Beyond the Fringe Crafts

Honey Bee Freebie / Grilled Grandma

2012-02-08T08:21:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

First of all I have some news today!

1. A while ago I received an email telling me I'd been nominated to be a Grilled Grandma! I thought it would be fun, so I answered a bunch of questions and submitted them. This morning Lisa put up my guest post as a 'Grilled Grandma" on her blog "Grandma's Briefs." Aside from the Grilled Grandma posts, Grandma's Briefs has lots of interesting information and of course, some photos and stories of her grandkids as well. Do take a moment and look around!

If you'd like to see my guest post, click on the "I'm a Grilled Grandma" badge in my side bar or click HERE. What grandmother doesn't enjoy showing off her grandkids and talking about them? I hope you'll check it out and let me know you've stopped by in the comment section under my guest post!

2. The second bit of news is that I've added a "SOAPER" section in my side bar with some cool soap blogs I like to frequent. I can't wait to get to the soap supply store when I go out of town to stock up. I have some soaping plans in my future, yes I do!

Aaaaannnd...I made up some honey bees in a Prim tree for you.

Here's a few that got away....

Some extra hives...

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Carmen

Happy 50th Anniversary!

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's a very special day today! It is the day my parents were married, 50 years ago!

My parents live in a small town in the middle of the mountains in British Columbia, Canada. It was there we celebrated this Sunday at a particularly good Greek Restaurant called Dina's Place!

Since my parents immigrated to Canada from Holland in 1965, there was only our little family to celebrate. My brother, sister and I all have children, but since this was something we put together in the last couple of months, and since many of them live quite a ways away, not everyone could make it. However, we enjoyed ourselves, and my parents loved it too!

One really wonderful event was that my aunt (fathers side) and her husband flew over from Holland to celebrate with them. Here they are: Tante Annie and Oom Wim!

Of course, there was a cake!

I love the fact that you can get an edible picture put on a cake now! Very cool!

The couple in the middle front are my Dad and Mom today. My Dad has his arm around his sister from Holland.

We filled our own balloons with helium and made an arch with them. We also did up two bunches of balloons which you cannot see in this photo. My sister did up some adorable Make N Takes, and she and my brother also had a photo and write up put in the local paper - which comes out some time this week. There were 50's confetti all over the table and some chocolate hearts. The Greek dinner was delectable!!

After dinner they played with the helium in the balloons. Funny voices all around!

I think everyone had a good time!

Congratulations Dad and Mom on 50 years of marriage! Love you both and here's to 50 more! :)

Blessings,
Carmen

Button Soaps

2012-02-04T16:55:00.000-08:00

Hi!

The other day I finally got around to making some of those cute little button soaps that I told you about on my "Journey of the Heart" post. Click on the link to find the tutorial for them!

Anyway, they turned out pretty good, if I do say so myself - and they smell terrific!! This was one afternoon of work, since I used Melt and Pour soap bases to make them. I went to town on colors and scents, which stretched out the time...plus the tedious part of making the straws stand up to make the holes (Patience my pretty!)

In the end, I think it was worth it! What do you think?

Cedar N Saffron

Coconut Cream

Cucumber Melon

Lavender

Satsuma

I was running out of time, so I made some of these Heart Soaps, scented them with Amaretto Eggnog (heavenly!!) and then swirled some color into it.

I hate to waste soap, so I made a bunch of little hearts with leftover soap amounts each time I made a different scent. There's Amaretto Eggnog, Satsuma, Cedar N Saffron, Lavender, and Cucumber Melon. These are great for guest soaps or little gifts 'just because.'

I used the silicone molds that they use for baking...they work GREAT for soap. They popped out of the molds like nobody's business! This is such an easy way to make soap, you should really try it if you haven't. They make great gifts, and it's therapeutic! Did I mention that the house smells incredible? Cos..it does! Ummm-Mmmmm!

That's all for today!

Have a good night!

Carmen

Rainy Day Sheep Digital Freebie

2012-02-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

I was recently asked to make a specific type of digi by one of my followers. I don't usually do requests, but while I was sick and had nothing but time on my hands, I did up a couple of images for her. Then I did some other ones up for you.

Today I'm sharing some cutesy images with you.

Let's add a puddle and a sentiment...

Or maybe you want to use a different sentiment, or want to use the sentiment on a different image...

Perfect images for that rainy spring day! BTW, don't miss that ribbon in her hair!

Now here is the one I did up for the request I received from Lora. She doesn't have a blog, but I wanted to show you her card anyways.

Cute eh?

Have a good one!

Blessings!

Carmen

Valentines Filmstrips Freebies

2012-01-31T06:02:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...

I said I was done with Valentines images. The funny thing is, I'm really not hugely into Valentines. Many a Valentines Day have just about passed without my knowledge...until my hubby came home with a box of chocolate and candy hearts for the kids and I (head hanging in shame).

Unfortunately, this is also true of anniversaries. I've had friends call to wish me a happy anniversary, only for me to tell them that it wasn't my anniversary - only to find out that I was wrong! Yes, a little embarrassing!

How has my hubby put up with me all these years? I tell ya! Maybe I should make more of an effort this year!

Okay, enough of that. Here's the images: Some plain and simple, some with a bit of 'font flair.'

I thought they'd be cute with pictures or hearts inside of them. You'd just have to cut out the boxes.

One more thing. I recently found a card with one of my sentiments on it. The fun thing about this for me, was that it was one of my first sentiments, if not THE first!!

At the time not too many people were following me, so many probably missed this one. The Digital sentiment freebie is posted HERE if you'd like it. In the meantime, here is her card.

Check out her blog: Sharon, from Card Creations by Sharon Joy

Such an adorable card! Thanks Sharon!

Talk to you later!

Blessings,

Carmen

Betsy and Birdie Get Framed!! :0

2012-01-29T13:17:00.000-08:00

Hey There!

How are you all doing out there? I want to say a warm WELCOME to all my new followers! I hope you enjoy your visits here! Thank you for following my little spot on the Web!

Today I'm sharing something made by a good friend of mine (who wishes to remain nameless). She took one of my latest images and made something fun with it. No, not a card... a frame! She doesn't have a blog, but has graciously agreed to allow me to share her project here with you!

She started with a plain wooden frame that she got at Michael's, and then took my image of Betsy and Birdie and carbon copied it onto the right side of the frame. Then she painted everything, and this is her completed project with a photo of her beautiful granddaughter. :)

I just love the Prim look to this whole project! Isn't it just adorable? I love this style of work!

*Please let her know what a talented artist she is. I think she needs some encouragement!

Have you considered thinking out of the box with some of the free images out there and doing something just a little different? If you do this with one of my images, I'd really love to see it and share it on the original Digi post with a link back to your blog!

I have a Free Digi waiting to be posted in the next few days! Check back soon!

Blessings!
Carmen

Journey of the Heart 2012 - 2

2012-01-28T11:50:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

It's time for another tour of the Web for some more Valentine inspiration! I've been extremely sick for the last 5 days and am still not feeling better...so there won't be much chit chat. Just some links for you to check out and a bit of information on each one.

Okay, Let's go!

These cute little wooden blocks with newspaper were found on two different sites; Brown Paper Packages and Nana Jan's Place. Brown Paper Packages has a tutorial.

I thought this Valentines Candle Garland was a great idea. Quick and easy, and so cute! Check out The Artful Crafter for this tutorial

A good idea for a Valentines Give Away for the kids are these cute Gumball Machine Valentines I found at Living With Three Moon Babies. There's a tutorial and a free printable.

Another great idea came from The Silly Pearl's Hogs and Kisses. There's also a tutorial and free printable for this one on her site.

Here's still another cute idea for kids. It's found at Inchmark, and it uses match boxes. Cute!!

You're going to need a good strong envelope to hold all those goodies...and paper may not do. Check out this Pottery Barn style Felt Valentines Envelope at The Crafting Chicks.

You'll need a Silhouette, or something similar for this next one...but look at this cute little gaffer in his Valentines Subway Art Shirt! Adorable! Check it out at Sew Dang Cute Crafts.

How about some Valentines Bingo printables to keep the kids busy? Here's a few I found:

Brown Paper Packages -click on link to get the printable

Kaboose-click on link for the printable

Lil' Luna - click on link for the printable

Also from Lil' Luna is this adorable Valentines Wreath. There's a tutorial, so check her out!

I guess all that's missing is a refreshment. Let's check out Martha for some Hot and spicy Cinnamon Candy Cider. Yum!

Okay...I'm done and ready for bed! When I'm feeling better, I'll make up some cards or projects. There's a few from these 'Journey of the Heart' posts that I am definitely going to do, time permitting!

Have a good weekend!

For more Valentines inspiration:

Valentines Showcase 2011

Journey of the Heart 2012

Blessings!

Carmen

I Love Coffee, I Love Tea...

2012-01-26T10:41:00.000-08:00

I love coffee, I love tea...

Well, actually, I love coffee more...but why not include our Tea tippers? Lol..

I participated in a Secret Pal program at the church last Fall and just had a blast because I love making cards and other things for people. This time though, my secret pal also had me as a secret pal! One of the things she gave me was a Gift Certificate for Starbucks...and oh how I love coffee! It was very much appreciated!

I made this little Café image a while ago and it's just been sitting in my files patiently waiting to be 'published.' I played with it a bit, and made up some signs and sentiments to go with it.

The Cafe signs...

And some sentiments...

Enjoy!

Blessings,
Carmen

Prim Valentines Freebie

2012-01-23T05:46:00.000-08:00

Hello!

It's 5:30 AM and I'm up! I'm not sure why, but I just can't sleep...I can yawn...in fact, I'm doing a lot of that, but sleep seems to be eluding me. Oh well...guess it's a good time to write up a post !

I sure like primitive images, and since there's still a couple of weeks before Valentines, I'm squeezing in a couple more Valentines images.

This is Betsy. Betsy likes Birdie. That's why she's wearing her heart on her....wool coat. Ooh boy...it's early! Here's another heart.

Here's a sentiment as well...

Have a nice week everyone! I think these are probably my last Valentines images. Scroll down the page to see more (or click on 'Valentines, or 'freebies', or 'Digital Stamps' in the sidebar under 'Labels). I have quite a few.

Have you used one of my images on your projects recently?

Wies, from Wies Crea Blog has used the heart image on a wedding card. I really love seeing what people do with these images. I especially love her use of color on this card and the paper she's chosen. It's really very lovely! I took a few minutes and looked over her blog (as I tend to do with most of the people who use my images) and found some really nice cards. Wies is Dutch, but her blog provides a translation to english. You really should check her out at the link I've provided!

I am also adding a frame my girlfriend made with this image. Adorable, non?

Blessings!

Carmen

Garden of Love, Free Valentines Digi

2012-01-21T13:57:00.000-08:00

Hello Lovelies,

I'm not trying to be fresh...it's just that Valentines will soon be upon us...and I've been in the garden of love. It has that effect on you! Don't believe me? Here's your own little garden. (I know, I'm a little ~~wired~~ weird!)

I was planning on actually stitching the lines on fabric and adding heart buttons...then I thought. "Hey!" This would make a cute Digi! And so the Garden of Love was born.

Wanna color your own?

