"Crazy" Cookie Recipe . . .

I have a story about these cookies. Years ago, a long, long time ago, I worked a job where I got paid. Those were the days I received cold, hard cash for doing a job I loved. I had a nice comfy chair that set behind a gigantic desk and I got paid to talk on the phone {or at least that is what my boss would say!!} Seriously, I worked at a dental office and I did love my job. The funny thing is when you work in a place like that, people always brought in sweets for us to eat. Chocolate was a huge one. I actually loathed chocolate until that job. Then I just got so use to eating it that I barely remember a time when I didn't?

Well, one December {pretty sure I was pregnant with Hudson,} a patient came in with these Crazy Cookies. Me, never being the one to turn down a sweet, grabbed one up and basically embarrassed myself by shoving the entire thing in my mouth. Once the flavor settled on my tongue AND with my mouth full, I looked at the patient and said, "Did I just bite into a saltine??" as crumbs flew out!


To answer that, Yes I did . . . and it was one of the best flavors I've ever tasted!!!!!! And thankfully she shared the recipe. And you will thank me after you take your first bite! {Have I ever steered you wrong with a recipe?? Think back on that potato salad?!?! Hmmm hmm, that's what I thought.}

I'm quite sure these were called "Holiday Cookies," but with the saltine as an ingredient, I've changed the name to "CRAZY cookies"!!!

Crazy Cookies

*2 sticks of butter {NOT margarine}
*1 cup sugar

I'm sure you can see why they are sooo good?! Butter and sugar . . . and a lot of it!

*1 sleeve of saltines
*12 oz milk chocolate chips {or any flavor chips - white chocolate, butterscotch, etc. . .}
*optional - 1 cup of nuts {any kind}

I'm not a fan of any kind of nut so I omit this one!

Turn oven on to 400. Line Cooke sheet with foil. {Cookie sheet needs to have sides.} Line cookie sheet with crackers. Boil Butter and sugar for about 3 minutes - stir the entire time. Pour and spread over crackers. Bake in oven for 5 minutes. Pour chocolate chips over crackers and spread as they melt. Immediately sprinkle with nuts and press into chocolate. Cool in refrigerator to harden. Break into pieces.


You can thank me later.

Good morning on this Saturday morning . . .

This weekend is drill weekend. For those who don't know, my husband is in the Tennessee Army National Guard. That is also his full time job as well. I think he secretly looks forward to these weekends because he can get caught up with work. Especially the paperwork part. But unfortunately, it is more time away from the family. I forgot about his monthly plans until about 6 this morning when I asked him what he had planned for the day?! I was hoping to get some stuff done myself, which as you all should know is almost impossible with 4 kids in tow. There is no such thing as "real quick" anymore.

Let me run to Hobby Lobby "real quick" . . . . that's not going to happen.

Let me run to the grocery store "real quick" . . . . uhmmm, yea - you got to be kidding.

I could keep going, but you all get the picture! And most of you have kids - it only takes 1 for the not "real quick" rule to apply! Not that I'm complaining - it's just life now and I'm completely cool with that. But there are times it would help IF I didn't have kids with me. Such as the grocery store!

With yesterday's sneak peek, I'm sure you noticed some paw prints. Or at least I hope you recognized them as that. Fortunately, my son did {remember, I always ask him what things are on a painting - if he "sees it" then that's it!}


I actually painted them going in the same direction all the way around. So the other side shows them going "up" - I thought it was cute!


I'm showing you this picture because Hudson said he thought the front looked like a cow! Not quite what I was going for! A cow pattern is much larger than a dalmatian. BUT, I paint my patterns large so I can see 'his confusion!' AND there are smaller dots on the canvas that would not be on a cow!!!


The sad part is I did look up both patterns and specifically painted an area on a dalmatian and compared it to a cow so that it wouldn't look so mooie! Lonnie said it looked like a dalmatian, but he cheated and saw the sides first! Since this was a local one, I got to hand it over. She seemed pleased as punch so I'm sure she saw ONLY dalmatian spots!

------------------------

***RECIPE ALERT!!!***

This is one of my favorite recipes for the summer! And I had a hankering the other day, so I had to make it. I took a picture because I thought it would be a good one to share!!!


I've heard of this being made several ways - but so far, mine has been the easiest!

