Diamond Grove

Balancing the HOME in Homeschool

2011-12-04T16:31:00.000-06:00

**This post was written for submission in the Carnival of Homeschooling.**

As a wife to a full-time college professor, homeschooling mother of three, ministry-minded daughter of God, avid crafter and blogger, and just all-around-busier-than-ever woman, I often find myself struggling to just "keep up"! Many days I feel as if I am barely keeping my head above water, struggling to remember everything, accomplish everything, and be everything to everyone.

During the holiday season of extras (extra activities, extra needs, extra things to accomplish) this feeling often escalates to the point of "stress". And, be it home or homeschool, something suffers.

I find myself asking, "So, how does one 'do' the proverbial 'all'?

The answer? One doesn't!

I have found that when I am unable to keep up, it is usually because I have forgotten one or more of these key principles:

1. My priorities need to plan my to-do list.

Have you listed your priorities? What is the most important thing/person in your life? My priority list looks like this:

1. God
2. My husband
3. My children
    a. Their relationship with God
    b. Their character training
    c. Their education
4. My home
5. Ministries I am involved with
6. Friends and Extended Family

Because I have a clear understanding of the order of my priorities, it is usually easier for me to put first things first and not feel guilty about the rest. However, when my priorities are out of order I find myself stressed and focusing on less important things.

2. Sometimes it is best to say NO.

We all know that there are times when we need to say NO! But, knowing it and putting it into practice are two different things! However, with a clear understanding of what is most important, it is easier to say no to those 'extra' things that seem oh-so-important at the time.

A good friend told me once that, just because there is a need doesn't mean you are supposed to meet that need. Prayer for guidance is key to saying yes or no to each activity or perceived need.

3. Have a long-term plan and look at the big picture.

When it comes to homeschooling, it is imperative to establish long-term goals. Then, when life gets crazy, I can step back and determine what I can let slide for a short time without jeopardizing the end goal. And this allows us to focus on what is presently most important.

For instance, there have been times that I have had to briefly set schooling aside in order to really concentrate on character training. This, in the long run, is best for our school since unruly children do not learn as well as well-behaved children do.When I neglect to do this, our schooling (and our family unity) suffers.

There are also times when we set schooling aside in order to help someone in need. While this may seem to contradict my priority list, teaching my children to help a friend in need is working toward teaching them godly character (#3) while performing a ministry to others (#5 and #6).

4. Remember Who gives me strength.

A friend of ours recently said that if we are getting burnt out in ministry, it is because we are trying to do things in our own strength.

Um, Ouch.

I love the verse Philippians 2:13, which says, "Because God is working in you to help you want to do and be able to do what pleases Him." While I know this in my head, I sometimes forget to apply it to my daily life. Then I get overtired and stressed, and I begin to question my ability to 'do it all'.

5. Remember to enlist help!

In order to 'do it all' (or at least what is most important), I really need to enlist the help of my family. And, while enlisting my children to help with the household chores may help me to keep the house neat (short-term benefit), it also serves a much more important purpose. It teaches my children important character skills; like good work ethic, putting others first, initiative, dependability, and cleanliness (long-term goals).

Confession time here! There are many days that I would much rather just 'do it myself', because it is much easier than the minor battle that ensues whenever I assign some chores to one or more of my children. But the time accomplishing the task at hand affords many opportunities for character training, cleaning skills and growth in maturity. Which, if I look at the 'big picture', is much more inviting than the immediate reward of ease.

Instead of asking, "So, how does one do it all?", I ask, "What should I be doing and why?"

Balancing the home in homeschool is a daily juggling act for me. But, with the key principles mentioned above, I am able to accomplish what is most important and not feel guilty about the rest.

One of the things I love most about homeschooling is the freedom it affords--freedom to be flexible, to teach the most important thing at the right time, to spend precious time with my children. This freedom, when handled properly, leads to lifelong benefits that are so amazing. However, this same freedom, when abused can lead to lifelong regrets. The decisions I make every day affect the outcome of this freedom.

By following a few simple guidelines, I am better able to "balance the home in homeschool" and ensure that the freedoms afforded while homeschooling will lead to giving what is best to my children. And doesn't every parent want what is best for their child?

How do you keep balance in your homeschool? I would love to hear your ideas!

With best wishes for a balanced homeschool,

Debbi

*All photos courtesy of photobucket.*

Eraselets Review and LInk to a Giveaway!! Ends Dec 7

2011-11-29T14:34:00.000-06:00

I can't wait to tell you about this amazing product and company!! I was recently introduced to Eraselets...the bracelets that erase!

We all know how popular those little wristbands are...practically every organization has one. My college-age nephew wears one for Lance Armstrong, my friend and sister-in-law wear one for cancer research, and my kids wear them for fun. Until now...

Now, my kids wear them for function!

Because Eraselets are cool wristbands that erase! They really do!

What I like about Eraselets

**They appeal to all ages.

When my package of eraselets arrived, I was amazed at how quickly they 'disappeared'! My children (age 13, 10 and 8) all liked them. Later, when my 18-year-old niece arrived for a visit, she took the last one! I can see children of all ages liking these. They would make the perfect stocking stuffer, birthday gift for a friend, or reward for doing something good!

**They are useful!

I have inherited my Dad's "New England Practicality", so I do not like to buy a gift 'just to buy a gift'. I want a gift that is meaningful and useful...not trivial, yet not boring either! Eraselets fill those requirements by being fun but also useful. They are a hit with almost any age!

**There is a style for everyone!

My favorite style is the Scripture bands:

There are two styles of Scripture bands: The Six Colors of Salvation and Scripture Pack - Sports. Each band has a different Bible verse on the back. Please note that the Scripture Packs are currently only available from Lifeway Christian Stores. (Look HERE to find a location near you.) These are not included in the giveaway.

My other favorite is the Erase World Hunger Eraselets.

100% of the net profit made off of this Eraselet goes to the Erase World Hunger Foundation. That's awesome!

BUY IT!

From now through December 2, Eraselet is having a Stocking Stuffer Sale! All packs are $1.00 off (this excludes Scripture Packs).

Click on any of the links above or go HEREto buy Eraselets! They are available individually or in packs of 6.

WIN IT!

Eraselet has generously offered two retail packs of the winner's choice to one winner! To enter go to my giveaway blog, Always Enough To Share and enter using the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway ends 12:01am on December 7.

Have a wonderful day!

*smiles*
debbi

If You Post Pictures On-line You, NEED TO Watch This!

2011-11-18T08:47:00.001-06:00

This is so alarming! I hope that everyone will watch this!!

It is so simple to keep this from happening!

Thanks to Living With Twins & A Drama Queen for sharing this!!

Creat Hope Designs and a Giveaway!

2011-11-08T08:22:00.000-06:00

I stumbled across the best blog today...one that sells patterns in order to raise money for orphans all over the world. So awesome!

From their About Us page:

What?
H…Hearts United
O…Orphaned No More
P…Patterns With Purpose
E…Even the Least of These

Where?
Create H.O.P.E will benefit children from all corners of the world. Every four months a new collection of patterns or tutorials will be released benefiting a particular foundation working with orphans. The patterns released for that foundation will always benefit that foundation, ensuring continued support from crafters around the world.

Their Missions Statement is so cool!

Right now Create H.O.P.E. Designs is offering a giveaway to spread the word about their site. It ends tonight so hurry on over!

AND they are looking for more designers. If you create/sell patterns that you would be willing to donate toward this amazing cause, give them a holler here: createhopedesigns@gmail .com.