Or add your own bows?

Okay that's all folks!

Have fun, and show me what you've done! I'll link back to your blog!

Also, I don't know if anyone has noticed, but a good way to tell where your digi's are from is to look at the name of the digi. Mine all have BTFC somewhere in the name of the digi when you download it. Also, if you run your cursor over an image, it'll often show you the name of it.

Have a good weekend!

Carmen

Journey of the Heart 2012 - Valentines

2012-01-19T16:00:00.000-08:00

We just had Christmas, and here it's just about Valentines Day - less than a month away. Unbelievable! I've been scouring the web and have found some goodies that might interest you for my annual Journey of the Heart!

Malia, from Yesterday on Tuesday has an adorable Sweet Heart Pillowcase complete with instructions. So cute and so do-able! Go check it out to make your own. Thank you Malia!

I found another awesome pillow idea for Valentine's done by Jenny from Days of Chalk and Chocolate. Check out her Love Note Pillows. She has an easy-to-follow tutorial on her blog. Believe it or not, she did the writing on the material herself, and so can you. Love it! Thanks Jenny!!

No Valentines Day post would be complete without some Subway Art and Printables. As luck would have it, I found them all on Craftionary, where Hani has put them all together for us in one neat little package called '75 Valentine's Day Free Printables'

The image above is from Diana at The Girl Creative, and is one of the examples shown. Check out Diana's site, the Girl Creative as well...it's bursting at the seams with really great ideas!! Thank you both, Hani and Diana!

Dana, from MADE did up these cute little Heartbreaker Valentines with treats. Click on the link for the complete instructions on her blog along with the printable. Love her quirky take on Valentines Day...your kiddos will love it too!

This next very popular vintage craft was created by Lowri from PaperVine. Her post '52 Reasons I Love You' includes a full tutorial for you to follow. Go check it out!! Thank you Lowri!

Now for something completely different. Check out these great Valentine's Day soaps at Soapylove.

I am absolutely in love with these little button soaps!! The full tutorial can be found on the Soap Queen. Go ahead, make yourself and all your friends happy with these little soaps. Much thanks to Soapylove and the Soap Queen!

While we're on the topic of skin things, I just love this idea from Skip to my Lou - Check out her post 'How to Make Bath Bombs' to find out how to make these for that special someone. My son loves bath bombs, so these are great for guys too! Thanks Lou!!

Here's another great idea for the kiddos! Heather, from WhipperBerry heated up these ultra cool Crayon Heart Valentines.

Cute and functional! She didn't stop there, she then wrapped them up in baker's twine and pop dotted them onto a card with a Valentine greeting! I think they're adorable!!

Not only that, she's provided a tutorial...so click on Crayon Heart Valentines and make your own to give away! Thanks so much, Heather!

Then I thought it would be fun to find some Valentines decorations to make. I love Shirley's Valentine's Day Ribbon Tree on her blog 'The Ribbon Retreat.'

How cute is this little tree? Click on the link above and check out the tutorial Shirley has so graciously provided. So, so cute!! Many thanks, Shirley!

I kept looking and here's what I found next...

Katie, from Sew Woodsy created this lovely little Love Bird Birdhouse! This is so sweet, and there's an easy to follow tutorial on her blog. This won't take long to make at all, and it's such a clever project. Incredibly adorable!! Thank you Katie!

Valentine's Day wouldn't be complete without some goodies! So when I saw Myra's yummy Rice Krispie Hearts on My Blessed Life...I knew I had to pass them on! What kid doesn't love Rice Krispie treats? Okay....I love them too!

I've shown you this one prettily packaged up..but if you want to see more, and if you want to know how to make your own, go check out the link. Your mouth will thank you! Great recipe Myra. Thanks!!

Well, we're finally at the end of a very long post! If I find more inspiration out there I may share a second Journey of the Heart for 2012...hope you enjoyed the journey!

Also See Valentines Showcase 2011

Blessings!

Carmen

Psychedelic Love Heart

2012-01-15T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

I know...it's not the 60's, but I just couldn't help myself. There's a lot of things about the 60's that were kind of cool, and lots that were not so cool...but I really do love the artistic expression of that era. The colorful, fun art that came out of that sense of freedom and peace remains...at least in this post! Lol....

You might want this as a larger image, so you can have fun with the color possibilities! Have fun!

More 60's images on my 'Get Your Groove On post!'

Peace! :)

Carmen

Organization, Free Heart Notes Digi

2012-01-12T22:59:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

I'm stoked!

I've decided to change our basement room into a craft room after reading this post on Madigan Made, a blog which actually belongs to a gal named Shannon! She took a corner of her basement and changed it into a very functional space! Check out this site...there's lots of before and after photos, and lots of great storage ideas!

The truth is, I have stuff everywhere! Not just scrapbooking stuff either. I love to sew, make soap, and various other crafts. Right now my craft stuff is taking up room in my bedroom, my guest room and in my basement -- room I could use for other things! It's everywhere, and I need - yes, need a space!!

Also, I've seen lots of ribbon organization ideas, but this one is a well designed ribbon organizing idea I found on Craft:Transforming Traditional Crafts. It's a post by Paula Biggs named Ribbons of Organization.

Here is a photo:

There is a full tutorial on how to make your own, and it is easy peasy!! I love this one because:

1. Your rolls of ribbon won't unravel
2. They're easy to take out and put back
3. You won't have to remove the other spools to throw out an empty one

In short, it's highly functional. The tut fits 4" spools, but you can easily make it for different sizes.

Anyway...that's enough about my happenings, here are some free digi's for you.

Have a good weekend!

*Remember to send me an email if you use my digi's and I'll add a photo and link back to your blog. Also please check out my terms of use above.

Blessings,

Carmen

More Valentine's Digital Freebies

2012-01-06T08:18:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I got up early this morning. The house is looking normal again. It's been recently un-decorated from Christmas, and my boat load of laundry is clean and in the drawers. Then I babysat my grandkids a few days ago...they were so good, especially considering they're both just getting over being sick. It's always a joy being with them!

When the house is quiet and I'm feeling tired, I like to draw...it's fun and the time goes by quickly. So, I did these up a few nights ago... some Valentine's Fireworks!

I also did one with a very basic cityscape...

Also, here are the frames I promised, to go with the trees in my last post. I did them in red and multi-colored.

Please read my terms of use above, and remember that if you use my digi's, I'd LOVE to see it in your work, and I'll include a photo of your work plus a link to your blog on my original post.

Pearl, from Kitten Kraftz used this image in her latest card. I just love the beautiful sparkles...perfect for fireworks!! Check out her blog for more awesome cards!

Thanks for stopping by and have a good weekend!

Blessings,

Carmen

Free Heart Tree Digi's

2012-01-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Yesterday I did ab-so-lute-ly nothing all day! It felt so good to get caught up on some sleep.

Of course, I have a boat load of laundry to do after all my company, and I still have to un-decorate... which is not near as much fun as decorating, but it'll be nice to get it done!

Valentine's Day is about a month away, so you probably want to make up some cards pretty soon! I drew some Heart trees for you in different colors. Yes, I rested - for me drawing is resting! It's therapeutic! (Oh oh...the secret is out...now you know why I give away freebies... Lol!!!)

I thought a row of three would look cute on a card - but more is better,

Right?

Have fun with these! Frames coming soon...

Allison, from Allison's Creations made up a beautiful card using these images. Cute, eh?!

Blessings,

Carmen

Soaping with the Grandkids!

2012-01-02T15:40:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Sorry it's been a while!

My son and his wife and three kids, from Fort McMurray, Alberta came for 5 days! We had no idea they were coming, and we had such a good time while they were here!!

My new grandkids are Haylie (13), Heidi (10), and Ethan (almost 9). Poppa took Ethan to the big pool, so the girls and I made all kinds of soap! We used glycerine soap, because the cold process uses lye, and we could do more in less time with the glycerine.

This first one is two dolphins. They're Bubblegum scented.

These two are Black Raspberry Vanilla soap with Body Safe Glitter.

Dark Rich Chocolate scented hearts! Haylie used three colors to get the brown tone!

This one has a dolphin embed...we forgot to get rid of the bubbles, but they actually look like they belong there.

These little moons are Coconut Cream Soap

Clear soaps, with heart soap embeds.

Swirled Soaps!

More Clear soap with embeds. This one is shaped like a frog and the scent is English Rain.

The girls did this one up for their brother Ethan. Luckily, this is the only scent he really liked.

I'm hoping to get some time to work on a Digi for you this week.

Today...I'm doing nothing much!!

Enjoy your week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Happy New Year 2012, Free Digi's

2011-12-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

Some might say I'm a bit early, but that all depends on where you live! This will be another super duper quickie!! My son and his wife and kids just surprised us with a visit...so I'm really busy! But, I didn't want to forget about all of you...especially at such a special time. So although this is quick, I hope you enjoy the freebies!

Click on the images for a larger complete image.

Thank you for being such an inspiration to me this past 8 months!! I've so enjoyed bringing you Digi's, even if they are a bit quirky! I hope 2012 is a year of love, laughter and happiness for all of you!!

Blessings,

Carmen

Grab My Blog Button!!

2011-12-28T19:44:00.000-08:00

This is my second post today. Please scroll down, or click on "home" and scroll down for the free digi's.

Some of you have asked me about providing a Blog Button for my Blog. Well, I finally found a site that easily explains how to make a Blog Button in Blogger. Check it out in my sidebar!! It's nothing terribly spectacular, but it's a Blog Button -- finally!

Want to make your own? There's a super easy tutorial at Oikology 101

If I can do it, so can you!

Blessings,

Carmen

Get Your Stache On! Free Digi!

2011-12-27T19:28:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I hope you've all had a wonderful time with friends and family this Christmas! We certainly have! It's hard to believe another year is just about at its' end with 2012 just around the corner. Life goes on!

A lot of you sure enjoyed the mustache glasses, so I thought I'd do up a mustache digi for you. Do what you will with them!

Here's some with sticks...

It's another quick post!

Enjoy!

Carmen

Last few Cards, and Free Digi Sentiment

2011-12-20T23:43:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

I had a table at a small church craft fair recently where I sold quite a few of my Lighted Glass Blocks. Amanda and I also made some cards and tags...so I thought I'd show you bits and pieces of the ones I was able to get pictures of.

Some of these you may have seen examples of already, these are my takes on the Button Wreath Card.

You remember the Button Tree Cards....here's a few more of the trees.

I also did up a Coffee Card Card (that's not a typo)....it holds coffee cards.

Quite a simple card. Here is the inside.

Plus the tags...some colorful, and some primitive.

In this last photo, the mittens are attached as a single tag.

I put together a quickie...hope you like it!

How are you doing with all your Christmas preparations? I have 18 friends and family coming for Christmas dinner...which I'm really looking forward to, plus I'll be cleaning, wrapping, and doing more decorating!!

Recently my friend SueJ, whom I met blogging, made up a button wreath card I'd like to show you.

Sue is not necessarily a Scrapbooker, and doesn't have a lot of bling sitting around like the rest of us...but I love this button wreath. It's very festive looking. Sue has two blogs, one is about life around the J's called JWalking The Blog. The other is called In-between Time: Journey Through the Prophets. I enjoy checking out both her blogs, and hope you will too!

