tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65009949155370428092011-10-07T02:53:23.944-05:00Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.comBlogger3251100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-48152711276243439312011-07-27T15:16:00.006-05:002011-07-27T15:39:09.818-05:00

It's never too early for Halloween! Just released are our 2011 Halloween vectors for vinyl cutting machines at PeppermintCreative.com along with 3 New 2011 Halloween Freebies!(Please note if you are viewing this blog post after July 2011 these products are no longer free)I am SUPER EXCITED to release my hilarious new Witchy Potion Labels and coordinating Halloween Party Labels! The potion bottle

Tay Silverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14254081505434188673noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-20265613434722877212010-08-05T20:36:00.003-05:002010-08-05T20:43:49.295-05:00

Click HERE to Download FREE SVG & EPS Vinyl Cutting graphics for Cricut, Silhouette & ALL vinyl cutting machines at PeppermintCreative.com!Shown: Woodland nursery animals with whimsical trees, solid & dashed line clouds, baby boy & girl owl, squirrel, cute baby deer, does, whimsical birds, finches, robin, polka dot toadstool mushrooms, acorn, wildflowers & everything to match pottery barn kids

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-83280528978819530942010-08-05T20:00:00.004-05:002010-08-05T20:35:27.227-05:00

Download FREE Halloween SVG, EPS & GSD Files HERE for your Cricut, Silhouette, Wishblade & ALL Vinyl Cutting Machines @ PeppermintCreative.com!Check out our new Freebie & Halloween Designs:Shown: Welcome My Pretties witchy welcome humorous word art for Halloween front doors & entry ways or hallways with cute wicked pointed witch hatShown: Frankenstein "Monsters Only, No Ghouls Allowed" funny

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-62989158385582227502010-07-07T13:49:00.011-05:002010-07-07T15:17:13.777-05:00

Finding well-designed, clean cutting fonts is no easy task. Even when you're paying good money for quality fonts you can run acoss some that the font designer did not take the time to "clean" which means ugly jagged edges for you. Here's Why:A vinyl cutting machine will only cut vector graphics - even if it accepts JPGS it will convert the image into a vector using it's own auto-trace program

Tay Silverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14254081505434188673noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-77730950966905932512010-07-03T20:53:00.006-05:002010-07-03T21:23:24.414-05:00

Want to cut vinyl on your Cricut or Silhouette SD? We have FREE SVG files you can download instantly & tutorials to show you how all at Peppermint Creative! Look what downloadable word art fonts, monograms, graphics & designs for vinyl cutting machines (including Cricut SCAL & Silhouette original & SD) are totally free at PeppermintCreative.com! Get these adorable scalloped oval baby nursery

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-791702337317329572010-06-30T09:54:00.009-05:002010-06-30T10:34:52.190-05:00

As a graphic designer for PeppermintCreative.com where I design free & downloadable EPS & SVG vector shapes, I very often get the question of how do you use fonts to make a monogram that will cut on a vinyl cutting machine all as one piece without any letter lines overlapping.It's easy to do and nearly every vinyl cutting machine has software capable of performing a simple "weld" technique to

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-50044183013863983212010-06-29T12:45:00.010-05:002010-07-03T20:52:53.297-05:00

There is a TON of brand new stuff at PeppermintCreative.com that is perfect for a baby nuseries, monograms and there are even some brand new Halloween designs! Here's a sneak peek of what you can download NOW!(Shown: Little hula girl hawiian beach nursery graphic in the Surfer Girl Nursery EPS & SVG commercial use vector pack for Cricut, Sure Cuts a Lot, SCAL, Silhouette, Wishblade, Craft Robo

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-13066378220123692312010-06-04T22:30:00.013-05:002010-06-05T08:41:15.055-05:00

Shown: pink chocolate loopy frosted birthday cupcakes with sprinkles & cherries in EPS & SVG vector formatWhere is everyone getting those jungle nursery animals, doodle cupcakes , princess and nursery designs that are selling for $35 for ONE cut vinyl design online?Shown: Jungle Safari Nursery lion, tiger, alligator,gator, crocodile. monkey, elephant & giraffe shapes in EPS, SVG & GSD vector

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-69648341101379859102010-05-31T20:32:00.020-05:002010-05-31T22:12:27.437-05:00

"What is the BEST vinyl cutting machine a gal can buy that's still affordable yet cuts vinyl cleanly enough to sell?" I get that question a LOT, mostly because I design vector (EPS & SVG) graphics for vinyl cutting machines and have one myself. I'm partial to my QuicKutz Silhouette and chose it after my own research but I'll compare & contrast the two most popular options you're probably

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-44052101080863505872010-05-23T18:01:00.022-05:002010-06-01T15:44:20.009-05:00

Over a year ago I wrote a blog post titled Vinyl Cutting: Everything You Wanted to Know about how to use your Cricut, Silhouette, Wishblade or other vinyl cutting machine to cut vinyl lettering. To this day that post still shows up at the top of search engines and gets between ten and twenty hits per day. It's a lot of reading but it's one of the few places online where you can find detailed

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-18140641838684796412010-05-23T17:54:00.019-05:002010-06-07T09:58:38.915-05:00

Finding customers is easy if you know where to look but sometimes the easiest tasks can be elusive. I have compiled a list of ways to drum up quick and easy business to get your cut vinyl lettering sales up!This is part of the vinyl cutting business informational series I wrote for the PeppermintCreative.com blog. It's not an e-book and it's totally free & unlike any other compilation of help

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-35355675406759810302010-05-23T17:36:00.008-05:002010-06-09T15:03:49.496-05:00

