Word Art Wednesday - So Thankful

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  We spent the day with family and friends, and the food was AWESOME!!  But like I tell everyone else, calories don't count on holidays, or at least that's what I'm telling myself for now.  Thanksgiving, and the Month of November, got me thinking.....My plan is to thank God every day for the many blessings in my life, and not just wait until Thanksgiving, or until I have a reason to specifically think about my blessings.  My goal is to simply maintain a constant attitude of gratefulness, and to verbalize that thankfulness to Him every day of my life.

This verse, Psalm 107:1, is the free scripture/word art file this week at Word Art Wednesday.  I warmly welcome you all to stop by and play along in our challenge.  We always have an Anything Goes theme.  You're more than welcome to save and use the scripture/word art, but are never required to do so.  You can enter anything encouraging, uplifting, or family-friendly.  I really do give MUCH thanks to the Lord because He truly is SO good.  I also thank Him for all He has done to bless my life, my little blog, and the ministry of Word Art Wednesday.  This verse simply saying, "for He is good" is the biggest under-statement ever.  He is AWESOME, and the blessings never end.  I really hope you will stop by Word Art Wednesday and share His goodness with us.

 

Here are the challenges I am entering with this card:

 

http://www.craftspotbykimberly.blogspot.com/2012/11/monday-challenge-77-showing-gratitute.html - My Craft Spot by Kimberly - Challenge #77 - Showing Gratitude.  I want to say how very grateful I am for Kimberly.  She is one of our sponsors at Word Art Wednesday, a lovely lady, a talented artist (check out her store), and just a gracious person - I am grateful to know her.

http://www.ladyanneschallenges.com/3/post/2012/11/stamp-challenge-anything-goes.html - Lady Anne's Challenges - Anything Goes

http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.ca/2012/11/simon-says-anything-goes.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Simon Says Anything Goes

 

http://milkcoffeechallenge.blogspot.ca/2012/11/thanksgiving-thankful-thank-yous.html - Milk Coffee Challenges - Thanksgiving/Thankful/Thank Yous - I want to give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  I am also thankful for Esme and the gals at Milk Coffee Digital Stamps - another generous sponsor of our challenges at Word Art Wednesday.

 

http://simplycreatetoo.blogspot.ca/2012/11/happy-birthday-were-one-contest.html - Simply Create Too Challenge Blog - Challenge #27 - Give Thanks

http://tuesdayalchemy.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-42-anything-goes.html - Tuesday Alchemy - Challenge #42 - Anything Goes

 

http://cardcrafterscircle.blogspot.ca/2012/11/challenge-50-giving-thanks.html - Card Crafter's Circle - Challenge #50 - Giving Thanks

http://celebratetheoccasion.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-90.html - Celebrate The Occasion - Challenge #90 - Thanksgiving/Thankfulness - I used a digital image from Word Art Wednesday (free this week) and a die-cut border.

 

http://raisethebarchallenge.blogspot.ca/2012/11/challenge-121.html - Raise The Bar Challenges - Challenge #121 - Thankful

http://www.vssweetideas.blogspot.com/2012/11/anything-goes-vsc-5-challenge.html - V's Sweet Ideas Challenge Blog - Anything Goes - I am also super grateful for Vanessa and her team.  Check out her AWESOME store.  V's Sweet Ideas is also a 2013 sponsor at Word Art Wednesday.

 

http://craftuscrazy.blogspot.ca/2012/11/challenge-31thankful-for-cutting-cafe.html - Craft us Crazy Challenges - Challenge #31 - Thankfulness - Craft us Crazy is thankful for The Cutting Cafe.  I understand and appreciate this.  I am SO grateful for all the companies that have sponsored our challenges at Word Art Wednesday.  I'm also grateful for Craft us Crazy for hosting this awesome challenge!  Thank you all.

 

http://yournextstamp.blogspot.ca/2012/11/ynsc-23-thank-you.html - Your Next Stamp Challenge Blog - Challenge #23 - Thank You - Check out the darling digital images at Your Next Stamp!!!

 

Thanks again for stopping by.  I am grateful for each of you, and sincerely appreciate your visits, your encouraging comments, and your friendship.  I look forward to visiting  your blogs as well, and I hope you will all share your art this week in our Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday.

 

Blessings to you all,

Karen

 

 

 

 

Holiday Gifts - The Kraft Journal

I can't believe that it's almost December.  Each year, I do a craft boutique at my church the first weekend in December.  Since this Saturday is actually December 1, they're holding the boutique this weekend - ready or not.  This little project is one that I made for the boutique.  I found this cute little jar with lid at my local thift store for $0.79 and I painted it in Martha Stewart's Robin's Egg Blue and put some vintage trim around the edge.  I hand stitched/embroidered the top and made it into a pin cushion, and added some seam binding to the side.  This jar is my Design Team project this week at The Kraft Journal, so I used a mini safety pin to hold a Tim Holtz Adage Ticket, and I also stuck some Jenni Bowlin Red Stick Pins in the pin cushion.  I'd like to invite you all to stop by The Kraft Journal and play along in this week's "Holiday Gifts" challenge.  You can also check out all the amazingly great deals at The Kraft Outlet.  They have all kinds of great kraft supplies, gift ideas and alterable gift items, as well as dozens of awesome and versatile embellishments.  I hope you will check out this awesome store and play along in this super fun challenge.