Their patterns can be purchased HERE. And, wow, they have some cute stuff!

It makes me happy to know that others are using their talents to help those in need. We all have so much.

There is always enough to share! What are you sharing today?

*smiles*
debbi

To Tiptoe...or Teach?

2011-11-07T22:18:00.000-06:00

I'm an observer. And a thinker. I observe people's behavior, and I think about how it relates to me.

This can be a good thing. For instance, I am certain that I avoided a whole lot of discipline while I was growing up simply by observing my five older siblings. They were naughty. I learned from their mistakes.

Recently, I have had the extended opportunity to observe someone closely. Like, living in my house closely. For an extended amount of time.

This time, my observations have brought me to a question...do I tiptoe, or do I teach? Do I tiptoe around the moods and demands in order to keep the peace (after all, the bible says, "Blessed are the peacemakers..."), or do I speak up (kindly--"Let your speech be seasoned with salt...") in order to teach?

Now, obviously, I am not referring to my guest here, but just to my family--mainly my children. And my answer is this: if I tiptoe, I AM teaching...but NOT what I want them to learn!

I read a book by John Ortberg called The Life You've Always Wanted, and in it there is an illustration of a man that was always cranky--you know, a real joy-killer. He always looked for ways to destroy others' happiness. The point of this illustration has really stuck with me, and it applies here: John Ortberg said that what is extraordinary about this is not that this man never changed, but that no one ever expected him to change. Everyone just tiptoed around him or avoided him, all with the same response: "That's just how he is." Hmmm.

So, during my latest observations, I have come to a conclusion. I will teach.

When the moods are 'bad' or 'stressed', and the responses are likewise, I will not pacify, coddle, or ignore. I will teach.

When a harsh word is spoken, I will teach kindness, forgiveness, gentleness.

When someone says 'do it my way', I will teach them another way that is just as good.

When someone says 'me first', I will teach them to put others first.

When someone throws a fit to get their way, I will teach them to ask kindly with appreciation.

When someone is impatient, I will teach them that it's okay for others to move at a different speed.

And I pray that others will do the same for me.

Because when I get to the end of my life, I want to hear "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Not, "That's just the way she was..."

So, do you tiptoe, or do you teach? I would love to hear your thoughts.

*smiles*
debbi

My Bucket List

2011-11-02T16:37:00.000-05:00

Today's Mama is hosting an a.maz.ing giveaway here. At first, I thought I would skip it since I know tons of people will enter this one, but on second thought I became very intrigued for two reasons:

1. The giveaway is to spread awareness about JustAsk. Here's what they have to say:

"Our friends at Just Ask want you to stay around for a good long while so you can cross epic activities and life-changing achievements off that list of yours. That’s why they’ve developed a test that could save your life—the BRACAnalysis test—by informing you about your chances of getting breast or ovarian cancer. Think of all of the things on your bucket list? Got ‘em? Now jot them down for a shot at winning a trip of a lifetime."

Pretty cool, right!

2. I like the idea of composing a 'bucket list'. After all, if you aim at nothing you'll hit it every time, right?

This is my entry in the Just Ask Bucket List Getaway Giveaway. Just Ask offers a breast and ovarian cancer screening and is encouraging people to share 15 things that I want to enjoy in my lifetime as a reminder to be aware of my health. Want to enter? Head over to TodaysMama.com to get the details.

So, here's my list:

1. I want to live long enough to impact the lives of my children and their children--not to just be alive, but be healthy and Godly enough to impact their lives in a positive way.
2. I would love to go on an Alaskan cruise with my husband. Ocean, the man I love, gorgeous surroundings, and lots of awesome food. *Sigh.*
3. I want to go to a lobster bake. On the beach. In Maine. And I want to eat until I pop!
4. I want to write and publish a book.
5. I would love to start my own (successful) craft business or etsy shop. I already have the name picked out.
6. I want to organize my house. My whole house. And keep it that way.
7. I want to make this for my Family Room wall:

8. I want to make regular exercise a habit.
9. I want to learn how to knit, really knit.

10. And then I want to knit one of those adorable baby hats. And maybe a scarf for me.
11. I want to redecorate my kitchen. Yellow and red.
12. I want to eat at Red's Eats in Wiscassett, Maine. Best.lobster roll.anywere. Seriously. *I'm drooling here!*

13. I want to own one of these:

14. Someday, I am going to make and eat this (pure yumness, People!):

15. And, most importantly, I want to make every day count. Not for every day, but for eternity. Seriously.

So, what's on your bucket list? Write it down and link it to Today's Mama, and you could win one of the following prizes:

A family vacation to Universal Orlando^® Resort! (+ prize rules)
A Las Olas Surf Safari!
Family Winter Vacation Getaway at Park City Mountain Resort
And more!

Contest closes on Saturday, November 12th at Noon MST. Winners will be announced Monday, November 14th.

Even if I don't win, taking the time to write down a few goals is always beneficial! Give it a try. And then link it up here at Today's Mama..

Who knows...maybe you'll win and be able to cross that dream getaway off your list!

*smiles*
debbi

Free Digital Scrapbooking Paper Pack

2011-11-02T00:01:00.004-05:00

It is once again Digital Freebie Day!! Every Wednesday there will be a free digital paper pack from MyMemories.com .

Here is this week's freebie:

(Click on the picture to go to the download page.)

MyMemoriesStudio is such an easy program to use! I am finding new ways to create pages all the time.

I had so much fun with this week's freebie! Here is my page:

I just love the bright colors which go so well with my kiddos' clothes. Fun!

I really like the Facebook Freebie that MyMemories gives every Friday, too. This week, the Facebook Freebie is this:

(Note: You must be a fan to download this.)

MyMemoriesSuite is such a great program to use for digital scrapbooking. I love how simple it is to use, but I also love how much I can do with it! That, for me, is the perfect balance.

If you are thinking about ordering MyMemoriesSuite, , don't forget to use this code to save $10: #STMMMS92986 (Please copy and paste the code to avoid errors.). And when you download your software, you will also get a $10 gift certificate to the on-line store.

Come back next Wednesday for another freebie!

Happy Scrapping,

debbi

Love this!

2011-10-29T15:43:00.000-05:00

Free Digital Paper Pack

2011-10-26T00:01:00.002-05:00

It is once again Digital Freebie Day!! Every Wednesday there will be a free digital paper pack from MyMemories.com .

This week's free Digital Kit Includes:

2 Digital Papers
5 Page Elements
2 Quick Pages

And here is the page that I created with this week's freebie:

To download this week's freebie, go HERE.

Still don't have the MyMemories Studio digital software? Don't forget to use code #STMMMS92986 to save $10 off the purchase price! (Please copy and paste the code to avoid errors.)

Come back next Wednesday for another digital freebie!

Happy Scrapping!

*smiles*
debbi

Pastor Appreciate Month Cards

2011-10-25T07:57:00.000-05:00

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and this past week my friend and I made several cards for others to give to our Pastors and their wives. Here are some of the cards I made:

The sentiment came from QKR Stampede. Not only do they have great stamps that I have never seen elsewhere, but their customer service is amazing, too. I just love this particular stamp, and it worked so perfectly for these cards!

Tomorrow I will be giving away another free digital paper pack, so I hope you will come back!

*smiles*
debbi

Free Digital Paper Pack

2011-10-19T00:01:00.005-05:00

Today begins the weekly Digital Freebie Day! From now on, nearly every Wednesday there will be a free digital paper pack fromMyMemories.com .

