Stripe your lamp shade, and easy and fun diy!

Wall Crate {Tutorial}

Great wall crates to build here with this tutorial.  Use them for storage, or as display shelves.  These are versatile and can be used in any room.

Umbrella Table {Makeover}

A clever makeover: from an umbrella table to a clock!  Paint to cover chips and nicks and use outdoors, or take off the legs and hang it on your wall!

Baseboard Cheating {architecture}

Add architecture to your room with baseboards, but here’s an idea to help you cheat! Gorgeous, thick baseboards don’t have to be pricey and intricate! Use unique materials to get the look you like.

Painted Sofa {re-do}

Re-do your old sofa with an out-of the box solution: paint! This tutorial shows how wood stain can transform your sofa.  Go from traditional to modern, just by changing the color!

Vintage Valance {diy curtains}

DIY curtains with a unique vintage valance and cute hardware!  You can make your own board with knobs, get one ready made or use re-claimed lumber.  Perfect to add charm to your rooms!

Wooden spheres that can be diy-ed in any size!

Cheap and easy string artwork  that you can diy! Shapes, words and initials would work with this technique, too!

Here’s a “handy” video to show us how-to install door knobs!

Have a leather ottoman that needs a makeover? Paint it!  Use this step by step guide to see how.

Mary Poppins Tea Party {Birthday Themes}

Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.  The adults and children were all transported into a different time and place with this AMAZING Mary Poppins Tea Party!  Carousels and parasols, pink and blue, and flower carts are some of the many beautiful decorations.  ”Let’s go Fly a Kite”, a fun craft.  The children got to make their own kites and then fly them.

50′s Sock Hop Party {Kids Birthday Games}

Twist and shout in adorable pink poodle skirts!   There are some fantastic game ideas for a 50′s Sock Hop party.  You can also find a free printable for the invitation and tags.

Party Straws {Party Things}

Help your guests keep track of their cups with these fun and festive party straws.  Simply cut pennants out of patterned paper, fold in half, and paste together.  These would be adorable for any type of party!

Space Birthday Party {Coolest Birthday}

All systems go for an amazing Space Birthday party!  There are many homemade party decorations such as lawn dots, banners and cupcake toppers.  Did I mention a spaceship?  A play structure wrapped in silver organza.  There are so many other ideas I couldn’t list them all.

Indoor Camping Party {Fun Birthday Ideas}

It doesn’t have to be summer for a camping party!  You can have it indoors during the chilly evenings.  Set up a tent indoors and add twinkle lights.  The best part was the dessert table complete with all the ingredients to make yummy s’mores.

“Rat Pack” Little Gentleman Party {1st Birthday Ideas}

This sophisticated 1960′s Rat Pack gentleman themed party with whimsical features is perfect for a first birthday. The bubble pipe used through out the party is an excellent example of this!  The dessert table has a tufted leather backdrop to fit over the TV space in the entertainment center.

Adoption Shower {Adoption Party}

This adoption shower has some amazing ideas for a child that was adopted in another country.  The child was from Ethiopia so the theme was coffee and desserts.  In lieu of gifts there was a special table for donations for the orphanage and facts about Ethiopia as well as the people.

A Good Knight Party {boys birthday party ideas}

Calling all knights!  Your aid is requested at the castle.  Each child got to make their own shield upon arrival.   They also received a tunic and a helmet.  After, they had a jousting tournament.  What a blast!

Star Wars Birthday Party {Birthday Themes}

Everything, I mean everything you can think of or need for an unforgettable Star Wars party is here!  You will not be disappointed.  Cake ideas, food ideas with corresponding names, craft ideas and games ideas.  Each guest even got their own jedi robe.

Alice in Wonderland Tea Party {Birthday Themes}

A very un-birthday to you!  A lot of love went into the details of this party.  It certainly shows!  The decorations and setting is hands down AMAZING!  Everyone came dressed in character to the party and enjoyed tea sandwiches, scones and sweets.  Of course, not to be forgotten, an assortment of tea!

Small Business Checklist for Bloggers

Print out this list and keep it by the computer for a handy reminder of necessary tasks for business blogger.  It includes yearly, quarterly, monthly, and weekly tasks.  I would recommend laminating it and using a dry-erase marker you can re-use it once items have been checked off.

 Valentine Candybar Wrapper for Men

Let him know he’s “Da Man” with these fun candy bar wrappers that you can download for free.  Funny!  Great for your man, dads or male school teachers.  Even better wrapped around manly candy, like a Bacon Chocolate Bar {mmmm}

Don’t you hate it when you are out shopping, especially for the kids and you realize you’re not sure what size you need?  Use this handy printable to keep the basic measurements with you at all times.  Not a bad idea for close friends too.

“Fell In Love” Quote {Free Printable}

Four different versions of this printable about love that can be used for Valentine’s Day (or any day).  You could print this out and frame it or shrink it down to make a sweet card for your special someone.

Printable Love Coupon Book

This adorable coupon books is a quick and easy gift that will last all year.  Great for Valentine’s Day, but would also work for a birthday or anniversary as well.   Includes date, kisses and even blank coupons so you can get creative.  You could use the blank ones for some fun kid’s coupons too.

I love the two-tonesd colors and vintage feel of these adorable valentine cards.  Attach a yummy treat for passing out at school, or just put in an envelope and drop in the mail.  Sweets or no, these cute printable cards are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

This free alphabet printable would look darling in a nursery or toddler’s room.  It is available in two color schemes, with a boy or girl silhouette.

Printable Valentine’s Day Banner

Love is in the air.  This sweet pink and red Valentine’s Day banner will spruce up any mantel or doorway and get everyone in the mood for love.  It could also double as a cheap and easy decoration for a school party.

