Winter Wonderland Blog Hop

Welcome to the Winter Wonderland Blog Hop sponsored by PSA Essentials!  You can visit their store at http://www.psaessentials.com/ and their blog at http://www.psastampcamp.blogspot.com/.

If you are just joining us, you can go back to the beginning at www.thescrapbookingqueen.com to see all of the beautiful projects.  If you came from Colleen at www.cbcscrapbooking.blogspot.com then you are on the right track!

For my project, I created this wintery layout...

To create my layout, I used the Wonderland papers, coordinating Stickease stickers, Chocolate ink and Twilight ink from Close to my Heart.  If you like my creations, please become a follower and like Curls & Grins Creations on Facebook.

All purchases on my Close to my Heart page support our family's adoption fund.  You can read the story here.

Thank you for stopping by.  Your next stop is Michelle H. at http://www.craftychelle.blogspot.com/.  Make sure to come back tomorrow for more great projects from another great group of ladies.  Happy holidays!

Christmas Cards & Cookies Blog Hop

If you are looking for Day 2 of the All I want For Christmas blog hop, click here.

If you are looking for the Christmas Cards & Cookies Blog Hop, read on...

Welcome to Round Two of the Christmas Cards & Cookies Blog Hop! You should have come from Linda T at  http://www.lindascreativity.blogspot.com . If you are starting here and wish to hop from the beginning of the hop, please visit Dena’s blog. There was so much response to the Christmas Cards & Cookies Blog Hop that it had to be split between two weekends. Round One was held last weekend. Round Two is this weekend, beginning on Saturday, Dec. 10th, through Sunday, Dec. 11th. We have a talented group of women who love papercrafting and baking. Each of them is sharing a recipe for a yummy Christmas treat along with a Christmas card or tag. Hopefully, you’ll pick up some great ideas for your own Christmas gift giving this season. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy!

My 6x6 card is inspired by a wonderful man we like to visit at Chip's Chocolate Factory in Kansas City.  Every time we leave, he says "Have a sweet day."  We made this card for him...

I used the My Community Cricut cartridge for the candy man and the gingerbread house.  The roof is covered with Fun Flock and glitter is all over the candy on this card.  We enjoyed making this card!

We also enjoy making cookies for Christmas.  One of our favorite recipes is Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: 

• 3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened
• 1 cupsugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• 1-1/2 cupsall-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoonbaking soda
• 1/4 teaspoonsalt
• 1-2/3 cups (10-oz. pkg.) HERSHEY'S Mint Chocolate Chips

1. 1 Heat oven to 350°F. 
2. 2 Beat butter and sugar in large bowl until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat well. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until blended. Stir in mint chocolate chips. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto ungreased cookie sheet.
3. 3 Bake 10 to 12 minutes or just until lightly browned. Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. About 3 dozen cookies.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Please be sure to visit Susan B at  http://susanascorner.blogspot.com/ next to see what she has to share with you!

Here is the complete line up if you get lost:
1. Dena J - http://missdjones.blogspot.com
2. Theresa Thescrapbookingqueen: http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
3. Lynda B-J: http://memoriesintyme.blogspot.com/
4. Jearise H: http://lorbysworld.blogspot.com/
5. Linda T: http://www.lindascreativity.blogspot.com
6. April N: http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com
7. Susan B: http://susanascorner.blogspot.com/
8. Kristy A: http://www.scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com/
9. Tami McD: http://tamboscreations.blogspot.com/
10. Melissa Haereiti: http://timeweavers.wordpress.com

All I Want For Christmas Blog Hop Day 2

Welcome to the "All I Want for Christmas" Blog Hop!!
We're so happy you could join us for this super-fun hop showcasing cards, layouts and projects that feature everything about what we want for Christmas!! You'll find an array of ideas throughout the hop -- We hope you'll enjoy each and every project along the way!!

If you've hopped over from Paula at http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com then you are in the right place!! If you've just popped in to visit my blog or are reading this via email and you'd like to join our All I Want For Christmas FUN, then please jump to http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/ at Lisa's blog!! Keep alert for blog candy along the way as some hop stops will be offering some goodies...

