WELCOME!

WELCOME!

Hello everyone! I am thrilled to have you visit with me and I hope you enjoy your stay. I absolutely love company, sharing, and making new friends so I hope you find something here that inspires, motivates, or just pleases you in some way.

Of course, I love to visit and be inspired also. So if I don't already drop in on you, please let me know where I can find you and I'll hop on over to see what you're doing or to just say "hi".

Before you go, I would love it if you'd please leave me a comment letting me know you dropped in! Actually, I'd just love to hear from you -- comments, opinions, or questions you'd like me to answer.

In the meantime, relax and make yourselves at home... you're family here!!!

I'll be seeing you!


Friday, April 29, 2011

ANYONE UP FOR SOME EASY FASHION JEWELRY?

Hello, everyone!  So glad to be back with another DT project/tutorial being featured today at Pam's  as well as here to share with you.

Before getting started I'd also like to, again, acknowledge those in the southern areas affected by the horrific and devasting storms; my thoughts and prayers are very much with you all.

Well, it seems like jewelry-making is making a fast comeback, and I'm loving getting more into it also (especially using resin).  Anyway, that being the case and having little time these last several weeks to do much crafting, I needed a fast and easy project for this month;  I thought "why not some quick and easy jewelry".  I have lots of old jewelry pieces and findings, so after sorting through some of what I have, it didn't take much thought to come up with this super easy fashion jewelry set of a bracelet, ring, and pendant:

Isn't this pretty and wouldn't it be a great gift for someone?  Even for yourself?!!!  Well, if so, this is probably the easiest and fastest tutorial I've done for you yet! 
Searching through some old pieces, I settled on an old broken necklace that had some really pretty smokey quartz looking gems on it.  I used wire cutters and cut away several of the gems to use for this project:


Here are the other items I used:
  • Pendant chain
  • Ring blank (this one I purchased from Michaels)
  • Cheap cuff bracelet (found mine at one of those cheap little jewelry stores you find in most shopping malls.  An inexpensive bangle can also be used.)
  • Glue-on bails (I usually make my own simple wire wrapped bails; however the one I used on this pendant chain I purchased at at Hobby Lobby. Both bails are pictured above though.)
  • E-6000 glue (glue must be a very strong adhesive)
Now here's all I did:  for the pendant, I simply glued the bail to the back of one of the gems and inserted the pendant chain through the bail; for the ring, I glued a gem onto the ring blank; and for the cuff bracelet,  I glued a  gem onto the center of the bracelet.  That's it!!!  Told you it was easy!!!  Now it's your turn!!!  You probably have some old and odd items already have around the house!

I've old jewelry findings I've found at flea markets, dollar stores, some donated from family and friends, Walmart, even items I've found on the street!  Thrift stores are great for finding old jewelry/findings.  I even have some old buttons and hardware store items which would make great jewelry, and you can get a package with a bunch of colored gems from Walmart for almost pennies.  I collect and save everything --old, broken, etc.!!!  Tools and additional supplies I've purchased from Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Etsy, Walmart, and on-line craft suppliers.

I hope you like my jewelry set!  If so, keep an eye on my blog where I'll be doing several quick and easy mixed media pieces with some really odd items.  And I'll have tutorials on how to make "your own" bails, attaching connectors, and more -- so you'll be able to get more ideas to make your own!  Now gather all those old pieces you have around the house you thought you were going to trash and start making jewelry; just don't throw them away!

Think I'm going to run now to cut off 2 more gems, glue on some earring backs for a matching set of earrings...LOL!!!  Now that would really be a complete set!!!

Thanks for joining me today, hope you'll try this simple jewelry making!

I'll be seeing you!

Thursday, April 28, 2011

SOMETHING TO SAY AND A COUPLE OF INVITATIONS!!!

Hello, everyone!  I hope everyone is doing well!

Because I lost family to Katrena, my heart goes out to all those affected by the horrific storms in the southern areas.  I'd just like to say my thoughts and prayers are with everyone, and if there's anything assistance that can be provided -- if needed -- please let me know what I can do.

I am getting ready to prepare my DT project for Pam's blog tomorrow (Friday, April 29) and I would love it if you would join me either at Pam's or here.  I hope to have something you'll all like and your invited to share it.

It's been a while since I've given away blog candy as a way of just saying thank you!  I have so many new following family-friends and also those of you who have been continuously supporting and inspiring me.  I appreciate and admire you all, and lately I have just been so thankful for your patience during the hectic times I'm having these last several weeks  So, I'd like to invite you all here on Sunday, April 30.  I will have a RAK package for some wonderful follower to win.  I wish I could do something for all of you but, unfortunately, I couldn't afford that...lol!

