LADY J CREATIONS

2012-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday Observed!

We had the day off, and after talking about non-violence civil-rights activism, (My just-turned 8 year old told me all about Ruby Bridges...we all learned today. I love when that happens!) we went out to lunch and enjoyed the on-and-off snow flurries.

I even carved out a little time to make a second card for Valentine's day. I fiddled with this one a bit..having designed it a little differently on my sketch-pad, but it just looked too busy with the other paper I had paired with it, so I took it off and I really like the way it doesn't distract from either the hearts or the ribbon. It's pretty, a little sexy and easy to make....like me..ha! ; 0 )

All you need

2012-01-02T14:16:00.000-08:00

I am back...and to post a creation, no less.

I feel like I've been gone for a while, but my days seem to go by quickly! My holidays sure went by in a blur spending time with my family. I spent my new year actively avoiding taking down decorations by cleaning out paper and supplies. I unearthed a few ideas I have for Valentine's Day cards and started working on them, getting only one completed today.

This card features foiled paper, and a multi-dimensional surface. It can easily be changed to a more snail-mail friendly or flat format.

I've also started a project for 2012, called Project Life. You can read all about it here, where Becky Higgins created the concept. I have been wanting to do this since she came up with 365, where you document each day in photos.
Project Life is more a documented journey through your year, using her products of course! I opted to make my own journaling cards but I did buy her pocket pages for my binder. I haven't completed a journal card for the 1st but I did start with my title page. The drawback to not using the pre-packaged cards: I don't have them made up. The advantage: they are completely unique and original, limited only by my imagination. And my ability to follow-through on a project. Ha!
As for new year resolutions, well, I'm setting goals and renewing my focus on lifestyle choices. Yes, these are just synonyms for resolutions but I think there is more forgiveness and flexibility in using these terms. I don't have control over whether or not I beat cancer (other than my choice to get treatments), but I can help by living a healthier life. I have many of the usual goals, but I'll stop here by sharing with you my silliest goal: less volunteering. I have a hard time saying "no" but it's my goal for this year, because my family time is more precious and I don't want to give it up, if I can. And I bet it's the one I keep.
What about you, do you have goals for the year that are silly? Let me know...I'd love to hear from you!

Advent TREE!!

2011-12-01T15:07:00.001-08:00

Helllloooooo!
I am still here...if you are interested in my health and my recovery, check the bottom of this entry.
So two years ago I made some pretty awesome advent calendars...(check here for full entry)

and I still haven't made one for my boys...mostly because they love those crappy chocolate ones (because they get chocolate every day, Hello-o! They are getting the Trader Joe's chocolate advent every morning, yup - I send them to school high on chocolate. I am an awesome mom! Duh! ;)

So, I decided that I didn't really want to give them more stuff...I want to lean away from that kind of Christmas. I saw a flat version of this on Pinterest made with envelopes and foam core background. I wanted a paper calendar, one I could make, and useable for my lil' dudes. So I made a list of activities and borrowed some from All Things Simple.

Here is what I came up with, an Advent Tree:

with important family activities that we can share together. And before some of you wise-guys ask (Leanna)...no, I didn't make the tree...it's from Target. What I did make, are the envelopes and filled them with an activity for each day.

For example:
day one is: Read "Elf on the Shelf" together
day 2: Make teacher gifts
day 3: Pick mitten from mitten tree for foster kids
day 4: Watch "The Grinch"
day 5: can you believe it...I can't remember!

Luckily, I made a master list, with the dates all assigned and even some alternate days for the outdoor activities. I made each envelope out of a 4" square of scrapbook paper, scored on all 4 corner diagonals, folded in and rounded the upper corner. I then decorated the fronts and put numbers cut from my cricut. I can't fit them all on the little tree..so I'll pop them on as the others come off.

Hope you are enjoying the season of Advent!

and as for my health...
Here I am folks....recovering from my first treatment, which was both not as bad as I expected and much worse.
I didn't get as sick as everyone told me I would...bone aches for 2 days were actually endurable. However, the bone aches were like twinkling Christmas tree lights and would go on and off constantly...for 48 hours straight. And I couldn't sleep with the pain. And the worse part: I know I have to do this two more times. But, it could be worse and I could have to do more than 3 treatments...and there might not be hope for recovery. So I will take the aches and try not to complain about the pain...or groan out loud. Too often.
Thanks for the cards and love! I'll post more as I can...

More cards...and a class!

2011-11-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hello!

After much thought, I'm feeling pretty happy to be able to do one more class before my chemo treatments start, so here are the two cards and one bag for my final 2011 class.

Both cards are 4.25" x 5.5". The bag is a commercially made 12"x12" sheet that includes 4 tags and the bag to assemble.
I have 12 sets available, $10 for each kit which includes all materials and instructions.

Hope to see you November 15th!

getting back into crafting

2011-11-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

I've been gone a while...having a little problem getting healthy. I don't know how many more cards I'll be able to make or post. My medication keeps me from concentrating and feeling creative.

But I felt the need to make a thank you card to the people who have reached out and sent flowers and prayers for me.
I'm weighing the desire for one more class vs. my energy levels and ability to get things together. I certainly have the supplies! :) I'll let you know soon...

I'll try to post as much / often as I can.
Take Care and leave a comment! :)

Fry Box Gift

2011-10-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

I made this small treat box...copied from a french fry box.

I bought the green embossed paper from Michael's and printed the pattern right onto the paper. Then I cut out the box and assembled the sides. Next I heat-embossed the owl with a very pretty Kaleidoscope embossing powder and popped that little guy right onto a fall colored medallion and added the "Happy Birthday" flag.

I filled the box with some cookies and left it for my friend to enjoy when she returned home from work.

I'll be making a similar treat box for Christmas and I'll include the pattern in a Pdf format for easy printing. Look for it in about 2 weeks!

-Enjoy your week!

Spooky Fun!

2011-09-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year...don't you? The weather here is lovely and the trees haven't lost their leaves, so it's neither messy nor bare. And we have some really great holidays to look forward to! I made 3 fun Halloween cards this week...and I've got a few more festive ideas up my sleeve...so stay turned for more!

This card features fun glitter Halloween paper:

Don't you think this little frog is darling?

Card 2 has a pre-cut window...

and I stuck a fun, glow-in-the-dark ghostie sticker behind it. You can leave off the bling and it would mail flat, easy-peasy.
And finally card 3:

This is definitely NOT a flat card! I have some fantastic Halloween embellishments with skeletons and crows that look super on this medallion. All waiting for you to assemble!
Hope to see you October 11th!

3 All Occasion Cards

2011-09-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Loved the rain this weekend! Isn't crazy to have last Sunday near 100 degrees and just yesterday nearly get to 60? Although I'm not much for sun, I am glad it's coming right back tomorrow. I wasn't quite ready for our usual 5 months of rain and drizzle.

So this is what I made this weekend:

This card is bright..almost spring-like, but the colors complemented the other two cards so well...and I really wanted to use it. So I did!

The three images are stamped and embossed with clear embossing powder.

This card is RSVP sized (5 x 3.5) and has the cutest little clip!

Next up: Halloween and fall cards...and maybe a little Christmas treat!

Enjoy your week!

Back-2-School!

2011-09-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's time for freshly sharpened pencils and clean, new spiral notebooks...and boxes of unused crayons and bottles of glossy white Elmer's glue!
While we adjust, here are the few items I put together for the next class:

"Hell-Owl" Card

Owl Coffee gift

Owl coffee gift: side view

Medallion Card

Hope you are enjoying our last few weeks of summer. I'm glad it waited for the 90s until September!

