tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16529839531040556582024-03-14T04:58:11.413-05:00Petals To Polka DotsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-42651854464827820402012-02-18T21:53:00.000-06:002012-02-18T21:53:20.233-06:00Follow Me......over to my new blog that is! Sometimes a girl just needs some change in her life. And for me, it was time for a fresh blogging start. My new blog is called <a href="http://ellenaspaperhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ellena's Paper House</a> and I do hope you will come and visit me there from now on. I have missed you all so much! I plan to blog more and create more and hope you will continue to follow me along the way. <br />
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XOXO, NikiAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-15030083174807272952011-07-20T18:43:00.000-05:002011-07-20T18:43:20.294-05:00Simple Little Things<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="203" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's what is on my mind and heart today. Just simple little things that bring a smile or giggle. All the stuff that makes the everyday ordinary into something extraordinary. </div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="203" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="203" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a closure_uid_1sm42t="349" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JguW51n6EQQ/TidjIltQDtI/AAAAAAAAAXM/PVPk9_-6FV0/s1600/floralframe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JguW51n6EQQ/TidjIltQDtI/AAAAAAAAAXM/PVPk9_-6FV0/s400/floralframe2.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="203" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="203" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Maybe it's spending time with a true friend, just hanging out and soaking up some summer sun...</div><br />
<div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="229" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bUTmwuonxU/Tidkb_Z12DI/AAAAAAAAAXc/5ViEFdYoYkA/s1600/July+4th+weekend+1+047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8bUTmwuonxU/Tidkb_Z12DI/AAAAAAAAAXc/5ViEFdYoYkA/s400/July+4th+weekend+1+047.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="383"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="383">Or perhaps it's something fresh picked; ripe and juicy and ready to top of some ice cream or make their way into a fresh pie...</div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="383"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="259" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cpQ1Gdh2BmA/TidjYrXLJPI/AAAAAAAAAXU/harSSCZuy2E/s1600/strawberries1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cpQ1Gdh2BmA/TidjYrXLJPI/AAAAAAAAAXU/harSSCZuy2E/s400/strawberries1.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="384"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="384">An ice cold treat on a hot steamy day always makes my heart and taste buds smile...</div><div closure_uid_1sm42t="384"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="285" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9q07GZp85Hw/TidkKU4_vMI/AAAAAAAAAXY/94h0xLZ5aoQ/s1600/July+4th+weekend+3+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9q07GZp85Hw/TidkKU4_vMI/AAAAAAAAAXY/94h0xLZ5aoQ/s640/July+4th+weekend+3+030.jpg" t$="true" width="356" /></a></div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="285" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="285" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A "sweet" little picture frame; altered simply with just a few key embellishments to make it pop...a cherished picture that speaks of love...</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="285" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="315" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8aKXObBO5o/TidjP_1L32I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/isUkJPbDSOM/s1600/floralframe1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8aKXObBO5o/TidjP_1L32I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/isUkJPbDSOM/s400/floralframe1.jpg" t$="true" width="363" /></a></div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="315" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="315" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes, that's what is on my mind today. Simple things that often are taken for granted; gifts that are there for us each day to receive and treasure. Enjoy the simple today!</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="315" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" closure_uid_1sm42t="315" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO, Nik</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-65393137663050744642011-07-13T20:53:00.001-05:002011-07-13T20:56:18.794-05:00There's a new guy in town...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...and he is the cutest thing you have ever seen; literally! Meet Radar, my dad's new little puppy. Is he not the most precious thing ever? Just look at that face!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AdB-iX_Usko/Th5FF7CqOBI/AAAAAAAAAWo/3alQE3nnwNI/s1600/radar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AdB-iX_Usko/Th5FF7CqOBI/AAAAAAAAAWo/3alQE3nnwNI/s400/radar1.jpg" width="351" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> He is a Brittany Spaniel; the third dog of this loving breed that my parents have been happy to raise. My dad is a big time hunter; pheasant, duck, deer, elk. Brittanies are fabulous hunting dogs and wonderful companions. And did I already mention that he is incredibly cute?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rPNd_qv4bYY/Th5FOWr3eUI/AAAAAAAAAWs/KaLfxdAOkYs/s1600/radar2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rPNd_qv4bYY/Th5FOWr3eUI/AAAAAAAAAWs/KaLfxdAOkYs/s400/radar2.jpg" width="357" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My parents asked the kiddos and I to puppy sit yesterday and of course I had to bring a little something for the new little guy. He was the inspiration for the puppy gift set project below. Now, my papers that I used are a couple years old. I have been hanging on to this puppy paper from the <a href="http://basicgrey.com/">Basic Grey</a> June Bug line; thinking maybe I needed to buy a puppy just so I could use this ultra cute paper for something. And now I had the perfect opportunity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaGN-mP6uQU/Th5FaXsnJuI/AAAAAAAAAWw/EPCE5Yjjg9k/s1600/puppycard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaGN-mP6uQU/Th5FaXsnJuI/AAAAAAAAAWw/EPCE5Yjjg9k/s400/puppycard.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wanted a simple little card for my ma and pa, just to say congrats on their new little dude. The papers are all from the older Basic Grey line June Bug, craft paper from Archivers and the mini alpha stickers are from Glitz Design. All puppies need treats for good behavior so a goodie jar was in order. I love these glass jars that you can find at your local Target store. So versatile for all sorts of gift giving.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YI6sIQY25dw/Th5Fej-063I/AAAAAAAAAW0/LRyvgiFJ_wM/s1600/treatjar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YI6sIQY25dw/Th5Fej-063I/AAAAAAAAAW0/LRyvgiFJ_wM/s400/treatjar.jpg" width="335" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next up, a little picture frame to hold a sweet pic of this little guy's cute furry face. I hand cut several of the puppies from the paper and adhered them with pop dots for dimension.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uov1rvhUxQ/Th5Fkp3s-lI/AAAAAAAAAW4/nAbxnc-V63w/s1600/puppyframe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uov1rvhUxQ/Th5Fkp3s-lI/AAAAAAAAAW4/nAbxnc-V63w/s400/puppyframe2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A little twine, some kraft paper, a couple bone buttons and paint and it was done!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPSdMpva_Ek/Th5FucF7tVI/AAAAAAAAAW8/XFeUH4qFqHY/s1600/puppyframe1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPSdMpva_Ek/Th5FucF7tVI/AAAAAAAAAW8/XFeUH4qFqHY/s400/puppyframe1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPaRbRvl_cI/Th5F08EdBgI/AAAAAAAAAXA/bf5_7W0EQUA/s1600/puppytags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPaRbRvl_cI/Th5F08EdBgI/AAAAAAAAAXA/bf5_7W0EQUA/s400/puppytags.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And the scraps did not go to waste either. I put those to good use and made up a few puppy themed tags. You just never know when there might be another fur baby that will need a gift or two. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hjhuDKgo-eE/Th5GsWizUFI/AAAAAAAAAXE/JST3ObgCLzU/s1600/radar3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hjhuDKgo-eE/Th5GsWizUFI/AAAAAAAAAXE/JST3ObgCLzU/s400/radar3.jpg" width="325" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's all for tonight. I am off to call my parents to check on sweet Puppy Radar and see how he is adjusting to his new home. Thanks for visiting me!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO, Nik</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-90844472822333599042011-07-05T16:05:00.000-05:002011-07-05T16:05:28.338-05:00Happy Birthday America!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Well, I am a day late with this post, but we have had a busy weekend. Lots of sun, fireworks, family time, swim time and so much more. I love Independence Day, don't you?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qBqB-7EG_oE/ThM_Y7xaS7I/AAAAAAAAAWY/iJeniTYYj3s/s1600/Colesparkler1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qBqB-7EG_oE/ThM_Y7xaS7I/AAAAAAAAAWY/iJeniTYYj3s/s400/Colesparkler1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>I also love messing around and playing with simple photo editing on <a href="http://picnik.com/">Picnik</a>. I am sure most of you already know about this little editing site, but I felt like sharing a couple of pictures that I used their 4th of July features on. Above I added the fun little stars to Cole's picture. And below, I used the colorwash of red, white and blue for Desi's sparkler picture. The brackets are also from <a href="http://picnik.com/">Picnik</a>; so cute to frame a picture that way. Love it. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqFxibs88Sg/ThM6SoQQVVI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/uHsJVcSgijw/s1600/Desisparkler1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqFxibs88Sg/ThM6SoQQVVI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/uHsJVcSgijw/s400/Desisparkler1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Don't get me wrong; I love the vibrant, patriotic colors of red, white and blue and how they majestically represent our country. But what fun it is to shabby them up a little every now and then. Just a little sepia here and there. Pretty, simple, nostalgic and oh so shabby - love that. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpdOnizldJs/ThM8elF7idI/AAAAAAAAAWU/ONhTe9sW0NM/s1600/Flag1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpdOnizldJs/ThM8elF7idI/AAAAAAAAAWU/ONhTe9sW0NM/s640/Flag1.jpg" width="353" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">The 4th also brings about a whole new season of crafting possibilities. It is such a short time that we leave these kind of decorations up, so I had hoped to get started early. That didn't happen, so my red, white and blue will probably adorn the house all summer long because I love it so. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLkShCxJm2c/ThNAtel-8FI/AAAAAAAAAWg/Iadl7M8-RIw/s1600/pinwheels3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLkShCxJm2c/ThNAtel-8FI/AAAAAAAAAWg/Iadl7M8-RIw/s400/pinwheels3.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I used a variety of product on these simple but pretty pinwheels. The patterned paper is from <a href="http://www.rangerink.com/products/prod_idea-ology_paperie_paperStash-seasonal.htm">Tim Holtz's seasonal paper stack</a>. His grungy style makes my heart sing and he is so clever at bringing us fantastic products to craft with. I cannot wait to see what he and Ranger have in store for us at CHA. The red polka dot paper is from <a href="http://www.bobunny.com/doubledotdesigns.html">Bo Bunny</a>; love their double dot papers. The paint can is just from Home Depot; I filled it with floral foam and then topped it with shredded music paper. The "sticks" that the pinwheels sit atop of are simply pencils that I painted antique white and hot glued to the back of the pinwheels. I covered the hot glued area on the back with a punched scallop circle for a more finished look. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--_ac-HpdBbE/ThNDZf5AGkI/AAAAAAAAAWk/ZF8eulRKSnQ/s1600/pinwheels2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--_ac-HpdBbE/ThNDZf5AGkI/AAAAAAAAAWk/ZF8eulRKSnQ/s400/pinwheels2.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">The little centers are mostly from <a href="http://kandcompany.eksuccessbrands.com/dept/Americana.aspx">K & Company's Americana line</a>. I added some ink, silver stickles, and a flower or two made from an old farm journal magazine to complete my ensemble. The small flags were a dollar at Michaels and I soaked them in a tea dye to give them a more antique feel. A vintage button here, some tea stained lace there and voila! Might have to leave this little centerpiece on my kitchen table for another month or so. And maybe leave this hanging in the entryway a little longer too...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a7aCZ7HVcrs/ThM_qGnPuUI/AAAAAAAAAWc/IfNoCUFU1cU/s1600/libertystar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a7aCZ7HVcrs/ThM_qGnPuUI/AAAAAAAAAWc/IfNoCUFU1cU/s400/libertystar1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you all had an enjoyable holiday and your work week goes quickly for you. Thanks for stopping by to see me today. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO, Nik</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-52230823454220638102011-06-29T21:27:00.000-05:002011-06-29T21:27:14.622-05:00Enjoying Summer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Summer is here and I of course have been missing from blog land. No apologies from me though. My life is just busy with two little ones and working around my hubby's horrendous schedule. So, I just resolve to get here when I get here and that's that. But I do love coming and writing my thoughts down here; always therapeutic for me and makes me feel good inside to share some of my heart with you all. A huge thank you for all of your wishes and love you sent my way on <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elliewillaert">Ellie's</a> birthday. It was a very difficult day for me and my family; always will be.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--KofhjPWxeI/TgvVXvB7EVI/AAAAAAAAAVw/GtGj02gvDvU/s1600/Elliejohn316a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--KofhjPWxeI/TgvVXvB7EVI/AAAAAAAAAVw/GtGj02gvDvU/s400/Elliejohn316a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With each season, come lots of memories. All good, wonderful, happy memories. So hard to think it has been over two years since I touched her face, heard her laugh, watched her play. Most days it still seems unreal. But, it is. Life is not filled with any promises; no guarantees. I am so , so thankful for the opportunity to be a mama; so happy that God has trusted me with his children to watch over them, teach them about Him. What a true gift I have been given.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0SF-B4SI6k/TgvVdSdapsI/AAAAAAAAAV0/mtSWz9j-IGE/s1600/blueclothespins3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0SF-B4SI6k/TgvVdSdapsI/AAAAAAAAAV0/mtSWz9j-IGE/s400/blueclothespins3.jpg" width="371" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Slowly but surely my little <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/petalstopolkadots?ref=pr_shop">Etsy shop</a> is coming along. Every now and then I get busy and craft up some little treausres to add to it. The shabby clothespins above are so sweet. Love how simplistic they are. My mom had given me a jar full of my grandma's buttons and to my delight many of them still had the thread in them. All worn and weathered and aged perfectly. Love how they look on the clothespins. So hope the new owner of these is enjoying them...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4j6T7X7gKck/TgvV4Fj15fI/AAAAAAAAAV8/Ecwkg-_tufM/s1600/feltposies2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4j6T7X7gKck/TgvV4Fj15fI/AAAAAAAAAV8/Ecwkg-_tufM/s400/feltposies2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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</div><div align="center">Recently I had a little tea staining party and decided to dye some felt. Love the results! This is the most awesome felt; just love it. It's from <a href="http://www.papertreyink.com/emb_felt.html">Papertrey Ink</a>. This is the vintage cream color. They have all sorts of colors available. So many things you can do with it. These little posies just kinda came together. I used a scrap of old Daisy D's paper and punched the circles using Martha Stewart's medallion punch. A little ink on the edes and the topped each with a vintage button. So sweet. You can find these in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/petalstopolkadots?ref=pr_shop">my Etsy shop</a> too. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Both my kiddos celebrated their birthdays in late May. Cole turned 3 and Desi is now 6. They are growing up so fast; so wuickly right before my eyes. Desi finished her first full year of school; she is a recent kindergarten graduate. I am so proud of her and all she has accomplished this past year. Learning to read and do math, all of the music and art projects. So fascinating to me how a young mind learns and grows. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rR0dpPWn_pU/TgvWJy3HPgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/h6ht3BGoc3Y/s1600/Colepop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rR0dpPWn_pU/TgvWJy3HPgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/h6ht3BGoc3Y/s400/Colepop1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0eJua0svmGM/TgvXOlKwa0I/AAAAAAAAAWM/gwbJCc97CIc/s1600/Spring+2011+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0eJua0svmGM/TgvXOlKwa0I/AAAAAAAAAWM/gwbJCc97CIc/s400/Spring+2011+030.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Summer is in full swing and the flowers are gorgeous. Oh how I love my flower garden; my precious memory garden dedicated to <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elliewillaert">Ellie</a>. Keep them bloomin', sweet pea....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jgqDx8Kcio/TgvUl1uolqI/AAAAAAAAAVo/8zwyEChpsMA/s1600/Spring+2011+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jgqDx8Kcio/TgvUl1uolqI/AAAAAAAAAVo/8zwyEChpsMA/s400/Spring+2011+016.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">That's all for now. I'll be back. Don't know when. Maybe soon...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">XOXO, Nik</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-1191504090309270722011-04-04T11:32:00.000-05:002011-04-04T11:32:36.408-05:008 Candles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Today 8 candles burn brightly in a window on a cold, windy Minnesota day. A reminder of a life that began and ended too early, but cast a ray of sunshine upon any who stepped onto her path...</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xDfJtVy4h_g/TZnfcq4KosI/AAAAAAAAAU8/OUiuWFqaW1U/s1600/8candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xDfJtVy4h_g/TZnfcq4KosI/AAAAAAAAAU8/OUiuWFqaW1U/s400/8candles.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Today a little brother savors a brownie for breakfast in honor of his big sister; his big blue eyes a beautiful reminder of her....</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbWXWlSFYtg/TZnfjQc5A8I/AAAAAAAAAVA/qIRe0VPvuSA/s1600/colebrownie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbWXWlSFYtg/TZnfjQc5A8I/AAAAAAAAAVA/qIRe0VPvuSA/s400/colebrownie.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today a little sister dresses head to toe in her sister's clothes so that she may be as close to her as posssible. She writes notes and draws rainbow hearts in an effort to send her love up to Heaven....</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-35lzCJgsYKY/TZnfssdptTI/AAAAAAAAAVE/vfB2rJmwB04/s1600/desishovel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-35lzCJgsYKY/TZnfssdptTI/AAAAAAAAAVE/vfB2rJmwB04/s400/desishovel1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4pWWXvFslE/TZnf1wFzooI/AAAAAAAAAVI/81E37pVS-uo/s1600/desiart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4pWWXvFslE/TZnf1wFzooI/AAAAAAAAAVI/81E37pVS-uo/s400/desiart.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today a treasured dollie sits upon a shelf dressed in blue and waiting to be held and played with again...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zsI6t-1_780/TZnf93-u8cI/AAAAAAAAAVM/biv6IRff_3U/s1600/ElliesAG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zsI6t-1_780/TZnf93-u8cI/AAAAAAAAAVM/biv6IRff_3U/s400/ElliesAG.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today signs of spring emerge and we are reminded of becoming new again; love is born and rises....</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gGI05Usrtk/TZngG1VnLkI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/dKjYBco5gGc/s1600/eastertags1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gGI05Usrtk/TZngG1VnLkI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/dKjYBco5gGc/s400/eastertags1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today a little girl dreams in fields of yellow flowers with Jesus...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22JttsqO0FE/TZngdh6rG9I/AAAAAAAAAVU/pVTcEQFVy8k/s1600/Ellieyellow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22JttsqO0FE/TZngdh6rG9I/AAAAAAAAAVU/pVTcEQFVy8k/s400/Ellieyellow1.jpg" width="321" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today a head full of strawberry colored tresses smiles her heart out and skips along the hills of Heaven...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2xOcMZZVS8/TZngs2xylyI/AAAAAAAAAVY/TRpHTcZGydg/s1600/Elliebluedress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2xOcMZZVS8/TZngs2xylyI/AAAAAAAAAVY/TRpHTcZGydg/s400/Elliebluedress1.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Today in Heaven blue eyes twinkle brightly and dance with each giggle...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBpSw0A7MjU/TZng7OBm7VI/AAAAAAAAAVc/ZMO7X6ItpVI/s1600/Elliered2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBpSw0A7MjU/TZng7OBm7VI/AAAAAAAAAVc/ZMO7X6ItpVI/s400/Elliered2008.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Today a Mama remembers the moments a baby girl came into her life</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> and made her a mother for the first time...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZQ94ln3a2Y/TZnfPUxt-mI/AAAAAAAAAU4/s9nPP7tPft4/s1600/mothersday1edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZQ94ln3a2Y/TZnfPUxt-mI/AAAAAAAAAU4/s9nPP7tPft4/s400/mothersday1edited.jpg" width="358" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Today a Daddy's arms long to be filled with a little girl's hug </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">as he remembers holding her through thick and thin....</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr1CzAecfaA/TZnpt1UIhfI/AAAAAAAAAVg/RI0SD009kwc/s1600/MRI1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr1CzAecfaA/TZnpt1UIhfI/AAAAAAAAAVg/RI0SD009kwc/s400/MRI1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy 8th Birthday Ellie Rose! I hope you can hear us celebrating here on earth as we remember you with laughs, tears, Johnny Cash songs and root beer floats. Our hearts are heavy, but joyful as we know that one day, one glorious day, we will all be together again. Love you, sweet pea. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRr8fFD3dfU/TZnw6Jx2WII/AAAAAAAAAVk/S0XCiM4NN38/s1600/Ellie4-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRr8fFD3dfU/TZnw6Jx2WII/AAAAAAAAAVk/S0XCiM4NN38/s400/Ellie4-6.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>"I thank my God everytime I remember you." Philippians 1:3</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">XOXO, Mama</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-19650249544885735752011-02-14T11:10:00.000-06:002011-02-14T11:10:02.832-06:00Happy Sweethearts Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just a quick little post before I head out the door. Had to come and wish you all a Happy, Happy Valentine's Day! And I had to share these gorgeous roses that my sweet pea Ellie sent to me. Breathtakingly gorgeous, don't you agree?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yCU_xS74BRM/TVlf19wk_vI/AAAAAAAAAUI/ORIn_DaUMlI/s1600/Ellieroses1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yCU_xS74BRM/TVlf19wk_vI/AAAAAAAAAUI/ORIn_DaUMlI/s400/Ellieroses1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am quite sure that Heaven is overflowing with beauty this very moment.... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div> <img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uc3EN1YUmSk/TVlf6KYdJPI/AAAAAAAAAUM/n2Kj4Sr4lR0/s400/Ellieroses2.jpg" width="300" /><br />
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Miss you like crazy Ellie Belle. Spread some love today; give a hug, a smile, a kiss, a kind gesture. You never know who's heart you could touch. <br />