To my new followers, if  I haven't visited with you yet it's because I still haven't found you but I'm working on it -- just give me some time.  Those of you that I can't find, I will email (if you've provided an email address).  I just want you all to know I appreciate you as much as you've shown you appreciate me by taking the time to sign up to follow me.

As this is a thank you to my faithful followers -- old and new -- the package will be awarded to and open only to followers.  Any new followers signed up by Sunday will be eligible for the RAK but must be signed up as a follower before I make the candy announcement -- not after!   I don't like leaving anyone out, so some time later I will also do a RAK for my non-following visitors as I also appreciate your dropping in and often leaving comments.  Be watching for that!

Again, you're all invited to please join me tomorrow for my DT project and on Sunday for blog candy!!!

Have a great day and, of course, I'll be seeing you!

Monday, April 25, 2011

RAK WINNER FOR "IT'S EARTH DAY/GABY'S BIRTHDAY" BLOG HOP

Good afternoon, blogging family!!!  I hope you all had a wonderful Easter holiday!

I'm juggling several things this afternoon, so I'll have to make this quick!  The Random.org number selected for the winner of my "It's Earth Day / Gaby's Birthday" blog hop RAK is:
CONGRATULATIONS to Tanya of ScrappinKYmomma Blogspot!

Tanya, you have until Friday, April 29, to claim your candy package.  You can email me your information to:  audreyfrel@sbcglobal.net.  If the package is not claimed, another number will be selected.

Again, thank you all for joining me on such a fun hop, and I'll be back as soon as I can!

Hugs!  And... I'll be seeing you!

Sunday, April 24, 2011

HAPPY EASTER!!!


Happy Easter, everyone!  I hope you are all well and enjoying this special day.

I'd like to thank everyone for joining me on "It's Earth Day/Gaby's Birthday" blog hop!!!  I very much have enjoyed reading all the wonderful comments!!!  It was a fabulous and fun hop, and I'd hate to think you missed any of the great blogs along the trail -- they were all awesome!!!

Thank you to the many new followers who are now part of my family circle of friends!!!  I love having you here, can't wait to get to know you better, and I hope you'll always feel comfortable here!  Open arms are always here to welcome you in!

I find myself continuously apologizing because I'm still trying to maintain 2 households (and there's no internet at my aunt's), and it makes it really difficult to be here when or as often as I want to be; and/or to drop in for visits as often. So, especially to my new followers, please give me time to get to you. If I can find you, I promise to get to you.  I know my current family-friends understand things have been very unsettling for me for the past several weeks, and I appreciate the concern and kind comments.  However, hopefully, things are looking like they're taking a turn for the better!  I'm praying so too because I'm desperately missing my regular routine crafting!!! 

Wow, I'm so glad everyone loved the soap recipe, however, please bear in mind that different soaps produce different results.  This is a basic recipe and there are no mistakes -- there's always an adjustment/fix; for instance, if you make the soap too thin -- add 1/4 tsp. salt to each 8 oz. to thicken it; if it doesn't suds enough, add more glycerin (or try baby shampoo because it's mild).  Just play with it, add colorants, herbs, etc. -- make it yours!  Of course if you have any questions, just leave me a comment or email, I'll get right back to you.

As a reminder, I'll announce the winner of my blog candy tomorrow, so if you're name is in the basket, you'll want to know if you've won!

Well, I'm off for Easter preparation/dinner with my family.  I wish you a wonderful day!  And, of course...

I'll be seeing you!

Friday, April 22, 2011

IT'S EARTH DAY / GABY'S HAPPY BIRTHDAY BLOG HOP!!!


Hello everyone, and welcome to the hop!  Thank you for joining me, and for a list of all the crafty participants you'll be visiting along the way please refer to the list on my sidebar located under the same label as above.  By clicking on the blog name you will be directly linked to that particular blog.

Before getting started, I'd like to wish a very special happy earth day/happy birthday to the host of this hop, Gaby.  Gaby, here's hoping your day is filled with all the merriment and wonderment you deserve!

As a special treat for joining us in this hop, Gaby is offering some special treats by her sponsors: Peachy Keen Stamps, Market Street Stamps, and Kich n' Bleus Digital Stamps.  She also has her own special goodie box she'll be offering -- you won't want to miss this, so make sure you don't miss her!!!

Now on to my project:

My project is more than likely entirely different than you expected; although it's totally in keeping with Earth Day as it's economical, recycable, pretty much all natural, and made with easy to find household items.