4 cards...2 designs

2011-08-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

PLEASE NOTE: For some reason, people are having a hard time leaving comments...I'm not sure why, but a very brief troubleshooting session with my husband left us with no problems with Firefox but not able using Internet Explorer. Not sure if this is a Blogger problem...which seems more likely since comments can be left via Firefox. Hope to fix this soon!

A good friend is celebrating her birthday tomorrow, so I made a card for her.

And I liked it so much I made another! I used Basic Grey paper called "Indian Summer".

"Indian Summer"

By the way, Basic Grey just created a blog, and they have a talent call (if you're interested.)

Then...I watched the Portlandia clip: "Put a Bird On It"

...and was inspired to go forth and do so.

I'm not as satisfied with the bird card as I am with the Basic Grey card, but that might be due to my low expectation of the BG card and the vision in my head not coming out quite as well as I wanted.

The "hello-birdie" has the bird raised up with foam. The "celebrate-birdie" is flat. I scored the heavy linen paper with my Martha Stewart scoring thing. I like that the lines are spaced 1/8 " apart, but the grooves are so deep I have pressed throguh my paper on several occasions. It's good to have both (more toys!)

12 days until school starts! Not that I'm counting.

Christmas Bag

2011-08-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hello! I've been makin' plans and lists! I have been making lists of all the items I'm making for a Christmas Bazaar and here's one of the items I'm making. No, it's not too early for Christmas...not 'round here! Only 18 weeks left 'til Christmas!

One of the things I've noticed from the years I've done a Bazaar, is that people will buy paper crafts if they are affordable or if they don't have time to make the item (or they aren't the type to copy).

This is a fairly simple decorated bag, with a glazed clothes pin to close it up. I think it's too sweet, and I've got 10 more ready to be glued/assembled.

I have more crafty-items on deck waiting to be photographed and posted...I can't wait to share!

Hope your day is SUPER!

linking to:

I Heart Naptime

Star Fold Card

2011-08-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

I was able to get to some serious crafting this last week. I planned and cleaned and crafted my heart out! Today I am showing you this:

I saw this interesting card on a blog...I can't find the site, but I have it....somewhere. Will update with site ASAP.

This star-shaped card folds up and forms a star.

And YES... we will be making it in a class...most likely in December with lovely holiday colors.

This card is for a friend going through Chemo...I hope it brightens her day.

Ok! More for you very soon...I actually made some CHRISTMAS things. COOOL! :)

Butterflies, Glitter and a BIG thank you!

2011-07-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

Howdy, folks! It was a wet, wet weekend here in Portland...so I was able to get quite a bit done in my craft room! How about you? What did you do this last weekend? I was able to pull out some great purple paper and match it up with these treat boxes made by Basic Grey. They have a different pattern on the inside, so feel free to fold 'em the other way if you'd like.

These boxes are super easy to assemble and are the size of a large take-out box. Also included in this class is a small matching 3" gift card with a 3-D butterfly and lots of glitter:

And finally, a matching 3.5" x 6" card with glitter paper and felt daisy with gems:

I'll also have a small thank you appreciation gift for everyone in class for being the best glue-stick therapy class around. Hope to see you Tuesday!

Summer Cards

2011-07-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

It's finally summer here (this week) and I was inspired by all the outdoor activities we did, to make up these cards. I chose a variety of coordinated papers that to me, represent summer colors.
The first card is Made with Scenic Route - "Sentimental Diamonds" and Quick Quotes paper "Joker's Wild" and "My Michelle":

The second card reminds me of water. It's made with Gin-X "Scientifically Weird" and "Desperately Seeking Summer"; Scenic Route's "Hampton-Turner Street" and "Bellville Snow Drift". There are 19 different sentiment squares that I will bring to class:
And finally the 3rd card is a silly little summer beach card. I loved the bikini on the front so much I didn't cover it up with the blue water strips I have. It's made with Imaginisce "A Shore Thing" and Flair Design's "Summer Daze":Enjoy!

Where were YOU 10 years ago??

2011-06-29T09:28:00.001-07:00

10 Years ago, our lives were totally and irreversibly turned upside-down. He has brought so much love and light into our lives... we have been blessed beyond measure.
He's growing into such a strong, honest and loving individual. He is smart and funny and knows exactly what he wants to do when he "grows up." He is a picky eater- has ALWAYS hated noodles and red meat. He loves his momma.

Happy 10th birthday Dawson Boyd!

Last Minute Sub!

2011-06-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

Sorry folks! I have to change cards mid-stream....not something I like to do. I went to buy the paper for class and not only was the store out of the floral pattern but the matching cardstock as well! I found this pretty peach and red paper that looked like a summer sunset, so I made the switch. And the flower is still snail-mail flat!
Hope to see you tomorrow!

Birthdays...2 more!

2011-06-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

I made two more cards...the red in the polka-dot card is looking a bit more pink than it really is. It is actually a very clean lined, masculine card. What do all three cards have in common (besides being birthday cards)?? They are all flat (or practically) and easy to mail for all you snail-mailers out there!
If you want to see the first card...click on this link.
Tuesday, June 28th. $10 for one kit, color instructions ready to be assembled by YOU!
Enjoy!

A pretty lil' card

2011-06-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a fantastic weekend and father's day. While the weather didn't cooperate around here, since I was "forced" to stay inside and craft, I was able to get a few father's day cards made and two birthday cards...one of which I made just for the next class:

the paper is a plain white paper with this floral border. I embossed the sentiment with copper embossing powder...something I don't do too often, but lots of fun. It's too messy to do in class (wish I had a studio for my classes!) so I'll make the labels for you, ready to be added to your card front.

Still waiting for summer to arrive...anything over 70 would be well-received. And no rain.

June Mash-up

2011-06-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

I have a hectic June. I'm sure that many of you have a t least one month where it seems everything is happening in that month...and for me it is June.

5 Birthdays, Father's Day, school ending (teacher gifts) and the beginning of summer break!

I know it's coming, but it sneaks up on me every year! Can you believe it??! It's June! How many of you feel like your internal clock is set to April or early May? Ok, put your hands down, I can't see you...but I bet that's how you're feeling!

So my June is filled and I need to get cards done, so I sorta mash those needs together and make my cards for my classes around my celebrations. Believe it or not, I don't usually do this since the cards I make others are done with the scraps from my classes. I like to use up all my extras.
The mash up class is a mix of the thank-yous I wrote for my birthday:

The Father's day card I am planning for my dad: which by-the-way can be changed to a "friend" card

and the 3rd card:

You might recognize this paper...I've used the green before. I really like it!

Hope you're getting sunshine in your neck-of-the-woods!

Sliding in one last class!

2011-05-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

That's right...I'm slipping one last class in on the 31st! I tried my best to get the schedule right but those darned holidays get things all wonky!

I decided to design around the idea of "pockets"....so that's the class theme (for now).

Card 1 is made with paper from Crate Paper called "torn".

It is a surfer/masculine paper and I absolutely love the colors.

It closes with baker's twine. And inside is this...

Card 2 is made with My Mind's Eye paper "Good day Sunshine"
and a little strip of Basic Grey's "Eva" The brown tag slips inside the pocket.

And card 3 is made with 3 Bugs in a rug paper called "bandana". The parchment tag slips into the front. The 4 1/2 inch scallop square doesn't open. If you are having trouble reading the sentiment on the front, it reads:
Thinking of You

Phew! That was a good weekend of work. I also planted all my pots on our deck and in the front of the house...it's looking good!

Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend!

Card 3...Hooray!

2011-05-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

That's right...it's card 3! Yes, it's about 4 weeks old (hang head in shame) but it has been sitting on my craft table holding out for a better ribbon, and I never delivered.