Naptime Doorknob Hanger {Printable}

Naps are hard to come by these days, especially if there is a new baby in the house – even though that’s when you need one most!  Keeping everyone aware of sleeping babies (and mommies) can help keep the nap-interuppting noise to a minimum.  This cute door hanger has “baby sleeping” on one side and “mommy sleeping” on the other.

Mardi Gras Printable Treat Toppers

You can use these festive Mardi Gras printables as cupcake toppers or attach them to treat bags and pass out as treats for the classroom or for Mardi Gras party favors.

Book Page Flower Wreath {Decorating with Paper}

This book page flower wreath is designed on a coat hanger, making it an easy decorating with paper craft to hang anywhere. Your guest’s will love this gorgeous wreath, and may even ask you to make one for them as a gift.

Favor Tags {Thank You Note}

The stationery on the day of your wedding plays an important part in adding to the style of your big day. Having pretty favor tags to greet your guests as they take their seats can add a lovely touch to your table setting, and we have a great design that you can easily create at home.

Ribbon Heart Card {Table Decoration}

This beautiful table decoration can be made for yourself or as a gift for that special someone. This craft would also make an easy project for little ones who like to decorate as well.

A Simple Elegant Table With Paper Roses {Table Decorations}

Make a simple and elegant table using giant paper roses as the main focus of your table decorations. Try putting your large single flowers in pedestal vases as the centerpiece, or turning wine glasses upside down and using them as pedestals.

Multi-Color Embossing How To {Card Techniques}

This step-by-step tutorial will show you how to make your cards pop with a multi-color embossing card technique. You’ll be amazed at how the embossing powder pops off standard Kraft paper.

Free Football Party Printables {Party Decoration}

With the Super Bowl right around the corner, football parties are in full swing right now! Treat your guests to festive homemade stadium snacks served up in these fun DIY serving containers. The free printable party decoration collection includes beverage labels, cupcake toppers, pretzel bags, popcorn boxes, and snack baskets.

XOXO Card {Card Ideas}

Here’s a great card idea on how to use up a bunch of patterned paper scraps . This simple design is great if you have bits of patterned paper left over from bigger craft projects.

Candy Stripe Font {Free Scrapbooking Fonts}

Here’s a fun and cute free scrapbooking font for use with your scrapbooking layouts and cards. This font makes a perfect addition to holiday, birthday and other candy themed layouts.

Quilling: Where to Begin {Papercraft}

Quilling is one of the easiest papercrafts to learn and is a beautiful way to express your creativity with papers. These two videos will help you get started with paper quilling basic shapes, and you’ll be making beautiful crafts like this one in no time.

Paper Bird Centerpiece {Centerpiece Ideas}

These adorable and simple to make little paper birds make a wonderful centerpiece idea for spring. Use your birds to add a touch of spring to all your craft projects, home decor and gift wrapping.

Homemade Marshmallows DIY

Don’t you just love the look of homemade marshmallows? Cut into squares and dusted with powdered sugar, they look and taste so much better than their cylindrical grocery store cousins. Making them is probably easier than you think! I’ve never been a super hard core baker of things from scratch so when I say they’re not too difficult to make, I mean it!

Smashed Turkey Dinner Paninis {Dinner Party}

This sandwich has everything you love about Thanksgiving Dinner smashed between to slices of bread.  Perfect for a cozy dinner party, this panini is a real crowd-pleaser.  If you don’t have a panini press, small counter-top grills work great too.

Heart Shaped S’Mores {How-To}

These heart shaped s’mores are sweet in more ways than one.  But don’t limit these little goodies to valentine’s Day; they would be wonderful for an anniversary or bridal shower too.

Mashed Limeade {Recipe}

A delicious and refreshing drink that the kids will love, PLUS a tutorial on how to make these cute mason jar sippy cups.  Did you know that mashing the fruit instead of juicing it gives better flavor?  Who knew?!

Chalkboard Cookies with Fondant Icing {Recipe}

These chalkboard cookies are not only adorable, but they are topped with Marshmallow fondant, which is tasty, easy to work with AND inexpensive.  Make a whole batch of these for a class treat or fill a box for teacher appreciation.

DIY Mickey Mouse Cupcake Stand

A Mickey hand plate, some candlesticks, paint and glut are all you need to create the fun cupcake stand.  Great for any disney themed party, this craft is super easy to make and looks fabulous.

Superbowl Party Treats

Even thought this post was done last year for the Superbowl (sorry if this is salt in the wounds for you Steeler fans out there) I still had to share it.  This is an over-the-top fabulous way to celebrate the Superbowl, complete with a chocolate trophy, jersey cookies and more.

Superbowl Mini BBQ Chicken Pizzas

These yummy little pizzas are a great party food, especially if you are hosting the big game.  You could serve them as an appetizers or with other “mini foods” as a main course.

 Homemade Apple Turnovers

Easy and yummy Apple Turnovers for a great dessert or a special Valentine’s Day breakfast treat.  Plus, using store-bought dough makes this recipe almost foolproof, but no less delicious.

Edible Glittered Cupcake Letters

Edible glitter letters like these can take plain cupcakes from drab to fab.  You can use cookies or do as Marian did and make them out of royal icing before adding glitter.  So beautiful!  Who wouldn’t want a little bling on their cupcake?!

New Baby Subway Art Canvas {Tutorial}

This homemade gift is a lovely way to welcome a new arrival to the world.  Personalize this gift with you favorite fonts featuring the date, time weight, etc.  It would be perfect for an after-the-birth baby shower.  You could also use this same technique for a wedding gift with their name, date, and place.

Sweater Heart Gift Tag {Tutorial}

Dress up your next gift with this 3-dimensional gift tag made from a recycled sweater.  The heart is perfect for Valentine’s Day or a wedding, but you could use any shape.  I think the bird is beautiful.

