Lavender... Deep purple, fragrant, beautiful

The beauty of summer gardens is endless.  Bloom after bloom of the many varieties of plants is to be enjoyed and ogled.  Not to be outdone, these vibrant, purple beauties are stunning.  This variety of lavender is so much deeper than my other plants, despite my belief that  I had planted all the same variety.  Perhaps the earth is richer here?  Maybe there is more sunlight?  Maybe I simply bought a different variety and forgot? 

Either way, they are striking both in the garden and as cut flowers.  I'm looking forward to seeing how these beauties hold up once they are dry. 

The fragrance... Oh, such powerful scent from a delicate creature. 

Have a good day. 

Donald Duck Layout

Good day.  

Here's a busy layout with our favourite pal, Donald Duck.  

Although I usually prefer clean, simple layouts, I must admit that I really like this one.  I made it as a shadowbox frame for my son - who is a huge fan of Donald Duck.  The layout depicts each time the two have met. 

Decorating Shelves

Tweaking this...  Moving that...  Changing those...  It's fun to decorate shelves and continually change them up.  There are so many pretty decorative items that I cannot leave the shelves unchanged for too long.

Whether you make changes seasonally; Or perhaps the changes come with a new favourite colour; I find myself moving items, or relocating them or removing them altogether - if only temporarily.

Here are some of my shelves as they look today:

I love white creamers.  Big.  Small.  I love them all.  I like to peruse the thrift stores and garage sales for beautiful ones.  My collection has reached the point where I will only allow myself to buy a "new" one IF it is absolutely beautiful in my eyes.  I must love-love-love it.  No chips allowed.  A little graze cracking is okay.  Some discoloration is tolerable, but I must LOVE it. Even then, I sometimes force myself to donate an older one from my collection that is, well - a little less loved.  :)

The cinnamon sticks are a leftover decoration from Christmas.  I liked how they look year round, adding a bit of rustic charm.  The patina on the silver pieces looks great against the white plates.

Even while I was taking these pictures, I relocated the three little creamers and the piece of coral to opposite sides - it's an never-ending hobby.  

In my craft room, the shelves are decorated with both decorative and functional items.  The jars of buttons are a favourite. Most of these buttons are vintage.  I remember many from when I was a young girl.  My mom could not - or would not - throw out a button.  She'd say "you never know when you might need it!" So now my mom's hoarding habits are a beloved feature on my shelf.  

Although not a shelf, I like the black iron decorative wall hangings.  It adds a nice touch to the empty wall.  I placed some pretty card stock paper and a flower.  

Happy Monday.

Valentine's Day Cards

For Valentine's day this year, I made a few cards for my family.  Here's how they turned out:

More on Flocking

The Christmas holidays are long over, but the cold temperatures outside today remind me of how much I love the look of snow flocked branches.

Here's a look at another flocking project.  There are others, but the pictures don't show very well.  Now that all the decorations are packed away for the season, I will have wait until next year to show better pictures.

I'll post a picture of my newest wreath... A gathered burlap wreath.

Stay tuned and stay warm.

D.

Regenerated, revitalized and resurrected!

Where does the time go?  Holy time wrap, Batman.  :o

It really doesn't seem that long ago since I posted here, but there you have it...  Date stamps don't lie.
I'm hoping to revitalize parts of my crafty side by resurrecting my blog.  Not only the paper crafting crafty side, which I still love - but also my many other crafting projects like painting, gardening and even my culinary side.

This holiday season I was loving the many flocking pictures shown on Pinterest.  I was inspired to create my own.  After reading multiple "how to's" I jumped right in.  I picked up perfectly lovely wreaths from the thrift stores for cheap.  I stripped them of their dated embellishments, dusted and cleaned as needed; Then it was flocking time.

