Life Is an Artform

{Bon Voyage!}

I am loving this “Hello World” Travel themed line, I just HAD to create another layout with it.  I was inspired by these fabulous white photo overlay transparencies and thought they would look perfect with photos of our family setting sail on our first cruise.  We were celebrating our 15th anniversary and loved having our kids along for the celebration! We are celebrating our 21st next month, so this was almost 6 years ago.

I wanted the white photo overlays to stand out, so I used the dark blue Sapphire Sparkle for the background of my page.  It also gave a nautical feel to the layout. I used 6 journal cards to create a fun collage with the photos and overlay transparencies.  I left white borders around the photos to tie in with the white transparency borders. I added an “All Aboard” sticker, a date sticker, enamel arrow shape, and placed a flair on the overlay.

I used the luggage tag sticky note for my journaling.  I love this die cut luggage card right next to a photo of us embarking onto the ship.  I trimmed the “We are here” sticky note and pointed it toward our cruise destinations on the transparency map – the Mexican Riviera.

I LOVE this photo of my little 6 year old with a sweet smile on his face as he watched the ship sail away into the golden light of the setting sun. I applied the “Bon Voyage” rubon and added a flair for the finishing touch.

Supplies:

• My Mind’s Eye “Hello World”: Discovery Photo overlays, Travel Stickers, Adventure Journal Cards, Enamel Shapes, All Abourd Flair, Discovery Sticky Notes.
• My Mind’s Eye “My Colors”: Sapphire Sparkle – Glimmer Cardstock
• Misc: Navy blue and Aqua thread, Pop dots, Black ink and pen. Tombow Liquid Mono Adhesive to adhere the photo overlays.

{My New ETSY Shop!!}

I am so excited about my new Scrapbook Layout Shop on ETSY called DaringDezinz!

I have already sold over 40 layouts and currently have 28 listed in my shop.  Be sure to check back often and I continue to create more every week!! Many hours and great care are put into every creation to ensure that it is a timeless addition to your family memories. I love to add dimensional embellishments, machine sewing, and inking to my work.

Here are a few photos of my LISTINGS:

“Decisions… decisions…..

Decisions, decisions....which mug to use today? A few Star Wars fans reside at my home. "May the 4th be with you".

{Wonderful Women’s Conference!}

I just returned from the most wonderful Women’s Conference at BYU.  Two full days of inspiring speakers, surrounded by tens of thousands of dear sisters.  My daughter, siterinlaw, and mother were able to attend with me.  We had a delightful time rooming toether in the dorms on campus.

I love the beautiful theme of this year's Women's Conference: "...my soul delighteth in covenants of the Lord..." -2 Nephi 11:5
This painting is so touching and a great reminder of the Lord's love for us and the covenants we have made - it's called "Veil Crossing" by Julie Rogers.

Were you unable to attend Women's Conference this year? Don't worry, they are rebroadcasting many of the talks on BYUTV! Here is the schedule so you can set up your DVR:

http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/broadcasts.php

Want to watch some right now? They have tons of past sessions available to watch online, there are 62! Play one on your phone while you are doing dishes or listen while you are driving carpool.

http://www.byutv.org/…/22…/byu-womens-conference-david-clare

{Payson Temple Openhouse}

Perfect way to start the day - at the Payson Temple Openhouse. Wow, what a breathtaking temple, inside and out.

Everyone is invited to tour this beautiful building, regardless of age or religion. Reserve your complimetary Openhouse tickets: https://templeopenhouse.lds.org

One of the most beautiful temples I've ever seen. Such a peaceful spirit there - heaven on earth.

Inside the Payson Temple, incredible. I loved the Apple Blossom motif throughout, inspired by the local orchards. Exquisite!
Photos from Intellectual Reserve and Desert News.

{Parable of the Good Samaratin}

Nathan taught a powerful FHE last night about the Good Samaritan. Seriously, my mind was blown by this amazing Ensign article he shared. Did you know that early Christians understood the deeper symbols of this parable?
"It teaches of the plan of salvation, the Savior’s atoning love, and our journey toward inheriting eternal life. It can be read as a story not only about a man who went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, but also about all who come down from the presence of God to live on earth."
You've got to read this - you will never think of parables the same way again! I love learning new gospel truths!

https://www.lds.org/ensign/2007/02/the-good-samaritan-forgotten-symbols?lang=eng

Link to the of the Good Samaritan Bible Video:

https://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/parable-of-the-good-samaritan?lang=eng

{Creative Mask}

I love Jacob's creative mind. He had an assignment in ceramics to make a mask and this is what he created. Now that is a happy breakfast. ;)

{There’s No Place Like Home}

This photo captures the feeling of my heart when I go to the temple.  It truly is “HOME”.  I love the peace, warmth, and love that I feel from my Heavenly Father there.