I'm still hoping I can find the right ribbon, 'cuz this one just isn't making the grade.

On a more personal note, thanks for the get-well wishes...I am all better and fully recovered from my recent bout of strep.

Hope you're have a good week!

Aunt Chris

2011-05-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

To all celebrating moms out there...hope you enjoyed your mother's day! I had a very nice one, spent with my guys and then later my extended family.

Since yesterday was also my aunt's birthday I made her a card out of some extra pieces from a previous class, and wow! I really like the way it turned out. So much so, that I copied the measurements and plan on making this card with different paper for a class later on...or maybe sooner!I have to give a huge shout out to my husband who found my favorite candy bars, (despite the company NOT having a website) and had them shipped from Logan, Utah. A super-yummy THANK YOU! O'Aggie Bars are the yummiest.

To You and Yours:

2011-05-08T13:49:00.001-07:00

Another "friendly" card

2011-04-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

Here is one more friend card for the May 3rd class. On this card I used a scallop square die to make the card base and wrapped it all with this luscious orange satin ribbon that matches the paper perfectly. Now we're off the the "happiest place on earth" for 8 days! EIGHT! Whoot!

You gotta have Friends!

2011-04-20T14:35:00.001-07:00

I was lucky to get to the Scrapbook convention during spring break (the last week of March) and found a wonderful booth that sold sheets of paper in bundles, which helps when I'm looking for paper for classes.

I found sheets of paper that have journals squares for scrapbook pages, and while cutting out the bits of paper I was able to form this card:

I think the colors are fun and very gender-neutral. This is the first card for class on May 3rd.

We're off on a family vacation...looking for some sun!

100th post!

2011-04-04T11:01:00.000-07:00

Whoo! 100 posts....how exciting! I'm posting some all-occasion card class samples today.

One Lovey-dovey card:

One sympathy/Hello/ Get-well soon card:

One Baby card:

Class is April 12th from 12 noon-1:00, all material provided/prepared for $10.00.

Hope to see you on the12th!

Simple and almost home-made

2011-03-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am having one heck've a week. How about you? It's Spring Break and the boys are all out of their various forms of school and home. With me.

All day.

We've done some homework and some playing and some science and some arts and crafts and the two oldest have each started a blog. And today is Tuesday. Just....Tuesday.

I have not had any time to myself, as all this together-ness is casuing much upheaval and energy usage. :)

So, I pulled out the class I was saving for April and quickly took some not so wonderful photos, but wanted to get something out here so it's available.

This class is called "simple and almost home-made" because I bought these little cards all pre-made but I decorated them myself with ribbon small stamps and gems and flowers.

The little tote bag/box is a un-decorated wedding favor. I covered it in a (really horrid) pink paper and ribbon and added a gem brad for some bling. You can add the cards to the bag or keep them apart. The paper I have for the tote will be brown and pink and will match the ribbon but it will not be that paper in the picture. (Thank goodness!)

Only 12 sets available for this one.

Class & Teacher Treats

2011-03-15T14:33:00.001-07:00

I made my card class a little treat for St Patrick's day, and made a few extra for the boy's teachers and staff. I stuffed each pouch with a bit of tissue and 3 rolos for the "pots of gold".

I stamped my image (with Stayz-on ink) onto pretty gold paper and punched the image out with a label punch. Fastened it with a golden brad. Easy-peasy!

Band of Brothers - Masculine Cards

2011-03-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I worked on cards that I think most card makers have problems designing. I assume this is because the paper craft industry is so female-centered and dominated, the papers and design elements are definitely more feminine.

I searched my paper stash and found a few extra bits to match up with some new papers I just purchased. This first card was dangerously close to becoming too "Americana" since it is both red-white-and blue but also has stars and bars. the first lay-out was too much like a flag. I had to scrap that idea fast!

And the arrows point you in this direction:

The last card isn't quite finished...I want to add some hardware but that requires a trip to the "Home 'Po" so I've posted the card so you can see the basic idea. I'll replace it with a finished picture in a few days.

Hope you are having a super week!

Spring cards bring....?

2011-02-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

On the verge of snow, I made two cards with spring in mind. I love this card:

I'll be making extra for my own stash. It's 9" x 4" and only as bulky as the pearl gems on the side.
This 4.25" x 5.5" card reminds me of the Osmonds:

It's a little bit country and a little bit rock-n-roll. Ha!

The two above cards and this one from last week:

are all part of the all-occasion class on March 1st. $10, all materials and fun provided. Hope to see you there!

A little out of the box

2011-02-21T21:58:00.000-08:00

I made a card over the weekend, and I don't know how I feel about it. I know it is an attractive card...it isn't my style so I feel a bit more critical towards it:

but at the same time, I also am a little proud of myself for letting go of the control issues I have and trying to create out of my comfort zone. I know it's not too far out of my range....but it's a start!

Valentine Fun for Boys

2011-02-14T11:11:00.001-08:00

We had a fun time making these great valentines.

I took photos of the boys and found both the photo paper and lollipops at the Dollar tree...so for about $5 (and the cost of ink) we had over 50 valentines. I had the boys punch the holes and put the lollipops in. Then they printed their class-mate's names on labels and stuck them on the back.

Last year our valentines were a class favorite (see the link), so we knew we had to find a way to top the candy airplanes.I found the lollipop idea (here) last year and saved it so we could make them.

I think they'll be a hit today. I know we had so much fun making them together.

I'm linking to:

Birthday Card Class

2011-02-09T20:48:00.000-08:00

I have the final card for Tuesday's Birthday themed card class:

This card has some bling and a very "spring-y" flower. Nice and flat for mailing. :o)

Cards 1 and 2:

"Glue-stick therapy" is February 15 from noon - 1pm. All materials are prepared and ready for assembly with clear, color instructions and usually a little chocolate treat for you to enjoy while you sit and chat with all of us in class.

Hope to see you Tuesday!

Added Note (February 15, 2011): We are a sold out class! Thank you Nichole for grabbing the last kit and THANKS to everyone for taking the class!

Easel Birthday Card

2011-02-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

I saw the cute easel-style card back in August on many blogs and I've been wanting to make one ever since. The card lays flat in the envelope and when opened you can prop the card up for display. Very Clever!

Here is my card-class sample easel card, a remarkably easy yet stylish card to assemble. The ribbon makes it bulky for mailing, but I suppose you could wrap the ribbon around instead of tying a knot.

Here is a side-shot so you can see the easel folds.
Many of the easel cards out there are designed with quite a bit of decorations both inside and out. While I do love the finished look of these cards, sometimes all those layers and added bulk are not only not practical, there really isn't time to assemble all the layers in a 50 minute, 3-card class. Instead I used a very nice heavy, embossed cardstock in lieu of the many layers for dimension.

Enjoy!
I'm linking this to:

A Masculine Birthday Card

2011-02-07T13:38:00.000-08:00

I've made up a basic and rough birthday card that is fairly masculine. The outside is non-descript, so it really could be an all-occasion card.

There is a lot of textrue to this card and while a little bulky, it's not overly so. It'd probably need to be hand-cancled so double the postage, but again...not too excesive. I wouldn't want to have to mail each card like that. ;)

Enjoy!

I heart Cards

2011-01-24T17:36:00.000-08:00

Oh, rats..I didn't win the silhouette from I heart naptime...so I just bought one instead! I was wanting one for Christmas but just didn't feel like asking for one.

But after a month of lotsa thought, I decided I could really use it!

In the meantime....here are 3 non-silhouette cut cards, just in time for Valentine's Day.

Flying Hearts:

This card is only a little bulky, in that there is a button on the front. The rest is flat and light weight.

