Cuttlebug Storage Revisited - CUT FILES

I guess over the years people forget that I use to make .cut files and share them with others. But there are a lot of new Cricut users that came along before we had so many options for cartridges and they likely don't know anything at all about my .cut files.

Long ago before there were 62,000 images of cupcakes, flowers, food items, etc *okie thinks she might be exaggerating just a little* I made .cut files using Design Studio and George so that many others could cut images that just weren't available at the time. Now, 3-4 years later there isn't much need for me to design images but every now and then someone comes along and sends me a message about a .cut file I made long ago and it makes me feel good to know they are still getting used.

Recently I got a few messages from readers about how they were unable to download my .cut files from my blog. I emailed them the files and figured it was a glitch. As my regular readers know, I found out that every file I have ever linked to my blog was lost. So now here I sit feeling overwhelmed about which files to reload and relink or should I just go delink them all and let it go. Of course I am sure I will get back around to relinking all the files it is just going to take me awhile.

But for today *okie thinks it sure took her a long time to get to the point of the post today* I have relinked the Cuttlebug Storage Folders. There has been some recent interest in the system since I posted my storage system for the Cricut Carts.

I originally made the folders for the A2 folders back in 2009 and quite a few people did like the system. This is a picture of one of the folders. In the cut file there are graduating tabs so the folders can be more easily identified.

Please see the original post - CUTTLEBUG A2 STORAGE FOLDERS, for the instructions and .cut file you can download.

I have relinked the .cut file so you should have no problems downloading the file now.





I had a few people who just kept hounding me about wanting storage folders for their 5x7 embossing folders and to shut them up I finally broke down and made the file! *okie falls off her couch laughing* Actually I wasn't able to make one before I did because I didn't have any of the 5x7 folders and didn't know the right measurements. Here is a picture of the 5x7 folders.

Please see the original post - CUTTLEBUG 5X7 FOLDERS STORAGE, for instructions and .cut file you can download.

BREAKING NEWS! Sale on Coredinations!!

I got an email that Consumer Crafts is having a sale on their Coredinations cardstock and I wanted to share it with you guys. I really love this company and have only had the best ever service from them! Some packs are only $2.97 for 20 sheets of the 4 color group. There are some great prices on some of the other Coredinations packs as well!

Here is the link...

COREDINATIONS SALE AT CONSUMER CRAFTS

I am going to have to craft soon!

Not because it is driving me crazy not crafting, well it is to be sure, but also because I have a package on it's way that I am to review!!

One thing about product reviews that I enjoy is using them and then giving my HONEST opinion about the product or retailer. I am excited about this product. It is not a great new product but an addition to something I already own. But it is a little different because of the extra elements that can be used with the product *okie so loves being secretive*. I will tell you guys that I have reviewed products in the past that I didn't like and I would give the retailer, owner, etc the option of me not reviewing the product on my blog, so if I say I like something and use it then you know I AM GIVING THE GOD'S HONEST TRUTH about my feelings on the products I do say I like and use!

I will say the product is Cricut related and that is all I am saying for now!! *okie smiles a devilishly bright grin and knowing folks are so confused about what she is saying*

All files are lost...NEW DOWNLOAD PROCEDURE

I thought I should let you guys know that all the .cut files that have been on my blog over the last few years are no longer downloadable due to me not having access to the online storage I was using. Luckily I do have all my .cut files backed up on an external hard drive *okie hopes she does anyway* and will be trying to store and link them again. This procedure may take some time and I actually thought about not doing it since I never know if people use them or not.

BUT...for now I am trying another method of storing the files and having them available for download. I think there might have been some confusion about how to download the file for the Cricut Cart Box and I thought I would post a picture of a screen shot explaining how to download the files.

The name of the file will be in the upper left hand corner.

To download just click where it says "DOWNLOAD".

With this system I also get to put a descriptor, which I think will be handy, and will include name(s) of cart(s) used and if it is a Gypsy or Design Studio file.

Hope this helps clear up any confusion.

Cricut Cart Box - Gypsy file

I had tried to convert my DS file of the Cricut Cart Box to use on the Gypsy but couldn't get it to work. I kept having problems with the Gypsy going back to the home screen when I tried to cut. I emailed the file to a Cricut friend and when she went to use it, well it did the same thing. I told her "huh maybe I just need to see if I can recreate it in the Gypsy". Once I did that I was able to copy and paste to where there were 6 on a 12X12 mat. With my fingers crossed *okie remembers how hard it was to load that mat and open the file with her fingers crossed* I plugged in my Gypsy to the E2 to see if it worked...

AND IT DID!!

I hope you guys are able to download this file. I am still not sure this method is working for my files to be downloaded as no one has let me know yet. So someone please let me know if you are able to download and use the file.

Here is the file ---> CRICUT CART BOX 6 CUT

Here is a picture showing the fold lines.


The narrow flaps are on the inside of the box.

Since I did this on my Gypsy I was unable to make the score lines. You will need to score, or you can just fold if you wish, 3/8" away from the outside edge of the larger flaps. This is indicated by the red dash lines in the picture. The flap then can either tucked inside on the back or flapped around the back of the tall part of the box.

Be sure to decide which you want to do before applying your adhesive so you don't tape the wrong side of the flaps.

Okay I hope you guys can use this sucker! I really like my carts done this way!

Cricut Cartridge Storage - VIDEO

I had posted some pictures on Facebook of a container I got at Staples to store my cartridges. The container is a Really Useful Box *okie wonders how many people are going to understand that is the name* and is the 4L size. I had quite a few responses and thought I would make a video showing the container and how it works. In the video I said it holds 74 carts, but it actually holds 84 cartridges.

The little boxes in that I keep my carts in are made from a .cut file I made years ago. The file uses George and cuts 3 at a time. I had another file that cut more but I am unable to find it right now. Here is the file for the one I have...CRICUT CARTRIDGE BOX and hopefully you guys can download this. I am trying Google Docs to store the file and not sure if it will work.

Here is the video....



If you are unable to get to a Staples or find the Really Useful Boxes they can be ordered online at REALLY USEFUL PRODUCTS. I would like to thank Kymberlee of The Paper Midwife for sharing this information with me!

So you don't have to go searching for the handbook video I am re-posting it now in case you want to see more details on the handbook storage and missed it before.



UPDATE: I have been asked to post how many handbooks the 9L containers hold and it really depends on the handbooks you are using. I would say you can fit approximately 30-40 handbooks to a box, it depends on if it is a full content, lite or solutions handbook.

Was Gonna Have a Video!

But I can't figure out the Movie Maker program on my new computer. I will work on it again tonight. The video is of my new cart storage system.

Also for those of you who have tried to download the Cricut Cart Box .cut file and haven't been able to do so I apologize. I am not sure what is wrong with the file download system but will check that out as well. If you are wanting it now please email me and I can email you the file. The file I have available easily for me to send is with George. I will see if I can get the one using Plantin loaded to my new computer as well.