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XOXO, NikAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-32332039825095596442011-02-01T10:26:00.000-06:002011-02-01T10:26:47.610-06:00February Loves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ahhh, the love month. What could be better than an entire day devoted to hearts, chocolate and sweet nothings? Each month brings a new beginning, a new chapter. How lucky we are to have a fresh start each and every day. Makes my heart all warm and toasty inside...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglnQnTTkI/AAAAAAAAATc/YzLe6KFw1Hs/s1600/EPbeminebox1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglnQnTTkI/AAAAAAAAATc/YzLe6KFw1Hs/s400/EPbeminebox1c.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> What makes your heart skip a beat? What simple little love do you indulge in? Is it a someone? A something? A taste? A smell? Breathing in all each day has to bring us can sometimes be difficult, but so so necessary to sustain happiness. Joy is abundant.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglubIIOiI/AAAAAAAAATg/O1Yn6UhtzRU/s1600/EPbeminebox1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglubIIOiI/AAAAAAAAATg/O1Yn6UhtzRU/s400/EPbeminebox1b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> I love pretty romantic Valentine paper. Every January after all the Christmas things have been placed away, I swoon over all the pinks, reds and hearts that make their way to shops for us to enjoy for such a short time. I am always utterly amazed at how pretty paper can be. This year my favorite is the <span id="goog_563704828"></span><a href="http://echoparkpaper.com/">Echo Park<span id="goog_563704829"></span></a> "Be Mine" collection. Hot pink, vintage cream, black, soft pinks and grays all mixed together with a Paris theme - be still my swelling heart! The <a href="http://www.echoparkpaper.com/collections/be-mine/">"Be Mine"</a> collection simply exudes romance. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglxVPtN-I/AAAAAAAAATk/wD_jPK5OLBg/s1600/EPbeminebox2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglxVPtN-I/AAAAAAAAATk/wD_jPK5OLBg/s400/EPbeminebox2a.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>The possibilities are endless of the pretties you can create. I opted to decorate some little heart boxes and embellish them with paper flowers, another love of mine. Using the <a href="http://www.timholtz.com/alterations-dies.htm">Tim Holtz "Tattered Florals"</a> die I cut out several flowers, inked and lightly distressed them. I stacked them atop each other and used a toothpick and pencil to curl the edges. Just adore making paper flowers - a total addiction. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglzVTsfpI/AAAAAAAAATo/GEOeU3mvwiw/s1600/EPbeminebox2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUglzVTsfpI/AAAAAAAAATo/GEOeU3mvwiw/s400/EPbeminebox2b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Can't wait to fill these up with some sweets for some very special people. Hope they will cherish these little treasures as much as I cherish them. <br />
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Ever spend a day doing something you love and basking in glow of it? That was me last week. I love the look of tea stained tags, fabric, lace, papers. The aroma that fills the house after a few hours of hand dyeing all sorts of things with tea is delicious. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgl5TfVbII/AAAAAAAAATs/N_wvN6EY95s/s1600/teabath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgl5TfVbII/AAAAAAAAATs/N_wvN6EY95s/s400/teabath.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Oh the thrill of opening the oven after 20 minutes on a low setting to see that worn, caramel looking color wash over what was once very plain parcel tags! So yummy...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgl74CFIxI/AAAAAAAAATw/lPmYv-Lox9k/s1600/teastaintags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgl74CFIxI/AAAAAAAAATw/lPmYv-Lox9k/s400/teastaintags.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I think I spent almost 3 hours tea dyeing all sorts of things and then another hour or two creating some little pretties for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/petalstopolkadots">my Etsy shop</a>. I have not been the best at adding items, but that is changing. You will find these there...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgmFXY2auI/AAAAAAAAAT0/yVAZQXrUo2Q/s1600/tinytags1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgmFXY2auI/AAAAAAAAAT0/yVAZQXrUo2Q/s400/tinytags1c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>And these too. I love tags, don't you? the perfect compliment to any package is a sweet little handmade tag. Almost makes the packaging better than the gift itself. The little house and scalloped circle were made using the <a href="http://www.papertreyink.com/acc_pti_dies_diestomatch.html">"Love Lives Here"</a> dies from <a href="http://papertreyink.com/">PaperTrey Ink</a>. These dies have stamps to match and they were inspired by one of my favorite designers, <a href="http://lilybeanpaperie.typepad.com/">Melissa Phillips</a>. Aren't they sweet? Again, endless possibilities.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgmM66RFuI/AAAAAAAAAT4/pyemRvzEWlc/s1600/4tagset1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TUgmM66RFuI/AAAAAAAAAT4/pyemRvzEWlc/s400/4tagset1b.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's all for today my friends. Seek out your passions today and May your little hearts be filled with gladness, hope, faith and most of all LOVE.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO, Nik</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-49646174377857626072010-11-30T16:28:00.001-06:002010-11-30T16:34:19.682-06:00It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh how I love this time of year! Everything is so festive and decked out in holiday beauty. I so hope you are all taking some time here and there to be creative and let the season inspire you. I am trying to do that too. My studio is covered in Christmas scrapbook paper, glitter, snowflakes and all sorts of holiday pretties just waiting to be tinkered with. So much to do and never, ever enough crafty time...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I mentioned my excitement about the <a href="http://teresacollins.typepad.com/">Teresa Collins</a> design team in my last post. Unfortunately, I did not make the DT, but I sure had fun playing with her products and submitting. It has been a long time since I submitted for a design team and I love the challenge it brings - always an inspiration for me. If you have not already, please visit <a href="http://teresacollins.typepad.com/">Teresa's Blog</a> and take a peek at her new DT - they are fabulous. Congratulations ladies! I thought I would post my entries for all of you since they are perfect for the season. My first project is a little wall hanging featuring Cole in a Santa hat. This picture was taken last year by my photographer friend <a href="http://www.dawnroach.com/">Dawn</a> and I actually used it on our Christmas cards. I wanted an airy light look to the picture, so I edited in photoshop and then printed it on some resume paper instead of photo paper. For all of my projects I used the NOEL line. I had mentioned in a previous post how pretty and classy this line is - love it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpRUx5VfI/AAAAAAAAASw/P9jqHp0weks/s1600/Merry&Bright1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpRUx5VfI/AAAAAAAAASw/P9jqHp0weks/s400/Merry%2526Bright1.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><br />
The holly paper was so pretty in its most simple state. I hand cut some of the holly leaves and edged them with silver glitter. This paper is so pretty and has such a heavy weight to it that it stands up to all sorts of distressing, crinkling, twisting and rolling. For the small rosette-type paper flower, I simply took a thin strip of paper and twisted it around a pencil. A small dab of hot glue secures the ends. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpUxHRLTI/AAAAAAAAAS0/feGD3LXn7o4/s1600/Merry&Bright2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpUxHRLTI/AAAAAAAAAS0/feGD3LXn7o4/s400/Merry%2526Bright2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpZs-CnlI/AAAAAAAAAS4/fcBXT4lZi4g/s1600/Merry&Bright3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpZs-CnlI/AAAAAAAAAS4/fcBXT4lZi4g/s400/Merry%2526Bright3.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><br />
Some time ago, fellow blogger <a href="http://blueyecicle.blogspot.com/">Cristal aka Pinky</a> posted a tutorial on the <a href="http://helmarusa.typepad.com/blog/">Helmar</a> blog on how to make these adorable <a href="http://helmarusa.typepad.com/blog/2010/04/making-paper-bows-video-tutorial.html">paper bows</a>. Remembering just how cute these were, I took her lead and fashioned my own paper bow for the top of this piece. So fun to hang this up in Colson's room and bring a little bit of Christmas cheer into his sweet little life. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpdJcOGlI/AAAAAAAAAS8/wtSJSWg3fGU/s1600/Merry&Bright4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpdJcOGlI/AAAAAAAAAS8/wtSJSWg3fGU/s400/Merry%2526Bright4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I also submitted this little round box topped with some paper trees, fluff, and the "Naughty or Nice" sentiment. The vintage image is from <a href="http://www.lisasalteredart.com/index.htm">Lisa's Altered Art</a>. Please pay her site a visit - she has the cutest collage sheets for every occassion. I loved how this little girl is trying to be so sneaky...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpkBos5aI/AAAAAAAAATA/JQyLGxqwOKg/s1600/NaughtyorNice1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVpkBos5aI/AAAAAAAAATA/JQyLGxqwOKg/s400/NaughtyorNice1.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><br />
And a close up of my simple paper flower with wound ribbon in the center:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVppcvhSxI/AAAAAAAAATE/T2L_DdDqO2I/s1600/NaughtyorNice2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVppcvhSxI/AAAAAAAAATE/T2L_DdDqO2I/s400/NaughtyorNice2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I used the ribbon from the NOEL line and cut it into two inch pieces. Then I looped it and secured it with hot glue to form a "fringe" around the box lid. All in all, it turned out so cute and made the perfect gift for my friend <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greenville-NC/Memory-Weaver-Photography/130385814968#!/album.php?profile=1&id=359022626810">Jen</a>. Hope you liked it, sweets! Remember, Santa is making a list and checkin' it twice...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVp1rlz1OI/AAAAAAAAATI/Hm0jxOREAmE/s1600/NaughtyorNice3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVp1rlz1OI/AAAAAAAAATI/Hm0jxOREAmE/s400/NaughtyorNice3.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><br />
My final entry was the card I had posted a few weeks ago. Thank you to Teresa Collins for the awesome opportunity to submit! I for one am looking forward to seeing what the new team has in store for all of us. I will leave you with a few Christmas cards I whipped up after digging into my holiday stash. Amazing how many Christmas papers I have. Some of these are a few years old and it was fun to revisit them again and use up some scraps. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVqFn62JwI/AAAAAAAAATM/76E1D0e1Pb0/s1600/xmascards1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TPVqFn62JwI/AAAAAAAAATM/76E1D0e1Pb0/s400/xmascards1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Kids are gettin' antzy and ready for dinner. That's all for tonight! <br />
XOXO<br />
-NikAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-65820049199154108742010-11-16T22:19:00.000-06:002010-11-16T22:19:13.740-06:00Welcome Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yep, it's here. The snow started in the wee morning hours on Saturday and it kept on until Sunday. Just like that winter makes its way to us and the entire ground is covered in a serene, fresh blanket of white. There is just something about the first snowfall of the season that makes my heart skip a beat - it truly is breathtaking. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjiCzU6-I/AAAAAAAAASI/iUOc8Rkh5aM/s1600/firstsnowfall2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjiCzU6-I/AAAAAAAAASI/iUOc8Rkh5aM/s400/firstsnowfall2010.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Of course the kids were so excited to get out in play in the fluffy white stuff, I had trouble getting all their snow gear on. Desi almost had hers together but ran outside without her mittens. Here she is with her cheesiest of grins and her hair all bundled up inside her hat.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRXP7kXfI/AAAAAAAAASk/DWVtFaTKuSQ/s1600/Desisnow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRXP7kXfI/AAAAAAAAASk/DWVtFaTKuSQ/s400/Desisnow1.jpg" width="348" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> And my little man; love his chilly cheeks and big bright blue eyes. Last year at one year old, he wasn't quite sure he even liked snow. This time around, he was full speed ahead. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjkBMHQZI/AAAAAAAAASM/3NmQq9SdBPI/s1600/Colesnow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjkBMHQZI/AAAAAAAAASM/3NmQq9SdBPI/s400/Colesnow1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Eventually they let me come in and once Cole was all warmed up and taking his nap, Desi and I had some craft time. She colored in her Hello Kitty coloring book and I busied myself with some snowy themed cards. I have never thought of myself as much of an artist when it comes to painting. Most of my painting look like a child's, but I guess that is the beauty of them. A couple weeks ago I was playing around and had snowflakes on my mind and below was the result. I thought it might make a cute piece of wintery art for Desi's room. Then I got the idea to scan it into my computer and use it as patterned paper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRQzeQ5_I/AAAAAAAAASg/4FUF_CSBIco/s1600/snowflakepainting1anjw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRQzeQ5_I/AAAAAAAAASg/4FUF_CSBIco/s400/snowflakepainting1anjw.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I figured I would start small with a couple cards and a matching tag. I love this color combo of white, lavendar, aqua and silver. So....well....snowy!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjnH-JPwI/AAAAAAAAASQ/UzDoVMOXKH0/s1600/frostyjoycard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TOLjnH-JPwI/AAAAAAAAASQ/UzDoVMOXKH0/s400/frostyjoycard1.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONReXKdboI/AAAAAAAAASs/lsYzlUjAxis/s1600/rejoicecard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONReXKdboI/AAAAAAAAASs/lsYzlUjAxis/s400/rejoicecard1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Two of my favorite words for the upcoming holiday season: JOY and REJOICE. That pretty much sums it up. Joy because it is my mom's name and it is the most utterly wonderful feeling a person could have. Rejoice because we are victorious in that a Savior was born to us. Perfect. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRbp7sORI/AAAAAAAAASo/Lql43an4p6k/s1600/frostytag1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TONRbp7sORI/AAAAAAAAASo/Lql43an4p6k/s400/frostytag1.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I was more than filled with joy this morning as I read <a href="http://teresacollins.typepad.com/">Teresa Collins blog</a> and to my delight saw my name listed as one of the finalists for her design team! How exciting! Wish me luck friends, as a decision will be made this week as to who the selected designers are. How awesome to have the chance to submit and create some fantastic projects that I fell in love with as I created them. I'll share those with you all later this week. That's all for tonight...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">nite, nite - </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Nik</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-31111301032523269892010-11-12T07:25:00.000-06:002010-11-12T07:25:43.879-06:00Have you started....<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">...your Christmas cards yet? Do you make them or buy them? Photo cards or no? The possibilities are endless and oh so creative! I recently picked up the <a href="http://www.shopscrapandpapercorner.com/product/Holiday-Cards-and-More-Volume-Five/paper-crafts">Holiday Cards</a> publication by <a href="http://www.papercraftsmag.com/index.html">Paper Crafts</a>. Wow - what inspiration! I think I must have marked up the whole magazine with circles and folded corners. So many ideas by such wonderful designers. I had a little card making party with my sister-in-law LeeAnn a few weekends ago and we had tons of fun using up our stash and cranking out some cute little card creations. But first, I'll show you a little idea I came up with using the new <a href="http://www.teresacollinsdesigns.com/products/noel">Noel</a> line from <a href="http://www.teresacollinsdesigns.com/">Teresa Collins</a>. It just screams Christmas glamour and sophistocation. The classic styling is a true winner in my book - love it! <a href="http://teresacollins.typepad.com/">Teresa</a> has a knack for adding the perfect little companions to her lines. I love the cardstock die cuts and the library pockets - so pretty and functional. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyvW3lTxcI/AAAAAAAAARo/BDTTaDuWOWM/s1600/HolidayPrincesses1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyvW3lTxcI/AAAAAAAAARo/BDTTaDuWOWM/s400/HolidayPrincesses1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">For this fun card, I took the larger library pocket and and adhered it to the card to have a place for the tags to be inserted. I like the idea of having the tags pull out and used for display somewhere; maybe tie on the Christmas tree? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyveg73OwI/AAAAAAAAARw/8WRdJFhMmZo/s1600/HolidayPrincesses3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyveg73OwI/AAAAAAAAARw/8WRdJFhMmZo/s400/HolidayPrincesses3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>A little pom pom fringe, tinsel and pearls compliment these festive papers. I cut the word "believe" from the ribbon in the Noel collection; such a great font and not one stamp involved! Ahhh, too cute. Might have to leave it sitting out to bring some early holiday cheer...<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyva0mqP8I/AAAAAAAAARs/QAqhGQ5R724/s1600/HolidayPrincesses2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyva0mqP8I/AAAAAAAAARs/QAqhGQ5R724/s400/HolidayPrincesses2.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">This next project has been long in coming and I have been working on it here and there. It's a little book, about 7x7, of <a href="http://caringbridge.org/visit/elliewillaert">Ellie</a> and her kindergarten pictures. This one is tough for me to create since the memories flood back with each paper that I lay down, but it is also very therapeutic in a sense. I have collected school themed papers ever since Ellie started preschool in 2006. I have a ridiculous stash of all the adorable school things that hit the scrapbook store shelves every August. And I still love each one even though some are 4 years old. So, they are making their way into this book, all mixed and melded together along with my precious few kindergarten pictures of my angel girl. Here's a few peeks at a couple of the pages:</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyxBK-nAZI/AAAAAAAAASA/W37dCr9Fmv4/s1600/DSC02964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyxBK-nAZI/AAAAAAAAASA/W37dCr9Fmv4/s400/DSC02964.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Remember this fun line by Foof-A-La/Autumn Leaves? So cute and still a fave of mine. The little mini banner stamp is from <a href="http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-22508/American-Crafts-Dear-Lizzy/Detail">American Crafts' Dear Lizzy line</a>. Love banners...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNywYQRH_DI/AAAAAAAAAR8/Xrky7ynk56s/s1600/DSC02962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNywYQRH_DI/AAAAAAAAAR8/Xrky7ynk56s/s400/DSC02962.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Missing you always Ellie Belle; thank you for giving me the chance to be your Mama and truly understand what it means to love, hope and walk by faith. Thank you for the strength that you showed me each and every day. You taught me so much, little girl....</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyvzbah9tI/AAAAAAAAAR4/yoAiPpcu438/s1600/EllieKbook1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyvzbah9tI/AAAAAAAAAR4/yoAiPpcu438/s400/EllieKbook1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyxa-QYRRI/AAAAAAAAASE/mYVipjSMzwU/s1600/DSC02965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNyxa-QYRRI/AAAAAAAAASE/mYVipjSMzwU/s400/DSC02965.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Hug those kiddos extra tight before they head out your door this morning. Have a blessed Friday all.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Love to you, Nik</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-59117373865116284722010-11-10T20:56:00.001-06:002010-11-10T21:00:36.681-06:00Sweet November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here we are into November already. Time goes so fast and it seems that life never slows down. I hope you are all enjoying all the beauty that autumn brings. I think it must be my favorite season; so much to breathe in and savor. We have had glorius weather in Minnesota. Lots of sun and temps in the 50s. So not normal for us here in the north. This could all change by Friday since they are forecasting snow for us. Not sure I am ready for it just yet, but I will welcome it as a different kind of freshness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtXdTp5ssI/AAAAAAAAARg/bFvh2nbOu_E/s1600/DSC03062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtXdTp5ssI/AAAAAAAAARg/bFvh2nbOu_E/s400/DSC03062.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> One thing I love about this time of year is the creative side of me that jumps at the change to make something earthy, bursting with colors of cinnamon, pumpkin and deep olive green. I am not much into Halloween, but I sure do love the other fun things that fall brings. A couple years ago I began this little "box" for whatever reason never finished it. The paper is an oldie but goodie from Daisy Ds -oh boy do I ever miss seeing their pretty products on the shelves. I got busy and finished and the result is the little container above; a pretty setting to dress up our home a little this November. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The kids had a great time trick or treating and below is a sweet little picture of Cole and Desi just waiting to be scrapped. Desi was a pink cheetah and since Cole is only 2, I simply picked through his closet and turned him into a little mechanic. Nothing like being thrifty, right? If you look closely, you can see that Desirae dug into her candy stash early and has a big ol' wad of bubblegum in her mouth. That's my girl....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtX_i9PzQI/AAAAAAAAARk/vjsrcDMwwbo/s1600/DSC03023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtX_i9PzQI/AAAAAAAAARk/vjsrcDMwwbo/s400/DSC03023.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As November continues on, I am reminded to keep moving forward. Keep creating, keep the focus on God, and keep creating joy. I think "Give Thanks" is going to be my little motto this season; maybe make it your too if you so desire. We are all so blessed in so many ways. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtLxjHAy8I/AAAAAAAAARc/CM8HS2tPA-E/s1600/DSC03061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TNtLxjHAy8I/AAAAAAAAARc/CM8HS2tPA-E/s400/DSC03061.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love to all, sweet blog friends! May your November days be filled with laughter, big blessings, good friends, and much, much JOY. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">XOXO, Nik</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-24804532049632413212010-08-18T17:15:00.002-05:002010-08-18T21:15:55.969-05:00Summer time...Hi Bloggers! Oh my stars how I have missed you all. Summer has flown by and I have not had too much computer/blogging time. So I thought I would give you a little recap and post a few pictures for you to enjoy. I wish I could say that I have had a crafty, scrappy summer, but my projects have taken a backseat to being mom. I am just now getting back into my creating and will have some pretties to share with you all in the months to come.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPONMhaYgI/AAAAAAAAAQM/GGQgAInLmR8/s1600/jerrysfarm1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPONMhaYgI/AAAAAAAAAQM/GGQgAInLmR8/s640/jerrysfarm1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