I flocked many wreaths, a small Christmas tree, lots of greenery and garland too.  It's a super fun project.  Easy.  There really is no wrong way.  I really love the final look of the clumpy, frosted snow on the branches.  I'm showing three wreaths.  I added a beautiful sparkly grey ribbon to one; another I added pine cones and berries with a burlap ribbon; yet another I simply added a few white decorations.  All these embellishments are either tucked in or twisted on - nothing glued.  This way, I can change colour scheme or decorating styles next year.    Enjoy!

Hope to be posting again soon!  Have a great day!
D.

Green Hair?

Good morning! It's a beautiful day - and it's Saturday!!  It's time to get outside and enjoy the summer, but first my card for a couple of challenges.

I'm really liking the green hair.  Some days I really believe that I could pull this look quite easily.  lol

I was ready to pull out my hair - green or not - when I decided to cut out this adorable little Perfect Poison image by Kraftin' Kimmie.  The fingers and hair and feet are all so intricate, I had a demon of a time - which ironically coincides with this Halloween theme. 

The first challenge is the Kraftin' Kimmie challenge no. 41 - recipe.   With the latest Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps release, it's hard to identify my favourite image - but Perfect Poison is definitely in my Top 10.

The other challenge that I'm joining this week is the Cute Card Thursday - Tree-mendous!  I really like this little spooky tree, it's a cut from the Cricut Oct. 31 cartridge.

Okay...  That's it for me.  Thanks for checking in!
Donna

Layout and a scrappy weekend!

Hello,

Just quickly I want to post a layout that I did from a cottage vacation in 2006.  Yes...  I'm very behind in my scrapbooking! 

The pictures are a little blurry, my hands must be shaking after all my gardening this week!  Anyhoo... Here are the layouts, hope you like them:

I used Cricut cartridges for these, such as: Cars, Life is a Beach, Tags, Bags, Boxes & More and Calligraphy Collection.  I think that was all of them.

I have to run, I'm getting ready for a scrapbooking retreat... I can't wait!!!!

Enjoy the long weekend (in Ontario!)

Donna

Splash Layout

Just quickly, I wanted to share a scrapbook layout that I scraplifted from the Everyday Cricut blog.  There wasn't anything about that layout that I didn't like, so I guessed at the sizes and improvised the colours.  Other than the paper, and some ribbon, I think it's pretty close.  I used the Life is a Beach Cricut cartridge for all these cuts, except the sun.  I used the sun from the Mickey and Friends cartridge.  I'm not sure what pictures to put on here, but I know that I'll find some great shots.

A closer look:

I put some glaze on the snorkle mask. 

I added some jewels to the treasure chest and used my glitter pen to make it sparkle. The white gel pen helped with the definition.

I had fun adding some googly eyes to the water creatures and more sparkle on the coral and seaweed.

That's it for tonight - have a good night!

Donna

Cheers for Kelly!

Hi ya everyone,

My card today is for my beautiful daughter. Congratulations on making your cheerleading team! My daughter is a Cheerio!

After 7 years of dance, 5 of those years in competitive, she has decided to move forward with other interests. Dance is an incredible avenue for young girls of all ages. It teaches them discipline, camaraderie, commitment, grace, intensity, fluidity, flexibility, communication, assistance, compassion and much more. Kelly, I wish you every joy and success with your choice and I hope this change will bring you many new opportunities.

Kelly tried out for her cheerleading team last Fall.  Although her chances were promissing, she had to step down because she could not commit the time.  She already had serious time commitments with competitive dance. With the Spring came a new opportunity to try out for the summer squad – and she did it!!!!

I’m very proud of you Honey! This card is for you.

As for the card. This cute stamp is from Stamping Bella – she’s called Pompomabella *giggle*. The paper is from the DCWV stack Nana’s Nursery Baby Boy. I love this stack, it’s so versatile – not just baby boyish. I chose purple, of course, cause it’s Kelly’s favourite colour. The sentiment is also Stamping Bella. What do you think of my doodles? They’re improvised. The sentiment made a line that I didn’t know how to fix, so I added some random doodles to hide my mistake. Am I clever or what? lol

I added some thick glitter on her pompoms and some stickles on the card.  I also added some glitter to her belly button, cause I know Kelly would like it.  She's been asking for a belly ring lately!
Well that's all from me for now!  Thanks for stopping!
D.