So hang in there and I will have a video soon!

Donate to help a family in need....

My Cricut sister Kymberlee has a daughter that lost everything in a house fire and is holding a FLAME FREE PARTY to help out her daughter.

Proceeds from any size SCENTSY order will be matched and all orders will be entered to win one of two $25 gift certificates.

She is also doing a donation option of where for every $5 you donate you can earn one entry to win an Imagine, so $5 gets you one entry, $10 gets you two entries, etc.

If you would like to see more details on how to donate please go to THE PAPER MIDWIFE.

School starts Monday!

I will officially be back in school on Monday. That means a more structured schedule which I will be looking forward to, believe it or not! I am hoping it also means I will feel like going in that room and crafting! I sure hope so since I have Love You a Latte, Sweet Shoppe and Flower Shoppe coming my way via Cricut.com! My friend Linda, aka LGuild, was able to get a good deal on some Lites and I got Carousal, Handyman, Cherry Limeade, Botanicals, Live Simply and Bloom from her. So there is no reason I shouldn't have plenty to craft with *okie thinks "yeah right ya big dummy like you didn't have enough before"*.

Linda brought my carts down to me last night and we went to the casino so I could practice for the Blackjack tournament I am in at the end of the month, which by the way, I have found out I totally suck at blackjack! LOL Linda brought me home and I hit a hole in my yard and down I went! I was bragging earlier to Linda about my nice tan legs *okie is convinced she has nice legs for a fat gal* and I guess this is what I get for bragging! HA HA HA What pissed me off is that I had a full diet coke and it went flying, so I had no more diet coke! *tear streams down okie's cheek*

Maybe the salt water from the pool will make it heal faster!





I have been asked why I haven't been on the messageboard recently. There are actually a few reasons...Number One: I haven't felt like crafting; Number Two: I have been busy with other things *okie wonders if most people know they can usually find her on Facebook* and hanging out with friends this summer; Number Three: The messageboard is running slow for me and that gets on my last dang nerve; and Number Four: SECURITY CODE TO POST!!! Which I find utterly ridiculous, but since it isn't my board I guess I can't do anything about that one.

Let's see on my last post I told you guys about my daughter wrecking her car and she is driving my little Metro. Well not long after that, just like 3 days I think, she got fired from her job. She wasn't ever given any official write ups and the new manager had hired her friend in the place of my daughter. Luckily my daughter only went about a week without a job and is now working in a daycare and is excited to have weekends off. She started working when she was about 15 1/2 and she hasn't had weekends off very often. I just hope she likes it. She is now also considering going to nursing school but is taking a break for a bit to figure out what she wants to do. I can't say much since I did the same thing, a few times, when I was a little older than her.

I spent time in the pool yesterday and think I am going to head back out there today. It just seems like the thing to do! Maybe after a little swim and nap my new carts will be here and I will want to play with them...notice I said MAYBE! *okie cracks up laughing*. I think most of ya'll know I am an animal lover and evidently animals love me too. I caught this squirrel this morning at the pool. I tried to get a picture of him splashing in the water but he ran off when I moved closer.

SPEAKIN OF THE DEVIL! The fedex truck just showed up! Off to put rewards points in!!

Design Studio still opens! And deal on baby bug!

I opened DS today on my computer and just when I thought about something I might want to look at guess what I did...went and cleaned the pool!! HA HA HA Yep! I sure did. Guess I am still not ready to craft yet but at least I am one step closer to hitting that mark.

Things are calming down around here a little bit. Although I am learning that when you want to teach someone a lesson about something it sometimes comes back and blows up in a totally different direction. Hard to explain right now and not sure I will but just a little lesson I am learning and think I should write down somewhere for future reference! Just think MEN! HA HA HA

Oh for those who might be looking for a baby bug Hallmark Scrapbook had a deal where if you bought George for 39.99 and like $9 shipping you got a refurbished baby bug for free and the machine carries the same warranty as a new machine. So guess it is covered for a year. Here is the link of you are interested... BUY GEORGE GET A FREE CRICUT.

Sunday is the start of a new week

Which means it can be a new beginning as well. But I don't want a new beginning, sure wouldn't want to start over! HA!

I was able to finally get my Metro to AutoZone and it was a bad battery. Yep the brand new battery was bad! It is starting and running fine now. My daughter is now driving it, which has no AC, but I think she is just grateful that Mom isn't having to take her everywhere. I am glad as well! I remember when she got her first car and how nice it was not having to stop whatever I was doing to take her here and there and boy was there a lot of here and there's back then!

I had a fabulous time Friday night with my friend Tracy and Lisa. We had some wonderful ribeye steaks, baked potatoes, and Lisa fixed some corn and green beans and crescent rolls. I had made two Dream Pies, one chocolate and one coconut cream. We sat around and visited, drank a few beers and swam in the pool. I hadn't seen Tracy in years even though I have known him for about 25 years so it was nice to catch up with him. Good friends and relaxation does a lot to sooth the stressed out soul.

Last night my friend Lisa and I went to the Casino and hung out and had a blast. Of course anytime I am with Lisa I have a blast. Well not just Lisa but any of my friends! My friends are very important to me and I love them so much. I often call them just to say "I love you". Having lost both of my parents very suddenly and being lucky enough to know the last thing we ever said to each other was "I love you" I have realized how much it means to be able to say that and know they other person knew. So now I make sure I tell my family and friends I love them so they never have to wonder if I did.

I actually thought about some layouts I would like to do but when I went in the craftroom I walked back out. I think it was about 85 or so in there and I knew I wouldn't be able to sit and craft. But at least maybe the inspiration is starting to come back to me. I know once it starts to cool down I will be back in the mood to craft. I might even open up DS later and work on designing a vinyl project for my bathroom later. My friend Linda, aka LGuild, picked up Splish Splash for me when it was on clearance at her Walmart and I have been wanting to do something with it for the bathroom.

I do want to share one thing I thought of the other day. So after my daughter wrecked her car and I had to take her to work and pick her up from work later that night I knew I needed to get the Metro to AutoZone and have the battery checked. Once we got it checked and they replaced it *okie so loves warranties* and it was starting and running I immediately thought "GOD TRULY BLESSES ME". Now some people might think "well crap I bought a new car and didn't need to". But instead I saw it all as a blessing! Had my Metro not had the new bad battery I would have kept it and not had the Sedona now. That would mean that my daughter and I would be sharing a car until she could get hers fixed. But instead God provided the opportunity for me to get a nice vehicle and have the Metro available for when she would need it. THANK YOU LORD FOR WATCHING OUT FOR ME AND MINE!

Even if I do allow myself to think negative for a short period of time I am a true believer that positive thinking and attitude can overcome just about anything. I always tell my clients "there is no such thing as a negative experience as long as you learn something from it and there is always something to be learned from any situation". I honestly believe this and practice it in my own life. I hate self pity so I only allow myself very BRIEF periods of such nastiness and then I start thinking about how lucky I truly am and then it seems things always start to turn around for the better!