May began with my nephew Joe graduating from high school. The entire Willaert family was present at Pat's brother Gerald's farm and we had a great time eating and socializing. The above picture was taken at the farm and I played around with it in Photoshop to get the effect I was after. So wish I could tell you what I did, but it was so long ago I can't remember. That's Desi and Cole running for the corn field.<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJCVn8ZcI/AAAAAAAAAP0/-Fp1nNHLo-s/s1600/Partyinvites1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJCVn8ZcI/AAAAAAAAAP0/-Fp1nNHLo-s/s400/Partyinvites1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Desi celebrated her 5th birthday in May and we had a super glamorous time at her "Make-Over Party". We performed manicures, pedicures, hairstyles and applied makeup to 10 little girls. I could not have pulled it off without the help of my nieces and sister-in-laws. Thank you ladies - you did a phenomenal job! Above are the party invites I created using my <a href="http://www.cricut.com/">Cricut</a> and the Forever Young cartridge. I liked the idea of the little mirror and Desi was able to help apply the pieces of the invite together. Such fun! <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPIrOZk8pI/AAAAAAAAAPc/ZUSRPnQkNVo/s1600/Desimakeover1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPIrOZk8pI/AAAAAAAAAPc/ZUSRPnQkNVo/s400/Desimakeover1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Here she is getting her hair straightened by my niece Whitney. She has curly hair, so whenever someone will take the time to straighten it for her, she is all smiles and oh so grown up. She opted for cupcakes and below you can see her getting ready to blow out her candles. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPI5TAfKwI/AAAAAAAAAPs/lIPOly5uevs/s1600/Cupcakes1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPI5TAfKwI/AAAAAAAAAPs/lIPOly5uevs/s400/Cupcakes1.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">One of my favorite lines that made it's way to the stores early in the season was <a href="http://melodyross.typepad.com/">Melody Ross's</a> <a href="http://www.gcdstudios.com/CollectionsDetail.asp?CollectionsID=48">Homespun Chic</a> by <a href="http://www.gcdstudios.com/">GCD Studios</a>. I could play with these papers over and over again, they are so shabby but bright, simple but complex. Love them and would buy this line all over again! Ellie made her way onto the layout below and of course I shed several tears while piecing it together. I loved this line so much I even used pieces from the packaging! </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJP1p3oUI/AAAAAAAAAP8/xx3kn3wuOhc/s1600/MojoDT0510fly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJP1p3oUI/AAAAAAAAAP8/xx3kn3wuOhc/s400/MojoDT0510fly.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>And a little birdie house. This little house had been painted and crackled back in December and then sat unfinished for the winter. The <a href="http://www.gcdstudios.com/CollectionsDetail.asp?CollectionsID=48">Homespun Chic papers</a> dressed it up nicely and it is now displayed in my kitchen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJXq1_baI/AAAAAAAAAQE/IuyaLWJr-qc/s1600/MojoDT0510birdhouse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TBPJXq1_baI/AAAAAAAAAQE/IuyaLWJr-qc/s400/MojoDT0510birdhouse1.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Cole also celebrated a birthday as he turned 2 in May. We kept his "party" very simple since I was spent from Desi's little gala. He is big into anything that drives, moves, bales hay or digs dirt. His cake was simply adorable and decorated with an excavator that now takes its place in his sandbox. A little dump truck adorned with brown sugar dirt completed the look and Cole could not have been happier. He held onto the excavator the entire time he "ate" his cake and fed some to Grandma Joy. Precious - cannot wait to scrap the abundance of pictures I took that day:)</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwzh2lTe2I/AAAAAAAAAQs/3anBydJ5l8M/s1600/DSC02406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwzh2lTe2I/AAAAAAAAAQs/3anBydJ5l8M/s400/DSC02406.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwz_q7EOFI/AAAAAAAAAQw/oh16uIv282I/s1600/DSC02421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwz_q7EOFI/AAAAAAAAAQw/oh16uIv282I/s400/DSC02421.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Ellie's memory garden was just gorgeous this year. Delphiniums, yellow peonies, clematis, johnny-jump-ups and yellow roses bloomed brilliantly in May and June. I was thrilled to see that all of the work we had done last year planting Ellie's favorites came back with such beauty. Oh so pretty - she would have been so very proud of me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw_Y2ysD_I/AAAAAAAAARA/gJkMGSgdt8E/s1600/Ellie'sgarden1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw_Y2ysD_I/AAAAAAAAARA/gJkMGSgdt8E/s400/Ellie'sgarden1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We have had lots of crazy weather this summer too. Very heavy storms and lots of tornadoes. The stormy picture below was taking from my window looking out over the backyard. We were headed for the basement that day. Below I captured Desi in the rain and was able to scrap a cute little page using some fun products from <a href="http://www.kimemories.com/">KI Memories</a>. The colors in the <a href="http://www.kimemories.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=ShopKI.ProductLineHome&setid=345">Posh line</a> were so fun to play with. KI was the sponsor over at <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin' Mojo</a> for June and they were more than generous with their product. Thank you <a href="http://www.kimemories.com/">KI Memories</a>! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwzL03MQYI/AAAAAAAAAQo/IThRWD6Be84/s1600/MojoDT0610fresh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGwzL03MQYI/AAAAAAAAAQo/IThRWD6Be84/s400/MojoDT0610fresh.jpg" width="387" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw62bJGUeI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/chGS1yq1Rf4/s1600/Storm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw62bJGUeI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/chGS1yq1Rf4/s400/Storm2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw6_s_WAWI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/CKJX62ciiIg/s1600/ColePat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGw6_s_WAWI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/CKJX62ciiIg/s400/ColePat.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I have not posted a picture of my sweet hubby in some time so I thought I would do that in this post. Here's Pat and Colson snuggling while we watched Desi at her swimming lessons. I love getting pictures of my two guys together; Cole is the spitting image of Pat at age two! They look so much alike, don't ya think? </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGxAgh_8ZHI/AAAAAAAAARI/RMI_OT7watg/s1600/beautywillrise1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGxAgh_8ZHI/AAAAAAAAARI/RMI_OT7watg/s400/beautywillrise1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will leave you with a little something that I made for my mom's birthday. Keeping Ellie's memory alive is something I do on a daily basis and I enjoy creating little pieces of art to hang here and there. Often they have scripture on them to remind me to keep God first; and many times they have pictures of my precious angel child, my Ellena. I say it in every post, but my heart continues to ache for her. She continues to inspire me to keep moving forward and so I do. Each step a little tougher than the last, but none the less, a step. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGxEeZA4ERI/AAAAAAAAARM/U5XblEMRUO4/s1600/beautywillrise1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/TGxEeZA4ERI/AAAAAAAAARM/U5XblEMRUO4/s400/beautywillrise1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will leave you all now. My kiddos need supper and my thoughts are starting to blend together. I hope to be back sooner than later with a few more shares for you. Be Blessed my sweet blog friends! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO, Nik</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-31027028326064471912010-05-11T11:44:00.001-05:002010-05-11T11:57:44.003-05:00Rainy Scrappy Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rain, rain go away; come again another day. Unless you are a crafty mama like me who waits for a day like today and all the creative bliss that only a day of showers can bring. What a perfect day to watch the rain fall only to bring about new life when the sun shines again. I love its smell, its cleansing beauty, and its freshness. And I can't wait to see the peonies and pansies open up when the drops from the sky cease. So relaxing...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l4oWhLJLI/AAAAAAAAAOc/MIte-sFwrt0/s1600/rainypeonies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l4oWhLJLI/AAAAAAAAAOc/MIte-sFwrt0/s400/rainypeonies.jpg" tt="true" width="312" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l8Sd1grsI/AAAAAAAAAOk/BBPhyKHBNf8/s1600/rainydaycoffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l8Sd1grsI/AAAAAAAAAOk/BBPhyKHBNf8/s400/rainydaycoffee.jpg" tt="true" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I am gonna sit down with a cup of coffee and Desi and see where the day leads us. Maybe a some scrapbook time, maybe some story time, maybe some American Girl doll dressing time or maybe just some snuggle time. I am sure Cole will join us when he wakes up from his nap time - perfect day for taking one of those too.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And maybe tonight we will head over to Aunt Wendy's to deliver this little gem...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l9qPw9cGI/AAAAAAAAAOs/dIG-c1kIRsA/s1600/WendysBox1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l9qPw9cGI/AAAAAAAAAOs/dIG-c1kIRsA/s400/WendysBox1.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l-nq7NJgI/AAAAAAAAAO0/yneQLGLBFPM/s1600/Wendy%27s+Box+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-l-nq7NJgI/AAAAAAAAAO0/yneQLGLBFPM/s400/Wendy%27s+Box+002.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-mDJgvoY-I/AAAAAAAAAO8/fi2UpF1fFgE/s1600/wendysboxcloseup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S-mDJgvoY-I/AAAAAAAAAO8/fi2UpF1fFgE/s400/wendysboxcloseup.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">A very much overdue Christmas gift that I was unable to finish in December. I love trinket boxes and making them for others. This one was specially made for my sister-in-law, Wendy, for her to keep any little treasures she likes in it. The pretty paper is from the Prima Indeed collection, which has been nesting in my scrapbook stash for some time just waiting for the perfect piece to adorn itself with. Here's to you Wendy! Thank you for all you do and all you have done. You are a blessing! </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy the rain and breathe it in today - </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">XoXo, Niki</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-49150170202394376652010-04-26T18:04:00.001-05:002010-04-26T18:08:52.477-05:00My Boy Monday<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">Even though he is into everything , leaving a trail of mess behind him with each step he takes, I still love my boy. And even though he digs up my flowers and runs them over with his Tonka trucks, I still effortlessy love my little boy. And even though he climbs the cabinets to turn on the sink and splash water all over himself, the bathroom mirror and the floor, I still love my boy.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9X9F94oL_I/AAAAAAAAANM/rgcjRn0bNsU/s1600/Easter2010+054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9X9F94oL_I/AAAAAAAAANM/rgcjRn0bNsU/s400/Easter2010+054.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And even though he throws his food from his plate onto my freshly cleaned floor, I still love my boy.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9X-lwShwSI/AAAAAAAAANU/7kKgJkOkjKs/s1600/Colehaircut1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9X-lwShwSI/AAAAAAAAANU/7kKgJkOkjKs/s400/Colehaircut1.jpg" tt="true" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">You have captured your mama's heart with your antics, little man. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9YX4wfw7GI/AAAAAAAAANc/E-n1m_apTyo/s1600/ColeEaster2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9YX4wfw7GI/AAAAAAAAANc/E-n1m_apTyo/s400/ColeEaster2010.jpg" tt="true" width="392" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy your little guys today mommies; dirt, trucks, messes and all!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9YaOMi3UjI/AAAAAAAAANk/A8rVrMjDo9Y/s1600/BPM0110lovemyboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S9YaOMi3UjI/AAAAAAAAANk/A8rVrMjDo9Y/s400/BPM0110lovemyboy.jpg" tt="true" width="396" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">XOXO, nik</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-55210752223673749172010-04-12T21:57:00.017-05:002010-04-17T16:26:06.744-05:00It's Been Way Too Long...