“For God so loVed the world,
that He gAve
His onLy
begottEn
SoN
That whosoever
believeth In Him
shall Not perish
but have Eternal life.”
John 3:16
2.14.2012
Happy Valentine's Day!
Know that, today and every day, YOU are dearly loved.
“For God so loVed the world,
that He gAve
“For God so loVed the world,
that He gAve
2.13.2012
Last Minute Valentine idea for the Book Lover you love...
IF your Valentine is someone who "still" likes to read actual, real books, this is a wonderful idea.
First, gather the supplies - you will need an envelope, paper, glue, and a writing utensil if you want to include a note.
The two bottom corners of the envelopes will make two bookmarks. This is a great use for junk mail envelopes - like if you get a credit card offer with a return envelope, you can use the bottom corners for this project. Of course, bright, colorful envelopes may make this more fun.
The paper on top can be solid or patterned, contrasting or even cut out of the same envelope (the flap part). Cut a heart out of the corner, then cut a heart out of other paper, keeping it slightly smaller. Glue the smaller heart on top, and let it dry.
This is what you will get... Here are my first 3 heart envelope book marks:
This is how it works- the corner of the envelope slips right onto the corner of a book page to hold the spot. Another idea - IF you want to write your own note, you can write on either side of the heart. OR, if you want - use the little slit in the bookmark to insert your own other little love note. This is what the bookmark will look like when it's in use:
These are great little valentines (or any holiday gift, even birthdays!) on their own, or, if you prefer, tuck them into another card or gift. You can make them fit any color or other theme. Enjoy playing around with your own ideas for this project. HAPPY Valentine's Day to you and yours; and HAPPY READING to all!
First, gather the supplies - you will need an envelope, paper, glue, and a writing utensil if you want to include a note.
The two bottom corners of the envelopes will make two bookmarks. This is a great use for junk mail envelopes - like if you get a credit card offer with a return envelope, you can use the bottom corners for this project. Of course, bright, colorful envelopes may make this more fun.
The paper on top can be solid or patterned, contrasting or even cut out of the same envelope (the flap part). Cut a heart out of the corner, then cut a heart out of other paper, keeping it slightly smaller. Glue the smaller heart on top, and let it dry.
This is what you will get... Here are my first 3 heart envelope book marks:
This is how it works- the corner of the envelope slips right onto the corner of a book page to hold the spot. Another idea - IF you want to write your own note, you can write on either side of the heart. OR, if you want - use the little slit in the bookmark to insert your own other little love note. This is what the bookmark will look like when it's in use:
These are great little valentines (or any holiday gift, even birthdays!) on their own, or, if you prefer, tuck them into another card or gift. You can make them fit any color or other theme. Enjoy playing around with your own ideas for this project. HAPPY Valentine's Day to you and yours; and HAPPY READING to all!
2.08.2012
Unloading some LOVE
This week, I was commissioned to hand-make valentines for my youngest nephew's Preschool class. (Yes, just typing that makes me feel OLD.) They wanted something fun, something a little different, and something that would look nice. My first thoughts were danish hearts or cupcake liner/egg carton/sucker flowers, but I also wanted something more "boyish" for him to distribute.
After reviewing a few ideas, the Mama said she liked this idea, and I should just do them however I think is best. Here are some pictures of the finished project!
This is the front, a dump truck with a box of conversation hearts as the "load" being "dumped"...
Inside, it says, "Unloading BIG THANKS for being such a great friend. Happy Valentine's Day!" I used a few kid-friendly stickers to help decorate the inside, as well.
One valentine, up close. Notice that the "wheels" are individually wrapped mints. If I had used solid paper for the truck, I may have used peppermint discs, but I didn't want it to get too busy. Also, IF this was for older children or adults, I might have glued a few loose conversation hearts to look like they were "spilling," or being "dumped". Since these were for younger children and I didn't want them to pull glued candy off to eat, I just used a few stickers at the end of the box.