A Sweet Treat Cup:

I used my stash of last year's Treat Cups from Stampin' Up! Once I figured out how to make a pattern for the class, the mechanics were fairly easy. This is not a card for the mail...but it's yummy! Filled with red-hots.

9 of Hearts:

This is a simple and clean card, only slightly bulky because of the foam tape (optional.) Perfect for your non-significant-other-type Valentine.

Hope you are enjoying the first month of the year. I am making a resolution to craft more items for me or family/friends and post them on the blog...I'm not doing very good so far. Hopefully, you're keeping your resolutions!

Enjoy!


Linking up to:

Silhouette Give Away!

2011-01-18T10:25:00.000-08:00

Go to I *heart* naptime to seee how to enter to win a wonderful Sihouette cutting system.

I want one soooo bad!

2010 Favorites

2010-12-30T10:46:00.000-08:00

In looking back on my posted creations I have a few that stand out...click on the links to see the individual post.

This card was a fun one to design:

I love how this class was so coordinated:

I really like the colors of this card:

But my favorite by far was this wonderful gift that was both a joy to create and give:

Thanks for following my little blog; I hope you enjoyed the posted projects. I hope to have even more to show you in 2011!

I hope you have a safe and Happy New Year!

"...A Bright Red and Green..."

2010-12-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Here it is...my last class of 2010. I did it up a little over-the-top with the Christmas colors, but they look spectacular!
This class has 2 cards and 4 tags (2 each of 2 different designs.) All materials are prepared and provided along with colorful, easy-to-read directions. In-person instruction is Tuesday December 14th, but kits are available for delivery/mailing. Kit cost $10; 14 kits available at this time.

Card one has a stamped image of a Christmas tree dotted with glitter ornaments, framed with shining ribbon and poinsettia paper: Card two has a multi-colored stamped image, dazzling gems and glittery paper: The two tag designs are simple but fun, with glittery paper ornaments and stamped sentiments. I hope to see you Tuesday...enjoy!

Revisiting my Advent Calendars

2010-12-03T22:14:00.000-08:00

I am going green and going to recycle and re-post the advent calendars I made last year. Such lovely calendars...too bad I didn't make one for my boys. I have the shell made but I haven't decorated my boxes. Maybe I can get it done by the 6th, but there are so many crafty things to get done this weekend! We'll see.
Enjoy the recycled post!

Christmas Advent Calendar

Happy first day of Advent! I have been gone a'craftin me some Advent Calendars and I have two more to make this week. These take me about 8 hours to make but they are fun to do. The biggest challenge is lining up all the boxes and figuring out which paper goes with which decoration better. That seriously takes about an hour and a half of my time, because if you know me, then you know how serious the details are to me. And they are even more important when making a gift.

This first calendar is made for my "phamily" for part of their Christmas gift. It turned out really well.

I made some of the decorations, added some wooden numbers but most came from the "Mistletoe" and "Fa La La"collection by Making Memories. I really like the paper and chipboard colors. Then, when I was bragging on it to another friend, she casually asked if I would mind making her one...or two. So I made one up for her and I'll be trying my hardest to make the other this week. This one is similar but I made a few different decorations like a glitter star and a big poinsettia flower.

Drop me a line and let me know what you think!

I'm linking to:

Snow....Snow...Snow!

2010-11-21T21:19:00.000-08:00

Brrrr! It's cold and only going to get colder! A high of 34 forecasted for Tuesday and the low a bone-chilling 24. Yes, it's colder elsewhere, but it's Portland and it doesn't get this cold in November!

Here are my 3 snow inspired holiday cards...without using Christmas or red and green combos (it was challenging!)

My first card uses that trendy turquoise/aqua color that has been popping up lately. I layered a chipboard glittery adhesive snowflake with a glittered button and silver thread. I like this card, but it is bulky...not so great for mailing. A good card to tuck inside a gift basket for your neighbor or friend.

This card has green, I admit, but it is olive and I paired it with brown for a more rustic feel. The snowflakes have a little light olive "bling" in the centers, but I bought a pack of red gems, for those that *need* to add red. ;)

And finally, the last card has stamped snowflakes and a punched snowflake raised with foam tape. Inside there is white paper with a decorative border and another snowflake, just for fun!

Cost for the the Snow Card Kit is $10. The kit comes with color instructions and all materials prepared for you to make 3 cards. FREE silver ink pad for each student. In-person Portland class is Nov 30th noon-1 PM.

**Added Nov. 22: Only ONE kit left! Wow, they're going fast!**

Enjoy...and stay warm!

Fall-Occassion Cards

2010-11-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite season and my favorite stretch of the year....I love Halloween and all the fun crafts, but the anticipation from here through the end of the Christmas season is my favorite part of the year. And I absolutely love the sunny, windy fall days before the wet and cold starts to chill my bones.

This class has something for everyone. A great little "Hello" card:

perfect for a little coffee giftcard inside.

A lovely thanksgiving card:

I love the rustic twine!

And finally, a simply elegant card that I designed for a sympathy card:

but in these fall colors it really can be perfect for almost anyone or any occassion...a fall-occasion!

I hope you're enjoying the fall season!

November trio of Birthday Cards

2010-10-24T19:16:00.000-07:00

Wonderful Mr. Dude gave me some much needed time to get a few things completed over the weekend. I didn't get the Halloween decoration completed that I wanted to finish and give to a friend...nor the yummy oreo truffles I want to make (that's probably for the better!) but I did get a chance to work on these three cards and design the next class, too. My list is too long and available time is too short.

These cards were all made with the Making Memories "Spring" series of paper.

The last Birthday class of 2010 is scheduled for November 2, from 12 - 1 pm. Cost is $10 for 3 cards. All materials and illustrated instructions included.

Enjoy!

Spook-a-licious!

2010-10-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends,

I have my lone fall card here - extra blank to fit whatever your needs:

And here is my cute little spooky card:

And a treat bag (with treats inside!):

Class is October 19th, noon to one o'clock. We'll make 2 cards and one treat bag, including treats! Cost is $10, all materials, tools and fun included!

Enjoy!

Fall Cards...just a little halloweenie

2010-09-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

Just when we're actually ready for those crisp cool mornings, we wake up and find the Portland area in the mid eighties and 90% humidity. It's a little joke the weather likes to play...sweatshirt in the morning and shorts in the afternoon. We're up to our ears in laundry 'cuz we're changing our clothes a few times each day!

I'm a little late in posting these cards...and not because of the laundry. I finally have two days a week to get things done, and I've overbooked my time two weeks in a row. Hopefully, I'll get my schedule under control. ;)

There are 2 fall themed cards and one Halloween card. I have a second fall class planned for October 19, so we'll make another Halloween card with a mummy or bat...and don't forget the yummy treats!

Class includes all materials to make 3 cards shown here.

Enjoy!

September Class

2010-09-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

And the final card to be added to this mix is:

The 2nd card is a bit more simple, but still colorful:

Sometimes I get asked why some cards in a class are more "simple" than others. It really depends on how long it takes for me to assemble a card, then I add 5 minutes on for everyone else, since there are so many great conversations going on, and to allow for questions or help. The first card takes a little more time to put together so the other two will be slightly more basic. Here is card one:

Class is Tuesday, September 21, 12:00 - 1:00 cost is $10 for 3 cards. Hope to see you there!

Enjoy!

Last-minute teacher gifts

2010-09-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

What a great summer we've had! Lots of sunshine, but not too hot and lots of good fun with my 3 boys. I had thought I'd have some time to craft while the little one napped, but that plan flew out the window and I spent most nap times cleaning in-between homework and acting the referee.

