A Place To Share My Stuff

Cupcakes for Mia

2011-12-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I wrapped gift boxes and staked them to make a place for Mia's Birthday Cupcakes! We added lots of ribbon, flowers, bling, rings, crowns, wands and beads! My granddaughter Mia is now 4!

xoxo Karen Lee

Sawyer

2011-11-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

I'm sharing another custom order my daughter Lisa just completed. Her client wanted the babies name made to hang on a door, so Lisa came up with this idea and I think its adorable. I love all the fun ribbon and pearls she added to the ribbon she used for the hanger. She is not sure if the client will like the bird, so its not attached at this point, she is waiting for her to see it. I say KEEP the bird, its cute!!

xoxo Karen Lee

Karsyn

2011-11-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

My daughter Lisa just finished another custom order. The pink paper she used has touches of glitter, but it does not show in these photographs. She added a little bling to each letter. They turned out so pretty.

To place an order or to just check out her etsy shop......click on the link below

LETTERS BY LEELEE

xoxo Karen Lee

GLUTEN FREE ORANGE CHICKEN

2011-10-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

Jenn Cuisine

A Gluten Free Cooking Blog

My daughter Lisa served us this wonderful Orange Chicken last night. My granddaughter Kelly has to eat gluten free meals and this one was awesome. I hope you take a minute or two and go check out the recipe. Just click on the Jenn Cuisine link above. It's a great meal for those of us who don't have to eat gluten free, try it!!

xoxo Karen Lee

Trick or Treat Banner

2011-10-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

This is my first attempt at making a banner. The only item that I had to go out and purchase was the Halloween print paper from KC&Company. Everything else I already had, even all the cute wooden bats, cats, etc. I found them in a plastic bag, I don't even remember buying them. I must have thought they would come in handy at some point in my crafting. It was a lovely surprise!! I dug out my Cricut, punches, buttons, ric-rac, ribbon and ink and got to work. It looks really cute hanging from the mantel of my daughter's fireplace.

xoxo Karen Lee

DECOUPAGE PUMPKINS

2011-10-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

WOW........I LOVE THESE! I love how creative crafters are when it comes to pumpkins these days. No more bright orange pumpkins with cut out eyes, nose and mouth!!! I was never very good at carving, but I can decoupage!! I will be trying this technique very soon. Did I say I LOVE THESE!!

CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR INSTUCTIONS......

pocket full of dreams

xoxo Karen Lee

PRETZEL SNACKS

2011-10-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Just melt Hershey's kisses onto tiny twist pretzels
(place in oven at 275 for 3 minutes)
remove from oven and immediately press a
single M&M on top of melted chocolate

Refrigerate until time to eat as to make sure they are
deliciously solid. Enjoy!!

These would be so much fun to make with the grandkidlets!

foodgawker.com

xoxo Karen Lee

A POT OF PUMPKINS!

2011-10-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

My daughter Lisa and I finished making these adorable pots of pumpkins today. I had found one of these the other day over at Pineterest and we made some changes to the original and made these our own.

This was our inspiration pot of pumpkins. As you can see we kicked it up a notch!

We started out by spray painting our terra cotta pots black. While they were drying I used my Cricut machine to cut out 1 1/4 inch circles. We thought it would be much easier to mod podge on the paper circles, so we didn't have to stress out trying to paint perfect circles all around our pots. We don't like to stress!!

We applied each dot to the pot using mod podge on the backs of each paper dot.

Once the dots were dry, we applied mod podge over the entire pot. You really don't need to be careful when applying this stuff. We just kind of slapped it on. When it dries it looks wonderful.

We bought unfinished wooden letters at Michael's, painted them black and then covered them with halloween print paper. We also applied mod podge to each letter and then glued them together.

We cut the stems off the bottom two pumpkins so that we could stack them. We just used a steak knife, no fancy tools needed.

Now we are getting excited......its time to start the fun part of putting them all together.

We bought leaf garlands, bunches of sunflowers, 2 big black spiders and autumn colored ferns to add around the bottom of the stack of pumpkins.

and every crafter needs a special helper!!

XOXO Karen Lee

POLKA DOTTED PUMPKINS!! SO DARNED CUTE!

2011-10-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh!! I so love these painted dot and felt dot pumpkins. Just how cute is that caterpillar! Once again I found these while snoopin' around

PINETEREST

XOXO Karen Lee

Candy Corn

2011-10-02T08:17:00.000-07:00

Now I know what to do with candy corn!!!

PINETEREST

xoxo Karen Lee

More BOO finds!

2011-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

I found these over on the UNCOMMON design blog

and I found these boo pumpkins over on the
REINVENTED blog

I just love all my BOO finds!!!

xoxo Karen Lee

Boo!!

2011-09-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

I'm excited about my finds tonight. I found these over at Pineterest. They would be so fun and easy to make. A good mother-daughter project. I love buttons, did I say I love buttons and I have tons of them. So watch out pumpkins.......here I come!

xoxo Karen Lee

Taco Pizza

2011-09-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

This looks so yummy!! This was my recipe find for tonight. Click on the link below for the recipe.
Real Mom Kitchen Blog.

xoxo Karen Lee

Lasagna Soup

2011-09-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

I gotta make this soup!!! Soup ranks right on top of my favorite food list! I found this recipe over at
A Farmgirl's Dabbles Blog.

xoxo Karen Lee

Mini Buttermilk Cinnamon Bun Pops

2011-09-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

These would be so much fun to serve at your next family brunch. I found these over on the Ice Cream Before Dinner Blog. Click on the link for the recipe.

xoxo Karen Lee

Santa Hat Brownie Bites

2011-09-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

These would be so fun to serve at your next Christmas get together. I found them over at the SweetTooth Blog. Take a minute and go check out the recipe. Seems very simple and oh so good! I am sure I will be making these very soon.

xoxo Karen Lee

Rainbow Cake

2011-09-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

What a fun cake for kids!! I found this while surfing Pinterest. Just click on the following web site and it will take you right to the recipe. http://www.omnomicon.com/rainbowcake I can't wait to try this fun cake!