The ones for my nephews say, "Unloading some LOVE for you... Happy Valentine's Day!" They also got extra stickers! (Yes, Aunties can play favorites.)
The possibilities to be creative with these are endless. I got out scraps of paper from old projects and just played around all day. It was important to use card stock and thicker paper, so that the card would support the box of candy.
A few more of the cards. I particularly like the idea of using an old map (Thanks, Santa.) for either the truck itself, or the background.
Oh yeah, I also did a "hairy valentine" with this bunch - see post below.
IF you were to make these yourself, I would suggest making yourself a master pattern and then just working from that. With younger children, you can either cut some of the shapes for them, or use this project to jump-start a discussion about shapes.
I had thought to cut out a "window", but then I forgot. (slightly rushed to get these in the mail on time) However, I think I like them better without the window. IF I cut a hole, then I'd want to put a picture of a driver in the window or get out plastic wrap... These three are the ones for my nephews. I went with the two oldest nephew's favorite colors for their backgrounds, and a map background for the third.
Due to the bulkiness of the candy boxes, I didn't want to try to shove these into envelopes. Instead, I used plastic cello gift bags, which I then sealed with a mailing label. I printed out each child's name on the mailing label - especially fun for Preschool aged children.
This was a slightly larger project than originally anticipated, but I just wanted them to look nice. It was also incredibly more fun than one might initially think making a bunch of "boy valentines" would be. The only thing that could have made this better was if I could have had my nephews help me themselves with these valentines.
I got this task yesterday morning and mailed the box this afternoon. While job hunting can be frustrating, I'm thankful for the time right now to work on projects like this. Now, we just hope that the box arrives in time...
After reviewing a few ideas, the Mama said she liked this idea, and I should just do them however I think is best. Here are some pictures of the finished project!
This is the front, a dump truck with a box of conversation hearts as the "load" being "dumped"...
Inside, it says, "Unloading BIG THANKS for being such a great friend. Happy Valentine's Day!" I used a few kid-friendly stickers to help decorate the inside, as well.
One valentine, up close. Notice that the "wheels" are individually wrapped mints. If I had used solid paper for the truck, I may have used peppermint discs, but I didn't want it to get too busy. Also, IF this was for older children or adults, I might have glued a few loose conversation hearts to look like they were "spilling," or being "dumped". Since these were for younger children and I didn't want them to pull glued candy off to eat, I just used a few stickers at the end of the box.
The ones for my nephews say, "Unloading some LOVE for you... Happy Valentine's Day!" They also got extra stickers! (Yes, Aunties can play favorites.)
I made enough for my nephew's class, his Teacher, his two brothers,
and a few friends. I also made a few extra.
The possibilities to be creative with these are endless. I got out scraps of paper from old projects and just played around all day. It was important to use card stock and thicker paper, so that the card would support the box of candy.
A few more of the cards. I particularly like the idea of using an old map (Thanks, Santa.) for either the truck itself, or the background.
A few more...
Oh yeah, I also did a "hairy valentine" with this bunch - see post below.
IF you were to make these yourself, I would suggest making yourself a master pattern and then just working from that. With younger children, you can either cut some of the shapes for them, or use this project to jump-start a discussion about shapes.
I had thought to cut out a "window", but then I forgot. (slightly rushed to get these in the mail on time) However, I think I like them better without the window. IF I cut a hole, then I'd want to put a picture of a driver in the window or get out plastic wrap... These three are the ones for my nephews. I went with the two oldest nephew's favorite colors for their backgrounds, and a map background for the third.
Due to the bulkiness of the candy boxes, I didn't want to try to shove these into envelopes. Instead, I used plastic cello gift bags, which I then sealed with a mailing label. I printed out each child's name on the mailing label - especially fun for Preschool aged children.
This was a slightly larger project than originally anticipated, but I just wanted them to look nice. It was also incredibly more fun than one might initially think making a bunch of "boy valentines" would be. The only thing that could have made this better was if I could have had my nephews help me themselves with these valentines.
