I Scrap Designs

New Files

2012-01-26T21:00:00.002-05:00

Have you noticed there are new files in the store? Yep, I've been a busy bee.

Some of the files are recent converts--as in they were in my previous store but not in MTC format. LOL! Take a peek at the latest additions here.

And here are a few of the newest ones:

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

From Pants to an Apron

2012-01-25T08:21:00.000-05:00

Today, I have crafty pictures for you, but they don't involve paper. Instead, I'm showing you how I made an apron from an old pair of pants.

Please keep in mind, this is not an apron to protect one's clothes but it does provide a lot of extra pockets--6 to be exact.

The pants I used here were hand-me-down elastic waist pants. I don't wear elastic waist pants and even if I did, the elastic in these pants had rotted out so I removed it. Not counting removing the elastic, this project took about an hour.

First, pin the pants down so that the front and back parts of the waistband is straight. Then smooth out the pants so that they are as flat as possible.

When you are smoothing the pants, you can feel where the pant's pockets end. Cut the pants across in a straight line between where the pockets end and the legs of the pants begin. Then cut the legs apart.

Set one leg aside. Turn the other leg so that the ankle of the pants is pointing towards the waist of the pants. Lay it on the pants where you want the front pockets to be.

Cut off the leg along the same line as the pants. Open up the ankle part of the leg along one seam. Leave the hem and the other seam intact. This is going to form the front panel or front pockets of the apron.

Lay the front pockets panel on the pants so that the hem is pointing up and the cut edge is along the cut edge of the pants. I aligned the seam of the pockets panel with the front seam of the pants.

Turn the pants inside out.

Sew the bottom of the pants together to make a pouch. You can see I did not have blue thread for my serger. Hey, it's on the inside and besides that, this apron is for use while feeding the homeless, not going to a fancy ball. LOL!

Turn the pants right side out.

I sewed from the top to the bottom twice--once on each side of the middle seam line--so that it would be reinforced. The apron now has six (6) pockets--the two pockets that came with the pants, the two front pockets formed by the front panel, and the two pockets formed by the front and back of the pants. Set this part of the apron aside and grab the second leg. Lay it flat along the crease lines--not the seams.

Cut off a strip that is one and one half inches in from the front crease of the leg. Do not undo the hem of the pants; just cut through it. Repeat with the back crease of the leg. (Discard the center pieces with the seams.) These strips with the creases will make the strings that are used to tie the apron around your waist. Fold the edges of the strips inward towards the crease and sew along the edge. Then sew the unfinished end to the back of the waist of the apron.

And here's Ilaria modelling the apron:

with her hands in the front pockets:

and showing how deep the front and back pockets are:

That's it. A quick and easy pocketed apron from an old pair of pants.

We will be filling those pockets with toiletries for the homeless, but if you are a stand-up kind of crafter, it would also make a great place to put stuff while you are crafting. Or maybe while you are cleaning the house.

Huh? Did I just say that? Maybe I'm coming down with something. Hmm. Nope, just need to go get crafty with my paper stash.

Happy Creative Time!

Other Plans & Loving Life

2012-01-24T20:09:00.000-05:00

Thank you, everyone for your lovely comments. They made my day and I really appreciate them.

I had good intentions for a fun blog post today. I even took pictures. Then, the kids came home from school. LOL!

Seriously. They had other plans for me--like geography homework and dinner and taking friends home to beat the curfew clock.

I may not get everything done, but I truly do love my life.

I love that my kids' friends find our home comfortable enough to prefer to be here than elsewhere. That means I know exactly where my kids are, what they are doing and who they are with--and what their friends are like.
I love that our son is smart and funny and musically talented.
I love that our daughter is artistic and so deeply compassionate.
And I love being home with them so that I can help them out when they need it too.

My blog may not always be exciting and beautiful but I'm okay with that too because there is always tomorrow--when I promise I will have pictures for you.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

More Every Day

2012-01-23T14:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, here's the other secret I've been keeping:

It's really hard to work on files when the hubby is around but I don't think he's seen this one. He'll be getting it for Valentine's Day and the previous one will be his on our anniversary.

As always, I tried to make this file as versatile as possible so there are many different ways to use it.

I can't wait to get in my crafty space and use these files myself. I will be ahead of the game this year. Yay! How about you? Have you been crafty lately?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

I've Got a Secret

2012-01-19T22:04:00.000-05:00

I've got a secret. I'll tell you if you promise not to tell my hubby. Promise?

Here's one of the files I've been working on this week:

My hubby will be receiving this for either St. Valentine's Day or our anniversary. I'm leaning towards our anniversary because I'm also working on another file that might be a better fit for Valentine's. That one is not ready for show and tell just yet.

What do you think?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Page Protectors?

2012-01-18T20:11:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Heather (hrk_md) for winning the manatee trivia question and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you could please email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please take out the spaces) with your choice of free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

Yes, the closest relative to the manatee is the elephant. Isn't that interesting?

Now, for a conundrum I have been fighting lately. What brand of page protectors do you prefer?

I just bought a package that says that it is 12" x 12" but it's not quite that big so after you turn the page, it doesn't sit flat. I'd rather purchase page protectors that are truly for 12"x12" layouts rather than trimming down my layouts to fit.

So, please tell me what brands have you had luck with?

Until next time Happy Creative Time!

Our Layout

2012-01-16T20:47:00.000-05:00

Yay! The layout is now complete and in the album. Here it is:

We visited the electric power plant here where the manatees gather in the winter time. They really love the warmer waters that the power plant puts out in that channel. Even though manatees do not hang out nor travel in herds, hundreds of them will gather in warmer waters in the winter--especially when the temperatures drop.

Take a close look at the top left picture on the second page. Are you having trouble seeing the manatees in that picture? Well, that is why all motor boats are not allowed to travel quickly in waters where there might be manatees--they are too hard to spot and can be easily injured by the motor's propellers. The manatee in the top right picture was probably injured by a boat.

In the bottom right picture, there is a small black tipped shark. We also saw sting rays. Everyone seems to love the warmer waters.

Now for a bit of trivia. What is the closest relative to the manatee? The first person to guess correctly will receive their choice of a free file and all those who comment will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

More Pictures

2012-01-13T19:56:00.001-05:00

I enjoyed an amazing day today.

My hubby had today off so we made it a date day. In other words, we weren't home much but we had fun.

We went out to lunch and to Walmart too. We got some things we needed for our family and more stuff for the homeless. Last week, we were asked to take charge of the toiletries and over-the-counter medicines like cough drops. I just had to get that into an organized system that we can easily take in and out of our vehicle at the various stops we make and here at home too.

I even made a 6-pocket apron out of and old pair of pants today. I discovered how important that would be last week when the medicines were brought out for the first time. I was mobbed and the entire box was gone in less than ten minutes. Maybe, with the apron and the boxes, the supplies will go farther and will help more people.

We didn't get a chance to finish the layout of our son's Cub Scout World Conservation Award but here's the third file I used on it:

and here's another file that's in the works:

This one was requested by the hubby.

What do you think?

I hope you have an amazing week-end!!!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Pictures

2012-01-12T20:21:00.000-05:00

Wow! It feels so good to cut again. I cut and cut and cut. Well, my KNK did. I even worked on a layout that just might be done tomorrow.

I'm saying "might" because I have to rely upon the hubby to do the journaling. All that's left for me to do is adhere three elements--two diecuts and the journaling block. I hope we can wrap it all up tomorrow so I can share pictures of it.

Here are pictures of two of the three files I used in it:

Anybody want to guess what the layout is about? LOL!

The bad thing about these pictures is that neither of these are the files I hadn't cut yet. I'm still working on the images of the new files I cut today. You'll just have to come back to see those.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Time to Get it Done

2012-01-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

I've been a busy, busy mama, designer, friend, and all-around Jane-of-most-trades lately. Yet, I don't have much to show for it.

For instance, off the top of my head, I have at least six (yes, 6!) new designs that have yet to be cut but not a single picture to show. Then, there's all my previous files I've yet to update and load to the store.

Oh, and then the dishes and the laundry that seem to grow far faster than any plant around here.

Why is that? LOL!

Thank you for your well-wishes. I am feeling much better. So much so, that I will get those six files cut tomorrow. I promise. Well, I'll try, barring any other possible road block that might come my way at least. Wish me luck!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Calling In

2012-01-10T18:31:00.003-05:00

Sorry, ladies. I'm calling in sick. LOL!

I had a very rough day yesterday and even a positive attitude could not defeat the tummy yucks today.

Tomorrow will be a better day. Tomorrow will be a better day. Tomorrow will be a better day. It just has to be so!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Double Frilly Frame

2012-01-06T12:34:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my blog! I've got a lot for you today. So, let's just get down to business.

Have you downloaded the goodies for this month's Sketch Challenge at VDBC?

Pin It

My good friend, Lori of Beloved Keepsakes and I are sponsoring the challenge and not only are the sketch files free but you can win more cool prizes too. Come on over here and join the fun!

Speaking of Lori and I , did you know we're both having sales right now. It's a great time to grab a bargain so you can put that cutter to great use and be creative too. You can shop Lori's section of the store here and, of course, the I Scrap Designs section of the store is here. Happy Shopping!

Now, for even more fun:

Pin It

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. I appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire on Sunday. After that, this file will join all the other cool files in the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces, and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have now expired. Please look for this and other pretty files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at VDBC.

Thank you so very much for your support and for your comments. I treasure each one.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Perspective

2012-01-05T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's all a matter of perspective.

Today, it was warming up. Wahoo! We'll be back in shorts this week-end.

And, I've been a busy bee and moving in the right direction too.

I made a HUGE pot of homemade chicken soup. We now have a large portion in the freezer for later and still have some in the refrigerator for a few more meals.

I'm also working on several new files and uploading other files to the store too. Who knows? If I can get one of them test cut pronto, you just might see it here tomorrow.

In all, it was a good day--even if my to-do list runneth over. That's okay. There is always tomorrow.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Thanks But No Thanks

2012-01-04T20:41:00.000-05:00

Okay, which one of you decided to share your cold weather with me?

Seriously, I thank you very much for thinking of me, but where's the gift receipt? This, like that clown in the commercial, just has to go. LOL!

For us, it has been seriously cold--as in literally freezing. I know I have a true Floridian's blood now and 28 degrees F. is not that cold in the scope of things, but around these parts, that is BAD.

It's so bad that the shelters have opened for the homeless. You see, normally, they do not have a shelter they can go to overnight.

It's also so bad that the zookeepers here were worried about their penguins. LOL! That sounds ridiculous but the penguins they were worried about were from South Africa. Even though it can snow there, these penguins aren't used to it so they brought out the heat lamps for them.