Frame

2011-07-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all my crafting buddies. I just finished up this frame and it will be listed for sale later today in my daughter's Etsy shop. Now I've got to get back to working on more frames. Enjoy your Saturday!!
LettersByLeeLee

xoxo Karen Lee

I just sold this frame

2011-07-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

I listed this frame for sale at my daughter's etsy shop..........LettersbyLeeLee

I'm missing all my blogging buddies, where does our day go???

Thanks for stopping by, Karen Lee

Letters By LeeLee

2011-05-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful custom order made by my daughter Lisa. Her client ordered them for her wedding. She is going to attach them to an old oak tree as a decoration. Great idea!!

Visit.............. LETTERS BY LEELEE

xoxo Karen Lee

JUST WANTED TO SAY "HI"

2011-03-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hello to all my blogging friends. I've had a crazy month or so. I have sold my house, moved in with my daughter, son-in-law and grandkidlets!! My favorite son-in-law in the whole wide world had a massive tumor removed from his chest this past Friday and will hopefully come home from the hospital today. It is going to be a long recovery and that is why I'm here with them. I'm so glad that I am able to help my family. One day I will return to my paper crafting.

xoxo Karen Lee

Brownie Pops!

2011-02-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

Gillycakes.blogspot.com

These are just the cutest!! How much fun to make!

Just click on the above link and it will take you to the recipe.

xoxo Karen Lee

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #32

2011-01-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

The Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge provided us with a fun sketch this week. For once I completed the inside of the card as well. I always wait until I'm ready to send or give it to someone before I complete the inside. I'm proud of myself that its already to go!!

what I used................................

Kraft cardstock

K&Company mat pad "Tim Coffey"

Cricut cartridges "Cindy Loo" & "George"

Wilton doile

seam binding

bakers twine

Studio G stamps & bling

strip of pearls

strip of dingle balls (thats what I call them anyway)

xoxo Karen Lee

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #31

2011-01-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

This card was made using the sketch below as inspiration. Each week Waltzingmouse provides a great sketch for their weekly challenge.

what I used..................................
Bo Bunny Crush Collection
Bo Bunny die cuts
Marvy Uchida heart punches
Martha Stewart tinsel glitter
Butterfly punch
lace
bling
silk flower
adhesive
glaze

xoxo Karen Lee

The Shabby Tea Room Week #45

2011-01-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

This week over at The Shabby Tea Room we were to use the above photo as our inspiration. The challenge is called "White & Bright". We were to use only white and one other color. I used kraft cardstock that I sponge painted with white paint and then added strips of pearl lace, ribbon, wooden butterfly covered with paper, silk flowers w/bling, glittered fronds and I hand wrote HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

what I used.............................

K&Company "Tim Coffey" designer mat pad

white paint

sponge

Wrights pearl lace

Offray ribbon

silk flowers

bling

Martha Stewart frond punch

ink

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter (my go to glitter!)

adhesive

glaze

mod podge

xoxo Karen Lee

Make-It-Monday w/the Kraft Outlet

2011-01-18T10:28:00.000-08:00

This week's word over at The Kraft Journal is "FAMILY". We were challenged to make a project using kraft cardstock or a product from the Kraft Outlet. I have had this 5 in. x 5 in. wood block tucked away for over a year and thought this would be the time to dust it off and use it for this challenge. Of course I used photo's of my grandkidlets. I think I met the rules of the challenge - FAMILY & Kraft cardstock.

Now for a look at all sides of the block............

what I used.............................

Kraft cardstock

Creative Imaginations paper

Creative Imaginations die cuts

ric-rak

buttons

bakers twine

Versa Magic chalk ink

adhesive

Inkssentials Glossy Accents

xoxo Karen Lee

Pot of Soup!

2011-01-17T11:05:00.000-08:00

I'm home from work today and thought I would make a pot of soup. I'm not much of a recipe follower, I mostly just wing it when I cook. I have no idea how this soup is going to taste, but let me share what I have added to the pot. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will be tasty.

First ingredients..........

hot sausage from Johnsonville

purple onion

sliced mushrooms

olive oil

sea salt

pepper

garlic powder

then I added..............

corn

spinach

black beans

kidney beans

white beans

cut tomatoes

and then I added.........

chicken broth

I'll let it simmer

and will check back in later

to let you know how

it turned out!

I'm back with the results......oh my it's very tasty!!

xoxo Karen Lee

Waltzing Mouse Sketch Challenge #30

2011-01-16T15:57:00.000-08:00

I loved working with this weeks sketch over at the Waltzing Mouse. I once again used my new papers from Making Memories Je t'adore collection. I'm on a card making roll today. I so love 3 day weekends.

what I used.............................

Making Memories Je t'adore

Making Memories Je t'adore die cuts

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter (I love that stuff)

Little Yellow Bicycle heart stick pins

Studio G pigment ink

pop dots

silk flower

bling

thread

adhesive

xoxo Karen Lee

The Shabby Tea Room Week #43

2011-01-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy that I was able to use the new paper collection from Making Memories that I bought a few weeks ago. They worked in perfectly with this weeks challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room.

what I used...........................