<div><div>Starting over can be so overwhelming. Each day is a brand new opportunity to do just that and so often for me, it is a task that is so incredibly daunting. The last few months since my last post have been very difficult for me and I am saddened that I have not been able to keep up in blog land. In February, we came upon the one year mark since Ellie went home to be with Jesus. Our lives have not and will never be the same without her here as part of our earthly family. Missing her, wanting to hold her, laugh with her, sing with her.... all so very hard for us to do. It has been way too long since I was able to do those things and feel her touch; hear her sweet raspy voice. So desparately do I want to have her with me and yet I just have to wait....I just have to wait...<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461211292325850994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8oevFJvL3I/AAAAAAAAALI/qoeaXLZQPOs/s400/BPM1209ornament+.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8PfEvP1r4I/AAAAAAAAALA/QD7FJO-nmPw/s1600/Sweetsleep.jpg"></a>I have had time to do some crafting and have been enjoying the wonderful weather we are having in Minnesota. Spring is here and it is so refreshing to be able to get outdoors and breathe that fresh sunshiny air. </div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8PedyRVulI/AAAAAAAAAK4/vn9KVEsHJz8/s1600/Lifesign2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459451776595245650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 298px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8PedyRVulI/AAAAAAAAAK4/vn9KVEsHJz8/s400/Lifesign2.jpg" border="0" /></a>This month at <a href="http://scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin' Mojo </a>my design team work centered around the new <a href="http://www.basicgrey.com/scrapbook/shop/collections/show/current/kioshi">Basic Grey Kioshi</a> line. If you have these papers then you already know how gorgeous they are. I love all things Basic Grey, but this one in particular has to be one of my all time faves. I love pastels and this line is full of pretty lavender, sweet pink, minty greens, pale yellow and sky blue. It's spring on paper!<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8Pd-csriTI/AAAAAAAAAKw/vdYZP6AxwK8/s1600/MojoDT042010fairytaledress.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459451238228396338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 395px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8Pd-csriTI/AAAAAAAAAKw/vdYZP6AxwK8/s400/MojoDT042010fairytaledress.jpg" border="0" /></a> In this sweet little layout of Desi, I added a doilee border; a trend that I just adore. Little lacey doilees look so fresh and pretty on paper projects, don't they? The flowers and flourishes are from <a href="http://www.primamarketinginc.com/">Prima</a> and have been nestled in my stash waiting for this layout to take shape. I added a little <a href="http://www.mytatteredangels.com/">Glimmer Mist</a> in Irridescent Gold and some sprinkles of <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/">Martha Stewart</a> fine glitter. Such a pretty end result!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461215252077920178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8oiVkYMv7I/AAAAAAAAALQ/EUtI-IAR48s/s400/BunnyBox.jpg" border="0" /> A little bunny box.. love this little guy. He used to sit in Ellie's room when she was just a babe. So happy I found a use for him to adorn this little Easter box.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461215826995236290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 359px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S8oi3CHKzcI/AAAAAAAAALY/JoItG5lvDjA/s400/MojoDT0410sistersframe.jpg" border="0" /> And lastly a cute little picture frame using one of my favorite papers from the Kioshi line. Now I can look at it all day long if I want too. It's sitting pretty right now as I chat with you all. Since I always say I will post more, I am not going to this time! I'll be back soon, but until then, savor spring!</div><div> </div><div>Love, nik <div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-5696417077516694552010-01-04T09:49:00.013-06:002010-01-04T13:30:32.159-06:00Happy New Year!!<div><div><div><div><div><div>I think for sure one of my resolutions is to blog more often. I always say I am going to be more into the blog thing, and then my life gets crazy and I don't get it done. But, it's a new year full of new things and new creations, so I am going to give it my best and try and post much more often. And today is the perfect day to get started. I do have lots to share since my last post which was......<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ummmmm</span>...... a couple months ago (sigh). But today I am just gonna keep it simple and enjoy the quiet moments of typing while Desi is away at preschool and Cole is playing ever so nicely with the Thomas the Train set Santa brought. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422923959499123074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 388px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0IYm_nmaYI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/ugSr9uKonus/s400/MojoDT1109merry+.jpg" border="0" />I so hope you all had a wonderful, magical Christmas. I know for us, it was difficult beyond words. <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elliewillaert">Ellie</a> loved, loved, loved Christmas! I can only imagine the incredible celebration she had with Jesus this year; just close your eyes and listen for the angels and their sweet singing! Oh Ellie Belle, my heart aches and rejoices all at once my, sweet, sweet girl. Thank you Lord, for seeing us through this holiday time and showing us your love through those that surrounded and held us. We are ever so thankful. </div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422925529646137026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0IaCY30fsI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/cAxpLGTKrwo/s400/ChristmasCoffee1.jpg" border="0" />The New Year has brought a fantastic opportunity my way and I am very excited to share with you all. I was contacted out of the blue from our Community Education program and I am thrilled to have been asked to teach <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">paper crafting</span> classes for them. I am just tickled that I get to share some of my favorite techniques and projects with those that live in my neighborhood and surrounding areas. I will be holding two classes in January, a winter mini album class and a Valentine workshop. Both classes are offered through <a href="http://ce.isd721.org/">New Prague Community Education</a> and you can check out all the offerings by going <a href="http://www.np.k12.mn.us/commed/ce.shtml">HERE</a>. Here's a little peek at the mini album we will be making.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422964841131657202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 365px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0I9ynkVx_I/AAAAAAAAAKk/AyotfudKUFw/s400/WinterMiniAlbumblogteaser1.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div></div><div>This album was crafted with some of my favorite papers from the Bo Bunny Snowy Serenade collection. Every one of these papers is glittered and gorgeous. Perfect for all your wintertime memories. Take a peek at the <a href="http://bobunny.blogspot.com/2010/01/little-snowy-serenade.html">Bo Bunny blog</a> for a glimpse of these beautiful papers that just emulate frosty goodness. </div><div>And of course Valentine's Day is right around the corner. Hearts and love themed crafty products are everywhere. I'll save those projects for later this week. I will leave you with a layout I just completed for <a href="http://scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin' Mojo</a> using products from the very funky <a href="http://rosemoka.com/">Rose Moka </a>Vintage Glam line. They were our sponsor for January and what fun I and the <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11950">Mojo Guest Designers</a> had playing with their product! Here's a couple layouts for you to peek at and get your own mojo flowing. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422963403987262002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 389px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0I8e9yamjI/AAAAAAAAAKU/9Wt5HzVU_2c/s400/MojoDT0110artbydesi.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422963532109508322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 396px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0I8mbFI7uI/AAAAAAAAAKc/MmSJubbMIqY/s400/MojoDT0110content.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422963184131606850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 390px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/S0I8SKwviUI/AAAAAAAAAKM/_i0qH5SBVgg/s400/MojoDT0110happy2gether+.jpg" border="0" />Enjoy the start of 2010 ~ Best Wishes from me to you for a happy and joy filled New Year! </p><p>XOXO, Niki</p><p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-40798907588391731982009-10-29T08:27:00.004-05:002009-10-29T09:15:22.452-05:00Holiday WorkshopI know many of you are groaning because all the Christmas stuff is all over the stores and it feels so early. I on the other hand am giddy with excitement! LOL! Christmas is my fave holiday - celebrating the birth of Christ is something I look forward to every year. There is just something about it - it's magical. And it is one of the best times to let your creativity shine with the season. I have vowed to make many of my gifts this year and I am off to a pretty good start. Many have asked me over the years, "When are you gonna teach a class?" I have listened and after much contemplation, will be offering a holiday workshop! Class will be held here in New Market on November 14th. After the new year, I hope to offer some online classes for you all. Below you can take a peek at my creations that we will put together at the workshop. I had a ton of fun creating this little cottage - the lid is removable and you can load it up with candy, pictures, recipes, whatever will fit. I used some of the new <a href="http://www.basicgrey.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=111">Eskimo Kisses line</a> from <a href="http://basicgrey.com/">Basic Grey</a> and one of my favorite Jenni Bowlin papers. Sno-Tex and glitter give the roof a wintry feel. Cute, huh?<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SumaJq8JCOI/AAAAAAAAAJM/_q4xC_mdSjM/s1600-h/snowcottage.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398015119316289762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 331px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SumaJq8JCOI/AAAAAAAAAJM/_q4xC_mdSjM/s400/snowcottage.jpg" border="0" /></a>This is a banner that was quite simple to make. I love the word "JOY" and can't wait to hang this up for Christmas time. I love using sheet music in my projects and I raided my mom's piano bench for some old music books!<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SumZ61U-aGI/AAAAAAAAAJE/uJrhcd3KX_4/s1600-h/Joybanner1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398014864406767714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 233px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SumZ61U-aGI/AAAAAAAAAJE/uJrhcd3KX_4/s400/Joybanner1.jpg" border="0" /></a>My Christmas projects would not be complete without a vintage Santa image somewhere. This is a close-up of a little ornament that I am going to tuck inside my cottage for some lucky recipient to receive. I got the idea for the muslin rose from the <a href="http://www.emailcontact.com/nl/nl-output.php?nl_id=84922&bus_id=4350&plain=0&fill=true">Maya Road newletter</a>. So easy and fun to make; you gotta try these!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398016409302218370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 396px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SumbUwgwNoI/AAAAAAAAAJU/H0dEhm2yx90/s400/muslinrose.