Well it is time to get some paperwork done but wanted to let ya'll know that things are better around here. Thank you everyone for the great comments and emails. It has been very comforting to know that other people go through a lot of the same chit! And of course I do know I am still very blessed in life.

And then there is more stress....BRING IT ON!

My friend Linda came down for stamp club last night and we were at the house and I got a call from a number I didn't recognize. I didn't answer it of course, but they called back. I then got a text from my daughter that said "I was in a wreck, tried to call, phone going dead". I called the number back and sure enough it was her that was trying to call me. I immediately rushed to where she was. She was shaken up but okay. Evidently there was an SUV that stopped suddenly and said there was a car in front of her that stopped and turned and she had to slam on her brakes, the guy in the little truck behind her said he barely was able to stop in time, my daughter wasn't able to stop in time and hit the truck that made it ram the back of the SUV.

So of course the 3 car pile up is the fault of my daughter who is on my insurance. I was so relieved that she was okay until she started talking hateful to me. My friend Linda got an ear full while I vented my frustrations and feelings about being treated like chit every time my daughter does something wrong and it some how becomes my fault.

Everything has calmed down now and we are trying to figure out what to do about the car situation and right now I am shaking my fists at stress and saying "BRING IT ON BITCH!! JUST BRING IT ON BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT GONNA GET ME DOWN!!"

Tonight I am having a few friends over for a cookout and swimming. I think a few cold beers are in order and maybe I can relax and just enjoy myself for a little while. Saturday I plan on getting some paper work done and then Sunday spending the day out of town with a friend. Yep...I deserve a little rest and relaxation and by golly I am going to take it and enjoy it!!

How ex's can be so stressful!

Another stress factor in my life right now is my ex. Okay I guess I should specify which ex since they are all technically ex's since they aren't currents *okie holds forehead thinking she just confused herself*. So this ex just happens to be the father of my child, not quite what she calls him most days, but we will go with that term for now.

Anywho, he was living with us for about a year and I put him out last August due to some issues. Oh hell, he was getting drunk all the time, staying out late and just being a poopie head! There I said it! Well one weekend where I heard nothing from him and he didn't come home I decided enough was enough and that I was done. When he did come in we had a few words and I told him "it's time for you to go". Long story short, he left. We remained in contact, me being the optimistic person and thinking that maybe my daughter could build a relationship with her father, over the past year even though he was going down hill fast. After being arrested several times he finally got the final blow over 4th of July weekend and got picked up for a DUI, his second in 2 years. Matter of fact COPS was in town that weekend filming so he might actually end up a tv star of sorts...the bad sorts! *okie can't help but laugh at the twisted humor in that statement* Well on top of that he had several other arrests for some issues and he is now sitting in county with a $500,000 bond on him. Now why this would be stressful to me is really hard to understand. I don't want him in my life anymore than a friend. But that's just it, we have been able to remain friends and since he is a friend I worry. But at least I know as long as he is in there he isn't killing himself or someone else with his actions. I do worry about my daughter and how this will effect her. Of course she tells me she doesn't care, but I know it has to bother her in some capacity. I have no idea how long he will be gone, but I know it will be a number of years.

I just wonder what goes through someone's mind who keeps making the same mistakes over and over and over again and some how thinks the results will be different. In the world of counseling, we call that crazy. He is an addict and I hope now he can get the help he needs. But I feel if he got out today he would be right back out doing the same kinda stuff all over again. I have no bad thoughts or feelings for him. Actually I always have wished happiness for any of my ex's. Well at least after a while of being away from there. I think there might have been one that I felt my wishes were less than gracious, but that's a whole notha story!!

I don't blame myself for any of his actions because I know all that he did was by his own choice and he has to face the consequences. I just wish my daughter could have had a father that would have been loving and supportive. In this I feel I have let her down....yep that is probably where the stress comes in over the whole situation.

On a brighter note, tonight is Stamp Club and Linda will be coming to town. We are going to go find somewhere cheap to eat and then head off to spend some time with our stamping friends. Maybe I can get a card done or something but I am making no promises!!!

Self Therapy update...

Um yeah I am kinda sucking at the self therapy. I think I need chocolate!! *okie laughs and grins*

I would like to thank everyone for the supportive comments and emails I received about yesterdays post. Because of that I have decided that ya know what, this is my blog and it is Scrap N' MORE so you guys might be getting the more part now since I have decided to take my thoughts from MSword to my blog. I figure what the heck, some of ya'll feel like you really know me so ya might as well know a little more about me. And besides, I am usually a pretty open book about things in my life anyway. And if ya don't want to read it, then just don't be clickin on my blog *okie laughs her little smart aleck laugh and gives a wink*

I will share one issue...my daughter has officially flunked out of college. This has been a huge blow to me because I wanted so much more for her. *okie does the sshhh motion with her finger on her lips and speaks quietly* Don't ya'll tell her this, but I have to realize that I did the same thing when I was in college. I was a big party animal and then one morning at the age of 24 I woke up and magically said "it's time to grow up and be an adult" and that is what I did. I went back and finished my bachelors degree, after changing my major about six different times, and then went on to complete my masters degree and then get my licensed professional counselor certification. I know there is hope for her yet. I just wanted her to make better decisions than I did. LIVE AND LEARN! Maybe it will make her a stronger person, at least that is my hope. I have to thank my friend Linda for listening to me cry and helping me get my mind a little more straight about this situation. I know I talk bad about Linda on here *okie thinks, because Linda can be meaner than heck sometimes* but she truly is one of my best friends, even if she does tell me all the time when we are in the car and she pulls out in traffic "oh well, it will hit your side first and you are fluffy enough to cushion me".

It amazes me some days in my life when I think about what my worst fears have been and then they come and slap me in the face. My daughter's problems with college is one of them. I remember my dad telling me when I started college "Finish your education. Everything in this world can be taken from you, your house, your family, your money, your freedom. Everything. But the ONE thing that can never be taken from you is your education". My dad died during my first semester of college but his words stuck with me. Even during the times when I had flunked out or decided to sit out I always knew I would go back and finish, but when I was ready. I think my dad would be proud that I went as far with my education that I did.

The hard part I am dealing with is that I made her a deal. I told her as long as she was in school I would pay her car insurance and cell phone bill. Well she isn't going to be in school anymore so that means I have to toughen up and now charge her for those things or let her get her own. I know it will be hard on her and I don't want her to suffer like I did when I was younger. But I do know it made me the person I am today...strong, independent, determined, etc etc *okie thinks she will leave out the crazier than a bedbug adjective* and maybe it will help build her character as well. She even mentioned last night on the phone "Mom you have your life and I have mine". I told her "Ya know what you are right, that is correct. You do have your life and I have my life". I think it scared her and she said "that's not what I meant, don't take it that way". And I told her "but it is true, and it's time you lived your life". I think she might have gotten the hint that the purse strings were going to be pulled tight when I said that because the sound in her voice was one of trepidation.