**********************

I just want to take this moment to thank all of you for coming by to visit me. I love reading all your comments; they so encourage me, and I'm glad to be able to share my fun with you!

This may be my last post for this week, so

Here's me wishing you a Very Merry Christmas!

My hope is that you take a quiet moment this Christmas and reflect on life and what it means. (whoa, heavy). I'm actually very serious.

Life is a roller coaster ride sometimes, especially this time of year! In spite of all the happiness you see here, I have also been through some very difficult situations these last few weeks. I don't know what I'd do if I didn't have the bible to turn to.

-It offers me hope when I am hopeless,

-It makes me feel loved again when I feel unloved,

-It gives me direction when I don't know where to turn.

Without God and His Word, I would be lost in this life. He is the only One who brings meaning and hope to mine. So obviously, I want this for you too, and hope above all that you accept Him into your life this Christmas!

Have a good week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Sleigh Ride 2011 - 3

2011-12-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Hello all!

It's time for our final Sleigh Ride of the year. The horses aren't quite ready yet, so how about a Snowglobe Cookie while we're waiting?

Want a quick easy Christmas-y cookie that will delight your guests? Check out these cuties made with white chocolate covered oreo cookies, and peppermint patties at Sweet Simple Stuff. Make sure you check out the rest of her blog...it's full of other great christmas cookie ideas and more!

Okay, bundle up! We're ready to go on a sleigh ride! First we'll tour Paper Crescent...

Here's some Christmas Subway Art for those last minute gifts or decorations...

For this awesome download, go see Mandy at Little Birdie Secrets

For this fabulous download, go see Christie at My Ocean of Notions

There's lots at Paper Crescent....Here's some adorable framed Joy and Ho Ho Ho words...

Adorable and easy...no? To have a look at the rest of these along with instructions, see A Diamond in the Stuff.

Okay, one more papercraft! I love making snowflakes. I find it fun figuring out the different designs I can get by making various cuts, but Michelle, from Michelle Made Me has put a colorful spin on what she calls her Junkmail snowflakes.

Aren't these just too cute? She made a whole wall of them! So colorful, so fun, AND you're recycling!!

Is it getting nippy out here, or is it just me? Ah well, we're entering Candy Cane Lane! That's always a fun place!

I'm loving all the reds and white's everywhere, but am especially loving this Candy Cane Tree you can make yourself!

For full instructions, check out Pizzezzarie. YUMMM!!!

Speaking of reds and white's, wouldn't you just love this little Santa Chimney Setting....seriously! How adorable is this?!

For full instructions, go to Crafts By Amanda. This is one talented girl....we've been this way before!!

Look at all the lights against the night sky!! So colorful, warm and friendly looking! If you're hankering for something different to do with your lights and garlands this year, here's a great idea that combines them from Whitney Caroline Designs!

Introducing the Scrappy Ribbon Garland!

It's a great way to use up scraps while decorating for Christmas! She tells you how....go ahead - click away...

I'd be amiss if I didn't throw something in here for the kiddos. This one is for the little girls out there.

Some Magnetic Paper Dolls in their own little tin.

One Pearl Button offers you instructions, and a link to the printables!

Since we're getting pretty close to Christmas, and you are probably looking for some great baking recipes, we're passing by Sweetness Boulevard to see if there's something special on display there.

Look....Eggnog Truffles! Find the complete recipe at Polish the Stars!

And how about some Rootbeer Float Fudge?

Full recipe and instructions at Making Memories...One Fun Thing After Another. It's a seriously fun site!!

Whoaoaoaoa .... okay! That's the end of our Sleigh Ride!

One more thing....I'd like to leave you with a smile on your face!

Have you ever been invited to an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party? Well....it's all the rage now...so be prepared! Check out some of your competition before you go to the thrift store and pick one out..

Uh huh....kinda scary, no?

Here's my son and his brand new wife ready for an Ugly Sweater Party a few weeks ago! These two just tied the knot yesterday in Maui! Yes, they eloped...at sunset on the beach! (I'm sure they left their sweaters at home!)

Congratulations to Darren and Angela!! I love you guys so, so much!!

Wanna see more Ugly Sweaters for Christmas? Check out Ego TV's Ugly Christmas Sweaters and have fun at the party!

Thanks so much for all the super sweet comments so many of you are leaving me. It's such a blessing to me!

Thanks for going on a sleigh ride with me!

Sleigh Ride 1, 2011

Sleigh Ride 2, 2011

Sleigh Ride 1, 2010

Sleigh Ride 2, 2010

Sleigh Ride 3, 2010

Sleigh Ride 4, 2010

Blessings to you and yours,

Carmen

Tree Sentiment Free Digital

2011-12-15T23:11:00.000-08:00

Hello!

You know, I can't believe how fast the last three months have gone. I remember being told that when you're older, time just seems to go by faster even though you may be getting less done. I do remember as a child that 5 or 10 minutes of extra playing time would seem to last for hours. Today, 5 minutes seems to disappear into thin air in no time!

I guess I'm just thinking that way because Christmas is only 10 days away! I have most of my baking to do, all of my wrapping, all of my decorating...my cards are done though; all except the local cards which I'll hand out. I have a busy week ahead of me! In the hustle and bustle of the season, I want to remember what is really important. It's so easy to get wrapped up in it, isn't it? (Lol...that wasn't intentional!)

So, just to remind myself, I did up this little Sentiment Tree of a verse in Isaiah. I've seen a few of these around, but I wanted to do my own! It'd be cute on a card...maybe for next Christmas!

May the memory of the reason for His coming to earth bring you much peace and comfort as you trust Him in all the things this life may bring your way.

This year we're doing less gifts, and trying to focus a little more on just being together with those we can share with. I'm looking forward to that! Christmas has become so commercialized that it is becoming very stressful...so I'm working on changing that.

What are you doing this year? Will it be the same as usual, or something different?

Hope you enjoyed my freebie!

Blessings,

Carmen

Sleigh Ride 2011 - 2

2011-12-11T23:23:00.001-08:00

Hello!

The horses are rested up, the Sleigh has been prepped with warm blankets, and the bells are all shiny and ringing merrily. It sounds like it's time for another Sleigh Ride!

Let's go look at the Ornaments!

One of the nice things about going on a Sleigh Ride, is that I get to find all kinds of creative people with really awesome blogs. The most recent one I found was The Cheese Thief! I just love her creativity! Check out these altered ornaments!!

I just love these!! She has a tutorial on her blog...but wait, there's another too...

Squeal!! I love it! I love them both!! Check out Rena at The Cheese Thief...and not just these posts (both with full tutorials), but there's even more creativity you won't want to miss!

This next one would be especially great for a kids project because it mostly requires cutting, although Mom would have to help with stitching. I just fell in love with the beautiful colors!

The instructions for one of these Tree Ornaments can be found at Julia's Blog, Julia Crossland. Wouldn't these also work great as a Christmas-y Crib Mobile?

While we're on the subject of trees....

Today's Fabulous Finds has some cute Trees that would look great on a mantel or on a table. There's a ruffle one, a fur one, and even one that looks like fluffy marshmallows. Check out her blog link for the tutorials!

Ok, we're just turning down Elf Lane....should be something interesting here...

OH LOOK! Oh my goodness, how cute are these?

I Love these!! To find the tutorial, go see Maya at Maya Made. Too, too cute Maya!!

Last year I made some little Elf Boots with my napkins for Christmas Dinner. They added such a festive touch to the table. Check out the link for the instructions:
Elf Boot Napkins

I threw this one together with whatever napkins I had on hand for the Blog, but they weren't as nice as I would have liked. I used floral wire in the toe, but I didn't use enough so the toe isn't curled up as much as it should be. Depending on the napkin you use, these can look so cute! I love the little bell in the toe!

OR, if you want something a little fancier, check out these silverware holders!

These are hand sewn! Just adorable!! The Tutorial can be found at Sharon Sews.
There are so, so many creative people out there! I wish I had more time to make them all!!

Since we're looking at place settings, I guess I'll squeeze this next one in as well...

Yep! Even Santa has a bad night sometimes. Want the tut? Go visit Amanda at Crafts By Amanda! Oh so imaginative!!

It looks like we`ve arrive at Recycle Alley....not sure there will be too much here. But....wait...what?

Where on earth did all those Penguins come from?

Wouldn't these be a great little project with your kids on that long break? I think they're adorable!!

Can you guess what they're made of? Do you want to make your own? Check these chubby little waddlers out at Craftberry Bush for the complete instructions.

The older I get, the more the days get away on me. That's why an Advent Calendar is a nice thing to have! Here's one that I thought was really creative, easy to make and Christmas-y!

This one if made of matchboxes! How creative is that? We have a fireplace, so we always have matches. It looks like Recycle Lane has boundless creativity! Such awesome projects! This one comes from Sarah at Alderberry Hill. The full tutorial is on her site!

Well, we're just about back home! Just a few more steps and jingles..and...

What's that I smell?

Oh my goodness...this reminds me of home! Chef Heidi Fink has been mixing up an old German tradition from her childhood (that I also remember from my Dutch background). She's improved on an old tested family recipe and made it better! This is now their new family recipe! That's right, check out this Christmas Stollen! Yummm! I know what Stollen usually tastes like, and it's like a little angel on my tongue.

See that center? That's marzipan .I love marzipan! We had this bread with our breakfast every Christmas morning...but we also had it with coffee in the afternoon. Oh, this is good stuff!!

My parents still bring me one every year, but I'm seriously considering making my own this year...and this is the recipe I'm going to use if I do!
Check out Chef Heidi's blog, Lip Smacking, and this recipe tutorial with pictures and all! Thank you Heidi for sharing with us!

And....we're back!

Comin' in for some Candy Cane Punch? I'll put an extra cane in yours! :)

Thanks for going on a Sleigh Ride with me. Truly hope you enjoyed yourself!

Also see:

Sleigh Ride 1, 2011
Sleigh Ride 3, 2011
Sleigh Ride 1, 2010
Sleigh Ride 2, 2010
Sleigh Ride 3, 2010
Sleigh Ride 4, 2010

Blessings,
Carmen

Primitive Free Digital Stamps

2011-12-11T23:23:00.000-08:00

Hello!

First of all, this is my second post today! Please scroll down for the first one!

This is going to be a quicky post! I am way too busy right now, but I wanted to at least get some freebies up. I hope you like primitive, because that's what they are! :)

A Dish of Primitive Rag Balls

A Primitive Star Snowman

A Mitten Stuffed with Ornies! I left the tag blank so you can fill it in yourself.

That's it ladies and gentlemen! Now off to work on some Lighted Glass Blocks and some Cards!

**Do you hear what I hear? Some horses hooves seem to be approaching....stay tuned for Sleigh Ride 2 coming soon!**

Have a good weekend,

Carmen

Snowglobe Cards

2011-12-10T06:01:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Just a quickie post! I'm working on a few small Prim Digitals and hope to get them finished this weekend. I'm really busy...so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Amanda and I have been working on some Snowglobe cards (amongst other things) to sell next week. We used the image of the Prim Snowman I created for inside the globe. The Ginger Prims I made would look cute in these too...many of you missed that post!