Craft Organizer Teacher Gift

Although this pink version was made for a Valentines Day gift, this would be a phenomenal teacher gift year round, great for her birthday or teacher appreciation.  Depending on how much you want to spend, you could also add things like small jewelry or gifts cards.

Bapron – Bib plus Apron {Free Pattern}

This little bib/apron gives maximum coverage for your messy eater and the tutorial instructions promise you can whip one up in half and hour!  Make a set and arrange in a cute box or basket with some baby food.

Monthly Onesies {Baby Shower Gift}

Not only is this baby shower gift thoughtful and fun, but it gives the new mommy a great photo reminder.  She can take a quick snapshot of baby wearing a new onesie each month and watch how quickly they change and grow.  You may even want to include a 12-opening frame or ready-made scrapbook page for her to put the pictures in.

Holder For Charging Cell Phone {Tutorial}

This is a perfect gift for someone who loves organizing.  Do you hate having stray cords or leaving you phone laying on the ground while it charges?  You can make this fantastic holder from a baby lotion bottle!  And it looks cute, to-boot!

Burlap Valentine’s (and year-round) Wreath

Burlap bubble wreath base (can be used year-round) with removable red burlap heart for Valentine’s Day.  If you are giving this as a gift, it might also be fun to include a few other inserts for different holidays like a four-leaf clover, and easter egg, a pumpkin, etc.

Dynamite Treats {How-To}

This is a fun little treat made for a ‘Dynamite Dad’ for his birthday. You could use this gift for a party favor, a valentine, etc… The possibilities are endless.  And it’s simple enough that the kids could put it together.

DIY Fire-Starters

I think this is such a fun and original gift idea, perfect for a winter neighbor gift or for someone who loves to camp and/or hunt.  This egg carton is filled with wax and other flammables so when you ned to start a fire, you can just rip off one of the egg cups, light the carton part and you have easy-to-burn kindling to get your fire going.  The tutorial shows you everything you need to put together this gift, including a free printable template for the top of the carton.

Felt Chapstick Case Key Chain {How-To}

With this handy little case, you’ll never have to look for your chapstick again (unless you’re one of those people who’s always losing their keys too – ha!)  And since these instructions are so easy to follow, you can adjust the measurements to fit any sized gloss.  Fun for party favors too.

Printable Coloring Pages

1.  Printable Nesting Dolls ~ Create your own Russian dolls, also knows as matryoshka or babushka dolls.  You can choose to print the colored set or a black and white set you can color yourself.

Pages to Color for Girls

2.  Hello Kitty Pages to Color ~ An angel a mermaid and a few other adorable Hello Kitty pages to color as well as a cute Christmas card.

3.  Pages to Color For Girls ~ Here are some fun coloring pages for your little girl (and for mom too if she wants.)  Choose from Groovy Dancing Girls or Barbie Thumbelina.

4.  Printable Tea Party Coloring Page ~ Cute free printable accessories for you tea party.  Color or paint, cut them out and add a little flair to your afternoon tea.  These would also make for cute decor at a tea party themed birthday.

Pages to Color for Boys

5.  Batman Pages to Color ~ This awesome link gives you over 100 batman coloring pages.  You could make your own coloring book.

6.  Mario Pages to Color ~ Print out coloring pages for your little Nintendo fan.  Choose from Mario, Luigi, Yoshi and lots of other sidekicks.

Disney Printable Coloring Pages

7.  Disney Princess Coloring Pages ~ Almost every little girls loves the Disney princesses.  Here you will find lots of printable princess coloring pages for her to print out.

8.   Cars Coloring pages ~ Free Disney cars coloring pages that you can print out for free.  Use them as an activity for the kids or a cars themed birthday party.

Barbie Pages to Color

9.  Don’t Eat Barbie Game ~ This game is so simple your older children can play it with your preschooler!  Use cereal, dinner or lunch food, as well as any kind of candy to play. This is a take off of the original version, Don’t Eat Pete.

10.  Barbie printable coloring pages ~ Choose from several pictures of barbie to color.  The detail in these should keep your kiddo busy for a while, or join in the fun and color one yourself!

11.   Barbie and Princess Color Sheets {free printable} ~ Your daughter will love these free printable coloring pages that feature Barbie Princess coloring pages.

Color Sheets

12.  Crayola Color Sheets Printables ~ Crayola offers dozens of free printable coloring sheets.  Everything from Disney characters to basic shapes that make great worksheets for preschoolers.

13.   Elmo Printable Coloring Pages ~ Free Elmo coloring pages that also feature the entire Sesame Street cast with the alphabet.  Use them as a fun activity for kids or as a birthday party activity.

Coloring Activities for Kids

14.  Color the Alphabet {Free Printable Coloring Pages} ~ Practice recognition of each of the letters of the alphabet with these fun alphabet coloring pages.  All 26 letters of the alphabet are available and each one is represented by an animal that your children will love coloring.

15.  Play Veterinary Clinic {printables} ~ This is the cutest post about kids putting together their own vet clinic for their stuffed animals.  Includes printable receptionist chart, diagnostic sheets, and DIY food and medicine.  So adorable!

16.  The Cavity Monster Coloring Page  ~ SuperBlakeBooks.com presents “Super Blake and the Cavity Monster.”  Read your kids this online story about taking care of your teeth and then let them color pictures of the characters.

Printable Puzzles

17.  Simple Printable Puzzles  for Kids ~ These printable jigsaw puzzles are super fun and easy peasy!  Simply print and cut them out.

18.  Count & Color Dino ~ Print out these four pages and tape together to make a poster.  Then let your kiddo follow the color-by-number guide to create  dino for their room.