Here is this week's freebie:

(Click on the picture to be taken to the download page.)

Still don't have the MyMemories Studio digital software? Don't forget to use code #STMMMS92986 to save $10 off the purchase price! (Please copy and paste the code to avoid errors.)

Come back next Wednesday for another digital freebie!

And here is what I made with this week's freebie:

Happy Scrapping!

*smiles*

debbi

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!

2011-10-14T09:33:00.001-05:00

Okay, can anyone tell me what winning has to do with chicken dinners?? Just wondering...

Anyway, today is the day that I get to announce the winner of the MyMemories Studio digital scrapbook software! YIPPEE!! I used Random Generator...

#11...Annie Moore!

Congratulations, Annie! I will be contacting you soon with your code to download your software!!

And for those of you who didn't win...

Don't be sad!

MyMemories has given me a $10 off code for YOU to use on their MyMemoriesSuite V2 software!

Use Code #STMMMS92986 to save $10 off the purchase price! (Please copy and paste the code to avoid errors).

And some BIG news!!

Beginning THIS WEDNESDAY, MyMemories will be giving away some awesome digital FREEBIES right here on my blog! Here is a sneak peak of Wednesday's freebie:

So, order your MyMemoriesStudio software (don't forget to use code #STMMMS92986 to save $10!!) and come back here on Wednesday to download your FREE digital designer pack.

Happy Scrapping!

*smiles*
debbi

MyMemories Studio Review and Giveaway!!

2011-10-14T00:04:00.000-05:00

I was recently asked to write a review for MyMemories Studio, a digital scrapbooking program. I must admit that, at first, I was skeptical. I have tried other digital scrapbooking programs in the past, and I always returned to the 'hands-on, feel it with your fingers' approach.

Fast forward about five years...

Now life is busy--UPER busy! My dreams of scrapping all of those awesome pics I have in a real album are, well, just dreams. My "I'll get to those soon!" has turned into a wistful "maybe someday..."

Until now, that is! Enter MyMemories digital scrapbook software.

I sat down to try this great program, and within 15 minutes I had finished my first page! *insert happy dance* :-)

I love so many things about this program. Here are just a few:

*Super easy to use (even my 10-yr-old can use it without help)

*1500 designer papers, over 1300 embellishments, 20+ templates are included

*FREE on-line tutorials to help us get the most from this program.

I also really love that if I am looking for a specific paper, etc. to fit a theme, I can easily go online and choose from one of the thousands of free or inexpensive papers, kits, templates, etc., available at MyMemoriesDigitalScrapbook.com. No waiting until my next trip to the craft store to finish the page I'm working on.

AND this program does so much more than scrapbooking!

In addtion to making cards (yippee!), you can make a DVD, slide show, add music, narration and video clips, upload your creations to your IPod, and it is so easy to order gorgeous printed albums and calendars! AND you can even make your shared albums interactive with web links (how cool is that!).

Just think of the possibilities!

And what do I love best?

MyMemories is going to give one of YOU a free copy of their software!!

What do you need to do to enter?

Head on over to MyMemories.com and then come back here and leave a comment telling me what kit, template, embellishment, etc. you would order first. Be sure to leave a way to contact you in case you win!

For a bonus entry, go to MyMemories.com and tell me one thing you would do with MyMemoriesStudio other than scrapbook.

The giveaway ends October 13 at 11:59pm CT, so spread the word!! Winner will be posted here on this post, and will be notified by e-mail.

Now, for those poor souls that don't win...

MyMemories is offering a coupon code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite v2 scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store (with download) - a $20 value! WOW!!

******Here is the code: STMMMS92986 (Note: Please copy and paste to avoid errors.)******

The software practically pays for itself!

After using this software, I can honestly see why MyMemoriesStudio is the #1 digital scrapbook software available**!

Now, I'm off to make my scrapbook dreams become reality...

Happy scrapping!!

*smiles*

debbi

**taken from the MyMemories.com home page

Disclosure: I received MyMemoriesStudio software in exchange for my honest review.

Today's the Last Day!!

2011-10-13T08:46:00.001-05:00

There is still time to enter my giveaway for the MyMemoriesStudio digital scrapbooking software.

Learn more about this wonderful program here:

The giveaway ends tonight at midnight (CT), so hurry and leave a comment on this giveaway post.

I hope you win!!

*smiles*
debbi

Homeschool Giveaways is Hosting an A,MA.ZING Giveaway!

2011-10-10T09:26:00.000-05:00

It has been a looooong time since I last saw such an amazing giveaway! Engaging Lessons is giving away THEIR ENTIRE STORE!!

That is over 140 products!! Here are some of what the winner will receive:

Columbus Day Mini Unit
All About the Period Table Of Elements Science Fun!
Body Systems Fun Mini Unit
Chemistry Made Easy Science Set!
Constitution Mini Booklet: Great for Constitution Day!
Create a Bio Poem Activity
Interactions in Ecosystems
Meteorite Mini Unit
Movie Response Guides: Use with Any Movie or Educational Video
My Gene Monster: It’s All in the Genes
Mystery Writing Workshop Templates
Patriotic Math Mystery Activity
Super Science Bundle Set
Cells Structure & Function Mini Unit
Chemistry Basics Copy Work Fun
Elements of a Story Graphic Organizer
Language Arts Emoticon Activity
Character Education Fun!

Can you say WOW!?!

This giveaway can be found HERE. Hurry over to enter!!

And don't forget about my awesome giveaway HERE.

*smiles*
debbi

New Digital Scrapbook Pages

2011-10-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

I am really enjoying the MyMemories digital scrapbooking software! (See my review and giveaway HERE.)

Even with just a few minutes here and there, I am able to finish pages quickly! It is really rewarding to see the pages coming together, after all those years of feeling guilty, lol.

Here are three that I was able to complete yesterday:

For the last two pages, I created the first page and then used the "Insert Duplicate Page Mirrored" option. SO easy!

I also learned how to download free pages and embellishments to incorporate into my MyMemories albums. Ooh, the possibilities...

I also am finding that, unlike typical scrapbooking, I can change the pages later on if I so desire, AND I can re-use the pages, elements, etc. on other pages. YAY!

Of course, I have been known to obsess, so maybe the change option isn't so good afterall...LOL.

Don't forget that I am giving away a copy of the MyMemories digital scrapbooking software HERE.

Or, if you want your own copy without the wait, use code #STMMMS92986 to save $10 off your purchase price at MyMemories.com. (Please copy and paste the code number to avoid errors.)

Happy Scrapping!

*smiles*
debbi

My Card for World Card Making Day!

2011-10-01T19:03:00.000-05:00

I love World Card Making Day and all of the wonderful giveaways and card contests! This year, with everything that life has brought our way, I was only able to make one card and enter one contest. But I am thrilled to have had a few minutes to craft!

So, here's my card:

The CS is Stampin' Up! Rich Razzleberry and More Mustard. I used two different Stampin' Up! stamp sets--Serene Spring and Watercolor Trio.

The butterfly outline is made with a butterfly from the SU! Beautiful Wings Emblosslits. I held the butterfly on and sponged around it lightly with white craft ink.

I am planning to send this card to my parents for their anniversary. They are celebrating #57 this year!

Happy Crafting!

*smiles*
debbi

Family Photos = Great Gifts! AND a Great Way to Display Them!!

