Creating Memories

MIA

2011-03-20T19:22:00.000-07:00

I guess I really have been missing in action. It was not my intention to have spent most of the year so far being soo far away from my craft table and things, but the truth is, I've been spending pretty much most of the last few months working with someone in getting her house ready and liveable. I did not know that there could be that much work involved with getting a house ready. I'm not saying that it was in terrible condition, because it wasn't. It was actually quite well, and we didnt do any remodeling, just repainting, and sanding, and painting, and cutting shelves, hanging shelves, organizing, and moving. Annnd we ended up having three kiddies underfoot quite a few times, and often had to stop what we were doing to spend a little time with the kids; not that I minded, and I'm sure their mommy didn't either... cuz they're such darlings.
Anyways... we moved her in last week, so everything's in tip top condition! Gotta love this kind of stuff!! And then I spent all of this week cooking for 100+ people with my mom and everything pretty much turned out the way it was supposed. We had a few flaws, but for the most part, all the meals were great... and no burned food. A whole week, and nothing burned. That's my record!!
For the next week, I'm going to be babysitting five kiddies -- all under the age of five. Four boys and a girl. Two boys are going to be under my care pretty close to 24/7, but the the other three are just periodically... we'll see how things go and how well the five get along with each other. Might not be able to handle that much activity. HaHa! LOL
Anyways... not sure what the next month or so is going to bring me, so I'm not even going to attempt promising to update and check up more often, cuz I'm not sure how well that is going to work out...
Take care & best wishes to all my blogging friends. Luv ya all!!

Baptism Card??

2011-01-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

I'm looking for some friendly advice. I started out making this card as a baptism card, but I'm not sure if it fits. I think maybe its more or less an 'encouragement' card? All in all, its a great card; even I have to admit that and I love the way it turned out. I was able to use some new stamps that someone bought for me in November and I have not yet had the chance (or inspiration) to use. And I'm entering this card in a couple challenges.

1. Scrappy Frogs Challenge Blog

Focus on the sentiment....

2. Southern Girl's Challenge

Anything goes

3. Pile it on Challenge Blog

Brand Spankin' New ((New stamps - sentiment in the scroll is new, as well as the hope stamp))

4. Fun At Fairy Knoll

Anything goes!

5. Aly's Sunday Challenge

Anything goes!

6. Woodware USA Clear Stamps

Something New ((New stamps))

7. Creative Card Crew

New Beginnings ((Baptism is a new life in Christ. Definitely a new beginning!!))

8. Papertake Weekly

Anything Goes

Take care!

♥Jachelle

Another Blog Award!!

2011-01-03T11:05:00.001-08:00

I sincerely was not anticipating actually writing a blog today, but since I was awarded this cute, sweet blog award, I just had to update my blog regarding it. This is my second ever blog award, which I find awesome, since I have not quite yet been blogging for an entire year yet.

Here's a big thanks to Jaclyn, over at Designs by Jax && be sure to head over to her blog and check out everything she has on hers, because she really is one of my favorite bloggers. :)

Now in order for me to claim this blog award (and for those claiming it from me will have to be doing this as well)... I have to do four things.

1. Thank, and link back to the person who gave you this award.

2. Share eight things about yourself

3. Pass it on to eight bloogers

4. Contact those bloggers and tell them about their award.

Eight things about myself... wellll it might not be the most interesting thing you've ever read, but heyy...its all about me!

1. I am...officially 21 today. yayy! Happy birthday to me!

2. I am addicted to jellybeans and am currently suffering from severe withdrawl. (is that even a word?) This is a hint to everyone out there. It would be appreciated if you'd assist with making my day as well and like... you know... support my addiction. LOL. Make it a birthday gift :D

3. I love animals, especially dogs and have a corgi/dachshund cross and love him to people. In my opinion. dogs are people too, and my dog lives in our house and if someone walks in with a problem regarding that, its just that. Their problem. Chances are, I love my dog more than them anyways. :D This isn't saying I don't love those who walk in the door...I'm just saying I hold my dog in extremely high esteem and it takes a really really special person to surpass that.

4. I am Hutterite and absolutely proud of my heritage. I love my family (all the way down to the third, fourth and fifth cousins, even though I have no idea who they are...) I love my heritage. I love my church. I love my Saviour.

5. Photoshop is one of my best friends. I do a lot of digital scrapbooking and due to the privacy of those on my layouts, most don't get published online, even with photos removed. :)

6. I love purple and I love teddy bears, but not purple teddy bears. Purple is one of the first colors I reach for when making cards. Purple is the color that always draws my attention and whenever I find scrapbook material, regardless what it is, I'll probably buy it. Even if its just the packaging that purple. Teddy bears are that special as well, but I don't buy them on a whim. I'm not sure I even want to count how many I have sitting around my bedroom right now. lol.

7. I'm a creative, but organized person. Most of the time. I tend to let things get messy and then go on a cleaning spree. If you're in my way, watch out. I might just end up stuffing you in the trash can as well. (smile)

8. I sew alll my clothing. Okay, of course all Hutterite women do, but hey, its an accomplishment like any other. LOL. And I love sewing. It's a favorite pastime of mine.

Whew. That took longer than I anticipated...

& those special ones to whom I am passing on this award... It will not be eight people. Just crafters I admire...

1. Sally.

Sally you're a sweetie who's shown so much encouragement for me. I value everything you have give me, from inspiration to sharing stamped images with me... You've shared personal struggles, and faith. I cannot help but admire you for personal self, as well as your crafting self. :)

2. Mel.

You're a great friend who never fails to make me smile. I love your crafting ideas; the way you can make anything out of nothing at all. :) You definitely deserve this award!!

3. Kona Kids.

I love seeing you guys on blogger and awarding your fellow kid krafters with prizes for meeting your challenges. You guys are awesome!! Keep on crafting :)

4. Divinity.

I love your crafting style and admire it. Another favorite blog of mine. :)

& If Jax would not have been the one to give me this award, I would definitely include her in this list as well.

Enjoy your reward. :)

♥Jachelle

2011

2011-01-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years, Everyone!

For someone who chose to procrastinate updating her blog throughout the past year, its quite humorous to realize...that I am updating with a New Year's blog....ON NEW YEAR'S!!!

2o1o was AmAzInG and based on the way everything came together in the end, the lessons I learned...the beauty in the tears...there is really nothing I wish I could go back and do differently. Maybe a thing or two, but...for the most part, I am thankful that the year turned out like it did. Of course, this New Year means another step closer to infinity...but yet, the promise of another year to walk with Christ, and with that in mind, what greater blessing could there be?

Anyways...I promised myself that I am not going to be writing a 'personal' blog, when this blog is specifically designed for crafting & scrapping, so here goes...

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My new crafting area

I've officially moved everything I have downstairs! No more lugging everything out of the sewing room and scrapping on the kitchen table, only to clean it up whenever someone feels like eating something, which for my part, happens ways too often. Can't yall go without eating sometimes? LOL. Na I'm kidding...I didn't mind...

Anyways, while making Christmas cards last year (yeah! it really was 'last year'), I moved everything downstairs on a trial basis, to see how much I'm going to enjoy scrapping in the basement hall. My brothers had set up a table for me, and you know, I absolutely loved it. So Mom and I were brainstorming, and we figured out how we can move everything downstairs... so here's what everything basically looks like now.

Everything found its way into what is supposed to be a linen closet (we'll figure that one out later (*smile) Looks great, doesn't it??

These are all my papers. Well...most of them. Of course, I have some paper packs stored elsewhere, but for the life of me, I cannot seem to find them. (ha! typical eh?) First container is just multicolored, no pattern, 8.5 x 11 papers, and the second includes all my 12 x12 sheets.

These are all my stamps! The first drawer holds all my ink pads, the second is where I'm storing my clear stamps, CD stamps, and unmounted rubber stamps, for which I use my clear block. Third drawer are all my wood mounted stamps. Organization? Non-existent!

This is just embellishments, ribbons, stickers, rub ons; from top to bottom, that's all that's in there!

I sure hope you didn't think that the top embellishments were the only ones I have! Here are a couple more...

My edge scissors and ever faithful gel pens.

My cuttlebug and the several folders I've managed to collect.... as well as a few die cuts and some impressionabilities.

A shoe organized, filled with almost all my border punches, squeeze punches, and my prized, personalized fiskar scissors.

& finally, this is where I keep my my accessories, like my knives, tape runners, mounting tape, glue sticks, stylus, etc. Oh yes, and I also managed to store some more border punches, corner punchers, and other tiny punches in here. Not sure what else is in here, but this is mostly where I keep all my small 'tools'.

So that was a major project for me, and thankfully, it is has now been completed...

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Another major project regarding our house, was redoing our stairs. And then finishing them off with rubber. We had them done previously with linoleum, but it was coming loose and looked horrible. So...we finally got that done as well. Admittedly, it is a little dark, I love it!! It looks so good!!!

First, we had to tear off the old linoleum, and then scrap off the glue, paperbacking of the linoleum, and everything else. & this is what this picture is all about.

Mom & my brother, Thaddeus, hard at work. They heated up the glue & backing, and then scraped it loose. Slow process, for sure. Be sure to note Thadd's facial expression if you don't believe that its slow. LOL.

And this is the final result! The rubber measured, cut, and fitted into the stairs. It is not glued down yet, but they're going to stay on the stairs anyways until we get the glue and stick em down.

It's January 1st, but wow...what a major project we've managed to complete this year. (smile)

Next on the list, for me anyways, is completing a room makeover. Almost finished, but not quite. Will post photos once I get it done as well!

Christmas....

2010-12-25T20:51:00.001-08:00

I totally had decided to write all my friends an individual 'Merry Christmas' email but thennn realized just how many people I would have to write a short email to and realized that instead of finishing what I started, I'll get tired of it. Besides, what if I forget someone? This way, pretty well everyone will get to read the update, and yeah, its more fun adding photos to my blog than to an email so this is also a better way of doing things.

So on Monday we were extremely busy with baking Christmas goodies for the Christmas concert the night before and to share with the community. There were a lot of different recipes. I guess with 12 different girls adding their own little part, its no wonder it ended up being so unique.

The pan above is a photo with samples of everything we tried, and these we had on the tables to snack after the concert...

This is just another view of samples...

The Christmas concert Tuesday evening was just awesome. Our nativity play was in German this year, so it was unique, and it was separated into different plays and then acted throughout the entire program. I loved the set up and everything.

A photo of the Nativity scene, where everyone is just singing. This is actually the closing act of it...

My baby sister was an angel and wow, the role suites her! Doesn't she look like an angel??

Annnnd of course...I have to share this, this is definitely my top Christmas gift...from someone special ;)

Annnnd last of all...here's a photo of my Christmas dress & my new boots. I had to go an buy myself a new pair...and those were the only ones I found that I actually liked... no actually, I LOVE the style of them. They're so totally me....

Soo...I hope everyone had a MERRY CHRISTMAS & I hope to see more of you in 2011!!

I ♥ December

2010-12-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

December is definitely a special time of year, especially this year. My dad had his 55th birthday on Saturday and I decided to make it a really special day for him. With...food of course. LoL. You know how the saying goes: 'the way to please a man is through his stomach', right? (Okay, so its probably not the way it goes, but I'm sure you get it...) Well...that's what I was working with; well no, I was working on food with that saying in mind. (smile).

First things first, I made Scandinavian Almond Bars, on which I added red and green maraschino cherries to give it the "Christmas" appearance. Since we have the community Christmas concert coming up, all us single girls make a small but special dessert and this year I want to try something new so I have to try out recipes. Since my dad's birthday is shortly before the concert usually is, its the perfect place to try new things.

