Midnite Lullabies Studio

looking forward...

2012-02-09T23:37:00.013-06:00

I'm headed on my way home again. Back to the land of snow and cold temperatures. I'm sitting in the airport, on a 3 hour layover, just watching the world go by. Thank goodness for my laptop,but still working on getting an internet connection. ...

I'm traveling solo this time. There is something pretty liberating about traveling by yourself.. although I prefer to have a travel buddy, I love that I can escape and just fade into the background. Where no one knows you and just observe people going to and fro.. racing to catch their connecting flight. My layover is longer than both my flights combined.. oh bother.

Although I will miss being at home with my family, I'm looking forward to getting back into my craft room and getting crafty again. I have new supplies on their way to me. How exciting. Lots of new and fun ideas thanks to my creative mama. Love feeding off her energy and bouncing ideas around. All three of us girls(my sister, mom and I) are creative in our own respects. Don't you just love being surrounded by creativity? It's so inspiring and so refreshing for my artsy soul.

Looking forward to seeing my fur babies and my guy. Having very dear and special guests at the end of the next week.. an upcoming Regimental Ball(can't wait to see everyone dressed up..especially my guy in his red Serge).

Time to get back to reality and into a normal schedule. So many plans for my little neglected Etsy shop.. this year I am going to make a better effort in adding things to it.. I got complacent last year.

Catching up on some cards that I haven't posted. Part of a big order for my aunt...

Looking forward to getting back to blogging regularly and visiting each of you!

Thankful for your visit!

~Becks

you've got mail...

2012-02-01T00:25:00.001-06:00

It's no secret that I have a soft spot for envelopes lately. I love tea staining them, shabby-ing them up, covering them in buttons..making wax paper ones..

I've used them on Christmas cards this year, love dressing them up and showcasing them front and centre. So when I saw the challenge over at one of my fave sites, City Crafter Challenge Blog, I knew I had to join the challenge!

I love making little envelopes..cutting them by hand..dipping them in tea. Is it easier to get a die and cut them? Possibly. I love cutting a pile and scoring them..folding them up and looking at them. Too much time paper crafting? Perhaps.. Truth be told I found the idea on Cherry's Jubilee blog and took off running.

I like the spring time feel of this one with its gorgeous green and the satin flowers. I'm loving the mild temps and weather of being back at home. Missing my fur babies, but not particularly in any rush to get back to the snow and cold of Saskatchewan. This card captures the feelings of spring for me.
Sending spring wishes your way!
~Becks
E.T.A This made the Spotlight Artist for week 94! Happy Dance:)

come in...

2012-01-27T16:12:00.000-06:00

If you are a dreamer, come in,

If you are a dreamer, a wisher, a liar,

A hope-er, and pray-er, a magic bean buyer...

If you're a pretender, come sit by my fire.

For we have some flax-golden tales to spin,

Come in!

Come in!
-Shel Silverstein

This banner makes me smile every time I see it..hanging in the entry way for visitors to see...encouraging them to feel at home...
It's made up of some of my favourite things to play with lately.. sweet smelling burlap..beautiful lace from my aunt- which I didn't want to give up; so I created something for myself to keep.. drop pearls and clear beads..chippy white jingle bells.. wonderful bits of trims(again, too lovely to give up) big ole buttons..its love; pure and simple. I have some pretty mini doilies to add to it..a little bit more bling for the buttons..but for now it hangs with its sweet shabby goodness brightening up my days at home.
Hope you are having a lovely day!
~Becks

lazy days...

2012-01-21T16:37:00.001-06:00

Its a lazy Saturday afternoon round here. Recovering from being under the weather this week. Sitting in front of a cracking fire..hockey game on...my sister typing away on her computer..sun is shining after a week of nasty snowy weather(a rarity on Vancouver Island). Loving the company and the quiet.

A lovey, dovey congrats card for a dear friend that got married..little personalized tags.. subtle indications just for them to pick up on(which they did)such as:

Their initials stamped near the silhouettes.. 'R' and 'D'.Blue accents...

Still obsessed with Waltzing Mouse Stamps..

My inspiration here? Think darkrooms and hanging photographs..and a slight obsession with banners of all shapes and sizes. This one made of paper and fabric scraps.

I've decided to enter this in Pixie Dust Paperie's January challenge. Hearts are peeking out from everywhere; button, chipboard and little stamped images..

I'm off to enjoy the rest of my lazy day..hoping my team will win.. be back soon!
~Becks

half revealed...

2012-01-14T01:55:00.000-06:00

"Words, like nature, half reveal and half conceal the soul within"-Alfred Tennyson.

I am home again...Visiting my family. I am where my heart feels whole again and my soul can be quenched. Back to the quiet beauty of Vancouver Island, BC. I just love being here.

Its where I catch up on laughter and stories, good food and good conversations.. cuddles from an old, sweet, tom cat. Makes me miss my fur babies a little less..

Going to the market and the farm stands..getting organic goodies..such simple things you miss living elsewhere.

Two different cards using the same silhouetted image, altered slightly (from The Graphics fairy...) Two sweet Easter cards that fit the challenge, 'Back to Black', over at City Crafter Challenge Blog this week. How I love entering the challenges over there..proud to say that I was the winner over there for last weeks challenge. It's such a thrill and an honour!
I'll leave you with a quote which I find to be so fitting for my visit home:

"The soul is not where it lives, but where it loves"-Proverb.
Thanks for visiting!
~Becks

love letters...

2012-01-08T22:56:00.001-06:00

Over the past decade I've learned that love is: selfless... a blessing; it can be humbling and overwhelming.

It is always evolving. It has been tested and tried. strengthened. doubled. It is by no means perfect. It is difficult and real.

It is our story. true love stories never end, they just get better with time.

Most importantly it has been one. a-maz-ing. journey. I wouldn't change a thing. I've been blessed to spend the last 10 years with one of my most favourite people.

My partner in crime, best friend and confidant..my strength.

Sharing the card I made for our anniversary. It just so happens to fit the challenge over at City Crafter Challengge Blog for this week (Save the date). Love how this came together. I was inspired by days of old, where one would receive love letters. I imagine they would be tied lovingly with a ribbon, be well worn from being read often. So many details here; love the lacy border...hearts, lock and key represent holding the key to my heart...4 hearts to represent our little family..and of course the date to remember our 10 year anniversary..
Have a good night,
~Becks
E.T.A- This was chosen as winner for week 90 at CCCB. Big thanks to the DT for selecting me, and many thanks to all those sweet comments!

making the cut...

2011-12-30T13:39:00.000-06:00

Once again the time has come to decide on what my 'one little word' will be for 2012. If you haven't heard of this before, it's the concept of finding(or letting one find you) one word to live by and keep close to you as you go through the upcoming year. Something to focus on in daily life. Something that speaks to you. Something to help enrich your life.

Over at CCCB this week the challenge is "make the cut", and as I decided to play along this week it got me thinking about what words would make the cut for 2012. So many words have come to me over the last little while; less, more, grow, learn, do, live...


Hand cut banners out of scraps is pure love for me...

Great, meaningful words. For me they are all intertwined. I want to simplify in the new year. Less time and effort on the less important things in life; more time spent wisely; grow as a person, a sister, a daughter, a friend... Do more. No more saying 'one day' or "I'll get to whatever tomorrow." Live in the moment.

So, after some thought and mulling it over in my head my one little word for 2012 is: 'LEARN'

Fussy cut eggs decorated with half pearls remind me of batik eggs.

In so many aspects of my life this makes sense. This sums up what i want for 2012. This is what I can apply to everyday:

Learn
...something everyday.
...to spend less time doing the things that I find clutter up my time.
(This goes hand in hand with 'more'. Which is why it made the list of OLW's. Spending more time doing what I love, or spending time with the ones I love.)
... to love more deeply.
... to speak more kindly.
... to manage time wisely.
... to accept what I cannot change.
... to let go.
... to live simply.
... to enjoy the moment.

I welcome 2012 with open arms. I can't wait to see what it brings and where it takes me. I want to come back to this spot next year and see how I've grown. What I've learned.
Have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!
It's going to be magical...
~Becks

the stockings were hung...

2011-12-25T10:10:00.000-06:00

...by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

Well neither stockings nor chimney have I, but the tree lights gleam and bounce off the bright round ornaments.. The house is quiet as I watch the sun rise. I'm most often the first one up on Christmas day. I love the quiet and calm of the house and the world before the festivities begin. I love being the first one up to start making pancakes while everyone is still snug in bed. One of my most favourite traditions.

This year is no exception. I'm the first one up. The pets are roaming around. My guy is sleeping soundly, only just come home from work a few short hours ago. The house is cozy and warm as I wait on my dough to rise.

Just thought I'd pop in with one last Christmas card. Perhaps one of my favourite ones this year. Loving the rusty style jingle bells and all the red and white. I'm hoping to re create this next year and shabby it up.
I hope that your Christmas day is full of good times spent with family and that you create wonderful memories!
Happy Holidays!
~Becks

letters to santa...

