Artful Ramblings

Baby Owl...

2011-11-23T18:44:00.000Z

...for Baby Boy card.

I love this owl punch from Stampin' Up. I was commissioned to make a baby boy card for a friend (that's not scribble on the name plate, I just blanked it out a bit). The lace border punch is also from Stampin Up, ooh and the pearls! I can't stop using them!

Busy busy busy...

2011-11-17T21:27:00.000Z

...thats what I've been!

Making bits and bobs to sell at a couple of Christmas events coming up soon!

Just had to share these pics of my cutie girl with lots of felt butterfly clips in her hair! Can't believe she stayed still long enough for me to get them in AND take a picture!

Pretty Pegs...

2011-11-04T22:42:00.000Z

...just because...

they're useful AND they're pretty!

Create your own picture collage

Creations for Scrap Revolution

2011-10-10T19:07:00.000+01:00

These were the other two creations for

click on the pictures for more info and tutorials

Pretty in Pink...

2011-09-06T08:32:00.000+01:00

I couldn't resist this very pretty paper pad from Scrap Revolution, click on picture to take you to their website.

The paper is so detailed that I only used a little bit for each card. I think I'll have made four cards out of one sheet of 6x6!

Used an embossing folder on the butterfly below.

Layout for Scrap Revolution

2011-09-04T08:48:00.001+01:00

Here is a little teaser of the layout I did for Scrap Revolution.

Click on the picture to see detail

Made this...

2011-08-28T01:12:00.000+01:00

...for a friend's parents, for their anniversary.

Sorry I've not been blogging much of late. Been having lots of busy days with the school holidays and doing some classes. I don't know if you remember, but a while ago I was choosen to be a guest designer for Scrap Revolution. I had a lovely package of paper, buttons, lace, chipboard letters and card stock sent to me last month. So I have also been busy working on three items that will soon be revealed on their blog.

A little bit of shabbiness...

2011-07-26T21:09:00.000+01:00

Wanted to make a birthday card for a friend, thought I'd raid my long neglected non Stampin Up stash to make something sweet and shabby for her.

Ingredients:
Paper Doily, Prima Flowers, K&Co paper, Martha Stewart Leaf and Butterfly Punch, Leone Em Fern punch, Fiskars threading water punch.

Summer days...

2011-07-22T00:02:00.000+01:00

Had a busy few days with the children off school. Had an "Open House" on Wednesday, where lots of children and mums came through the house to play and chat. I find that the day goes so much quicker and peaceably when my children have some friends over to play.

I've been playing with more Stampin Up stuff and made a few cards, to see more click here.

If you would like to know how you could boost your stash for less, turn your hobby into a career or earn a little bit extra sharing what you love, please have a look here.

Just a few cards...

2011-07-15T00:44:00.001+01:00

Been playing with Stampin Up products, here are some of the cards I have made recently. I am enjoying the challenge of using a slightly limited selection of products, and also creating cards that I have to be able to break down and show people how to make. Please have a look at my other blog >Artful Stampin< for more info on how I made them.

My Stampin Up Starter Kit arrived!

2011-06-17T09:57:00.002+01:00

My lovely Starter Kit arrived on Tuesday, I just had to capture the moment, so here are some pictures...

I swapped some of the recommended stamp sets for ones that I thought would be more useful for me, and also choose some different coloured ink pads. The kit is fantastic value for money even if you wanted to save money on some crafty goodies. Click here for more info on how to get it.

Initial thoughts about some of the products.

My first reaction to the Very Vanilla card stock was that it is to light weight for making a card base. After a discussion with my fab upline Claire, she explained that the Very Vanilla and Whisper White card was for stamping on and then sticking onto the coloured card. I have to admit the stamped images on that card looks superb. Apparently if you like to colour with Copics the colours do not bleed as they sometimes do with other card.

Here is one of the card's we'll be making at classes this month

Stamps

Greenhouse Garden and Baby Blossoms

Card

Very Vanilla and Basic Black

Inks

Basic Black

Regal Rose

Ribbon

Very Vanilla Satin

It's up!

2011-06-10T08:41:00.000+01:00

I've been working on my new blog for about a week, and I think it's just about ready to reveal!

Please take a look and let me know if there are any glitches, typo's or general grammatical errors!

I'm going to be offer a one time only offer if you purchase anything from me this month, watch out on the new blog for more info!

Click here to go to it! Thanks for looking.

Waiting and sorting...

2011-06-09T16:31:00.000+01:00

Well, it's been a busy few days in my head and home!

I've been thinking of what my approach and ethos to selling Stampin Up products will be and how I will share my passion of crafting with others. Had a few late nights thinking and sorting through craft things I don't use, and trying to be strict with myself. More listings have gone up on ebay, and been showing piles of papers to anyone interested in buying.

Made this card the other day, it's a special commission for someone so I can't say more than that!

Look what happened

2011-06-07T00:19:00.001+01:00

when some friends came round! We had a bit of a crafty session and I practised my demo skills on them!

Used some of the lush seam binding ribbon from Stampin Up.

Exciting times...

2011-06-04T10:18:00.001+01:00

There has been lots of sorting and parting with craft items I simply don't use any more, lots of things being listed on ebay. It's all in a bid to make some space and clear my head for...

Being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator!

I have just sent off my application form, after days, no weeks, actually months of thinking about it.

After using some of their products and drooling over their catalogue I genuinely think that they make high quality products that appeal to all sorts of tastes in paper crafting.

Please watch this space as I start this new adventure . I endeavour to be very honest about the process, and how I balance family life with running a business.

TO DO LIST

~~Send off Stampin' Up Application Form~~ done 3/6/11

~~Text friends who may be interested in a party of workshop~~ done 3/6/11

Sort out more craft items to sell

List more stuff on ebay

Make card commission

Make Mum's b'day card and pressie

Create Facebook group

Work on new blog

It's good to be back...

2011-05-30T22:30:00.001+01:00

...selling on Ebay!

A few years ago I used to sell a lot of my hand-crafted toppers on ebay. Been wanting to get back into it for a while, as I have a lot of products to use up and have bought some lovely new tools recently.

Here are some toppers I have just listed (if you would like to bid please click on each of the photos).

Stampin Up! Jewellery!

2011-05-28T13:51:00.001+01:00

Last Monday I had a Stampin Up! Party at my house. The lovely Claire came and demo'd a lovely basket "make and take" and made kits with enough to make two cards for some of my friends who had signed up to doing a mini workshop. This was great as some of them aren't "crafters" at home, but enjoy doing it when they can.

I ordered the Butterflies die and the Baby Blossoms set from the Spring supplement, and because my friends and my sis had placed orders I earned a lovely stamp set and a circles die and a butterfly stamp! Recently I bought some shrink plastic from Craft Obsessions, my son and I had played with it in the week to make a keyring charm. So this morning I made these earrings. I coloured in the butterfly image with Derwent watercolour pencils, shrunk it and put matched them with these amethyst beads.

Made this last week.

Less is More - Embossing

2011-05-19T13:26:00.000+01:00

I've been wanting to play along over at Less is More for a while now, I've used Rubber Stamp Tapestry and Laura Ashley peg stamps and embossed the sentiment. Have to confess I stamped a couple of butterflies under the sentiment, one was not quite right so I had to rethink!

DCM - The Darling Bugs of May!

2011-05-16T19:03:00.001+01:00

Was commissioned to do a Christening card, and it just so happens I looked at the DCM challenge this week and Lynda writes

The Darlin' BUGS of May

I'd like to see some BUGS eg ladybirds, bees, spiders, caterpillars, butterflies, dragonflies - it would be lovely to see them taking centre stage on your card or be used as a lovely embellishment but I won't accept them if they're just printed onto your backing papers as that wouldn't be a challenge at all!

