coats of white paint!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I knew I had to either paint the whole thing purple (ugh) or figure a way to conceal the splotches. I had previously purchased some colored wax for just such an occasion, but did I have a viable color?? I found a teal wax. Wow, my living room furniture is teal (2 chairs and a couch), and the artwork on my walls have some teal in it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I chose to try the teal wax, It came out lighter than expected, but it worked against the pale yellow walls. So now I have a credenza/cubby unit for my living room. The two bins on the right hold our winter accessories (top) and Honeycomb's winter wear (bottom). The rest of the bins hold our art supplies (pens, pencils, markers and assorted).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I originally had a four-cubby unit, which is now stuck behind one of the LR chairs awaiting its fate. Now I have storage for all the bins I keep in this room. And I am happy, which is what I strive to achieve on every art project I create. Does your artwork and crafting make you happy? I hope so!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-30106495881250638612024-02-08T08:32:00.000-06:002024-02-08T08:32:04.166-06:00Another Thrift Store Furniture Upcycle<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYlEWsQ6Q9Y4pNsRkU2aIgBkqxYVIuG6e4GNlC05hxaISdbbpF0IUdBhspSU1SysQgaJcaLbpSMasZvrYtlvygM8eratwgI7ZBW_rrNfnBs-7PcpYq6VJWavn47P2Hq6HvDejLzPZzhbd2YjguLMXP77RwKAGO7f9hfMXpjhtm8uzahhwYX2NazA9pBtp/s833/shoe%20rack%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="476" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYlEWsQ6Q9Y4pNsRkU2aIgBkqxYVIuG6e4GNlC05hxaISdbbpF0IUdBhspSU1SysQgaJcaLbpSMasZvrYtlvygM8eratwgI7ZBW_rrNfnBs-7PcpYq6VJWavn47P2Hq6HvDejLzPZzhbd2YjguLMXP77RwKAGO7f9hfMXpjhtm8uzahhwYX2NazA9pBtp/w229-h400/shoe%20rack%202.jpg" width="229" /></a></div><p></p><p>Having some time on my hands, I brought up a small vertical shelving unit from the basement. I found it years ago and did nothing with it except use it in the laundry room to hold detergent, dryer sheets, etc. While my gf gave me her double-shelved shoe rack when she moved, it just took up so much room by the front door. So I finally got to work on this skinny set of shelves.</p><p>It had gathered a lot of dust and stains from being the "laundry cart", so the first thing I did was to clean it thoroughly. The cleaning was not enough, so I brought up my paints, brush and a sponge. I decided to try my hand at mixing colors to give it a marbled effect. My colors were black, copper, rose gold and silver.</p><p>I'd never tried this painting technique before, so I came into it blind. I chose to go from dark to lighter colors, and it paid off. Using a damp art sponge, I dabbed on enough black to almost cover the surfaces (I started with the top). It was still almost wet before I added the copper and then gold.</p><p>When it came to adding the silver, I lightly dabbed the paint on, not only filling in unpainted spots, but going over the whole surface o blend in the colors. I really like the outcome. When it came to the inside of the shelf area, I used black. After all, our shoes would be going in the cubbies as we go through the front door, as well as guests.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJB52juvBNJ-Ffqn9l1Sp0x2qjWUoCfV6946do3VE-Dnt52ewczDefWnXA_UhkP1U3fFWz815nDLjuVroH1Gx85DES1KzvhCMpCIMuKG6uZLoKxTYKHgMQmhVVJb7vaQJKChtBR0FzNtDGcNL2tXjXvolMrYx3V4Cn5cEhojqVBtI08mAK7sj-2esBTMt/s836/shoe%20rack%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="595" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJB52juvBNJ-Ffqn9l1Sp0x2qjWUoCfV6946do3VE-Dnt52ewczDefWnXA_UhkP1U3fFWz815nDLjuVroH1Gx85DES1KzvhCMpCIMuKG6uZLoKxTYKHgMQmhVVJb7vaQJKChtBR0FzNtDGcNL2tXjXvolMrYx3V4Cn5cEhojqVBtI08mAK7sj-2esBTMt/w285-h400/shoe%20rack%201.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><br /><p>My next furniture upcycle is a credenza with cubbies for those fabric bins everyone loves. I have an overabundance of these bins, and will replace a smaller unit with the one I'll work on. </p><div style="text-align: left;">Bonus photo: I'm stopping here at my computer personalization project with this result:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbwJY80-gN8os3H1CJOdwaaI9KoQMDczneohnPnkoGOMrYJyyIHDwypO5i2oa54dvnIlmkSbt5MmDr8urity6f8-he3o8EFRgICU9qC5bo1gLprKM96DkOMRe3oUJZ8DdLYmIaWPBhiFrKnvkwIIBfc1G8fVRj1-wS8pfl9xWljiISzCfmvfgQ_wHM33v/s1080/keyboard%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="1080" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbwJY80-gN8os3H1CJOdwaaI9KoQMDczneohnPnkoGOMrYJyyIHDwypO5i2oa54dvnIlmkSbt5MmDr8urity6f8-he3o8EFRgICU9qC5bo1gLprKM96DkOMRe3oUJZ8DdLYmIaWPBhiFrKnvkwIIBfc1G8fVRj1-wS8pfl9xWljiISzCfmvfgQ_wHM33v/w400-h185/keyboard%201.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-44354527831394686182024-02-05T09:42:00.004-06:002024-02-05T09:42:00.164-06:00My New Project for the Year<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSgZlaVlhCTGPs7mMW3m5EpVLnBabQ8fHc6m3mCnUMYJXCsQkLml7LN-tuwctZlwkx4XvgqLm3QYaGotwPT32gbapneDWslntp1Ka65PMFZ0opd4_BzLg6XRBFIXVVf0HaLiCorS-Yl7Zsi3B_S7i6GyL045uNspjVK0dE2wKsdU0eUW_3UBQdmiMx8Im/s1047/1%20keyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="1047" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSgZlaVlhCTGPs7mMW3m5EpVLnBabQ8fHc6m3mCnUMYJXCsQkLml7LN-tuwctZlwkx4XvgqLm3QYaGotwPT32gbapneDWslntp1Ka65PMFZ0opd4_BzLg6XRBFIXVVf0HaLiCorS-Yl7Zsi3B_S7i6GyL045uNspjVK0dE2wKsdU0eUW_3UBQdmiMx8Im/w400-h224/1%20keyboard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> A new year, a new project! I've always wanted to personalize my keyboard. I had started last year with my old computer but it died. Then I was hesitant about trying it on my new one. But what the heck! Might as well fulfill my dreams, even tho my BIL will give me grief for "defacing" my computer. LOL<p></p><p>I'm starting in the safety zone. A simple Bee drawing for the letter B, and a simple House drawing for the Home key. I used Posca paint markers, and had to cover each key with white to get the colors to be true. What do you think? To me, I am really pushing my creativity limits. Painting and upcycling thrift store finds is one thing. My computer is another. But so far, I'm happy with the results!