For the hop today, I made a layout showcasing one of my favorite family traditions.  On Christmas Eve, we each open one gift - our pajamas.  Some years we all get the same pajamas, some years we go with a theme or color, and other years it is completely random.  These little moments are some of our favorite memories.

I used the Roxie papers and a few different stamp sets available from Close to my Heart.   The people are from the Paper Dolls Cricut cartridge.

To be eligible for the grand prize blog candy, you MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment on her blog for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842. Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy. Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be. It will be a mini paper bag album that will come with all the pieces you would need to assemble the mini album.

Thank you again for checking out my project... Now hop on over to Jamie at http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com and make sure you come back tomorrow!

Here's a list of the entire hop, in case you get lost along the way or want to revisit anyone:
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Paula http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com
April http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com/
Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Anita http://anitaandbugs.blogspot.com/
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Melinda http://thepaperthumb.blogspot.com
Shawnee http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com
Rachelle http://www.creationsbyrachelle.blogspot.com
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com/
Theresa http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Suzanne http://www.cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/
Sherry http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/

All I Want For Christmas Blog Hop Day 1

Welcome to the "All I Want for Christmas" Blog Hop!!
We're so happy you could join us for this super-fun hop showcasing cards, layouts and projects that feature everything about what we want for Christmas!! You'll find an array of ideas throughout the hop -- We hope you'll enjoy each and every project along the way!!

If you've hopped over from Paula at http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com then you are in the right place!! If you've just popped in to visit my blog or are reading this via email and you'd like to join our All I Want For Christmas FUN, then please jump to http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/ at Lisa's blog!! Keep alert for blog candy along the way as some hop stops will be offering some goodies...

For the hop today, I've created a frame for a photo of the little boy we are adopting.  Christmas will probably come in January for us because that is when we should be able to bring him home. 

I used the Roxie papers, Cherished Flourishes, and Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge, all available from Close to my Heart.  The present is a mini ornament that I bought at a sale the day after Christmas (my favorite day to shop).  The flourishes are heat embossed in each corner with a mini brad to anchor each one.  The name is also heat embossed.

To be eligible for the grand prize blog candy, you MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment on her blog for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842. Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy. Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be. It will be a mini paper bag album that will come with all the pieces you would need to assemble the mini album.

Thank you again for checking out my project... Now hop on over to Jamie at http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com and make sure you come back tomorrow!

Here's a list of the entire hop, in case you get lost along the way or want to revisit anyone:
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Berenice http://karbersweetescape.blogspot.com/
Paula http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com
April http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com/
Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Anita http://anitaandbugs.blogspot.com/
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Melinda http://thepaperthumb.blogspot.com
Shawnee http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com
Rachelle http://www.creationsbyrachelle.blogspot.com
Indira http://craftyhomemade.blogspot.com/
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com/
Theresa http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Suzanne http://www.cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/
Sherry http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/

Christmas Home Decor Blog Hop

Welcome to the Christmas Home Decor Blog Hop!  If you came from Anita at http://anitaandbugs.blogspot.com then you are in the right place!  If not, head to Shannon at http://shannonleffew.blogspot.com to get started!

For my project, I created a countdown to Christmas box:

Inside the box are 25 cards of activities to do each day leading up to Christmas: 

This box is perfect because it looks nice on the shelf and serves a fun purpose.  The materials are all from Close to my Heart and can be purchased at www.ctmh.com/aprilnourse.  I used the Elemental papers and the My Creations Memory Game set.  The stamp set for the numbers is Little Reminder.  All purchases made at my site go towards our family adoption fund. 

Your next stop is Ashley at http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com. 

Christmas Verse Blog Hop

Welcome to Curls & Grins Creations! Today we are here to give God the glory for what is the real reason of the season with our favorite verse for Christmas that means so much to us...please read and enjoy the creations these wonderful ladies did on their blog. Now lets get this party started!

If you came from Tina at http://craftyandgreen.blogspot.com then you are in the right place. If you happened upon my blog then start with Kari at http://purplefuntastickcreations.blogspot.com/... We don't want you missing a thing!

We have a great prize to give away so you must comment on every blog along the way...easy peasy! :)

One of my favorite Christmas verses is Isaiah 9:6:
For unto us a child is born,
unto us a son is given:
and the government shall be upon his shoulder:
and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God,
The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

The shepherds, the wise men, Joseph and Mary all looked upon a baby and knew this verse.  It's almost overwhelming to imagine how they felt when they first laid eyes upon him.