Seriously, though, for all of you who are in cold country right now, you have my deepest sympathy and concern. I hope you are staying warm. For those of you in a warmer neck of the woods, when may I come visit?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Have You Heard?

2012-01-03T19:40:00.001-05:00

Have you heard there's a new challenge going on at the Visual Designs By Chris Forum?

There is and it's sure to be fun. It's a great sketch challenge sponsored by my friend Lori of Beloved Keepsakes and yours truly.

The best part of this challenge is that you get to play with paper (even if it's digital paper), be creative and, possibly win cool prizes too! You should go check it out right here.

I hope to see you there.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T08:51:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope your celebrations were safe and fun.

We are rather simple folks here. We stay home and, I must confess, some years we don't even stay up until midnight. LOL! We did stay up this year. Our kids were really excited about the neighbor's fireworks.

Me? I was on animal patrol. Our bunny was absolutely terrified and trying to chase her into her cage so I could bring her inside the house was crazy!

Have you ever tried to herd a bunny? What about a terrified one?

The experience is indescribably difficult. She kept running all over the place and hiding in the hardest spots to get into--behind the storage chest, under the grill, around and around the table, around the pool, and just about everywhere except the one place I wanted her to go. Phew! What a relief when she finally cooperated!

For New Year's Day, we had a fabulous time. We got to sleep in a little bit--all the way to 7:00. (Yay!) Then we went downtown to feed the homeless and finally finished the day with an absolutely beautiful service in our church. It doesn't get much better than that.

May your new year be filled with peace, joy and lots of creative fun!

Brrrr and More

2011-12-28T20:24:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Renae for winning the trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing. If the two of you lovely ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please take out the spaces) with your choice of free file and I'll send it out to you asap.

Yes, the 12 Days of Christmas starts either on Christmas Eve in the evening or Christmas Day and continues through the Feast of the Epiphany or the Baptism of Jesus.

Our oldest is now off to Winter Camp. I know it's probably not as cold there as where you are at but, for us, it's cold outside right now. It was in the 80's on Sunday. Tonight the low is supposed to be about 40 degrees F. Brrrrrr! Fortunately, Bryce got a 0 degree sleeping bag for Christmas. He is very happy and nice and cozy warm too.

And I'm trying to work on files while keeping our youngest entertained too. Here's the one I wrapped up today:

What do you think?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

The Christmas Season?

2011-12-26T08:04:00.000-05:00

Wow! We enjoyed a truly amazing Christmas.

And today, I just have to go shopping. I was not planning on that but our son needs another gift.

You see, yesterday, while we were out feeding the homeless, a guy asked for a pair of shoes. Nobody had any in his size so Bryce took his shoes off and gave them to the man.

Speaking of Christmas and gifts, I just can't resist one more trivia question.

When do the official 12 Days of Christmas begin and end?

Yes, Christmas is a season--not just one day. There are slightly different variations on the Christmas season according to different countries and denominations too. So, I will allow for a little bit of leeway in your answers.

The first person who answers correctly will win their choice of a free file and all those who comment will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Now, we're off to see if we can find shoes for Bryce's huge feet. If his feet don't stop growing soon, we'll be forced to special order shoes for him. Yikes!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Crash Testing & Zipping

2011-12-23T20:25:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Edwina for winning the trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you lovely ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you as soon as I can.

Yes, "Auld Lang Syne" means "times gone by" and so it is a popular song for New Year's.

I had fun with these trivia questions and I hope you did too. It was hard deciding which questions to use so, maybe I'll have to save the other questions I had for next year. What do you think?

As for my family and Christmas, it's going to be fairly simple this year. We are staying home this year and none of our family are coming to visit. It's just going to be the four of us.

We've decided we'll have our dinner tomorrow and open some presents then too. Christmas day, we'll go to church and then head downtown to feed about 125 homeless people. We are sooooo looking forward to playing Santa down there. We've got loads of pop tarts to pass out as well as hats, gloves, socks, underwear and tiny radios too. Others from our group are bringing blankets, pizza and soda. It's sure to be a blast!

Speaking of simple, our kiddos really only asked for one thing this year: a zip line.

We had one when we lived in Michigan. See:

Now, I know that trampoline is bound to bring up a few questions so I will explain it. First, we bought the house that way. Even though it is a cool idea, we can't take credit for it. How do you do get an in-ground trampoline? Well, first cut off the legs of the trampoline so they are only half the height of a normal trampoline. Then, dig a hole that is the diameter of your trampoline and half the depth around the outer circle but as deep as a normal trampoline in the center. Ours was shored up around the edges with boards and had boards for the legs to sit upon too. Then put your trampoline in the hole.

You will notice that in the video at each end of the zip line was a post to which the line was anchored.

Well, we did the same thing here except we built a platform for the one end that goes over Hubby's new shed. We didn't realize our son would become this:

See:

Here's what he did to the other post:

Obviously he's grown some since we've moved here. LOL!

Seriously, he was NOT hurt and couldn't figure out why he was sitting on the ground instead of zipping along the yard. He's actually pretty proud that he got to play the part of the Crash Test Dummy. LOL!

So, plan B was put into action. The platform is now being converted into a fort or tree house. The kids can't wait to go read books up there. And here is the zip line, safely anchored to our trees:

I think we are now the most popular hang-out place in the neighborhood. Kids of all ages--including adults--have been stopping by to play. I like that because I know exactly where my kids are and what they are doing. So, everyone is happy.

May your holidays be as joyous! Merry Christmas!

Auld Lang Syne?

2011-12-23T08:53:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to momof5 for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing.

Also, congratulations to:

Because of your graciousness in expressing your gratitude and in making my day by doing so, it was time for another random drawing.

So, if you lovely ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you as soon as I can.

Yes, Charles Dickens' most popular Christmas story is "A Christmas Carol."

Now for the last trivia question in this series:

What does "Auld Lang Syne" mean?

The first person with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file and all those who comment will also be entered into another random drawing for a free file too.

Don't forget to visit my friends Chris and Jan because I know they will have fun stuff for you today too.

Oh, and don't forget to stop by here tomorrow to see who won the trivia contest and to see what else we've been working on around here. It might even make you laugh.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Peace

2011-12-21T21:20:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to hrk_md for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you gorgeous ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

Yes, the most popular Christmas ballet is "The Nutcracker."

Now, for another popular Christmas story:

Every year, Charles Dickens wrote a Christmas story. Which was the most popular one he wrote?

Speaking of which, did you know he thought about naming a certain small character "Little Larry, Puny Pete, and Small Sam" before settling on Tiny Tim? He also had considered having Scrooge say "Bah Christmas!" instead of "Bah humbug!"

And now for my gift to you:

It is my sincere wish for you now and always.

Oh, and yes, it is a tri-fold A2 card.

As usual, while this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves.

The links to this file will expire in 24 hours. After that, it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have now expired. Please look for this and other pretty files in the

I Scrap Designs store at VDBC.

Thank you so much for your comments. I really do treasure each one.

Don't forget to visit my friends Chris and Jan too.

Peace.

Which Ballet?

2011-12-21T09:29:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Edwina for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you lovely ladies could email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of free file, I'll send it out asap.

Hanukkah does mean "dedication" or "re-dedication" and is also called the Festival of Lights. It is a celebration of a miracle, the reclaiming of the temple that had been desecrated by invaders, and the defeat of those invaders.

The reason there are so many different spellings of "Chanukah" is that trying to translate a foreign language with different sounds does not always go smoothly and easily into English and vice versa.

Now, for today's trivia question.

What is the name of the most well-known Christmas ballet?

The first person with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file and all those who comment will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Make sure you visit my friends, Chris and Jan, because I know they have some fun things for you and come back tomorrow when I will have a special treat for you too.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Happy Chanukah

2011-12-20T08:18:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Kathy Serrahn for winning yesterday's trivia contest, to Nance of Jun Bug House for her ingenuity and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If the three of you lovely ladies will e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of free file and I'll send it out to you asap.

Today is the first day of Chanukah. In honor of that, today's trivia question is:

What does "Chanukkah" mean?

The first person with the correct answer will win their choice of free file and all those who comment will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Make sure you visit my friends, Chris and Jan because I know they'll have some fun stuff for you too.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time and, above all, Happy Chanukah!

A Template

2011-12-18T14:58:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Kathy Serrahn for winning the trivia contest and to Scrapn for being the first to guess and to

for winning the random drawing. If the three of you could please email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

Kathy had the correct answer because the Bible does not tell us how many wise men or magi visited Jesus.

So, for today's trivia question, what were the three gifts that the wise men gave the baby Jesus?

The first person with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file and everyone who comments will also be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Do you remember this layout?

I made it for my father-in-law as a part of his Christmas present and now I am giving it to you. Well, not that layout but the template for it. See:

Along with the usual cutter files, I'm also including the psd versions for those who like to craft digitally.

I'd love to see what you make with this file. So, please send me pictures. Hmmm. There just may be a prize for that too.

As usual, while this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves.

The links to this file will expire in 24 hours. After that, it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces, and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other cool files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at Visual Designs By Chris.

Thank you so much for your comments. I do appreciate each one.

Make sure you visit my friends, Chris and Jan. I'm sure they'll have some fun things for you too.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

How Many?

2011-12-18T09:41:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Sharonscraps for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to

for winning the random drawing. I can't wait to hear from the two of you lovely ladies at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please). Make sure you let me know what file you'd like and I'll send it out to you asap.

Now for a bit of added trivia from my college days. Did you know that on non-standardized tests the statistics reveal the answer to multiple choice questions is "B?" That's true. It does not work for standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, Iowa, FCAT, etc. Yet, for tests prepared by teachers and some textbook publishers, if you aren't certain, guess "B."

Here's today's trivia question and, yes, I must admit that it is a tricky one:

According to the Bible, how many magi visited Jesus after his birth?

The first person who guesses correctly will win their choice of a free file and everyone who comments here will also be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Don't forget to visit my friends Chris and Jan for more fun. Oh, and make sure you come back here tomorrow too when it'll be my turn to host a free gift for you.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

A Christmas Barbecue?

2011-12-17T08:33:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Kelly S. for winning the trivia contest yesterday and to

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you beautiful ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

The question for today is:

In what country are outdoor barbecues a traditional part of Christmas festivities?

