by Sharon | Mar 26, 2016
Life is truly precious. And beautiful days are days to celebrate.
I love being outdoors with my precious Yorkshire Terrier Diva. There is something about being outside, enjoying the flowers, blossoming trees and my vegetable garden.
It is important to dig in the dirt from time to time and to thoroughly enjoy the abundance nature has to offer. Diva enjoys being out in the sunshine and sniffing around. Also sitting with me on the patio.
I like to work on craft projects. Gluing paper together to make 3-D houses or pop-up pages for mini albums. I never outgrew that need to make stuff. Or the fascination of opening up a page that pops up.
I wonder if this comes from wanting things to be life-like. I find when looking at pictures, i want to go beyond the flat surface and make it third dimensional so I can actually see around it. I know many people put those dimensional dots on cutouts to make them stand out . . . and doors and windows are able to be opened . . . and there may be a scene behind it . . .
Spring is a wonderful time of year . . . it’s not too cold and it’s not too hot . . .
After Easter, we’ll be celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day . . . then we get into summer . . . and the Fourth of July . . . then we anticipate fall . . . and all the fun that season brings . . .
As many of you know, fall is my favorite time of year. I feel it is a new beginning, but it truth spring is that new beginning with the budding of fruits and vegetables that we’ll be enjoying through the summer and into the fall.
I guess we’re all geared a bit differently . . . . having a preference for different seasons and holidays. I do know many people who love Halloween and come alive with their creative genius in making mini albums and related craft projects. Some go with the spooky while others go with the sweetness of youth and the wonder of it all . . . and others do a bit of both . . .
And those who adore Christmas . . . that magical time of year . . . with the carols and the anticipation . . .
But, spring, I’m now beginning to appreciate more . . . the beauty of all the flowing trees and plants . . . the abundance of color springing forth . . . mild temperatures . . .
Then come the vacations of summer . . .
And that anticipation of fall . . . Sorry . . . that’s where the seasons seem to take me. I do enjoy the moments of each season . . . but my true love is fall and winter . . . those two popular holidays of Halloween and Christmas . . . and I do love Thanksgiving that it squeezed between . . . and I’m very fond of Easter, too.
Those “lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer” with beach outings . . . picnics . . . camping . . . being carefree and fancy free . . .
Yes, each season has its advantages and its special moments . . . which you’ll notice centers around family . . . and friends.
Spring and summer seem to be the seasons of S’mores . . . but I make them the treat of all seasons . . . but there is something special about making them over an open fire . . . things “cooked” in nature seem to taste so very much better.
Whatever season is your favorite and however you celebrate traditional holidays and seasons, I would like to leave you with some links of jigsaw puzzles you and your family may enjoy:
Yes, I do go for the nostalgic . . . there are jigsaw puzzles available for all seasons and all things that are meaningful to you and your family. I find having a puzzle out, brings people together. It is a relaxing activity where you can visit, have a conversation and find pieces that will fit in completing the puzzle.
I do find them relaxing throughout the year.
Have a fun!
Sharon
by Sharon | Mar 25, 2016
Oh Goodness!! A Garden Goblin!!
I don’t know whether to be alarmed or delighted . . . 
It’s spring . . . and with spring comes some surprises in your garden. I know my California live oak tree is blooming!! I have that fluff all over the yard, porch and sidewalk. I clean it up and after an hour or so, it’s time for me to sweep and rake again. Yes, it is a huge tree . . . it’s been here a long time.
And this little guy . . . he may be a garden guardian . . .
I think it is all a matter of perspective. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And, we’ve learned somewhere along our life journey not to judge people by the way they look . . .
Our first impression may not have been too kind toward this goblin . . . then again, he could very well be a good luck amulet for your garden . . . take a lesson from nature and see if this guy is helping or harming your garden . . .
Maybe the two of you should get to know one another a bit. He may be wondering if he wants to stay around . . . maybe he’s not too fond of your looks or the general atmosphere in your garden . . .
Time will tell.
Let’s see about garden goblins or gnomes you may find suitable for your spring garden:
Have a great Easter celebration and enjoy your spring . . . every season is special and precious . . . giving us time to relax and enjoy nature . . .
Sharon
by Sharon | Mar 24, 2016
Brother ScanNCut CM100DM Home and Hobby Cutting Machine with a Built-in Scanner
I’ve been hearing about this cutting machine for awhile from crafters. 
At first I wasn’t understanding the significance of it . . . plus the price knocked me off my chair. Yes, it is a bit pricey, but you decide whether it is worth it to you. If it saves you time from fussy cutting and the cutting of your pieces without effort on your part, then it may be well worth it.
I’m warming up to it. It all depends upon how you want to use it. For me, if I have a printed out image of a printable I got online or purchased, I want to get going on my project instead of spending so much time cutting out. That’s why we purchased cutting machines or dies for die cutting machines. It’s a time saver — especially if we’re going to make several.
Yes, you can do the same thing on the Silhouette Cameo which I am doing . . . so why am I looking at the Brother ScanNCut machine?
I’m reviewing it for you . . . and if you haven’t bought a cutting machine, it is worth knowing about.
It is easy to use right out of the box. It’s easy to set up and has a user-friendly interface. It was originally designed with fabric cutting in mind . . . but paper crafters found it was a time saver for them as well.
You won’t need design cartridges or your personal computer. There are over 600 built-in designs plus you have the ability to scan anything. Many people stamp and color those stamped images and then use this machine to cut it out for them. So I can see the value of using this machine for stampers who are making dozens of cards.