In any business it's a wise idea to keep your product looking fresh and innovation begins with coming up with creative new ideas for how to use cut vinyl lettering. Whether you've just bought a Cricut, Silhouette, Wishblade, Craft Robo, Gazelle, Inspiration or other craft cutter machine or you're a seasoned vinyl cutting pro, we've got the tips you need to get the vinyl off the wall and get you

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-74456834088983616482010-02-02T10:05:00.003-06:002010-02-02T23:56:42.358-06:00

I still get LOTS of questions about vinyl cutting machines & digital die cutting machines (like the Cricut, Silhouette and Wishblade) that can also cut vinyl.If you are JUST starting out, researching what machine to buy or want to know what type of vinyl & supplies you'll need, please see this post with ALL the information you'll need: http://shantasilver.blogspot.com/2009/01/

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-9887612565858213752009-10-08T15:55:00.002-05:002009-10-08T16:04:09.016-05:00

I'd like to retract the statement I made last May about Brian's Mother's Day gift. I've recently learned that he uses a unique blend of logic, problem solving, constructive thinking and personal talents (he's very handy!) to create his own brand of "creativity" that he pours into any gift he gives me. I was right that my shoes frustrated him but what he really gave me was a way to avoid future

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-74242367630643945892009-09-22T13:25:00.004-05:002009-09-22T13:42:25.409-05:00

1 graphic designer, 1 vinyl cutting machine, 4 girls, 5 colors of vinyl, 6 new designs, 8 bottles of paint, 9 tons of ribbon, 10 fresh-cut wood blocks and 12 M&M cookies equals... A freaking awesome craft night! Double trouble indeed! I am very, very lucky to have several local girlfriends who love crafts as much as I do and who are graciously willing to help me create product examples when I

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-75623849024054492332009-09-04T11:35:00.003-05:002009-09-04T11:44:01.547-05:00

Here is Aiden on his first day of preschool, teary-eyed after his sixth temper tantrum of the morning. (How does one pour apple juice the wrong way?)I asked him if he wanted to hold his backpack. (It would look fabulous with his orange bracelet after all) That spurred the seventh temper tantrum. It's a GREAT day to send him to preschool!By the time we get to the school, he's FINALLY happy! Yay!

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-21009578885987309682009-08-26T22:41:00.002-05:002009-08-26T22:49:56.665-05:00

So what's a girl to do when her man is away on a backpacking adventure? Everything. Today has been delightful. I adore exciting randomness. Roughhousing before breakfast, hunting down new music artists while I work out at the gym, drawing pink cupcakes & grungy rockstar graphics at the same time, making double-stacked sandwiches for dinner, splash fights at bath time and listening to Counting

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-90451331498521441282009-08-20T18:28:00.002-05:002009-08-20T18:28:00.332-05:00

Peppermint Creative is having a call for HYBRID CT members!REQUIRED: Applicant must own or have access to a personal craft cutting machine that accepts SVG, GSD or EPS file formats (such as the Silhouette, Cricut and Wishblade) and must have experience importing files to create vinyl wall art or hybrid crafts.Read about the Hybrid Call & Apply At Peppermint Creative!

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-79200384397766204882009-08-05T16:46:00.002-05:002009-08-05T17:07:32.261-05:00

My dad grew up with an unusually sensitive gag-reflex that left him prone to easy vomiting. Apparently it's genetic and I'm grateful there is at least ONE mother on this plantet that completely understands what I am going through. (I should call my grandmother more often...)No matter how much strangers stare at us or how often my friends swear they've never heard of a child throwing up this much,

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-89167995643936030192009-08-03T12:07:00.003-05:002009-08-03T12:25:50.789-05:00

I flipped open my planner this morning to find our week delightfully UN-scheduled. It's the first time this has happened in MONTHS (since last August maybe?) and I'm fully planning on getting some serious items off my to-do list. Later. This morning we have shamelessly vegged out. We've played, watched a movie, had a leisurely lunch and I even got a baby shower card made. It's been a wonderful

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-19412051002232576932009-07-28T23:24:00.004-05:002009-07-29T00:10:58.320-05:00

Hey, I've always got stuff to write. It's whether or not I have the time! Tonight I'm sick of looking at both Photoshop and Illy so the blog is getting some attention.Aiden was his usual self today. Snuck a cupcake and two muffins he wasn't supposed to have before dinner and then boasted "Yummy toast!" as he took giant mouthfuls of the hamburger bun he scaled the fridge to reach. I have no idea

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-47004812138334766162009-07-27T23:23:00.004-05:002009-07-27T23:37:30.176-05:00

I have a good excuse: work is REALLY busy this time of year because I have to have all holiday stuff done by August. You know how crazy your November is? I now have crazy Julys AND Novembers! LOL! Any ways, I FINALLY had Kelsey order our prints this weekend and I wanted the family to see: Bet you can't tell which one of us I had to crop a new head on because said person wasn't smiling right! Go

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-54698936519458031692009-07-27T22:55:00.005-05:002009-07-27T23:10:45.578-05:00

I almost forgot to post this one! It happened the day after I posted the necklace pictures below. Aiden was playing in the living room while I was shuttling cleaning supplies from the kitchen to the bathroom. All of a sudden I heard Aiden cry out in pain and exclaim "Car! Diaper!" I turned to look at him, wondering how a car & diaper had anything to do with each other. He actually had tears in

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-74608360812951162812009-07-27T22:09:00.002-05:002009-07-27T22:54:50.339-05:00

I was busy these last two weeks with the bead party & craft day preparations but I've GOT to update the blog with some of the latest Aiden Antics:The Changeling: We've experienced the collapse-to-the-ground tantrums that arose from us somehow opening the Playdough jar the wrong way and endured the screaming when we picked up the wrong tractor book (he has eight? nine?). The most recent annoyance

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-64316904348758810112009-07-12T17:19:00.003-05:002009-07-12T17:23:22.311-05:00

As promised, here are some quick example pics of the necklaces that can be made on Friday night:Lots of bright, playful colors! It's going to be fun!

