JoAnna's Creative Expressions

"Saying Goodbye"

2010-07-09T23:44:00.002-05:00

Hi, everyone! I know posting a goodbye now is kinda alittle crazy since I've not been able to devote time to this blog in the last year like I've wanted too. But for everyone of you (and you all know who you are) that have stuck by me, and been so kind to post such sweet comments through the years, I did want to say 'goodbye'.

This 'goodbye' is just for now, not a forever goodbye. I'll be back. ;) Whenever I feel that I have time to devote to creating and making again, I'll be more than excited to post again. But time-wise and physically I just am not able right now.

When I started this blog, I loved it...was consummed by it, and I know I'll get that way again, but for now there are sooooo many awesome people out there doing such creative things that I'm just going to sit back for awhile and soak it all in!

Thanks so much for all those that followed me....it meant more to me than some of you will ever know!!

Many blessings!!

"Alyssa's 13th Birthday Party"

2009-11-10T11:17:00.007-06:00

My 'baby' girl will become a teenager this Thursday, November 12th. (It's hard for me to believe!)

So, we celebrated her birthday this past weekend at the TN Safari Park in Alamo. Everyone had a blast!! It was such a fun opportunity to see and feed animals that you normally wouldn't.

Alyssa was so excited that she fed a giraffe; zebra; ostrich; and, many others.

If you are in this area, I highly recommend checking this place out. The owners are very nice and have a great establishment.

Once you pay at the ticket booth, you have the opportunity to do a 'walk around' with some of the animals and feed them (i.e. the giraffe, lambs, pot-belly pigs, etc.), then you get in your car and drive through the safari area, where the animals come up to your car window and you feed them. This is when Alyssa fed an ostrich, llamas, zebras, etc. If you are interested, check out their website!

"Touch of Fall"

2009-10-20T20:09:00.004-05:00

Thanks to my dear friend, Karen, you are now greeted with a little touch of fall when you come to visit.

She had some cornstalks left from an event, held this past weekend, so she added some fall leaves and a bow to the front, and we set them outside my front door.

Now, all Alyssa and I need to do, is make a visit to the pumpkin patch to finish up this fall decor!

I enjoy this time of year so much!! I do believe autumn is my favorite season, so I enjoy any decoration(s) outside that's possible.

Friends are such a blessing!! Thank again, Karen!

"Banner"

2009-09-28T15:51:00.003-05:00

I just had to post this adorable banner that Alyssa's Aunt Maggie made for her and sent in a box full of 'surprises'.

Aunt Maggie always makes all kinds of adorable things, but as soon as Alyssa saw this, she fell in love and immediately wanted it hung above her bed.

I might add that, for as long as I can remember, Aunt Maggie has made Alyssa a 'special' pillowcase every year, just for her. And, along in the box full of 'surprises', was a pillowcase.

So, Aunt Maggie, thank you! Always know that these treasures are keepsakes for Alyssa!!

"The Last Song"

2009-09-21T14:56:00.003-05:00

Well, ta-dah! Here it is, my second autographed book of Nicholas Sparks.

It may seem like something small, but it is really a keepsake to me! He's a wonderful author!

Now, I cannot wait to get somewhere cozy and read this newest release!!

Thanks for stopping by!!

"Another Autograph"

2009-09-15T09:49:00.006-05:00

Good morning! I've already got this lastest novel by Nicholas Sparks bought; paid for; and, in line for his autograph today at the Davis-Kidd in Nashville, Tennessee. Yippee!!

We do not need to get into the unfortunate details of the fact that he is going to be so close to my hometown, and I'm not going to be able to be there personally to meet him. :(

But, let's just say, that, while I'm at a much needed check-up at the doctor's office, my book will be autographed. So, I can live with that and life is good!! :)

Now, I just cannot wait for Mr. Brown Truck to bring it!!!

"Look What I Found"

2009-09-13T13:28:00.003-05:00

Ok, everyone, as I do daily, I was looking through Splitcoast and ran across some mugs stamped with adorable images of girls on them.

Of course, I just had to click on the link for the blog to find out more of this ladies work, and came across this opportunity for a chance at this wonderful blog candy!!

Here is the link to her blog: http://motivet.com/blog/?p=757, for any of you that would like to view her work and stamps further. (The only thing I want to add is that it is in German, but she has graciously added the option to click for translation.)

It would be early Christmas for me to win this blog candy, however, I can tell you, win or lose, that she is now totally marked in my 'favorites' on my computer! Her images have a touch of whimsy to them, but, to me, they are outstanding!!

Just wanted to share, hope you enjoyed!!

"Let Us Remember"

2009-09-11T11:21:00.003-05:00

Let us all take time to reflect and remember the brave men, women and families affected by 911.

"Sweet Treats"

2009-08-27T12:22:00.006-05:00

This is the tin I decorated for my stepmom for her birthday.

I had previous made her a tin like this, to hold all her recipes, however, she has completely filled it!! So, she decided she wanted this one to hold recipes just for her sweets! Ta-Dah!

Here is a photo of the tabbed inserts for the tin.

"M&M Treats"

2009-08-20T11:10:00.002-05:00

Just a quick post! These are the small treat bags I made to take to my Wednesday night church meeting. Everyone usually brings something to snack on after fellowship, so I thought these would be fun to take.

I filled small jewelry-sized zippies with M&Ms and then, sized a treat bag to cover, using kraft cardstock. The punched circle in the front was 1 3/8. The quote I used is from Clear Dollar Stamps and I thought it would be fitting.

Finally, I simply closed the treat bag up, including the quote at the top, with a staple. Quick and easy!

"Centerpieces"

2009-06-23T13:51:00.007-05:00

I had my 20 year class reunion this past weekend and I had to come up with the centerpieces for the food tables for the pre-party at the last minute. Ta-Dah!

I found these balloon weighs at the Dollar Tree, so I just jazzed them up a bit! Our school colors were purple and white, so besides tying purple and white streamers, I used my Cricut to cut a 5" star for the base of each. They were pretty simple, but they worked on short notice!

(p.s. A HUGE thanks to my dear friend, Linda Walker, for all her help!!)

"Stampin' Up Class Project"

2009-06-02T19:06:00.003-05:00

This is what I got to make last night at a Stampin' Up class, taught by Stephanie Zeto.

I first saw this at a SU party and fell in love with it. So, when a friend of the family wanted to have a class for it, I knew I wanted to learn how to make one!

Even though this has several steps and looked like it was going to be hard to figure out, it was so worth it!! Stephanie did a great job showing us all the 'how-to's'. Kudos to her for being so patient with me! :)

Below is what the inside of the 'purse' looks like. The scalloped circles (one shown) slide in the opening 'pockets' on either end. All products used are Stampin' Up!

"Watch Dog"

2009-05-29T15:20:00.002-05:00

This layout is of our precious Pom, Ariel. Her favorite spot at my house is in front of the back screen door.

Bless her heart, she doesn't know her size, therefore, she believes she is a giant guard dog! She definitely keeps an eye on anything that moves and barks like she is going to tear the door down, all while keeping up appearances and wearing her very cute green hair bows!! :)

The layout I created is pretty simple. The background and scalloped circle cardstock are DCWV. I cut the lettering on my Cricut, using Opposite Attracts, and added miscellaneous ribbon, blossoms, and bling.

Thanks for looking!

