{i}SCRAP 'n STAMP

Two Sisters

2011-04-29T08:59:00.006-05:00

Do you ever have certain stamp sets that you just can't part with? i do, and lots of them. This stamp set, Seaside Sketches, has been one of my all time favorites, along with all of the "sketches" sets. There's just something about them that says "peace, solitude, and contentment" to me. i know i could always use more of that in my life.

Well, when i saw the color challenge at Colour Q this week, i immediately thought, "these are colors that i would not normally choose to put together," but that's what makes it a challenge, right? My next thought was, "what do these colors remind me of?" Nature, outdoors, sunny skies and green grass. So that's where this card came from.

i just love these two little girls, hand in hand. It reminds me of my sister and myself when we were little. She, being the big sister, always leading me around and telling me what to do. She is my very best friend today, and i am so glad to have been blesssed with a sister. We share an awful lot together. The good, the bad, and the ugly, and she always loves me.

Just the other day, i had to text her because it was finally official. i found my first gray hair!!! It was devastating to me (but in a funny sort of way), and she texted me back, "i've been waiting for this day--ha ha!" Only a sister could get by with laughing.

So, i think i will send her this card just to say thank you for being my friend...always.
Love ya, Julie!

Debi

Conviction!

2011-04-26T14:08:00.008-05:00

Again, it's been awhile, but there is always a reason. God has been moving in my heart for the past year or so and He has been convicting me that i spend WAY too much time in the stamp room, spending WAY too much money on myself and my "hobby" as my husband likes to call it. :>

Conviction. i don't like it. Especially whenever it involves me, which it always does. But, having put my trust in Christ, i must allow for it. It is necessary if God is going to use me, if He is going to change me to become more like Jesus. Have you seen the movie "Voyage of the Dawn Treader"? There is a scene where Eustice is turned into a dragon and toward the end of the movie he meets Aslan for the first time. He begins to scratch at his scales, not liking who he has become and wanting the hard callouses to be gone. Aslan changes him back to a young boy, and he later shares with his cousins that what Aslan did kinda hurt, but it was a good kind of hurt. i guess that's kinda of the process i'm in right now...

Man, i hate it whenever God begins to do something in my life. It hurts sometimes, but in order for God to create me into who HE wants me to be, it is necessary. So, the journey i have been on this past year or so has been a difficult one. i have felt Jesus telling me that i have grown to love stamping (and other things) more than i love Him. And after really searching my heart, it is true. Ouch! My desire to be in the stamp room, on the computer, and create has grown to where i enjoy that MORE than i enjoy sitting with my Lord. i have grown to prefer that, and that has been a hard mouth to swallow.

So, where does that take me? i'm really not sure at this time. As we have been reading in the Old Testament about all of Isreal's idols, this has become an idol for me. So now what? How can i enjoy a talent God has gifted me with and not let it be an idol? Do i destroy it completely like the Isrealites had to? Do i try to find a balance? i don't know. And that's where i'm at. Still waiting on the Lord. i am so glad He is patient with me.

So, in the midst of all my "inner termoil", i do have a little something, something to share. Here it is...

TTFN,Debi

More black Magic

2011-01-28T14:43:00.006-06:00

The kids didn't have school today. Too much flu, I guess. Thankfully for us, we've been healthy (I'm probably speaking too soon), so the boys wanted a friend to come over and play today. I was good with that. I'd rather have them here under our supervision than somewhere else. They like it here anyway, so it's win-win.

After I did the workshop the other night, I wanted to post another Black Magic idea. It really got me thinking about other designs and I just love how everything pops out against the black background. Besides, I'm kind of sick of Valentine's right now.

So here's my card:

I used the more "earthy" colors on this one, and many of the retired colors since I still have them. (Dang, I'm still upset about the "color renovation", can you tell?) And, of course, I had to add something a little 3-dimensional, so the butterflies worked perfectly. They were cut out of vellum.

We'll have to see what kind of time I have in the near future if I will be posting more "black magic" or if I'll get tired of that quickly, too. Oh well. Too many irons in the fire for me right now, but I still love stamping!!

Thanks for stopping by!

TTFN,

Debi

P.S. I forgot to mention another cool technique...misting with alcohol and shimmer paint. Adds so much to a plain background. You'll have to try it sometime.

The Empty Cup

2011-01-27T09:36:00.003-06:00

Last night when I went to bed, I was feeling a bit frustrated with my kids. For some reason, they don't like picking up their dirty clothes and putting them in the hamper. I decided it was time to take action.

I've decided that it's time to stop getting mad. I've found it really doesn't do any good anyway. I'm mad, they don't listen, and then it just snowballs from there. So, last night I told them in a very calm tone that this was their last warning. Any clothes I found on the floor would become the property of Mom. If the clothes are confiscated and they want them back, they will have to pay to get them back. Not pay, as in I'm taking revenge, but actually pay for them, like a fine, with their own money or toys or whatever will make it a little uncomfortable for them.

I went out to supper with some girlfriends and we had this discussion...that we, as parents, have come to "coddle" our kids. We began to wonder what would've happened 100 or 150 years ago if this would've happened. I think Dad would've taken them out back and given them a good lickin' for not obeying and not being responsible.

It's kind of scary whenever we watch TV and see programs like "the world's strictest parents" and shows like that. Kids shouldn't be running the show telling the parents how things are going to be within the home. That's why God gave parents authority over them. He gave the parents wisdom and discernment, not the kids. Anyway, when it's all said and done, we are the ones that have to answer to God, not the kids.

So, I've been challenged to be a better parent. To love them so much that they WANT to listen to us. Now, that's going to be different for each of my kids. My daughter loves talking to me, so I need to be a good listener. My 7 year old loves to play wii, so when he asks for me to play, I need to be available to play. My 6 year old needs to feel safe and secure, so when he wants love and affection, I need to give that to him. These are just a few ideas that come to mind. There are many, many more.

I want my kids to be well adjusted so that when the time comes, I can pass the baton of responsibility, integrity, hard work, and godly character into their adult lives. Ugh! Parenting is hard.

So, in the meantime, while they are at school, I have a moment to get my cup full so I have more to give when they get home. I could stamp today. I know that fills my cup, but only momentarily. Maybe I should sit with Jesus today. I know of no better way to get my cup full. Besides, He promised that He came to give us life to the fullest. I want that. I need that. And so do my kids. What will you use to get your cup full today?

Thanks for visiting today!! Glad you stopped by.

TTFN,
Debi

Workshop samples

2011-01-26T13:57:00.003-06:00

I had a workshop last Friday night. It was good to share some creativity with others that are interested in stamping and paper crafting. The hostess was really interested in the watercolor wonder crayons and exactly how they worked. I did about 3 cards and then had the guests make their own as a make 'n take. I was really pleased with how they turned out. And it was so exciting to be at a workshop where the hostess was totally excited about it.

Here are the samples: This is a cute little 3 x 3 inch card. I just had to use the drinks from the new hostess set. I'm all about coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, and hot chocolate. Besides, it's been dang cold here lately, so anything warm in my body is a good thing. :> The technique I used was very simple...straight from the crayon to the paper by using an aquapen, and then just "painted" it on.

This card below was watercolored...traditionally, you might say. I colored in and then used a blender pen to "blend" the colors. It would've been way prettier if I had actually used a blending of color rather than just one color per letter, ya know?

This was our make 'n take. (The other card I gave to my hostess and couldn't download the picture...oh well.) The technique is called "black magic". I stamped the image on black CS using the whisper white CRAFT pad, let it dry, and then colored over the white image with the crayons. It really makes the color pop out. I love it!

Here is a close up of the detail:

Hope you enjoyed the creations today, and thanks for stopping by.

TTFN,

Debi

P.S. Please leave a comment. I'm always interested in who stops by. :>

"Owl" Always Love You

2011-01-21T09:19:00.004-06:00

Hubby and I went out of town last weekend and had an awesome time. It seems like forever since we had the opportunity to get away...just the two of us. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids, but sometimes we just need to get recharged. Our "parenting" cups were empty (as well as the other cup, too ;>), and we just needed to be alone. Besides, it was "us" before it was "them", right?

Well, I just had to get to the scrapbook store and look around. I've been feeling a huge lack of stamping/scrapping motivation for a long, long time, so it felt good to just browse, get some ideas, and touch and feel some new products.

I came across this adorable scrapbook page, and like the ding-dong I really can be, I took a picture of it with my phone. I thought, "I could totally turn this into a really cute card." So I did.

Here it is:

I so So SO love this little owl. I debated if I should get him from the Stampin' Up! catalog, but I'm glad I did. He was a good investment. :>

This picture really shows the shimmer on the letters. I saw an idea where you take an empty misting bottle, fill it up with rubbing alcohol, and add some shimmer paint. Shake it up well (each time because it settles between uses) and mist it over your paper. It adds so much. It's not too bold like glitter can get, just subtle.

I was also in My Digital Studio and wondered if I could create the same card using the software. Here is the digital image. Turned out pretty cute, too. What do you think? I just couldn't add the "shimmer" though.

Anyway, hope you enjoyed the card today.

TTFN,
Debi

All products used were Stampin' Up!

Shamrocks

2011-01-12T09:14:00.005-06:00

As promised, I mentioned that I would be on again in the near future. Well, the future is now, and I've just gotta show you something...

My mother has a friend that will be celebrating her 10th wedding anniversary on St. Patrick's Day this year. (How fun would it be to have an anniversary on a national holiday?) She asked if I would design an announcement for them and I instantly became a bit "gun-shy". It's been so long since I have made anything, let alone design something for a huge celebration.

I thought rather than just taking the plunge and saying "yes", I would come up with at least two (maybe three) ideas for her to choose from. That way there would be no pressure. If she likes them, I could go to town since I already knew which one she wanted. So, here are my three designs:

The background of this one I used the square lattice textured embossing folder. I love the layered look of white on white. I used a couple of the retired kaleidacolor ink pads to create the "rainbow" and brayered it on a scrap piece of glossy white CS. The shamrock was free hand and glittered in green.

This card I think is my favorite. I used some Prima Fairy Flora paper for the background. It has a very soft watercolored look. The Always Artichoke layer was also textured using the Damask texture plate. You can't see it in the photo, but I spritzed the shamrocks using an alcohol and shimmer paint blend. It really makes them "pop". (Wish you could see it better.)

This card I like, too. The background papers are, again, the Prima fairy flora line. I used the "LOVE" printing press plate and just colored the letters in using an Always Artichoke marker since I didn't have the Craft inks in that color. It works for now, but if she chooses this card, it will give me a good reason to get another item on my wish list. :> The shamrocks are shimmered again and sponged using Early Espresso. I also had some key and heart "charms" that I purchased quite a long time ago, and tied them on the the button and string combo. The bottom edge was punched using the scallop edge punch and then a little dot of Ranger liquid pearl opal white was added between each little loop.

Hope you like the designs.

TTFN,Debi

AH.....A new computer at last

2010-12-21T13:49:00.002-06:00

I will keep this short. I know myself...If a picture is not posted, I tend not to read a post. Sorry. That's just what I do. And I have this sneaky feeling that maybe I'm not the only one. Tee-hee.

It seems like forever since my last post. 3 months...YIKES!! Well, we caught a nasty virus back in February, and to make matters worse, we were terribly afraid that it was a bad one. We were right. It just wasan't worth spending ALL DAY LONG on the computer because it....was....so....slow. So, we have been without a home computer for the past 6 weeks. Honestly, I can say I went into withdrawl, but it was short lived. I recovered quite quickly *LOL* We've been busy with the kids and other things (which I will share later) that kept me sane.

Like I said, I will keep it short just to let all my blogger friends know that we are OK. I didn't die or runaway, or anything drastic. Just a nasty computer bug that laid us up for awhile. Hopefully, once everything is back on our new computer, I can get back to posting regularly and visiting all my fun computer friends. I have missed you all very much, btw. Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!!! Remember, keep Christ in Christmas all year long...not just during December. :>

TTFN,
Debi

The Card 2-fer

2010-09-16T13:40:00.004-05:00

Have you ever had one of those really, REALLY ugly dreams before? I'm sure everyone has. Have they ever affected your entire day? Ya, me too! I hated it! Ugh!! I feel so down and depressed and like I want to go back to sleep and try again. Anyway, for some reason, it's been a difficult day. Trying to move on...

Thought maybe going into the stamp room would help, so I decided to do two challenges in one today...the Sweet Sunday Sketch and ColourQ.

It was a lot of fun, but I think this stupid dream has affected my mojo today. It was difficult for me to get everything to flow for some reason. Maybe I will go have a quiet time instead. Spending time with the Lord ALWAYS makes me feel better. Ahhhhhhh.....

