brown paper packages

{labels, labels, labels!} + silhouette promo

2012-03-01T13:30:00.002-05:00

I love and use my Silhouette ~~just as much~~ probably more for organizational purposes as for home decor. It's ridiculous how excited I am about labels...it's a sickness really. Today I'm going to show you two different labeling ideas--one using chalkboard vinyl, and the other with frosted glass vinyl, and I love them both!

{chalkboard labels for your food storage or pantry}

Down in the unfinished section of our basement is a room for our food storage; a place for our pantry overflow, and the 3-6 months of food supply that we like to keep on hand. I have all the food and dry items separated and organized, but it's amazing how many times I send kids to to get me a can of something or other, and they come back saying they can't find it. Does that happen at your house too? Lol. These vinyl chalkboard labels are the perfect solution, because in addition to clearly indicating each section, if I decide to move things around (which I'm inclined to do), it's a snap to change what's on the label.

I used a label that I downloaded from the Silhouette store, and sized it to fit the front side of my shelves. Once they were cut, and the negative space removed, I actually was able to just peel them off of the backing without using the transfer tape! They were on the larger side, and didn't require it, which was nice. If you don't have a Silhouette, you could actually still purchase the roll of chalkboard vinyl, and just use scissors to cut out rectangles--even a circle punch would work!

{frosted glass labels}

You've probably seen projects using an etching technique to permanently put a name on glass dishes--which I love. It really is perfect for those 9x13 baking dishes that seem to go from place to place, and need to find their way home again. The thing is, I don't necessarily want to etch my name on every glass dish I own, and sometimes I just want a temporary solution in lieu of piece of masking tape and a Sharpie.

The frosted glass vinyl works on glass dishes and even plastic containers, which makes it a really great temporary label when you need it! Are you taking a plastic or glass container to work, and leaving it in a community fridge? What about kids' school lunch containers? When I've used it before, it has made it through several handwashings before it started to come off, which is just right if it's for a temporary purpose. I was able to fit almost 20 labels on just a little more than an 8.5x11 space, which I found to be quite reasonable cost-wise.

It's also perfect for labeling non-food containers that are glass or plastic. Sometimes I'll transport containers full of project materials or other items and it's really nice to be able to mark them with my name.

In my Silhouette software, I created different text options in different sizes, and then FLIPPED them horizantally, so they would be cut in reverse. This is really important if it's going on the bottom of your dish/container, so don't forget that step!

Once they're cut out, I keep them in my kitchen with strips of transfer tape, so I'm ready anytime I need them!

.....

{March Silhouette Promo!!!}

I have great news! From March 1st through March 8th, you can save big on a Silhouette bundle that includes:

1 Silhouette CAMEO

1 roll of Chalkboard Vinyl

1 roll of Premium Transfer Paper

and

1 roll of Frosted Glass Vinyl

All for $299.99! Just use the discount code BPP!

If you already have a Silhouette, you can purchase a separate chalkboard and frosted glass vinyl bundle, excluding the machine, just click HERE.

{tutorial} how to publish your blog

2012-02-29T15:00:00.001-05:00

My family blog has now become my scrapbook, journal, and family history all wrapped into one. I started out scrapbooking years ago, but gradually as I had more children, I quickly realized that I was not going to be able to keep it up. I was sad about it, because I really wanted to have a place to record our journey as a family, display pictures, and remember not only milestones but all the daily events that make up our life together.

About five years ago, I jumped on the blogging bandwagon, and it was a match made in heaven. I quickly noticed that I was writing a lot more than I ever had in a journal, or in my scrapbooks, where the photos tended to be the highlight and the text was secondary. Publishing them would make it perfect!

I started out with blurb, which overall, I am very impressed with. The finished product is beautiful, and because you do your own layouts, everything is set to your specifications. However, it was going to take a LONG time to create each page, and with three past years of blogging to publish (the first time I decided to publish--now I just do one year at a time), 500 pages, and nearly 300 posts, I was feeling overwhelmed. Since I'm also impatient, I needed to find something that I would love, but not take quite as long.

Eventually I came across Blog2Print, and decided to give it a try. I was very pleased with the final product, including the reasonable pricing. It is VERY fast and easy--it uploads your blog (you set the date parameters) in about 5 minutes (depending on your connection), and you can be finished with one whole book in less than 20 minutes! So, if you have been wanting to publish your blog, but haven't had or don't have the time to

There are some things that I learned along the way, and I thought I would share them with you. Hopefully it will save you even more time! I use blogger, so this tutorial will be for that platform, but you can still do it with wordpress or typepad as well.

{PUBLISHING YOUR BLOG}

Step 1:

The very first thing you want to do is edit each of your posts thoroughly--looking for any spelling and grammatical errors you would like to edit. I also removed any video that I had uploaded into posts (which I don't do often anyway--I try to just post links to make it easier when I want to publish), since it will upload as a still picture--and not a good one, either. I made sure that the titles of each of my posts were formatted the same, as well as the content (centering text vs. left) for a smooth, continuous look. This will probably take the most time out of all the steps, especially if you are doing more than one year at a time.

Step 2:

Make sure your blog is set to publish a full site feed. If you're not sure, I'll show you what to do!

Open up your Dashboard, click on Settings, then on Site Feed. The first thing on that page will be "Allow Blog Feeds", and you need to make sure that you select "Full".

Step 3:

Now you're ready to upload! Go to Blog2Print, and input the html address of your blog, then select the platform. Give it a few minutes, and it will have it uploaded.

Step 4:

There are several options for your book that come next...including the range of dates you'd like included, cover options, dedicatory text, and a few more items. Just follow the prompts--they're very user-friendly. I publish mine each calendar year, and choose a very neutral cream cover--then I can add a photo for it later. You'll also get to choose the number and order of the posts, whether or not you want to include comments, and even whether you want color or only black and white (if your blog is primarily text you might like this option).

Step 5:

When you're ready to select a photo for the front cover, and if you have shrinkpic or something similar installed on your computer, you'll need to uninstall the program first. If not, no matter what the pixel size of your photo, it will automatically be reduced in size and will be too low of a resolution for your cover. When you upload the photo, make sure that the location looks similar to the one below:

Step 6:

Once you've made all your choices, and double checked those selections, you're able to preview the entire book, so you can make any changes necessary--then you're ready to add your book to the shopping cart for purchase. I also buy the digital CD in addition to the hardcover book--it's only $8, and then I have a back up of the book in my fireproof safe just in case of a disaster. The cost of the hardcover book is $24.95 for 20 pages, and 35 cents for each additional page. My 2011 book was over a 100 pages, and $84--not bad at all for a whole year's worth of text and photos!

You're probably wondering what the inside looks like, so I'm going to give you a peek at some of my pages! (this is the digital version, from when I created my book...)

It takes about a week and a half for my books to arrive, but it will depend on where you live as to how soon you will receive your book.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, on to the couple of things that I don't love...

1. You can't choose the layout, or make it so that each post is on its own page. Sometimes you'll get a sentence or two that will go to the following page, or even a picture.

2. The pictures aren't as large as I would like them to be, even when using blogger and enlarging them to "extra large" before publishing the post.

Still, for me, the pros outweigh the cons, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE being able to do it so quickly. Maybe one day I'll have time to switch to blurb, but for now, this fits my time capacity as I need it. My kids absolutely love looking through the books--it's been perfect for our family. So, whether you choose to go with Blog2Print, or another publisher, I highly recommend you go for it...you won't be sorry!

Happy publishing!

{pop!}

2012-02-27T05:00:00.002-05:00

I've been teaching piano lessons for a long time, and I absolutely love it. This weekend was our winter recital, and I always like to give my students a little something to let them know how proud I am of them, and to congratulate them for a job well done.

