Craft-O-Maniac

{Valentines Shelf of LOVE}

2012-01-27T22:21:00.000-08:00

.... and since when

did I say I was done decorating for Valentines? HE! here is just one other spot in my home that I fluffed up with some love.

The little paper pennant I wrote "KISS ME" on you can see it much better in person. I was just to lazy to cut out letters (yes even from my cricut) and glue them on. The brown paper pennants are from Canvas Corp. The wood block XO'S and the Love- are from a store called Krumpet's Home Decor, I bought them a few years ago. Then I filled the candle votive's with Valentine candy corn. All very simple and took all of maybe 8 mins. to throw together.

{ "KISS ME" .. MY ETERNAL LOVE-bug}

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY COM.

XO,

jen

Entry way gets Valentine-ified

2012-01-25T16:11:00.000-08:00

PPPPPPPPLEASE......

tell me I am {NOT THE ONLY ONE} who tweaks and changes things until you get exactly what you want? I would say that I am driving myself bonkers.. but I love doing this sort of stuff/THANG, so I will keep on the tweaking.

ANYHOO, my entry table which was recently posted along with the stamped runner, GOT VALENTINE-IFIED it needed to look more like Valentines and less like a wedding reception table. So I added the RED!

SO HERE ARE THE NEW PICTURES

P.S. THANKS FOR putting up with my "Obsessive Compulsive Decorating Disorder"

THAT'S IT......... for now. winks.

jen

linking to Home Stories from A-Z for the Mantel Party here.

Say It on the Wall GIVEAWAY & more of my Craft Nook sneak peek

2012-01-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

SAY IT ON THE WALL has a huge variety of VINYL sayings, images, designs, pretty much everything. There stuff is just darling.

I was lucky enough to pick something out from Say It on The Wall to review. I chose this DARLING CRE.ATE- definition vinyl to put in my craft nook, and I just love it.

This little 4x6 chunky Canvas Corp. board I stamped the hello on added the red pom pom fringe and turquoise bakers twine. Super easy and cute.

this .50 cent thrifted frame was oak before, I spray painted it flat white and sanded it. I then hot glued on a Canvas Corp. burlap flower, a flower button, and flower bead

MOST OF ALL I JUST LOVE MY SAY IT ON THE WALL VINYL. Plus more of the Craft Nook coming soon....

SAY IT ON THE WALL HAS SO MANY CUTE DESIGNS THAT I WANTED TO SHARE WITH YOU JUST SOME OF THE OTHER CUTE STUFF YOU CAN FIND ON THEIR SITE.

SAY IT ON THE WALL IS GIVING AWAY A $30.00 DOLLAR CREDIT TO THEIR SHOP TO ONE LUCKY WINNER!

TO ENTER

1- FOLLOW SIOTW BLOG HERE

2- FOLLOW SIOTW on FB HERE

3- FOLLOW SIOTW on Twitter HERE

4- FOLLOW COM

5- FOLLOW COM on FB HERE

6- "SAY" it's awesome being me.

ENTER EACH SEPARATELY THAT IS 6 CHANCES.

I WILL PICK A Winner in a week via COM-FB.

GOOOOOOD LUCK.

jen

Featured Guest Post-THE LETTER 4 {DIY Warm Fuzzy Heart}

2012-01-24T06:33:00.000-08:00

Hello there CraftOManiacs, My name is Janae and I blog over at The Letter 4 with my three other sisters Juliann, Jade, and Jamie. We are 4 sisters that grew up very close to one another. Now we have since all grown up and moved away and we miss the 3:00 am laughing, the projects we did together, stealing each others clothes, and everything that goes along with growing up with sisters.

Our blog has been our way to connect to each other again and share projects with each other. Each sister has a unique taste and talent but we all have a passion for creating beautiful things!

Today, I am introducing one of my life savers to you. A homemade warm fuzzy. Just a bundle of microwavable warmth that puts a smile on my face. Whenever I don't feel so swell or I'm just cold at night, this thing works miracles! I have a million and one in my room. It's seriously one of my most treasured things I've ever made in my life. hahaha

What's neat about it, is that you can personalize it! Get some fabric and draw any shape you want!

Cut out a front and back that match up. Put them together so that the back side of the fabric faces out and sew around it. DON'T forget to leave a small hole.

Turn it inside out...

Fill it up with rice, wheat, beans, barley, oatmeal...whatever you prefer or have on hand. You can also make it have a pleasant aroma by adding peppermint oil, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, lavender...again, whatever you prefer.

Sew up the hole, stick it in the microwave for a minute or two, and there you have an easy made miracle worker. Your own warm fuzzy!

Jamie and I made the heart as a Valentine warm fuzzy. My personal favorite and most used one is Pearl, my whale that I created. The square one is Julianna's that is filled with wheat and peppermint oil. Genius.

Stop by our blog and say hi! Or you can visit us on our Facebook Page!

Thanks for having us on your fabulous blog today Jen!!!

THANK YOU {{LETTER 4}} for sharing this sweetness with us all. AREN'T THESE SISTERS JUST DARLING. SISTER'S WHO LOVE TO CRAFT WHAT COULD BE BETTER?

AND BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THEIR BLOG, just look at this cute Valentine Heart Art they made

THANK YOU SISTERS FROM letter 4

xo, jen

2012-01-22T16:30:00.000-08:00

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

P.S. did you read that I am Casting "5"....

COM CONTRIBUTORS? to learn more go here.

2012-01-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another TALENT SHOW! There is so much talent here today, that I don't want to keep any of you waiting any longer, so let's get started. In no particular order here we go.

At Home With K- Very cute and organized Mud Room Makeover

The 36th Avenue- Totally clean, fresh, darling, craft room LOVE!

Cherished Bliss- Very cute and creative Wooden Spools Frame

Shabby Love- SUPER Cute kids pallet table

Being Brook- another darling Sewing Craft Room LOVE!

Ms. Smartie Pants SUPER cute Organized Cook Books

PB&J Stories- AMAZING Filing Trunk Reveal! I am freaking over this. I have this same trunk in silver sitting in my garage. I am so doing this!!! thanks PB&J.

Carissa's Creativity Space- totally darling DIY play kitchen

CAN WE SAY CLAP CLAP CLAP, BRAVO, WOW! Amazing Talent SHOW RIGHT?

be sure to come back to COM tomorrow night for COM- MONDAY...... and did you read I AM LOOKING TO CAST "5" COM-CONTRIBUTORS click here to read all about it.

2012-01-20T08:51:00.000-08:00

YEP....

YOU READ THAT CORRECT!

It can be rather tough sometimes posting regularly and not just wanting to throw anything up on my blog. SO that is where "5" of you will come in..... I am LOOKING FOR "5" Contributors to post on COM once a month on a specific day you will be given.

WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR:

1- "ORIGINALITY" 

2- Clear Beautiful photos

3- Great Tutorial's

4- SOME whit and personality in your posts

5- and of course being a fan of COM!

YOU CAN BE A PHOTOGRAPHER, A BAKER, A CRAFTER, A DIYER! I would love a range of creativity on my blog!

please email me at jenglamgirl@gmail.com

in the "SUBJECT" PLEASE put COM CONTRIBUTOR CASTING.

WITH a post beginning with a small intro i.e. your name (with picture of you) your blog and a little about what it is you like to do? create? or make?

(2 paragraphs please.)

Please share with me "3" pictures of your favorite projects, crafts, recipe's etc. in your post, along with the links. Lastly, feel free to add a little something something to your emailed post. ;)

I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS, AND REALLY THINK THIS WILL BE A FUN NEW BONUS FOR COM!

I will have all "5" Contributors selected by my "2" year anniversary here on COM. That will be the second week in February.

Great Giveaway from Pandora's Craft Box

2012-01-19T13:54:00.000-08:00

SWEET Loren from the blog Pandora's Craft Box is letting me share a GREAT Giveaway to one of you, from her.

She is offering one of you a darling paper flower arrangement and a $25.00 dollar American Express card. Aren't those flowers so lovely, LOVE THEM.

HERE IS HOW TO ENTER:

1- follow Pandora's Craft box here

2- follow PCB on FB here

3- follow PCB on Twitter here

4- blog or tweet about the giveaway.

and be sure to visit her blog and see what kinds of things she has made. Here is a little taste..

chair makeover

BEST OF LUCK TO YOU ALL, I will announce the winner in a week or so via COM-FB.

thanks, jen

Featured Guest Post- Our Mini Family {Damask Puffy Paint Canvas Art}

2012-01-18T14:34:00.000-08:00

Hi ya! Meet Mr. and Mrs. Adam and Cathy Mini! Yup, our last name is Mini.

from the Blog Our Mini Family, get it? Ha. Ha. We're both pretty cheesy people, and love making a joke out of anything we can. Another thing about us is that we are both incredibly creative people. Cathy loves photography and crafting, and Adam loves writing stories and making video games. We are lovey-dovey, newlyweds and tied the knot on July 15, 2011!

We grew up in the same small town, ran into each other in different circles of friends, and then in high school we did marching band together. Cathy had a HUGE crush on this adorable trumpet player, and couldn't help but just swoon over him. Adam was totally intimidated by this confident, aggressive color guard girl who kept asking him out on dates and who told him how cute he was. High school passed us by, we went our separate ways as friends, and then reconnected while we were in college. One night, when they met at their hometown train station to say hello, a spark was reignited.

Three years later, we tied the knot and have never been happier than we are now.

The funny thing is, we're not extraordinary in any way.

We're just a boy and a girl who fell in love.

and now UNTO THE PROJECT-{{ Damask Puffy Paint Canvas Art! }}

Puffy paint, among other things (like 4 canvases, stencil, pencil, painter's tape, a ruler AND A RULER), was the key to the success of how this experiment turned out.

Did I emphasis the ruler enough? Because it was super important!