We also received our class assignments a bit late this year, so I made a non-gender specific gift of pencils in a homemade paper box.

It was looking fairly plain and I thought I'd have to scrap (ha-ha) the entire project, but then I remembered I had this cute owl punch from Stampin' up to use, and it turned out stinkin' cute, IMHO. I replaced the paper eyes with googlie eyes. the tag reads: "Hope your first day is a Hoot!"

I can't wait for tomorrow...first day for my 4th grader, 1st grader and preschooler. And I get 2.5 hours of alone time. What ever am I going to do with myself??

I'm Linking to "New-Friend-Friday" at Trendy Treehouse

Friendly Card

2010-08-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

I finally got a chance to get a card completed. I've been busy shopping and cleaning and designing, but not actually crafting.

I used American Crafts paper, 2 different designs; the floral is called "Romaine" and the fun swirls, "Pumpernickel".

I found the self-adhesive ribbon in the clearance bin at JoAnn and knew it would match almost perfectly. I love it when crafty things come together like that, don't you

I'm linking to Trendy Tree House

New Summer Cards...now with Flip-flops!

2010-07-18T21:52:00.000-07:00

We are almost at the half-way point of summer break. Of course, here in Oregon our summer lasts through the first few weeks of October before those dreaded rains and gray skies move in (for 6 months!!)

Today my boys finally realized that when I say "I've got a class" or "I'm working" that I mean for my company. My middle guy actually thought that I was attending card classes, not teaching them. Hah! Now they want to design cards for people to make. I think maybe we'll give that a shot for their friends! And maybe I'll get a chance to post their creations, too.

On to the last of my summer cards. I'll be taking a break and vacationing with family, cleaning out old papers and making a stack of donatable craft items (here's where I donate.) And of course, designing fall and winter classes, too. Here's what I made this weekend:

This 3" x 6" card has an embossed label that reads "Summer Fun"

This card is a little bohemian in style and has a 3-D paper ribbon and gemstones

This card is just too cute with little flip-flops on the front with retro paper and a layered flower.

Do you remember when we used to call "flip-flops" thongs? It took a while to get into the hang of calling them flip-flops....many embarrassing moments ;)

I am having a lovely summer...how about you?

Sprinkler Fun!

2010-07-10T20:02:00.000-07:00

With the temps in the mid to high 90s this last week, we beat the heat by playing in our own walk-through sprinkler.

You can read more on my family blog: My 3 Bugs.

Hope you are enjoying your summer!

Fruits of Summer

2010-07-05T22:43:00.000-07:00

I hope you had a fun and relaxing Fourth of July Holiday!

We were able to get a few things done around the house, spend lots of time together BBq'ing and playing and I was even granted a few hours of creativity time to make a few cards I had sketched out a few weeks ago. All of these cards have a central theme of both fruit as well as glass-bead stickers. The last card has the sticker on the inside and it reads "Sweet Thing".

This card has a velum lemonade "glass" paper straw and sticker lemon garnish.

The Strawberry card is very sweet.

The orange and green card has the sweet sticker inside, if you choose. The remaining stickers in the pack are yours to keep!

The temperatures will be creeping up into the high 90s this week...I can't wait to show you what Mr. Dude made today, to help the boys stay cool. Come back and see it on Wednesday!

Birthday card with candle

2010-06-16T00:29:00.000-07:00

I was able to get a second card done today and made a matching battery candle. The paper was so pretty I couldn't cover it up with very much so I used a gorgeous satin ribbon and decorative pin then popped a little stamped greeting to give it some direction. I finished it all by adding the little metal buttons on the paper for more visual interest.

A Simple Birthday Card

2010-06-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

I made a similar card for my father's birthday and it turned out so well that I had to make it for class next week. I made this a bit less time consuming than the original, since we only have about 15 minutes to spend on each card. This card looks great and is perfect for any age.

Footloose and Fancy, Foil Cards

2010-05-31T18:01:00.000-07:00

I hope you are enjoying your Memorial Day weekend.
Despite our local, terrible non-picnic weather, an extra no-school day and a persistent cough, I was able to not only get most of my crafting items reorganized, sorted and repositioned, but I was able to get 3 cards completed and photographed and now, posted on the blog (phew, that was a long sentence!) This card has a very subtle foil finish in white flowers-on-white paper. I used a metallic red paper for both the mat paper and the frame.

Card 2 has silver foil flowers and a contrasting yellow paper. I actually tore the paper for dimension! And this card has turquoise foil ferns on a white background. I used a silver finish paper to punch out labels and made a border with the layered labels. Adhesive gems were added to the label tips.
So, regardless of the state of our ~~weedscaping~~ landscaping, I still feel like I was able to get a few things done this weekend.
Enjoy, and can you believe it's JUNE???!

Star Wars!

2010-05-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

I made my nephew a birthday count-down calendar in a Star Wars theme. I took 2 photos of it. You can see the other photo here, and check out the Darth Vader video I posted. I have 3 more calendars to make this year and then I think I'll take a break.

Dancing Robot

2010-05-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

Ok...here's the last card. I had a lotta fun making this one.

I made a card with similar paper (same paper line) a while back. I had all this paper I hadn't used so I thought I make another really cute little kid -or someone who really is into retro toys- card.

Enjoy!

Monkey Business

2010-05-19T13:04:00.000-07:00

My, oh, my. Busy day celebrating my *ahem* 36th (again) birthday with my boys. They treat me so well!

So, I'll get better photos tomorrow. Off to dinner with the men....

Enjoy!

Youthful cards

2010-05-18T22:32:00.001-07:00

I was able to get two cards completed but I'll wait until tomorrow to drag out the photo equipment and get the 2 cards photographed in better light. Here is one card I took photos tonight on my craft table, and it''l do until tomorrow.

I don't know what the underlying theme with this card is...but loved the piggy and had to give him a crown.

Enjoy!

Good Golly!

2010-05-09T14:07:00.000-07:00

I spent most of the weekend outside enjoying our wonderful weather. I have a list of things to-do longer than my leg, but I didn't get much done. I was able to garden some and read in the shade of the umbrella- very relaxing. At night, I spent some time crafting and made this Birthday Countdown Calendar for my favorite little lady, Miss Jolly Molly.
I make these for all the little dudes and dudesses in my life. See this post on how they work.

It's very pink and glittery.
She likes pink, so that's o.k. I hope she likes gold glitter.
Happy Birthday, Miss Molly!

I'm linking this to:

All-together-now

2010-05-04T22:56:00.000-07:00

Here is card 3...

It is missing one little part, the sentiment strip that I want to wrap around the striped band, but the new printer Mr Dude got for my Mother's day present isn't being seen on the network, so I can't send print jobs. But card 3 still looks nice.

And to follow-up in this post, I'll include card 1 and 2:

Glitter Card #2

2010-05-04T16:55:00.000-07:00

This is card # 2 in the glitter card class.

I layered 3 flowers and added some strands of spun glittery plastic (made by Little Black Dress Designs) and a gemstone. The background paper has glitter spots all over. The labels don't, so a message should be easy to write or stamp. Even the ribbon has glitter dots! I'm trying to stick to the theme. :)

My First Trash 2 Treasure

2010-05-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

I've been inspired by a few blogs to not only try to revamp an old and nearly unusable piece of furniture and turn it into a gorgeous piece of stunning furniture, but to also try to find a piece of furniture in need of this make-over for free (or nearly free.)

Look what I found at the side of the road:

Now, some may say "go put that nasty piece of garbage back and wash your hands, quick!"

but I see... ~~dead furniture~~ something. I don't want to give it away, but I really think I can do something kickin' awesome with it! I hope to have it completed Memorial Day Weekend, but don't hold me to that date. It really depends on how much rain we get this month so I can get this project sanded and painted outside.