19.  Dinosaur Maze {printable puzzle} ~ An adorable dinosaur maze.  Help the dinosaur through the maze to get to the trees.  Chomp chomp!

20.  Word Search Printable Puzzles ~ Easy level word search with adorable farm illustrations.  A great way to learn the names of animals.

Free Printable Games

21.  Roll a Snowman- A game for the whole Family! ~ Be the first person to collect all the pieces of your snowman.  It’s great for kids and adults of all ages- my young kids love it, but you could also have your teenage children play it to see who gets out of doing the dishes after dinner- get creative!

22.  Free Printable Sight Word Cards {+25 Games} ~ Not only are we hooking you up with some darling free printable sight word cards, but also 25 fun ways to use them with your kids!  I just adore free printable games that also help educate.

23.  Free Printable Counting Cards {+25 Games} ~ Darling counting cards with 25 fun games to play as a family to learn or brush up on your counting and number skills.

24.  Free Printable Alphabet Cards {+25 Games} ~  Here are darling alphabet letters that you can print out as well as 25 ways to use them with your kids!

Worksheets

25.  Alphabet Worksheets  {free printable kindergarten worksheets} ~ Great free printable worksheets for preschool and kindergarten age children.  Fun activities to keep them busy during the summer, get them ready for the new school year, or supplement what they are learning in the classroom.

You will LOVE all of the free printable pages to color and coloring activities for kids over on the Tip Junkie Printables site!

More Pages to Color:

• 26 Amazing 100th Day Of School Activities & Crafts
• 35 Free Printable Activities for Kids!
• Winter Holiday Paper Doll Printable {free printable}

Thanks Ladies! I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}} Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more activities for kids, creative ideas, and free tutorials.

Also, If you have an activity you’d like featured, feel free to submit it to the Tip Junkie site. It just takes a second. {wink}

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Date Night Ideas

Good Dating Ideas

1.  Valentine Couch Picnic and DIY Invitation ~ Instead of splurging on an expensive Valentine’s Day dinner, snuggle up on the couch with your Valentine.  You can exchange love letters instead of gifts!  There’s a free download for these adorable invitations.

2.  The Bookstore Date ~ A fun free evening for any couple.  No work is necessary because it is all planned out with the free printables.

3.  Valentine Star Gazing ~ If you have a truck or can borrow one, pack a picnic dinner and head for the mountains.  Star gaze and enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day under the stars.  It is an inexpensive and very romantic way to spend your evening with your valentine.

4.  Romantic Dinner and Decor ~ Create your own romantic date night in the comforts of home.  Bring out the fine china, dress up the table with candlesticks, fresh flowers, and a pretty tablecloth.  Cook their favorite dinner.  All of the effort will pay off when you have a wonderful relaxing evening together.

Fun Date Ideas

5.  Couple’s Minute to Win It Games {Romantic Dates for Valentine’s Day} ~ Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to mean candlelight and dinner for two.  Invite your favorite couples to play these fun games.  You will be rolling with laughter.  That can be romantic too.

6.  Amazing Race – Valentine Edition {Group Date} ~ This Amazing Race group date looks amazingly fun!  All of the women wore matching t-shirts as well as the men.  There were seven different clues to follow.  At the end of the race the husbands received a Big Hunk candy bar bouquet and a home cooked meal.

7.  The Ten Dollar Gift Date Night Challenge ~ A fun way to get a gift for each other.  Each person gets a ten dollar bill and 30 minutes to find the perfect gift for each other.

Be a Valentine

8.  Valentine’s Day Date Night Invitation ~ Use this free printable invitation to formerly invite your Valentine to a movie date.  Or, you can mail it too!  Keep it low key and have your movie night on the couch.  This special invite will definitely help make it special.

9.  Body Shop Date Night & Roleplay ~ Ladies start your engines!  Your husband may just love this idea.  There are about a MILLION connotations/twists you can put on vehicle maintenance terminology.  There is a free pdf file to download.

10.  Not Just For Da Garden Valentine Date ~ Rose petals are not just for the garden or honeymoon suite.   They are the yellow brick road for lovers.  Leave a trail of petals starting from the front door.  Finding the end of the trail will be irresistible.

Thanks Ladies. I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}} Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more activities for kids, creative ideas, and free tutorials.

Also, If you have a tutorial  you’d like featured, feel free to submit it to the Tip Junkie site. It just takes a second. {wink}

More Valentine Date Ideas from Tip Junkie:

• How to Date Your Spouse Challenge {week 1}
• 20 Creative Ways to Ask Someone Out {Prom, Dance, Date}
• How to Make a Love Letter Garland {Valentine}

What Valentine’s Day craft are you making this week?

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Here are my favorites who linked up the week before. You’re going to LOVE them, they are really creative! I’ve also selected several to be featured on the Tip Junkie sister-sites. Thanks for playing along!

Handmade Projects

In order to play with us, you’ll need to add the this button to your post. Edit and then simply copy & paste the html code into the top or bottom of your post. If you’re wondering how to link up to Tip Me Tuesday, I created a pictured tutorial for you. {as usual, I’ve got your back!}


<a href="http://tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.tipjunkie.com/images/TipMeTuesdayButton1.png" alt="Tip Junkie handmade projects" border="0"/></a>

Let’s Really Support Each Other:
If you link up, please take a second and comment on the 2 posts above you!

This way we really get to *meet* each other, make new friends, AND everyone gets comments. We all love comments! {{squeal}}

P.S. If you’re reading this in an e-mail or reader, click HERE to see all of the amazing homemade projects by fellow crafty divas.

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

When is President’s Day?

When is Presidents Day?  Presidents’ Day in 2012 is on Monday, the 20th of February.  In the United States, Presidents Day is always celebrated on the third Monday of February.