 

Here are the challenges I'm entering with this sweet little "Holiday Gift":

http://crafty-emblies.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/5th-challenge-vintage-shabby-chic.html - Crafty Embelies Challenge Blog - Altered Art - Challenge #5/Vintage Shabby Chic

http://dreamvalleychallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-46-non-traditional-christmas.html - Dream Valley Challenges - Challenge #46 - Non-Traditional Christmas

http://glitternsparklechallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-8.html - Glitter-n-Sparkle Challenge Blog - Challenge #8 - Ribbon or Lace (I used both)

http://www.citycrafter.blogspot.com/2012/11/city-crafter-challenge-blog-week-136.html - City Crafter Challenge Blog - Week #136 - I'll Be Home For Christmas

http://onestitchatatimechallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-141-fabric-ribbon-or-lace.html - One Stitch At a Time Challenge Blog - Challenge #141 - Fabric, Ribbon or Lace - I used all three.

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/pile-it-on-48-anything-but-christmas.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #48 - Anything But a Christmas Card

http://thesquirrelandthefox.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-31-anything-goes.html - The Squirrel and The Fox Challenge Blog - Challenge #31 - Anything Goes

http://2sisterschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-119-winter-wonder-land.html - 2 Sisters Challenge Blog - Challenge #119 - Winter Wonderland

http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-93-christmas.html - Wags-n-Whiskers Challenges - Challenge #93 - Christmas

http://www.hidinginmycraftroom.com/2012/11/himcr-73-christmas.html - Hiding In My Craft Room - Challenge #73 - Christmas

Thanks for visiting my little blog today.  I may not be posting a whole lot this week, or this weekend, because of the boutique.  I will, however, be taking my computer so that I can visit your blogs.  Happy crafting, and please be sure to play along with us this week at The Kraft Journal - Holiday Gifts Challenge.

Blessings,
Karen

Sympathy Card - Daydream Designs

It's never a good feeling when you have a reason to make a sympathy card.  However, it's always a blessing to me when I am able to use this amazing and beautifully comforting digital sympathy set from Daydream Designs.  Here is a link so that you can see this set up close and in detail.  It is called God's Comfort Sentiments and it sells for $3.95, and includes at least seven (7) different comforting sentiments.  On the inside, it says "With Sympathy".  All of the digital sets in the Daydream Designs Store are a great value for the price, made with excellent digital quality, and are absolutely gorgeous.

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

 

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-24-anything-goes.html - Creative Card Crew - Challenge #24 - Anything Goes

http://www.vssweetideas.blogspot.com/2012/11/anything-goes-vsc-5-challenge.html - V's Sweet Ideas Challenge Blog - Challenge #5 - Anything Goes - Check out one of the sweetest little shops on the the web!  Vanessa's store is chalk FULL of cuteness.

 

http://www.ladyanneschallenges.com/3/post/2012/11/stamp-challenge-anything-goes.html - Lady Anne's Challenges - Use a Stamped Image Real or Digital - Mine is a Digital Stamp from Daydream Designs
 

 http://pausedreamenjoychallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/ch-47-anything-goes.html - Pause, Dream, Enjoy Challenges - Challenge #47 - Anything Goes

http://anythingchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-80-stitching-real-or-faux.html - Anything Challenges - Challenge #80 - Stitching Real or Faux (mine is real)

http://brownsugarchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-17-anything-goes.html - Brown Sugar Challenge Blog - Challenge #17 - Anything Goes

http://thesquirrelandthefox.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-31-anything-goes.html - The Squirrel and The Fox Challenge Blog - Challenge #31 - Anything Goes

http://glitternsparklechallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-7.html - Glitter-n-Sparkle Challenge Blog - Challenge #7 - Lots of Layers - I have my card base, two patterned papers from Chatterbox, and a third layers with the sentiment.  I also have two layers of flowers held together with brads.

I appreciate your visit, and hope you're enjoying this nice long weekend.  Count your blessings, and thanks for stopping by to say hello.  I look forward to visiting your blogs as well.

Karen

Word Art Wednesday - Bless The Lord

I'd like to wish you all a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving.  I realize that many of you in other countries don't celebrate Thanksgiving this week, but I know you all well enough to realize that you're all still very thankful for the many blessings in your life.  God is SO good to us, and I just wanted to share this verse.  This week's free scripture/word art file at Word Art Wednesday is Psalm 37:1 and it tells us that we are able to bless the Lord.  I know that sounds a bit backwards because generally, we are used to thinking of how He blesses us; and not the other way around.  But God's Word tells us that when we keep His praise continually in our mouths (speak well of Him and call Him holy, pray to Him, share His goodness, etc.) that we are able to bless Him.  Since He has done SO much to bless us, I think it's only appropriate that we should also want to bless Him.  I really hope that you will join us this week at Word Art Wednesday for another Anything Goes challenge.  And, of course, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and a year filled with His blessings.

I made this card using some older My Mind's Eye patterned papers, machine stitching, flowers sent to me by my on-line friend and Sister in the Lord Jesus, Kathy Roney, and some seam binding, ribbon, and pearl swirls by Zva Creative.  That's about it.

 

And you all know me, I can't resist entering a few challenges, so here they are:

 

http://creativecraftchallenges2.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-bit-of-bingo.html - Creative Craft Challenges 2 - A Bit of Bingo - My Bingo is Diagonally (Lace, Stamp (digital) and Pastels).

 

http://anythingchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-80-stitching-real-or-faux.html - Anything Challenges - Challenge #80 - Stitching Real or Faux (mine is real)

 

http://flourishes.org/2012/11/timeless-tuesday-196/ - Flourishes/Timeless Tuesdays - Something That Makes You Feel Happy - Scripture ALWAYS makes me feel happy!