So this first two canvases were...interesting to say the least. I thought, for whatever reason, that putting the stencil down and THEN using the puffy paint on top would work. The funny discovery I made after it dried was that:

a) the puffy paint sat mostly on top of the stencil and not on the canvas!

b) most of the paint that did make it onto the canvas ended up acting more like glue and made the stencil stick to the canvas!

After coming to the discovery that this was not the best way to go about the remainder of this project, I decided to stencil the damask silhouette onto the canvas with a pencil! It really worked out 400% better, and if you decide to pursue this project: do NOT try it the first way I did it! (unless of course you want a stress headache!)

I think it turned out rather fabulously! Adam was laughing at me because I am a little bit mathematically challenged, and I was having difficulty calculating where to put nails in the wall to make my grid. In the end, about 15 minutes of grueling measurement later, my damask made it to the wall! I paid about $10 for the canvas, and $3 for the puffy paint!

THANKS SO MUCH CATHY FOR SHARING THIS CREATIVE PROJECT WITH ALL OF US.

Glad to of had you here on COM.

jen

{Romantic Canvas Stamped Table Runner}

2012-01-17T15:24:00.000-08:00

OK- So I realize that this "Romantic Display" looks more like something for a Wedding, and not Valentines. However, since I don't decorate for our Anniversary, I can't think of a better way then to display things in honor of the {{LOVE OF MY LIFE}} then to do it for VALENTINES. If it still inspires you for a Wedding, then that is GREAT TOO.

I started with a long Canvas table runner from Canvas Corp. and some stamps I picked up for $2.00 dollars each from Michaels Crafts. Then with an ink pad I had at home, I got busy stamping away trying to stick with a pattern. It was a lot of fun, and I {{love}} the ending results.

I found this darling sweet dish at Michael's. I cut out some vinyl to display our wedding day inside the dish.

The "L" I won from a blog a year ago. Its jute wrapped around a thin wood "L" L- for the Larsen's or for Love, or BETTER YET "Larsen Loves"!

The frame I glazed with some white acrylic paint and a little water. I wiped the paint on with some paper towels, wiping strokes here and there exposing more wood in certain places by wiping more. The Love block I bought years ago, but would be easy to make yourselves.

when I was a size "4" and hubby was skinny too with a full head of hair. GUESS what? I LOVE HIM WAY MORE NOW THEN I EVER HAVE.

this ROMANTIC CANVAS TABLE RUNNER, was so easy to make and so fun.

CREATING THE ROMANTIC LOVE TABLE was just as fun. I love picking out items to use from my home and playing decorator, and seeing how it all comes together in the end.

Thanks for stopping by.

xo, jen

Bubs and Bella's "SWEET" Valentine Cards

2012-01-16T16:15:00.000-08:00

Since my "Snickers Valentine" idea I created last year for my daughter, I was determined this year to do something just as clever and fun. I think I did pretty well and I am tickled with them, but MOST OF ALL.... MY KIDS ADORE THEM.

My sister however,

totally gets credit for the cute saying's. I brainstormed with her my ideas and as soon as I mentioned them she threw at me the cute sayings.... BEFORE, I could say anymore. I loved them, she truly is an amazing poet, so I wasn't shocked she got such fun saying's right away.

Anyway, I took the pictures of the kids posing them just so. Then I edited them in Picnik and added the text. I uploaded 50 pictures, 25 a piece- to Costco costing $6.78 bought the card stock, gum (found at Walmart), and Reese's. Then with some cutting, gluing, and glue dotting I put the cards together.

I know its a tad early, BUT they are DONE! wo-hooooo! for now they will sit in the pantry

"UP HIGH", until Valentine's which is less then a month away.

Thanks so much for coming by, you all make me so happy and I love your visits.

xo,

jen

linking up at Michelle Paige here
Today's Creative Blog for Get Your Craft On here The 36th Avenue here and Tatertots and jello here

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2012-01-15T17:11:00.000-08:00

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

Saturday Spotlight Talent Show

2012-01-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome to a new

You guys really know how to make a show SUPER FAB. Lets get started with some super DUPER amazingly awesome TALENT shall we......

Sand and Sisal- beautiful beachy bead board bathroom (say that 5 times in a row)

Sweet Floweret- Super Cute- Queen of hearts pillow

lookie What I Did- Very Clever Just for him closet organizer

What The Graham- Nursery book ledges, and darling nursery too.

Bridgey Widgey- SUPER SWEET and DARLING- Milk and Cookies Birthday party

Krista Artista- Cute and Clever Mirror Subway Art

Landee See Landee Do- super darling I LOVE YOU pictures.

Lolly Jane- super sweet little girl Bedroom

WHAT A SHOW- EVERYONE COMES IN FIRST PLACE HERE!

thank you for coming to the SSTS. See you tomorrow evening for another COM-Monday.

XO,

jen

VISITING WHERE...

2012-01-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

you can check out my ........

{LOVE AT HOME}

CANVAS'S

OVER AT tatertots and jello today. I AM ONE OF Jen's Contributor's to her LOVELY OH' SO LOVELY AWESOME CREATIVE BLOG! and I am BEYOND THRILLED ABOUT IT.

Getting Organized-DIY- Earring & Necklace Holder

2012-01-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

Reading and seeing this post, you all may see why I got the nickname "JenGlamGirl" and why I made my email jenglamgirl@gmail.com winks.

So my jewelry collection has been everywhere, all over the bathroom counter, in small boxes on the bathroom counter, in bathroom drawers, on my craft table, and just some of it in the jewelry box. I did not want to humiliate myself with the mess and chaos and share before pictures, so please just take my word for it. It was truly a giant mess of jewelry. My poor poor hubby, he is so patient with me.

Well on this New Years Trek to "Getting Organized" ... I got busy. Everything I used for the Earring and necklace holder, besides the thumb tacks, were from my wonderful sponsor Canvas Corp.

I used a chunky velvet 12x12 canvas board
cream colored poly cotton string
two large black metal clips
two small canvas corp boards
and small silver thumb tacks.

I pulled the string real tight, overlapping it over the side of the canvas board, and then pushed in the thumb tacks. They were real hard to push in, and aren't going anywhere. Which is very good.

everything is so organized now, I can actually see my sets. YAY!

A favorite necklace. My twin brother got it for me two Christmas's ago. I love it.

my favorite earrings! Ahhhhh' aren't they purdy? They are always my go to pair if I don't know what else to wear with an outfit. I got them at TJ Max almost a year ago, they are so light I don't even know I am wearing them. They are sterling silver, so they should last a long time, which is the best.

J- FOR JENNIE or JEN

I LURVE LURVE LURVE IT!

Next I moved onto my rings. An ice cube tray is perfect for your big and small rings.

Ahhh' my favorite ring from my mama... he is so Ca-hoot! I love him.

and for those of you who may not of seen how I organized my bracelets, here it is again. I used rose water vases and just stacked the bracelets onto the vases.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY COM TODAY-

Happy Organizing, and Happy Primping.

You all have a PRETTY DAY!

xo,

jen
linking up at 36th Avenue here. and tatertots and jello here.

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2012-01-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

For all of you- {Valentines Subway Art}

2012-01-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

I created my {{FIRST EVER "Printable" SUBWAY ART}}

{{{Valentine's Edition}}} this image is an 8x10

To copy for printing- Right click your mouse hit "save image as" then save it in your pictures or what ever picture program you use. Then uploaded it to wherever you get your pictures developed, order it, then put it in a frame and your done.

love you guys!

jen

{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}

2012-01-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another {TALENT SHOW} there is some serious talent today. LOTS OF OOH'S AND AHH'S-GUARANTEED. So lets get this Talent Show started. In no particular order here we go.

Beautiful-Hip bedroom makeover from Faith's Place

Super cute upholstered chair makeover from The Sasse Life

super cute quarterfoil vase from Oh Baby Designs

Beautiful new powder room from A Step in the Journey

so totally awesome and creative yardstick buffet from Corner House

Darling Apron with Tutorial from Northern Cottage

Gorgeous DIY candlestick makeover from Larissa Hill Design

Awesome DIY Art work from Remodelaholic

WHAT A FANTASTIC TALENT SHOW TODAY.

GREAT WORK LADIES.

See you all tomorrow for another COM-MONDAY

jen

Valentine Decor {The Piano Top}

2012-01-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

Today I have for you the top of my piano decorated for Valentines. I heart Valentines btw. I also have my chalk board with a sweet message written on it. Its fun to change out the messages. This year I wanted to keep things more simpler so I did my best to do just that.

So here are some pictures for you.

I liked the Be Mine saying on the chalk board better then the other one you read below.

That's it.

Thank you so much for stopping in. lots of love,

jen

Valentine Decor {The Hutch}

2012-01-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

If you follow COM on FB then you would of read my question about decorating for Valentines yet? Well up until about 2 hours ago, I had nothing done, but now I have most all of it done. It was just to plain after Christmas, and besides Valentines comes early in February so now that its up, I can enjoy it longer.

I decorated my Hutch and filled some vases with mini styrofoam balls as fillers for some Valentines hearts. The styrofoam balls I got from Tai Pan Trading last year, the metal glittered hearts I got from Krumpets Home Decor a few years ago. If you have any questions about anything else please email me jenglamgirl@gmail.com. I would love to answer any questions you may have. ;)

Here is my Valentine hutch and wall sconces

Before I added the baby food jars the hearts (that barely weigh a thing) just got lost and fell to the bottom of the vases. Once the baby food jars were added, I added a bit more sytrofoam balls and then placed the hearts on the top and the didn't go anywhere.

The pails I got in the dollar section at Target during V-day a few years ago. I added the vinyl to them to spell I heart U!

I just tied a large cookie cutter around some flour with ribbon.

Hope you guys{{LOVE}} it.

Thanks so much for stopping by COM today.

xo,

jen

Designer Chic Tees, Yes' Please

2012-01-05T09:00:00.001-08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of StyleMint for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Is there anything better then the perfect t-shirt??? combine that with your perfect "favorite" pair of jeans and its a WIN WIN, SLAM DUNK, AND HOME RUN!

well apparently Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen understand this question too, which is why they've launched StyleMint: a new membership-only, e-commerce site that offers amazing T Shirts.

