Daydream Designs/Autumn Card





This is a card that I made for Mark's Finest Papers' Sketch With a Twist Challenge on Speedy TV where this week's challenge is to follow the sketch and make a tag, or include a tag on your card.  I used a tag from Freckled Fawn, added a sentiment from Daydream Designs, some hand-cut pumpkins from Mark's Finest Papers' Autumn Splendor stamp set, some raffia, a PTI flower cut from Prairie Point Junction wool felt (best wool felt EVER), some machine stitching, and a little sticker in the flower's center.

 

I'm entering this card in a few Autumn challenges as follows:

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-saysautumn-leaves.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Autumn Leaves - I love the leaves on the pumpkin stems.

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/9-harvest-timethanks-giving.html - Twist of Faith Cards Challenge Blog - Challenge #9 - Harvest Time/Thanksgiving

http://greatimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2012/10/october-monthly-challenge-and-our-top.html - Great Impresions Stamps - October Challenge/Autumn Theme

http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-138-hey-pumpkin.html - The Shabby Tearoom - Week #138 - Hey Pumpkin

http://ribbongirls.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/october-colour-challenge.html - Ribbon Girls Challenge Blog - October Colour Challenge

http://visibleimage.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/inspired-by-autumn.html - Visible Image Challenge Blog - Inspired by Autumn

http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/cards-galore-october-challenge-anything.html - Cards Galore Challenges - October Challenge/Anything Goes

http://www.redcarpetstudiochallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/rcs-9-pumpkins-and-halloween.html - Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog - Challenge #9 - Pumpkins and Halloween

Thanks for visiting me today.  I appreciate having you stop by to say hello.

Karen

I Love Fall

I know I've said this before, but I will say it again.  I REALLY miss the Autumn season that I grew up with in Minnesota.  I love the changing colors and falling leaves, the cool nights going to football games, and the pumpkin patches, corn mazes and festivities surrounding this season that we just don't really get here in the desert.  I remember a few years back when I spent late October at my best friend's house in Minnesota, and I sat on her back porch just watching the leaves fall.  Of course, she thought I was "going looney" sitting there watching leaves fall slowly from the trees, but for me - it was magical.

 

This is a quick and simple little card I whipped up this morning using Simple Stories stickers.  Pretty easy, huh?  All I really did (other than put the stickers on my Bazzill) was to ink the edges and add a button with some jute.  It literally took me all of about five minutes.

 

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-saysautumn-leaves.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Autumn Leaves

 

http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/cards-galore-october-challenge-anything.html - Cards Galore Challenges - October Challenge/Anything Goes

http://visibleimage.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/inspired-by-autumn.html - Visible Image Challenge Blog - Inspired by Autumn

http://ribbongirls.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/october-colour-challenge.html - Ribbon Girls Challenge Blog - October Color Challenge/Autumn Theme and Colors

http://frosteddesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/fabulous-friday-challenge.html - Frosted Designs Challenge Blog - Fabulous Friday Challenge/Paints, Mists and Inks - I used Tim Holtz ink to "grunge up" and INK the edges of my card.

http://greatimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2012/10/october-monthly-challenge-and-our-top.html - Great Impressions Stamps Challenge Blog - October Challenge/Autumn

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/8-animals-marching-two-by-two.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #8 - Animals Marching Two by Two.  Or in my case, "flying" two by two, because my card has a little bird.

 

http://www.craftspotbykimberly.blogspot.com/2012/10/monday-challenge-75-too-cute-to-spook.html - My Craft Spot by Kimberly - Challenge #75 - Too Cute to Spook.  I don't like "spooky", so I stuck with the "cute"/Autumn theme.

http://www.redcarpetstudiochallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/rcs-9-pumpkins-and-halloween.html - Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog - Challenge #9 - Pumpkins and Halloween.  Since I don't really do Halloween, I stuck with an Autumn theme, and hope that's alright.

 

Thanks for visiting me today.  I just haven't been feeling like crafting lately, and I don't know why.  I've been visiting lots of blogs so that I can get inspired and get a "fire" lit under me to get my craftiness back.  Let's hope it works!

 

Blessings to you all,

Karen

Friendship and Flowers

God has blessed me with so many wonderful friends.  I can never pass up an opportunity to make a Friendship Card; especially one with flowers.  I already know exactly to whom I am sending this card.  My dear friend, Mary, who had a successful kidney transplant yesterday, and is recovering nicely will appreciate this.  I will pop it in the mail so that it will be there to greet her when she gets home from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

 

I was COMPLETELY inspired on this card by the sweet, and. . . .OH, SO TALENTED, Debbie Marcinkiewicz who shared her inspiration card on the challenge blog (and her personal blog), and it totally inspired me to make this card.

I'm entering these challenges:

http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-137-vintage-charm.html - The Shabby Tea Room - Week #137 - Vintage Charm.  As I stated above, I was very inspired by Debbie's card here, and added a charm to my stick pin for this challenge.