Here is my card:

This cute little guy I purchased at a stamp store quite awhile ago. I thought he was just too cute NOT to buy. He came from Stamps by Judith. Hope you like it, and thanks for stopping by!!

TTFN,

Debi

Friend Card - CQC #49

2010-09-10T17:03:00.008-05:00

Today started out as a fairly uneventful day. Went to the office and spent some time on the computer, which seems to take up A LOT of time. We are in need of a new computer as it...is.....SO.....SLOW! It's about to drive me crazy. Funny how i become adapted to what's been given to me, the whole instant gratification thing, and when it is taken away, i am the most impatient person. i think i need to grow up a bit. Yikes!!

Then i needed to get ready to go have lunch with my kindergartner. He's really had a really difficult time adjusting to school. i think he is so overwhelmed with the size of everything (which, to his benefit, is a small school) plus the fact that he knows NO ONE in his class. One would think in a town the size of 230 he would know someone, but that's not the case. i went to lunch, and a whole new light was shed as to why he's having difficulties. (That's a whole other story.) Needless to say, we will be on our knees praying that Jesus will help him through. Being the "mother hen", i just wanted to rescue him, but i'm not sure that's the answer.

i came home very sad in my heart and spend some time alone with the Lord, and do you know what i read? Philippians 4:19...

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ
Jesus."
i'm so glad i read that, because now i have peace about the whole thing. i think it is amazingly cool how when we focus on how great our God is, our problems just seem to diminish. He's bigger than this, and He will give us the power to overcome this difficulty.
So, on to the card i made today...
After the whole school thing, i made it into the stamp room to create. It was a hard day to create, but i managed to get one done anyway. i chose ColourQ as the choice for my color scheme, and just went with it. This is usually not my style of stamping, but it seemed to flow once i got into the groove.

The colors are Whisper White, Soft Suede, Night of Navy, Pacific Point, and Marina Mist. i embossed the sentiment in white so it would stand out on the darker CS. Right now, i am SO loving the 3-dimensional look of things. The butterflies and the flowers add the dimension to this card. i can't remember where i saw the idea to layer the butterflies, but i love it.

Thanks for looking.
TTFN,
Debi

Scene in a Garden for SSSC

2010-09-08T14:29:00.007-05:00

First of all, I need to say of HUGE thank you to the design team at ColourQ for crowning me Queen this week. It was a super boost for me to be chosen. Thank you!! And to all the ladies that left such sweet comments, thank you, too. It was really fun to do this this past week. :>

Karen Giron has another Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge this week, and I knew immediately what stamp set I was going to use. (Isn't it funny how that just happens sometimes?)

This summer, the kids and I have been working hard in the garden. Picking and canning green beans, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and garlic. The combination of those colors excite me for some reason. They are so earthy and yummy, so I couldn't pass up an opportunity to create a card saying "good-bye" to my garden.

Here is what I came up with:

Lately, for some reason, I have really enjoyed adding dimension to my cards. By adding another cut-out piece of pumpkins and terra cotta pots, it just added so much more than a 2-dimensional card. It just makes certain elements of the card stand out, and I like that. I also made a giant mistake, so I tried to peel off the old olive piece, but disappointedly, it crinkled. I kinda liked that, too, so I went with it and then roughed up the edges even more. I thought the rafia along the edge gave it that fall, "harvesty" feel, too.

Hope you enjoy your day today!! And thanks for stopping by.

TTFN,
Debi

Happy Birthday card for CQC #48

2010-09-01T11:41:00.006-05:00

Good Day All!!

I just cannot get over how time flies. It's been a week since I was in the stamp room to make a card. I cannot tell you how grateful I am for all the blog challenges out there. It keeps me coming back to stamp.

This week, I decided to hop on over to ColourQ for their weekly color challenge. This week, the colors are Bermuda Bay, Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango, Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake (Kraft), and Vanilla or White. These colors are definately not ones I would normally choose, so it was really a challenge for me.

Here is my card:

I was actually happily surprised how it turned out. As I was working on it, I was reminded of someone looking out their old sod house window back in the 1800's. Maybe a sweet sunset at the day's end (except for the white grass) with the cute little white butterflies. (We have these all over the place at our house in Nebraska). Tried to make it a bit rustic, but then added the burst of color for contrast.

After I showed it to my hubby, he laughed and said it was his favorite. I had to laugh, too, because I know he said that simply for my behalf. I really don't think he cares one way or the other. :> Oh well, I like it.

TTFN,

Debi

SSSC82

2010-08-24T10:33:00.004-05:00

I was up for another challenge today, so I headed over to The Sweetest Thing and saw that the Sweet Sunday Sketch had been posted. It took me awhile to figure out what I should design, and then it came to me. Here is my card:

I decided to go with crumb cake simply because it reminded me of the Big Chief tablets I always had to get when I was a kid. I hated that paper! I remember vividly that I wanted nice crisp, white paper, but no. You remember those tablets? Maybe that was the beginning of my paper crafting obsession...well, actually, I think it was the big box of 64 crayons that started that. :> Tee-hee

TTFN,

Debi

The Luau

2010-08-23T09:30:00.009-05:00

It's been a crazy summer for our family. Busy with chores, gardening, plus all the kids' activities. A couple weeks ago, my hubby went on his annual "mancation" with the guys out to Colorado where they go dirt biking up in the mountains for 3 or 4 days. While he was gone, my 10-year-old daughter had this ingenious idea that she wanted to have an "end-of-the-summer" luau slumber party. I sighed. And then I sighed again.

One thing that Craiger and I decided a long time ago was that we wanted our kids to feel like they had the freedom to have their friends over any time. That was something our parents did for us, and we remember well how that made us feel. We, too, strive to create a safe, peaceful environment within our home...a safe haven not oly for our own kids, but our kids' friends. So, I said yes. We had 9 little people at our house and it was honestly a blast!!

We got out the tiki torches, had a barbeque, and got out the cattle tank for swimming (it was clean water...no way would we even think about swimming in something gross). The girls had fun, and so in order to keep the peace with our boys, we had to invite a couple of their good friends as well.

We had fun planning, and my daughter wanted to make all the invitations. Here is what we came up with:

It was a spin-off of something I had seen at Andrea Walford's website. You can see the actual card here.

So, then after we were finished with the invites, I wanted to make one a bit different. So here another take on a great card:

It's difficult to see in the photo, but the letters are chipboard. We sponged them using craft ink, and then sprinkled iridescent ice EP on them. It really made them pop. Hope you enjoyed seeing them!!

TTFN,

Debi

Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge

2010-08-19T14:30:00.005-05:00

Oh my! I can't believe it's been 3 months since my last post. It has been a crazy summer, one which I can disappointedly say was too busy. We will have to definitely reevaluate next year.

Anyway, it has been much too long since I have stamped. Actually, it's a kind of therapy for me. Do any of you find that to be true? When life gets crazy, it just feels plain good to go to the stamp room and even just "hang out" there for a while, trying to get organized, stamping, whatever. It's kinda a peaceful place for me, that is until I make a mess in there. :>

So, here is my card for the SSSC at Kare Giron's blog. My daughter has just the most absolute cutest jammies, so I was inspired with the colors and layout as I thought about this design. Hope you like it, too.

TTFN,

Debi

A Sad Good-bye

2010-05-28T15:08:00.005-05:00

Our dog and good friend, Fudge.

I never would've imagined that saying good-bye to a pet would be so incredibly hard. He was my good friend. Always happy to see us. Loved playing with us. And, yes, as the old addage says, very faithful.

Just a couple days after he was gone (last week), my son said, "Mommy, now that Fudgie is gone, who will guard our house? The badgers will get us now." It was just too cute, but a real concern for our 7-year-old. It's been so hard on the kids, too.

He was an outdoor dog, but the winters were too cold. We rigged up a nice, warm spot for him in our garage. He loved it in there.

These pictures below are of the day we brought him home 3 years ago...

Our youngest loving on him...

I will definately be scrapbooking a page of the greatest dog ever. We'll miss you, boy.

TTFN,

Debi

New Card

2010-04-16T17:18:00.004-05:00

It has, once again, seemed like ages since my last post. It seems to be getting more and more difficult to get myself into the stamp room to create. My kiddos are getting older, and my baby will be starting kindergarten in the fall. One would think that with all the kids in school, I would have all the time in the world to do whatever, but I'm finding that is not true. They keep me busier than every before. Do any of you find that to be true?

I made this card with my Mom in mind. Her birthday was last month, and it seemed to pass by without any kind of recognition. So, my attitude is "better late than never". Hope she feels the same way. I'm sure she will. We live fairly close, so even if I didn't get her a card, phone calls and visits make up for it.

I kinda surprised myself. Being out of the stamp room I figured would be most difficult finding my mojo again, but whipping this card out took no time at all. I guess I envisioned it in my mind and everything went smoothly. I got lucky I guess.

TTFN,

Debi

The last of the calendar

2010-02-16T22:21:00.006-06:00

I started a little while ago posting just a few of the 2010 calendars I had made and wanted to finish up. Here are the final 3 months...

Here is October...

We had our family pictures taken by Suzie. I think she did a fantastic job.

Here is November...

Here is December...

It was a fun process, but I quickly found out I needed at least 1G of RAM if I was going to do this. Either that or have TONS of patience. (Tee-Hee)

TTFN,

Debi

Organization...UGH!

2010-02-04T21:32:00.003-06:00

I think I mentioned that I've been in kind of a funk lately. Don't know exactly why, but it is seeming to last forever. I'm always tired, mainly, and just cannot seem to focus. I almost feel as though I am ADD. It's really weird. So, I am trying just some little simple things at home to try and get me out of this mental state I'm in. The one thing which really seems to help is getting organized. It doesn't sound fun, and believe me, it isn't.

Before I was married and had children, I thought of myself as extremely organized. Everything had it's place, and everything was neat and tidy. Now that I'm a wife and mother, it seems as though my life is total chaos and nothing has its place anymore. My house is a complete disaster, and I almost feel as though it is a hopeless cause to even try. It's like in the beginning of the movie, "The Incredibles" when Mr. Incredible says, "I just cleaned this place up. Can't we try to keep it that way for a little while."

Every room has clutter piles everywhere, so it really isn't a surprise that I feel tired and can't focus on anything. So, I'm taking it one room at a time. As I mentioned, it's not fun, and it's been quite a lengthy process. And like any SAHM, I am needed 24-7, so a lot of my mess just has to stay that way until the children go to bed in the evening. (That, too, is another chore.)

So, it's easy to understand, at least for me, why stamping has become one of my sanctuaries. It's a tough call, because I feel torn between that which is good...stamping, and that which is best...spending time with the Lord. That's a whole other post. Balance. I beter not go there right now. I'm starting to feel unfocused.

So, in the meantime, I hope you enjoy this card I made a couple days ago for some very dear friends of ours. I hope they like it. (The layout came from here. If you have time, visit Melissa's blog. She is extremely creative.) :>

TTFN,
Debi

ColourQ Challenge #17

2010-01-31T18:06:00.003-06:00

I'm in for another challenge today. Wow, I must be on a roll. Not really. Just in a mental slump and stamping always seems to help for some reason.

This challenge is for ColourQ. The colors are Real Red, Taken with Teal, Bashful Blue, Basic Black, and White. Not really the colors I would normally choose, but that's what makes these so fun...and challenging.

Here we go...

Like I said, not the colors I would normally pick, but it seemed to work out OK.

TTFN,

Debi

SSSC54

2010-01-31T17:45:00.006-06:00

Thought I would do a Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge today. I've recently lost my mojo since I've been busy with other things, so any amount of creative sketching helps.

Here is the original sketch from Karen Giron over at The Sweetest Thing. She really does a great job coming up with these. Feel free to play along.

And here is my creation...

Since Valentine's is becoming closer than I'd like, I thought I would try my hand at a fun and tasty Valentine treat. It is 4" x 4" rather than a standard size card. A bit smaller since most kids will throw them away as soon as they eat the goodies inside.

It's kinda plain, but like I said, I've lost my mojo. Hopefully some intentionally scheduled time in the stamp room will help.

TTFN,

Debi

More of the MDS Calendar

2010-01-29T12:56:00.007-06:00

I have been inspired to accomplish some projects that have been laying around the house half finished. Actually, my brother- and sister-in-law are overdue with baby #2, so I've been a busy little bee trying to get things made for the new little one.

I have made 4 fleece tie blankets and sewn something else (just in case Wendi peeks...I want it to be a surprise), and made a couple of cheesecakes. One for them, and of course, one for our family. You can't just make one. I'll show pictures after the baby is born so nothing is spoiled for them.