 

http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/2012/11/week-27-fun-with-ribbons-use-ribbon.html - Loves Rubber Stamps - Week #27 - Fun With Ribbons/Use Ribbon

 

http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/2012/11/ribbons-pearls.html - Paper Take Weekly Challenges - Ribbons and Pearls

 

Thanks so much for stopping by today.  I really do hope to see you participate this week at Word Art Wednesday/Anything Goes - we would LOVE to have you join us.  Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and don't forget to bless the Lord.

 

With a grateful heart,

Karen



 

 

Eureka Stamps - For The Kids

Hello blog friends!  I am very excited to share this sweet little card with you that I made for this week's challenge at Eureka Stamps.  I used Simple Stories' Baby Steps patterned papers and stickers.
 

 

Euereka Stamps was gracious enough to invite me to join them as a Guest Designer for this week's challenge, "FOR THE KIDS".  I chose this darling digi (#5906 Best Friends Sitting).  Isn't this just the sweetest little image?  I printed it on Bazzill, so it's a little bit bumpy/texturized, but I still thought it turned out cute.  I added the scripture Psalm 127:3a "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord."  I used this verse because when I think about kids, I just think about what a blessing they are to us, and what an important responsibility we have to train them up in the way that is right (Proverbs 22:6).  I am so grateful to God that my children are living for Him, and honoring Him in their lives.  But I can't take the credit for this.  I give Him ALL the thanks, ALL the glory, and I just can't express strongly enough to any one reading this post that our children are a gift given to us by God; and we really MUST raise them with controlled Christian disciline, love, encouragement, and the truth of Jesus Christ.  Child are our heritage, and we need to give them the brightest future possible - one that reflects the love and truth of Jesus Christ.

If any of you are raising children and are interested in a really good book about how to train them with a heart for the Lord, I would highly suggest "Shepherding a Child's Heart" by Tedd Tripp (click on link to view book). It has some wonderful (and very helpful) truths about training up our children. I think we all want our children to be joyful, well-rounded, and happy.  When my kids were younger, I always knew that I never wanted to be that family where people said, "oh no, here come the Letchworth kids".  I wanted to have children that people enjoyed having around.  Children who were fun, respectful, obedient and happy.  My husband and I were able to do that, by the grace of God, and by making some really tough decisions about how they would be raised.  I just want to be an encouragement to you (especially young parents).  Raising children should never be "a chore".  It should be (and can be) a JOY when you raise them for Him.  I really do encourage young parents to seek (and read/study) a copy of "Shepherding a Child's Heart".  If you apply it's teachings, get involved in a really good solid Christian church, and pray for them every day, you really can have happy, obedient children.  I'm here to attest that it CAN be done.  And......P.S. we even raised our kids in "Sin City"  (Las Vegas...LOL).  God is SO GOOD!

 

I really hope that you will all stop by Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog and join this week's "For The Kids" challenge.  You will really love the sweet digital images available in their shop, and have fun playing along in the challenge.  I am certain that they would LOVE to have you visit and join in the fun.

 

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

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-166-psalm-1273.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #166 - Create a Card For a Child

 

http://onestitchatatimechallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-140-use-digi.html - One Stitch At a Time - Challenge #140 - Use a Digital Image (mine is from Eureka Stamps)

 

http://sendasmile4kidschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/anything-goes-4-kids-challenge_17.html - Send a Smile 4 Kids Challenge - Anything Goes For Kids

 

http://paper-craftingjourney.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/anything-goes-challenge.html - Paper-Crafting Journey Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/11/12-children-are-gift.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #12 - Children Are a Gift

http://toptiptuesday.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-90-kids-teens.html - Top Tip Tuesday - Challenge #90 - Kids/Teens - And here's my Top Tip:  If you don't have just the right sentiment for a card or project, you can use a photo-altering website (such as www.picmonkey.com) and add the sentiment with a cool font/color to your image as I did on this card.

 

Thanks for stopping by today and for letting me bend your ear.  I never want to come across as though I know it all; because I most certainly DO NOT.  I only want to be a blessing and encouragement to you in successfully raising your precious children or grandchildren.  They are a gift from God, and I want each child to have the opportunity to live a lifetime filled with God's richest blessings bestowed upon them, and finally, to receive the assurance of an eternity with Him in heaven.  That's my wish "For The Kids".

 

My Cup Runneth Over,

Karen

 

 

Give Thanks - Daydream Designs

Since Thanksgiving is just around the corner, I've had the issue of thankfulness on my mind an awful lot.  My Bible studies this week have reminded me that we must give thanks in ALL things; even when it's incredibly difficult.  God always knows what's best for us, and His plan is always for our benefit when we're living for him.  So, with that in mind - I wanted to share another card that expresses my incredible thankfulness toward Him, and my unending praise.

 

It's always easy to make cards that bring praise, thanks and honor to the Lord Jesus Christ when I'm using Daydream Designs images.  This is one of the sentiments from the new Thanksgiving Sentiments set.  You can check out all the wonderful images here in Diane's sweet shop:  Daydream Designs.  I also used Simple Stories' Harvest Lane patterned papers and stickers, a Freckled Fawn tag (to print the image on), some PTI jute, and machine stitching.