2011-09-28T23:27:00.001-05:00

I am always on the lookout for great gift ideas for my parents. I mean, they're in their 70's, have everything they need, don't want to add more clutter to their house...you know how it is. We usually end up giving them gift cards to some restaurant, but I really prefer to do something more personal. Well, this year, Christmas is in the bag...er, on the wall.

Easy Canvas Prints has made my shopping truly EASY!

Pictures are always a big hit with my parents, but they already have sooo many. We've given them framed pictures, magnetic pictures, and even pictures made into puzzles. Blah, blah, blech!

I really wanted to avoid "the usual", so I am super glad to learn about Easy Canvas Prints, where I can make our photos into canvas.

Since we recently had some family photos taken by a professional photographer (who happens to be my bff--yay!), and since it is the first family picture we've had taken in about five years *gasp*, I decided to get one for us (um, you know, to be sure my parents will like theirs, lol). But...since my bff/photographer is SOOOO good, it was hard to choose a favorite picture for my photo to canvas.

Did I want this one?

Or this one? (tee hee!)

Or what about this one?

In the end, we decided on this one:

Love!

The whole process of photo to canvas was so easy! I uploaded my picture, chose the thickness of the edge (.75" or 1.5") and the size of my photo to canvas. Then I decided the type of edge that I wanted (mirror, wrapped or a solid color). Here is a closeup of the edge we chose:

I went with the 3/4" mirrored edge, since important parts of my photo would have been cut off had I gone with the wrapped edge.

The ordering process took about 15 minutes to complete, and my order shipped lightening fast! I am so pleased with how it turned out, and I am SO glad we ordered one for us.

And, now for the reveal of our amazing photo to canvas!!

Ta-Dah!

I.love.it.

I do plan to hang this on our Family Room wall...as soon as I find the perfect shelf for it. (I am envisioning an old ladder hung on its side...hmmm.) In the mean time, I am la-la-loving it on display here!!

Now for some Christmas shopping...

*smiles*
debbi

Disclaimer: I received my canvas in exchange for my honest review.

33 Minutes That Will Rock Your World!

2011-09-28T14:21:00.000-05:00

I saw this video today, and I share it with the sincere wish that you will watch it and share it! It is truly amazing, and well worth the time. Please watch it!

May God change the hearts and minds of our world.

Prayers,
Debbi

Wouldn't YOU Like to Win $500?

2011-09-26T18:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, Blogger-buddies!

HSLDA needs your input to help them better serve you and the homeschooling community! Follow the link below to their short, six-question survey and you’ll be entered in a drawing to win a $500 Visa gift card.

http://www.hslda.org/Survey/mvt/Default.aspx?rid=10116

Survey and drawing entries must be submitted by October 9. Winner will be drawn on Tuesday, October 11, 2011, and will be contacted by email. If we do not receive a response within 72 hours, a new winning name will be drawn. Must be age 18 or older to participate. By entering this contest, you agree to have your email address added to HSLDA’s email list. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Happy Monday!

Smiles,
debbi

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T08:54:00.000-05:00

Another child is on the way....

2011-07-27T09:15:00.000-05:00

Hello, Friends (and if you are still reading my blog, I know you must be true friends! Thank you!!)

Yes, I have been MIA for almost the entire summer, and *sigh* I am only back for a quick post. I am planning to return in the Fall, once school begins and I am on the computer more regularly.

So, thanks for hanging in there!

I wanted to give you a heads up that things will be 'different' around here come September.

We are going to the parents of four children...

No, I'm not pregnant! LOL

To make a looooong story short, my cousin (single mom) is being deployed to Kosovo for what we hope is only a year, and she has asked us to take her six-year-old son while she is away.

So little Johnathan is going to come all the way from the East Coast to live with us--people he has never met who live in a state he has never seen...poor little fellow.

Prayers would be greatly appreciated! Prayers for Johnathan. Prayers for his mom, Heidi. Prayers for my family as we all adjust. Prayers for wisdom.

And a thousand other prayers.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Until next time...

*smiles*
debbi

**All photos courtesy of photobucket.

Home Educating Family Publishing Giveaway

2011-07-11T16:04:00.000-05:00

Home Educating Family Publishing is having a wonderful giveaway!! Check it out here.

I'm back...for a minute or two!!

2011-05-24T07:02:00.000-05:00

Hello, my sweet blog friends! I got my new computer cord and now my life has hit SUMMER mode! I have decided to take a break from blogging for a few weeks, so that I can try to get my life in order, ha ha (as if that could ever happen!).

I hope you dear friends will stick with me. I am certainly planning to return, but right now family must take a front seat.

Happy summer weather!!

*smiles*
debbi

Sorry for the Long Absence, but...

2011-04-23T07:50:00.000-05:00

Hi, blog friends! I am still alive, but, alas, my computer is not. I am currently delegated to my I-Pad.

My wonderful puppy managed to kill the power chord for my computer, but I have ordered a new one which should hopefully arrive this week. Until then, no Silhouette, no Word, and (Whah!) no blogging.

I hope you will hang in there on me, and stay tuned for the return of my computer, lol.

Happy Easter, Everyone!

*smiles*
debbi

Cricut Cake Giveaway

2011-04-09T12:25:00.002-05:00

My sweet friend, Mistyrose, is giving away two slightly-used Cricut Cakes to TWO winners, and you can go HERE to enter for a chance to win!

The candy ends April 15, when Mistyrose will pick TWO winners using Random Generator. Since April 15 is Tax Day, winning would certainly put a bright spot in an otherwise dreary day, right?? LOL

NOTE: This giveaway is open to U.S. only.

*smiles*
Debbi

Tissue Box Holder

2011-04-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

Each month, my friend and I host a Card Night at my house. It is a small group of about 8 or so ladies, and we typically do one project and two or so cards. Last month, we made tissue box holders as our project.

This was my friend Penni's idea, and these are the instructions she provided:

"Tissue Box Cover

Start with a piece of 4.5 X 8.5 cardstock. Score at 2, 3, 5.25, and 6.25. Cut designer paper as follows: One piece at 4.25 X 2 and two pieces at .75 X 4.25. Fold up the tissue box then unfold and punch an oval on one flap. Fold it over and trace the oval on the other piece, then punch again. Adhere the decorative paper. Use sticky strip to adhere the box."

You might notice that I cut TWO pieces at 4.25X2", mainly because I didn't read the directions carefully, lol!

But it turned out to be a 'happy accident', because I liked how it looked!

Here is the finished project:

After making these, my kids and I decided to make about 20 more to give to the people that we delivered meals to for Meals on Wheels. The people loved them! It was a practical 'thinking of you' treat that didn't involve food (many of them are on special diets). It was fun!

It is finally looking like Spring around here, and I for one and glad to see the snow gone!! I hope you are enjoying a sunny day.

*smiles*

debbi

Tu-Tu To You, Too!

2011-04-01T07:26:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA lately, but life has kind of 'exploded' on me!! Nothing bad, just BUSY! For fear you will think I am gone from blogland, lol, I am taking a few moments to show a project I worked on recently.

I made a tu-tu!

I made it for my niece's birthday (she's turning 8. Wow!), so I made it a little longer than for a little girl.

Here is a closeup of the ribbon rose I made to go on the top:

I was surprised at how easy it was!! I looked up tutorials on YouTube, and I found a few different ones that really helped. It was really fun!

I have been super busy, and next week is going to be even busier! I have been making lots of craft projects, though, so stay tuned!! I will be posting soon about our Ladies' Card night projects, the sweaters (yes, sweaters!!) that I have crocheted, and the latest hats I've crocheted (told you I've been busy!).

I hope you are having a crafting day. I love those!