So I did as she said! The butterflies on this card were stamped then I cut them out. To see the creations of the DCM team click HERE

SALT - A Time for Everything

2011-05-14T17:27:00.000+01:00

It was my turn to set the challenge on Salt this week. I choose the theme of Time, and as so often is the case, it was a very timely theme. As a team we have decided to stop the challenges over at Salt for now, however we will be keeping the blog on-line to continue being an inspiration and encouragement for anyone who goes there.

You can read my thoughts HERE and see the other creations of the team.

I decided to decorate a canvas, and have the flowers flow from Spring, Summer, Autumn into Winter colours,

For the love of hexagons!

2011-05-10T20:57:00.000+01:00

Having recently picked up crocheting again, I've been gaining much inspiration from some great websites out there.

Having started and not quite finished a granny square blanket for my son, I have been side tracked, completely distracted and have completely fallen in love with... the African Flower Pattern. It creates a lovely hexagon that can be turned into blankets, scarves, bags and jackets.

I am using double knit acrylic wool and a size 4 hook.

This is my creation so far, not sure what it's going to be. I imagine I'll keep adding to it when I'm not busy doing other projects.

DON'T FORGET TO VOTE (if you live in the UK)

2011-05-05T08:38:00.000+01:00

A pick of my youngest boy a couple of years ago, note his T shirt!

Bunting Swap

2011-05-05T08:34:00.000+01:00

These are my contributions to a bunting swap I'm taking part in on UKScrappers. The theme was "Here comes the girls". When I was first getting them together I had the panic feeling of "Oh Oh My Mojo Has Left the Building!", then after I had stamped a bit, inked a bit and punched a few flowers out - it kinda all came together!

There are too many ingredients to list, please comment if you would like to know about anything specific.

My big little boy's first day at school!

2011-05-04T19:07:00.000+01:00

Son no 3's first day at school today!

As we live in Wales, he can start full time school the term he is four. Methinks this is a tad to early, however he's a bright, bouncing boy who loves getting on and being with his friends, so I've conceded for him to go three days a week for half a term, today was his first full day.

Here are the three boys this morning, my big boy is looking sulky as he wanted to get off to school and not wait for me to take pictures!

Mae coming out to investigate!

His teacher said he had a good day, although she did say: he's not like the other two! (Jadon is much more headstrong and she taught my first 2 boys).

SALT - The Great Comission

2011-04-30T23:53:00.000+01:00

I have to confess I have had this photo sitting in my camera since Thursday morning!

What with the Royal Wedding and us deciding to have a garden party and hooking up our projector to the computer in the garage so we could watch the wedding on a duvet sheet suspended from a line hooked on some nails - it's taken me a while to have a moment to type this up, still on aforementioned duvet sheet!

Lythan set the wonderful theme. It was so apt coming after Easter.

What a wonderful thing it is to be able to share the person of Jesus with people who don't know him. He is real, he is God, he loves us, he wants a relationship with us, and the amazing thing is that he made it possible by hid death about 2000 years ago!

Please head over to SALT and see the other pieces the girls have created.

Sadly, our team member Kim has waved goodbye as life has taken her onto pastures new. I will really miss her and her contributions.

SALT - Servant King

2011-04-14T10:00:00.022+01:00

Lythan's turn this week! She choose the theme of Jesus being our Servant and King.

Last night as I was trying to encourage my eldest son to bed because I had this and other things to do, he said... you're just playing on the computer! I told him I was looking for some inspiration to do with this challenge. He proceeded to tell me that if I Googled "servant" and "king" I could go to images and get something! Then when I have a picture of a servant and a king I could put "&" in the middle and then "=Jesus". What they teach in schools these days, and what a clever boy! So that's what I've done for this card. I think it makes quite a modern Easter card! The verse reads

...the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

This is a card I made for a friend to give to another friend on the occasion of her daughter's dedication.

Love those sunny days...

2011-04-09T22:12:00.001+01:00

We have had a couple of beautifully sunny days here in mid Wales. So much so we had an impromptu BBQ last night with a few friends.

Thought I'd show you a card I made in the week, used a stamped image I made a while back.

Here is my current ongoing crochet project, I was inspired to show you the progress when I saw Kim's post on eggbird designs evening. The colours I have chosen are muted and masculine as I intend this to be a little blanket for DS no 3. I haven't decided if there is going to be a pattern to it or if I'll keep it fairly random.

Baked some savoury muffins this evening, it was an adaptation of >this< recipe, instead of the sweetcorn, I grated one small carrot, one raw beetroot and half a courgette, and put half a teaspoon of chilli powder and a teaspoon of powdered vegetable stock instead of the paprika and parsley. They taste yummy!

SALT - Coveting

2011-04-07T10:28:00.001+01:00

Now there's an old fashioned word that you don't tend to hear too often.

In our church's children's club, they have been learning about the Ten Commandments. My husband Tom has been taking it in turns with our Pastor to do the little talk with the children. Today he will be covering "Do not covet". We had some discussion last night as to what that actually means.

I have to confess it is not a Commandment I think about that often, and find it difficult to apply to my own life.

Does it mean that you should not desire to possess anything that anyone else has? You shouldn't be greedy? You shouldn't want anything you don't actually need?

As Tom and I were chatting, he said he felt the essence of the Command was teaching us that we shouldn't desire to be somebody we're not. That by desiring the possessions of others, it is not only their belongings we want, but who they are and the lifestyle they might possibly have.

`As a crafter and someone who loves looking at other people's Blogs for inspiration I can often fall into this trap. I sometimes think - if only I had that new product that person used, my cards would look just as beautiful as theirs, and then maybe I’ll have as many followers as them and be asked to be on design teams like them...and so on. Can you see how the desire for a thing turns into wanting to BE someone else.

God requires us just to be us. To be accountable just for ourselves. To come to Him just as we are, with all our faults and gifts, imperfections and hopes. To be made complete by Him, through the work of Jesus. To the live the life we have been given, to do the tasks he has set and created for us to do, to love the people around us and to share the love of Jesus with everyone we meet.

So rather than get down and feel ever so guilty about all the times I have coveted, I am going to look to Jesus, to remind myself I have been made perfect by him. That God has a plan for my life and it's my job to find it and follow it, and with God's help run the race set before me.

Using my scraps...

2011-04-05T19:26:00.001+01:00

Got round to tidying my craft space, and as usual I ended up with a pile of bits and pieces I didn't want to throw away, but had no inclination to sort and put away.

I love this random way of working, as sometimes you can end up with some bits and bobs that look great together.

Here are two cards from bits...

Just so happens on the Magnolia/Hanglar challenge blog, it's anything goes this week.

I love looking at this blog, I am always so inspired by the talent of the design team.

They're having a design team call at the moment, look here if you're interested.

I love how this looks so Gothic, and I am really not into Halloween!

SALT - The Cure for Worry

2011-04-03T21:31:00.000+01:00

Here is this week's contribution to Salt. Kim set the theme and you can read all about it and be inspired by the rest of the team here.

I kept it super simple as I had a busy week last week. I wanted to focus on how the Lord Jesus himself encouraged us not to worry. In the Beatitudes he says...

Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these

I inked a small canvas with the little Versamark cubes, then stuck the establishments on.

This was my DS no 2 turning 6, he had his friends round for a little party - whilst the new love of my life was being installed - a dishwasher! It was a little hectic at our house for a few hours, however all the children seemed happy, particularly with the chocolate cupcakes I made as his birthday cake.

WOYWW 95

2011-03-30T18:44:00.001+01:00

I know last week was messy, this week it's still messy AND I managed to make some cards in about an A4 space AND decorate some bags very simply but on the floor!

Son no 3 helped with some stamping and colouring in.