 

http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/2012/10/justrite-friday-challenge-084-flower-power.html - JustRite Stampers' Challenge Blog - Friday Challenge #84 - Flower Power.  I used a Friendship sentiment from the JustRite Nested Freiendship Sentiments stamp set (one of my favorites).

http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/cards-galore-october-challenge-anything.html - Cards Galore Challenges - Anything Goes

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-162-john-1633.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge Blog - Challenge #162 - Peace.  This represents peace to me because of the peace Mary is feeling now.  Thanks to those of you who prayed for her.  I know she will enjoy this card during her recovery.

http://theribbonreelchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-39-shabby-naturals.html - The Ribbon Reel Challenge Blog - Challenge #39 - Shabby Naturals

 

Thanks for stopping by to say hello.  I appreciate your visit, and look forward to seeing what you've been creating this week.  Spread peace, practice acts of random kindness, be kind to others, and pray for someone special today.

So Blessed,

Karen

 

 

On The Menu

First and foremost, I want to admit right up front that the inspiration for this card was not completely my own.  However, I searched diligently to find the original artist, and cannot find her card.  Please know that I aways try to give credit where credit is due.  So, if I learn her name, I will certainly post it.  But anyway, she had made a similar card that I saw a month or two ago that really inspired me to make this sweet little Birthday card.  I fell SO in love with the sweet little cakes image from Robyn's Fetish (this week's generous sponsor at Word Art Wednesday), and this sweet little "Menu" ATC card from V's Sweet Ideas who is an upcoming sponsor at Word Art Wednesday.  When I saw these sweet little ATC cards, I just had to order them.  They come in a package of adorable little assortment of cards that make the perfect accents (as you can see) and Vanessa (of V's Sweet Ideas) has VERY reasonable shipping rates.  You might want to check out her darling little store, as well as Robyn's Fetish shop who, by the way, is having a GREAT sale right now.  It's a great time to stock up on their darling images.  Just look at what I made with the sweet combination of a darling Robyn's Fetish image and the darling V's Sweet Ideas ATC Menu card.  Does anyone else think this is as cute as I do?  LOL

 

 

Here are the challenge blogs I found where I could share my sweet little card.  I'm excited to participate in the following:

 

http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/cards-galore-october-challenge-anything.html - Cards Galore Challenges - Anything Goes

 

http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/187-buttons-bows-crafty-sentiments.html - Dutch Dare Card Challenges - Challenge #187 - Buttons and Bows

 

http://chocolatecoffeecards.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-24-stitching.html - Chocolate Coffee Cards Challenges - Challenge #24 - Stitching - Something I almost always do on my cards and projects.

 

http://inthepinkchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/buttons-and-bows-challenge-6.html - In The Pink Challenge Blog - Challenge #6 - Buttons and Bows - I LOVE PINK

 

http://ccmonthlychallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/october-challenge-birthdays.html - Crafter's Companion Challenge Blog - October Challenge - Birthdays - They sell Red Liner Tape at Crafter's Companion that holds EVERYTHING.  I used it on this card, and use it on anything and everything that I want to hold FOREVER.  Good strong stuff. 

 

Thanks again for stopping by to take a quick peek at my little card and say hello.  If you missed my scripture card for this week, it is in the previous post.  I really do hope that you will all stop by and play along with us this week at Word Art Wednesday where you are always welcome to share any of the art you are making.  We always have an "Anything Goes" theme as long as it is uplifting/encouraging.  We just love having new participants, and are so grateful for the faithful crafters who visit us each week.  We look forward to seeing YOUR ART shared this week.  May God bless you as you craft.

 

Be blessed,

 

Karen

 

Where Your Treasure Is. . . .

I did a little bit of "double-dipping" this week so to speak.  I created a card for my Hostess project at Mark's Finest Papers but I used this week's scripture/word art for Word Art Wednesday, so I combined two Design Team Projects into one card.  That may be "cheating" just a bit, but I actually needed TWO cards for Word Art Wednesday this week, so the second one (using the sponsor's image) won't be revealed until my post (tomorrow) on Wednesday.  I used this verse from Matthew 6:21, and combined the scripture with a cute Bugaboo pirate image.  This is the Buried Treasure stamp set from Mark's Finest Papers and it is one of my MFP favorites.  The map image, the chest, and the sentiemnts all work together so beautifully. I just couldn't resist this sweet pirate from Bugaboo to go along with it. I hope you all like it.  You are all more than welcome to stop by the Sketch With a Twist Challenge on Speedy TV to play along with us - we would LOVE to have you join us.