</p><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-5524205994248936722024-01-29T13:20:00.001-06:002024-01-29T13:20:00.140-06:00Veni, Vidi, Legi (I Came, I Saw, I Read)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhzWxGKM9X-6lj1g7rkjlshKrhZA9o8xi3klNggFgGMVocyovAra_CoX855171UWbtYWNr9ERf2GZLWD_SsYJHZXyO9-eohTqe_mOC_a_PhhfiUyAvDL27HhZflXndEzMmhKnEOzMANGMPAalyZ0lCW8ZQveKe_GgmCo2zf3ucJ6c3_Qa7Y2uHv2dGufJ/s4080/20240127_132414%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhzWxGKM9X-6lj1g7rkjlshKrhZA9o8xi3klNggFgGMVocyovAra_CoX855171UWbtYWNr9ERf2GZLWD_SsYJHZXyO9-eohTqe_mOC_a_PhhfiUyAvDL27HhZflXndEzMmhKnEOzMANGMPAalyZ0lCW8ZQveKe_GgmCo2zf3ucJ6c3_Qa7Y2uHv2dGufJ/w300-h400/20240127_132414%5B1%5D.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>I love Journals and I love Lists. The journal pictured above is my Book List. When I find a book or series that grips me, I snap a shot of the cover and write the title and author's name and why I like the book(s) with a short synopsis. I just added my most recent reads to my journal. They are Circe and The Song of Achilles, both by Madeline Miller. I've always been interested in Greek mythology, and Miller writes in the first person, giving life and perspective to these mythical gods and demi-gods. She brings their stories to life. I can't wait to see if she's writing another one.<p></p><p>Of course, I had to cover my composition book so it reflected the pages in side. I gave my cover a door with a peek-hole into other worlds, which is exactly the kind of journal this is. Other pages include books from Anne McCaffrey, Fern Michaels, Carl Hiaasen and more. Lately, I've been reading cozy mysteries, like the Donut Shop mysteries and the Deepwood Witches mysteries.</p><p>What do you like to read? Do you carve out some time in your busy days to relax and live a different life through the books you read? This is a habit I'm trying for my whole health plan, under Personal Development. My previous post describes my whole health plan for the new year...</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-578141068635282292024-01-27T13:20:00.001-06:002024-01-27T13:20:15.931-06:00Back on Track and Crafting Again<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFFJFVjdNRIJuAWVqe3lNezM5O3WrHhKhzCzj4mALkcJJBwCPV6vba0DBDLpgpyJIHoeG486gAwGynFHqsNRDtghTtGqWxHNvYRYlJJ2s80RbmKQpdGW33d3ywOhyN8_F-s-gaFi4ntSVJfDz7lB0pmCXt5vi_HQG0RGaTKKEtUbgons6GqBbM2Y6cbqh/s4080/20240124_160154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3060" data-original-width="4080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFFJFVjdNRIJuAWVqe3lNezM5O3WrHhKhzCzj4mALkcJJBwCPV6vba0DBDLpgpyJIHoeG486gAwGynFHqsNRDtghTtGqWxHNvYRYlJJ2s80RbmKQpdGW33d3ywOhyN8_F-s-gaFi4ntSVJfDz7lB0pmCXt5vi_HQG0RGaTKKEtUbgons6GqBbM2Y6cbqh/w400-h300/20240124_160154.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Hello, crafters! I've been busy this new year. I have a habit of naming my years as January 1st comes around. The last few I have named the Year of Ruthlessness, aspiring towards decluttering and organization of home and health. This year I changed it to The Year of Whole Health. <p></p><p>Whole Health means taking care of all aspects of my life: Moving my body, Food and Drink, Professional services, Personal Development, Surroundings, Spirituality, Relaxation and recharging and Circle of support and socialization, When I say WHOLE health, I mean it! LOL</p><p>I'd already started the year by covering a few of these goals, like mindful meditation, deep breathing and sleep therapy. when it comes to my surroundings, I get overwhelmed and frustrated because I'm storing lots of leftovers from my mom's and grandma's houses for my sister. My livable basement has become unlivable with a maze of bins, boxes and furniture. I'm waiting for my sister to make some decisions. Why doesn't she have all this stuff?..because her house and garage are full of the rest of the things she couldn't let go of. </p><p>My plan is to inventory, research and try to sell the collectibles, trading cards, and Star Trek memorabilia that mom accumulated the last 20 years. I am trying to make myself comfortable in my surroundings, Which brings us to today's project pictured above. I inherited a small wooden bookcase from gram's house, but it was in bad shape with scratches and discoloration on the wood sides and top. </p><p>I decided not to wait until better weather to sand and paint or varnish it, so I did the next best thing. Using spray adhesive, I covered the bookcase with some faded tie-dye material from my sewing stash. (think of it as wallpaper made of cloth) Then I brought it upstairs and put it in my bedroom. I think it looks great and fits in well next to my bed. </p><p>It's sitting on a wooden console table Ik rescued from a neighbor. Not only does this free find give my new boocase the perfect height, but there's room under the table for my extra blankets and a small bin or two. PLUS my basement is just a tiny bit less cluttered! Win, win, don't you think?</p><p>How have you started your new year? I found my Fitbit and am spinning again; am looking into taking an art class; and have had three doctor appts. this month with another four in February. Whole Health!! Hope your year is full of happiness and good heath...</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-24641387383119174952024-01-15T09:30:00.001-06:002024-01-15T09:30:00.135-06:00Adding Pages to my Coloring Book<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhghklTjGpytrgI-Ef_gmX9tEejIfKScu9h3tkzFNysiBij17YKIKL6qcxT1etqm7CzqqRUWiEhsF26yndLnoxB4DDD-X0pQDkhk_zynHW6RA9ZsOWA301UF5aH909rVCtGjwJniHlAUd2sGav10Gk7aWxCk2FEENbTQ2q5Mk_AxYPF0TTdYOA2b3T0eB/s3891/1%20mushroom%20hills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3891" data-original-width="2661" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhghklTjGpytrgI-Ef_gmX9tEejIfKScu9h3tkzFNysiBij17YKIKL6qcxT1etqm7CzqqRUWiEhsF26yndLnoxB4DDD-X0pQDkhk_zynHW6RA9ZsOWA301UF5aH909rVCtGjwJniHlAUd2sGav10Gk7aWxCk2FEENbTQ2q5Mk_AxYPF0TTdYOA2b3T0eB/w274-h400/1%20mushroom%20hills.