As for how StyleMint works, it's simple.....

When you first sign up, you answer a short series of questions about your personal style. Once you're done with the quiz, you can choose from one of four T Shirt styles, many of which are available in multiple colors (Ooooh LOVE). If you don't see a shirt you like, it's no problem because there's no obligation to buy. If you do find the perfect option (or two, or three!), you get free shipping, plus returns are easy. Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen design each T Shirt, and we have to say that the results are totally chic and definite must-buys. Everything is extremely high quality too—think: super-soft fabrics and amazing fits—so you're certain to find the perfect piece for you. Membership is free, but the T Shirts do sell out, so be sure to sign up to StyleMint today: your wardrobe and inner diva will thank you!

Even mOre Fabulousness to note-
. members-only access to Mary-Kate and Ashley's exclusively designed and styled T Shirts
· New styles to choose from every month
· Impeccable design, perfect fit
· Premium cotton
· Classic and modern fits for versatility
· Get started with a FREE StyleProfile
· TopStyles chosen for you based on your profile
Oh' and don't forget to tell your daughters, sisters, friends, moms and aunts about StyleMint. One more thing use this code SMSS15 and you will receive 15% off one item for first time customers.
THANKS, for stopping by COM XO DIVA'S
StyleMint

2012-01-04T07:48:00.000-08:00

I ENCOURAGE YOU TO READ THIS POST first then enter.... winks.........

As a Blogger I get emails regularly, but here and there I get emails that are very touching to me or speak to me. This one is ONE OF THEM. Beverly from Brownies to Rwanda emailed me. She told me how she found my blog and that she loved so many things, and was going to start with my crock pot creamy chicken noodle soup. Beverly went on to ask me if I would be interested in hosting a giveaway? She talked about how her and her family want to adopt. All the money they earn from sales from their lovely shop go to RWANDA where they hope to adopt an orphan. Beverly has 3 boys so they are hoping to adopt a sweet little girl, but will take what they can get and be thrilled no matter. SIGHHHH, I was in right away.

SOOOOO Beverly is offering one lucky winner this Heidi Klum inspired STERLING SILVER "Beverly" Necklace.

however you can purchase it in the gold too.

1- Follow ETC Jewelry on FB here.

2- Follow her blog Brownies to Rwanda here.

3- Visit her Jewelry site ETC Jewelry here, and PIN your favorite

jewelry piece on Pinterest, let me know.

4- TWEET OR FB this Giveaway.

5- Say jewelry and children make me happy.

...... AND JUST remember what you are supporting and helping by sharing this Giveaway. Also if you don't WIN, remember all earnings they make by your purchase(s) go to adopting an orphan from Rwanda.

THANKS GUYS, good luck.

A winner will be selected in a week

via my FB page.

jen

Getting Organized- {Bella's Closet}

2012-01-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

WITH THE NEW YEAR.... come's LOTS OF PURGING, DE-CLUTTERING, RE-ARRANGING, SORTING, RE-VAMPING, AND "ORGANIZING" .. and there is no better feeling then to get all of that done.

After the hubs kicked butt on our back yard blowing and racking up all the leaves, mowing, and trimming all the bushes and cutting the branches off our large tree.... then it was taking down all the Christmas, dusting, cleaning, and putting things back in order. Then I was off to get Bella's closet cleaned out and organized.

SO HERE WE GO....

BEFORE

We (hubs was a dear and helped) we went through all her clothes and bagged the ones that didn't fit anymore. Then folded piles just for shirts, skirts and shorts, pants, and pjs. We also gutted her foul toy box and bagged up stuff we weren't going to donate, but rather toss all together.

{{WARNING}}- I may loose a husband over this.... when hubs saw me "duct taping" YES' you read the correctly, duct taping her one broken severely cracked drawer..... hubs said "You are not going to blog this are you?" HA! YES I AM! his reply- "WHITE TRASH." Me- LAUGHING HARD. I refuse to spend $18.99 on a new 3 drawer storage bin same size, when I could duct tape it with fun duct tape colors. HECK- If washi tape can be decorative in crafts and decor... WELL HECK- I am upping the bar on duct tape. THAT'S ALL. US + 4 kids= expensive- NUFF SAID.

NO- this is NOT from Pottery Barn Kids..

meet the DUCT TAPE CLOTHING BIN

nicely neatly folded clothes...... will see how long it last.

Storage bin for rolled tights, and socks. Do I spy more duct tape?

all her barbie dolls and other dolls are in this hanging castle organizer. I found it at Target over a year and a half ago.

I put some of her FAVORITE toys on display.

Picture Reads- Princess, daughter of a Heavenly King.

and now its all clean and put together, duct tape and all.

winks, jen

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2012-01-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO A NEW YEAR, AND TO HOST COM MONDAY ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE NEW YEAR, IS PRETTY COOL TOO.  

I MISSED YOU ALL, AND AM SO EXCITED TO GO THROUGH ALL THE LINKS. LETS GET THIS PARTY STARTED SHALL WE. 

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac. 

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.   

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

Thank you to ALL MY {FRIENDS}

2011-12-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

picture source here

Would your blog grow without friends and support?

Would you enjoy blogging if you had no friends or friendships?

Would you feel inspired if your blog had no friends and no support?

Did you answer no? to any of those? Sooooo what would your blog {{mean}} to you if your blog had no friends, friendships, and no support?

These are the questions I thought about sitting here for a long time at my desk just starring at my monitor. Way before my fingers starting drumming the keys I thought of you, {all of you!} Each one of you, who reads my blog, follows my blog, comments on my blog, makes me laugh, email's me, asks me questions, compliments me, inspires me, makes me feel super loved, HAS made me {{enjoy}} BLOGGING! Each and every one of you have inspired me to continue to create, craft, share, and love doing it along the way. I call you my {FRIENDS!}

picture source here.

When I started my blog almost 2 years ago, I never thought for a second I would have the kind of love and joy I have now for so so many of you. What a blessing and a gift it is to have the ability to share, create, and talk about our loves, desires, creations, and life with thousands of one another. Women, just like me- mothers, hard workers, homemakers, creators, writers, wife's, DIYer's, and mega multi-taskers able to reach out to so many. I can honestly say I feel like I know so many of you, just by our chats, comments, emails. By reading your blogs and hearing your wit and seeing all that you are capable of doing, and seeing all your creative talent. IT'S plain {{AWESOME}}- and it's inspiring.

picture source here.

There are days that I am not in the best of spirits or moods, not to mention I don't have an ounce of creativity in me. Then I hop on my blog or read my emails or check COM'S Facebook and you are there. You all lift me up, inspire me to plug along, and {you all} put a smile on my face.

picture source here.

So as we come to the end of this year, I want you all to know that COM wouldn't be anything or mean NEARLY as much to me....... if it weren't for each and every one of you. You brighten my day and keep me truckin on. You my friends...... are why I { BLOG! } SO- {{THANK YOU}} from the bottom of my heart, and from one woman, wife, mother, CrAfTeR, DIY'er, and BLOGGER.
I love you all!

picture source here.

AND HERE IS TO MANY MORE FRIENDSHIPS, CREATIVITY, SUPPORT, AND MORE BLOGS!

HAVE A WONDERFUL AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

XO and all my love,

jen

TICK TOCK oreo NEW YEAR'S CLOCK pop's

2011-12-29T12:25:00.000-08:00

I COULD CRY- to understand the un-perfected clock pop's you would have to read this post first.........

I had this vision of smooth coated white oreo pops with perfectly drawn clocks on top. The vision in my head is still so darling and perfect. THESE, WELL... they are not. I still have a hard time posting them, In fact I can say this is my first CRAFT FAIL! I am so bummed. However, I wanted to share this with you all because maybe you all are better at Oreo Pops then I. This was my very first attempt at making oreo pops, and sadly it will probably be my last. That said, I do realize that practice makes perfect, but wasting money and loosing more nerves, I could probably go without practice on this one. I apologize for the poop post I am giving you, and I don't want to discourage any of you, but I hated this project from start to finish. For starters dipping oreo's -ie-yi-yi... first trying to get the stick in and hope that nothing breaks, or that the weight of the candy melts don't pull the oreo's off, and finally hoping that the oreo pop's don't break before you lay them down to cool..... ALL-"DIFFICULT".

As I went through each pop I found what worked better each time I went through the cycle. Dip the stick in the melted candies, tap the excess off by hitting the stick on the rim of the bowl, gently wiggle the stick into the "fattest" side of the oreo's frosting. Then tip your bowl and lay the oreo down so that the bowl is holding the one side, spoon the melted candies over the oreo and then gently pick it up holding a large cereal spoon under the oreo. Carry it to the pan with parchment paper on it, and lay it to cool. Lastly, gently tap the pan up and down wiggling out the wrinkles to the oreo pops. Chill in fridge for 15- 20 mins. draw clocks on the pops, GOOD GOOD GOOD LUCK.

P.S. these would look so much better with the correct fondant/cake pen. I bought Wilton's Cake markers and well... they suck!!! I didn't want to drive all the way to Michael's for one stinken fondant pen, and my Walmart only had the markers. Once again, these pops can come out so much better. Sighhhhh.

FOR NOW THESE ARE WHAT MINE LOOK LIKE, and if you don't pin them... Well, I don't blame you.

I don't like these markers, and they don't show up. Boooo-hisss I waisted $5.00 bucks plus tax.

....and that's a wrap.

39 Dollar Glasses Review & GIVEAWAY!

2011-12-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

I was thrilled when 39DollarGlasses contacted me several weeks ago and asked if I would like to do a Review and a Giveaway? UM, Yes! For One I have had my eyes (no pun) on some Aviator Sun Glasses for sometime. Two I love to slide on some super fly sunglasses before I jump in the car and hit the town for some errands or "craft" shopping. Three sunglasses are great to help protect those purdy eyes. 39DollarGlasses.com is a wonderful site with lots of prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses to choose and order from.