2011-12-24T20:11:00.000-06:00

Some of my fondest memories as a child around Christmas time was the yearly letter to Santa. I remember eagerly anticipating my mom bringing home the special papers to write our letters on. See, when I was a kid Santa would read our letters on t.v. I don't remember him ever reading my letter or my sisters, but it was fun to sit in front of the t.v. at 4:30 and listen to Santa in hopes he would get to our letters.

He would sit by the window at the North Pole in a big old chair, with oodles of presents around him and the snow falling outside the window. He was big and jolly; as Santa should be, and would read the letters out of a sack by his feet. Its funny how all these years later I can still see him clearly in that scene. His twinkling eyes and red cheeks, big full beard and his glasses perched upon his nose... good memories.

Of course back then it was all about material things, I love that I can look back and remember that. What new toy everyone wanted, asking Santa for it in hopes it would appear under the tree. Now years later I couldn't care less what's under the tree, but who's sitting around it with me. I think we were too little to actually grasp the concept, but I do remember being surrounded by grandparents and cousins, aunts and uncles eating good food and having a good time. Appreciating what we had and realizing there were others out there not so fortunate.

These cards are a tribute to those letters to Santa all those years ago. That feeling of wonderment and believing. I remember the year I found out there wasn't a Santa, courtesy of an older sibling of a friend.. I think it was too soon, now that I think about it. Such a shame that a part of the magical feeling of Christmas was gone. I hope one day when I have children of my own to keep that belief alive as long as possible.. there's few things in life that hold such a magical feeling as Santa and Christmas did back then.

Wishing all of you and yours a very Merry and Magical Christmas!
~Becks

snowflakes falling...

2011-12-23T02:55:00.022-06:00

...on my head. I'm of course singing it to the tune of 'Raindrops falling on my head'. I love when it snows. I could watch it for hours just falling. Silent and peaceful. I'm hoping for a snowy Christmas.

Snowflakes are one of my go-to stamps for cards at Christmas time, and I'm popping in today to show a few I did for very special customers this year.

I wanted to capture the feeling of looking out the window as the snowflakes fall. I spritzed Glimmer Mist over the card.. it had a wonderful shimmer in real life. My heat gun got a workout recently with all the heat embossing I did.

Kept these cards clean and simple..Once again I turned to kraft and white, loving the pop of dark green ribbon.. some of the prettiest cards are the simplest. I upcycled an old card from Christmas' past to cut out the mat stack(PTI). It had a wonderful embossed image on it that I just couldn't pass up.
Are you all ready for Christmas? 2 days left. I can't wait :)
Be back soon!
~Becks

star bright...

2011-12-18T21:36:00.000-06:00

Star light,

Star bright,

The first star I see tonight.

I wish I may,

I wish I might,

Have the wish I wish tonight.

I remember saying that little rhyme many nights as a child. I remember lying on the grass in the late evening, scanning the skies for the first star to make an appearance. It was a game to see who could spot the first star.

Just a couple of door hangers I made for my house this year. I love each and everyone.. they had to be different, and contain bits and bobs of things I love. Star button(I have a penchant for stars!) golden sea shells reminiscent of my past. I just had to add a bit to remind me of my beautiful homeland; often we would walk down to the beach or spend Christmas day out on the water in our boat.. I love the big brass button with its woven texture..rusty jingle bells and bows made out of scraps.. and the best part?

Up-cycling! Yep, these babies are made from cereal boxes! Hooray for being green:)
One of my guy's co-workers saw my pictures and ordered 4 larger ones for her family. Needless to say I've been busy whipping those up. I'll have pics of them soon too.
Just a quick visit today, more posts coming soon with many, many cards!
See you soon!
Happy Holidays,
~Becks

bake and create...

2011-12-11T23:28:00.001-06:00

If you stop and think about it, card making is a lot like baking. You begin with something tried and true..a recipe perhaps.. start by using the staples;flour, sugar and butter. Combine it all and add some additions; chocolate chips, nuts and vanilla.. Adding flavours and interest layer by layer. Or, in my case; card stock, patterned papers and great stamps. Topped with embellies and ribbons, buttons and tags. Yum!

Thankfully this time of year both of my favourite past times go hand in hand. Card making and baking. I'm about to embark on my holiday baking. It's becoming more and more of a ritual. I look forward to it every year. Of course I prefer to be at home and enjoying it with everyone. We have our annual Christmas cookie decorating party.. lasts for hours.. all of us gathered around the kitchen island, passing back and forth pastry bags filled with coloured icing..eating the embellishments; m+m's, chocolate chips, nonpareils-whatever we have scrounged together.. chatting and laughing..drinking tea or what not. It's such a great part of the holidays.

This year we are doing it long distance.. thank goodness for technology..keeping the traditions alive. Of course my sister always out does us with her confection reflections of all of us.. she does such an awesome job of creating sugar cookie decorated people. They are always too pretty to eat.. we usually leave them til last.. every year they get more elaborate. I love my cookie doppelganger.

Once again this year I am baking up a frenzy.. putting together goodie boxes for my guy's co-workers. I have a feeling this year some of them won't be making it into the boxes, since I'm staying put this year. A girl's gotta have some goodies in the house over the holidays.

Here's a card I made up for the show awhile back. I got the idea from seeing one of Cherry's cards..
I love the design so much(and had fun making the mini envies) I did them in another colour scheme.

Thanks for popping by, I'll be back with more cards soon!
~Becks

home for the holidays...

2011-12-05T23:46:00.000-06:00

I'm dreamin' tonight of a place I love
Even more than I usually do,
And although I know it's a long road back
I promise you...

I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me.
Please have snow and mistletoe,
And presents under the tree.

Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light beams.
I'll be home for Christmas-
If only in my dreams.

If only in my dreams...This year I'm not going home for Christmas.. I'm making up my home for Christmas this year. It will be such a change..so different from what I'm used to. Just my guy and me and the fur babies. I'm sure the days will be speckled with visitors and friends also not heading home for the holidays. In this career family we make our own, welcoming any 'orphans' in with open arms. Creating new traditions...

This week I'm guest designing over at City Crafter Challenge Blog. The theme is 'Home for the Holidays' and the challenge is to have a home(house) on your project or to make a holiday home decor item. Since I've been making Christmas cards left and right these last few days I thought I'd show you two that I've made up

One traditional holiday colours, one a bit off kilter. If you can't tell in head-over-heels-in love with 'Love Lives Here' dies. They are scattered throughout my projects lately. My first card with its trio of little houses; topped off with some corrugated, painted love, to imitate snow topped roofs...hand painted smoke hearts. I used a little artistic flair and added some snow drifts..that's as far as I go.. I'll leave the true art to my sister...The darling little houses on the patterned paper is a few years old...Basic Grey-the name escapes me now..

That sentiment truly speaks to my heart.. It is essentially how I view Christmas and how I feel. The house should be filled to the rafters with love and good people, good times and in creating wonderful memories.. It's not about the 'stuff' that comes with Christmas for me; I do appreciate and cherish each hand picked gift; but what I remember the most is the feelings, the great times and just relaxing with family. It's not so often we all are in the same room, at the same time for an extended period. I love the holidays.
How will you be spending your holidays? Why not head over to CCCB and join us in all of the fun? Hope to see you there!
~Becks

show and tell...

2011-12-03T13:41:00.000-06:00

Hi there,
Just popping in with some pictures from a trade show I did. I spent the better part of 2 weeks busily creating cards...

I am so glad it is over, although I'm still up to my ears in card making.. taking orders at the show, taking requests from my aunt, from the blog-o..I've yet to start my own Christmas cards.. I better get a move on.

I'll admit that the set up and display was a bit of a last minute decision.. I knew I wanted to use my large frame, but aside from that I had no idea. I decided to combine my love of reading with crafting and voila! A display I was pretty proud of.

Some crates from my craft room helped to add some height and interest.. I loved the touch the painted frames added.. next time I hope to have more time and do up more cards.. You think you have enough til you see them on the table..

My guy snapped a pic of me with the display just before the door opened. He was so good to stay with me the whole time, helping take payments, packaging cards, basically keeping me company and minding the table when I went out and mingled with the other vendors. It was such a good turnout. So thankful I was asked to do the show. I learned alot of what to do and what not to do for next time.
Thanks for stopping by,
I'll be popping in again soon with a bunch of cards!
~Becks

miles to go...

2011-11-20T23:49:00.000-06:00

Who's woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
-Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening, Robert Frost

It sure seems like I have miles to go before I sleep. So much to do, so little time. I'm popping in today with the birthday card that I made for my aunt- the aunt who always brings such great goodies with her; for my mom and me. Just a short post today, sharing another of my favourite poems as a child. I haven't been around lately due to being asked to do a trade show about 13 days ago. It is this weekend and I've been scrambling to make some stock. I am excited..nervous.. skeptical that I will sell anything. It is for a good cause(the animal rescue group out here) and I was tickled that my guys co-worker asked me to do this(Hi Kristy!). I will have lots of pics to show you once its all said and done. So this might be my only post until after the weekend. SO looking forward to decorating the house for the holidays and getting holiday shopping over and done with.
Have a great week!
~Becks

clean mind, clear mind...