Okay, so I did recycle the bottle and made a matching tag; however, it's what's in the bottle that is actually my project for today, not the bottle or tag.  So what is it?  It's one of my own "secret" recipes for a rich and really creamy liquid hand/body soap I'll be sharing with you!  I think you'll like it, and it's easy!

This soap is economical in that it makes lots of  liquid soap!  Probably enough to fill about eight  8 oz. bottles or four to five 16 oz. bottles, maybe a bit more, so it'll last a long time and at a fraction of the cost of store-bought liquid soaps.  It's recycable because you can also substitue and use leftover scraps of soap you'd normally toss in the trash, but for this recipe I'm using a glycerin soap bar.  Oh, and it's great for gift giving!  Here are the ingredients you'll need:

(NOTE:  all utensils, pan, and bottles should be clean and sterilized before using)
  • 7 cups distilled or cool boiled water (if using boiled water, it is important it be completely cooled)
  • 1 level tblsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 tblsp. liquid glycerin (can be found in most grocery stores, drug stores, or health food stores)
  • 1/2 tsp. liquid Vitamin E oil (can be found in most drug stores or health food stores)
  • 3/4 bar clear unscented glycerin soap (can also be found in most drug stores or health food stores)
  • Metal pan large enough to hold 7 - 8 cups liquid comfortably
  • Optional:  A few drops of desired essential/fragrance oil or a few drops of your favorite perfume
Let's make the soap:
  1. Combine 3 cups water and the sugar into large pan; on medium high heat, bring ingredients to a boil
  2. Reduce heat to low and add 3/4 bar of glycerine soap (soap should be cute into cubes)
  3. Once soap has thoroughly melted, remove pan from heat
  4. Add liquid glycerin, Vitamin E oil, and salt; beat vigorously (I used a hand beater) for 1/2 minute
  5. Cover with towel and let sit to cool completely (it is important to allow mixture to cool completely(about 2 hours)
  6. Once this mixture has cooled it will be very-very thick.  At this point, start adding distilled or cool boiled water to the mixture, one cupful at a time, stirring slowly and only until soap is of a regular liquid soap consistency, but do not add so much water as to make soap too thin!  This soap will thicken slightly more over a couple of hours, so if after 2 hours soap is too thick add a bit more water until it is again the consistency of store bought soap.
  7. Optional:  If desired, you can now add your favorite scented oil or perfume to your smell preference
NOTE:  THIS IS A VERY RICH AND THICK SOAP, SO REPEAT STEP UNTIL YOU GET TO AND MAINTAIN THE PROPER CONSISTENCY!

Now your soap is ready to pour into and store in a large container, or pretty bottles to use or give as gifts!!!  And, let me say, before you add a scent, test smell the natural scent of this soap; it has it's own natural, pleasant smell -- you may not want an added scent at all!  And..., instead of using glycerin soap, experiment by substituting leftover scraps of soap you would typically throw away -- now how's that for recycling?!!!  However, of course, you''ll also be adding the "not so natural" additives and preservatives in the scrap soap.  So what... have fun with it!

To adorn my soap bottle, I inserted several large silk leaves on the inside; for the cork topper and below the lip rim I used bead ribbon, and added a bow with a rhinestone (to pick up the rhinestones on the bead ribbon); the embossing on the bottom of the bottle I swiped with gold Stickles.  The earth embellishment on the top of the tag I made from UTEE (ultra thick embossing powder) using a mold, the tag itself is was priinted out on my computer including the picture of the earth on the bottom that I found on the internet.  But the ironic surprise for me was that my hubby on an off-chance offered me the bottle before deciding to throw it away.  I took it not knowing what use I'd have for it until now.  And it just happens to be green?!!!  How appropriate for this project was that?!!!

Of course, along the blog hop trail, you'll find other goodies being offered by hop participants; however, you'll need to see their rules for winning their blog candies.  As for my candy package, everyone is welcome to participate; to be eligible just leave me a comment on today's hop.  I will announce my winner, which will be selected by Random.org., on Monday, April 25.  Here's the blog candy:

Well, I hope you like my project, and your next stop on the hop will be Daily Grace Creations.  She's all ready for you, so go on ahead and stop by.  Have fun and good luck on winning the goody packages being offerred!

I'll be seeing you!

Thursday, April 21, 2011

AN AWARD AND AN INVITATION!

Hello, blogging family!!!  I do hope all's well and that you're happily being creative!!!

Of course, I'm running again; however, I had to squeeze in posting a couple of things:

First, I am extending an invitation to you to please join me tomorrow for  Gaby's "It's Earth Day / It's My Birthday" Blog Hop.  A list of all the participants (including "yours truly") are on my sidebar under the same label as shown below.  There will be fun, great project creations, and blog candies all along the way.