A) Canada B) Australia C) Scotland D)Belgium

The first person to comment here with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file and everyone who comments will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Make sure you visit my good friends Chris of Visual Designs By Chris and Jan of Sam & Hailey Designs because I know they will have fun stuff for you today too!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Glitzy Tree

2011-12-15T19:55:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Elizabeth for winning yesterday's holiday trivia contest and to:

for winning the random drawing. If the two of you gorgeous ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (take out the spaces, please) with your choice of free file, I'll send it right out to you.

Now for today's trivia question:

Name three of Santa's reindeer whose names begin with "D."

The first person who comments here with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file. Also, everyone who comments will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

And for even more fun, here is Glitzy Tree:

I love this file because there are no tiny pieces to adhere because it takes advantage of negative space and it comes with different liners so you can customize the colors shining through the tree.

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so very much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves.

The links to this file will expire in 24 hours. After that, it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other fun files in the

I Scrap Designs store at VDBC.

Make sure you visit my good friends, Chris of Visual Designs By Chris and Jan of Sam & Hailey Designs. They will have fun and exciting stuff for you too. And make sure you come back tomorrow because the fun will continue on all our blogs up to and including December 23.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

A Gray Snowman???

2011-12-14T21:36:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Kelly S for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you lovely ladies could email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) with your choice of a free file, I'll gladly send it out to you asap.

Now for a question that just might bring some fun memories to mind:

In the 1965 TV show "A Charlie Brown Christmas," who builds a gray snowman?

I'll even give you a hint. It wasn't Charlie Brown nor was it Linus.

The first person with the correct answer will win their choice of a free file and all those who comment will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Make sure you visit my friends, Chris and Jan. I'm certain they'll have fun stuff for you too! Then, come back here tomorrow when it's my turn to host with a free surprise for you.

Happy Creative Time!

Our Troops on Christmas

2011-12-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Margie for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to

for winning the random drawing. If the two of you beautiful ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

As for the differences between Santa Claus and St. Nicholas, here is a very good article on the subject. In short, St. Nicholas was a real person who did a lot of good things. Santa Claus is a fictional character who is based on St. Nicholas.

St. Nicholas has a special place in my heart because he provided the dowry for young women who would have otherwise been sold into slavery.

Personally, I cannot fathom being denied the love of my husband and all the other blessings I've been granted simply because my family might not have been able to provide a dowry for me. I am ever so grateful for my husband and cannot imagine life without him.

Now, for another topic that is dear to my heart, here's today's trivia question:

What river did General Washington and his troops cross on December 25, 1776?

Yes, from the very beginnings of our nation, our troops have stood watch over us even on Christmas. I am ever so grateful for them too.

If you would like to help our troops or their families, here is one charity that does just that. And if you'd like to verify the authenticity of a charity, you can do so here.

Make sure you visit my friends Chris of Visual Designs By Chris and Jan of Sam & Hailey Designs. I'm sure they have more fun and creativity for you.

Until tomorrow, Happy Creative Time!

Jolly Holiday Wishes

2011-12-12T21:28:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to lu for winning yesterday's trivia contest and to

for winning the random drawing.

If the two of you lovely individuals would e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) with your choice of a free file, I'll send it out to you asap.

Now for today's trivia question.

In the poem The Night Before Christmas, how many times is "Santa Claus" mentioned?

The first person with the right answer will win a free file and then all the guesses will also be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Here's even more fun:

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you for recommending my blog to your friends rather than sharing the file. I appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire in 24 hours. After that, it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation.)

Don't forget to visit my friends Chris and Jan to see what fun they have for you!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Let the Fun Begin

2011-12-12T06:46:00.000-05:00

Wow! I am so excited. It's finally here.

Yes, Chris, Jan and I have some fun and creative things for you over the course of the next 12 days.

For starters, Jan has a nice little free file for you today. I think you'll like it but, don't leave just yet! I have a little trivia question for you and the chance to win some fun files too.

A while ago, I mentioned that my family and I celebrate Advent. It's a time for us to focus on the real meaning of Christmas and to prepare our hearts for Jesus' coming. For this, we have an Advent wreath that sits on our dining room table. In it are four candles. For the first week of Advent, we light one candle as we pray and enjoy a family meal together. The second week, we light two candles and so on until Christmas.

So, here's your trivia question:

What colors are the candles in an Advent wreath?

The first person who guesses correctly will win their choice of a free file and everyone who guesses will be entered into a random drawing for another free file.

Now, don't forget to visit my friends here and here and make sure you come back tomorrow for some more fun and a little something special too!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Getting Ready for Some Fun

2011-12-09T20:30:00.001-05:00

Sorry, I was MIA. We had to go to church last night and we've been busy working on another homemade present for the kiddos. I'm sure it will be a huge hit for our two and the rest of the kids in the neighborhood too. I'm even betting my hubby will find it fun too. LOL! I'd tell you what it is but that would ruin the surprise. Don't worry though, I'll post pictures when it's all done.

Yet, that is not all the fun and exciting things in the works here. Make sure you come back on Monday when there will be 12 days of fun and prizes! I'm sure you will love it.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

A Challenge?

2011-12-07T21:32:00.001-05:00

Are you up for a creative challenge? I hope so because some very lovely friends and I have one for you right here.

That's right. Courtesy of the beautiful Aussie Caz, the lovely Lori of Beloved Keepsakes and yours truly, there is another sketch challenge for you. It's a great way to make some cool projects and possibly win a fabulous free file too.

So, what are you waiting for? Hop on over here and check it out.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Thanks & New Files Too

2011-12-06T19:07:00.001-05:00

Thank you so very much for your words of wisdom, kindness and support. Of course, we will continue to go feed the homeless. In fact, we already have plans to bring some friends with us on Christmas day. I know it will be fun.

I've also uploaded three new files to the store today.

Here's Hanukkah Angel:

the prize from last month's sketch challenge, Hexagon Block:

and, you probably saw this one coming:

Yep, those are the Science Fair Titles from our daughter's science experiment. We'll be cutting that file again soon when it will be our son's turn.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Making A Difference

2011-12-05T10:11:00.001-05:00

I have been mulling this post over and over for some time now. I can hold back no longer.

I've written here before that my family and I go out to the streets of Tampa almost every Sunday to feed the homeless.

Did you know that in my community that can be illegal? Unfortunately, I am not kidding. I am, however, deeply ashamed. The ordinance began as a way to stop panhandling on busy corners and somehow they quietly slipped in the feeding of homeless people on public property. And, to make it worse, they are not offering another solution or alternative. Don't our lawmakers realize these are people? Urgh!

I am also befuddled by some of the responses we get when we talk about feeding the homeless. Yes, there are a few people who excitedly want to join us. Yet, there's the kid who asked our son, "Why would you help those people? You know you are not responsible for causing them to be homeless?" There's the lady who runs in the other direction to avoid the conversation completely too. And, there's the guy who thinks we only talk about going to feed the homeless because we want praise and attention.

That couldn't be farther from the truth. We have very selfish reasons for going. We have fun and we give so little; yet, we get back so much more.

Here are just two of the comments we heard yesterday:

"Thank you for bringing your children out here. It's one thing for adults to come, but to see the kids out here gives us hope."

And then there is Miguel. I spoke to him for the first time last week. He's an elderly man from Cuba. He fled during the revolution. His family was not so fortunate. He's the only survivor.

When I spoke to him last week, I simply asked him if he needed anything and where he was from. I just got him a sandwich and a bottle of water. Yesterday, he told me that "Last week was the first time I felt that someone cared about me."

So, you see, it really is true. You never know when what you do or say can make a positive difference in someone's life.

Dove Chain

2011-12-02T14:53:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Kelly S for being the first one with the correct answeron what "Advent" means and to:

for winning the random drawing.

If you two lovely ladies would email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns@ gmail.com (please take out the spaces) with your choice of a free file andI'll send it out to you asap.

Advent does mean “coming.” It marksthe beginning of our liturgical year and it’s a time for us to prepare forChristmas and to improve our relationship with God. It also helps us keep the focus on the realmeaning of the season.

For most adults who celebrate Advent, it is a time of prayer andmeditation. For those of us withchildren, it can be a bit of a challenge but there are many ways we can sharethis season with our kids and help them learn some valuable lessons too.

And I have a special free file for you today that will help with that.

Do you remember those paper chains we made as kids? I’m referring to the ones where strips ofpaper formed the links and helped us to count down to Christmas or decoratedour trees and kept us busy too. Well,here is my twist on one of those chains.

Instead of counting days, with "Dove Chain," we can string our prayerstogether. The point is for each personin the family to add a prayer each day. These can be written on the doves or just use the mat. By Christmas, you’ll have a nice garland you canuse to decorate your tree or hang around your home.

But, "Dove Chain" can be used for other things too. It would look great as a decoration for aConfirmation party, a wedding or as a visible sign of your church’s prayerchain. For example, if a friend is inthe hospital, every person who is praying for them can sign a dove and then thechain can be included in a “Thinking of You” card.

Whether or not you use this file during your holiday preparations, it is mysincere hope that this season will be happy and peaceful for you and yourfamily.

And now for the small print. Whilethis file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog toyour friends so that they may download the file for themselves. The links to this file will expire on Sundaywhen it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, nospaces and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other fun files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at VDBC.

Thank you so very much for visiting my blog and for your comments. I do treasure each one.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Advent?

2011-12-01T19:01:00.001-05:00

Now that it is December, the countdown to the holidays has begun in earnest. I know that loads of people are extremely busy getting ready for Christmas and many of us seem to lose the spirit of the season in the process. That is one reason my family and I celebrate Advent.

So, not to add to your hustle and bustle, but I have a trivia question for you today.

What does the word "Advent" mean?

The first person who comments here with the correct answer will win a free file of their choice and, as usual, everyone who guesses will be entered into a random drawing for another free file. How cool is that?

Also, make sure you come back tomorrow when I'll describe how we celebrate Advent and have a special free file for you too!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Orcas & More

2011-11-30T20:43:00.001-05:00

I must confess that my favorite amusement park is Sea World. Every time we go, I get chills when I think about all God's marvelous creatures. I know it would be so much nicer for all the animals to be free and in their natural habitats but I also know those animals have educated loads of people too.

Anyway, here are two of my favorite pictures from our last trip there. This is just three of the orcas. Do you see the baby in the middle?

And here's that baby kissing its mama.

And if you are interested in watching some videos of the shows at Sea World, you can find Blue Horizons here with links to others there too.

Make sure you stop by tomorrow when I will have some fun things for you!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Upside Down & a Photo Too

2011-11-29T19:49:00.001-05:00

Phew! Our daughter's science fair project is now complete and two days early too! That was important because she also had to prepare a speech that was due the same day. Yes, that is done now too. She'll need the extra time to practice.

And all of this is upside down.