2011-11-14T21:26:00.001-06:00

E.T.A- This card was chosen as winner over at CCCB for week #82!!! Happy Dance :) Thanks so much to the DT for choosing my card! It's such an honour :)
I spent the weekend reorganizing and cleaning my craft room.. it was to the point where I thought the floor had disappeared...do you get that way? Please tell me its not just me... I get so frustrated and run down creatively to see everything everywhere. Upended and hanging out of boxes and shelves, and I just can't concentrate or create.. every now and then I have to stop and clean up and clear away the clutter just to be able to breathe..a clean space equals a clear mind.

I will say that I had some 'help' in the state of my room lately...'help' in the form of a four-footed, Siamese mess maker..who loooves to climb up on my desk,(which is small to say the least)plonk herself down, and stretch right out- usually on top of my current project- and then proceeds to fall asleep.. great job little one... not so great for me. I usually end up working on my lap on a piece of cardboard. Needless to say when she stretches out she generally pushes everything off the desk onto the floor.. I think its her way of getting back at me for lack of attention..

That being said I was able to go through and organize all of my bits and bobs...I put in a new shelf organizer into my closet cubby hole and really organized. I love the way it looks...everything put back in a proper place. Found all sorts of neat things I forgot I had; even found a bag I had brought back home in September from my trip and didn't put away. It was fun to rediscover all the goodies my aunt had given me.

Just popping in with a mini thank you card I made for my friend Sandy for ordering her Christmas cards through me. Kept it pretty muted and used one of my cameos. *sigh* I can't get enough of them. Some of you have asked me to do a tutorial or asked how they are made. I use silicon molds and carefully set the white polymer clay into the mold and then layer over the background colour. It takes some practice to get just right and all in the right places, so no two are ever the same and they are all uniquely different from the last. I hope to have a bunch of cameos of all sizes up in the Etsy store soon.. Have some things to work on but fingers crossed they will be posted soon for anyone who likes them.
As usual just squeaking in to the challenge over at City Crafter Challenge Blog.. the theme is 'Thanksgiving'.. Here in Canada we celebrate it a good month before our American neighbours.. but it is fun to play along none the less..
Give them a check, I bet you get hooked into the challenges too..
Thanks for the visit!
~Becks

mama...

2011-11-11T23:58:00.000-06:00

Mother is a little girl who trod my path before me;
Just a bigger, wiser little girl who ran ahead-
Bigger, wiser, stronger girl who always watches o'er me,
One who knows the pitfalls in the rugged road I tread.

Mother is a playmate who will always treat me kindly-
Playmate who will yield me what true happiness demands.
She will never let my feet stray into brambles blindly-
Mother's just a bigger little girl that understands.

Mother is an older little playmate who'll befriend me-
Yesteryear she traveled in the path that's mine today.
Never need I fear a foe from which she might defend me-

Faithful little pal who ran ahead and learned the way.
-Author unknown.

Such a beautiful little poem... it speaks to my heart. It is of course for my mama..who's birthday is today. Whom I miss so much..wishing I could tell her in person Happy Birthday.

I hope she likes this card...I made it with her in mind. Had such a great time coaxing it into existence...

Lots of lovely layers...a handmade stick pin upturned; made by my talented blog buddy Stella..such a sweet gift that she sent to me.

It is soft and sweet just like my mama...and of course one of a kind.

Happy Birthday mom, wish I were with you all to celebrate.

Sending love, as always, across the miles.

All my love,

Becks XO

old man winter...

2011-11-07T00:58:00.000-06:00

I know he's coming... peeking at us from round the corner...the temperatures are falling steadily.. I am not ready; though I am prepared. Winter gear and clothing are all hanging in the closets.. recipes scoured for hearty warm filling dinners...We've been lucky so far this year to only have had a light dusting of snow one morning...it didn't stay too long, done in by the mid day sun... Last year we had more on the ground for Halloween.

So this year I know we are lucky not to have had it this late into the year... I know it will not last, and part of me can't wait for the winter wonderland to begin.. Although I hate going out in the snow, I love being snug-a-bug warm and cozy inside, watching it fall outside, gazing at it from the bay window in my living room...it is so calming and so peaceful and adds to the feeling of the holidays. To me, it doesn't feel like Christmas time until there's snow on the ground.. who would have thought that being an island girl majority of my life, I'd come to love when it snows.

I need to get crafty and start making some holiday decorations.. I know it will be here too soon and I want to be ready and enjoy it for as long as I can. Being this is the second Christmas in our new house, I've yet to decorate or have any Christmas/winter decorations(last year I escaped it all and went home for Christmas.. ) I am totally digging a shabby, vintage inspired theme...I'm thinking burlap wreath and linen runners on the tables, chunky pillar candles...pine branches and glitter on everything...a more muted colour palette of hunter greens and deep burgundy and cream.. there has to be cream. I am anxiously awaiting my Santa Claus special order doll from my mama (who just so happens to be an awesome doll artist..more on that to come!) I just hope my mischievous, fur-faced Siamese shadow will leave him alone..

Remember my tutorial on how to make ornament wreaths? Well here's some of the cards I made for my dear friend Sandy; a former co-worker of mine..a great soul and wonderful person to be around..we hit it off and the rest is history as they say..
I have to admit, these are some of my favourite Christmas cards to date. I always find them so hard to do, even tho they are in bulk. Something I struggle with year after year. Maybe I just need some retail therapy to have more Christmas-y things on hand :P

I love the combination of kraft and white..can you see the shimmer of glitter? I used my beloved Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist in 'marshmallow'..doesn't that sound scrumptious? die cut sheet music as a base for the wreaths and some little tags- just because I can't live with out them. I heat embossed the sentiment (love PTI's Snowflake serenade) and stamped some falling snowflakes.. I have to say I'm partial to the cream holly wreaths than the green ones..

I think I hear old man winter knocking on the door...
Night!
~Becks

p.s.a...

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-06:00

Just doing my part..

A public service announcement of sorts:) Have you heard? Pixie Dust Paperie is having a giveaway!!
If you haven't been before its a great place to get the neatest kits..a new one released each month and this month is sure to delight!
Why not check it out here?
You won't be disappointed!

the witching hour...

2011-11-01T00:22:00.000-06:00

All the ghouls, goblins, witches and monsters have come and gone for the night. It was such a treat to see all of the costumes; hear the excited chatter as they clambered up the stairs and rang the doorbell...

Even I got in the Halloween spirit this year again..dressing up as a firefighter. My FIL was a firefighter for 30 years and my guy inherited one of his helmets from when he was Captain.(he retired as a Platoon Chief) So, upstairs it came and along with a jacket of my guy's and one of my FIL's Fire Dept badges, and I became a firefighter for the night. The kids certainly got a kick out of it.

I love Halloween time of the year.. we carved our pumpkins again this year(you can see them here..) with my family-long distance via webcam.. always so much fun. We all get better and better with each passing year. There are plans in the works for all of us to be together next year for pumpkin picking in the fields(one of my favourite activities) and a carving marathon.

Along with Halloween, October and November bring with it many birthdays.. some of my most favourite people were born this time of the year. I love that all the birthdays are grouped together; April-June and October November. This card was made for my best friend.. and I love how it turned out.

So many dainty layers of paper and fabric trims...an organza rose with one of my handmade cameos. I'm still having a love affair with them.. Lacy goodness peeks out...another handmade goodie- the little key; all painted and glittered up.. and a little personal touch- The stamped 'C' in the corner banner...in honour of my besties first name. I love personalizing cards for the recipient...makes all the more special.
I am off now, going to try and relax after being on my feet for all 171 kids that popped by.
How was your Halloween night?
Thanks for visiting,
~Becks

boo to you...

2011-10-31T15:44:00.002-06:00

Happy Halloween!!

wreath wrap up...{tutorial}

2011-10-20T21:19:00.000-06:00

I'm in Christmas card mode courtesy of a dear friends request for some... She selected the reindeer wreath ornament cards I had put up on the blog last year here and again here. Awhile ago one of my blog readers asked for a tutorial on these and I finally have gotten around to it.
Lets get started shall we?

Supplies:

*fabric scraps or fabric cut into strips.
*thin cardboard and card stock
*glue(Fast grab Tacky glue is my fave here)
*hot glue gun and glue
*ribbon
*buttons
* sheet music or old bookprint
*glimmer mist or glitter(optional)
*scissors
*pinking shears

Start by cutting out a circle of cardboard the size you want your ornament to be. Cut a smaller circle out of the middle. Mine are roughly 3 inches wide.