 

 

I'm entering the following challenges with this card:

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/joys-eerie-inspiration-board.html - Simon Says Stamp - Joy's Eerie Inspiration Board - Halloween Custome Card

http://challenges4everybody.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/challenge-5-anything-goes.html - Challenges 4 Everybody - Challenge #5 - Anything Goes

http://anythingchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-78-make-your-own.html - Anything Challenge Blog - Challenge #78 - Make Your Own Embellishments - I colored my stamped images, inked them, and I machine stitched them all to embellish my card.

http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/cards-galore-october-challenge-anything.html - Cards Galore Challenges - Cards Galore October Challenge - Anything Goes

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/blog-hop-october-23-29.html - Through The Craftroom Door - Blog Hop and Anything Goes Challenge - Super Fun and Inspiring Blog Hop

So, you got a peek at my scripture card for Wednesday's Word Art Wednesday challenge.  And yet, I'm still super excited about the second card I was able to make for that challenge using a darling image from the Word Art Wednesday 10/24/12 Sponsor, Robyn's Fetish.  I used the most darling birthday cake image along with a sweet "Menu" ATC card from V's Sweet Ideas who is a future sponsor at Word Art Wednesday.  We are blessed with the BEST SPONSORS at Word Art Wednesday Challenge Blog where the theme is ALWAYS Anything Goes.  So many great challenges to play along in, and SO little time.  All I can say as that I am always VERY grateful when you play along in my challenges.

Bless and be blessed.  Spread kindness and goodness where you are able.  Take opportunities to help people, share a smile or word of encouragement.  Let people see Jesus in YOU.  Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Karen

An Autumn BOO

I saw this cool technique that I had never tried, or even heard of while I was visiting Nichole Heady's fabulous Papertrey Ink Challenge Blog yesterday; only to learn that it was LAST WEEK'S tutorial so I can't enter the challenge. . . .BOO is right.  What an innovative and fun idea to use Die-Cuts to create alphabet stamps.  Once I had my letters ready, I dipped them into some black Martha Stewart paint, and stamped them onto some deep pumpkin orange Bazzill.  This is a really cool technique that helps you to stretch the products you already own.

 

 

Here is my complete supply list:
PTI Die-Cut Alphabet Tutorial - BOO
Patterned Papers - by The Paper Studio
Tim Holtz mini stapler
Tim Holtz mini rustic paper clip
Vintage Black Button with Diamond Center
Wooden "Autumn" sign by Go West Studios
Making Memories Orange Ribbon
Papertrey Ink Wool Felt (two colors) - hard to see the black felt on the bottom
Papertrey Ink Flower Die-Cuts (three different flower shaped die-cuts)
Freckled Fawn washi tapes
Machine Stitching

 

Challenges I'm entering with this card include:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/joys-eerie-inspiration-board.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Joy's Eerie Inspirational Photo Board

http://cupcakeinspirations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-183.html - Cupcake Inspirations Challenge Blog - Challenge #183 - Halloween/Spooky Inspired Photo

http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-76-and-winners-of-75.html - Lexi's Creations Challenge Blog - Challenge #76 - Halloween

 

http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/fortnightly-challenge-no-47.html - Forever Friends Challenge Blog - Fortnightly Challenge #47 - Halloween

 

http://allsortschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-177-autumn-colours.html - All Sorts Challenges - Week #177 - Autumn Colors

http://craftymesschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/20th-challenge-halloween.html - Crafty Mess Challenge Blog - Challenge #20 - Halloween

 

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/pile-it-on-43-holiday-any-holiday.html - Pile it On Challenges - Challenge #43 - Holiday, Any Holiday - I Chose Halloween

http://creataliciouschallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-39-halloween.html - Create-a-Licious Challenges - Challenge #39 - Halloween

http://anythingchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-78-make-your-own.html - Anything Challenge Blog - Challenge #78 - Make Your Own Embellishments - I made this flower out of layers of paper and wool felt cut from a PTI die-cut and embellished with a vintage button.
 

http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/booits-halloween-at-sweet-stampin.html - Sweet Stampin' Challenge Blog - Boo, It's Halloween at Sweet Stampin'

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/blog-hop-october-23-29.html - Through The Craftroom Door - Blog Hop and Anything Goes Challenge

http://stampinfortheweekend.blogspot.no/2012/10/challenge-19-something-spooky.html - Stampin' For The Weekend - Challenge #19 - Something Spooky

http://www.simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-inspired-by-wendy-vecchi.html - Simon Says Stamp & Show Vintage Blog - Challenge Inspired by Wendy Vecchi - My card was inspired by the rich autumn colors used in her products, and the overall feel of the project.

 

I was really excited about how this card turned out.  I've been saying for a long time that I needed to learn and try some new techniques, so THANK YOU, Papertrey Ink for inspiring me.  I hope that you will stop back later today to see my blog post for Mark's Finest Papers which will also give you a sneak peek for one of my DT cards that's for Wednesday's challenge at Word Art Wednesday.  I've been busy, and didn't get ANY homeschooling done today, but I did get my house cleaned, got groceries, made a delicious dinner, and did some crafting.  Tomorrow. . . . .we hit the books for sure.  (After my blog posts have been made, of course).  By the way, I'm speaking this way because I'm typing/preparing this Monday night and will post it tomorrow morning (Tuesday morning) when I can get a photo of my card.