They turned out really well, but regardless of how good they look, I will not be making them as my square. (Sad I know, but I don't actually have almonds on hand and won't be getting any, so there goes that. lol) It's all good...I'm in the middle of trying some other recipes so I'm pretty sure I'll end up making one of those I've been slaving away with all morning. Hmm...might end up posting later about those.

The next major item on the baking schedule for my dad's birthday was of course, a cake. Unfortunately, I didn't have any kind of frosting on hand and was running out of time so I couldn't make any either. Soo I decided to get creative and went through the pantry to see what I'll find. Ended up finding....bananas. Hmm my dad enjoys a banana, as do most of the kiddies... and I got this totally creative idea. I then checked the fridge for whipped cream, and wah-lah! whipping cream!! Whipped it up, sweetened it, and then frosted my cake, which then got garnish with bananas.

Mom assisted with the design and the slicing of the bananas, as did my two little sisters. (smile). They enjoyed it, and dad thought it was clearly creative.

Thennn right before everyone came over, mom cut up some delicious, homemade garlic sausage, and some delicious homemade cheese as well... and left me to do the arranging.

Looks absolutely delicious right?? I knew you'd agree.

Now...aside from the photo juust above here, most of the items on the table are not exactly healthy. Mostly, they are laden with sugar and flour and all that stuff, so we had to get something visually appealing as well as delicious and healthy on the table too. Soo...mom cut up and colorfully arranged a plate of fruit.

Gotta admit, despite the fact that its the healthiest thing on the table, it looks really really appealing. LOL

Take care, and enjoy yourselves. :)

♥ Jachelle!

Christmas Cards!

2010-12-03T20:27:00.000-08:00

Again, I seemed to have allowed life to get the best of me and deny me time to allow myself to blog for my dear readers.

I miss blogging! I really, sincerely do, but I also can't help being soo busy! For the past month or so, I have been helping a lady ready her new house, prior to moving into it. This included painting shelves, attic, utility room, as well as scrubbing, scraping, sanding and fixing the small issues that the carpenters left behind. More or less, its mostly cleaning. Lots and lots of cleaning. From windows, to walls & ceilings, etc. I'm sure you get the picture. I loved it, every minute of it! Unfortunately, this also means I missed out with visiting with my aunt for the ten days she was here. I came home most nights so tired I barely managed to shower and fall into bed, never mind visiting. That is, until I got sick with the flu. I tried to work n all, but it didn't quite work out all that well for me, so I just stayed home and then got to visit with my aunt and the kitten she brought along. Of course, she kept us entertained with her antics.

Bet you totally wanna hold her! She really is adorable even if she made my eyes slightly puffy & red...but my glasses camouflaged a lot, so its all good. :)

While my aunt was visiting, the lady I was helping, ended up giving me a free day at one point, and I tried to make the best of it...scrapbooking. Wait, no, I spent the day making cards actually. I managed a couple different Christmas card designs...

These cards are my favorite design by far. I love the color combination, and I love the stamps. They were also quite simple and easy to assemble. From these, I was able to make a lot and quite quickly too.

I also made several of these cards just because I love the stamp & I love magnolias! Ohh how I love Tilda! She's so adorable and becomes cuter every single time I use her. (smile)

These cards were also simple and easy to assemble, and I love this design because its featuring Heart & Soul stamps that I won from Sally. Thanks a million hun!

This card was not intended to look this way, sincerely it wasn't. I tried out my poinsettia stamp that I bought on sale last year and I flopped it. Of course, I had already cleaned the stamp and tucked it back where it belong before I realized...I flopped while stamping. Instead of getting it messy again, I opted to fix it, and so I fixed it...with gel pens! Then just drew in the boughs & wrote the greeting and I have a card! Easy enough eh? Of course, my handwriting requires work but whatever. It's gotta be the most 'simple looking' card I've got, but...its waaayz too much work to make more of. :)

And my card making spree would not have been complete without a gate-fold card. This one opens under the circle dove with a beautiful verse inside. I love this card, although it doesn't hold much appeal on the photo. Seriously, its much more attractive in real life, despite the fact that I was just cleaning up scraps. :) And Tilda...being Tilda sweetens everything up!

&& I just couldn't quite without a photo of my card-making companion. 'course its a common question, which is the companion; grooveshark or the kitten? (smile) I mean Teeva the Kitten but grooveshark is also a great companion. Luff it!

I did have many more designs of Christmas cards (what can I say? I got bored after making a few cards alike...) but sent them off before getting photos of them. I'm horrible when it comes to getting photos of cards. For some reason, I seem to always forget until after they're marked, and in the envelope! ANd sometimes I remember AFTER they've even been sent. (smile)

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On a new note...my latest project is spicing up a dress that I'll be making myself for Christmas.

I went from this....

To this!

I call it being conventional...ended up using a stamp to get the design. Gotta love it! I was even creative enough to make a border on the bottom of my skirt by kinda crowding the design a bit more and adding more flowers than on top. Yeh...it was a lotta work, but its worth it, now that I get to look at it. (smile)

Finally...here's a little something to make you smile...the taller one is my little sister. And yes, I still call her that, even if she is a bit taller than me already. :)

Merry Christmas

....If I happen to stay away till after Christmas (smile)

UpDaTe (FINALLY)

2010-11-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

WoW. I cannot believe that I have no been on here since August 8th to post an update. I haven't updated my blog, or even visited blogs on a regular basis. I'm not quite sure what happened, aside from saying 'life' happened.

Summer was over in no time, and was blessedly beautiful most of the time. Well...aside from the rain I guess, but all in God's good timing. He did allow us to harvest a bountiful crop, as well as kept us safe. There are those many young people He called home through accidents...friends, acquaintances, relatives...so many young people from 15- 35. Our hearts ached, our hands folded in prayer, and thank you God for upholding these families in Your hands. They needed (and still do) Your strength...

It has sincerely been a summer of changes. A summer of beauty and blessings. A year of rejoicing and a year of broken hearts. A year of love, a year of tears...and looking back upon the years of my life, its this one so far that shines the brightest and the most beautiful.

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On a different note, I have been extremely busy with garden work - getting everything out of the ground and stored in the community root cellar. As well as taking part in the rotation of cooking and baking weeks for the colony.

I have also been keeping my sewing machine extremely busy with sewing random quilts (aka crappy scrappy quilts) and those were fun, but thankfully they are finished now. Of course mom and I have been catching up on the winter sewing. My sisters are growing so fast. My 12 yr old sister is now a whole inch taller than me and last Christmas she was still a LOT shorter than me! So they need new clothes that fit...and it was fun sewing the dresses, or just editing dresses to make them longer.

I haven't had much time to scrapbook or make any cards recently, but I will be getting into that later in the week. Cannot wait to be done in the sewing room and giving it up to my aunt who will be coming for ten days towards the end of the week. It'll be fun to just make cards, and I really do need to make some. I have no yet made Christmas cards. Well...I've made two, but those are hardly enough for myself, our family, and my aunt is sure to want some too. After that I need to get started on making baptism cards for friends will be baptized in spring. Many many cards right there. (smile) Then there are a handful of Valentine's Day cards I'll need. Mother's Day cards. Baby cards. Ach, there is just no end to it. Will definitely be fun to make and post.

Oh and...announcement...

(are you ready??)

I HAVE AN OFFICIAL SCRAPBOOK CORNER!!!! Okay, sure its just a table standing in the hallway downstairs, but its a table better than the kitchen table and I won't have to clean up as soon as I begin a project.

At the current moment, I'm working on some digital scrapbook layouts for a friend. Romantically themed, and I'm saving all the psd files for future use. I cannot post pages with the pictures I'm using for her layouts, so I replaced it with a blank, but will post the actual layouts on here.

Layout #1

Layout #2

Will appreciate any and all feedback you guys can offer!!

I promise it won't take me this long to blog again!!

♥Jachelle

CP Outfits

2010-08-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

So I've been busy with sewing...of all things. For the first time in my life, I have attempted with the sewing of some doll clothing, for a cabbage patch doll. I made four different outfits, with my mom to help me with the creating of patterns. I had some patterns that I used as a guideline but for the most part, they didn't have the clothing items that I was looking for, so each pattern had to be altered to create something I wanted, for example, the jacket. I had the shirt pattern with short sleeves, so we made it longer and baggier in order for the jacket to be worn over other clothing items, and then lengthened the sleeves...etc. The cap...was a regular new born baby cap that was sized to exactly fit the doll...

The purple dress is a long skirt dress, and I took the inspiration for this dress from our very own Hutterite dresses. (yaay!) For the top part of the dress, I overlaid the purple with a sheer material that sported some cute embroidered flowers. The sleeves are made of just that lace, and so is the headband. The skirt is pleated using a pleat called 'kissing pleats' and I love that look. Most people ruffle this skirt if its for babies & dolls, but I hate ruffles. I can't seem to master them at ALL so I just stick with pleats. The dress is open in the back.

The pajama set is absolutely adorable! Again, its open in the back for the child who will be playing with this will have no problem clothing her doll. The pants however, are not open and have an elastic hemmed in on top.

Last but not least, there is a cute sun dress type of dress with the matching bloomers. This is about the only item of clothing that actually had a pattern. I was able to use the exact pattern for everything, from the dress, to the sleeves, and even to the bloomers.

Below are also some more pictures of the actual clothing items that I thought you might enjoy and you'll be able to see more detail...

&& I'm entering this to the challenge on DIE CUT DREAMS..using fabric. I think I did manage to use fabric on my project for the week, don't you agree?

Another Mag Card

2010-08-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

I made this card with the intent of entering it into two different challenges, but I kinda missed out on one of them. Forgot about entering it on Charisma Cardz, so whatever. My loss I guess...

So I guess I'm just able to enter in (Angie) Scrap Girl's blog challenge to make an easel card using mostly brown & red. I know the picture doesn't show it, but it is mostly red & brown...with pink & beige. Tilda's dress is actually colored with a shade of reddish brown, & the apron is red with brown details. Edwin's shirt is colored in the same shade of reddish brown. The two nesties behind the stamped images are red and a lovely chocolate brown with a pink background. The base is actually a brown background with tan and pink ovals for the sentiment...

I'm not impressed with the overall turnout of this card. I like the whole couple thing...but it doesn't quite work for a wedding card....buuut I don't have a Tilda wedding image/stamp so I had to use my imagination. Hmm...maybe next time I'll come up with something better. As for now, I might end up taking apart the base and change the sentiment...

Or just decide to heck with it and leave it as it is.....Either way...I think I'll just skip the whole card thing for the rest of today and go sew.

Christmas in July

2010-07-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

Following the card sketch from Just Magnolia, here is what I've come up with. I know its nothing hot based on the photo, buut...there are some unique parts of this card that the photo doesn't show.

For example, Tilda & Edwin are cut out and mounted, as well as the holly. The sentiment stamp is rolled & then just two spots are glued to the card. It's still bent a little n stuff. I'm sure if you look at it long enough you'll get what I mean. Lol.

My mind is kinda sleepy today already, so my English is slipping a little. Sorry about that. :)

Take care,

jachelle

I ♥ Tilda!

2010-07-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

Another card using stamped images from my friend. This time its for the DIE CUT DREAMS challenge. It's all about Tilda in BLUE where blue is the main color of the card/project.

Looking at this card, I believe I covered the whole 'blue' theme.

Another awesome part about this card is the background. It's HAND STAMPED for the Winter Wonderland challenge where we were NOT to use any designer paper. First time I'm ever using a hand stamped background. I used three different stamps. One is the poinsettia from Heart & Soul Rubber Stamps and the other poinsettia is...actually I have no idea what company. All I know is...its the first time I used it and I ♥ it! The silver snowflake is also a Heart & Soul Rubber stamp. It adds just the right touch to the background.