Whether you are a music teacher, or someone special in your life is a music student, this is a super fun and simple way to let them know that you're proud too! This would even be fun for after a Primary Program---

Supplies:

microwave popcorn packets (you could also use soda pop bottles instead!)
scrapbook paper and cardstock
distress Ink
baker's twine
double stick tape

Directions:

1. Print out the tags, cut them out, distress the edges with Distress Ink, and mat onto scrapbook paper.
2. Use double stick tape to attach to the top of each popcorn packet.
3. Tie baker's twine around the outside edge.

These were a definitely a hit--they loved them!

Since I love you all so much, you can download pdf file HERE. :)

{a 20 minute outfit makeover}

2012-02-25T13:00:00.001-05:00

A few days ago I was putting away my girls' laundry in their room, and noticed a plain pair of jeans that they had grown out of--but only length wise. They still fit them around the waist, so I thought it would be fun to dress them up a little, and turn them into a darling pair of capris. What outfit would be complete without a matching shirt? I also found white capped sleeve tee that needed a little face lift, and knew it would be the perfect complement to the jeans. When I saw the Silhouette Free Shape of the Week this past week--a rolled rose--I loved the lines of it. It was just what I was looking for to complete this outfit makeover!

SUPPLIES:

fabric
heat 'n bond (or similar product)
7/8 inch grosgrain ribbon
pair of jeans
white tee

DIRECTIONS:

1. Following package directions, iron on the fabric interfacing to your fabric. I used 2-8x11 pieces of fabric, 1 gray and 1 yellow.

2. Decide the dimensions of your roses on your Silhouette software. I did 3 inch, 2.5 inch, and 2 inch roses for my 5 year old girls' jeans and shirt, and they were the perfect size.

3. Peel off the paper from the heat 'n bond (IMPORTANT), and place it on your cutting mat as directed. Make sure you do a test cut--I ended up needing to double cut it, and I change the blade from a 3 to a 4 for it to cut through. It will greatly depend on the thickness off your fabric, and the type of interfacing you use.

4. Once they're cut out, peel them carefully off of the mat, and following the package directions, iron them on to your jeans and tee.

Don't you just {LOVE} it? I added a piece of gray grosgrain ribbon for a belt, and in less than 20 minutes this outfit went from drab...to fab! Now I'm thinking a little yellow cardi...

I couldn't resist doing a pocket too. ☺

{wood pallet photo display}

2012-02-23T09:30:00.002-05:00

I recently acquired a bunch of wood pallets, and I couldn't wait to get going on a list of projects that I had in mind for them. I had a vision of using them to display family photos, and there was a blank spot in my house that would be a perfect place for it to settle in.

I love love love the end result! The clothespins make it extremely versatile, and I can switch pictures in and out whenever I like. I've clipped our most recent family pictures, but I thought about displaying past photos that were taken during the current season or holiday. It would be so fun to feature old Halloween pictures at Halloween, Christmas pictures at Christmas time, etc.

Where can you find wood pallets? I would suggest checking at some of the larger stores in your area--like Wal-mart, Home Depot, etc. Some stores will give them away if asked. You might even luck out and see some on the side of the road (I always look around on heavy trash day in our area)! I couldn't find any like that, so I checked craigslist in my area, and found someone selling them for $1. That's just about as good as free! When I went to pick them up, there as a pile to look through, and I was happy about that, because I only wanted the more weathered looking wood. Some pallets are newer, and they don't have the same look.

SUPPLIES:

wood pallet
2 wood pieces for the back--2-3 inches in width, not quite as tall as your display
wood screws OR nail gun and nails
clothespins
spray paint
hot glue gun
vinyl lettering

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut your pallet pieces to the size you want. This will take some work--removing them from the pallet itself, removing or bending down nails, etc. I didn't want my ends to be even, so I cut them accordingly.

2. Lay them out the way you want them to be--good side down. Cut 2 wood pieces to act as stabilizing braces. This can really be any kind of wood, and I just grabbed some from the wood scrap pile. If I was going to hang it on the wall, I would have used thinner, flatter pieces, to make it not quite so heavy, but since this was going to sit on a ledge, it didn't matter. Line them up so they cross all of the boards, then use your nail gun to nail them on. Our nail gun was being used by a friend, so I used wood screws instead--worked just as well.

3. Sand, sand, sand. My pallets were pretty rough, and I didn't want any splintery pieces poking out. I used a rough grit (60) sandpaper, and went over it until those pieces were smooth.

4. Spray paint your clothespins--or even cover them with cute scrapbook paper! Once they're dry, lay them out on your planks to see how you want them to be lined up. I clipped pictures on first, so I could see where they would fit best. I wanted to be able to use both 4x6 and 5x7 pictures, and I came up with a layout that would work--even when I switched out pictures. When you're ready, hot glue the clothespins into place.

5. Add your vinyl (I used typewriter font), and clip on your pictures!

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{photography with lei} what's in my bag?

2012-02-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

So here's the infamous "what's in my bag" post... except I'm also going to chronicle for you where I started and where I am now. Because too often Mom decides she "wants to do photography" and goes out and buys a top of the line camera that she can't for the life of her utilize to its full capacity. For what it's worth, I think it's important to start small and build slowly. So I am going to admit to having some really piddly equipment in the beginning.

My first digital camera was a Sony Cybershot with a whopping 3.3 megapixels. It was just a point and shoot, nothing fancy, just fancier than anything I'd had before. Except perhaps the Minolta I checked out and used in high school for a 6 week study in dance photography. (Yes, that was very, very cool} Sony makes some good cameras, in fact I keep a new and improved Sony Cybershot in my purse for random stuff my kids do at school.

Of course as time went on and I realized what a hindrance it was to any chance of a photography career, I took the next step and bought an entry level DSLR. A Nikon D50 (at the time). Why Nikon? I get asked that all the time. Because my husband said Consumer Reports recommended Nikon over Canon. Ha! It's true. I took his word for it. But I am a completely satisfied Nikon user. I tried a Canon once and found it to be much simpler to operate than my Nikon... but I don't necessarily think that's an advantage Canon has over Nikon. In fact, I think you can fine tune a lot of things using a Nikon than you can a Canon, simply because it's more complex. And I really like that.

Anyway, once I realized the fun looking lens that came with the camera was a piece of CRAP. Yes. I invested in a 50mm 1.8 (otherwise referred to as the "nifty fifty") and a Tamron (knock off brand) 17-50mm 2.8. These are both excellent lenses. Can't go wrong with either and they are definitely the first lenses you should buy. I used them both at every single session I shot for the first 1 1/2 years.

My D50 kept me happy for a couple years. I was in a perpetual state of learning so I was glad not to have "too much camera" to figure out. But I moved up to the D80 and acquired another lens, the 85mm 1.8. Sigh. I cannot say enough good things about this lens. It was worth the wait! Sure I have to put a little distance between myself and my subject to use it, but dang it produces some very nice, crisp pictures. And the bokeh (remember that word?) is delicious. Now the 85mm was a full frame lens. And I was still shooting on a crop frame sensor. So it was time to upgrade again.

I waited about a year to do so and took the leap. Enter my D700 (her name is Brigitta). Brigitta is top notch. My favorite trick is her high ISO capabilities, but there is so much more to her. I can crank that baby up to 6400 at a darkened home birth late at night and make it look like it's 3pm outside. LOVE! And the images aren't overly grainy or soft. I think this feature puts the D700 in a much higher class than it actually is. And honestly, I don't foresee upgrading any time soon.