Cricut Cartridges

Hello everyone,
Have you had a chance to check out the new Cricut Cartridges yet?  I especially love the cute Create a Critter and the Mini Monsters.  They are so stinkin' cute! These new cartridges seem to be coming out fast and furious these days.  Oh, what fun!! 

You can purchase these cartridges and many others - for a great price - through ScrapbookPal.com.  It's a great online store.  I've placed orders in the past and was really impresed with the rapid shipment.  Check it out!

Donna

Scrapbook Layout for a Change

Hello and happy Monday!

I've decided to make a double page scrapbook layout for the Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge #29 - Anything BUT a Card.

I haven't incorporated stamped images in my layouts before, but I'm really enjoying this idea.  Here's a closer look at cutie pie Charlotte.  She's definitely still my favourite image of the Moonlight Whispers.  Although I have a strong feeling that Perfect Poison will be a new contender! *grin*

And here's my second page, of my 2-page layout.  I always make double page layouts.  It's a habit that I can't seem to break.

Well, it's Monday night so I must go check to see what Nurse Jackie is up to tonight.  Anyone watch that show?  I love it.   They have so many interesting and complex characters.  Not to mention the writing and acting is amazing!

Good night!

D.

My 4-in-1 Card

Hello and a very happy belated Mother's Day to all the super duper Moms out there, who happily sacrifice for their children.  I have the greatest mom in the world, so I'm lucky enough to have a wonderful role model who inspires me everyday.

I'm entering four challenges with this card.  I hope you like it.  I used Kraftin Kimmie's, Cindy & Mindy - You Lift Me Up image.  It seems like forever since I've crafted, so I dusted off my Copic markers to colour.  The paper and cardstock are from my stash.  I couldn't possibly remember the company...  I have way too much paper to keep track.  LOL.  I added some embellishments of brown pearls and pink buttons.  The sentiment is also from the awesome Kraftin' Kimmie stamps.

The first challenge that I've entered is for Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge #28 - Neopolitan Colour Challenge.  Using the colours pink, brown and ivory was the inspiration for my paper choice. 

The second challenge is for A Spoon Full of Sugar - Challenge #102 - Furry Friends.  I had not yet had the opportunity to ink up this image, so this challenge inspired me to break it open.

The third wonderful challenge that I decided to enter this week, is the sketch challenge for Paper Sundaes Challenge 17.  As I mentioned, it's been a while since I worked in my scrappy corner, so this sketch was very helpful.

And the final challenge that I entered is for Cupcake Craft Challenge 90 - Buttons.  I couldn't decide on what buttons to use or where to put them...  But in the end I'm pretty happy with how the card turned out. 

Hope you like it.  Have a great night!
Donna

Bellarific Friday

Good Thursday Morning!

This is my card for the Bellarific Friday tomorrow, it's a sketch!  I made the card for a coworker who is expecting her first baby *how exciting!*  I hope she likes it.  I'm happy with how it turned out - love the purple paper.  It's from my DCWV Nana's Nursery baby boy stack.  Although it's made for boys, most of the paper is very versatile for either a boy or a girl.  The purple ink that I applied around the edges of the images is a little subtle, I think next time I'd add a bit more colour so it can pop.  Here's a look:

I love her pants...  I wish I had some pants like this when I was expecting!  Mind you, I never looked this glamorous when I was pregnant.  Te he he.

Here's a closer look at the image.  I added some sparkle to the accessories and a bit of glaze to the rattle.  I did some shadding, but I think this comes off a little subtle too.

This image makes me want to go shopping...  But alas, I'm off to work.  :(

Have a great day!

Thanks for stopping by!