 

Thanks for stopping by today, and please know that I appreciate your visit.  It's always a blessing to have you visit.    By the way, did you catch the Presidential debate?  Go Romey/Ryan. . . .I know that as a country, we don't deserve it, but I believe that a vote for Mitt Romney is a vote towards restoring America to its original Christian morals. . . .or at least a step in the right direction.  Thanks for stopping by and letting me bend your ear.  God bless America.

 

My Cup Runneth Over,

 

Karen

Peace of God - Daydream Designs

This week's challenge at Stampin' Sisters in Christ called for a project that makes us think of peace.  I used a large Jenni Bowlin PEACE background Bingo board backed with chipboard, and embellished it with a sentiment from the God's Peace sympathy sentiments set from Daydream Designs as well as some other various elements including Making Memories stickers (bird and flower button) and pin (white star), and a Jenni Bowlin (red) stick pin available at The Kraft Outlet - super cute for Christmas and country projects. 

And.....Although I'm on the Design Team for Daydream Designs, I'd still be thrilled to win the wonderful prize offered this week at Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge Blog by Diane of Daydream Designs.  Their images are a great value for the money, and... super versatile (not to mention, darling).  This is a hanging plaque, and has such a beautiful Daydream Designs sentiment that I inked with the Tim Holtz lipstick ink.  Check out all the darling new images available now at Daydream Designs darling digital shop.

Here are the challenges I'm entering with this little hanging project:

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-162-john-1633.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #162 - Peace

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/7-your-favourite.html - Twist of Faith Cards Challenge - Challenge #7 - Your Favorite (My favorite is always a scripture or a Christian encouragement project)

 

http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-57-anything-goes.html - Bearly Mine Challenges - Challenge #57 - Anything Goes

 

http://pinandtack.blogspot.com/2012/10/spark-your-creativity-now-challenge-2.html - Pin and Tack Challenge Blog - Spark Your Creativity Now - Challenge #2 - Anything Goes

 

Well, thanks for stopping by today.  I hope you're having a restful and peaceful day.  I appreciate your visit, and look forward to visiting your blog as well.

 

Karen

Something for Trick-or-Treaters

Well, as most of you who know me are aware, I'm not big on the whole Halloween theme.  I don't like the dark parts of Halloween that unfortunately come with following this holiday, but I do like to use the opportunity to pass out cute little treat bags filled with candies, a prize and a Christian tract for each child who comes to our house in search of Trick-or-Treats.  I will give them the best "treat" ever - the Gospel of Jesus Christ (along with some candy and prizes of course).  I always pray that perhaps even one child will come to church or get saved through the aid of the tracts I tuck inside.  I can only plant the seeds, water them gently, and then I have to wait for God to make a flower grow.  But, that's my "M.O." for Halloween night.  I hope that those of you who get large crowds of children coming to your door also take this rare opportunity to spread the Good News.  The Tract League is one of many places where you can order cute Christian Halloween tracts that clearly explain the plan of salvation.  Kids are expecting candy, but we have the opportunity to give them something eternal.  I hope you will consider this opportunity to witness.  It's really wonderful if you look at it that way.  You can make this seemingly spooky and dark holiday into one with a bright and happy future for children (and their families), and then of course pray that God, through His divine Holy Spirit, will do the rest of the work once you've planted that seed.  Happy Trick-or-Treating.

 

I made this card using one of the new release stamp sets I was given for Mark's Finest Papers.  The set has some cute little stamps including a ghost, a broom, a witch, some sentiments, a cute little cat, and more.  I made this simple four-square card that is the inspiration for this week's Sketch With a Twist Challenge on Speedy TV.  You can enter our challenges on Speedy TV by clicking this link Mark's Finest Papers and signing up for Speedy TV.  There are many challenges you can play along in there, as well as card swaps and other money-saving offers and chances to win stamp sets.  I hope you will play along.

 

 

I'm entering the following challenges with this card:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/joys-eerie-inspiration-board.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Joy's Eerie Inspiration Board

http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-76-and-winners-of-75.html - Lexi's Creations Blog - Challenge #76 0 Spooky/Halloween

 

http://shoppingourstash.blogspot.com/2012/10/shopping-our-stash-challenge-73-trick.html - Shopping Our Stash Blog - Challenge #73 - Trick or Treat

http://stampinfortheweekend.blogspot.no/2012/10/challenge-19-something-spooky.html - Stampin' For The Weekend Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Something Spooky

http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-57-anything-goes.html - Bearly Mine Challenge Blog - Challenge #57 - Anything Goes

 

http://www.toptiptuesday.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-87-things-with-wings.html - TopTip Tuesday - Challenge #87 - Things With Wings - I guess ghosts have some sort of wings, since they can apparently fly.  I wouldn't know for sure, though, since I've never really seen one - other than the ghosts that are flying around my neighborhood from people's front yard trees.  I also included a witch's broom - I guess that also give her "wings". 