Oh yeah, I forgot. I also made some swirls on the paper with a glitter gel pen (no color, just glitter) but it doesn't show up on the photo. Actually, the details on Tilda's hat, scarf & coat are also in glitter, and the photo doesn't show. *sigh. My camera was having an issue. Anyways...I'm off to create even MORE cards!!

I'll be back with more uploads (lol)

♥jachelle

I'M BAAACKKKK

2010-07-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

Soo...did anyone miss me? Okay, yeah, I'm sure you did and I'm even more sure you're totally elated to see me back in blog land. Haha.

It's seriously been a while since I was on here, but there is no way I'll ever be able to update everyone on what I've been doing. The list is ENDLESS! I guess the only explanation is...it's summer and summer is the busiest time of year for Hutterites, as this is when most of our work is done. So yeah, whereas most people are free during the summer and work during the winter, its the opposite for us. I guess that's what farming is! I love it anyways.

& today I have my very first 'free' day in quite a long time, so I'm spending the day doing some challenges and making cards. I received a whole bunch of stamps & stamped images from a dear friend and of course, I couldn't wait to try them. Instead of focusing on some other project, this is what I've been doing today - making cards. My stash of cards is depleting anyways. Naturally, the first (and only card so far...) that I've made today happened to be one featuring TILDA from MAGNOLIA! I can't believe I'm actually creating cards using mag. stamps, even if its just stamped images from friends. Thanks a million hun, you know who you are. ;)

Anyways, the featured card...is for two different challenges

Friday Sketchers provided us with a sketch, which was pretty straightforward to follow. I however, complicated it for myself (surprise surprise) by combining it with another challenge over at Kreative Stempelfreunde - Creative Stamp Friends who's challenge was a recipe; Round (which is the shape of my card), 1 Ribbon (blue, pink & black ribbon, center of card), and 2 flowers -- the two roses.

Enjoy...and be on the lookout - I'll be back....later today hopefully :D

♥Jachelle!

Gorgeous...absolutely gorgeous!

2010-07-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

The lily that I have been waiting for all summer now is in bloom. A few years ago, my gramps and aunt Hilda were walking through a nursery when they found a lily named "Jacqueline" and they bought it. Naturally, I was gifted with this lily after the number of bulbs started increasing and there were more lilies. This year is the very first year that this lily is in bloom in our garden and I absolutely love it. I'm a lily fanatic (and our flower bed shows it) so having a lily named after me is pretty special, even if the spelling of the lily is much different than the spelling of my name. Anyways, I figured since its finally in bloom, it was definitely blog worthy, especially since my internet has been giving me issues with blogging and publishing blogs.

The other reason for blogging is to announce that Sally has heart and soul stamps up for grabs. Not one, not two...not even five, six or seven, but ELEVEN stamps in honor of celebrating Christmas In July. (Gotta love the thought of it)

Pop on over to Sally's Creative Corner for your chance to win some awesome, top quality, rubber stamps. My own personal opinion about heart and soul stamps...they're amazing. There is no way a stamp can ever have a better and crisper image than these stamps, and they're easy to handle, and easy to store. And best of all, they're mostly faith based! Straight from the heart of the creators glorifying the number one Creator of humans and life!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

I'll make this quick since my net seems to be cooperating with me for the time being. Not sure what's up with everything, but its really making me MAD. It hasn't been working all week and I desperately want to join in Sally's spotlight for the week, and my time is literally up. (keeps fingers crossed that she'll still accept my entry). I'll update with another blog some other time, but right now I'm keeping it with this.

Sally's spotlight this week is FLOWERSOFT. I know everyone wants this stuff so chances are, she'll have a million entries, but I still have to take the chance of winning. (crossing my toes now since my fingers are already crossed). I've always wanted to try this and I'm so impressed with how this stuff is being used. If you want your chance to win some, go for it on Sally's Blog.

& to make this blog even MORE special (which btw, is pretty tough) there is a new challenge blog on the web. Pop around to their blog and check whats up. First challenge will be on the board July 12, so be sure to get back there some time after that. :) Click here to visit the Wild Orchid Challenge Blog

Oh and before I forget, sending blessings out to all my American friends. Happy fourth of July.

Independence Day is special......but Canada Day is still better. (Biased perhaps?)

Heart & Soul up for grabs!

2010-06-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

I copied this card from Sally's Creative Corner to show you what her weekly giveaway is. For this week, she has a heart and soul rubber stamp up for grabs! Namely, the image that she used on her card. Isn't it one gorgeous stamp?? Yeah, I know you love it. *smile.

I love it as well, and would love nothing better than to win it. *hint *hint random.org :D its me you gotta pick this time. haahaa

All you need to do is hop on over to Sally's blog and leave her a comment, telling her you'd love to get this stamp. Let's see how many entries she get for this week. Comeon ladies, you know you want to!!

♥Jachelle

iCopics anyone??

2010-06-17T15:30:00.001-07:00

Sally over at Sally's Creative Corner is proudly spotlighting iCopics for this week....

To read more about her words on how this whole spotlight works, just click on the link above!

And Jachelle is proudly helping spread the word about Sally proudly spotlighting iCopics.

This is what "I", Jachelle, have to say about copics.

Umm wait...it kind of works like this. I've never used them and I would love nothing more than to use them since I've heard so much, read so much about how to use them and all those special blending techniques n all...buuut its kinda difficult winning them anywhere because everyone else seems to be having the same idea and thus, I don't end up with that kinda luck. LOL I think I will have to break down and just...you know, buy them! heyy now there is always THAT idea. haahaa

Seriously, there are just TWO things I would LOVE to own when it comes to scrapbooking supplies. 1. I would soo totally love to have magnolia stamps. I love love love them and they're the most adorable stamps out there. I have to have some and will someday have some. That day however, is starting to seem sooo far away in the future. Which really sucks, cuz I want them...NOW. haahaa. 2. own copics. I've blogged enough those from day one since I've had a blog on, so I don't think I need to rehash that right now.

Sooo if there is anyone who would love donate either of those two items towards a good cause, you know where to find me. Trust me, they'll be in loving hands and be taken care of for the rest of their lives. You won't regret donating them to me, that I promise you. ;)

Anyways, I'm kinda sick today, and would love nothing better than kicking this bug to the moon & further into space, and should probably try and get sufficient rest instead of blogging, which is anything but a rest. :P More or less stuff that gets me so excited that I wanna just jump up and start crafting, which totally does NOT work right now. :D

Take care

♥Jachelle

Punch It

2010-06-12T13:14:00.000-07:00

One of my fav. blogs would be Littlebear Crafts and from there...I was introduced to the Sir Stampalot Challenge Blog which runs on a monthly basis. So far, I've not really taken the time to ever compete in any of their contests, but this month I decided to go for it.

The challenge for June is actually very simple and straightforward....just use punches. & punches I did use!

This card was made with the intent of an encouragement card for a friend who's dad is going through some health difficulties.

I stamped my stained glass cross stamp from Heart & Soul Rubber Stamps using silver ink and then outlined the border and cross with a black gel pen. Then I noticed that the silver isn't showing up so I outlined it with a silver gel pen. Now it looks great!

All the flowers are punched using various brands - fiskar, Stampin' Up! and one is a no name brand.

The inside sentiment is the Lord is my Shepard (also a Heart & Soul Rubber Stamp) with two pairs of the small footprints (Fiskar squeeze punch).

Have a wonderful and blessed weekend everyone!

♥Jachelle

Stamping & More

2010-06-09T20:59:00.001-07:00

I was just over on Corry's blog and she wrote a post on "how did you get started stamping?"

This got me thinking and I couldn't help but wonder...how DID I get started stamping? It brought me back to thinking about the first time I participated in a Stampin' Up! demo. There were a lot of us girls crowding around the kitchen table of our host...very pressed for room but no one even noticed because we were way too interested in what our demo, Tamara, was saying and showing us. First she showed us some techniques and then we had the opportunity to make something on our own...using her stamps and supplies, collaborated with our imagination. I loved stamping and being introduced to it, and after the whole party was over, I even won my very first Stampin' Up! stamp. Oh I couldn't tell you how happy I was to own a stamp.

After that, I've been buying stamps galore and have...well honestly, too many, but I couldn't bear trade any or give even a single one away. I think I would pretty much miss it the next day already (haha)

As for my activities for the rest of the day...well I made another card (and am publishing the second blog for today - or is third already? oops)

This card is for two challenges. The first one is a sketch from Sketch Saturday

Looks easy...doesn't it? Have to admit, it was easy and I enjoyed it. Except my sentiment sucks, but hey, the entire card can't be perfect...now can it? (haha)

And the challenge it was for is for Stamptacular Sunday Challenge. The challenge for this week was to make a wedding card. Hmm...like that's so difficult! After all, it seems to be wedding season all over!!

When I first started working on this card, I figured I'd go with monochromatic for the color theme, but ended up using turquoise rhinestones. ahh you know me, and a card just isn't complete without rhinestone. LOL

Last project to share...is something I etched (of course I have to save the best for the last).

My cousin is getting married on Sunday and I wanted something extra extra special for her.

The brown paper is not the paper that is going to be behind the glass, but its there because I wanted the etching to show up clearly when taking the picture. You'll have to excuse the fingerprints though....I took pictures before polishing, and didn't want to completely polish before I was ready to snap in the backing and wrap it up.

Have a sweet night!

♥Jachelle

PAPER CRAFTS!!

2010-06-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

Waking up this morning it almost felt like winter had drifted back upon us. Walking along the sidewalk to the kitchen at 7:30 this morning was quite a rude awakening. It's for sure and for certain; I was barely awake when I headed out the door. Barefoot to say the least, and when I stepped out of the house, I felt so thankful that I actually put on crocs as an after thought. I had seen that the sidewalks were wet and decided I should probably wear some kind of shoes...

Anyways, after breakfast, we headed to the garden to pick asparagus. First one I touched, I was almost SHOCKED. Yeah, I realize it was raining and it was cold, but they felt frozen! It was then that I double checked whether or not those extra raindrops that kept falling were indeed raindrops and not snowflakes. Thank goodness we started hoeing yesterday. At least that put a great dent in the upcoming garden work!

Now despite this awful mucky weather, I've managed to make some cards. I started out originally with inspiration from 'inspirational card sketches' using their weekly sketch

& ended with something that sort of resembles the sketch. I honestly tried to incorporate it into my card, but then kinda forgot. Oops eh? Still going to enter it into the challenge and see what happens...never know, they might just accept it. *smile

Anyways, this card is a new kind of card for me - I've never made this type before. & you'll be able to see where my circle went that I was supposed to use. LOL

Here's another picture of the verse behind the cross stamp.

See what happened to my circle? I started out with cutting off the top of the circle and then mounting it with foam dots for the second piece of the circle....and then I ended up pasting the stamped verse ON TOP of the circle. Seriously, how dumb can a person get? gosh! Oh well...I tried the sketch, and i loved the look of the sketch...I just forgot that I was working with a sketch!

& of course, for the record, the stamps I ended up using for my cards are Heart and Soul Rubber Stamps, the stamps that I mentioned in my last entry when I blogged about Sally's spotlight for this week. I think these stamps are ter-rif-ic.

♥Jachelle

Biker's Outfit & more

2010-06-09T07:25:00.000-07:00

Once again, Sally is spotlighting Heart and Soul Rubber Stamps as her weekly spotlight.

My personal thoughts on heart and soul...this company has some of the most beautiful stamps out there at dirt cheap prices. If you're looking for anything uplifting and soul-inspiration, this is the website to check out. If you need any help regarding this website, just ask Sally - she's right there to help and advice.