Donna

Happy Sunday to ya,

I've had quite a busy March Break week.  Most of our family was sick, in fact four out of five of us were sick on the same night - all within 1 hours of each other.  We just kept dropping like flies.  One minute we were fine, the next...  Not so much!  We spent most of the week cooped up in the house.   Everyone seems to be on the mend now, so it's back to school and work tomorrow. :(

My card today was inspired by the Kraftin Kimmie challenge #22 - An eyelet here, an eyelet there.  I used my favourite KK stamp named Charlotte.  The paper and accessories are all from my stash of supplies.  The sentiment, which always makes me smile, is from Stamping Bella.

I tried using some beads like glitter.  I don't think it has the same effect.  Maybe next time I'll try to use these like drops of water.  Not sure if you can see?  Here's a closer look at the beads and the eyelets.  The middle eyelet is a flower, but it got a little flattened in the process.

We took the dogs to the dog park this morning. It wasn't as muddy as I expected, which was nice.  The dogs are happy now, so we're off to do some errands and get some lunch.

Thanks for stopping by.

Donna

Luck o' The Irish

Hi Everyone!! 
St. Patty's Day is coming fast.  It's time to break out the green!  My card this week was inspired by the challenge at Cute Card Thursday: Challenge 102 - Lucky Green 

I've used my awesome Moonlight Whispers by Kraftin Kimmie Stamp called Lillith, with some of my green paper, green ribbon and green gemstones from my stash.  I used a white base and some purple cardstock to accentuate.  The sentiment is quite old, which is to say that I have no idea of the brand.  I coloured Lillith with my Copic markers and I used some Stickles on her white lace.  I paper-pieced the bottom of her dress with the same paper as the card background although it's hard to distinguish it in the picture.

Here's a look at my card:

I had a little "Stickles" mishap when applying it to the lace, so I had to adjust the location of the gemstones.  When I look at the card, I really want to move those stones over to the edge of the cardstock, but they're covering up a goof - so I just have to "green" and bare it.  LOL

How cute is that look on Lillith's face?  I think my daughter knows how to make that exact same face.  I think it's a gift that all teenage girls assume.  Only she would never allow a frog on her head.  Although I do have a picture of her with a rat on her shoulder!

Good night... and have a pleasant tomorrow!

Donna

 

Bon Voyage!

Hey Howdy Hey...  It's been so long since I've made a post.  I can hardly believe it's already February.

We had a busy few months - celebrating lots of birthdays, two of them this month.   My sweet baby Owen turned two.  And my beautiful girl (not-so-much a baby, but always a baby in my heart) Kelly, who turned fifteen this year.  My other son Joey will celebrate a birthday in April.  They sure do keep us busy.  I guess they're part of the reasons why I haven't posted for so long.

I have two friends who are lucky enough to be travelling South next week.  So instead of turning green with envy - which of course I am - I decided to be inspired and create some happy-send-off cards for each.  Hope you like them.

First is one of my favourite artist - Canadian, Rachelle Anne Miller.  I simply love her images.  They are too darn cute.  Here's a closer look at this cutie:

Next I used a CC Design stamp that is also super cute.  This was also one of the first images that turned me on to stamping and Copics.

The wave punch makes me smile, it looks so summery with the blue paper.  All paper and ribbon for both these cards are from my wonderful stash.  Oh and I coloured both with my Copics.

A special thanks to my husband for watching the baby while I took time to play tonight!

Good night & thanks for stopping by!

Donna

Dexter and Christmas... Mostly Dexter

10 days till Christmas. Yikes!!!!... I need to get cracking on so many levels.

I haven't blogged in so long... My last entry was nearly a month ago. I've been busy with so many other things. Sadly I've not sat in my little scrappy corner to craft, but I will soon. 

I have made a couple of new Christmas cards, I'll post those pictures later.

Mostly I have to write about Dexter. *Michael C Hall, I love your creepy goodness.*

I am still devastated by the season ending on Dexter. MIND BLOWING ending. I didn't see it coming (and I consider myself a good predicter of endings.) I was duped, which I love. One side of me enjoys the shock. But the other side of me is a little disappointed.