I'm linking this to:

Blue Cricket Design

A little birdie....

2010-05-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Here is card one in the "Color me Glittered" class.

The bird, wing and branch are punched from a Stampin' Up punch. I lifted the wing to add dimension and added foam under the sentiment banner which reads "Sending Happy Thoughts" You can't really see the glitter paper, but both the frame, wing and flower paper is covered in glitter.

Loving this one....

Mantis Power

2010-04-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling like there isn't time to craft and so of course I'm going to add another blog into my life. That makes sense, right??!

I'm going to try to separate the boys from the crafts and so I started a blog with the little dudes in mind, and I'll try to post their large and small accomplishments over there (insert wide sweeping hand gestures to the right) and keep the crafts a-goin' on here. SO...while I don't have anything to show you today, I plan on having something soon.

Ask me what I've been doing. What's that? What have I been doing? Well, after the kids recovered from their bout of the ick, I've been cleaning and participating in two different fund-raising auctions. And right in the middle of it all, these guys hatched:

To find out about this photo, visit here.

The auctions will be done in 2 weeks and frankly, the cleaning will never end, but despite that depressing sentiment, I will rise up and craft again. Like maybe tomorrow.

Class Postponed

2010-04-12T13:11:00.001-07:00

I am so very sorry! Class for tomorrow will be postponed to April 27th. My oldest has the crud and yuck that is going around.
Hope you all stay healthy!

Card 3 in class: 3 Little Words

2010-04-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here is card number 3 for class date April 13. All cards use Stampin' Up! stamps called "3 Little words" and feature 3 word phrases such as " you you you", "thinking of you", "I'm so sorry", "I love you", "thanks so much" and "miss you much". When assembling your cards, you can choose your phrase.

If you get a chance, stop by Traci's blog Beneath My Heart and enter her contest to win a $50.00 gift certificate to The Vintage Pearl. I LOVE the designs! I'd pick the 'Layers of Love' necklace. What would you pick?

Give away at Beneath My Heart blog

2010-04-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

Traci, blogger extraordinaire, has a fantastic give-away posted on her blog. Stop by her blog & enter to win some beautiful jewelry.

http://beneathmyheart.blogspot.com/2010/04/giveaway-from-vintage-pearl.html

3 Little Words cards

2010-04-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

While the wee one napped today, I was able to make 2 cards:

I took photos in between the rain drops.

Enjoy!

Preschool Day

2010-03-30T15:18:00.000-07:00

I should have been working but on his first day of "real" preschool, I sat at Starbucks and relaxed.
No tears, just a "Bye Mama. Lub You!" And his response to how was your day? "It was soooo COOOOOL!" He will be 2 1/2 on Thursday but inside is a rockin' 15 year old (wearing a Yo Gaba Gaba shirt.)
All is very Awesome.

Very and truly "Moxie Fab"

2010-03-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Spring has definitely sprung around here. We have fluffy pink trees, fragrant daphne bushes, giant white apple tree blossoms and some wicked hay-fever from the beautiful flowers. I am suffering (almost) silently because I LOVE spring!

Here are the 3 cards for the next class: Moxie Fab

I was able to make a few cards before spring break and now my house is fully and completely over-run by boys. It is amazing how quickly it becomes chaotic around here with the bickering and the arguing and the competitive EVERYTHING! At least it isn't raining, so we are spending a decent amount of time outside at parks or on walks after the big boys have science camp in the morning (now I see how marching in the Army wears the soldiers down.) When it rains on Thursday, we'll hit the library. I'm planning everything, including homework, game time and snacks. Idle hands are LOUD and ARGUING hands.

I hope you're getting a little bit of Spring, where ever you may be!

More Teacher Thanks

2010-03-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

Our baby is moving to "real" preschool and has completed his pre-preschool Fridays only class. Because we have so many teachers to thank ever year and we are on a limited budget, we get creatively cheap here in our house.

I bought 2 buckets in Target's dollar spot and then filled them with a cute little Gerbera daisy and printed a simple thank you on card stock, glued to funky little forked toothpicks from the dollar store.

Total cost (which is in no way reflective of how we feel about our teachers!) was $4.50 each

Pretty darn cute and the teachers loved them, too.

I'm (late) linking to Trendy Tree House

a special gift 10 years in the making

2010-03-11T20:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my 10 year anniversary with Mr. Dude. Can you believe it? Time has both flown by and it just seems like yesterday that we celebrated in a truly embarrassing way...we got married in Vegas. Once again... can you believe it?! It's true. I have my photo with "Elvis" (hidden away, but I do have one.)

To celebrate we get a few hours to spend alone together, a precious treasure as we get so few.

This is what I've made for my husband but we both get to enjoy the year-long gift. It took about 2 weeks to get the book made during nap time in the afternoons and a few hours on the weekend.

I made the book and used my Bind-it-all (first time using it and I've had it for over a year!) I made the tabbed pages out of card stock and covered the pages with patterned paper. Then I used Glimmer Mist and sprayed the pages to add some sparkle.

Each Page is labeled for one month, has quotes and notes and has a date planned and paid for. It was fun to make!

I'm only showing a few of the pages, he should get to have a few of the pages kept secret.

I hope you enjoy your weekend!

I'm linking this to Trendy Treehouse

And Life As Lori

All Occasion Class

2010-03-11T20:14:00.000-08:00

I have the cards ready and photographed...sorry for the delay! You'll understand when you see the next post, and see what I've been working on.

Class is on March 16th, all materials provided. $10 / $5 extra kit.

See you soon!

I'm Back!

2010-03-06T18:37:00.000-08:00

Hello! It has been a while, I know...and in my absence I have gained a few new followers; such a treat! I want to thank everyone for being patient while I waited for creative inspiration to strike. I think I might be back in action, this is what I created today:

This will be one of the cards in one of my up-coming classes. Hope you are having a great weekend!

Cards for Kids

2010-02-19T18:39:00.000-08:00

Head over to Jennifer McGuire, ink to learn about how you can help make a child happy, just by crafting! How great is that?! It's a wonderful win-win situation. You get to make a card and bring a smile to a little kid, brighten their life and spread some cheer. You can even make cards for their family and lift their spirits, because these children are fighting battles and the entire family is affected by their war.
Taking the time to make even one card would make such a simple difference. I'm off to prep for my class and make a few cards for these cute kids.

February 23 Class: Birthday Cards; a study in blues and greens

2010-02-16T13:49:00.000-08:00

Here are the 3 cards I have in the Birthday IMIM kit available as of February 22nd. The class will be Tuesday, February 23rd, 12-1:00.

The theme is blues and greens because even if I don't have paper that coordinates by manufacturer, I need to have a theme to link them together. I went with the obvious and found some coordinating colors.

If you are interested in a kit, the cost is $10.00 + S/H and comes with all materials, envelopes and printed instructions. You can e-mail me your request: ladyjcreations@comcast.net

I'm trying hard to come up with something creative to make so I can post again on the Trendy Treehouse blog hop on Friday. My brain is so fried that I can't come up with a single idea. Got any?

Hope you enjoy your week!

I am adding this to Mr. Linky at Trendy Tree House.

Teacher Valentine gifties, etc. and Blog Hop

2010-02-12T11:51:00.000-08:00

I have a few pic of the boys crafting. Can you see how Hard Dawson is concentrating? Love it!

Here is a close up of the planes we made. An added note: When the boys got home today, my oldest said his planes were a huge hit of the class and everyone, both girls and boys thought they were sooo cool! Score 1 for mom!