Presidents Day is a federal holiday officially designated as George Washington’s Birthday on February 22. While the holiday is officially Washington’s Birthday, it has become known as “President’s Day”, honoring both Washington and Lincoln, as well as all the other men who have served as president.

1.  Presidential Powdered Wig ~ Not only will the kids have fun making these wigs, but they’ll have a blast wearing and playing with them.

2.  Paper Plate Abe Lincoln Hat ~ This paper plate Abe Lincoln hat is simple enough that little ones can even get involved. It’s a fun craft for Presidents’ Day.

3.  Presidents’ Day Muffin Tin Meal ~ Made out of watermelon, string cheese, cucumbers, pretzels, and George Washington sandwich.

Presidents Day Activities

4.  Edible Log Cabin ~ Another super-simple President’s Day craft project. This isn’t something that kids will be able to keep, but it’s a fun little project that will let them play with their food!

5.  Lincoln’s Log Sorting Center ~ Sort “logs” onto Lincoln’s “cabins”. Once they fill a cabin up with logs, they’ve built it! (And, wowie-wow-wow are Firsties proud of themselves after they’ve “built” a cabin!

6.  Are you taller than Abraham Lincoln?  A life-size paper replica of 6 foot 4 inches tall Abraham Lincoln and fun activity for the kids on President’s Day.

7.  US President Printable Cards ~ Use these as flash cards, game cards, matching cards, guess who cards, sorting cards (names, letters, numbers, facial features, etc), coloring cards or whatever you want.

8.  Facts about Abraham Lincoln and Facts about George Washington ~ Since President’s Day is right around the corner we spent the week learning about some of the symbols of our nation and a few of our great leaders.

Presidents Day Crafts

9.  Presidents’ Day Finger Puppets ~ Celebrate Presidents’ Day with these quick and easy paper finger puppets of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

10.  George Washington and Abraham Lincoln Craft ~Paper piece together the faces of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln as a fun craft for Presidents day.

Celebrate Presidents Day

11.  Craft Toilet Paper Tube Presidents ~ Construct replicas of two of the most famous U.S. Presidents—Abraham Lincoln and George Washington—using toilet paper rolls as their foundation.

12.  All About the Presidents Mini Book ~ learn about a few of the great men who served as President of the United States with this mini book activity.

13.  Presidents Day Craft ~ We also make George and Abe using the same shape. Right side up is Abe and upside down is George.

14.  Paper Plate Abraham Lincoln Craft ~ Cut the middle out of a paper plate, glue on a black hat, and finger paint brown around the bottom for the beard.

15.  Paper Plate George Washington ~ How adorable are these President Washington’s out of paper plates!

16.  How to Draw the Presidents ~ Use this directed drawing techniques to teach how to draw George Washington and Abraham Lincoln for President’s Day.

17.  Celebrating Presidents Day ~ A great roundup of President’s Day activities for homeschoolers with links to site with printable activities.

18.  Eight Presidents Day Crafts from FreeKidsCrafts.com ~ Making crafts and taking time out to study our nation’s presidents with kids is a great way to incorporate learning and fun.

19.  Ten President’s Day Crafts, Money Preschool Activities and Kindergarten Lessons and Printables from Kids Soup.com

20.  Counting Makes “CENTS” with Abraham Lincoln and George Washington ~   President’s Day holiday I created a Early American patriotic-themed coins-counting game. It’s not free, but it’s only $1 to download.

21.  $3 Presidents Day Activity clip art of Barack Obama, his Portuguese Water Dog, Bo, Air Force 1, a top secret folder, George Washington and the Liberty Bell, White House and Statue of Liberty.

Thanks Ladies! I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}} Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more activities for kids, creative ideas, and free tutorials.

Also, If you have an activity you’d like featured, feel free to submit it to the Tip Junkie site. It just takes a second. {wink}

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Before and After

1.  Farmhouse Table {refinishing table} ~ Refinishing table that was green to a gorgeous farmhouse table, a beautiful before and after tutorial on how to stain furniture.

2.  Washer and Dryer Appliance Makeover ~ This brilliant appliance makeover before and after will have you dreaming of all the ugly appliances in your home that you can change! What problem can’t paint solve?

Before and After Pictures of Furniture

3.  How to Create a French Cabinet from Old Furniture ~ This post will show you how to think outside the box when it comes to repurposing old furniture. Kristy created a gorgeous French cabinet using various parts from existing furniture combined with new wood pieces.

4.  Upholstering Series {how to upholster} ~ Don’t be intimidated by reupholstering any longer! Sarah has taken great pains to explain how to upholster in a 10-post series.

5.  How to Make a Tufted Ottoman from a Coffee Table ~ Here is a step by step tutorial on how to turn a plain-jane coffee table into a beautiful tufted ottoman!

6.  Faux Granite Painted Counter-tops ~ An easy, no special tools or skills needed tutorial on how to paint your old, outdated laminate counter tops to look like brand new shiny granite!

7.  How to Add Style to a Bunkbed  ~ You simply must see the before and after of this project! Learn how to transform simple metal bunk beds into something chic and gorgeous using fabric!

Before and After Photos of Accessories

8.  How to Repurpose an Old Door ~ This is a fun idea of how to reuse an old door.  Apply magnetic chalkboard paint, turn horizontally, and hang on your wall as a weekly organizer.

9.  How to Hide a Thermostat ~ If you want to hide a thermostat, alarm keypad, or garage door opener, this tutorial is for you!

10.  Mason Jar Lights {DIY Lights} ~ How to turn simple mason jars into “restoration hardware” knock-off lighting.

11.  How to Style a Bookcase ~ Creating custom book covers for your entire library is no doubt a laborious feat, but just look at the end results! This is gorgeous! Learn how she did it by clicking on the link.