It's Mother's day in the UK on Sunday. I have to make cards for my mum and my MIL and a sweet friend who's daughter is too young to buy one for her (Hope you're not looking!)

Used the Card Patterns Sketch 108 for this, it's here. Was inspired by Debby and used the punched lace border around the curve.

This one was made using the sketch on MojoMonday this week, you can find it here.

Made another card using the scraps on my table, and took apart a card that I made a while ago, and used some of the elements from it. (Bonus points if you can find it on my blog!)

Some of the ingredients used:
Anna Griffin and Melissa Frances paper, Martha Stewart Doily Lace punch, Leaf and Butterfly punch. Prima Flowers.

WOYWW 94

2011-03-23T23:48:00.051Z

Ok, so it's even more messy...

That's because I've hardly been at my desk all week. There are even some of my husband's comics he's left there. The orange paper is where I cut out some stars for my DS no 2 to decorate his party invitations, and the white paper with holes in is prep for a craft activity at a children's club I help out with.

Thought I'd show you the bargain punch storage I picked up from a local charity shop. It's really useful to have them where I can see them easily.

This is what I store my lace and some ribbon in. It's an old wooden trug, and I've wrapped the lace etc around dolly pegs. They look like little ladies with beautiful dresses on!

And this is part of the reason I've not been at my desk this week...

I've been crocheting!
I'd forgotten how much I really enjoy it.

Been inspired by some beautiful blogs.
The bunting pattern came from >here<.
I didn't do the edging featured on the pattern.

Ended up doing 12 triangles.

~~I'll try and take better pics in the sunlight tomorrow.~~

The colours are so much prettier in these pictures :)

Lace and ruffles

2011-03-19T13:50:00.000Z

Here's another card using the lovely images from SistersScrapbooking. Inspired by the frills on the dress I've added lace and ruffled paper doily.

SALT - Trust

2011-03-17T10:00:00.000Z

It was Hazel's turn to set the theme over at SALT.
She choose the theme of TRUST. Please have a look at her thoughts on this subject and please feel free to join in.

This is a large altered canvas. I painted it with white and gold acrylic paint before sticking the wording and embellishments down.

You hold my heart...

2011-03-16T22:43:00.000Z

Isn't she cute?

I participated in a stamp swap on Crafts by Carolyn forum ages ago. Recently found her in amongst the various images I got back. Been using my Derwent Water Colour pencils again, trying to practice my colouring skills!

Some Ingredients:
Basic Grey paper, Prima Flowers, Magnolia and Hero Arts stamp, Nellie Snellen leaf punch.

Decided to list some of the items I have recently made on Etsy, please take a look >here< and let me know if you would like to commission me to make you something special.

WOYWW First timer

2011-03-16T13:59:00.000Z

I have seen other bloggers participate in What's on Your Workdesk Wednesday, thought I'd try and join in once in a while. Tried to do this whole post via my phone but couldn't see the pic, even though it was there.

I've had to hide what I'm working on for SALT tomorrow :)

A fine young lady...

2011-03-15T08:52:00.002Z

The other week I was thinking about trends in card making and what isn't being done at the moment. Also what would I like and enjoy using and seeing on a card. My childhood fantasy was to be transported back to an era when ladies more beautiful huge gowns. And later on in my life this turned into an interest in costume design and then working for a bridal wear designer Hayley J.

So, I begun a hunt for some images of ladies in lovely dresses. First stop Etsy, and I wasn't disappointed. I found this lovely shop packed with loads of images for sale. It's called

SistersScrapbooking.

I purchased 8 ladies, then by the magic of RoboMaster I programmed my Craftrobo to cut out the printed images, no fiddly cutting by hand!

Here is a card using one of the images.

Some ingredients:

Marianne Designs, Tim Holtz and Cuttlebug dies,

I'll fly away...

2011-03-12T11:54:00.003Z

I'm still on a bit of high after my good news! (See previous post)

I've had a few cards waiting to be blogged. Experimented with new photographing set up this morning. I remembered I had bought this lovely book easel from a charity shop ages ago and thought that would be nice to put cards on. I am really fortunate to have a lovely bright (when it's sunny) conservatory, so I think that will be the room of choice. Kept the background simple for now with some large pieces of watercolour card.

The central piece was made using a collage technique with stamps, and then colouring with pencils and watercolours.

Some of the ingredients:

Anna Griffin stamps, Prima flowers, Marianne Designs dies and Nellie Snellen leaf punch.

Just a little bit excited...

2011-03-11T21:27:00.005Z

...about making it onto the Scrap Revolution Guest Design Team!!!

Scrap Revolution have a bricks and mortar shop as well as online one, you can shop HERE.

They stock some wonderful products, and I am very much looking forward to receiving my package to make items for them. Thank you so much Sue for choosing me and the other inspiring ladies (the link to their blogs can be found HERE).

SALT - Attitude

2011-03-03T20:51:00.005Z

It was Stacey's turn to set the them on SALT this week.

Please have a look at what she had to say and the other pieces the team created HERE.

I choose this verse as I have been challenged about my attitude towards other's recently. Sometimes people may do things that seem rude or unthoughtful, however we are still called to react lovingly and respectfully. I've made this little piece to hang in my home, I thought maybe by the bathroom mirror!

SALT - Truth

2011-02-17T10:00:00.002Z

It was my turn to set the theme on Salt this week, here is what I wrote...

TRUTH - such a powerful concept.
So rooted in the character of God, important enough to make it one of the Ten Commandments yet so easily dismissed in day to day life. I've lost count of the times when people have told me they had to tell a 'white' lie, or when I have exagerated or underplayed a fact so save face. Often we try and justify these things but u

ltimately they do offend our Holy God who knows the truth and wa

nts us to be truthful about ourselves and to speak truth.

The meaning of the word truth has been slightly twisted by the way it is used. In a recent sermon I heard the preacher explained that the phrase 'being true to yourself' was often an excuse people give to why the behave in a certain way. Yes we should face the reality of our sinful motivations, and acknowledge when we have failed God, but the truth is we must not excuse it.
The TRUTH is, that God has created a way in which he will remember our sin no more, and that truth can set us free from the bondage of UNTRUTH. Our enemy the devil will so often through untruth at us and ultimately he does this so that our faith will weaken and our winess become useless. How we must keep reading the word of truth to remind us of the wonderful promises of God that he has never broken.

Please enjoy the pieces that myself (Ruth) and the team have created for your inspiration. Please meditate on how the Truth of God is a reality and how we can practice being truthful and speaking truth in love to others. We would love to see any creations you make on this theme, please leave us a comment and we'll pop by!

I made this hanging, it measures 15cm x 15cm.

Used the Tim Holtz flower die to make the flowers, various papers by Melissa Frances, K and Co and Anna Griffin and a sprinkling of Glimmer Mist. I think the butterfly stamps were by All Night Media.

Coming up roses...

2011-02-04T20:48:00.004Z

Made this last night, and then sold it this morning!

Used a flower from a swap I took part on last year on UKScrappers.

Di Hickman sketch for February

2011-02-03T12:00:00.004Z

Di Hickman is doing her card sketches again! Yay! This time she's doing the once a month, so no panic if you don't get it done in the first week. It's a lovely adaptable one, great for using this stamped piece that I did a couple of weeks ago, check it out HERE. I've been inspired to do more stamping and colouring, particularly to use lots of stamps in a collage style on a piece of A6 card, then chop it up into smaller bits, then colour, paint and add gel pen afterwards. It's a really fun, creative and non pressured process.