“There’s No Place Like HOME”

This morning I attended a session with my dear friends whom I served with years ago in the stake YW presidency.  I cherish our friendship that has endured through the years and just gets better with time.  A priceless gift.

{Choir Tours}

Over Spring Break – Michael went on his choir tour ro San Francisco.  I love this beautiful photo of them performing in a cathedral.  He worked hard all year and saved to pay for his trip.

Victoria also went on her Choir Tour to Los Angeles.  They got to participate in a special workshop with Disney Professionals and record two songs.  Then they performed at Knott’s Berry Farm. Fun times!!

{Easter Dinner}

We enjoyed a wonderful Easter dinner with cousins, grandparents, music, laughter, delicious food, and our traditional strawberry trifle. A piece of heaven on earth.

{Wonderful Conference Weekend}

Wow, what a wonderful and uplifting General Conference weekend!! I love to hear the inspired words from our dear leaders.  I always feel to happy and encouraged afterwards. I love our dear prophet, Thomas S. Monson.

You can watch, listen, or read the talks here.

{PROM Layouts with MME “Fancy That”}

Last weekend, my daughter attended her Senior Prom. It was a monumental occasion with 5 of her best friends.  They started the day with a waffle breakfast, then went to a fun center where they played laser tag, miniature golf, and went bowling.  The girls had a few hours to get ready, then they got these wonderful photos taken and were whisked off in a limo to an elegant dinner and danced the night away at the State Capitol.
When I saw the photos - I knew "Fancy That" would compliment the pictures perfectly.  Yes, it has a wedding theme - but the elegant papers and luscious gold foil elements were perfect for this MAGICAL occasion!!

When I saw the photos - I knew "Fancy That" would compliment the pictures perfectly.  Yes, it has a wedding theme - but the elegant papers and luscious gold foil elements were perfect for this MAGICAL occasion!!

"Best Day Ever"
For the first layout, I used the pink "Celebrate" paper with gold foil confetti border.  I cut a strip of the gold striped paper and the "Happy" gold word paper from "Fancy That".  I used the striped 6x6 paper to back the "Best Day Ever" transparency. I cut the black and gold 6x6 paper in half and tucked it behind the word paper.
I LOVE the fabulous gold foil chipboard letters from the "Niche" line and used them for my title.  I accented the layout with word stickers "Best Friends, All Dressed Up, and Memories", "All Together" label, and "Happy" vellum circle from the mixed bag.

"A Night to Remember"
I had to use this song from "High School Musical 3" for the page title.  My daughter loved watching the movie when she was little and even played it while she was getting ready for this dance.  I used the bold striped "Best Man" paper for the foundation of my page.  I matted the 5x7 photo with the new black MME card stock and three 6x6 papers. I really enjoy designing with the 6x6 pad, the papers are already cut to such a versatile size.

I layered the gold confetti transparency over the 4x6 closeup of the corsage and boutonniere. I used the gold foil cardstock letters and letter stickers for the title.  I embellished the page with the "The Perfect Day" chipboard banner, gold foil "Lovely Day" from the mixed bag, "Picture This" label sticker, "Picture Perfect" chipboard, and decorative brads. Then I sprinkled confetti from both "Fancy That" and "On Trend" to echo the confetti on the transparency for that magical touch!

Photography: Mandy Coombs - Silverscape Photography

Supplies: Fancy That: Best man paper, Love You paper, Celebrate paper, 6x6 pad, decorative brads, confetti, mixed bag, chipboard, letter stickers, word stickers, label stickers, transparencies; On Trend: Happy (word) paper, confetti; Niche: Gold Foil chipboard letters; My Colors Cardstock - Classic: New Black; Misc: black ink and thread, foam tape, Tombow mono adhesive glue.
Have a wonderful Easter Weekend!