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>I hope to see some of you who are local on the 14th - we will have a blast making these little treaures! If you are intested in getting crafty with me, shoot me an email to sign up or click the workshop link on my sidebar. That's all for now; be sure to check back on Saturday as I will be offering a RAK in honor of my birthday on November 1st! </div><div>XOXO Nik</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-32272796054388274362009-10-25T11:01:00.013-05:002009-10-25T18:02:30.560-05:00Is it Fall or Winter????According to the calendar, it's fall. But in Minnesota, that means snow anytime from October on. We have had a couple days of rain turning to snow then rain again. Wonder what today will bring? Looks like more rain or snow - we'll see. Both Cole and Desi are sick with the flu. I think Desi is past the worst, but still not feeling like herself. Cole has a temp of 103 and is coughing. If you think of us - send a few prayers our way for health. This flu is nasty! I am hoping all is well so both kids can adorn their costumes on Saturday. Desi did have a Halloween party a couple weeks ago and I was able to snap this cute little pic:<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR5RAgOqNI/AAAAAAAAAI8/VGp8S1bbbXw/s1600-h/Scrapbook+Layouts+022.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396571586596612306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR5RAgOqNI/AAAAAAAAAI8/VGp8S1bbbXw/s400/Scrapbook+Layouts+022.jpg" border="0" /></a> And here's one of the infamous frost on the pumpkin. Or in this case, snow on the pumpkin. For sure this will make a lovely scrapbook page, but it was hard to take since this was on October 12th!<br /><div></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR3yoS2nxI/AAAAAAAAAI0/AVHL-wGuelY/s1600-h/Scrapbook+Layouts+037.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396569965190356754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR3yoS2nxI/AAAAAAAAAI0/AVHL-wGuelY/s400/Scrapbook+Layouts+037.jpg" border="0" /></a> On to scrappy news - I recently entered the DT contest at <a href="http://scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin Mojo</a> and I was chosen to be their designer for the next 6 months! I am thrilled as this is the first forum that I ever visited and become a member of. I love these girls like family - they are wonderful and I hope you all come by and play with us. The DT challenge was to create a Christmas layout and I jumped at the chance to scrap this precious picture of my kids last year.<br /><div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR2cLenMjI/AAAAAAAAAIc/X1-8MoWSmtA/s1600-h/MojoDTentry1109.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396568479986299442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR2cLenMjI/AAAAAAAAAIc/X1-8MoWSmtA/s400/MojoDTentry1109.jpg" border="0" /></a> I used a lot of elements in this layout; distressing, inking, border punches, rubons, handmade paper flowers and glittering. I love how these letters turned out using some of <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/glitter-painting">Martha Stewart's tinsel glitter.</a></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396569030110382978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR28M2ai4I/AAAAAAAAAIs/59zTjm_smjM/s400/MojoDTentry1109alphas.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Here's a close-up of a paper flower I made by adhering several of the same shape flowers in varying sizes together. I used Glimmer Mist and more glitter to add dimension and shimmer.</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396568630663902482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuR2k8y89RI/AAAAAAAAAIk/bd_L8Lsk4WY/s400/MojoDTentry1109flower.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div>All in all, I love this layout and will for sure hang it on my wall during the holidays. Thank you <a href="http://www.flourishestoflowers.blogspot.com/">Jan</a> and <a href="http://www.jazzyscrappertidbits.blogspot.com/">Terri</a> of <a href="http://scrappinmojo.com/">Mojo</a> for asking me to be on your DT!! My other news is scrappy related too. Remember back in September when I guest designed for the kit club <a href="http://backporchmemories.com/">Back Porch Memories?</a> The other day I received an email from Paula, the owner of the site and store in Fairbanks, Alaska, and she asked me if I would like to be one of their full time designers! What exciting news to be offered two DT positions in one day! I can't wait to start on both of these adventures. Make sure to come by each of these forums to visit me, chat and be challenged. </div><div></div><div>That's all for today. I'm doing good - 2 blog posts in a weekend! LOL! Stay tuned this week as I will be offering up a RAK in honor of my milestone birthday that is a week away. And I will have some other things to share with you all too; a holiday papercrafting class that I am offering, a couple glitter techniques, and maybe even a recipe. Enjoy your Sunday evening - XOXO, Nik </div><div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-50551143759636190182009-10-23T08:25:00.017-05:002009-10-23T09:47:51.467-05:00It's been a while - LOL!One of these days I will get better at updating my blog on a weekly basis. Not sure why I get so distracted and don't get it done! Thankfully so many of you are better at it than I am because I get to hop all over blog land and ooooohhhhh and aaaaahhhhh over all of your FAB-U-LOUS creations! Fall is such an awesome season for crafting, don't ya think? It just gets you motivated to create with all the beautiful colors and the crisp cool air that brings about the hint that winter is on it's way. I was busy in September with a wonderful kit from <a href="http://backporchmemories.com/">Back Porch Memories</a>. I had a blast being on their guest DT for September. This kit was packed with goodies from <a href="http://pinkpaislee.com/">Pink Paislee</a>, <a href="http://mymindseye.com/">My Mind's Eye</a> and <a href="http://shopsei.com/">SEI</a>. Lot's of yummy colors to mix and match! Below are a couple of my layouts from the kit. I love the first one with my girls and the second one is my little guy Colson. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395802722311338466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 390px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG9_N1z-eI/AAAAAAAAAHs/7hlkGjngwpA/s400/Happinessis.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395797018098504530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 361px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG4zL_fk1I/AAAAAAAAAHE/eyGc_wkPFf8/s400/ExtraordinaryBPM0909.jpg" border="0" />As October rolled around, I was asked fill a guest DT spot at <a href="http://scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin' Mojo</a>, my home base scrappy forum. The paper I was blessed to work with were from <a href="http://papertrunk.com/">Paper Trunk </a>- loved this paper!<br />They sent so much, that I still have sheets left over. The "Wrangler" line was perfect for some projects for Cole. I made this simple little name banner to hang in his room and a couple layouts:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395800918199672210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 220px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG8WNAEnZI/AAAAAAAAAHc/7uHy6EWuF0U/s400/MojoGDT1009banner.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395800603125447266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 398px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG8D3QhemI/AAAAAAAAAHU/HFXKifxmslU/s400/MojoGDT1009busyboy.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div><div>This is my fave layout using the Paper Trunk papers from the "Socialite" line. The picture was taken just 5 days before Ellie died; she did everything with grace and always had a smile on her face. Love how her and Desi are holding each other in this photo.<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395802387039558130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG9rs2ymfI/AAAAAAAAAHk/z6caDZNz7UY/s400/MojoGDToct1009elliendesi.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Another fave - Ellie and baby Colson. I wrote a note to Cole on this one:</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395800131879601186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 383px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SuG7obuwhCI/AAAAAAAAAHM/0L8luH8JyC4/s400/MojoGDT1009bro%26sis.jpg" border="0" />Each day for me continues to bring it's own set of grief struggles and at times it can be very hard to move forward because I am constantly thinking about Ellie. I have never wanted to get to Heaven so badly - it is difficult to think that it could be 40 years or more before I get to hold her in my arms again. She keeps me motivated with my creativity, however. She was my crafty partner and when I am working a project, I can almost feel her next to me asking how she can help. Recently Desi and I organized my Clip-It-Up. I could not help but shed some tears because Ellie helped me put it together and get all the little clips on there. We spent about an hour and a half arranging it a couple years back. It's those little memories that get the best of me and cause a mini breakdown. God, do I miss my little girl. </div><div></div><div>Thanks for looking my sweet blog friends and I will be back tomorrow with some exciting news to share! Until then - be blessed! </div><div>XOXO ~ Nik </div><div> </div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-13012621087316885142009-08-16T16:58:00.014-05:002009-08-16T21:05:36.618-05:00New Look and a Guest DT Spot!Ok, so I was not very good about getting back to blog after our little vaca to Colorado! LOL! Sorry about that - the rest of July and most of August has been so busy as I am sure most of you can relate. We had a fantastic, relaxing time and here are a few pics for you. This is the gorgeous Rockie Mountains - beautiful. For those of you that have been there you know what I mean!. The pictures just do not do this country justice. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiIgqJRlII/AAAAAAAAAGQ/omvEO8GYISs/s1600-h/Colorado+mountains+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370692650289697922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiIgqJRlII/AAAAAAAAAGQ/omvEO8GYISs/s400/Colorado+mountains+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> We saw all kinds of wildlife in the mountains. Including this fella, a large, and I mean LARGE moose! We were fishing on one of the streams in the mountians and this guy and a friendjust passed us by. A little scary for us, but glad I got some great pics!<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiH_oONjnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/nhO9p6z112c/s1600-h/moose1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370692082837851762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 384px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiH_oONjnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/nhO9p6z112c/s400/moose1.jpg" border="0" /></a> We did lots of fishing and more fishing! I cannot belive the size of the trout in the Colorado River. Of course, this picture of me and the little fishy at the end of my line is not what I am talking about, but this was the only pic Pat took of me fishing. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiHltgo31I/AAAAAAAAAGA/whudBEkjEho/s1600-h/nikifishing1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370691637580717906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiHltgo31I/AAAAAAAAAGA/whudBEkjEho/s400/nikifishing1.jpg" border="0" /></a>We grilled lots of yummy food; here's a picture of the steak kabobs we grilled at the fishing hole one night:<br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiHODzQTLI/AAAAAAAAAF4/Lx4lY-KTZNg/s1600-h/kabobs.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370691231247518898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 362px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiHODzQTLI/AAAAAAAAAF4/Lx4lY-KTZNg/s400/kabobs.jpg" border="0" /></a> And here is my sweetie pie by a gorgeous waterfall we found as we did some hiking one day. Love his big smile; this trip is just what he needed!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiFPW8yQ5I/AAAAAAAAAFw/I39NGfAwZc0/s1600-h/Patwaterfall.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370689054544380818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiFPW8yQ5I/AAAAAAAAAFw/I39NGfAwZc0/s400/Patwaterfall.jpg" border="0" /></a>On to scrappy news! I am thrilled to be the guest designer for <a href="http://www.backporchmemories.com/">Back Porch Memories</a> in September! If you have not been over to their site, please go check it out. They have awesome kits at a very resonable price and a wonderful forum full of sweet and talented ladies that I know will inspire you. I have been a lurker on their site for almost a year and decided to enter the contest. So excited to have won! Also visit the gallery to check out the great entries; each was fabulous and very creative. Below is my entry; little Miss Ellie playing T-Ball. Finally got these pics scrapped after two years! LOL! </div><div><div><div><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiCwhu00YI/AAAAAAAAAFY/yQXqbiF3Z7w/s1600-h/playball.