Texas Caviar

1 can of black beans {rinsed and drained}
1 can of black eyed peas {rinsed and drained}
2 cans of shoepeg corn {rinsed and drained}
1 green pepper {diced}
half of a medium red onion {diced}
2 small packs of cherry tomatoes {cut in halves or quarters}
1 container of zesty italian dressing
"some" dried parsley {I usually dump in a little more than a teaspoon?}

Mix all ingredients together. Chill over night. Eat with chips!

Love this stuff. BUT I'm the only joker in my house that will eat it so I don't make it often. If you don't like one of the ingredients - DON'T leave it out! I promise it doesn't taste like you think it will!!! TRUST ME!! Looking at that picture makes my mouth water!!!

--------------------------------



If you haven't been to my site in a while, you should go! Just to check out the home page! I added a new picture! Tell me, how cute is this baby?? Shannon, we need to talk - where did you get that outfit!? That owl is cracking me up!! {I'm about to paint a couple of those for someone!!}

If you have professional shots of your child and it also showcases their painting and would like to share them on the site, I would love to have them!! I will credit your photographer on the credit page. So - PLEASE send them my way!!!

--------------------------------

I had a sneaky peeky to show - but I have to blog about someone else's stuff tomorrow so I don't want to show my piece! Trust me, mine will not compare! So, I'll do a sneaky peek tomorrow - promise.

I'm off to the grocery store {with all 4 kids!} Pray for me! haha

Some more party pics . . .

I tried to upload a couple of others, but they were teeny-tiny! Let me work on those and maybe I will get them up shortly!

She is sooo into babies! And loves all her dolls - we got some GREAT ones for her birthday!

She was really studying this gift! And what is up with that bow?? It made its rounds all over her head!

Who does NOT love some baby feet?? And I will tell you that those look just like my feet! How many people can spread their toes??

That is actually my high chair! When I was expecting Hudson, I had it refinished {for a small fortune.} The tray was missing as well as the straps. The guy who worked on it for me actually found a tray that looks very similar to the one that was originally on it and attached new straps! Hudson used it the first year and half. Carson and Lawson never did - they used booster seats strapped to our chairs {very handy!!} And truth be told, this is the first time Em has sat in it!!!

This girl was all smiles when she saw that candle {pyromaniac?} And momma needs a tan!

The first kid of 4 that actually "smashed" the smashed cake! No sensory issues here!

I did leave off a recipe that I was suppose to give you! My friend called yesterday {she lives in FL, and remember I live in TN.} She said, "I think you forgot a recipe. The.fruit.tea?"

"oops, Sorry! I thought I was forgetting something!"

"Well, I'm not trying to put you on the spot, but I'm sitting in the parking lot at Publix and I need it now."

haha!! So, for the others that wanted it . . .

Fruit tea {makes a gallon}

6 tea bags
1 can of frozen orange juice concentrate
1 can of frozen lemonade concentrate
2 cups of sugar

brew the tea. add the both juice concentrates. fill the rest of the way with water. stir in sugar! add lemon and orange slices for some cuteness!

I made this one time before and thought it tasted gross. But I made it and then served it. This time, I made it the night before and let it chill in the fridge over night!! It was awesome. Much, much better than the time before!!!

I've been so busy lately - actually busier than normal. Lawson started his physical therapy this week, we all had haircuts {which I would rather someone just cut me than take a few of my kids for haircuts!} and Emsley had her one year doctors appointment {which she is up to 17 lbs and 12 oz} just to name a few things!

I also learned that where we go for all our therapies will no longer be offering speech therapy. BUT then I was told that where our therapist is going accepts our insurance. The next day, I was told they didn't {figures - we got some crappy insurance!} The day after that, I found out they did {I have no idea what changed!} I was sweating it out though. My therapist informed me that if it wouldn't have worked out, she would have come to our house for free . . . . she has that much love for my kids! Is that not the craziest thing you have heard!? Really? I started crying when I finally got to my van {and got all my kids loaded up!} What a relief to know that people car for my kids THAT much! But the good news with the new place we are going to for speech actually comes to MY HOUSE. Did you read that - MY HOUSE. They come to MY HOUSE and therapitize my kids . . . at MY HOUSE! Do you all know that is about 5+ hours of my week that will now be at MY HOUSE!! I'm soooo excited - we will still go to the other place for Lawson's and Hudson's OT and PT - but that is only 4 hours a week {plus the drive time!}

I have to admit that is an answer to an unspoken prayer. The load that {I'm sure} was just lifted! Once summer starts and we are no longer in Mom's Day Out or Preschool - I really won't have to leave my house as much!!!