MY TOP TIP:  To give my ghosts that "eerie look", I simply dabbed a bit of Elmer's glue on the body of the ghost, and sprinkled them lightly with ultra-find glitter.  You can try this technique with anything you want to just sparkle (or illumine) a bit.  Just a small smear of Elmer's glue on the tip of your finger and a light dusting of ultra-fine glitter will give it that "spooky" stand-out look.

 

http://paperplaytime.blogspot.ca/2012/10/ch-86-welcome-to-boo-ville.html - Paper Playtime Blog - Challenge #86 - Welcome to Boo-Ville

 

http://morethanfavors.blogspot.com/2012/10/wacky-wednesday-76-halloween.html - More Than Favors Challenge Blog - Wacky Wednesday #76 - Halloween

 

http://cardmakinmamas.blogspot.com/2012/10/time-to-get-spooky.html - Card Makin' Mamas Challenge Blog - Time to Get Spooky

 

http://craftycalendarchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/october-challenge-all-things-spooky_6.html - Crafty Calendar Challenge Blog - October - All Things Spooky

http://divasbydesignchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-57-something-spooky.html - Divas by Design Challenge Blog - Challenge #57 - Something Spooky

 

That's all for today.  Hope you're all having a great week and enjoying this coolor weather as much a I am.  I think this weekend I will make a big warm yummy pot of homemade chili for my family.

 

Have a blessed day,

Karen

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

I made this card as my Design Team project this week at Word Art Wednesday, but wanted to first and foremost, give credit to the talented Ingrid Danvers who inspired me greatly.  She made a similar card quite some time ago, and I had tucked it in my October Afternoon file.  For some reason, I thought it went well with this week's scripture and decided to use it.  I enjoy the combination of patterned papers in this sweet October Afternoon line, and just adore all their embellishments.  I used the free word art file from Word Art Wednesday this week, and printed it on an October Afternoon sticker.  Thank you, Ingrid, for your inspiration.  I hope you will all stop by and play along in our challenge this week.

I'm entering thid following challenges:

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/7-your-favourite.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #7 - Your Favorite (My favorite of all cards to make are scripture cards, and second in line would be using October Afternoon  So, when I get to do both, is a double favorite).

http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-136-rustic-elegance.html - The Shabby Tearoom - Challenge #136- Rustic Elegance - My rustic elements are the vintage button and jute, and the elegant touches are the roses.

http://www.craftysentiments.blogspot.com/2012/10/bows-or-ribbons.html - Crafty Sentiments - Bows and Ribbons - Are you kidding?   I don't think I know how to make a card without a bow or ribbon.

http://www.craftymesschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/19th-challenge-anything-goes.html - Crafty Mess Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Anything Goes

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/october-challenge-40.html - Through The Craft Room Door Magazine's Blog - Challenge #40 - Anything Goes - And, I'd LOVE to be a Guest Designer

http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-57-anything-goes.html - Bearly Mine Challenges - Challenge #57 - Anything Goes

http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/2012/10/187-buttons-bows-crafty-sentiments.html - Dutch Dare Card Challenges - Challenge #187 - Buttons and Bows/Crafty Sentiments

DID YOU KNOW that the current challenge over at Word Art Wednesday has TWO great prizes this week including a GORGEOUS necklace from the Etsy shop of one of our participants?  Check it out - you won't be disappointed.  Everyone is welcome to play along, and may enter up to frive (5) times per week.

Before I go, I wanted to mention that there was apparently a little "funny business" going on with the voting I asked you to do for me. I did win the contest (because God honors our honesty, and I played fair), and I'm SO grateful to all those who voted for me.  Now it's someone else's turn to need some help.  My bloggy friend Tracey Sabella (this month's Guest Designer at Word Art Wednesday needs our help gathering votes for a contest she's entered at May Arts.  If you can go to May Arts site here and vote for Tracey Sabella (at the bottom of the page/leave comment), it would be greatly appreciated.  http://www.mayarts.com/blog/ink-it-craft-challenge-entries-and-a-giveaway/ - She is a great gal, and would really appreciate your votes (if you feel she deserves it- I think she did an AWESOME job).  It also also enters you to win an amazing prize. You're all the best.  Thanks for stopping by, and please know I'm always willing to help YOU, too - just let me know.

I've rambled excessively, so I will let you all get back to your lives now.  Thank you for being such tremendous blessings in my life.