Making Memories - Je t'adore collection

kraft cardstock

Bazzill chipboard heart

paper doilie

Making Memories Je t'adore die cuts

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

Studio G pigment ink

bling

silk flower

glossy accents

thread

adhesive

xoxo Karen Lee

Card Patterns Sketch #98

2011-01-16T10:12:00.000-08:00

Good mornin'! I couldn't sleep last night and guess what I did instead......yep, made a card. I love the sketches over at Card Patterns. Thanks girls for the inspiration each week.

what I used..........................

Bazzill cardstock

Bo Bunny "Crush Collection"

Little Yellow Bicycle heat stick pins

Jolee's "All That Bling" dimensional stickers

Fiskars heart punches

red ribbon

adhesive

xoxo Karen Lee

CHOLE

2011-01-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

Letters By LeeLee

My daugther just finished another custom order!
Once again, I love these!

xoxo Karen Lee

Get Sketchy #69

2011-01-12T11:14:00.000-08:00

I made this card using the above sketch from Get Sketchy.

I also entered this card over at The Paper Variety.

what I used................................

Bazzill Basics cardstock

Bo Bunny "Crush Collection"

Bo Bunny "Note Worthy" die cut journal pages

Wrights Creative Classics pear lace

Fiskars flower punches

Dew Drop pigment ink

button

ribbon

Little Yellow Bicycle heart stick pins

Hero Arts stamp

adhesive

glue

xoxo Karen Lee

Tea Bags

2011-01-11T19:40:00.000-08:00

I love this cute and very simple Valentine's Day Cup of Tea from

Martha Stewart.com

xoxo Karen Lee

PRETTY PAPER STRAW GIVEAWAY!

2011-01-10T17:42:00.000-08:00

SUCH A FUN GIVEAWAY

Would you like to win a package of these pretty paper straws? Just go to the Bakerella blog and guess which straw is the shortest for your chance to win. I think these are great. Go check them out.

Card Patterns Sketch #97 & Just Us Girls Challenge #66 "Envy of Envies"

2011-01-09T11:46:00.000-08:00

I entered this card into 2 different challenges. I used sketch #97 from Card Patterns and Just Us Girls Challenge #66 wanted us to join in on a 3 part challenge this week.

1. make a card

2. decorate envelope to match your card

3. line your envelope

I love making these "tall" cards. This one measures 4 x 9 1/4 inches. I usually make all my cards 5 x 5 inches, but the postage is killing me. So I must start making cards that only require 44 cents to mail instead of $1.22. But I love my 5 x 5's!!

what I used................................

paper -

American Crafts "Love"

Always, Falling and Many Splendered

Jillibean Soup

New England Chowder - fresh thyme

kraft & red dotted scraps

Fiskars heart punches

Marvy Uchida scallop punches

bakers twine

Hero Arts stamp

button

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

Dew Drop pigment ink

Inkssentials glossy accents

adhesive

The Shabby Tea Room Week #43 - Eleven Elements

2011-01-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

I decided to make a fun little project instead of a card for this weeks challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room. This weeks challenge was to use ELEVEN ELEMENTS in honor of 2011. I didn't know how I was going to get eleven elements on this candle holder......but I did!

~ glass votive cup

~ purple glitter

~ purple trim

~ green seam binding

~ 3 layered flower

~ yellow brad

~ white sprig

~ lace

~ and a candle

These are made by my daughter Lisa!

2011-01-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

These are made by my daughter Lisa. She opened up her etsy shop a few months ago and is doing very well. So.............I thought I would do a little bragging until she starts her own blog!! I guess you know I'm a proud momma!!

Please make a visit to her shop:

Letters by Lee Lee

HAPPY NEW YEAR.......xoxo Karen Lee

My First Card of the New Year!!

2011-01-01T15:19:00.000-08:00

I made this card for the Shabby Tea Room Challenge Week #42 and also for Just Us Girls Sketch Challenge #65. I used the photo from the Shabby Tea Room for color inspiration and the sketch from Just Us Girls.

what I used.............................
scrap fabric
lace
strip of balls
heart button
glitter hemp cord
thread
postage stamp punch
Martha Stewart tinsel glitter
kraft cardstock
ink

A few of my favorites from 2010

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

A HAPPY NEW YEAR goes out to all of my family and friends. I'm wishing each and every one of you the best 2011 ever!

I've been blog surfing this morning and enjoying many of your "fav" projects from 2010. So I thought I would post a list of my own favorites from 2010!!

These projects were a lot of fun to make and brought much joy to my heart. Of course I have many, many cards from 2010 that I love, but decided there were just too many to add to my list this morning. I am looking forward to getting back into all the wonderful card challenges that the blog world has to offer.

HAPPY 2011 EVERYONE!!

xoxo Karen Lee

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-24T04:30:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS

Every time a hand reaches out
To help another....that is Christmas
Every time someone puts anger aside
And strives for understanding
That is Christmas

Every time people forget their differences
And realize their love for each other
That is Christmas

May this Christmas bring us
Closer to the spirit of human understanding
Closer to the blessing of peace!

~~ Author Unknown

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY FAMILY, FRIENDS & ALSO TO ALL MY BLOGGING BUDDIES!! I WISH THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER TO YOU ALL!

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #28

2010-12-19T08:06:00.000-08:00

I love making these tall cards as I call them. They fit perfectly into a legal sized envelope. The card measures 9 x 3.5. I used the above sketch from Waltzingmouse.

what I used............................