I created this card with Isaiah 9:6 in mind.  I stamped Mary and Joseph using the 2nd generation technique and covered Jesus with Liquid Glass to make him stand out a little from the card.  I left it simple to keep the focus on Jesus.  "Celebrate the Season" is underneath the scene and the verse is stamped inside the card.  Below is my new favorite Christmas stamp set: Glory to God from Close to my Heart. 

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have been inspired and remember the important reason for the season! Have a blessed Christmas and holiday season!

All purchases at my Close to my Heart site go towards the adoption expenses of our son.  This year, we will get him just in time to celebrate our first Christmas together, though it may be a few days late.

Let's Talk Turkey Blog Hop Day 2

Hello, and WELCOME to the the "Let's TALK TURKEY" Blog Hop!! We're so excited that you could join us for this WONDERFUL two-day hop!! Please be sure to visit BOTH days for maximum ideas, maximum FUN, and maximum chances to WIN!! Our hostess, Amy at http://www.lovetocrop.com, has some SUPER prizes for a few hoppers, so be sure to check out all of those details on her blog!!

If you have hopped here from Theresa at http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com/ then you have arrived at the perfect spot in the Turkey Coop!! If you are just popping in to visit, please take a trip back to Amy's Blog (http://www.lovetocrop.com) to start at the beginning -- we've got a bunch of Gobble-Gobble-Goodness, you won't want to miss out on any of the FUN!!

1. Amy ~ http://www.lovetocrop.com/
2. Shawnee ~ http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com/
3. Anita ~ http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com/
4. Ashley ~ http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
5. Linda ~ http://www.lindascreativity.blogspot.com/
6. Colleen ~ http://www.cbcscrapbooking.blogspot.com
7. Rhonda ~ http://scraphappenswithrhonda.blogspot.com/
8.Theresa ~ http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com/ - your last stop
9.April ~ http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com - you are here
10.Michelle ~ http://www.craftychelle.blogspot.com/ - your next stop
11.Kristy ~ http://www.scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com/
12.Sher ~ http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com
13. Robin ~ http://scrapandchat.blogspot.com
14. Melissa ~ http://acreativejourneywithmelissa.blogspot.com/
15. Shannon ~ http://www.purplelionpaper.com/blog/
16. Jamie ~ http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com/
17. Janet ~ http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
18. Jessica ~ http://scrappyluvs.blogspot.com/
19. Nancy ~ http://blog.fancywithnancy.com/

This is the front and back view of our place cards...

On the back of each card is a turkey trivia question.  The answer is written inside the card.  Just a little friendly competition to see who can get the most right.

They were created using paper from my stash, the My Community Cricut cartridge and Close to my Heart stamps and inks.  By the way, if you guessed (A), you are right!


Thank you again for visiting, for the next stop in the Turkey Coop, please hop to Michelle at http://www.craftychelle.blogspot.com/.

Let's Talk Turkey Blog Hop Day 1

Hello, and WELCOME to the the "Let's TALK TURKEY" Blog Hop!! We're so excited that you could join us for this WONDERFUL two-day hop!! Please be sure to visit BOTH days for maximum ideas, maximum FUN, and maximum chances to WIN!! Our hostess, Amy at http://www.lovetocrop.com, has some SUPER prizes for a few hoppers, so be sure to check out all of those details on her blog!!

If you have hopped here from Theresa at http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com/ then you have arrived at the perfect spot in the Turkey Coop!! If you are just popping in to visit, please take a trip back to Amy's Blog (http://www.lovetocrop.com) to start at the beginning -- we've got a bunch of Gobble-Gobble-Goodness, you won't want to miss out on any of the FUN!!