And, of course Gaby has some offerings from some great sponsors, and a special treat of her own in store for some special person, so you'll want to make sure to stop by and check it all out! 



I also received another BFF Award, and would like to thank my blogging-sister, Nicole.  If you don't know and/or haven't visited her yet, please do. She's a great talent!
 

Again, thank you so much, Nicole!

Well, everyone, I'm sorely apologizing again for having to run; but I do hope, and look forward, to seeing you all tomorrow!

Hugs!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

A HELLO, AWARDS, HUBBY'S NEW CAR, AND A FEW OTHER THINGS!

Hello everyone!!!  As you know by now I've been busy with family issues, but I needed to take some time for my blogging family too.  I want to thank you all for your kind words, you're always here for me and that's why I try so hard to keep in touch and keep you informed.  I've visited with some of  you  but there just hasn't been enough time to get to all of you; I know those of you I haven't dropped in on yet will understand if it takes me a while longer to get to you.  I am hoping to get past what's going on very soon and get back to some kind of normalcy.

I received a phone call today from a dear friend's husband; most of you probably know her, Beatriz aka Amazing Grace.  She was rushed to the hospital today but I understand she's doing okay and was admitted only to have some tests performed.  However, I would appreciate everyone sending up a little prayer that she fully recuperates very soon from whatever ailed her.

Moving on, I have received the BFF Blog Award from a couple of sweet friends and I need to acknowledge them before I forget.  My thanks to Jean and Deborah for this award.  I am always honored when I receive "anything" -- I guess I must be doing something right, lol!!!


Ladies, I want you to know I think just as  much of you too.  I hope everyone who hasn't visited my very talented friends drop in on them.  You will not be disappointed!

As I've already received this award, I will pass it on to all my family that would like to have it.  Please grab it and post it on your blogs from me.  However, Jean and Deborah, I will add your names to this award on my sidebar.  If I have forgotten any awards, I am so very sorry, but please let me know.  I've been moving so fast the last few weeks, I've had a hard time just trying to keep up -- period! 

I'd also promised to post pictures of my hubby's new BMW he got for his birthday (if you remember).  Here is the ole man and his new "baby":


He and my son tell me this car does everything!  Now I don't know what everything means because I'm not into cars, but I am amazed you don't need a key to start or drive it, and that it has a built-in telephone.  It has what I understand is a good sound system (?) and you can even watch movies on the panel -- anything else I'm in the dark and I'll probably stay that way because I have no desire to take a class to learn about this car!  The hubby will enjoy it though, I'm sure, when he goes.  He hasn't really driven it much yet.

Here're a couple pictures of the panel on the inside of the car, one shows the audio and the other is tuned to the video of  what's behind the rear outside of the car (it has surround video):



I also understand this car lets you know if another car or something is too close.  Sorry, I can't be more descriptive but I'm just not into cars -- I hate driving so that explains my interest in cars.  Besides I'm feeling a bit rejected because we have a 2-1/2-car garage and I have to leave my car parked on the street.  My hubby had his really-really ugly old '64 Cadillac (his classic) moved so that his new car could occupy that space in the garage next to what he refers to now as his "everyday" car.  Just so you know, his "everyday" car is a Lexus -- that was his baby until this car was delivered!  I have a Toyota Yaris, so it doesn't rate garage priviledges!  It's just left out in all the elements!!!  Excuse me but, yes, I'm ranting!  LOL!

Anyway, I promised to post pics and this is the best I can describe it!  (Maybe I'll let my hubby post about his car... NAH!  LOL!)

Well, again, I'll be back as soon as I can.  I'll miss you until then...

Monday, April 18, 2011

A HUGE WELCOME! AND THE "IT'S A BASKET CASE" BLOG HOP CANDY WINNER!!!

Hello, everyone!!!

Thank you all for visiting with me for the "It's A Basket Case" blog hop -- it was a blast!!!  I enjoyed all the comments, meeting/making new friends and the opportunity to play along with all the other wonderful and talented participants!!!

I do also want to extend a big WELCOME to my new followers!!!  I'm so glad you found your way to joining the wonderful family of friends you'll find here!  Come often and always make yourselves at home.  I'm so very happy to have you!!!

At this time, I'd like to announce the winner selected by Random.org  for the blog hop candy package:

THE WINNER IS:  Minta's Creations Blogspot!!!  Congratulations!!!