SALT - Loving our Enemies

2011-02-03T09:26:00.005Z

It was Pauline's turn to set the theme, please have a look HERE for her thoughts. It was a challenging one about what Jesus teaches about dealing with our enemies. I often find that it is when the people closest to you offend, that they are the hardest to forgive. However when I remember what Christ has done for me when I did not deserve it, this makes it easier to remember to love, and to put aside hurts. This verse in Proverbs sums this up perfectly.

The pink polka is some recycled packaging from some lovely mugs I had for Christmas, I couldn't bring myself to throw it away!

Oh so shabby

2011-02-02T09:38:00.003Z

Made this birthday card for a friend, thought I'd share before I sent it off.

SALT - Walking through the valley...

2011-01-21T19:00:00.004Z

It was Lythan's turn this week to set the theme. Although it is not something people like to think about it is never the less one of the topics that we need to face. Please read what she wrote here.

It just so happened that a friend asked me to make a card for her Gran, she wanted some words of encouragement for her as she has not been well.

SALT - Praying for Holiness

2011-01-18T17:04:00.004Z

This took me much longer than I had intended!

When I saw Kim's challenge for Salt for the 6th (yes 6th!) of January, I had every intention of getting this finished. Finally posting it today. I've wanted to use this box that came in a Cosmo Cricket kit, with these lovely papers and chip board letters, for ages. The idea is that you can turn it to any side and have a sentiment to encourage.

Used my new leaf punches on this, love them!

Catch up!

2011-01-09T22:08:00.010Z

Hi there blog readers... if I have any left after my appaling lack of postings!

Christmas has come and gone, and 2011 is here!

My children and I had an awful flu like bug before Christmas, this means I am still catching up with making and sending presents to people, and also some Salt challenges that have yet to be finished and blogged.

Anyway, a belated Happy New Year to you. I've not made any specific resolutions as yet, but have been inspired by Kim's recent Salt challenge (see it here) and something my Pastor mentioned in a children's talk a couple of weeks ago. Basically that by putting Christ first, things in life will fall into place. So, probably just like every year, my aim is to cultivate a better relationship with God, and trust that in so doing, my heart will keep on being changed and have a knock on effect on the way I relate to people around me.

On with some creations... again apologies for the quality of photos. Have been resorting to my phone to take pictures.

Here is some bunting I made in response to Hazel's Salt challenge here. Used my new martha Stewart leaf punch and Marianne Designs flourish die I got for christmas :)

Here is the Wedding Anniversary card I made for Tom's parents, used the other leaf punch I got for Christmas and the Marianne Designs filigree shape. First time I've made the popular easel cards, quite enjoyed it.

And finally a quick card I made for a friend's birthday, used a Sizzix leaf die I got in their sale.

SALT - Believe

2010-12-09T10:00:00.005Z

I'm afraid my original post disappeared somewhere!

This the card I made for the Salt challenge here.

Please feel free to use the graphic below for your own card or layout. Please respect my work by not reselling the graphic itself in a printed or digital format.

SALT - Providence

2010-11-25T10:12:00.004Z

I have been reflecting recently on God's timely provision of a home to our family and how he truly does meet our every need. So often we get a little confused and think our 'wants' are our 'needs' and may even spend time praying for things that our Heavenly Father know will not be right for us. I recently heard a sermon where the preacher said sometimes God answers yes, no or later. However what we can be assured of is the promises God does give us. He has made eternal provision for us. Through his Son we are provided for in the most crucial way possible, and although there are promises about our practical needs...

Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:7

there is an even more precious promise...

"Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. ²In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? ³And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. ⁴And you know the way to where I am going." John 14:1-4

We hope you will join in with our theme this week, please let us know if you do!

Some of our Saltines are very busy at this time of year so we're a little down on numbers this week, however please have a look at the other creations the ladies have done here.

Please feel free to use the graphic below for your own card or layout. Please respect my work by not reselling the graphic itself in a printed or digital format.

SALT - Transformation

2010-11-11T14:29:00.005Z

Apologies for the poor quality photo, couldn't find my camera this morning so had to make do with my phone.

The theme this week was set by Pauline, and it is the one of transformation. What a thrilling topic. I was reflecting on how peopl will sometimes comment to me...'you're so good'. This usually happens after I have helped someone out. However on the inside I am often thinking 'I'm not that good, if only you really knew my heart as God does'. Because if I am honest, there are sometimes when my motives are not always selfless. However, I am reminded that through Christ my life is in a constant state of transformation. What theologians call 'sanctification' - the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in my life, making me more and more like the selfless, holy and sacrificial Jesus.

Here is the card...

Please feel free to use the graphic below for your own card or layout. Please respect my work by not reselling the graphic itself in a printed or digital format.

Mojo Monday 162

2010-10-30T13:32:00.004+01:00

Managed to squeeze in making a card this week, used the sketch from Mojo Monday.

The scalloped circle was cut on the Craft Robo, used Anna Griffin paper and butterfly punch from Martha Stewart.

SALT - Who is my neighbour?

2010-10-30T13:15:00.004+01:00

Lythan set the challenge this week, thank you!

Since moving house, I've wanted to make more of an effort with my neighbours, hoave to confess, I've not got round to it. Planning to try and get to know them a bit more over Christmas time.

Here is my card and please have a look and be inspired by the other work the team have done here.

The scalloped oval and trim were cut by my Craft Robo. The text was designed on Corel Draw.

SALT - God's Righteousness

2010-10-14T16:33:00.006+01:00

This week it was Kim's turn to set the challenge, here is what she says on the theme.

Please have a look at the other creations of the team and feel free to join in.

I'm afraid I was 'chasing my tail' a bit with this one, had a busy week and have distracted from things of the Lord, I need to get on track. My heart can so easily be distracted from what is noble and true. I need to be reminded that we have an ALL sufficient God, Righteous and Gracious. Thank you for the reminder Kim!

Used a lovely swirl cut on the Craft Robo, some Basic Grey, Primas, Martha Stewart punches and Nellie Snellen leaf punch and some liquid pearls. Created the verse layout on Corel Draw.

SALT - Speaking with kindness

2010-09-30T17:25:00.003+01:00

What a challenge!

Julie was so thought provoking with her challenge this week. And isn't it wonderful when God tells you something and keeps repeating it until you really hear it!? Dealing with my children in a loving way is an on going struggle for me. Sometimes my responses could be justified, but usually they can't. However I am called to be like Christ, and His response is the one I must strive to be like. The piece I made will be hung in a prominent place to remind me! When I was taking a photo of it to put on the blog, my youngest son knocked over a glass of water, having the hanging in front of me helped me bite my tongue!!!

TIP: Used Tim Holtz's new rosette die. I haven't got the extending plates for my Cuttlebug, however I figured a way around it, I put some removable tape on the die to temporarily hold the paper to it. Did one side, then did the other. I also used the Martha Stewart Doily punch down one side before cutting it with the die.

New babies and cards!

2010-09-27T18:36:00.005+01:00

Had to make a card for my sister as she had a baby boy last week. For those who know Esther here are some pics...

And here is the card, I based it on this sketch at Mojo Monday.

Had to make a card for a family wedding too, I love how it turned out :)

I have also tried to be brave and been trying not to rely on the manual settings on my camera. The playing around seems to have worked well on these photos of the cards.

SALT - Something New

2010-09-02T11:36:00.004+01:00

It was Hazel's turn to set the challenge over on Salt, do have a look at what she says, and the creations of the other ladies here.

I found her thoughts particularly challenging and helpful. As my older two children go back to school and I get back into the routine of that I am challenged to look again at myself and my attitude. So often I am not kind and loving, and am extremely impatient with my children. It's ugly and sinful, and not what God has in mind for me. As his child I need to hold on to his promises, that he has given me a new heart. To start each new day in supplication to him, to ask for the Holy Spirit's help in all I do.

The verse I used came to mind as I was pondering these things.