Here I am wearing my new 39 dollar glasses- Aviators. I love them LOVE! They came nicely packaged in a soft grey pull string cloth cover, as well as in a nice hard cover glasses case. They are well made and sturdy. Not to mention Fabulous. Their prices are great, and the quality is too. Oh' and how convenient is is to order prescription glasses from the comfort of your home and computer. Love that!

I chose the Aviator Silver

one of you will GET TO {{WIN}} A PAIR OF Prescription Eye Glasses or Sunglasses

"YOUR CHOICE"- a $75.00 dollar value!

CAN I GET A WOOT!

{{{TO ENTER}}}

1- LIKE 39DollarGlasses on FB!

but please don't say that you are visiting from COM. Its part of their policy, please just say hello.

2- LIKE 39 Dollar Glasses on Twitter

3- LIKE COM ON FB

4- say something extra in the comments.

(just be nice!)

5- FB, OR TWEET this giveaway.

goooooood luck!

I will pick a winner and announce the winner via my COM-FB page in a week.

DIY- New Years Inspired {Clock Pillow}

2011-12-27T18:29:00.000-08:00

In the spirit if {New Years} approaching I made a {clock} pillow.

New Years was definitely my inspiration for this {clock} pillow. I used my Cricut to cut out some heat transfer vinyl, and I used the "Going Places" cartridge and selected the clock decal. I chose the fit to page "12x12" option and ironed on the clock vinyl onto my Canvas Corp. Pillow form. I stuffed it with batting and added the words with more heat transfer vinyl to spell..

"Time to Enjoy!"
also- the time on the clock is the time selection Cricut designed for the "Going Places" cartridge and could not be changed. So no Midnight option. ;)

CANVAS CORP. PILLOW FORM

Now here's to hoping I stay awake on New Years and

"ENJOY MY TIME"

with my family,

and not crash on this said pillow! winks.

COM'S {Top 10} of 2011

2011-12-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome friends here are my {{TOP 10 posts of 2011}}. I based this selection off of the many pins they each got on Pinterest, as well as them being some of my personal favorites. I can't wait for a new year full of new creativity, new projects, new journeys, new inspiration, friends, and exciting fun. fun. fun.

DIY- craft room nook

DIY- wire ribbon ruffled lamp

"You make me Snicker" Valentine's card

Easter Bunny- brown paper goodie bags

DIY- painted and stenciled chevron earrings

Patriotic- paper pennant and pinwheel wreath

DIY monogrammed and stenciled chevron canvas

DIY- stenciled and painted EEK blocks

Crock pot creamy chicken noodle soup

DIY- embellished stockings

..... and that's a wrap!

Thanks for stopping by COM, its always a pleasure to have my friends visit.

xo,

jen
linking up to Tatertots and jello

{Merry Christmas to all of you}

2011-12-23T06:34:00.000-08:00

I will be away from my blog for the next four days, enjoying yet another wonderful Christmas, and making those memories with my sweet family.

I hope you guys all know how much I love you!!! You all make me so happy and you all are a gift's to me.

From my family to yours...

CLICK ON PICTURE AND YOU CAN VIEW IT LARGER.
card designed by me and pictures taken by my friend and photographer LuckyNumber9Photography.com

xo jen

Super COOL & I think you all will love {{Storenvy}}

2011-12-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Craft-O-Maniacs! Adam from the social store community, Storenvy.com.

Storenvy.com is a completely free, customizable and easy to use and setup e-commerce platform and marketplace. We truly believe that starting and running an online store should be a fun, quick and easy process and felt that there hasn't been a service that could do all of those things.

So what makes Storenvy great?

1) Customizable With Storenvy you can setup your own completely customizable storefront with just a few clicks of the mouse by uploading a header, changing your background image or customizing your store colors. For anyone adventurous enough we even allow you to edit the CSS/HTML of the site to completely customize the way it looks.

2) Built in Marketplace We wanted to make it easy for store owners and shoppers to find each other. The Storenvy Marketplace does just this by showing off products from all of our Storenvy stores in one easy place to shop and discover. Storenvy storeowners receive on average 15% of their sales through the marketplace.

3) Facebook Store With just a few clicks you can be selling your items right on your Facebook fan page directly to your fans! Selling your items through your Facebook store really doesn't get any easier than this.

4) Storenvy is Social! Storenvy also allows users to follow your store, like your products and leave you comments. Which is fantastic for building up a following and keeping your customers informed on new products.

5) Free! Believe it or not Storenvy is completely free to list, sell and maintain. There are no limits to the amount of products you can sell or what type of products you can sell on the site. We do have a few freemium features such as a very robust discount system called "Super Discounts", but nothing is required.

Right now on Storenvy we have over 9,000 stores and over 130,000 products and growing everyday! We would love to have any and all Craft-O-Maniacs to join our community! If anyone has any questions feel free to get in touch with us on Twitter @storenvy or email me directly at adam(at)storenvy(dot)com!

so....... check check check it out. XO jen

DIY-Neighbor Gift- A pail of snow balls aka oreo cake balls

2011-12-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

I decided to whip up some Oreo Cake balls last night for some of my friends aka neighbors. I am calling this Neighbor gift ..

"A pail of snow balls."

HOW TO:

I crushed up two bags of oreos in a zip lock bag. I banged the oreos with a rolling pin. (which really helps get out all that holiday stress. HA!) You can use a food processor to do this as well. (I still need to get one.) Then I added in two cream cheese frosting containers and mixed it real well. I let the bowl of OCB chill in the fridge for 15 min. Then I took them out and rolled a bunch of balls, and again let them chill for 15 mins. in the fridge. I melted some white/vanilla candy melts and got dipping. I added some blue sprinkles and silver mini balls to some of the SNOW BALLS aka Oreo cake balls. I placed blue tissue paper down in the bottom of the pails and then added "8" fairly large SNOW BALLS. Last I cut the corners of more tissue paper giving me three cut triangle corners a piece to stick in the tops of each pail. The cute white snowflake pails I got at Target in the $ dollar section.

THANKS A BUNCH FOR STOPPING BY COM.
xo jen

2011-12-21T07:58:00.000-08:00

IF YOU HAVE AN ELF ON THE SHELF... well then LETS PARTY AND ALL SHARE WHAT ARE FUN, SILLY, SNEAKY, CUTE ELVES HAVE BEEN UP TOO.

Our Elf- Mr. Simmie-Clay has been busy at play, HA- I rhymed.
My older kids have surely enjoyed waking up each morning and finding him in a new spot and up to new mischief. Simmie is very welcomed in our home, and we will enjoy this tradition for years to come.

Here is just some of the fun he has been up to....

NOW I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHAT YOUR ELVES HAVE BEEN UP TO!

2011-12-20T07:22:00.000-08:00

EEK- A CANVAS CORP. GIVEAWAY.... YOU all know my love for Canvas Corp. I am always showing crafts here on the blog, using their amazing products. Everything they have is great, and of GREAT QUALITY!!! I have never seen cuter paper either!!!

Here is a picture of what ONE LUCKY WINNER WILL WIN! its a package worth over $55 dollars.

TO ENTER

1- Like Canvas Corp. on FB here. Let me know.
2- Visit Canvas Corp. blog and let them know you are stopping by from COM. Come back and let me know you visited.
3- Like COM on FB here.
4- Follow COM let me know.
5- Tweet or FB this Giveaway, let me know.
6- SAY "MERRY-JOLLY-HO-HO-CHRISTMAS JOY!"

THAT IS "6" OPPORTUNITIES TO WIN.

BEST OF LUCK. I will pick a winner on Sat. via my COM-FB page. thanks jen

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2011-12-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY, and I can't wait to see all of your talent... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

DIY- Simple Gift Ideas

2011-12-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today I am sharing "3" fun gift ideas.

Here is a simple and "Sweet" gift idea for your kids class or for a church class.

Fill small ziplock baggies (got the baggies at Michael's) then cut card stock paper to size, fold the paper over the top of the baggies and staple. DONE! the paper is Canvas Corp paper.

... and here is a teacher gift idea. I didn't want to worry about making teacher gifts for my two older kids teachers, (because I have enough on my plate) so when I saw these darling blown glass No.2 pencil ornaments at Target, I snatched the last two. I added some black and white polka dot ribbon for hanging and I just need to stick them in a gift bag with tissue paper. The message in the card will read- You may write with a No. 2 pencil but in my book you are No. 1.

Last.... are you feeding the Missionary's before Christmas? or do you have a son, brother, friend, etc. on a mission? this is a cute gift idea or little treat to send them. M&M- stands for Mormon Missionary. Tonight we are feeding our missionary's for dinner, and I am giving them these simple "sweet" boxes of M&M's. Can't wait.

That's all, see you all back here for COM-MONDAY!

XO jen

Saturday Spotlight's {Christmas Tree Love's}

2011-12-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome to COM today- here are some of my favorites from the {Christmas Tree link party} If you linked up a Christmas tree, a Christmas tree DIY craft, or anything resembling a "c-tree", gift wrap ideas, or ornaments, I kept your link. I do apologize if your link was deleted, but I just had to stick with my theme and my rules. Thank you all for Rocking around the Christmas tree with me here on COM it was sure fun.

lets get started....

COZY HOME SCENES- Foyer Christmas tree

Carolyn's Homework- Little frosted trees

Crazy Wonderful- Beautiful tree and decor with black and white

Petite's Passions- Gorgeous (plus yummy smelling) Dryer Sheet Tree

36th Avenue- Darling cupcake liner trees

Shindig Parties- totally adorbs. cupcake trees

Southern Scraps- Beautiful green, blue and red tree

The Autocrat- Gorgeous red and gold tree

LOVELY RIGHT?

TO FUN!

Next up COM MONDAY

THEN WEDNESDAY MY

{{ELF ON THE SHELF LINK}} PARTY!