*smiles*
debbi

BLOG HOP CANDY WINNER!!

2011-03-21T07:48:00.000-05:00

I entered numbers 1-18 in Random Number Generator and the number chosen is........

18!!

Congratulations, Amy! I have e-mail you.

To the rest of you....there is still time to enter Mistyrose's a.maz.ing giveaway to win this:

Find out all of the details HERE.

This is the first day of Spring Break for us--YAY!! I am really looking forward to a week of catching up and crafting. I will (hopefully) be posting soon with pictures of my very first hand-crocheted sweater!! Well, if it turns out, that is, LOL!

*smiles*

debbi

International Friends Blog Hop!!

2011-03-18T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the International Friends Blog Hop (March 18-20)! You should have arrived here from Claudia. If you stumbled across my post and would like to start at the beginning, get all of the details of the hop from Sweet Magnolia Rose HERE.

The theme for this hop is to make a project that shows a favorite Family Tradition--something that we want our children to carry on, and I chose HAND CRAFTING.

Hand crafting is something that my grandparents and parents passed down to me, and it is a skill that I hope my own children will continue. My grandfather was a sign painter and artist, and my grandmother loved needlepoint. Both of my parents enjoy woodworking, and my mother is an artist. My own love of crafting began as a small child and has continued throughout my entire life. I love all types of crafting, but my favorites are card making, crocheting and clay (I guess I like alliteration, too, lol!).

Now that I am married and have children of my own, I am passing the love of crafting to my children. Nearly every holiday and gift occasion includes some type of handmade item. My children enjoy digital design and making gift boxes (oldest), card making (middle and youngest), and crocheting (all three), to name just a few.

Since Easter is coming soon, I decided for this hop to highlight some of the Easter crafts we have done in the past and are doing for this Easter.

Last Easter, I made these adorable little chick boxes to fill with Easter candy (chocolate, of course!). I found the idea online. You can read more about it HERE.

I also made this Easter card:

For this Easter, I am busy making crocheted Easter hats for a friends' granddaughters. Here are some pictures of one of my hats:

And what is a blog hop with candy??

Since I chose Hand Crafting for my tradition, I am offering this assortment of goodies:

In order to enter my candy, please follow me (if you don't already) and leave a comment. I will choose a winner and post the winner on my blog on March 21, after the hop ends. If I have an e-mail, I will contact the winner directly. This is open to anyone worldwide.

Mistyrose is also offering candy for anyone taking part in the hop and challenge. One lucky winner is going to win a gently used Cuttlebug and this:

For a chance to win the main candy, you must follow the rules posted on Mistyrose's blog HERE.

Now hop on to Mallika HERE, where you will see her beautiful project. Don't forget to collect the countries that each blog in the hop originates from.

My country is USA.

Handmade Ribbon Rose Card

2011-03-11T07:29:00.000-06:00

I recently found a tutorial HERE on how to make ribbon roses. I just LOVE making these!

Here is a card that I made using one of the roses:

Here is a closeup of the rose:

I added a tiny blue pearl to the center to match the blue in the dp. The cream ribbon is actually seam binding that I picked up at the local thrift store, and that is what I used to make the rose.

There are endless possibilities for these roses. They are so quick and easy--and fun! I think they would be so cute on headbands, hair clips, gift boxes, and so much more.

I sent this card with several others in a package for my SIL. It was her birthday recently.

I hope you have a wonderful day! And don't forget to check out about the International Friends Blog Hop I am so blessed to be a part of. Just click HERE for information.

*smiles*
debbi

Jar Full of Thanks

2011-03-05T16:02:00.001-06:00

Last night we had a great time over at some friend's house, and I wanted to make a card to show our appreciation. I decided to combine it with a couple of challenges, so here is what I came up with:

The blue dp is from DCWV Sweet Stack, and the pink dp is from the My Mind's Eye Happily Ever After collection. The white is from Walmart, and the grey is SU! Basic Grey. I cut the scallop oval with my Silhouette SD.

This stamp set is from Clear Dollar Stamps. It is called Everyday Jar-gone, and it is so cute. I find it a more difficult set to use, but I am actually really pleased with how this card turned out. I think I will be using that set more often...lol.

If you look closely, you can see the pink polka dots on the flowers. I stamped in grey ink on pink polka dotted paper and then lightly added some pink colored pencil. The 'sign' is on a SU! Basic Grey cardstock 'post'. I used SU! dimensionals on some of the flowers and on the 'sign'. The pink pearls and ribbon are from my stash.

I am entering this into two challenges:

Clearly Inspired Challenge #23:

And, Die Cuttin Divas--This sketch:

Hope it's okay that I turned it sideways...

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

*smiles*
debbi

Time4Learning Review

2011-03-04T09:34:00.001-06:00

Yesterday we finished up our one-month free trial of Time4Learning, an on-line Math and Language Arts curriculum.

Time4Learning is an on-line curriculum for Math and Language Arts for grades Pre-K-8, and includes Social Studies and Science in grades 1-6. Art is also available after the first month. Time4Learning can be used as a complete curriculum, a supplement to the curriculum you are already using, or as a summer school program.

When I began looking at Time4Learning, I admit that my response was skeptical at best. Because this curriculum uses video game-like teaching, I was uncertain if my children would learn anything. I knew they would love it (who wouldn't love playing video games for school?), but I, of course, wanted to be sure they would actually learn!

For the first several lessons my skepticism remained, but over time I began to be amazed at how much my children were learning. This curriculum is much stronger than it appears to be at first glance.

Some of the real strengths I found are:

Strong review--each unit is taught, quizzed, reviewed, then quizzed again. My oldest (7th grade) especially appreciated this in the Math.

The writing requirements are fun--My youngest (2nd grade) used to hate writing. Because he is able to create the background for his writing assignments (by choosing the people, room, props, etc. on the screen), and because he types his assignment rather than writing it, he really enjoys the writing assignments. He even asks to do school every day!! (small miracle)

The grammar is strong and understandable--My middle child (4th grade) struggles with grammar and has often become frustrated with any grammar-related assignments. With Time4Learning, she actually enjoys it. WOW. And, even more important, she gets it.

The reading comprehension exercises are timed--While this may not seem important, as a homeschool mom I love it! My youngest is still at the point where he does not enjoy reading (it is still work for him), but he is very competitive. Because the reading assignments (some of them) are timed, he has to beat the clock. After each assignment he is shown his wpm (words per minute) and is asked to read the assignment again, this time more fluently. I love that the emphasis is on reading fluently. My son does his reading assignments with little or no complaints now, mainly because he is always trying to better his "score".

Grading is immediate and automatic--My children and I both love the immediate and automatic grading!! This takes a lot of the burden off of mom, which allows me to work better in other areas.

Just a note: I noticed with the quizzes/tests, etc. that there is no pause capability. In other words, if my child needs to stop half-way through a quiz and exits, the grade is automatically entered and the unanswered questions are marked wrong. This grade is then recorded and averaged in, and I could not find a way to correct this.

What my children say about Time4Learning:

Oldest: It is easier to remember, great review in Math, "It's a lot more fun!"

Middle: "I like how in the Math, when I mess up, they let me go through it again until I learn it. I like the Language Arts how they have the videos and explain things to me through the videos, because they are fun and they explain stuff. It's not just boring old school."

Youngest: "I like Math, because there's a guy that explains it all and after Math there's a quiz. I like Science, because they have stuff like telescopes. I like Language Arts Extensions, because it is fun. I get to read about spiders. I like Social Studies because I learn about America and other countries. I LOVE the Playground!"