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/simon-says-thanksgiving-thank-you.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Thanksgiving/Give Thanks

http://challenges4everybody.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-7-anything-goes.html - Challenges 4 Everybody - Challenge #7 - Anything Goes

http://www.creativeinspirationspaint.blogspot.com/2012/11/ci-paints-inspired-by-thankful-for-you.html - Creative Inspirations Paint - Thankful For You

http://scrappers-delights-challenge-blog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/thanks-challenge-18-nov.html - Scrappers' Delights Challenge Blog - Challenge November 18 - Thankfulness

http://thehappyscrapperschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/ch-7-autumn.html - The Happy Scrappers Challenges - Challenge #7 - Autumn

http://myshericrafts.blogspot.com/2012/11/my-sheri-crafts-challenge-098-give.html - My Sheri Crafts - Challenge #98 - Give Thanks

I am thankful for many things; my family, my husband, my home, my scrapbook supplies, my friends, my church, my pastor, my Mom and Dad, my health....this list could be endless.  But more than anything, I am grateful to God for sending His precious Son to die for my sins that I might have eternal life.   I just wanted to share the simple fact that I am SO THANKFUL.

 

Blessings,

Karen

Crate Paper - Little Bo Peep

While I was in Minnesota this past summer visiting my BFF of 42 years, Patti Lyn, we were at a scrapbook store in Pine City, Minnesota, and we fell so in love with this sweet Little Bo Peep line by Crate Paper.  She and I both bought it ALL, and made some cute albums and cards with it while we were together.  Then, at the end of my trip, we stopped back at that same scrapbook store and stocked up again because we both loved it SO much.  Well, about a month or so ago, I was on Melissa Phillips' Blog and saw an adorable album she had made with this lovely line.  I had to lift some of her ideas and make yet another album.  So, Melissa gets the creative credit for the ideas on the cover and a couple of pages.  I always try to put my own "spin" on things, but it was definitely inspired by Melissa, and it's always best to give credit when someone has inspired you.  Melissa is a humbly sweet woman, and she always feels blessed when she is able to inspire others with her talents.   I hope you will all stop by her sweet blog (here - Melisssa's Blog) if you've never seen it.  She is super creative, and.....a MUCH better photographer than I am. Someday I will learn. . . . .some day!

Glitter-n-Sparkle Challenge Blog - Challenge #6 - Things With Wings.  My cover page has this sweet bird, and my third page also has birds.  I couldn't resist sharing this.



 This third page is based on a challenge sketch at Paper Sweeties.  I used their sketch along with the sentiments from the Pennant Party Stamp Set.  I kept this page pretty simple so that a larger photo would fit here.  So, I'm sharing this particular page in the Paper Sweeties Challenge.

Here is the link:

http://www.papersweeties.com/uncategorized/introducing-paper-sweeties-sketch-inspiration-challenge-1/ - Paper Sweeties Challenge #1 - Sketch Inspiration.  I used the Pennant Party sentiments on this album page.  It's such a blessing when stamp sets are versatile enough to use on different projects.  You will just LOVE the sweet stamp sets  at Paper Sweeties.

 

http://pennyschallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-102-anything-goes.html?showComment=1352896038174 - Penny's Paper-Crafty Challenge Blog - Challenge #102/Anything Goes

 

http://challenges4everybody.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-7-anything-goes.html - Challenges 4 Everybody - Challenge #7 - Anything Goes

 

http://scrappers-delights-challenge-blog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/anything-goes-november-4th.html - Scrappers' Delights Challenge blog - November Challenge/Anything Goes

http://craftymesschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/21st-challenge-nursery-rhyme-characters.html - Crafty Mess Challenge Blog - Challenge #21 - Nursery Rhyme/Characters - I decided that since I used the Little Bo Peep line from Crate Paper, this is perfect for this challenge.

 

http://craftyribbonschallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-32.html - Crafty Ribbons Challenge Blog - Challenge #32 - Nursery Rhymes - I figured that since I used the Little Bo Peep line from Crate Paper for this project, it would fit into the Nursery Rhymes category.  The prize is also a Baby Collection - and that fits with my baby album theme.  I hope this is alright.  Everybody loves Little Bo Peep, right?

 

Thanks for stopping by to take a peek at my Little Bo Peep baby album by Crate Paper.  I have been working on getting things ready for a BIG upcoming craft boutique that I do every year at my church.  This year, it is scheduled for November 30 - December 1, so I need to GET BUSY!  Wish me luck, friends.  My "list" of projects sitting on my craft table is staggering.  We will see how much of it I get completed.

 

Have a blessed day!

 

Karen

Word Art Wednesday & Paper Sweeties

Since it's already Wednesday again, that means it's time for a new challenge at Word Art Wednesday and a new piece of free scripture/word art.  You can save it to your computer by visiting the blog here:  Word Art Wednesday - Anything Goes.  You are never required to use the free scripture/word art in order to play along, but it's there for you if you want it.  I just love making cards with scripture on them.  I give them to friends, family members and my church family when they need encouragement.  Here is the card I made for this week:

We would really love to have you stop by Word Art Wednesday and play along with us.  It's always more fun when you all can join us.  We hope to see YOU this week.

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-14-scripture-or-inspirational.html - Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #14 - Scripture or Inspirational - Use any digital or rubber stamp - this scripture is a free digital download at Word Art Wednesday

http://pennyschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-102-anything-goes.html - Penny's Paper Crafty Challenges - Challenge #102 - Anything Goes

http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/monthly-challenge-for-november.html - Forever Friends Challenge Blog - November Monthly Challenge/Anything Goes

http://useittuesday.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-43-be-thankful.html - Use It Tuesday - Challenge #43 - Be Thankful.  This first card takes me back to my childhood because I am SO grateful for parents and grandparents that helped me learn the importance of memorizing and using Bible scriptures.  Knowing scripture helps us to not sin against God.  The second card I shared is also a THANK YOU card, so I really enjoyed this challenge.
 