Featured Guest Post- Over The Big Moon- {{Darling Mistletoe}}

2011-12-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

Hi Craft-O-Maniac's! We are Lisa and Pam from
Over the Big Moon!

Over the Big Moon is a blog where you will find a little bit of everything! We offer Free Printables, Pre-K Packs, DIY/Tutorials and anything else related to our daily lives, children, and homemaking! We would love for you to stop on over and see what we have to share!

Today, Lisa is going to be walking you through the Mistletoe we have decorating our homes!

Lisa here. My Mom passed away this last February and I inherited most of her VERY large Christmas collection. As I was unpacking her decorations this year, I found the mistletoe ball that had hung in our home since I was a little girl. It brought back so many good memories! Being that it was made in the early 80's, I decided to give it a little makeover to update it.

The little red apples really seemed to date it. I pulled them out and added berries and some pine sprigs in their place. I also switched the plaid ribbon for some gold burlap ribbon. Just for fun (and for the memories) I added two apples back in on the top!

Next I wanted to make a sign with a fun saying to hang it on each year. I love the look of old pallets, and knew I wanted to make my sign out of them. So, I went scavenging! After I found what I wanted, I put my hubs in charge of cutting and nailing the slats together.

I didn't want to paint the wood, so I used vinyl as a stencil.

With a cursive font it was pretty hard to attach, without it getting stuck into a big mess. I did about 4 letters at a time and cut the top and bottom into separate pieces. I laid the bottom down first, and then it was easier to line the top letters up.

It doesn't matter if its pretty, just make sure the edges of the letters are smooth and stuck down. If you want to keep your letters really precise, I would suggest taking a little caulk and running it along the edges of your letters. You don't need much! I usually put about a pea size on my finger and then run my finger along the edge and wipe off any excess. Just that little bit will seal up your edges. Since I wanted my sign rustic, I skipped this step.

If you are lucky, you might be able to find a handsome boy to do your painting for you like I did.

My 5 year old is a very precise painter! When the paint was mostly dry, I peeled the vinyl off very carefully. There was some bleeding, but I just took a razor blade and scraped the excess off.

I let it dry for about an hour before I took sand paper to the letters and distressed them enough to let a little bit of the wood grain show through.

Then I added my rustic star hook, as well as some wire on the back to hang it. Voila!

You can bet when I took this picture I was attacked with kisses!

We have had a lot of fun trying to catch each other under the mistletoe!

Pam also made a little mistletoe magic in her home! She applied her vinyl right onto the wall. Then she took her greens and some fun glitter sprigs from a pick that she cut apart, and added them together to make a little bouquet. She used her glue gun to attach them all together at the stem.

She wrapped the stem with ribbon about halfway down, and then she glued a little piece of ribbon over the end to cover it. This not only covered all of the stem, but also gave her a place for her pushpin.

She finished wrapping the ribbon and added her pushpin.

She used a little hot glue under the push pin to make it more secure and then just pushed it into the drywall in her doorway beneath her vinyl.

Now it's time for you to go create some Mistletoe Fun in your own home!

Don't forget to come by and visit us at Over the Big Moon and check out our Free Printables, Tutorials, Pre-K Packs, Traditions, Recipes and More!

Thanks Jen for letting us visit today! We really enjoy you and your blog!
Merry Christmas!

LOVE YOU GIRLS AND I AM SO GLAD TO OF FEATURED YOU GALS TODAY.

You both have some wonderful talent and your blog is lovely. I am even more thrilled that we are neighbors, well almost, close enough anyway. I am seeing a bloggers GNO in our future.... Thank you girls so much. Winks, jen

DIY embelished Christmas tree- using hemp and rope

2011-12-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

I got to work on a Christmas craft last night. I used a 12x12 wrapped canvas board from Canvas Corp. some Canvas Corp. rope and multi hemp. I also topped the tree with a Canvas Corp. canvas star. I started by cutting pieces of hemp and rope and hot gluing them to the canvas board. When I was done I hot glued the star on to the top of the tree and embellished the tree with jewelry beads, pearls, and buttons. About a 30-40 project. Easy and fun.

and there you have it.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY COM TODAY.

winks, jen
linking with Ruby Jean Sew Crafty Tuesday here.

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link Party- {Christmas Tree Edition}

2011-12-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY... but {{listen UP}}....

ITS A

However, feel free to link up ornaments and ornament ideas, gift wrapping ideas, or DIY cone, foam, embellished trees. So why don't we all Rock Around The Tree's Tonight.... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

{Beautiful Bella Ballerina & her Ballet Bag}

2011-12-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

My MIL made this darling ballet bag for Bella. I sent her a link to a TUTU ballet bag from Pinterest, and she did her own awesome thing. She added all the bells and whistles, and made it super special for her granddaughter. Her bag is beautiful inside and out. She even made her a drawstring ballet slipper bag to put her ballet shoes in. Bella surely loves it, as do I.

3 sweet layers

ballet slipper bag, the lining is in a pink girly print satin.

inside linning

and last night and this afternoon where Bella's first ever dance performances. Her and her classmates were angles in this years Christmas program the "Peanut Cracker". I am so thrilled I waited until this year to put her in dance, she has enjoyed every minute of it, and is totally in her element.

and her hair I did for the show

THE SHOW WAS DARLING... PERHAPS BELLA IN BROADWAY.......

2011-12-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

WELCOME ALL TO ANOTHER FABULOUS
{{SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT TALENT SHOW}}
FILLED WITH SUPER TALENTED CREATIVE WOMAN. LETS GET THIS SHOW STARTED SHALL WE.

Happy Looks Good On You-
This skeleton twinkle lamp makes me smile.

Not Just a Housewife- THESE ARE FANTASTIC, FUNCTIONAL AND WOW! Check out Stacy's entire craft room.

Being Brook- love the garland and the TREE WOW!

Pink Stitches- so clever and a great Christmas gift idea.

Just Another day in Paradise- i don't think i have seen anything cuter, my two younger boys NEED these. Great Christmas idea too.

Chef in Training- I want! my mouth is watering.

Little Things Bring Smiles- ADORE THESE, AND her color scheme.

Sew Delicious- Santa Baby Top

NOW THAT WAS ONE FANTASTIC TALENT SHOW, WASN'T IT.

.... AND I CAN'T WAIT FOR TOMORROWS COM MONDAY, BUT

listen up...

IT WILL BE A CHRISTMAS {TREE} ONLY LINK PARTY,
so get those TREES, FLOCKED AND FLUFFED, and get ready to link up tomorrow.

CAN'T WAIT.

jen

Elf on The Shelf- meet {Simmie}

2011-12-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I ventured out to the store to buy the popular "Elf on The Shelf" for my kids. I told them earlier that morning that I had a really special surprise for them, that they would get after dinner that evening. I told them that they had to be good all day. All the two older kids thought about all day was the surprise, as soon as they came home from school... "What is the surprise?" they asked all kinds of questions over the dinner table hubs and I prepared. Kev and I got a kick out of giving them hints and answering some of their questions. When we were done with dinner we all cleared our plates. I asked the children to gather around the Christmas tree and to close their eyes. I pulled my chair over to the tree and sat down with the Elf on the Shelf book. I asked the children to open their eyes and I told them to listen carefully to each and every thing I read. Their eyes were filled with wonder, even my "3" year olds. I read each page with lots of excitement. Once the story ended I told the kids that we adopted an Elf? and asked them if they wanted to meet him???? YES! they wanted to.

Out from under the blanket I pulled out our Elf. I have never seen so much excitement and joy in my kids eyes and across their faces, especially Bella. Ryker wanted to get his hands all over the Elf. The children followed me into the room where we got on the website www.elfontheshelf.com where we chose his name

{SIMMIE CLAY LARSEN}

Bella was so cute, she kept giggling and telling me how exciting it was, and she couldn't stop smiling. We went ahead and registered his name and then played some games on the website. I got the children off to bed and soon after headed to bed myself.

Everything about this story and doll is darling, I just love the book. One thing I wanted to do like in all the pictures in the book was to sew on a small bell to Simmie's hat.

BEFORE

AFTER
TA-DA! now he really looks like the Elf in the book.

Simmie flew back to our place super early in the morning and was making all kinds of noise in the kitchen. I heard the water running, so I went to see what all the noise was about and found Simmie taking a bath. He said his journey back to our place from the N. Pole was long and therefore he wanted to bathe to smell nice and fresh before he met the kids.

(I made the mini shower cap, by cutting around the elastic leg of a potty training undie cover (yes' it was new) I sewed around the cut piece right to left, right side in and then flipped it right side out, and was done. Super easy.) Also, he did not get wet, because that would ruin him. I placed him in a casserole dish, sitting on top of another bowl. I filled the other sink with soapy bubbles and carefully placed the bubbles around Simmie. His feet were a tad damp, but I blotted them dry with a dry towel.

SO WHERE did the kids find Simmie... Head first in the cereal box for an early morning breakfast.

and we are just tickled to of started such a wonderful tradition.

... and there will be more MISCHIEVOUS SIMMIE finds to come....

TALENT SCOUTED- Ginger Snaps {wood block nativity}

2011-12-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hi! I'm Ginger, & I blog over at Ginger Snap Crafts.

It's a fun place where I share my easy, simple & cute crafty ideas & projects.
{Would love to have YOU drop by sometime!}

It is so fun to be over here with Jen & YOU celebrating Christmas!
Today I'd love to share my block Nativity tutorial.
I really do love how it turned out!
There's another reason I love it, too. I'll tell YOU in a minute! :)

This project was super easy & best of all, didn't cost me a thing!
Wahoo! I just used scraps of wood from our shed,

and a few craft supplies that I already had on hand! :)

Here's the {easy} tutorial on how I painted my blocks.

To make each piece:

I just got my block of wood.

Painted the face of it a creamy white. Let it dry.

I used vinyl nativity pieces as stencils.
I cut these using my Silhouette & software.