I am interested in seeing what users of this machine have to say about it. I’m wavering a bit while reviewing this machine. I see the value for certain projects and the ease of getting your images scanned and cut out . . . It makes sense to me. Time is valuable and some people just don’t like fussy cutting . . . and at times I can’t blame them.
The reviews are mixed. I think some people have legitimate complaints while others haven’t taken the time to experiment with the machine . . . and there are positive comments where people haven’t even tried it out yet. So . . . all I can really say about this machine is to do your research . . . check out YouTube videos to see it in action and decide if this cutting machine is right for you and the projects you work on most.
I do like the ease of use. The mats are expensive and don’t retain their stickiness to hold the paper in place. Some have solved the problem by taping their paper on the mat with painters tape.
As with any cutting machine, you have to take the time to learn how to use it. Each machine has its pros and cons. Yes, and they all have quirks. The thing is, get a machine that is within your budget and works with the products you use the most. One person made a valid point when she said that she wanted a cutting machine that didn’t require more purchases in order to use the machine. Yet, if you’re a stamper, you’ll buy more stamps . . . and you’ll always want more designs of some sort to create new products . . . so, that it is bit of a stretch for me.
There are people who love their Silhouette Cameo, then there are the Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air people who love their machine . . . then the Cricut die cutters people and the Big Shot die cutters people . . . now there are the Brother ScanNCut people.
I’ve concluded that it isn’t necessarily the machine, but the people . . . those who take the time to learn the machine they’ve purchased . . . or return it, if it doesn’t work as they thought it would or should. And, there are defective machines . . . so get it checked out, if it isn’t working properly.
For me, I’m sticking with my Silhouette Cameo . . . yes, I’m one of those people. It does what the Brother ScanNCut does only differently. The Silhouette Cameo does have a bit more of a learning curve . . . but I have found it well worth it.
Let me know what you decide. I’m really not pushing any product. I’m here to check things out, tell you about them and allow you to make up your own mind. I know it does take time to decide. All machines cost money . . . even the Big Shot plus the die cuts or the Cricut with the cartridges . . . It is all an investment. Only you know what is best for your crafting and your budget.
Here are some links you may find helpful . . . it’s all part of your research:
I hope this review was helpful. I wish you all the best in your crafting endeavors.
Sharon
by Sharon | Mar 23, 2016
Have you noticed that the back end of a bunny is used in many food and craft creations?
I think the concept is cute.
The bunny is running away . . . and when you look at the elements involved . . . quite easy to make.
Yes, it’s easier with a template or with various punches, but you can make circles and ovals and an interesting scalloped or starburst type of edge on a circle for the tail. Or use a cotton ball.
From the image on the right, you can plainly see what it takes to have a bunny going into a rabbit hole. Just circles and ovals. These you can cut out with a punch or with scissors.
Knowing the basic concept allows you to make bunnies in different sizes using different mediums. Now see how easy it would be to make pancakes bunny bums for Easter breakfast. Or have this concept on cupcakes . . . and, of course, paper crafts . . . a box or card . . .
It’s all getting down to the basic parts that make up the image you want to create . . . and you don’t have to be an artist to do it. Many people use whatever they have around the house . . . a can for the circle . . . or a piece of jewelry . . . you have circles and ovals . . . you don’t have to go out and buy anything . . . and you may be able to find things online.
There is a great sense of accomplishment when you discover you can make it yourself.
Yes, there will be a bit of trial and error, but you’ll be able to get these designs done . . . and for the little toes, just use a marker or colored pencil . . . or frosting . . . depending upon what you’re making. Cutting those out would be a bit too much.
I know we do think of what would be easier . . . and yes, punches are great as are templates . . . but when you get into crafts as a business or it’s something you do all the time, you’ll find ways of making what you need.
If you want to buy stuff, here are some links you may find helpful:
Just have fun and discover your creativity.
Sharon
by Sharon | Mar 22, 2016
It’s Always Time To Make S’Mores
This is an easy recipe using brownie mix, Oreo cookies, marshmallows and graham crackers. Does that sound yummy?
Any combination of ingredients for s’mores seems to always be a winner.
Do you see the layers: graham cracker base, brownie, Oreo Cookies, marshmallows . . . there’s more brownie in there, but it got gooey with marshmallows. The on top it a lightly toasted marshmallow . . .
If you like what you see and want to make these for your family, read on!
Let’s get started with the Ingredients:
- Your favorite brand of brownie mix
- Mini Oreo Cookies
- Marshmallows — size of your choice
- Graham Crackers
Let’s Assemble these S’Mores:
- Preheat oven to 325° F
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the box instructions.
- Line a 9 x 13 glass baking dish with parchment paper.
- Lay graham crackers all along the bottom of the dish.
- Spread a layer of the brownie mix over the graham crackers. Be sure to cover as much of the graham cracker as possible.
- Place a layer of Oreo cookies on top of the brownie mix.
- Layer the marshmallows over the top of the Oreo Cookies.
- Use the remaining brownie batter to cover the marshmallows and along the sides of the Oreo Cookies. Spread this as evenly as possible.
- Bake for 45 minutes or so depending upon your oven. Check after 30 to 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and place a layer of marshmallows on top.
- Place under the broiler until the marshmallows begin to turn a golden brown.
- Allow them to cool before cutting into them. This may take an hour or more.
There you have it . . . a S’More Brownie with Oreo Cookies and Graham Crackers — And Marshmallows!!
Feel free to alter the recipe however you wish. Add ingredients or take out ingredients. This is a treat I want your family and friends to absolutely love.
Until next time,
Sharon