& Just so you know, this is one prize you do not want to miss out on winning!!

Because of the huge amount of stamps that are being offered, I'm not going to be posting them on my blog, but rather ask that you check Sally's blog for more information by clicking on the big bold link below.

Sally's Creative Corner

On to something else....once again, I've been busy with sewing. :) This time I made something is completely out of my comfort zone, but nevertheless, I loved it! It was made as a birthday gift for a friend's baby, who loves to ride on the motorcycle with his daddy even before he's a year old!

The outfit includes...

a motorcycle cap (which he totally looks adorable wearing!)

a shirt

a pair of pants

a pair of slippers

Doesn't it look so cute?? :) Can't wait to see him wearing it!!

Take care and enjoy the beautiful weather outside. (ha!)

♥Jachelle

Rainy Saturday

2010-05-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

It's another one of those rainy Saturdays....equipped with thunder, lightening and all the fun trimmings. LOL I am so grateful that I had the insight to mow the lawn yesterday after it stopped raining - we had a couple hours of gorgeous warm weather yesterday after the rain and that was enough to dry off the grass. Looking out the window right now and watching the rain pour down, I can't help but breath this huge sigh of relief and sending thanks upwards for encouraging me to cut the grass. LOL

Unfortunately, this also leaves me with nothing to do. We've completed all the sewing we have on the go right now, and personally I am getting rather tired of staring at material. Actually, the whole truth would be; I am getting tired of ripping open seams that I messed up on, but heck, you didn't need to hear about my mistakes, now did you?

Then of course, I remembered that I was going to make a couple 'thank you' cards for my cousin who is getting married next year. I know she'll love them because she loves handmade things. & they are very plain, yet cute...and here is a photo of all 44 cards that I made this morning. Mom helped me with making the envelopes, Heck, I would still be working on them if she hadn't helped out. *smile.

There are four different designs and seven different colors. Five cards of each color, except green....and that's because I goofed on the 45th one. LOL

Anyways...I should get this published and get outta here before the power goes off again and resets the server. *smile..

Take care!
♥jachelle

Little Projects

2010-05-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

Since I barely have any graduation cards made yet, I thought I would make some...using some unique styles. Here are two cards I just finished using some different folding techniques. I love them...especially their small size!! (Hence the blog title)

I started out making two triangle tri-fold cards...but ended up with two totally different styles - and you know what? I LOVE THEM BOTH!!!

Triangle Tri-fold Card....

Isn't this the total cutest? my card size is 3x3, so my piece of paper started out as 3x9. Perfect size for cleaning up those strip scraps! Which is pretty much ALL I did! I cleaned up scraps!
& this is what the card looks like taken apart!

& then this is my triangle tri-fold gone wrong. I umm...scored it wrong and ended up with a totally different design.

It totally looks like an envelope - perfect for slipping in a tag or bookmark or something like that.

This is what the card looks like with one triangle folded back - half open I guess...

& then this is what the card looks like completely opened.

Isn't it totally unique and cute? I LOVE this card idea.

& the bestest part about these cards is....they are made using scraps. I didn't cut anything new, not even the white. All I used were bits and pieces...stuck em in the cuttlebug with mini-folders or die cuts. The only 'new' material I used were stickers & ribbon. :)

I love trying out new card ideas and have quite a list of different folding techniques....all inspiration from fellow bloggers, so thanks for the scrap-spiration!!

its a happy happy day - sally's new splotlight included

2010-05-26T20:07:00.001-07:00

I just cannot make myself go scrapbook when there is such gorgeous weather outside begging me to come outside and work in the sunshine...which is what I have been doing.

Today mom and I planted our flowerbed & it looks soo gorgeous already! Cannot wait for all those plants to mature and become their full size and start blooming. It is definitely going to be a stellar flower bed this year. I promise to post pictures as soon as everything is in bloom...no wait, scratch that. I promise to post pictures as soon as our LILIES are in bloom! I am a lily fanatic and look forward to the moment when they bloom.

& after school today we also pruned raspberry bushes. Needless to say, I'm all scratched up. It hurts a little, but once I showered, it took care of most of the sting. Now all that still stings are the areas that were completely cut up & bleeding. & my sunburn...that hurts too. LOL

Soo I was thinking...since I've been neglecting crafting for the most part, I figured it would be nice to post a scrapbook page I was working on earlier today (in between everything else I did)

I used some various scrapbook kits and some of my material. What can I say? I'm getting to be not half bad when it comes to photoshop. I'm learning, that's all I can really say. *smile.

Now the real nature for blogging in the first place was to spotlight Sally's Creative Corner...

Up for grabs this week is GLITTER!!!! Now Sally, I can't help but wonder if you were thinking of me when you decided to post glitter for this week. I LOVE glitter - I have this glitter weakness...if something includes glitter, I want it.

Personally I haven't actually glittered much, but rather I buy it 'pre-applied'. This is not from lack of ambition, but rather because there is so much other stuff I have to buy and as much as I would love glitter to be top of the list, its other material that is a need. (if there is such a thing as a scrapping 'need')

What does this prize include?

Hmm....

16 pots of glitter (omigoodness be still my heart!!!)

6 pieces of sticker paper (how can it get better than this??)

2 pieces of lace (woahhh)

....and when you think there can't be more....

1 quicky glue pen (I've fainted...my shadow is now completing this blog)

Sally....this...is AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE glitter. Everyone loves glitter....so go spread some love on Sally's site & spread the word about this spotlight....

Oohh its a beautiful day...its a beautiful life.

Now all I need is MY computer back. It's being doctored. *tear.

♥jachelle

Sally's Spotlight

2010-05-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

The weekly spotlight on Sally's Creative Corner features DZ Doodle Digital Stamps

& they are offering the winner FIVE free digital stamps from their site.

I was going through their website and found some absolutely awesome digital stamps that I would just love to have. I know for sure I will be going back to that website later! So pop on over to their website and see what they have to offer. While you're there, be sure to check out the teddy bears. They are totally adorable!!! Also, check out the Spring/Garden & Flower, Bridal & Wedding, Animals & Critters..........uhh you know what? On a second thought, check out EVERYTHING!!! LOL

& After you've done that, go to Sally's blog and leave her some love, as well as spreading the word on your blog about these digis!!

Sew Many Things to Do

2010-05-18T11:17:00.001-07:00

Last week and this week, we've been busy doing some sewing (among other stuff). My sisters are both outgrowing their dresses....they are pretty much shooting up like weeds right now. So mom decided to check their closet, see what fits and get rid of the rest. & Then we made them each four new dresses.

This is Becky's set of dresses. Tiffany has pretty much the same dresses, except for the pink one in the center. Instead of that dress, she has a greyish/blue one. I don't have a picture of it. Her dresses are 100% complete and hanging in her closet...and Becky's are still in the sewing room because they're not quite finished.

Then I also made these three dresses for myself. Actually, the third one is currently under the sewing machine (started making it this morning) and will be finished with them later today...or for sure by the end of this week. The green one is completely finished, but the blue still needs to be ironed, and the pink...well that's barely started. (lol).

This morning mom and I spent the entire morning working in the flowerbed. Weeded and transplanted, etc. I love working outside. *smile. We're not ready to plant any flowers yet, since our last frost is around May 31. Mind you, this year I don't think we will have another frost...but just in case we do....its better to be safe than sorry. It's already warming up and can't wait to get tanned. HA. As if I could tan. I'm a paleface and don't tan. Just become sun kissed. :P

We are going to be butchering chickens tomorrow and I'm pretty sure no one wants to hear the gross details behind that. It really is gross...but if you keep your mind occupied and not focused on the task at hand, then it does improve the job by quite a bit.

Anything beyond that...is not planned yet. I don't like making plans cuz something messes them up before they become completed anyways!! I hate making plans. :)

Blog Award

2010-05-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe this...I actually received a blog award!! I'm a new blogger, new to all this blogging. CORRY passed on this sunshine award.

I don't think words can express how bless and honored I was that Corry chose me, so please make it a point to visit her site just because I really appreciate her thoughtfulness. You know, this award does have the perfect name. Sunshine Award. I did provide my day with sunshine.
Since this is a pay it forward award to 12 followers I have to say this much...I don't have twelve followers, but I do have several blogs that I visit on a very regular basis that never fail to provide sunshine to my day. Some who are not followers, and I hope they will appreciate this award.

1. Sally: You have become one of my greatest inspiration and encouragement, regardless of how I may be feeling. I love viewing your blog and looking through your cards. They never fail to bring a smile to my face and cheer me up when I feeling less than the happiest girl in the world. *smile. Sally, you're awesome. Thank you for your faith, and for sharing it with me, and most of all, thanks for your friendship and prayers. Keep looking up, God is always there with us!

2. Divinity: I love your cute cards and your cheery stamps. I love reading your blogs and I love looking at your cards. Your scrapbook pages and cards portray very easily who you are in when spending time with you. You are a compassionate and beautiful person, inside and outside. Walk with God, always, and thanks for the inspiration.

3. ♥sMiLeAlwAys【ツ】: You are definitely a craft inspiration and help me be more comfortable thinking outside the box instead of just sticking to what I know. I love your style with cards, and I love checking up on all the other crafty items you come up with. I love reading your faith based blogs and I love drawing strength from your words. I'm thankful that you are a part of my life.

4. Melissa: I LOVE your digital scrapbook pages and the quotes you use on your pages. You are the reason I haven't given up on digital scrapbooking because I know the beautiful pages you have created digitally. I love the way you always encourage me to do my best and never give up on anything. The way you always remind me to not give up reminds of how we should never give up on Him and how we follow God. Thank you for that.

5. Eva: Your writing speaks for itself. I LOVE the way you word things and I love reading about what your doing. You always have such a creative way of making every day things seem to be such a grand adventure. It helps me view life differently. And of course, I ADORE your pages! They are simply gorgeous.

6. Niki Ray: You are one of the few followers I have that I don't know personally or have some other connection with, aside from scrap booking, and I greatly appreciate that. I really enjoy reading your blogs about every day life with your children - it is such a difference from my lifestyle to yours and I enjoy reading about it.

7. Jaclyn Miller: It was a random challenge in which you and I both entered and I went into your blog just because you had the same name as me. Seems like I ended up becoming a follower of your blog; not because of the whole name thing, but because I love your crafts. You have a funky style and still stay classy with everything. There are so many times when I can read your blogs for a laugh or else its something really inspiring yet thought provoking... love your blog and it definitely deserves to be adorned with with the sunshine blog award.

8. Groovy Deb: This is one crafty lady whom I ran into on fiskateers and have been following her blog since I first found on it on fiskateers. Very vintage style; elegant and unique. Deb, you're an encourager both on fiskateers and anyone who reads your blog. You're creative and you have an astounding faith in God, that you love sharing with others. I love that about you!

9. Kathy: As a teacher, you always have some story to share about school, whether it was something about the kids, or if its an experiment you tried; there is always something. Something that is new and interesting information about different things. Not a scrapper, but it does bring a smile to my face when I see you have updated your blog.

10. Sherry: What I love most about your blog is the way you write about kids; especially yours. You have this extreme love for children in your heart that you portray through your writing; something that everyone should read.

11: Tami: Your work is amazing! I love it, especially the way you use the most everyday things in your crafts! It's beautiful work with material that I would never have thought to include in projects.

12 Jacque: You are an inspiration to everyone who reads your blog. I cannot believe how up and about you are; the way you joke about chemo treatments....and creating the most beautiful, creative cards with all that going on. You are a strong individual and most of us can take a good example from you. & I love your magnolia stamps. Someday I really am going to get myself some. Someday........someday.