I applied my vinyl to my block of wood & then painted over it.

It took about 2-3 coats of paint depending on the color I was using.

Then I let it dry completely & then carefully removed the vinyl.

Touched up any areas the paint might of bled
through with a fine tipped paint brush.

Sanded the edges with sand paper to give my blocks a worn appearance.

Then I went over the entire block with some light wood stain.

I removed any excess stain with a rag. That was it! Super easy!

For more pictures & the dimensions I used to make my blocks
you can see the full tutorial over on my blog {here}.

OK now here’s my favorite part about this nativity set-
it can be played with!!! Nothing can be broken!
So it’s perfect for the kiddos to take out, stack up,
line up & act out the Christmas story with.
Annnd hopefully in the process learn
more about the true meaning of Christmas! :)

Thank you so much for having me over Jen!
Don't forget to drop by Ginger Snap Crafts.
I'd love to have YOU!
Merry Christmas!!!!

can we say CLEVER, CUTE, AND I WANT! I love this! Way to go Ginger, thanks for sharing your talent with us and letting us drool over you darling Wood Block Nativity.

winks, jen

Featured Guest Post {Colorful Ruffled Tree Skirt}

2011-12-06T10:47:00.000-08:00

Hi!! My name is Randee and I am
from
Randee's Organized Chaos
I LOVE to decorate and make anything CRAFTY but there is ALWAYS CHOAS in my life!! I am in the middles of my
80 DAY CHAOTIC CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
I hope that you enjoy my No Sew Christmas Tree Skirt Tutorial and will come and FOLLOW ALONG the CHOAS!!!
ENJOY!!!

Chaotic Christmas Countdown

Day 35

WOW.....this little "PROJECT" has cost me some time and some SKIN!!!! I now have 3rd degree burns to my fingers and permanent creases between my eyebrows.....OK.....maybe I already had those but I would like to blame them on something besides my age!!! ;)

I will give you the "how to" on wrapping the presents in an upcoming post!!

So without anything further, I give you my

NO SEW TREE SKIRT!!!! My inspiration was on HGTV!

AWESOME, HUH?????

Ok...tutorial!!!

Materials Needed

4-1/2' x 4-1/2' piece of canvas

measuring tape

5 yards of fabric (I bought 1 yard of each design)

scissors

fray-blocking glue

grosgrain ribbon

hot glue gun and hot glue sticks

Using a tape measure, mark and cut a square of canvas that is approximately 4-1/2' x 4-1/2'
(Image 1).

Fold the square into quarters, then over itself to form a triangle with the folded center at point. Cut base in a quarter circle (Image 2 and 3)

Cut a small quarter circle out of the point (Image 4)Open the skirt until it's folded in half and cut along the radius on one side of the center hole only (Image 5) This will provide a hole for the tree trunk and a slit in the fabric so the skirt can be placed under the tree.

Tip: I used a canvas painter's drop cloth!!!!!!

Apply no-fray glue along all raw edges and allow to dry!!

Maesure and cut your fabric that you are making your ruffles out of lenghtwise into approx 2 inch strips!

Apply a line of hot glue approximately 1 1/2 inches from outside edge of skirt. Create ruffles by pinching fabric with fingers and pushing gathers down onto hot glue! Work in small sections, I just did one good squeeze with the glue gun down the fabric! (See pic's below) Then continue this process around the entire skirt edge! Start the next row approximately 1 1/2 inches above the previous row. Continue adding rows until you reach a point that you just don't think you can take another row!!! ;)

When I thought that I was going to have to start drinking, I decided to add a large piece of fabric to the middle and add a few more rows until I met up with it!!

This is what it looked like when I added the fabric and cut a hole for the center!

When you make your circle, turn the tree skirt over and cut slits into the fabric hanging over and then glue them down!!! This will give a clean finish!!

Cut 10 pieces of grosgrain ribbon into approximately 12-inch lengths. Use hot glue to attach ribbon to underside of tree skirt along slit created in canvas base. Evenly space five on one side of slit and five directly opposite. Place skirt under tree and tie ribbons together in bows!!!

I have to say that it turned out AWESOME but I will not be making another one anytime soon!!!!

WOW- isn't it just to cute for words? I love all the colors and patterns. WELL DONE Randee. love it. WINKS, jen

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2011-12-04T16:51:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY, and I can't wait to see all of your talent... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

{Welcome to my Christmas Door}

2011-12-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

Hello There Friends- Today I am sharing with you my front door. I made the wreath a few years ago, and I just add stuff to the garland around my door. Everything is pretty much exactly the same as last years, minus the metal wreath holding Santa. My MIL got him for me 2 years ago at Roberts Crafts. I love him! do you see his cute mitten hands that come around the wreath appearing as if he is holding it. DID I SAY I LOVE HIM? He comes with a stand behind his feet so you can either place him on the ground to hold your wreath or hang him on your door. To hang him on the glass door, I used a Scotch Command Silver Metal Hook.

OH' AND BE SURE TO COME BACK LATER THIS EVENING FOR A NEW COM MONDAY! I CAN'T WAIT.

xo jen

AND SINCE WE ARE ON THE SUBJECT OF my {SANTA} WREATH HOLDER AND MY {MIL}....

lets move onto {MR. SANTA-The baby years} HA! My talented MIL made Mr. Chunk a Santa cotton diaper. I sent her an image I found on the web of the Santa cotton diaper, and she got to work. I made Mr. Chunks Santa Hat and then took a bunch of pictures of him. Here are just a few.

ENJOY!

.... and REMEMBER TO COME BACK THIS EVENING TO LINK UP ALL YOUR AWESOMENESS TO COM MONDAY!

{SUPER {BLOOMING WORDS GIVEAWAY}

2011-12-01T07:12:00.000-08:00

{Blooming Words} Vinyl GIVEAWAY!

We're excited to be back on COM and offer a $40 credit towards anything vinyl (excludes Christmas ornaments) just in time for the hustle & bustle of holiday shopping!

Here's how to Enter:

1. Like Blooming Words on Facebook, leave Jen a comment.

2. Follow Blooming Words Blog, leave Jen a comment.

3. Follow COM, leave Jen a comment.

4. Follow COM on Facebook, leave Jen a comment.

Jen will post the winner on her FB page!

AND that's not all!...

We're offering an exclusive Holiday Promo ONLY featured on COM and our FB page. Right now, you can purchase $30 worth of product for $15 OR $50 worth of product for $25. You MUST follow the link HERE to access this incredible deal because it is not available to the general public!

Nope, we're not done yet!...

'Share' our Holiday Promo link on our FB page to your wall, leave a comment that you've done so and we'll pick another $25 winner! Winner will be selected on Dec.4th and posted on our FB wall!

Check out our website for great holiday items such as Christmas ornaments, nativity scenes, growth charts, cookie plate kids and so much more! Custom orders are always welcome!

Here's what one of our awesome customers just had us install in her nursery...

and below are just two of our Christmas vinyls...

GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL!

{My Holiday Home} Stockings and Shiny Bulbs

2011-11-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

Here are some more pictures of my

Holiday Home in Green Apple and Shades of Turquoise.

I wanted to add in white too, so I did snow flakes and fake snow. I hope one day during this winter we can wake up to a winter wonderland even if it doesn't stick all day or for to long (and it won't). There is nothing like the beauty of a {freshly fallen snow}, I just love that look of a bright white wonderland, its simply magical. Plus who can resist making a snowman.. I know my kids can't.

HERE ARE SOME MORE PICTURES.

If you have any questions about where I got anything please email me I would love to answer any of your questions. jenglamgirl@gmail.com

I poured fake snow down in the apothecary jars and added bulbs and snow flakes.

then with my Canvas Corp. stocking's I was sent (TOTALLY LOVE CC stuff, and I was squealing over the stocking's.) I got to work embellishing them for my {four} kiddos. Mine and the hubs stocking's are hung on my peg shelf over our bed.

BEFORE

AFTER

...and that's it for now... I still have more to share with you all, but it will be in a week or two. Thanks for stopping by COM today, I am always happy to have you all visit.

jen
linking up to The 36th Avenue here
Tatertots and jello for the Weekend Wrap Up Party here
and 30 days for the Pity Party here

{My Holiday Home} in green apple & shades of turquoise

2011-11-29T05:47:00.000-08:00

I love CHRISTMAS TIME, there is no other feeling of warmth and excitement and joy then at Christmas. I assume its the memories I have as a child that I cherish. It just feels magical, and with my children I get to re-live it all again. I love their excitement when the Christmas boxes and bins get carried in. They love going through everything and helping mom. I love getting out their stacks of Christmas books and they sure enjoy going through them, especially when I make them some hot cocoa too.

This year I went for something totally different from the Traditional Red and Green I normally decorate in. I love the traditional colors but since I added chartreuse green and turquoise this year to my home decor, I wanted to stick with those same colors. A lot of the ornies I made too, or I added big ribbon to existing ones I had to give them a fresh new look.

Here are some pictures... and WELCOME TO MY HOLIDAY HOME.....

On the Piano- The large bulbs are from Tai Pan (last year) the poinsettias are from Michael's, the green pumpkins are from Walmart during Nov. The big white bells are from Tai Pan (last year) the mini snowman and mini santa are from Ace Hardware. The wicker glittery star is from Pier 1. The green pine tree sticks with acorns are from Roberts Crafts (last year) The small silver glittery bulbs are from Roberts Crafts, and the pine cones are from my tree in the back yard.

I added this striped bow to the orn. Ribbon is from Walmart.

This is a Canvas Corp mini canvas. I hot glued jute to the top and stamped a chevron print to the front.

I also made this snowman orn. I hot glued 3 white cotton balls to the Canvas Corp burlap canvas, added some brown waxed cotton as the scarf and hot glued the striped ribbon to the top.

berry twigs and glittery turq. branches are from Michaels Crafts. The green wire ribbon is from Tai Pan Trading.