So, in the meantime, here are a few more MDS pictures of the calendar.

Here is July...

Here is August...

Here is September...

I think this is my all time favorite picture. We had gone out for lunch, just us girls, and Baby Eli was making the silliest faces. It was nothing short of a miracle that I got this perfect shot of him squinting and giggling. Just in case you cannot read the Scripture, it says, "A twinkle in the eye means joy in the heart and good news makes you feel fit as a fiddle." Proverbs 15:30 (The Message)

I love this version of this Scripture and it just fits this picture so perfectly. Isn't it amazing how the truthfulness of Scripture is so "in your face" sometimes. Sometimes it brings hope and comfort, other times it is sharp and convicting. Regardless, it is God's will for all of us.

TTFN,

Debi

More MDS

2010-01-23T17:26:00.003-06:00

I have really been bored today. I'm not really in the mood to clean which really is a never ending process. But I did teach the boys how to mop. They loved it...well, not really. My middle son complained THE ENTIRE time. I was so frustrated by the time he was finished, but at least the kitchen floor is clean now. I think this will have to be a weekly chore for them. I'm feeling like I
just cannot keep up with all their messes anymore.

So, up to the computer for a bit of solitude.

As promised, here are some more pages from the calendar I created for the grandparents. It finally came on Thursday, and was thrilled when I saw it. There were just a few little glitches that I will have to double check the next time I send in something to be printed, but for a first time digital scrapbooker, I was pretty pleased.

This is April...

This is May...

And this is June... can you see that tiny little strip of green on the upper left hand side of the red DSP? That's what I was talking about...that little glitch. I'll know next time.

TTFN,
Debi

Haitian Relief

2010-01-21T15:08:00.005-06:00

I just wanted everyone out there to know that Stampin' Up! is willing to donate $2 for every "I {Heart} Hearts" stamp set from now through February 28. All the monies will be donated to the Red Cross in an effort to help with the rescue and clean-up.

I think that is a wonderful guesture on Stampin' Up!'s part. We, too, as a family have donated to another charitable organization, Samaritan's Purse, as they not only help with aide, but also share the Gospel message to those who are suffering because of loss. What an awesome time to see the Glory of our God through His children and their acts of service.

Please, please, please consider helping. We heard on the news just yesterday that many organizations have run out of money and supplies, and they are having to do very difficult rescue methods without anesthesia. Those poor, poor people.

TTFN,
Debi

Enjoying MDS

2010-01-18T11:09:00.015-06:00

Oh my! It's been over a month since my last post. Sometimes I look back over last year and wonder what I did exactly. I think I must have just sat at the computer all day long, and if I wasn't there, I was in the stamp room. I've missed so many of you, and I'm glad that we keep in touch.

I was trying desperately to finish a very late Christmas gift for the Grandma's and Grandpa's and all the Great's, too. I usually do some type of "photo gift" especially for the Great-grandparents who do not live close.

I downloaded MDS before Christmas only to find out I forgot to download the second disk. Like a ding-dong, I panicked and called the company. They must think I'm some kind of dealy-whack. Tee-hee! Then when I got them both downloaded, I very quickly found out that our computer did not have enough RAM, so every time I would add an element, it would literally take between 3 and 5 minutes before it would appear. YIKES! I learned A LOT about computers, and real quick, too.

But now, I have my computer fixed, the calendar finished, and it should be arriving any day now. Cannot wait. Here is what was created digitally...

January...this was my first page on MDS. Definitely NOT one of my favorites. I guess, a person has to start somewhere, right?

February...a little bit better. One of the things I really enjoy is adding Scripture to the bottom half of the calendar, ya know, where the dates are located. I added 1 Corinthians 9 24-25 to this one. It says:

"You've all been to the stadium and seen the athletes
race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally." ~The Message

March... I think I'm on a roll.

I will post more of the 2010 calendar in the next few days.

TTFN,

Debi

We're FINALLY done!!!

2009-12-09T14:28:00.004-06:00

Sunday marked a momentous occasion for us. We finally got done picking corn! Yes, in the snow no less. When December 1 rolled around, my hubby was just rolling his eyes in frustration. Couldn't believe it was December 1 and we were still in the field picking.

Well, I got a taste of his frustration on Sunday. I offered my ametuer help at farming, but he took it knowing that snow was coming. We only had 110 acres left to pick. (That doesn't seem like much, and on a good day, one can get that much picked, but inevitably we had many breakdowns during this harvest, so it was slow going.) He put me in charge of dumping the semis and unloading all the corn into the storage bins...but first it had to be dried because the moisture content was still too high. (I learned at lot this harvest about farming.) Actually, it was not difficult at all, and I actually felt it was a good workout *LOL*. I think my arms are totally strong now cranking open all those shoots. Maybe this will be my new job. My mother told me when I got married, "Don't start anything that you aren't prepared to do the rest of your life." There is a lot of truth to that. Whenever you offer something and you can do it well, other's like you to continue doing it. :> That's really OK, though. It was actually fun working with him.

(See the corn behind me?)

It did make me think, however, of one of our purposes as wives. When God created Adam, He knew that Adam needed a helper, so He created Eve. I think it is unfortunate at times, that we as women have become so demanding on our husbands. I'm SO guilty of that way too often. But I cannot tell you how much joy it brought Craiger to have me by his side supporting him even in the hard times. He finished and made it home about 3 am that morning. It's a good feeling knowing that the crop is in.

A HUGE thanks, too, to Beth & Grant, who watched the boys, and to Wendi who watched Skylar. It really wouldn't have happened without your help as well.

So, I cannot leave this post without adding a card creation. Even though I have not had the time to post, yes, I still am trying to stamp. Not as often, though. I went to a craft show earlier this fall, and a sweet gal asked me to make her some Christmas cards. This is what I came up with:

Everything is Stampin' Up! except for the DP, it is KI Memories.

TTFN,

Debi

Another venture

2009-10-08T22:10:00.004-05:00

I can't tell you all how much I miss stamping. My life has been busy, and stamping has had to take the backseat for awhile...and maybe a while more. But I do not have any reservations about it. I really feel that right now, I have been called to something bigger. What started nearly three years ago has really grown in my heart, and I have caught the vision for a ministry, so I have begun writing for another blog, Moms-in-Touch ~ Nebraska, as well as volunteering my time and efforts to this ministry, Moms-in-Touch.

If any of you have never heard of Moms-in-Touch, it is a world-wide prayer movement where moms pray for their children and their schools. Looking at the world in which we live, my heart aches for the young children (mine in particular) and what they get to grow up with...drugs, alcohol, violence, abuse...the list is endless. Knowing that we serve an Almighty God in Heaven Who hears every single word uttered (or even groaning for that matter) gives me peace that is unexplainable. And, the entirely cool thing is that my relationship with Christ has been strengthen because of it. I know Him like I have NEVER known Him before. It has also been encouraging to see Him move in the hearts of my kids. That maybe would never have happened had I not prayed for them.

Do any of you feel as though you are up against a huge battle and have no where to turn? I really encourage you to get plugged-in to a Moms-in-Touch group. Seeing God move in ways you never thought He could or would will knock your socks off. I guarantee it!!

To all my blogging friends that I have met this past year...I cherish each of you, and will continue to visit. You all are very talented, and I still love looking at your creations. No worries. I will continue to stamp and post whenever it works. (It might just be in 4 month increments. LOL ;> ) Feel free to visit on the other blog. Would love to see your comments there as well.

TTFN,
Debi

Color Challenge #55

2009-06-19T20:21:00.004-05:00

I cannot tell you how long it has been since I have done one of these. I think maybe the last one I did was #46. Yikes!! My creative juices are definately in "hyper-sleep" if you will these days. Now that summer is here, there are definately other, more important things on my plate (unfortunately), so stampin has to take the back burner for now.

But today, I was able to spend a little down time on the computer and look around in blog land (Yeah!) and saw this CI at KWerner's Blog. Since Father's Day is just a couple days away, I thought I would take advantage of it and get busy in the stamp room.

This card is more of a heart-felt card than a creative card. Since it is for my 85-year-old Daddy, I know what matters most to him is what's on the inside...not so much all the "hoop-la" that can actually go into a card. I actually will spend way more time writing in it that I did creating it. I'm so glad I have my Dad.

I typed the sentiment and printed it off on the computer. He truly has a great legacy. He was a WWII hero (in my eyes), married my mom, and had us. He was an incredibly hard worker...owned his own business and farmed on the side. He taught his children how to work hard, save for the important things (rather than buy on a whim, but somehow I think I missed that lesson ;>LOL), how to respect those in authority, and most importantly, how to be wise and discerning. Now that I am an adult, I SO enjoy having a cup of coffee with him and just talking. I can still learn so much from him. He is quiet by nature, but when there is an important issue, he can be driven beyond all measure. He is a good man, and he has taught me how to love Christ. How to BE like Christ, simply because he is like Christ. It's amazing how the ripple effects of just one man truly can reach the world...for the good.

So, Dad, Happy Father's Day from the bottom of my heart. I love you dearly!

TTFN,

Debi

My Garden!!

2009-06-02T17:48:00.003-05:00

Oh my! I just got my garden in yesterday. My daughter and I worked for about 3 hours working the soil and getting everything ready. Then came the seeds and seedlings to transplant. We were so excited when we were finished. It seemed to go smoothly, too. My awesome hubby went up to the farmstead and got a couple of buckets full (loader buckets) of topsoil and manure. I know...it sounds totally gross, but plants really dig it. It, too, had rained the night before, so the soil was as prime as it was going to be. Nice and fertile and workable. Now, today, it has rained the majority of the day. I couldn't ask for better timing.

The cool thing about gardening is just watching everything sprout. All we do is put the seed in and God totally does the rest. I mean, there is absolutely nothing we can do to MAKE those tiny seeds grow. Sure, we can water and fertilize, but God is the One who actually performs the miracle of growth. So cool!! It was a really neat teaching opportunity as well for my daughter. She, too, has such a tender heart for Jesus.

I know I haven't posted many cards lately, so I thought I'd add this one. It was one I had made a while back, and wanted to get it on the blog. I saw it in a store and wanted to try it. It took for...ever! But it was well worth it when I was finished. I can't tell you how many different stamp sets I actually used...lots, and as usual, many of them were retired. Hope you all like it!

TTFN,

Debi

Nothing in Particular

2009-05-18T15:35:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness!! I cannot believe it has been over a month since my last post. Life has been busy here. I shared with a good friend that I have felt as though I put my family on hold while I was "playing" on my blog, and have felt very, VERY convicted by it. It seems difficult being on the computer at times. In other words, I like it too, TOO much. I can totally fritter away an entire day looking at cool things on everyone's blogs, and I have not limited my time like I should. So, I have had to do with myself what I do with my own kids. Set the timer. They get 30 minutes, so I get 30 minutes. Not much can be accomplished in 30 minutes, let me tell ya!

We have also been busy planting. Actually, I guess I should rephrase that. My husband has been busy planting this spring. I'm just here for support. LOL Yesterday, though, we had some very exciting news come our way during church. Not the kind of exciting news a person would want to hear. My DH received a text during church that one our fields was on fire. Yes, FIRE! The wind was blowing like crazy, and I could only imagine what kind of damage we were going to find. He left, and when he arrived at his field, another young farmer (bless his heart) was already there discing trying to prevent it from spreading. The rural fire department was there also spraying water near the buildings on that quarter section as well. It was mere torment that he had to disc up some of his beans, but it had to be done.

It makes me think of how the Lord allows difficult times in our lives to bring us closer to Him. He allows pain and suffering, sometimes I say, "God is turning up the heat." Have you ever heard of "the refiner's fire"? Whenever refiners melt precious metals, they turn up the heat so that it will melt. All the impurities within that metal will rise to the top so that the refiner can skim it off, leaving the metal as pure as pure can be...no more impurities. The Lord does the same with His children. He will allow pain and suffering (turning up the heat) because He wants to "skim off" all the impurities in our lives, leaving us pure, too. He wants our hearts. Our WHOLE heart.

It makes me wonder what kind of yields we will have in the fall in that little area that was burned...

TTFN,
Debi

P.S. Sorry, I couldn't get a good picture of what burned. I almost needed a plane for that. LOL

Workshop samples

2009-04-02T07:38:00.007-05:00

Can you believe it's been about 5 or 6 years since I have done an actual workshop? They are definately few and far between out here. But I am grateful nonetheless. I did my first one in years this past weekend. I was super nervous, but it really was a good time, and I am thankful for the ladies that came. I hope you all enjoy your stuff!!

