Booklets of Hope for Today

Good morning! 

I’ve finally made a few more mini booklets. I had made three initially, but I was giving them away faster than I could make them. One for a friend who got sick, one for a birthday (we try to keep it small) and one for someone who was upset. To my surprise, all of them really appreciated them.  So, I told them all, enjoy them and if you find someone who you feel needs it more than you, then please pass it on! 

That’s how my little lights in the darkness were born. My little books of hope!

Here’s three more I made. I’m only going to show you a couple of pages in each one, but will include some quotes and scriptures for you. Also some choruses from songs I found encouraging.  Using sticker paper rather than adhering each one down with double-sided tape was much easier and less time consuming. 

I’ve made the pictures large so you can see the writing better. The only challenge was keeping the quotes small enough to fit into the 3”x 4” spot. They’re all encouraging, hopeful, or make you feel better about yourself or life in general. 

I cannot set these up as a pdf file as I'm currently using Open Office which doesn't support the correct file types.  I can write them out for you and you can make your own in Word using a table. 

For fonts, I used "Times New Roman," "Priscilla," and "Ink Free." 

Quotes and sayings:

It's hard to hear God's voice when you've already decided what you want Him to say. Sanctification and Spitup	I have given God countless reasons not to love me. None of them changed His mind. Lysa Terkeurst
Remember... Fear and Faith Cannot co-exist. Elsie Welc	Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but gets you Nowhere.
The devil wants you to worry about what's next, so you can't enjoy what's now. The devil is a liar! Sanctification and Spitup You can't wait until life isn't hard anymore before you decide to be happy. Nightbird	Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up. Proverbs 12:25 Let your Smile Change the world But don't let the world Change your Smile
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! Isaiah 43:1	Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.  Ps. 55:22
Hard now Doesn't mean Hard forever	If today was heavy Put it down And give it to God

Songs I've incorporated: When peace like a river attendeth my way when sorrows like sea billows roll. Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say It is well, It is well, with my soul!	Turn your eyes upon Jesus Look full in His wonderful face!! And the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of His glory and grace.

On Christ the solid rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand all other ground is sinking sand! Scriptures I've used:	Jesus take the wheel Take it from my hands Because I can't do it on my own! Carrie Underwood
Isaiah 35:4 Jeremiah 29:11 Romans 8:31 Hebrews 13:5,6 Psalm 27:1 Deuteronomy 31:6 Isaiah 40:31 Romans 8:28 Isaiah 41:10 Psalm 55:22 Proverbs 12:25 Jeremiah 29:11 Psalm 46:1 Isaiah 43:1 Proverbs 1:33 Luke 12:25 Matthew 11:28 Psalm 46;10 Psalm 23:4 Eph 6: 10, 11 Isaiah 40:31 Psalm 91: 1,2 John 14:27 Joshua 1:9 2 Tim. 1:7 I had a lot of trouble with the formatting on this post. I guess this is the best I can get for now. My apologies! Well, that's all Folks!  Blessings, Carmen

Check Out Krista's Note Cards and more!

Hello,

I hope this post finds you all doing well in spite of this self isolation we are all experiencing. I'm very much an introvert (who loves to visit and have coffee) and I don't mind this at all. I do like to get out for a bit, but then I'm good! Most of my DIL's are extroverts, but one in particular is very extroverted, and this is HARD for her! Ah well, this too shall pass! 

Anyway, I received a delightful message from a blogging friend, Krista Peterson Hong from Krista's Paper Cafe, who used a few of my Digis to make note cards and she sent the link to me (as I've often requested you all to do when you use my digis) so that I could enjoy them too. I just feel so incredibly happy when people find a use for my digis and I was so pleased to hear from her. I love what she's done and wanted to share it with you too.

As I've mentioned in past posts, all the digital stamps on my blog are now completely free for download. There are all types of them, so please check them out. 

Krista has been following me for ages, and I her - because her blog is awesome! There's a link below to the blog post where she's made the most adorable little cards. I love the fact that she took a Digi I made, broke it up and used it in a different way. What a great idea! It's one of those moments where you think, "why didn't I think of that?" 

As a side note, if you check out my page headings above - the page called "Digital Stamps Info & Terms" explains exactly how to do what Krista did. Please do check it out, especially if you've shy'd away from trying digitals. They are so easy to use and you'll be glad you did! So many fun options!