My Cup Runneth Over,
Karen

Kind, Tenderhearted and Forgiving

This scripture from Ephesians really has a powerful message.  Most of us have read, or heard it many times, but how often do we really think about the joy that is waiting for us when we truly put this piece of God's Word into action?  Most of us have been hurt by someone in our lifetime, and many of us carry around bitterness deep in our hearts because of that hurt.  It may have been a family member, an old friend or co-worker that hurt you.  I encourage you this week to simply LET GO of any bitterness you may have, and give it to God.  We need to be kind in our actions, tenderhearted when dealing with people who make us impatient, and ALWAYS forgiving toward one another.  We are human, and we will all make mistakes.  Not one of us is perfect, and we all want God to forgive us for our sins (which He did when He died on the cross to pay the debt of our sins), so we need to remember to also be forgiving.  I realize how difficult this can be, but I assure you that there is great joy in letting go of the hurt, and asking God to help make you a kinder, more tenderhearted and forgiving individual.  I encourage you to pray about it this week.  I know it convicted my heart.  This is the free scripture/word art file this week at Word Art Wednesday if you'd like to save it to your computer.  I invite you all to play along this week (Always Anything Encouraging/Uplifting Goes).  You aren't required to use the scripture.  We want to see what you're working on, and have the opportunity to win.  Please join us at:  Word Art Wednesday

 

OK, on a MUCH lighter note. . . .I'm LOSING in the polls at Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog and I need your votes.  If you will PLEASE take a moment to click on this link:  Red Carpet Studio Challenge Blog, and in the right-hand sidebar under the category of Punny Card Projects, please vote for me (Karen).  I would really appreciate it  I'm behind, and really need your help.

 

Here are the challenges I'm entering with this card:

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-says-dies-andor-punches.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenges - Simon Says Use Die-Cuts and/or Punches - I used a Spellbinders die-cut for the sentiment and another die-cut for the flag strips.

http://craftysentiments.blogspot.com/2012/10/anything-goes.html - Crafty Sentiments Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://craftymesschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/19th-challenge-anything-goes.html - Crafty Mess Challenge Blog - Challenge #19 - Anything Goes

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/challenge-38-oct-9th-15th.html - Through the Craftroom Door - Challenge #38 - Anything Goes

http://stampinfortheweekend.blogspot.no/2012/09/challenge-18-feeling-floral.html - Stampin' For The Weekend - Challenge #18 - Feeling Floral - I used floral patterned paper, and floral washi tape.  All my flags at the bottom are made of washi tape strips

I just want to share that I am SO grateful to live in a country where we have the freedom to blog and speak our minds.  What a blessing to be able to share God's Word here, to be able to tell others how good He is, and to encourage one another to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving.  I'm so very grateful to God for this freedom, and I thank each of you for stopping by.  I would greatly appreciate those votes.

Oh, before I run off. . . .I almost forgot to share this card that I made for the current challenge at Mark's Finest Papers on Speedy TV in the Sketch With a Twist Challenge.  I am the Hostess for this challenge, and I invite you all to play along.  Here is my card using the new Autumn Splendor stamp set.  I sent this card to my Dad because I knew he'd get a kick out of it.

I'm entering this card in the following challenge:

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-21-birds.html - Creative Card Crew Challenge Blog - Challenge #21 - Birds
 

Blessings to all,
Karen

Blessed Are Those Who Mourn - Daydream Designs

It's always unfortunate when a Sympathy Card is needed.  But, nonetheless, it is part of life.  When the situation at hand calls for one, I like to try to make something special that will be a blessing and a comfort to its recipient(s).  In this case, I used the beautiful sentiments from the God's Comfort Sentiments Collection available at Daydream Designs.  These beautiful sentiments are perfect for making sympathy cards, and there are many different sentiments in the set for just $3.95.  Here is an image of the set you can purchase.  Just click the above link to go to the store.

 

Front of card:

 

Inside of card:

 

I was inspired to make this card by the challenge this week at Nichole Heady/Papertrey Ink's Challenge Blog where they have a great tutorial showing how to decorate the inside of your card.  I used stamps on the background, then printed my Daydream Designs sentiment on vellum to cover the butterflies.  Next, I used a Papertrey Ink hearts border die to cut a strip of hearts that I sewed to the top of the sentiment.  Then, on the outside/front of the card, I used some Basic Grey Lemonade patterned papers, again printed the sentiment on vellum, sewing all the pieces together.  Next I cut a heart from canvas using the Papertrey Ink heart die-cut (the large one in a set of 3), and put some of the left-overs from the other rows of PTI heart die-cut border on the canvas heart and inked them all with Ranger ink.  On the bottom left, I adhered a Prima leave with some flowers as an accent.

 

http://nicholeheady.typepad.com/capture_the_moment/make-it-monday-86-participants.html%20 - Papertrey Ink - Make it Monday Challenge #86 - The Inside Edition

http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-75-and-winners-of-74.html - Lexi's Creations Challenge Blog - Challenge #75 - Pink for Breast Cancer

Thanks for stopping by today.  Don't forget to see the post below for more Daydream Designs Hope for a Cure inspiration and some freebies along the way.