I'm afraid that some art might be coming to some people before I even post a picture!! That would be a shame!!! But here is a sneaky peeky. I have to admit that I love a "G" {I know that I've said that before!} And that is why I chose this specific "spot" to highlight in the peek.


I'll be back tomorrow - because like I said, I have art to post!! Which I guess I could have done that today . . . . but what is the fun in that!? And I know you all love to see all the peekies first - so I might as well keep it up!

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!

It is hard to believe - One year ago today I had Emsley! I've not gotten all of her pics, but will shortly! How funny is this baby?? You know how I love posting her funny expressions! How she loves the camera!!

Okay for all those wanting these recipes! I'm getting some hate mail because I'm not posting fast enough!!

Chicken Salad

{Let me preface with this is a guess as to the measurements - I kinda went by these?!}

• 2 cups chicken, cooked, cubed
• 3/4 cup celery, sliced
• 3/4 cup seedless grapes, green, sliced
• 3/4 cup fresh peeled and cubed peaches
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• seasoning salt, to taste
  

In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, grapes, and peaches; toss gently. Mix mayonnaise and sour cream together and pour over the salad. Add seasoning salt and mix gently. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Kim's Potato Salad {I'm sharing my secret recipe!}

{I need to preface this with - if anyone is going somewhere you have to "bring a dish" and you know I'm going to be there - DON'T YOU DARE bring my Potato Salad . . . . Because it is the ONLY thing I know how to "really" make and I always take it! Okay?}

5lbs. red potatoes
4 celery ribs, sliced
1 bunch green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons of dill weed
2 teaspoons of salt
2 cups of mayonnaise
1 bottle of cucumber ranch salad dressing {16 ounce bottle}

Place potatoes in a large "kettle"{I guess that is what you call it?} - cover with water. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes {or until tender.} Drain and cool {cooling will take some time - I always put them in the fridge!} Cut potatoes into small cubes.

In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, celery, onions, dill and salt. In a smaller bowl, whisk may and salad dressing until blended. Pour over potato mix and stir gently to coat. Cover; Refrigerate for at least 6 hours before serving! This recipe makes a bunch! And I have NO IDEA how much - it just always gets eaten!

Was there another recipe I was suppose to post??? I don't remember!

Another sneaky peeky . . .

Because I know you all love them so . . . .

Now, THAT is what I'm talking about! A real sneaky peeky!! Check out that shot! Yes, that is with my NEW camera - taken at night! And yes, the paint is chipped looking! We are going for a vintage/worn look! Ahhh, the camera is a freakin' genius! It's like it has a mind of it's own. It thinks for me! I just look into the hole and push the button! And it makes the magic happen! The whole aperture thing . . . Love you . . . don't really understand you . . . . but I love you! Seriously, that picture is pretty true to color! I've never had that happen with my little ol' point and shoot {even before the duct tape!} Amazing!

Well, Hudson had his first day of pre-school today. He loved it! Wants to go back tomorrow - good thing 'cause he is! I cried after I dropped him off - yeah, I know - pa.the.tic! Oh, so shoot me - I'm his mother - couldn't help myself! We really talked up the school thing for the past 3 weeks and daily we looked at his 3 ring binder they sent home that had pictures of all his new classmates {fabulous idea btw!} But the poor soul couldn't sleep a wink last night! You know when you are dreaming but you are somewhat in a conscious state? You talk {some hysterical lingo} and then close your eyes and go back to sleep just to do it again about 20 or so minutes later? That was Hudson. He kept saying, "I don't know what I'm going to do?!" "Mom, I need help - quick, I need help." "Hello, are you listening to me?" tee hee! He actually fell asleep in our bed around 4 this morning and was out! Let me say, he has never slept in our bed - EVER - so he really wasn't acting himself!

Em has a terrible head cold. And has pretty much slept the past 24+ hours! She wakes up long enough to nurse and then falls asleep again. Pitiful.

Carson and Lawson are still sleeping on mattresses on the floor - can you repeat after me - "trailer trash!" It is killing me! If I knew they would be on the floor this long, they would still be in cribs! The new beds are officially done . . . but they need stain and poly. And we have had some C.R.A.P.P.Y. weather for staining furniture.