Ilaria is our youngest. She is in the fourth grade. Bryce is our oldest and he is in sixth grade--in his first year of middle school with more subjects than Ilaria. Yet, guess who always has more homework. Yep, our youngest. Go figure! LOL!

I'm also a bit upside down because I am waiting on pictures. I haven't had to wait on pictures in a long time and, boy, I really appreciate my digital camera and printer now! We took an underwater film camera when we went swimming with the manatees and we haven't had the chance to drop off the film yet. Gee, I hope we can find someone who will process it. LOL!

I do have pictures from our trip to Sea World but I'm just going to share just one today. Here is a picture of my mom, Ida, and my brother, Rick:

It was my mom's first trip to Sea World and she loved it. That's saying a lot. You see, before we left, she said she didn't care if we went or not because she wouldn't see any butterflies there. LOL! She loves butterflies.

Stay tuned for later this week when there will be loads of fun, games and excitement--and more pictures too! (Yep, I have some more surprises up my sleeve!)

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Good Times & A Sale Too!

2011-11-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you enjoyed a lovely Thanksgiving. Among the blessings I counted were you. Thank you very much for all your warm wishes and kindness. I truly appreciate all of you.

Our Thanksgiving was spent here at home with family and no one got hurt either. LOL! It was a very nice, calm day. Just can't ask for more than that.

Between the cooking and the eating, I even got to play with paper a bit too. Yep! New files are in the works and coming your way very soon. I think you will enjoy them. At least, I hope so.

Today, we are doing a little shopping--for just two items--and then we'll be spending the day at Sea World. My mother and nephew have never been there and they are starting their special Christmas shows along with their normal ones. It should be lots of fun.

I hope you are having fun this week-end too!

If some shopping from the comforts of home is on your list, make sure you stop by the I Scrap Designs store here. All my files, including collections, are 35% off now through Monday.

Happy Shopping and Happy Creative Time!

Neck Deep

2011-11-22T18:14:00.001-05:00

Phew! We have been so busy that we're neck deep in it.

The kiddos have the week off of school and my mother, brother and nephew are here too. We've got the week packed with fun.

Tomorrow we're going to go swim with the manatees. Thursday is Thanksgiving, of course, and Friday we were going to the Kennedy Space Center to watch the launch of the Mars Rover but, they delayed that by a day. Oh, well! It's time to make alternate plans. Fishing? Sea World? Who knows? Then, the family flies out Saturday morning.

In the meanwhile, I've been helping the family with projects. First, my brother wanted me to update his band's logo. Done. Then, Ilaria's got a huge science fair project that I cut the titles for her to assemble. Done. Finally, Bryce needed help with his flag for his Boy Scout Patrol. Done. Here's what we made:

I just love my cutter and how it comes to our rescue time and again. How about you?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

VDBC Gift Giving Guide

2011-11-18T18:54:00.001-05:00

Have you received your copy of the Visual Designs By Chris Annual Holiday Gift Giving Guide?

It is absolutely packed with beautiful ideas for your holiday crafting from cards to ornaments and so much more. In fact, it is so packed, it needed two be sent out in two parts.

Here is Part One.

Here is Part Two.

I think they are gorgeous and I hope you enjoy perusing them!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

My Sketch

2011-11-17T08:37:00.001-05:00

Ooops! I lost another day. I really was intending to blog yesterday. Sorry!

So, here's the sketch I made for the WWII Veteran page.

I had originally intended to use the ribbons where the stars are and then I switched it to the opening in the bracket but they did not fit well there. Finally, I settled on the arrangement you saw.

See, scrapbooking is like life. Sometimes you just have to be flexible and enjoy the journey.

I hope you are enjoying your creative journey.

WWII Veteran

2011-11-15T19:20:00.001-05:00

Thank you so much for your well wishes. After a doctor's visit, three new prescriptions and an hour long nap, I am on the mend. I do have to say that I love my doctor. When I told the hubby about my appointment, I think even he had to agree that my doctor is cool. But that's another story. LOL!

I promised you some more creative stuff today. Well, it's not as exciting as a free file but here is one of the projects I finished up this week-end.

We had to call my father-in-law this week-end to get some more information from him for the journaling. All the pictures I have from his military service are in black and white. Considering that, it's hard to distinguish what colors the ribbons on his uniform are but it's all sorted out now.

It was funny, though. My hubby insisted that I include the Parachute Wings and Glider Wings on the layout even though I have them on other pages for the John's book. Bryan insisted that he must be particularly proud of those two because he kept reminding Bryan about them. LOL! I think they are on three different layouts in a row now.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Sick

2011-11-14T19:58:00.001-05:00

This blogger is sick. Had this been a regular blog post, it would have been filled with fun and creativity.

Seriously, I have allergy over-load and can't stop coughing. Other than that, I'm not too bad and hope to share something a lot more fun and creative tomorrow.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of our veterans and our fine men and women in uniform, our daughter's school put on a lovely production.

The entire school spent all week learning about the different US war memorials and the sacrifices our troops have made throughout our history. Then, all the military children in the school put on a play about the memorials.

Here are a few of them reenacting the Iwo Jima Memorial:

And the younger ones as the Korean War Veterans Memorial:

Here is our daughter, Ilaria, at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial:

And here's a picture of her at the end of the production.

The school then went on to thank all the veterans by having the children take them some flowers. I am so happy that our daughter's school takes the time to teach this.

I hope you get the opportunity to thank a veteran or service member soon. I know it makes their day in a huge way!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Gifting

2011-11-10T20:00:00.001-05:00

Are you aware that the VDBC Annual Gift Guide is coming out soon?

Would you like to be featured in it?

If you have made something with one of my files and send me a picture of your project, I'll not only see what I can do to get your project featured in the VDBC Gift Guide, I'll give you your choice of another free file. How cool is that?!!!

So, please send me those pictures at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please take out the spaces). I'd love to see them!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Holiday Crafting

2011-11-08T20:03:00.000-05:00

It has been a very long time since I last posted about the album that my father-in-law will be receiving for Christmas. Here's my latest digital layout using a template of my own making:

Since the pictures were old and not in the best of shape, I purposely made the shapes of the pictures, their mats and the ribbon strips uneven or worn-looking.

Unfortunately, with the father-in-law living in Arizona, we do not have very much information about these pictures, who his buddies were, nor where they were taken. It would be wonderful to have that info. We hope to borrow some more pictures and get the stories that go with them when we visit him again.

So, what do you think about the layout?

More importantly, what projects are you working on for the upcoming holidays? I'd love to hear about them.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

A Conspiracy at the Amusement Park

2011-11-07T20:29:00.001-05:00

Either it is a conspiracy on my hubby's part or just my luck, but Hobby Lobby and I have not had the greatest relationship. I think it's my hubby's fault. LOL!

You see, I lived in Arizona for 11 years. Right after we moved from Arizona to Michigan, Hobby Lobby opened in our hometown in Arizona. Then, we lived in Michigan for 5 years. Hobby Lobby opened in town and, yep, you guessed it again--we moved to Florida.

Up until last week, the closest Hobby Lobby was about 100 miles away. Last week, one finally opened 32 miles from my home. Yay! I'd be even happier if it were much closer but at least it doesn't take a whole day to go to there.

I was so excited to get to go shopping at Hobby Lobby again. I checked out the ad and printed my coupons days in advance. I even let the hubby pick the place we would go out for lunch. Yep! I know how to plan a date day with my hubby. LOL!

Now, our son heard me talking about our little trip. He started laughing and asked my hubby "Just how can she make a trip to Hobby Lobby sound like a trip to an amusement park?"

Hey, I said I was excited!!!

Now, back to the conspiracy theory. Even though it's the hubby who makes us move all the time and deprives me of Hobby Lobby, guess who spent more money there. Yep, the hubby! LOL!

All I know, is that I am not moving any time soon--whether the hubby likes it or not!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Want a Free File?

2011-11-04T19:11:00.000-04:00

Do you want a free file? How about two?

If so, head on over here to the VDBC Forum and pick up this very awesome sketch and coordinating cutter files:

This beauty was made by my friend Caroline a.k.a. Aussie Caz. Didn't she do an amazing job? I think so.

Then, create something with Caz' sketch and come show us a picture in the VDBC Gallery. When you have done that, I'll send you this file for free:

How cool is that? It's not only a card that will fit in an A2 envelope, it can be made into a layout too.

For more fun, make sure you check out the VDBC Newsletter right here.

Happy Creative Time!

New Files

2011-11-03T20:48:00.000-04:00

Do you remember this file?

Well, I'd like to introduce you to her sisters. Here's Winter Angel:

And here is Christmas Angel:

She comes with two different title styles.

I've enjoyed playing with these two files this week. It's been so much fun that I've started our Christmas decorating early. I can't help myself. I think they are beautiful.

If you are interested in the angel sisters, you can click on their pictures to visit them in the store.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Congrats!

2011-11-02T20:30:00.000-04:00

I really enjoyed reading your guesses about our kiddos' Halloween Costumes. Thank you so much for playing along with me.

Congratulations to:

If you two lovely ladies could e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com (please take out the spaces) and let me know what file you would like, I'll send it out to you asap.

Now, I must confess that I was a bad mom Monday night. I only got a picture of one of my children in their costumes. How Bryce escaped, I have no idea.

Here is my nerd:

The bowl of candy cuts off the "I totally love nerds." on her t-shirt. As for Bryce, he was a priest. He got a kick out of telling the residents who were passing out candy "God bless you" instead of "Thank you."

Make sure you stop by tomorrow when I'll show off some new files I've been working on.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T20:59:00.001-04:00

Phew! It's been a busy night around here. We had lots of trick-or-treaters and the kids had lots of fun. Our kiddos went with several friends and Dad too. Of course, Miffy, our dog had to go for the long walk too. She wasn't too crazy about all the kids in masks but even she had fun. I'm pretty sure we all will sleep well tonight.

What about you? How was your Halloween? Did you have fun?

How about a contest? I have two kiddos: a boy and a girl. Guess what they dressed up as.

I'll give a free file to two lucky guessers via random drawing. So, what did my kids dress up as?

Hmm. Too hard? Neither of them dressed up as what they want to be when they grew up so no rocket scientists and no veterinarians. Also, the two did not dress up as related things (no salt and pepper nor paper and scissors. LOL!).

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Stay Safe & More

2011-10-28T11:58:00.001-04:00

If you are interested, "Autumn Angel" is now in the store here.

And now, I feel the need to digress from file cutting for a safety message. I think it's worth it.

This morning I was watching the local news when they pointed out a loophole in the law. It's an important loophole, especially at this time of the year.