Last week I added to my collection 3 new lenses, to replace my old crop lenses. Unless you use a full frame lens on a full frame sensor, you aren't utilizing the full frame capabilities of your camera, essentially producing smaller image sizes than what you are capable of getting. So after a lot of patience and saving I am the proud new owner of this bad boy:

This thing demands respect. And requires strong biceps, which I have! Hahaha. This lens happens to be a go-to for many wedding photographers, which I am not. Because it allows you to "Stay out of the way" and get those great up close shots. But I think it also makes a great portrait lens (debatable to some). I also got a 24-70mm 2.8 (to replace the old Tamron 17-50mm 2.8) to use as just a good basic portrait and birth photography lens. As well as a 50mm 1.4, which is one stop higher than my previous "nifty fifty". Increases the bokeh. Perfect for head shots.

What's even better than the new glass (I feel like Fancy Nancy here; glass is fancy for lens), is the new camera bag I got to put it all in! I previously used a very practical Lowepro backpack. But I'm a big girl now (lol) so I decide that as long as I was selling my arm and leg, why not a foot too? Tee he he. Here's the beauty that now holds all my precious cargo:

It's made by Kelly Moore, and it's the Juju design in muted teal. Purty, huh? I really love the orchid lining. This bag is pretty big. And heavy with everything inside. But so sturdy and so well constructed. And it doesn't scream "camera bag hiding very expensive equipment!" My speed flash fits in there (SB-800 for those interested in knowing), my camera body, and all my lenses. This is the ONLY bag I have found that fits everything I need in it. There's so many little pockets for extra batteries and filters and memory cards. I keep some business cards in there, and miniature accordion albums to give to people passing by during my sessions.

{this is what an mini accordion album looks like - it's wallet-sized)

I love it!

So that's my genealogy of photography equipment, if you will. I hope I've established, however, that you don't have to have all the latest gadgets to be a good photographer. Yes my images automatically improved each time I upgraded. As it should be. If I wasn't ready for the new equipment, that would not have been the case. Learn what you have inside and out. You may come to a point where it just makes sense to invest more, but my advice? Start small.

Thanks for having me Kierste!!! Things have been pretty quiet the last couple months... remember you are welcome to email me with personal questions! I'd also love any ideas you might have/want for future posts. And because no post is compete without a photo, here's a couple of my favorites from a family session last weekend:

{Pssst, what do you think of my new watermark?}

To see more, visit my BLOG or FACEBOOK PAGE! Have a great day everyone!

{custom baby blocks}

2012-02-21T11:30:00.003-05:00

A good friend of mine is expecting her eighth child (I know--she's superwoman), and in the weeks before she delivers, has been busy finishing up the cutest baby announcement cross stitch project for the new baby. It has been a tradition for each of her children, and they are proudly on display in her home.

I love the idea of having a child's birth information displayed, so I created these darling baby blocks--perfect as a baby gift for a new mom, or for your own child's nursery or room. This is a simple project with a fabulous finish!

I totally love them, and can't wait to make them for my own kids' rooms.

SUPPLIES:

4x4 post, cut into perfect squares
spray paint
vinyl lettering
ribbon
sander

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut the 4x4 post into four perfect square blocks. Make sure to measure the width of the post first--they aren't actually 4 inches across, and can vary in size. Once you know the width, you can cut the length accordingly, to be a perfect square. Remember, most large home improvement stores will cut these for you, and it's worth asking a smaller, local store as well. I've also had a lot of questions about only being able to find treated posts, which are kind of a green color. Those are fine, and that's what I use, since it's typically the only kind that hardware stores carry. It's worth asking your store, just in case, but if not, you can still use them. Once you paint them, you won't even know! Occasionally they might be a little damp, so putting them out for a day or so to dry is helpful.

2. Spray paint your blocks, and let dry completely. You can use craft paint, but I highly recommend using pray paint. It is MUCH faster, and requires less coats--craft paint tends to absorb very quickly. Once the paint has dried, use your sander to distress the edges of your blocks.

3. I used my Silhouette to cut out my vinyl, but you could use another type of cutting machine, or order it from a company who sells vinyl. (Font = Typewriter)

4. Tie ribbon around one of the blocks, ta-da, you're done!

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{giveaway} little loves designs

2012-02-20T05:00:00.006-05:00

***GIVEAWAY CLOSED***

Little Love's Designs is the most darling etsy shop featuring flower headbands in the latest trends for baby, toddlers, teens, and adults. Each headband is handmade to order, and can be made to fit any size. I love that are so many different flower styles to choose from--shabby, rosettes, satin flowers, silk flowers, and bows--all absolutely adorable.

Check out a few items from their collection...

and these hats...oh my!

Little Love's Designs is giving one lucky reader a $50 gift certificate! They are also offering to all readers a 20% discount during the giveaway--just use the coupon code PAPER20.

Here's how you enter:
(please leave a separate comment per entry on this post...no e-mails please!)

Required Entry:

*Like Little Love's Designs on Facebook

Extra Entries:

*Like Brown Paper Packages on Facebook

*Follow me on Pinterest

(you MUST be a Brown Paper Packages follower to win!)

The giveaway will run through Saturday, February 25th at 10pm EST.

Disclosure: I was compensated for this post, however, all opinions are 100% mine and mine alone. Please see my full disclosure statement HERE.

{a clean home}

2012-02-15T16:00:00.002-05:00

I'm one of those crazy people that likes to clean, and I really love a clean house. There's something about an orderly home that creates a calming atmosphere, and I find that I can manage the rest of my life so much better if my house is clean.

I'm a big believer in "maintenance" cleaning, as opposed to cleaning for hours on one day of the week or before visitors are due to arrive. It's much easier for me to fit in chores around my schedule during the day whenever I can, and it also allows for our house to stay clean as possible with five kiddos and seven people running around.

I'm also a list girl, and so keeping a cleaning checklist just makes sense, and helps me to keep track of things that need to be done not just daily, but weekly and monthly. (I also have quarterly and annual lists.) This list can be printed out and laminated, and hung on the fridge or other prominent spot. It could also be placed in a frame, and items crossed off with a dry erase marker.

How does it work? I have certain chores that I do everyday, and work WONDERS to keep my home looking and feeling clean. I fit them in when I can during the day, depending on my schedule. For example, I fold laundry each night after my kids are in bed while I catch up on my favorite shows, then I put it away in the morning. It's a nightly ritual, but it's the way I can keep up with the 15-18 loads I do per week. I greatly believe that these daily chores are at the crux of success--do these, and you'll find yourself with more time overall, not less. Oh, and my kids do help with these chores...but that's a topic for another day. :)

{DAILY CHORES}

1. Make beds

It's the first thing I do in the morning--I don't leave my room until it's done. Having all the beds made is one of the best ways to keep rooms looking tidy, and it always makes me feel better to have it done.

2. Wipe down bathrooms

I keep Clorox bathroom wipes and Windex in each bathroom, and it takes less than one minute to wipe down the counters and clean the mirror each day when we're finished getting ready. Doing this daily will greatly reduce the amount of time it will take to deep clean the bathrooms--which I do weekly.

3. Sweep after each meal

My husband says that I'm really married to the broom, and he probably has a point. I sweep after each meal, and as needed throughout the day. This is another chore that only takes a minute, but has a great impact.

4. Dishes/dishwasher

We turn on the dishwasher at night, and put them away in the morning, which ensures that my sink can stay empty all day long.

5. Wipe down kitchen counters after each meal

Clean counters = clean kitchen. When counters are crumb and clutter free, it sets the tone for the whole space. It makes it easier to cook, do homework, and all the other things that go on in the busiest part of the house. I also wipe down all appliances (especially the fridge) after each meal--since I have stainless steel, this is a big deal for me!