But I figured I would show you what they look like! The top one has a headboard - it's just not attached. You will have to use your imagination! Maybe one day I'll get to show you the finished piece - 'maybe' is the word.

Just like bellybuttons and week re-cap . . .

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the opinions . . . like it says above - just like belly buttons, we all have one! Seriously, I do appreciate all the comments. I wanted to hear/read them or I would have removed the comment button! And as far as me for President {thanks Nat!} - "me don't think sooo!!" That is a job I would NEVER-ever want! I barely squeaked by in my public speaking class in college - I would never make it! And the fact that I like things my way . . . I could foresee that causing alot of problems!

Since I have been somewhat of a major slacker this week with the blogging, I thought I would do just a recap of this crazy week! This means this will be a long post - but I did upload pictures!!! So, here goes . . . .

Monday, I finally got over the cold that my lovely children shared with me! But then it seemed something else was starting to go around. And all my kids started getting sick again with whatever the mystery virus was {Great! I love sick kids!}

And I finally did it, finally! I officially have someone coming into my house next week to start cleaning! Finally! Now, don't get toooo impressed. It's my mother-in-law. She has offered for evah to do it, but I've consistantly turned her down. When the nester made a comment here on the blog about when it's more profitable for someone else to do "that" kind of work for you, you need to get someone to do "it" - it really hit home and made all kinds of sense! Thanks nester lady for talking me into it!!! You're so wise - I'm beginning to think you are some 89 year old that just hides behind those cute pictures!!!

Tuesday, I sent all my kids to school because they seemed FINE. And they were so fine that neither Carson OR Lawson cried when I dropped them off - Yee haw! I was hoping to get some painting done - didn't happen - NOTHING worked out for me that day - except of course my kids were okay with me leaving them at school! And what more could I ask for?!

I did go to Target and spent $153 & some change . . . . on nothing but diapers, wipes and 3 kid toothbrushes. Does anybody want to buy a painting? hehe - My original total was $168, but after my coupons . . . BANG - it knocked off 15 smacks!! That got me about a months worth for Em - 2 1/2 weeks worth for Carson and Laws and about 2 {maybe 3} weeks for Hudson. And that is about a month worth of wipes - Of course this was before we had the stinky diaper marathon we had this week! Ugghhh! But this is about normal - I spend around 250 a month on diapers & wipes! Now, don't get me wrong, I have diapers that go into the next month. I'm just one of those girls that isn't going to be stuck with only 2 diapers and payday is not for another 12 days! If you know what I mean? I'm always prepared!

Coupon lesson . . . . .

You know the coupons you get at Kroger when you check out?? Well, those are Manufacturer's coupons - you can use them anywhere. At Target they are going to try and tell you that they are only for Kroger because they have Kroger's logo - WRONG! You can use them anywhere.

Pamper coupons - whether it is for diapers, their form of a pull-up or wipes - they are interchangeable. You can use a diaper coupon on wipes or a pull-up coupon on diapers or whatever combination you want to come up with! I use Huggies diapers and Pamper wipes. So, I use Pamper diaper coupons on the wipes to help ease the woe.

I hope that info helps somebody out there!

Wednesday, I notice another kid coming down with something {mystery virus has struck again!} What is up with this!? But we treated it as a normal day and nobody had any real symptoms {except for alot of diaper changes} - it was one of those days I was thankful I wasn't potty training, I would have aborted all training action because it was nothing but one hot mess!

And to my vain self - check out my "new do" . . .


. . . and because we all know that I like to take pictures of myself on a regular basis {I promise it's because I'm trying to figure out my hair,} check me out just 3 short weeks before . . . .


That is one heinous picture, but I swear that is me exactly 3 weeks from the other picture! I got my haircut the day of this picture {above} - my hair grows so dang fast it's ridiculous! Of course, I got an appointment lined up next week! But I'm thinking I finally have "a do" I really like! Finally - praise Jesus - It's about time!!!! {We will see how long this last!}

Thursday, Apparently, I'm one of "those" parents because I sent all 3 {maybe sick} boys to school again. But I swear - they all acted fine! And again, Carson & Laws did super . . . . but . . . . Hudson {in his normal temperable self, blew some kind of gasket and I left him kicking and screaming. I don't know what happened there, but I was told he got over it quickly. It's a good thing - I'm sure he could tell it didn't phase me a bit! I was leaving his fanny there no matter how he was acting. Because I'm also one of "those" parents!