Kraft cardstock

DCWV - Doodlin' Around paper pack

Cricut cartridge - Christmas Cheer

paper doiley

pearls

craft fine glitter for ornament

Martha Stewart glitter tinsel

stamp

paper glaze

adhesive

bakers twine

Snowflake Christmas Card

2010-12-18T17:32:00.000-08:00

I've spent most of today addressing Christmas cards for friends and family and I discovered that I was short a few cards. So here's one I just whipped up and I have a few more to do. I kept it simple and I really do like it. Well.......off to make up some more cards. I can't believe I'm still making cards at this time in December, they should have all been mailed a week or so ago!!!

Candy Cane Christmas Mouse

2010-12-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Whether used as gift tags or just given as sweet presents all by themselves, these candy Christmas mice are sure to cause a stir. Visit Disney Family Fun for

easy directions.

The Shabby Tea Room - Week #40 - Warm & Snuggly

2010-12-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

This week the challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room is called Warm & Snuggly. We were to use felt or fleece on our project. We were given a great photo of stacked very colorful fleece/felt as our inspiration. I dug around in my button collection and chose very colorful buttons, added Martha Stewart's glitter tinsel, tied on brightly colored ric-rac,( the red is made of felt) added a couple of bells and hung it on my tree!!

Elf & Candy Canes

2010-12-15T11:06:00.000-08:00

Another fun project that you can do with your kidlets!

Here is the link to find the directions and pattern for this great project.

http://www.favecrafts.com/Kids-Holiday-Crafts/Elf-Candy-Cane-Holder#

Missed the challenge deadline..............

2010-12-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

I made this card last week for a color challenge. We were to use the colors PEAR, ROSE & CHOCOLATE BROWN. Well.........I missed the deadline and could not enter. But, I wanted to share it here on my blog anyway. I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. I did!

FREE WINE LABELS!

2010-12-12T06:19:00.000-08:00

Wine for the Holidays

CHECK OUT BETTER HOMES & GARDENS FOR YOUR FREE PRINTABLE LABEL

I think these labels are great and what a fun way to gift a bottle of vino!!!

AUNT CATHERINE'S CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS - 1985

2010-12-11T13:06:00.000-08:00

Aren't these the best ever! My great Aunt Catherine from New Jersey made me this set of Christmas balls back in, I think 1985. At the time she gave them to me (I hate to admit) I wasn't thrilled with decorating with them (not my style) as I was young and dumb!!! Today as I was going through some of my Christmas stuff I came upon them and to my delight......I loved 'em!! It was like finding a hidden treasure. Aunt Catherine put a lot of love into these ornaments and this year I am honoring her by using them on my dining room table. We lost her many years ago and I hope she knows that her creations are being displayed with pride this Christmas.

FUN PROJECT FOR THE KIDLETS!

2010-12-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

Peppermints are the coolest holiday sweets -- especially when transformed into edible hanging ornaments. Lay five or so peppermint candies in a circle to form a wreath; bond sides together with icing. Adorn front with cinnamon candies or mints. Let dry two hours before hanging. Loop twine around ornament; knot.

I found this fun and easy project for our kidlets to make at Martha Stewart for kids. This would also be really cute made with large colorful buttons!! I might have to try making one in buttons. If I do......I'll be back to share it with ya all!

MIA'S VISIT WITH SANTA!

2010-12-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

This is my almost 3 year old granddaughter, Mia. Her daddy took her to see Santa yesterday and she would not sit on his lap, NO WAY!! My son talked her into sitting right next to Santa. I think this is one adorable photo!

Get Sketchy #67

2010-12-05T15:54:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I went Christmas shopping this morning. I did get a few gifts for some of my grandkidlets. I still have more shopping to do and I'm running out of time, yikes! When I got home I grabbed this sketch from Get Sketchy and got my card made for this weeks challenge.

what I used......................

Basic Gray - jovial

Kraft cardstock

glitter star - Cricut George cartridge

lace

bling - Mark Richards crystal stickers

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

craft glitter

Versa Magic chalk ink

thread

paper glaze

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #26 & COLOUR Q Challenge #61

2010-12-04T14:32:00.000-08:00

I'm just in a card making mood today. I just completed this one for the Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge & COLOUR Q Challenge #61 We were provided the above sketch and colors for our inspiration. I've turned into a glitter queen......LOL!!

what I used......................

Kraft cardstock

DCWV Doodlin' Around stack

glitter star made by me

binding

Versa Magic chalk ink

bling

sequin snowflake - Darice

silk flower

paper glaze

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

snowflake stamp

alpha stamps

Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge #167

2010-12-04T11:24:00.000-08:00

We were given a fun sketch to play with this week over at Mojo Monday. We could either make a square or round card using the sketch. I have never made a round card, so I gave it a try and this is my version of the sketch. I hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend. Its kind of a jammie day for me as its cold and a little rainy today. No need to leave the house!!

what I used.................

Basic Grey - jovial

Kraft cardstock

music paper from the thrift store

snowflake - Cricut cartridge Christmas Cheer

Darice glitter

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

paper glaze

Versa Magic chalk ink

snowflake stamp

bling

bakers twine
alpha stamps

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #25

2010-11-30T10:03:00.000-08:00

Good mornin' to all my blogging buddies. This card has been finished for a couple of days and I finally had the time to get it posted. Thanks again Waltzingmouse for another great sketch!

what I used..................................