Before and After Rooms

12.  Updating a 70′s bath {bathroom renovation} ~ A makeover with beadboard wallpaper, chair-rail molding, vinyl floor planks, and new accessories, along with some vintage finds. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to update your bathroom.

13.  How to Turn a Closet into an Office ~ This is the Cinderella story of a closet!  Once messy and disheveled, this closet receives a complete makeover and transforms into an office worthy of a prince!

14. How to Create a Book Nook ~ If you have a closet that isn’t getting much use, then why not transform it into a reading nook for your kiddo?  This step by step tutorial will show you how to build your own!

15.  How to Create a Mud room ~ This mud room is gorgeous and functional especially considering the super tight quarters with doors opening at practically every angle.

More Before and After Projects

• 10 Beautiful Home Offices and Ways to Organize It
• Find the Perfect Color Palette For Your Home!
• 4 Tips to Upgrade Your Laundry Room

Thanks Ladies! I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}} Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more activities for kids, creative ideas, and free tutorials.

Also, If you have an activity you’d like featured, feel free to submit it to the Tip Junkie site. It just takes a second. {wink}

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Here’s what the winner will receive:

To enter to win, simply leave a comment below telling me you’d like to win!

Get Four Bonus Entries: {completely optional}

• If you are on twitter, you can even earn an extra entry for sharing this tweet with your followers. Example Tweet: Win a #VicksNatureFusion pkg worth $275 #giveaway http://bit.ly/x9ypsg  Enter to win via @tipjunkie. PLS RT.

Tweet

**Be sure to let me know what bonus entries you did in a separate comment for each one.

Contest ends Tuesday,  February 14th at midnight CST!

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

72.  Handcrafted Pendants - Look at these lovely silver handcrafted pendants!  It’s hard to believe that they are made from salt dough.  Yep.  Salt dough.  Even adults still like to play with dough. {wink}

111.  Party Favors Tutorial - These party favors are absolutely adorable.  You can make these for any party.  Wedding.  Baby shower.  Birthday party.  Simply choose card stock that coordinates with your theme, cut and assemble.  They are perfect to hold mints or other small candies.

153.  Mommy Photog Class {free} - Do you know what aperture, ISO or shutter speed means?  I don’t know what half of the buttons and features on my camera are for.  You can learn how to take phenomenal photographs that actually show water droplets.

249.  Newest Revamp Chair - The transformation of this chair is phenomenal.  You wouldn’t recognize the old chair.  The frame was painted black and re-upholstered.

362.  Chocolate Ravioli Hearts - These chocolate ravioli hearts look absolutely delicious!  Sinful too!  We all need some sweet treats for our sweets, right?!  It’s only once a year.

459.  Handkerchief Skirt Tutorial - This handkerchief skirt is seriously adorable!  I *heart* it!  Wouldn’t this be fabulous for an adult?  There’s a tutorial to learn how to do pin tucks and the handkerchief skirt.

595.  Ombre Yarn Letters  - L*O*V*E!  Two-toned bright and vibrant love letters for Valentine’s Day.  Simply wrap yarn around cardboard or wood letters.

692.  Springy Silky Scarf Shirt - I simply adore this scarf blouse!  The lightness of the silk scarves will make this a perfect spring of summer blouse.  The tie in the back will also accentuate your waistline.  You don’t have to be an expert seamstress for this.

857.  Herringbone Color-Blocked Wall Pattern - This color-blocked herringbone wall pattern definitely makes a statement!  A major transformation for a laundry room.  It would be fabulous in a family or living room as well.

953.  Family History Report - Isn’t this family history report fabulous?!  Not your ordinary report.  I love that newspaper articles are the background.  The way the timeline is formatted is genius.  This project will help your children learn about their heritage as well as organization and time management.

Wondering what was the most popular {or most clicked on} idea from the linky party? Well… it was Fun Valentine Ideas. Thanks Ladies. I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}}

You can view all of the 976 ideas linked up HERE. If you have a blog, be sure to check in on Tuesday when you can link up your favorite or most recent handmade project like something you made, party you hosted, a recipe, or fun tip. Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more creative ideas and tutorials.

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Print Free File Here:  Valentine's Day Paper Doll

If you don’t have a little one and you just want this for yourself, I won’t tell. {smiling}  This new Paper Doll, named Little Lisha, was designed to accompany the Laurie doll, so it’s extra special!  {squeal}  How fun is it that the Little Laurie Paper Doll gets to celebrate Valentine’s Day with her friend little Lisha?  Look at these adorable outfits for the holidays!  {They fit the Little Laurie, Little Leslie and Little Lisha Dolls!}

Paper Doll Set Includes:

The Little Lisha Doll, including 4 sets of clothing {Valentine’s Day wardrobe}, a kitchen sideboard and baking supplies for a day of baking fun, and mini Valentine’s for Lisha exchange.   {{too cute!}}   The attention to detail is amazing!  The set includes basically everything “Lisha, Laurie and Leslie” need to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

Print Free File Here:  Valentine's Day Paper Doll

Use these  paper doll printables for hours of enjoyment.  Be sure to keep them to reuse again and again!  This set includes the Little Lisha Doll, including 4 sets of clothing {Valentine’s Day wardrobe}, a kitchen sideboard and baking supplies for a day of baking fun, and mini Valentine’s for Lisha exchange.   Tricia-Rennea thinks of everything.  Stay tuned because more “sets” and outfits will be coming throughout the year to supplement this already fabulous set.    So, print out the forms, cut out the items and then enjoy! I have a feeling someone is going to get a lot of play time out of these!

About the Designer

Tricia-Rennea is an illustrator who lives in sunny Southern California with her amazing family.  She creates custom illustrated paper-dolls, stationery items, logos and more, whatever her clients need!  She creates under her own Trillustrations line and Co-Owns the Shy Socialites party and stationery shops with her sister, Barbara.