Okay enough of that for now...it's time for chocolate! HA HA HA Just kidding.

Oh I do want to share with you guys that I have lost 26lbs this summer. I weighed on the last day of school which was May 20th and, *okie looks around and shakes her head* HELL NO I AM NOT GOING TO TELL YOU WHAT I WEIGHED!! Geez Louise! It's just been too hot to cook or eat so I only eat what I feel like I can stand to ingest. I was worried about it but the doctor said I am fine and it is just because I have changed eating habits. I hope I can keep it up, er is that down, and lose some more weight. I know it would be good for my health and my diabetes *okie still swears that doctor is lying and she doesn't have diabetes*. With the heat being the way it is it might be a few more months before my electronic cooking devices in my kitchen get turned on again!

That is all for now, I got some things to get done around here, but not crafting. Sorry about that folks. I hope to craft some day soon.

I am alive

I had friends contact me to let me know others have been concerned about me and if I am okay. So thought I would post to let everyone know I am alive.

As far as being okay, well I will be but right now I just need some time to get my head on straight. There have been some things going on in my life and right now I am having to do some self therapy to over come these issues. I know it will take a little while and I know I will be okay, I always am. And one day I hope to be able to craft again.

To be honest crafting has always been one of my therapies and maybe that is part of my problem right now...I can't craft. It's just not the lack of motivation to do anything but it is also too hot to sit in the craft room and do anything. The craft room use to be a garage and I don't think it is insulated to well and it just isn't staying cool enough to craft. Matter of fact it is not the least bit cool. My friend Carmen from Houston can attest to that for me right now. She came through to get her dog that I kept for them for a week and she even said it was too hot in there to sit and try and do anything.

I actually thought about shutting down my blog until I am ready to craft again and then I figured what the heck...just leave it be for now.

I want to thank all of those who have voiced concerns. It really does mean a lot to me. I have gotten emails in the past where people have told me that they feel like they know me personally because of my writing style on my blog and also because I am *okie thinks crazy* open about my life and post many other things that go on besides just crafting. Not sure if I ever told you guys this but long ago I was a journalism major and an English major and although I don't write properly like I was taught *okie knows she sure wasn't ever taught to write her thoughts in italics* I still enjoy writing, er...typing, crap out. I am doing a lot of writing, or typing as the case may be, right now but nothing that would be needed to post on my blog. You guys would be screaming TMI TMI TMI!! *okie grins a little knowing it would happen*.

So just know that I do appreciate your concerns and I will be back to my old self in time.

Adventures from Houston...day, er evening 3

and start of day 4!!!

During some of our craziness Carmen made the suggestion we drive to Louisiana and go to a casino. We all laughed about it but then somehow it became serious business. Laurie had went to get her friend Michelle who was getting off work at CKC and mentioned it to her. Michelle said she wanted fried clams, crab legs or something and was up for the trip. So yes, we drove 3 hours to the Isle of Capri in Lake Charles Louisiana!!

Now let me warn you guys, if you are ever kidnapped by a bunch of crazy scrappers make sure you have friends you can call and let them know your whereabouts in case you do not make it back safely *okie is so glad her new phone has the little GPS find me feature*. Oh also another thing....you might want to invest in some Depends!!

Laurie kept talking in her Poncho voice and we were all dying laughing. Now let me tell ya about Poncho *okie hopes everyone remembers her bringing up Poncho in yesterday's post*...Poncho evidently is a very dear family friend and hand of Laurie's family and has been with the family back from Laurie's grandfather. Poncho as you might have guessed is Mexican and Laurie says he doesn't understand English that well. But then again I think I remember Laurie mentioning she believes he understands better than he lets on. Well it seems if Laurie talks with an accent Poncho will understand what she is saying better so all the way to Louisiana and most of the way back Laurie was in Poncho mode. Carmen kept calling her Pedro *okie shakes head and really worries about Carmen sometimes*.

I think we figured out where every McDonalds was on the road in between Houston and Lake Charles because we had to stop and each one and use the bathroom because we were laughing so hard and so much *okie is really surprised no one peed themselves the whole trip*. I had sent out an SOS on Facebook that I had been kidnapped to see if anyone would come save me. Lori even posted on her page they kidnapped me and was open to ransom for my safe return. Sadly, no one offered anything...*okie is beginning to see she really just doesn't know who her friends are after all*. At least Kristy M., who is also from Houston, did post back to Lori and say "I was thinkin' but I'm not parting with any of my Cricut stuff, besides, you have everything I have anyway :)". Not sure that is much of a consolation though!

In hopes of being rescued I posted a few pictures on Facebook of my captors...well at least some of their body parts. Carmen had taken a picture of Lori's feet and I posted on Facebook "here are the toes of one of my captors" and then I was trying to take a picture of Laurie and Lori and Carmen jumped in front of the camera and when I posted it on facebook I said "this is the tongue of another of my captors".














I did finally manage to snap a picture of Lori and Laurie without interference. Now you see the older gentleman in the background? Well before we left out of there he was looking at us, shaking his head and laughing. I believe we decided that he either figured we were all completely nuts or he was glad someone kidnapped me! Of course they are saying they kidnapped me all loud and chit right there in McDonalds. I think Laurie was beginning to wonder if the man was going to call the authorities on them. We were close to the state line by this time so it would now be a case for the feds.

Our final bathroom stop was at a rest stop and by this time I think Michelle was irritated with the rest of us. She wasn't laughing like the other ladies and I were so she didn't need to go to the bathroom like we did. We left her in the vehicle to guard it while we took our final bathroom break.

We finally made it to the Isle of Capri in Lake Charles around 10pm. Michelle, Lori and Laurie went to see if they could find seafood, which they did not get because the buffet was like $26 a person. Carmen and I head toward the slots. It was hot as heck down in the area Carmen and I were in so I went upstairs to watch for the other gals. There wasn't good phone service but luckily were able to meet back up. Laurie sat at a machine I just got off of and won like $35! I tried telling her 20 of that was mine but she didn't listen. We got lost in the casino a few times but then found our way back to where we had came in. Laurie, Lori and Michelle left Carmen and I at the casino while they went to find something to eat. I ended up leaving with $140 more than I went in with so that was pretty good.

The trip home was much more quiet than the trip there. Everyone was exhausted! Michelle told Lori she should feel honored because Michelle let Lori ride up front with Laurie. Michelle evidently got sick from what they ate at The Wafflehouse and was in the back with me *okie is so glad Michelle didn't puke because okie would have puked right back on her*. Carmen was in the very back. Lori and I tried to keep talking so we could keep Laurie awake while she was driving. We stopped for gas at one place and I wanted to pick up some cowboys but the gals wouldn't let me *okie smiles remembering how nice those wranglers were fittin one cowboy*.