 

Blessings,

Karen

Hope For a Cure - Daydream Designs

As most of you are aware, it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  I appreciate the efforts of the various challenge blogs for making us all aware of this important issue.  But at Daydream Designs, we wanted to take it a step further and offer our HOPE, share some art, give you some FREEBIES, and let you know that we are PRAYING for a cure, and for peace in the hearts of those affected by Cancer and other serious illnesses.

The members of the Daydream Designs Dream Team join together as one voice on this one day in October to extend hope and encouragement to all those touched by cancer and other life-altering diseases or disorders, as well as their family members and loved ones. Every one of our Design Team Members has either personally battled cancer, or had a loved one (friend, family, etc.) who has been touched by it.  Some have witnessed the devastation of Alzheimer’s , or the struggles associated with Autism. Whatever the struggle, we have discovered the importance of hope and support.  We want you to know that we truly care, and that we pray for all those affected by these diseases.

We invite you to join us on this journey of hope, and as you visit each blog, it is our sincere desire that you will be inspired by the creative talents of our team as we each share our personal stories and powerful testimonies about our mighty God, Jesus Christ, who always with us through every trial we face. We’ve each designed projects using images and/or sentiments from the new Hope Endures series available at Daydream Designs.  There is an outline set available to create your own colored set, as well as these four primary colored lines:

Pink: Breast Cancer
Purple: All Cancer, Alzheimer’s
Yellow: Children’s Cancer, Bone Cancer, Military Support
Puzzle: Autism

http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-75-and-winners-of-74.html - Lexi's Creations Challenge Blog - Challenge #75 - Pink for Breast Cancer

 

When you visit Diane Noble's Blog, you will have the opportunity to download  four FREE IMAGES today only as a celebration of hope.  Each of the following Dream Team Designers have made some lovely cards and projects to inspire and encourage you using the Hope Endures sets from Daydream Designs.  I hope you will take a minute to visit them and say hello.

Beth Ullman

Diane Noble - Free Images Here

Helen Phelps

Jennipher Lowery

Jerusha Borden

Karen Letchworth - That's Me

Michelle Coon

Miesje Flach

Peggy Sue

Vickie Davis

 

I want to mention the following people in my life who have been directly affected by Breast Cancer or other forms of cancer.  They are:  Marie Ensign (my step-mother who had breast cancer and brain cancer), Angie Mahle (my dear friend, Sheila's, sister - a truly wonderful and greatly-missed young woman), Paula Pike (Design Team Member at Word Art Wednesday), Tami Stumo (a childhood friend who died of liver cancer this year), Tami Stumo's son, John Stumo, who suffers from severe Autism and misses his Mama, Jennifer Scull (co-crafter and on-line friend), Virginia Hager (my dear sweet Aunt who died of Skin Cancer), and Sherri Cohout (has breast cancer and undergoing a masectomy this week).  Believe me, as we all know, I could keep going and going.  Unfortunately, this list is longer than any of it wish it were.  That's why we offer hope, and why we are praying for a cure.

If you get a chance, I could really use your VOTES.  Please go to:  www.redcarpetstudiochallenge.blogspot.com and in the right-hand sidebar, under the category of Punny Card Projects, please vote for me (Karen).  I need all the help I can get. . . .LOL

Thanks so much for stopping by today, and I really do hope that you will visit the blogs of these other lovely ladies who have prepared projects to show their support and their sincere HOPE for a cure.  Please know that we really do pray, and that we truly care, and that's why Diane has created these images.  We want you to know that the Lord, Jesus Christ, really does love you, and really does care.  He alone can sustain us through every trial we face, and we encourage you to "cast all your worries on Him because He cares for you".

 

Praying for a cure,

 

Karen

Praising in Pink

This week at Word Art Wednesday, we are celebrating love.  The free word art/scripture is from 1 Corinthian Chapter 13 which speaks of "charity", which is the perfect "agape" love of God.  We would really LOVE to have you all join in our challenge.  You don't have to follow the theme of "love or charity", but it's more of a suggestion as to something we encourage you to thank God for this week.  His perfect "agape" love is the greatest gift we could ever have; as it offers us eternal life through believing in His precious Son, Jesus Christ.  We've been blessed to have Kimberly from My Craft Spot by Kimberly offer to be our primary sponsor for this week.  You will LOVE her darling shop filled with rubber stamps, baker's twine, scrunched seam binding and SO much more.  Please stop by and play along with us.  We'd love to see what you're creating this week.