Easter Gifts with Re-purposed Packaging

One of my FAVORITE things about Easter is making and giving away little treats. Confession time - Cadbury mini eggs are one of my greatest weaknesses (good thing they are only available once a year).  Who wouldn't love to receive a little package of these delights? I used the soft pastel and gold foil papers from the fabulous new "On Trend" and Fancy That" collections - perfect for spreading Easter cheer.

I took two containers/packaging for MME decorative tapes and re-purposed them.

I removed the paper insert from the clamshell package and used it as the template for the triangle paper.  I inserted the cut paper and placed the "Today is the Day" label sticker on the package. I threaded the sheer white ribbon through the brad, inserted it into the "Happy Days are Here" card, and tied it to the top of the package.

I removed the label from the clear acrylic decorative tape cylinder with a little hot water. (Goo Gone helped take off the residue). I added gold foil dot tape around the bottom.  For the tag, I trimmed a gold striped journal card from the "Fancy That" line, added the "happy" rub-on, and "Easter" with letter stickers from "Just Sayin".  I attached the white ribbon with the aqua brad, tied it to the top of the container, and added the flower flair button.

For the card, I cut a 7 1/2" x 9" piece of the gold foil word paper and folded it in half. I trimmed the striped foil paper from the 6x6 pad and stitched around the card.  I added the "Happy" aqua journal card, "Easter" using foil letter stickers, "Let's Celebrate" sticker, and decorative brad.
Happy Easter!!!
Supplies: On Trend: Happy paper, Gems paper, journal card, flair button, rub-on, decorative brads; Fancy That: 6x6 paper (gold foil stripe), journal card, sticker sheets; Just Sayin': Alpha and Word stickers; Necessities - Metallics decorative tapes container; Collectable - decorative tape clamshell package; Misc: sheer white ribbon, pink thread and Cadbury Eggs.

{Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt}

My daughter was in charge of planning and running our neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt.  It filfilled one of her project goals for her YW Personal Progress Program.  She spent hours creating and delivering invitations, planning games and activities, making posters, preparing face painting samples, setting up, – and filling 900 EGGS!!!

It was a great success and over 100 children attended with their parents.  The weather was pretty chilly in the low 50’s, but at least it didn’t rain.  Fun times!!

{PROM Night!}

“Just call me Bond, James Bond”. Love this photo of Michael in his tux just before he left to pick up his date.

Desiree looked like a princess tonight in her beaded gown and jeweled headband.  Magical times!!

{Enjoy the Journey Today}

I was looking through an old box of photos and found these fun ones of my kids from 2005!  They attended a free class at Home Depot and each of them got to create wood projects.  I can't believe how cute and little they were!! 

I love the title "Enjoy the Journey Today" - I am so glad we have great family memories and we had many fun experiences.  Time slips by so quickly. I blinked my eyes and now have 4 teenagers!!

I wanted to capture the excitement of the day and the joy of childhood.  I used the colorful chipboard banner border (from the Now and Then - Izzy collection) as the inspiration for my page.

I used the striped orange paper to frame my layout and make their orange aprons pop.  I placed a strip of teal paper above the banner chipboard to anchor my page.  I layered yellow and blue papers behind the photos. I added the journal card and layered it with chip board, an enamel "&", and a circle cut from patterned paper.  I embellished the page with chipboard stickers, a "One of a Kind" flair pin, and a decorative brad.

Supplies: My Mind’s Eye Now and Then - Izzy: Regard patterned paper, Celebrate patterned paper, Smart patterned paper, flair pins, enamel shapes, journal card, decorative brads, and chipboard; Now and Then - Milo: Shimmer patterned paper; Notable - Cute patterned paper, Cheery patterned paper; Misc: orange and navy thread, black ink and pen.

{Daffodils..}

Such beautiful Daffodils blossoming outside my parents' front door. I love Spring!!

"Spring had brought me such a nice surprise,
Blossoms popping right before my eyes."
A few days ago, we enjoyed a beautiful afternoon under the fragrant blossoms of my brother's apricot tree.
Today I woke up to the sweet sound of birds chirping. Spring is here!

{Quinceañera and TRES LECHES Cake}

We celebrated Victoria's Quinceañera with our traditional Tres Leches Cake, ukulele music, and the sister missionaries. I can’t believe she is only a year away from dating and getting her driver’s license.  Where do the years go?