Cut fabric into strips..mine were about 1/4 inch wide by an inch and a half long. I used pinking shears to give the edges some character.
Starting the first layer:

This is my new best friend. Last year I used hot glue to glue all of the layers. It is effective but you have to be very sparing with the application of hot glue (in my opinion). This glue is awesome for keeping the layers where you want them to stick. And no burnt fingertips either is always a plus in my books. :)

Glue strips onto the circle leaving a bit overhanging into the middle of the circle. Turn circle over and glue down the bits overhanging to make a smooth inside of the wreath.

Glue more strips in between to complete the first layer.

Add in another layer of strips on top of the first layer (let the first layer dry first..I did a bunch of ornaments at a time layer by layer) Allow for different lengths for each layer. I ended up doing 3 in total. Stagger the layers over the seams of the previous layer so you get a nice effect in the end.

Here's an example of each step in the process. You can see how it gets filled out as you add layers.(click on picture to enlarge)

For a little extra shine and to make it more festive I used my Glimmer mist in Antique gold..you could use really fine glitter and adhesive spray should you wish. Spray all over finished wreath before added embellies.

Once your wreaths are all glittered up, cut circles of sheet music(or old book print would look fab as well) slightly bigger than your inner circle. Glue to the back of the wreath over the fabric scraps that have been glued down layer by layer.
**tip: trim all the excess fabric bits off to make finished product look nicer. **

Cut ribbon to make a loop to hang your ornament by and using hot glue, attach to the back of the wreath before securing a card stock circle the size of the finished wreath to hide all the mess we've created.I secured mine with hot glue as I found it made for a better finished product. (As you can see I changed models in between steps..ignore this. lol)

Add a handmade bow and a button as well as some embellishments to the wreath. Mine are from a package of confetti my mom got for me years ago. Attach to a card with some re-positionable adhesive, add to a wrapped present..sky's the limit. I've also thought of adding a nice diecut circle to the back card stock, to add a handwritten message to the back of the ornament.
Voila! Simple as pie and easy to whip up a big batch.
I'll be back to show how I used these babies on the cards for my friend.
See you soon,
~Becks

thankful for...

2011-10-13T21:11:00.000-06:00

We just celebrated Thanksgiving here at the beginning of the week.. it is one of my favourite times of year. A chance to look back at all we have accomplished, looking forward to what's yet to come.. being thankful for all we have.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am so thankful for technology..to keep me in touch with friends and family..It keeps me sane, knowing I can just reach out and talk to people all over the globe.

So grateful for relationships, cherishing friends that just understand who am I and what I'm going through on a daily basis.. Nurturing 'new' relationships which have been such a blessing to me over the past year or so. So glad that people have come into my life when they did and feel like they have been there forever..

SO thankful for my family...for phone calls and text messages.. talking almost daily. It's like I never left home...very comforting.. Thankful for our two fur faced Thing 1 and Thing 2 for being in our lives and making it unpredictable and fun.
Building our own little 'family' with friends.. making the most of being away from our individual families...making sure we included everyone for our little Thanksgiving dinner...lots of laughs and good food...surrounded by good people. A feeling of normal again..
I've had so much fun lately playing around with paper scraps and such...using some cool items from my aunt(the fluffy butterfly), making cameo's and mini keys.. in a very creative space of late, and I'm loving it.
Thankful for your visit, as always
Cheers!
~Becks

lovely layers...

2011-10-06T21:34:00.002-06:00

I'll say it again.. I love fall. Layers upon layers to be found...
Leaves layered on the ground in all shapes, sizes and colours...

Celebrations, holidays, and birthdays this month, there are a few...

Cozy sweaters layered over long sleeve shirts...soft scarves to keep out the crispness in the air...legwarmers and boot socks peeking out over comfy boots. I love dressing for fall.

Hot drinks with great spices...Chai lattes(my favourite) and pumpkin spiced ones too...Mexican hot chocolates.. great layers of flavours.. yum oh yum.

One of my favourite holidays this month. Hosting our first Thanksgiving for some of our friends without family out here..learning to make best of the situation...
Fall marks the start of hockey season.. watching the first game for my team(go Canucks go) as I type..games will get me through the winter and keep me sane..Fall is just wonderful!

Building on the layered theme..I had such a creative mode going the other night, playing in my craft room..using my new love; hand made cameos... be forewarned.-you will be seeing them regularly. I love the layering here..paper doilies, a crocheted doily..some lace from my aunt..ribbons, cameo, pearl drops, bling...love oh love.. I do hope my photos do justice..I can't wait for the recipient to get this card.. she is one of my most favourite people in the whole world...
Happy to add I stumbled across another new to me challenge blog Paper Sundaes..Going to add this to the current challenge of Lots of Layers
Now, I'm off to watch my team play,
Thanks for stopping by!
~Becks

dear Aurora...

2011-09-29T01:06:00.000-06:00

I wish I could capture the beauty that is so intrinsically you,and put into words the feelings evoked by watching your dance in the night sky. As I look skywards, standing in the crisp night air I wonder who else is watching you as I am tonight...

As I watch as you fade from vibrant jade green, to a soft dusky pink in the black inkiness of the sky; the stars twinkling as you wind and wave around them, I imagine I hear a swishing noise as you race across the great divide...but of course there are no noises that accompany you. The silence adds to your magic light show, and secretly is one of my favourite experiences.

It seems to me, that the colder it gets, the more beautiful and bright you emerge; gracing us with your presence almost daily lately..sometimes I get the chance to see you...altho I wonder how many times I have missed you, by simply not stepping outside into the night..I am always amazed and awed by your beauty; your sheer raw power as you put on a show for all to see.

You are my companion on nights when I am alone, or out walking the puppy in the yard. Some days I get to share you with my guy, which makes it all the more special. It is the best feeling when I get to see the reaction of family members who don't get to experience your daily visits like I do.

I hope there never comes a day where I take you for granted, but I know that one day I will have to move away from the north..it will be a sad day, as I won't know when we will have the chance to meet again. But know this; I will never forget the gift of your natural beauty and the memories of looking towards the heavens, humbled by the fact I got to see you so often. It is something that will stay with me for the rest of my days.

See you again soon my friend,
~Becks

pinspiration...

2011-09-18T19:33:00.000-06:00

halloween decor idea

Fall is upon us... I have a love affair with all things fall... summer is my favourite season, but I feel fall is going to over take it soon...whats not to love?

lantern love...
Big lanters, little lanterns, candles and white fairy lights... glowing carved pumpkins at Halloween...how I love old lanterns..

leaves and mini pumpkins...

Falling leaves.. I can't wait to play with the puppy in the fallen leaves in the backyard.. a special treat this year to share it with my pup. I know he will get a kick out of playing in the leaves with mama...tagging along with me through the yard as I rake..my floppy eared companion.

reminders of fall in my neck of the woods...
Seeing the wheat fields in gorgeous shades of gold and yellow...the landscape as far as the eye can see on our drive north..I can't wait for the journey home...hay bales all rolled and lined up in the sun.golden spun circles... I will have to get some photo's to share.

halloween approaches...
Crisp nights and cool days...foggy mornings and evenings..Halloween is one of my favourite days of the year. Awaiting mini ghouls and goblins, hobbits and witches, princesses and fairies and everything in between on trick or treat night.

old barn and harvest table=love
Thanksgiving in October..birthday celebrations.. a time to cherish loved ones near and far.. remember those passed away.. enjoying and cherishing every day...gatherings of family and friends for good food and good times.. Celebrating.

is there anything better than white pumpkins?
Fall decorations for the house.. a new wreath for my door...sunflowers harvested and displayed on the tables... fun projects to be made.. I can't wait to get home.

Just a little Pintrest inspiration for fall... popping in to say 'hi' while I'm visiting family.. missing my fur babies, anxious to get crafty again, all the while enjoying all the in-laws. A long drive here(36 hours) and the same journey home...Can't wait to reconnect with all of you and get more posts done. Hope to get in a card or two posted here before I return.
In the meantime thanks for the visit,
I'll be visiting all of you soon
Happy Autumn!
~Becks

seasons change...

2011-09-08T00:36:00.000-06:00

I am not ready to say good bye to summer just yet.. but it seems Mother Nature has other plans. It is slowly changing to my favourite time of year. I feel cheated out of summer..it was too rainy and grey this year to be considered summer. Hopefully fall won't disappoint.

The temperatures here are dropping over night.. cooler and cooler.. soon enough there will be that crispness in the daytime that signifies fall. Like summer, I know it will be all too short,over too soon, and old man winter will be here again.

Today I went down to the sand cliffs in our area. As I walked along the winding, hilly path dried pine needles softly crunching with every step, it was evident fall is on its way. The tall, skinny pines swayed in the breeze.. creaking and swishing ever so slightly. The sun shine shone its rays through the canopy and danced amongst the underbrush. The soft swishing sound of the breeze kept me company on my way down..a very surreal, peaceful experience. Sweet smells of the forest wafted on the breeze-the smell of pine trees and clean air.. something you must experience for yourself. All too soon winter will be here. Time to cherish the sun and warmth.