You have until Friday, April 22, to claim your package.  If the package is not claimed by then, Random.org will select another winner.  To receive your package, please email your address to me at:  audreyfrel@sbcglobal.net

As a note, on my sidebar you will notice I am participating in another blog hop on this Friday, April 22, hosted by Gaby of Gaby Creates.  I will provide more information as it is provided to me but I wanted to forewarn you and let you know I'll be looking forward to you again joining me for more fun and excitement.

As I've mentioned to you, I have been involved in a circumstance which has not allowed me to craft or visit as much as I'd like right now.  I'm hoping things will calm down very soon now.  Part of the reason I can't communicate with you as often is because I'm spending a considerable amount of time with a family member and they do not have internet service; therefore, I'm trying to keep in touch as much as possible on my "between" visits home.  Please bear with me, I haven't forgotten you and you're always in my thoughts and prayers!

Love you all!  Miss you all!  And, as always...

I'll be seeing you!

Friday, April 15, 2011

IT'S A BASKET CASE BLOG HOP TIME!!!


Hello everyone, and welcome to "It's A Basket Case" Blog Hop hosted by Rhonda!

So are we all having fun and being inspired?  If not, you must be starting with me and haven't yet visited the other hop participants!  Well, if that's the case, after leaving here (satisfied, of course) you're in for more, more and more!!!  For the complete line-up of the wonderful bloggers offering great crafty projects, and to even pick up some candy along the way, please see the list on my side-bar to your right of  every blog participating in this hop.  You can't miss it, they're listed under the pretty, colorful Easter Basket picture; click on the blog's name and be directly linked to that site.  Now, while you're here let's have some fun!!!

For my project I am sharing with you a different kind of Easter basket.  My little working bunny here is the kind with the job of normally being pulled from a magician's hat -- but he is a still a bunny and like he says...

"I'm off for Easter!  The magician is not needed, I can pull myself outta this hat -- here I am!!!"


Materials used:

Magician's Hat:
Chipboard (cereal box)
Silver Cardstock 
Star Punch 
   
Bunny:
Loopy Chenille 
Styrofoam        
Pom-poms  
Wiggly Eyes
Black Wire (used for whiskers)
Ribbon Bow

Bunny's Wand:
Dowel Rod
Silver Cardstock Star Punchouts
Black Paint

This little guy is stuffed with a chocolate bunny, marshmellow eggs, and all kinds of Easter candy; he'll definitely bring magic to somebody's Easter Day because there's more in this hat than just a bunny!

Now you know this hop runs today and/or tomorrow and everyone visiting me on this hop can post a comment to be automatically eligible for my little candy package:


"Flutter Sublime" Frosty Lace Cardstock
Sweet Blooms Colorbok Foil Mats
"Bling It" Designer Rhinestones
Hampton Art Rubber Stamp
Blank Greeting Cards and Envelopes 

The winner will be determined by random.org and will be announced on Monday, April 18.

Thanks for stopping by!!!  Again, have fun and enjoy all the great creations made for your pleasure by some wonderful crafters!!!  And, good luck on winning the blog candy(s) too!

I'll be seeing you!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

SO VERY SORRY I'M SHORT ON TIME RIGHT NOW

Hello, everyone.  I really hope all's well.  Other than tired, I'm okay; however, I've been really busy tending to some family matters/situations.  I appreciate the inquiries and thank you for thinking of me.

I wanted to quickly drop by to invite you to drop by here tomorrow and Saturday, April 15 and 16, for Rhonda's "It's A Basket Case" Blog Hop that I'm participating in.  I actually did manage to complete a project to share with you all.

I'd also like to thank and welcome several new followers, and I'll be visiting with them,  as well as you all, as soon as I can.

I keep you all in my thoughts and wouldn't be away this long unless it was absolutely necessary, and when I can get back I have much to do.  I even have pictures to post of the hubby's new car, as promised, which he's finally received.  I also have some blog awards to acknowledge, so for those of you who passed them on I haven't forgotten  -- and I will post them.

I really do apologize for being so long in getting here and, unfortunatelly, I'm on the run right now so I really will have talk to you all later!  So sorry!

Miss you!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

A PRETTY TOILETRY HOLDER? OR,... A STATIONARY HOLDER?

Hello, everyone!  I'm sharing my DT project designed for and featured on Sheila's blog today!