Also, here are these great M-and-M tubes we made for teachers and other school helpers. We ended up making 17 tubes and 45 air planes. Lots of work, but even more fun!

We have about 450 of these tubes left. We had to order in lots of 500. Anyone interested in buying 1 x 8 self sealing plastic bag-tubes? 10 cents each and no postage- let me know.
I'm linking with Mr. Linky to The Trendy Tree House's Blog Hop

I hope have a good Valentine's Day!

We're building up our Air Force!

2010-02-10T20:41:00.000-08:00

This is what the boys chose to make for their Valentine's Day friendship party. You can find these planes here. It took a few (3) bags of lifesavers, 4 packs of gum, and a giant bag of smarties. But the boys had a ton of fun and I loved spending some crafting time with them! Tomorrow I'll post what we made the teachers, helpers and principal. Here's Alex playing with the 45 planes we made. Enjoy!

Valentine's Day Cards

2010-01-31T21:31:00.000-08:00

Wow....I thought I'd be posting these last week but the last few days have gone by without crafting time to spare. I was waiting to make the last card, the one with the flower and blue mixed in. I must say, I'm delighted with the way it turned out. Now, that is in comparison to the other two cards which are really quite simple; a purposeful thing, as I am teaching an abbreviated class at my church and wasn't really sure what the experience people would have, so I made those two cards easy for all levels to assemble.

I used primarily Quick Quotes paper on all 3 cards as well as a die-cut sheet for the shapes and sentiments. The approach to these cards was different for me, as I usually grab my sketches and find paper that appeals to me or the theme, but I had the paper and the die-cut sheets provided and tried to design around them. Not my favorite process, but I like a challenge!

So, enjoy your week and I hope the weather is behaving...where ever you may be.

Beneath My Heart- a give away!

2010-01-26T14:02:00.000-08:00

One of the blogs I follow- Beneath My Heart - is having a super give-away of fun stamped jewelry. Take a peek at the items Amanda has at Queen Bee Design and don't forget to read Traci's blog and enter her give away. If you have a few minutes to read her older posts, I think you'll enjoy them.

Photos for Valentine's Day cards tomorrow...

New Crafting Ideas

2010-01-21T05:45:00.001-08:00

Hello! I have been busy with all sorts of non-crafting things, like little boys and illness but that's not fun to put in the blog and the photos aren't as nice!

Here is the next craft I'm going to start:

And I love the Etsy seller's name, too! Puking Pastilles! Are you a Harry Potter fan? I am one of the most enamored fans! I listen to Harry Potter on my Ipod over and over when I'm a craftin'...except book 3. That one just didn't translate well into the "listening library".

I actually have the next class completed, I just haven't had an opportunity to photograph the cards. Enjoy your week!

Birthday Count-down Calendar

2010-01-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

Next week my middle monkey turns 6. 6!!!

So I made him a cute little Birthday Count-down calendar, sort-of a mini advent calendar 6 days before his birthday. Today he had a slip of paper that said "Choose either the box or the envelope". He chose the box, and inside the shoe box on the kitchen table was another slip of paper that said "You need to choose the envelope". Inside the envelope was the movie Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. Tomorrow he gets some gum. Kind of a let-down from today, but he's been home with a stomach bug, so he needed the movie today and not next week. Typically, we will put a chocolate or a few quarters or a little gift inside. I might need to make myself one of these in May...

3-D cards on January 26th

2010-01-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

These two gorgeous cards are the TWO we'll make in the 3-D class held January 26th. The tri-fold (shown in this earlier post) is a time consuming card to assemble, but very much worth it. This other card is a "wiper" card and when you pull the ends the paper sandwiched in the middle pops up like a windshield wiper. This photo shows the card in "mid-pull". I put a flower on mine, of course! 16 kits/spots available

First Post of the New Year

2010-01-01T14:54:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010! Hopefully you had some wonderfully things to reminisce about and you celebrated safely.

I lost the winning bid for "mother of the year, 2009" when I refused to let the boys stay up until midnight. Heavy sigh. As it was, they were out by 11:00 and didn't stir when the house was shaking from crazy-neighbors lighting off the illegal fireworks. Luckily, those fireworks are fairly expensive and the entire neighborhood quieted by 12:15.

One of the best presents I received this year was a photo light-cube from Mr. Dude. It allows me to take much better light diffused photos of my creations and I am ever so pleased with the quality.

And in addition to his thoughtfulness, he is undeniably awesome because he took the boys out today and I was able to create this lovely card. It will be the main card for my first class in January- 3-D Cards. Here are the two cropped photos and the one in-process, so you can see how it looks in the photo cube.

Hope you're enjoying time with friends and family.

Enjoy the weekend and please leave a comment!

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T21:10:00.000-08:00

I hope you have a safe and very happy 2010!

Teacher Gifties

2009-12-16T08:06:00.000-08:00

We have 3 teachers to give a big thanks to, so we are big on creative-and-thoughtful-on-the-cheap.

I made these cups and the boys made cookies to fill them with and we tucked a $5 coffee card inside. I debated on giving more, but then realized that if every kid gave a coffee card (and most will) then there is no way they'd be able to use them all up in a year. Oh, to have that problem!!

I used Dixie hot cups and some scrap Christmas paper. I used Scor-pal tape to secure the paper on the weird foam cups (no Styrofoam here in Portland-not sure what it used in it's place.) I glued a layered tag on the lid then embellished the cup with a ribbon and glitter snowflake. I glittered the snowflake with ultra fine glitter and Mod Podge. I LOVE the little snowflakes with the buttons. Very cute!

Enjoy the last 9 days of Christmas!

Tree of Joy

2009-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share one of my favorite things during the Christmas season. My boys have so many ornaments that they get their own tree. And being very short on room in a home of 5 people in a 3 bedroom ranch house, we gave them a tree at the end of the hall.

This will be the last year for this tree. It's too small and can't hold all the ornaments and it's only 2 years old. I've told the hubby that we're on the hunt for an after-Christmas sale 6 foot skinny tree. I don't want to spend more than $20 so hopefully I'll find my bargain. If I don't I'll look in the "off season". :)

Bazaar goodies

2009-12-13T20:48:00.000-08:00

I've been busy making things to sell at my church's Holiday Bazaar. Here are the few note pads and matching cards I made to sell. I also had about 20 bags of home-made dry dip mix and various gift card bags made up from last year-but I didn't get a photo. A few little suitcases made from altoid tins.

Hope you're busy with Holiday Crafts and celebrations!

Christmas 2 Class

2009-12-07T08:17:00.001-08:00

I made the cards for this last class over the weekend. I was pressed for time and so I didn't get a high quality photo, but for those of you who have ordered sight-unseen, I thought you'd want to see what you're making. 3 Cards made with My Mind's Eye paper on shimmery card stock. 2 Cards have rub-ons and the 3rd has a snowflake medallion. The "Happy Holidays" card is a gate fold with a band and the other 2 are traditional cards.

It is so bitterly cold here in Oregon, so bundle up and stay warm.

Today's high: 30!

More Advent Calendars

2009-12-04T14:26:00.000-08:00

I made another and I think I'll stop now....here are two photos of the last one made this year. I used SEI paper and chipboard accents, and mixed in a few K Company numbers and a few things homemades as well.

Cards for the last class of the year to be posted tomorrow/late tonight. Drop me a line and let me know what you think!

Christmas Advent Calendar

2009-11-29T20:57:00.000-08:00

This first calendar is made for my "phamily" for part of their Christmas gift. It turned out really well.

Drop me a line and let me know what you think!

The last class of the year, a 3-card class, will be posted tomorrow. And by-the-way, ANOTHER SOLD OUT CLASS!!!! Thanks guys!