We all know that convicted sex offenders must register with the authorities. Here in Florida, those offenders who still fall under that authority are not allowed to have access to children. This includes passing out candy on Halloween.

The problem is, even though these offenders have to remain registered for life, there are loop holes. Once an offender has finished their probation period, they are allowed to pass out Halloween candy.

You can call me paranoid if you want but there are 1,603 registered sex offenders in my county alone. There are 111 in a five mile radius of my home. Our kiddos won't be alone this week-end. As always, one of us will be walking with them for the Halloween festivities.

If you want to know who's living in your neighborhood, your local police department or county sheriff should have a link to the registry for your area. I recommend you check it out.

Until next time, Stay Safe & Happy Creative Time!

Autum Angel

2011-10-27T20:29:00.001-04:00

Look what's on the way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC:

I think she's cute. What do you think?

It's been very busy around here lately. There are three major school projects for the kiddos, belt testing, another merit badge class, feeding the homeless, and three Halloween parties for the kiddos. Except for one of those school projects, all those things are on our week-end agenda.

The big school project that's due tomorrow is Ilaria's. She had to choose a famous deceased person to do a "Boo-ography" on for school. She gets to dress up as this person and read her report to the class as part of her Fall Festival. I am so proud of Ilaria. She chose Mother Teresa for her report. I can't think of a better role model and a more interesting woman. I'll get some pictures of our little Mother Teresa tomorrow.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Congratulations!

2011-10-26T20:44:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Dev who guessed correctly and to:

for winning the random drawing. Please e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please take out the spaces) and I'll get your prize to you asap.

The emblem on the parachute is for US Special Operations Command or SOCOM for short. They are in charge of all US special forces. If you would like to see more pictures from their gallery, you can do so here. Their emblem is a spear because they are the Tip of the Spear.

Now, while they started off my hubby's work picnic, he does not work for USSOCOM. My hubby works at CENTCOM. The two commands are on the same base and work closely together, though.

Thank you for playing along with me.

Speaking of play time, there's not a lot of time left to join in on the New 2 U Challenge and the Tic Tac Toe Challenge. So hop on over to the VDBC Forum and finish up those projects.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

A Picnic, Parachuting, & Pizzas 4 Patriots

2011-10-24T17:57:00.001-04:00

Wow! We had a fun filled week-end and it started off with an awesome show. See:

That is how my hubby's work picnic began. How cool is that?!!!

Here's a close up view:

Can you tell me what the picture on the parachute symbolizes? In other words, to what group does this parachute belong?

If you can tell me, I'll give you a free file! That's right; the first person to guess correctly gets a free file and, as usual, all guessers will go into a random drawing for another free file. (I'll give you a clue. It has nothing to do with playing cards.)

I also learned something new at the picnic. It's always fun to learn something new but when it benefits our fine men and women in uniform, it just can't get any better.

Did you know that DHL brings the taste of home straight to our troops overseas and to our veterans in hospitals here? I didn't but now I couldn't be more proud of them. See:

You can support our troops too by donating to Pizzas 4 Patriots here. I know our troops appreciate it and, as a military wife, so do I! A simple gift of yummy pizza can do so much for them and knowing they get to eat something they enjoy also brings us wives great comfort too.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Want to Win?

2011-10-21T08:21:00.000-04:00

There are still two challenges up and running on the VDBC Forum. That's right and you could win some really cool prizes.

There's the New 2 U Challenge where you get to try something new, be creative and win fabulous files too! What are you waiting for? Go be creative here!

Then, there's the Tic Tac Toe game. It's a fun way to be creative and get in on a drawing for a cool prize too. Need an excuse to be creative this week-end? Well, it's waiting for you right here.

Happy Creative Time!

New Files Are Up & More

2011-10-20T20:21:00.000-04:00

I've been a busy designer. If you missed any of this past week-end's free files, they are now up in the store here.

I am also working on another pretty autumn-themed file that I hope to show off here soon.

Yet, I am afraid "soon" is a relative word. You see, our kiddos do not have school tomorrow. It's supposed to be Parent-Teacher Conference Day but our kiddos are doing so well that the their teachers don't want to have a conference with us. We also have a family picnic that is sponsored by the hubby's work.

We'll certainly have fun tomorrow but I'm not sure if cutting will be part of that fun. We'll see.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Christmas Votive

2011-10-19T21:08:00.000-04:00

Yay! The Christmas Votive is now in the store here.

I know I love Christmas but I am so partial to this file, I think I'll be making up several to give away as gifts this year. Oops! If you are my kiddos' teachers, my mom or my father-in-law, don't pay any attention to this post. LOL! Hey, I can't help myself; I really love Christmas.

And I am curious too. What about you? What is your favorite holiday? If you could receive a home-made gift, what would you like it to be?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Look What I Made!

2011-10-18T19:22:00.000-04:00

I know Halloween is around the corner and my house certainly shows it. It's my hubby's favorite holiday and our kiddos love to decorate our home.

Yet, my favorite is Christmas. I love all the sweet and sparkly decorations. Speaking of sparkly decorations, how do you like these votives?

This one is sitting on a flameless luminary.

This one has a color-changing battery operated LED light inside it. I also used a combination of colored vellum liners and permanent markers to color this votive.

Which one do you like best?

I must confess, the color-changing light is actually a Halloween light for a pumpkin. I can't wait for Halloween to be over so I can go get them at a bargain to use for the best holiday, Christmas!

And, yes, this cutter file will be in the store very soon. Here are the extra fronts for cards or tags:

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Congratulations!

2011-10-17T11:19:00.000-04:00

Yay! We have three sets of winners!

Congratulations to:

for winning my Blog Comment Contest!

Congratulations to:

for liking I Scrap Designs on Facebook!

Congratulations to:

for adding I Scrap Designs files to your Wish Lists!

Now, if you lovely ladies could please email me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) I will get your prizes out to you as soon as I can.

Thank you, Everyone, for playing along with me. I had fun and I hope you did too!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Stained Glass Snowflake

2011-10-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome! I hope you are having a blast with the Visual Designs By Chris Third Anniversary. There's still a lot of fun challenges going on here and there so, what are you waiting for?

The three challenges I have going on here are:

1) Blog Comment Contest
Yes, please talk to me. I love to hear from you. So, everyone who comments on my blog this week-end (Friday, Saturday and/or Sunday) will be entered into a drawing for a free file of your choosing.

2) I Scrap Designs on Facebook
Have you become a fan of I Scrap Designs on Facebook yet? It's quite easy. Just click on the button on the left side of my blog or this link right here. I'll be hosting a drawing of all my fans there too.

3) Wish List Giveaway
Have you added I Scrap Designs files to your Wish List? It's easy. Just register or log in to the VDBC store and click the "Add to Wish List" button on the item you like. I love this feature in the store because I get to play Santa and make your wishes come true. It's also a cool way to organize the files you would like to get but want to wait for a sale to buy. You can get in on this drawing here.

The three challenges I have going on in the VDBC Forum are:

1) I Scrap Designs Tic Tac Toe
Hop on over here to be creative and possibly win a Gift Card to JoAnn's.

2) The Scrambled Match Game
Have some fun solving puzzles here and win lots of free files courtesy of the designers on the VDBC More Team.

3) New 2 U Challenge
Try out something new and you can win files from the two newest VDBC More Team designers. The details for the New 2 U Challenge are here.

For more fun:

All my files are 40% off here now through tonight at midnight. This will be the last huge sale for this year! So, don't miss out on those bargains.

And for today's free file, I have a pretty stained glass snowflake file for you.

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. I appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire tomorrow morning when it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no space, and no punctuation)

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other pretty files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at VDBC.

Make sure you stop by my good friend Lori's blog and check out her fun challenges too. They are fun and her prizes are awesome too.

Oh, and don't forget to visit me tomorrow to see who wins some fun prizes for VDBC's Third Anniversary Celebration!

Happy Creative Time!

Turkey Card & More

2011-10-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome! I know you are all very busy with all the fun going on for the Visual Designs By Chris Third Anniversary so I'm going to make this easy.

The three challenges I have going on here are:

1) Blog Comment Contest
Yes, please talk to me. I love to hear from you. So, everyone who comments on my blog this week-end (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) will be entered into a drawing for a free file of your choosing.

2) I Scrap Designs on Facebook
Have you become a fan of I Scrap Designs on Facebook yet? It's quite easy. Just click on the button on the left side of my blog or this link right here. I'll be hosting a drawing of all my fans too.

3) Wish List Giveaway
Have you added I Scrap Designs files to your Wish List? It's easy. Just register or log in to the VDBC store and click the "Add to Wish List" button on the item you like. I love this feature in the store because I get to play Santa and make your wishes come true. It's also a cool way to organize the files you would like to get but want to wait for a sale to buy. You can get in on this drawing here.

The three challenges I have going on in the VDBC Forum are:

For more fun:

All my files are 40% off here now through Sunday night. This will be the last huge sale for this year! So, don't miss out on those bargains.

And for today's free file, I have a cute little shaped card for you.

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. I appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire tomorrow morning when it will be replaced with yet a third free file in honor of the VDBC Third Anniversary and this file will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no space, and no punctuation)

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other fun files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at Visual Designs by Chris.

Make sure you stop by my good friend Lori's blog and check out her fun challenges too. Oh, and don't forget to visit me tomorrow to get the Third Free File for this Anniversary Celebration!

Happy Creative Time!

Botanical Frilly & More

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my blog! I am so glad you stopped by to visit me today and to join me in celebrating the Visual Designs By Chris Third Anniversary. There are so many fun ways to play along with us. I hope you'll enjoy the party!

First, all my files--including my collections--are 40% off now through Sunday night! That's a hot deal and the last big sale for this year so make sure you grab that bargain now.

The New 2 U Challenge is a fun way to try something new and possibly win some fun files too. You can check that out here.

Then, there's the I Scrap Designs Tic Tac Toe creative challenge where you can win a gift card to JoAnn's. The board and the guidelines are here.

There's the Scrambled Match Game, another fun way to win free files. That can be found here.

And for more fun right here on my blog, I am hosting a random drawing of everyone who comments on my blog this week-end. So, make sure you talk to me! I'd love to hear from you.

Also, if you haven't liked I Scrap Designs on Facebook, you'll want to do that too. Yep, there will be another drawing of everyone there too.

Finally, if you have added I Scrap Designs files to your Wish List in the VDBC store, you just may find wishes really do come true.

Now, that's a lot of different ways to party! I hope you'll have fun participating. I know I am.