Blog: Tricia-Rennea Illustrator
Shop:  Shy Socialites
Follow on Facebook
Twitter

A HUGE thanks to Tricia-Rennea for creating a second something spectacular for us and being so generous with her talent!  If this has left you wanting more free printables, check out the Tip Junkie Printable site with over 1000 free printables.  {see I told you I was addicted}

I swear TJ has the best readers on the planet. I am so grateful for your comments, sharing ideas on Facebook, forwarding your e-mails to friends and family, and all that you do to help spread the word.  Therefore every Friday I will be introducing you to a new designer and giving EVERYONE free stuff.  Because I adore promoting women in business but I also want to give each one of you something as a thank you for being so flippin’ fantastic!

The Tip Junkie Paper Doll Collection:

• Halloween Paper Doll Printable
• Fall Soup Party, Recipe card, & Shopping List
• Thanksgiving Paper Doll Printable
• Winter Holiday Paper Doll Printable
• New Years Paper Doll

Be sure to let me know if you have a great printable that you’d like to share with fellow Tip Junkies. You can submit it to the Tip Junkie Printables site!  I’d love to feature you! {wink}

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Personal Assistant

1.  It’s February already!  If you’re wanting to be more organized then print off the Executive Homemaker binder  {if you haven’t already} where you can keep track of everything in one place as well as printable worksheets to help keep  you organized and on task.  This 2012 Printable Calendar from Tip Junkie is a must have as well!

2. Check birthdays for the month, buy cards & presents, get them ready to mail or deliver. If you have a child’s birthday this month, plan it and get out the invites.

• Tip Junkie has tons of amazing birthday themes, party favor, game and decor ideas.  You can also check out Tip Junkie Parties.

3.  Also since it’s a new year with a LOT of birthday ahead of you, consider making (or buying) neighbor, friend, and teacher gifts for the entire year.  Tip Junkie’s Homemade Gift Patterns site has hundreds of free gift tutorials with an impressive search so you can find the perfect gift.  You can even search by how much it costs to make!  {{squeal}}

4.  Organize a gift-crafting week with a friend and make it a fun event by stocking up on several handmade items you’ll need through out the year. This way if you’re ever in a time crunch or financial pinch – you’re covered!

5.  Organize your “command center”!  These 10 Stylish Family Schedule and Command Center ideas will help!  Or, if you have a whole office that needs organizing, these 10 Beautiful Home Offices and Ways to Organize It ideas will definitely inspire you!  Maybe it’s time to finally pick the new colors you want for your wall?  Take this easy quiz (How to Chose Paint) and the work is taken out of color selection for you!

6.  If one of your goals or resolutions for 2012 is to get organized then you’ll LOVE all the organizational tips here on Tip Junkie and the creative women who have been featured.  Organize with style!  These will help!  {I’ve got your back!}

• Sports, school, lesson, and church calendars  {practice pages}
• To-do lists
• Chore charts and reward charts
• Cleaning Schedule
• Grocery list and/ or Menu Planner
• Lunch Box Jokes & Notes
• Photo Checklist

Valentine’s Day Ideas

7.  Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.  Have you decided what you’re going to make, how you’re going to decorate, what traditions you’re going to implement, as well as making arrangements for your date and babysitter?  Now is the time!  {{don’t delay!}}  Head on over to the Tip Junkie Valentine site for so many Valentine’s Day ideas your heart might just swell. {snicker}  And, I’ve got a few ideas listed below as well!

• 200 + Valentine’s Day Crafts
• 10 Crafty Food Recipes for Valentine’s Day
• 11 Free Valentine Printables
• 17 Valentine DIY Home Decor Ideas
• 8 Valentine Box Ideas {pre-school and home}
• 10 Valentine Party Favors {Valentine’s Day Crafts

There are also Free Printable Valentine games, decor, and gift ideas over on Tip Junkie Printables!

8.  Plan a date night with your man. Swap kids with a friend or schedule the babysitter in advance. If you need some fun dates, check out our How to Date Your Spouse ideas over on the TJ Community.  Or why not check out these fun 20 Creative Ways to Ask Someone Out?  Your partner might be really surprised by your originality!

9. Clear schedule for book club, girls night out, BUNCO (have you seen this amazing Bunco Party Idea with FREE Printables?), and other rotating activities. Make sure you have child care, your food assignment, etc. Here’s how to start a dinner club.

10. If you are doing a food storage, time to check the schedule and buy next on the list. Don’t forget to put some cash in there as well.

11. Change AC house filter.

12. Write one grandparent a letter, artwork, or card.

13. Plan Mommy/Son or Daddy/Daughter dates.

Upcoming Tip Junkie Events:

14.  The new Tip Junkie Creative Community is launched.  Have you signed up yet?

15.  Be on the lookout for some really great giveaways this month.  An Oreck air purifier, Neatnix organizational items and Vicks VapoRub products are all items you’ll see up for grabs in February!

<a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/category/personal-assistant/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo196/ChicChickMedia/PersonalAssistant150x150.png" border="0"/></a>

If you want to remind yourself to head on over to Tip Junkie at the beginning of every month for this segment, here’s a button you can put on the sidebar of your blog. ;)

What do you do in February to really stay organized?

Let me know below in the comments or we can chat about it over on the Tip Junkie Facebook page. I adore hearing from you and really want to help you plan your month. {{wink}}

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Best Homemade Valentine’s and Cards

Valentines Day Valentines

1.  Smarty Pants – I adore this Valentine, created just for Tip Junkie readers.  This FREE printable is so much fun!  Print out this homemade Valentine and pop in a few Smarties candies for a unique, fun and yummy Valentines candy card!  {squeal}

2.  Paper Cut Hearts – These paper cut hearts are lovely and make a beautiful card or DIY craft!  I love the red/white contrast for Valentine’s Day!