Whew. that was actually difficult deciding who I'm going to choose for this award. I chose those are the most inspiring to me, and best girls to cheer me up! ha - ha. Even though a lot of you don't follow me, I follow you and I am in awe of all of your. You're all wonderful. Thank for everything!!

___________________________

I made a promise to myself...this week I am NOT skipping Sally's spotlight. Can't make Sally think I've forgotten about her, now can we? I promise to make this short, since its waaay past the time I should be sleeping and my timer for my internet has already switched off so I'll have to wait until tomorrow before I can post this....

Anyways, Sally is spotlighting iCopics this week. MARKERS!

About iCopic:
iCopic.com is an online retailer dedicated to providing high quality Copic products backed by superior service and affordable prices. Our huge selection of Copic products and Price Match Guarantee program make us the one stop shop for supplying all your Copic needs. With you in mind, we’ve designed a site that makes shopping a breeze and most orders qualify for Free Shipping! With a shared passion for stamping and art, iCopic.com is proud to sponsor Sally’s Creative Corner,where two lucky winners will either win a Set of 8 Copic Ciao –Primay Color Markers + 1 multiliner Pen or a set of 8 Copic Caio Manga Muted Colors + 1 multiliner Pen.

Set one: Set of 8 Copic Caio Manga Primary Colors Markers + 1 multiliner Pen

Set two: Set of 8 Copic Caio Manga Muted Colors Markers + 1 multiliner Pen

This ends on May 16, so you don't have much time left to enter!! You know you want them as much as I do, so gooooo! Enter for your chance to win ASAP!!!!

♥Jachelle

National Scrapbooking Day

2010-05-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

Once again, my theme for the day is weddings. Don't you love weddings? Since today is the offical NSD, I am still working on making cards. *smile. I still have a few to make, but I think that after today, I will have made a sizable dent in the amount that I need to make. I don't think it'll take all that long until I've completed become exhausted of ideas....so if anyone has any tips on how else to make wedding cards, let me know!

This card was inspired by a card mom made yesterday (no picture available) and thought it would be perfect to incorporate into a wedding card. I've had these vellum quotes around for quite a while waiting for the perfect moment to use them, and I would say this one suites the purpose well.
This card is for one whole challenge:
Friday Sketcher's challenge was to follow a card sketch (of course). I think I did a not too bad of a job following this one. haha. Let's just say I hope the FS crew thinks so too. ;)

Then there was this card. Someone asked me to create a cute birthday card and I had these froggy stickers that were begging to be used! This is the first time I have ever made a 'round' card, since circles and I usually have a personality crisis instead of working together.
Card Patterns' challenge for this week was to create a card using their sketch. Kinda enjoyed it. *smile.

TFL &

Take care
♥Jachelle

Pre-National Scrapbooking Day

2010-04-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again and this time around I am taking advantage of the weekend (I decided mine is starting today, not tomorrow)...and am making cards for various online challenges. It's been a while since I have the opportunity to do such and thought it would be fun to do again. After all, I've been wanting to this long enough already.

Theme for today (and probably tomorrow as well) is WEDDING CARDS! With quite a few of my cousins getting married this year, I felt it would be a good idea to get a head start on making cards for them instead of pushing them off till the last minute.

First things first, here is my second attempt at making an easel card, and this one turned out a lot better than my first. I actually love this one.

This for two challenges:
Creative Inspiration's challenge is to make an Easel Card
Cute Card Thursday's challenge was to make something on our own. I created the calla lily and the butterfly trail.

& Like every time I sit down to create cards, I end up making something that doesn't fit the theme I set before myself. The stamped image is a stamp a friend sent mom. Naturally it had to be used. *smile

Charisma Cardz Challenge was the inspiration for this card when being asked to create a girly card with flowers. Think this is girly enough? *smile.

Then we're onto adding another wedding card to the collection....love love love this one!!!

Delightful Sketches' challenge was to pull out the punches. Oooh yeahh!! This card includes a couple Stampin' Up! punches and an oopsie daisy punch out (fiskar)

And the final creation for today (I think) is very much my style; didn't try to go out of my comfort zone for this. (except for the paper I used...)

Stamp Something's challenge was a sketch...very simple and straight forward. Fun to work with. The image is a stamped image.

Thanks to everyone who created these challenges! You were my inspiration for a very crafty day and I appreciate it. :) Not sure if I would have accomplished anything if it wouldn't have been for you. *smile.

*hugz*
♥Jachelle

It's been a while...

2010-04-28T09:56:00.001-07:00

I cannot believe how much time has passed since I have last attempted to write a blog entry. Life really does have that effect on us sometimes; way too much on the go to be able to write a blog entry, regardless of how short/long it ends up being.

For starters, I've FINALLY completed my first patchwork. Not the best work out there, but I was happy with the attempt. Okay, I was more happy to get it over with and finished than the actual finished product, but we'll keep that between us, right?

Now I know that when you'll look at this blanket, the first thought that will cross your mind is "what in heaven's name was that girl thinking??" The truth is, I don't know! I was not thinking about how that white flowered print will effect the plain purple square beside it. That purple log really does stand out and looks so out of place. You know, it only looks weird the first time you look at it. By the time it was completed, I was pretty much used to it and actually love the way it is now. Especially considering the fact that its finished. LOL
Technically its actually not finished. It still needs a back, finishing, and quilting, but...that can wait for some other time.

Although I do wonder...who is more thankful that I have decided I need to stock up on my card stash...me or Kipper?! LOL He really hates it when I invade the sewing room. In fact, when I work there, he sits underneath my mom's sewing cabinet. Hey comeon!! The fact that he HATES water and the fact that there is always a water spritzer right beside the iron is much too tempting. Maybe I should stop bugging Kipper, buuut where's the fun in that??

These past two days I've also had the opportunity to take care of three sweeties aside from my own sisters. Their parents went to a funeral in Goodhope and I took care of them...or rather I had fun. The first day was a little weird and they looked soo bored - my mom was in town and I hate sewing when she's not home, so I scrapped any thoughts about sewing and decided that we're going to make cards.

I had a whole bunch of new stamps to try out and thought there was no better way to use Wennie's Candy than to share with a bunch of sweeties. So we each made a card; Lorraine's two oldest girls, my sisters, and myself. (The youngest decided she's coloring and that's that). The top and bottom card waaaay on the right are incomplete btw. One still lacks embellies and the other needs some more layering, and embellies.

I also attempted my very first easel card. I know its not the prettiest card on the block, and far from stylish, but it was the first time I ever made a square card for starters, and its also my first attempt at the easel card. Next one will be much better and prettier. I HOPE!!!

ANd finally the moment you've all been waiting for....
SPOTLIGHT FROM SALLY'S CREATIVE CORNER

Again, this is an iCopic product, but not actual iCopics. It's some Shimmer Spritz. I know you all want some, so you know where to go to qualify for the drawing.
Yep, that's right, Sally's Creative Corner.

You go for it!!

It Runs in the Family

2010-04-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

Back when my brother completed this piece of artwork, I told him I would upload it on my blog just because I loved the way it turned out.

So far, I had not yet taken the time to upload it...until I remembered right about now that its still waiting on my desktop to be uploaded.
This art technique is called 'pen and ink' and is completed by using strokes and lines...the darker a given area was supposed to be, the more strokes he used, and if he wanted a lighter appearance, he used less strokes. Looking at it, first glimpse, one would never guess that it was made using just a bunch of tiny lines. Maybe its because the line strokes compliment the fact that its fur? I think that's why it fits so perfectly!
Anyways, after the image was scanned onto the computer to email his teacher, I edited it slightly in photoshop and then resized it so that multiple pictures would go onto a page, and then I printed them. Now they are ready to be cut out and used on cards. A stamp ya can't get anywhere else! Is that cool or what? *smile.

Remembering

2010-04-22T18:13:00.000-07:00

While flipping through the photos on my computer, I couldn't help but stop and reminisce as each one passed by with each click of the keyboard. After halfway through, I thought it would be so nice to make a scrapbook layout that would mean something to me. Something touching, something beautiful. I could not however, find a photo that was suitable for the mood I was in. I was looking for something that I would want to remember through the years. Then I remembered this beautiful poem I wrote last year in July for my Aunt & Uncle after their son lost his life in an accident, two days before his 21st birthday. We all took it hard; he was one of the best guys there is. With a heart larger than himself and a cheerful attitude that naturally brightened any room he walked into, regardless of the somber mood it had been in beforehand; he is one who is sorely missed by all those who knew & loved him.

I did create a digital layout, and I do realize its far from the most beautiful layout there is, I do like the way it turned out.

The poem I wrote is one of my favorite pieces of writing and it has touched the hearts of many. I don't wish to come across as bragging because that is entirely not my intention, but it does have the effect I wished it would have on people while I wrote it. I wished for people to be touched and remember all the beautiful memories about Jonathan. He was, and always will be, special in our hearts.

Poem Reads:

PICTURES OF THE HEART

I am left with only pictures in your heart
I have departed, yet never truly apart
I am your child, one you dearly love
I am now watching over you, from heaven above

I cannot explain to you, my family and friends
Why God has brought my life to its end
But please my dear loved ones, don’t cry for me
For now my spirit shall eternally be free!!

Your love and guidance have taught me well
You taught me of grace and how to be of good moral
The life that I have lived was not in vain
And with death I have found there was a greater gain

Mother, I have found myself to be in God’s care
To find myself here is the answer to your greatest prayer
For all I my life can remember you praying for me
That when I pass, my life in heaven shall forever be

Father, someday I know you’ll be up here too
And when you do, I’ll be there to welcome you
But for now, your work on earth still isn’t through
You still have the rest of our family counting on you

Please think fondly of me and days that have gone
Remember that God’s ways are never ever wrong
Everything that happens is always part of His plan
Sometimes happiness…but never without pain

Keep pictures of our time together within your heart
Till the day will come when we never more shall part…

FINISHED quilt!!

2010-04-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

Our quilt is now complete!!! Isn't it absolutely GORGEOUS??

& I did do some sewing today. I made a couple squares & am now up to 21. Almost half finished. I need 49 to complete my blanket. Actually, 6x6 might be sufficient. We'll see when I reach 36. If its too small though, then we'll have to go with 7x7. Depends on how the pattern looks best...

I'll post picts once it finished...and once THAT one is finished, I can start on MINE!!! For my bed. :)

Shh...don't tell anyone I'm blogging. ;)

2010-04-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

I promised myself that I would spend this Monday completely devoted to sewing my baby blanket that really needs to be finished. It is now already afternoon and can you guess how much time I have spent sewing? Ha! I have yet to sit down in front of my sewing machine - and top this - I've been up since 7:15 (as I should be on a daily basis - I try to be!)

So if I haven't been sewing, what have I been doing? It started out with cleaning the basement. Dusting bedrooms & stuff since most (okay, all) cleaning was neglected last week. That took up a great chunk of this morning. I have to clean the room of two guys - were you expecting otherwise? If not, you should have been. My room is about three times worse than theirs. Mind you, it was surprisingly clean considering I just threw everything on my loveseat when I walked in my room. After cleaning, was blog hopping a bit (after promising myself I will not spend any time on my computer today) & then went to wash the dishes. Then there was laundry, and in the midst of that, peeling & grinding horseradish. Believe me, my sinuses are clean now. Of course, my eyes are back to normal. After that, there was cutting up 'knedel'. Not sure what that is in English. Its kinda like a perogy dough cut into small pieces, cooked in water & then mixed with cooked potatoes & served with gravy or this weird thick white stuff that rarely ever has a taste. No, I don't know the English word for it. (Can you guess that English is a second language?). After that, we finished the laundry, then I wrote a couple emails (after promising myself that I was done with the comptuer for the rest of the day for sure) & then went for a walk with mom & Kipper. Now, I'm blogging & I still haven't sewn a stitch. LOL

Of course, I've been blog hopping and came across some awesome cards....and guess what? I don't feel like sewing anymore. Now I wanna go make cards. HELP!!