I've been yearning to do some more altered canvases, particularly after picking these up quite cheaply at a Home Bargains store. It is A3 in size. I used acrylic paint on it, then stuck the flowers, verse and butterflies on with a hot glue gun.

SALT - Marriage

2010-08-19T15:24:00.004+01:00

Wow! The weeks are just whizzing by! Life has been a little eventful these last few weeks. At the beginning of the month we had a celebratory meal for my dad's 65th birthday. All the family gathered at our new home and I asked a friend who is a chef to cook for us. We decorated the garden with bunting and laid the table outside. We are so greatful to God for such a lovely day. The weather was perfect, not to hot and not too cold. The picture used in the layout below was taken on that day.

Stacy set the theme of Marriage for the Salt challenge. Please read what she had to say and look at the other lovely pieces here.

Salt - TRINITY

2010-08-14T10:55:00.001+01:00

Last week Salt was three years old. Praise God for the way he has blessed and sustained our Salt team. We've known answers to prayer in times of need and various sorrows and joys. We pray that we will continue to be Salt and Light and that you will be blessed and challenged with the artwork the Lord allows us to create.

Although the word 'Trinity' does not occur in the Bible, it is never the less an important word to those who believe in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and the way they are revealed in the Scriptures.
Their inter-relationship is unique and to fully understand is impossible. However when we read about the way they interact, work together and yet are one we get a glimpse of just how amazing God is.

As a Christian there are times where I relate to the different persons of God, and yet I know they are all one. The Trinity is a witness that the shared love of God stretches back to eternity past. What a privilege that we can be brought into that family. It also reminds us that God has been a communicating God because of the fellowship shown between Father, Son and Spirit.
Please contemplate your relationship with God and his uniqueness, how do you relate to the different persons of God? Remember to let us know if you create any artwork so we can come and see! Please have a look at the other pieces the Salt team have created HERE

SALT - A trouble free life?

2010-07-22T22:14:00.008+01:00

Woohoo, I'm so glad to be back in blogland! Being without boadband for the last few weeks has been good for the soul. It has made me rethink how I spend my time. However, there are some things that the internet has it's uses for and one of those things is Salt!

Pauline set the challenge this week, please have a look at what she wrote here.

As I was pondering on her theme, I thought of how we should put our faith in the promises of God. Here is my card...

Ingredients: Basic Grey paper, EK Success swirl punch, Xcut dragonfly punch, stamen punch, Prima flowers.

The spare bedroom in our new house has become a craftroom/guest room. I would LOVE to have one of these in there, the budget won't stretch for that and a dishwasher.

However, I am very grateful to be able to set out my craft things and have made the odd card this last week. Been enjoying using the Cuttlebug, and some Sizzix dies.

Ingredients: Sorry I don't have time to list them tonight, if you want to know anything please leave a comment :)

Almost there...

2010-06-10T12:46:00.002+01:00

There is a great wall of boxes in my lounge and various other rooms in my house, and the clutter is decreasing. We signed the tenancy agreement on the new house this morning and have the keys in our possession. It's all systems go now for some wallpaper stripping and painting. The removals men are coming on Monday to start moving our belongings. We've had a bit of a dilemma with our phone number as we pay line rental to Talktalk and they don't allow you to take your number with you. So we face the prospect of going back to BT and paying a fee to Talktalk in order to stand us with a chance of keeping the number (as BT can't guarantee we can keep it).

Anyway, it's exciting times, praying that God will keep the move smooth and not too eventful!

SALT - Power to be witnesses

2010-05-27T11:40:00.004+01:00

What a Promise!

I am referring to the one Jesus gave his disciples before he died, that he would send the Holy Spirit, the comforter, the one which dwells in us when we make that commitment to God.

Hazel has choosen the theme for the week and has written about it here.

Please take a look at the inspiring pieces of work.

Here is a quick card on the theme. I am currently living in a half packed house as we prepare to move. We are moving within the town so not going to far, however we have lived in this house nearly 9 years and we've accumalated, increased in number and have widened our hobbies and interests (well I have!).

I may not be able to blog for a while, but will be back! God willing :)

Ingredients:
Sizzix bigz daisy die, Martha Stewart butterfly and doily lace punches, Cuttlebug swiss dots embossing folder, Dove Craft gem brad, paper by K and Co and cut out verse from an old Bible.

SALT - Putting Him First

2010-05-15T16:25:00.004+01:00

Ironically I don't feel like I have been putting God first lately. And this has been the theme of the latest Salt challenge. Please look here for the thoughts Tanis has written on this subject. Please meditate on them and maybe create a piece of art to help you to remember to put God first.

I bought a couple of oversized clothes pegs in a craft shop last year, they're such fun to have in the house, they're useful for all sorts of things!

Thought it would be nice to decorate one to be reminded of seeking God's kingdom first.

Paper by K and Co, butterfly punch by Martha Stewart.

Salt - What is home?

2010-04-15T09:39:00.002+01:00

It was my turn to set the challenge on Salt this week.

I have been pondering lately on HOME. What makes one and how does Jesus make mine different to other homes.

We all have different routines, rituals, habits, priorities etc that will shape how our home works. But in the Christian's home we have the addition of Jesus Christ himself. How does he make a difference to your home? Is he the 'unseen guest at every meal', is he consulted on decisions made, is your home a place where the stranger is welcome and hospitality is practiced?

Perhaps more importantly your home on earth is temporal. Do we truly recognise that our treasure is in heaven and that earth will fade and pass away? Although our homes are important for the nurture and training of children, a rest away from the world and and a tool for ministry, Christ is building our mansions in Glory.

I would like to leave you with this verse

Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1

Please enjoy looking at the creations from the Salt team, be inspired to make a card, layout or other paper craft. Maybe something for your home to remind you of Jesus and how he wants your home to be.

Ingredients:
Paper by Cosmo Cricket, Martha Stewart lace punch,Marvy Uchida heart punch, brad by Basic Grey, verse printed via computer.

SALT - Penitence

2010-03-20T10:20:00.005Z

This week it was Lythan's turn to set the theme. She choose Penitence. I reflected on what it meant to be sorry for the wrong we do, and how that affects are relationship with God - amazingly He has provided a way to come back to him. Often in my church culture one could be accused of using complicated words that are hard to understand. However, when one finds out more about what these compicated words mean, and the impact of them on our lives your understanding is enriched. One such word is 'justified'. As a child in Sunday School, we were told that an easy way to understand it was to remember 'just-as-if-I-never-sinned'.

Please have a look at the other pieces the girls have created HERE, be inspired to create your own, and let us know what you create.

I'm enjoying doing these mini works of art on these little canvasses. I have to confess I got this done very quickly. I used Versamark inkpads direct onto the canvas. Then stuck the various elements onto it.

SALT - Idols

2010-03-04T23:28:00.004Z

It was Kim's turn to set the challenge on Salt this week. And as usual, she did a wonderful in depth study. When I first heard her ideas for the theme, I had just listened to a message by John Piper entitled 'Don't waste your life'. I was really struck by the amount of time I end up wasting by not putting God and his desires for my life first. I wanted to create a piece of art to remind me, and these verses seemed to be appropriate.

Please have a look at the other creations HERE, and join in on the challenge!

Simon Says Stamp - VINTAGE and FLOWERS

2010-02-25T21:28:00.004Z

Over on the Simon Says Stamp challenge blog we have a fabby challenge to create with Vintage and flowers. Just 2 of my favourite things!

I have given up buying any craft products till Easter, so I was spurred on to look through some cd's I bought a while back that have loads of vintage images on. I printed them onto photo paper for using on cards. I love how these images can inspire the colours for a card. As you can see, I got into it! It's also not hard for me to use flowers!