Here are just a few of the samples I did for her workshop...

The card was really fun. When it was finished, it looked so boring, so I added a couple of rhinestone brads. Holy Cow, that made a huge difference. I did, also, stamp a couple extra cherries and cut them out to add with a pop-dot to add dimension. I was really pleased with this one.

The Ghirardelli box was an idea I found on Splitcoaststampers.com. You can click here for the directions. Supposedly, a person can fit four little Ghirardelli quares just perfectly inside. I couldn't find any and was really disappointed because I SO wanted to show that. Oh well.

The scrapbook layout was one I thought of myself. It, too, is very plain. If anyone has any ideas on how to jazz it up a bit, I'd gladly hear your ideas. It's hard to see, but I traced around each lighter green piece with the black journaler. That did help. I do just love this pages and have been wanting to get this afternoon scrapbooked.

I really wanted to get these posted yesterday since I had all kinds of time, but I was really getting frustrated with my new camera. I think I need to take a class of some kind, because I just couldn't get it to take photos the way I wanted (I guess it is only as smart as the person using it. LOL) I think I took about 10 pictures of each before I just gave up and went outside for the natural sunlight. I SO want to learn how to take awesome pictures, but I just don't understand most of the features on my camera. Maybe that can be something I can do this summer. LOL ;>

TTFN,

Debi

Fifth Avenue Floral Class

2009-03-25T21:27:00.008-05:00

Add a touch of elegance and class to your Mother’s Day gift this year with this gorgeous Fifth Avenue Floral card set! The card set includes four trendy card designs packaged in a unique window box. Give as a gift, or simply use it for yourself.

Date: Thursday, April 9 (3:30 - 6:30) and Saturday, April 11 (1:00-4:00)

Time: see above coordinating times

Cost: $25.00

Location: My house, call for directions (308-876-2226)

Please email me or call to sign up for this class. I'd love for you to come.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration #46

2009-03-20T11:05:00.004-05:00

When I got on last night, I just had to go visit Kristina's blog and see if there was a new Color Challenge. It's been very busy at home, haven't had much time to stamp lately, and I needed some inspiration. I was very glad, too, that she picked some colors that I felt were very "do-able", ya know? And BTW, those bibs are adorable. Loved the brown ones, too.

Anyway, my mind went crazy, and I couldn't sleep because I had an idea. I'm glad I remembered it when I woke up this morning. Actually, I was insprired from a gift sack. Who Knew?

Here it is...

I glittered the little dots at the bottom of the card as well as the frosting. I also "highlighted" the watercoloring with additional lines using the markers. You can see that best on the candle. I also cut out two more cupcakes to add dimension (I'm really loving the whole dimension thing) and make the center focal point "pop".

Hope you all have an AWESOME day filled with all kinds of blessings!

TTFN,

Debi

A Birthday Tribute

2009-03-07T15:06:00.004-06:00

Today is my mom's birthday, and as a tribute to her and ALL of her creative talents, I wanted to create something just for her. I think I can owe my talents and creativity to my parents. My mother can cook, sew, create just about anything with her hands, ie, cross-stitch, crochet, knit, embroider, paint...you name is, she does it. My dad is a very talented man as well. Give him a tool, and he not only knows what it is, but can use it and use it well. We call him the "Jack-of-all-trades" dad. He's a carpenter, plumber, mechanic, engineer...the list goes on and on.

I am so greatful that I have parents who know so many skills and have trained me to know them as well. Not only just know them, but to do them well. That is what I am thankful for. So many times, we feel like cutting corners, taking a short-cut, whether in our jobs, whether in parenting, whether in leisure (sometimes), but they always told me if I was going to do something, to do it with all my heart and to do it well. And that is something my husband and I are trying to pass on to our children. It's not easy, but anything that's worth the effort is usually difficult, right?

So, I created this for my mom.

I got the idea from Mary Jo Albright, and she got it from the Martha Stewart Living 2009 Wedding magazine. I thought I would change it up a bit to make it my own. I used 12"x12" white cardstock, layered. The three layered pieces I ran through the Big Shot using the Flourish Texturized Plate. You really can't see it in the photo, but it looks very classy with the texture. The stamp sets are retired...Wonderful Wings and Bugs & Slugs. I stamped, embossed, cut out, and sponged each butterfly, then adhered them with dots and glue. It actually surprised me that it didn't take that long. Cutting was the most tedious, but I stuck to it to get it finished, and it went fine. The sentiment in the lower corner is from the Cherished Memories rub-ons, and I think I used just about every color in the SU! line. tee-hee

My goal is to put it in a white shadow box so she can hang it up in her craft room. I don't have it yet, and am debating whether to wait and give it to her completed or just give her the page with the frame later. Hopefully it will inspire her and remind her that she is an inspiration to me.

(I think I might have to make one for my stamp room, too. We are both "nutso" about color.)

Hope it inspires you, too.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration #44 - Part 2

2009-03-05T19:53:00.003-06:00

My kiddos have frustrated me this afternoon, so I decided to go in the stamp room and shut the door. It's not very often that they do that, so I guess today was the day.

I was really down thinking about just quiting all this business about stamping and scrapbooking, ya know, those really ridiculous thoughts that seem to creep in whenever a person is down. I felt as though all the creativity in me was gone, like they had sucked it all dry, and then I came up with this...

It must have been a gift from Heaven, because I usually don't come up with ideas like this one. Lately, I've been the "CASEr" or the "too simple because I have no time" kind of stamper. This one just fell right into my lap, and to tell you the truth, I love it. My wonderful husband got me a Cricut for my birthday last December, and also an awesome new camera for a belated Christmas gift...two electronic gizmos that I have to try and figure out somehow (I just hate reading the manuals), so I'm still new at all of it, especially the camera. But, I love them both, and Craiger knew how much I really wanted them.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration #44

2009-03-05T10:29:00.007-06:00

Hey all!! I apologize for taking a month to get back on and post something new. February was insane!

Anyway, this weekend, in Lincoln there is a half day Regional. I was anxiously waiting to get online to submit my payment to go to this event; however, when I was finally able to get to the computer, the event was already closed! I just about cried as my heart just sank into my stomach. I guess there is quite a bit of excitement about stamping in Nebraska for it to fill up as fast as it did.

If, by chance, there is anyone out there unable to attend, please contact me. I would SO love to go and meet up with some friends I haven't seen in many years.

In the meantime, here is some eye candy for KWerner's Color Inspiration...

TTFN,

Debi

Cinema Saturday Challenge

2009-02-06T17:21:00.005-06:00

I must be on some kind of role today. I guess I have a lot of catching up to do in "blogland". I've missed it.

I was surfing around, and as always I found myself at Brooke's blog...Designs by Brooke. She and another gal have this really fun weekly challenge, called Cinema Saturday Challenge. This week's movie inspiration challenge is The Princess Bride.

Unfortunately, I missed the deadline, but was still inspired. The Princess Bride just happens to be my all-time favorite movie. Couldn't help but play. So, here's what I came up with...

So much of the movie is based on "Twue Wuv" as Wesley's and Princess Buttercup's love happens to be in the truest form. It is just the silliest movie, and our family loves it so much. My daughter for the "kissing" and "romance", and my boys for the "adventure" and "sword-fighting".

Anyway, I chose rustic, non-tradition colors for the theme of this card. Very "earthy" since he is a "poor, yet perfect" farmboy. Much of the opening scenes are based around the farm, Wesley being very grimy and dirty. But, I also thought brown was also a very basic, non-elegant color, since he was so poor. Oh well, I think I put way too much symbolism into making this card. Really, it is totally symbolic of the movie, and I don't know if anyone would ever want a brown wedding card. LOL :>

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration - Part 2

2009-02-06T17:08:00.005-06:00

My daughter came home from school today, and wanted to participate in the Color Challenge, so I gave her the reigns to the stamp room, and this is what she came up with...

She loves to make cards and scrapbook, and I'm glad I taught her young how to clean and take care of stamps, put them away, etc. I totally trust her in there. If she breaks the cardinal rule of not cleaning up, no more stamping for awhile. So, you can bet she will do it right. LOL :>

I think she did pretty good. She is very symmetrical, though, and that's OK. She's only 9. I'm sure it will come later.

TTFN,
Debi

Color Inspiration #40

2009-02-06T13:51:00.008-06:00

Oh man. Another long lapse between posts. (So sorry for any regular visitors.) Too many things going on, and the sad thing is that it's difficult to really pin it down and say what it is that is causing me to be so busy. Let me think... Oh yeah, I remember....EVERYTHING!

I am so proud, too, of my daughter!! She has been involved in gymnastics since she was 4, and this year, she wanted to try competition. It's been a real challenge for her as her coaches are demanding much more from her. Needless to say, she really has become very bitter about practices and a bit discouraged as she thinks her coaches are "yelling" at her (but we all know better, right?), but last weekend was her very first meet. She won 3 place in the "all-around" division for her age group. YEAH!!! Here is a picture of her with her coach. Can you tell she's pretty excited?

I have also begun planting some seedlings for spring. I know. It sounds crazy to start in (actually) January, but I can't wait, especially, for home-grown tomatoes. Love them!! I remember when I was a kid, my Dad and I would go out to the garden and just eat them like apples. Store-bought are disgusting, in my opinion. Gotta go with home-grown every time. I'm also planting herbs, like rosemary, sage, thyme, basil, oregano, marjoram, and flat-leaf parsley. Fresh herbs are so yummy when I cook, and growing them yourself is WAY cheaper than buying them at $4.50 per plant in the spring. Again, can't wait to get in the garden. Besides, being outdoors gets me in touch with the LORD. What a miracle to see life from one little seed, and let me tell you, some of these are so incredibly tiny, it's impossible to plant just one. Some of them are literally as tiny as a large piece of dust. Being in the garden always makes me think of an awesome passage of Scripture:

2 Chronicles 7:13-15
"When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place."
(This is watermelon above.)

Our family has decided to join our local YMCA. It's a fairly new facility, maybe 3 years old...maybe. So we've really enjoyed going there, too. I've started a few exercise classes when it works, and the instructors are awesome. Hubby enjoys racquetball, and the kids love just about all of it, mostly swimming and the game room. Can't tell too much of a difference yet, but I'm hoping for that 26-year-old body once again. (Who am I kidding? Can I ever get that back?)

Well, with all that is going on, I decided to take a break today from it all and just relax at home. (I did mop the kitchen floor, though. Does that count as relaxing? With all the baking and cooking I've been doing lately, it REALLY needed it.) So, here is my submission for KWerner's Color Inspiration. I know it is totally plain, but I really like it for some reason. Clean and crisp, and very simple and fast for a beginning stamper. (No snail adhesive, which for beginners can be a challenge I've learned.)

I know it's usually not what she looks for, but it was fast. Needing to finish getting ready for the stamp class I'm having for tomorrow, and my boys are needing me. Gotta go.

TTFN,

Debi

My Catalogs are FINALLY Here!!!

2009-01-29T14:54:00.007-06:00

Yes, can you believe it took nearly 3 weeks for them to arrive? I think something must have happened because I have never had a SU! order take that long. Oh well, it taught me a little patience...well, maybe.

We had to go out of town yesterday, and when the boys and I got home, the package was stuck between to two doors. Of course, I cheated and looked ahead on the website as soon as it came out 10 days ago, but nothing compares to actually looking at a catalog, at least for me. I am such a visual person anyway, and to see it as a layout made so much more since in my own brain. I know, I'm weird.

Well, as promised, I have been working on a scrapbook layout for a class. So here it is...

(Sorry, this really is a terrible photo.)

I saw this original idea in the Creating Keepsakes magazine (I don't know what I'd do without it), and thought it was a great idea. Had to go with that. If you would be interested in taking this as a class, please contact me and I will let you know what you need to bring, the dates and times. Or, if you'd like, I can also ship all the materials to you if you are not from my neck of the woods. LOL

All materials are Stampin' Up! except the patterned paper. It is Cloud 9.

TTFN,

Debi

Sunday - Part 2

2009-01-25T18:32:00.003-06:00

Well, I decided instead of being bummed, I'd stamp. We all know it's great therapy, right? It helped at bit, but now I'm hungry. Here's a quick little card to add for the day...

I think every stamp I used is retired. (I have many it seems.) It was very "blah" when I finished it, so I used the chocolate chip marker to add some lines around everything. It really made a difference.

I used the sketch from Karen Giron over at The Sweetest Thing. Here is her sketch as well...

If you ever have a minute, check out her blog. She has some really cute ideas!!