Several weeks ago, I went on an out-of -state visit with a friend and we stopped at a hotel along the way for some much needed rest.  While there, in the bathroom of our room, I was inspired for this project when I paid attention to how the towels were fan folded and then focused on the fancy combination holder for the coffee/tea; I guess inspiration can come from anywhere...lol!  Anyway, I combined the idea of the folded towels and the beverage holder, and here's what I came up with:


It's a toiletry holder (but it can also be substituted for a stationary holder and the back can hold pens/pencils)!!!  For mine here, I've added a bar of soap, a towel, and -- in the back -- a small bottle of bubble bath.  Here's a picture of the back:


Supplies needed to make this project::
  • 1 - 6" x 12" sheet of  your preferred cardstock
  • 1 - 8" x 6" sheet of same or coordinating cardstock
  • 1 - 6" x 5" piece of chipboard (with enough coordinating paper to cover the roll)
  • 1 - toilet tissue roll cut down to 3"
  • 1 - 6" x 4.50" piece of heavy chipboard (with enough matching paper to cover your chipboard)
  • Strong adhesive of your choice (I used Crafter's Pick "The Ultimate")
Starting with making the soap holder:  With the 6"x12" sheet of paper, 12" side across the top of scoreboard, score at::  .75", 1.50", 2.25", 3", 3.75", 4.50", 5.25", 6",  and  6.75" (this is every 3/4th inches); the final score will be at 8":

With the first fold being a valley fold, start mountain and valley folding up to and including the 6.75" scoreline (do not fold the 8" scoreline yet).  Once all the folds are done, run glue along the bottom of the first bottom valley  fold:

With a finger in the middle of the folds only, fold and bring the inside ends together (see picture below);  then glue to create a seamed fan-fold:



When the ends have been glued together, the seamed fold will protrude on the inside so, in order for your soap to fit easily into it's holder, cut away as much access paper as possible:


Now, add glue to bottom of the 6" scoreline area and glue this down to base of the cardstock aligned with the 6.75" scoreline:

Next fold the fan-fold up into an upright position and fold the 8" score line towards you (valley fold) to form the soap holder.  It should look like this:


Put the soap holder aside for a moment and move on to the towel holder.
For the towel holder the 8"x6" cardstock is scored only once at 5", with the 8" side across the top of the scoreboard.  Fold at the 5" scoreline  and set this aside for now also.

Now, before the 2 holders are put together the back wall of the soap holder first needs to be secured so that it will stand in place on it's own (otherwise the back wall will be floppy because the cardstock isn't heavy enough to support itself).  To do this, take the 6"x8" chipboard and with the 6" side across the top of the scoreboard, score at 2" and fold.  Next, grab the soap holder;  take the chipboard and align it with the middle back wall of the soap holder; slide the  2" end of the chipboard beneath the back wall of the soap holder then glue the bottoms together.  The remaining end of the chipboard is then glued to the back wall of the holder (see picture below for chipboard placement).  Once the chipboard is glued in place, take the towel holder and glue the 3" scored end to the bottom of the soap holder.  Your holder will look like this:


Finally, cover the remaining 6" x 4.50" piece of chipboard (this will be the base for the entire holder) and the tissue roll with coordinating cardstock.  Glue the covered chipboard to the bottom of the holders aligning the front ends.  The remaining inches will extend from the back of the holder (see picture below).  This base will provide additional stability and security to your holder.  Now take your tissue roll and glue this to the back wall of your towel holder and to the bottom of the covered chipboard base:


Now the holder is done, all that's left is to decorate and embellish any way you'd like.

For my holder, I added a fan-fold to the top of the tissue-roll  holder holding the small bottle of bubble bath to complement the fan-fold on the front of the holder; added some Stickles around the edges; inserted my toiletries, added a metal leaf to the front and flat-backed marbles for feet.  The holder is all done!!!

Remember the useful idea I mentioned earlier that this holder can double as a stationary holder; swap out the soap for envelopes, stationary for the towel, and drop pencils/pens in the tissue-roll holder on the back!!!  Or maybe you can think of something else -- let me know!!!  Have fun with it!!!

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you like my little project!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

PLEASE DON'T FORGET...!

Happy Wednesday, everyone!!!

Well, yesterday I accompanied my hubby to the wake/funeral services of his friend's wife's mother.  I don't really do well at these kind of services but I do always want to pay my respects to the families when I can.

Anyway, I wanted to drop in and say hello today, and also to remind you that tomorrow is the first Thursday in the month which means I am the DT designer on Sheila's blog tomorrow.  I have another little project I'm hoping you'll like, so I'd love it if you all join me -- either here or at Sheila's.  Don't forget!

I'm off now because I still have a few finishing touches to put on my project and to get my tutorial together, so...

I hope I'll be seeing you!

Monday, April 4, 2011

A SYMPATHY CARD AND SOMETHING SPECIAL!