We finally made it home around 5am I think. Laurie had made arrangements for a late check out so she and Michelle could get some sleep before heading back to the Austin area. Lori was only going to be able to get a few hours sleep because she had a meeting the next day. Carmen of course had to tend to her family's needs so I guess I was the only lucky one about being able to sleep!

Adventures from Houston...day 3

I thought I should continue my Houston story since I have been back home for over a week now and haven't finished it. I think either I am use to the heat of Oklahoma again or maybe having the new vehicle with AC is helping or maybe....oh well, what ever the reason I am gonna try to finish my adventure.

On Saturday we had a trip to Archivers planned. I had never been so I was excited. It was a nice store and they had a lot of stuff. I told Carmen I was not really too impressed and that I think it is because I do so much shopping online I had already seen most of the items they carried *okie wonders if the internet takes some of the excitement out of life sometimes*.





I did buy one item at Archivers, this great Pagemaps book! You guys know how I love their website and swear by it. Well the book is totally awesome and you also get this deck of cards that are in the back of the book for you to punch out and the box to put together to store them in.

Pam, aka TheBugBytes, actually had the deck of cards and showed us at lunch at Olive Garden. Since Lori had the foresight to print off coupons for all of us I was able to get 30% off the cost of the book. So now I can say I did get something at Archivers!! I think Lori and Laurie thought about getting it but when Laurie scanned it with her handy dandy smart phone she found that she could save a dollar and some change by getting it on Amazon.com, so she opted to wait. I did ask the clerk for my Native American discount, which I did NOT get *okie just so doesn't get it when she doesn't get that discount*, but it did start the personality of Poncho coming out in Laurie. You will hear more about Poncho...believe me.


I also got to meet Mom2SidSquid while at Archivers. She had wanted to meet up at CKC but we missed her somehow and she had gotten a hold of me via pm on the message board. I gave her my number and let her know what our plan was going to be. It was great to meet her and her son. He is undoubtedly a fantastic scrapper since he had a great eye for embellishments! Sadly I did not get a picture of Demita.

I was able to snap this picture of Laurie and Carmen hiding behind the Basic Grey collections. Ya know for scrapbookers we sure suck at taking pictures of our awesome friends and getting our pictures taken with our awesome friends! *okie wonders if maybe she is hanging out with the wrong people in her life*


After we got done shopping we headed back to Carmen's so Lori and Laurie could drop us off. Carmen made the comment "oh we should go to Louisiana to the casino". We already had plans to meet at some place called Willie's Icehouse and I had gotten a hold of my friend Angela to let her know but hadn't heard back from her. Somehow Carmen's comment became reality and and the next thing I knew we were all making plans for a road trip to Louisiana....

TO BE CONTINUED....

Got a new vehicle!

Or at least a new to me vehicle! My little Metro has been on the verge of biting the dust and the battery died on Monday. I got a new battery and everything SEEMED fine. I went to see Naomi on Wednesday evening and when I left there my car wouldn't start. After some walking in the heat, cooling down, and having a dear friend give me a ride I made it back home. Another friend, later that night, took me to get jumper cables and we jumped the car and got it back home. I turned the car off and POOF, it wouldn't start.

Car trouble is the one thing that will frustrate and stress me beyond belief. I was posting my woes on Facebook when my Aunt Betty posted she was selling her Kia Sedona because she got a newer vehicle and "it runs great and the A/C works" *okie now wonders how she has been able to survive two summers without A/C in her car*. Being the wonderful aunt and uncle that my Aunt Betty and Uncle Perk are, they are allowing me to make payments to them for the Sedona! *okie knows God has truly blessed her with a wonderful life* After a quick trip up to my aunt and uncles I now have a mini van that my daughter has dubbed "The Shaggin Wagon" *okie thinks her daughter deserves a thump on the head for this one*.


When we got back home yesterday I had to take my daughter to the doctor because she hasn't been feeling well. Come to find out she has pink eye and strep throat. She kept saying she wanted to drive "The Shaggin Wagon" and I thought she was kidding. She told me she had never driven a mini van and wanted to know what it was like. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take her picture! Notice the glossy red right eye, great pic huh! HA HA She also said something about "OMG! CAN YOU SAY ROAD TRIPPPP!" I don't think she will be allowed to drive it very much because there is no telling where it might end up!








Today I decided Lucy needed to go for her first ride. I was going to go get a diet coke and my friend Nancy called and she was right outside my house so I told her she could go with us. We were driving around and I told her to take a picture of Lucy riding. Lucy looks like she approves and will enjoy the mini van *okie is so trying not to continue to call it the Shaggin Wagon*. I think Lucy liked being able to ride in a vehicle that had A/C and she has plenty of windows to look out of and ample seating to lay down if she gets tired. Okay I really gotta laugh at this point because when my daughter was younger I would haul her friends around in my Metro and they would be all cramped up. Now that she is grown and I have Lucy at home with me I have a mini van to haul Lucy around in!



I had posted pictures of my new vehicle on Facebook and I got tons of comments about how much scrappy supplies it will hold. While I am quite sure there is plenty of room for just about anything I might want to stick in there the sad truth is that now I am flat busted and have no money for scrappy supplies, especially with a car payment. But on the positive note, well I already have enough supplies to last me a few years so I don't really need to shop for any scrappy supplies. So in the end it will all work out just fine!

WOW Time flies!!

I was going through my video's on YouTube and saw this one of Lucy. I can't believe that has been almost a year ago! How so much has changed in my life and so much stayed the same....

It's not safe....

for me to do any posting at this point. I have gone from a happy go lucky person to being a pissed off bad attitude individual! While they are saying Oklahoma City has had 29 days of 100 degree or more temperature this summer I don't think they are including my town because I swear since the beginning of June we have had maybe...MAYBE...5-6 days where the temperature didn't hit 100+.

I was a good sport for awhile. I kept thinking it was a fluke and we were having a few days of August in June. But now here it is middle of July and we are still in this heat dome *okie still thinks she wants to shoot the heel out of the man on tv that was explaining it, especially when he said "and there is no relief in sight"*.

So my dear readers I apologize for not being able to post but at this time I don't think it is safe for me to do postings because they would likely not be very nice!

Interupting the regular scheduled....

STORY DUE TO TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES!

I had planned on continuing the story about my Houston trip but due to technical difficulties I am unable to do so at this time. Okay the truth is I really need to post some pictures and explain some things and I honestly don't know how to get the pics off my new phone and into the computer! I will have to wait until my daughter can show me what to do or I get a chance to email them to myself so I can edit and finish the posts.

However, never fear I will continue the story once the technical difficulties are resolved.

I will be going home today and likely passing out once I get there. At least that is what I would like to do but I gotta hit the poker room tonight and see if I can win a hot seat in the 3 card poker tournament at the end of the month. The top prize is $2,500 and that will buy a lot of pretty paper!!

Adventures from Houston...day 2 CKC

I wasn't sure what to expect from CKC. I know my friend Linda, aka LGuild, went to the one in Tulsa and she said that GASC in Arlington was way better than the CKC she went to and guess what....GASC was a lot better than CKC in my opinion too.