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-57268229073743597532009-07-06T21:11:00.023-05:002009-07-14T07:57:41.613-05:00

I ordered a LOT of bright, fun acrylic beads from China and I'm teaching my friends how to make Charming Charlie-style necklaces at cost. Everyone reading this is welcome to come. However, since we can only squeeze so many people around a table - and I only have 10 pairs of round nose pliers - we're going to have to divide this up into more than one night. Here's the info:Friday July 17th @ 8

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-41340658082035585752009-06-20T22:37:00.004-05:002009-06-20T22:57:14.599-05:00

I am so excited to post that after EIGHT MONTHS of searching, an IDENTICAL star blanket has been found! I am extremely grateful to Caroline Langrall of Maryland for taking the time to view the Plush Memories Lost Toy blog, checking her closet, e-mailing me, being willing to part with a brand new star blanket she'd been saving for a baby gift and taking the time to ship it lightning-fast to a

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-60013593088824546762009-06-15T08:34:00.003-05:002009-06-15T08:53:25.037-05:00

Not much going on here, except that I keep forgetting to bring my camera to our activities! Last week it was so quiet, we went to the pool five times in six days! I really enjoy running into friends & neighbors out there. I have a big bag of pool toys I take to dump out in the kiddie area to attract other toddlers who will play with Aiden so I can have a bit of a break. (He doesn't share well so

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-48431162492621679512009-06-08T23:57:00.010-05:002009-06-09T01:36:57.087-05:00

The church nursery workers swear Aiden is a sweet and fairly quiet, reserved child and I'm convinced they don't know which one is mine. That or whatever posesses him is left outside of the church and sits in the car waiting with 'banket'. Either way, this photo from our family shoot last weekend is my favorite candid EVER!Notice we BOTH have him by the arm as he squeels and lunges forward with

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-3376065967761674722009-05-20T11:41:00.004-05:002009-05-20T12:08:22.769-05:00

Here are a couple quick pics of the things we've been doing instead of writing on the blog!Aiden playing outside in his inflatable splash pool: The very first tomatoes we got off the cherry tomato plant last week (the one that wasn't uprooted!):Aiden LOVING the huge beach-entry shallow end of the new pool at our gym: Aiden and his favorite girlfriend "Oliviaups" (Olivia) eating cake while

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-7822065438848668352009-05-20T11:16:00.004-05:002009-05-20T11:41:28.353-05:00

Aiden and I made playdough for the first time today and I let him select colors from the McCormic Neon food colors I bought at Easter. The recipe called for kneading food coloring into the dough. The lime green worked well and rinsed easily off my hands. The blue was a whole different story... the photo below is after ELEVEN hand washings: I look like a robbed a bank! LOL! Here's the playdough

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-90621765968199245572009-05-19T16:06:00.004-05:002009-05-19T16:31:04.892-05:00

Brian has done some really nice projects for me lately that deserve some recognition. He does enjoy making the blog and I was really excited about these projects because I got everything on clearance for half-price or less! YAY!First up is the new white office shelf he hung for me last night. I was thrilled and thought the wall turned out really cute! (Kelsey is selling the pink & green metal

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-37526576466587156992009-05-16T22:58:00.004-05:002009-05-17T00:10:04.314-05:00

Brian has been wanting to make the blog lately. I think he meant that I should post pictures of his most recent projects - and I'll get to that eventually - but for now let me tell you about our most recent discussion: My "spoiling" of Aiden by letting him do "whatever he wants". Brian had to fish three rubber Hot Wheels tires....along with several beads and lime green sequins...to clear his

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-4850698052526834232009-05-06T13:26:00.005-05:002009-05-06T14:29:53.092-05:00

My dad grilled a WICKED BBQ chicken growing up and when I asked him a couple years ago what the secret was he said "cheap Kraft BBQ sauce!" LOL! So I plunked Aiden in his kiddie pool, threw some BBQ chicken on the grill and had a delicious dinner last night that brought back memories of summer cook-outs with dad. I slightly altered my dad's original recipe to compensate for cooking them on a gas

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-4032520458294400212009-05-04T20:02:00.005-05:002009-05-04T20:51:23.247-05:00

Sometimes my blog entries need no other title than that. I have a fun new routine of telling Brian about all the hilarious things Aiden said or crazy things he did during the day and let me tell you, it's a riot! My sister-in-law has a column running down her blog of the latest things her little girl Molly has said. I am really going to have to start doing that....Aiden Discovers Love BugsOn

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-60289526119420210092009-04-24T17:05:00.003-05:002009-04-24T17:50:11.194-05:00

When we put Aiden to bed last night I was well-aware of the fact that Aiden might have nightmares after seeing giant aliens & monsters on a 40 foot screen. I was right, he didn't make it past 10pm before he called out for me in a small, frightened voice. I went into his room and he immediatly informed me "see window, monsters!" Monsters outside his window; I knew this was coming.Luckily for me (

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-30227210108880310722009-04-23T14:43:00.003-05:002009-04-23T15:56:30.497-05:00

Yes, I've been neglecting my blog but for good reasons. :) Aiden and I have been enjoying lots of play time and today I took him to see his very first movie in a theater! We saw Pixar's Monster's vs. Aliens and it was cute enough but Pixar has done much better. The forward-thinking psych student in me liked that there was a couple role reversals (ie: females filling typically male roles, females

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-46327209455791642572009-03-31T13:40:00.008-05:002009-03-31T14:42:21.888-05:00