Basic Grey - jovial

Kraft cardstock

music paper bought at a thrift store

snowflakes - Cricut cartridge Christmas Cheer

buttons

bling

binding

Darice hemp glitter cord

snowflake stamp

craft glitter

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter

Versa Magic ink

Card Patterns Sketch #92

2010-11-27T16:07:00.000-08:00

This is the first card that I've made in almost a week, maybe over a week!! I needed a little creative break, but now I'm ready to hit those card challenges. Its funny that I made this card last night before I saw the challenge sketch for week #92 over at CARD PATTERNS. I think my card fits the challenge......what do ya think?

what I used.......................

scraps from my scrap bin

bakers twine

glitter

button

music paper that I bought at my local thrift shop (great find)

snowman stamp

IT'S STARTIN' TO FEEL ALOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!

2010-11-27T15:09:00.000-08:00

It's very rainy and cold here today, so I decided it was a perfect time to give my blog a little make over. Now I'm ready for Christmas! Well.......sort of!! I hope everyone is enjoying what is left of our Thanksgiving holiday. I guess its time to get back to card makin'!

Simple Center Piece

2010-11-22T17:51:00.000-08:00

I found this great little center piece as I was recipe surfing tonight. I don't know how I ended up at ReaderDigest.com!! They had 10 simple table decorating tips and this was one of them. I think it would make a great center piece for your table and you would still have lots of room for the turkey!! Now I gotta get back to finding a good recipe for a corn casserole.

RAG WREATH

2010-11-21T14:59:00.000-08:00

I just got home from hanging out with my 2 year old grandson. Mommy and Daddy took a much needed trip to Tahoe, so I got to have me some Dominick time! Last night he looked so sad when it was his bedtime, his bottom lip was quivering and he kept asking me if I was going to come get him when he woke up. So maw decided that the two of us were going to camp out for the night on the couch. He was one happy camper!! I'm sure mommy and daddy will want to shoot me later tonight when he wants to camp out again. But us maw's get to spoil them that way. So now about my project that I started Friday night and finished up last night with Dominick's help. Jessica from LIVING THE SWELL LIFE posted a rag wreath she had made and I just had to try one for myself. It was really easy to make and I have already started another one. Jessica used ribbon to hang hers, I decided to tie a few of the rag strips together to hang mine and I love the look.

what I used.......................................
**wire that I purchased at the hardware store - maybe a little heavier than a wire hanger - I cut it approx. 40" and formed a circle, I did not double wrap it and its plenty sturdy
**fabric torn into 1" x 8" strips
**a little ribbon, a little netting and few strips of ric-rac
**and a little birdie from my Christmas stash

Shabby Tea Room Challenge #36

2010-11-16T10:11:00.000-08:00

I made this card last night for this weeks Shabby Tea Room Challenge. We were to get our inspiration from the above photo.

what I used................................

Upsy Daisy Designs - A Walk in the Park

Kraft cardstock

TPC Studio - Rustic Garden felt stickers

Versa Magic chalk ink

mint green tea binding - Simple Treasures etsy shop

thread

adhesive

2S4Y #66

2010-11-15T10:18:00.000-08:00

Good mornin'! Happy Monday! I'm home on my morning break and I just finished up this card. It is based on the above sketch given to us by 2S4Y. I made the little birdie myself. I love handmade embellies and I really need to start making more of them........so much nicer and cheaper than store bought!

what I used..............................

Kraft cardstock

BoBunny - Midnight Frost Collection

tag made from a scrap

Rose Petal Cupcake binding - Simple Treasures etsy shop

lace

bling

pearls

glitter

and the birdie was made by me!

MyGrafico Challenge #74

2010-11-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

This is my first time playing over at MyGrafico. I was blog surfing again early this morning and came across this fabulous sketch. I just had to play along! I'm really getting into glitter this holiday season. I can't believe this is my 3rd post today........somebody stop me!

what I used.................................

Best Creation Inc. - FaLaLa Christmas

Kraft cardstock

Best Creation Inc. glitter element sticker

Celebrate It Holiday ribbon

glitter, glitter and more glitter

Aleene's paper glaze

Cricut cartridge - George

thread

glue

adhesive

Card Patterns Sketch #90

2010-11-14T07:11:00.000-08:00

Card Patterns gave us another great sketch to play with this week. I had fun making snowflakes for this one. I cut them out with my Cricut, painted and glittered them up and added some bling! Its hard to see in the photo, but the lace behind the snowflakes has been sprinkled with glass microbeads. Its really pretty in person. I'm also entering this card over at Sew Many Cards - Blue & White Challenge.

what I used.....................

Bo Bunny - Midnight Frost Collection

Cricut Cartridge - Christmas Cheer

bling

Martha Stewart tinsel glitter - crystal

Martha Stewart glass microbeads - clear

lace

Darice glitter hemp cord

Kraft cardstock

Aleene's paper glaze

Ceramcoat paint - white & blue

glue

adhesive

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #23 - Cute Card Thursday

2010-11-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

Good morning! I can't believe I forgot to turn off my 4am alarm, so here I am! I finished up this card yesterday and could not get a good photo of it. So this morning I set up a little photo area and I think it came out much better than the shots I was getting outside yesterday. I made this card for the Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #23. Each week the provide us with a great sketch and this is my take on it. I also entered this card over at Cute Card Thursday - Anything Goes.

what I used................................