I made this orn. by adding a circle cut Canvas Corp. Christmas paper, and gluing it to the back of the snowflake orn. The orn is from the $1.00 section at Target.

here I added large satin ribbon to freshen up the older look of small thin red satin ribbon.

another orn. I made by hot gluing ribbon to the top of some pine cones I picked off my backyard tree.

and there will be one more post of the rest of my decor later in the week.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY COM TODAY, AND SEEING MY HOLIDAY HOME.

XO LUVS,

jen
linking with Home Stories of A-Z here and 36th Avenue here
and Tatertots & jello for the Weekend Wrap Up Party here

CraftOManiac Monday- Link Party!

2011-11-27T16:59:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY, and I can't wait to see all of your talent... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

Saturday Spotlight Talent Show- Christmas Wreaths

2011-11-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO ANOTHER "SSTS"

Today's TALENT SHOW IS FILLED WITH

SUPER CREATIVE, BEAUTIFUL, RUSTIC, FUN, & COLORFUL {CHRISTMAS WREATHS.}

Here are my picks from last Monday's COM-MONDAY. In No particular order... lets get this SHOW STARTED.

Gorgeous Ice Skate Wreath-from-Alderberry Hill

Lovely Yarn Ball Christmas Wreath-from-Diary of a Crafty Lady

Snowflake Wreath- from- Dream Home DIY

Beautiful Tulle Christmas Wreath-from-The Kurtz Corner

Nature Inspired Wreath-from-Shabby Love

Jingle Bell and Yarn Wrapped Wreath- from- The Creative Imperative

Whimsical Colorful Christmas Wreath- from- AKM Designs and Delights

Winter Wreath- From- Mirrors, Metaphors, and Kaleidoscopes

WHAT A FANTASTIC TALENT SHOW WE HAVE HAD TODAY. I am so ready to get my Christmas Wreath MAKING BUTT ON... HA! I have an idea too. So here is to hoping I can get it made before one of you other talented ladies has the same idea. ;) Thanks for stopping by. xo jen

{Frosty the Canvas Snowman}

2011-11-22T13:34:00.000-08:00

HELLO there friends.

Today I am sharing with you my

"Frosty The Canvas Snowman" 

I used "3" different sized CHUNKY Canvas Corp. boards to create him.

I used "3" chunky canvas boards for the snowman.

I used sticks from my back yard tree to create his arms.

I used a piece of orange fabric scrap for the carrot nose.

I used black felt I cut into circles for the buttons and the eyes.

I used pink paint and a round foam stamp for the winter rosy cheeks.

I used a cut piece of minky fabric for the scarf. Fabric from Poppyseed Fabrics.

I used a walnut stain stamp for the edges to give it more dimension and weather it a little.

I used a cut piece of black waxed cotton for the mouth. Waxed cotton from Canvas Corp.

......and if I didn't RUN OUT OF BLACK FELT I would of made him his top hat, I still PLAN on doing so. ;)

and here is my Snowman Popcorn Covers and my Bakers Twine Snowman Christmas Card.

THANK you so much for stopping by COM today.

jen

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2011-11-20T15:58:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY, and I can't wait to see all of your talent... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

DIY Holiday Gift Idea- {Chocolate Dipped Cinnnamon Bears}

2011-11-20T09:14:00.000-08:00

Today I am sharing with you all my

"Chocolate Dipped Cinnamon Bears"

These would make a great friend, neighbor, teacher gifts. You can package them anyway you like. I used my cricut and my Platinum Schoolbook Cartridge to cut out 6 1/2 inch bags that I glued together with a glue stick. The cute paper you see in the pictures is from Canvas Corp.

melt your milk chocolate candy melts (you can get them at most craft stores or Walmart) stick your cin. bear on the sharp end of a kabob skewer, dip into the melted chocolate, and place on a greased lined cookie sheet. Stick them in the fridge to chill for 20 min. ENJOY!

My sister and little miss helped make them. It was fun.

p.s. this is sinful but my sister and I are going to double dip them next time.

HERE IS A SAYING...

"Have a Cinnamon Spice Beary Nice

HOLIDAY!"

HOPE YOU MAKE them and ENJOY THEM.

thanks

jen

TALENT SCOUTED- Lella Boutique (Faux Snowballs)

2011-11-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

HELLO CRAFTOMANIAC'S it's great to be here on COM TODAY. I am Yanessa from the blog

Lella Boutique

Jen "Talent Scouted" my Faux snowballs and said she had to share them. I am so glad she did. Thanks Jen.

SO I think I should start off with a disclaimer that these snowballs are not actually for sale. Nope, the cute little sign is part of the charm.

This week, I made snowballs and chuckled as I thought of the original batch of fake snowballs my mom made many years ago. They were to be part of a wonderful winter display at the craft store where she was working. She arranged the snowballs in a cute little basket with a similar homemade sign "advertising" them as five cents each. Big mistake. Within hours, a customer snatched them from the display and bought them. My mom was ready to strangle the cashier.

Later, my mom made extra-large snowballs and turned them into ornaments for the designated "kid" Christmas tree at home. My brothers and I thought they were the coolest ornaments ever! I still love these fabulous faux snowballs and now that I've got my own collection, I can share the "recipe" with you.

Here is a list of basic suppliess:

Styrofoam balls

Snow-Tex by DecoArt (regular or glitter)

Thin wire and wire cutters

A butter knife

Clothesline for drying

I didn't mention specific quantities because it all depends on how many snowballs you want to make, and how big they are. I bought twenty styrofoam balls in small and medium sizes and ended up using six jars of Snow-Tex to cover them. I hope that helps. The Snow-Tex consistency is similar to ricotta cheese while wet so keep that in mind as you are trying to figure out how much to buy. You can always buy more if you need to--which is what I ended up doing. Also, Snow-Tex comes in regular or glitter varieties. Just be consistent in whichever kind you buy.

To prep your styrofoam balls, insert a wire through the styrofoam and out the other side about 1". Twist that end into a hook and push it back into the styrofoam.

On the other side, clip the wire so that it is two or three inches long.

Using your knife, scoop a glob of the Snow-Tex onto the styrofoam ball. Spread it around like you would frost a cupcake. You could certainly try to cover the whole styrofoam ball by holding it by the wire, but I found it easiest to actually hold the styrofoam ball and just cover half of it at a time.

Hang the snowballs to dry onto your clothesline by wrapping the wire around the rope/ribbon/string. (I strung up some old ribbon for a makeshift clothesline.)

Let them dry overnight. Resume applying the Snow-Tex to the other half of the styrofoam and hang to dry overnight again.

Then you are ready to do what you want with them! You could twist the wire into a loop and add a ribbon for ornaments. Or you could tie them into a garland or wreath. I snipped the wire off for my basket of snowballs.

To make a charming little sign, see my tutorial at the Therm O Web blog:

Snowballs for Sale (Sign Tutorial)

I SO WANT TO MAKE THESE, AND AM GOING TO HAVE TOO. I love the sign and all. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR A SHARING THEM ON COM TODAY.

winks, jen

{Pickle Doodle Designs with a $30.00 dollar Giveaway}

2011-11-17T12:57:00.000-08:00

LET ME INTRODUCE YOU ALL TO THE DARLING
PICKLE DOODLE DESIGNS.
She has such darling, Printable's. Everything from Subway art, to Initials, birth announcements, Christmas Cards and more. Depending on your like you can have your printable customized to your name, and/or initial. SUCH CUTE STUFF. Here is just some examples....

cuteness right? well there is tons tons more in her ETSY SHOP.

here is my product review. I LOVE IT!

GUESS WHAT???

one of you will win a $30.00 DOLLAR Credit to here shop.

HERE'S HOW TO ENTER:

1- Like Pickle Doodle on FB here, let me know.

2- Like Pickle Doodle on Twitter here, let me know.

3- Like Pickle Doodle's Blog here, let me know.

4- Tweet, or FB this Giveaway let me know.

5- Follow COM let me know.

6- Follow COM on FB here, let me know.

FEWWWW, THAT IS "6" chances to win.

GOOD LUCK.

I will announce the winner in a week via my FB PAGE.

Featured Guest Post (The Cutest Ruffled Top Ever)

2011-11-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

Hi! My name is Sundi, from the blog

"Life Of A Cheap Chickadee".

I'm super excited to share this (easier than it looks, yet fabulous) Ruffle Shirt Tutorial with you! Please feel free to check out and check back often for all my other tutorials and tips! I'm all about cheap, easy and awesome projects!

This weekend was a "long weekend". We took our little family to Las Vegas to visit Aunt Carrie. There she was supposed to teach me to bake and I was supposed to teach her to sew some things........but instead, I sewed for her and she baked for me. And guess what? We are not feeling sad about that at all!

I made this little lovely for Addy (my seven year old), and then.... (since Carrie was so busy baking for me), I made one for her little Jacklyn as well. That's right! I wanted it noted that I made TWO of these! And if you please I would like a virtual pat on the back as well. It took a little longer than I wanted it to, but it was WORTH it!

The whole project only took me about an hour but since I'm lazy, I like projects to take me about 30 minutes or less.

It started out as an idea for a dress but once I got into it, I decided it was too much fluff for a dress. I like the idea of off setting it with some faded jeans and cowgirl boots. Plus, Addy wanted it to be a shirt as well.

Although this shirt is pretty easy to figure out on your own, I've posted a tutorial with some tips on how to ruffle quicker and easier right here......Goodbye! :)

THIS IS DARN RIGHT THE CUTEST RUFFLE TOP I HAVE EVER SEEN. I adore it. I want one in my size and one for my daughter. Thank you so much Sundi for sharing this CUTE CREATION with us.

xo jen

Featured Guest Post (Santa Belt Wreath)

2011-11-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Craft-O-Maniac fans! I'm Abbey! I am the voice behind The Cards We Drew.

I'm SO excited to be visiting today to show off my first Christmas wreath of the season! My favorite holiday decor has to be anything with a Santa belt on it. I have mugs, dishtowels, ornaments and more that have the Santa Belt on it, but to date I do not have a wreath. So when I was thinking of a fun Christmas idea to share with all of you, I thought that this would be the perfect chance to make my Santa Belt Christmas Wreath!