TTFN,

Debi

A Day to be Bummed

2009-01-25T11:15:00.006-06:00

Well, the new catalog has been out for nearly a week and I am STILL waiting for my shipment to arrive. I haven't even received my complimentary catalog yet, either. I really think something must be wrong. So, I have been trying to download the online catalog, and let me tell you, I think our computer is slower than usual. It's been very frustrating.

I have decided that looking at the catalog "online" is OK, but kind of restricting. Actually having a catty in my hands to take with me wherever I go (usually just around the house) is much better. That, and if we ever jump in the car to go on a road trip, it's nice to have to thumb through and drool over. So, I am willing to offer a catalog to anyone out there AT MY COST ($3.50) instead of the $9.95 price in case any of you would like the same priveledge of looking at a catalog at your convenience rather than waiting for it to download on your office computer (like I said, they are great to look at while "hubby" is driving.) :>

All you have to do is email me with "Catalog" in the subject line, include your name, address, & phone number. It would be my pleasure to get to know you and help you on your way to this very fun hobby of stamping and scrapbooking. Oh, and I will probably be contacting you regularly to see if there would be anything you'd like to order.

Well, over the Christmas holiday, I was able to scrapbook some. All I completed was just one layout, but I've got another one in the works. I'm just waiting for my Cricut to come back from my sister's. (Yes, I got a Cricut!!! Wooh-who!!) Here is the layout...

(Sorry it's so crooked.)

I used very non-traditional colors for this Christmas layout, but they coordinated well with my photos. I'm not sure if I like it our not, but it's done and going in the scrapbook regardless. It's been awhile, so I'm feeling out of the "scrapbooking" groove.

TTFN,

Debi

Drum Roll, Please!!

2009-01-19T15:06:00.004-06:00

Ok, I have been anxiouly waiting for the new catalog to be unveiled, and now it's here!!! I still have not had a chance to look at it yet. Wanted to get it out to all of you who might be interested in taking a peek at it. Just BEWARE!!! You might get addicted. I just thought I'd let you all have first shot at it otherwise I'd never be able to get back on for the day. (I haven't received it in the mail yet, so the computer is how it's going to be, and...it's...sooooo....s-l-o-w!)

HAVE FUN!!!! Click on the photo of the catalog at the right. ;>

Color Inspiration #38 - Part 2

2009-01-15T14:57:00.005-06:00

I must be on some kind of roll. Had this idea and just had to go with it.

Here is the recipe:

Stamps: Girlfriends, A Little Love, Warm Words, Soft Swirls (background)

CS: Ruby Red, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White, Vellum Paper

Ink: StazON Black, Ruby Red (sentiment), Craft White

Markers: Bluch Blossom, Creamy Caramel (shoes), Chocolate Chip (hair), Ruby Red, Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink

Accessories: Glitter (crown), Close to my Heart chenile ribbon

TTFN,

Debi

My Boys' Room - Part 1

2009-01-15T14:45:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to share what I've been doing the last couple of days in my boys' bedroom.

It was fun to put them up, and a pain all at the same time. We do not have smooth walls. They have kind of a stucco finish (not bad, though), so it was very difficult to get the Decor Elements to stick. I pretty much just peeled them off the paper and then stuck them on the wall. It took some time, but I think it really adds to their room.

Here is a closer look...

The color Chocolate Chip comes with the assortment, but I knew brown would be a bad color on navy blue walls, so I bought some white vinyl at Hobby Lobby (for a Cricut) and just cut out the bigger circles and punched the smaller ones.

Much to my disappointment, though, my 5-year-old said he didn't like them because they don't "glow-in-the-dark"! Go figure. (I think I'll have to send that in as a suggestion to SU!)

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration #38

2009-01-14T16:41:00.007-06:00

Ok, it seems as though the only time I can post is when KWerner has her color challenges. How pathetic am I? Really, though, I have been in the stamp room and have been busy. But today, I played with these colors...

Couldn't help but think of Valentine's Day. So here are a couple of cards...

After I stamped the hearts, it was just TOO plain, so I did it again, cut them out, and added them on top of the others with a little sponge tape to add some dimension. (You can see it better in the second picture.) I'm much happier with this than before.

Here is the recipe for this card (standard size):

Stamps: A Happy Heart

CS: Ruby Red, Whisper White

Ink: Ruby Red, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie

Accessories: Corsage pin, grosgrain ribbon, sponge tape (similar to "dimensionals")

This card I used the same template basically from the catalog. Pg 6 to be exact. It's pretty much CASEd, I just changed the colors.

Here is the recipe for this card (3" x 6"):

Stamps: Pocket Silhouettes, Hugs & Wishes

CS: Ruby Red, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White

Ink: Sahara Sand, Ruby Red, Versamark

Accessories: White EP, paper clip, grosgrain ribbon

Ah, that's done for the day. I hope to post again tomorrow. I've been working on a special project for our boys' bedroom, so I will show you what I've been working on.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Inspiration #37

2009-01-10T17:49:00.005-06:00

Here is my submission for KWerner's Color Inspiration. I find myself watercoloring when the colors are a bit challenging for me. I guess that works, too.

I saw the idea on Splitcoast, so HERE is the link to the original card. I really like the template. Great idea!! And don't you just love this cute little frog? My 5-year-old loves frogs, so I thought of him when I made it. Here is the recipe for a 6 5/8" x 3 1/4" card:

STAMPS: A Flower for All Seasons, Family Phrases

CS: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, DSP Old Olive, DSP Urban Garden, Whisper White

INK: StazON Black, Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Baja Breeze

ACCESSORIES: 1" circle punch, antique brass eyelet, white taffeta ribbon

I was excited to get to stamp today. I wanted to scrapbook as well, but I had too many projects that I needed to finish before I started something new. (I know I have promised some scrapbooking classes once the New Year came, and I have lots of ideas, I just haven't gotten them on paper yet. So, don't give up on me. Check back often. I'll let you know as soon as they are done.)

TTFN,

Debi

New Blog

2009-01-06T16:58:00.009-06:00

Well, over this past year and a half, I have been involved with a group of ladies who have a genuine passion for prayer. Prayer for our children. This ministry is called "Moms-In-Touch" and it is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the spiritual lives of our children by praying for them and their school.

I have been praying for my daughter since she began school 4 years ago. I honestly felt like I was sending her out to the wolves since she is my first born and I was clueless about the entire public school system regime. Rumors, whatever sparked my interest from the news, yadda, yadda, yadda. You get the picture. Fear entered my heart. I was no longer her only influence. There were other influences out there, some I weren't so sure about.

But then I was able to get involved with an awesome group of ladies and pray for her and her teacher, as well as their children and teachers, and an indescribable peace came to me. You see, God's Word promises that if we pray instead of worry, He WILL give us peace. (Phillipians 4:6-7) To be able to connect with other moms who were struggling with issues like mine (and some had very serious, complex issues) was comforting to me. I realized I was not in this alone, and we, as moms, can stand firm.

Anyway, as I mentioned above, our state team has decided to start a Moms in Touch - Nebraska blog, and I am writing there, as well. If you ever need a boost of encouragement from God's Word or would like to connect with any other mom, you can always go HERE to our Nebraska site. It is filled with all kinds of information about Moms-in-Touch and events happening in our state. Hope it is helpful to you.

TTFN,
Debi

3" X 6" Cards

2009-01-05T17:31:00.004-06:00

WOW!! I can't believe it has been so long since I posted last. We had a great Christmas and spent a few days out of town over the New Year. The kiddos are finally at the age where it is actually enjoyable now. I need to savor every moment with them, because it won't be long until they will be wanting to spend holidays with friends and boyfriends/girlfriends. I know it won't be for quite a while, but everyone says time flies. Better get with it then!!

I did have the chance to make some cards before we left. Just had an idea and went with it. Made a stack of these, and may do a class using this template.

Very, very simple. Here is the recipe:
CS: Ruby Red, Always Artichoke, Old Olive, Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke DSP (retired)
Ink: Always Artichoke and Ruby Red markers
Accessories: ivory taffeta ribbon, brads, dimentionals

So, when I was finished with those, I began these...

Here is this recipe:
CS: Bali Breeze, Pale Plum, Elegant Eggplant, whisper while, retired dsp (don't know where it even came from, but I'm pretty sure it's old)
Ink: Bali Breeze, Elegant Eggplant marker
Accessories: white taffeta ribbon, brads, dimentionals

TTFN,
Debi

Really Cool Color Combinations!

2008-12-21T11:31:00.003-06:00

We were going to be SO late to church this morning, so we decided rather than embarrassing ourselves, we'd just stay home. Hated to do that since it was the Christmas service, but we go every other time during the year. Well, you guessed it...missed church, go to the blog.

Do you ever just have trouble finding the perfect color combination sometimes? I find myself sticking to the regular combinations that I feel comfortable with, and that can be boring sometimes. Well, I was seartching around and found this really awesome color tool. You'll have to chick it out. Click HERE and you can find just about every Stampin' Up! color combination possible, and they actually look great. (I think this will have to be a permanent fixture on my blog.) Anyway, I was just too excited (once again) to find this. Sometimes I think I'm weird to get excited about color. No, I am weird!

TTFN,
Debi

Part 2

2008-12-19T17:01:00.004-06:00

Oh, how could I forget. I was given a blog award the other day from Brooke and was just too excited last night when I read her comment. If you have a chance, check out her blog. She has "Cinema Saturday Creative Challenges" every week based on movies. I have not yet had the opportunity to get involved in these, and would really like to. I guess I just need to get a good "feel" on how to create based on a movie.

So, here are the Rules:

1. Post the award logo on your blog.
2. Add the link to the person who nominated you.
3. Nominate 10 other blogs and add post their links as well.
4. Let those people know that they received the award.

Kay

OK, so I didn't have ten. I just want all you ladies to know that I have you in my "favorites" and I visit your blogs every time I'm on the computer. Weird, huh? It really amazes me who looks at my blog, let alone visits often. Kinda cool, huh?

TTFN,

Debi

Christmas Tags

2008-12-19T16:00:00.006-06:00

I've been away from the blog for awhile. It was good to get back on and read comments and visit other's blogs, too. With Christmas just around the corner, we've been busy shopping, wrapping, Christmas partying, and Birthday partying, along with all the other regular events in our lives.

So, the wrapping. Yes, I found this paper at Hobby Lobby (I think I have determined that the "red" family is one of my favorite colors. I always thought it was blue. Go figure!) and thought it might be simple to replicate the design with Stampin' Up! products. Sure enough, it wasn't difficult at all.

Here is what I came up with...

I'm really loving playing with the Big Shot Top Note die. And, like I said, I love the red and burgundy together. The sentiments are "Season of Cheer" rub-ons. I ended up getting just a ton of these when they were on sale.

Hopefully I will have another opportunity to post before Christmas.

TTFN,

Debi

Christmas Cards

2008-12-11T17:22:00.004-06:00

I had the opportunity today to go into town and spend part of my morning with our Moms-In-Touch State Team. We wanted to make some cards to thank and encourage all of the leadership within Nebraska. It was a great time, and I was surprised to hear that no one had stamped. They all caught on in a hurry, though, and did a great job.

I got this idea off the Stampin' Up! website (Jessica Sawyer), but changed it up a bit. It was so easy, but like a ding-dong, I forgot the sentiment stamp (had to finish them when I got home).

Here is the recipe:
Stamps: See Ya Round jumbo wheel, Heard from the Heart
CS: Riding Hood Red, Always Artichoke, Mellow Moss, Very Vanilla, Gold
Ink: Riding Rood Red
Markers: Always Artichoke, Ruby Red (it's SOOO close the Riding Hood Red)
Accessories: Antique Brass brads, gold string

I think the gals did a great job for first timers, don't you?

TTFN,
Debi

Color Challenge #34

2008-12-09T18:55:00.003-06:00

Now this is more like it. Last time, the color inspiration was nearly impossible for me. (I still don't like the card I made last time.) Do you ever get in a "rut" and it just seems so difficult to create. That's how it was last week for me. But this week, I am totally excited about these colors!!! I think I will "assembly line" this card and make a bunch for later. I really like this one...

Here is the recipe:

Stamps: Linen background, Both Way Blossoms, Warmest Regards

CS: Whisper White, Perfect Plum, Pale Plum

Ink: Perfect Plum (sentiment), Pale Plum (background)

Markers: Perfect Plum, Pale Plum, Bordering Blue, Certainly Celery

Accessories: Sage grosgrain ribbon, antique brass brads

It's really hard to see in the photo, but I stamped the linen background stamp on the pale plum CS. Can't really tell, though.

Hope you enjoy the creation for the day!

