Fireplace Mantel Advent Calendar

This fireplace mantel advent calendar was created using my die-cut machine from Sizzix and the Santa hat die that I designed and license to them to sell.  I think it came out really cute and can’t wait to start sharing the treats tomorrow.  YAY for December and for all of the celebrations. I cut out 50 hats in red felt (25 fronts and 25 backs) and the fuzz with white …

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Hey Bus Driver – Appreciating Jo Packham

This post is super special.  Over the weekend I had a bunch of creative friends to my home to celebrate a milestone in my career…the ten page article in Where Women Create magazine.  We called it the Create – Make – Celebrate Retreat and we were so fortunate to have Jo Packham, the founder of the magazine, here to join us.  She is an amazing force of empowerment, love and …

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Holiday Baking with Heidi Swapp

This post is sponsored because I realllllly wanted to participate in sharing how awesome and amazing Heidi Swapp’s holiday line of baking products is this year.  The ideas and opinions are of course mine.  Holiday baking with Heidi Swapp is a fabulous way to create adorable little treats and goodies.  Before you read any further, add shopping at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store to your list because that is where …

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DIY Felt Garland For Sock Monkeys

When decorating with a theme that is somewhat obscure, sometimes creativity is required.  This DIY felt garland for sock monkeys is quick and easy…like CRAFT LIGHTNING! Creating for this series is always such a blast because I LOVE things that are simple and come out awesome! To make this adorable garland, I cut out circles and hearts in sock monkey colors on my Sizzix Big Shot. Then I sewed them …

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Elmers Glue Turkey Decoration

Glue art is always a hit with kids.  This Elmers Glue turkey decoration is super fun and festive. You will need: Elmers Glue Watercolor Paper Watercolor Paints Brushes The trick is to doodle your turkey with glue several hours before painting.  If you are in need of doodle support, you can trace your hand.  The glue has to be dry for it to work. Watercolors work the best for filling …

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Quick Ways For Helping Kids (of all ages) To Be Thankful

Things happen fast in today’s world.  Often times before there is a chance to reflect and celebrate gratitude, we are quickly on to the next life thing.  Here are a few quick ways for helping kids (of all ages) to be thankful this wonderful month of November and Thanksgiving. Cards:  Make cards and send them to people you love and appreciate. Jars:  The second one is great for kids who are …

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Udderly Smooth in the Classroom

This post is sponsored which means I am being compensated.  You had better believe that even so, the opinions are mine…all mine.  It is true, I am not a teacher…any more!  I was though.  I taught for years and LOVED it so much.  I think that Udderly Smooth in the Classroom is a great thing! This post is sponsored by Udderly Smooth and while my home and studio are not …

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Seven Layered Black Olive Spider Dip

Seven Layered Black Olive Spider Dip EEEEKKKKKKK!!!!!  We love Mexican dips with tortillas around here so this layered black olive spider dip is a hit.  I made it last night for Halloween snacking as an alternative to candy and the kids went nutzo. It is pretty simple.  Here is the recipe. [amd-yrecipe-recipe:25] Which layer would be your favorite?  Mine?  The cheese of course!!! Oh yeah, about those leftover black olives. …

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Blue Man Group #UniversalOrlando

This post is sponsored.  We were provided with tickets for the show but all of the opinions are mine and my family’s. We just got back from a family adventure to Universal Orlando.  I have so so so much to share!  The most important detail of our trip is this…once we got from the Orlando Airport to our hotel (Cabana Bay) on Universal property….we never left until it was time …

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Traveling Tips and Treats for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter #UniversalOrlando

Harry Potter Printable Travel Tips Countdown Activity Kids

Here goes…  Traveling Tips and Treats for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter #UniversalOrlando !  Oh my goodness…FOUR more days until we are at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  This is my last post and I am so excited to be sharing out countdown and a few travel tips.  Getting ready for this adventure has been pure fun!  We have been planning and mapping and counting days.  If you …

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