I also received my Sweet and Sinister Swap goodies! My partner was the BEST evah!!! Check out what I got . . . .


This is my card where she wrote me a little note on the back!


A great canvas - that I will display year round!


A haunted house!!! And do you see that little doll - see her??


{a little fuzzy - I know} but you see her! Sadie makes these as ornaments - LOVE them!! But check out this little fancy lady . . .

Okay, this one has nothing to do with the sweet and sinister swap - but she is definitely "sweet" and far from the black, white & a touch of orange. I admit, I requested this one - and I was stoked when she sent her to me!!! Sadie Lou - You rock!!! I'm thinking of requesting you next year with the swap! hehe!

Friday, for humor, I kept up with how many diapers I changed throughout the day - 43!!! With 4 kids - who all have some kind of something that is creating some nastiness! Forty-three freakin' diapers! And 39 of them were stinkin' stinkies! Can I get some kind of award for that??!!

In between all the diaper changes {because I didn't get to paint any that day!}, I made a wreath for the front door . . . .


. . okay, so this is only a sneaky peeky. You will have to let me know if you want to see the whole thing - I didn't take a picture of it!? And I have no idea why?! I love wreaths! Fall flowers and picks and fall stuff in general are half off through today at Hobby Lobby! I love that store! We will have to see what they have on sale this next week and maybe I'll do a tutorial on this joker above!

Saturday {which happens to be today!}, I took a sick child to the doctor. Poor Laws had puked in his bed sometime early Friday morning and again Friday evening. This morning he woke up completely lathargic. It was pitiful. Of course we saw some doctor we have never seen, who said it has to run it's course, "it's completely okay that he hasn't eaten in the last 24 hours, . . . just keep giving him juice" {which of course is causing the constant diaper changes!}

After I got all the kids down for a nap - I ran to Hobby Lobby! I had to pick up a couple of things - Oh and Lonnie was here, I didn't leave them here alone!!! And look what I found . . . .


This is an iron on!! Somewhat tacky - but will look hysterical on a onesie for Em for the big ce-LE-bration! It was $2.99 and I used a 40% off coupon - SCORE!!! Really, is that not the funniest thing you've ever seen? I swear, when the big day comes, I will take all the pictures and post it all!! hehe

I did complete another painting this week and I'm only giving a peeky at this one - BECAUSE it's a gift and the receiver checks out the blog! Now, she knows about this gift since they had to break down and tell her so she wouldn't buy it herself! So, since she knows and since she thinks she will see it here on the blog, this is all she gets . . . .


Sorry, so sorry - I'm just mean like that! On October 27th - the Monday after the shower - I'll post a picture! Now, Cristen - don't you dare let her see it before the shower!! It's one thing for her to know she is getting it - ANOTHER for her to see it!!! Oh yeah, I'm cruel! hehe

Well, I think painting is out for the rest of the day {or at least until bedtime} - so I think I'm going to actually pull out my fall and Halloween decorations!!

A WEEK?!

Has it really been that long?? To tell you the truth, I really haven't even been on the computer much this week. Lonnie has been gone to another {yes, I said another} conference! That means I've been home alone with all four of my kidlets! And can I tell you that no one {and I do mean no one} was very cooperative this week! They just about drove me crazy!
To tell you the truth, I never paint {canvases that is} in front of my kids. I really try to do "work" when they are asleep or I have someone here to watch them. For the most part I really do try to spend quality time with them {"try" I said!}
Well, since Lonnie wasn't at home AND I was going crazy - I decided to paint some furniture {which is my favorite thing in the world - a true passion for me!} And guess what I worked on?
I'm sure by now you guess it! I really lucked out and actually had red, blue and green paint laying around! Red for that front door I wanted at the old house {never got it, went with a full view door instead!} - but I used red on my red shelf! Blue for the boys' ceilings in the old house - it was a great look with taupe walls! And the green is for another project I might just get started on next! I actually had to buy the yellow paint! So, I used Latex paint on all them - the yellow paint was spray paint - BUT the latex kind! I then took sand paper to them after they dried, rubbed them down with a light stain color and they are now waiting for a couple of coats of poly!
Didn't they turn out way toooo cute? Well, I think so!! I decided this route because I had the paint - with all the ideas in my head, with all the fantastic ideas you all gave me - I went this route ONLY because I had so much paint left over from other projects! And I think I'm going to stain the table - I know, I know - I said I didn't want to - but all the colors with the chairs really need to be anchored with a stained table!
I really hated lifting this idea from Pottery Barn Kids. I say lifted, because the colors are not exact - sooooo, I don't feel like I copied toooo much! Actually, I really like my color choices better! Of course they match perfectly! When I get the boys' room complete, I will definitely post a picture!