I'll leave you today with one of my favourite poems.. one that comes alive when I think back on my walk through the woods today. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

pine trees along my path

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
-Robert Frost

Thanks for the visit,
~Becks

make believe...

2011-09-05T16:49:00.001-06:00

As a kid I used to love playing dress-up. I remember my childhood friend had the best costumes- dresses and purses, heels and jewelry. We would dress-up and play make believe.

Pretending we were adults with our 'cheque books' and play money in our wallets. Doing all sorts of tasks we believed were adult related; cooking and buying groceries..filling up our bikes with 'gasoline' at the gas station. Having a road course in the driveway and down the street.. Thoroughly enjoying being a kid.

That neighbourhood held all sorts of businesses. From our travel business to our fashion shop, the post office and the classroom; our imaginations ran wild with only a few objects to play along with. How being a kid has changed.

By far we loved playing dress-up and having tea parties; fake and real ones on occasion. So when I saw the challenge this week over at The City Crafter Challenge Blog I knew I had to enter. I used my free hand, drawn dress form and dolled it up with some fab new-to-me old trim my aunt gave to me, some pearls-always have to add pearls, and see that little cameo poking out there? It's one of the ones I was talking about in this post here. Actually, I must confess my guy made these type..he has more patience than me..these are made from a fab mold I got my mom and oven bake clay. How I love these little beauties.A special stick pin from my sweet friend Stella peeks out from behind the bow.
I am off to enjoy the last night with my BIL's and the sweet sunshine.
Be back soon,
~Becks
E.T.A Thanks to the CCCB DT for choosing me as a spotlight artist for week #72! Such an honour.

appreciation...

2011-08-30T13:56:00.000-06:00

I love when my aunt visits.. she always brings with her oodles of goodies...she collects them for my mom and I(my mom is a fab doll artist)..through her thrift store she volunteers at. She has a lady that also collects for us, Anne.. anything and everything.. buttons, ribbons, old lace, trims..odds and ends.. blingy bits and pieces... I love up-cycling what people think has no more use.. breathing into it a new life..to brighten the day of someone else. How I love digging through the goodies she brings.

This trip was no exception..lots of vintage trims..buttons galore(oh la la..feeding my obsession) millinery flowers and leaves,beads and bling, charms and doilies.I came back home with such a stash.. my mom got the other half. It was so much fun sitting around the table sorting and sharing..ideas turning slowly in my head.. I can't wait to create with all these great finds..

Many of the embellishments I use have come from my aunt and Anne..many hours of collecting, cutting and sorting. I decided to make a set of cards to give Anne. She is an older lady and I wanted to give her a little something that contains many of the things she has collected for us over the years. It is a lot of hard work that I want her to know doesn't go un-appreciated.

Since this was an odd sized card I whipped up a little wax paper bag to send the card along with. Notice that doily there? It's part of a new obsession- making doilies. I was inspired by my blog buddy Joanne.. she makes the cutest doilies! Trying to use up my rub-on sentiments. I love that you can showcase them simply. Again I broke out my Waltzing mouse stamps.. I am more than slightly attracted to silhouettes and cameos..Actually made some cameos at my moms.. she has the most awesome molds. Don't worry. You will be seeing them frequently in upcoming posts. You may grow tired of me showing them..
I hope to get in a few posts soon. My brother in laws are going to be visiting.. when I have some down time I'll pop back in.
Til then,
~Becks

ties that bind...

2011-08-26T13:24:00.000-06:00

I am back from my short holiday..
Relaxed.. refreshed..ready to go. It's always a treat visiting family. Does my heart good; makes me realize how blessed I am. It also takes its toll on me somedays-a two sided coin; realizing just how far away I am physically.. although never in spirit.
I left my heart in B.C....

It seems there's never enough time to fit everyone in.. So many friends went unseen.. but not forgotten. There's always next time I say. This visit was all about family. So good for my soul to reconnect.. my mom had a full house. The best kind to have if you ask me. My aunt(my moms sister) was also visiting..staying longer than my guy and I were. So good to see everyone together.. That ever present invisible thread..the ties that bind us together as family.

Some of the best times were spent sitting around the big kitchen island, cup of tea in hand, just talking..reliving stories of youth.. learning more about family relations..hearing stories of my nanna and pa...keeping their memories alive. I love discovering things I never knew before.

Home again and just in time.. I will soon have a full house myself.. We are taking turns. First mama, then me, then my MIL.. A great month of nothing but family..visiting, talking, enjoying each others company.. My BIL's arrive in a couple days. I can't wait. I know my guy is looking forward to it.
Just a quick card I made for another little set for a very dear lady.. I will explain more in a future post..I had fun using tea stained goodies, romantic papers..keeping it simple..using little embellies..letting them shine. I do hope she likes it.
As always I appreciate the visit..
Looking forward to more posts soon,
~Becks

relaxation vacation...

2011-08-22T02:00:00.000-06:00

Whew. I finally have a few minutes to sit down and relax...We leave for a 6 day vacation tomorrow and boy, has it been a zoo around here. Trying to get the house in order for the house/pet sitter.. I don't know about you, but I hate coming home to a messy house after being on vacation.. That, and wanting the house to be clean and fresh for our sitter..

I am looking forward to the next week.. so excited..a little anxious(I'm a nervous flyer) but I know the few short hours on a plane are worth it when I get to spend time with some of my very favourite people..remembering at least I have a travel partner this time..and that some of us are coming a lot further than my guy and I are.

Lots of catching up to do... eating good food.. walks on the beach... seeing old friends...shopping with 'the girls'... enjoying each others company to the fullest. It's not too often all of us are in the same place in the same time. These days are the days I look back and and treasure. They keep me going on my darkest days.

This card is the last in the set I made for Alexis...I kept it simple and themed... cameo's and butterflies..I am smitten with Waltzing mouse Cameo To Go and Cameo Builder sets..

A mix of items used here.. Melissa Frances and Girl's Paperie papers..french bookprint..seam binding..a handmade doily..Maya Road trinket pins..tea stained paper doily..some more of the fab sticky backed, embossed lacy trim from my mama. I love when the all come together nicely..

Not the greatest picture but there they are-in all their glory.. I'll try and pop in with a post or two while I'm away..
Until next time,
~Becks

moon-catchin'....

2011-08-19T02:27:00.000-06:00

I've made me a moon-catchin' net,
And I'm goin' huntin' tonight,
I'll run along swinging' it over my head,
And grab for that big ball of light.

So tomorrow just look at the sky,

And if there's no moon you can bet

I've found what I sought and I finally caught

The moon in my moon-catchin' net.

But if the moon's still shinin' there,
Look close underneath and you'll get
A clear look at me in the sky swingin' free
With a star in my moon-catchin' net.
-Shel Silverstein.

Reliving some of my favourite poems as a child lately. How I loved, and still love Shel Silverstein's weird and wondrous poems. It sparked my love of writing and reading..I'm an advocate of kids reading at a young age...there's nothing better than reading a good book.
Sharing another card in the set I made for my friend...Finally got around to using the frame I crackled in this post here. Using my new Waltzing Mouse stamps.. how I love the cameo sets..I can and will use them over and over again. There's something timeless about cameos. Different patterned papers...which fits with the theme over at The Shabby Tea Room this week...*polka dots* I have a 'thing' about polka dots.. love love love them! You can see them poking out in the background..just the right amount of polka dotty goodness.
I'm off to link this up and head to bed.. this night owl is ready to turn in...
Happy weekend!
~Becks

growing...

2011-08-12T20:35:00.001-06:00

I'm loving this time of the year:

Watching my garden grow..

Seeing the puppy get bigger and bigger. He acts like he's still tiny .. 45 pounds and still tries to curl up on my lap..it's a fun experience.

My 'baby girl' Keiko..my Siamese kitty..growing like a weed.. only 6 months old and has completely stole my heart.. She's a curious kitty for sure...

Enjoying walks with the pup in the evenings..

Loving the sunshine.. when it makes an appearance..its been a rainy, grey summer this year.

Expanding my crafty horizons(more on that to come in future posts)

Rediscovering a love of exercising..being active..feeling great.

Looking forward to traveling out west to British Columbia, and back east to Ontario..(home for me and my guy)

Anticipating visitors in the form of two brother-in-laws in just a few short weeks...

Counting my blessings and realizing Mother Nature's power and beauty:

Watching the Aurora Borealis(Northern Lights)...so humbling and so beautiful in the night sky...

Experiencing a massive lightning storm..standing on the shore of the lake.. captured by the beauty..frightened, yet awed by the sheer power of it...

Keeping an eye on the ever rising river..hoping the rain will stay away and let the river recede...

Missing those no longer with us every single day..reliving memories ever so sweet..

Growing and learning...