I took these photos at 5 this morning...so they're a bit dark...sorry!

I bought a circle cutter....best investment ever! I got it at Michael's for 50% off, and it'll do any size circle you want, anywhere on the page!

-First I cut a circle around my image.

-Then I colored in another copy of the image, and cut out the snowman and sign. These I put over the original image with pop dots.

- I made up a snowcap (traced around the circle part) and with a glue pen added fine glitter. This I attached to an acetate circle I cut with the circle cutter. (3 3/4") *The snowcap is folded so that it can be attached to the acetate circle, and the image circle.

-These were taped to the card near the top.

-I made up a base and taped it on top of the bottom of the acetate circle, after embellishing it with a ribbon and little bell, carefully lining it up to the bottom of the card. Then the store bought snowflake was attached underneath the bow with embellishment tape.

I will also be getting a bunch of these prepped for the Ridgeview Card Class at the end of this week.

Have a good weekend everyone!

Blessings,

Carmen

Problem Fixed!

2011-12-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

As you can see, I'm up and running again!! My whole page shows up!

The issue was caused by Picassa. Apparently they changed the 'fit to page' in their programming, defaulting the background to a smaller size. This was easily changed in my background script in Blogger Design by designating the size of the width of the screen into the code.

This may sound like gibberish to most of you. If you're having the same problem, the fix can be found on this thread in the Blogger Help.

Thanks to my hubby for helping me out!

Blessings!

Carmen

Issues With Blogger

2011-12-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

For some reason, my blog template is not loading properly!!!

I have a request in to Blogger, but so far I get the feeling no one is home! I'm hoping this will get straightened out soon so I can post another Sleigh Ride and some freebies. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Carmen.

Sleigh Ride 1 - 2011

2011-12-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Well, December is upon us, which means it's time to take a little Digi break and go on another Sleigh Ride!! Last year I wrote up 4 posts with Christmas ideas of every kind (Check out 'Christmas' under Labels in the side bar).

Those posts were so popular (in visits), that I decided to do it again this year.

So, get on your woollies and let's go for a slide!! ;O)

1. Check out these Shabby Holiday Stockings decorations at Paper Drama!!! Aren't they just adorable? Jo even provides an awesome video tutorial! Thank you Jo... what a truly wonderful idea!

2. And how about these Vintage Embellished Books at Thrifty and Chic!!!

My jaw dropped when I first saw these! Just a bunch of old books, some paper and embellishments...and oh my! What a transformation! I SO want to make them but haven't had the time yet...they are just pure awesomeness!! Plus, there's a tutorial...

3. I swooned when I saw the following little darlings!

Some people just have such incredible imaginations. I'm going to show you a picture first...

So what Carmen? It's a gingerbread house. Well, um yeah, I guess it is....but...

I'll bet yours won't fit on my mug!!!! Oh I so want to make these too. Are they not the cutest?! Check out A Tiny Gingerbread House on 'Not Martha' for directions on how to make your own. I know! Eeek!!!

4. Okay, let's take a little turn here...

We're heading down Chalkboard Lane....okay, not really, but I'm still on the chalkboard paint kick. There's so much you can do with this stuff!

Check these out!

Don'cha just love the chalkboard mustaches on those glasses? When drinking, it looks like you have one! Lol.... Modern Madness on Etsy makes these cuties!

The very crafty Tanna from the Alaska Crafter offers a tutorial on how to make these!! Thank you so much Tanna! This is her version of them. These would make such great Christmas gifts! Do check out her blog.

5. Here's a really nice chalkboard and glass idea for your wine glasses! Deb, at Just Short of Crazy (love that name) dipped up these cuties. She also has a tutorial on her blog, so check her out! We'll never mix up our wine glasses again! So cute!

6. Ah...here we are at Button Boulevard....and guess what I found?

It's an adorable Button Ornament! I found this at the lovely Leslie's blog, 'A Sprinkle of This and a Dash of That.' There's no tutorial, but I'm sure we can figure it out with the information that she does have there. Don'cha just love it?!

7. Also, check out this card. Simple, yet elegant...just in enough time to whip up a few...

I first saw it on the Hero Arts blog, but the Creator is 'wteresa15' on Flicker if you'd like to check out her other creations. I think it's just adorable!!

8. No Sleigh Ride is complete without some goodies at the end...so check out this Festive Cabot Cheddar Tree!! Doesn't it look delicious! My displays never look that good, but they will now!

Okay...we're back at the Lodge, and the ride's over! Hope you enjoyed yourself!!

Before you leave, come and have a seat by the fireplace and warm up! Want a marshmallow with that cocoa?

Sleigh Ride 2, 2011

Sleigh Ride 3, 2011

Sleigh Ride 1, 2010

Sleigh Ride 2, 2010

Sleigh Ride 3, 2010

Sleigh Ride 4, 2010

Blessings,

Carmen

Ginger Prim Digital Freebies

2011-11-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hello!

First of all I want to thank you all for your visits on my Prim Snowman! Wow...such an interest...I had no idea! Many, many thanks for your kind words!

Also a Toasty Warm Welcome to my newest followers! I will love having you visit!!

As promised I have some more Prim images for you. In keeping with a Christmas theme here are some Primitive Gingerbread People.

(When I showed these to my husband, he claimed their heads were too small...however, I assure you, this is how I wanted them to be. Just add some blush to those cheeks and everything will come together just fine!)

So here they are:

And here's a Ginger Pot too. I don't know why I drew it, I just did....

That's all I have for you today. I made a dish with Rag Balls for a future post, and I hope to get some other Primitive images done soon as well.

It's kind of a fun style, don't you think?

You can find these other Prim images on this blog as well:

Prim Snowman

Prim Candle Shelf

Thanks for visiting!

Blessings,

Carmen

Prim Snowman Freebie

2011-11-27T14:26:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I've had a wonderful weekend! It was wonderful because I got caught up on a bit of sleep and am feeling a bit better. I sure don't like early mornings! How about you?

Anyhow, I've been working on some Primitive images, and decided to bring you my Snowman. He's been looking for some more friends, so...Let It Snow! Of course!

This is my second attempt at Prim. My first one was the candle set on a shelf I brought you a few weeks ago. I never mentioned it as Prim, but technically, it is. If you're interested in them, they can be found HERE

I think I'll bring you some more Prims in the next little while for Christmas. This is a style that I really like! Here's a little garland as well...it looks small on this page, but if you click on it, it'll show you a larger size.

Okay, that's all folks!

I guess most of you are getting ready for Christmas! All my kids have their Christmas trees up and have done some decorating already. I usually wait until around the middle of December and buy a real tree. I love the smell!!

Every year for Christmas I make and give away Eggnog Bread, Antipasto, Shortbread, Fudge Puddles and this year I'm making Melted Snowmen for my grandkids! I love baking for Christmas!!

What special treats do you make for Christmas?

Have a good day!
Blessings,
Carmen

Happy Thanksgiving! Plus Some Christmas Sentiment Freebies!

2011-11-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

First things first...

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American Friends!!

We had ours a little while ago. This year we went to my son's in-laws for Turkey Dinner. They are very hospitable people, and we always enjoy visiting with them! Always a good time!

Anyway, I know I said I wouldn't have anything for you for a while, but I forgot about some sentiments I did up a couple of weeks ago, so I'll put those up today.

I made these because I've always loved sentiment stamps that are similar to these - they work so well on cards!

Enjoy!

Blessings!

Carmen

Ridgeview Card and Free Sentiments

2011-11-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Good news! Well, for me anyway! My son came over and figured out why my cutter wasn't working. First, we had to get a different driver. Then after installing it, he realized there was a program interfering with the driver and disabling it. I'm so glad he figured that out! I wouldn't have found it on my own! No more problems. YAY!

Rather than hand cut everything, I was able to use my cutter for the Ridgeview Card. Here's the card...well, two versions of it.

I made up a bunch in different colors...I had some help from my girlfriend Adie while we visited! Fun!!

And here they are, just about ready to go...

I thought you might like the sentiments so you can make your own if you want to. I made up my own mittens, but Birds Cards has some mittens that are similar- HERE , in a cut file.

Here's a set of multiples, should you want to make a bunch.

Here's another one too. It's pretty simple, but you might like to use it instead.

Here's the measurements, if you want to make the card:

Card: 5 1/4 X 8 " scored at 4"

Solid colored background: 5 X 3 3/4"

Striped frame: 3 1/4 X 3 1/4"

Solid colored frame: 3 X 3"

White frame (if you're using it): 2 1/2 X 2 1/2"

Sentiment background: Approx. 3 1/2" wide

"Brrr" Sentiment: I adjusted this to about 1 1/2 to 2" long before printing it.

Using a needle, I strung some thin ribbon through it, and then placed a button overtop the top of the sentiment. With the button facing me, I stitched down and through the paper, then back up. Then I tied the ribbon on top of the button and made a bow.

"Sending Warm Fuzzies" Sentiment: Approx. 3 1/4" wide.

Optional:

Use a Cuttlebug for the solid backgrounds to add interest

I tend to ink the edges of everything. I like the depth it adds.

I used a glittery foam snowflake that I bought from Michael's, for the top of some of the cards.

Well, that's it for -well, probably this week. I have company coming and may not have much time to play until sometime next week.

Hope you're all having a good week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Toy Shop Window Digi and a Card

2011-11-18T23:09:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

I have the Toy Shop Digi for you that will fit on the Awning Card. You may have to adjust the bottom portion of the card a bit to get it to fit properly.

I have a card I made as well.

Here's the inside.

I've got to get my Ridgeview card done up this weekend. It'll probably be along the line of this card, but the string is too complicated for them. Not sure what I'll do...the class is Friday - yikes!

Sorry this is rushed!

UPDATE:

Here are the links to the Awning Card and the other Digi's that can be used with it.
Awning Card and Cakes Image
Ornaments
Shaped Ornaments
Whimsical Pet Shop

Blessings,
Carmen

Java Good Day!

2011-11-16T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I made a card recently using a stamp I purchased at a garage sale, but I altered it just a wee bit by stacking the cups. So that's what gave me the inspiration to make this digi. You can always use more coffee cards, I figure.

I also did up a few sentiments.

I thought I'd leave you with some instructions on how to make this particular pocket card since it's so easy.

I wanted my finished card to be about 5" X 3", so I cut the card 7" X 6" and scored it at 3" for the center fold.

Then I measured up 2" from the bottom of the card and cut out a square from the right hand bottom to the center fold that measured 2"X 3".

I was left with an extension on the bottom left hand of the card also measuring 2"X3". I scored the card up 2" from the bottom, over to the center fold. Here's a sketch:

I used a corner rounder on the flap as shown, then folded it up and put a strip of double sided tape 2" on the far left of the flap so that it forms a pocket to put a Starbuck's Gift Card (or maybe Tim Horton's, Second Cup, etc. for you Canadians).

Well....I was going to post the card I made, but I've already given it away. Oops!! I was in a hurry that day and forgot to take a photo of it! Sorry!

Do you use my images? If so, send me an email and I'll post it and link back to you.