1. Amy ~ http://www.lovetocrop.com/
2. Shawnee ~ http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com/
3. Anita ~ http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com/
4. Ashley ~ http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
5. Linda ~ http://www.lindascreativity.blogspot.com/
6. Colleen ~ http://www.cbcscrapbooking.blogspot.com
7. Rhonda ~ http://scraphappenswithrhonda.blogspot.com/
8.Theresa ~ http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com/  - your last stop
9.April ~ http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com  - you are here
10.Michelle ~ http://www.craftychelle.blogspot.com/  - your next stop
11.Kristy ~ http://www.scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com/
12.Sher ~ http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com
13. Robin ~ http://scrapandchat.blogspot.com
14. Melissa ~ http://acreativejourneywithmelissa.blogspot.com/
15. Shannon ~ http://www.purplelionpaper.com/blog/
16. Jamie ~ http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com/
17. Janet ~ http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
18. Jessica ~ http://scrappyluvs.blogspot.com/
19. Nancy ~ http://blog.fancywithnancy.com/

This is an invitation to our family Thanksgiving dinner...

It was created using paper from my stash, the My Community Cricut cartridge and Close to my Heart stamps and inks.


Thank you again for visiting, for the next stop in the Turkey Coop, please hop to Michelle at http://www.craftychelle.blogspot.com/.

What I Am Thankful For Blog Hop Day 2

Welcome to the "What I Am Thankful For" Blog Hop. This hop is scheduled from Nov. 4 at 8:00 am through Nov. 5 at 11:00 pm (central time).

If you just happened to come to this blog, you can go back to the beginning with Lisa Peters- http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/. If you came from Cathie at http://cathiescafe-scraphappy.blogspot.com/ then you are on the right track.

We're so excited to be doing this hop and we have a fabulous lineup with some very talented ladies. There will be lots of fun projects, along with some great blog candy, and a great grand prize for this hop.

The hop is a 2 day hop so you will have plenty of time to make it through the whole hop lineup twice. Check out each blog and see what blog candy you can win at the individual stops. Please come back both days to see great projects.

Here is the complete lineup:
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Ashley http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Cathie http://cathiescafe-scraphappy.blogspot.com/
April http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com/ You are here
Sherry B http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com Your next stop
Anita http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Janet http://www.createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Shawnee http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com
Rachelle http://www.creationsbyrachelle.blogspot.com
Amber http://pixiperfectcreations.blogspot.com/
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/
Sherry W http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Linda http://lindascreativity.blogspot.com
Theresa http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Vicki http://mawmawsthoughts.blogspot.com/
Suzanne http://cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/

I created this card last summer while I was staying with my Grandpa.  I am thankful for him and I was thankful for the opportunity to give back some of the love that he has given me through the years.  I created this layout using Close to my Heart papers and stamps, glitter glue, and brads.

If you enjoy my blog, I would love for you to become a follower. I also have a Facebook page where you can find out lots of great information, including a special surprise to show my gratitude for everyone who likes my page!

As for blog candy...

To be eligible for the grand prize, you must visit each blog, leave a comment and then become a follower of every participant in this hop. You also MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment on her blog for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842. Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy. Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be. It will be a grab bag full of goodies!

Your next stop is Sherry B at http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com . Have a great day and please stop back tomorrow for another great project.

What I Am Thankful For Blog Hop Day 1

Welcome to the "What I Am Thankful For" Blog Hop. This hop is scheduled from Nov. 4 at 8:00 am through Nov. 5 at 11:00 pm (central time).

If you just happened to come to this blog, you can go back to the beginning with Lisa Peters- http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/. If you came from Cathie at http://cathiescafe-scraphappy.blogspot.com/ then you are on the right track.

We're so excited to be doing this hop and we have a fabulous lineup with some very talented ladies. There will be lots of fun projects, along with some great blog candy, and a great grand prize for this hop.

The hop is a 2 day hop so you will have plenty of time to make it through the whole hop lineup twice. Check out each blog and see what blog candy you can win at the individual stops. Please come back both days to see great projects.

Here is the complete lineup:
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Ashley http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Cathie http://cathiescafe-scraphappy.blogspot.com/
April http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com/ You are here
Sherry B http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com Your next stop
Anita http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Janet http://www.createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Shawnee http://www.blessedonthebrightside.com
Rachelle http://www.creationsbyrachelle.blogspot.com
Amber http://pixiperfectcreations.blogspot.com/
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/
Sherry W http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Linda http://lindascreativity.blogspot.com
Theresa http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Vicki http://mawmawsthoughts.blogspot.com/
Suzanne http://cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/


This week I have been reminded to be thankful for today. That's all, just today. One of my dear friends who attended my monthly crops passed away last night after a sudden illness. I just saw her at church this weekend and everything was just fine, so this is quite a shock to all of us who knew her.  Her time in ICU this week was a time of reflection for many of us.  We always make plans for tomorrow but we forget that this moment is all we have. Count your blessings and share your gratitude with those around you...