LOTS of interest on this topic! Vinyl cutting is a lot of fun and can be done on LOTS of different machines, including hobby craft cutters. I own a QuicKutz Silhouette but the ProvoCraft Cricut, Xyron Wishblade, Pazzles Inspiration, Graphtec CraftROBO and the Klick-n-Kut Element all have the ability to cut vinyl. Here's how to begin:1. Get comfortable using your machine. Paper is cheaper than

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-50879402702269067752009-03-31T09:17:00.006-05:002009-03-31T10:05:24.196-05:00

A warning to all you moms: drinking syrup is similar to eating too much Halloween candy. The sugar overdose is going to make your child sick. But, even if the first gulp is at noon, the puking never comes until the middle of the night. 1:42 am to be exact. Luckily I was still awake (working) and sat holding Aiden in the bathroom until the heaves passed. Once I was sure he wouldn't spew all over

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-23210432304908820412009-03-30T20:06:00.007-05:002009-03-30T20:17:39.611-05:00

The Practical Joke: We've been playing this practical joke on Aiden, which started out as an accident, became a total riot and then blew up in our faces. A couple weeks ago I hopped on eBay and bought a Pongo (101 Dalmatians) toy for Aiden since he has been loving the movie. When it arived one day last week, I didn't open the package until after he had gone to bed. In a moment of inspiration, I

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-90365449782451541332009-03-16T01:20:00.006-05:002010-06-07T16:10:18.684-05:00

Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you my passion is graphic design. I began doodling in the fourth grade and I haven't stopped creating yet! Last year when I purchased my QuicKutz Silhouette craft cutter and got in to vinyl cutting, I soon discovered I could put my graphic skills to good use. And then I discovered people liked what I made! (Now I spend all my time designing and only

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-33420782605216861772009-03-04T09:47:00.003-06:002009-03-04T17:33:37.233-06:00

He's not quite 2 yet but I want to be able to give family brand new prints when they're in town over his birthday weekend so we did his birthday shoot a bit early. Here are two of my favorites from his TOTALLY AWESOME skater photo shoot!I designed the vinyl decals on his skateboard and you're getting a sneak peek at some of the things I'm working on. ;) I am VERY thrilled with how vibrant & fun

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-78577325832014361372009-03-02T16:29:00.003-06:002009-03-02T17:09:21.699-06:00

A few of the funny things Aiden has said or done these last few days:• I offered Aiden a Girl Scout thin mint cookie last week, to which he responded "Tire!" and began nibbling away. I told him it was a cookie and turned back to dishwasher unloading. (The cookie was to distract him from "helping" me. Read: hitting me with spatulas from silverware basket.) He came running into the kitchen a few

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-7071637033715940902009-02-25T20:53:00.008-06:002009-02-26T09:52:40.137-06:00

Since last May I've been keeping something from you. I've quietly been working away and not said very much about it. Since January 1 I have somehow squeezed in 35 hour work-weeks in the evenings between the time Aiden goes to bed (7:30) and the time I go to bed. This is why some of you have gotten reply e-mails from me at 2 and 3 in the morning! It's not insomnia....I'M A DIGI DESIGNER ON

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-76975105292315008182009-02-16T23:02:00.004-06:002009-02-17T10:47:12.697-06:00

I ran into a girlfriend at the gym today and had a delightful time catching up with her! She's a total sweetheart and every bit as crafty as I am but MUCH better with a sewing machine! I e-mailed her tonight to forward a link I had mentioned and she replied with the stomach-twisting news that her car had been broken in to and her purse stolen while she was at our new local gym.I was sickened and

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-6561603199284886432009-02-01T01:51:00.002-06:002009-02-01T02:41:12.609-06:00

A friend e-mailed me this article on the Etsy blog - they have put a 1 year extension on the CPSIA Mandatory Testing & Certification! I'm so happy! But not for the reason you think. :)I'm very glad I'll still be able to get cute, handmade things for Aiden online. I hit some AWESOME clearance sales on Etsy (search CPSIA sale and store closing) and came away with some very imaginative and

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-41157841808946443232009-01-25T21:28:00.005-06:002009-01-25T22:56:23.295-06:00

This stupid Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act! ARH! I swear! Before it becomes completely illegal to sell used children's items, I am DESPERATELY trying to hunt down a second star blanket for Aiden. He screams like mad any time it has to be washed, I can't imagine the blow-up if we actually lost it.Although the blanket originally retailed for less than $5,I WILL PAY $20 FOR THIS BLANKET IN

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-40776491807367855692009-01-23T16:40:00.017-06:002010-06-06T20:32:30.654-05:00

Edited To Add: Links to downloadable graphics & a FREEBIE are at the bottom of this post!More answers to reader's questions can be found on Vinyl Cutting Machines: More of What You Wanted to Know June 2010: I have also written a blog series for the PeppermintCreative.com Blog that has all the info you need to begin vinyl cutting with your Cricut, Silhouette SD, Wishblade, craft Robo, Inspiration

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-80904197714073057962009-01-21T22:41:00.006-06:002009-01-22T00:45:36.247-06:00

While I'm thinking about it - after discussing with some in-laws tonight - I thought I would post my information and business decisions based on this act.First let me say that, of course, this would only impact the children's bracelets that I sell, not my adult jewelry line. Legislation or not, since I made my first design in 2003 I have been completely unwilling to ever endanger a child by using

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-55656884888382804992009-01-21T16:39:00.002-06:002009-01-21T16:44:40.519-06:00

