Crafting Overload!

I have crafting overload right now - so many projects, so little time!


We just got new carpeting upstairs, which set off updating paint in my boys' rooms.  Now I've decided to make new artwork - Sam is getting a burlap covered pin board, some scrapbook paper art, and a few more ideas that I'm trying to finalize.  Ben might get some Lego art. Stay tuned to see how it all turns out.


Of course I have other projects. I'm wanting to make a pennant banner for Valentine's day. I finished a twine wrapped letter "B" as a wreath for our front door, and a yarn wrapped wreath with felt flowers. I will post photos of these completed projects soon!


I'm also itching to sew - I want some cute kitchen towels with trim, and I want to make myself a plush owl. I also have a co-worker with a new baby, and every baby needs a gift!


So bear with me as I have craft ADHD, with 10 projects going on at once. It should be worth the wait!

Tutorial - Monster Chore Chart

 Is there a ten step program for people addicted to Pinterest? If so, sign me up!

I found a great idea for a chore chart, and decided to make one for my boys. They have been asking for an increase in their allowance, so this is a way for them to earn more money.

The finished product:

I think it turned out really cute! I started with a metal 12"x12" sheet from the craft store...

Then I glued on a piece of cute monster paper. I used letter stickers to spell out 'Chores' on a piece of cardstock, framed it, and added it to the top.

I used these metal key tags and removed the key ring, then I wrote out the chores and their amounts on the front, and glued a magnet to the back.

This chore chart is now hung inside our pantry, and my boys do a chore and put their completed chores in a cup to be paid out once a week. So far, it's working out well.

Lego Birthday Party

My youngest son turned 8 and we held his party at a local gymnastics center. He wanted to have a "Star Wars Lego" theme party.  Since we couldn't find what we were looking for invitations, we made our own. They were fun to make, and turned out great!

We also decorated goodie bags...

...and I made a lego cake - which gets an E for effort but a D for looks. There is a cake decorating class through Community Ed that I'm considering.

In the end, we had a fun party and a very happy birthday boy, and that's what matters most.

Happy New Year - and don't forget the less fortunate...

I took a few days off and celebrated the holidays with my family.  How can it be that the holidays just get better every year? Everyone got along, the food was great, the company even better.  My boys are at an age where they're pretty self-sufficient. They enjoyed time with their cousins and were truly thankful for all of their gifts.

At this time of the year, everyone tries to 'get back to normal.'  I had a real eye opening experience this holiday. My beloved Sister-In-Law has a new job - she is the homeless liason for her school district. She  is responsible for 250 students. I heard so many sad stories, so I asked what I could do.  She said the kids often ask for help getting the simple things - socks, underwear, quarters for laundry, and personal hygiene items. It seems everyone is in need these days, but the thought of going to school without underwear? Or being teased for having dirty clothes? That's just not fair.

My SIL says the Purex 3-in-1 laundry sheets are great for students, they're lightweight and easier to carry than a bottle of soap.  Amazon has them on a great sale right now, so I ordered several packages.  Then I went to Target (love, love that store).  Have you ever noticed how they have their 'repackaged' items at a discount? I found so many packages of socks and underwear - all on clearance because the packages had been opened.

Last but not least, I have scarves coming out of my ears - yes, even after giving away about 20 of them as gifts. So tomorrow's mail will contain a big box to my SIL - full of socks, undies, scarves and laundry supplies.  It feels so good to help these students.

What can you do to keep up that spirit of giving?