I created this layout using Close to my Heart products: Roxie Papers; 10 Things Stamp Set; Tulip pleated ribbon; Bling Assortment; Black, Colonial White and Desert Sand cardstock. My favorite element is the 10-Things Pocket. It includes 10 numbered strips, perfect for journaling. The hearts and scalloped circles are cut with the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge. I used Black and Tulip inks for stamping and distressing.

If you enjoy my blog, I would love for you to become a follower. I also have a Facebook page where you can find out lots of great information, including a special surprise to show my gratitude for everyone who likes my page!

As for blog candy...

To be eligible for the grand prize, you must visit each blog, leave a comment and then become a follower of every participant in this hop. You also MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment on her blog for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842. Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy. Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be. It will be a grab bag full of goodies!

Your next stop is Sherry B at http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com . Have a great day and please stop back tomorrow for another great project.

The Great Pumpkin Blog Hop Day 2

Hello, and WELCOME to the The GREAT PUMPKIN Blog Hop!! We're so excited that you could join us for this WONDERFUL two-day hop!! Please be sure to visit BOTH days for maximum ideas, maximum FUN, and maximum chances to WIN!! Our hostess, Amy at www.lovetocrop.com has some SUPER prizes for a few hoppers, so be sure to check out all of those details on her blog!!

If you have hopped here from  Lisa at http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com, then you have arrived at the perfect spot in the pumpkin patch!! If you are just popping in to visit, please take a trip back to Amy at www.lovetocrop.com to start at the beginning -- with all the pumpkins in the patch, you'll want to be sure to see them all!!

Lsat week, I took my daughters to the pumpkin patch.  We are always amazed at the variety of pumpkins and gourds.  We brought three home - one white, one orange with green around the bottom, and one orange with bumps all over it.  It was a reminder to me that God created us all to be different.  With that in mind, I created a card with an unusually colored pumpkin, standing out in front of an orange background.

To make this card, I used the Wild Card Cricut cartridge. The paper and stamped sentiment are from Close to my Heart, as well as the Chocolate, New England Ivy and Sunset inks used on the paper.

We would love for you to follow our blog and "like" us at www.facebook.com/curlsandgrins!

Thank you again for visiting, for the next stop in the Pumpkin Patch, please hop to Jessica at http://thecreativestamperspot.blogspot.com!

The Great Pumpkin Hop Day 1

Hello, and WELCOME to the The GREAT PUMPKIN Blog Hop!! We're so excited that you could join us for this WONDERFUL two-day hop!! Please be sure to visit BOTH days for maximum ideas, maximum FUN, and maximum chances to WIN!! Our hostess, Amy at www.lovetocrop.com has some SUPER prizes for a few hoppers, so be sure to check out all of those details on her blog!!

If you have hopped here from  Lisa at http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com, then you have arrived at the perfect spot in the pumpkin patch!! If you are just popping in to visit, please take a trip back to Amy at www.lovetocrop.com to start at the beginning -- with all the pumpkins in the patch, you'll want to be sure to see them all!!

In our family, we are about fun and happy days, not scary and spooky ones.  My pumpkin creation represents my three happy daughters with a simple reminder for you...

To make this standard card, I used two Cricut cartridges (Paper Doll Dress Up for the pumpkins and Potpourri Basket for the sentiment).  The paper and bronze glitter are from Close to my Heart, as well as the Chocolate and Sunset inks used for distressing the cardstock.

We would love for you to become a follower of our blog and "like" us at www.facebook.com/curlsandgrins!

Thank you again for visiting, for the next stop in the Pumpkin Patch, please hop to Theresa ~ www.thescrapbookingqueen.com!