"Candy Card"

2009-05-22T11:45:00.003-05:00

This is a card I made for Alyssa to give her homeroom teacher on the last day of school.

I attached a candy stick by using SU's slit punch underneath the stick and then threading ribbon through around the candy to hold it to the card.

The stamps used are SU's God's Beauty, which is a hostess set. I stamped on white cardstock, then used the SU's ticket punch on all four corners, before adhering it to deep purple cardstock.

"Green Gables"

2009-05-05T12:48:00.005-05:00

My dear daughter has been in the production of Green Gables at school this past weekend and we've been very busy, busy! I am so proud of her and all the cast for the awesome job they have done. They still have two more times to perform on Wednesday (for the school), and then they will be done. They have all worked so hard and done great!

Alyssa loves being in the dramas at school -- it's one of her favorite things!! I've posted just a few pictures below from the weekend showings!

"Gal Pals"

2009-04-22T13:09:00.003-05:00

This is another layout that I completed this past Saturday at the Mission Crop at our local Vineyard Church. I have always loved this photo of my two favorite girls, so I thought it was fitting that I do a layout for it.

Again, I used a layout design I found on 2Peas as a jump start for this design.

I used Bazzill cardstock for my background & matting and my patterned papers were all from My Mind's Eye. The blossoms were miscellaneous; embellishments by Heidi Swapp; sheer ribbon by Offray; and, brad by MM. Also, I loved the glittered green rub on letters used for the title by American Crafts. (I thought it blended well with all my colors.)

"At Twelve. . ."

2009-04-20T08:35:00.003-05:00

I created this layout about my favorite girl's top "10", at age twelve. I used just a random 'fun' picture of her outside during her Spring Break, and increased the size to a 5x7.

The layout came together pretty easy. I used a layout I saw on 2Peas as a 'jump start' and then kinda made it my own. I used patterned paper from the Bo Bunny's Alissa line; scrap piece of Bazzill Leapfrog; miscellaneous blossoms and brads; Doodlebug alpha; K&Company sticker; Prima pink bead embellishments; and, a ZIG writer for the journaling.

"Bunny Boxes"

2009-04-06T23:03:00.004-05:00

These are the fun bunny boxes that me and gal pal, Stephanie, worked on together. (Thanks so much to her for all the help on these!!) We made a variety of colors so as to work for girls or boys. These boxes are the perfect sizes to fill with small surprises for Easter.

The bunny is made up of a SU top note die and a variety of punches. After assembling it, we adhered it to the box, added a ribbon handle and, as seen posted below, added a 'bunny tail'.

"Yard Work"

2009-04-04T16:17:00.007-05:00

The weather has been wonderful today! Alyssa and I have been outside most all day while my Dad and stepmom worked in the yard. I am so thankful that they come and work so hard to help make sure my house stays in tiptop shape. I am a little OCD when it comes to my yard. I always want it neat! (Luckily, my dad feels the same way!)

Since I bought this house last fall, this is the first opportunity we have had to add any type of edging and mulch in the front. Alyssa helped out today and was a good worker bee!

Mission: Crop 2009

2009-03-31T23:00:00.005-05:00

This post is a 'plug' for the upcoming Mission: Crop at Vineyard Christian Fellowship in Milan, Tennessee, on April 18, 2009. The crop begins at 8:00 a.m. on the 18th, and ends at 12:00 a.m. on the 19th. That is 16 hours of scrapbooking, stamping and/or crafting!

This is an awesome crop to help raise money for the Church's foreign mission team, who will be going to Honduras in June. The cost is $40.00, which includes 3 meals, vendors, lots of games and prizes and those 16 hours of scrapbooking, stamping and/or crafting.

I have always had a great time at these Mission Crops. I have been a vendor at times, and I've also just been a scrapper. Either way, it is a wonderful day of food, fun and fellowship!!

If you don't want to miss out on the fun, email Jennifer Hickerson at countryjh@msn.com and she'll take care of getting all the info to you. So, come have a great day with us!

"An Old Favorite"

2009-03-31T22:37:00.004-05:00

I decided to pull out one of my old favorites and decorate it up to hold some Easter egg surprises.

The old favorite happens to be a 'Target' mailbox. (I usually buy some up around Valentine's, when they have them out.)
I've decorated these mailboxes in the past for many different occasions, and they always turn out cute. So, I thought it would be a new, fun way to hold some plastic filled eggs and other goodies for Easter.
Paper: Easter Ribbon by Reminisce; Ribbon: Miscellaneous by Offray; and, Misc.: Target mailbox, Easter grass, plastic eggs

"Treat Sacks"

2009-03-29T21:57:00.003-05:00

I thought I'd post a couple of treat sacks that I created to put goodies in for Spring.

This first one is made from two (2) of SU's Top Note Dies. I cut a white craft sack down to 2 3/4 and adhered the Top Note(s) to the front & back. I then used my SU word window punch for the 'handle' slot. To decorate, I stamped a chick on the front and colored the image with Prismacolor pencils. Finally, I tied the treat sack with SU ribbon.
Dies: SU Tope Note; Paper: Kraft cardstock by Paper Studio; Stamp: Stampabilities: Chick-A-Dee; Ribbon: SU Pumpkin Pie striped grosgrain; and, Misc.: Paper Reflections white craft sack

This second one was created using a white craft sack, as well. I covered the front and back of the sack with SU cardstock, allowing a fold-down flap for the front. I tied a ribbon around the flap and it closes with velcro. On the front, I adhered a stamped message.
Paper: SU's Baja Breeze; Stamp: Out of the Yummy set; Ribbon: Offray sheer brown dot; and, Misc.: Paper Reflections white craft sack and velcro dots

"Knock, knock. . .Anyone still there?"

2009-03-29T01:02:00.002-05:00

Hi, everyone! I'm finally able to post again, thanks to the wonderful, generous help from my gal pal, Gina's, husband!! I cannot thank him enough!!!

The inspiration for these seed packet 'pouches' came from my very creative friend, Rochelle. She had posted some on her blog recently, and since spring is here, it put in the mood to make some myself! (Also, I really wanted to play with my new SU cardstocks and ribbons.)

My measurements for the pouches are a little different that Rochelle. I cut the paper at 8.5 x 4, then score only once at 3 1/2. I , then adhere skinny wacky tape for the sides of the pouch, and finish off with brads near the top. Then I just decorated the fronts with patterned paper; oval punch outs; rubons; and, ribbon.

These make an adorable quick gift for anyone to welcome spring!

SU papers: Tangerine Tango; Pacific Point; Riding Hood Red; and, Washington Apple pattern paper.
SU ribbons: Pumpkin Pie striped grosgrain; Real Red striped grosgrain; and, Cranberry Crisp stitched grosgrain.
Miscellaneous: Bo Bunny Rubons-Garden Chic and K&Company eyelets

"Snow Day, 2009"

2009-01-28T16:00:00.003-06:00

Finally, for a moment, my computer let me upload some photos! YIPPEE!! These are a few I took this today. Alyssa was so glad to have a snow day!

"Technical Difficulties"

2009-01-16T16:29:00.002-06:00

Hi, everyone! Here I am with my computer not wanting to cooperate, again! I've had a couple of projects to post, however, my computer & printer will not let me upload the photo(s). They are not playing nicely with each other!

So, I'll try to get something worked out soon! Thanks for being patient!

"Calendar Page"

2009-01-09T08:25:00.006-06:00

This is a calendar page I decorated for January, 2009.