If anyone wants to know specific color names - just let me know!!

It's been a long time . . .

since I've done a "how to"!!!! I made a terrarium today and thought I would share!! Super simple and with all the extremely cutie glass "stuff" out there - the possibilities are endless!! Ha - get it - endless possibilities?! Okay, I thought it was a cute play on words - you probably didn't!

So, first off - I used an old hurricane that I had just lying around. Actually this is one of the things that I used at my wedding. This joker is really big and people dropped little notes of wishes for us at the reception - it was a cute idea - I lifted it from ol' Martha Stewart. Well, now I have this gi-tisimo of a glass jar with nothing to do with it - I KNOW . . . .
. . . . I'll put about an inch or so of cute pebbles in the bottom {rinsed well} and then a good covering of horticultural charcoal {to absorb the odor} and then about 2 or so inches of light {and slightly moist} potting soil. I then stuck my plant in it and . . . . VIOLA!!!

Make sure you pick plants that stay somewhat small and that have shallow roots. And use a small paint brush {'cause I know you all have one just lying around yo' house!} to dust off any dirt that sticks to the side of the glass!

You can put a clear glass plate on top {CU-U-U-TE}, but make sure you remove any leaves that touch the side of the glass {prevents rotting}. Because a covered terrarium creates it own condensation, you should never have to water it {because you used moist soil - remember?!} If uncovered it will only need about 2-4 tablespoons of water a month - best to just mist!!
I'm planning on doing a couple more of these, but I want to get some moss to cover up the dirt!! I'll show pictures of these when I complete them!!

FYI - no direct sunlight, but enough natural light to read by!!

Easy little project . . .

I wanted to show you guys the mobile that made for. . . errr, well actually I made it for all my kids - I just changed it out with each kids' decor. Okay that was a big, fat lie - all my boys have had the exact same decor - so, I guess I should say I changed it out for new, baby girl!


This was one of the two that was in the twin,s room. I ordered the "mobile" part from here. It wasn't very expensive - under 20 bucks. Then I took good ol' scrapbook paper and cut it into 2.5 x 2.5 squares. I stuck 2 pieces together {or you could use double sided paper.} I had a large square punch that I used for the smaller red squares and then I used my favorite chipboard letters. There is a tiny hook in the ceiling with a short amount of clear string hanging from it. From that, the mobile hangs.

That's it - how easy can it get?!


I actually added some tiny flowers and pink ribbon for Emsley's - and I think I might add more - who knows?!

I'm soooo tired . . .

So, yes we worked our wide Bee-hinds all night!! We got the chest of drawers painted pink and I've sanded off all the edges - looks perfecto!!! I'm waiting for Lonnie to get back from The Home Depot with my glaze {thought I had some, didn't!!} Hopefully, I will have time to glaze the piece before my zoo wakes up from their naps!!! I will definitely post a finish picture with the "exactly what I done" directions. The bed will be started on before I go to bed tonight - I'm really dreading painting a crib!! UGHH!! I shouldn't really say that - 'cause I've got a new idea in mind - I'll share it ONLY if it turns out the way I want it to!! But we still have to take the whole "dang-thang" apart!! Now that I will say "UGHH!"

Natalie asked a few questions about the frames. Here you go . . .



. . . . a picture. So that you can see the back of them. They turned out really great. The problem - I have NO IDEA where to hang them in the boys' room. I'm still working on that. Once I figure it out - I'll post the picture {of course!} Obviously I have a problem with starting projects knowing that they will look supreme-O in a certain room, but then it takes me days {and I do mean DAYS} to figure out where in the room they should go!! And sometimes they don't even end up in the intended room!

cRaZy - I know!

Nope, not lining the back of the red shelf!!!