I also made this second card LATE last night for the challenge over at Paper Sweeties.  If you haven't checked out Paper Sweeties yet, you will definitely want to do so.  They're having a big release of new stamps, as well as an event on Facebook.  Stop by, say hello to Debbie and her talented Design Team, and order some darling stamps so you can play along.  Prices are very fair, and shipping rates are quite reasonable.

http://www.papersweeties.com/uncategorized/introducing-paper-sweeties-sketch-inspiration-challenge-1/ - Paper Sweeties - Sketch Challenge #1 - I used the adorable Pennant Party Stamp Set and the Ambrosia Canteloupe Seam Binding from Paper Sweeties Shop.  Adorable!!

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/simon-says-thanksgiving-thank-you.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Thanksgiving/Thank You Cards

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/pile-it-on-46-lets-be-thankful.html - Pile It On Challenges - Challenge #46 - Let's Be Thankful

http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-92-be-thankful.html - Wags-N-Whiskers Challenge Blog - Challenge #92 - Be Thankful

http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/paper-pretties-wednesday-challenge_14.html - Paper Pretties Challenge Blog - Challenge #14 - Buttons - I made my button to match my project by taking a clear button and backing it with matchine patterned paper.  Works great to help match products with the buttons you use.  Fun idea.

http://happycamperscc.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/happy-campers-challenge-no-4-use-bright.html - Happy Camers Challenges - Challenge #4 - Use Bright Colors.  Card Recipe:  My bright colors include layering three patterned papers and one journaling card from Simple Stories that I machine stitched, I used Paper Sweeties stamps and canteloupe seam binding.  My crafty tip is that I also made a matching button for this card using a clear button that I backed with the matching Simple Stories paper (this is a great way to make embellishments that match your project), and I finished the hand-made buttons by adding hot pink and brown baker's twine tied in a bow.

Thanks for visiting me today.  I look forward to stopping by and seeing your art for this week, and hope that you will all share your creations with us at Word Art Wednesday - Anything Goes.

Have a blessed day,
Karen

JustRite Stampers - Gift Card Holder

Some people are more difficult to buy for than others. That's where I become a big fan of gift cards.  This project is a simple and darling little gift card holder that I made for a particular friend of mine.  She's a HUGE Starbucks fan, and so. . . .I decided to make a simple little gift card holder for her. I used some new Simple Stories patterned papers to decorate a glassine bag for her.  This is one of those "one-size-fits-all gifts" that I know will be a big hit.  I took a small glassine bag, adhered a Simple Stories patterned paper to the base, and then sewed on a piece of patterned paper which I embellished using JustRite Nature's Nested Sentiments stamp that I stamped on a Spellbinders Romantic Rectangles die-cut and then threaded through some red Baker's Twine,  Next, I stamped two other  JustRite stamps from the Greetings From Paris collection; one of which is stamped on a Papertrey Ink mini stamp Die-cut (toward the bottom).  I cut a border strip from Simple Stories patterned paper using an EK Success border punch which I machine stitched to the top of the glassine bag insert (which is a Starbucks gift card holder) using Simple Stories patterned paper, a bow made from seam binding from Paper Sweeties and a glittered star, a few little buttons, and it's all tucked safely inside the glassine bag. 

The photo makes it difficult to show where the gift card goes, but it's a really easy gift idea.  That's why I like to make these.  I'm entering the following challenges with this project:

 

http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/2012/11/justrite-friday-challenge-085-happy-holidays.html - JustRite Stampers Challenges - Friday Challenge #85 - Happy Holidays - Use Two or More Die Cuts - I used the Spellbinders Romantic Rectangles and the Papertrey Ink Mini Postage Stamp Die-Cut, along with three JustRite rubber stamps.

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/simon-says-thinking-of-you-sympathy.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Thinking of You Project

http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/monthly-challenge-for-november.html - Forever Friends Challenge Blog - November Challenge - Anything Goes

http://scrappers-delights-challenge-blog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/anything-goes-november-4th.html - Scrappers Delights Challenge Blog - November 4-11/Anything Goes

http://ladyanneschallenges.weebly.com/3/post/2012/10/anything-goes-must-use-a-stamp-digital-or-otherwise.html - Lady Anne's Challenge - Anything Goes (Using Stamps - Mine are rubber stamps from JustRite Stampers)

http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/anything-goes.html - Sweet Stampin' Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

http://2sisterschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-117-use-your-favorite.html - Two Sisters Challenge Blog - Challenge #117 - Use Your Favorite Christmas Stamp

http://challenges4everybody.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-7-anything-goes.html - Challenges 4 Everybody - Challenge #7 - Anything Goes

http://simplycreatetoo.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-26-use-your-stash.html - Simply Create Too Challenge Blog - Challenge #26 - Use Your Stash - I used a glassine bag.  I bought these bags (in bulk) many years ago, and have yet to use them up, and so I'm determined now to make more of these gift card holders using them.

 

I'm so happy that you stopped by to visit my blog today.  It's always so good to hear from you and to know what you've been up to.  Hope you're all having a blessed week.

 

Karen

It's Almost Turkey Time

It's Monday again, and that means it's time for another fun new challenge at The Kraft Journal.  This week's theme is Turkey Time, so we want to see all of  your fun projects using Kraft paper or other products from The Kraft Outlet, and if you are looking for high-quality Kraft paper packs, then The Kraft Outlet is just the place for you.  They have great prices, low shipping rates, and an AWESOME selection of Kraft paper in various paper weights (all of which are great quality for your various crafting projects).  You will definitely want to check it out.