What I Love About Fall/Halloween Blog Hop Day 2

Welcome to the What I Love About Fall/Halloween  Blog Hop.  This hop is scheduled from Oct. 7 at 8:00 am through Oct.8 at 11:00 pm (central time).

If you just happened to come to this blog, you can start at the beginning withj Lisa Peters- http://handmmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/.  If you just came from (name of person before you in the lineup)   blog, then you are in the right spot.

We're so excited to be doing this hop and we have a fabulous lineup with some very talented ladies.  There will be lots of fun projects, along with some great blog candy, and a great grand prize for this hop.

The hop is a 2 day hop so you will have plenty of time to make it through the whole hop lineup twice.  Check out each blog and see what blog candy you can win at the individual stops.  Please come back both days to see great projects.

Here is the complete lineup:

Lisa-  http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Lisa Pontious ~ http://honeybearzdesigns2011.blogspot.com/
Kristy ~ http://scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com
April http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com
Jamie - http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Anita--  http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com
Sher B http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Dena http://missdjones.blogspot.com/
Melinda  http://thepaperthumb.blogspot.com
Shannon http://www.purplelionpaper.com/blog
Janet http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Tammy http://tampatha.wordpress.com
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/ 
Sherry ~ http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Kari http://purplefuntastickcreations.blogspot.com/
Theresa: http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Vicki http://mawmawsthoughts.blogspot.com/
Mandie http://mandiesscrappin.blogspot.com/
Suzanne www.cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/
Jearise http://lorbysworld.blogspot.com/

                                                                                                   
To be eligible for the grand prize, you must visit each blog and leave a comment. You also MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842.  Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy.  Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be.   It will be a grab bag full of goodies!

I created this autumnal page using the Close to my Heart Dreamin' Workshop on the Go Kit.   Aren't those colors gorgeous?!  The papers are all sponge daubed with Goldrush ink and the sentiment is embossed with gold.  I also added a touch of bronze glitter gel to accent some of the flowers.

I have fallen in love with Close to my Heart's Workshop on the Go kits!  Each kit includes a Level 2 Paper Pack, My Acrylix® Workshop Stamp Set (C-size), embellishments and a workshop guide to make 2 full layouts, for a total of 4 pages.  There is also plenty of leftover paper to make a bonus project with only a couple of additional materials.  I then use the rest of my papers and embellishments to make cards.

Thanks for visiting!  Make sure to like our Facebook page where you will find our updates and occasional giveaways! All purchases made from my Close to my Heart page support the adoption of 6-year-old Guan Guan.  You can read more about his story at www.mamacurls.com. 

Your next stop is Jamie at http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com.

What I Love About Fall/Halloween Blog Hop Day 1

Welcome to the What I Love About Fall/Halloween  Blog Hop.  This hop is scheduled from Oct. 7 at 8:00 am through Oct.8 at 11:00 pm (central time).

If you just happened to come to this blog, you can start at the beginning withj Lisa Peters- http://handmmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/.  If you just came from (name of person before you in the lineup)   blog, then you are in the right spot.

We're so excited to be doing this hop and we have a fabulous lineup with some very talented ladies.  There will be lots of fun projects, along with some great blog candy, and a great grand prize for this hop.

The hop is a 2 day hop so you will have plenty of time to make it through the whole hop lineup twice.  Check out each blog and see what blog candy you can win at the individual stops.  Please come back both days to see great projects.

Here is the complete lineup:

Lisa-  http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Lisa Pontious ~ http://honeybearzdesigns2011.blogspot.com/
Kristy ~ http://scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com
April http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com
Jamie - http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Anita--  http://www.anitaandbugs.blogspot.com
Sher B http://www.patternsbysher.blogspot.com
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Dena http://missdjones.blogspot.com/
Melinda  http://thepaperthumb.blogspot.com
Shannon http://www.purplelionpaper.com/blog
Janet http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Tammy http://tampatha.wordpress.com
Barbara http://barbarab3.blogspot.com/ 
Sherry ~ http://www.upordowntheyrebeautiful.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Kari http://purplefuntastickcreations.blogspot.com/
Theresa: http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com
Vicki http://mawmawsthoughts.blogspot.com/
Mandie http://mandiesscrappin.blogspot.com/
Suzanne www.cricutcraftingrammy.blogspot.com/
Jearise http://lorbysworld.blogspot.com/

                                                                                                   
To be eligible for the grand prize, you must visit each blog and leave a comment. You also MUST visit Lisa's blog and leave a comment for the day and also become a follower at "Scrapping With Lisa" and her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrapping-with-Lisa/130882060268842.  Please let her know if you don't do facebook and she won't count that against you for the blog candy.  Now for the blog candy, I bet you are wondering what it could be.   It will be a grab bag full of goodies!