What Mom says: I love that my children love school! I do believe that they are learning and retaining what they learn. YAY! I also love that they are finished quickly.

There were, however, a few things that I do not love. I really dislike that this is a secular curriculum and not bible-based. While this is not a huge problem in the Math, I found several references to evolution in the Language Arts reading assignments, and especially in the Science. Because we are supplementing with other subjects and not using the Science for my older children (I sit with my youngest while he does his school, usually), I feel this is not a large enough issue to keep me from using Time4Learning. Also, I am told that the Parent Forum speaks specifically to this issue and warns of lessons that have evolutionistic content.
(I realize that this is not a problem for everyone, but since this review is about how Time4Learning worked for us I felt I should mention it.)

While I am still uncertain about the how of their learning (cartoon-led lessons are still very unconventional in my thinking!), I am now more certain of the what they are learning. I do feel that this is a solid program, and that the benefit of the automatic grading and no prep for me outways the few issues I have with Time4Learning's curriculum.

Will I used Time4Learning again? YES. We are going to finish out this school year using Time4Learning in varying degrees:

*My oldest (7th grade) will use it for Math, Art, and Language Arts. We will supplement with Reading, Writing assignments, History, Science and Bible.

*My middle (4th grade) will use Time4Learning for Math, Art, and Language Arts. We will supplement with Reading, History, Science and Bible.

*My youngest (2nd grade) will use Time4Learning for Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science and Art.
We will supplement with Read-alouds, Handwriting, and he will join us for some of History, Science and Bible.

I expect the next few months will be a good indication for us whether or not to use Time4Learning for next school year. I will post more about that in a few months!

I hope you have found this to be a helpful review. Feel free to contact me (using the Contact Me button at the top of this screen) if you have any questions.

*smiles*
debbi

Corduroy Button Card...And An Update on Heidi

2011-03-03T08:14:00.000-06:00

It is not often that I design a card around a button, but when my sweet friend 'M' gave me some SU! Corduroy buttons, I just had to make a card!!

Okay, okay...so I didn't make A card! I made TWO cards!

I LOVE these button brads! I'm a crazy for buttons anyway, but these are just soooo pretty.

The paper is from DCWV the Crafty Stack (love this paper!). I used a flower die (can't remember the name) with my Big Shot for the flowers. The first card uses a Martha Stewart border punch. The ribbon on Card 2 is Martha Stewart, and is stamped with a SU! sentiment. The sentiment on Card 1 is a SU! rub-on.

These cards were made for two special someones...My dear friend that just lost her brother, and my SIL, Heidi.

A HUGE THANK YOU to all who have prayed for Heidi! (See here, if you want to know why we're praying!) I can't tell you how much it means to know that so many people are praying for her.

Well, we have some great news!! Heidi has come through her chemo with flying colors (and no hair--bummer), and she should be coming home from the hospital tomorrow. YAY!! After her first round of chemo, the doctors did a bone marrow biopsy and (drum roll, please!) all the cancer cells are gone. PRAISE THE LORD!!!

Heidi will go through another bone marrow biopsy this week or next, and that one is critical. We are praying that the test will show that the cancer is still gone.

For now, we are praising the Lord for the good report. God is so good...no matter what the results are.

Thanks again! And have a super crafty day.

*smiles*
debbi

New Baby Hat

2011-02-28T19:20:00.000-06:00

Friends of ours from church just had their first baby...a girl! So, of course, I couldn't wait to make a hat for their baby! This turned out to be the first hat I've made that was actually small enough for a newborn!

I hope you can see the flower. This is so much cuter in real life! I can't wait to see it on that sweet baby's head...

I really need to find a doll that has the right size head, lol. The canning jar just doesn't cut it!

*smiles*
debbi

New Award!

2011-02-26T15:57:00.000-06:00

Cindylu over at Cindylu's Scrapping Room gave me this sweet award!

Thank you, Cindylu!!

There are rules (aren't there always rules for everything, lol):

When you receive this award you are supposed to:

1) Thank the person you received it from (did that!)

2) Share 8 things about yourself (that's a lot! I mean, who really cares to hear 8 things about me, anyway...)

3) Pay it forward to 8 blogs you have recently discovered

4) notify them of the Award!

Okay, here goes...

1. First and foremost, I am a believer in Jesus Christ. He died for me, redeemed me and I want with all of my heart to live for Him.

2. I LOVE to get new things...craft things, mostly. BUT I also love, love, love to put a smile on someone's face by doing something nice for them. That makes me very happy!! Sooo...when I win yummy stuff, I always share it. *smiles*

3. I'm a the home school mom that swore I would never homeschool my children! LOL

4. I also swore we would never get a dog...until this summer. Now we have a dog, and I. love. him. End of story.

5. I love chocolate. No, I mean, I really love chocolate. REEEAALLLY!

My kids bribe me with chocolate.

6. My favorite craft item changes from week to week, lol. This week it is pretty paper. Last week it was my Silhouette (still love that, tho!).

7. I am not a morning person. I get up by 5am nearly every morning, tho.

Just don't expect me to talk until I've had my coffee. Thank you.

8. I think I would love to be on a Design Team, but I don't think I am good enough...or have enough time, lol.

So, eight blogs I have discovered recently:

1. Gaby Creates

2. Happy Heart Studio

3. Hip Homeschool Moms

4. Kleirr's Kreations

5. Totally Temberton

6. Midlife Mysteries & Masterpieces

7. 23 Design Company

8. Turned Gypsy

I hope you have a wonderful Saturday! I really am trying to get to posting about the cards and hats I have made recently. Soon...

*smiles*

debbi

Your Story Giveaway!

2011-02-22T07:37:00.000-06:00

Good morning! I have a SUPER busy week, but I had a few minutes and wanted to let you in on a great blog candy!!

Cindylu over at Cindylu's Scrapping Room is giving away this:

And this:

And this!

Hurry over HERE to enter this amazing giveaway for your chance to win one of these three things!!

I am hoping to post some cards soon, so stay tuned. I also made a sweet tiny baby hat for a friend that is having her first little baby (a girl!) TODAY!

I hope you are having a thankful day today! We are so blessed, yet it is sometimes easy to focus on the difficulties in our lives rather than the blessings. My goal today is to keep my focus where it should be, how about you??

*smiles*
debbi

Candy Alert!

2011-02-20T14:58:00.000-06:00

Laurie's Layout is offering up this yummy candy:

Go HERE to check it out. Candy ends February 26.

Birthday Card for DH

2011-02-18T18:40:00.001-06:00

My dh's birthday is on Wednesday, so I made a card for him today while he was at work.

Don't worry, he doesn't read my blog, lol.

Here is what I came up with (which was totally inspired by the Creative Memories Spring 2010 Catalog!):

Here is top view, so you can see the dimension:

The cardstock is SU! Certainly Celery and Chocolate Chip. The dp was given to me, so I don't know who it's by. All shapes were cut out using my Silhouette SD. The swirls are from the SU! Like it a Latte set. The sentiments are SU! rub-ons. Ink is SU! Chocolate Chip.

I used dimensionals behind the sentiments and the stars.

I am entering this in these challenges:

karenskakeskrafts: Celebrate (birthday)
Die Cuttin' Divas: Stars

Happy Crafting!

*smiles*
debbi

One World One Heart Winner!!

2011-02-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

TODAY'S THE DAY!!

Today I got to pick the winner of my One World One Heart giveaway!!