There is this little monster behind me that is dragging my chair back and telling me in a low gravely voice 'Jaclyn, get off the computer and start sewing. NOW'. Of course, I had to tell this little munchkin-like monster that I still haven't blogged about Sally's sponsor!!

So without further ado....

Sally's Creative Corner
is being sponsored by:

I love that logo. Isn't it awesome? Oh right...this isn't supposed to be about the logo...its about the STAMPS!!

These stamps to be exact:

They're so awesome!!!! Go to Sally's site and check out the cards she made using these stamps!! Sally, I'm scraplifting the card style of the last one....

AFTER I'm finished sewing.

So now there are three little munchkin like monsters telling me to go sewing.

I am going now. I promise...

♥♥Jachelle

I MADE IT!!!! I SURVIVED!!!

2010-04-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

Well...the cook week ended without a hitch.

Actually that's a flat out lie, but now that I try and remember what went wrong, I honestly cannot think of anything. The best I can think of is...I was just too darn tired to do much of anything and kept making some minor mistakes as a result of that. Really, the only major 'mistake' I made was adding waay too much cayenne pepper to our chili Friday night. Technically it wasn't a mistake, but mom doesn't quite believe that I really intended to add THAT much pepper. Honestly, I did! I love it hot. I love chili that burns from the first bite already. I've always loved hot food. If anyone ever asks me what my favorite foods are, I always answer Mexican. I love hot!!! Hot is good.

As for any other mistake...I'll be darned if I can remember anything. Maybe the relief of having everything over and done with cleared the negative memories.

------

SO anyways, its such a gorgeous evening outside. Well...it would be if the wind would just...you know...disappear!! I would love to sit under the stars...with a campfire, marshmallows and special company!

& of course, I miss my hunni. He lives too far away. I hate long distance relationships. Mind you, most of us have long distance relationships because well...most of the young people in the community I live in are my relatives & since we commute a lot with other communities throughout Manitoba (& Sask, & Alberta, & the good ole USA), its very common to have long dis. relationships. I guess it must me true when they say: 'absence makes the heart grow fonder'. But hey, come on! There's a limit to what the 'heart' can take. Or...wants to take. LOL

Anyways...that was me...sharing my thoughts. Boring I know...but what the heck, I blogged!!

♥Jachelle

Scrapping Survey

2010-04-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

1. Scrapper/cardmaker/both?
Mostly cards, but I do scrap the occasional page. Prefer digi to traditional though

2. How long have you been scrapping/cardmaking ? How did you get into it?
I've been making cards since...I was about 12. Got into it umm...good question. I don't remember!

3. Do you prefer to work alone, or get together with friends/go to crops/classes etc.?
I think I work best on my own, but I also love to work with my mom.

4. Favorite embellishments?
Rub ons & anything butterflies

5. Favorite paper brands?
I don't really go for brands - I like choosing my own patterns.

6. Favorite tool?
Woahh that's easy. Cuttlebug!! Oh & of course, paper trimmer, border punches, corner punches..............actually its kinda hard to decide which I like best. LOL

7. Favorite kind of ink?
Stampin' Up wins this one, hands down!

8. Whose your scrap idol?
Ooo that's a toughie. I'll get back to you later

9. Something you bought that you wish you hadn't or have never used?
Certain stickers. I try never to buy something unless I actually need it, or know for a fact I will be using it.

10. Do you have your own scraproom or do you work in a shared area?
I share...with my entire family. I have resorted to using the kitchen table. Hey, at least my scrapping area is always clean & organized!!

11. Are you a chronological, reverse chronological, or random scrapper?
Random.

12. What is your scrapping style if you have one?
Simple..very very simple & plain.

13. Whats on your work area right now?
A vase of calalillies

14. Favorite adhesive?
c.r.a.f.t. tape runner

15. Technique you have never tried that you would like to?
heat embossing & stitching/embroidering on cards

16. Are you on or have you ever been on a design team or been a guest designer?
Nope. I don't think I could ever qualify for that one!

17. Have you ever had your work published?
Sure I have...on fiskateers, blogger, & flickr

18. Are you a consultant for a company such as Close to my heart, stampin up, creative memories, etc?
nope.

19. Do you subscribe to any kit clubs, if so which ones?
hmm...nope I don't. maybe I should, but...I don't

20. Do you have a minimal stash of supplies or are you a shopper/collecter?
Minimal (angelic smile)

21. Are you a sketch user, scraplifter, or do you come up with it all on your own?
Sketch & on my own. I hate scraplifting.

22. Do you participate in any online challenges, if so which ones?
depends on my mood or if I can find one that suites my interest. i like mojo monday, sunday & friday sketchers, & a bunch of others mixed in as well. too busy for them right now though

23. Do you own any diecutting machines (manual or electric) and if so which ones?
Cuttlebug!!

24. If you have a manual diecutting machine what kind of dies do you use?
Anything compatible with it. I've used cuttlebug dies, as well as sizzix & spellbinder

25. Are you a Stickleser (is that even a word?Do you use Stickles?)
I don't like them. I prefer rhinestones.

This is a Survey I did for a fellow fiskateer; Kellystar

Cooking, Soap & iCopics

2010-04-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

Cooking & I have this love/hate relationship most of the time, and of course, this time around, its the same thing. Personally I enjoy walking to the community kitchen every morning at 6 am getting ready to prep the basic meals of the day; breakfast, lunch & dinner. But (yeah I'm sure, you sensed there was a but in there somewhere) Buut...the kitchen & absolutely don't get along. At least not this week. I've been lucky and not set anything on fire (last time I cooked, I did start fires - literally) but for some reason, the food's (slightly) on the salty side. Honestly, I just put a little bit in there (like I've always done before) and it tastes like...I literally poured it in the food. At least, everyone keeps asking me if I poured it into the food. Personally, I think it tastes just right. Okay, so yeah, it is a little salty, even for my taste...which IS saying quite a lot. Oh well, I'll try harder for the rest of the week to NOT goof. Think I'll manage? Yeah, I didn't think so. lol

So anyways, for those wondering what a cook week is. Here's a quick (and rather short) explanation. I'm Hutterite & our lifestyle is based on Acts 2:44-47

And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily, with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

as well as Acts 4:32-35

And the multitude of them that were believed were of one heart and of one soul; neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus; and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked; for as many as were possessors of land or houses sold them, and brought the piece of the things that were sold, And laid them at the apostles feet; and distribution was made unto every man according as he had needed.

So based on this Biblical explanation, we have our communities where we live together as one; eating together, working together, sharing everything, etc. So this means, we need cooks to cook for everyone in the community, right? Yep, you got it! Every colony has their head cook, who is in charge of the weekly cooks, as well as an extra hand in preparing the food. Basically, what she says, goes. Her way; no highway option. LOL But our cook is great. She's very open to what we want to have as meals and allows us free range (with common sense) in what we want. We prepare our menu ahead of time, and then run it by the cook on Monday when our week starts, or Sunday, the day before our week starts.
For example, this is what our week looks like:

Monday Breakfast: cereal (corn pops to be exact) Lunch: baked chicken & stuffing with added veggies of course. Dinner: Beef stew & mashed potatoes (and other side veggies)
Tuesday Breakfast: Baked Oatmeal Lunch: meatloaf & homemade noodles & tomato soup (with left over other veggies from yesterday) as well as a yogurt dessert Dinner: taco wraps filled with shredded ham, onions, peppers, mushrooms & cheese, then grilled, as well a bowl of hamburger soup -- and this is just an example.

If we are between the ages of 17 - 45, we have to cook. No excuses - once we hit seventeen, we're cooking. No questions asked. lol. We also all have our partner, mine being my mom, and together we cook for the colony. Our colony consists of 95+ people.
I really enjoy it (even the fire hazards n stuff), but I don't think I would want my turn to come around any sooner than every 11 weeks.
For more information, check out Hutterites.org and read up on our way of life. I love living this way, and am willing to answer any questions that anyone may have.

---------------

& of course, this week has been an extra special week....making soap. Yep, we make our own soap. From lard/fat etc...and it uses lots and lots of lye (caustic soda. Sometimes of course, some people get some pretty serious burns from cleaning up and being in contact of the caustic soda without proper protection, but we are pretty careful and try not allow anything to happen. Personally, I don't really need to worry about it, because I never need to clean up. All I need to do is cut up our soap and allow it to dry before we can grind it into powder. Once its dry, its not dangerous anymore. I've decided to include a few pictures I took today of our ration of soap.

This is a picture of the soap bricks. We get quite a few of these bricks for our family of seven. This is for us to use as dish washing soap, as well as laundry soup for the next year (it takes most of this year to dry)

& this is mom and dad cutting up the soap. My job was to take pictures and make sure they're doing things right. No I'm kidding. Seriously, my job was to pile the small pieces of soap onto the shelves as soon as my parents had it cut. Smaller the pieces are, the better they dry, that's why we cut them into tiny pieces.

Of course, this is a busy day - even more so for mom & I because we're cooking, and we had to cut it up as soon as possible. We do have an hr break in the morning and we used that hour to cut it up, scrub the floor around us, and get back to the kitchen. Made it just in time too! I don't really mind though. At least this way, I don't need to be the one scrubbing everything they used in the killing plant. All I had to do is help with the cutting and get back to the kitchen. & since it almost always happens that making soap is in our cook week, I rarely ever have to clean up. LOL I LOVE IT!! I hope it never changes (angelic smile).

& finally, the part you've all been waiting for...iCopics.

My dream...is to get some iCopics and Sally is giving some away on her blog.

Oooh I know you want them!!! Trust me, so do I!!! Someday I'm gona get some...someday. Or I'll get lucky (like...really really lucky) and win from Sally again this week. LOL What the chances of that happening? 50/50 I guess. Either I will, or I won't. Doesn't matter if I don't cuz guess what? I WON LAST WEEK!!! You know, I was about to go and buy the exact same stamps that Sally had posted as a gift on her blog...I really was ready to place that order, then I decided I'll it off, and wait till after I didn't win. Surprise Surprise, I DID WIN!!! Omigosh I was so impressed and happy. So hey, you know, if I can win from Sally, so can you!!!
Get over to her blog today and check out the products that keep getting posted. You know you'll love it!! I do. :)

Anyways...wish me luck for the rest of the week will ya? Thanks ;)

♥♥Jachelle

Etching

2010-04-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

As promised, I said I would post some pictures of my latest projects. After a while of perfecting my skills with this new crafting technique, I am finally comfortable enough to post pictures of what I've completed.

First, there is the story behind it all....

Ever since I've graduated from high school in 2008, I've wanted to try this...and then I did try it, and worked on perfecting my skills. I've come far enough to be able to post my work...

Welcome to the wonderful world of ETCHING

These two glasses were etched for my two [unmarried] aunts - since they're the only ones still at home taking care of gramps, its fun to make gifts for them. The rest of the aunts - well they all have kids and stuff, so we nieces and nephews don't feel the need to 'gift' them as much as the single ones. Nit?

The first one is for my mom's twin sis, Becky, and the other is for my mom's older sis, Hilda. Personalized & special. They love gifts like this, and I just know that they will love this gift too...

This frame was my first attempt at etching a stamp. Bought the stamp from Blue Ridge Impression and stamped it, then enlarged it & etched the enlarged copy. It was made for a dear friend who absolutely adores dolphins and I know she'll love this! Can't wait to see her expressions when I hand it to her. :)

Finally, this last frame is about the project on which I have spent the most time. I've never attempted anything as precise as these fonts and I must admit, it was a challenge, but it is also a joy to look at now!! Love the way it turned out, and though I realize its not 100% perfect (if you look at it with a magnifying glass, you'll know what I mean) its still my favorite project so far.