Tres Leches:

1 Box Yellow or Vanilla cake Mix
(bake according to box directions, but using 5 EGGS)
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 can evaporated milk
1 1/2 c. whole milk or Half & Half
1 pt. whipping cream
1/2 c. sugar
2 t. vanilla

Bake the cake in a greased glass casserole dish, adding 5 eggs to the boxed recipe (in addition to the recommended oil and water), let cool. Poke holes all over cake, mix the 3 milks and 1 t. vanilla together, and pour over the cake.
Whip the pint of cream, then mix in 1 t. vanilla and sugar. Spread over the cake and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. It gets better with time.
Serve with freshly sliced strawberries. Enjoy!!

{Green Goodness}

Our favorite St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast – a GREEN Smoothie.  Complete with spinach, apple, and a banana.

{Pi Day Celebrations}

Happy Pi Day!! We celebrated with pies, pizzas, and cousins - in the warm spring sunshine

{Have Courage and Be Kind}

We found some Disney Magic today!! Cinderella and Dole Whip (just like they serve outside the Enchanted Tikki Room at Disneyland) at the District Theater in South Jordan. The movie was just enchanting and wonderful!! The guys really enjoyed it too. I loved the message: “Have Courage and Be Kind” – a beautiful and empowering phrase.  And the DRESS – just dreamy!!!

{Mia Love, TV, and GOLD at State!}

What a monumental day for Desiree.  First, she placed first (Gold) at her State FCCLA Competition.  Then, she rushed to the school to meet Representative Mia Love.

Last fall, during elections, she wrote Mia Love and asked her if she would come speak to their Government class. Representative Love kindly responded and agreed to speak at Herriman High. Desiree was interviewed bythree TV stations about her experience. She also had the opportunity to introduce our Congresswoman. Representative Love gave a wonderful speech and spent about an hour answering thoughtful questions from the students.
She was very inspiring.

{You are My Sparkle and Love}

I was looking through my old photos and found this great picture of my kids from 10 years ago when we were playing at the park on a warm, golden autumn day. It was taken from above, as they lay down in the soft grass. It is fun to look back at those sweet round faces and remember the joy I felt being their mommy.

These fabulous gold transparencies and the "You are my Sparkle" title - reflect our happiness and love.

I love the beautiful blue paper from the Jubilee - Mint Julep collection, it almost looks like a watercolor. I cut a 9.5" square of white cardstock and sewed around the edges. I cut a striped piece of paper from Rhonna Farrer's Just Sayin' collection to 4x6 and placed the "You are my Sparkle" transparency over it.

Tip: use little dabs of the liquid Tombow mono adhesive behind the printed areas of the transparency.

I cut a 3x4 piece of the dark blush paper and placed the "&" transparency over it. I adhered the gold frame transparency over the 4x6 photo and cut a 3x4 piece of the triangle paper with gold glittered accents. I cut a thin strip of the blue and gold glittered stars to complete the square.

I embellished the page with a chipboard title and circles, sticker words, mixed bag die cuts, and decorative brads. 

I finished off the layout with journaling around the page.

{Spring Blossoms}

I found SPRING at the store and had to bring it home with me!!

{Heavenly Music and Voices}

Wow!! What an incredible evening!!
Tuesday night Victoria and I attended the The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square concert for the American Choral Directors Association Conference. We somehow found a seat on the first row of the Tabernacle. We felt as if we were in the midst of angelic hosts praising the Lord. We could feel the beautiful music of the orchestra through our seats and our souls. What a sacred and touching experience.

{CHA Layouts with New Products}

I am absolutely IN LOVE with the new "Fancy That" collection.  The soft pinks, paired with black and white, then accented with gorgeous GOLD FOIL are amazing!  It is such a versatile and beautiful line.  I created a lovely wedding layout with this sweet photo of my brother and his bride.

I used this wonderful striped "TUX" Bestman Gold Foiled paper for the foundation of my page. I cut banners out of the gray and black patterned paper, the solid pink, and the 6x6 pink and gold foiled paper - then machine stitched around them. I layered two 6x6 papers behind the photo.

I placed a little bit of Tombow liquid mono adhesive glue behind the letters of the transparency photo overlay, let it dry a bit, then tucked it under the black foiled paper. 