Just sharing with you another card in a four card set I made for a great gal.. Lots of lovely layers. A little crackle technique on the butterfly..tea stained doily..my favourite papers and stamps.. perfectly imperfect stitching poking out..its love all around.
Thanks for letting me share a bit of my summer with you..
Before I go just a little 'hello' and welcome to a few new blog followers.. thanks for joining me on my crafty journey.
I'll be back soon with a few new crafty projects.
Night friends,
~Becks

mix and match...

2011-08-05T22:47:00.001-06:00

*ETA Happy Dance!!! this card made the Terrific Top 3 this week at The Shabby Tea Room:) Thanks to the DT for choosing my card. Such an honour*

If you're anything like me, when I am making cards I tend to hoard everything.. and I mean e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g. Including scraps of paper. I just don't have the heart to throw them away. In my mind I think that they are a) too pretty to throw out and b)I will find a use for them(eventually).. So, I keep them all.. trim them to make straight edges..and they sit... and sit.. and sit. Unused and unloved. Until now...

This hoarding has come about since I love patterned papers, and live so far out of civilization( and let's be honest- I have no patience to wait and wait for my online orders). This weeks challenge over at one of my fave sites The Shabby Tea Room is to mix and match patterned papers, using at least 3....this got my wheels turning.

I now have a reason to use all of my cut off ends and hoarded scraps...hooray! For this project I picked out a bunch of my favourite papers- Basic Grey(Capella and Porcelain collections) and Melissa Frances- and started playing around with the order..the colours I wanted together.. and this is what I came up with.. the pieces were all different lengths, so I trimmed them flush once I taped them all together(oh the wonders of double side tape:P) I love that they all are different widths too.

I just had to show a close-up of this fabby embossed 'lace'. It's something I have in my stash.. they are too pretty to part with.. my mama finds the most cool things when she's out on the hunt for her own art projects(she's an amazing doll artist..) I love the fact its sticky backed..and comes in long strips so you can cut just how much you need. I highlighted the dots with some mini pearls-a gift from my sister..(how they totally get me and my favourite embellishments..feeding my hoarding obsession lol)

All of those pieces of patterned paper sit on a piece of Japanese handmade paper(the blue at the bottom of the card) from my mama..book print dye cut(PTI mat stack)is the base for my doily and butterflies..I'm really digging layering these days.. more is more if you ask me... lol. Let's hope I don't over do it. This is one of a four piece card set for a dear friend of mine. Do you think she will like it as much as I do?
Just wanted to say thanks for stopping by the ole blog tonight. I love reading your comments..such great encouragement.

I'm off to post this to the challenge site..
'Til next time,
~Becks

moving on...

2011-08-04T22:24:00.000-06:00

Hiya, just me; back again...
Quilt square number 1 this time.. yes, I did them in reverse order..I thought I had a card to go with it...but amongst all the 'excitement' that was that week I plum forgot to take a picture of the card that matched this square. But let's start from the beginning....

Our very good, very dear friends Steve and Alexis (the first people I met when I moved to the North) have left us....moving on, as is the way with our guy's careers...one of the downsides if you ask me.. They have moved to their new posting...back home for Alexis; a new adventure for Steve.. It has been such a change in our lives.. I miss them everyday.. they used to live just around the corner for us.. Alexis and I often would walk over to each others houses for some girl time and tea. How I miss our tea dates..among many things I miss about them.

The week they were leaving and packing etc, got me thinking about homes.. and houses-as they were leaving their home here to start living in their new house. That, and being heavy hearted about their departure, I knew I needed to keep my hands busy..as is the case when I'm sad, and decided that then was a good a time as ever to start my art quilt.

Originally I knew that I was going to have a square dedicated to something 'home-like'. My home is a haven..I am still painting and decorating(a year on) to make it our own. I try to make it feel more homey for my guy.. try to make it welcoming after a long day at work...love to have the house full of wonderful smells of baked goods or yummy dinner cooking.. there's nothing better than that for me.. It reminds me of being at home when I lived with my family.. I so look forward to visiting home..there's no place like it..

The card was pretty much an exact copy of this.. just on paper.. used bits of fabric and trim..lots of hand stitching...very comforting and calming. I love that I can stamp on fabric and not have it bleed out.. there will be more of that in squares to come..
Luck have it, this fits in with the challenge over at the City Crafter Challenge blog. this week. I'm so glad to be able to get back into a couple of challenges again. I'm off to post this and have a peek at the other entries.. be sure to join me over there and play along!
Happy Weekend!
~Becks

keep calm and crackle on...{tutorial}

2011-07-27T21:43:00.001-06:00

I've been seeing crackling on many projects as I browse through blog land. I love the aged look it gives.. but living out in the North, 2 hours from the nearest city I don't have access to crackle mediums.. I figured there had to be a way to add that magic texture to my projects, with things I had in my stash at home. A few searches on the internet and I found out yes, I can give things a vintage, aged finish with just a few items I have on hand.. Boy was I ever excited.. a little doubtful.. but jumped head first into trying.
I bet you're asking what DO I need? Just 3 simple items : acrylic paint, white glue(such as Elmer's or craft glue...not Tacky glue.. for some reason it doesn't work.) and a sealer.

So how does it work? It's pretty simple.Not to mention fun.

First start off with an item you want to crackle. In my case I started with a Tattered Angels frame.
Choose two colours of paint.. one darker than the other.. more on that in a minute.

Start by painting the colour you want the cracks to be.. in my case I used an acrylic paint in a 'Country Maple" -a nice dark brown.. Allow to dry completely.

Once dry apply a nice layer of white glue. The deeper you want your cracks to be the thicker you should apply the glue..for thinner more delicate cracks apply it thinner. Apply the glue in the direction you want the cracks to appear...(I'm still playing around with this effect..not quite sure if it's true or not. More playing to be done :) )

This is the brand I have on hand.. ( you might have different results with other brands of white/school glue. Let me know, I'd love to hear from you..and see your results.)
Allow glue to dry to a 'tacky' stage.. not quite dry..about 3 or 4 minutes depending on drying times...different brands will vary.. In the mean time pick your contrasting top colour.

Once glue is at the tacky stage apply your contrasting top coat.
Some things I have learned:
Apply the paint in one stroke, not too thickly.
Don't go back and forth over the paint..It will result in no cracking.
After a couple minutes the cracks start to form. This method produces more of an aged, shabby crackle..unlike crackle medium which is more even and has smaller uniform-ish cracks.

Let the top coat dry completely.Once dry I usually antique it a bit more with some Distress Ink along the edges..sometimes on top of the paler cracks(if I use a lighter colour to begin with). Once it is shabbied up the way you want I suggest sealing it..Modge Podge is perfect.

This is what I use.. it adds a nice dimension to it as well.. use whatever you have on hand, just to help preserve the crackle of your artwork.

It takes some practice to get it just how you want it.. but that's half the fun.. playing around and figuring out what you like or dislike.. it works well on most surfaces.. even fabrics!!

The finished product..a little glaze on top and voila.. a nice aged piece to add to a card..be on the lookout for that post soon:)

Go on; Give it a whirl..
Let me know how it works out for you.. link to your project post in the comments section and I'll drop by and leave some love.. and please pass along any of your tips that you come across while playing around.. I'd love to learn more.
Happy crackling!
~Becks

make art...

2011-07-23T19:55:00.000-06:00

{pintrest}

I'm finding inspiration in all sorts of places lately; pintrest, tumblr..from interior design programs to home renovations.. new recipes and yummy things to cook and bake...so much inspiration..feeding my artistic soul...

I can spend hours online reading and pouring over images.. it's refreshing.. I'm finding my elusive mojo.. Once again I'm thoroughly enjoying creating all things. I have so many projects on the go at once. I'm sure you've noticed by my obvious absence in posting lately.. a few posts coming up..excited to share some quilt blocks for my Art Quilt project. A few cards(as a request of a dear, dear friend of mine.) to make.. Anxious to use my *new* Waltzing Mouse stamps(yes, I took the plunge..held off as long as I could..) a tiny tutorial or two...fun things to express my new found crafty self..

Today I'm here to share quilt block #2.. yes you read that right.. I've skipped over the first one I made.. you will see why in a future post(soon). It will make sense I promise.

So many ideas for my art quilt.. I spent some time writing them all down in my art journal.. I keep it close.. use it when I see interesting things online.. I always forget the ideas...say to myself "oh, I'll remember this, that or the other" then poof! It's gone and I'm on to something else.. Can't wait to see them all completed, together.

I've decided that a majority of the blocks will have some sort of theme and word scheme. I've chosen a bunch of words that I use for my daily life.. things I strive for, things I love. Words to live by...

My little frame.. I'm ever so proud of it. See that crackling? I love the aged look..it reminds me of an old garden bench...The best part of it? No need for those crackling mediums..you can do it at home with a few simple ingredients! I'll have a small tutorial on that my next post.. you won't be able to stop yourself once you start..

And there she is.. in all her glory...bits and bobs used.. scraps of this and that..leftover pink trim..scraps of chipboard stamped and antiqued using Distress Inks..french bookprint..handmade fabric pompom... so much fun and a few techniques learned making this block. I hope you like it.
Before I go:

{from Pintrest}
Off to make some more art...be back soon,
~Becks

the gathering storm...