Today Aiden is 22 months old and my sister's newborn is 9 days old. How is it possible that time flies by so quickly? Ironcially I remember when Aiden was 9 days old. I whispered in his ear that day that he was my precious little nine-day-old and cuddled with him most of the day, feeling that first pang of panic that he was growing too quickly and never again would his age be in the single-digits

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-18392051156586445152009-01-15T21:08:00.008-06:002009-01-16T09:17:30.069-06:00

So here are the latest Aiden phrases & stories:Aiden woke up this morning and immediately informed me his blanket had caught on fire. ("Mama, blanket fire.") What is this child dreaming about?!!Actually, the blanket on fire comment was a nice change from the usual string of phrases. Nearly every morning when Aiden wakes up he tells me that fire is hot, scissors cut and chemicals spray. This is

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-88251030469057362222009-01-12T17:00:00.003-06:002009-01-12T17:06:04.942-06:00

Okay, so the vinyl was cut by me (not them - YET) and they are using my image without permission BUT my stuff is on UppercaseLiving.com! How cool, right?!! Wait 'til you see what's next. :D

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-70037385190790245182008-12-30T17:30:00.011-06:002008-12-30T18:09:39.730-06:00

I'll upload some pictures! But I don't have the software for my camera installed on the new computer yet. Now that Christmas is over, here are the pics of Aiden that I gave the grandmas:(And some others the rest of the family hasn't seen) My grandmother Mimi (Aiden's great-grandmother) actually started crying when she opened her 8x10 frame of Aiden's head shot and, although her vision is failing

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-72017929224532458892008-12-26T22:06:00.002-06:002008-12-26T22:35:38.914-06:00

This is the time of year when I reflect on what has past, my goals and my aspirations for the upcoming months. The holidays seem to come in a rush and then screech to a disorienting hault between Christmas and New Years, leaving us lots of time to enjoy family, be a kid again and bury all the phones under the couch cushions. This December there have been several occasions when I've been reminded

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-88339705502905217712008-12-23T00:44:00.004-06:002008-12-23T03:48:46.599-06:00

Children add enjoyment (and spice) to our lives. If you're kinda bland, you tend to get a spicy child. If you're already pretty firey yourself, apparently it gets extra-concentrated before being passed on to your offspring. At least that's my theory.The hilarity of my life is not lost on me. I might be ready to pull my hair out around mid-day while the chaos ensues around me but before dinner is

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-31564686780175208612008-12-18T10:54:00.002-06:002008-12-18T11:28:06.084-06:00

Sometimes my kitchen adventures catch small appliances on fire. And sometimes they result in an amazing new concoction . My pancake recipie is one of them.When Brian and I were first married I couldn't make pancakes from scratch to save my life. They always turned out AWFUL. Last month when Brian made a batch following the same old recipie, they tasted worse than mine ever did. (In Brian's

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-62052604293419408872008-12-17T21:36:00.004-06:002008-12-18T11:29:20.362-06:00

Okay, I've got a minute to breathe between holiday gift deliveries and jewelry orders so let me catch you up on my (unexciting) life! I've hardly left the house in the last two weeks so Brian and I have planned a much-needed date night for Saturday. I'm sooooooo excited to dress up and go out! I just finished my forty-seventh or so piece of jewelry and I'm so glad I began building up my bead

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-47444646882834250372008-12-08T23:57:00.002-06:002008-12-09T00:27:03.511-06:00

I tend to do things in reverse order don't I? Let's back up and I'll tell you about Thanksgiving.It was a blast! We broke the trip up into two legs, staying one night with Brian's brother Dan and his wife Laura in Dallas. We caravaned the rest of the way up, girls in one car and boys in the other. I had way too much fun talking with Laura! We need to do that every year! Aiden rode with us gals

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-70115730042177616842008-12-04T11:33:00.002-06:002008-12-04T11:55:50.133-06:00

I'm re-posting this previous photo of my show inventory. I made several in each color so nearly all that are shown are available. (At least as of right now. I have more friends coming this afternoon.)I have two dozen pairs priced at $4 and $6. Lots of chunky chocolate brown, warm honey gold shades, flashy aqua, festive pink and glittering red. Come and get 'em!

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-89754306072212362682008-12-01T12:30:00.002-06:002008-12-01T12:43:39.014-06:00

Just a VERY quick blog post to say we are back in town! It took us 12 hours to get home last night from OKC, which normally is only an 8.5 hour drive with stops. UGH! Traffic was awful! As if it could get worse, I had a sinus infection on top of yesterday's 24 hour stomach bug. Brian had to pull in to a gas station so I could throw up. I didn't even make it out of the car - I puked all over the

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-63041790677200993822008-11-25T15:25:00.003-06:002008-11-25T16:02:59.561-06:00

I don't know where else to post this other than my blog but my Holiday Card deadline for ordering is December 10. Our huge family christmas is at my house this year so after the 10th, I'll be getting ready for a houseful. HURRY and get your pictures to me if you want one!The deadline for custom jewelry, cut vinyl and baby bracelet orders is December 15. (It's a few days later because my re-stock

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-3256162166141389602008-11-22T12:06:00.002-06:002008-11-22T14:19:20.999-06:00

Stephanie Meyer should sue. If she had any control over that massacre of her masterpiece then she should BE sued. It was worse than terrible. I told the girls who saw the movie with me that I rated it as a 'bad camp skit' but I think eighth grade drama production would more accurately describe the train wreck I paid $9.50 to see last night.First, let me say that I simply do not see HOW Stephanie

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-23047491977943766952008-11-20T08:29:00.002-06:002008-11-20T08:38:36.679-06:00

I am SO EXCITED to say that I designed my first graphic art for apparel and received the first printed shirt in the mail yesterday! I really wanted a Twilight t-shirt for opening night that not only related to the movie but also fit my unique personality. (Or disability, whatever you want to call it.) This is the kind of design that I can wear out and only my fellow Twilight fans would know it