I attached the "Bride and "Groom" vellum banners from the mixed bag with pink and black decorative brads, then placed a "Together" sticker below them.  I used the incredible GOLD FOIL chipboard letters for the "FOREVER" title and placed the "Picture This..." banner sticker below it. I embellished the page with a chipboard journal shape, "Mr." and "Mrs." flair buttons, and a gold foil "&" from the sticker sheets.

I sprinkled the sequins over the page and adhered them with a dab of the Tombow liquid mono adhesive .

Supplies: Fancy That: Bestman Gold Foiled patterned paper, Love You patterned paper, Girl's Best Friend patterned paper, 6x6 paper pad, chipboard, mixed bag, flair buttons, sequins, photo overlays, sticker sheets, decorative brads; Niche: Gold Foil chipboard letters; Misc: Black ink, pen, and thread, Tombow liquid mono adhesive.

I love the fresh and lovely colors of "On Trend" - accented with gold foil.  They were perfect for this sweet photo of my daughter blowing out a birthday candle on her 9th birthday.

I used the soft blue shaded paper on the B side of the Confetti patterned paper for the background of my layout. I cut a piece of the white and gold foiled word "Happy" patterned paper, then layered the 6x6 pink with gold dot paper, and 6x6 solid pink paper with the photo of the birthday girl.

I tucked the blue triangle journal card and the pink line border journal card underneath. I added the confetti transparency ovelay, gold arrow overly at the bottom, and "The Best Day" blue circle overlay. I added foam tape to the back of the :Happy Days are Here" journal card.

For my title, I used the "Sweet" gold foil chipboard and letters from the sticker sheet pack. I embellished the page with the vellum "Happy" from the mixed bag, banner stickers, gold circle stickers, a flair button, sequins, and enamel dots.

Supplies: On Trend: Confetti patterned paper, Happy patterned paper, 6x6 paper pad, mixed bag, chipboard, sticker sheet, enamel shapes, flair buttons, journal cards, photo overlays, sequins; Misc: blue and pink thread, black pen, light brown ink, Tombow liquid mono adhesive.

{Stuffed With Fluff!}

Stuffed with Fluff!!
When we were browsing the Disney Store at City Creek, Desiree discovered this adorable Pooh Bear Mug. Since all 4 of my little ones adored Pooh Bear, he had to come home with us. I think we watched the Pooh Bear movie at least 1000 times between all of them and we loved reading A. A. Milne's classic Tales of Winnie the Pooh. I have wonderful memories of my mother reading them to us, all snuggled in her bed.
What is your favorite Pooh quote?

Here are a few of mine:

“If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together... there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart... I'll always be with you.”

“If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear.”

”If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you.”

“What day is it?", asked Winnie the Pooh
"It's today," squeaked Piglet
"My favorite day," said Pooh”

“I think we dream so we don’t have to be apart so long. If we’re in each other’s dreams, we can be together all the time.”

“One of the advantages to being disorganized is that one is always having surprising discoveries.”

{FUN Family Day!!!}

We had such a fun day in the sunshine - tubing at Soldier Hollow. The guys were wearing shorts and tshirts!!

Afterward, we went to a fabulous Mexican restaurant in Midway, called Tarahumara. They have an amazing salsa bar with 20 KINDS OF SALSA!!!! My kids were in heaven and loved sampling the many flavors. My favorite was the Pineapple Mango Salsa. We enjoyed our delicious entrees and finished off the meal with Tres Leches, a family favorite.

This was such a perfect way to end a wonderful family day - watching "Meet the Mormons" at the Joseph Smith Building at Temple Square. Such an incredible movie about members who strive to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. We loved it even more the second time.

{Ready to Fly}

Today was the perfect day to test out  Jacob’s birthday present from September. We couldn't help bursting into song while he flew his kite in the warm February sunshine!!

{Valentine’s Day}

Loved these beautiful tulips from my sweet valentine – our 21st together!

I made our traditional Valentine Crepes for breakfast – complete with fresh whipped cream, vanilla custard, and fresh raspberries.. Yum!!!

{SCORE!}

Great shot of Michael making a basket at his incredibly intense game tonight!

{All Dressed Up}

Looking sharp!! All Dressed Up and ready to pickup/be picked up by dates for the Sweetheart's Dance tonight. How fun that both couples were wearing blue too!!