Here is Krista's post: Birds and Sun. Spring Has Sprung!

Here are the digital stamps she used if you'd like to make your own. As you can see, she split these up into individual birds. Awesome! 

She also used these which are a bit of a different style....but still fun. I'm a bit quirky at times and my digitals display that quality. No apologies. 

Ok, it's time to go back into isolation! But before I do...check out these Easter images on my blog for a quick card, place card, or banner. Is it April already?

Easter Egg Tree

Easter Peeps

Easter Ideas

Prim Chicks

I should really do up a religious one. 

Anyway, thanks for stopping by! Have a great week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Black and White Ink Card

Another card for you today. This one is a bit different because all I did was use black ink on it. I actually made it one way, then added more. Now I'm not sure which I prefer, so I'm going to show you both and maybe you can let me know what you think?

The photos below are a bit darker, but if I lighten it, some of the detail is lost. 

I think if I make this one again, I'll do it a bit differently. You can see what it is I'm trying to do, but I don't think I was completely successful. I'll ink up my pad before I try again.

I did a bit of masking to get this effect. In any case, this one was a fun card to make.

Have a good day! 

Blessings,

Carmen

Let's Celebrate #5! Free Digi's!

Hello!

Wow! What a week! 

More freebies for you today! What a wonderful way to celebrate my 29th anniversary!!

Ready?

Ah, another flying ship! I don't know if this is more whymsical or steampunk...

This Christmas image was an all time favorite on this blog!

Remember, they're free for a limited time only! Remember to check back on the last few posts for more limited time freebies!

Enjoy!

Carmen

Let's Celebrate #4! Free Digi's

Hi there,

Another day, another freebie!

First, I have been resting up the last few days as I have pulled out my back somehow. Prior to that Iwalked every day for 45 minutes or so and have lost quite a bit of weight, but this has definitely set me back. I'm hoping it heals quickly! I will attempt to walk with a friend again tomorrow after a week long break. I'm hoping my back holds out! Wish me luck!

Anyway...

This time I have a coffee cup freebie that was quite popular I'm removing the watermark from for a limited time.

And, a steampunk flyer...

Enjoy!

Let me know if you use them on anything! I'd love to see your work! 

Carmen

Houses and Mushroom Free Digi's

Hello!

How are you all doing? 

The last week was good for me, but I wasn't free to get much done in my craft room. this week I'll be doing a bunch more canning. It's Fall after all...and I love my stewed tomatoes and salsa, to mention a few. I've also been itching to get another digi done up since it's been a while. However, it's a quick one! 

These are inspired by this post at The Artful Maven Haven...check it out! 

I guess I should give you some mushrooms too...

Have fun with these and have a good week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Prim Pear Digi, and bonus free Truffula Tree!

Good Morning!

Okay, I know it's afternoon, but it feels like morning to me. I've had some company - so I got up, made a nice breakfast, cleaned up, saw them off...and now I'm doing some of my morning routine. 

It makes perfect sense in my mind.

=D

I thought I should do another free digi here today. I decided to go Prim again. I love that theme!

This one could be Christmas-y, or just country. 

Kind of fun, don't you think?

Lately I've been concentrating a lot on my Facebook Page, updating it daily. 

On my FB page, I 

a) not only link up to this blog, but I 

b) share the locations of; various free digi's, 

c) various craft ideas, 

d) mixed media, 

e) tutorials, 

f) and a whole hodge-podge of craft stuff.

So, if you love to see tutorials, craft ideas, freebies, etc. -  go and like my FB page HERE!! 

Okay, now for the Bonus Images:

The first is a plastic tree that lights up in different colors - found in Thneedville.

The second is a Truffula tree...with its soft colorful silky tufts. 

Enjoy, and have a good weekend! 

Blessings,

Carmen

For we know that all things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

'Time Flies' Digi Freebies

Hello!

How's your summer going? Our hot weather finally got here, and boy is it hot! It was 44C  on our balcony the other day! It drains you!

We've just had my son and his family here for the last 2 weeks, which is why I haven't been posting much. It's been a fun but busy time! I was sorry to see them go! 

But, my loss is your gain and I have a digi for you today. Hope you like it!

I can't believe summer is almost over and Labor Day will soon be upon us. So my digi reflects 'time'.

Here's a sentiment to go with it...

I also promised to show you what the girls and I made while they were here. We grabbed some clay and made some ring dishes. 