Crepe paper streamers were my last purchase before my self imposed shopping ban. I have seen the potential for them on other people's blogs, and ended up one evening watching videos on youtube. I have sprayed these with glimmer mist, and dotted a glossy accents type product by Anna Griffin on them to create faux dewdrops.

Blessed - SALT

2010-02-04T10:21:00.004Z

This week on Salt Hazel has set the theme of the Beatitudes, please have a look at her post HERE for inspiration, it would be lovely if you could join in and share what God moves you to create on this theme.

This is my first large altered canvas. I've been wanting to do one for a long time. The colour scheme has been inspired by the hallway of the friends I will give this to (Tasha if you're reading this DON'T show it to John). Their colour scheme is black and white, I've used a hint of the aqua, which is her favourite colour.

The photo's where taken last year by Andrew King, a dear friend and a fabulous photographer, he has the fantastic ability to capture the moment.

I started by glueing the lace, paper and verses torn from a Bible (one of Tom's old ones with pages missing) onto the canvas, then painting with acrylics, pretty much squirting direct onto canvas then painting it in. The flowers were inspired by Donna Salazar's tutorial HERE and the paper roses HERE.

The lettering for 'Blessed' was stamped then punched out, once they were suck on with 3D foam, I coated them in Anna Griffin's clear glaze.

2sketches4you and other cards

2010-01-30T15:17:00.000Z

Taking a break from tidying and sorting front room, Tom is on his way to pick up a 2nd hand sofa, and I've been shunting furniture to make space for it.

Went to a friends last night for a Pampered Chef party, it had also been her birthday in the week. I ad made her a bag and corsage from a couple of retro pink floral pillowcases. Sorry I completely forgot to take a pic! I'm on the lookout for some more, and am hoping to do a tutorial on it. Here is the card I made her using Laura's sketch on 2sketches4you.

Paper by Anna Griffin, punches by Martha Stewart.

These are a few cards I made the other evening, been playing with the large Martha Stewart butterfly punch, it's so pretty! The EK success flourish is so useful.

SALT - Daily

2010-01-21T10:05:00.001Z

Wow, 2 weeks have really flown by!

We've had a lovely time in the snow, but quilt glad things are returning to normal now without it.

Tanis has set the theme on Salt this week, please have a look at what she has written, be inspired, then create your own piece, and then don't forget to tell us and we'll come and visit your blog to have a peek!

When Tanis set the theme, I knew I wanted to make some kind of decrated notebook. Something that would be used everyday. I searched for an appropriate verse and found this one from 1 Thessalonians 5, a perfect reminder of what we should be doing each day.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Ingredients:
Paper - Anna Griffin
Flowers - Prima and others
Punches - The Punch Bunch, Martha Stewart and EK Success
Liquid pearls - Tulip and Ranger
Stamp - Laura Ashley

SALT - Faith Hope and Love

2010-01-07T11:30:00.006Z

It was Stacy's turn to set the challenge and here is my response to it. When I read the passage she had given us, the words 'protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres' popped out at me. Such a wonderful series of words to describe the actions of love. It reminds me that love is 'not just a feeling' but an act of the will, a conscious decision to love. And one of the greatest reminders of what true love is can be found in Jesus' action, to go to his undeservered death so that we can have a relationship with God.

I was so glad to find the time to do thisone as I've been missing in action these last months. One of my resolutions is to make use of my diary and calendar. Not just remembering to put appointments in, but to write in jobs I need to do and deadlines. When I was at Uni and employed I used it so much more but lately got out of the habit. Even this last week I have found it useful, so will be holding on to this new habit!

Please have a look at the other work on the SALT blog.

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey (June Bug)
Punch - Martha Stewart
Flowers - Prima
Button, lace and thread from stash
Dymo labeler

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda!

2010-01-01T14:49:00.003Z

Or Happy New Year to my English readers!

Thought I'd do a brief post...

We've had a lovely Christmas and New Year. Spending time with family and friends. As usual I have not had time to think about the future year too much, although I have been reflecting on the past one. 2009 brought many different thrills, not least the birth of my daughter Mae in October.

I have not thought of any specific resolutions I would like to make. I have ongoing personal development and growth to be getting on with in all areas of my life. And with God's help, wisdom and direction, I will continue to strive for HIS Glory.

Jesus Joy!

2009-12-24T10:33:00.002Z

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

We often sing these words at this time of year, I would like to take time to reflect on what this actually means. And how the reality of the joy of knowing Jesus can dramatically change the direction of your life.

It's my turn (Ruth) to set the theme this week, we're slowly getting back into a routine after the birth of our daughter Mae.

I have recently been introduced to the Christian speaker Louie Giglio. If you search for him on Youtube you will find clips. One of his talks is headed Indescribable, he goes into great detail about the Universe, our Galaxy and the size of the stars. They are inspirational messages, that have made me appreciate how great and awesome God is, indeed how indescribable he is. It has reminded me of the humility of Jesus - God's son, in taking on humanity - being human.

The even more amazing thing is, he take on 'being human' for a holiday, or for the 'experience' - he did it for a purpose. He had to become human in order to pay for the punishment we deserve for the things we do that we shouldn't, and the things we don't do that we should.

Although Christmas isn't a day we are told to celebrate in the Bible, it is a time where we as Christians can stop and ponder and be thankful to God that he came in flesh all those years ago. A time to be truly JOYFUL for JESUS.

Have a blessed and peaceful Christmas, and please have a look at the other creations from the Salt team.

I made some Christmas bunting, love making these! The words and triangles were cut on the Craft Robo, then decorated with punched leaves and flowers. Used one of my fave techniques to spruce up flowers... I stick a gem in the centre and squeeze down so the glue oozes a bit, then dip it in microbeads. Also used liquid pearls for the finishing touch.

Birthdays and brooches

2009-12-03T23:10:00.002Z

Managed to make a card for my friend's 30th birthday, and a little pressie to go with it... Used my fab new butterfly punch, however I am afraid to say Martha Stewart has come out with a new one that is similar, but different, and its going on my wish list!

This was my first attempt at singed edge brooches...

Ethan being the big bro to baby Mae

Time flies!

2009-11-24T20:42:00.002Z

Wow, the weeks are passing by so quickly. My daughter is a month old today! Here are a couple of pictures taken 2 weeks ago.

I snatched a moment to stitch this quick creation a friend's baby. It was so easy to do. I cut out 2 different size heart shapes and hand stitched the smaller ones to one side of a larger one. Embelished them with some ribbon and a button, then sewed the 2 larger ones together on my machine remembering to stuff them and stitch some ricrac so they could be tied together. It made me so happy to look at it, so shabby and girly!

Just had to take a quick, more recent picture... so here is one taken a few minutes ago. She's wearing a cardigan knitted by her Poh-poh (my mum) and a covered with a blanket made by a friend.

2009-11-09T18:32:00.004Z

Recently had these pictures taken of our family and Mae when she was a week old.

She seems to be fitting right in to our family and loves looking at her brothers. I am suffering from sever mushy baby brain syndrome. It is especially affecting my communication, I can't seem to find normal words to describe things, and end up using really unusual words to express myself. Tom went back to work today, thankfully I felt a little more energetic, although I'll be ready for my bed tonight even after an afternoon snooze!

Photography by Splash Photographic

Look what we made...

2009-10-27T18:26:00.005Z

Well, it's been an eventful few weeks since my last blog post.

Will try to be brief, although I would like to post further thoughts at some point.