Basic Grey - jovial winter garden

Basic Grey jovial layered stickers

Mark Richards crystal stickers (great find at Michael's)

Primrose cookie dough binding - Simple Treasures etsy shop

thread

adhesive

glue

Get Sketchy Challenge #64

2010-11-13T08:46:00.000-08:00

I loved using this sketch from GET SKETCHY this week. I always look forward to seeing what they have for us each week. Thanks for the inspiration! I just bought myself some glitter tinsel from Martha Stewart and I love it! I picked up the bling on clearance over at Michael's this week. I think I will go back and see if they still have some. I hope everyone is enjoying their Saturday. Its a kick back crafty day for me.....whoo-hoo!

what I used............................
Maya Road Kraft Doilies
Royal Langnickel rub on
Kraft cardstock
Aleene's paper glaze
Dew Drop pigment ink
Martha Stewart tinsel glitter - crystal & florentine gold
Celebrate It Holiday ribbon
Mark Richards crystal stickers
Cricut cartridge - George
Merry Christmas stamp

JUST HOW CUTE ARE THESE LITTLE GUYS!!

2010-11-12T17:48:00.000-08:00

Oh My Gosh.......these are adorable and so easy to make! I found them at Our Best Bites, they have posted very easy instructions for putting these little guys together.......so click on the link and check 'em out!

Color Throwdown #118

2010-11-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

While doing a little blog surfing I found another challenge to enter.....whoo-hoo! The challenge over at Color Throwdown wanted us to get our inspiration from the above colors.......... SOFT SUEDE, CHERRY COBBLER and KRAFT. I think I did pretty well with the cherry cobbler and the kraft, but.....finding soft suede wasn't the easiest thing for me (without going shopping that is) so, I used what I call a light suede!! Works for me and I hope it works for the challenge.

what I used.......................................

scrap paper (I can't remember the maker)

Kraft cardstock

ric-rac

Craft Essentials rub on

Basic Grey woolies felt sticker

glue adhesive

thread

Shabby Tea Room week #35 - "Lavender & Lace"

2010-11-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

It's all about Lavender & Lace over at the Shabby Tea Room this week! We were given the above photo for our inspiration. I knew I had the Anna Griffin paper and did a little digging to find it. I have had this paper for some time!! Anyway, I was pleased with how it turned out and I hope you like it too.

what I used...........................

paper by Anna Griffin

Kraft cardstock

Wrights lace & pearls

Craft Essentials flowers

Versa Magic chalk ink

bling

pearl & crystal thingy from Michaels wedding section

glue

adhesive

I was a SUPER 6 winner at Card Patterns this week!

2010-11-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited!! My card "Hello Fall" was selected as one of the Super 6 this week. There are very talented card makers entering their cards each week, so I feel really honored to have been chosen.

Thanks CARD PATTERNS!

Card Patterns Sketch #89

2010-11-07T16:59:00.000-08:00

My last card of the day was made for the Card Patterns Sketch #89.

what I used..............................

Basic Grey - jovial - Christmas tree paper

Basic Grey - jovial pops layered stickers

EK scallop punch

Darice glitter hemp cord

bling

glue

adhesive

thread

Waltzingmouse Sketch #22

2010-11-07T16:45:00.000-08:00

Here's my card using the above sketch from Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #22.

what I used................................

Basic Grey - jovial - nordic paper

Kraft cardstock

button

Darice glitter hemp cord

raffia

bling

thread

adhesive

glue

Just Us Girls Challenge #58

2010-11-07T15:38:00.000-08:00

This morning I got up and it was raining, so I decided this was going to be a jammie day for me and that also meant I could get some challenge cards made. My first card of the day was to use the above sketch from

Just Us Girls Challenge Blog.

what I used..................................

Basic Grey - jovial Christmas tree paper

Kraft paper

George Cricut cartridge

bling

Darice glitter hemp cord

stickles - crystal

Versa Magic chalk ink

pearl-crystal thingy from Michaels

thread

glue

adhesive

Get Sketchy #62

2010-11-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

What a fun sketch to work with this week over at Get Sketchy. Its always fun to create when you have new products to work with. I'm still digging into all the new goodies I bought last Sunday.

what I used.............................

Basic Grey - jovial button nose paper

Basic Grey - woolies felt stickers

Marvy Uchida scallop punches

Darico glitter hemp cord

adhesive

glue

I just placed an order!

2010-11-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

I just ordered the sampler pack of baker's twine from THE TWINERY! Look at all the yummy colors. I can't wait to receive my order. I was having a hard time deciding on what color I wanted to order and then I saw the sampler pack.......whoo-hoo!!

Waltzingmouse Challenge #21 - Moxie Tuesday Trigger: A Study in Blue - Shabby Tea Room Week #34

2010-11-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

Waltzingmouse Challenge #21

Moxie Tuesday Trigger: A Study in Blue

Shabby Tea Room Week #34

I was able to fit this card into 3 challenges!! I used the sketch from Waltzingmouse and got my inspiration for the colors that I used from Moxie Tuesday Trigger and Shabby Tea Room.

what I used.............................

Bo Bunny - Midnight Frost Collection

Bo Bunny - Snow Play cardstock stickers

Bo Bunny - die cut journal pages

ribbon

lace

thread

bling

snowflake

button

Cricut cartridge - Doodlecharms

Card Patterns Sketch #88 & Sew Many Challenges

2010-11-01T19:54:00.000-07:00

Card Patterns posted this sketch for us to use as our inspiration this week. I went on a little shopping spree at my favorite store Green Tangerines this past Sunday and I was able to dig into my new stuff for this card. I don't know if you can tell by the photo, but this paper is shimmery........oh so pretty!! I also entered this card over at Sew Many Challenges, this week they asked for anything fall.

what I used....................