I think the writers could have built up the story to let us anticipate (in “sitting on the edge of your seat” fear) what was to come. Spoiler Alert... Trinity - Arthur Miller - kills Rita. GASP!.... I liked the shock factor but perhaps it would have been more suspenseful if we knew that Rita had returned. Perhaps the most disturbing part – in my opinion – the part that I couldn't get out of my head for two days – was to see little Harrison sitting in a puddle of his mommy's blood, right next to the tub where she lay murdered.

Honestly, I suspected Rita would be killed off this season. Although I thought it would have happened earlier in the story so that Dexter could kill Trinity with anger and revenge. I didn't even like Rita very much. I used to like her, but this season she nagged Dexter too much.

I like when a story gets all tied together in the end. Like the way that one action would have a trickle effect of clarity on other things. YKWIM? The shock factor was there for Rita's death, but I almost feel a little cheated that it wasn’t part of the story that we were following – not really. I watched the ending again to listen more closely to what Trinity said to Dexter. I wanted to hear if there were any clues. The only thing that he said was "it's already over...," which - even knowing the ending - doesn't give me a clue. The thing that I did enjoy watching for the second time was Dexter's reaction to what Arthur said. The look of puzzlement on his face was really good, it’s like he suspected something was off… But didn’t know what. It was subtle though... Very subtle, cause seconds later when Dexter says "now it's over" (as he slams the hammer down to kill Arthur) it ties that little piece together – until the end of course.

Anywho... I'm not a TV writer (but I’m sure I’d be excellent! - LOL) I still love the show, despite my reluctance with the ending. I still love Dexter. I think the story line and the actors are phenomenal. It’s still my favourite show. I still plan to re-watch the entire season from the beginning. Deborah (Jennifer Carpenter) is still my idol (although Jen, eat a cookie girl! You give new meaning to skinny.)

It's funny to think how many of us devoted Dexter watchers are cheering for the killer (but he's a good killer...) I'm really looking forward to next season in September 2010. Yikes!!! Man, how will I endure the winter... The spring... The summer... ??? I guess Nurse Jackie will have to fill the void. : )

Donna

Happy Birthday Mom

It's my Mom's birthday tomorrow.  We're celebrating today, since most of us are around today.  Of course, I had to make some cards for the special occassion.  I'll share them and briefly explain my steps.  Here's the first:

I'm calling it my "Gift Card"...  Get it???  Cause it's a GIFT shaped card.  Te he he.  I used my Cricut with the Pooh and Friends cartridge.  It's a cute present that I turned into a card by cutting a back a little smaller and scoring a 1.5" flap to attach.  This is not my original idea.  I saw a version on the Bitten by the Bug blog challenge.

The second card I used a CC Design stamp.  The paper was from my scrap pile, but I remember it's My Mind's Eye, cause I love this paper.  I added some flowers and Stickles for flare.

 

The final card is also a Cricut cut card from the Pooh & Friends cartridge. I know that my son will love giving this to his Gramma. I've put his hand print on the inside along with a cute "Happy Birthday" cut.

That's it for now. I just want to say that I have the best mom. She is so nurturing to my children (and to her own kids too!) She's loving and giving and she never wants anything for herself. I aspire to be as great a mom and person as she is. I love you Mom.

Thanks for stopping by.

Donna

Looks Like a Wedding Card?

Hi everyone and happy Thursday morning!

My card today is for a friend and coworker.  She's leaving our office for a full time position in another city.  I'm going to miss her fun-loving sense of humour around here (that girl really makes me laugh!), but this move is best for her, so I'm very happy for her.

I'm using the card for the Mojo Monday Challenge Week #112.  Once again, I took the layout very literally and copied it - almost - verbatim.  : )   I like black & white cards; they have such a crisp and clean look.  My only problem here is that it looks a little wedding-like to me. 

The supplies for this card were from my stash.  Here's what I know - one of the sentiments is from SU.  I used the Cuttlebug to emboss.  I sprayed a little Glimmer Mist on one of the sentiments.  I added a glitter brad and some ribbon - and voilà.

Have a great day - thanks for checking me out.  ; )

Donna