 

I made this mini Thanksgiving Memories album by cutting up the piece of cardboard that came free with my Kraft Outlet paper order.  I simply cut it into four squares, covered it in Kraft Lunch Bag Cardstock and then embellished it with various embellishments from The Kraft Outlet, including the darling Jenni Bowlin Memo Note Book pages that I ran through the computer and cut into strips,  and a Mini Burlap Triangle.  Obviously, there are also a few other embellishments on my cover page that are not from the Kraft Outlet. 

On the second page of the book, again I used the Jenni Bowlin Memo Book Pages that I ran through the computer to print off several sentiments (Thanksgiving Memories, Poor Old Tom Turkey, Family Traditions, Give Thanks to God, I Love That Smile).  These darling Jenni Bowlin Memo Notebook pages are darling when used whole (which I did by tucking them into the pockets for journaling) or for sentiment strips.

On the second and third pages, I also used the Tim Holtz Memo Pins again, and the adorable Mini Bottle Caps. They are all adhered to the sweet little Mini Lunch Bag Kraft Envelopes which work so perfectly for decorating and using as journaling spots by tucking the Jenni Bowlin Memo Book Pages inside them. Also, the little buttons are decorated with the Orange Baker's Twine and the Brown Baker's Twine for an extra touch.





 Here are the challenges I'm entering with this Turkey Time/Thankfulness Project:

 

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/pile-it-on-46-lets-be-thankful.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #46 - Let's Be Thankful

 

http://www.paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/paper-pretties-wednesday-challenge.html - Paper Pretties Blog - Wednesday Challenge - Thank You

 

http://tuesdaythrowdown.blogspot.com/2012/11/tuesday-throwdown-123.html - Tuesday Throwdown Challenge Blog - Challenge #123 - Autumn Leaves

 

http://bellichallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/belli-challenge-156-harvestfruit.html - Belli Challenge Challenge Blog - Challenge #156 - Harvest/Fruit

 

http://blog.ribboncarousel.com/2012/11/rcc74-fall-spirit.html - The Ribbon Carousel - Challenge #74 - Fall Spirit

 

http://www.thehousethatstampsbuilt.com/designers-choice-challenge/dcc117-anything-that-gives-thanks/  The House That Stamps Built - Challenge #117 - Anything That Gives Thanks

 

http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-92-be-thankful.html - Wags-n-Whiskers - Challenge #92 - Be Thankful

 

http://audsentimentschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-67-thanks.html - Aud Sentiments Challenge Blog - Challenge #67 - Thanks

 

http://cardmakinmamas.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-challenge-time.html - Card Makin' Mamas - Thanksgiving

 

I hope you will take the time to check out all the wonderful products at The Kraft Outlet.  I promise that you will be impressed with their prices, variety, quality, and reasonable shipping rates,  Check it out and get to shopping!  The friendly staff is looking forward to meeting you.

 

Karen





 

Paper Sweeties

Hello friends!  I would like to share with you all a simple little card I made with some new stamps I got from a wonderful (and fairly new) company called Paper Sweeties.  Many of you who play along at The Shabby Tea Room may have heard of Paper Sweeties, or its owner, the very sweet and talented Debbie Marcinkiewicz.  If you aren't familiar yet, you will most definitely want to take a moment to stop by her sweet little shop, Paper Sweeties.  I made this card using the darling Paper Sweeties' Happy Fall Ya'All Stamp Set as well as the adorable You're My Hero Stamp Set and it's embellished with Debbie's delightful Lacey Blueberry Seam Binding.

 

I just got some of Paper Sweeties stamp sets, and let me just say - they are a GREAT value for the money, and are wonderful quality clear acrylic stamps.  Just wait until you see the darling little "paper dolls", or what Debbie calls "Paper Sweeties" stamps.  They are adorable, and you can dress them in different outfits/themes for every season or occasion.  The seam binding is also wonderful, and shipping fees are more than fair.  Please be sure to stop by and check out all the wonderful products.  If you buy some, or if you are lucky enough to already own some, you can play along in the monthly sketch challenge on the blog.  Be sure to let Debbie know that I sent you.  She will be SUPER happy to meet you.

 

I'm entering the following challenges with this little Paper Sweeties card:

 

http://www.papersweeties.com/uncategorized/introducing-paper-sweeties-sketch-inspiration-challenge-1/ - Paper Sweeties Blog - Paper Sweeties Sketch Inspiration Challenge #1

 

http://www.creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-23-silver-and-blue.html - Creative Card Crew Challenge Blog - Challenge #23 - Silver and Blue

http://alotarubberstamps.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-94-blue-and-white.html - Alota Rubber Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #94 - Blue and White

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/11/pile-it-on-45-make-it-sparkle.html - Pile It On Challenge Blog - Challenge #45 - Make it Sparkle.  I used silver Stickles, which always help make things sparkle.

http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/all-that-glitters.html - Sweet Stampin' Challenge Blog - All That Glitters - I used silver Stickles to help make my project glitter.

 

I appreciate your visit.  Thanks for stopping by, and have a blessed day.

 

Karen

 

Give Thanks In All Things

Please know, my friends, that I completely understand how difficult it is to be thankful when you're disappointed.  I am disappointed as I write this post, and yet. . . . .I am SO incredibly thankful to God for all the blessings in my life.  Our Pastor was preaching on Sunday night about the fact that regardless of any circumstances, God's children never have to worry about the future.  He WILL provide for our needs - food and raiment.  The sparrows of the air never go hungry, and just look at how beautifully God covers them.  Clearly, if He provides for their needs (which He always does), then surely. . . .He will always provide for our needs.  We have NOTHING to fear, and we need to ALWAYS be thankful.  Satan is going to try our faith, but don't let Satan gain ANY ground.  Always continue to thank God for the many blessings in your life, and NEVER doubt that He will ALWAYS provide for your needs.