TTFN,

Debi

Color Challenge #33

2008-12-04T17:33:00.005-06:00

It seems like forever since I had the chance to get into the stamp room and create, and rightly so. Our family has had a lot going on. But it's good to get back in there and on the computer and set my sights toward the Celebration of ALL TIME...Christmas!!

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved Christmas. Getting the tree up, getting the Christmas village out, baking, snow (none yet). The spirit of Christmas has been alive in me for a long time, and I can credit that to my mom. I just hope I can do liberty to my kids and pass on that legacy...the love of Christmas!!

So, my kids begged me to add the Narnia songs to the Christmas playlist. It is their favorite movie at the moment, and they all want "Prince Caspian" for Christmas. They were so excited when they heard them playing, I just couldn't break their little hearts and say "no".

Well, I have thought for the last couple of days how in the world I could incorporate these five (very challenging) colors into a project of some kind. I had about three attempts before I finally came up with this...

It was the most difficult color scheme I have ever worked with. Not only was the combination hard, but the fact that there were 5 colors made it even more challenging for me. It's definitely NOT my most favorite card. I just thought it'd be easier to keep it simple rather than put color all over the place. I removed the gems from the SU! brads and just covered the "O"s to add the "taken with teal". Still don't know if I like it or not...

TTFN,

Debi

P.S. Don't you just love this precious little song? My daughter sang this at church a couple years ago for the Christmas Eve service. It was just priceless. Happy Birthday Baby Jesus!!!

A New Saint Has Entered Heaven!

2008-11-29T15:47:00.005-06:00

As I began this week, I made a conscious decision to think of all the things I was thankful for since it was the Thanksgiving holiday...my family, my health, even pondering for a moment what the Pilgrims were thankful for...FREEDOM. And then a very difficult thing happened. My husband's precious grandmother passed away on Tuesday. Have you ever had a difficult time being thankful in hard or even sorrowful circumstances? It's not easy.

And then the truth of God's Word revealed HOPE and LIFE ETERNAL. You see, the God of Creation promises that if we believe (that is, continually and actively trusting) in His son, Jesus, He will give us life after we die.

Do you remember as a child (and maybe you even have children now and can relate) when your parents asked you to obey, and it just made no sense at all until a few moments later and then you understood? Well, trusting Jesus is like that very same thing. God asks us to obey His Word, what He has written in the Bible, and sometimes it's so difficult, almost impossible, and we don't understand why at times and just want to do what WE think is best. But God sees the bigger picture of every situation. He knows our future. If we trust Him in those situations, because it is what HE is asking us to do, He honors that.

But we must FIRST come to Him. Confess that we have wronged Him, admit that we need Him, and invite Him to be a REAL part of our lives. Trustin Him in ALL things. The beginning of a new friendship...more than a friendship. Realizing the pain and true suffering He went through because of His love for us. For me, reliving the Cross made me understand just how much He loves me.

Would you like to be on an incredible adventure with Someone who loves you best, who knows you best, and who cares for you best? I made that decision about 14 years ago, and it has been a wild ride!! He promises to be with us, to love us like never before, to even carry and comfort us when times are difficult, like now for our family.

Everybody has a "God-sized" hole in their hearts that only He can fill. He understands every joy, every sorrow, every temptation, every physical pain we could ever have. He lived life, too, and He alone knows best how to fill it.

Grandma put her hope and trust in Jesus, so we all have the reassurance that she is with Him in Heaven right at this moment... right at the moment she took her final breath. And because of the truth of God's Word, we KNOW we will get to see her again along with everyone else who has put their hope and trust in Jesus alone. But most of all, we will get to see Jesus face to face!! Grandma truly is the winner. She beat us HOME!

TTFN,
Debi

..."Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
Joshua 3:5

Scrapbook Layout

2008-11-24T13:56:00.006-06:00

My computer was having "issues" this weekend. Isn't funny how it has truly become a necessity in our lives. I just remember it has only been 10 short years since I was officially introduced to the world wide web. I lived perfectly fine without it all those years, and now without it, I feel almost paralyzed. I think I've become (gasp) soft.

So, since I was not able to "work" on the computer, I headed for the stamp room, once again, to get those creative juices flowing. I decided to get busy scrapbooking again. It's been so long since I've scrapped anything for myself, and it was FUN.

I do have a question for any of you reading this, though... How do you decide how many scrapbooks to make? I started out with one for my (now 9 year-old) daughter, then began one for my (now 5-year-old) son, and now my last child (he just turned 4) has only one, yes ONE layout. I find myself getting more and more behind, simply because I don't know WHO to scrapbook and who's book to put it in. Any ideas on how solve this problem are SOOOOO coveted. I really want to get caught up. And I think the only conclusion I have is just to put them all in chronological order and forget each individual scrapbook. What do you guys do?

Anyway, here is a layout I did this weekend....

My mom just got a CRICUT a few months ago, and she was gracious enough to let me take it home and play over the weekend. The letters and swirls were cut using this fab machine. I have now put it on my birthday/Christmas wish list. ;>

I have been meaning to do more of the scrapbooking, and I do have a couple of layouts ready to design for a class or two. Just waiting on the materials to complete them.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Challenge #31

2008-11-20T21:57:00.005-06:00

Whew! This has been a crazy week. No, make it a crazy two. I'm glad they are pretty much over, at least the "chaoticness" (is that even a word?). Do you ever wish there could more hours in the day? Sometimes I think that, and then I just think I'd still never get everything accomplished. I'd just figure there were more hours in the day and add more to my plate, ya know?

I am so thankful that Kristina decided to close her challenge on Friday instead of today. I almost paniced when I saw her post for another Color Challenge thinking it would close on Thursday, which lately they have been. But not this time. Another "Whew!" Had plenty of time to get my submission in before the deadline instead of squeezing it in like last time.

So, here it is. Hope you like it. It turned out better than I thought. Her "challenges" really are challenges for me. Some of these color schemes I would never think of on my own. It stretches me artistically, and I really like it. I guess I surprise myself working outside of my own "color comfort zone."

The "fur" around her neck, hat, shoes, etc. is just some brown flocking I had. It looks so much better up close and in person. I've found that to be true with so many cards and paper projects. Why is that? I guess a picture just cannot capture what the eye can truly see. Hmmm.

TTFN,

Debi

Some New Projects

2008-11-16T15:27:00.004-06:00

I had the opportunity to actually spend some much coveted time in the stamp room this weekend. Had a few projects I needed to complete, and began some new ones. It was good to feel those creative juices again at a more relaxed pace.

Here are some of the cards I've been working on...

Can you see the similarity between these two? They are pretty much identical except the colors are reversed. I think I like the cream ribboned one the best. I actually got this idea from Karen Giron at The Sweetest Thing. She submitted her idea for Kristina Werner's color challenge, and I just loved her format. Had to try it for myself. It's a bit different than hers, but the main idea is the same.

This card was completely CASEd from the SU! idea gallery. Thanks to whomever designed it! It's a great idea.

Anyway, hope you all have an opportunity to stamp this weekend, but mostly, to enjoy these few days of warmth before another blast of cold weather. Today is a beautiful day here!!

TTFN,

Debi

Color Challenge #30

2008-11-13T19:40:00.003-06:00

WOW!!! I am cutting this one so close. Better not gab tonight so I can get this entry in (not that I EVER expect to be picked). It just keeps me on my toes, creatively speaking.

If you're not familiar with the Color Challenges, you can go to KWerner Designs. She has so many cool ideas, and so many people love her challenges as well. That's where I find so many of you to talk with.

Well, here it is...

I just love the rub-ons. I really have a brand new love and appreciation for them. The white ones are just so crisp and clear looking. So much better than the white craft pad. Maybe I'm just doing it wrong. Well, gotta go before it's too late.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Challenge #29

2008-11-05T14:52:00.004-06:00

It's time for another one of Kristina Werner's color challenges.

This one was extremely difficult for me this time. I love all of these colors, but I don't think I have ever used all of them together in one project. They are so bold with nothing really to contrast. Well, here is my attempt...

Here is the recipe:

Stamps: Serene Spring

CS: Whisper White, Pacific Point, Pumpkin Pie, Taken with Teal, Elegant Eggplant

Ink: Same as above plus Old Olive (for watercoloring) & Bordering Blue (for shading), StazOn Black

Accessories: Dimentionals, gold brads, hodge podge, pumpkin pie ribbon, "Anchored" rub-ons

Like I said, this one was extremely difficult for me. Seems much too plain. Maybe I should have added some DSP somewhere. I don't know...

TTFN,

Debi

Election Day!!

2008-11-04T11:07:00.011-06:00

I have been in prayer the past few days concerning the election. I know that ultimately God IS in control, and it is His decision who will be our next president.

I happened across Beth Moore's website today, and for any of you who may be uncertain of the future, go there. She has such a heart for the Lord and provided so much insight today. Very encouraging words. I hope you find her blog as encouraging as I have today.

I just want to encourage everyone to go out and vote today. To put into practice what our founding fathers established for us...the freedom to vote and voice our opinion. It really gave me a sense of pride for taking part in the future of our country. And, if you are uncertain of how you should vote, my prayer for you is that you would vote according to your convictions and look into the heart of each candidate. To vote for the man who exemplifies integrity, honesty, trustworthiness. To choose the candidate that is full is wisdom, knowledge, and discernment. Really, I have been praying for you.

Well, with the thought of the election today, when I went to vote this morning, I began speaking to one of the ladies working there. She mentioned to me that many years ago, they used to stand outside and shout, "Hear Ye, Hear Ye, the polls are now open." Isn't that just funny!! She said she even remembered men and women lined up outside (even before they opened) patiently waiting to get in, that's why they would shout that saying. Then, right when the polls closed, they would shout it again, "Hear Ye, Hear Ye, the polls are now closed." (And it hasn't even been THAT long ago.)

So remembering the past, I think it's only appropriate to post another layout of the heritage album I've been working on for our church...

*All materials Stampin' Up! except the paper flowers. They are Prima Paper flowers.

These are the confirmation classes of 1926 and 1927. The "Roaring 20's". Reminds me of the book "The Great Gatsby". I remember having to read that book in high school and thinking what a time to have lived. Once again, I wonder what all these kids were doing then, how they were living their lives, how they turned out, what they would think of how we live today? My mind could go all over the place thinking about that. What do you think of?

TTFN,

Debi

November Stamp Class

2008-10-30T15:38:00.006-05:00

I have been getting ready for a craft show this week, so my time is limited today. Thought I would make a quick little post.

Here is what I have been working on... It is the next stamp class, for November. I wanted to incorporate the next month's promotion somehow, so I included the rub-ons for this class. Don't you just love them? I think I have fallen in love all over again with the rub-ons. And I really love the cute little felt flurries. (I'd like to try felt on my new Big Shot...yes!!! It finally came!)

Wish me luck this weekend...

TTFN,
Debi

A Really Freaky Thing

2008-10-28T14:13:00.006-05:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, we headed out of town for our "extended weekend off". It was nice to get away, but a really freaky thing happened...

We checked into our hotel, and after a few hours of the kids playing, and M & D vegging, our 5-year-old son came up to Daddy and said, "Hey, Dad! Look what I just found." IT WAS A SYRINGE!! He had pulled the cap off and bent the needle somehow. Of course we were frantically asking him all kinds of questions, and in the process of retreiving it, my husband got poked. It was the weirdest thing, too, because, he was actually trying to put the cap back on, but because the needle was bent, it went through the plastic cap and into his finger. Talk about panic!!!

Well, over the next few minutes, our hearts were just filled with all kinds of thoughts. You can just about imagine, as the wife and mother in the situation, I began to worry. After about 30 minutes of worrying, though, this peace came over me and I was reminded of Matthew 6:25-33...

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life,
what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life
more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look
at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet
your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than
they? (emphasis mine) Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed
like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is
here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe
you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or
'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all
these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first
his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as
well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about
itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

I have decided that worrying about this is NOT helping this situation. I cannot change what has happened, so we need to just go forward and see where this lands us. The needle may have been clean, it may not. So, we have decided that we MUST trust Jesus on this one. He will take care of us, and we thank Him for the peace He has given us.

I'm also reminded of a really cool song by Natalie Grant called "Held" (it's new on my playlist). God does not promise us in Scripture that everything in our lives will be fine and dandy. But what He does promise us is that He is Holy and Righteous, Merciful and Just, and that He has and will go to every length possible to show us that He loves us more than anything. He promises that He will carry us through the hard times, for it is in those hard times that we grow and become stronger and more dependant on Him. It's always because of Him!! And we're really OK with that, because ultimately, He is in control.