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>I had been very busy during the holidays, but still had time to doodle. I have over 70 pages if I want to publish my own coloring book. The one above was inspired by my daughter's fascination with mushrooms. It's funny, back in the 70's, mushrooms were in all the stores, on TV and popular in the crafting world. I guess if you wait long enough, everything old is new again!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNHS_Xr7hcfmwOhAdb0BAL-6saNReWfJxY46gKT8eLGUkRqHzKzvzzBdCLGB2Su016dX87rwJJz3ZiMrTC1lfQ8LuTyTUW8ymaJ_VViFFGmXtN83hujL9G94237QiiUjajN85yWa2UPrE-2dSlZYLOw9nL-W7EZ9tmuiv8RF0tDHUuuGDJkwep0AltYbP/s4080/1%20assymetrical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="2743" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNHS_Xr7hcfmwOhAdb0BAL-6saNReWfJxY46gKT8eLGUkRqHzKzvzzBdCLGB2Su016dX87rwJJz3ZiMrTC1lfQ8LuTyTUW8ymaJ_VViFFGmXtN83hujL9G94237QiiUjajN85yWa2UPrE-2dSlZYLOw9nL-W7EZ9tmuiv8RF0tDHUuuGDJkwep0AltYbP/w269-h400/1%20assymetrical.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><div>Above, I've drawn an asymetrical look at the world. How would you color it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PRH-3wnvDPnwQeda_AGjp4kDcmOfW95H6mudHrVx2AAvYHD5sFFBoIwy0NpxTbNGnrmdarZhmf8TyZBa9pXgxPXF9IvKK7EUnBNnSyjhGsJBlGr_Bx8FsyVSRi2FuKdlkncJ6AvrzKWsk3-AMTEXTjiyxsX7_7aXpfGvL52y26c1_Om-bWFKCJaRqghX/s3834/1%20IC%20cones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3834" data-original-width="2739" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PRH-3wnvDPnwQeda_AGjp4kDcmOfW95H6mudHrVx2AAvYHD5sFFBoIwy0NpxTbNGnrmdarZhmf8TyZBa9pXgxPXF9IvKK7EUnBNnSyjhGsJBlGr_Bx8FsyVSRi2FuKdlkncJ6AvrzKWsk3-AMTEXTjiyxsX7_7aXpfGvL52y26c1_Om-bWFKCJaRqghX/w286-h400/1%20IC%20cones.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>To end this post, I created a yummy coloring page. You are welcome to print and color ny or all of these pages. Just let me know if you enjoyed it!!<br /><div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-22049821037681158572024-01-08T09:30:00.002-06:002024-01-08T09:30:00.156-06:00Thinking Ahead in the New Year<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaZ7iDgkNVnCQzJNbhzj5GHjIUyepa_mqDyp1XZZEh1bYujwabqlILz6CfuCjZHbNv9md0H3qPKhx1hzESkW8NA9LPl5j6bAVGhRkpmnd5tpJoqMiybgiHHAPsVftdU8AXE-sH1pEXS0HdBDM81F9LKxwBAuasS_0ay8D_5rLgH5z12XgsKsEx0BpIBkE/s899/2%20card%20holder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="784" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaZ7iDgkNVnCQzJNbhzj5GHjIUyepa_mqDyp1XZZEh1bYujwabqlILz6CfuCjZHbNv9md0H3qPKhx1hzESkW8NA9LPl5j6bAVGhRkpmnd5tpJoqMiybgiHHAPsVftdU8AXE-sH1pEXS0HdBDM81F9LKxwBAuasS_0ay8D_5rLgH5z12XgsKsEx0BpIBkE/w349-h400/2%20card%20holder.jpg" width="349" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was thinking...</div><div style="text-align: left;">...since my Christmas crafts aren't packed away for the year, and I plan on actively signing up for a craft fair or two, that I should continue creating crafts that I'd like to sell in the Fall. So saying, I've inventoried, packed and labeled the bulk of my holiday craft items from this year and last. I'm going to build up my inventory and have enough items to make a good profit. And if I don't sell it all, I will use it through the years. It's a win-win situation!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So my project today is still Christmas-themed. I pulled out another thrift store find, a holiday card holder in the shape of a wreath. I sanded the rusted metal until it (almost) shone, and have it a new shiny copper color. Next I used designer paper leftover from a project I made a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I adhered the paper to a stiff backing and then glued it to my card holder. A small bow and a red ribbon finishes it off. An easy upcycle that I can safely wrap and put away for next year. Besides altering thrift finds, I have a list of craft ideas that will help decrease my stash of craft supplies by making things from scratch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My blog will see all kinds of projects, as my card stash has practically disappeared, I have a new sewing machine with which to play, and plenty of things to alter. So please visit often. You never know what will show up here! LOL</div><p></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-71589481070410859602024-01-02T09:30:00.003-06:002024-01-04T09:01:12.612-06:00Happy New Year - As Time Goes By wall clock<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlVKkPAwudvz2lAPyKcjUZAzCqWuoOw6dRaZNRkyD-2Dg_FSwNKVAXjJh7GXcYggxgys2CYLEA4pFd1SwpCC5gc_dFaxvIafqg6UIRueXviDYgC0yZjFgUnPTt00zdhBkDOONceuNJa1vf4G9qpOktdxFLXli_Nj6LJhRppcq-keOV6yzlytfOnmIxGsQ/s801/1%20clock%20blurred.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="761" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlVKkPAwudvz2lAPyKcjUZAzCqWuoOw6dRaZNRkyD-2Dg_FSwNKVAXjJh7GXcYggxgys2CYLEA4pFd1SwpCC5gc_dFaxvIafqg6UIRueXviDYgC0yZjFgUnPTt00zdhBkDOONceuNJa1vf4G9qpOktdxFLXli_Nj6LJhRppcq-keOV6yzlytfOnmIxGsQ/w380-h400/1%20clock%20blurred.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Cheers and Jeers to 2023, a year filled with obstacles, opportunities, good news, bad news, loses, gains, failures and triumphs...all in 365 days!! LOL However bad the bad experiences were, my survival rate is still 100%, so I'm happy to wish you all a Happy New Year.<p></p><p>Today's make is very fitting for the passing of the old and arrival of the new--a clock! It is a gift for the owner of (you guessed it) a Nothing Bundt Cake bakery. My daughter has worked at the store for two years, after five years at another location. She loves where she is now, and has made assistant manager as well.</p><p>While thrifting, I had found this empty round Pottery Barn box that had originally held dessert plates. When I saw this box, I knew it would make an awesome clock. I dug out a package of clock workings and drilled a hole in the cover of the box. I pulled photos of the bundts that this bakery sells and adhered them to the clock's face with Mod Podge, including the NBC logo. My daughter asked that I blur the owners names and location. I sealed it all with more Mod Podge and it is keeping time accurately (yay, me). Finally, I adhered a 3M Velcro fastener to the back from which to hang the clock.