This is what the winner gets:

And the winner is...

Martha Brown!!

Congratulations, Martha! I have e-mailed you and will send your hat out as soon as I hear from you!

Have a wonderful day!!

*smiles*

debbi

One World One Heart Giveaway

2011-02-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

If you are looking for my One World One Heart Giveaway post, go HERE.

Please scroll down for current posts.

Valentine Gift Box

2011-02-14T07:54:00.000-06:00

This photo courtesy of photobucket.

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day! We are keeping things simple this year, since we are so busy. DH and I hope to go out to eat next weekend, and tonight we are going to celebrate with the kids. We are going to order a heart-shaped pizza. :-)

I have a couple of things planned for my kiddos, but since they read my blog I can't share them yet, lol.

I can share a Valentine project that I made with my Silhouette:

I downloaded the GSD file for the box from Penny Duncan's Website. The file can be found HERE.

The swirl was part of a heart card, but I cannot find the original file. When I save GSD files to my computer I always write the name of the artist, but now I can't figure out how to get back to the place where the information was saved. If you know how, please tell me so I can give credit where credit is due. Thanks!!

I used Stampin'Up! cardstock for the box and white cardstock (Wal-Mart) for the swirl. The ribbon is from JoAnn.

In the second picture, you can see the "sparkle" I added. I used Champagne Shimmer paint from Stampin'Up! mixed with rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. It is my very favorite thing (which you already know, if you follow my blog!). I spray it on everything!!

Enjoy your Valentine's Day!

*smiles*
debbi

Your Story Giveaway!

2011-02-12T12:10:00.000-06:00

Create 'n Craft is giving away all this:

What is included:

12″ YourStory book binder / laminator machine
12 – 9″ x 11.5″ Laminating Pouch 3mil
12 – 4.5″ x 6.5″ Laminating Pouch 3mil
1 – Paper Trimmer
1 – 8.5″ x 11″ Binder-Black Leather Texture Portrait no window
1 – 8″ x 8″ Binder-White Linen Texture w/window
1 – 4″ x 6″ Binder-Black Linen Texture no window
1 – 8.5″ x 11″ Binder-Brown Leather Texture Landscape no window
1 – 12″ x 12″ Binder-Black Leather Texture no window
1 – User Manual
HURRY!! The giveaway ends Feb 13!! Go HERE to enter!

Please Pray for Heidi

2011-02-10T05:49:00.000-06:00

Good Morning, Friends!

I am sorry that I have not posted for a few days! I have some cards to post later, but first I want to ask you to pray.

Tuesday morning my Sister-In-Law was taken to the hospital with severe sweating. They ran some blood tests and immediately transferred her to the local Cancer Hospital. She has been diagnosed with Acute Leukemia and is currently undergoing chemotherapy.

Heidi is a single mom (widow--my brother died several years ago), and her one child (my niece Julie) is obviously struggling with this. Heidi is in her early 50's and Julie is in her early 20's. TOO young!!

I truly appreciate your prayers for Heidi and Julie!! This has come as a complete shock to us all, and we are praying that God will choose to heal Heidi. I know that God will give us the grace, no matter what He decides.

Thank you so much!

*hugs*
debbi

A New Award!

2011-02-07T06:36:00.000-06:00

I was so pleasantly surprised today to see that I have received an award from Terri at Terri's Tries @ Making Cards.

This is one I have not heard of before. It is the Liebster Blog Award.

The "rules" are simple.

First you need to post about the award and then thank and link back to the person who presented it to you. You also need to let them know that you have accepted the award. Then you need to select 3-5 people to present the award to and inform them.

So, here are my choices:

Emily from Too Blessed to Stress

Dawn from Dawn's Craft Place

Claire from Keirr's Kreation

Misty from Sweet Magnolia Rose

I enjoy these blogs for many reasons, not least of which is all the eye candy I find there. I mostly enjoy them for the sweet people behind the blogs. :-) I hope you will check these blogs out, and also visit Terri's blog!

I hope your day is full of crafting fun!

*smiles*

debbi

Thrifty Thursdays @ Totally Temberton--Homemade Cream Soup

2011-02-03T11:20:00.000-06:00

Totally Temberton is hosting a Thrifty Thursday Blog Hop! This is a new meme, and I'm excited to take part.

My Thrifty Hint -- Homemade Cream Soup

Recently, I was making my favorite Chicken Pot Pie, when half-way through I discovered that I was out of cream of chicken soup. OH NO! Supper was scheduled in less than an hour...just enough time to finish the potpie and bake it. Certainly not enough time to run to the store!

So...what to do? I pulled out one of my favorite books:

My mother gave this book to me many years ago, and it has saved my hide many times since, lol!

Back to the cream of chicken soup...or lack thereof!

I opened up to cream soup, and guess what?? Instead of "replace with sour cream" or something of that nature, I found a recipe for cream soup. YAY!

GWEN'S CREAM SOUP MIX

2 cups instant non-fat dry milk

3/4 cups cornstarch

1/4 cups instant chicken bouillon

2 T dried onion flakes

1/2 tsp pepper

1 tsp basil, optional

1 tsp thyme, optional

Combine all ingredients (I mixed mine in a gallon size zipper-type bag). Mix well. This mix makes three cups--equal to 9 cans (10-1/2 oz) cream soup.

To make the equivalent of one can of soup, combine 1/3 cup of mix with 1-1/4 cups boiling water in a pan and stir over low heat until thick. (My method: Whisk 1/3 cup mix and 1/4 cup COLD water. Set aside. In saucepan, bring remaining 1 cup of water to a boil. Whisk in cold water mixture. Stir until smooth and thick.)

Now, I am not a fan of dry milk powder in anything, so I was skeptical at first. But, since I was in a pinch, I tried it! And, honestly, I could not tell the difference in my pot pie.

Considering that I bought my dry milk at a discount store and my chicken bouillon powder for less than 50 cents, this was very economical!

Needless to say, when I shopped for groceries this past week, I rolled right past the cream of soup.

I hope you will head over to Totally Temberton and join in her Thrifty Thursday meme. Maybe you will learn a few hints that will save your favorite dinner, lol!

*smiles*

debbi

Card for Encouragement

2011-02-03T07:40:00.001-06:00

I made this card for a couple in our church that is going for a difficult time right now. The husband has been diagnosed with leukemia, and he is in the hospital with low platelet counts. This has been a difficult time for them both.

Here is a closeup of the flowers and scripture verse:

This verse is one of my favorites. It says, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Romans 8:18.

The flowers are what I like to call a "happy mistake", lol. I wanted to highlight the blue in the dp, so I used my Silhouette to cut out the flowers. I then glued the flowers, only to realize that I had glued the front of the dp instead of the back! OOPS!

Rather than cut out a new set of flowers, I decided to just glitter the front (sticky) side. It actually came out much prettier than it would have, had I not made my "happy mistake".

The dp is from K&Co Life's Journey, cs and pearls are from my stash, sentiment is Verve, glitter is Martha Stewart, flower from Silhouette SD, and ink is CTMH.

I am entering this card in the Stampin' Sisters in Christ Challenge -- blue and green.

I hope you have a day full of happy crafting!

*smiles*
debbi

Time4Learning Review

2011-02-03T07:01:00.000-06:00

Each year around this time, I begin to think through our home school curriculum and begin planning and researching for the next school year.

I ask several questions, like, What is working for us this year? and What changes do we need to make for next year?