6. Laundry

I like doing laundry everyday, as opposed to doing it on one day of the week--and I've always done it this way, even before I had to do as many loads as I do now. Laundry can quickly feel overwhelming, and when I saw a lot of piles, it makes me crazy. It also keeps my laundry room more orderly and organized, and it's easier to keep track of clothing. I don't assign certain loads on certain days, except towels and sheets, because I just do them as they need to be done. I could talk for days about laundry, but I'll spare you. Lol.

7. Vacuum main floor

We spend the majority of our time on the main floor, and I vacuum it each night after the kids are in bed. It takes less than 10 minutes, and No toys are kept in my kids' upstairs bedrooms, so they aren't up there until it's time to sleep, which means I can get away with vacuuming only once a week on the upstairs level.

8. Open/file mail and school papers

Oh, how paper can quickly take over our lives! Staying on top of it is the key, so each day go through mail and school papers and file them where they go. Controlling paper clutter will make a HUGE difference in both appearance, and as a time saver...since you won't have to look for anything!

9. Entire house pickup

I pick up the house throughout the entire day, but before bed, the whole house gets a once-over. House rules call for rooms and playroom being clean before dinner, so it's really just the family room that requires the picking up before bed. If you can set aside 10 minutes each night to pick up your entire house, it will greatly reduce and diminish things from just piling up. This is where having a place for everything makes a huge difference, and it will go so much faster!

{WEEKLY CHORES}

I fit these chores in as I can during the week, and I usually choose a few each day to tackle. It changes from week to week, as does my schedule, and I like the flexibility of being able to switch things around as needed.

vacuum whole house
vacuum under couch cushions, ceiling corners
dust
mop all floors
wash sheets & towels
empty trashes
wipe down kitchen cabinets
clean glass
deep clean bathrooms (toilet, tub, shower, floors, drawers & cabinets)
kitchen (microwave, stove burners, drawers)
wipe down kitchen chairs

{MONTHLY CHORES}

I make a plan for these items, because they take a little more time to accomplish than many of the daily chores.

vacuum out and clean windowsills (when you open the window--that part between the inside & outside)
dust ceiling fans and ledges
wipe down vents (on walls and in floors)
clean fridge and freezer
wipe down doors and doorknobs
wipe down switch plates
cycle clean washing machine and dishwasher
clean oven
clean out garbage cans
sweep out garage
wash bed quilts/comforters

{BEING PREPARED}

Keeping cleaners and rags accessible are a must. Find a place for them on each level of your home, and it will be that much easier! I have a cupboard in my laundry room for lower level cleaning, and in my bathroom cupboard for upper level cleaning. I also keep stacks of rags along with the cleaners, so it's all there together. To keep all the rags straight, I only use white rags for cleaning (they can be bleached), and colored rags for the kitchen. When it's time to fold and put away, it's easy to know where they go!

.....

There you go! Hopefully some of the tips will help you on your journey to a clean and organized home.

If you're interested, you can download the cleaning checklist HERE.
(scrapbook paper courtesy allisonkimball.com)

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{5 minute chocolate mousse}

2012-02-14T14:15:00.002-05:00

Valentine's Day is a family day around here, and we always look forward to a really fun dinner together. I'm all about the dessert though, and to me that means chocolate. I whipped up this chocolate mousse in about 5 minutes, and it is so creamy and delicious. I served it in small mason jars, with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate. If you're looking for an easy, quick, and yummy dessert, this recipe is for you!

{5 Minute Chocolate Mousse}

1-8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1 package semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 pint heavy cream

1/2 c. powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, checking and stirring every 30 seconds, until you can stir it smooth. Set aside. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add the powdered sugar and beat just until incorporated. Add the vanilla, then set aside. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the melted chocolate (reserve a little for drizzling) and mix well. Fold in the heavy cream, reserving about 1 cup for topping. Spoon until jars or small dishes, top with reserved cream, and drizzle chocolate over the top. Refrigerate until time to serve, but it's best if you let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

.....

Wishing you a very happy {valentine's} day! ♥

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{giveaway} the twinery

2012-02-13T10:30:00.001-05:00

**GIVEAWAY CLOSED***

Happy Monday! It's especially happy, because I have an exciting giveaway from The Twinery for you today!

I am in love with baker's twine, how can I not be? Why do I love it so much? Well, I'll tell you. I am always looking for craft items that are versatile--that will stretch my dollar and that can be used in several different ways. Baker's twine most certainly fits that criteria, and lends just the right touch to packaging, gift wrapping, as an embellishment on cards, stationery, invitations, and more. The cost is reasonable---at around 12 cents a yard it's a bargain, especially when compared to ribbon. Okay, and besides all that, it's just so dang cute! I like that there are so many colors to choose from, and whether you want to stick to the basics, or try to match your wedding or party colors, the options are there.

Yesterday I stayed home in bed, and sent my family off to church without me, since I wasn't feeling well. As I sat there catching up on Downton Abbey (anyone else obsessed with this show??), I decided I needed a new bookmark for the stack of books sitting on my nightstand. I made a simple bookmark out of three colors of baker's twine. I just knotted them at the top, braided the three colors, and tied them at the bottom. It literally took less than 5 minutes (more like 2 minutes), and it's perfect!

I also use baker's twine a lot for packaging of all sorts...I {love} it!

The Twinery is giving one lucky reader one of their fantastic Sampler Packs, 270 yards in all!

This Sampler Pack is made from their eco-luxe, plush 100% cotton twine in 18 colors (15 yards of each color shown).

COLORS INCLUDED: Maraschino, Mandarin, Lemondrop, Peapod, Caribbean, Lilac, Pink Sorbet, Honeydew, Blossom, Charcoal, Cappuccino, Buttercream, Stone, Denim, Shore, Orchid, Flax & Cantaloupe. *Generously measured & less than $2 per color!!

Here's how you enter:

(please leave a separate comment per entry ON THIS POST...no e-mails please)

Required entry:

*Like The Twinery on Facebook

Extra Entries:

*Like Brown Paper Packages on Facebook

*Follow me on Pinterest

{you must be a Brown Paper Packages follower to win!}

The giveaway will run through Saturday, February 18th at 10pm EST.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this giveaway, but I did receive product to review. However, all opinions are 100% mine, and mine alone. Please see my full disclosure HERE.

{heart tea towels}

2012-02-11T05:00:00.005-05:00

I just love decorating for Valentine's Day, and I especially love when I can make something that's darling, inexpensive, AND simple to make. Today I have the cutest heart tea towels to show you, and they fit all of the criteria above. It took me less than 20 minutes to make all three, and I {love} them. I read on another stitching project that it was so easy it almost seemed like cheating--and I have to agree! Their simplicity just adds to their charm, and they will be perfect in my kitchen! These would also make adorable gifts...

{Sponge Heart Tea Towel}

Supplies:

sponge, flour sack dishtowel, fabric paint, foam stamps

Directions:

1. Cut out a heart from your sponge. I just picked up the scissors and started cutting, but you could always trace one on first.

2. Lay out your towel over a piece of cardboard or cardstock, so the paint doesn't soak through onto your surface. Carefully add paint to the sponge using your finger. I like doing it this way because it controls how much paint is going on the sponge, and you really don't need as much as you might think. If you get too much, the sponge "look" will be lost. Carefully place the sponge paint-side down on the towel, and press gently. I used foam stamps to complete the word, but you could also use another type of stencil. Let dry completely.

.....

{Stitched Heart Tea Towel}

Supplies:

embroidery thread, needle, small piece of fabric, flour sack dishtowel

Directions:

These are SO easy, and so fun! For the fabric heart, I literally just cut out the heart, and stitched around the outside using a large needle and embroidery thread. You could use heat 'n bond to adhere the piece of fabric first--it will insure that the fabric will stay in place while you're stitching. I was happy with just the heart, and loved it all by itself. You certainly could add text, or more hearts--whatever you like!