</p><p>Challenges I am Entering:</p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://thecraftyaddicts.blogspot.com/2024/01/challenge-9.html">The Crafty Addicts </a>- Anything Goes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://aperfecttimetocraft.blogspot.com/2024/01/a-perfect-time-to-craft-open-challenge.html">A Perfect Time to Craft </a>- Anything Goes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://classicdesignchallenge.blogspot.com/2023/12/classic-design-challenge-december-12.html">Classic Design</a> - Anything Goes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://morgansartworld.blogspot.com/2024/01/morgans-artworld-challenge-72.html">Morgan's Artworld</a> - Anything Goes</div><p><br /></p><p> </p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-69928567100768519822023-12-24T09:00:00.005-06:002023-12-24T09:00:00.306-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 24 - Let It Snow Wall Decor<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCd-BlpfsQCC_GB83xpobSDF9iMrho8SYEPHPn2uz7kPuupByLgNJM4zWPc5a-MyXrg1kKdk0rRtyMlDlLG2B1MbzprMdJYajoWDqY_nXz5yrnoAX7iIUI8h4ERRAFhQhQmuHqxvi30tXul2cpi4muMMkuP5gSvLsHmZIo6bZtw4uXnjBCwajPLgE0FGc/s883/1%20xmas%20day%2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="594" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCd-BlpfsQCC_GB83xpobSDF9iMrho8SYEPHPn2uz7kPuupByLgNJM4zWPc5a-MyXrg1kKdk0rRtyMlDlLG2B1MbzprMdJYajoWDqY_nXz5yrnoAX7iIUI8h4ERRAFhQhQmuHqxvi30tXul2cpi4muMMkuP5gSvLsHmZIo6bZtw4uXnjBCwajPLgE0FGc/w254-h320/1%20xmas%20day%2024.jpg" width="254" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOVWnm18WxeV6XFoJOpLfso4uP6bM5FUkN9fimPOQTR_9h1ptbqfJD_AL2DtP9YUvtAsi-x6wamgpWAD9aB3uwtN2sfUxk3Bo0EKtwtKqZ97hyphenhyphenvkJ3ILGD9Q_90IPJQ-hzQyRgmwoV2pZ3rIMdANSrVygeh0VREH2WhXiNOBgz3HRPz70QxdhjnPt6cL6/s719/1%20xmas%20day%2024%20a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="573" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOVWnm18WxeV6XFoJOpLfso4uP6bM5FUkN9fimPOQTR_9h1ptbqfJD_AL2DtP9YUvtAsi-x6wamgpWAD9aB3uwtN2sfUxk3Bo0EKtwtKqZ97hyphenhyphenvkJ3ILGD9Q_90IPJQ-hzQyRgmwoV2pZ3rIMdANSrVygeh0VREH2WhXiNOBgz3HRPz70QxdhjnPt6cL6/s320/1%20xmas%20day%2024%20a.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Merry Christmas Eve, crafters! If you're here, then congrats, you survived the 24 days of Christmas. Wishing you all a happy holiday filled with family, fun and food. And of course a safe and prosperous New Year...</p><p>My make today is a matching set of wall decor. The square wooden pieces were clearanced at some thrift store, and the snowmen were a part of a Christmas placemat. After painting the wood white, I adhered the material to them. The greetings are buttons I bought a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. There are sparkly snowflakes that came from a garland I never used. The placemat has another four panels that include another snowman, a tree and ornaments, which I will put away for next year's projects!</p><p>With today's project, I won't be back until after the New Year starts. Stay safe, be kind and live in the moment!!</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-28039544628439550772023-12-23T09:00:00.001-06:002023-12-23T09:00:00.134-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 23 - Who Let the Dogs Out<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9KXISdzH-7-aFYa4p86U7w5L9LpH36JoJkWuS1idwZIB65St9amujotPsCHmSViGK4GZM5cSWSDjli6PCeJamj_poJ-5pMYfKEPs-CK5zlAdsH8hh5mffOEmuBrJbQ7gax07GJs_KSNiFSLtnjs0q14oVWsf2zZec-5-bnwEOi0AvLziRjDnAQFZxJ-i/s569/1%20xmas%20day%2023%20a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="569" height="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9KXISdzH-7-aFYa4p86U7w5L9LpH36JoJkWuS1idwZIB65St9amujotPsCHmSViGK4GZM5cSWSDjli6PCeJamj_poJ-5pMYfKEPs-CK5zlAdsH8hh5mffOEmuBrJbQ7gax07GJs_KSNiFSLtnjs0q14oVWsf2zZec-5-bnwEOi0AvLziRjDnAQFZxJ-i/w400-h389/1%20xmas%20day%2023%20a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The presents are wrapped, the tree is trimmed, the bathroom is clean, the craft supplies are all put away, and here is today's project. It's another wall decor. I used an embroidery hoop as the frame. I dug through my scarp material pieces and found this cute puppy pattern so on it went.<p></p><p>I added the felt Christmas wiener dog to the bottom, and a wooden ornament to the top right. It reads, "Dear Santa I really tried". LOL I think that fits my terrier to a "T". I added a small pine branch and a snowflake for decoration and my wall decor is up and looking good!</p><p>Challenges I am Entering:</p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://thecraftingchallenge.blogspot.com/2023/12/christmas.html">The Crafting Challenge </a>- Christmas</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://morgansartworld.blogspot.com/2023/12/morgans-artworld-challenge-12.html">Morgan's Artworld </a>- Anything Goes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://thesisterhoodofcrafters.blogspot.com/2023/12/christmas.html">Sisterhood of Crafters</a> - Christmas</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://asyoulikeitchallenge.blogspot.com/2023/12/final-challenge-for-2023-anything-goes.html">AS You Like It </a>- Anything Goes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://movingalongwiththetimes.blogspot.com/2023/12/challenge-161-for-december-winter.html">Moving along with the Times </a>- Winter Animals</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://christmas-craft-creations.blogspot.com/2023/12/december-challenge-christmas-decorations.html">Christmas Craft Creations</a> - Christmas Decorations</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP_LvlmhK0PxRRquQZyhMFskcr0Tu5eTguxKndx6ShOls83Dyqxv73UM5ytm9Nn5mgWdTYI3ey6hX3K1UNLHXXER_TfWg8rJhu6i6hV0mwlnnvmXcP_qBfPYetzZNscibl0qPvOU8eM0PKhtibvLmwyRtL0Mc3FJDRoxzg04qRbJMyh6F4Vc5fjJC-ubxu" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="400" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP_LvlmhK0PxRRquQZyhMFskcr0Tu5eTguxKndx6ShOls83Dyqxv73UM5ytm9Nn5mgWdTYI3ey6hX3K1UNLHXXER_TfWg8rJhu6i6hV0mwlnnvmXcP_qBfPYetzZNscibl0qPvOU8eM0PKhtibvLmwyRtL0Mc3FJDRoxzg04qRbJMyh6F4Vc5fjJC-ubxu=w196-h140" width="196" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-62368300661004436342023-12-22T09:00:00.001-06:002023-12-22T09:00:00.139-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 22 - Snowball Christmas Tree<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzGy-8bMIGWUCz-AZXIKcvUW9yrPEYj1zg8NOv5vUdes80ER9jmne-ikPqnBaM4cWX7wUJW-b8_esP58RyRZErHau4Es4BHHNW8Z4iPaS0brBjc7V8JbzFol13OsSaAeCO_P2Vv4Lbeb4a3JVBRwYWFsHHy5NxbnBb-OW8FYNF6XXKXwESqoUS0UADpzA/s992/1%20xmas%20snowball%20tree.