I've always loved the serenity prayer and sometimes we need to be reminded of it, so now it's hanging...well no where i guess, but trust me, I'll find a place for it!!

Enjoy this blog...and think of me...cuz my hand hurts sooo much already from scratching into the glass. I know...I do everything the hard way and use diamond instead of acid...but its also more detailed this way.

Take care
♥Jachelle

Stamps!!

2010-04-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

The new spotlight on Sally's Creative Corner is a must check out!!!!!!! Heart & Soul Rubber Stamps are absolutely gorgeous, at very affordable prices. It took me a while to be able to check out their website because it was blocked by our network, but once they unblocked it after requesting access, I realized that I found a new favorite site for stamps. You might think I'm nuts...but I loved it so much that I actually bookmarked it about three times just to make sure that I know I love this site and want to go back to it again and again.
What I love most about this site is the fact that it is inspirational based. The quotes and scriptures they have chosen to be created into stamps are beautiful, and definitely worthy to be remembered. I know that as soon as I'm able I will be ordering stamps from this company.

So if you're looking for a website devoted to inspirational stamps, be sure to check out Heart and Soul Rubber Stamps. And of course, if you love this website, you will also love Blue Ridge Impressions. For all the Canadian stampers, there is also an outlet for Blue Ridge in Ontario and I can vouch for this company. Their stamps are very clear, and beautiful, and well worth their price (which, unmounted, is very cheap). & their shipping is AWESOME. Free with all orders over $50 & its FAST. 3-5 days and you have your package of stamps, and/or other products.

Next time you're buying stamps, check out these sites. I know you'll love them!!

On a different note...a quick update on what I've been up to this week since I've obviously not done any scrapping!! I've been busy raking, cleaning, and cleaning and cleaning. We've spring cleaned our house from bottom to top, and I'm positive that if we would have collected all the dust that came together from all those various corners, we would have enough dust to create a six pound baby. Soo...after all the natural cleaning accidents (of course, if you know me personally, you'll also know its not hard to believe the whole 'accident' part)we've finished cleaning. Till fall. Honestly, despite being on the receiving end of a bruised jaw because I hit the door frame carrying a chair and having the back slam back into my jaw, this is the best cleaning I've ever experienced. And I cleaned the entire basement by my lonesome self - in just two days too!! (btw - this is an accomplishment, cuz we have four bedrooms, a large storage room, washroom, and a utility room/office in the basement)

Anyways, I doubt that you're all that interested in hearing all about the entire cleaning fiasco, so I'll get to the sink of dirty dishes calling my name and then get back to completing my other major project of the week. Not telling what it is until its completed, and I promise, I'll post pictures, so that I have something crafty posted this week. Well...maybe.

♥♥Jaci

Happy Easter

2010-04-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've even had a moment to update this site - and just as long since I've had time to craft - that is, paper craft. An entire week plus without doing any sketches or anything. Oh Oh Oh! what is this world coming to? *smile. It's something new for sure. Either way, I figured since I haven't been able to post anything scrappy, I'll post some more pictures of our progress on the quilt top that I posted a while ago.

We have now completed the entire top of the quilt (yayy) and it turned out so beautifully!

It took us a while to come this far, but only because we were planning as we went along, and of course, appliquéing takes quite a bit of time.
I've also chosen to include a couple more closeup photos of various parts of the quilt...

These are the two types of patchwork we used - the braid & just mini squares (which is a border that took FOREVER because they were soo tiny and we needed lots and lots)

& here is a picture of the border that mom appliquéd.

Of course I didn't sit around watching mom as she was working on sections where I couldn't help out, soo...I ended up sewing my own quilt. Okay so sure, its only a teeny tiny baby blanket...and absolutely NOT finished yet (lol) buut I decided I needed to try out the log cabin patch before making a whole huge quilt for my bed. So far I have managed to complete 16 blocks. Since I'll need 49 in total, I'm almost half finished.

I am going to have to set it aside for quite a while now, because its Easter and I'm 'booked' with other projects. We are also going to be spring cleaning right after Easter, and then there is my cook week after the Easter holidays....so I packed everything up and will get back into it once everything is back to normal. I just hope we can manage to complete spring cleaning before the cook week starts.

Oops I almost forgot...Sally's Sponsor for this week is Stamps of Life.

There is a beautiful selection of stamps there and I would love to go shopping, but...I can't spend any more money on scrapping supplies until my stash has completely diminished. There is just no more room for anything anymore.

So drop around to Sally's Blog - wish her luck & check out stamps of life. You won't be disappointed - at least, I WASN'T!!!! Hurry now, this lasts only until Sunday!!

Which reminds me...I was going to tell you allll about my BIG win on Winnie's blog and almost forgot. *blush* The very first blog candy I've won. Gosh I'm so tickled about it!!!! Oh, and winning stuff doesn't qualify as adding onto my scrapping stash. LOL

Happy Easter everyone!
*hugz*
♥♥Jachelle

Baptism Sunday

2010-03-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

Since it is the baptism Sunday for us (Hutterites) tomorrow, I am dedicating this blog to everyone who is taking this step of faith.
May God always walk with you as you live your new life for Him. I wish you His deepest blessings today, tomorrow and always.
No matter where the road of your life will lead you, whether it is staying where you are right now, or moving a hundred miles away from family and friends, at least you can be assured that no matter where you go, you always take God with you. That is the most amazing comfort anyone could wish someone else.
No matter how life goes for you now, Jesus will always be there, marking His own footprints along yours. He will carry you over the storms of life.

The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you

Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Herr ich traue auf dich, du rettest auch mich unt machts mich nit zu schanden.

♥Jachelle

Crafting Thursday

2010-03-25T08:25:00.001-07:00

It's bound to be a fun day today. Home alone for most of the day (till my brothers/sisters come home from school that is) and within that time frame, I will be CRAFTING!! Awesome or what??
Again, this will be a progressive blog, on which I keep adding things as I do them so that I don't spend too much time on the computer at one time, but rather periodic times throughout the day. Maybe crafting today will take away my headaches. *smile. There is always that idea!!

So far, I've managed to complete one whole project - a layout. It's been a while since I've done any, so here's one! (Digi of course - which is why I really am going to have to monitor computer time today LOL)

This is for the weekly challenge on Sketches by Tamara which was a challenge on 'ten reasons why I feel lucky'. As you can see, I didn't include the word 'luck' because I don't believe in luck, but rather, I believe in blessings. Hope its okay...and if they don't accept it, well that's fine too. I now have a layout featuring myself.

Journaling Reads:
1. I can always count on someone being there for me
2. I have a home filled with love and joy
3. I have faith that guides me through every storm
4. I have the ability to scrap special moments
5. My dog, Kipper...he gives love a whole new meaning
6. I share a close relationship to my parents
7. Trust...I can always trust that things will go the way God has them mapped out
8. I able to graduate from high school
9. I am Hutterite
10. I have two brothers and two sister to whom I mean the world...and the feeling is mutual.

btw - for the record, I'm not 16, even though the photo is recent and makes me look that young. Not sure how that happened - I look young, but not that young. LoL.

Annnd here's a card I made for the challenge over at Creative Inspiration and it was designed using their sketch as this week's challenge. The greatest challenge of all was incorporating this sketch into this card - which was made using a tutorial in Sally's Creative Corner. *smile. Now you don't have to worry about having made a weird tutorial Sally. You did great, as I was able to follow it. Except I didn't make it 5.5 inches tall...more like 4.5. I'm positive I had measured 5.5 but apparently not. Oh I know...my ruler slipped. There. I have it all figured out. LOL. I'll try it again some time. I have another one cut and scored, ready to use (with correct measurements this time). Might not be today, but...meh.
Not happy with the completed product though. I'll probably tackle it again some other time and make it more...interesting. It's kind of dull right now - it needs some brightening up. & I'm at a loss of what to write into a 'child' birthday card. I'll think of something. :) Thanks again Sally. :)

A cheery Mother's Day card for my collection of cards. LOL What on earth I will do with all these cards is beyond me...but whatever. That's the way it goes sometimes. This card was done using the sketch from Mojo Monday (better late than never I always say - haha)and since I used my 'spots and dots' cuttlebug folder, it also qualifies for the challenge over on Creative Card Crew Challenge for their going dotty challenge.

And here...is an example a card made using the Sketch over on Sunday Sketch and Stamp. I love this stamp set! Isn't it awesome? Flower flourishes are so totally awesome. ☺

Have a blessed day!
♥Jachelle

Sewing

2010-03-24T15:29:00.001-07:00

It's been a couple days since I've updated my blog here, or done any 'paper crafts' so I thought I would take a minute today to write a quick note.
It seems like my headaches are coming back and I've decided to stay away from my computer to avoid them getting worse. This means less updating, and less blog hopping. I think I will have to remove a couple blogs that I'm following from my list - and just keep those that actually mean something to me. I know I don't always take the time to leave comments on certain blogs that I visit, but bear with me. I'm still getting used to this whole blogger thing.

First things first, Sally's Creative Corner is having a new giveaway this week, and this time it's really special.

As copied from her blog, here is what she has to say:

When I do a spotlight I always up until now have had product in hand to make sure that I will have the freebie to give when the spotlight is over, however with scor-pal they have opted to not send me the product, but said they will mail it themselves to the winner. The week before the spotlight I always contact the company with the write-up, letting them know their spotlight is coming up at the first of the week, however scor-pal has not acknowledge my current emails. Since I cannot afford to purchase one to give away . I am pulling the sponsorship. In place of this I have listed blog candy and it is open to everyone, not just North America. I know this is not as good as a scor-pal, but it is the best I could do.

Pop on over to her site, and tell her you don't mind that her giveaway is not what she had originally posted. She's still such a sweetie for doing this on a weekly basis. I don't think I could...really, I couldn't.

Thanks Sally!

Anyways...I should get back to my sewing machine. Mom and I are making a quilt for my sisters and she's not home today or tomorrow, so its up to me to keep on working diligently, but *blush* I haven't done a darn thing on it all afternoon!

Here's the center of the quilt, and now we're creating patchwork around it until it reaches its full length. Actually, the braided border, is an example of what I mean with 'patchworking' around it. Isn't it absolutely gorgeous??

Anyways...I'll be online tomorrow, trying to catch up on a couple challenges and sketches. :) Hope to see you then!

♥Jachelle

Crafting with cuties

2010-03-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

Its a Saturday Afternoon & I've been crafting with a whole bunch of li---actually they're not so little anymore, so I'll just say I've been crafting with a bunch of girls. They were playing outside and decided to come in so instead of them sitting around being bored, I gave them a craft to make. koolaid gifts. This was a project I made with a Stampin' Up demo once and I thought it would be neat to get the girls to make as well. They really did enjoy it!!

This little sweetie is my cousin, Amanda, with her creation. She was the youngest out of the bunch of girls that crafted at our kitchen table with me this afternoon.

& This little cutie is my 'baby' sister Becky. Becky is the one who wanted to make the calla-lilies on the cards. She loved making them. She is also, the one who is most likely to get mad if something doesn't work out her way. Needless to say, judging on the way her card turned out, it wasn't all THAT bad. *smile.

The third girl with us is Tiffany, my other 'little sister'. She's not quite so little anymore. She's already bigger than I am! Its amazing how time flies and how people change over the years. I never would have guessed that at the age of 11, Tiff would be exceeding me in height (Ha! like that's much of a challenge *blush) back when I was babysitting her as a baby. Its actually amazing - looking at photos of her today is like looking at a younger version of me. The resemblance is amazing! I will never ever doubt again, why people mistaken me for her, or her for me.