2011-06-29T17:49:00.000-06:00

My little 'helper' Keiko, digging through my box of goodies

The days here are getting more summer-like as the days go by. After a week of nothing but grey skies and rain, we are getting warm sunny days. Around here after hot summer days come the thunderstorms. They bring with them charcoal grey clouds. You can see the storm gathering, clouds blocking out the sun...thunder rolling and rumbling in the background..quiet at first then louder as the storm approaches. Sometimes the thunder and clouds are accompanied by big,fat raindrops; sometimes not.

I too have been gathering.. some of my favourite items...sorting through boxes of embellishments and ribbons, trims and chipboard...collecting fabrics of all sorts. Patterned and plain, faded and pale...a nice muted colour palette. Can't wait to dig in and start my art quilt project.

It was fun digging through boxes and my stash to find wonderful things to play with...doilies of all shapes, sizes and mediums..my handmade trims..dainty old flowers, sheet music is a must..it will be incorporated in all sorts of ways.. Music, after all, is my first love. Mini crocheted flowers courtesy of my dear friend Ros; shells and fabric flowers(which I may dunk in some tea to add some vintage goodness) some lacy medallions.. So many ideas floating around..

Chippy white bells, rusty coloured brown bells, chipboard, bling..beads...tea stained trims, mini ornate metal frames and my favourite creamy organza ribbon.. yummy.

Pearls, book print. Buttons.. there will be buttons. Lots of lovely buttons. Tea stained envelopes, resin embellies.. gorgeous seam binding from 5dollar french market..(take a peek.. I adore this etsy store!With such great names of seam binding colours, like Cafe Creme, Mint tea and French Vanilla, how could you not?)

Isn't this fabric stack just delicious? I'm drooling...I love the colours and patterns.. such inspiration. My quilt base will be muslin.. the bottom layer of the stack.. the squares(sizes yet to be determined) will be tea stained broad cloth and these goodies will be incorporated over and over and over..
A closer look:

Heavy on the pictures today, I know... but I hope you get some idea of the fun I've had gathering all these items. And the fun that's yet to come. My little helper,Keiko, was purring furiously while digging through my box of goodies.... I think she understands just what my feelings are towards that now full box.
Another storm has hit...I must go
~becks

live inspired...

2011-06-21T01:11:00.001-06:00

Life around my way is busy...
Not enough hours in the day..
Projects around the house taking up too much of my time...
Drained physically, mentally, creatively.
Needing new outlets for inspiration.
So many projects swirling in my mind...

I'd love to make one of these for my craft space... I'm disenchanted by my little crafty space.. one of these could cheer me up.

(courtesy of Stig and Lolo )

(tumblr)
A display like this could brighten up my hallway.. I adore!

(tumblr)
Lucky for me, we just cut down a white birch tree... this is on my summer to-do list!

I think its time to take a different direction on the blog-o. I need to break out of this un-creative, mojo-less funk I am in.... time to slow down and appreciate the little things in life... have you seen this over at Ali Edwards blog??? I'm excited to start this...solely on the blog here.. I'm not much of a scrap booker...By no means do I lead an exciting life, but I'd love to see what I come up with...keeping my camera within reach all the time.. a little glimpse into daily life... I feel it will be a fun experience!

(tumblr)
My idea of perfection...so inspired...I could spend days in a library like this..

Another project on my list... hopeful that it will bring back some creativity...allow an outlet to just create and be happy.. Melissa Phillips and Mish are doing Art Quilts.. amazing idea.. I can't wait to find some tea stained, shabby chic, buttoned blinged goodness to make my squares out of..

(Country Living)
MMMMMmmmm button love... there will be many of these on my squares.

(Life is a beautiful place to be)
OOOhhh layered lacy goodness... my gears are turning now... I predict some of this will make its way on my art quilt too...

(Etsy)
I ~~want~~, no I need. to make one of these.. or two.. or five...
My posts will hopefully be more consistent..I'll still be doing cards but I won't feel so obligated to post.. when I don't I beat myself up about it..I feel I should be posting more.. then I get all worked up and that's not what my blog was intended for. More posts like these..my art quilt blocks..a week in the life(and a few day in the life of me.) Making blogging a lot more fun..
SO, I'll be taking a slower approach..I'm looking forward to working in the garden... immersing myself into everything culinary;baking a TON of goodies... cooking new recipes.. enjoying good food..good wine.. fires with friends...traveling back home to visit my family and my guy's family...visitors from out of town.. my four footed fur babies...being inspired by life.
Hope you will be along for the journey
Night my friends,
~Becks

new beginnings...

2011-06-17T15:19:00.000-06:00

" A new baby is like the beginning of all things- wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities."

We have babies arriving left and right in my little spot of the world. Many sweet, little babies...full of promise..an infinite future ahead of them. Sweet couples become a little family.. very cute indeed.

I'm very content to keep my fingers busy making all things baby related. There's something about baby items that relaxes me.

This little number is for a cutie pie that arrived last month. I've been so busy lately.. better late than never..I love these little anchor buttons.. I had to enhance the image by rubbing the buttons with white paint.. just the effect I was looking for. I hand stitched the onesie. I am fighting with my sewing machine lately. One day we will make up..no time soon it looks like.

It feels good to be back crafting. Still not as frequently as I would like.. our monstrous fence project is still on going...my in-laws came to visit last week, and I am doing up a special order of baked goods for a wedding reception for very good friends of ours for tomorrow... I've missed my little blog. I need to visit your blogs and leave some love.. Boy, I can't wait to get back to normal life!
Before I go I must send a thank you to my dear friend Ros.. look what showed up in my mail box this week(we are having postal strikes here in Canada...I don't know how long it's been sitting there.)

How sweet?! I now have a Ros original to display in my craft room. So excited:) Thanks a bunch Ros! You are too sweet. Can't wait to get crafty with your goodies.. I'm a lucky gal!
Well folks, I'm off to finish off 5 dozen cookies with drizzle icing.. I'll have to post pics when I'm done.
Hope to be popping in here regularly again.. want to get back to challenges and some crafty projects.
Thanks for visiting..
Happy Weekend
~Becks

great expectations...

2011-05-28T22:00:00.000-06:00

There's a few babies headed our way around my place. Some already just arrived, some awaiting arrival.. many expecting mama's to be.

Two boys, one girl and one unknown(to me). Many baby showers to attend..some missed(by me). I made this for the sweet little girl. I must give it to my guy to give to the proud papa at work...I was so exhausted the weekend of the shower; we are putting in a fence and I've learned two things: it takes forever, and its a lot of work! It will end soon(I hope) and life can get back to normal and I can create and blog to my hearts content!

I kept this one sweet and simple. Made a little baby buggy.. stamped some images on some Melissa Frances papers.. in fact, all the papers used here are Melissa Frances.. How I love the sweet, soft femininity to her lines.. A PTI die cut edger, a perfect spot to tuck in a gift card for the parents and baby.

Just my luck, over at The Shabby Tea Room the challenge this week is baby related. Hooray! A post and a challenge to enter. Won't you take a peek and join, there's still some time left. I'm off to post and look at the other fab entries.
Thanks for stopping by tonight,
Back again soon,
~Becks

all's quiet on the {northern} front...

2011-05-16T23:06:00.000-06:00

It certainly has been quiet here hasn't it. I decided to take a break...was lacking mojo and motivation to create. That, and the fact we had a recovering pup(routine surgery) and a couple days where I was so sore from digging and planning my veggie garden.. a break was just what the doctor ordered. Good for the soul.

The weather of late has finally taken a turn for the better! We are enjoying lovely warm, sunny days.. it certainly lifts my spirit...the outdoors is calling me..the pup and I can finally head out on walks while my guy is at work. Summer has decided to make an appearance; and not a minute too soon! Barbecues, nights around the fire..swinging in a hammock in the shade..trips to the lake..catching up on reading.. I can't wait.

Just a few cards..rebuliding my stockpile. Deciding not to 'reinvent the wheel', going with patterns and layouts from before..

enjoying creating..

fingers contentedly working with familiar bits and bobs,

nothing new..just multiplication..

Sometimes quiet is just what I need....
~Becks

happily ever after...

2011-04-25T22:37:00.001-06:00

"Find me here, speak to me
I want to feel You, I need to hear You
You are the light that's leading me
To the place where I find peace again

You are the strength that keeps me walking
You are the hope that keeps me trusting
You are the light to my soul
You are my purpose, You're everything

You calm the storms, and You give me rest
You hold me in Your hands, You won't let me fall
You steal my heart, and You take my breath away
Would You take me in, take me deeper now

How can I stand here with You and not be moved by You?
Would You tell me, how could it be any better than this?