My plan for this year is to create a calendar page each month, using these 6x6 dated calendar inserts, I got from Taylored Expressions, to include in a mini album.

Along with each month, I will also include an adjacent page with a few pictures from that month. Then, by the end of the year, I will have a completed 2009 'year in review' album. Ambitious, huh?

"Dave Ramsey Box"

2009-01-07T18:50:00.005-06:00

I decorated this box for my daughter, Alyssa.

She received the Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace, Jr. kit for Christmas from an Aunt & Uncle, and it contained 3 'envelopes'. . .Save, Give, and Spend. So, since she's wanting to be more responsible, we decided this envelope system would work great for her.

I took an egg box from Papertrey, and decorated it with fun patterned paper from Doodlebug. Then, to finish it off, I added ribbon, her name on top and, some rhinestones. Ta-Dah.

Now, it's ready to hold her 3 envelopes and the small calculator, that also came with the kit.

"A Thank-You"

2009-01-07T15:56:00.004-06:00

I wanted to let everyone know about a special 'thank-you' I received from Pitney Bowes regarding my post on December 8, 2008, Supporting our Troops.

Following is the comment I received:

On behalf of everyone at Pitney Bowes and the American Red Cross, thank you for all of your support in helping to spread the word about the “Holiday Mail for Heroes” program.

We would like you to know that we’ve not only reached the goal of delivering one million cards to US service members, veterans and military families, but we surpassed it! And it’s all because people like you and your blog readers who got involved.

"Flip Album"

2009-01-05T09:53:00.004-06:00

Sorry, but I forgot to post this cool 'flip album' I did for a Christmas gift for The Binghams.

It came in a kit from Hobby Lobby, so it had the album, paper, rub-ons, etc., which made the thought process a little easier. . .heehee, but, when completed, I think it turned out pretty neat.

"Let's Play Catch-Up!"

2009-01-01T16:47:00.014-06:00

Hi, everyone!! So glad to be back online! Not only did my gal pal, Gina's, husband get me back online, he changed out my monitor to super size, and it is wonderful!!

Let me start off by saying that I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas with their families!! I also hope that you're looking forward to a fabulous 2009!!

In getting ready for Christmas, I had a couple of orders to get ready. I'm going to post them, so you can see what I was up to while my computer was on the fritz.

The first order included this teacher's gift. Mary said her daughter's 2nd grade teacher was very organized, so I thought a decorated box, for her desk, would be the perfect thing to hold the student's emergency cards. I started with an egg box from Papertrey, and covered all sides, including the top, with fun school paper. Using Wacky Tape, I attached the ABC ribbon around the lid. Then, I cut out the teacher's last name with my QuicKutz, and arranged on top. Lastly, for the inside, I included A-Z tabs.

These are the snowman soups I also created for the order. Since Mary's oldest daughter is a cheerleader, I colored the scarves & earmuffs, on the snowman image, our school colors.

Lastly for this order, these are the snowman kisses I prepared for Mary's 2nd grader.

Now, for this order, I created these chocolate pouches for Emily's son's class. For the stamped images on front, I used my new Gift Tag stamps from The Angel Company, and they turned out adorable.

Last, but not least, I created these Magic Reindeer Food for Emily's daughter's class. Again, I was able to use the reindeer image from the Gift Tag stamp set from TAC, on my toppers.

So, this is what I've been up to creatively. I want to thank everyone who placed orders!! I love doing this for you and appreciate your business!! Now, on to 2009! I am looking forward to a fabulous year!!!

"I'm Back!"

2009-01-01T15:59:00.002-06:00

Hi, everyone! Thanks to Tony, Gina's husband, I'm back online!

"Hello. . .Remember Me?"

2008-12-31T19:14:00.002-06:00

Hope everybody had a Merry Christmas and are planning on having a great New Year. Sorry I've been gone so long, but I'm fine, however, my computer is dead. As soon as I can get it fixed, I will be back posting.

Until then, thanks for being patient. I look forward to posting, again! Take care and God bless!

"Supporting Our Troops"

2008-12-08T20:49:00.006-06:00

I almost forgot to post these cards. I made them awhile back, but they were in my batch of holiday cards to mail out today. These are part of a kit I got from Tammy at Lil Lamb's. She received kits from Prima Marketing, Inc., who were partnering with different scrapbook stores to create cards for the troops.

I thought it was cool that Tammy had these kits for us to send our wishes to the troops, so I made mine for the holidays. With the supplies in the kit, added with a few of my own, I came up with these, not so traditional, Christmas cards.

I have about three other cards from Alyssa and I to send to the troops, as well, so I contacted the Red Cross to verify a correct address of where they can be sent. So, if any of you are interested, the following address was given, however, the cards have to be postmarked by Wednesday, December 10th.

Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Thanks again, Tammy, for the kits! You are too sweet!!

"Money Holders"

2008-12-06T18:20:00.005-06:00

This is an order I did for my sister's employer. I created 21 money holders for their Christmas party.

I found this great tutorial at Dawns Stampin Studio, you can check it out HERE. Thanks, Dawn, for the fabulous directions!

Since they were needing 21 and I wanted to have a little variety, I decided to break it down to 3 different styles, and 7 holders of each.

I used basic solid cardstock for the base of each holder, with a variety of misc. patterned papers on top. For the decorative edge across, I used a Fiskars border punch. I used white cardstock for the 'belly bands' on all holders; a variety of scalloped and circle punches; and, misc. stamped images to finish them off.

I hope they like how the money holders turned out!

"Playlist"

2008-12-01T18:54:00.004-06:00

Hi, everyone! Hope you had a fabulous Thanksgiving!! Can you believe it is December!?! Sorry I've not posted lately. . .busy, busy! But, hopefully, I'll do better this week!

Anyhoo, just wanted to let you know that I've changed my playlist, for this month, to Christmas music. I will continue to build the song list up, but for now, I've got you about 8 songs to get you in the holiday crafting mood! Hope you enjoy!!

"Cookie Cutter Gifts"

2008-11-25T20:10:00.004-06:00

These are the gifts I just finished for Alyssa to give to the office staff at school for Christmas. My stepmom, Linda, gave me this adorable cookie cutter gift idea last year and I thought it was too cute not to do.

The bag of Christmas-themed cookie cutters that I found at Target were trimmed with pale blue silicone, so I used that to set my color scheme. After printing my poem and punching it out, I layered it on a scalloped light blue circle. I, then added a coordinating color snowflake brad, by Creative Impressions, to each, and sprayed the poem with Glimmer Mist, by Tattered Angels, to give them a little shimmer. To finish the gifts off, I tied the poems to the cello bags with blue & white checked Offray ribbon.

This is an individual photo and below is the poem that I attached to each:
I made a plate of cookies,
And ate just one or two.
But started feeling guilty,
Because they were for you.
I went into a panic
And ordered on the phone,
This brand new cookie cutter
So you can make your very own!

"Alot 'O Tags"

2008-11-25T01:04:00.007-06:00

These tags are like the ones my gal pal, Gina, and I made at Archiver's a couple of weekends ago as part of their make & takes.

After making them at the store, we thought they turned out cute, so we each decided to make some for ourselves at home.

Thanks to Gina help, she punched all the scalloped circles and adhered them, and then I got to do the fun stuff. . .attach the eyelets; ribbons; stickers; and, stamp the to and from sentiment. Now, I've got pre-made tags handy and ready to grab!