And finally, there is me with my card. Lame, I know...but whatever, I don't really care, because it was a lot of fun crafting with these sweeties and we did have a funteresting afternoon. It was an easy project and didn't need many supplies, which is a good thing. LOL If it would have needed more than it did, I wouldn't even have thought about making them...because scrapping is costing way way way too much already!

Some more photos of our fun...

Becky, Tiffany, Amanda with their project (at this point, I'm still working on mine cuz I helped them with theirs before doing mine)

& the insides of the cards....still working on mine - lol

Finally, all three of them...complete. Yep, like I said, mine is not the best work I've ever done, but that's okay. Perfectly 'kiddie' and fits in well with the Charisma Cardz Challenge - Something for the Kiddies.

Have a wonderful weekend!
♥Jachelle

Home Alone

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

My baby [blog] is now one week plus one day old. Awe, how cute, right? To celebrate this mini-milestone, I decided to participate in a whole bunch of challenges. Attaway to go, right? Yeah! I thought so too! First up is an Easter card, based on the sketch from Totally Papercrafts Challenge. Thanks Mel, for showing me how to make the flowers. :) They're adorable and the perfect asset to cards. Don't think I'll ever part with this card though...way too special (and too much work *blush*). Besides, I hate paying extra postage and with this one, I'm sure to pay that!!!

This second card is based on a couple challenges. The sketch was designed by Friday Sketchers using lots of layers. *smile. If you know me, you also know that I LOVE layers. My cards have a tendency of being 'top heavy' because of my 'layer love'. Needless to say, this sketch was right what I was looking for! Thanks! I also chose to base my card on the challenge over on the PaperPlay Challenges site where the challenge this time around is based on 'thanks or good luck'. & of course, the Dutch Dare Card Challenges site is hosting a colourinspiration challenge based on the colors of this cute little shirt.

As for allowing my creativity to flow, I also made this pistachio cheesecake (no-bake) today as a snack. It's a recipe that I'm going to file away within my 'recipes to make again' folder. Absolutely LOVED it, and so did my brothers & sisters. On the other hand, they love almost anything.

Thanks for dropping by...thanks for the challenges...thanks for the inspiration. :)
♥Jachelle

Wednesday has its moments...

2010-03-17T10:42:00.001-07:00

This is Kipper, pouting at the door because we all went shopping yesterday and left him at home. Isn't he so cute? Absolutely love his big brown eyes. They are so soulful and chocolate brown. Gotta admit, his entire heart is in those two big eyes of his. His entire expression screams with the question: 'are you taking me along with you?' and no, we didn't. He hates riding in vehicles! Maybe its because he's not used it, but he hates it. He hates getting into vehicles and he hates it when the vehicle is moving, but he still cries like a baby when we leave without him. Its not that he misses us or anything (which I'm sure he does) but he also cries like that when we have company and they leave, etc. He's different.

So yeah, our shopping trip was very successful. We found what we were looking for, and we picked up two new punches. An MS punch (mom's pick) of which I forgot the name (oops) and a bamboozled fiskar oval punch. I'm so totally officially out of cash. I have no idea where I dug up the money for this baby, but I have to say this much - I'm not going shopping for a long long time. Unless of course, someone sponsors my shopping trip. Heyyy now there's an idea. I think I need to go do some talking with a certain someone. Maybe he will. haha or not! My hunni will think I'm nuts, asking him to support my 'addiction' of buying scrapbook items.
Anyways, after shopping, we went to see some old friends. I haven't had such a fun visit with friends in a long time. Haven't been to that place since right before I turned 16 (I'm 20 now) so its been quite a few years. I really enjoyed it.
Today I've been scrapping. Haven't done any challenges this week yet, and since I have a few new goodies to play with...I'll go and enjoy it! It's new motivation!!!!

Without further ado, here's a card I made using the sketch from Mojo Monday (behind time or what?)It's a bit weird (and surprisingly enough, no glitter!) but it'll do. *smile. I don't have many 'friendship' cards and rarely ever make any, even though I have quite a few embellies and stuff that is applicable for 'friends'. So I used the sketch to create one. Like I said, its a bit wacky, but I like it. It's very 'me'.

Next card...of all the things, is a grad card. It really didn't start out as being a grad card...it just 'happened'. Originally I was going to make it an Easter card, but my 'plan' didn't get very far. Goofed big time and had to hide it. The lid fell off my mini stamp pad and yep, you guessed it -- part of my card got inked! So I added on the 'in yourself' part to cover it. This card was made using the sketch from Inspirational Card Sketches. Very beautiful sketch and very versatile - easy to work with. Thanks for the wonderful sketch!

This card is also a grad card - since I made a feminine one, might as well make a masculine one for the challenge on 'crazy4challenges'. I also used sketch 41 from Sweet Sketch Wednesday while creating this card. Love the way the colors turned out on this baby. I didn't plan on most of it - it just happened to happen. *smile. Its an overall unique card. Starting to love sketches. I never used to follow them until I joined blogger and challenges on blogger, but I gotta admit, its fun! And it helps with the creativity. Less thinking!

Last but not least, is the final card I'm uploading for today. This time its for challenge 59 (spots & dots) on Crafty Creations. Yeah I know...I could combined some challenges and gotten this card somewhere else without having to upload the extra card, but where's the fun in that? Besides, I wanted to add a Father's Day card to my now slowly but surely growing card box.

Have fun, happy crafting, and Enjoy!

♥Jachelle

laa dee daa - another week another monday

2010-03-15T12:57:00.001-07:00

After a busy weekend of cropping, I have to admit, I didn't get as much completed as I could & should have. But I guess that's the price I have to pay for laboring over each card for an hour or two (something that rarely ever happens, btw!) Normally I make about ten cards within that time frame. Okay, so sure, they are identical, but that's besides the point, eh?

This wedding card was just one of the many cards I made. *smile. Since a few of my cousins (and others) are planning on getting married this year, I decided to get a head start on making cards for them. So sure, one whole card is not much of a head start, but whatever. It's better than nothing. Besides, its a card that is going to get me in the mood for making wedding cards, so its all good.

This Mother's Day card is also special. I started out making it for my mom, but...who wants to give her a card she was sitting there watching you make? I don't. Besides, some others asked me to make a card for them to give their mother, & I'll just pass it on. Actually I'm not sure if I will. It has a coffee spot on there, and while I'm positive no one will notice it because I covered it, I still feel a little bad. Grr. I could just scream every time someone messes up my cards just because it was standing on the counter. Beside the coffee pot. LOL. Really, no one will ever see it, because its hidden behind bling, and it was such a tiny mark....oh well. At least its a little brightened up, if nothing else. I'm sure whoever gets it, will appreciate it. If not...then they don't deserve it. There. I've said it all...about this card anyways. *smile.

This is my last baptism card I'm making this year. At least I think it is. Hope...think...same difference. I've made so many of them that I've completely run out of ideas. Really, I have. *sigh. Don't you just hate it when there's certain cards you have to make, and you can't because the ideas are starting to feel 'old'? I know I do. Which is why I made this one gate-fold style. I actually love these cards. There is a lot more there to work with, and i honestly think I will be making a lot more of these in the future - that is, until I discover a new style. I still don't favor 'square' cards, so it'll be a while till I try those. For now..I'll go with traditional and of course, gate fold.

Last but not least, I thought I'd share my get well soon card. Since I don't have many on hand, and I decided I want to make a card using my 'cheery get well wishes' stamp, I made one. Another gate-fold card. I used lots and lots of glitter (obviously). I did notice however, that my camera's personality clashes with glitter and they absolutely do not get along. Which is my camera's problem, not mine, because I am not, under any circumstances, going to give up my glitter just because my camera decided to develop an attitude problem against it. Naa, I think the best course of action would be to get a new camera. Hmm...now there's an idea.

Oh Oh Oh...before I forget,
Sally's Creative Corner is Spotlighting Simon Says Stamp this week. If you love frogs, you will absolutely ADORE these stamps. Check them out! Aren't they the cutest??

Wanna win them? Check out Sally's site, and pass on the word about Simon Says on YOUR blog.

Oh and while you're passing on the word about Sally's site...pass on the word about my blog too. :D I like comments..and followers. Its getting addictive.

Happy Friday

2010-03-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Ever since Monday, we've been spending every single morning in the killing plant. Monday & Wednesday, we were butchering turkeys and those 21+ pounds require overnight to cool down, so that means we spent Tuesday & Thursday packing them. I'll refrain from detailing about the whole turkey situation, unless I wanna scare ya off, and those are definitely not my intentions!! Friday morning we de-boned five pigs - it wasn't too bad. That usually takes us an hour and it wasn't any different today. Of course we were also treated for our busy week! Tim Horton's Donuts - and mMmMmMm...was it ever good!!

Since we're free tomorrow & Sunday (no more killing plant *whew! breathes sigh of relief*) I'll be spending the weekend cropping with mom. Both of our card stashes are downsizing rapidly and we're almost out of cards. Mom more than me - I still have a bunch of birthday & sympathy cards left, but that's about all I have on hand right now.

So far, I've managed to complete this card for a challenge. It took forever to make it, but whatever, that's okay I guess! After all, its quite a prettiful card, even if I do have to say so myself. This card was made using the sketch from Friday Sketchers.

I know my photo is an extremely crappy one, buut...my camera batter is on the way out, and once its charged and back in my camera, I might change it....

I've also made this card as part of another sketch (&stamp) challenge. This time it comes from Sunday Sketch & Stamp. I absolutely loved this sketch, especially the way I was able to use it. I just hope they do realize that I kinda followed the sketch. I have a tendency of...well just NOT following provided sketches. They require us to follow the sketch to a certain degree as well as include stamping. Both of which I think I have included. Stamping - well that is not at all hard to find. The sentiment & the image. First time I ever use the image stamp and it worked well, so I think from now on, I'll use it more...

Check them out...let me know what you think! That is...if you don't think you wanna say anything cuz you don't like my style! It's up to you, though I will say...comments would be greatly appreciated! *smile!

♥Jachelle

NEW BLOG ALERT!!!!!

2010-03-11T19:52:00.000-08:00

After a ton of frustration and me getting mad at blogger, I've finally settled in...and come with a design that's actually going my way.

For the better part of today, I've been working on a template for my blog...and guess what? I created my template - exactly the way the tutorial said I should, but...as obvious evidence, it didn't work. A little peeved, I decided to heck with all of it, and just click on one of those offered templates and scratch the rest off my list of 'things to do'.

To honor my very first blog post - here's iCOPIC. A scrappin' product I have heard a great deal about and something I've always wanted. Hmm...soo...now I'm spreading the word about iCopic.

SPOTLIGHTING: iCOPIC
March 8, 2010 - March 14, 2010
About iCopic
icopic is an online retailer dedicated to providing high quality Copic products backed by superior service and affordable prices. Our huge selection of Copic products and Price Match Guarantee program make us the one stop shop for supplying all your Copic needs. With you in mind, they've designed a site that makes shopping a breeze and most orders qualify for Free Shipping! With a shared passion for stamping and art, icopic is proud to sponsor Sally’s Creative Corner, where two lucky winners will either win a

Set of 8 Copic Ciao – Manga Muted Colors + 1 multiliner Pen

or a

set of 12 Copic Glitter AtYou Spica color markers

For more information, pop around to Sally's Creative Corner for YOUR chance to win...after all, here's mine!!

Sally, imagine that! I'm honoring YOU and COPICs for my first blog entry. I dunno about you, but I'm pretty tickled about it!! haha.