I would like to share with you our family's tree of thanks.  This has been an annual family tradition for nine years, since our oldest child was two.  We have done three-dimensional trees in the past and placed them on the Thanksgiving table, but this year it is a scrapbook page so we can add it to our family's scrapbook easily.

To create our tree and leaves, I used the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge (my favorite!).  The clouds in the background are made with silver embossing powder and liquid applique to give the dimension.  The year is added with Cork Alphabets.  All products are from Close to my Heart.
This isn't a perfectly executed page, but our kids always look back to our thankful trees and remember what life was like at that moment.

All purchases made from my Close to my Heart page support the adoption of Guan Guan.  You can read more about his story at www.mamacurls.com. 

Your next stop is Jamie at http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com.
Have a great day and please stop back tomorrow for another great project.

World CardMaking Day Blog Hop

Welcome to the World Cardmaking Blog Hop!  If you came from The Scrapbooking Queen, you are on the right track.  If you are just joining us, you may go back tot he beginning at Gill's blog.

Gill http://creationsbygillm.blogspot.com/

Tami - http://www.tamboscreations.blogspot.com/

Theresa www.thescrapbookingqueen.com

April http://www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com/ -  you are here!

Lisa G http://lisagarrow.blogspot.com/ next stop!

Melanie http://melaniespapercraft.blogspot.com/

Jennifer www.craftycardgallery.blogspot.com

Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/

Kari http://purplefuntastickcreations.wordpress.com

Using the Wonderland papers and Stickease from Close to my Heart, I created a winter card.

The dangling snowflake is a Stickease sticker with Liquid Glass and a gem placed in the center.  "Snow Days" is stamped in the lower left corner from the Snow Days stamp set. 


Thanks so much for stopping by!  Please continue to Lisa's blog next.

World Cardmaking Day with Operation Write Home

Welcome to Curls & Grins Creations!  To read more about us and our projects, please scroll down to our previous post.  Without further delay, here is our contribution...

This card is created using Close to my Heart products: Roxie papers, Remarkable Wreath stamp set, Holiday Trinkets stamp set, Kraft borders, Cranberry grosgrain ribbon, and Desert Sand ink for the edging.  The wreath is stamped in Chocolate ink and the berries are done with Cranberry embossing.  The sentiment is done with gold embossing.

Thank you for visiting our little world!  We would love for you to become a blog follower and a Facebook fan so we can stay in touch!

Flowers (and Cards) for a Family

Every year around this time, my girls and I sell Christmas cards so the girls can earn some spending money for Christmas gifts.  This year our family has agreed to put all of our profits towards our adoption which is progressing quickly.  We will continue to sell our handmade flowers - lapel pins, hair clips or scrapbook-ready for $2 each.  We are also selling Christmas cards for $2 each. Cards and flowers can be customized to your requests of colors and sentiments. These prices include shipping.  We also appreciate your prayers for our family and the little boy we are adopting.  You can read more about our adoption story on our Facebook page or place your order at curlsandgrins.weebly.com.  Oh, and the proceeds from your purchases at my Close to my Heart site also go towards our adoption.

School Blog Hop Day 2

Welcome to the School Blog Hop! This is a two day blog hop in which we will feature different projects both days. I hope you enjoy as you are hopping along. There will be a grand prize winner drawn from those who comment on all of the blogs both days. The grand prizes are from Cloud9 (or on Facebook) who is giving away a $20 gift certificate to their store. And Jens DigiStamps who will be giving away a $5 gift certificate to their store which is worth five digistamps. I would appreciate if you could take the time to check out their sites if you have time as we are happy to have them as our sponsors.

You should be coming here from Clare's blog, if not you may want to go back and start at the beginning.