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="616" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzGy-8bMIGWUCz-AZXIKcvUW9yrPEYj1zg8NOv5vUdes80ER9jmne-ikPqnBaM4cWX7wUJW-b8_esP58RyRZErHau4Es4BHHNW8Z4iPaS0brBjc7V8JbzFol13OsSaAeCO_P2Vv4Lbeb4a3JVBRwYWFsHHy5NxbnBb-OW8FYNF6XXKXwESqoUS0UADpzA/w249-h400/1%20xmas%20snowball%20tree.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>We're down to the wire, crafters! I still need to clean my house, set up the table, finish decorating the tree, wrap presents, and the list goes on. If you don't see me here before Christmas, I am in the last-minute throes of preparing for a house full of guests.<p></p><div>My make today is a snowball-covered Christmas tree decoration. I used a Styrofoam tree, plastic snowflakes off an old garland, tons of different-sized snowballs and the bottom of an antique lamp from my gram's house. The lighting doesn't pick up the glitter on the snowballs, but it is a bright and shiny decoration, joining the others I've created this month and throughout the years. </div><div>I use my glue gun to adhere everything, and the tree stands about eight inches high. The star is made from one whole and two half snowflakes. It is sitting on my kitchen chair, which is cover by two holiday seat pads. Very festive! </div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-41536588273418105332023-12-21T09:42:00.001-06:002023-12-21T09:42:00.141-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 21 - Christmas Mixed Media Wall Decor<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Orjp4EVZgkfUZ0xtsTjCPokWZTTGAe4yT5v09hvjsyl-ZhlWkzrUKyIk7EmDiEcF1rQyLkmDZ-ZWWPXQCJutbQdDncxJJbhcnq3LVMthcHX9esnHNx6pVJhMoZNJ9YhTXEwa1fWDahoYarM0ms5KfM2NB_t0SeSnxjtLSdJhL9xgG0zxRgd1yP4LXqWb/s672/1%20xmas%20day%2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="672" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Orjp4EVZgkfUZ0xtsTjCPokWZTTGAe4yT5v09hvjsyl-ZhlWkzrUKyIk7EmDiEcF1rQyLkmDZ-ZWWPXQCJutbQdDncxJJbhcnq3LVMthcHX9esnHNx6pVJhMoZNJ9YhTXEwa1fWDahoYarM0ms5KfM2NB_t0SeSnxjtLSdJhL9xgG0zxRgd1yP4LXqWb/w400-h331/1%20xmas%20day%2021.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Today's make started off as a framed watercolor. It just didn't look right, so I used Stickles (glitter glue) to each light bulb...eh. So out came the paint markers and colored pencils and what you see is what I got. Using watercolors, I created the string of tree lights. I sparkled them up with glitter glue, traced the cord with black paint markers and wrote the words Merry Christmas with the markers. I added a few glittery swirls here and there and then framed it. Not my best work but a new holiday creation nevertheless. <p></p><p>Not gonna lie. I had just three weeks to create holiday projects and a couple of them are fair to middlin'. Some of them are gorgeous and some of them I'm also happy with. I still have three more projects to go and then I can get Here on the blog! LOL</p><p>FEELING KIND OF STRESSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS? Play this quick game and find out what your holiday character is!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMdxGzlj3ucuMlsbk27CC38XE1ay8VSfOtmfeo_Ifo1JA9swQRNqxCHE8r1NB5cr5B1f-v-yEtlOEbi5O2V9Fe8N3xFd15y-Jrqq0EdQ0ZHeL_wNM5KyTXnFmcj7tOyzmBGrkj6G7JMJAa1dZYhLE3PwpYTC_ZsSY3ltfPAQD45Y4BGjVVw39Q044Loen/s3339/holiday%20character%20name%20game.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1794" data-original-width="3339" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMdxGzlj3ucuMlsbk27CC38XE1ay8VSfOtmfeo_Ifo1JA9swQRNqxCHE8r1NB5cr5B1f-v-yEtlOEbi5O2V9Fe8N3xFd15y-Jrqq0EdQ0ZHeL_wNM5KyTXnFmcj7tOyzmBGrkj6G7JMJAa1dZYhLE3PwpYTC_ZsSY3ltfPAQD45Y4BGjVVw39Q044Loen/w400-h324/holiday%20character%20name%20game.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-22001078239697278962023-12-20T09:00:00.001-06:002023-12-20T09:00:00.133-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 20 - Ornament Wreath<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFJR5-mYQy9sZ2YC9MDf1m8KaBBRoBy2WoFwQkN1LwpBC0X0ZvUW8JC4tAn4vw1-NddgyVmvekNiKdb7IrrpNjAg8oHclFgkrQQNFV15MdAXyQPK2gylzx97iyC7DaX7s1nD-7LYW_t6rbestwuqDLLADuMusV3u5nJfECnrMFm97WG0Jxk3AoYDWeHIF/s839/1%20xmas%20day%2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="810" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFJR5-mYQy9sZ2YC9MDf1m8KaBBRoBy2WoFwQkN1LwpBC0X0ZvUW8JC4tAn4vw1-NddgyVmvekNiKdb7IrrpNjAg8oHclFgkrQQNFV15MdAXyQPK2gylzx97iyC7DaX7s1nD-7LYW_t6rbestwuqDLLADuMusV3u5nJfECnrMFm97WG0Jxk3AoYDWeHIF/w386-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2020.jpg" width="386" /></a></div>I finally gave in and created an ornament wreath. It only took me a few years to decide to make one (slow and steady wins the race LOL). I dug inti my stash and pulled out a small grape vine wreath I had purchased at the thrift store in years gone past. It wasn't the most beautiful one; in fact, I bought it solely for the wreath shape!<p></p><p>I pulled out my leftover bag o' ornaments, which also held jingle bells and holy berries. Grabbing my hot glue gun, II adhered almost all of them onto the wreath. I missed a few times, and now have a lovely burn blister on the top knuckle of my ring hand. I'm glad you didn't hear the obscenities I screamed as I tried to get the glue off my fingers as quickly as possible! </p><p>I tried to fill in all the little holes in my ornament-covered wreath, mainly with small leaf sequins and tiny lightbulbs that go to my ceramic Christmas tree. A leftover piece of ribbon(?) and a small silver bow was <i>almost</i> my final act. I finished off the day by running cold water on my poor crispy finger...