I got an email from one of my Anonymous followers who made a card with this digi. Here is what she said, "We gave one of those coffee makers that uses the barcode to know what to brew, and this is the card I made for that recipient." Check out her card:

Plus, here is the back...

Isn't it fantastic? I told her that I love the way she cut off the left side of the image because it was unpredictable (made the card unique) and held an element of surprise. I also love the barcode on the back. The writing underneath it says "Made by Amy." Very clever!!

Gale from Playing With Paper made a gorgeous card with this image as well.

I love her use of color, and also the embossed coffee beans at the top of the card. Not sure where the stamp is from....check out her blog for details!

Here's the inside of her card:

Thank you Gale for sharing!! :)

Looking for more Coffee/Tea images?

How About a Whymsical Cup of Joe?

You Perk Me Up!

Hope your day is awesome today!

Carmen

Christmas Cards

2011-11-14T17:32:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

It's been too long since I posted some cards, so I thought I'd better get posting! Mandy and I spent part of the afternoon on Sunday making a few Christmas cards. These are the ones we finished.

This is Mandy's card. I just love it! It seems like a simple card, but actually, doing the cords and bows are quite time consuming and very fiddly! It's very sparkly in real life! :) I thought the completed card was just adorable!

This is one of mine. I've seen button trees a number of times, but this one has pearls and bling added as well. The snowflake is all glittery, but it doesn't come through in the photo so well. I got the idea from the 'Bling Christmas tree' on the Hero Arts Site created by Shari Carroll- there's an instructional video, check it out!

This one is also mine. It was too simple to put together for words! It's one of Bo Bunny's papers...whose Christmas papers I really love!! All I did was cut out the tree, trim it down with my scallop scissors, and layered them...just a little crooked, because I like doing something different once in a while. I'm not sold on the sentiment cloud, but, oh well....someone might like it!

Anyhoo...

It looks like I'm ending the post here...I was hoping to add some more cards, but I started up my cutter to do up some socks and mittens and trees (oh my!), but I'm having trouble getting it to work. I think the problem may be with SCAL because I've reloaded the drivers, the computer recognizes it as there, but SCAL doesn't.

Good thing there's a couple of technicians in the family...hopefully I can take them away from their busy schedules to help me out!

Blessings!

Carmen

Another Ornament Digi

2011-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I've been able to take my computer to my job and during naptime play with some digi's. (I do daycare for my grandkids...so...their naptime). Haha..

I'm really enjoying the Awning card digi's, but honestly, these can be used for any kind of card - as some of you have pointed out. I'm excited to see what you come up with!

Anyhow, I like ornaments that are something other than baubles, so that's what I have for you today.

I figure Christmas is just down the road, so may as well take advantage of it! I'm currently working on a Christmas Toy Store Display that can be used with the Awning Card.

I'm hoping to get some Christmas Cards done today in between coming up with something for the Ridgeview ladies...that's less than 2 weeks away! Better get busy!!

*Please remember that I will post any cards you make with my images under the original Digi post and link back to your blog.

So show me your stuff! :)

And please remember to link back if you use my free images.*

UPDATE

Here are some more images that will work with the Awning Card

Cakes

Ornaments

Whimsical Pet Shop

Toy Story Window

Gale, from Playing With Paper used these Digi's in a wonderful Awning Card! Check out her blog because she's made quite a few of these, and also used some other Digi's with them that are just awesome!

Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!

Blessings!

Carmen

Blog Changes and Freebie

2011-11-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Hello,

I had no idea what you all had to go through to leave me a comment!!

A new follower has just left a comment alerting me to how annoying it is to leave a comment on this blog!!

I am blushing and I am SO sorry! I've quickly made some changes and am hoping this will now be a friendlier place to leave a comment!!

I can't help but be really, really humbled by the fact that so many of you still left me such sweet comments anyways.

I really do have the greatest followers ever!!! THANK YOU!!!!

Also an especially grateful thank you to Susan, who let me know what it was like leaving a comment here! I appreciate your candor!

I'm not an unfriendly person, so I certainly don't want to come across that way!

*****************************************

Now onto some fun things...

So far we have a Whimsical Pet Shop Digi, a Bakery Digi, and now this Christmas Ornament Digi for the Awning Card I have posted HERE.

I thought about putting bows at the top of the ornaments, but decided against it. I think it would look so cute to add the bows with yarn or thin ribbon for a bit of a 3D effect.

Also, I extended the strings a bit so that it'll fit the space on the card. You can cut it where it looks right.

That's it for today. I'm working on another Christmas image in my spare time for this type of card.

In fact, it might be nice to make another card with only 3 of these ornaments, only a bit larger...

Okay...that's really all for today!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend and thanks so much for visiting, and for all the comments you leave me. It makes my day!

UPDATE:
More Digi's that can be used for the Awning Card:
Toy Shop Window
Shaped Ornaments

Cheers and Blessings!
Carmen

Sweet Nectar Freebie

2011-11-08T21:14:00.000-08:00

Hello!

It's been a few extremely busy weeks! I don't have the time I used to have to make up digi's, but luckily Graham has been making some up.

I noticed most of you really like the Awning Card and the images (Pet Shop and Bakery) for it. Some of you have suggested some Christmas-y images to go with that card and so I will try to get a couple made up.

The suggestions I'm considering are a Toy Shop and Christmas Ornaments since it's so close to Christmas. Again, it's as I have time, but I'll really work at it!! Thanks so much for all the suggestions. I may do some more later...like the shoe shop, etc.

In the meantime, here is another image from Graham. I call it "Sweet Nectar," but Graham called it "Wild Roses Hummingbird." He's kind of a no nonsense guy! :)

It's a nice image and I hope you'll have fun with it!

I currently have some sentiments made up and plan on doing a few more...stay posted for them.

Have a good day!
Blessings!
Carmen

Whimsical Pet Shop, Awning Card Image

2011-11-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

I have another Digi image today for the Awning Card I posted on this blog HERE (with some instruction and a video link). But first...

In that post I asked if you had any ideas which other images would work with this particular card, and you had lots of suggestions!! Here's what you said:

Shoe Store

Ice Cream Parlor

Flower Shop

Pet Shop

Hot Dog Stand

Fruit/Veggie Stand

Dress Shop/Purses, Yarn

Antique Shop

Restaurant/Cafe

Coffee Shop

Tool Store

French Boutique

Toy Shop

-And Jean (from the comments) said she made one with a picture of a friends' cat looking out the window for a friend who was in the hospital. The sentiment on the front read- 'Just watchin' out the window,' on the inside-'for you to come home.' How creative is that?!!!

I thought I'd share all your suggestions because I'm sure it'll inspire! Thanks so much!!

Okay, onto the Whimsical Pet Shop Digi for an Awning Card.

I was hoping that I'd have time to make another image for the awning card, but I just didn't get to it. So I thought I'd separate the fish and cat for a single image on a card instead.

I wish I had some sentiments made up for you, but I just didn't get a chance! :-(

If you happen to have any good suggestions for sentiments that would work with these digi's, let me know. I'll try and do some up for you and post them later.

UPDATE

Here are some more images that'll work with the Awning Card

Cakes

Ornaments

Shaped Ornaments

Toy Shop Window

Anyhow...hope you enjoy these and thanks for visiting!

Blessings!

Carmen

Sail Boat Freebie

2011-11-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Hello there!

I'm so surprised at the response on the Awning Card!! I did manage to make up another Digi that is a bit whymsical. I started out doing a pet shop, but it kind of got skewed a bit....but I'm sorry, you'll have to wait a few days.

The thing is, Graham has been itching for me to get his Sail Boat up! He likes this one! Apparently there's some guys in the boat...one with binoculars looking back at you! Also, note the name of the boat! Hahaha....if only!

So, today I have the sail boat for those of you looking for masculine card images.

Here's the 'Graham11'

Seriously though, we might be able to afford the dingy tied on the back! :) heehee

Keep posted because I'll post the Awning Card digi up this weekend for sure, and if I have time I'll do another one as well and give you two!

The response on the question of possible images for this card was amazing, so I'll list the ones you came up with for everyone to see as well!

*Just a reminder that if you send me your link using one of my images, I'll post a photo of it and a link back to your blog on the original post.

Have a good week!

Blessings!

Carmen

Birthday Awning Card and Free Digi's!

2011-10-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hi there! :)

You have all been leaving such incredibly sweet comments!! Thank you so much!!

Welcome to all my new followers as well!! I hope you will all enjoy visiting my little corner of the web. I sure love having everyone visit!!

So today I'm going to show you an Awning Card. I made this card for my daughter in law Mandy, whose work I sometimes feature on this blog. She's a real sweetheart!! As a matter of fact, I just love all my DIL's...they're all just wonderful women who are just perfect for my boys. I really mean that!! I get along with them all. I'm SO blessed!!

Anyway, It is Mandy's birthday this Sunday...and I'm hoping she doesn't look at the blog until after she gets the card. I know, I know...

Here's the card'

I like to give credit where credit is due. This is not my original design, but got it from Stampin' with Di, who got it from someone named Elsie Camp from a swap at a convention. I cannot find a blog for her. Diana Gibb has a video tutorial on how to make the card HERE. Check it out if you're interested.

Here are the measurements for the card bits:

Basic Card: Score at 5.5" and cut at 4.25"

White cardstock for image: 4.25" X 3.5" (I sized the image itself on the cardstock at about 4")

Awning: Main backing cardstock: 4.25" X 1.25"

Awning: Stripes - Window Slot Punch, white (5) and designer cardstock (6)

Bottom Portion: Double sided designer cardstock 4.25"X 3.25" (scallop one edge and score at 0.5")

I glued the window slots onto the backing cardstock for the awning. I didn't butt them right up to each other but left a teensy bit of space. I also used the lines on my cutter to keep things straight.

I bent one side one way, and the opposite side I bent the other way. Like so:

I Cuttlebugged the bottom portion of the card with the Pinstripe Folder by Couture Creations.

I used some Baker's Twine on the card as well.

I used some stickles on the Digi, and pop dots for the sentiment.

The nice thing about this card is that you can make a shoe store, and ice cream shoppe, a flower shop, etc. In fact, check back because I'll make up some more Digi's that would work well with this card.

Anyone have any other ideas that might work? No guarantees, but suggestions are welcome! :)

And here's the Digital Stamp I have for you today. You need fine markers for coloring these!

Here is the 'Birthday Sweets' sentiment page. I've put a bunch on one page; I figure you can probably use the extras another time anyway! I made them simple, because sometimes a simple sentiment looks best on a card.

Well, that's it for today. I hope you've enjoyed visiting! I've sure enjoyed having you!

UPDATE:

Here are my newer images that can be used with the Awning Card.

Ornaments

Shaped Ornaments

Whimsical Pet Shop

Toy Shop Window

Gale, from Playing With Paper Again made up an Awning Card using some of my images. She did a wonderful job on the card....but then, she does a wonderful job on ALL her cards! Go check her out...you'll be glad you did!! Here's her card!

Here's a couple more cards using some of these images by Sandy! I'm sorry, I don't have a blog to link to, but these are too nice not to share!! Thanks Sandy!

Karen, from Serendipity Dragonfly made up a bunch of samples for her Club. Karen directs the ladies to my site to download the free digi's and then teaches them how to make up the cards. She also has some other samples of images you can use with these cards. They're just so versatile! Do click on the link above and check out her site for some fabulous cards!