You know the best thing about this wreath is how easy it is to make! You don't have to be a serious crafter to make this wreath. It's quick and easy and you'll have something homemade to show off on your door during Christmas.

Here's what you need to make this wreath:
Straw wreath form
Red yarn (I used a much thicker yarn because I wanted a very full wreath)
Hot glue and gun
Scissors
One rectangular piece of pre-starched black felt
Silver piece of fabric (I already had some, but you could also buy gold or yellow felt)
White bearded material (I also already had some, but you could use cotton balls or felt or leave it off)

This wreath is so easy I could pretty much sum it up for you in this picture diagram.

Step One: Wrap your wreath with red yarn and hot glue the ends down.

Step Two: Take your piece of starched felt, fold it length wise.

Step Three: Cut a piece of the felt about 2 inches thick.

Step Four: Lay it on your wreath and figure out how big your belt buckle should be, then cut your belt buckle fabric into a square.

Step Five: Once you have your square cut, you'll need to measure out the cut you need to make on the inside.

Step Six: I drew my cuts on the back of the fabric and then made a slit in the middle of the square and cut it out.
Step Seven: Once my belt buckle is cut out, I glue the felt down and then center my belt buckle and glue my belt buckle down, as well.

OPTIONAL Step Eight: I had some fur left over from a Halloween costume we didn't end up using, so I cut it out into a beard form and pinned it onto the top of my wreath. I figured that way I could always remove the beard if I got sick of it. Also, it sheds a lot, so I want to be sure I could pull it off and replace it as needed over the years.

OPTIONAL Step Nine: Last I added a little glittered "Merry Christmas" sign I got at JoAnn's last minute for something extra.

That's it! So simple, right? And here's the finished product again!

Thank you SO much to Jennie for having me over at her amazing blog today. And I'd absolutely love it if you came over to The Cards We Drew to see what else I have in store this holiday season!

THANKS ABBEY for sharing this Santa Belt Wreath, its sure cute and original.

XO, jen

DIY neighbor/teacher gift- {Snowmen Popcorn Covers}

2011-11-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Today I am sharing with you a great inexpensive Neighbor or Teacher gift.

{Snowmen Popcorn Covers}

How To in a Collage. You can make yours anyway you want, I used all supplies I had at home so it didn't cost me anything but a box of popcorn.
First Cut paper to size, fold, then glue, draw on the smile with a sharpie, dot the eyes with a sharpie. Make the cheeks with some pink rosey paint and round sponge stamp. Cut out a nose from paper glue it down with a glue stick. Cut out a hat and glue that on as well. You can embellish it with a scarf, I used bakers twine, and I punched out black circles with a whole punch for the buttons. Last I hot glued a white button to the black top hat.

BEFORE

AFTER

THANKS FOR "POPPING" BY COM TODAY.

HAPPY HOLIDAY CRAFTING.

jen

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

2011-11-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

ITS HERE COM MONDAY, and I can't wait to see all of your talent... LET'S GET STARTED!

{{{RULES}}}

*Please be courteous to your host and link back to CraftOManiac.

*Please link up only "3" cRaFts. DIY PROJECTS. or Recipes.

*PLEASE DO NOT link to giveaways, or craft posts attached to your own link party.

*Please visit some other links and show some comment love!

THANKS A BUNCH

{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}- Thanksgiving Talents

2011-11-12T15:18:00.000-08:00

{WELCOME TO ANOTHER COM

SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT TALENT SHOW}
THIS IS A ROUNDUP OF SOME FAVORITES FROM LAST Monday's COM Monday.

today all of our talented contestants our showcasing their love of "THANKSGIVING" LET THE SHOW BEGIN.......

Homespun with Love- BEAUTIFUL Thanksgiving Mantel

Keeping Up With Times- Gorgeous Rustic Whole Grain Wreath

ShinDig Parties- Free Kids Thanksgiving Printable's, SUPER darling Thanksgiving kids party

Kate with an E- Beautiful Fall Thanksgiving Decor

Family Ever After- Thanksgiving Advent Tree- so darling

Over The Big Moon- Free Thankful Bunting and Subway Art Printable's- very cute

Mommy By Day Crafter By Night- Cute Teacher, Neighbor Thankful Gift

A Pumpkin and a Princess- Give Thanks Bunting- so simple yet so cute

WHAT A FANTASTIC TALENT SHOW WE HAD TODAY. YOU ALL ARE TALENTED WINNERS HERE ON COM!

Now who can't wait for TURKEY-STUFF YOUR GUT DAY? HA!

I am visiting over....

2011-11-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

I AM THRILLED TO BE PARTICIPATING IN JAMIELYN'S Crazy Christmas Crafter's HOLIDAY EVENT. Head over to
I Heart Naptime and check out the easy in-expensive neighbor gift you can make.

{Saving money & teaching your kids its value}

2011-11-10T18:59:00.000-08:00

This post was underwritten by BMO Harris Bank, which offers a matching $25 on a new savings account opened for your child through their Helpful Steps for Parents program. Learn more at bmoharris.com/parents.

A year and half ago, on no particular day... the hubs and I felt it was the day we would take our two older kids to our bank and open their own bank accounts. Boy did they feel special that day, Bella even grabbed herself a purse. HA! We first headed to lunch and then off to the bank. This day really was a special day.. as they felt big, older like adults, you could see it on their faces and in their cute smirks. On that day they were big and felt very important. My husband and I do our very best to teach our kids how important it is to save their money or to save {some} of their money. When they earn money or get birthday money we have them put some of it into their own savings accounts. We want them to know how important it is to save and that you are never to young to start and learn early. Now a days money is like gold every penny is so valuable. Both my husband and I want our children to know that and understand that now, and not later. While its important they be kids and get to use some of their chore or birthday money, its even more important that they save for a special event, journey in their life, or to continue to save for those Uh' Oh' moment's in life. The kind of times we have all been faced with. I love that my older kids have savings accounts, and that they are proud to have them too. When we can't get to the bank in town right away, we use their good Ol' Piggie Bank's. Both My husband and I will continually encourage them and continually teach them the importance of money and to do your very best to save and pay yourself first.

Here is the picture of the day we took the older kids to the bank. They are sitting in the office of one of the bank employees getting their accounts opened.

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. To learn more about BMO Harris Bank, visit their website http://bmoharris.com/parents.

Craft-O-Maniac

{Valentines Shelf of LOVE}

Entry way gets Valentine-ified

Say It on the Wall GIVEAWAY & more of my Craft Nook sneak peek

Featured Guest Post-THE LETTER 4 {DIY Warm Fuzzy Heart}

{{CRAFTOMANIAC MONDAY}}

{{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}}

{{CraftOManiac "Contributor's" Casting}}

Great Giveaway from Pandora's Craft Box

Featured Guest Post- Our Mini Family {Damask Puffy Paint Canvas Art}

{Romantic Canvas Stamped Table Runner}

Bubs and Bella's "SWEET" Valentine Cards

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

Saturday Spotlight Talent Show

VISITING WHERE...

Getting Organized-DIY- Earring & Necklace Holder

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

For all of you- {Valentines Subway Art}

{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}

Valentine Decor {The Piano Top}

Valentine Decor {The Hutch}

Designer Chic Tees, Yes' Please

Is there anything better then the perfect t-shirt??? combine that with your perfect "favorite" pair of jeans and its a WIN WIN, SLAM DUNK, AND HOME RUN!

well apparently Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen understand this question too, which is why they've launched StyleMint: a new membership-only, e-commerce site that offers amazing T Shirts.

As for how StyleMint works, it's simple.....

{{GORGEOUS hand stamped Necklace GIVEAWAY}}

Getting Organized- {Bella's Closet}

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

Thank you to ALL MY {FRIENDS}

TICK TOCK oreo NEW YEAR'S CLOCK pop's

39 Dollar Glasses Review & GIVEAWAY!

DIY- New Years Inspired {Clock Pillow}

COM'S {Top 10} of 2011

{Merry Christmas to all of you}

Super COOL & I think you all will love {{Storenvy}}

DIY-Neighbor Gift- A pail of snow balls aka oreo cake balls

{{Elf on the Shelf - LINK PARTY}}

{{Canvas Corp. GIVEAWAY}}

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

DIY- Simple Gift Ideas

Saturday Spotlight's {Christmas Tree Love's}

Featured Guest Post- Over The Big Moon- {{Darling Mistletoe}}

DIY embelished Christmas tree- using hemp and rope

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link Party- {Christmas Tree Edition}

{Beautiful Bella Ballerina & her Ballet Bag}

{{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}}

Elf on The Shelf- meet {Simmie}

TALENT SCOUTED- Ginger Snaps {wood block nativity}

Featured Guest Post {Colorful Ruffled Tree Skirt}

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

{Welcome to my Christmas Door}

{SUPER {BLOOMING WORDS GIVEAWAY}

{My Holiday Home} Stockings and Shiny Bulbs

{My Holiday Home} in green apple & shades of turquoise

CraftOManiac Monday- Link Party!

Saturday Spotlight Talent Show- *Christmas Wreaths*

{Frosty the Canvas Snowman}

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

DIY Holiday Gift Idea- {Chocolate Dipped Cinnnamon Bears}

TALENT SCOUTED- Lella Boutique (Faux Snowballs)

{Pickle Doodle Designs with a $30.00 dollar Giveaway}

Featured Guest Post (The Cutest Ruffled Top Ever)

Featured Guest Post (Santa Belt Wreath)

DIY neighbor/teacher gift- {Snowmen Popcorn Covers}

Craft-O-Maniac MONDAY link PARTY

{Saturday Spotlight Talent Show}- Thanksgiving Talents

I am visiting over....

{Saving money & teaching your kids its value}

Saturday Spotlight Talent Show- Christmas Wreaths