The girls made them in the color of their bedrooms or bedding. These were fun to make. I got the idea from Leslie's Art and Sew. I have one of her ring dishes featured on my Facebook Page as well.

Finally, last but not least, here is what Darren, Angela and the kids gave us before they left.

It wasn't necessary, but we appreciate their kindness and we're really going to miss them!

Have a good week!

Blessings,

Carmen

Pussywillow Butterfly Digi Stamp Freebie

Hey there!

It looks like this weekend is going to be a busy one! Luckily I had some time tonight to draw up a Digi Stamp...but this will be the last one for about a week. I am prepping some frames for the Seniors to embellish, and I still have my taxes to do in the next week or so. 

The craft room is coming along nicely, I just need some shelving to finish it. I got a great deal for a small shelf at a local second hand bookstore that is closing. It'll be great for my stickles, glimmer mists, wooden stamps, punches, etc. If you can see them, you tend to use them!

For Christmas last year, my husband bought me a Flip Video to make You tube videos with. I haven't had an opportunity to use it for that yet, but I do plan on it. I definitely want to do one for some of the soaps and maybe the frames as well, so maybe in the next couple of weeks I can get something together...if I can figure out how to use it. I blush...but it's the truth!

I noticed that most of the faux leather techniques out there are quite different than mine. My technique gives the look and feel of leather. If you'd like to see what I mean, check out these posts:
Money (Wallet) Gift Card  (This one looks like Ostrich Leather)
Carpenter's Belt/Handyman Card
I hope to do these as video tutorials too! Check them out!

Anyway, enough chit chat! Time to show you my Digi. It's Pussywillow Butterfly Branches in a Jug.

A little whimsy for the weekend!

 *Let me know if you use one of my Digi's and I'll post your card! : )


Shirl, from Creations by Shirl used this Digi on this awesome card! Thanks for making MY day Shirl! :0)

Jenn also made an adorable card using this digi. I love the glitter on the butterflies, and the papers she's used. So cute!

Jenn, and all her cute cards and inspiration can be found at "Stampin' Angel Jenn," Thanks so much for sharing your card Jenn!

Enjoy!

Carmen

Heart Tree Digi's

Hi Everyone!

Yesterday I did ab-so-lute-ly nothing all day! It felt so good to get caught up on some sleep.

Of course, I have a boat load of laundry to do after all my company, and I still have to un-decorate... which is not near as much fun as decorating, but it'll be nice to get it done!

Valentine's Day is about a month away, so you probably want to make up some cards pretty soon!  I drew some Heart trees in different colors.  What do you think? 

I thought a row of three would look cute on a card - but more is better,

Right?

Just click on the image you want and then save the image to your files. Have fun with these! Frames coming soon...

Allison, from Allison's Creations made up a beautiful card using these images. Cute, eh?!

Blessings,

Carmen

Java Good Day!

Hello!

I made a card recently using a stamp I purchased at a garage sale, but I altered it just a wee bit by stacking the cups. So that's what gave me the inspiration to make this digi. You can always use more coffee cards, I figure.

I also did up a few sentiments.

I thought I'd leave you with some instructions on how to make this particular pocket card since it's so easy. 

I wanted my finished card to be about 5" X 3", so I cut the card 7" X 6" and scored it at 3" for the center fold. 

Then I measured up 2" from the bottom of the card and cut out a square from the right hand bottom to the center fold that measured 2"X 3". 

I was left with an extension on the bottom left hand of the card also measuring 2"X3". I scored the card up 2" from the bottom, over to the center fold. Here's a sketch:

I used a corner rounder on the flap as shown, then folded it up and put a strip of double sided tape 2" on the far left of the flap so that it forms a pocket to put a Starbuck's Gift Card (or maybe Tim Horton's, Second Cup, etc.  for you Canadians). 

Well....I was going to post the card I made, but I've already given it away. Oops!! I was in a hurry that day and forgot to take a photo of it! Sorry!

Do you use my images? If so, send me an email and I'll post it and link back to you.

I got an email from one of my Anonymous followers who made a card with this digi. Here is what she said, "We gave one of those coffee makers that uses the barcode to know what to brew, and this is the card I made for that recipient." Check out her card:

Plus, here is the back...

Isn't it fantastic? I told her that I love the way she cut off the left side of the image because it was unpredictable (made the card unique) and held an element of surprise. I also love the barcode on the back. The writing underneath it says "Made by Amy." Very clever!!