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-66503553835215926072008-11-11T16:14:00.005-06:002008-11-11T16:44:15.560-06:00

Brian and I were talking last night about how Aiden uses the word 'work'. Every morning he wakes up and sometime in those first few minutes he will listen to the quiet house and then ask "Dad work?" Lately the questions have been phrased more like statements and he doesn't cry any more that dad is gone for the day. Well, at dinner last night Aiden could tell I was getting ready for something (a

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-38414572004270909692008-11-10T09:28:00.004-06:002008-11-10T10:04:14.659-06:00

Ask for the impossible and you just might get it! I knew what I wanted. I knew exactly what I wanted. Bright, cheerful, vibrant & playful with artistic angles, candid shots, a handsome photo of Brian by himself smiling (good luck) and a couple family shots for christmas cards. I wanted the impossible. The photos we recieved stunned us both, me gasping in delight at every single one while Brian

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-26832078927189125442008-11-08T22:15:00.005-06:002008-11-08T23:06:20.049-06:00

I'm stealing that phrase from my friend Michelle because it is SO fitting of me! My local friends think I am way too busy and haven't been around enough but I have hardly talked to my brother's wife - the only SIL on my side, who I positively ADORE - and the rest of my darling SIL's all year. Shame on me. And Brian's side of the family would laugh all too knowingly at my post title, everyone's

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-60241978123568195882008-11-07T22:13:00.003-06:002008-11-08T15:00:55.246-06:00

Brian makes fun of my music. (I like a mix of hip-hop, alternative and rock from just about every decade) He's got more sophisticated tastes, picking out chart-toppers a year before they become popular. I frequently download hot 'new' songs only to find he beat me to it by ten months....but I usually identify the up-and-coming hip-hop songs faster than he does so we're even. :)Any ways, perhaps

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-82229305973256964572008-11-04T18:15:00.003-06:002008-11-04T18:49:34.193-06:00

Aiden has recently discovered the power of 'I want', especially since his annoying squaks and screams resulted in him getting all the wrong snack foods, toys and pretty much the complete opposite of whatever item he was acutally wanting. It took about 3 days of persistently asking him to 'use words' and then it clicked. He speaks real english around the clock and the screaming has been greatly

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-53998948146048073132008-11-03T11:04:00.007-06:002008-11-04T20:27:45.886-06:00

Sounds like an Urban Legend, right? IT'S NOT! I was skeptical myself but I really wanted a beautiful pair of light blue pajamas for Aiden to wear and they just were NOT going on sale fast enough! So I thought why not? I'll try the 'secret' codes. Here's the proof:What's Online Right Now: Solid Flannel PajamasWhat's Hidden And Only Available if You Have the Link: SALE Solid Flannel PajamasE-mail

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-15190357748932212432008-10-31T21:02:00.002-05:002008-10-31T21:39:39.642-05:00

Alright, I've gotten things a bit out of order here so let's back up to last Friday October 24. Our neighbors three doors up were having a pumpkin carving party that night so Aiden and I went up to HEB the morning before to buy a pumpkin. When we got there, the nine foot stacked hay bale display out in front of the store had been stripped of all the pumkins that were easiest to reach around the

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-16944294436983247042008-10-31T19:21:00.008-05:002008-10-31T19:47:06.140-05:00

It was worth the wait - the halloween kit is adorable and was so much fun to scrap with! (Nevermind that I haven't made it to bed before 1 am two nights in a row...) I am also VERY excited to say that something I made is being sold on Miss Mint's website! I made the template for the Halloween Treat Bags, Miss Mint provided the papers and we both agreed they are so easy to put together, we're

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-7452194211085857062008-10-30T00:43:00.003-05:002008-10-30T00:50:46.408-05:00

My time stamp isn't wrong, this post really was written at nearly 1 am. I love launch nights! LOL! Here is a teensy sneak peek Miss Mint posted on the forum of the halloween papers: The full kit is due out sometime before Halloween day AND it will be on sale this weekend because it's Digi Scrap Day! Be sure to keep a special look out for the new hybrid product Miss Mint and I designed. It's my

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-42187749135587767472008-10-27T15:53:00.006-05:002008-10-27T16:29:34.889-05:00

I've already talked to a few local friends and it seems everyone needs cute, unique yet reasonably priced teachers gifts for Chirstmas this year. I was hunting high and low for something I can order in bulk, add vinyl lettering to and sell to parents to fill with candy and wrap for teachers. But my hunt ended when I got the brilliant idea to google what kind of gifts teachers really want to

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-16236414215739488712008-10-25T13:21:00.002-05:002008-10-25T14:00:10.411-05:00

Oh, the things I have come up with to save time or money and to still have all the little luxuries I want. We got on the topic of Bath & Body Works on our CT Forum and it reminded me that I should share some of my tricks here!I'm a sucker for home fragrances. I love matching the scent of my house for each season or holiday. I already mentioned the Bath & Body Works Autumn Leaves room spray I'm

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-10465296331210713872008-10-24T16:44:00.004-05:002008-10-25T09:40:04.339-05:00

How funny is this. An online quiz actually got something right! It just so happens I am going to be a pirate for halloween! LOL!What Your Jack-o-Lantern SaysYou are a gleeful, exuberant person.You enjoy a good party, and you even enjoy a good brawl.This Halloween, there is no question what you should be... a pirate!The candy you should give out: peanut butter cupsThe Jack-o-Lantern Quiz Ugh. I am

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-11009761369393240042008-10-23T15:33:00.005-05:002008-10-23T16:43:43.331-05:00