For the stitched "love" and heart towel, I used a pencil to lightly draw on the heart and text. I free-handed it, because I wanted it to look handmade, and I think the uneven stitches add to its charm. If you prefer, you can always trace on your image instead. Once the image was on there, I simply stitched it on!

Simple. Charming. Perfect!

{valentine's day roundup #4: quick & easy projects}

2012-02-10T05:00:00.026-05:00

I love the ideas for today, especially because they can all be completed in about 30 minutes or less. If life has been busy, and you've wanted to do something for your kids, spouse, friend, or another special someone in your life, but haven't quite had the time, check out these fabulous ideas! Make sure to check out the free printables that come with several of the projects--not only are they darling, but they'll save you lots of time!

#1) Shower Love Notes {HowDoesShe} - Getting a little dirty, while getting clean... A fun love note tradition. A fabulous *gift* that only costs $5! :)

#2) Tied To You {The Dating Divas} - A fun way to prepare the house before your sweetheart gets home! All you need is string and the free printable!

#3) Love Notes & Balloons {Somewhat Simple} - Surprise your sweetheart with a dozen balloons over his bed, each containing a reason you love him.

#4) Valentine Prints {Sweet Rose Studio} - For some easy peasy Valentine decor that couldn't be any quicker, simply print one {or all!} of these prints out and put it in an 8x10 frame. Done in no time flat!

#5) Now That I've Kissed The Ground... {The Dating Divas} -A SUPER fast & clever V-Day idea. Items needed: Hershey's Hugs & Kisses, rose petals, & the super cute FREE printable included in this post. "Now that I've kissed the ground you walk on...."

#6) i {heart} u Blocks {iCandy Handmade} -Stencil these 4x4x4x blocks for a quick and easy stack-able home decor.

#7) You Make My Heart Bounce {The Crafting Chicks} - A fun and easy Valentine for the boys (or girls) to share with their friends! Free Printable!

#8) Easy Love Notes {Little Birdie Secrets} - Quick and easy love notes to give as Valentines (or to show your love any time of year!).

#9) Basket of Snacks with Printable Poem {My Insanity} -This candy gram style gift snack basket is easy to replicate since its contents come from the grocery store (or dollar store) and the Printable Poem is provided!

#10) DIY Valentine Candy Labels {Lil' Luna} -Doll up your Valentine candy with these quick, easy and cute V-Day Labels.

#11) Candy Heart Bracelets {Brown Paper Packages} -A fun activity and a yummy treat all-in-one--your girls will love these darling bracelets!

#12) Stitched Heart Bookmarks {Thirty Handmade Days} -Heart stitched bookmarks with cute printable card. For both your spouse and your kids.

This has been such a fun roundup--thank you for joining me! Thanks to The Dating Divas for all their hard work putting it together, and to each of the lovely and creative ladies who contributed so many wonderful ideas.

{Happy ♥ Day!}

{valentine's day roundup #3: yummy food}

2012-02-09T05:00:00.015-05:00

Okay, so the best part of any holiday is the food, right? These yummy Valentine ideas are sure to please!

.....

#1) Love Potion Drink Labels {The Dating Divas} - Add "love potion" to the menu for your upcoming Valentine's Day party. Adorable & free Love Potion Printables that you can put on any bottled beverage.

#2) Cookie Valentine's {Eighteen25} - Hand out Cookie Valentines this year. Make some yummy Peanut Butter and M&M cookies (or your own favorite cookies) and package them into fun cd sleeves!

#3) Strawberry Heart Homemade Oreos {Thirty Handmade Days} - Fun Valentine cookies- PINK strawberry oreo hearts! Plus a free "I heart you" printable!

#4) Valentine Tea Bags {FunkyTime} - A fabulous "how to" make your very own heart shaped tea bags. Relax and soak up the love!

#5) G, PG, Pg-13 Cookies {HowDoesShe?} - Three exciting ways to decorate a heart shaped sugar cookie. Rate them G, PG, or even PG-13! You do NOT want to miss out on this one!

#6) Hearts on a Stick {HowDoesShe?} - This is a very fast and easy treat for kids and adults. Plus it tastes soooo yummy!!

#7) Anniversary, In the Kitchen {The Dating Divas} - Love fruit tarts?? This is a very cute and unique way to show your love for someone special! ....plus...a lot MORE fun ideas that you could use for Valentine's Day OR another special occasion...say....your anniversary! :)

#8) Valentine's Twinkies {Somewhat Simple} - Quick and easy strawberry shortcake ala heart shaped twinkies! Dessert NO ONE will forget!

#9) Valentine's Day Peanut Butter Blossoms {Eighteen 25} - Can't get any cuter than these!! A favorite combination...peanut butter and chocolate! A crowd pleaser every time!

#10) Stained Glass Heart Cookies {Brown Paper Packages} - Fun to make, yummy to eat--these cookies are perfect for home, classroom, parties, and giving away to a special someone!

#11) Evil Treats for the Sweetest Sweet {The Crafting Chicks} - Deliciously "evil" brownie recipe with a Valentine's Day twist.

#12) Heart-Shaped Pizzas {My Insanity} - Check out how to make your own heart-shaped pizzas for Valentine's Day! Remember that red peppers can make great red hearts too!

#13) Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies & Tin {Little Birdie Secrets} - Chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies are absolutely addictive! Make a batch and package them in an altered tin for an unforgettable gift!

#14) Chocolate Themed Dinner {My Insanity} - If a little chocolate is the recipe for romance, think what an entire meal featuring chocolate could do for your love life! Sweet and savory chocolate recipes and presentation ideas.

#15) Red Oreo Pudding Pole Cake {Lil' Luna} - Quick, easy and delicious oreo pudding poke cake that is red and perfect for Valentine's Day!

#16) No Bake Berry Oreo Cheesecake { Lil' Luna} - Pink and heart-shaped, these no bake berry oreo cheesecakes are perfect for your Valentine's dinner dessert!

#17) Easy Valentine's Day Dessert {The Polkadot Chair} - Simplify your Valentine's Day dessert by using a heart shaped cookie cutter to dress up a tray of brownies! Don't forget the irresistible strawberries too!

I'll take one of each, please. :)

{photography with lei} a valentine story

2012-02-08T08:00:00.003-05:00

One trap a lot of photographers fall into is forgetting, or may be even putting off, taking photos of their own families and loved ones. It's funny that this is usually how we discover we love photography, only to get "too busy" to use our ever improving skills on them! Of course, you don't always have to get fancy {these below aren't my *best* photos} - that's a lot of pressure!

I decided yesterday that I wanted pictures of myself making Valentine's cookies with my girls {Kierste's pie crust cookies - yum!}. We were all dressed down, but I didn't care. So my husband took a couple of the shots for me, and from there a story through pictures began to unfold... I haven't decided yet whether to have it laminated and bound or printed into a soft cover album.

As you can see, there's not many pictures here. In order to "tell the story" it needed to be kept brief. Imagine all the possibilities for a photography storybook for your kids. This one is perfect for Valentine's Day, but you could make one of your children getting ready for school, or bed... many other great ideas!

I used the free doodles from the I Heart Faces Facebook page, HERE. Check them out under 'Enjoy a free gift!'. You can resize them and change the color... which I am going to teach you how to do right now! Woot!

Open the doodle with your editing program of choice. I use CS5 so these instructions are using Photoshop... Go to Image in your toolbar, then select Mode>RGB color. Then go through Image>Mode again and select Indexed Color. I don't know why I had to go back and do it this way, it feels redundant, but I did - so that is how I am telling you to do it! {Don't consider myself a Photoshop pro by any means...} A window will pop up after your select Indexed Color. Under Palette - you want to select Uniform. Make sure the box marked Transparency is checked. For Matte, select Background color. For Dither select Diffusion. And for Amount select 75%. Click OK and you're done! If you want to understand more about what this all means, I found a great definition page HERE.