"Beautiful Christmas Card"

2008-11-25T00:51:00.004-06:00

I wanted to post this card because it was done by my stepmom, Linda, as her Christmas card for this year.

She has only been stamping and cardmaking since spring/summer, so when she showed me this as her Christmas card for this year, I had to brag because I was so proud of her! I thought it turned out great!

Oh, by the way, my dad has already had to turn the spare closet into her a 'stamping' space and we all know what that leads too. . .heehee

"Girls, Girls, Girls!"

2008-11-23T13:21:00.007-06:00

This is a photo of Alyssa and all of the "girls" from her party Friday night!! The only two that did not sleepover was precious little Amber (in front) and Alyssa's cousin, Lauren (on right).

Everyone had a blast! They ate pizza; watched movies; made crafts; and, when they got sleepy, they dropped like flies! heehee

The main thing to me was Alyssa loved her birthday party/sleepover and I survived!LOL

"Fun-Filled Friday!"

2008-11-21T16:20:00.004-06:00

This is Alyssa's 12th birthday cake! Even though her birthday was last week, she came down with the flu and was unable to have her birthday party/sleepover until tonight.

So, I brought four girls home from school with Alyssa today and it has been wild ever since! heehee Tonight we'll be having a "Camp Rock" theme party, complete with the movie and popcorn.

Alyssa's adorable cake was decorated by Monica, the pastry chef/owner of Dumplins Restaurant in Jackson. I thought it turned out so cute with the guitars and music notes. Alyssa and her girlfriends definitely thought it was cool.

I've posted below a photo of the party favor cups I fixed for Alyssa and the girls. I found these adorable cone-like cups at the Dollar Tree and filled each with different lotions, candies, pencils, bath fizzies and a Camp Rock bracelet. The girls loved them!

Lastly, I thought it would be fun to do some crafts with the girls. So, I've planned out three different ones, and below I've posted one. I got the small acetate holders from Clear Dollar Stamps, along with the Seal stamp. The holder hold exactly three Hershey's kisses. So, I made a tag for the girl's that reads: "Sealed with a kiss" and they can adhered the stamped seal at the bottom, before tying it to the holder. I thought it would make a cute gift for them to take home. The other two crafts they are doing are covering/decorating mini composition books and making homemade lipgloss.

Someone say a prayer, I have a feeling it is going to be a long night! LOL

*permission was granted for the cake photo to be posted*

"Christmas Memories"

2008-11-21T15:45:00.004-06:00

I took this 10-page decorative album by American Crafts and added ribbon and a metal embellishment by Making Memories, then. . .Viola!

It's now a gift ready to fill with all those Christmas photos!

"Neighbor Gifts"

2008-11-18T19:27:00.003-06:00

This is what I am making to give out to our neighbors for Christmas.

I took an actetate card holder that I got from Papertrey and decorated it with medium blue and Bo Bunny sage dot paper. The stamped sentiments are also from Papertrey. I then added sage Offray ribbon around the top; a snowflake brad from Bo Bunny; and, a stamped snowman by Autumn Leaves.

I filled the inside with individually wrapped cream carmel chews. Yum!

"Christmas Magic"

2008-11-17T15:03:00.007-06:00

This is a Christmas order I finished for my gal pal, Randee. These two special items are for her cutie pie daughter, Sara Blake!

First, in this gorgeous tin is Santa's Magic Key. Sara will be able to set this out for Santa every year!

Second, I made her some Magic Reindeer Food! Every kid needs to sprinkle reindeer food on Christmas Eve! If you're going to leave Santa cookies & milk, then you've got to leave something special for the reindeer, too! Plus, there's magic in it!! The stamped reindeer image is in the gift tags set from The Angel Company. Isn't it just adorable?!?!

**If you click on my image, you get a much clearer & closer view**

"Teacher's Notes"

2008-11-15T15:56:00.006-06:00

I thought I would delve into my scrap room today and make some Christmas gifts. This one is for Alyssa's homeroom teacher, Ms. Graves.

I took a small notepad from Target, and covered the front and back with this fun school themed paper from KI Memories. I added a KI Memories epoxy apple sticker to the corner and finished off the notepad with misc. Offray ribbons.

Next, I made a card. I stayed with the school theme, instead of Christmas, to coordinate. However inside, Alyssa and I will wish her a wonderful holiday season!

"Happy Birthday, Alyssa!"

2008-11-12T08:13:00.002-06:00

Today is my baby's 12th birthday!! I cannot believe she's almost a teenager!! She is growing into such an awesome young woman. I am so proud of her!

I took this picture this morning before school. She opened a few presents before breakfast, and my mom is planning on visiting her at school, during lunch, with treats. So, I'm hoping she'll have a fabulous day!

Her birthday party/sleepover is planned for this weekend!

"Make and Take"

2008-11-08T20:50:00.007-06:00

These are the two 'make & take' items that my friend, Gina, and I made at Archiver's today!

We made the trip to Memphis for Archiver's 'holiday extravaganza' weekend. You could do these make & takes for free and they also had someone teaching how to create acrylic block frames for $10.

The store was packed with shoppers; Christmas music was playing; and, holiday ideas were everywhere! Needless to say, Gina and I were there for several hours! LOL We enjoyed ourselves, like we always do, when we're together!! Thanks for a fun day, Gina! Love ya!!

"Decorative Tins"

2008-11-03T13:39:00.005-06:00

These are recycled tins that had prima flowers in them. After the tins were empty, my friend was just going to throw them away, so I ask for them. I knew I could decorate them up for Christmas!

After adding some ribbon, decorative paper and prima embellishments, they are ready to fill with treats for the perfect gifts!

For my scallop circles on top, I used new papers from the Christmas collections of Cosmo Cricket and Basic Grey. The Prima embellishments are from their Christmas collection, as well.

"Happy Harvest"

2008-10-30T21:53:00.005-05:00

These are the treat bags I created for Alyssa to give to the principal, vice-principal, and office staff at school on Friday.

I love this style treat bag! The possibilities are endless!

On these, my main cardstock was orange with an accent of chocolate brown. I colored the stamped pumpkin image with Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. The "Happy Harvest" sentiment on the front, at the bottom, is from Papertrey. Lastly, I used brown checked Offray ribbon for the 'handles'.

I filled each bag with candy corn taffy. I hope they like them!!

"Fall Clip"

2008-10-30T21:38:00.003-05:00

I decorated this wooden, jumbo clip for Alyssa to take to school for her homeroom teacher. I wanted to make it 'fallish' so she would be able to get plenty of use out of it for weeks to come.

I painted it with white acrylic paint, then adhered dimensional stickers to the front. It was quick and easy to create and will be a cute addition to her desk!

I am going to tie it up in a cello bag with some candy and send it on it's way! I hope she likes it!

"Pizza, Anyone?"

2008-10-22T00:24:00.005-05:00

I have seen these mini pizza boxes all over blogland and they have been so cute, so I thought I'd give one a try!

You can find many, many instructions for these on SCS, and after clicking on a zillion different blogs, I ended up using one by Jen del Muro. (*Thanks so much, Jen -- your instructions were great and easy to follow!*)

I used kraft cardstock for the box and decorated the top by layering dark brown and burgundy. I, also, adhered brown checked Offray ribbon and a stamped image and sentiment by Papertrey.