You'd never guess by the contents of my fridge but I am quite partial to gourmet cheeses. Gouda is my absolute favorite! And, despite how many packs of string cheese are in the crisper drawer right now, I have pretty good taste. Here's my newest find:I was at the store two weeks ago, rushing to get my impatient, howling child one of the crossiont samples, when I passed by a new cheese display

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-46938205544076068662008-10-22T15:51:00.003-05:002008-10-22T17:17:15.528-05:00

Not all random acts of kindness should go unsung. And I owe someone (she knows who she is) a very big thank you. I'm in awe of her talents and so deeply appreciative of her generosity. You'll notice a difference but I must confess that it is her magic I have learned from - the credit isn't mine. Lots of love to those who live with me in a world of dreamy vibrance and work to re-create it's scenes

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-32706807835527487432008-10-21T11:56:00.003-05:002008-10-21T12:53:22.298-05:00

Oh my goodness, I can't believe all fifteen new designs are finally done and up online! I actually have a few more styles not shown but those will follow shortly. Without further delay, here they are!Tay's 2008 Holiday Card CollectionThere are several different styles that fall into two categories: Whimsical & Elegant. All are 100% unique and certain to stand out among the crowd! Prices are

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-57584854702078260292008-10-20T20:07:00.002-05:002008-10-20T20:32:50.508-05:00

As requested, here's the recipe for the bread loaf I brought to the Yak n Sak brunch today. It is based on the "Cranberry Cobblestone Bread" recipe from a Pampered Chef cook book but of course, I figured out a way to cheat. ;) Sorry, I forgot to take a picture before it was eaten...Tay's Totally Cheating Cinnamon Raisin Cobblestone BreadPrep Time: 45 minutes • Baking Time: 30-45 minutes2 cans of

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-57679560959994039242008-10-19T23:42:00.003-05:002008-10-20T00:01:04.818-05:00

When it rains a little it pours. At least a little. Aiden got sick the day before Super Saturday but it was kind of a blessing in disguise. None of the dramatic early-morning phone calls got me worried because I was rushing all over town trying to get him to the pediatrician and pick up his perscriptions, on top of last-minute Hobby Lobby runs. He had a yeast diaper rash from the 3 week 'yuhgut'

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-45674968378260081942008-10-15T10:50:00.002-05:002008-10-15T11:19:28.258-05:00

So Kelsey calls me this week. She's booked with family shoots and her clients want to see holiday card samples now. Lucky for her I'm the digi card QUEEN! But this year I'm tired of the same-old stuff. Everyone knows how to scrap so you can make your own. Or, if you just don't want to mess with it, I'm offering designs again this year. Here's a sneak peek at the 100% new cards I'm creating from

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-16357569021078736512008-10-14T16:45:00.003-05:002008-10-14T17:17:47.467-05:00

Okay, if you think I make cute things, check out my friend (and fellow CT) Megan's blog header - it is soooooo fun and eye catching!A Little Bit ScrappyIt uses Miss Mint's Patchwork Princess papers & elements and the new Mini Bulldog Clips I haven't played around with yet. (Shame on me!) I'm feeling a scraplift (bloglift?) coming on!!!! Megan, I love it. It's adorable! All of it!Okay, as if she

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-10263272510142400882008-10-14T10:14:00.002-05:002008-10-14T12:06:42.195-05:00

Lately if the camera comes out it's during nap time so I can take photos of my projects. Sadly I didn't realize it had been TWO WEEKS since I got some shots of Aiden. I know you all want to see some pictures and hear some funny Aiden stories. The kid is one wild child, isn't he?Can you just hear the "ah-ah-ah!" as he jumps on the couch? (Might I add that he doesn't hold still long enough for my

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-50824419642524226272008-10-13T08:12:00.003-05:002008-10-13T08:40:39.503-05:00

Well, since most people use blog readers and didn't make it to my blog to comment, I only had 4 posts so guess what! ALL FOUR WIN! I'll get with everyone to see what they want and Megan I'll be mailing yours - but give me until after Super Saturday this weekend so I can finally think clearly!Trivia Answer: TRUEIt is true. My fifth grade year was the last year I celebrated Halloween because my mom

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-7854090220285263612008-10-10T16:55:00.002-05:002008-10-10T17:04:35.477-05:00

Oops! I forgot to mention one of my scrap tips is up on Miss Mint's blog today: Creative Nonsense. I used the trick on this layout and thought it would be a good one to share. Enjoy!P.S. If you haven't noticed, Miss Mint is posting every day now so add it to your blog list - you'll pick up a ton of new tricks and ideas. Of course the first kit sneak peeks are on the blog and you won't want to

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-19800740870112206872008-10-10T10:58:00.003-05:002008-10-10T11:48:39.425-05:00

That fall is a very busy time for me so I shouldn't over-commit myself, no matter how open the my schedule looks in May! I love scrapping. I love crafts. I love Halloween. And I'm not missing out on any of it! (Just sleep....) LOL! Here's a little eye candy of what I've finished in the last 48 hours:Most of it is Jen Wilson's Whoo's Halloween Papers and Halloween Holiday Collection Accessories.