I got this task yesterday morning and mailed the box this afternoon. While job hunting can be frustrating, I'm thankful for the time right now to work on projects like this. Now, we just hope that the box arrives in time...
2.07.2012
A Hairy Love?
Someone requested a set of my hand-made barrettes as a Valentine's gift, so of course I had to put them in a special card...
The front says, "When things get a little hairy..." and has a bunch of yarn glued on with two little googly eyes. Such a cute little hairy monster.
The inside reads, "I'm here for you. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!" and includes one set of barrettes, complete with my business card on the reverse side.
Super fun! I just can't seem to stop with the Valentines this week. (also working on dump truck cards for my youngest nephew's class - pictures will be forthcoming)
Are YOU hand-making any of your cards this year? Please share your great ideas!
The front says, "When things get a little hairy..." and has a bunch of yarn glued on with two little googly eyes. Such a cute little hairy monster.
The inside reads, "I'm here for you. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!" and includes one set of barrettes, complete with my business card on the reverse side.
Super fun! I just can't seem to stop with the Valentines this week. (also working on dump truck cards for my youngest nephew's class - pictures will be forthcoming)
Are YOU hand-making any of your cards this year? Please share your great ideas!
2.06.2012
Paint Me a Valentine...
Do you have old paint sample strips somewhere? Do you want to make your own creative Valentine for someone special this year? Here is a fun idea I've been doing recently:
I used ink stamps. This is my second attempt - so, if you are doing this with kids, I highly recommend just using stickers - but they look very nice with stamps. (You'll want to use a special ink, useable with glossy surfaces; and then a sealant over the top - like Mod Podge... Test it all first!)
I used stamps and a special ink pad on paint sample strips - then glued them over different (one, larger solid) paint sample. I used rubber cement and put it all on a blank white note card.
These were to be Valentines, so there are tons of hearts and other romantical things... I used an "I heart you" stamp and an "x" and an "o" together, anything with hearts or love.
You can do the same stamp, or mix it up a bit. I looked to multiple shades of red and pink, but it's also great to play with non-traditional "Valentine" colors.
One of my favorites - I found a stamp that has a rice bowl and says, "May your rice bowl always be full." Cute!
These are blank inside, the perfect canvas for a favorite saying, Bible verse, or other note for a dear friend.
All 42 Valentines together! They have taken over our dining table! (in front of the mirror, it looks even more dramatic)
These are really cute and I haven't seen them anywhere. Try making your own, or, if you're pressed for time - consider buying a few from me. (Make me an offer.)
Handmade Valentines are always sealed with a little extra love.
Whatever your thoughts are on celebrating Valentine's Day, and whatever kind of valentines you make or buy to send, I wish you tons of love the whole year long. May you always have good friends, your very own favorite Valentine, and even a "rice bowl that is always full."
I used ink stamps. This is my second attempt - so, if you are doing this with kids, I highly recommend just using stickers - but they look very nice with stamps. (You'll want to use a special ink, useable with glossy surfaces; and then a sealant over the top - like Mod Podge... Test it all first!)
I used stamps and a special ink pad on paint sample strips - then glued them over different (one, larger solid) paint sample. I used rubber cement and put it all on a blank white note card.
These are really fun to make.
Be careful, it's difficult to stop!
You can do the same stamp, or mix it up a bit. I looked to multiple shades of red and pink, but it's also great to play with non-traditional "Valentine" colors.
One of my favorites - I found a stamp that has a rice bowl and says, "May your rice bowl always be full." Cute!
These are blank inside, the perfect canvas for a favorite saying, Bible verse, or other note for a dear friend.
All 42 Valentines together! They have taken over our dining table! (in front of the mirror, it looks even more dramatic)
These are really cute and I haven't seen them anywhere. Try making your own, or, if you're pressed for time - consider buying a few from me. (Make me an offer.)