{Cookies ‘n Cream Ice Cream Pie}

Mmmm, Cookies 'n Cream Ice Cream pie with an Oreo crust and hot fudge - don't mind if I do!

It was so easy to make. I bought a huge plastic tub of Cookies 'n Cream ice cream from Smith's for only $5 so I could make an extra one to share. Reserve 7-9 Oreos from each package and crush in a food processor or with a rolling pin in a bag (I used 2 packages). Melt 1 stick of butter (or half if only making one) and stir into crumbs. Press into two 9" pie dishes. Chill in freezer while ice cream softens on the counter.
Scoop ice cream into the 2 pie crusts and smooth out the rounded top. Return to freezer.
Top with Cool Whip, freeze. Slightly warm up a jar of hot fudge and pour into a squeezable plastic bottle (like a condiment/ketchup bottle from the dollar store). Swirl the fudge on top, insert Oreos, and freeze until serving.
So simple, easy, and delicious!!!! My kids were in heaven

{Destination: CABO}

I am so excited about all the fantastic new lines that My Mind’s Eye released at CHA!!  One of my favorites is the new Travel themed "Hello World" collection.  The colors, patterned papers, and embellishments are wonderful and so versatile!

I had fun using this line to document our favorite vacation - a cruise to the Mexican Riviera in 2009. The colors matched perfectly with this picturesque picture of my children playing in the golden sand on the beach in Cabo San Lucas. (the last photo I took with my Canon before if fell into the ocean when I was hopping into the glass bottomed boat - so happy the memory card was saved)

I used the b-side of the World Map paper for the background of my page and framed it with the aqua blue patterned paper.   I used the 6x6 map paper, a 6x6 light blue paper, and a navy blue journaling card to create the mat for my photo. I rounded the corner of the map paper and circled our location on the map - how awesome to visually mark where we were!! I added an epoxy arrow and a "You are here" rub-on.

I cut a strip of the chevron striped paper,to tie in all the colors of the elements, and inserted a large brad in the top.  The bottom strip of blue and cream paper is a 6x6 sheet that I cut in half and trimmed.  I covered the seam with the red tag and grouped chipboard and stickers around it.  I LOVE the letter sticker sheet included in the sticker package - great for titles!!  I placed the "Oh the Places We'll Go!" layered brad on the right corner of the photo to anchor the page.

I slid the journal card under the photo and layered a vellum tag from the Mixed Bag under it - love the transparent look.  I added the blue enamel chevron shapes and continued them onto the photo. For the finishing touch, I placed a chipboard banner piece and two banner stickers, and a date tab.

I can't wait to scrapbook more vacation photos with this new Travel themed collection!!

Supplies: My Mind’s Eye - Hello World: World Map patterned paper, Here & There patterned paper, Flowers patterned paper, 6x6 paper pad, mixed bag, chipboard, rub-ons, decorative brads, sticker sheets, enamel shapes; Misc: Blue thread, black ink and pen.

{Christmas Getaway}

We enjoyed a little Christmas getaway and spent the night at a hotel near downtown.  The kids loved swimming in the pool and soaking in the hot tub.  We went shopping downtown, ate dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, saw the famous Candy Windows at Macy’s (can you believe all the ornaments are made out of candy!?!?), and saw the lights at Temple Square.

{Christmas Morning}

What a magical and memorable Christmas together. This may be our last one for a few years. I am so grateful for the gift of our Savior. We are blessed with the knowledge and promise of eternal families.

{Christmas Hope}

Last night, after all the presents were wrapped and stockings were filled - I had such a strong desire to read about Christmas Eve in the Book of Mormon in 3rd Nephi. It is such an incredible account of the miracle of the Lord's birth. His coming saved the countless lives of those who believed the prophesies of Samuel - that there would be a day, a night, and a day with no darkness as a sign of the Lord's birth (and a new star). All who believed that a Savior would come were going to be put to death the following day.
I love this beautiful and comforting verse, where the Lord speaks to Nephi and says, "Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world."
Then the signs took place, lives were saved, hearts were changed, and the Savior was born. Such a blessed miracle. I am so thankful for the power of the scriptures and the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

{A Christmas Carol}

After 12 years of talking about it, we are finally taking our kids to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Hale Centre Theatre. Let the week of family Christmas celebrations begin!!