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-46944104625851222022008-10-09T10:31:00.002-05:002008-10-09T13:50:38.982-05:00

They've taken over my life. I think I might be getting close to having my fill. Today cleaning the shower and mopping the floors sounded good! Before I get back to work, here are some pics of things I don't know if I have posted yet:Another fun, bright Halloween card! Yay!These are the valentine treat buckets we're making in January. Can you tell they're tiny? I love 'em!I like the layering of

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-73370572811115198632008-10-07T22:34:00.005-05:002008-10-07T23:16:57.730-05:00

Really, the amount of time I have put into the Halloween decorating is frightening! LOL!Special Note: This blog post is for my sister and all the out-of-town family so they can see what our house looks like with all our halloween decor up. I'm not starting any competitons (I'd loose, I'm too cheap to buy more things) nor am I trying to show off my mediocre decorating skills (I'll take ideas if

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-48991619852939959652008-10-07T16:52:00.005-05:002008-10-07T22:00:37.753-05:00

I really wish I could take credit for coming up with this but I didn't. I was poking around on Etsy a couple weeks ago when I found this gorgeous handmade halloween sign and LOVED how the green paint had been rubbed away to reveal the black underneath. The seller didn't answer my convo when I asked her how it was done (no surprise) so I googled it myself. After a lot of digging, I found VERY

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-2158723338579931032008-10-06T10:07:00.003-05:002008-10-06T10:23:02.271-05:00

Some quick pics of some of the Halloween decor I put up this year. These are kind of lame and dull - I'll see if I can get a better shot of my entry way and all it's details. It's pretty done-up!These are the Witch letters we are making at our craft day. I did mine early because I won't be able to make them on that day (I'm teaching a craft myself). I used different paint colors and techniques so

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-42129229134941569402008-10-06T09:56:00.002-05:002008-10-06T10:06:29.088-05:00

Okay, Thursday night we hauled everything out of the office and ripped out the carpet. I took this picture on Friday morning before we left to go pick up the planks:I'm skipping some of the in-between shots but here is Brian working on the most difficult part of the floor. Everything went pretty smooth until we got to the doorway with it's weird cuts:We had to bring in some professional help...

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-16830097223103139102008-10-02T19:22:00.003-05:002008-10-02T20:20:09.862-05:00

My computer is going to be unhooked tonight and I'll be cut off from the world as I know it (LOL!) while we put in the new floors. I'm so excited, though! The office is completely cleaned out and ready to have carpet removed tonight. I pulled out all my halloween decorations today AND cut some really cute orange, black & white vinyl. (You'll have to come take a peek at my front door if you're in

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-83132664280317022992008-10-01T12:30:00.005-05:002008-10-01T12:53:27.899-05:00

Aiden has recently discovered my iPod and I've discovered that, just like his dad, he loves music. But migraine-inducing, annoying children's songs are banned from our house until he's at least old enough to beg for it in complete sentences! Currently on my iPod are some fun, top 40 songs that I like to listen to while I house clean or craft. When Aiden wouldn't sit still in the tiny exam room at

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-50066991239640302812008-09-30T09:01:00.008-05:002008-09-30T17:31:23.110-05:00

You asked for it and now they are here! Pre-made pages from Miss Mint using her newest kits 25% Off Right Now! Use them to create gift albums for Christmas (slip in your photos and print multiple copies) or use the inidividual pages as you like in your own digi scrap albums. They are VERY easy to use. You open the page and put your pictures behind it, so that the image shows through the open

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-30676057754828381752008-09-27T20:33:00.002-05:002008-09-27T23:33:47.166-05:00

I've gotten a bit of scrapping done in between the other stuff (see below):This LO uses Jen Wilson's new Academy line (Art Papers):The Other Stuff: I can't remember if I mentioned this or not but the carpet in our front office is going to have to be replaced. It's crappy builder grade and some stains we shampooed out last year came back with a vengance in the heat of our un-airconditioned house.

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-10632230525671309322008-09-26T16:11:00.002-05:002008-09-26T16:26:04.939-05:00

WARNING: Bragging of the worst kind after TWO YEARS of not being able to wear anything skinny is below!Who knew it would be a hurricane that helped me reach my goal? The stress of it combined with my house-turned-sauna over two weeks did the trick:Thanks for the new wardrobe offer babe but the look on your face when you saw what jeans I had on last night was all I needed. ;) Second to college,

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-33425763372252908022008-09-25T22:24:00.005-05:002008-09-25T22:58:35.918-05:00

The hybriding must go on! And I have been looking forward to Halloween for months! Here is what I managed to get done both before and after Ike. (It really did help me take my mind off the heat.) See the Peppermint Creative Hybrid Gallery for a list of supplies and tons of other ideas!Witch Card: Pumpkin Card: (Made with some items from our CT embellishment swap!) P.S. You can get that DARLING

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-36177885570949961552008-09-25T12:09:00.003-05:002008-09-25T12:26:48.787-05:00

The power came back on Wednesday afternoon. I spent most of the evening running around like a manic OCD cleaning lady, scrubbing the wind-blown dirt off everything in sight. The task is daunting. I SWORE that I wouldn't turn my computer on today but Super Saturday things needed to be tended to and it was unavoidable. Which means writing on my blog was unavoidable....LOL!I miss my CT's so much.

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-5103237261785109622008-09-22T12:44:00.004-05:002008-09-22T13:21:12.654-05:00

We are *STILL* without power. More and more friends get electricity as the days go by but our entire chunk of the neighborhood is still dark. Centerpoint. Grrrrr.....For friends & family wondering we are well. The power is the only thing wrong. Our house didn't have any major damage, our roof is fine, we didn't loose any trees nor were any of us injured. The only "bad" things have been the heat

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500994915537042809.post-40418473225207771952008-09-11T13:01:00.003-05:002008-09-11T13:06:30.844-05:00

I don't like living without AC so I packed Aiden up late last night at hit the road at 4 am to avoid evacuation traffic. I'm at my parent's house and will be until I am certain power is back on at home! The family couldn't be more thrilled. ;) I have a grandmother that thinks hurricanes should come every three months so I'll bring Aiden up more often! LOL! I'm going to have fun shopping at all

Tayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00333225620487184604noreply@blogger.com1