Alrighty, after all that you may now change the color of our doodle by picking the color of your liking and finding the paint bucket tool on the left side. Click on it, and then right onto your doodle - anywhere on one of the lines (not in the gray/white space). And it should change colors for you.

After you have made it the color you want, drag and drop it onto a COPY of your photo. Too small? Click control T. A box will appear around your doodle. Right click and then click Scale. Then you can drag the corners out to the size you need. Be sure to work your way around the doodle so it doesn't end up looking warped. Need to rotate it? {I needed to rotate the glasses} Right click again and select Rotate and position it how you want it. Done! Click Layer

You may notice, that on the photo that I used the wings, that I've erased some of them in order for them to look like they are behind the subject... you too can do this using the eraser tool. Super easy.

If this is all too much for you, I'm including the doodles I've changed. So that's at least one less step for you to worry about. ;)

{between 'Love" and the wings is the white swirly frame, you probably can't see it but it's there!}

Enjoy this fun little project! Your kids will love it!!!

Happy Valentines Day!!!

XOXO

Lei

{valentine's day roundup #2: decor}

2012-02-08T05:00:00.018-05:00

It's day two of our roundup, which brings 14 fun ideas for Valentine decor!

#1) Be Mine Valentine Banner {HowDoesShe} - Add a festive touch to your home every year with this simple "Be Mine" Valentine's banner!

#2) Valentine Garland {Somewhat Simple} - Spend a night talking with the people you love, about all the things you love, while making this fun Valentine garland!

#3) Love Story Print {Eighteen25} - Are you looking for an easy addition to your holiday decor? All you need is an 8x10 frame and this fabulous website provide the rest!

#4) Valentine's Day Countdown {iCandy Handmade} - Using some heart-shaped wedding favors, a cookie sheet and some magnets, create this fun Valentine Advent. Fill it with goodies or love notes!

#5) Pretty Polkadot Valentine Pillow {Sweet Rose Studio} - Create this pillow cover to sweeten up your couch (or your bed!) just in time for Valentine's Day!

#6) Conversation Blocks {Brown Paper Packages} - These adorable conversation blocks are so easy to make and easy on your budget too!

#7) Love Tree Centerpiece {The Crafting Chicks} - A personalized "Love Tree" centerpiece featuring photos and love notes about your family members!

#8) Heart Bunting Countdown {Brown Paper Packages} - Looking for a fun way to count down the days to Valentine's Day and create darling decor at the same time? This heart bunting is the perfect way to do both!

#9) Heart-Shaped Flower Arrangement {My Insanity} - Find out how to use fresh flowers in making a heart-shaped floral centerpiece!

#10) Doily Heart Banner w/Advent Inserts {My Insanity} - This banner doubles as a countdown to Valentine's Day. Each insert has a rhyme with a love challenge for the day!

#11) "LOVE" Banner {Little Birdie Secrets} - This vintage-inspired "LOVE" banner is made with sheet music and a little glitter glue!

#12) Family V-Day Mailboxes {The Dating Divas} - An adorable way to decorate AND keep the love alive during this month of appreciation!

#13) Burlap Valentine's Bunting {Little Birdie Secrets} - Create a darling burlap bunting out of jute webbing. It's quick, cheap, and cute!

#14) Valentine Wreath & Frame {Lil' Luna} - Cute, fun and easy way to doll up your door for Valentine's Day!
.....

Tomorrow it's all about yummy Valentine treats and creative food ideas...can't wait!

{valentine's day roundup #1: gift ideas}

2012-02-07T05:00:00.035-05:00

I really ♥ Valentine's Day. It's all the pink, and red, and hearts, and candy, and love and darling decor--I just can't resist any of it! So you can imagine how excited I am about this Valentine's Day Roundup! The big day is coming up soon, so if you're looking for some last minute ideas, this is the place!

Organized by The Dating Divas, I've partnered up with some of the most creative blogs, and we're sharing our best and most popular Valentine projects through the rest of the week--both new and past favorites.

Today's theme? Fabulous DIY gift ideas!

Here we go.....

#1) Lucky In Love Scratch-Off Cards {The Dating Divas} - Show your spouse how lucky you are to have them this Valentine's Day! Follow this simple tutorial to create scratch off cards to reveal your love for them.

#2) Love Story Pallet Art {Sweet Rose Studio} - Create a special piece of rustic art for your special someone using pallet boards, paint, vinyl, and one amazing quote!

#3) Hate Ironing? I Do! {HowDoesShe?} - Perfect gift for him (and you)! Ironed shirts. You'll love it as much as he does.

#4) Felt Valentine Fortune Cookies {Somewhat Simple} - Give your sweetheart some love coupons in a new, creative way!

#5) "How Do I Love Thee?" Countdown {The Dating Divas} - If you can think of 24 reasons why you love your sweetheart, you are already halfway done with this project! An adorable way to show your love by using a muffin tin and FREE printables!

#6) Made With Love {Eighteen25} - Giving the gift of a homemade treat is a great way to show someone you love them. And we're sharing a cute little tag to help you prove it.

#7) Frayed Cut-Out Applique Valentine's Shirt {iCandy Handmade} - We love to make Valentine's Day shirts for our kids to wear on the big day. Whip one of these up and gift it to them on V-day morning!

#8) ABC's of What I Love About You {Somewhat Simple} - Think of characteristics you love about your spouse for every letter of the alphabet and find photos that illustrate the qualities on your list. I'll show you how to put them together to create a fun mini book printed and bound professionally for less than $5!

#9) Love Buckets {Brown Paper Packages} - Give the gift of love with these darling love buckets! Each day the members of your family can leave each other little love notes, making the countdown from February 1st to the 14th extra special!

#10) Thumbprint Valentine's {Brown Paper Packages} - Put a personal "touch" on Valentines for friends and family this year---perfect for parents, grandparents, and more!

#11) Be Mine Banner {Polkadot Chair} - What better way to surprise your sweetheart on V-Day than by "spelling it out" for him! Recycle an old book into a fun banner perfect for Valentine's Day!

#12) Valentine Button Necklace {Blue Robin Cottage} - Create a darling Valentine's gift by making this unique and charming embroidered fabric button heart necklace.

#13) Valentine's On The Hour {Thirty Handmade Days} - A genius idea for your loved one - give a gift throughout the day on the hour....includes sticker templates!

#14) "Hooked On You" Pail {Lil' Luna} - Easy and cute, these pails are perfect for anyone you're "hooked on!"

#15) Magnetic Heart-Shaped Shoe Clips {Polkadot Chair} - Have any fashionistas in your life? Use some might magnets to make some fun interchangeable shoe clips for a present! Great for lovey dovey day :)

#16) DIY Felt Valentine Envelopes - Pottery Barn Style {The Crafting Chicks} - Make your own felt Valentine envelopes to fill with treats and love notes for your kids! FREE love mail printable, too!

#17) Chair-Back Valentine Envelope Knock-off {iCandy Handmade} - The perfect stash for your child's little Valentine goodies!

#18) Pocket Kiss Flip Book {Brassy Apple} - Blow a kiss to your sweetheart wherever they may be!

#19) Valentine's Kit {Blue Robin Cottage} - Looking for the perfect Valentine's gift for your hubby? Make him a Valentine's kit with all the things in it he loves! This tutorial even includes a Free kit card printable!

#20) "Cross My Heart" Pillow {Polkadot Chair} - Looking for a present for a holiday decor queen? Here is a fun tutorial for a quick and easy pillow to make for that fabulous friend to display on Valentine's Day!