Happy Monday!  Hope all's well and that you enjoyed a wonderful weekend!

My hubby's friend's wife lost her mother several days ago, and hubby asked me to make a sympathy card for her.  This is the keepsake card I made and I'd like to share it with you:


I made the embellishment on the front made with resin.  If you click on it to enlarge it, you will see I actually layered the wording over the picture so that the words would have a raised/floating effect.  I tried using UTEE and it was okay, but it wasn't crystal clear like the resin is.

Here is the inside of the card:


The inside reads:  "Your loss is so great, our words so small; but we offer our condolences".

Because I did add some rhinestone bling to the front of the card, I'm submitting it for the bling challenge at Frosted Designs.

Now, something special,  by request last year I did a tutorial on an Easter basket I made from Loopy Chenille.  Finally, I get a chance to see what someone has done using my tutorial.  My friend MsJay made the basket and it's posted on her blog today!   I am so excited and proud to see she did such a fabulous job that I'd like to present and share it with you:


Didn't she do a fantastic job?!!!  She will be entering this basket in a contest and I wish her good-good luck!!! 

Well, I hope you like my card!  That's it for now, but...

I'll be seeing you! 

Saturday, April 2, 2011

WAX WORKS!

Hello all you wonderful people!!!  I hope you're all having a very happy crafting Saturday and that all is well!

Before I forget, the hubby said to thank you all for the many wonderful anniversary wishes he shared reading with me from you.  He couldn't believe how great you are all eventhough I tell him that alllllll the time!!!  Of course, I can't tell him anything now after reading what a great hubby he is!!!  LOL!

Okay, well my mind went astray again today!  It was my intent to play with all my new stuff today and instead I got off into playing with wax.  I found an old bar of wax I used to use for for body lotion; I'd forgotten about it and it's now too old for that purpose, so I decided to see what I could do with it in a mixed media type craft.  Last year I'd bought a book on making cards using wax and just put it aside intending to buy some wax.  I still will when I can get the hang of working with it, but for now this was great to use.  Anyway, after coming across this old bar of wax, I ran and got the book -- and that's all she wrote!  I grabbed several canvas boards and dug out some scraps.  Well, the first one didn't come out well at all and hot waxed leaked right through the canvas, so I started another and this one came out fairly decent:


It reads:  "What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it". 

Of course, I love the saying and I think for my first piece of wax art (minus the one I totalled), I did okay.  If you're interested in the book, the name of it is "Vintage Greetings Cards" by Maryjo McGraw; there are a lot of great techniques in it but, for me, they will take more practice to master -- if ever.  But, loads of fun!  Now the book is for making cards using wax but being me, I had to experiment!!!

Before I leave, I don't remember who, but someone asked me if  I would to do a tutorial using UTEE (Ultra Thick Embossing Powder) and the answer of course is "yes, it would be my pleasure".  Not that I'm a master or anything, but it is fun, and I think I've got it down enough to show those of you who aren't accustomed to working with it how easy it is to use and how to have some fun with it too; so that will be coming up soon.

In the meantime, I'm off again!  Big-big hug!

I'll be seeing you!


BLOG AWARDS AND COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

Hello again, and I forgot to say happy "April Fool's" day on my post earlier!!!  I hope you're not getting fooled too much today.  Anyway I wanted to come back and post some blog awards before I forgot.  I would like to thank:

Brenda for the Liebster Award:
Wanda, Scrapcrazyyy, Besthobbyeva, and Rhonda for the Versatile Blogger Award:


And finally, Sandy for the Best Friend Blogger Award:

I think it's a blessing that you all thought to pass these wonderful awards on to me, and I appreciate each of them.  Thank you all so very much, and I hope that all my wonderful blogging family becomes acquainted with and visit you, if they don't already do so.

Because I've gotten this many awards...lol, I do believe there should be enough to share and pass on to just about everybody, so here'sto all of you!  Please grab an award and post it to your blogs from "yours truly"!


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IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN INFORMATION AND/OR OBTAINING COPYRIGHTS ON YOUR ORIGINAL PROJECT FILES/PATTERNS:

I wanted to take a moment and share with you information on something I used to always do and have decided to do again.  I used to submit all my original craft patterns and files for copyright to the Libary of Congress, and I've decided to resume this practice and send all those I hadn't.  I'd stopped submitting them a while ago  as I no longer do sales/business as I used to, and because when you post an original project to Blogger there is "suppose" to be an automatic copyright on your originals as soon as they post; which I've found out is not at all reliable if someone is making money on your files/patterns.  Realizing not everyone is as respectful of each other as we are and that others could very well be making money off our hard work, in an attempt to avoid  the misuse of exclusive sales of my patterns and files without my permission -- on those files/patterns I so diligently worked on to create, I decided to put all my originals on government record again.  Although, I have been still using what they call the "poor man's" copyright where you mail your design to yourself so that it can be postmarked by U.S.P.S. , this method has limitations and then only if the package remains sealed/unopened. 