Love Valentines

3.  Handprint Heart - Nothing says love quite like a child’s handprint.  This is a homemade Valentine that will be saved for years and years!

4.  “Be Mine” Freebie – These printables will make your Valentine card making super easy, super cute,  and they will still qualify as homemade!

5.  Printable Love Card – Isn’t this printable Love card beautiful?  Try using textured card stock for a more unique look!  Easy and beautiful?  {score!}

School Valentines

6.  Crayon Heart Valentine - I can’t tell you how much I adore this Valentine Card Idea.  Not only does it repurpose crayons, the presentation is fabulous!

7.  I “Wheelie” Like You – This card/gift only takes a few minutes to make.  Simply print out the message from your computer on card stock and then put a few goodies in a bag (the car is essential, though) and these boys Valentines are good to go!

8. You’re a Hoot Valentine - I love that these fun homemade Valentines cards are easy on the pocketbook.  The cute paper owls clutch sugary Valentine’s Day treats and the entire set cost just a few pennies more than a dollar to create.

Thanks Ladies. I just adore these ideas! Feel free to grab my “I was featured on Tip Junkie” blog button. You earned it! {{knuckle bumps}} Also, don’t forget to check out the Tip Junkie Facebook page for even more activities for kids, creative ideas, and free tutorials.

Also, If you have a tutorial  you’d like featured, feel free to submit it to the Tip Junkie site. It just takes a second. {wink}

More Valentine Gift Ideas from Tip Junkie:

• 20 Things To Do for Valentine’s Day {FREE PRINTABLE}
• 8 Fun Valentine Pre-School Party Games
• 13 Lovely Paper crafting Tutorials

How many Valentine’s are you making this year?

Creating Memories that Endure,

Laurie

Want Eye Candy From All The Tip Junkie Sites?

• Click here to subscribe to the NEW Tip Junkie e-mail! It's a once a day e-mail that includes eye candy from ALL the Tip Junkie sites! {{squeal}}

Homemade Conversation Hearts {Homemade Valentine Candy}

Conversation hearts are a fun and traditional Valentine’s Day candy, but lets be honest.  They taste a little bit like chalk.  That is fine for little ones who don’t care what form their sugar comes in, but if you want all of the fun of the cute heart shaped candy with a homemade taste, check out this recipe for DIY conversation hearts.  You can use the flavoring suggestions they offer or choose your favorite flavors to customize them to your taste.

Candy Robot Valentine {Valentines for Kids}

These adorable candy robots make great valentines for kids.  Attach an “I’m nuts and bolts about you” card and any boy or girl would love to get this candy robot in their valentine box.  They are a great craft to let your kids put together for their classmates, or take them to the class party and let each of the kids in class create a valentine robot creation of their own.

DIY Valentine’s Day Centerpiece {Celebrating Valentines Day}

Create an easy DIY floral arrangement for Valentine’s Day.  These beautiful flowers in their Valentine’s themed vase are a great centerpiece for your dinner table for that special dinner for two or a lovely gift to give someone special.  These flowers will make your heart go bloom, bloom, bloom.

Valentine Yahtzee Game {Valentine Games}

If you are looking for a fun game other than bingo to play at a classroom Valentine party or just want a fun activity to play with the family after dinner on February 14th, check out this DIY Valentine Yahtzee Game from The Idea Room.  You can print out the free Heart Yahtzee cards, check out her tutorial for making the Heart Yahtzee dice, and then you will be ready for some Love themed fun on Valentine’s Day.

Silly and Simple Valentine Cards {DIY Valentine Card}

If you are looking for a DIY Valentine that is simple to make, but will still be more fun for your kids to give out than a standard box valentine, check out these silly and simple valentine card ideas from The Crafting Chicks.  They share great ideas adding small touches to a picture of your child that will make a one of a kind valentine card.

Iphone Valentine {Valentines Printable}

Turn a box of traditional conversation hearts into a unique valentine with this fun free Valentine Printable from Living Locurto.  This cute valentine looks just like an iPhone and is personalized with lots of fun Valentine’s Day touches, like the date showing in the calendar, a text message of love, and a Be Mine App.  This is even cute enough that your teenagers might not be embarrassed to give valentines to their friends.

Repurposed Valentine’s Wreath {For Valentines Day}

Use some extra cardboard to repurpose old t-shirts into an adorable Valentine’s wreath.  Kids can help create this DIY Valentine decoration by helping to cut the shirt into squares and glue them to the cardboard wreath frame.  In no time you will have a beautiful DIY wreath for Valentine’s Day that cost only pennies to make.

Chocolate Valentine’s Cookies {Valentine Desserts]

This delicious recipe for Chocolate rolled cookies makes a beautiful base for decorated Valentine’s treats.  Perfect for a Valentine’s Day party or for an edible gift for teachers, friends, or neighbors, this recipe will be one that you use over and over again.

Valentine Star Gazing {Romantic Date For Valentines Day}

Take your truck, or borrow one from a friend, pack up a picnic dinner and head out of city limits to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day under the stars.  Head home or dress warm and sleep under the stars on Valentine’s Day.  Either way it is an inexpensive and very romantic way to spend your evening with your valentine.

Foxy Valentine Favors {Free Printable Valentines Day Craft}

Paper Source has a free printable foxy valentine party favor box template and how-to tutorial to walk you through this fun Valentine’s Day craft.   This foxy valentine is great party favor or a cute box to wrap your valentines gifts for your classmates or teachers.  Just print out the template and you will be well on your way to a foxy Valentine’s Day.