Alright - this has been a longggg week, I mean really longgggg! Again, I must bring up all the shipments that should have went out 11,100 weeks ago!!! My mother-in-law came over to help today {finally over her funk}, I had all my packages ready to go {except for shipping labels} and my printer ran out of ink!!! Can we say BLACK CLOUD over here!! And it really ran out of ink!! I shook it, beat it - you name it, I did it - there is NO MORE ink in that cartridge!!! ARRGGGHHH!! Lonnie said he will be bringing me one home. Of course, they are predicting 3-5 inches of snow around that time, but I will get these out TODAY - I swear!!! Okay, so Lonnie will get these out today, I don't drive in that crap!! But I promise I will make him do it!!

So, about yesterday's post . . . .

Picture frames!!!

All of my boys are now in the same room. And it is every color that you can imagine!! Once we get them all in twin beds {since currently 2 are in cribs,} they will all have denim duvets and each have a different quilt folded at the end of the bed. Hudson has the ABC quilt that Pottery Barn Kids had a while back. The first one, not the second one. It has all my "happy" colors in it. I have 2 different quilts picked out for Carson & Lawson - eventually the room will come together, until then - it is driving me NUTZ!!

But anyhoodle, I'm still not completely through with the frames. I don't really have any pictures that I want to put in them, so I am going to print out some stuff to stick in them. You know, stuff like "H is for Hudson" , "L is for "blah, blah,. . . . just cutie stuff like that! But since I don't have any flippin' INK, that is also on hold!!! I will post a picture once it is all complete!

I guess you all want to know how to make them??

here's what you need

frames - these were actually frames that I got around Christmas time {at Hobby Lobby of course!} They were just basic MDF {fake wood} with an easel back. I ganked the easel off of the back {literally.} I'm sure you could use a regular frame, but these MDF frames are definitely the BEST to use!

scrapbook paper
modge podge {crafter's best friend!} and paint brush
a bone {or just something with a flat edge}
fine grit sand paper
ribbon
drill w/wide drill bit

Make sure the frame surface is clean. Smear/brush Modge Podge {a thin layer will do} over entire "face" of frame. Now, lay your desired paper on the glue. Make sure you lay it straight, you can't really take off the paper and reposition it without making a "big, hot mess"!!! Immediately take your bone and start rubbing all the air bubbles out from between the paper and the frame. Now just let it dry!!! Once dry, take your sand paper and begin rubbing across the edges. The paper will just fall off with a smooth edge. Wipe all the dust off with a dry towel/rag. Measure out for 2 evenly spaced holes and then drill them out. Thread your ribbon through, tie knots and BOOM - your done!!! EASY BREEZEY!!

If you run into any problems, comment - I'll get back to you!!

You can leave the easel backs on and I swear they look good, too - I actually did those several years back and gave them as gifts. Another really great idea for this technique is modge podging paper to letters. Surely you all know what I'm talking about. For some groovy letters, check out this site as well as their etsy site - I've ordered from Say It With Letters - they are quick to get your order to you, super swell to work with and have soooo much to choose from!! You can also find unfinished letters at Hobby Lobby, Michael's, etc - all craft stores have them!

Have fun and let me know what you guys modge podge!!!

What is it you ask??

Oh, you'll see . . . . new project!!

Follow-up to last post . . .

Let me just say - your comments are cracking me up!!! HA!! I just wanted to show you guys a picture from one I did several years back - in a traditional glass ball. If you notice - the feathers have a little more wiggle room - how cute is that one?! It would look better if it had a couple of those dang jingle bells!!!

OPERATION PROJECT TWO (and three quarters): another ornament!!!

Alright - are you guys ready for another ornament??? I actually only have one more after this one AND I'm going to try my "dangness" to get it on here tonight!! {Yeah - we'll see!} Okay - so this one is real simple . . .

supplies:

- clear ornaments {actually - I think the round traditional ones work best for this project, but in the picture to the right, I did use the round, flat one

- small tiny feather boa {you can actually find these (currently half off) at Hobby Lobby in the Christmas craft section} These are 1.99 and like I said half off - CHEAP!!! I'm smelling a bargain - you can use these things with so many crafts!!!

- ribbon

optional

- danglies/notions {translations: anything tiny and cute that can hang from the ribbons at the cap of the ornament!!} I used the tiny jingle bells {also half off in the Hobby Lobby Christmas craft section!!}

Literally - I made 6 of these in a 15 minute period {it was naptime for the kidlets - therefor, uninterrupted!!} I cut the boa into 6 inch long strips. . .