TTFN,
Debi

The "Re-Naming" of my Blog

2008-10-24T14:41:00.008-05:00

Ok, I have been so excited to have this new blog, and have been sharing my site with just a ton of family and friends hoping they would come visit. Well, my ding-dong husband and brother-in-law have now renamed it. All they "claim" that they can see whenever they visit is "is Crap 'n Stamp". Leave it to them to see that. That just shows their mentality. Too bad they're family, or I could definately consider disowning them. LOL! DOOM ON YOU CRAIG AND MIKE!!!

Well, we did NOT get the snow or wind that was forecasted, only 1". Thank goodness. We still have A LOT of corn to pick, and snow is not good for that. The ground is still pretty warm, so it all melted off by the afternoon, but it is still SO wet. Here are a couple of pictures of our back yard. School wasn't cancelled, but we have a long weekend as it's "Fall Break."

I did get the chance to get into the stamp room and work on some treat baskets for our teachers at school. Our Moms-In-Touch group provides "kind words and deeds" for all the staff at the school in which we pray over. It's a really nice touch, and it lets them know how much we appreciate ALL they do besides just praying for them. I made for 48 staff members plus a few extra just in case I forgot somebody.

The little boxes were cut at a scrapbooking store using their Sizzix machine, and I don't remember the name of the die-cut I used. They stand about 3" tall from top to bottom. Here is the rest of the recipe:

Stamps: Booglie Eyes, Best Yet

CS: Ghost paper (Adorn It by Caroless Creations), Basic Black, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black

Accessories: Scallop punch, 1 3/8" punch, 1 1/4" punch, large oval punch, black hemp, candy

Now, on to our fun extended week-end "off". Hope you all have a great week'end, too.

TTFN,

Debi

Halloween Treat Boxes

2008-10-22T12:15:00.008-05:00

Boo-Hoo, Snow is on the way. The forecast says 4"-5" beginning today with 40+ mph winds. I was out in the rain earlier today "harvesting" the last bit of my herbs. In fact, my hands are still cold...it's hard to type. LOL :) The good thing about it, I can enjoy a day home with my kids as I am fully expecting a snow day tomorrow. There's just something about being "snowed-in" that I just love. And it will also give me some time to get into the stamp room. Yippie!

Thinking ahead, I thought I'd begin on some Halloween treat boxes for my daughter's class. Being a room parent, we plan all the class parties, so it gives me the opportunity to share what I love...stamping.

Here is the recipe:

The box was downloaded from the SU! website

Stamps: Arachnophobia, Booglie Eyes, Funny Faces (an oldie but a goodie)

CS: Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Whisper White, DSP Halloween Night

Ink: StazON Black, Basic Black (for the wheel), Basic Gray

Accessories: 1 1/4" punch, 1 3/8" punch, wiggly eyes from craft store, kleenex, black grosgrain ribbon

I also took a paper bag from the grocery store and shredded it through our paper shredder and put those clippings in the bottom of the box for filler.

I heard a statistic once somewhere that kids most generally do not prefer chocolate, but LOVE candy. This is so true at our house (yeah for my husband and I, although we really don't need it) so I think I will trade out the Hershey's Nuggets with some REAL candy or gum for them. Hope you like it.

TTFN,

Debi

P.S. I didn't even notice the little background flower from my flower bed on top of the little ghost sucker. Makes him look even that much cuter. :>

Color Challenge #26

2008-10-15T17:31:00.008-05:00

Today is another Color Challenge over at KWerner Designs and thought I'd give it another try. The colors for this challenge are rose red, bliss blue, wild wasabi, so saffron, and whisper white. Wow, these were some really challenging colors for me, but here is my attempt...

Here is the recipe:

Cardstock: Rose Red, DSP from "Just Delightful" Simply Scrappin'

Accessories: Bliss Blue grosgrain ribbon, Season of Cheer rub-ons, "ice" rhinestone brads

I will sadly admit, this is about the simplest card I have ever made. I think it took me about two minutes. But I like it. I'm usually all about simple.

TTFN,

Debi

Finally, we're well!!

2008-10-13T12:53:00.003-05:00

Whew!! We finally made it through the sickness at our house. Now, if we can just ward it off for the rest of the year we will be off to bigger and better things!! YIPPIE!!

I had the opportunity to go to Lincoln this past weekend and visit my sister and do a card class for her. It was a blast getting together with her and some old (and new) friends. Hi Tammy and Jill!! I am looking forward to another class. ;> The next class is still in the workings as I have not yet "perfected" the design for the class, but I can guarantee they will be Christmas cards. The gals at the class did get a "sneak peek", and I will be (hopefully) posting this class this week. My thought is to provide it as a class to other demonstrators for purchase as well. We'll see how I come along...

Also, I need to give a HUGE shout out to my 14-year-old nephew, Brady. If you are a regular visitor to my blog, you will notice something different...my new playlist. That is ONLY because of Brady's help. He is so "techy" and showed me how to go about adding this. It was fun, too, sitting with him and hearing his ideas. You rock, little brother!! Thanks a ton!!

Well, while we were all healing from our sickness, it actually did provide some time to stamp. I just love the idea of the calendars on page 11 of the catalog, so I tried my best to copy them. I called the company and asked if they used a special template for them, and they said NO. I just came up with the days of the week on my own and created these calendar pages. I'm very pleased with how they turned out, and need to make a few more. I thought they would make great teachers' gifts for Christmas this year. What do you think?

A Mother's Love

2008-10-05T16:12:00.006-05:00

Since school began, we have now entered "Round 2" of the flu at our house. YUCK!! My 5-year-old-son woke up in the middle of the night last night with a tummy ache, and you know what came next. The thing that amazes me about myself is how I can clean him (and everything else) up afterwards. I think just about every mom in the world has the ability to do that. What I see is my poor, sick child just helpless lying there. He can't help himself and that just breaks my heart.

I couldn't help but to relate all this to how compassionate our Heavenly Father is toward us. He saw us and our need. Our sin is as disgusting to Him as what I had to clean up last night. But how awesome that He did not just leave us to ourselves in that condition. He provided a way for us. He gave us the opportunity to "get cleaned up" through forgiveness of sins, and by believing that His One and Only Son can provide salvation for us through His death on the Cross. All we need to do is believe and trust Him with all of our lives.

I am so thankful that Jesus died for me. The penalty for my sin is death, and He died in my place. An innocent man, perfect in every way. God in the flesh! I don't know too many people that would do that. Whenever I imagine how much His love for me could ever possibly be, I just think of how much I love my own children. My love doesn't even come close.

If anyone reading this is interested in learning more about how to have a REAL and personal relationship with Jesus, please contact me. It's not about religion. It's about falling in love with a man who loves you so much He died for you. You'll be glad you did...

So, I'm expecting to be getting this bug soon, too, as I haven't been feeling the greatest today. Will...post...when...I'm feeling....better....

Until then, here are a couple scrapbook pages from the heritage album I'm doing for our church. (Ideas came from Becky Higgins' Family Heritage book.)

Color Challenge #24

2008-10-02T00:25:00.008-05:00

I have been having the most terrible time trying to go to sleep this week. I think it might be some new allergy medication I have been taking. It makes me so sleepy, yet I am restless and have the jitters. If that isn't an oxymoron!! So, it is now 12:30 am and I am still WIDE awake and tired. (Wendi, I think I caught the sleeplessness from you. LOL :)

I thought it might be good to slip into the stamp room and create until I cannot create any more. I was wandering around blog land and saw that KWERNERDESIGNS had her Color Challenge up and going for this week. That got my creative juices going, and I came up with this:

Stamps: Inspired by Nature

Ink & Markers: Kiwi Kiss, Pumpkin Pie, & Chocolate Chip

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkim Pie, Kiwi Kiss, Bella Rose DSP, & Very Vanilla

Accessories: Retired Hodgepodge (antique brass), pumpin pie grosgrain, kiwi kiss striped grosgrain, 1-1/4" square punch, doodlebug design inc. (tm) orange sugar coating, stampin' dimentionals, 2-way glue pen, sponge

I sponged around the edges of the vanilla windows, and then I laid each piece on top of the ink pad and gently tapped it and rubbed it. It kind of gives it that "older, rustic" look. I like that. I also had to add some bling, so the "sugar coating" was the best touch I could come up with. It really makes it sparkle!!

TTFN,

Debi

12 % OFF!!

2008-10-01T17:45:00.003-05:00

This month marks the 12-year anniversary for me being a demonstrator with Stampin' Up! So, to celebrate, I am having a "12% off everything" all month long. It has been an interesting ride to say the least. Please contact me via email if you are interested in hosting a workshop, signing up for a class, or simply to place an order.

Too Long

2008-09-28T15:53:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it has been so long since I have posted. (So sorry to all of you who visit often.) Life is crazy. Our family basically took the summer "off" this year. No sports, no camps, really no nothing (except t-ball, which is very low-key) just because we really wanted to be with our kids and be spontanious whenever we wanted to be. Running everywhere just gets to be too much sometimes. Do any of you know what I'm talking about?

Well, now that school has started up again, we find ourselves getting "involved" again. Gymnastics, pre-school, Bible studies, small group, Moms-In-Touch. I guess it all snuck up on us (me especially) and am a bit thrown by it. Not that I am complaining, because I LOVE every group I am involved in, I guess I just wasn't quite ready for it all after our very laid back, peaceful summer. My husband laughs and says, "Wecome to the next 18 years." YIKES!!

So, I finally was able to get into the stamp room yesterday and make something for my sweet little niece, Aldyn. She was dedicated today in church and I just had to make a card for her. And can you believe I was inspired by a band-aid? My daughter loves Hanna Montana, so I bought her some Hanna Montana band-aids. The design on the band-aid was so cool, I just had to try something. So here is her card...

Here is what I used...

Stamp: Priceless

Cardstock: Acetate, Glossy White, Rose Red, Baja Breeze

Ink: White Staz-on

Markers: Pumkin Pie, Regal Rose, Rose Red (on the butterfies)

Accessories: silver brads, pop-up dots, bone folder, ticket corner punch

There is a great tutorial over at Splitcoast Stampers that I used. You can go here for complete instructions. They were very helpful to me.

Hopefully it won't be nearly another week before I can post. See you then...

TTFN,

Debi

I've Been Tagged!!

2008-09-23T15:36:00.007-05:00

Being new to the blogging world, I was a bit surprised when I received a comment from Sandra at The Cozy Chair saying I'd been tagged. Well, I've finally figured it out, and am excited to say I will play along. Thanks, Sandra, for including me in this fun game. Here are the rules...

1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Here are my facts:

Fact #1: I absolutely love the smell of rain. Can't get enough of it. I've always loved the smell of rain, even when I was little.

Fact #2: I knew Kevin Max Smith from the band DC Talk a long time ago. Whenever the group would tour in Nebraska, we'd hangout.

Fact #3: Gummy Raspberries are my favorite candy. It's almost an obsession. ;)

Fact #4: I've been a Stampin' Up! demonstrator for 12 years and have absolutely NO downline.

Fact #5: I panic during bad storms. When I was a kid, I was in a tornado, and I think it tramatized me. Unfortunately, living in Nebraska, bad storms are all too common.

Fact #6: I worked as a lifeguard and managed our Municipal pool for 10 years. I always considered that my "home away from home". I also worked at the Post Office during that same time. It was a perfect fit for me before I was married. Would work at the USPS from 4 am to 12:30 pm, then head to the pool from 12:30pm til 9pm, then home to bed ready for the next day. Believe it or not, I REALLY enjoyed it.

Fact #7: I love growing and cooking with fresh herbs. Oh, I can smell them all now. Basil is my favorite!!

I know, it doesn't sound too exciting. Here are the bloggers I'm "tagging". Please feel no pressure to play. It's just a fun, new adventure for me, and it gives me a chance to get to know you, as well.

Thanks for playing. :)

TTFN,

Debi

Prayer Journal Instructions

2008-09-21T16:56:00.033-05:00

Some of you had emailed or commented that you really liked the "Prayer Journal" and had asked for instructions. Believe it or not, it was SOOOOO simple. But just to give credit where credit is due, this is not an original idea. As I mentioned earlier, I like to CASE, and this was CASEd from the 2006 Spring Stamp It! magazine. Here goes...

Step 1: The background paper (whitewashed fence) is from the retired DSP "Weathered". I just cut it according to the size of the chipboard notebook (approx. 8 1/4" x 5 3/4"), making sure the lines of the fence are vertical.