However, the company was FAN TAS TICK!! Carmen, Laurie and I took the Oh So Beautiful class sponsored by Clear Scraps *okie thinks she will wait for another post to post about that*. We actually talked Laurie into going to the class, well maybe not so much talked her into it as we went and paid for her to go so she didn't have a choice *okie and Carmen are not a force to be reckoned with when they set their minds to something*. After that we met up with Lori and chatted for a bit before they had to go to class. At that time Carmen and I went shopping. I tell ya the shopping at GASC is SSOO MUUCCHH BEEETTTERRR! *okie hopes she emphasized that enough* But even then Carmen and I was able to pick up a few bargains.

After shopping we waited for Laurie and Lori to get done with their class and we had decided earlier to go to Olive Garden to eat lunch. Our friends Pam of The BugBytes and Karen joined us. We were able to snap a few pictures of us together, even though people were complaining about not being able to walk through. I thought it was very rude of them, I mean after all THEY ARE SCRAPBOOKERS AND SHOULD APPRECIATE THE MOMENT!! *okie gives a huge eye roll*

Here are some pictures of the things I got at CKC.

I got almost every new color of the 9 available of the Stickles. My friend Carmen did as well but when we got home she found out she had them already! *okie thinks scrappers need a pocket inventory of supplies they have so they can avoid getting duplicates*. But they will be put to good use by someone. We are sending them out to a dear friend of mine from Ohio. I found the clock stamps for like $2 or $3 and couldn't resist them. I even got a set for my friend Linda, aka LGuild. I was excited to see Eyelet Outlet there since I needed to restock my pearl brads. I love using those for flower centers. They were having a door prize giveaway and I was filling out the little card and had written my name and was writing my email address when the cashier saw it and said "HEY! I GO TO YOUR BLOG!". I started laughing and told her "well thank you!"

I didn't buy too much paper, this is it! I couldn't pass up the package of polka dot and paisley paper. Carmen and I are going to split those. The other paper is Fancy Pants, the stripes in the front, and Imaginesce Posh collection, or at least part of it. I think the Posh will make some nice layouts and some great cards *okie thinks of Rock Princess with the Posh*.

There was a lot more paper that was 6/$1 but I restrained from going crazy *okie thinks she needs to give herself a gold star for that one*.


I finally broke down and got me one of those handy dandy scrappers drink holders! I have been wanting one for a few years and never ordered one. I couldn't resist the good sale on the little Prima Sprites *okie wonders about folks who say they have too many flowers since okie doesn't thinks that is pure utter nonsense*.



We were suppose to meet up with some other ladies but I think class schedules got in the way a bit. Lori and Laurie had promised me Olive Garden and by golly I wanted them to keep their promise! So off to Olive Garden we headed! Karen and Pam joined us there as well. I think the waiter got tired of us since he sent someone over and she said "I will be taking over so let me know if there is anything you need". Maybe it was because we laughed so much, or kept asking for more to drink *okie wonders if she should say it was non alcohol but then decides she will just let people think what they want*, or if we were at the table for over 2 hours, anyway he just couldn't handle it I guess!

Carmen and I headed back home after that and just kinda hung out and visited. We knew we had activities the next day with the girls, but we had no idea of what kind of adventure it would become!!

TO BE CONTINUED.....*okie thinks the next day might have to be a two part story*

Adventures from Houston...day 1

I arrived in Houston safe and sound on Thursday. Yeah yeah yeah I know I am a little behind but in the posts over the next few days you will see why!! *okie doesn't think she has ever on the run so much in her life, and definitely never on the run with the likes of the wild and crazy women she has been around*.

Thursday when I got here Carmen and I met up with Lori, Laurie and Laurie's friend Michelle for a little shopping at Sam Moon. I didn't get anything that day but will be going back to pick up a purse for my daughter and hopefully find a matching wallet. After we finished shopping we went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. Lori was nice enough to make a reservation for us. I gotta tell ya folks, you can talk to people on the messageboard and on Facebook but you never know how insanely funny folks are until you meet them in person!

The sad thing is that I didn't even get pictures of people...all I got was pictures of food! *okie thinks to herself...WTH okie! What kinda scrapper are you?* I guess there will just be a lot of journaling and maybe some printed pictures of avatars from Facebook on that layout!

This was the dish I had. I can't even remember the name but it was some kinda shrimp, chicken pasta dish and it was great!! I was only to eat only about half because there was so much.

Carmen and I had ordered a appetizer as well of Calamari, and it was delish as well!



I have to share a funny story with you and Carmen is gonna kill me when she reads this...We were sitting in the booth and Laurie is reaching over behind her and I look at her and she says "I am playing with my butt". Carmen who is on the other side of me doesn't hear Lori and right after Lori says that Carmen says "Well how is it?" Lori, Laurie, Michelle and I crack up laughing and Carmen is looking at us like we are idiots. Carmen was actually asking how my food was but since it came right after Lori's comment it sounded like she was asking Lori how her butt was!! *okie cracks up laughing just remembering this*.


Of course we had to order dessert! Lori had ordered the De Lucci Deluxe cheesecake *okie so knows that is not the right name but is way to lazy to go look it up and get it right* and I had ordered the Kaluha Coffee Cocoa Mocha or some sort of thing. The waiter mixed them up and I ended up with Lori's and said "this doesn't taste much like Kaluha!". So at least I did get to try Lori's cheesecake. Come to think of it I don't think the others offered me to try theirs! *okie is now wondering why they were so rude!*.




My cheesecake was delicious! I didn't finish it either though. Man they sure give you a lot of food at Cheesecake Factory! No one asked for a bite of mine, and if they had I would have given them a bite, a very small small bite.

After we got through eating we headed over to the hotel where CKC was being held to see if we could register but there was no one around. Laurie tells us the next day they found someone and was able to register. I think they cheated!! Carmen and I headed back to her place to try and get some sleep before our 8:30 class at CKC the next day....

TO BE CONTINUED.....

This heat is killing me!

It has been hotter here for a longer amount of time than I care to remember! I can't even imagine what the rest of July and August is going to be like. I think I might melt away before then, but then again that isn't a bad thing.

I leave for Houston tomorrow. What is it about trips that make me so tired? I swear it takes me twice as long to get ready and then twice as long to recover than the amount of time that I am gone! I have Lucy's babysitter all arranged. My friend Andrea will be coming to stay at the house with her. My sister was a little upset because I wasn't taking Lucy to stay with her. I told my sister that I didn't want to have her watch Lucy again since Lucy stayed there while I was on the cruise. Ya know I don't remember anyone ever being disappointed when they couldn't keep my daughter for a week when she was little!! WHERE WERE ALL THE KIND HEARTS THEN? Oh yeah, I remember...they all knew how ornery she was and were afraid of what she might get into while I would be away.