Victoria sang beautifully in her choir concert solo last week. She loved her flowers from Grandma.

{2014 Christmas Card}

It was fun to look back at our year and reflect on our abundant blessings from the Lord.  I just love our family and the precious time we get to spend together.  My kids are growing up so quickly and are on the cusp of adulthood.  Two of them will be leaving home within the next year and a half.  It makes me cherish each moment even more. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

{Holiday Gift Wrapping}

'Tis the season of giving.  I had fun creating unique gifts with the festive Sleigh Bells Ring collection

Who doesn't love cookies?  Create a fun and easy cookie holder with a 10" circle of paper.  Simply fold in the left and right sides at about 3 1/2", then fold the top and bottom edges in at 2". Fold in the 4 corners and secure with a stapler. Tie tags around it with twine. Line it with wax paper and fill it with with your favorite cookies.  Make individual treats by filling the adorable striped treat bags.

I re-purposed an old apple cider tin by spray painting the lid black and covering it with patterned papers, decorative tape, and twine. I added a beautiful paper bow and tag to the lid.  I tied a reindeer tag around it with twine and added some word stickers to it.

Dress up a clear pail with decorative tapes.  For the lid, cut a circle from the 6x6 paper and place a large circle sticker in the center. Cut a green circle and adhere a snowflake from the mixed bag with foam tape.  Attach the tag to the twine with a decorative brad and tie it onto the handle.  Fill with a Christmas treat.

I decorated a shallow tin lid with green and cream striped paper- rounding the corners and sewing around the edges.  I cut strips of the red and cream paper and wrapped them around the side, along with decorative tapes.  I placed a paper bow on top and attached a Christmas tree flair pin.  I matted the "Handmade with Love" sticker and tied it to the bow with red and white twine.

These fabulous papers and embellishments make packaging gifts a breeze.  I hope you enjoy creating handmade gifts from your heart this Christmas season.

Supplies: My Mind’s Eye - Sleigh Bells Ring: Noel patterned paper, Reindeer Games patterned paper, 6x6 paper pad, bows, flair pins, treat bags, decorative brads, sticker labels, mixed bag, word/alpha stickers, decorative tags, decorative tape; All is Bright: red and white twine; Misc: black ink and thread, stapler, metal tins, clear pail, black spray paint, foam tape.

{JOY and MAGIC of Christmas}

One of our favorite Christmas traditions is taking a photo on the stairs of all the kids in their snuggly new pajamas - just before we open presents.  I thought the glittered papers and classic Christmas colors of the My Mind’s Eye  "Joyous" collection worked perfectly with this photo from last year. This collection has a fabulous 6"x12" sticker sheet with large designs.  I thought it would be fun to use three of them for the focus of my page.

I cut a strip of the glittered chevron paper and dove-tailed the bottom to create a banner.  I cut 4 more banners out of various papers and sewed around them with red thread.  I layered them on the background paper with the pretty blue and red border. I matted the 4.5"x6.5" photo with cream and red striped papers.

I cut a cream circle out and used it to mat the back of the red "Season's Greetings" sticker.  I put chipboard on the back of the 3 stickers to "pop" them off the page and placed silver gems on two of them.

I cut out the red glittered swirl border from the "Noel" paper. I used the festive pack of Joyous alpha/word stickers for my journaling.  I popped a few of them up with foam tape to give dimension and inked the edges. I placed a large silver gem on the "Joy" sticker. I used the light blue "Merry Christmas" sticker as a tab on the photo.

I was amazed that the package comes with SIX sheets of stickers - the possibilies are endless!! I hope you enjoy creating holiday projects with these wonderful sticker sheets.

Supplies: My Mind’s Eye - Joyous: Postage patterned paper, Joy patterned paper, Noel patterned paper, Merry patterned paper, Carols patterned paper, Tinsel patterned paper, Flourish patterned paper, sticker sheet, alpha/word stickers, gems; Misc: red thread, brown ink, black pen, foam tape.