I made this one for my gal pal, Jennifer, that is coming over Thursday to scrap with me while the kiddos are at school. (Now, I've just got to get some yummy treats for inside.)

I have also included a smaller photo of the side view of the box below:

"Hello, Monday!"

2008-10-20T17:49:00.007-05:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Saturday, I went to the Mission Crop at the Vineyard, and, as always, had a wonderful time. I usually set up a booth and vend, but I decided to just crop this time.

Michael & Jennifer Hickerson, along with the Mission team, put together another fabulous day. They always treat us to an enjoyable day of fun, filled with games & prizes; wonderful food; fellowship and relaxation!! Great job, everyone involved!!

One of the things I put together was this adorable SU Create-A-Calendar '09. I thought it turn out too cute! It was so easy, also! Everything you need is in the kit, and I ordered it out of the SU Holiday Mini Catalog. These will be great tied up in cello to give as a quick gift this Christmas!!

Oh, on a quick note, I wanted to plug one of the vendors that I met Saturday. Her name is Tammy Lambeth and she has Lil Lamb's Boutique. I loved her selection of scrapbooking products and was so excited to learn that she was in Jackson!!

"Bag In A Box"

2008-10-17T00:32:00.002-05:00

This is the first 'Bag in a Box' that I've created. Super fun and not too hard, at all! I'll be making these to fill with goodies for Christmas!

But, for this one, I pulled out SU's Jersey Shore paper collection. (I have always loved that collection -- hate that it is retired!)

Anyway, I made this to put some treats in for a friend, so I hope she likes it! I finished it off with a ME stamp that says it all: "The Queen has Spoken"! LOL

"Friendship/Well Wishes Card"

2008-10-15T17:33:00.004-05:00

I made this card for a dear friend that I scrapbook with that has been under the weather. She is so dear to all of us that scraps together, and I was excited to hear that she will be able to make it to the big all day/evening crop this Saturday!

She has been in my thoughts and prayers, so I wanted to make her a card. It turned out kinda 'fallish' and simple, but I liked it! I look forward to seeing her!!

"Housewarming Shower"

2008-10-13T12:02:00.007-05:00

My sister, stepmom and mom gave Alyssa and I a wonderful housewarming shower on Sunday and it turn out so awesome!!We had so many great friends and family show up to see the house and they 'showered' Alyssa and I with many great gifts! I have just posted randomingly some pictures of the day! Alyssa and I are some really blessed gals!!

Thanks to my gal, Gina, for being the photographer!! Love ya!!

"Autographed!"

2008-10-09T22:05:00.002-05:00

I am a huge fan of Nicholas Sparks! I've read all of his previous books and loved them! So, when his new book, The Lucky One, was released, I checked his book signing dates to see if there were going to be any in my area. Even though there wasn't, I just picked an upcoming signing (in Virginia); called the bookstore (Borders); ordered and paid for the book over the phone; and, requested the book be autographed. Viola!

I was thrilled when the Fed Ex man delivered my autographed copy today!!

"Happy Birthday, Lauren!"

2008-10-06T12:18:00.006-05:00

Today is my beautiful niece, Lauren's, birthday!! We are celebrating by going out to eat with her tonight.

I made her a treat bag, with an adorable Bella image on the front. I filled it with candies and a 'coupon' to redeem for a tank of gas! Hope she likes it!

"Homecoming Picture"

2008-10-05T15:51:00.004-05:00

The pictures came in from the Homecoming Dance that Alyssa went to few weekends ago. This was my favorite shot!

My first thought, when looking at the photo, was that she was sitting in a wheelchair! But, she explained that it was a "director's chair", since it was a Hollywood theme! (Gosh mom, don't you know anything!?!?! heehee)

Anyway, I thought the picture turned out great!!

"Fall Treat Bags"

2008-10-04T17:10:00.004-05:00

These are cute treat bags that me and my gal pal, Linda, made today. I got the instructions for these from Angie at Chic 'n Scratch. She has a great tutorial for them.

I made the 'Happy Fall' one and Linda made the 'Happy Thanksgiving'. I am making these for Alyssa to take for the office staff at school. They are easy to make and turn out cute! When completed, you can fill with candy or any other treat you'd like.

These are perfect treat bags for any occasion!

"Nugget Treat Bags"

2008-10-01T21:44:00.004-05:00

Here are some more treats for the upcoming craft fair.

I wrapped Hershey's nuggets in halloween-themed patterned paper and put them in zippie bags. I used black cardstock for my toppers (except one), then layered each with a punched 3 inch scallop circle. I also added stamped images from SU's Batty for You set.

I really like doing the wrapped nuggets, because you can decorate them for any occasion!

"Chocolate Pouches"

2008-09-30T21:19:00.002-05:00

These are halloween-theme chocolate pouches that I made as part of the order for an upcoming craft fair. I always enjoy doing these pouches, because they are easy and cute!

I used black cardstock for each, and the images used on the fronts are 'Bat Scratch Rub-Ons' by Imaginisce. I also matted with coordinating cardstocks and used miscellaneous ribbons.

"Kit Kat Holders"

2008-09-29T16:43:00.006-05:00

These are kit kat holders I've done as part of an order for a craft fair booth coming up the 1st weekend of October. I totally CASED this idea from Angie at Chic 'n Scratch. She has a great tutorial for them on her site. Her inspiration is fabulous!

I used black cardstock for the base on each, plus a variety of patterned papers. The stamped images are from SU's Batty for You set, with coordinating punched scalloped and smaller circles. **I must thank my very dear gal pal, Rochelle, for so graciously stamping the images and punching the coordinating circles! Rochelle, you ROCK!!

These holders can also hold any of the other snack size candy bars. They make great class treats and party favors, as well!! I have posted a smaller picture below to show an inside view:

"Birthday Wishes"

2008-09-29T00:26:00.003-05:00

I want to wish my dear friend, Jennifer, a happy, happy birthday!! I hope she has a fabulous time celebrating her day! Thanks for all you do for me!! Best wishes to you!!

(The photo is of a cake from Charm City Cakes)

"First Dance"

2008-09-28T22:58:00.002-05:00

Alyssa went to her first dance at middle school Friday night. It was the Homecoming Social. She was soooo excited! Her cousin, Lauren, came over to get her all fixed up, while I, of course, took pictures. Alyssa and her girlfriends had a blast and danced until midnight!!

"Huge Thanks!"

2008-09-24T19:37:00.003-05:00

I wanted to say a huge thanks to all my wonderful scrapbooking friends that 'surprised' me this past Saturday with a housewarming shower!! I know it took alot of effort on their part to get me there, without giving the surprise away, but man, was it worth it! I am truly blessed to have such great friends that care so much!! I love you all!!

"Just A Quick Hi"

2008-09-16T15:48:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to say hi!! Alyssa and I are in our new house, waiting on living room furniture to be delivered. Otherwise, everything else is set up. Now, it's just the boxes!?!? heehee

I'll have my internet up soon, so I'll be back! Just wanted to check in!

"Remembering & Honoring"

2008-09-11T07:01:00.005-05:00

Let us all remember and honor those lost and affected in the September 11, 2001, tragedy.

"Unplugged"

2008-09-07T13:15:00.004-05:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know that I have been in the process of buying my own home for many months now, and am please to announce that I will be closing on Wednesday, September 10th! However, that also means, I will be officially "unplugged" anytime now.