Winner on Wednesday!

2009-11-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

I have a winner for the fun little Thanksgiving give-away:
Winner through Random.org:
Yay, Iowa Cowgirl... You're the luck winner!
Here are two random photos for today's post:

Here are all my "phlowers" I have quite a few. I struggle to get by them when I walk into my crafty cave.

This is all the paper I have in my paper holder. The paper in the top 3 shelves is actually planned for classes. Then there is all the cardstock. After that is an entire shelf for Halloween and then all the random pieces I have to make for other things. Not sure what, 'tho....

Enjoy the rest of your week. I'll be back Saturday with more Christmas cards.

Christmas 1 Class: SOLD OUT!!

2009-11-13T14:10:00.000-08:00

Here are all the items in the Christmas 1 class/kit. The class will be held December 1, 2009 or you may purchase a kit with all materials provided and pre-cut. You will just need adhesive and a paper piercer. Please contact me at ladyjcreations@comcast.net if you're interested in ordering by mail.

There is of course the one card that you can view here, as well as a cute 2 1/4 inch box with a punched snowflake in the front. I made a little tag for the box, but didn't think you'd be able to see it so I didn't glue it on the lid, though that is the idea. I left the box open so you could see the pretty stripes inside! And of course, I made the great little notebook, just like this one, but in the pretty coordinating "arctic" colors. Here is another photo:

There are only 16 available, so order soon. The last class has already sold out!

Update November 27th: This class/kit is sold out. Thank you!!

You guys are just too awesome!!

Joyful Card

2009-11-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

This is the only card in this class/kit. The other two items will be a treat box and a notepad, in coordinating colors of course!

Today I am posting just the card and should have another something from the kit to share Thursday. This card is on a shimmery white cardstock with a metallic silver and metallic light blue accent paper. It really gives this card an Arctic feel to it. The snowflake has a rhinestone at the center and is lifted with foam dimensional tape. Don't forget to enter the Thanksgiving give-away... Enjoy!

Thankful Hearts

2009-11-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Fall, y'all!

It really feels like fall and while I want so desperately to jump into my own Christmas crafts and treats I'm making for others, I'm trying hard to pause and slow down to savor this fall moment. I love cold weather and wet leaves (when they stay OUTSIDE!) and warm fires and the spicy scents of woodsmoke and pumpkin bread. Yum! I'm so very thankful to be able to be near my family and include them in my children's lives. I'm especially thankful to be able to do what I love...raise my family and make things. And I'm thankful you're here reading my blog!

So to celebrate, I'm going to give away a small treat to let you know how thankful I am to have you read my little ol' blog!

Aren't these just a cute bunch of trinkets? Some fun little Thanksgiving-themed bottle caps, a set of Thanksgiving Clear stamps from Studio G, 4 ft of fall colored ribbon from American crafts and some glittery gold ink from Studio G. All for the lucky winner! Just leave a comment and let me know what you're thankful for! I'll have Random.org pick a winner November 18th and send it out ASAP! Leave a comment to win!

Last Post on Halloween

2009-11-03T07:31:00.001-08:00

I love that other people give out this:

My boys love getting all this (although they have completely forgotten all about it as of yesterday!):

The bigger Phillips Grandsons, AKA: Pikachu, Superman & Ash Ketchum before Harvest Fest

Just Because...they're so darn cute!

2009-10-31T20:34:00.000-07:00

My boys before we set out to gather candy donations from the neighbors.

Notepad Madness

2009-10-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

There seems to be an abundance of notepads out in Cyberland, so I guess I felt the calling to make my own and post 'em. The were fun and easy to make. I went to Office Max-the only place that was willing to cut the pads. I bought a 12 pack of Jr legal pads and took them to the printing/cutting counter and had them cut in half. Since there is a printed margin on the left, the cut left-sides are not useful if you were to make these as gifts or to sell, but they work great for your phone message area, the car, for kids or donated to your local kindergarten class or preschool. Kids love pads of paper!

Anyways, back to the project...

I made a pattern out of cardstock and decorated the cover with My Mind's Eye paper. Inside there is a small pocket for your receipts or anything else you'll need to tuck inside. Voila! a little holiday notepad. I think I'll make a few more (11) and give them as gifts and maybe even add the project to my last holiday class. I'll have to think about it a little while.

As for today, I am so done with Halloween...and candy. Isn't that something? I'm sure it will pass. ;)

Winter Ensemble

2009-10-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

These two cards and treat bag are the 3 items in the Winter Ensemble class I'll be teaching and have available for purchase in kit-form through the blog. I had fun pushing myself to make cards and a treat bag using not the typical Christmas colored paper, but a little retro and hip colors: turquoise and purple. I also used stickles and "glitterfied" some clear Heidi Swapp snowflakes.

Each item has a different size snowflake, but they ALL have glitter. I decided to keep this simple since our class is a little less than a hour and we need the time to chat and make the treat bag. This would be a nice coordinated treat set to give to a teacher or co-worker. Enjoy!

3 All Occasion Card Class

2009-10-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

Today's posting features the three cards that will be made in the "All Occasion November" card class held on November 3rd. If you wish to purchase the All Occasions November kit, the cost is $10 + s/h ($4.95) All card kits come with prepared materials and color photo instructions.There are 14 kits available as of today. NOTE: as of October 30th, there are only 3 kits available.

I hope to get an opportunity to get my Winter and Christmas class photos done this weekend. Busy, busy! Life just doesn't slow down...not with 4 boys in the house (I'm counting Mike in there!) :)

Hope you enjoy this last (!!!) week of October

LADY J CREATIONS

All you need

Advent TREE!!

More cards...and a class!

getting back into crafting

Fry Box Gift

Spooky Fun!

3 All Occasion Cards

Back-2-School!

4 cards...2 designs

Christmas Bag

Star Fold Card

Butterflies, Glitter and a BIG thank you!

Summer Cards

Where were YOU 10 years ago??

Last Minute Sub!

Birthdays...2 more!

A pretty lil' card

June Mash-up

Sliding in one last class!

Card 3...Hooray!

Aunt Chris

To You and Yours:

Another "friendly" card

You gotta have Friends!

100th post!

Simple and almost home-made

Class & Teacher Treats

Band of Brothers - Masculine Cards

Spring cards bring....?

A little out of the box

Valentine Fun for Boys

Birthday Card Class

Easel Birthday Card

A Masculine Birthday Card

I *heart* Cards

Silhouette Give Away!

2010 Favorites

"...A Bright Red and Green..."

Revisiting my Advent Calendars

Christmas Advent Calendar

Snow....Snow...Snow!

Fall-Occassion Cards

November trio of Birthday Cards

Spook-a-licious!

Fall Cards...just a little halloweenie

September Class

Last-minute teacher gifts

Friendly Card

New Summer Cards...now with Flip-flops!

Sprinkler Fun!

Fruits of Summer

Birthday card with candle

A Simple Birthday Card

Footloose and Fancy, Foil Cards

Star Wars!

Dancing Robot

Monkey Business

Youthful cards

Good Golly!

All-together-now

Glitter Card #2

My First Trash 2 Treasure

A little birdie....

Mantis Power

Class Postponed

Card 3 in class: 3 Little Words

Give away at Beneath My Heart blog

3 Little Words cards

Preschool Day

Very and truly "Moxie Fab"

More Teacher Thanks

a special gift 10 years in the making

All Occasion Class

I'm Back!

Cards for Kids

February 23 Class: Birthday Cards; a study in blues and greens

Teacher Valentine gifties, etc. and Blog Hop

We're building up our Air Force!

Valentine's Day Cards

I heart Cards