Thought I should give a pool update. It is a little harder to maintain than I thought. BUT...a lady I talked to said a lot of people are having problems this year because of the heat. I will have to get a bag of salt tomorrow and add some before I leave on vacation. I want to make sure it is set for the time I will be gone. Andrea is coming over tomorrow to get instructions on how to rinse the filter and run the pump. Of course she can always call me if she needs to.






I am enjoying the pool and it does feel great on my skin!! I have even been able to work on my tan some!! My daughter had a few friends over last night and they swam for awhile. I cooked on the grill for them and they ate like pigs and swam like fish! *okie cracks up laughin thinking about her daughter and her friends being critters*.











I still haven't done any crafting and at this point I have even thought about it. I know I will do some crafting while in Houston since I am taking a class at CKC. I think Carmen has plans to work on some projects while I am there as well so maybe I will have something to blog about!! Well something craft related anyway.

One week to Houston!

Well a week and a day officially. My friend Carmen and I signed up for a class to take at CKC, the bad thing about it, it starts at 8:30 am! WHAT IN THE HEEL WERE WE THINKING? The class is making an acrylic mini album. I love mini albums but have difficulty letting things hang off the pages, even though I know that is what makes them look so nice. I am hoping the class will get me over that fear, phobia, or whatever it is. Carmen asked the other day if I had started packing and I told her "no! That would require me doing laundry". Actually I have a mental note of what I want to pack as far as clothes. If I need scrappy supplies I am sure Carmen will let me know what to pack.

The pool is almost crystal clear now, just a slight hint of cloudiness. My daughter, one of her friends, and I went swimming the other night. The water FELT AWESOME!! I just kept rubbing my legs in amazement of how soft my skin felt. I like that the pump turns itself off and on. The only problem I seem to be having now is keeping the filter clean. With all the dryness we have had I keep getting a lot of dead leaves and dirt from the alleyway in the pool and the pump system sucks it up. Luckily the filter is easy to rinse and reuse so I don't have to go buy a new one every few days.

I did make a layout the other day and I will try to get pictures done tonight and get it posted tomorrow. I might try to do another one tonight, will have to look through my pictures.

Finally Did A Layout! Tim Holtz as subject

I finally got something crafty done! I am simply amazed it happened. Okay the only reason it happened is because I have to wait for the acid stuff in the pool to start working and I can't get in it yet so I was stuck trying to find something to do.

Of course you guys recognize Tim Holtz, Mr. Grunge himself! I got to see him in action at the GASC last year.

Supplies used:
Cricut - Expressions; Stamped cartridge; Printing Press cartridge;
Patterned paper - Tim Holtz Retro
Cardstock - various
Stampin Up - marker
Brads - Eyelet Outlet; Basic Grey
Inks - Cat Eye Chalk Ink; Tim Holtz Distress Ink
Floral Wire









For the name I used Stamped and I used Design Studio to hide the contour on the burnt orange cardstock and then layered the letters on top. I strung the tags on floral wire and gave it a little twist at the top. I also added a few of the Tim Holtz mini staples on a few of the tags. I forgot to take a close up shot of the "king of grunge" but it was done with Printing Press. Both Stamped and Printing Press are retired now, and I am so glad I have them! I love these fonts!

If you have rewards points and like Printing Press it is available for 800 points, just click HERE to see.


The book flowers are some I had made a few months back and I actually used them because I was too lazy to look for something else to embellish the page with.

I have plenty of scallop circles punched out to make some more of these flowers but I haven't gotten around to making up a stash of them. That might be something I can do next week when I feel like making something.




For those who are wondering about the pool update...well it was very cloudy so I had to add some acid to bring down the PH level. The instructions say to wait 24 hours to see if the pool clears, I am not a patient person and I want it clear LAST WEEK. But I am trying to be good and do as instructed *okie figures that needs to be written down on the calendar*. I certainly hope the pool is good to go by this evening as my friend Nancy is coming over to swim. I am going to make some shish-ka-bobs on the grill, at least that is my plan. Dang that means I need to go to the grocery store after going for my platelet donation! UGH! I hate the grocery store!!

I THINK I AM IN LOVE!!

Okay this is two hours after the salt water gizmo has been running. The pool is cloudy but it is not green anymore! So far so good! Will take pictures and post this evening to see if it turns clear for me!

As promised I am posting some pictures of the pool and how it is progressing with the new filter system.

One thing I did learn was that it doesn't do it instantaneously! *okie is such an instant gratification kinda gal*. So these pictures are taken before I started running the pump, which has to run 24 hours before starting up the salt water part of the gizmo.



















These pictures are of after the pump has been running all night. I know there doesn't look like a large difference but there really is. All the scum floating at the top and the leaves were gone, with the exception of maybe just one or two. My old pump would have required several skimmer rinses and probably a few filter rinses as well. This pump is extremely more powerful than the original one! However, the water of course is still green, but a lovely Cricut shade of green don't you think? *okie cracks up laughin*



















For the size of pool I own, I had to add 160 lbs of salt to the pool. It said to disperse evenly *okie really wonders where the manufacture thought people could get a gigantic salt shaker to do such a thing* and I did the best I could by using a bucket and tossing the salt out across the pool. Well I did that until I accidentally tossed the bucket too! The odd thing is that the bucket sunk but then this morning it was floating at the top of the pool! Anyway for the last bag of salt I had to disperse by hand. I got the salt at Walmart and it was right at $6 a bag I believe. I may still have to get the other cleanser thing that I saw, something about baking soda *okie is beginning to wonder if she has a pool or a cake in her backyard* cleaner, I think....okay I didn't really pay attention but I know there is something else I can add if it doesn't start to clear up.

Hopefully tomorrow morning I can post some pictures of a much nicer looking pool!! Everyone keep your fingers crossed!

Questions about my pool

I have had a few questions about my pool on here and on facebook so figured I would just make a post about it.

I bought the Intex Above Ground Pool in May of 2006 from Walmart. My pool is 18' x 48" in diameter. It isn't too large but isn't too small either. Cleaning has generally been very easy. I am looking forward to the saltwater filtration system and will let you guys know how that works out as soon as I get it going. Matter of fact I will take pics of the pool before I hook it up, it is really green right now, and then after I get the filter going so we can see together how well this thing works....let's keep our fingers crossed! HA HA HA

Setting the pool up is fairly easy. I did have some dirt hauled in to help level the ground. Luckily my ground was pretty level. Now with that said I do need to prop up some of the posts again because the poles will sink with time. I have small patio blocks under my posts to keep them from sinking to much. Right now I think the pool might be off by about two inches, last year it was only an inch. Once the ground is level the pool is very easy to set up and put together. It is also easy to take down if necessary.

I did store it in the shed for a few years but it has been up for the past two winters here. Now with me living in town I don't get the winds like some do so I haven't had problems with it being blown away. Also, Oklahoma generally doesn't have bad winters so I wasn't too worried about it. Wouldn't you know it that the last two winters we have had ice and snow! But luckily it withheld and didn't have any problems.