If you get lost along the way, here is the complete line up:

Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Berenice http://karbersweetescape.blogspot.com
Ashley http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
Jessica http://scrappyluvs.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Amber http://pixiperfectcreations.blogspot.com/
Dena http://missdjones.blogspot.com/
Deborah F. http://www.scrappingmamma.net
Shelley http://shelleysland.blogspot.com
Clare http://cricutcraftyclare.blogspot.com

April http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com   - you are here

Jearise http://lorbysworld.blogspot.com/  - next stop

Kristy http://www.scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com
Brynn http://flairandfrillscreativity.blogspot.com/
Janet http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Staci : http://preciousmem.blogspot.com
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Cheryl http://cardsbycg.blogspot.com/
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Paula http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com
Crafty Homemade http://craftyhomemade.blogspot.com/
JulieK http://jk-littlebitofbling.blogspot.com/
Maria -http://www.mdcraftcorner.blogspot.com

This is a little rewards box I created for one of my kids:

I created this rewards box using the Memory Game, Elemental papers, Blue Ribbon stamp set and Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge - all exclusive Close to my Heart products. The edges of the box are sponged with Desert Sand ink.  I love that the chipboard elements and stamps coordinate with the Cricut shapes.  I used a small strip of Desert Sand cardstock across the bottom and also embellished with chipboard elements from the Art Philosophy pack and a few brads.

The memory game box has a magnetic closure on the front and includes 24 3x3" chipboard squares for an extra bonus!

 Thanks for hopping with us!  You can leave a comment here for your chance at our monthly blog candy and we would love for you to become a fan of our Facebook page.  As an extra bonus,

Your next stop is Jearise's blog.

School Blog Hop Day 1

Welcome to the School Blog Hop! This is a two day blog hop in which we will feature different projects both days. I hope you enjoy as you are hopping along. There will be a grand prize winner drawn from those who comment on all of the blogs both days. The grand prizes are from Cloud9 (or on Facebook) who is giving away a $20 gift certificate to their store. And Jens DigiStamps who will be giving away a $5 gift certificate to their store which is worth five digistamps. I would appreciate if you could take the time to check out their sites if you have time as we are happy to have them as our sponsors.

You should be coming here from Clare's blog, if not you may want to go back and start at the beginning.

If you get lost along the way, here is the complete line up:

Jamie http://myamusinglife.blogspot.com
Berenice http://karbersweetescape.blogspot.com
Ashley http://theglamoroussideofscrapping.blogspot.com
Jessica http://scrappyluvs.blogspot.com/
Christina http://cema1cema.blogspot.com
Amber http://pixiperfectcreations.blogspot.com/
Dena http://missdjones.blogspot.com/
Deborah F. http://www.scrappingmamma.net
Shelley http://shelleysland.blogspot.com
Clare http://cricutcraftyclare.blogspot.com

April http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com   - you are here

Jearise http://lorbysworld.blogspot.com/  - next stop

Kristy http://www.scraptasticalkreations.blogspot.com
Brynn http://flairandfrillscreativity.blogspot.com/
Janet http://createatdreamscrapbooks.blogspot.com/
Amy http://www.lovetocrop.com
Staci : http://preciousmem.blogspot.com
Lisa http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Cheryl http://cardsbycg.blogspot.com/
Gina http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/
Paula http://www.scrapyourworld1.blogspot.com
Crafty Homemade http://craftyhomemade.blogspot.com/
JulieK http://jk-littlebitofbling.blogspot.com/
Maria -http://www.mdcraftcorner.blogspot.com

I am working on my 2012 calendar and thought I'd share my September page with you.

 I created this using the calendar and Typeset A papers from Close to my Heart.  I also used the Art Philosophy and My Community Cricut cartridges to cut the letters and schoolhouse.  The arrow is created using Creme Brulee grossgrain ribbon and the photo backings are Juniper cardstock.  The letters are cut from Creme Brulee and Juniper cardstock. I sponge daubed the top of the calendar using Juniper ink and September is backed with Desert Sand sponge daubing.  The accent across the back is made with color-ready kraft borders.

 Thanks for hopping with us!  You can leave a comment here for your chance at our monthly blog candy and we would love for you to become a fan of our Facebook page.

Your next stop is Jearise's blog.