I created this card using Simple Stories patterned papers and an October Afternoon patterned paper, a small bit of vintage sheet music, a Daydream Designs Bingo card, the free scripture word art sentiment this week from Word Art Wednesday, a few little Recollections mini pearls, a hand-cut felt leaf, and a few Simple Stories Autumn stickers.  I machine stitched the edges, inked it with Tim Holtz ink, and that's about it.  This is a DOUBLE PRIZE WEEK at Word Art Wednesday and I encourage you to stop by, save the free word art/scripture, and enter your art in our challenge.  Our theme is always Anything Goes, and we would love to have you join us.

 

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

 

 http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-164-colossians-13-5.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #164 - Thankfulness

http://www.twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com/2012/11/10-sketch-challenge.html - Twist of Faith Cards - Challenge #10 - Sketch Challenge

http://thepaperplayers.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-120-anns-give-thanks-theme.html - The Paper Players Challenge Blog - Challenge #120 - Ann's Give Thanks Theme

http://thecraftypad.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-195-anything-goes-at-crafty.html - The Crafty Pad Challenge Blog - Challenge #195 - Anything Goes

http://paperplaychallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/12-week-44-thanks-bunch.html - Paper Play Challenges - Week #44 - Thanks a Bunch

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-13-thanksgiving.html - Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #13 - Thanksgiving

http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/189-thankful-robyns-fetish.html - Dutch Dare Challenge Blog - Challenge #189 - Thankful

I hope that each of you who has stopped by today will take this one thing away from reading my post, and that is this - IN EVERYTHING, BE THANKFUL.  Don't look at all the bad things about a situation or circumstance.  Look for the blessing, the lesson, the hand of God providing for your needs.  Just be thankful.  I sure am thankful for each of you, and I'm so glad that you visited today.

Be blessed,
Karen

Tooth Fairy Boxes

I saw these little plastic containers at my local Dollar Tree, and they were $1 for a package of 8.  Right away, I had this idea that I wanted to make little containers to hold lost teeth for the Tooth Fairy.  I'm always looking for cute little ideas for the big Craft Boutique I do each year at my church, and it's coming up soon.  So, I was really happy that I got these done so quickly.  I think I'm going to go back and get at least one more package since they were SO easy to make.  It will be a cute little gift idea for kids to be able to place their lost tooth in this sweet little container (the lid pops right off) and place it under their pillows in the hopes of the Tooth Fairy coming.  As Christians, of course we know there is no "Tooth Fairy", but at our house, we always did these fun little things for the kids.  All I did was paint the plastic caps, adhere some wide ribbon around the outside of the container, and then embellish the lid with a button, some strings, and a mini safety pin holding a little image I printed off onto tiny tags on the computer.  Easy enough.

 

 

Lucky me, I even found a few challenges where I can share these little goodies.

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-says-get-in-shape.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Simon Says Get in Shape.  These are definitely a unique shape.

http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/2012/11/challegne-241-fairies-angels.html - Cute Card Thursday Challenge Blog - Challenge #241 - Fairies or Angels

http://addicted-to-stamps-challenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-42.html - Addicted to Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #42 - Things With Wings

http://totallygorjuss.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-155-things-with-wings.html - Totally Gorjuss Challenges - Challenge #155 - Things With Wings

http://flutterbywednesdays.blogspot.com/2012/10/flutter-by-wednesday-212.html - Flutter By Wednesdays - Challenge #212 - Butterfly or Fairie

http://thecraftypad.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-195-anything-goes-at-crafty.html - The Crafty Pad Challenge Blog - Challenge #195 - Anything Goes

I still have SO much work to do before I'm even remotely ready for this Craft Boutique, but I'm trying.  At least it's "fun work", right?  Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful week my friends.

Karen

Happy Harvest - The Kraft Journal

It's hard to believe that November is already upon us, and that Christmas is just around the corner.  This is an exciting post for me because this is my first project as a new Design Team Member for The Kraft Journal and it's such a blessing to be able to design with the beautiful products avalailable in The Kraft Outlet.  This week's challenge is called Happy Harvest.  I've made two projects for this challenge.

The first project is a gift bag I made using a Kraft Coffee Bag With Window that I decorated using several different embellishments.  I made my So Very Thankful sentiments by running the darling little Jenni Bowlin Memo Books pages through the computer and then cutting them into strips.  I also used some various Tim Holtz metal clips including the Memo Clips and miniature paper clips.  The Kraft Outlet has SO many darling products and accents, and what I love the most about their products is the fact that they are SO affordable.  You can get A LOT for your money - and after all, aren't we all looking for a good deal?

This picture shows you a closer view of the Mini Kraft Merchandise Bags and the sweet little Jenni Bowlin Office Chipboard Buttons that I inked and used as a backdrop for a felt flower.  I also tucked another Jenni Bowlin Memo Book page inside the mini bag for journaling.  Too cute, aren't they?  I believe the mini kraft bags are 20 cents each.  Such a bargain, and oh, SO cute.

The second project is one of The Kraft Outlet's awesome Natural Smooth Large Journals that I covered in a page torn from a vintage story book I had, and made it into a Book of Thankfulness/Prayer Journal.  These beautiful journals are lined on each page, are super easy to decorate, and as we all know. . . .Prayer Journals make GREAT gifts.