Overall I would have to say the pool was a very good investment! I love to spend time in the water and I enjoy my friends coming over and having cook outs and relaxing in the pool. Also I think it was good for my daughter and her friends to enjoy.

Hope that answers questions you guys might have about the pool.


**EDIT**
I drain my pool about half way for the winter and just leave it uncovered.

I really need to make something!

But I have yet to craft a thing! I did actually get some pictures out and some paper and try to design a layout. The pictures are of Tim Holtz when I saw him at GASC last year in Arlington TX. Maybe I can get the layout done soon. Every time I start to work on something I go off and do something else, what else....well I really don't know!

My pump for the pool is suppose to be in today so I will be busy with that so not sure when the crafting time will come.

I have my trip set for Houston, tickets in hand and just need to figure out if I want to take anything scrappy or not. I am thinking NOT! I figure Carmen and I will just have fun visiting and if I feel the need to make something I can just use her stuff *okie hopes Carmen isn't reading this*. I am really excited to see my friend. We haven't seen each other in a year in a half, although we talk on the phone or text almost daily.

Oh I didn't win the dang TV Saturday night but the good thing is I have another shot this Saturday night. I got this getting the ticket thing figured out. I just have to sit at a table where people are playing big and let them win the tickets for the table. I was able to accumulate 4 tickets for next weeks drawing.

Oh has anyone seen the envelope with my birth certificate in it? I can't seem to find the thing. I had it on the cruise and I know I made it home with it but haven't been able to find it. I got an application filled out for a passport, just in case I decide to go over a border in the future, but I really need that dang birth certificate!! I have also misplaced my social security card *okie glances at Lucy and wonders if Lucy is behind this thinking she can keep okie from leaving her again*. Hmmm, not sure where those things could be but I really need to find them!

Ya think a day bites, only to find out...IT DOESN'T!

And yesterday was one of those days! Not that it was a bad day, and actually it turned out a really good day...so guess it didn't bite at all *okie confuses herself so easily*.

I had finally gotten the pool cleaned out and had been filling it up. In the afternoon it finally got full enough for me to turn the pump on and guess what...it didn't work! C R A P O L A!! I had already planned on getting one of those salt water contraptions today to hook up to the pump but since the pump is out I will be ordering the combo thing. Found one almost $100 cheaper on Amazon.com than what they sell for on the Intex site.

I have my flights set for Houston and a friend of Carmen's was very generous and arranging the flights for me at no cost to me! *okie knows she is really blessed in her life*. So guess things are all set for Houston!! I didn't want to take the thunder from Carmen but I am also excited to finally meet some long time Cricut friends, Laurie and Lori!! No telling who else I might see at CKC. Maybe I should go incognito and just sneak up on folks *okie thinks she really likes that plan*.

I haven't gotten any more crafting done but I did get 81 prints sent to Walgreens today! They have a code of SOAKUP where you can get 30 prints for $3. My total was less than $9 including tax. At least I will have some pictures to scrap!! Good thing since I guess I will need to get some layout kits together because I think I have a crop to go to in Norman at the end of next month. I am not sure about the details and don't really care since Linda, aka LGuild, will just tell me where to be and when. And ya'll know I always do what Linda tells me *okie gives a huge eye roll*.

I got a busy day ahead so guess I better get going. I have a doctor appointment this morning, then have to go to the office for a bit, order the pool pump combo, pay some bills, run errands for Naomi and go visit her for awhile. Tonight I have a date with one of my girlfriends to play some Texas Hold Em and depending on how late we stay out I might not have a post for tomorrow!! *okie won't mention that it probably really won't happen depending on the drink special of the night at the casino*.

Cat with Ladybug - Penny Black Stamps

Of course this is my favorite cat!! Oh come on ya know it would be with that cute little ladybug sittin on his tail!

Supplies used:
Penny Black "In the Garden"
Making Memories patterned paper
Cardstock - Stampin Up, Paper Studio
ProMarkers
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust
3/8" swiss dot ribbon
Tim Holtz Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Memento Ink (for stamping images)
button
twine








I didn't use harsh reds for the ladybug, and I am thinking they were dusty pinks. Maybe the same as the flowers. I was going to use a true red color but with the color of the polka dot paper I thought the softer ones looked better than something bright and harsh. On the cheeks of the cat I used dusty rose. That gave him a nice little blush on those fat cheeks.








For the corner of the card I matted my yellow cardstock and patterned paper and then marked 1.25" inside from the bottom right hand corner. I measured 2 and 3/8" up the right hand side and marked and then cut then so it made a diagonal cut off the corner of the mat. This allowed me to just fold the kraft carstock back onto the card so the polka dot triangle could be attached. I hope that made sense.

The pieces of the polka dot were cut at 1.5" x 2.75" and then cut diagonally to get the triangle piece. For the piece on the front I cut top right to bottom left, and then vice versa for the little corner on the inside of the card. I didn't want to use a full sheet of the lovely polka dot on the inside of the card since polka dot is my favorite and that is why I just did a little triangle at the bottom. I used my atg gun to hold the flap back onto the front of the card. I used a tapestry size needle to use the twine and sew the button onto the card.

Well that is the last of this set of cards! I certainly hope I can think of something else to make this week!

Cat and Watering Can - Penny Black stamps

This is the same image that was used on Monday's post but just looks a little differently since the butterfly was added and the corner flowers were omitted.

Supplies used:
Penny Black "In the Garden"
Making Memories patterned paper
Cardstock - Stampin Up, Paper Studio
ProMarkers
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust
3/8" swiss dot ribbon
Tim Holtz Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Memento Ink - Rich Cocoa (for stamping images)

I didn't mention in the this weeks posts, but I have in previous posts, that I use the Memento Inks with the ProMarkers. I did try Stazon *okie suddenly gets the urge to grab her Stazon ink pad and give it a little sniff* but it smeared when I was coloring. Enfys of GOING BUGGY suggested the Memento Ink to me and I haven't had any problems with it.


Of course the cat was done using the same method as mentioned on Monday, along with the same colors. I think I forgot to add that I did use Cool Grey 2 for the shadow under the cat images. The flower was done in the same pinks as the other cards as well, and the butterfly too.

For the collar I used gold on the buckle and the cornflower and pearl blue for the collar part. The buckle didn't allow for, or need shading. On the blue part I just used the darker blue on the edges and then filled in with the lighter blue. Sometimes it is harder to do shading in small areas.


The mouse was done using vanilla and I believe caramel. I did the watering can with some cinnamon in the brown shaded areas and then used on the collar.

I cut the watering can out after I got it colored and then pop dotted it in the corner. I hate mice but I have to admit this little sucker looks cut peeking out at the cat. Although I am wondering why the cat isn't trying to eat the mouse. I know my cats sure would have been on his azz! *okie smiles a little as she remembers her beloved boys Simon and Sebastian*.