I am looking more at on-line curriculum for next year. My children will be in 3rd, 5th, and 8th grades next year, and with our ever-increasing schedule I need some help! Keeping up with three different grade levels (lesson planning, grading, projects, gathering supplies, etc. in addition to all of my household and ministry responsibilities), has become overwhelming.

My researching led me to Time4Learning. I am considering this for my soon-to-be 3rd grader who is a visual learner (and who currently hates school, lol.).

I've been invited to try Time4Learning for one month in exchange for a candid review. My opinion will be entirely my own, so be sure to come back and read about my experience. Time4Learning can be used as a homeschool curriculum, for afterschool enrichment and for summer skill sharpening. Find out how to write your own curriculum review for Time4Learning.

I am thrilled to be able to "try out" this curriculum. I have some reservations, but I am anxious to see if my reservations are correct. I really hope this works for us!

I hope you will come back in one month to see what I have learned.

*smiles*
debbi

One World One Heart -- The Final Year

2011-01-31T08:40:00.001-06:00

Today is the first day of One World One Heart...a blog hop designed to bring together bloggers from all over the world. It is a fun and very interesting event!

For information on this event, please go here: The Whimsical Bohemian. A special thank you to Lisa for hosting this wonderful event. This is her fifth and final year.

Since the purpose of this event is to discover other like-minded bloggers, we are supposed to introduce ourselves. :-)

I am a stay-at-home-mom from the good ol' USA, and I homeschool my 3 children. I love crafts of any kind, but especially stamping and other paper crafts. I have been seriously blogging since the last OWOH event. I love blog-hopping, entering card challenges, reading, crocheting, and especially spending time with my family.

Since my family lives on one income (our choice!) I have a craft budget of virtually zero. Sooo...I enter a lot of giveaways. I use the things I win to make cards to give away, or just to give away what I win. I LOVE to give things away!! It makes me very happy to make someone else happy. :-)

One reason I like OWOH is that each blog that enters this event gets to give something away! This year, I have decided to give away one of my hand crocheted hats:

This hat will fit a baby around 3 months old. The crocheted flower is attached to a pin backing and can be removed.

Since I do not have a small baby to model the hat, I used my dd's bear. :-) Please note: The bear is not included in the giveaway!

The OWOH event continues through February 17. I will draw a winner and announce the winner's name on my blog. I will also e-mail the winner, so please leave a way to contact you with your comment!

This giveaway is open to all worldwide. I hope that you will host your own giveaway and meet some new bloggy friends!

*smiles*
debbi

For All You Homeschoolers...

2011-01-28T07:11:00.000-06:00

I just love to "discover" new blogs! I follow a ga-zillion blogs, and I read my blog dashboard faithfully. I just love to see what everyone is doing, creating, learning! I have learned so much and have seen so much eye candy.

Every once in a while, I come across a new blog (usually by following a link on one of the blogs I already follow) that I am really excited about. TODAY was one of those days!!

Today I found Totally Temberton.

Totally Temberton is a blog that has giveaways of Homeschool products! They also review HS curriculum, blog about HS freebies, and more.

YIPPEE!!

Right now, Totally Temberton is having a giveaway for a one-year subscription to American History for the Ears Ultimate Mega Collection. It is a $99 value!

Head on over to this post to enter, but hurry! This giveaway ends tonight.

For All You Vinyl Lovers...

2011-01-27T06:23:00.000-06:00

I am rather new to the "World of Silhouette SD", so I was pleasantly surprised to find out about a company called My Vinyl Designer. It is SO amazing!!

Basically, this is a software that makes Wall Art UBER easy. Sa-weet! They sell collections of already-designed wall art so that you can choose which designs you want and just cut 'em out.

I love my Silhouette more every day.

To top it all off, UCreate is giving away this amazing software!!!! Yep, you heard me...giving it away. One very blessed person (pick me! pick me!) is going to win all this:

LOVE it!

For your chance to win, head on over to UCreate HERE.

Hurry! ~~My name~~ The winner will be announced February 2.

My First Attempt at Paper Roses

2011-01-26T15:02:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I posted HERE about a great tutorial on how to make paper roses. Well, I tried it!

It was really fun.

I used a light-weight cream cardstock, and LOTS of tiny glue dots. If you watch the tutorial, you'll see where the glue dots come in.

I wanted my roses to be a little more, well, rose-like, so I twisted my paper every now and then to give it more of a petal-like appearance (clear as mud, right?).

Here is the finished project:

I used cream cardstock from JoAnns, and the DP is from a K&Co Specialty Stack. The ink is CTMH Twilight.

I wanted the card to look more Vintage, so I distressed it with SU! Creamy Caramel. I also added just a little piece of cream organdy ribbon on each corner (it just needed a little something!). Then I used Diamond Stickles to outline the frame around the sentiment, which is QKR Stampede. And, of course, I had to spray the roses to make them sparkly!

The DP was cut using my Silhouette. I downloaded a free pattern called the Scalloped Thank You Card by tiredlady47. It is from the Yahoo Silhouette Users group, and unfortunately I cannot provide a link because you need to be member to download files. (Here is a link to the Group, in case you would like to join. I found this file in New Files.) I adjusted the file to get the cut you see here.

I am entering this card into the following challenges:

Stampin' Sisters in Christ -- Vintage (ends Jan 29)
Top Tip Tuesday -- Fabulous Flowers (ends Jan 31)
Crafty Cardmakers -- Floral (ends Feb 7)
Mark's Finest Papers -- Sympathy (ends Jan 28)

I hope you are able to find time to craft today!

*smiles*
debbi

Diamond Grove

Balancing the HOME in Homeschool

Eraselets Review and LInk to a Giveaway!! Ends Dec 7

If You Post Pictures On-line You, NEED TO Watch This!

Creat Hope Designs and a Giveaway!

What?H…Hearts UnitedO…Orphaned No MoreP…Patterns With PurposeE…Even the Least of These

To Tiptoe...or Teach?

My Bucket List

Free Digital Scrapbooking Paper Pack

Love this!

Free Digital Paper Pack

Pastor Appreciate Month Cards

Free Digital Paper Pack

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!

MyMemories Studio Review and Giveaway!!

Today's the Last Day!!

Homeschool Giveaways is Hosting an A,MA.ZING Giveaway!

New Digital Scrapbook Pages

My Card for World Card Making Day!

Family Photos = Great Gifts! AND a Great Way to Display Them!!

33 Minutes That Will Rock Your World!

Wouldn't YOU Like to Win $500?

Wordless Wednesday

Another child is on the way....

Home Educating Family Publishing Giveaway

I'm back...for a minute or two!!

Sorry for the Long Absence, but...

Cricut Cake Giveaway

Tissue Box Holder

Tu-Tu To You, Too!

BLOG HOP CANDY WINNER!!

International Friends Blog Hop!!

Handmade Ribbon Rose Card

Jar Full of Thanks

Time4Learning Review

Corduroy Button Card...And An Update on Heidi

New Baby Hat

New Award!

Your Story Giveaway!

Candy Alert!

Birthday Card for DH

One World One Heart Winner!!

One World One Heart Giveaway

Valentine Gift Box

Your Story Giveaway!

Please Pray for Heidi

A New Award!

Thrifty Thursdays @ Totally Temberton--Homemade Cream Soup

Card for Encouragement

Time4Learning Review

One World One Heart -- The Final Year

For All You Homeschoolers...

For All You Vinyl Lovers...

My First Attempt at Paper Roses

What?
H…Hearts United
O…Orphaned No More
P…Patterns With Purpose
E…Even the Least of These