 

For those of you who are new to my blog (by way of The Kraft Journal Challenge), I warmly invite you to become a new follower, and please know that I will pop on over to your blogs to also visit and follow you.  I look forward to seeing what you will create for this fun Happy Harvest Challenge.

 

Before I go, I can't resist entering a few challenges.

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-says-get-in-shape.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Get in Shape (my two projects are most certainly unusual shapes. . .LOL)

 

http://www.stampinsistersinchrist.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-164-colossians-13-5.html - Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Challenge #64 - Thankfulness

http://thepaperplayers.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-120-anns-give-thanks-theme.html - The Paper Players Challenge Blog - Challenge #120 - Ann's Give Thanks Theme

http://paperplaychallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/12-week-44-thanks-bunch.html - Paper Play Challenge Blog - Challenge for Week #44 - Thanks a Bunch

http://chocolatecoffeecards.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-25-stripes.html - Chocolate Coffee Cards Challenge Blog - Challenge #25 - Stripes  (I used some striped patterned paper)

http://fatpageswithattitude.blogspot.com/ - Fat Pages With Attitude Challenge Blog - Add a Sentiment/Anything Goes

http://thatcraftplaceblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/tic-tac-toe.html - That Craft Place Challenge Blog - Tic Tac Toe Challenge - My tic tac toe is vertically (Dies, Borders, Buttons) - My Die-Cuts are from Papertrey Ink, My Border is a Martha Stewart border punch, and I used vintage buttons as well as chipboard buttons.

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/2012/11/challenge-13-thanksgiving.html - Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog - Challenge #13 - Thanksgiving

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

http://thecraftypad.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/challenge-195-anything-goes-at-crafty.html - The Crafty Pad Challenge Blog - Challenge #195 - Anything Goes

http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/2012/11/189-thankful-robyns-fetish.html - Dutch Dare Challenges - Challenge #189 - Thankful

 

Thanks so much for stopping by today.  I am really excited to be part of the amazingly talented Design Team at The Kraft Outlet/The Kraft Journal and hope you will stop by and play along, as well as checking out all the Designers' blogs.  They'd LOVE to have you visit.

 

Have a blessed week.

 

Karen

 

 

Let Your Light So Shine

The very talented Diane Noble of Daydream Designs recently designed three new beautiful scripture sets that are now available in her sweet little shop, which you can find here:  Scripture Set 2 at Daydream Designs and let me just say. . . .you won't be disappointed.  These beautiful scripture digis are beyond gorgeous, and I am certain that you will want to own all three sets.  I know that Diane would love to have you visit the store and say hello.  Please take a moment to stop on over and check out all the gorgeous new items she has recently added to Daydream Designs (as well as the oldies, but goodies).  The value of Daydream Designs' images are exceptional for what you get in each set.

 All I did to create this sweet little paper bag pocket, all ready for gift-giving, was to take an ordinary brown paper bag and fold it in half.  Next, I stitched around the sides to create a little pocket.  I covered the outside of the pocket with the scripture which is printed on Simple Stories patterned paper and inked.  Next, I made little pocket inserts that can either be used as photo mats, bookmarks, gift card holders, or journaling mats.  I decorated each one with matching Simple Stories journaling cards, patterned papers and stickers.  Then I embellished a bit here and there with baker's twine, buttons, chipboard, stickers and a stick pin.  Both pockets are stuffed and ready to hide away photos or memories.  I've taken out one of the pocket inserts to give you a closer look.  Here is the back pocket tag (both sides of each tag are decorated, but I didn't photograph them all) just to give you an idea of what I did:

 

Of course, I can't resist entering a few challenges.  Here they are:

 

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/simon-says-get-in-shape.html - Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - Simon Says GET IN SHAPE.  I don't know quite what shape this paper bag pocket is, but it's not a square.  It kinda sticks out in every direction.  LOL

 

http://theribbonreelchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-40-over-rainbow.html - The Ribbon Reel Challenge Blog - Challenge #40 - Over the Rainbow - This little paper bag pocket has all the colors of the rainbow, and then some!

 

http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/monthly-challenge-for-november.html - Forever Friends Challenge Blog - November Challenge/Anything Goes

 

http://thepinkelephantchallenge.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-pink-elephant-challenge-tpe172.html - The Pink Elephant Challenge Blog - Challenge #172 - Vintage or Shabby - I hope this qualifies.  I think it's kinda "shabby" looking with all my stitching, vintage touches and inking mess.  LOL

 

http://fabnfunkychallenges.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/challenge-145-die-cuts-punches.html - Fab-n-Funky Challenges - Challenge #145 - Die Cuts and Punches - I used an EK Success Border Punch (twice) and a Heart Die-Cut as well as a flag die-cut.

 

http://stampinfortheweekend.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/challenge-20-anything-goes.html - Stampin' For The Weekend - Challenge #20 - Anything Goes - I used a digital stamp/image from Daydream Designs

 

http://chocolatecoffeecards.blogspot.com/2012/10/challenge-24-stitching.html - Chocolate Coffee Cards Challenge Blog - Challenge #24 - Stitching - My signature embellishment - gotta love the stitching.

 

Thanks for stopping by to visit.  Please know that I've been praying for those of you affected by Hurricane Sandy.  I hope you're all safe inside, and that you've been kept from harm.  My heart goes out to those who have suffered loss (in any form) from this, or any other tragic occurrence.  May God be with you, and may His name be glorified and praised always.

 

Have a blessed week,

 

Karen