I am hoping to be back to blogland soon, so please be patience and bear with me! The room I seem to be concentrating on the most, seems to be my craft room! heehee So, I hope to be back in gear soon and making stuff to post!

Keep me in your prayers (and the people helping me move!! hee)

I've posted below a sneak peak of the outside of the house. Alyssa and I can't wait!!

"Another Altered Item"

2008-09-07T12:59:00.005-05:00

This is another altered project I did for my craft room. Actually, for the door to my craft room.

I bought the piece of wood already in the oval shape at Wal-Mart, then had my wonderful, handy neighbor, George, drill two holes across the top, for me to run ribbon for hanging. I painted the back, and around the sides, with acrylic paint, called Fresh Foliage. Then, I added the patterned paper onto the front with Mod Podge.

**Note -- the pattern paper is actually a color copy of the curtains for the craft room. I just took the curtains to my local copy/print shop and ask for a color copy. That way, I was able to match the sign to thing in my room.**

After the Mod Podge dried, I adhered my 'welcome' lettering and some coordinating blossoms. Lastly, I threaded dark brown, velvet rope through the drilled holes and tied knots on the front, so that I would have something to hang my sign by. (I know you can hardly see the rope, due to the photo being taken on dark background. . .sorry)

"Altered Alpha"

2008-09-04T12:38:00.005-05:00

Just a quick post of an altered wood "G", I've decorated for my craft room.

When I bought this wood alpha at Wal-Mart, it was white, so I painted it with acrylic paint. The color is called Fresh Foliage, and I love the color.

After drying, I added a coat of Mod Podge (gloss), for the shine, before adhering the blossoms. I'm not sure whether or not to add a coordinating ribbon. But, I probably will, because I love ribbon! heehee

Just something quick and simple, but cute to add to my workspace!

"RAK from Rochelle"

2008-09-01T12:25:00.004-05:00

Look at the fun goodies I got in the mail from my gal pal, Rochelle.

She and I are fans of the show, Ace of Cakes, on the Food Network. So, when she found some Charm City Cakes stickers, she sent me some! What a sweetie pie! She also included this adorable 'Thinking of You' card.

Thank you, Rochelle, for being so thoughtful!!

"Miss Lily"

2008-08-30T09:55:00.003-05:00

This is an adorable picture of Lily with the two Disney autograph books I decorated for her to take on her first trip, back in April.

Lily and her mom, Pam, had a great time and she got many, many signatures! Pam has already finished Lily's autograph scrapbook, and it is fabulous!! Now she is working on the actual Disney trip, and the pages are turning out great, as well!

I am so glad that Pam and Lily experienced the magic of Disney, because I know that Alyssa and I will never forget it!

"Joy Layout"

2008-08-27T10:37:00.003-05:00

This is 12x12 layout that I completed using wonderful papers and embellishments from the Hiliary collection by Making Memories. I mounted them on solid brown cardstock to tie it all together and loved the way it turned out!

I love the simplicity of this picture of Alyssa and I titled it "joy', because I wanted her to know that she brings joy into my life each and every day!

"My Girls"

2008-08-27T08:49:00.003-05:00

I thought I'd share a picture of my two favorite girls. . .Alyssa and Ariel. I took this picture this morning before taking Alyssa to school.

Sorry I've not posted in forever! I've got a horrible case of tendonitis in my right elbow and it's hard to even move it around!

Thanks for being patient and bearing with me!!

"Backback Tag"

2008-08-21T00:00:00.006-05:00

The inspiration and stamp set to make this cute girl's backpack tag came from Storage Units, Ink & More!

The stamp set is called A Touch of Class and comes with a variety of school accessories and titles to coordinate with this adorable girl. When I saw this example in their gallery, it was so cute, I knew I had to CASE it!

After stamping the images, I colored them with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. I bought a package of Scotch self-laminating pouches at Wal-Mart to laminate the tag, and then used my Crop-A-Dile to add the book ring. Then, after adding some coordinating ribbons, I was finished.

"And The Winner Is. . ."

2008-08-20T22:03:00.003-05:00

The lucky winner of my 50,ooo hits blog candy is Bella Rose Creations! I used random.org to choose the winner, and the winning number was comment #15.

Bella Rose Creations said...
Congratulations JoAnna!! What a wonderful achievement. I started stamping (still working on the scrapbooking) in 2005 when my daughter was born...it was my get out of the house free card!
August 19, 2008 4:57 PM

Thanks for all the sweet comments!! I look forward to much more scrapbooking and crafting! God Bless!

"Adorable Email"

2008-08-20T21:13:00.003-05:00

I got this email from my gal pal, Randee, and thought it was so cute. I got her 'ok' before sharing it!

Look what followed this beagle home -- right through the doggie door -- in the Bittinger, MD area. The owner came home to find the visitor had made himself right at home. This hit the 6 o'clock news big time. Sure beat out the McCain/Obama political news for a change.

"WOW -- 50,000 Hits"

2008-08-18T18:41:00.012-05:00

I can hardly believe I've already reached 50,000 hits!! The thanks goes to all of you! I love having my blog -- it's my fun, creative outlet. I have so appreciated all of the positive comments and feedback I have received over the past year! It has been so encouraging! Thanks, again!

It's blog candy time!!!

Of course, I had to come up with some goodies to give away! Everyone can play! Just leave a comment telling me when you started scrapbooking, stamping and/or crafting. I will announce the winner on Wednesday night at 10:00 pm central. I will use the random number generator to pick the winner!

Up for grabs:

*BoBunny My Word Family chipboard album

*Winter themed rubons

*'Lil Davis Huckleberry rickrack

*Karen Foster wintertime shirt labels

*KI Memories Icicles flower bubble frames

*Four(4) handmade Critters cards w/envies

*Stickles - gold

*Teal glittered blossom w/button center

*Two (2) Making Memories containers

*Mini tin of pixie Primas

I want to thank everyone, again, for stopping by, and hope you keep coming back! Take care and God bless!!

"Saturday's Fun"

2008-08-17T13:59:00.010-05:00

Yesterday, Alyssa and I went to the monthly crop at the Vineyard and had a great day! I was able to visit with friends I have not gotten to see in awhile and get Alyssa's horse camp album completed. I've posted a variety of pictures from our fun day!!

I was so glad to see Pam, Kim and Casey! I've not gotten to scrap with them since we closed the store! I've really missed them! They are like family to us!! Casey is growing up! She's so pretty!! I've posted below the awesome teacher gift Kim made Saturday for Casey's teacher. You'll love it!! She did an great job on it!!

By, the way, Kim, we have all 'rubbed' our pages in honor of you!! heehee So glad I got to see you & Pam Saturday!!

Pretty maidens all in a row!! heehee We all do more talking than scrapbooking most of the time!! (Especially when we're all catching up!)

Here is Pam Carothers, Kim, Casey, Alyssa, Pam Foutch.

Jeanine is always busy on the neatest projects! She has the coolest ideas!

Thanks for all the 'free' inspiration!! heehee

Here's Pam and Alyssa

This is the awesome project that Kim and Casey worked on Saturday! It's for Casey's teacher! Didn't they do an outstanding job? We all loved it and had to take a photo of it!!