Yet, the party isn't over yet. Here's a little treat for you:

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so very much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. I really do appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire Saturday morning when you will find a different free file available here and this file will then be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC.

The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have now expired and this file will be on it's way to the

I Scrap Designs

store at VDBC.

Thank you so much for playing along with me and for your comments too. From the bottom of my heart, I really do appreciate you!

Happy Creative Time!

Third Challenge

2011-10-13T12:06:00.000-04:00

Are you ready to play? Have you already joined in on the fun at the VDBC Forum If not, why not?!?!?

Are you waiting for another challenge? Well, my third challenge for the Third Anniversary of VDBC is up and ready for you to play right here. I hope you have fun with it!

Also, don't forget the Wish List feature in the store. I"m so excited about this feature. I get to play Santa and make some wishes come true. So, if you want some of your wishes to come true, make sure you let Santa know what you wish to receive by adding I Scrap Designs files to your wish list.

And don't forget to come visit me Friday, Saturday and Sunday to grab some extra free goodies too.

This is going to be so much fun!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Number 3

2011-10-12T20:03:00.001-04:00

Wow! Who knew so much about the little old number three? Here is just one article on the number 3. Interesting stuff.

Yet, what is more fun and interesting than that? You've guessed it. The Third Anniversary of VDBC for which I will have 3 sets of fun.

First, there's the 3 challenges I'll be offering:

New 2 U

Tic Tac Toe

and the Scrambled Match Game (that will be posted tomorrow).

Second, there are three ways to win free files:

By commenting on my blog posts this week-end

By liking I Scrap Designs on Facebook

By adding I Scrap Designs files to your Wish List here.

Third, three (yes, 3!!!) free files will be offered here on my blog. One on Friday, one on Saturday and the third on Sunday.

So, are you excited yet? Have you added these things to your to-do lists? Hmm. Maybe you should just clear your calendar. LOL!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Hints and More

2011-10-10T18:54:00.000-04:00

I've been talking about the VDBC Anniversary Party and I know it's exciting. Yet, are you getting ready?

Seriously, have you updated your Wish List? Hint! Hint! If you haven't, maybe you should. Hint! Hint! Hey, you can even start here.

Here's another challenge that you can get a jump on now too:

Yep, there is a new challenge going on already. Hey, I'm excited too and I just couldn't wait any longer.

So, hop on over here and check it out!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

New Files & More

2011-10-07T07:33:00.000-04:00

Like many of the VDBC designers, I've been very busy working on new files and a few challenges for the Anniversary Party. It's going to be so much fun!

Here's one of the files I've been working on:

Woops! That's not one file; that's eight files. Well, here's one:

and the extra pieces that come with it:

There are more new files in the works, but I know how much you like surprises so I'm saving them for later. LOL!

One of the games you'll get to play is the Scrambled Match Game. Hmm. I wonder what that is about?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

He Won!

2011-10-06T10:49:00.003-04:00

Wow! We are still so surprised and excited.

Bryce won this contest:

He's going to receive "a limited edition robotics merit badge launch patch, robotics merit badge that flew in space on the Endeavour STS-134 mission, an official Endeavour STS-134 mission patch, a photo of the shuttle crew and a certificate of authenticity."

Here's a picture of Bryce and his robot:

The boys had to physically construct the robot and program it to perform certain tasks. It was all very cool.

So, for him to win this contest is a great big surprise and definitely something for the scrapbook.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Different Perspectives

2011-10-04T19:35:00.001-04:00

Have you ever been to a newbie's violin recital? Have you heard someone who's never played a violin before give it a try?

I have. Um. From my perspective, to put it politely, it's not quite what most people would call music but more like screeching and squawking mixed with music. LOL!

Well, that is exactly what I expected to hear when my son invited me to his orchestra concert last week.

You see, he and his classmates are in what is called "The Wheel" where they get to try out elective classes for 14 days. His first two weeks was in a class that was for college prep--to learn the organization and study skills needed for college. Now he is in Orchestra. Next is the Technology class where they design a rocket, a paper airplane which they use in a competition, etc. Once they have experienced each class, they then choose their elective for the rest of the school year.

So, Bryce and his classmates (about 25 of them) had played their violins for exactly 13 days. Let me tell you, I was astounded. I had heard good things about his teacher--from every employee where my kiddos take music lessons--but, I think they were not giving an accurate description of the teacher's skill.

They played about 6 different songs and each one was recognizable with not even one screech nor squawk. In fact, I heard only one mistake in the whole thing and that was when one kid started to play too soon. I was amazed.

Here's Bryce for his solo:

and here is the teacher:

Now, to give you an added touch of perspective. That is the same woman that Bryce told me was an old lady. LOL!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Even More Blessings

2011-10-03T19:32:00.000-04:00

If you have been reading my blog for a while now, you know that two years ago, our daughter, Ilaria, had a school show and tell assignment. She immediately brought the most precious things she owned and they were stolen during a late-night break-in at the school. She was devastated. Yet, she was then uplifted and blessed by the kindness of a total stranger who we later learned was Mr. Charlie. You can read more about those experiences here, here and here.

Well, it turns out Mr. Charlie makes a habit of blessing people and we were fortunate to join in on his fun this past week-end.

Not only does Charlie make a weekly visit to the county jail to minister to the youth there, he started his own homeless ministry. He's named it Kay's Ministry in honor of his mother. Every Sunday, he drives into downtown Tampa and shares the Good News and then feeds and clothes the homeless.

We were so excited to hear about Kay's Ministry because the shelter where we used to volunteer had closed and even more excited because we just knew if Mr. Charlie was involved, it had to be good. There is no center, though. Mr. Charlie makes the rounds of 4 parking lots and feeds about 80-100 people every week.

Here's a picture of Mr. Charlie sharing:

And here's one of Ilaria passing out cookies:

And one of Bryce passing out religious items:

The man in this picture was so sweet. It was his birthday this past week and he was just so happy to get a simple ham sandwich.

I'm also pretty proud of our kiddos. They are normally shy. Yet, while we were out there, they had no problem jumping in and helping out wherever they were needed. They even want to bring some friends next week.

I am so grateful that Mr. Charlie continues to bless our children and so many other people too.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

World Cardmaking Day

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

In honor of World Card Making Day, I'm posting some of my favorite cards I've made. Honestly, it was very hard to choose just 10. Yet, for you, I agonized over it and chose these:

(Click on the picture to see "So Old" in the store.)

"So Old" is among my favorites because I made it for a good friend of mine. We met on the first day of first grade and have been friends ever since.

And along those lines is another one of my favorites:

(Click on the picture to see "Oldometer" in the store.)

"Oldometer" is just funny and, well, there's this long-running joke between my husband and a friend of his.

Here's another birthday card.

(Click on the picture to see "Birthday Confetti" in the store.)

"Birthday Confetti" ranks among my favorites because it is so easy to make and it just looks like fun.

And I like this one

(Click on the picture to see "Lacey Star Card" in the store.)

because it can be used for a birthday but my vision was to use it to thank our Veterans and well, they deserve all our thanks and so much more.

I also like this card

(Click on the picture to see "Notched Glass Card Front" in the store.)

because it can fit so many occasions. With this file, I used a different color scheme to make a Father's Day card for my hubby.

This one is not only cute, it's fun.

("Straighten Out" will be in the store soon.)

And, I like it because it will help to cheer up someone and we all could use a little more of that now and then.

Christmas is my favorite holiday. So, it's really hard to choose my favorite Christmas cards.

This is one of may favorites because it has a special place in my heart.

(Click on the picture to see "Ornery Stinker" in the store.)

It's one of my early files and I still use it every once in a while. It just makes me laugh.

And this was my first long card:

(Click on the picture to see "Long Christmas Card" in the store.)

I love the impact of these long cards and I've sent several of each version.

This one is fun and easy too.

(Click on the picture to see "Snowman Card" in the store.)

I like how easy it is to make and how much fun it is to receive.

And for another fun shaped card, I love this one

(Click on the picture to see "Happy Halloween Card" in the store.)

because it's very unusual to have a spider web shaped card and the pieces can be used separately too.

Now, for more fun, please visit my other friends to see what goodies they are showing off today.

Chris' Blog

Ginger's Blog

Lori's Blog

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

In The Works

2011-09-30T20:11:00.000-04:00

Lots of exciting things are in the works right now--so much so that you'll have to come back tomorrow for a special edition post.

So, some of the fun things in the works include the newsletter, a New 2 U Challenge, new files and some other fun games and challenges for the VDBC Anniversary.

Are you getting excited? You know those things come with sales, prizes and free files too, don't you? Doesn't that sound like fun? I hope so.

Don't forget to come back tomorrow!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Last Call!

2011-09-29T18:52:00.002-04:00

Now is your last chance to participate in my first VDBC Newsletter Challenge! So, where is your project? I'd love to see pictures.

Hop on over here and take care of business. You'll earn this file free just for sharing:

I can't wait to see your creativity in action!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

I Was Robbed

2011-09-28T07:57:00.001-04:00

Why didn't they tell me they were going to rob my day of 3+ hours? Seriously. I don't mind giving up three hours here and there but when I have fun stuff in the works and it's a school night with picture day the next day, well, I could have been doing other things--like blogging.

So, there you have it. I didn't blog last night because I wasn't expecting our son's Court of Honor for Boy Scouts to take so long. It was fun, though. Bryce was awarded his Tenderfoot rank and 10 merit badges too. Yes, 10! He was supposed to receive 11 but somehow the Reptile Merit Badge slithered away. He'll just get it next time.

Now, I've got to get back to that to-do list so you can have some fun too. What do yo think? Will it be worth the wait?

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

An Intruder

2011-09-26T18:53:00.001-04:00

Wow! We had an exciting week-end. What about you?

First, let me say that all of us are safe. We're a bit perplexed, but we're fine.

We're also very security conscious. When both of your hubby's jobs involve defending and protecting our country, well, that mindset carries over to your personal life.

We never advertise when we're going to be away--not even when just some of us will be gone. So, with that said, why is it that almost all my "adventures" happen when the hubby is gone?!!!

So, the guys went camping with the Boy Scouts while we girls stayed home. For girl-time, Ilaria and I were watching a dvd. Dabra, our rabbit, had had enough of the air conditioning and wanted to go outside into our pool enclosure where she can get out of her cage and be free. So, I had Ilaria move her cage outside. If you haven't seen our pool screen room, here are some pictures.

Now, Ilaria was very into the movie and she forgot to open Dabra's cage. Normally, this would hack the rabbit off but, this time, it was a very good thing.