Blessings,

Carmen

Wonky Silhouette Freebie

2011-10-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Well, I'm on my second week of full time Daycare and I'm doing okay!

I don't know if I'll ever get used to getting up early though! In addition to my daughter in law going back to work for a while, my son has also started a brand new job, and once he goes on shift I may have to get up even earlier. Blech...hopefully not!

I love spending time with the grandkids though. They are SO much fun! We sing kids songs in dutch, and I hop them on my knees, sometimes together since Kai gets upset if I just do baby Lauryn. Oh my aching legs!! Lol...It's okay, they need the workout. :-)

While they were napping today I finished off a digi I've been working on for a while.

It's a city street silhouette!

I started out making normal houses, but somehow they ended up skewed, and I liked it better. I'm really predictable, so any opportunity to do something a bit different makes me feel...well...

Unpredictable. Lol...

They're wonky, and I like wonky! Hope you do too!

CG from Cg-Says Something Loudly created this beautiful card with this Digi!

The front:

The inside:

Awesome job, CG!

Have a wonderful rest of the week.

Carmen

Vase of Roses Digi Freebie

2011-10-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

I hope you're all enjoying your weekend! The sun just started shining here...but it's been dark and dreary 'till now. It's funny how the sun can brighten anyone's mood! Love it!

I just got some homemade soap labelled and prepared for the Pregnancy Center in town, and I've stopped for a cup of earl grey tea - so thought I'd do up that post I promised you this morning!

**So, this is my second post for today** Scroll down if you want to see my first post, or click on 'home' at the top of the page and scroll down if you're coming from another site.

This is another of Grahams images, but it's not masculine.I love this digi because the vase that the roses are in is a copy of one of my vases, and it broke a while back. It was wrought iron with glass. Beautiful!

Well, I have a few other things to check on, then I have to go do our company's bookkeeping for the last quarter. I forgot how precious time becomes when you work! Every moment seems to count...not that I'm complaining - I love it!

Remember, if you use my images let me know - I'll post them under the original image with a link back to your blog!

NOTE: You'll notice that my images now show up properly when you click on them and save them. If you're having the same problem it's a simple fix. Just go to Settings/Posts and Comments / or Settings/Formatting, and click on NO under the lightbox option.

Blessings!
Carmen

Birthday Card and a Request

2011-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I got this post ready a while ago, but had to wait until the birthday girl got the card! I pretty much stole a great idea from my talented niece. While she and my nephew came to visit, we played with some ink and photo paper to come up with some fun designs which I posted HERE.

I loved what she did with the little mouse stamp and decided to use that idea for Heidi's card. I used a font that looks like dripping paint for her name. It is called Paintdrips and can be found HERE

For the inside, I used the acetate pop up balloons I showed you in the same post. I love this pop up style.I added some definition with a white pen.

I hope Heidi enjoys this card!

I have a small request!

I would so appreciate that if you like my Digi's or Vintage Graphics, to PLEASE VOTE for me in my sidebar for "Top 100 Digital Stamp Sites." I think it's only a couple of clicks to complete. There's some amazing Digi Stamp sites there already, but it gives my blog exposure to more people who can have the access to my free images that you already have.

I guess you could say you're "paying it forward." How cool is that? Lol...

Thank you so much!

I will be posting another freebie later today...stay tuned!

Carmen

Free Masculine Digital Stamp

2011-10-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

Hello!

What a busy week it's been already! A lot of my family seems to be experiencing transitions...all good ones! I am so, so tired tonight. After doing Daycare today, I ran around and got some things done before heading home. My hubby made me coffee when I got there and he also made dinner for a girlfriend of ours and I. (yep, he's a keeper!)

She helped me with dishes, then after she left I quickly did my hair as I won't be able to fit it in tomorrow. I also had two phone calls in there somewhere, and I'm glad I can get this posted before I retire for the night. I want to get to bed at a decent hour; I need 9 hours of sleep to feel normal...and it's a 5:30 alarm! Life is good though!

So without further delay, I have the Tall Ship I promised a while back. This one is Graham's wonderful image!!! I will hopefully fit it in some time to do up a new digi this weekend!

This one doesn't need any coloring at all....just add water! :)

NOTE: When you click on the photo to get a larger image, it'll come up very dark. I tried it out and the photo still seems to save properly. Not sure why it's coming up like that, but it should work fine for you!

If you use our images in your projects, send me an email or a comment including your blog post address, and I'll add your photo and a link to your blog!

Here's an absolutely stunning card using this image by Lynn, from Creative Crafts by Lynn.
She did an absolutely amazing job inking the clouds and water as well. Very impressive!! Check out her blog!

Thanks so much for visiting!
Blessings,
Carmen and Graham

Ridgeview Card for October

2011-10-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I've been quite sick lately, so I've been working on my Demo Card for the Ridgeview Class. I haven't been sick for years, but this last week I've been fighting a head cold which finally had me lying down yesterday. It takes a lot to get me to do nothing at all. Today I'm feeling a bit better, but still not 100%....hopefully tomorrow I'll be back to normal, because I don't want to let the kids down (Daycare)!

Today I'll be showing you the card and the process. Do any of you have those Fall leaves that were available at the Dollar Store for a while?

I still had a bunch, and since the class is at the end of the month, but since Thanksgiving is over I just did a Fall card.

I used the leaves and turned them into a Fall tree!! :)

My first step was to glue two of the leaves together kind of offset. I used Tombow glue for this, but you could use Glossy Accents or other glue.

I had to let them dry for a little while. (So far I'm doing great with the photo documenting).

Then I cuttlebugged the front of the basic card. I wanted to use a folder that suggested movement in the air. Sorry...no photo of that part of the process.

I hand cut some hills for the card. One in a lighter patterned green, and the other in a darker colored green.

Again...no photo...hmmmm.... I'm not so good at this! Lol

Then I hand drew a tree trunk and put it through my Cuttlebug to look like wood.

Lol...well, here you can see the cuttlebugged background and one of the hills as well. I used some ink distressing to darken the edges of the hills to give it depth. I used dbl sided tape to place them on the card.

Then I found some ribbon (no photo again), but basically I just placed it around the card and taped it in place with double sided tape on the rear of the front of the card.

I used a smaller button and with some hemp cord tied it around the ribbon to create that puckered look. I love that look!

Then I put some glossy accents on the knot to hold it in place, since they tend to come apart.

I used my Autumn Art Sentiment for this card and found a leaf border that I cut out with my Lynx to frame it.

Then, using a black fine point marker, I did the sew lines...and added some zig-zags here and there. So fun!

That's my card. Hope the ladies like it!

Graham has been working on some more images lately. I'll be posting them soon.

Jenn, from Stampin Angel Jenn made these adorable cards using my Autumn sentiment. She has some lovely cards on her blog...great inspiration. Check her out!! Here are her cards:

And card number 2:

Thanks for visiting!
Carmen

Spirit Bear Statue Freebie

2011-10-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hello again!

This is my second post today! Well, technically it's Graham's post, but I'm putting it together for him. Graham has been working on a pretty cool image.

FYI,

Some years ago the B.C. Lions Society for Children with Disabilities launched an Orca in the City project and found sponsors to commission 120 orca statues through which they raised about $700,000 for its Easter Seal operations for children with disabilities and the Canuck Place children's hospice.

There are now 200+ Spirit Bear sculptures in B.C. The model is the Kermode, a black bear on the north B.C. coast that has white fur because of a rare genetic trait. There are many of these statues in Vancouver, B.C., all unique in their design.

Here's Graham's image. If you're into Native Indian Art, this may be just the thing you're looking for.

Graham did up one from another viewpoint.

There are many unique bear statues like these all over B.C.

They even have a Darth Vader Bear, a Hockey player Bear, and one in PJ's, etc.To see a few of them, click HERE.

Yes, British Columbians are a unique bunch! :)

Enjoy the freebie!

Blessings,
Carmen

Autumn is Here!

2011-10-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I've been getting up early lately, and it's Chill-Y out there that time of day! It's beautiful and sunny out right now, but the temps are definitely dropping.

I recently took on a Secret Pal and am having fun with that, but when I do decide to make a card for her, I can't post it. Kind of a drag. Maybe I'll just take photos and post them all after the revealing function! :)

Anyway, I have a little sentiment for you today. No card though. :( Maybe later.

Here's a few extra leaves too..

Well, that's it for today. I hope to get my Ridgeview Card samples up soon!

Have a good day and thanks for visiting!!

Carmen

Candles Freebie

2011-10-07T17:26:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Some days I have a lot to say. Today is not one of those days! Lol....so right on with it then. I guess you could call this a Christmas image.

Short and Sweet!

Enjoy!
Carmen

Branch and Sentiment Digi Freebies

2011-10-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hello!

In my last post I mentioned that I would show you a card using the Bat Fold images. Here's my card:

I think I figured out how to share the cut file of the Bat digi. You should be able to download it and cut it in SCAL.

Check it out and let me know if it works for you, okay?
Bat Cut File
(If you don't have a cutter and want the digi stamp to paper piece the bats, click on the bat image below and save as in the new window).

I thought you might like the branches as well:

I also have a couple of sentiments you might like:

Okay, I'm done for a while! Enjoy!!

Blessings,

Carmen

Bat Fold Images for Cards

2011-10-02T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I'm back! It's been about a week, and I have been crazy busy!!!! Hopefully things will slow down for the next week!

I have some news for you....

It looks like I will be babysitting my grandkids 4 days a week starting next week. This means I will be a little busier than usual, and having to make up some of the time for my regular endeavors in the other 3 days of the week. It also means I will not be able to offer my soap making classes, nor my inking classes, which I mentioned a while back. I will still be offering free digitals - although not as often.

A girl can only do so much! :(

Starting in January things will ease up a little bit as my daughter-in-laws' Mom will be free to switch weeks with me, so that we'll each be doing 2 weeks a month. I will probably do more digitals again at that time.

I have been doing a bit of soul searching lately too and have realized I really want to do more writing. I will be revamping my other blog and working on some more creative writing in my spare time.

Well, that's my news. In the meantime, I have something a little different for you. I am working on a card and have made up a bat shape with folding wings. It's an SVG file, so these can be made big or small, and would look cute as an embellishment on a card. I'll include a photo of the folds, so you can figure out where to fold them. When I get the card done, I'll post it here as well.

*I don't know if Free Digital Stamps will consider these as stamps, so they will probably not show up on their site...therefore please refer your friends to this post on your blogs if you like these little bat folds. They're both the same...I just put two on a page.

I would offer these as cut files, but to be honest - I'm not sure how to do that. Anyone?? I'd love the help!

As you can see, I had initially intended to make a bat card, but changed my mind, deciding it would look better as a card embellishment. It looks pretty cute with the wings folded right in!!

Well, that's all ladies! I'd love to see your cards with some cute little bats hanging on it! Send the link and I'll post it here! :)

Blessings,
Carmen

Come Sail in my Yacht...

2011-09-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Like my title? Well, it's just something catchy to get you interested...cos the truth is, I don't have a yacht!!