</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-60967054864359859502023-12-19T09:00:00.029-06:002023-12-19T09:00:00.141-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 19 - Merry & Bright Wall Decor<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UJNTOKBrD-CKTg736OmBNgYrqHkZX__wSEdOa0BdMvMGZHOs_410NDoWxsnYtlWWzeuhthrzvbEATEsBk2tL-r4amgj8NaB0ComvJUhLjs7eu_IhBaUjpC6_uT0noJQDfqt9w4mniEJmEDNPkXuDorilfc9vQkehzswLXWu8tXYWWF7tSCrua9LO6nGI/s979/1%20xmas%20day%2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="765" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UJNTOKBrD-CKTg736OmBNgYrqHkZX__wSEdOa0BdMvMGZHOs_410NDoWxsnYtlWWzeuhthrzvbEATEsBk2tL-r4amgj8NaB0ComvJUhLjs7eu_IhBaUjpC6_uT0noJQDfqt9w4mniEJmEDNPkXuDorilfc9vQkehzswLXWu8tXYWWF7tSCrua9LO6nGI/w313-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2020.jpg" width="313" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Hi, crafters!! Less than a week away now--are you ready for Christmas? I have another Christmas decor project to show you today. I used a well-discounted 4th of July metal star decoration that I had bought at <i>Hobby Lobby</i> eons ago. By the time I got to the store, the discount was 90%!! I just can't pass up a good deal like that. I've used it for the last three summers, hanging it on my front porch.</p><p>Today I gave it new life by first painting the red, white and blue star with white acrylic paints. After it dried, I added the words <i>Merry & Bright</i> using a green and red Posca paint pens (these are so nice if you don't have a Cricut). I put a protective coat of gloss varnish on the star, adding an outline of gold adhesive-backed gems while the varnish was still wet. I just don't trust the sticky backing of gems, especially when the project will be outside in the elements.</p><p>I sprinkled some shiny clear glitter, using up the last of my <i>Stampin' Up</i> glitter I had bought before the turn of the century! I don't normally use glitter on projects because it gets everywhere, but Christmas often calls for the shimmer and shine...</p><p>I'm going to hang it under the front porch light so the light catches the glitter. So now 'm down one Independence Day decoration, but have a new Christmas one. I'd call that an even trade, wouldn't you?</p><p><i>P.S. (Okay, you caught me. When I painted and decorated my star, I didn't realize I had turned it so that the chain with which to hang it was not centered. But it doesn't look bad).</i></p><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-54321442361504294532023-12-18T09:00:00.075-06:002023-12-18T09:00:00.194-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 18 - Winter Bird Feeder<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vPwuu6ftY0I3Gy4yKEJsYQH39sRBYyh2oq3hPcaM-5PPOj3ne0oMudF_NT-Kk8d9KwYsY2i6kEOXQspLJjG3EOAmgsxFdqHq3UG10N8Mf555x84GyTTVzvl0nFkV8Nn36iaXuwUkttlkMLAavkPsTbE66RDqKOMYwYT7ER90o1uVpzK9osUiyrQ_vncB/s3581/1%20xmas%20day%2018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3581" data-original-width="2085" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vPwuu6ftY0I3Gy4yKEJsYQH39sRBYyh2oq3hPcaM-5PPOj3ne0oMudF_NT-Kk8d9KwYsY2i6kEOXQspLJjG3EOAmgsxFdqHq3UG10N8Mf555x84GyTTVzvl0nFkV8Nn36iaXuwUkttlkMLAavkPsTbE66RDqKOMYwYT7ER90o1uVpzK9osUiyrQ_vncB/w233-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2018.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I have the best neighbors. The one on the right of me has been especially helpful. We often end up meeting and walking our dogs together. She has watched our dog when my daughter and I are out of town and I was holding her dog while she got ready to take him to the vet that final time. </span><span style="text-align: left;">She loves birds and has several bird houses. I see her almost every day throwing nuts popcorn, cheerios, etc., out in the yard for the squirrels and the birds. </span></div><p>So I decided to make her a bird feeder. I saw a video on YouTube that used a cup and saucer to craft a feeder. I pulled out the china cups and saucers that I had bought a few years back from the thrift store. Gluing them together was easy, using some E6000 and a bit of hot glue. The trick was to get the string to gather up the cup and saucer and hang perfectly straight!! </p><p>I persevered, although it took more than a dozen times to get it right. I think I'll make only one of these this year. However, I do think it looks lovely. What do you think? Will the birds enjoy the winter treats my neighbor will put out for them in their fancy new feeder? I don't think I've ever seen a bird turn down food, do you?! </p><p><i>P.S. (I gave my neighbor her gift today and she loved it. She put on one of her backyard hangers below her massive maple tree. I gave her a small bag of bird seeds and she filled it up. I hope the birds love it as much as she did!).</i></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-12868609431723270402023-12-17T09:30:00.001-06:002023-12-17T09:30:00.141-06:00 24 Days of Christmas - Day 17 - Christmas Gifts for My Girls<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZej4MB64bZFbwlJcwiXy4l5sRWqWI1_ruJoR9hRf9pWiGUHD7IP96M8SoAZq9S_d2GYub13Zt6OdTEc-qAlaxb2sX9fW0h9gSEoS_rwSQiZvjHdPVjGlAsQld7R_ZBPbvFzAVXlRnAs3vNxI-mMkD-Sd_BurYbYMZORsIDlpXHIXGourFVr3hoEOWmUEs/s611/1%20xmas%20day%2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="439" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZej4MB64bZFbwlJcwiXy4l5sRWqWI1_ruJoR9hRf9pWiGUHD7IP96M8SoAZq9S_d2GYub13Zt6OdTEc-qAlaxb2sX9fW0h9gSEoS_rwSQiZvjHdPVjGlAsQld7R_ZBPbvFzAVXlRnAs3vNxI-mMkD-Sd_BurYbYMZORsIDlpXHIXGourFVr3hoEOWmUEs/w288-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2017.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><p>I've been busy making gifts for family, neighbors, friends and service persons. Today I crafted two necklaces for two girls who are like sisters to my own daughter. She met one of them in Middle School, and the other while at college. They've been out of state (and country) for a while, but are both in town for the holidays. I pulled out my jewelry supplies and found two polished stones.