Gale from Playing With Paper made a gorgeous card with this image as well.

I love her use of color, and also the embossed coffee beans at the top of the card. Not sure where the stamp is from....check out her blog for details! 

Here's the inside of her card:

Thank you Gale for sharing!! :)

Here's one by Nancy, from Bits by Nancy! Click on the link and see some close ups on her blog. She's used Crystal Effects on the cups and they look so cute!! Also loving the twine bows and the flowers! Great coloring too...thanks for sharing Nancy!

One more...from HotchPotch Ehhh??  The direct link can be found at July 2012 Tea Swap.

I love how she's incorporated a cut up map into the background, an idea she got from Pinterest. There are also some other interesting details you'll want to go and check out on her post. Love the coloring as well...really nice card!

Looking for more Coffee/Tea images?

How About a Whymsical Cup of Joe?

You Perk Me Up!

Hope your day is awesome today!

Carmen

Whimsical Pet Shop, Awning Card Image

Hi there!

I have another Digi image today for the Awning Card I posted on this blog HERE (with some instruction and a video link). But first...

In that post I asked if you had any ideas which other images would work with this particular card, and you  had lots of suggestions!! Here's what you said:

Shoe Store

Ice Cream Parlor

Flower Shop

Pet Shop

Hot Dog Stand

Fruit/Veggie Stand

Dress Shop/Purses, Yarn

Antique Shop

Restaurant/Cafe

Coffee Shop

Tool Store

French Boutique

Toy Shop

-And Jean (from the comments) said she made one with a picture of a friends' cat looking out the window for a friend who was in the hospital. The sentiment on the front read- 'Just watchin' out the window,' on the inside-'for you to come home.' How creative is that?!!!

I thought I'd share all your suggestions because I'm sure it'll inspire! Thanks so much!!

Okay, onto the Whimsical Pet Shop Digi for an Awning Card.

I was hoping that I'd have time to make another image for the awning card, but I just didn't get to it. So I thought I'd separate the fish and cat for a single image on a card instead.

I wish I had some sentiments made up for you, but I just didn't get a chance! :-( 

If you happen to have any good suggestions for sentiments that would work with these digi's, let me know. I'll try and do some up for you and post them later.

UPDATE

Here are some more images that'll work with the Awning Card

Cakes

Ornaments

Shaped Ornaments

Toy Shop Window

Anyhow...hope you enjoy these and thanks for visiting!

Blessings!

Carmen

Happy Father's Day,Urban Grunge, Digital Stamp!

First of all, I want to wish a Happy Father's Day to all the awesome men in my family, and to those father's out there who happen to stumble upon this blog! Hope you all have a terrific day!

Well, it's been so, so busy lately! This weekend alone we have out of town company, my granddaughter got dedicated on Saturday night, and my youngest son has decided to get baptized on Father's Day. So we'll be going to his church and then out for lunch with the family members who are able to come. Should be fun!

Mixed Media: Urban Grunge

I've been working on a new technique that I learned from Andy Skinner, a mixed media artist. My mom and I have been having fun playing around with this new technique. He calls it Urban Grunge Background and provides a video on his blog. The technique uses acrylic paint and distress inks together, plus a gloss sealer and Stamps. Check it out!

Here's my first attempt. I haven't put any fibers in the holes...but you get the just of it.

 My second attempt:

You can't see it in the top two tags, but this next photo shows the shine on the acrylics. Kind of a cool effect.

Here's my Mom's first attempt:

My mom is more of a painter, so this tag looks more like a painting. I love it!

 Doesn't it remind you of a waterfall? So cool!

Anyway, check out Andy's blog if you want to make your own! :)

Digital Stamp!

I've also been working on a digital image. I like things that are a bit different, somewhat surreal actually. My husband loves to go out on the ocean and fish, so I started with a boat....actually a chinese junk...but somehow it turned into a flying ship! :)

I know, I know....what are you supposed to use this for? I don't know either...hit me with your best shot! I'd love to see what you come up with! :)

Here's some awesome inspiration to get you going: Some lovely cards using this image @

 cgsays[something loudly] Rockin' the Boat

Canonburycreations

Chrissy's Cardland

These are so awesome! Wonderful job ladies!! :)

Thanks for stopping by!
Blessings,
Carmen