'Cause You're all I want, You're all I need
You're everything, everything
You're all I want, You're all I need
You're everything, everything" -Lifehouse

How I love that song.. so romantic.. poignant.. very much a love song. It was a song I listened to over and over when my guy and I started going out. It speaks volumes..it's everything I feel when I look at him. How blessed I am to have him.
A couple of good friends of ours are getting married. This card is for them. I'm sure they would relate to the song. They are meant for each other; very compatible.. so cute together. I am so happy for them..I know they will have a wonderful life together. They can live their happily ever after.
I decided to make a glassine bag since I didn't have any on hand.. decorated with a die cut, lightly stamped butterfly, complete with a handmade rosette. Lots of Basic Grey goodies..tried to capture the 3d effect of it all. Little personalized embellishments all over the place. I really had fun making this card for them. And, it fits with a couple challenges this week too! Over at The Shabby Tea Room, they have a gorgeous inspiration picture...challenge is to use butterflies.. I made this card before knowing the challenge. Funny how it fits.
Over at Kaboodle Doodles Challenge Blog this weeks challenge is "here comes the bride." I believe it is to do with weddings.. and this card fits just so. I'm off to pop on to the sites and post my creation.
Thanks for the visit,
Night all
~Becks
ETA: This card made honourable mention over at TSTR! I'm so proud to be chosen along with all the other talented ladies! Thanks to the DT!

catch a falling snowflake...

2011-04-17T23:46:00.001-06:00

Winter seems to have its grip on us here in the North. We had a few nice, sunny, Spring like days last week. Then old man winter let us know he was still around by giving us a few centimeters of snow.. covering the ground again. Showing us who's boss.

The last few days we have dipped back into the minuses. While walking the pup this morning large fluffy, light flakes fell from the sky. Slowly at first, one by one. I watched them drift and melt away. By the time we got back inside they were falling faster, and harder. It was wonderful to watch from the window. I remembered when the pup was a couple months old he would catch the falling snowflakes, opening his mouth wide.. snapping at them. A very cute sight to see him trying to eat the snowflakes. A part of me was a bit sad that maybe today was the last time we will see the snow fall before next winter. As much as I love summer, there's something about snow falling that puts me in such a calm place.

Today I decided to enter another challenge site. They are getting quite addicting. Today I'm playing along with The Play Date Cafe, and one of their colour challenges. Here's the colour palette to work with:

I used kraft cardstock as a base.. been awhile since I've used kraft. Some green and white K&Company paper in the background. Sheer tan and brown ribbons..a cream Maya Road trinket pin and stamp. Chenile flowers and some pale brown buttons.. I apologize for the pictures today. Once again the camera and I are at odds. Can't seem to quite get the lighting right. Rearranging my craft room today may help that. We shall see.

This card was inspired by the talented Cherry, over at Cherry's Jubilee. She did an amazing neutral version of this.( Much better than my attempt.) I fell in love with hers at first glance. Take a peek at her blog. You will enjoy your visit there!

Well, I have a busy day ahead of me tomorrow. Up bright and early for a trip into the big city. Had to pop on and post this card, and pop it up on the challenge site.
Thanks for the visit,
~Becks
E.T.A Just saw that I was an Honourable Mention cup of tea over at The Shabby Tea Room for last weeks challenge.. oh happy dance!

birthday bliss...

2011-04-16T19:11:00.000-06:00

Birthday season is kicking off next week for my crew. My guy celebrates first then a whole slew of birthdays follow.. I can't wait for mine to come around ;) I am one of those people who love celebrating my birthday, don't care who knows my age..Often people are shocked when I tell them how old I really am.

I have found that I'm usually last minute for making birthday cards. So when I stumbled across this blog, you can imagine how I felt. Such a great idea, having birthday card challenges so you are always with in arms reach of a fab birthday card.

Diving right in with the current challenge.. again, barely squeezing in before the deadline..a result of just finding the site...The inspiration picture was a beauty! I decided to play with the banner detail...I'm hooked on banners lately..using up little scraps..making a shabby cupcake.. using some corrugated cardboard painted and glittered up. Every cupcake needs a little glitter...

Trying to capture the 3d effects of the cupcake icing..all sorts of buttons, trims, stitching..I love the way this one turned out.

What do ya think? Does it pass the grade :) I better get this posted over on Birthday Sundaes blog before time runs out. Give it a check. I can't wait for the next challenge.
Thanks for stopping by!
Stay sweet :)
~Becks

the journey so far...

2011-04-13T19:15:00.000-06:00

I like looking back at previous posts or photo's to see how far I've come along this journey into card making and creating. The other day when Blogger informed me that I had hit my limit for photo uploading, I went back to older posts from over a year ago.. Deleting older posts I could do with out. I don't want to upgrade my online storage just yet. I got rid of some of the photo's I'd been storing online...just making a little more space to continue on with my journey here.

For me my blog is like a scrap book.. I can go back and see the progression.. Look at older challenges...seeing what I liked back then, and dislike now.. I think I've finally found my groove. My own style.. I'm loving feeling comfortable in my own card making abilities and not constantly comparing myself to others..

Closeup of center piece layers

I've decided to enter another challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room. It features some of my favourite items; doilies and lace. I used a combo of crocheted doilies and paper.. and used some lace to add dimension to the centerpiece.

*sigh* Don't you just adore that sentiment..I need to get more of Ali Edwards stamp sets. The way the script and handwriting go together amazes me. I think this one is going to my MIL, by way of my guy.. Mother's Day is coming up soon. Some PTI goodies; papers and my fave Love Lives Here dies.. Those little hearts make my day. Melissa Frances papers..some tea stained trim... I like the overall effect.

I'm off to post this over at the gallery and take a peek at some of the other talented ladies.

Talk soon,

~Becks

me again...

2011-04-10T20:28:00.001-06:00

just checking in...

enjoying the weekend with my guy...I love when he has four day weekends..

soaking in the sunshine gracing us daily.

watching the snow melt.. its amazing how fast its going. I'll be planting a garden in no time.

enjoying afternoon walks with the puppy..getting him used to the route..socializing with other owners and their dogs out on their walks...

crafting away while the sun comes pouring through the windows...such a lovely feeling of Spring even sitting inside. This card is inspired by spring, and the mood it puts me in. We are already planning out the backyard...lots of work to do: putting in a new fence around the perimeter.. making a new fire pit and seating area for those long anticipated, summer evening fires. Sitting around the fire talking with friends late/early into the night/morning...I can't wait for those nights..it's been too long a winter.

*sigh* I adore these little houses.. and the accompanying stamp set (Love Lives Here). I can't wait to see what other sets Melis can dream up. Such an inspiration she is... Lots of different papers used here; The Girls Paperie, Basic Grey, old book print.. a new love of corrugated cardboard..as seen on one of the sweet roofs. Used some 3D pop dots to add dimension to the card.

This is one in a set I'm making at the request of my mama.. I'll have to post the set up soon!.
Well, that's it for me for tonight.
I'm off to watch all my fave Sunday night shows, and who knows, maybe a little more crafting too.
Happy Spring!
~Becks

game on...

2011-04-08T20:31:00.001-06:00

I always have such a hard time with guy cards.. I love my bows and ribbons, glitter and buttons-anything girlie. I love adding little embellishments like tags; tucked away behind a flower; tied to a button, around a bow.. how can I possibly give up all those fun things and make them masculine???

My solution? A fun themed card for my sisters guy. I had so much fun with it. She gave me an idea to play with and I just ran with it. I'm so glad I did. Casey is such a gaming fanatic. This was the perfect card to wish him a Happy Birthday.

I loved the nights when we all would meet up online and her guy and my guy would game, and my sister and I would take over the mics and chat. Even though we were miles apart it was like we were in the same room together.

The front of the card...I went 'old school Xbox' for this card...The newer models are sleek and slim-lined...the older models have more elements to make a cooler looking card, in my opinion. For this one I used 3D foam dots to make the lines of the console stand out, kind of like they do in real life...

The game disc on the inside was pop up style.. to add some dimension to the inside as well.. I scanned in one of the games we played, shrunk it down to the size, and then hand cut a controller and decorated by using water colour pencil crayons. I incorporated all the elements that come to mind when I think of gaming My first inside and out decorated card.... I was thrilled with the end result and I know Casey appreciated the card:) Makes my heart feel good.

Before I go, I just want to announce the winner of the magazine giveaway I posted here. **drum roll please** Random.org selected:

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 2

Ros said... Your post makes a picture in my mind ... you sound more settled and happy now and I am happy for you ... your beautiful cards are a delight ... Enjoy your day Becks...

Congrats my friend! Feel free to email me your address if you'd like the magazine!! Look forward to hearing from you:)
That's all I have for tonight. I'm off to spend some well needed time with my guy and 'the kids'
Happy Weekend!
~Becks

happy days...

2011-04-05T12:27:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to announce I was chosen winner over at the City Crafter Challenge Blog for week 50! Thanks to the DT for choosing my lil card! I'm beyond happy! I'm off to post the winner badge on my sidebar..Thanks to everyone for their sweet comments!
Happy days!
*hugs*
~Becks