#21) Big Hunk Candy Bar Bouquets {My Insanity} - With some bamboo skewers and a little hot glue, you can make Big Hunk bouquets to give to your husbands. This post also features a FUN "Amazing Race" date you can do on Valentine's Day!!

...and there you have it! A BUNCH of fun gift ideas to try out this coming Valentine's Day! Check back tomorrow for even MORE Valentine's Day ideas!

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{giveaway} say it on the wall

2012-02-06T11:00:00.002-05:00

***GIVEAWAY CLOSED***

Happy Monday!

This morning I'm super excited to introduce you to Say it on the Wall! They specialize in vinyl lettering for your home, and they have so many fun ideas and products in their shop. They also offer custom design, making the possibilities absolutely endless.

Check out a few of their most popular items...

{Kitchen Conversion Combo Pack}

{Kitchen Labels (either Individual or Set of 10)}

{Home Blocks}

{Dry Erase Menu Tile}

{Dry Erase Calendar}

{Sun Jar (Customized vinyl design available) Vinyl}

I was lucky enough to select a couple of products to try, and I chose two of their definition quotes (one of my favorite things!)--one for my family room, and the other for my laundry room. They are such a great size--22x22, and perfect for a 24x24 piece of wood, canvas, or even an old window. I just love how they turned out, and even more how they look on my wall!

I have fantastic news...one lucky reader will win a $50 gift certificate to Say it On the Wall!

Here's how you enter:

(please leave a separate comment ON THIS POST per entry--no e-mails, please!)

Required:

Like Say it On the Wall on Facebook

Extra Entries:

*Follow the Say it on the Wall Blog

*Follow me on Pinterest

*Like Brown Paper Packages on Facebook

(to win, you must be a Brown Paper Packages follower!)

And that's not all...

They are also offering an incredible deal to all BPP readers...40% off your entire order WHILE THE GIVEAWAY is OPEN with promo code PAPER40. Once the giveaway closes, you will receive 25% off your order through the end of February with promo code BROWN25.

The giveaway will run through Saturday, February 11th, at 10pm EST, and the winner will be announced on Sunday the 12th.

Good luck!

*Disclosure: I was compensated for this post, and I received product to review. However, all opinions are 100% mine, and mine alone. Please see my full disclosure statement HERE.

{15 yummy super bowl food ideas}

2012-02-03T10:00:00.005-05:00

We love football at our house, and so of course that includes the Super Bowl. I'm looking forward to the game, but since our team isn't playing, I'm just not quite as excited as I was last year. (Go, Steelers!) At least there will be good food, right? That always makes me feel better. :)

When I think of Super Bowl food, I think of hearty soups & chilis, yummy appetizers & easy-to-eat snacks, anything bite-sized, and delicious, munch-able treats. This is a collection of recipes that have caught my eye, and started my mouth watering. Okay...so they are definitely not diet-friendly, but when you add in veggie platters with low-fat dip, baked pita chips with hummus, or even baked chips with corn salsa, you can fill most of your plate with them, and balance out the calories. Enjoy!

.....

The Ultimate Super Bowl Dip

Football Strawberries

Snickers Popcorn

Monkey Caramel Bread

Hot Pizza Dip

Individual Seven-Layer Dips

Caramel Cheesecake Apple Dip

Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pulls

Chili & Garlic Chex Mix

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Walking Tacos

Baked Potato Soup

Mini Meatball Sandwiches

.....

Are you looking for some healthier options?

Check out these links...

11 "Healthier" Super Bowl Food Ideas!
Healthy Super Bowl Recipes

Have a fabulous weekend!

{wooden clipboards...for photos, lists, and more!}

2012-02-01T07:00:00.002-05:00

My darling friend Angie sent me the cutest wooden clipboard for a Christmas gift, and I immediately fell in love with it. I knew I had to make some for myself, implementing a few changes and additions to make it my own. I also came up with a couple of other ideas to go along with it, and I love them all! It's an easy and inexpensive DIY project, and the possibilities are endless.

Supplies for Chalkboard Clipboard:

1x6 piece of wood
dowel
hot glue gun
router and sander
painters tape
spray paint
chalkboard spray paint
large binder clip (I got mine at Walmart--4 for $1.88)
ribbon

Supplies for Paper Clipboard:

1x6 piece of wood
spray paint
dowel
hot glue gun
router and sander
scrapbook paper
mod podge and foam brush
vinyl lettering
large binder clip
ribbon

Supplies for Photo Clipboard (to fit 8x10 photo):

MDF, cut to 11x13
scrapbook paper
mod podge and foam brush
distress ink
large binder clip
ribbon

DIRECTIONS:

{Chalkboard}

Cut your 1x6 as tall as you want your clipboard to be--mine is 15 inches. Router the edges at the desired angle--I like using a chamfer bit. Optional: Don't router the side that will be standing on the ground. Spray the edges of the wood your desired color. Once it's completely dry, tape off the edges (along the routered edge, so the center only is showing)) using painters tape, then spray the chalkboard spray following the can directions. When it's completely dry, sand along the edges of the chalkboard paint to smooth and even them out. On the back of your board, on the Tie ribbon on the binder clip, and clip it on the top. To make it stand, cut your dowel about 4 inches long. Drill a hole on one of the short sides of your board (the one that will be standing on the ground) that fill the dowel, then hot glue the dowel in place. The dowel size doesn't really matter, but I wouldn't go too skinny.

{Paper}

Follow same directions above for cutting, routering. Paint the edges of your wood--the center will be covered. Cut scrapbook paper to fit the inside of your board--to the routered edge--but leaving a space at the bottom for your vinyl lettering. Mod podge it into place--spread a thin layer on the wood, set the paper on top, then add another thin layer on top of the paper. Let dry completely. Sand the edges of the wood, and the paper to give it a distressed look. Add your vinyl. Tie ribbon on the clip, and clip it to the top! Add the dowel to the back as described above. Now you're set to clip up recipes, lists, or whatever your heart desires!

{Photo}

I did this one a little differently than the others, and that's the beauty of it! I wanted it to fit an 8x10, but you can make it whatever size you like. Cut your MDF to size--I added 3 inches total for my border (1.5 all the way around)--to show the paint and the paper. I don't love the look of routered MDF, so I left it square. Paint the wood your desired color and let dry completely. Mod podge the scrapbook paper into place (I distressed the edges first, just a little, to give it some depth.) using the foam brush. I like to spread a thin layer on the wood, place the paper on top, then add another thin layer on top of the paper. Let dry completely. Tie ribbon on the clip, and attach your picture to the wood. I decided not to use a dowel for the stand, but you could definitely add that if you want to.

I {love} each of them. I ADORE using the binder clips. They perfect for tying on that fabulous ribbon! I especially love them on the photo clipboard, because you can easily change it from portrait to landscape, depending on your picture. You can also switch the other two from tall & skinny, to wide and short, depending on what you're using them for. The dowel on that one side will help it stand up either way. The only thing you would need to take into consideration is if you decided to router all the edges, or leave the bottom straight.

These would make darling gifts--perfect for teachers, grandparents, friends, and more. I love how easy they are--both to make and to personalize.

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{tutorial} how to install fonts

2012-01-31T22:00:00.003-05:00

I've had a lot of questions about downloading and installing fonts, so I wanted to address some of your questions, and offer a step-by-step tutorial so you can take advantage of all the fabulous fonts out there. You can totally do this--once you've got it down, you'll be downloading them left and right. :) Since I have Windows 7, that's what my tutorial will be for, but I'm also including info for those of you that may not have that operating system.

If you have a different Windows operating system than Windows 7 (XP, 2000, Vista) I did find a good step-by-step process for installing fonts in windows (includes all windows operating systems)--click HERE for that tutorial. There is another tutorial specifically for Windows XP HERE. If you are a Mac user, you can find their tutorial HERE.