Ok, last, but not least, I actually got Alyssa's horse camp album finished. Here are a couple of the layouts I did Saturday:

"More Layouts"

2008-08-14T10:32:00.008-05:00

Here are a couple more layouts that are both 12x12 and were done awhile back. I love it when Alyssa looks back in her albums and points out pages that she really likes. That's one reason I'm posting these particular ones.

First one:

Before any of you say anything - Yes, our dog has little birthday parties! This layout is of her first birthday. We had a cupcake; sang happy birthday to her; and, she got a dog treat!

Of course, I had to scrapbook it for Alyssa's album. It's apart of everything else that is insane that I do for this child! heehee

Second one:

I love the simplicity of this one. It was taken a couple of Easters ago after all the kids had gotten out of their church outfits at my Dad & stepmom's house. She was barefoot in the backyard, standing up by their 'rose circle', when I took the picture. I loved it and wanted the page to just reflect the love I have for her.

She's my girl!!

"Cowgirl Layout"

2008-08-12T21:37:00.005-05:00

I have gotten very behind on my scrapbooking, but I am hoping to get some of my 'theme' albums finished up soon. Right now, Alyssa's soccer and horse camp albums are incomplete, so those are my current mission. Here is one of the layouts from the horse camp album. I like this style album, because the pages are 11 x 81/2. (Kinda makes you think out of the box.) I'm using alot of layering of cardstock and patterned paper, along with inking on the pages in this album, to give them a 'worn' feel. I loved the title I found to use. . ."Cowgirls are Forever".

"Thank You Card"

2008-08-10T15:45:00.005-05:00

This card is not your typical thank you card, but I love this summer image from CTMH, and since the card is for my dad and step mom, the theme is great for them! They are all about the outside - the yard; the garden; and, the flowers!

I started with a blank white card; stamped "thank you" in the bottom corner; and then, layered chocolate, scalloped cardstock and solid mauve on top. Before adding my stamped image, I wrapped checked, grosgrain ribbon around the mauve cardstock and tied it off. I colored the image with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump.

"The Skinny"

2008-08-09T15:57:00.010-05:00

I just finished decorating this 'skinny' notepad. It was so fun and easy!

I bought a pack of 3 note pads at Dollar Tree and took them to my local copy store and had them cut in-half. So, I ended up with 6 skinny notepads -- what a deal!

I used fun, patterned paper by Sassafras to cover the pad, then I adhered sheer ribbon around it, with a tie closure on the side. For the front, I added a stamped image from American Art Stamp. I colored it with my Prismacolor pencils, then blended with gamsol and a stump. At the top, I layered several flowers to finish it off! I really liked how it turned out!

The measurements to cover this size pad: Cut cardstock at 5.3" x 8.2" and score at 2.4" and 2.6".

Below, I've posted a smaller picture of the inside:

"Seeing Clearly Now"

2008-08-09T14:48:00.006-05:00

My baby had to get glasses and, even though I'm a little bias, I think she's the cutest thing ever!!

I took Alyssa for her normal check-ups before starting school, and come to find out, she is 'moderately' near-sided. (I was so hoping she'd take after her Dad on this one, because, unfortunately, I'm blind as a bat without my glasses!!)

Anyway, the girls at Dr. Brewer's office help her pick out these 'cool' glasses. So, what do you think? Cute, or what?!?!

"Locker 101"

2008-08-06T21:45:00.007-05:00

Here are a few of the things I decorated to get Alyssa's locker in top form for 6th grade!

*The magnetic purple holder was from Dollar Tree and I added a huge prima flower, then her initials with rub ons.

*The magnetic mirror in the frame also came from Dollar Tree. I, again, added primas, and glued plastic alphas to the top.

*She loved the wooden frog I got at Hobby Lobby, so, I glued a mini clothespin to the back, with magnet, so she can clip any messages to it!

*I had to frame a picture of her & best friend, Heather, for both, their lockers!

*And, of course, do you remember last year's chipboard "a", that I covered? Well, for now it's will serve another year! heehee

"Birthday Wishes"

2008-08-04T09:47:00.009-05:00

I wanted to wish my bestest gal pal, Linda, a very Happy Birthday today!! Our birthdays are one (1) day apart, so we, for the past several years, celebrate together. This past Saturday, we treated ourselves to lunch together!

Happy Birthday, Linda! Best wishes, always!!

(p.s. Cake is a picture from http://www.charmcitycakes.com/)

"Whoo Hoo -- Another Award!"

2008-08-04T09:06:00.011-05:00

I have been nominate again for a different award by one of my sweetest gal pals, Rochelle! This award is called the BFF Gold Card.

The rules are:
1. Use the twinks bank icon;
2. Only 5 people allowed to be nominated;
3. 4 of the 5 have to dedicated followers of your blog;
4. 1 is to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world;
5. You must link back to whomever gave you the award.

Here are the 5 people I want to nominate:
1. Jennifer at Blessed and Scrappin'
2. Lauri at Paperville
3. Michelle at Michelle's Tidbits
4. Lisa at Us 4 Vol Fans
5. Beth at BoScraps Creativity
Newcomer:
Tejal from India

Thanks, Rochelle, for this special award! You are so thoughtful and sweet!!

"It's Time for School Again!"

2008-08-01T18:22:00.007-05:00

Well, here we go. . .another school year is upon us! Alyssa will be in the 6th grade this year. Half way through! Whew! Even though this summer has seemed pretty long, all of a sudden the first week of school is suddenly upon us and I hadn't gotten anything made for ofc. staff; principal; or, homeroom teacher for the first day. So, I thought I better get busy!

Well, this is officially the first, of many things, that will be made for the 2008-09 school year.

This is a combo of two different size 'note' pads that I covered with school-themed paper from Foof-a-la, and a RSVP pen. These were easy to cover and I just inked and sanded the edges for a worn look.

I'll tie this combo up for Alyssa to give to her homeroom teacher. (Since she doesn't know yet whether the teacher will be male or female, I'm glad the colors will work either way.)

p.s. Thanks, Rochelle, for sending me these great 'note' pads in my goodie box! You spoil me!!

"Fun with Lip Gloss"

2008-07-30T23:44:00.011-05:00

Alyssa and I had a fun day making homemade lip gloss! I got the great inspiration for this from Clear Dollar Stamps.

They have a wonderful stamp set called Lip Gloss Fun and the little jars with white (or black) lids to create your own lip gloss. What a fun craft for girls!!

The stamp set comes with different fruit stamps for all the different flavors you can create, plus the little extras to personalize it for a gift. (Alyssa has already decided she wants to make these for all her friends for Christmas!)

Here is a picture of one of the lip glosses that we've already tied-up in cello for Alyssa to give to our sweet little neighbor, Amber. She is four and loves anything pink. (So, I made sure her lip gloss was, of course, pink! heehee)

Also, following is the recipe that is posted on the Clear Dollar Stamp website for homemade lip gloss. This recipe is very easy and is what Alyssa and I went by in creating ours.

Fruity Lip Gloss

1. Melt 1 tsp. Vasoline

2. Add 1/4 tsp. Kool-Aid (sugar free)

3. Stir until dissolved and mixed together completely

4. Pour into lip gloss container

5. Let cool and apply

"Yippee! -- I Got An Award"

2008-07-29T16:10:00.010-05:00

Thanks so much to Beth for this award!! I had the great pleasure of meeting Beth and her husband, Kevin, when my family own our scrapbook store. We just fell in love with them!! They always shopped together and I always kept them longer than they had planned because I talked and talked! (Thank goodness they got used to me!! heehee) Now I get to scrapbook with them at the monthly crops at the Vineyard.