TPC Studio - Rustic Gargen Pumpkin Grid paper

TPC Studio - Rustic Garden felt stickers

TPC Studio - Rustic Garden Fall Phrases

Kraft paper

brads

twine

thread

glue

adhesive

Tag - you're it - #4

2010-11-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Here's another tag I made for the Waltzingmouse Stamp Blog Christmas Challenge 2010.

what I used...........................

scrap Christmas paper

ribbon

silk flower

star

glitter hemp

button from Tessa Ann

Cindy Loo Cricut cartridge

adhesive

glue

"Tag - you're it!" -- #3

2010-10-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

I'm having so much fun making these tags for the Waltzingmouse Stamp Blog Christmas Challenge 2010. I used a glitter cardstock that I bought at JoAnn's a couple of weeks ago. It really looks pretty in person, it didn't photograph as pretty as it really is.

what I used...........................

glitter cardstock

Prima flower

brad

bling

crystal and peral thingy from Michael's wedding section

PEACE cut from last years Christmas stash

ribbon

"Tag - you're it!" -- #2

2010-10-29T10:42:00.000-07:00

I'm home on my morning break from work and I just whipped up another tag for the Waltzingmouse Stamp Blog Christmas Challenge 2010. Now, thats a mouth full....LOL!! We are allowed to make as many as we like and the challenge closes on Nov. 6th, so I can see a few more tags being made and entered. We all need a few special tags for our gifts around the holidays. So this challenge has really got me motivated.

"Tag - you're it!"

2010-10-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

I made this tag for the Waltzingmouse Stamp Blog Christmas Challenge 2010. They want to see beauty and elegance!! We can enter as many tags as we like........so, maybe I will get a few more made before the challenge is over.

note: I always make my tags sturdy by fastening two together for extra thickness.

what I used.............................

scrap kraft paper
scrap beaded lace
scrap gold trim
K&Company chipboard flower w/bird
beaded flower from the wedding section at Michael's
gemstone brad from Recollections
thread

Waltzingmouse Sketch #20 & The Shabby Tea Room #33

2010-10-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

The challenge over at Waltzingmouse this week was to use the above sketch as our inspiration. I decided that it was time to start getting some Christmas cards made and this is my creation using the sketch.

The challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room was called "Consider It Cased". We were to get our inspiration from one of the design team members. I chose Debbie Marcinkiewicz from Simple Treasures.

what I used.......................

The Paper Company Kraft cardstock

Darice Glitter Hemp cord

buttons, ribbon, thread

snowflake, bells

a piece of scrap Christmas fabric

adhesive, glue

Card Patterns Sketch #87 & If The Shoe Fits Scrap It

2010-10-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

Card Patterns Weekly Sketch Blog Challenge was to use the above sketch to inspire our card making today. I was able to use some new paper from the DCWV Doodlin' Around stack that I purchased yesterday, on sale of course at JoAnn's. The chipboard flowers are from K&Company that I have had for awhile, I love it when I dig around in my stash and come up with something that I actually want to use!! I also used my new Cindy Loo Cricut cartridge to cut out the print frame that is almost totally hidden behind the thank you and the chipboard flowers.....LOL!! I also used jute from my stash. This card also fit into the challenge of using chipboard over at If The Shoe Fits Scrap It.

Day 236 at 365 Cards - Friday Five

2010-10-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

Friday's challenge over at 365 Cards was to use only 5 items, including patterned paper on your card.

My five items: patterned paper

K&Company pumpkin

K&Company mouse

trick or treat ribbon

October circle

Once again as the previous card post stated, I made this card on Friday and didn't get it linked to the challenge in time, but I'm sharing it anyway!! My grandma duties came first!

Day 233 at 365 Cards - White Space Sketch

2010-10-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Its a very wet and windy day here in Sacramento. I spent the night at my daughter's last night and drove home this morning in all this rain!! I made this card Friday morning and didn't get it linked over to the challenge in time, but I'm going to share it anyway. We were given the above sketch......yikes, not much to work with! I have been in a Halloween making card mode, so this my take on the sketch. I hope you like it!

Moxie Fab World's Tuesday Trigger Challenge

2010-10-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge over at Moxie Fab World was to use the above photo as our inspiration! I found an image that I thought fit the inspiration photo and this is the card I created using it. The image was free with credit to the photographer. Here is a link to his work: Photographer Simon Howden

Another card made with scraps from other projects. The little owl is from K&Company.

Get Sketchy Challenge #60

2010-10-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Dummy me!!! I entered this card in the Card Patterns sketch challenge and I should have posted it to the Get Sketchy challenge. Sorry Card Patterns!!

I used Craft paper and black and green glitter paper that I purchased at JoAnn's this week, and the pumpkin is K&Company.

Day 232 at 365 Cards & Card Patterns Sketch 86

2010-10-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

I made this Halloween card last night and I was able to make it fit into two different challenges. I love it when that works out. It doesn't happen often for me. Over at 365 Cards was Bounty of Buttons day!! We were to use 15 buttons on our card. Not an easy task I must say. But I did it! Over at Card Patterns we were to use the above sketch.

I used craft paper and fabric from JoAnn's, pumpkin from K&Company and buttons from my stash.

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #19

2010-10-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

My second blog post of the day!! I'm on a challenge roll!! This is my first time playing over at the Waltzingmouse blog sketch challenge. I'm not much of a stamper, but I dusted off an old stamp and dug around for some ink and it actually turned out fairly well. I used the same scraps of paper that I used on my first card of the day. I also dug around in my trim scrap bag and came up with some trim, ribbon and string. I love it when I can use up some of my old stuff and I have tons of stuff! I hope you like my take on the above sketch.