Nope, I don't.......but Graham does! :)

Lol...it's been a while, but Graham finally put together another digital stamp for us. This one would be great for someone going on a cruise! It would definitely work for a male card too...everyone's looking for male images it seems.

He's currently working on a Tall Ship that is starting to look fantastic...but don't tell him I told you...

That's it for today! Hope you can use it!

Blessings,
Carmen

Ridgeview Card and Some Free Vintage

2011-09-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I have a Ridgeview Card Class coming up, and they wanted something to go along with their western theme for the week. I saw a card I liked at Inspired and Unscripted, so used that as my inspiration. Here is the card we'll be making.

Unfortunately, I used a hemp fiber to tie on the card, and it ripped the card a bit, but I have some softer fiber in the same color I can use. I don't have any nestabilities, so I used my Lynx cutter to frame the buckin' bronco...but I didn't want to bother with the fussiness of lining it all up. So I used the light box my son bought me a while back. I've used it a few times already and love it!

See, works great!

Here's the inside of the card:

And here are the rest of the cards prepped and ready for them to put together. I made up about 5 different styles, so that's what I'm showing in the first picture.

There's about 15 cards altogether.

For the buckin' bronco image, I just googled 'buckin bronco' and this was one of the images that came up. I couln't find a copyright, so can't tell you who initially made it. The designer papers were random papers I've had a while. The hat stamp is actually the Sheriff Ian stamp from The Greeting Farm. I just masked it, stamped it, and cut it out.

I usually do some inking on the sides; in the card above I used white staz on ink. Some will be distressed with a darker ink. The star is a brad from a package I've had in my stash for a while.

They can choose whatever sentiment stamp I have for the inside of the card. I hope the ladies enjoy putting these together!

***********************************************

It's been a while since I posted some vintage graphics for you vintage buffs. I love this little vintage Ad for Jam.

I also have some chairs for you today...not sure what you can do with them, but they're yours if you want them....

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Blessings,
Carmen

The Gift of Homemade Soap for Christmas!

2011-09-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hello!

So in addition to making digital stamps and sentiments, I enjoy a variety of other crafts. One of the main ones is soap making, which for some reason I only do in the Fall.

This post is about Soap Making Classes, which I will be teaching from my home. There's nothing as nice on the skin as homemade soap if you make it right. Guaranteed!!!

This post is a heads up - dates will be posted later. However, the first class will be making soaps using (for the most part) basic supplies that most people have in their kitchens!! We will be using the cold process (CP) method of soap making.

It will be a nice, fresh, healthy bar of soap. Unscented, for those of you with allergies, or scented any way you want from my stash of essential and fragrance oils.


Lemongrass and Lavender Soaps (CP)

Oatmeal soap, Chocolate Lime Slice, Pachouli Soap, Pina Colada Slice (CP)

Felted Soaps

Soap Balls

Glycerine Soaps

Rubber Ducky Soap (embedded glycerine)

If there's an interest, I can add classes using more exotic oils; classes on bath bombs, bath salts, body butters, massage candles, etc. It'll depend on what people want!

Soap Making Classes
Includes:
Soap ingredients
Use of tools needed (may need to bring a small clean empty milk carton)
Small class size instruction in my home (2 or 3 people)
A good soap recipe
Hand-outs on the art of soap making, essential oil properties, properties of oils and butters; safety precautions, etc.
Two bars of the soap we've made together

Allow 2 or 3 hours for class time
Cost: $25

If you're interested, please let me know through a comment below, on FB, by email, or call me!

Blessings,
Carmen

And Still It Sings

2011-09-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I've noticed a few new followers in the sidebar. Welcome to my blog!! I hope you enjoy your visits here!

So life's been good for me, but if I'm being honest, that's not always the way it is...after all, it is 'life' --which guarantees good times, bad times, sad times, hard times, etc. All those things are meant for us to enjoy or learn from. I don't complain much, and I try to be positive, but I am also a very realistic person, and the truth is, sometimes life just sucks!

Yes, sometimes life is just hard, but I still find that the best way to deal with that, is to ~~pout~~, ~~grumble, scowl~~ ...or maybe I'll just sing! Well...you never know! Maybe it'll make me feel better. Here's my newest freebie on that topic.

Huh?

Ya, it's really nothing special....this one's all about the sentiment -

Just a reminder that in spite of all the negative stuff the world brings us, there's always still something to sing about!

For me, it's grandbabies, family, the air I breathe...life is precious, don't take it for granted, and handle it with love!

Projects using this Digi:
Cathy from Scrips & Scraps made this adorable card! I absolutely love her card...check out her blog to see how she made it!

Blessings,
Carmen

Hat Freebie, Digital Stamp

2011-09-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

Hello,

This is my second post today, scroll down to see the first post! (or click 'HOME' above and then scroll down).

Hope you're all having a nice Autumn! It's my favorite time of year, especially September. The weather here in Kamloops, B.C. was very hot! Two days ago my outside thermometer showed 40C in the sun (about 108F). However it's kind of cold out today - in fact, I put socks on! Gasp!!

I have a freebie for you today! I'm running out of steam, so I think this'll be my last steampunk image for a while - pardon the pun. I added a separate category under 'labels' for steampunk, if you'd like to see them all in one place.

This is kind of a random image...but someone may be able to envision it in a project.

This is just a steampunk font...it's free HERE. I played with it a bit..skewed the letters and moved them closer together.

Okay, that's all folks! My girlfriend gave me a bag of peaches that she plucked right off her tree while I was there. So I'm heading to the kitchen to make an awesome peach pie recipe that doesn't use traditional pastry...it's more of a shortcake type dough...YUM!

**Remember to send me a link to your projects using my images, and I'll add a photo of your project and a link back to your blog on the post I offered the Digi Stamp on.**

I love to see what you do with them! It's like getting a present! :)

Here's another awesome card by Chrissy from Chrissy's Cardland! Check out her awesome blog HERE

Blessings!
Carmen

A Quick Card

2011-09-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Sorry for the absence! It's just been a bit busy around here lately! I did manage to throw together a quick card for my son who celebrated his 22nd birthday last Monday. We celebrated with a family BBQ on Sunday night, but he met a whole bunch of friends at Kelly O's on Monday night and had Appy's. Fun!

Anyway, he plays accoustic, electric and bass guitar, and he recently joined a band, so I made him a card in that theme.

I used the Rockstar paperpad to make this card, so it came together really quickly! Perfect! I just added a couple of stars with pop dots to give the card a bit of a 3D feel.

I have a tendency to write in my cards before remembering to take pictures, and since I don't have Photoshop, this is the best I could do to blot it out. You don't want to see all that mushy stuff anyway! :)

One of my guilty pleasure is watching America's Got Talent, especially near the end when the talent is good. What did you think of last night's outcome? I picked all 4 to be in the finals. I think they'll all do fine! Landau's story is just so feel good...so I'm really happy for him and was glad to see how happy the others were for him too!

Anyway, I'm still working on a freebie, hopefully I'll get it finished soon. Talk to you later!
Blessings,
Carmen

Giddyup...Giraffe?

2011-09-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

Hello!

First of all, something completely unrelated.

There was a little 3 year old boy, Kienan Hebert, that had gone missing from his home during the middle of the night last Tuesday in Sparwood BC. Police suspected he had been abducted by a man named Randall Hopley, known to be a sexual deviant. After much prayer, candlelight vigils all over BC, pleadings from the childs family and the suspected abductors mother-- the child was returned home and found at 3 AM this morning, sitting on the couch with his blankie. Last night, as I prayed I cried tears of sorrow for him, and this morning, tears of joy! Miracles do happen, and God does hear! Anyway, that is my good news for today!! SO happy!!

I feel like mixing it up a bit today, so I have some digi's that are different than my usual stuff. I did this first one up because I was asked to do a Cowboy themed card for my Ridgeview Class. The ladies are all quite senior, so I thought it would be fun to do something they could send to a grandchild, but in the end I went with a Buckin' Bronco. Still, I thought - why let a digi go to waste? Someone may as well enjoy it!

Then, I thought...why stop at a horse? Let's go on a safari!

That last one looks a bit like a Star Wars character...lol...

I have an idea for another steampunk image, so stay tuned...

If you use one of my images, I would love to feature it along with the original post with a link back to your blog! Just email me the link. :)

Blessings,
Carmen

Steampunk Airship Freebie

2011-09-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Well, we've had a few hot days (37C yesterday), so I've been hiding inside. Well, not really hiding - I've had lots of company and that's been fun!

I'm Dutch, and I have an old friend who is Dutch as well. So we got together one day and had some Beschuitjes (Rusks) with Gouda Cheese, and a bowl of yogurt with peaches for dessert. My covered balcony was the perfect place to relax, eat and chat!

Lunches are hard for me because I never know what to make. Not a big fan of sandwiches, and don't want to spend a bunch of time putting together a salad.

I don't think I ever recovered from having 4 little boys running around...I'm still eating on the run - and that's not good -- Chocolate is not lunch food! REPEAT...Chocolate is NOT lunch food!!

Anyway, I know you're here for a freebie, so here's another steampunk inspired freebie. Somehow, steampunk to me means it doesn't have to make sense...so I hope you're not a stickler for 'sensibles'...;)

I decided to make the image large so you could see it a bit better-if you click on it, you'll see a larger complete version of it to save.

That's probably my last freebie for this week. Oh, but I have a few sentiments that some of you suggested to go with the bike, which can be found HERE. May as well plop them on here too...

I made a Butterfly Flying Ship Digital Stamp a while back that can be found HERE. I really hid that Digi in amongst a bunch of other images.. some of you may have missed it, so here it is again:

This next sentiment, done two different ways, would go great with it!

Okay, that's definitely it for this week.
As always, if you use my digi's, send me the link and I'll post them with the Digi Stamp you used!

Val from Canonbury Creations used the Steampunk Airship in this card below! I love it!!

Val also used some of my other Digi's in this card!
The Sundial can be found HERE
The Penny Farthing can be found HERE

Jessica from Jessica's Craft Shaque used the sentiment above, and one of my other Penny Farthing images in the card below. Check out her awesome blog!

Here's another card by Jessica as well using one of my sentiments and vintage clock images!

Hope all of you are enjoying the changes September brings. I love the Fall!!
Have a good weekend!

Carmen

Moving Day Freebie

2011-09-05T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hello there,

Are you having a good long weekend? We went to the Fair, but the Fair wasn't there! We clued in when we saw circus trucks on the highway going in the opposite direction. We went anyway, had a nice lunch and stopped at a flea market on the way home. We had a good day!

I can't believe September is already here. Soon it'll be Christmas - which got me thinking. We have lived in the same house since 1992...count 'em, that's almost 20 years! My goodness time has flown by! When we moved in we had four little boys bouncing off the walls. Now, if they try to bounce off the walls they'd probably go through them!! (That's a reflection of big boys, not old walls!)

It's been a good little place for us, but I know that one day we'll probably move. I don't look forward to that day so much. Hubby and I aren't quite as strong as we used to be, and we've collected a lot of stuff over the years. If that day ever comes, hopefully the boys will help! I don't see a move for us happening any time soon...but some of you may know someone who's moving.

I thought you might like the truck by itself, so you can add some leaves, or dirt, or whatever you want it to carry for you.