. . .and squished a strip in each ornament,. . .



. . .tied it off with ribbons added a couple of bells and boom . . . . you see what I got!!

About these 6 ornaments above - I'm going to give them away!!! But you must leave a comment of some sort to get the chance to own these!!! Now, I'm going to be really embarrassed if no one leaves a comment!!!! So, PA-LEEZ . . . . . . leave a comment!!!

I will randomly draw some one's name on Wednesday morning - so that gives you guys a couple of days to say what you are thinking, to come up with something witty or just to say "HI"!!! But to get in on a chance to own a "kim tate original" haha . . . .

. . . .thanks for the participation!!!

Oh - yeah, dont forget about flickr!! It's always great to see everybody's pictures!!

OPERATION PROJECT TWO (and a half): more ornaments!

Okay, so I actually made this ornament several years ago for Lonnie. He loves a Christmas tree and when the tree goes up - it symbolizes the beginning of the season! This one is a breeze to make . . .

Supplies:

Soldering Iron - you can get this from Hobby Lobby or any other craft place. It is normally in the stained glass section. It is a little costly {it's not going to break the bank - I think it was $5.99 for the spool the last time I bought some} - But you can make bunches & bunches of ornaments out of one spool. This wire is thick, but very pliable and EASY to work with!! You can also spray paint it if you want another color other than silver.

Bead wire & beads - color is your choice!!

Pair of wire cutters - to clip the wire of course!

Ribbon - to loop through the top for hanging purposes!

Optional -

wire pliers or a pencil {something to bend the wire around to get fluid {or consistent} shapes!

The how-to
Start bending the wire in a desired shape - ANY shape - a circle to look like an ornament looks cool. Once the shape is how you want it - clip off the end from the spool. Next, string beads on the bead wire {alot of beads} - once you get a kazillion on - start wrapping the beaded wire around the soldering iron. Spread the beads out as you go - It will be impossible to do it once the wire is tightly wrapped around the iron. When you are at the end, clip the bead wire. Loop your ribbon through the top AND there you have it!!

OPERATION PROJECT TWO: ornaments {the first of many!!}

Quilling anyone???? Okay, not really, but something like it!! I actually lifted this idea from a picture that I saw last year online {just don't quite remember where} . . . Seriously, if I knew that I would be blogging about it a year later, I would have made a note as to where the idea came from!!

supplies:


- scrapbook paper


- clear ornaments


- ribbon (somewhat on the thin side)


- scissors or paper cutter


optional supplies:


- quilling tool (BUT you can roll the paper with your own fingers - I did with some)


- rub-on letters (or designs) - thousands to choose from


- sticker letters


Some tips -



IF you are going to use the rub-on letters, you might want to get flatter ornaments. It was hard to work with the rounded ones. I'm not saying it is impossible, but when they have somewhat of a flatter surface it is easier!! These were great to use!! Hobby Lobby has some square ones too!! How cute would those be??

If you mess up with the rub-ons, they will easily scratch off.

I personally - liked using the stickers!! Easier, adjustable, overall - just looked better!! BUT to each his own!!

sticker



rub-on

It is just as easy to roll the paper by hand as it is to use the quilling tool. I just happened to have one, so I tried it both ways and the results were practically the same. If you don't have one, please don't go out & buy one if you don't truly have a need for one.



To get started - you will need to cut your paper in strips. You can strip down the paper in many different widths - you just want to make sure it is still small enough so that you can put alot of paper in the ornament!! The more paper, the cooler it looks!! It is very easy to roll the paper. Just start with the end, roll it over and "BOOM" your rolling your own paper - {Okay - that sounds funny. I'd normally not leave a line like that in a post, but that will get some laughs out of some of you!! heehaw!!} Once the paper is in the tightest roll you can possible get, pop the top of the ornament {GENTLY} and drop the paper down in it!! Just keep doing it until it is full!! But the top back on and decorate the ring with some fancy little ribbons {ooh, or other little notions dangling from the ring - just thought of that - will do it on another post!!}



And tadah!!!! You got this. . .



Lovin' it!! What do you guys think - easy or hard???

Oh and don't forget to post pictures!!!

A friend did send me this. Please feel free to go here to see someone else's - too cute!!!