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370686325839417730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 394px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiCwhu00YI/AAAAAAAAAFY/yQXqbiF3Z7w/s400/playball.jpg" border="0" /></a> I have also been playing around with my <a href="http://www.websterspages.com/">Webster's Pages</a> papers thatI simply adore. Here is a layout I did for an online crop challenge over at <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin' Mojo</a> a couple weeks ago. Thanks <a href="http://sallison.blogspot.com/">Sophia</a> for an awesome challenge and to <a href="http://www.flourishestoflowers.blogspot.com/">Jan</a> and <a href="http://www.jazzyscrappertidbits.blogspot.com/">Terri</a> for having such a fun scrapbook community to be a part of. I LOVE these girls! This layout of Colson seemed to take me forever, but I am happy with the results. <a href="http://www.sallison.blogspot.com/">Sophia</a> wanted us to use stitching and an envelope on the layout and here is what I came up with:<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370687216850850242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 393px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiDkZAgUcI/AAAAAAAAAFg/OwAy3Pt1Pc8/s400/WPCole.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370688212017548594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 362px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SoiEeUSvDTI/AAAAAAAAAFo/H9LkJ1wOfik/s400/WPColecloseup.jpg" border="0" />And you will notice that I finally have changed my background and header on my blog. It has been in need for some time now! Thanks to <a href="http://armenian-princess.blogspot.com/">Deb</a> at <a href="http://armenian-princess.blogspot.com/">Sparkling Scrapbooks</a>, I found a great little blog that has the cutest blog designs. Go check out <a href="http://blo64rt.blogspot.com/">Cute and Cool Blog stuff </a>to get your own. She also does custom work too. I am loving the new look just need to add a few more details. Hope you all had a great weekend and I am hoping to be back tomorrow to share a couple designs from a fun kit that I recently received. Until then, be blessed! XOXO ~ Nik </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com214tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-36931701777926564372009-07-10T14:27:00.003-05:002009-07-10T14:32:25.894-05:00Off to Colorado and a little TOOT!Well, Pat and I are packed and are headed out to the mountains of Colorado until July 18th. We are so blessed to be given this trip by a friend of ours and are really looking forward to spending some much needed time with each other and just relaxing. I am hoping that Ellie makes it known that she is with us in the mountains - God, do we miss her.<br /><br />For the first time ever, I have a little toot to share! Today I got an email from Memory Makers saying that they are featuring my American Classic layout in the online gallery as the featured layout! I am thrilled as I have not been submitting any work for months and just started to again. Go check it out at <a href="http://www.memorymakersmagazine.com/page_ideas.aspx"><strong>Memory Makers</strong> </a>- woo, hoo!<br /><br />Please pray that we have safe travels and the Lord continues to heal our broken hearts. I'll be back to blog on the 20th!<br />XOXO ~ NikAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-87696875339979296252009-07-06T11:57:00.008-05:002009-07-06T13:36:35.304-05:00Another MondayAre Mondays hard for you? They are for me. Even though I am a stay-at-home mom and I do not have to head to work outside of the home, Mondays have always been a challenge for me. I am hoping someday I can embrace them as a new start to the week and jump out of bed ready to tackle everything. But for now, I still have trouble with Monday. Hope you all had a great 4th of July and were able to capture lots of memories with your cameras. I am relying on my niece Lindsey for my pictures since I just didn't seem to pull the camera out this weekend. I know she got some great shots of Cole and Desi and I can't wait to see her talented eye got on film. Lindsey is only 18 and she is so gifted when it comes to taking pictures! Below is a layout of Cole that I did using one of her photographs. Pretty good for just a kid, huh?<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SlI2WU-GuxI/AAAAAAAAAE4/cJdxQQ1xRHY/s1600-h/AngelFace+copy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355402664111160082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 319px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SlI2WU-GuxI/AAAAAAAAAE4/cJdxQQ1xRHY/s320/AngelFace+copy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />So I was thinking I need to do some updating on my blog. A new banner, new profile pictures, etc. Any ideas for me fellow bloggers?? I feel like I have not updated very much since all that has happened with Ellie and I just need a little blog facelift, KWIM? And if you got some suggestions for me send them my way. There just might be a little RAK involved if I pick your idea! Wink - wink!<br /><br />Speaking of RAKs, my pal <a href="http://blueyecicle.blogspot.com/">Pinky</a> has a great little giveaway today, Head on over to <a href="http://blueyecicle.blogspot.com/">her blog</a> and post a comment. She needs 40 comments to give this RAK away so go and give her some lovin' on her blog. Enjoy your day all and I'll be back tomorrow hopefully with some more layouts that I have been working on! XOXO ~ Nik<br /><div><div><div> </div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-42175859882245931882009-06-29T20:21:00.011-05:002009-07-01T00:21:17.934-05:00Cosmo Cricket!I had a blast on the scrap retreat this past weekend! Even though I feel like I did not get as many pages done as I would have liked, I did get two projects done that I have been itching to do for several months. I will post them tomorrow once take pics. I did finish this little layout of my little guy Colson. I love the Cosmo Cricket and Fancy Pants lines! Cole was only 2 months old here and now he is a year. Time goes by way to fast!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrwuFWnNaI/AAAAAAAAAEo/As6DKhcCGSU/s1600-h/shhh.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353355781584926114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrwuFWnNaI/AAAAAAAAAEo/As6DKhcCGSU/s320/shhh.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>So, who doesn't love CC??? When I came across the news that they were having a DT call, I scrambled to post my entry. What I love about Cosmo Cricket is their ability to be both whimsical and beautiful all at the same time. I have to say that they have cornered the market on quality, creative and simply fabulous scrapbooking products. Below you will find only some of my work that has used Cosmo Cricket. I absolutely adore their products and thought why not give this a whirl. What started it all for me was the "Wanted" line. I loved it so much that I bought the entire line two times over and even painted my little Cowboy Cole's room according to these colors! Here's a picture frame that I did with the "Wanted" line:<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmltAD6KI/AAAAAAAAAEg/H3MK73ztUYc/s1600-h/Cowboyframe.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353344642492655778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmltAD6KI/AAAAAAAAAEg/H3MK73ztUYc/s320/Cowboyframe.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Along came "Girl Friday" and again I was in love. How perfect are these papers for the little girls in our lives?! Here's a wall plaque that I made for Desirae:<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmWK3F2lI/AAAAAAAAAEY/-x2BAk5XfXM/s1600-h/CCQueenBee.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353344375630191186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmWK3F2lI/AAAAAAAAAEY/-x2BAk5XfXM/s320/CCQueenBee.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The "Hey Sugar" line won my heart again and I had fun playing with the big cardstock "buttons" and sweet papers:</div><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmFchRWII/AAAAAAAAAEQ/JDN8LPwFIec/s1600-h/CCHeySugarbox.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353344088312731778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrmFchRWII/AAAAAAAAAEQ/JDN8LPwFIec/s320/CCHeySugarbox.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>"Dutch Girl" - I fell in love with her the moment they released her! Here's Ellie and Desi in 2006:<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrlKRwtJpI/AAAAAAAAAEA/_nbwsMqZwl0/s1600-h/CCDutchGirl.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353343071812396690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 317px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6ir0n_wHvyE/SkrlKRwtJpI/AAAAAAAAAEA/_nbwsMqZwl0/s320/CCDutchGirl.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />And another layout utilizing the "Hey Sugar" pretties:<br /><br /><div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q271/njwillaert/SimplyYou.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 440px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 443px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q271/njwillaert/SimplyYou.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div>Thank you Cosmo Cricket for letting us all enjoy your product and creating such fabulous items to work with! DT or no DT, I am a CC girl for life! XOXO ~ Niki </div><div> </div><div>P.S. I almost forgot to post my blog winner from the <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin Mojo</a> Blog Hop! Stella, you are my lucky winner! Congrats Lady and I will have your prize out to you this week. Thanks to all who played along with us this weekend. It was wonderful to see some familiar faces!<br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q271/njwillaert/SimplyYou.jpg"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1652983953104055658.post-83239590312052743032009-06-26T01:38:00.010-05:002009-06-26T10:29:22.422-05:00Summer Soiree Blog Hop and Giveaway at Scrappin Mojo<a href="http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q271/njwillaert/AnAmericanClassic.gif"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 312px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q271/njwillaert/AnAmericanClassic.gif" border="0" /></a><br />So much has happened since Ellie's home going to Heaven that it will be hard for me to re-cap. Each day I struggle to make sense out of my life without her in it and each day it seems to become even more difficult. The pain that lives in my heart is so heavy; it can cloud even the sunniest of summer days. I do have many things to be thankful for and one such thing is my ability to get my thoughts put down on my layouts and crafty projects. I have been on two scrapbook retreats since I last posted and also was named one of the June guest designers for <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin Mojo</a>. Excitng for me, as this is the very first online forum I ever visited and I continue to post my work there because I love the Mojo girls. I feel like we are a little family! I have lots of layouts to show you that I have been working on, but I will save that post for later in the week - promise! This weekend over at <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin Mojo </a>we are hosting a Blog Hop with lots of prizes and one grand prize. All you have to do to participate is leave comments on the participating blogs and complete the challenge they have posted. Head on over to Mojo to register and play along with us and don't forget to check out the awesome grand prize from Bo Bunny! <div><div><div><div><div></div><br /><div></div><div>So if you are playing along, my challenge to you is to create a layout using red, white and blue as your color scheme. I had fun working with an older kit that I had from <a href="http://jennibowlin.com/">Jenni Bowlin </a>- love her kits! Leave a comment here so I know you stopped by and I will enter your name into a drawing for a RAK from me! And don't forget to post your completed layout in the gallery back at <a href="http://www.scrappinmojo.com/">Scrappin Mojo</a> for a chance to win the grand prize. </div></div><div><div></div><div></div><div>And if you wanna keep hopping along, please visit <a href="http://itsmylifeandimscrappingit.blogspot.com/">Diana's blog</a> for your next challenge. Have fun and don't forgot to leave comments for my RAK. On Monday I will put all the names in a bucket and let Desi pick out a winner. Enjoy your weekend everyone and don't forget to check out Mojo for the official Blog Hop rules! Enjoy and Happy Scrappin! </div><div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13835245899221484684noreply@blogger.com20