When you download a font, it is a zip file, and you have to "unzip" it, or extract it before you can install it (and before you following the instructions above). Windows 7 automatically does this for you with fonts, so you can skip this step. You can download software to unzip your files at WinZip or FreeZip. WinZip is offering a 30 day free trial, and has options for both Windows and Mac, and FreeZip is free. I haven't tried these, so I can't personally vouch for them, but it's worth looking into.

Once your fonts are installed, they will be available to you in Word, Excel, and your Silhouette software if you have one. If you're looking for a tutorial on how to use your fonts once they're downloaded, click HERE.

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HOW TO DOWNLOAD & INSTALL FONTS IN WINDOWS 7

Once you've found the font you want, click on download.

Click "Save File".

A download status bar will show on the bottom left of your screen. Once the bar is complete, double click on it.

It will bring up this window, and the font name will be listed. Sometimes a font will have more than one file that comes with it, like this one. You are looking for the TrueType Font file--double click on it.

It will open up the box shown below--click on install.

That's it! That font is now installed on your computer, and you can start using it right away!

Hopefully this will help--please let me know if you have any more questions! Happy Fonting!

{favorite fonts}

2012-01-31T10:00:00.001-05:00

I'm addicted to fonts, lol. Here are a few more of my favorites...

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Click on the links below to download!

Champagne & Limousines

MTF Jotted
Rebekah's Birthday

{pantry chalkboard}

2012-01-30T05:00:00.001-05:00

I like to keep lists of just about everything. Okay, everything.☺ The majority of my lists are kept only by me, but the grocery list is one that my husband contributes to, and even my oldest son. The problem was that I usually kept it near my desk, but somehow the items that they wanted or needed to be replaced never got on the list. I decided that it needed to be moved to a spot much closer to the food.

What better place than the pantry door? I knew I wanted a chalkboard, and I wanted it to be framed, but I didn't want anything hanging on the door. Our doors have a square cutout at the top of the door, so I decided to put the chalkboard inside the square, and use molding to frame the outside. Practical and cute? Love it.

SUPPLIES:

3 inch mdf or wood molding
spray paint
liquid nail or gorilla glue
nail gun, and 1 1/2 inch nails
chalkboard paint

DIRECTIONS:

Before...

1. I carefully taped off the square using painters tape and pages ripped out of a magazine. (Okay, so I actually used white duct tape, because we ran out of painters tape and I was too much in a hurry to wait. But YOU should use painters tape, lol. I also knew that even if the tape ripped off some of the door paint, it would be covered by the frame, so I didn't worry about it too much.) I covered as much of the top half of the door as I could. I would also suggest protecting your floor with a tarp, and even hanging an old sheet in the doorway of the pantry, so the overspray doesn't get on your food items. This is a picture of it in progress...

2. Once it was taped off, I used chalkboard spray paint on the inside of the square.

3. Now for the frame part...you can do this part one of a couple of different ways. My original plan was to cut the wood to fit around the square, and adhere it piece by piece. If you don't have a miter saw to cut the edges on an angle, you can just make straight cuts--or you can do it if you prefer the look or want it go faster--which was me. :)

For example..if you had a 24 inch square, and using 3 inch wood (make sure you measure the wood first--it's always less than it says it is), this is how you would cut your wood: Side pieces = 30 inches (24 for the actual square, 3 on each side), Top and bottom pieces = 24 inches) I don't have pictures of this process, because my cute husband came home from work one night and surprised me by putting the frame together, so I just had to put the frame all at once. Either way will work!

4. Once your pieces are cut, painted, and sanded, you're ready to get them up on the door. Before you glue them on, double check your wood pieces or frame to make sure it will fit--once you put on liquid nail, there's no going back. Apply a small amount of liquid nail or gorilla glue on the back of the wood piece, and place it carefully on the door where it goes. You will have time to adjust it and get it in the right place---it doesn't bond instantly. Once it's right, add a few nails using your nail gun to secure it in place. Repeat the process with all of your wood pieces. *Gorilla Glue will foam and get much bigger in size, an Liquid Nail will squish out--a little goes a long way.

So let's say the top of your door doesn't have an exact square opening, and perhaps several cutouts on the top half of your door...can you still do this? Yes!

* Buy and cut a piece of sheet metal the size you want your chalkboard to be (plus an inch all the way around) and that will cover any cutouts or openings on your door. You can buy it at Home Depot, and use tin snips to cut it to size, or look for a local sheet metal company that will cut it and sell it. It's a little more expensive that way, but worth it if you can get it.

* Drill small holes in each corner of the metal. Use liquid nail to adhere it to the door, then hammer tacks into the corner of the metal through the drilled holes, securing it in place.

*Tape and paint according to directions above.

*Adhere your wood pieces and or frame as described above, except that you need to overlap the sheet metal by about an inch all the way around, so the edge won't be exposed.

Another option is to buy a frame that is the size you want, cut the sheet metal to fit it, and then just adhere the frame instead of the wood pieces.

I absolutely love it--I should have done it a long time ago!

P.S. I'm typing this as my four little ones are running around the family room and watching Cars 2---it's a little loud in here, and I'm slightly distracted, lol. Please let me know if I need to clarify something!

Pin It

{charmed, i'm sure}

2012-01-27T05:00:00.007-05:00

I love homemade valentines, especially when they're simple to put together and cute too!

These are Charm's Blow Pops, with a tag that reads, "charmed, i'm sure".

How charming. :)

These are easy peasy--just tie your tag on to a single sucker, or a bunch! They would also look cute in a jar, with the tag tied around the rim, or even in a treat bag with the tag attached.

You can download the text image HERE (one heart), and HERE (two hearts). There are two different files because I decided I wasn't sure about the two hearts, and created another file with just one. Now you can choose which one you like best!

To use: Download the image, and save to your hard drive. Open a Word document (or similar program), and choose Insert > Picture, then browse for the file (where you saved it), and click Open. You can adjust size at that point--larger or smaller, or even copy and paste so you can have more than one on a page. I printed it on cardstock, punched it with a 2 inch circle punch, distressed the edges, matted it on the scallop circle, and punched a hole at the top. Tie it on with ribbon, and voila!

Here are a couple of ideas from years past...

Thumbprint Valentines

Clothespin Valentines

Making homemade Valentines doesn't have to be hard or time consuming, but it can be a really fun thing to do, especially with your kids. Whether it's for grandparents, friends, teachers, or someone else in your life, everyone loves receiving them!

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{photography with lei} valentine ideas + free printables

2012-01-25T08:00:00.001-05:00

Love is in the air, and there are many fun ways to capture that in your photos. I've found a few great ideas I've spotlighted here, as well as one of my own. AND I've got a link to some fun *free* downloads from I Heart Faces, too.

If you've been on Pinterest lately then surely you've seen this great idea:

Well I happen to know the originator of such creative genius, and her name is Alissa. Alissa blogs at 24-7-365, and is a great photographer, so go check her out!

My other photographer friend Sunny sells these fabulous photos, custom designed with your choice of initials:

If interested, you can contact her at edustin@gmail.com.

A couple Valentine's Days ago I created this fun storyboard of my daughter:

I Heart Faces has some darling templates free for the taking this week, HERE. This one is my favorite:

Super cute, right? Love that they come in BLUE for boys and RED for girls!!!

There are a lot of other fun Valentine's ideas at I Heart Faces in THIS post, too. Course, Pinterest is a great source for inspiration as well.

Thanks for stopping by and for reading! If you have any ideas for future posts, feel free to email them to me at photosbylei@yahoo.com. And, as always - I would love to hear from you on my BLOG or FACEBOOK.

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I always love when Lei is here, and this week is no exception. All these Valentine photo ideas are fabulous!