On the 13th October at around 4pm as I was sorting a pile of washing, I felt a gush of waters which could only have meant one thing... at least 4 weeks earlier than I was expecting I went into mild but controlled panic! A friend was at the park with my children, so I called a midwife and my husband. My friend then arrived back at the house with my and her children, and I quickly arranged for a friend to look after my children whilst my friend took me to the hospital which happened to be in the same town as my husband was working. I called him with a list of items to buy from the supermarket as I was expecting the baby to arrive that day. However, once I was at hospital, apart from the odd trickle there were no real contractions. I was kept in for a couple of nights for observation, then I was told that they would like to induce me. I was a bit shocked at this as I had been given the impression previously that if I didn't go into labour I could be let home. I negotiated that I could come home to pack some things then return to the hospital to await a space on the labour ward... it didn't come. The next day another Doctor saw me and queried the postion of the baby, so I went for a scan and discovered the baby was breech (I suspect the little madam has been twirling around in there all through the pregnancy as I had previously gone for a scan querying the size of the baby - turned out it was a big baby and lots and lots of water). He then recommended I see another Doctor who scanned me and performed an ECV - basically she turned the baby. She was happy to let me go home as she could see that there was still loads of water around the baby. So, I was let home on the 16th with a follow up appointment booked for the 22nd. Fortunately my mum had booked to come and visit and was around when I slowly went into labour on the 23rd. As I had kissed goodbye to my homebirth I wanted to go and get settled in at the hospital so I could feel relatively calm. Tom and I headed off just after 10pm. A lovely midwife negotiated that we could have the 'family room' until labour really set in. Tom was able to sleep on an off from about 12am - 3am whilst I listened to our MP3 player and surfed the internet on my phone. When the contractions started to get more painful I got moved onto the labour ward. The whole process was a little bit longer than I had anticipated as my previous 2 labours had been under 2 hrs long. Anyway, eventually Mae was born after a huge gush of waters popping at 6.24am on Saturday 24th October, weighing 8lb 5oz nearly 3 weeks before her due date.

Without further ado here are some pics...

Ingredients:
Tom, Ruth and God

Felt Brooches

2009-10-07T20:29:00.006+01:00

Apologies for being a terrible blogger over the last few weeks.

Have to confess not made any cards for over a week, and am now posting about some brooches I made a while back.

Being heavily pregnant and looking after 3 busy boys (4 including DH) means when it comes to evening I lack motivation to do anything that requires moving to much or thinking too much! Including standing at craft table and making things - although I really miss it and would like to be cuttin' and stickin'.

Anyway... I have recently discovered the joys of using my Quickutz to cut out felt and make them into brooches... Here are my first little designs - what do you think?

Quickutz dies include RS-0377, RS-0487, RS-0230, KS-0075, RS-0005, RS-0349.

STAMP SOMETHING - favourites!

2009-09-24T16:26:00.004+01:00

The challenge on the Stamp Something blog is to use your favourite product, this card SO fits into this category! Was commissioned to make this.

Favourite paper company - Anna Griffin
Favourite ribbon - Anna Griffin
Favourite chipboard buckle - TLC
Favourite flower company - Prima
Favourite footprint stamp - Hero Arts
Favourite corner stamp - unknown
Favourite scallop punch - Fiskars
Favourite punches - The Punch Bunch and Woodware
Favourite techniques - inking, layering and threading floss through buttons.
Favourite font - Porcelain.

Di Hickman September no 2

2009-09-17T09:39:00.003+01:00

This is my card for Di's sketch this week, you can find it here if you'd like to play along.

Ingredients:
Paper - Anna Griffin,
Flowers - Prima,
Punches - Fiskars and The Punch Bunch,
Stamp - Hero Arts.

Salt - GUIDANCE

2009-09-07T18:54:00.003+01:00

Here is my piece for last weeks Salt challenge, please have alook at what Stacey wrote and our responses to the theme here

I've been wanting to do some more painting and perhaps mixing it with some other media. Thought this would be an opportunity to play . I'm afraid I was a bit impatient with my attempts and am not very satisfied with it. Anyway, the important aspect for me was to be reminded that for guidance we should look to God's word, and pray for wisdom to apply it to the situations we find ourselves in.

I printed out the verse, tore it and used the wet acrylic paint to 'stick' it to the canvas.

Di Hickman sketch Sept no 1

2009-09-02T18:50:00.002+01:00

Used some of my new Anna Griffin stash for this, the papers and ribbon co-ordinate so well with her kits. I like the idea of creating baby cards that are not too 'babyish'... if you know what I mean!

Ingredients:
Papers and Ribbon - Anna Griffin,
Stamps - Hero Arts and Stampin Up!,
Punches - Fiskars, Xcut and Woodware.

All new things...

2009-09-02T13:55:00.003+01:00

I heard on the radio the other day that September is the new January... I think what was meant was that people are using September to be a fresh start as people often do in January with resolutions etc.

Although I am not a fan of making resolutions that can't be kept, I'm all for a little contemplation and reflection. This September is bringing some new things to out family, my eldest starts junior school, my middle son starts infant school, and the ETA for baby no 4 is ever looming closer. I've been reflecting a lot on how my time should be used, how to be most productive when the children are not around, and how I can spend quality time with them when they are. I am fortunate to have a very loving and caring husband who gives a lot of time to our family, and I am ever in awe of how he keeps his cool as the sound levels rise and the mayhem starts. Spending time with God each day has to be a priority, as it time so often slips away. More and more people and their needs are being brought to my attention and in need of prayer, and I want to be able to talk to God about them. Also my spiritual walk has to grow, as I have more responsibilties to those around me. I want God's name to be glorified.

Anyway, I've ended up rambling, so I'll get on and post the picture of the boys and their first day of school - well, kind of...

Luke's first day at Maesydre,
Ethan's first day at Ardwyn and
Jadon's first day with his new bag!

Friday Sketchers 67

2009-08-29T21:18:00.003+01:00

Went to Shrewsbury this last week, it's the closest town with lots of 'big' shops. Luke had birthday money to spend, so Tom took all the boys to Toys R Us, after dropping me off in town. I whizzed round getting some last minute bits as the boys start school next week. Managed to pick up an Anna Griffin kit for a bargain price, so been playing with some of my new stash. These are not papers I would normally pick up, but as they came in a pack with some beautiful other ones, and thought they'd make good cards for children, I have used them.

As I make cards to sell, I have taken to making a few at a time. Saves loads of time, as once I've got all the bits and pieces out for one card, I may as well have made 4 similar ones!

Ingredients:
Paper - Anna Griffin and other
Stamp - Anna Griffin
Ribbon and Photo Corners - Anna Griffin
Flowers - Prima
Punch - Fiskars

Birthdays...

2009-08-25T22:28:00.002+01:00

My eldest boy turned 7 this last weekend. He had a lovely day, my husband's parents visited, and he had 4 friends round to play, have tea then go to the cinema. He insisted on singing 'Happy Birthday to me', thats when I took the pic!

This is a card I've made for someone's birthday.

Ingredients:
Stamp - Magnolia
Paper - Basic Grey
Punches - Martha Stewart and The Punch Bunch
Flowers - Prima and others.

Salt - PURPOSE

2009-08-20T18:55:00.004+01:00

It was my turn to set the theme on SALT this week.

Here is my card, and the blurb is below. Do check out the work the other girls have done HERE

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey
Flowers - Prima and others
Punches - The Punch Bunch, Xcut
Others - Pebeo Metal Touch, lace and ribbon from stash.

Like so many words that Christians use, it holds a different meaning when you become a child of God. Often when I hear it used it may mean to be puposeful - to know where you are heading and aim for it, sometimes regardless of consequence. It is seen as a 'good' thing to have a 'dream' and persue it. Or it could be taken to mean that you have a purpose, your existance is meaningful. These interpretations are not in themselves wrong, but sometimes through our self driven motivations they can become tainted.