</p><p> One of the girl is very Boho so I used a strip of leather to fashion hers. I spent most of the time attaching an extra stone to it and had a little trouble with the jump ring. I finally got it closed (above on the right).</p><p>The leather looked so good with the first stone that I used it for the second necklace. I added an extra piece to hers, too (took just as much time as the first). I haven't made jewelry in a while, but this project was super easy (except for attaching the extra pieces LOL). I think I'llhold off on making more jewelry until after the holidays...</p><p></p><p><br /></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-63289934729567049032023-12-16T09:00:00.001-06:002023-12-16T09:00:00.139-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 16 - Holiday Gifts for Neighbors<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfeVcYeBE-_Hh2DNDNWDKZVyPLrvoJxUK8dvApmX1F847u07ILSMA1Hus_XMtTZyJvJOrR4ghK7gR9meDX1kenw5Mg1cygifcz4Op9SWgHGPki0cXOhiJBAv6nD14DszbLuXLxAjkD-97gGDBK1_6ylyUu88MPrNbwBq0zoLpQ_0aCHOlg63GHWQcRrSL/s819/1%20xmas%20day%2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfeVcYeBE-_Hh2DNDNWDKZVyPLrvoJxUK8dvApmX1F847u07ILSMA1Hus_XMtTZyJvJOrR4ghK7gR9meDX1kenw5Mg1cygifcz4Op9SWgHGPki0cXOhiJBAv6nD14DszbLuXLxAjkD-97gGDBK1_6ylyUu88MPrNbwBq0zoLpQ_0aCHOlg63GHWQcRrSL/w366-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2016.jpg" width="366" /></a></div><br /> Earlier this month I posted twice with Mussie Tussie makes. Here are the last three I'm making for my 3D "cards" for neighbor's gifts. I've run out of cardboard tubes!! LOL I enjoyed making these, and knowing my neighbors (and them knowing me), they will love to hang these holiday ornaments. doorknob hanger (whatever they will call them) somewhere in their houses.<p></p><p>I pulled out my holiday papers and adhered them to the tubes. Using hot glue, I attached the strings with which they can hang them. I used lace and a string of pearls for these three. Other craft supplies include tiny ornaments, candy canes, snowflakes, stickers and a snowman ornament.</p><p>Tomorrow I'm making ornaments out of a pool noodle. If they're successful, I'll post them!! </p><p> </p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-4113829427807559462023-12-15T09:31:00.001-06:002023-12-15T09:31:00.299-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 15 - Front Door Decor<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0sw1lBUZjbqpR1tAWG6NQjf6Ph9x5bT334NAdJn-VGfIH5yZeGP7uowuFdRYEFkxeOy2nqpshc9t6PNb33JMCLVBhaqvA2zX2SwRxZ6sjypanSiu14kDUUt3Grw4HnaXvtVEFkYMaNMu4lv-HwuXsHQewiGWpW-BcbCGB7elUiDDJpRdfngK5heJ0QR2/s1028/1%20xmas%20day%2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="782" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0sw1lBUZjbqpR1tAWG6NQjf6Ph9x5bT334NAdJn-VGfIH5yZeGP7uowuFdRYEFkxeOy2nqpshc9t6PNb33JMCLVBhaqvA2zX2SwRxZ6sjypanSiu14kDUUt3Grw4HnaXvtVEFkYMaNMu4lv-HwuXsHQewiGWpW-BcbCGB7elUiDDJpRdfngK5heJ0QR2/w304-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2015.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>I am just powering through my Christmas craft stash! Today I took out this metal hanger. The only things it held were dusty greens, so I refreshed the bunch and added gold and silver ornaments and red balls/beads. I decided to go with the original red slightly tarnished or aged color. Onto it, I adhered strings of pearls on the front. I also added a goldish bow and a hanging, uh, thing? It's a tiny ornament from which a tassel is attached. One lone pearl rests in the middle of my hanger and I am finished.<p></p><p>This was a quick make, since the frame of my project was ready to embellish. I love finding metal designs that I can alter, paint or embellish. I find loads of them at thrift stores at decent prices. This was a purchase I made last year and put away. You can find some great deals both just before and after the holidays.</p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-14629658265365080532023-12-14T09:00:00.003-06:002023-12-14T15:06:22.818-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 14 - Santa Wreath<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwCEyMsVQdngCEiRIxwS_weruH2WlYzZtLDPvOwKKTlogz09ZjQ5zF9dJZjcnaQAzzK_Ix-hM6gYNhH4Leyoib9fHj77Va5Uk2tfcKui07N_Z6qC1m_egikBUkaTrU5u6FKjIEC85rhPmxQyHa94htilaEX0kAMjfkE9-owdAQxXNE9DJ3wfy2MPHvhop/s805/1%20xmas%20day%2014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwCEyMsVQdngCEiRIxwS_weruH2WlYzZtLDPvOwKKTlogz09ZjQ5zF9dJZjcnaQAzzK_Ix-hM6gYNhH4Leyoib9fHj77Va5Uk2tfcKui07N_Z6qC1m_egikBUkaTrU5u6FKjIEC85rhPmxQyHa94htilaEX0kAMjfkE9-owdAQxXNE9DJ3wfy2MPHvhop/w381-h400/1%20xmas%20day%2014.jpg" width="381" /></a></div><p></p><p>You know I can't pass up a bargain. I bought 2 skeins of that thick fluffy yarn that seems to be the rage for 2023 during the summer. After finding the Dollar Tree metal wreath, I watched You Tube and looped my yarn through the spaces between the metal rings. I fell in love with its fluffiness!! I mean, it looks and feels like freshly-fallen snow (well, looks at least).</p><p>Then I trooped downstairs to be an over-sized ornament shaped like Santa's head and attached it with clear fishing line to hang in the center of the wreath. I pulled miscellaneous items from my holiday crafting supplies and decided on various snowflakes, as well as a few pinecones, poinsettia flowers and a bird.</p><p>I like the white wreath against my mahogany door. It really pulls the eyes to it. I hope you like it too!!</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://christmas-craft-creations.blogspot.com/2023/12/december-challenge-christmas-decorations.html">Christmas Craft Creations</a> - Christmas crafts (obviously)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEeUnkGVbxFQYi8CmsM4lcvx7ap9rolE8cwwn3jW5uYDEGxQLIL3KsTGJS4rbaCc_V1wVgG_WTsrpW6rMyRCpoEuT6k_D70ScDzGROdOOn2bx4OIceIKHVuQ9wicTHoa9LU2Qtwyp5xulcWuMJ1x7XO3fXU4V9mALdXGyCMChy5MsM8y9TDyEfJgGlpxxC/s399/christmas%20craft%20creations.