I wanted to share this information if you are interested in doing the same thing.  Unfortunately, and be aware, you cannot copyright ideas, so altered files/patterns can be copyrighted by others if they make changes to your originals making them their own; however, there are specifications that apply to altered patterns/files in order for them to be applicable for copyright as someone elses original -- although these rules are not quite clear when reading them. 

Copyrights are only issued on your own original design files and/or patterns.  Legal action can only be incurred if  your  files/patterns are copied exactly, without your permission, once they are copyrighted.

If you are interested you can find more information at http://www.copyright.gov/; you'll also be able to complete copyright forms there, if you wish to do so.

As an example of a sealed copyright certificate, I have provided below an old pdf. copy of one of my copyright Certificates of Registration, however, I have omitted my copyrighted information as it is not directly specific to a particular craft file/pattern on this blog and so the information on it is not relevant here.  I am only providing this as as a sample -- although copyrights are public information. When your copyright is approved and returned there will be a seal on the left top of the page and all the copyright information will be in the barcode at the right top of the page (sorry it came out so blurry, if you have a difficult time seeing it, let me know and I will try to provide a clearer copy): 
Depending on how you file your form(s)  the cost is either $35 or $50.  If you decide to do this it is best to file your project patterns/files as a collection, otherwise, the cost will apply to each individual one.  Also, you may want to do as I do and mail yourself a "poor man's" copyright along with a copy of your completed form until your copyright certificate is received.

You'll want to read up on copyrighting very thoroughly to make certain it's something you want to do.  There are specifics on copyrighting creative works!

If anyone is interested, I hope this is useful information.

Friday, April 1, 2011

IT WAS A VERY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Happy Friday, happy weekend!!!

Well, I guess I owe hubby big-time because I had such a wonderful day!!!  Leonard always tells me everyday is Christmas and that's just what yesterday felt like.  We started off the day going out to breakfast and then he took me on a craft shopping spree.  We went to Michael's, Hobby Lobby, and Joanne Fabrics.  He told me I had 15 minutes to go through each store and pick up things I wanted; let me tell you, I turned into some kind of maniac!!!  Can you imagine how fast 15 minutes can go when you have no idea of where to start or any idea of  anything specific in mind!!!   I know people that didn't know what was going on thought I was some kind of a nut!!!  LOL!!!  Here're just some of the goodies I grabbed:




And, YES, I defintely grabbed a Zutter Bind-It-All!!!  I'd been wanting this!!!  I had an old one of those cheapie binders with the plastic rings from Staples that only punches one page at a time -- and only paper!!!  And look at all the yummy Tim Holtz stuff.  I know a lot are duplicates of stuff I already have but who can have too much Tim Holtz, right?!!!  I was so busy tearing into all this stuff when I got home, I almost forgot to take a picture!  I was just like an excited kid at Christmas!

Next we went to lunch at Papadueaux's which is a cajun style/seafood restuarant that I love; and then he finally managed to get me up on the ferris wheel at Chicago's world-famous Navy Pier -- the view of the city at the top of the ferris wheel is spectacular!!!  I'm so glad he cohearsed me into it because as long as that ferris wheel has been an attraction, and as many times as I've visited Navy Pier, I'd never even considered getting on the ferris wheel.

Lastly we had dinner at another of my favorite seafood restuarants called Joe's which is on the north end of downtown near the magnificent mile.  We tried to end the evening with a horse carriage ride because the evening was so nice, but there were no carriages out or available when we walked over to the Water Tower. 

I really wanted a picture of us up on the ferris wheel, but this is Chicago!!!  I'm trusting but not stupid!  You can't just hand your camera over to someone, ask them to take your picture while you're sitting on top of the world, and come back down expecting them to be there with your camera...lol!!!

I did snap a picture of my hubby's appetitzer plate because I don't think anyone can clean up crab legs the way he can:

And I took this picture of the complimentary dessert the restuarant gave us to help celebrate our anninversary:
It may not look like much, but that fudge, chocolate, icecream and whipped cream was so darn rich the first spoonful was enough for me.

Well, sorry I didn't have more pictures, but I did have a wonderful time and wanted to share with you as much as I could.  Now I'm off to craft!  I'll be around to visit with you later...

I'll be seeing you!