{Disney Princess Tree}

This year I surprised my daughters with a special Disney Princess Tree!! This might be Desiree’s last Christmas home with us, so we had to make it special.  They LOVED it and it is just magical!! I bought a white flocked tree and these fabulous glittered frames from Walmart.  I filled them with sweet pictures of the girls and princesses from years ago.  I used the Rhonna Designs Magic app to add the soft and magical touch to the photos.  It was really fun to add all the crystal ornaments and crowns. Love the Disney Sketchbook ornaments with glittered satin skirts and wonderful attention to detail. Can you believe I even found the perfect Crown tree topper at Hobby Lobby. Such a fun tree!

{Frameables–Christmas Décor}

Many of you will be pulling out your Christmas decorations this weekend, after the Thanksgiving celebrations are over. Might I suggest you add some MME Christmas charm to your decor with their fabulous new 8x10 "Frameables"? They have two Christmas lines: "Joyous" and "Sleighbells Ring" .

I started decorating my shelves and they were just lacking the finishing touch.  I was about to go buy some Christmas chalk art off of Etsy to print and frame.  Then I remembered that MME just came out with beautiful new Christmas "Frameables". The only hard part was choosing which ones to use - they are all so festive!  I love the glittered elements of the "Joyous" collection and the two sided prints of "Sleighbells Ring".

I finally narrowed it down to 4 prints.  I plan to switch them out occasionally in the coming month. I spray painted some old frames I had stashed in my basement, cleaned the glass, and inserted the print.  So simple!!!  These would make wonderful and inexpensive Christmas gifts too.

I placed "Season's Greetings" in a black frame, to make the red pop.  I paired it with two glittered damask candles that coordinated perfectly with the red glittered holly wreath

I also put "Joy to the World" in a black frame.  I love that you have both the traditional black chalk art background and the red to choose from.  I added some ornaments and decorative picks under the easel.

I framed "Merry and Bright Christmas" in white, to contrast with the black chalk art background. I placed three green ornaments in a jar and added a Christmas pick and ornaments to coordinate with the holly wreath.

I placed the framed "Jolly Old St. Nicholas" frameable in a picture stand to give it height, then nestled it with a jar of pepperment sticks and glittered candles (in a jar of rock salt).

{Everything Tastes Better in a MICKEY Shape}

Around our house, we think everything tastes better in a Mickey shape! I love using my birthday present from my friend, Amber Packer. This Mickey sandwich cutter is a hit with the kids. We always nibble on the ears first. It reminds us of meals at the Disney parks when they were little. This is the first loaf of white bread I've bought in 4 years - I wanted them to look authentic. My kids said they actually prefer my whole wheat bread – nice.

This is our "Egg in a nest" - Disney style. Another gift from Amber – she is so thoughtful!!

{Going for the GOLD}

My sweet 14 year old daughter, Torianne, had a pretty exciting day last month.  After countless hours of hard work composing her own songs on the ukulele - she had the opportunity to record them professionally.  It was amazing to see her album "Up" appear on iTunes and Amazon!  We all started screaming with excitement - it felt like the scene from "That Thing You Do" when they hear their song on the radio for the first time!

Listen to her album “UP” here on iTunes.

I wanted to capture the excitement of that day and the sweet, uplifting feeling of her music through this layout.  I used a lot of gold foil and gold glittered elements on my page. The pink background paper from Rhonna Farrer's Just Sayin' - perfectly echoed the lines of the bridge on her album cover and draw you eye "Up".

The bold foil monogram letters "UP" were the perfect title for the page. TIP: I cut off the top of the chipboard sheet and used it to add dimension to my letters.  Much cheaper than foam tape!

I printed her song list on the blue lined paper. I used the gold foil number from the Jubilee Mint Julep "mixed bag" to number her songs.  I added foam tape underneath to "pop" them off the page.

TIP: I used the green bottle of Tombow mono multi liquid glue on the back of the "Shine" transparency. I only applied it on the printed letters and let it set for a few minutes.  Then you never see the adhesive through the transparency!

I layered the transparency, Just Sayin' word stickers "Best Day Ever!" and "Perseverance", glittered chipboard "Today is the Day", and decorative brads.

For the finishing touch - I added her name with the fabulous gold glittered Just Sayin' alpha letters.

Supplies: Just Sayin': Belong patterned paper, Believe patterned paper, Posies patterned paper, alpha/word stickers, decorative brads, chipboard; Jubilee - Mint Julep:  mixed bag, transparent frames; Necessities: Metallics Monogram Alphas; Misc: foam tape, light brown ink, white thread, Tombow Mono liquid glue.