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="285" data-original-width="399" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEeUnkGVbxFQYi8CmsM4lcvx7ap9rolE8cwwn3jW5uYDEGxQLIL3KsTGJS4rbaCc_V1wVgG_WTsrpW6rMyRCpoEuT6k_D70ScDzGROdOOn2bx4OIceIKHVuQ9wicTHoa9LU2Qtwyp5xulcWuMJ1x7XO3fXU4V9mALdXGyCMChy5MsM8y9TDyEfJgGlpxxC/w200-h143/christmas%20craft%20creations.png" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://craftygalscornerchallenges.blogspot.com/2023/12/challenge-250-tis-season.html">Crafty Gals Corner</a> - tis the season</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fabnfunkychallenges.blogspot.com/2023/12/challenge-586-christmas.html">Fab & Funk</a>y - Christmas</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://thesisterhoodofcrafters.blogspot.com/2023/12/christmas.html">Sisterhood of Crafters -</a> Christmas</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://thehollyandivychristmaschallenge.blogspot.com/2023/11/challenge-153-anything-christmas-goes.html">The Holly & Ivy </a>- Anything Christmas Goes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://tuesdaytaggers.blogspot.com/2023/12/santa-claus-is-coming-to-town.html">Try It in Tuesdays</a> - Santa Claus is Coming to Town</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="ANYTHING GOES CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY ">Christmas Crafts All Year 'round </a>- ANYTHING GOES CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY </div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-37548082394233121382023-12-13T09:00:00.000-06:002023-12-13T09:00:00.255-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 13 - Small Centerpiece<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCbtJTHe7AQFp5ZxVvIpzCbGvzrO1tpLiAnpaJf3dRQPQaFK3BvrUuVwF5J9d5-nor6qhuQ-HH7icRTUUsToP90P0wAnwq4sE2oPJcntqMnv3fGc-u8SIb6bxP7Pka7qrBK_kIVSpRDmWqVHMMt41baLRVcX1qLJuSPPBK8PkIpySyERVL4Yw4UQm7Hfi/s857/1%20XMAS%20DAY%2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="649" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCbtJTHe7AQFp5ZxVvIpzCbGvzrO1tpLiAnpaJf3dRQPQaFK3BvrUuVwF5J9d5-nor6qhuQ-HH7icRTUUsToP90P0wAnwq4sE2oPJcntqMnv3fGc-u8SIb6bxP7Pka7qrBK_kIVSpRDmWqVHMMt41baLRVcX1qLJuSPPBK8PkIpySyERVL4Yw4UQm7Hfi/w303-h400/1%20XMAS%20DAY%2013.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After years of being psychologically allergic to anything related to flowers, I finally made peace with myself and was able to paint and watercolor the pretty posies. But when it comes to arranging them, I am still at a loss of creativity as you can see by today's make above.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I pulled out a clear vase from my all-things-glass bin and filled it with tiny ornaments and pinecones, adding tiny white stones as filler. My tree branches came from a worn-out Christmas tree I got rid of, minus these pieces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also have a cart of flowers, etc., from which I plucked two silver leaf bunches. And, you guess it, from my animal crafting box I retrieved this pretty dove/French hen. After fiddling with the arrangement, I added a Christmas bow and I have a nice little centerpiece for my nice little kitchen table. Honestly, I bought a table and "L"-shaped bench for my kitchen since there's only my daughter and me. Did I tell you my kitchen was small?! LOL</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway, we're past the halfway point of December, before the holiday. Are you ready? I'm not. Dirty water started coming up from my shower drain. Twenty-four hours and ton of money later, I will have had my water lines rodded out, partially replaced and a liner put in that's supposed to last 25 years, guaranteed. At least it didn't happen on Christmas Day, right?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Fic6ArRwCdHqphAdrd-wcQOvaF_WE0goEZUcU83n_U8l7BwzhESL4pR9Rf9Sc79B5X3fbl2uHWKwk9LwCU8eV2-3Uipgg9vSliv1jrj83KZNOI9Up09ICC9dW3FfvFG3ddc9tmrba-JYmpxq_pKn4os4LAeWl1BU_eVQoIbbVU9YYOOHP-ngG-WcnXOu/s598/094bd2d61b2901f97d6251d9e90b79e0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="495" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Fic6ArRwCdHqphAdrd-wcQOvaF_WE0goEZUcU83n_U8l7BwzhESL4pR9Rf9Sc79B5X3fbl2uHWKwk9LwCU8eV2-3Uipgg9vSliv1jrj83KZNOI9Up09ICC9dW3FfvFG3ddc9tmrba-JYmpxq_pKn4os4LAeWl1BU_eVQoIbbVU9YYOOHP-ngG-WcnXOu/s320/094bd2d61b2901f97d6251d9e90b79e0.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634324283709322792.post-38030151711458441342023-12-12T09:00:00.005-06:002023-12-12T09:00:00.144-06:0024 Days of Christmas - Day 12 - Christmas Card Catcher<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkyyHl_IBD1vXg6nOD4_BZTwiIw0TTirXbpylYdQ4CcHBnIZU9-XhVertbwz6zApO5WXTZVUW-3s2znbd-0VFaxcl9NkZTCPstnuEfKP62de2uzpeIX9vJbUC16laxTP0JGQLGjifrRvBGdvUSpjcnUsOTeFrrSKAq1H1M5_ppKvBafouhoDgK7R4zdsR/s952/xmas%20day%2012a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="532" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkyyHl_IBD1vXg6nOD4_BZTwiIw0TTirXbpylYdQ4CcHBnIZU9-XhVertbwz6zApO5WXTZVUW-3s2znbd-0VFaxcl9NkZTCPstnuEfKP62de2uzpeIX9vJbUC16laxTP0JGQLGjifrRvBGdvUSpjcnUsOTeFrrSKAq1H1M5_ppKvBafouhoDgK7R4zdsR/w266-h475/xmas%20day%2012a.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>Can you believe how fast the days are passing? I was able to craft another project today. Both inspiration and creativity smiled on me as I dug up a thrift store find from last year. It was a framed bulletin board with pockets. I thought it would make a nice holiday card catcher at the time, and I was right! LOL<p></p><p>I sanded the wooden frame before I pulled out my holiday designer papers. All my papers are either from past projects or torn out of the stacks I bought at thrift stores or on clearance. I was lucky that all the papers I used were from the same set (DCWV I think). I cut them to fit above each burlap pocket using spray adhesive.</p><p>I chose some lines of adhesive-backed gems to run across each top of the pockets. I like a simple craft, but my card catcher needed a little extra, so I added a few snowflakes around the frame. A Christmas bow and Santa button finishes off today's make. I added a few of my own handmade cards and I must say it looks great...<br /> </p>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05802163734821693045noreply@blogger.com1