It's been a while since I've posted a 'regular' type of image. I'm working on a steampunk airship, and I have a hobby horse ready to go too, but that's for another day.

Hope your Labour Day Weekend was wonderful!

Update!
I was so happy to receive an email from Sandy over at Sandy's Creations with a link to her card using this freebie! I really love it. The colors are great on it and the card is so cute!! Thanks Sandy!!

*Remember to let me know if you use my images, I'll do the same for your creations! I always enjoy seeing what you do with my images!!

Blessings to you!
Carmen

This and That

2011-09-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

I should be doing my laundry and some cleaning, and putting on my war paint...but instead I am cropping and resizing photos! So, this is a quickie post on some things I've been up to.

First, my Mom was here one day and we did up this card with the balloon pop ups.

I thought I'd just show you the inside, since the outside isn't done yet...someday...yes, I'm a procrastinator.

They're a really simple pop up card. The original idea is Valita's, and HERE are her instructions on YouTube. I created my own balloon SVG file for cutting with my new Lynx.

I also got a surprise visit from my niece and nephew...guess what we did?

Johnny looks happy! Sandra always makes that face by default when she notices people taking her picture. She hates it...and now she probably hates me! :) But just in case, here's a photo of her that she probably likes better. I think she always looks beautiful!

Anyhoo...They're both extremely creative. It runs in the family I guess...

This was one of Sandra's backgrounds, and here's the stamp she used with it.

Awesome, or what??

I didn't get a good picture of one of Johnny's, but his were nice too. Sorry! Here are some of the backgrounds I made anyway.

I decided to make two backgrounds on this one using the same colors.

Did a twirly motion to get this background.

I love these Tim Holtz Stamps...they were perfect for this project!

Now to make some cards....soon...I hope...;)

I also made up this one and used a Hero Arts Stamp on it.

These were all done using glossy photo paper that I got at the Dollar Store. It's fun to play with the distress inks and see what kind of designs you can come up with!

I also made up this card for my grand daughter-to-be for her birthday!

It's very sparkly, like her sweet personality! Click on it to see a close up!

It has an acetate window, but it's hard to see. Oh well...hopefully she likes it anyway!

We also babysat our grandkids overnight. That was a lot of fun!! Plus we went to a BBQ with lots of family and friends. It's been busy, but fun!!

Well, I've used up enough time, now I have to rush to get things done! Oh well, it was worth it. Have a good day, and thanks for stopping by!

Blessings,
Carmen

Still into Steampunk...Freebies

2011-08-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

It's been years since I rode a bike, but as a young teen, I rode my bike everywhere!! These old bikes are popping up everywhere on the craft web, but I still wanted to make a couple of them. So, here is the first one:

I like to do something a little different, so I stuck a clock and some gears in one of the wheels. I guess I'm still into the steampunk thing....Hope it appeals...

Well, that's it for today!

I love it when you leave comments, and I consider myself pretty lucky that so many of you leave such sweet, sweet comments. You make a girl blush, but it really is encouraging! These do take some time to put together, so your comments are very much appreciated! Thank you!! :)

Val from Canonbury Creations has made a card using these Digi's. Love it!!

Val has also used some of my other Digi's for this card. The Steampunk Airship can be found HERE
The Sundial can be found HERE

This one is from the Aquarius Blog. I love all the different takes on this Penny Farthing.

Plus, here's a card my good friend Adie made for her husband's 65th birthday. She used a photo of him as a child on the card, plus one of my digital images on the bottom right!

Jessica, from Jessica's Craft Shaque also made a gorgeous card using the Penny Farthing image and one of my sentiments found HERE.
Check out her card "Time Traveller" below!

Here's another monochrome card using one of these images by Val from Canonbury Creations. This is a great card for men! Love it!

This one, by Sandy, uses one of these images and another one of mine found HERE. Thanks for the card photo Sandy!!

Abi, from "Where's My Table" made up a very nice masculine looking card. It's so nice to see one of her cards as she often leaves me a comment! Thanks Abi, for sharing your wonderful work!

Thanks for visiting~

Carmen

Steampunk Boot Freebies

2011-08-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Well, I have a Digital for you today that I just love!

If you like steampunk, you'll love this!! It would look great on a steampunk tag, card, layout....and even on your altered projects. I'm quite happy with the way this turned out, and I hope you like it too!

I've shown it both ways so you can choose one, or use them both.

I really enjoyed making this one! So I hope you enjoy using it!

Just to remind you - if you use one of my images, send me the link to your post and I'll include it with the original post of the image on this blog.

Here's an awesome card by Chrissy from Chrissy's Cardland. Love it!! Especially how she's popped out the one boot to add dimension.

Also, for my terms of use please check above under my header.

Thanks!

Blessings,
Carmen

Stuck in Cogs N Gears

2011-08-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I've been playing with Digi's lately and am really enjoying the steam punk-ish style. Here's another digi I did up recently. I like the vintage pointer fingers you keep seeing around, so I made a variation of it adding a gear for a yo-yo. I think it's kind of fun!

Maybe I'm getting stranger by the Digi...but I like to be a bit different because I'm so very ordinary in real life. Well, that is...until you really get to know me. Hehehe...

Anyway, I put together this background image for you too...

I have a really great Digital Stamp coming up really soon. I mentioned wanting to do it up in a previous post...anyway, I'm really happy with the way it turned out. So stay tuned, and have a good day!

Blessings,
Carmen

Hot Air Balloon Freebie

2011-08-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Hello,

How are ya all doing? Things have finally slowed down a bit here, so I spent some time making up a Digi for you. I've been wanting to do something like this for a while now, but have just been too busy. It's a time consuming process, but one I enjoy!

I hope to do a few more steampunk type images down the road. I like that style, though I haven't actually done much with it myself. I think they're kind of cool. I have some flying shoes in mind, or maybe gyroscopic shoes...I don't know - I'll see what I come up with.

Anyhow...enough of my chatting....

Hope you can use this on a project. Those things on the bottom are propellers, incase you're wondering.

**Cards using this image:

little-applefalls Blog

Karen at Serendipity Dragonfly

Tom, from Onkel Tom made this guys card...

Cleah, from Cleah's Designs made this lovely stepper card! I really like the way she colored the balloon and the embellies she added. Just super!!

Here's another cute card by Sandy! Sorry, I don't have a blog to link to, but this one is so cute!! I love the reflection of the balloon in the mirror. Really creative!! She's also used my Penny Farthing Clock image in this card. It can be found HERE.

Awesome jobs everyone!! :)

I'll be making up a quick card tomorrow for my granddaughter, so stay tuned for that post. Thanks for visiting and have a good day!

Blessings,

Carmen

Odd Images - Vintage

2011-08-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

Hello, hello!

Well, my busy weekend has come to a standstill (well, other than washing up sheets, etc)...so I'm back. I have a couple of odd images today, and I hope to post a Digital Stamp soon. There's rain forecast, so I'll probably work on something then!

Here's the first of two random images I thought were interesting and would be great used as steampunk style images as Christie suggested below!

And, here's some leg action for you...

Here's a couple of random images, while I'm on odd images

This one is a 'Blow Accordion'...ya, not sure what that means...I'm thinking it's an early harmonica.

As you can see, according to the picture, this one is a ...Graphophone - apparently an improvement on a Phonograph.

This one I just don't know where to fit in, so here it is...

This one will make you sweat!

Enjoy! I'll be back soon!

Blessings,

Carmen

Day Trips and Dominoes

2011-08-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

Hello there!

Well, it's been an awesome day! I drove down to Kelowna with a girlfriend and we spent the whole day visiting Scrapbooking stores in Vernon and Kelowna.

Oh. What. Fun!!

We left Kamloops around 9 am and drove straight to Vernon to visit a new store called "Forget Me Not"...thanks to Maggie -- my girlfriends' GPS system. Then we drove to Doodles, also in Vernon. From there we went onto Kelowna (without Maggie's help this time), and stopped over at Ever After. There was a fire in their complex, but luckily the wind blew the other direction, and the Scrapbook store was still intact without any smoke damage. What a blessing for them! And us!

We stopped at Milestones near the Orchard Park Mall and had an AWESOME lunch. So good! Then we drove to the other side of Kelowna and visited Memories and More. There we ran into Lisa Padley (Moments Matter), a local Kamloops CTMH rep, and her girlfriend. We had a good laugh that we all ended up there on the same day...and they visited 3 of the 4 stores we went to on a Day Trip too!! After that we took the highway home, stopped in Merritt on the way for coffee at Tim Horton's, and then arrived back in Kamloops about 6:30. What a wonderful, wonderful time we had!!

But I'm old, so after all that I'm tired!

Lol....but not too tired to bring you a little freebie! I have a domino background for you today. Enjoy!

I have company from now until Sunday, so I may put up some vintage graphics in the next couple of days, but won't have time for much else between now and then.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Blessings,
Carmen

Seed Packet Freebies

2011-08-14T20:32:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

I've had company the past few days, but managed to get a few more vintage images done up. Today I have some seed packets for you:

I thought these Petunia's would be nice by themselves as well...so I separated them from the seed packet.

To be honest, I'm not even sure how I got this one to go black...but I like it, so it's yours if you want it.

Well, that's it for today. Hope you can use these for some of your projects. Please send me a link if you use any of my images in your crafts, and I will post a link back to you!

Thanks for visiting!
Blessings,
Carmen

Vintage Camera Freebies

2011-08-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Welcome to my blog. I hope you're having a good week...I sure am. Today I have a few vintage images for you; some old fashioned cameras. Have a peek!

And my favorite of the three:

Not sure why this one is so long...but it looks kind of cool!

I'm so glad we have digital cameras! Aren't you?

Have a good day everyone,
Blessings,
Carmen

Sundial Freebie

2011-08-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Well, summer has finally arrived in semi-arid Kamloops. For a while there, we weren't sure if we were going to see much summer. However, with temperatures of 32C, I'd say it's here!

I like to explore ancient civilizations a little bit, especially biblical ones. It's just so interesting! So I came across a sundial, and thought that might make an interesting addition to your scrapbooking and cardmaking.

The first is a plain one that you can add a saying to:

The second and third have a saying to go with them, plus the third one has the roughness removed:

I know it's a bit hard to read; it says:

Click on the image to get a larger version, then right click and 'save as.'

Want another quote? Here's one I liked, but thought was too long for this image:

“Time is Too Slow for those who Wait,

Too Swift for those who Fear,

Too Long for those who Grieve,

Too Short for those who Rejoice;

But for those who Love,

Time is not. ”

- Henry Jackson van Dyke

Please do not share my images, but instead please direct people back to this blog! :)

Please check out my 'terms of use' if you're new. If you're not clear about my policies, please email me. I like to think I'm reasonable. :)

If you use any of my images, send me a link to your post. I'll post it at the bottom of the post you took the image from!

Here's one from Val at Canonbury Creations! Awesomeness!!

The sundial is on the bottom right of the card. She has also used some of my other digi's.
The Penny Farthing can be found HERE
The Steampunk Airship can be found HERE

Well, that's all folks! Enjoy!

Hope the rest of the week will be sunny!

Blessings,
Carmen