Day 231 at 365 Cards - Super Sketchy Sunday

2010-10-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

It is Super Sketchy Sunday over at 365 Cards. We were to use the above sketch to help us create our card for the challenge. I have been out of the card making mode for some time and getting back into it today was a bit of a challenge for me, but this is what I came up with for todays challenge. It does put a smile on my face! I used mostly scraps today. Its always nice to dig into the scrap pile and see what you can come up with! The image is from the internet. Enjoy your Sunday!

Christmas Stocking

2010-10-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon! I got up early this morning and got right to sewing. I will admit that me and the 'ole seam ripper became good friends today. I kept making very stupid mistakes and wanted to toss this puppy in the trash! But I hung in there and fixed my mistakes. No one would ever know if I just didn't open up my big mouth and tell everyone......LOL!! This stocking will make your family fur baby very happy, or if you are a doggie lover it would be perfect to purchase for yourself. I will get it listed in my etsy shop today. Enjoy the rest of your day. I'll probably be doing a little more sewing.

Fur Baby Fabric!!!

2010-10-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot I bought this fabric last year!!! Its a Robert Kaufman print and its adorable!! I'm going to turn it into Christmas stockings for our fur babies!! They deserve something special at Christmas time too......right? I'll be working on getting a few of them added to my etsy shop this weekend. Oh heck, its about time for me to get back to work. HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE!!!

Christmas Stocking

2010-10-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

I've been home from work the last couple of days fighting a virus and I got very bored sleeping and watching TV. So I decided to do a little sewing. I've been wanting to get a few Christmas stockings made to add to my Etsy shop and I completed this one this morning. I love the fabric!! I'll be adding it to my shop today. Thanks for stopping by and taking a look!

Lisa opened up her Etsy Shop today! Letters By Lee

2010-09-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

My daughter Lisa opened up her etsy.com shop today.......congrats baby girl!! I have a link to her shop over on my side bar, just click on the photo and it will take you to her shop.

BABY SHOWER CARD for JAXSON

2010-09-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

I'm off to a baby shower in a few hours and this is the card I made for the shower last night. I found it a struggle to come up with ideas for this card as I haven't been in a card making mode for some time! Any way after much thought, this is my creation! Enjoy your weekend guys!

ALTERED LETTERS made by MY DAUGHTER

2010-09-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

I just love the gift that my daughter Lisa made for her good friend Kelley. We are invited to her baby shower this coming Saturday. I think she created one awesome gift!! Lisa doesn't have a blog, so I asked her if I could share them here on my blog and of course she said yes. A little birdie told me that you will be able to find letters such as these on etsy.com very soon!! Good luck baby girl in your adventure. xoxo MOM

Adorable Cupcake Sugar Cookies

2010-09-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

Just how cute are these cookies!!! This past weekend we celebrated Dominick's 2nd birthday and Kelly's 13th. Melissa Cusano made these adorable sugar cookies. You can find many great recipes and cooking tips over on her blog DELICIOUS DISHES.

Hot Artichoke Dip

2010-09-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its been so long since I posted to my blog.......but, summer is over and I'm back.

Tomorrow our family will be celebrating my grandson and granddaughters birthdays. I offered to bake cookies and also make an artichoke dip. I didn't really have a recipe, so I did a little research and combined ingredients from about 5 different recipes that I found and came up with my own version. The pepper jack cheese is totally my own addition to this recipe. I found recipes using lots of different cheeses, but non with pepper jack cheese. I must say its very YUMMY!!! I will serve it with Wheat Thins and Triscut crackers.

HOT ARTICHOKE DIP

14 oz can quartered ARTICHOKE HEARTS

1 1/2 cup MAYONNAISE

3 oz CREAM CHEESE

1 cup shredded PEPPER JACK CHEESE

1 cup freshly grated PARMESAN CHEESE

2 cloves minced GARLIC

1 tsp LEMON PEPPER

Drain the artichoke hearts well. Place them in a small mixing bowl and cut them up using a knife and fork. Just keep slicing until you have no big chunks of artichoke. Add all the remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into a baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Serve hot with crackers.

Enjoy!!

Get Sketchy Week #49

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

I had fun with this sketch from "Get Sketchy" week 49. I used fabric for my stripes. I had a few hearts that I have been making for my etsy shop laying around, so I used them on this card for my granddaughter Tallie. We are celebrating her birthday tonight. I have been out of the card making mode for some time now, so it felt really good to find this sketch and get some of my card mojo back!!!

supplies that I used..............

scrap craft paper and cardstock

scrap fabric

thread

ribbon

felt

Happy Birthday sticker

Just added these to my Etsy shop

2010-07-30T11:06:00.000-07:00

I just added a few more felt and fabric hearts to my Etsy shop. They make great embellies for your scrapbook and card making projects.

Click on this link to view my shop: www.MadeByKarenLee.etsy.com

Felt and Fabric Hearts for Sale at my Etsy shop

2010-07-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

I just added these adorable hearts to my shop.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/MadeByKarenLee

I just added these Shabby Fabric Posey's to my Etsy shop

2010-07-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

I made these shabby fabric stacked posey's sometime ago and have been waiting to get my Etsy shop opened up. I actually forgot about them and came across them today. They are fun to use on your scrap pages and card making projects. If you have a minute, go check out my shop!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/MadeByKarenLee