 

Here are the challenges I'm entering:

http://reasonableribbon.blogspot.com/2012/10/rrr-challenge-57-pretty-in-pink-ribbon.html - Really Reasonable Ribbon Challenge Blog - Challenge #57 - Pretty in Pink and Ribbon

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-says-glimmer-and-sparkle.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Glimmer and Sparkle

http://digitaltuesdaychallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/180-text-me.html - Digital Tuesday Challenge Blog - Challenge #180 - Text Me - I used a digital text image/scripture (free this week at Word Art Wednesday)

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/challenge-38-october-2-october-8.html - Through The Craftroom Door - Anything Goes

 

http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-236-letters-numbers.html - Cute Card Thursday - Challenge #236 - Letters and Numbers - My favorite combination of letters and numbers would HAVE to be scriptures.  This one is 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-75-and-winners-of-74.html - Lexi's Creations Challenge Blog - Challenge #75 - Breast Cancer Awareness/Pink

http://www.craftyourpassionchallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/challenge-130-save-hooters.html - Crafty Your Passion Challenges - Challenge #130 - Save Your Hooters!  I got my DOUBLE D's squished recently in my annual mammogram.  I'm also making a special project October 9.  Take care of those hooters!  The image for this breast cancer aweareness card uses an image from Daydream Designs.

 

Thanks for stopping by, everone.  Don't forget to have your mammorgram done each year.  It could save your life.  It's always a blessing to share my art with you all.  I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this card, having you all stop by Word Art Wednesday to play along with us, and to visiting all of your blogs.  If you follow me, I will follow you.  I'm always looking for new blog friends, and remain ever grateful for my old/current ones.  God is SO GOOD, and I look forward to sharing His love with you all.  See you at Word Art Wednesday's Challenge.

Blessings to all,
Karen

Fun Challenge For Everyone

Did you all know that Mark's Finest Papers/Speedy TV has LOTS of great challenges for everyone?  All you need to do is click on the link to go to Mark's Finest Papers and sign up for Speedy TV.  It's absolutely free and you will have the opportunity to play along in several different great challenges, including the one I host called Sketch With a Twist.  You can win some darling free stamp sets just by entering challenges, and playing along in card swaps.  Check it out.

My dear friend, co-designer at Word Art Wednesday, and Sister in the Lord, Karen Conner, is our Guest Designer at SketchWith a Twist during the Month of October.  You can check out here sweet blog here:  Karen Conner's Blog - Once you've checked out the blog at Sketch With a Twist, please let me know if you're interested in Guest Designing there.

 

Here is the project I made for this week's challkenge, where the twist is to make a card or project with a shape other than the ordinary square or rectangle.  I used a Maya Road chipboard tree and stamped it up with Mark's Finest Papers Stamp Set -a Heinrich Co. set called Tweet That.  It's just a darling set that was just released in September.   Also, if you sign up for their free newsletter, you will get free money-saving coupons to get discounts on stamp sets.

 

Of course, I can't resist entering a challenge (or two).

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/2012/10/challenge-38-october-2-october-8.html - Through the Craftroom Door - Anything Goes - Sponsored by Bugaboo Stamps

http://www.papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/2012/10/happy-birthday-to-us-noel-xxx.html - Papertake Weekly - Happy 5th Birthday to You!

http://www.simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-leaf-spiration.html - Simon Says Stamp & Show - Leafspiration - Add Leaves

So, I really hope that you will check out all the fun at Mark's Finest Papers & Stamps and also, that you will play along in our current challenge at Word Art Wednesday.  There's so much fun all around us.  I hope that you will tell me about the fun challenges you're involved in also.  I love to join the fun.  How about you?

Have a blessed day.
Karen

Simple Little Note Card

I was so blessed to receive a surprise package in the mail the other day from an on-line friend.  It was filled with all kinds of goodies including stamped images (one of which I used on this card), flowers, die-cut images, ribbons and laces, papers, and more.  What a blessing to get something so wonderful in the mail, and to be able to give all the praise and thanks to the Lord because of the goodness of someone else who simply wanted to be a blessing and encouragement.  God is SO GOOD, and I thank Him for all the dear people He has introduced me to in blogland.  You are all such a blessing in my life, and I am grateful for each of you.



 

I found out that the sentiment is from Our Daily Bread Stamps, so I am SUPER excited to be able to link up this card in their current challenge.  I used a snippet of vintage sheet music for the challenges at Stampin' Sisters in Christ, and Our Daily Bread Designs, some machine stitching, some flowers and leaves (for the challenge at Simon Says Stamp & Show, and a metal key charm.

 

Here is a list of the challenges I'm entering:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/09/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

 

http://www.simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-leaf-spiration.html - Simon Says Stamp & Show Challenge Blog - Leaf-Spiration - Use Leaves

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-159-ephesians-519-20.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #159 - Use An Element of Music

 

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/09/challenge-4-thinking-of-you.html - Twist of Faith - Challenge #4 - Thinking of You

http://ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/odbdslc124-something-musical.html - Our Daily Bread Designs Blog - Challenge #124 - Something Musical

 

There's a special element on my card for each of these fun challenges.  It's fun combining challenges together.  Isn't it?

 

Hope you're all having a great day.  We enjoyed a good work-out at the YMCA, some lunch at Raisin' Canes, too much homeschooling to even talk about, and tonight. . . some family time.

 

Blessings,

Karen