When someone becomes a believer in Jesus and what his life and death signifies on a deep personal and spiritual level, their PURPOSE changes. Our motivation becomes to live each day for the GLORY of God. To honour HIM in the way we live our lives. How does this happen? When a heart is changed by the Holy Spirit, we realise that often what we live for on a day to day level is how the writer of Ecclesiastes puts it - MEANINGLESS. BUT through the death of Christ our lives can have deep MEANING, FULLFILMENT and PURPOSE.

Recently a friend of mine has undergone serious heart surgery, many prayers have been lifted up for him, and so far the surgery seems to be successful. He has lived a varied life, striving to fulfill the purposes of God, and inspite of fearing the worst he was able to trust God for everything. It has been good to be reminded that we are mortals and one day will die for sure, however our eternal destination is based on wether our PURPOSE has changed in this life or not.
How does your faith make you think differently about your PURPOSE?

Basic Grey Challenge - Week 1

2009-08-19T11:48:00.003+01:00

Basic Grey Challenge Blog has relaunched have have started off with a fab sketch. There is some great blog candy to be had if you wander HERE

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey 'Perhaps'
Swirls - Quickutz
Ribbon, lace, flowers, pearls, floss, button and brad from stash

2Sketches4you - 33

2009-08-18T15:59:00.005+01:00

Had a tidy up under my computer desk today, and swapped a bulky 19" monitor for a smaller flat screen a friend has lent to us, suddenly my photos aren't as dark. I now have space for a cuppa, a jar of pens and notepaper by the desk! And I found my long lost Sakura glitter pen that I actually replaced this summer as I loved it so much!

I am surviving the holidays - the boys are making a slide out of a spare mattress in their room and making dens.

My bedroom has stayed fairly tidy, much to my joy, as I am not a naturally tidy person. It is my on going personal project to be more organised, and with the looming date of the birth of our 4th child I think this is becoming more necerssary!

Anyway, to the card...loved the simplicity and versatility of this sketch from Kazan.

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey
Tools - Fiskar Shape Cutter, Fiskars Threading Water punch
Ribbon, Lace, Ric Rac and Pins from stash

Friday Sketchers 65

2009-08-16T17:02:00.003+01:00

Bought some lovely bits in the Silly Monkey Crafts sale. The brad, some papers, pearls and ribbon came from there.

Followed this weeks sketch here.

Ingredients:
Papers - Dovecraft and TLC
Punches - Leone Em, EK Success and Karl Craft
Brad - Dove Craft
Ribbon - May Arts
Tab - Quickutz

Just spent an hour in prayer in a prayer tent at a young people's camp being held on the outskirts of my town. How great is our God! He listens all the time.

DCM Lacey

2009-08-14T19:11:00.003+01:00

Fab challenge on DCM this week...

I had a card half made, their challenge gave me the final inspiration I needed!

The lace flower was made by gathering lace into a rosette then stapling it... who needs messing with glue?!

Apologies for the shiny photo, had to resort to using my flash.

Ingredients:
Paper - Laura Ashley
Ribbon - East of India
Punches - the Punch Bunch and others
Stamps - Rubber Stamp Tapestry and Rubber Stampede
Ribbon, staples, thread and lace from Stash
Pebeo Pearl Touch

Just Magnolia - wk 17

2009-08-14T13:24:00.003+01:00

Made these for friends who had a baby way back in June... its taken me ages to come up with them, hope they like it!

Followed the sketch on Just Magnolia, you can find it here.

Ingredients:
Papers - Melissa Frances, Making Memories
Stamps - Personal Impressions, Magnolia, Rubber Stampede.
Flowers - Prima and other
Punches - McGill and The Punch Bunch
Others - Quickutz corners, Sakura Stardust pen

Friday Sketchers 64

2009-08-09T21:35:00.002+01:00

A friend at church was 40 this week so had to make a special card. Used this gorgeous Basic Grey paper I recently picked up.

Used the sketch from Friday Sketchers this week.

Ingredients:
Papers - Basic Grey
Stamp - Stamps Unlimited
Flowers - Prima and others
Punches - Leone Em and other
Brads - Basic Grey
Pebeo Pearl Touch and glitter.

Silk booties

2009-08-08T23:43:00.003+01:00

Made these for a friend's baby shower. Got the pattern here.

Ingredients:

Booties
Silk Damask, elastic, lace butterfly and vintage button.

Tag
Paper - Melissa Francis
Stamps - Stampin Up! Personal Impressions
Button - Goodwear
Punch - Leone Em

Colour Create challenge - Pink, Orange and Green

2009-08-07T10:21:00.003+01:00

Was commissioned by a friend to make this, I used the Colour Create challenge colours of the week.

Ingredients:
Stamp - unknown
Punches - The Punch Bunch, Martha Stewart, Fiskars
Flowers - Prima
Words - Craft Robo
Pebeo Pearl Touch

Salt - Imperfection

2009-08-07T09:52:00.003+01:00

Wow, its been 2 weeks since I last posted!

We have been away in between and had friends staying, so not got much crafting done.

This my contribution to the Salt challenge. The photo was taken by a friend one mine who was away with us on the Carey Family Conference. He took some fab pictures and has others for sale here.

Please check out Salt and the inspitation behind this weeks theme here

Ingredients:
Stamps - Personal Impressions and Anna Griffin
Flowers - Prima
Sakura pens and Pebeo Metal Touch
Photo - Andrew King Photography

SALT - According to His purpose

2009-07-23T09:25:00.003+01:00

This week's challenge crept up on me all of a sudden!
With the business of the end of school term, then my parents here for the last few days I have to confess I have not been meditating on this week's theme as much as I would have liked to.

Please read the blurb that Nikki wrote here, sadly she will be leaving us after this challenge due to time and moving constraints, thanks for your input Nikki!

I have altered a notebook. I have a box of bits and bobs to do altered art with and in it I had some chinese newspaper, I have no idea what the print says, I just love the effect of the characters! I then stuck the lace, ribbon and bobble trim on before adding the verse, button and butterflies.

Ingredients:
Paper - recycled newspaper
Ribbon, trim, lace and button from stash.
Butterfly Punch - Martha Stewart
Pebeo Pearl Touch.

Diolch - thank you card

2009-07-15T16:28:00.002+01:00

Made this for my son's teacher from him and his class mates.
Diolch is welsh for thank you.

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey
Flowers - Prima and others
Leaves - Leone Em punch
Swirls - Quickutz
Butterflies - Martha Stewart punch
'Diolch' - Craft Robo, font Tango
Other- Pebeo Pearl Touch

EWAN bunting

2009-07-10T19:04:00.003+01:00

Commissioned by a friend.

(Click on pic for a better look)

Ingredients:
Bunting cut on Craftrobo
Swirls - Quickutz
Flowers - Prima
Pen - Sakura
Dragonfly punch - Xcut

SALT - Prayer

2009-07-09T10:08:00.002+01:00

It was Mona's turn to set the Challenge this week. She reflects on Prayer. Please read her thoughts here.

As I reflected on the theme I thought of how Prayer is a fragrant offering to the Lord, and how we don't go to him enough. The hymn 'What a friend we have in Jesus' came to mind. THought it would make a nice encouraging card.

(Thank you to Jen who helped me pick the colour scheme - the Teal didn't make it in I'm afraid!)

Ingredients:
Paper - Basic Grey
Punch - Martha Stewart and Fiskars
Flowers, ribbon, pin, floss, lace and button from stash.

Sweet Baby layout

2009-07-09T09:41:00.003+01:00

A dear friend of mine had a baby a few weeks ago. I often give her layouts as presents when it is her birthday.

I think it speaks for itself!

Ingredients:
Paper - Craft Creations
Flowers - Prima nd others
Punches - Mc Gill, Martha Stewart and The Punch Bunch
Stamps - Basic Grey
Others - Crystals and Pebeo Pearl Touch.