Shortly after Ilaria put Dabra's cage outside, our masked intruder made his appearance. Here's a picture of one of his relatives:

He had found the dog door in the screen and was approaching the dog door that opens into the house!!! As soon as I jumped up to turn on the light, he took off running.

Knowing that raccoon's can carry rabies and can be mean little things when they are cornered. I wouldn't let Ilaria go outside. Instead, I did what any startled woman would do, I told her to go get me the baseball bat. LOL!

Hey! It was dark outside and I didn't know if the raccoon was still in our pool enclosure! I knew I had to go outside to open the regular door just in case the raccoon was still in there. So, armed with my best flashlight and the heaviest baseball bat we own, I peeked out the window and very cautiously headed outside.

I don't know what I would have done had that raccoon came at me! Fortunately, I did not have to find out. I searched the whole screened room--behind the grill, in the pool, in the hot tub, behind the chest of pool toys and accessories.

No raccoon! Phew!!!

But . . . that means he was smart enough to not only get in the dog door but out as well. We're so lucky he didn't come into the house!

Hmm. Why was he in there in the first place? How many times has he visited us and we didn't even notice?

My hubby thinks his visit is another example of inter-species dating. LOL! Me, I'm not so sure. What I do know is that the dog door into our house will be blocked and locked every night. Our bunny now sleeps in the house too.

But my "adventure" doesn't end there.

Hubby was gone for two nights and, wouldn't you know it; the raccoon came back the second night!

Yes, I had my baseball bat handy. LOL! It must be a really scary bat because our masked intruder ran out the dog door immediately.

So, yes, we're thankful we are all safe and the hubby is not allowed to leave me home alone any time soon, bat or no bat.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

So Very Exciting!!!

2011-09-23T18:52:00.003-04:00

Wow! What an exciting time!

Here's what I made for the VDBC Newsletter Challenge:

It's still going on and you can not only get in on the fun but get this fun file for free too:

Hop on over here to check it out and then, make sure you stop by and visit another good friend of mine, Jan.

Yep, Jan of Sam & Hailey Designs has some very exciting things going on too. I'm sure you're going to love it. Make sure you tell her hello from me!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

An Art Scholarship?!!!

2011-09-22T21:02:00.000-04:00

I am so excited tonight! Ilaria, our daughter, came home from school today with a permission slip. Yet, this wasn't the typical permission slip.

Her art teacher submitted her for a scholarship to an art class at the Center Place and she got it. While Ilaria has always been interested in art, we were very surprised at this opportunity because we didn't know anything about it.

We're so excited for her. She'll get to take a watercolor class there and, according to her art teacher, there will only be 7 or 8 kids in the class.

Hmm. I wonder if they would mind me sitting in on . . . um, I mean volunteering in the class with her. LOL!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Re-intro

2011-09-21T13:52:00.001-04:00

It occurred to me that I have new readers who may not want to retrace all my posts here and so I should take a moment to re-introduce myself.

I am Ileana, a military wife and a stay at home mom who doesn't get to stay at home much. My amazing husband and I have two kids, a 6th grade boy and a 4th grade girl, and a house full of pets who keep us busy.

I'm the chief taxi driver for music lessons, Tae Kwon Do, school and whatever else they can fit in. Oh, yeah, I forgot scouts and I'm sure there's something else too.

We're also very active in our church. My husband and I are involved in three different ministries there. One of those starts up again tonight. The kids call it Church School because explaining why we have Sunday School on Wednesday night gets complicated. Lol!

Between all that, I try my best to design fun and creative cutter files. I hope you enjoy using them.
Speaking of cutter files, today is your last chance to get my files at 50% off this year.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

New Files and Last Chance

2011-09-20T19:17:00.001-04:00

Wahoozles! I have two brand spanking new files in the store.

Do you want a peek? I was thinking of making you guess but I just can't stand the excitement myself. LOL!

The funny thing is they aren't even similar. See:

IR00331 Cross Votive

IR00332 Little Monsters

Do you want them? I suggest you go get them now because the 50% off sale ends tomorrow night at midnight. Yep. It's your last chance to grab a huge bargain as I will not be having another sale this big this year.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Another Winner and More

2011-09-19T20:45:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to:

You have just won your choice of a free file! Thanks for liking I Scrap Designs on Facebook. If you could please e-mail me at iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com or ijr41ug @ yahoo.com (please take out the spaces) and let me know what file you would like to have, I'll get it to you asap.

There is still time to get in some creative time and complete the Newsletter Challenge here! I'd love to see your pictures. It scores you another free file and the chance to win yet one more. It doesn't get better than that!

As for me, I'm going to put the finishing touches on a couple of brand new files and then I'm going to make something for the Newsletter Challenge too. Why should you get all the fun? LOL!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Moving Celebration

2011-09-16T08:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my blog! To celebrate my recent move to join The More Team at Visual Designs By Chris, I'm having a huge party today with a huge sale and the opportunity for you to get three (yes, 3!) free files.

There are more than 100 files now uploaded to the I Scrap Designs store right here and they are all on sale. This is a HUGE sale and the last time this year that my files will be on sale for 50% off. That's quite a bargain so make sure you check them out.

Now, for more fun! First, there's this Big Frilly Corner

I designed this for an A2 card but you can use it on anything. This file is in the Visual Designs By Chris Newsletter.

Then, I am running a challenge in the VDBC Forum that is based on the Big Frilly Corner. Basically, if you use the free file from the newsletter, and share a picture of your project, then I'll send you the Big Leafy Corner for free.

Best yet, here is Frilly Edge:

This file was also designed for an A2 card but it can be resized larger and it can be used on anything as well.

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. I really do appreciate it.

The links to this file will expire on Sunday. After that, it will be on its way to the I Scrap Designs store at Visual Designs By Chris. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation).

Sorry, these links have expired. Please look for this and other pretty files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at www.visualdesignsbychris.com.

Do you want a chance to win yet another free file? Click on the Like I Scrap Designs on Facebook button on the left of my blog or here. That will keep you updated on the fun going on and enter you into a drawing to win another free file!

Thank you so very much for your comments. I cherish each one! If you prefer to chat via e-mail, please feel free to contact me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Also, thank you for joining in on my Moving Celebration. I am so grateful and so excited to be a part of The More Team. I think it's going to be great fun. I hope you do too.

Until next time, Happy Creative Team!

Tricky Dog Show

2011-09-15T20:35:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, you just have to do things to make those around you happy. Tonight was one of those times.

Our daughter has been begging and begging to go to the Tricky Dog Show. Her school's PTA sponsored it and, I have to admit, it was cute.

Here's the daredevil, Lucy in her crash helmet and her "pilot" the monkey:

And you can see more pictures here.

It was a cute show. The kids all had fun. Ilaria was a very happy girl and I think it was great that each of the six dogs were pound rescues.

Tomorrow, it's back to the fun cutter file stuff! I promise.

I'll have a pretty free file here and there will be a matching one in the VDBC Newsletter. I can't wait. Can you?

Until then, Happy Creative time!

I've Moved!

2011-09-14T16:11:00.000-04:00

Wow! I am so excited to announce that I am now up and running with more than 100 files in the I Scrap Designs store at Visual Designs By Chris.

To make that even better, all my files are currently on sale for 50 % off through September 21. The sales price will be reflected once you put the item you want in your cart.

Now, I still have many more files to upload so if there is something you were waiting to get and it's currently not in the I Scrap Designs store at VDBC, just e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) and I'll move it to the top of my to-do list.

Oh, and if you have not signed up to receive the VDBC Newsletter, you really should! I've got a really pretty free file all wrapped up and ready to go out to you via the newsletter. So, sign up here.

You want a sweeter deal than that? Well, stay tuned here for a matching free file and there will also be a fun challenge at the VDBC Forum where you can get yet another free file. That's three (yes, 3!) free files in a very short amount of time. It doesn't get any better than that!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Moving Day Approaches

2011-09-13T18:23:00.003-04:00

Please pardon my dust and moving boxes while I burn the midnight oil tonight. I am so very excited about tomorrow but I have lots of things to do tonight.

Unfortunately, my to-do list never gets shorter by talking about it. Does yours?

Check back tomorrow when I promise I will have exciting things for you.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Congrats!

2011-09-12T11:57:00.003-04:00

Wahoozles! Congratulations to:

for winning the I Scrap Designs on Facebook contest. Renae, please e-mail me at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please take out the spaces) with your choice of free file and I'll get it out to you asap.

If you didn't get a chance to get in on the contest, never fear. I will do it again soon. So, yes, there's still time to click on that like button on the left side of my blog.

And, I am one step closer to being up and running at VDBC. It won't have fun goodies there yet but you can check it out here.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Never Forget

2011-09-10T21:44:00.000-04:00

Several weeks ago, every news organization started interviewing and writing articles about people's perspectives of 9/11. I read one about a boy who is turning 10 today, on the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country.

Unfortunately, this article just did not sit right with me. He stated that 9/11 "was no big deal to me."

What?!!!

I know this young man was too little to remember life before those terrorist attacks and he didn't know any of the people who died that day nor in the wars to follow.

My own children were 3 months old and 2 years old at the time of the attacks. They do not have their own memories of the attacks because they were too little too.

Yet, my husband and I have done our best to raise them right because 9/11 was and still is a big deal. It's a tricky balance--to teach them about that day and the war on terror without scaring them--but it's important.

All the people who died that day and all the troops (both US and our allies) who have made the ultimate sacrifice since then deserve that much. So, as for me and my house, we will never forget.

While this file is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they may download the file for themselves. These links will expire on Monday. After that, it will be available at my new store site at Visual Designs by Chris and The More Team. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces and no punctuation)

Sorry, these links have now expired. Please look for this and other great files in the

I Scrap Designs

store at VDBC.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

A Really Big Day!

2011-09-09T12:29:00.000-04:00

Today is a really bigday here.

It’s our son’sbirthday. It’s his last year as a “kid” for next year he will be ateenager. Eeek! He’s very excited. Tonight, he wants to go toa neighbor’s house to watch a movie outside on a big screen they have. So, tomorrow, we’ll be taking him out to lunch and then next week-end, we’llhave a pool party for him. He can’t wait.

It’s also a big daybecause it’s time for me to share my big news. So, here goes . . .

I am so very excitedto announce that I Scrap Designs is moving.

I am not quitting; Iam having too much fun to do that. Also, you’ll still find fun stuff hereand free files too.

Speaking of fun stuffand free files, the “Like I Scrap Designs Contest” is still open. Clickon the Like I Scrap Designs on Facebook button on the left and you’ll beautomatically entered into a random drawing for a free file. Also, makesure you stop by on Sunday. In honor of 9/11, I’ll be having a specialpost and a limited time free file too.