Step 2: Next, lay your paper on top of your notebook and measure exactly where you want your punch to line up. I just cut out a tiny little notch to get started so the punch would fit in there nicely. (You may need to flip your paper over in order to begin punching.) Now, punch all along the edge of your DSP paper, being sure to stop before you punch all the way to the end (there will be enough space to punch one more notch out, but you don't want to do that).

Step 3: Now, you can begin stamping on your paper. Stamp "Prayer" in a large font stamp using So Saffron ink. I happened to use Tall Tales (was so sad to see that one retire...Boo Hoo). If you like, you can use the Stamp-a-ma-jig, but I have a tendency to just "eyeball" things.

Step 4: Next, stamp the "my" using a smaller alphabet set (I used Little Letters, also retired) using Bravo Burgundy ink, and "journal" in yet another font (I used Quirky Alphabet Lower) using Bravo Burgundy as well. Once again, the stamp-a-ma-jig is helpful, but eyeballing is OK, too. Now, all your letters are done. Yippie!!

Step 5: Now, using the Heartfelt Thanks set, use the larger background flower and ink the middle of each petal and leaf with a So Saffron Stampin' marker. Add Bravo Burgundy ink around the edge of each petal, and Old Olive around each leaf and the stem. I like the look of the "water misting technique", so I used on older misting bottle, filled it with water, and spritzed just one time on the stamp. Let the water do its thing for just about 4 or 5 seconds, then stamp. Repeat these steps for the second flower.

Step 6: Next, I stamped the outline flower stamp with Chocolate Chip ink. This time I did use the stamp-a-ma-jig, simply because this set, for me, is impossible to align perfectly.

Step 7: Now, stamp the center of the flower in the middle using So Saffron ink. I also added just a few little Bravo Burgundy dots in the center with my marker.

Step 8: Next, begin stamping the speckles from the "Itty Bitty Backgrounds" set in Chocolate Chip ink. Stamp it off first on a piece of scrap paper, then add to your paper, otherwise I have discovered the ink will be too bold. I stamped in the form of a large "W" beginning in the upper left-hand corner, moving at an angle downward, then up a ways again, and so on.

Step 9: Using a sponge, begin going around the top of your stamped paper in Chocolate Chip ink, then add some extra on top of your paper. Remember not to press too hard or rub the sponge as it will give too much ink.

Step 10: Adhere your stamped paper to the chipboard notebook using your favorite adhesive. I prefer the snail or mono-adhesive.

Step 11: Trim any excess paper from around the edges using an exact-o knife. Then sponge around the rest of the paper using Chocolate Chip ink.

Step 12: Next you will want to take a piece of Very Vanilla scrap and stamp your sentiment on it. I used "Blessed" from the retired set Fancy Flexible Phrases. Then cut it according to the size of your hodgepodge hardware. Sponge around the edge in Chocolate Chip ink. Then, you will want to take your Tombo liquid glue and put a small amount inside the hodge podge edge and glue your sentiment onto the hodgepodge. Attach the two side photo anchors with two brads.

Step 13: Now, cut approximately a 16" piece of 3/8" twill to go around the front of your notebook, and wrap it around the inside cover so that the two ends come over the top. Loop the two ends through the photo anchors and attach with a brad. Trim the twill tape and draw a running thread so that the ends are frayed.

Step 14: Using Old Olive and Bravo Burgundy 1/4" grosgrain ribbon to tie onto the binding. Cut each piece approx. 4". You will use four 4" pieces of each color. Cut four 5" pieces of twill tape and tie inbetween each of the two colors. You will have three ribbons on one binding piece for a total of 12 ribbons in the binding. You're Done!!

My whole intent for these books was to give them to the members of our MITI Nebraska State Team. MITI stands for Moms-In-Touch-International and its acronym is pronounced "mighty". It is a Christ-centered interdemominational prayer ministry which encourages mothers and grandmothers to come together regularly to pray for their children and schools.

I know when my oldest started school 4 years ago, I was scared to death. I wondered, "Will her teacher like her? Will she be able to make new friends? Will they like her? Will she be bullied or teased. Will my daughter be safe?" There were so many scary possibilities going through my mind that I was about to go nuts. And then a friend spoke of this ministry.

It's a place where other moms have those same fears and anxieties can go and release them through the power of prayer to a Living God who cares like none other. It's a place where moms can receive hope and encouragement. Sure, it was really uncomfortable at first to pray OUT LOUD (YIKES!!), but no one cares. We all fumble around sometimes. I guess the cool thing for me is to see our prayers being answered. Our Creator always knocks our socks off with abundant blessings. He never leaves us hanging. Even if an answer is "no", Christ still comes through with an even better "yes" down the road.

Anyway, these books were created so that we can place each child's picture with the requests that have been given. That way, over time we can always go back and see how the Lord has answered and rejoice and give Him the glory.

If you have any questions about this ministry or even how to have a relationship with the Living Creator of our Universe, please contact me or visit the website to the right. There are over 17,500 registered groups in the USA, and more than 120 countries world-wide forming prayer groups as well. I'm sure you could get plugged in to a group if your are interested. And remember, don't be afraid to believe. Your kids need your prayers just as much as they need you. Maybe even more...

TTFN,

Debi

Lamentations 2:19 "Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street."

From my Heart

2008-09-20T06:32:00.006-05:00

OK, I absolutely have to say to all of you that have left comments...You are just WAY TOO NICE!!! I have been blessed by what you have said. As Diane mentioned to me before I really had this blog going, reading comments is like opening up a Valentine when you're in second grade. She's absolutely right!! The anticipation is just about more than I can handle when I come here, and then when I read them, I just want to burst with excitement. Thank you all for your kind words!!!

This has been such a crazy week for me. It has just been killing me to not be able to come here, or to even be on the computer for that matter, but I have a feeling this is how my year is going to be... BUSY! So, since I have not been able to get into the stamp room much this week, I'll just have to post another scrapbook page from the heritage album I'm doing for our church.

This page was done using River Rock CS and DSP Brocade Background. (I just love these colors for this type of page.) I also sponged a bit around the edges to give it an antique, rustic feel. I also dropped the title piece (Class of 1910) onto the Chocolate Chip ink pad and rubbed it a bit to also give it that older feel. (I'm not sure if that is even a technique or what it would be called, but I really like the look of it for this album so far.)

Hopefully things will settle down, or at least I can get into the groove of this busy life and still get into my stamp room and get busy. I've really missed it this week.

Oh, just for the record, I just couldn't leave the last post without giving the proper credit for the Prayer Journal idea. I finally found where it came from, and it was in the Spring 2006 Stamp It! magazine.

TTFN,

Debi

Color Challenge #23

2008-09-17T07:40:00.012-05:00

Today is another Color Challenge for me... This time hopefully it will count.

Once again, I really love these color combinations. So much so, that most of my home is decorated in these colors. Here are my submissions...When I was making this card, I kept trying to add flowers, embellishments, something. But I decided to go with just how it is. I like the simplicity of it. It would make a fast and easy card to do for a card class or workshop.

This one was CASEd from another magazine, and honestly, I cannot remember the magazine. I just wanted you to know that it is NOT an original creation. I did change the words, however, from "my GARDEN journal" to "my PRAYER journal". I am giving them as gifts this year to the ladies on the MITI Nebraska state team.

These pages are a layout I did for my daughter's scrapbook. She was in a November wedding about 5 years ago. Once again, I love the colors. So rich and inviting, don't you think?

Titus 3: 4-6 "But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we have had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, who he poured out on us so generously through Jesus Christ our Savior."

TTFN,

Debi

Fall/Wedding Card

2008-09-16T17:35:00.008-05:00

Hey There!!

I wanted to post something today, but it's been hectic. Thought I could do it quickly before I needed to get supper going. It's 5:45 and I really have no idea what to fix. Eggs are always a good stand-by...

I saw this card in the Stamp It! magazine, and wanted to CASE it. (I have a terrible habit of doing that.) Anyway, I guess it's not exactly the same, but close enough. I thought it might be a good idea to have a blog to get my creative juices flowing and stop this terrible habit. Oh well...

The orginal card was created using whisper white & sahara sand CS, with little pink flowers attached with a brad. Earth Elements happens to be my favorite color combination, so I decided to go with that. Here is the recipe:

Stamps: Canvas Background, Baroque Motifs, Dreams du Jour
CS: Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip, Basic Brown (so when I water-colored the butterflies, the ink didn't bleed)
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Bravo Burgundy
Accessories: Chocolate Chip Grograin ribbon, Hodgepodge Hardware, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, 2-way Glue-pen, Aqua-painter

I cut out the little butterflies and bent their wings up to give the appearance of "in-flight" and added some glitter to them (can't see that so well in the picture). The Hodge Podge needs to be added BEFORE you tie the knot. Like a ding-dong, I tried to add it AFTER the knot was tied, and it didn't work so well.

Hope you enjoy my creation for today. I think this one will be for an upcoming wedding. I'm sure she'll love it. Now for supper...

TTFN,
Debi

Color Challenge #22

2008-09-13T15:25:00.021-05:00

I happened across this website and thought it'd be fun to try. Every week or so, you can go to Kristina Werner's website and find her new color challenge. This one is Color Challenge #22.

I just love these color combinations, so I had to try it. (Oh, by the way, my daughter's bedroom is in this color combination.)

Althought the deadline has passed, I thought it would still be fun. Besides, it got me in the stamp room today. Looking forward to next week's.

It turned out kinda plain, and I haven't decided if I like it or not. The sentiment is stamped in white right above the bunny and is a bit hard to see.

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Serene Spring (Level 2 hostess set)

Paper: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, DSP Rose Red (retired)

Ink: Baja Breeze, Old Olive, & CRAFT Whisper White

Accessories: Burgundy grosgrain ribbon, silver brads, sponges,

Markers: Old Olive, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Creamy Caramel, & Close to Cocoa

TTFN,

Debi

Church Heritage Album

2008-09-12T15:36:00.004-05:00

Recently, our church had asked me to put together an album of all the confirmation classes going clear back to 1906. I'm a bit slow at it, and as I look at all the pictures tend to get overwhelmed. There are 48 in all, beginning from 1906 until the present. I would like to share with you some of what I have done. (Maybe it will get me going at a faster pace.)

It has been really fun, though. One of my favorite movies in college was the Dead Poets Society. In one of the scenes of that movie, actor Robin Williams takes his students down the hallway of previous students, and encourages them to be quiet and listen to the voices of the past as they are looking at the old photographs. "What are they telling you?" He asks.

I think of that whenever I look at these photos. I try to imagine what these young people were thinking and doing so long ago. How they would encourage me today, and all the wisdom they would share.

One thing I do enjoy is speaking with the older generation. My dad is 84-years-young, and I so love hearing of his life, his accomplishments, his mistakes, and how he would've done things different. I so encourage any of you to listen, really listen, to those in your life who have experienced life...successes, hardships, failures. We can all learn from them.

Daniel 4:2-3
"It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me.
How great are his signs,
how mighty his wonders!
His kingdom is an eternal kingdom;
his dominion endures from generation to generation."

TTFN,
Debi

9/11

2008-09-11T12:36:00.022-05:00

Hey there!! I figured it was just simply time to get this blog going. It definately does NOT look the way I'd like it to, but if I waited until that happened, I think I'd never get going.

Well, first thing's first... I need to give a special shout out to a great new blogger friend, Diane Noble from Diane's Designs. She has been absolutely wonderful to me in helping me get this site going. Lots of advice and super nice. If you have not yet visited her webite, it might be well worth your time. She in full of inspriration and encouragement. Here is a link to her site...

h ttp://www.dianesdesigns.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Diane, for being such a great instructor and an encouragement to me!!!

A bit about me... I am a stay-at-home mom of 3 crazy kids. They are so full of energy and zip, I just wish I had what they have. Along with being a stay-at-home-mom, I am a farmer's wife. We live in south-central Nebraska, and just love the country life. I have been a demo for almost 12 years, and I absolutely love stamping and scrapbooking. Although I love my kids dearly, I do need an occassional escape, hence the blog address.

Enough about me. Just wanted to pay tribute to all those military wives, veterans, and those currently in active duty. With this day being the anniversary of the tragic events 7 years ago, I only see it fit to salute you all. Thank you for serving and protecting our nation!!! I believe we live in a great, GREAT country, and all the sacrifices you make so we can live freely does not go unnoticed. Thank you from the depths of my heart. Freedom is not free.

So with that, I'd like to post just a couple of patriotic cards to honor you all.

Newbie Blogger

2008-09-08T14:25:00.003-05:00

Hey all!! Just thought I'd try this out. I have never done this before, so this whole "blogging thing" is totally new to me. Not sure what I'm doing yet, so please stay tuned as I am experiencing a little technical difficulty...