Anyway, getting back to this fabulous award. Here are the rules:

1. The winner can put the logo on his/ her blog.

2. Link to the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Put links to those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs of the people you have nominated.

These are the 7 people I am nominating:

1. Rochelle at Impressions

2. Angie at Chic n' Scratch

3. Michelle at Michelle's Tidbits

4. Lauri at Paperville

5. Julie at Paper Jewels

6. Lisa at Shabbychick Junk

7. Sharon at Paper Fections

Thanks, again to Beth, for the award. If you've not had the chance to check out her blog, you should, she's very talented!!

"M&M Medicine"

2008-07-28T19:39:00.012-05:00

By now, most of you know that when I go to the doctor, I always take him a 'treat' of some kind. Well, I've done the M&Ms in a test tube before, but I saw this on SCS and it was a little different twist, so I thought it would be perfect to take to Dr. Colotta!

I used a container from the bead section that held individual tubes, which was ideal to hold the separate colors of M&Ms. So, I decorated it up and this is what I came up with!

Below is a picture of how I decorated the lid and also the poem that I printed for the inside:

M&Ms MEDICINE FOR YOU

Each color is a different cure; of this fact I'm very sure.

When you're grouchy and a little mean, I truly recommend the GREEN.

Or the times when you're feeling down, the very best choice is the BROWN.

ORANGE'S oh so special coating, will help minimize any moping.

If you have an ache in your head, this will be cured by the RED.

Need something to help you mellow? Take a dose of the YELLOW.

If anxiety feelings overcome you, eat a handful of the BLUE.

If your day should come unglued, you'd better eat an entire tube!

These make great gifts! Especially for anyone you know that is sick -- this will lift their spirits! Dr. Colotta loved it just because it was chocolate!!

*Added note: The container used was bought in the bead section at Wal-Mart and it already had the individual test tubes included inside.

"Post-It Note Coaster"

2008-07-23T13:02:00.003-05:00

I got this idea from Angie over at Chic n' Scratch. She has the neatest ideas! This is a post-it note coaster holder that I used the Bind-It-All on to give it a front and back. (Thanks to Rene for letting me borrow hers!)

On this one, I used striped paper from Scenic Route and layered scalloped circles on top. I added the stamped image to the circles and colored it with Prismacolor pencils and blended with a stump and gamsol.

These make adorable gifts! I made this one for my sweet gal pal, Ruth Ann!

"Hostess Gift"

2008-07-21T22:42:00.004-05:00

I made this for my gal pal, Anndrea, as a hostess gift for her Stampin' Up party today, because I just could not arrive empty handed -- I had to make something! heehee

I came up with this little treat 'wrap' after picking up a bag of Bit-O-Honey. I've always loved this candy, but it has gotten hard to find.

Anyway, I knew I wanted to do something with it related to a "bee" (because of the honey). Since the wrapper had red on it, I tried to coordinating the black, yellow and red together.

Thanks for inviting me, Anndrea! I had a great day and the lunch was fabulous!! Stephanie, you did a great job!!

"Another Scripture Tin"

2008-07-16T23:52:00.004-05:00

This is another tin I decorated for my mother to give to a co-worker for her birthday. I really like how these 'scripture' tins turn out. The inspiration for it came from the gallery on Clear Dollar Stamps.

The tin, itself, came from Oriental Trade, and I covered the top with layered patterned and solid cardstock. (I printed the title off the computer) For the inside, I made six (6) individual scripture cards, using the stamp set "Beautiful Scriptures" by Clear Dollar, on coordinating solid layered cardstock.

The measurements for the scripture cards - Outside piece of cardstock is 2.6" x 4" and the inset piece is 2.4" x 3.6".

"About to Quack?"

2008-07-15T20:01:00.006-05:00

This is the last of the 5x5 cards I made using a stamped image from the set Cute Critters by Clear Dollar Stamps, and this is the fourth 'critter'.

I love the duck -- just cute and simple. Again, I colored the image with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. Also again, I was able to add the saying to the front using my word window punch.

I really did not have a color combo in mind for this card, but I thought all these papers ended up working well together.

For the inside of the card, the saying reads: Waddle over to GOD.

"When Life Stinks. . ."

2008-07-12T13:49:00.008-05:00

This is another 5x5 card I made using a stamped image from the set Cute Critters by Clear Dollar Stamps. This is the third 'critter', so I'll be posting the last card soon.

I think this little skunk is cute. I colored the image with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. Again, I was able to add the saying to the front using my word window punch. I love how the bright papers I found to use, 'pop' off the black background.

For the inside of the card, the saying reads: Shower yourself in the word.

"Needle Lift?

2008-07-09T15:15:00.005-05:00

This is another 5x5 card I made using a stamped image from the set Cute Critters by Clear Dollar Stamps. Again, there are four 'critters' in all, so I'll be posting cards using the other two images soon.

I love how the little porcupine turned out. I colored the image with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. I also love the saying I was able to add to the front using my word window punch. A total of 14 sayings come with the critters in this set, so it's an awesome set!!

By, the way, IRL the blues on the card do match. It looks bad scary on the post, but trust me, they match!

For the inside of the card, I used another stamp set from Clear Dollar called Christian Critters. (It, mainly, is additional sayings that can coordinate.) The saying inside reads: In a sticky situation, GOD is the answer.

"I'm Alive!?!?!"

2008-07-07T17:25:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to say a quick "hi" to everyone and let you know that I'm officially still alive! I promise to get back to crafting and post something real soon!

Thanks to all of you for your thoughts and concerns! Thanks, also, for being so patient! See ya soon!

It's Michelle again!

2008-07-02T18:11:00.002-05:00

JoAnna says a HUGE thank you for all the sweet comments and prayers.

She is still in the hospital and unable to blog but she hopes to be home by the 4th.
She is feeling ok for the most part, please continue to pray for her!

Your friendly blog-jacker,
Michelle Bingham ;0)

This is Michelle-JoAnna's neighbor.

2008-06-30T16:12:00.002-05:00

JoAnna asked me to hijack her blog and let you all know why she isn't posting. On Sunday morning she had a kidney stone attack. She waited until this morning(Monday) to go to the doctor and they have put her in the hospital.

DON'T PANIC!!!

She is ok, they just wanted to be able to give her lots of liquids and pain meds, and they thought it would be easier to get her better if she were in the hospital.

They have done tests to see how big the stone is and see if she will be able to pass it on her own. She is unsure how long she will be in the hospital. So it may be a few days before you hear from her again. I will be sure to update you with any changes.

She is in great spirits and can't wait to post more on those cards she was in the middle of making.

We all hope you get better real soon JoAnna!

"Slowpoke Card"

2008-06-28T23:24:00.005-05:00

I made this 5x5 card using a stamped image from the set Cute Critters by Clear Dollar Stamps. There are four 'critters' in all, so I'll be posting cards using the other images soon.

I like how the turtle turned out. I colored the image with my Prismacolor pencils and blended with gamsol and a stump. I love the saying I was able to add to the front using my word window punch. A total of 14 sayings come with the critters in this set, so it's an awesome set!!

For the inside of the card, I used another stamp set from Clear Dollar called Christian Critters. (It, mainly, is additional sayings that can coordinate.) The saying inside reads: Take time to slow down and feast on God's Word.