As to where I ammoving, I do not have a link ready for you, but by this time next week, I willbe up and running here.

It’s going to be agrand adventure. I hope you will join me in the fun.

Until next time, HappyCreative Time!

Another Contest and Another Day

2011-09-08T20:23:00.000-04:00

As much as I would like it to be, today is not Friday--not here at least. So, the big announcement will have to wait just one more day. Tomorrow, I promise. So make sure you come and visit me then as I have exciting news to share with you!

Speaking of exciting, how about another contest? Did you notice the new I Scrap Designs on Facebook button over on the left side of my blog?

Well, I hope you will "like" me because I will be holding a random drawing of everyone who does. That's right. Like I Scrap Designs by Sunday and you'll have a chance to win your choice of a free file.

Besides that, you'll get important updates and more fun stuff through my Facebook page. Best yet, it's easy and free. So, what are you waiting for?

Oh, I know, my announcement. Well, you'll hear about that both here and there tomorrow!

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Sour Melon Part II & ???

2011-09-07T21:15:00.001-04:00

Here's a picture of what we were told is a sour melon:

It's also called a bitter melon and, as it turns out, we have a variety of them growing all over our back yard. It's a pretty vine that has pretty yellow flowers. Our rabbit loves to eat the vines and the squirrels eat the sour melons before they are bigger than a quarter. Go figure! We've had them here all along and didn't even know it. LOL!

I also have a big surprise announcement coming up for you on Friday. Hmm . . . Today is Wednesday. Friday is two days away. Can you stand waiting that long? Can I stand waiting that long? Hmm . . . I guess we're both going to have to see.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Big Leafy Corner and a Sour Melon

2011-09-06T11:38:00.000-04:00

Wahoozles!

I have finished my entry for the Make The Cut (MTC) Fall Swap and I didn't procrastinate one bit. LOL!

Do you want a peek? Good. Here it is:

I designed it to be a big corner for an A2 card. I haven't finished the card yet but I can tell you this file cut like a dream.

As for the rest of our long week-end, it was great. I designed and cut a few files. We went to the beach, ran a few errands and even picked up a sour melon at our favorite farmers market.

My hubby likes to try strange new things. He really enjoys getting the kids to try them too. So, it was his idea to buy the sour melon. He asked the lady at the market how to eat it. She just shrugged her shoulders.

So, he brought the melon home, washed it and cut it up. Right after that, I heard, "YUCK! It tastes like a spider web!"

I laughed and asked him just how he knew what a spider web tastes like. LOL! I then got online to research the sour melon for myself. It turns out, it's not really a fruit but more like a bitter vegetable. We won't be buying any more sour melons, but hey, it was worth a try.

I hope you had a great week-end. What kind of fun did you have over the long week-end?

Happy Creative Time!

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-02T07:29:00.001-04:00

Welcome to my blog. I'm so glad you stopped by for a visit.

Here in Florida, we went back to school two weeks ago. It's hard to think autumn when it's 93 degrees and still as humid as can be. When I was a kid, school never started before Labor Day. It was always the end of summer. I know at least one state where the law states just that. No school can start before Labor Day.

So, to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, here's "Back to School House:"

While it is offered freely here, it is still governed by my Terms of Use. Thank you so much for recommending my blog to your friends so that they get the download for themselves. The links will expire on Sunday. After that, it will be on its way to the store. The password is iagreetotou (no capitals, no spaces, and no punctuation) and here are your links:

Sorry, these links have expired. This file is now on it's way to the
I Scrap Designs
store.

I hope you have an amazing week-end.

Also, thank you so much for your comments. I appreciate them very much. If you prefer to e-mail me, please feel free to do so at ijr41ug @ yahoo.com or iscrapdesigns @ gmail.com (please, take out the spaces) and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Exciting Stuff

2011-09-01T19:46:00.000-04:00

I have some very exciting things in the works for you. One of them is a free file that's all zipped up and ready to go to a computer near you. That will be for tomorrow though. The rest . . . well, I'm sorry, but you'll just have to wait and see.

Until then, Happy Creative Time!

Tired

2011-08-31T21:01:00.000-04:00

I have just had the idea of the world. It would make millions and millions of dollars. An invention that will streamline meetings so they aren't so long and painful.

I know you are laughing but I also know you have personally experienced that pain at one point or another in your life. LOL!

We went to our annual Sunday School on Wednesday Night training meeting tonight. We got our materials for the year and are set to start next month. The class will be fun and we're looking forward to it.

Yet, that meeting wore me out. Isn't it funny that meetings tend to do that too? LOL! Hmm. Maybe I'll need to make two inventions.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Mamie's Recipe

2011-08-30T21:45:00.000-04:00

Okay, it's not really a recipe. It's just a set of ingredients and general instructions.

Hey, the meal doesn't even have a proper name. Mamie always called it "Salisbury Steak" but it's more like "Stuffed Green Peppers" without the stuffing part. So, I guess I should call it "Un-Stuffed Green Peppers."

For this, you will need:

onion--sliced but do not separate the rings
an egg or two
hamburger (I've never tried this with ground turkey but I don't see why you couldn't use it.)
rice (regular or instant)
tomato juice (not sauce, not paste, V8 is okay)
one green pepper (more if you like cooked peppers and red ones are okay too)
a deep round pot or roaster (I've cooked this both in the oven and in the crock pot. I suppose you could use a different shaped pot. Mamie used a round one. I've got a round one. Hey, it works!)
potatoes and other veggies (We always had fresh green beans or corn on the cob with this meal.)

Cover the bottom of your pot with the onion slices. It's okay if it's not covered completely.

In a bowl, mix the hamburger, egg(s) and rice. You can add salt, pepper, and garlic if you want. Form a round meatloaf and place on top of the onions.

Clean the green pepper and slice into strips. Push these into the meatloaf all the way around the meat so that they are "hugging" the meatloaf (not sticking up in the air). You can add fresh tomato wedges too if you want.

Pour tomato juice over the meatloaf. If you want a "gravy" for the potatoes, be generous with the tomato juice.

Bake or cook in the crock pot.

Steam the potatoes. I leave the skins on for this meal and just smoosh them with a fork and then pour the "gravy" from the Un-Stuffed Peppers on top.

For the best "fresh summer" meal, serve with your favorite summer vegetables.

There you have it. I hope it makes sense.

I also hope that tomorrow goes better than today did. I got a nail in my truck tire and even though it was covered under our warranty, it still was not fun. But, hey, I can't complain; I didn't have to fix it myself! LOL!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

The Beach, a Pencil and Mamie's Dinner

2011-08-29T14:21:00.001-04:00

Thank you all for all your well-wishes. I had a 4 day+ migraine and it got the best of me by Friday. It's all good now, though.

I hope all of you are safe and dry and that Irene didn't mistreat any of you too badly!

As for what's going on around here lately, Dad took our two and a whole slew of neighborhood kids to the beach on Saturday. (I stayed behind to catch up on things around the house--nothing exciting, but things that needed attention, nonetheless.) Everyone had a blast at the beach. Of course, they are paying for it now. Guess who didn't reapply the sunscreen? LOL!

Sunday, we finished up the chores and enjoyed a very nice evening at our church. We had a visiting pastor who talked about a pencil. It was pretty good. He said that a pencil manufacturer would tell each pencil as he was boxing it that there are four important things it needed to know.

The best of you is what is inside.
As you go through life, you will be sharpened and honed. Those experiences will improve you.
If you don't let someone else (God) have control of your life, you will make a mess of it.
You must make a mark on the world.

Then we came home to dinner in the crock pot. I made a meal that my grandmother used to make during the summer. It was delicious. The only thing that would have made it better was having fresh vegetables from my own garden with it (Yet, I don't garden. LOL!) and having my grandparents here with us to enjoy it too.

Hmm. I guess it's time to put that recipe in the scrapbooks too. The problem is, there is no recipe. Mamie (my grandmother) always cooked by her senses--a little bit of this, some of that, etc. But it always turned out right.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

Hibernating

2011-08-26T07:49:00.000-04:00

I am not feeling my best today. Sorry, but I am going to hibernate until this passes. Don't worry though, I will be back soon.

Until then, may your week-end be better than mine is starting off to be and Happy Creative Time!

A New Hero

2011-08-24T18:17:00.000-04:00

I have a new hero today. She's not replacing my other ones. She's just joining good company.

My new hero is my daughter's school principal! And, boy did she impress me today!!!

For those of you who are new to my blog, I live in the Tampa, Florida area. While it has never officially reached 100 degrees here, it is very hot and humid from May through September and into October. Today, it was 93 with high humidity when I went to pick up Ilaria from school.

As always, I arrived early enough to actually be in the school parking lot rather than waiting on the street. Unfortunately, the heat was too much for my husband's battery in his Jeep. Yep, when it came time to pull forward to pick up our daughter, the Jeep wouldn't start.

The kind man in front of me tried to jump it--to no avail. So, plan B was to walk home and wait for the hubby to get home from work (he takes the bus) so we could go buy a new battery. Yet, I wasn't sure the school's parking lot would still be open by then since they lock it at night.

Wouldn't you know it, the first employee we came across was the principal. Not only was she nice and helpful; she drove us home!!! Yet, the story doesn't end here.

The funniest part of it was that while she was driving, we were chatting about the drivers around the school and the children going home. Low and behold, we came upon the two kids who scare me on a regular basis.

There are two brothers here who not only don't wear bicycle helmets (a law in this state), they don't use common sense when it comes to their own safety. Among other things, the oldest of the two (a 3rd grader this year) would play chicken with my truck.

When I told her this, she followed them home to take care of business.

Yep, I definitely have a new hero!

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!

First Day! Yay!

2011-08-23T20:52:00.000-04:00

My kids LOVE school! I know; I am so fortunate. Even liking school is half the battle. When your kids LOVE school, life is a whole lot easier.

This is especially true on the first day of school. Both of my kids hit the floor--at the same time--with their feet running. Both of them were ready to do in a speedy fashion and begging to go to school early.

We even had plenty of time to take lots of pictures--and both kids actually smiled!!!

Here's our daughter:

I have to laugh at this picture. When she was little she LOVED Sesame Street. The whole world stopped when Elmo's World came on. Then, for YEARS, Sesame street wasn't cool anymore. Now, that she is in the fourth grade, it's cool again. Go figure! LOL!

And here's our oldest:

He had a good day in middle school and I'm sure he managed great without us. At least he didn't say anything went wrong. LOL!

And me? I have to admit that the house was very quiet and I got a lot of work done around here. So, it's all good.

Until next time, Happy Creative Time!