Handmade Valentines are always sealed with a little extra love.
Whatever your thoughts are on celebrating Valentine's Day, and whatever kind of valentines you make or buy to send, I wish you tons of love the whole year long. May you always have good friends, your very own favorite Valentine, and even a "rice bowl that is always full."
2.03.2012
Will YOU need a cape?
Have you ever considered donating bone marrow to help save a life? The first step is to join the national registry at Be The Match Marrow registry. (more details here, as well) The online registry first makes sure you are eligible with a few basic questions. You register online, and it takes about 20 minutes. Then they will send you a kit - basically instructions with q-tips to swab the inside of your cheek and return. Then you are registered to help as someone's match. It's just that easy.
By the way, IF this is something you do and you actually are a match and donate - I will totally make you your very own cape, in any color you want - maybe matching ones for you and your recipient?
10,000 patients need a bone marrow transplant... about 1/2 receive one.
Think about it, pray about it, and considering doing it NOW.
By the way, IF this is something you do and you actually are a match and donate - I will totally make you your very own cape, in any color you want - maybe matching ones for you and your recipient?
10,000 patients need a bone marrow transplant... about 1/2 receive one.
Think about it, pray about it, and considering doing it NOW.
2.01.2012
Pleasing Pasta Salad, with Twists
Yesterday, I made pasta salad. It was a little different, as I played with my usual recipe... and it was so delicious that I thought I'd share... the recipe that is.
Pasta salad is often thought of as a summer dish, but that's okay because here in Hawaii, it feels just like summer year-round. For example, I prepared this pasta salad after I came in from my walk. I had to cut my walk a little short because it was just too sunny and I didn't have on sunblock.
This recipe is for a cold pasta salad. You get an earthy, Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
Dressing Ingredients:
1/2 c. olive oil (I added a bit more)
1/2 c. red wine vinegar
1.5 tsp EACH garlic powder, dried basil, & dried oregano (I also tossed in some thyme)
3/4 tsp EACH ground black pepper and white sugar
Salad Ingredients:
2.5 c. cooked elbow macaroni (any noodles will do - I like to use spirals, and the whole box - note that this is part of the "twist" in my pasta salad... tee he he)
3 c. fresh sliced mushrooms
3/4 c. crumbled feta cheese (I use a little extra)
1/2 c. chopped onions (I use red)
3/4 c. sliced pepperoni sausage, cut (I use pizza topping pepperoni, cut into fourths)
* any fresh veggies will do - think Greek (cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumbers, etc.) - whatever you have or really like. I put tomatoes in Eric's and gave him the option of olives. I also like to include red, green, or yellow bell peppers - we were just out when I made this. They add a bit of color, in addition to a little more zesty taste.
WHAT YOU DO:
In a large pot of boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Rinse it under cold water and drain.
While pasta is cooking, cut the vegetables and make the dressing.
To make the dressing - whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, basil, oregano, black pepper, sugar, and thyme. Set it aside until you finish the pasta.
In a large bowl - pour the dressing over the pasta, adding the vegetables and pepperoni. Toss until evenly coated. (I add the cheese last and then mix one more time.)
Cover, chill at least 2 hours (overnight is even better, if you can get it to last that long without anyone eating it all), serve it cold, and ENJOY.
FOR DINNER:
I cooked up some chicken breasts with a little butter, sliced mushrooms, and chopped onions. (salt & pepper to taste) I served the chicken with the above pasta salad, fresh purple grapes, and steamed broccoli. This was a delicious dinner!
Note: I'd post a picture... but this food was so delicious it all seemed to "disappear" too quickly...
Challenge: Try my new fav. pasta salad recipe sometime this week... OR let me know how you play with the basic pasta salad recipe... How do you make it your own?
Pasta salad is often thought of as a summer dish, but that's okay because here in Hawaii, it feels just like summer year-round. For example, I prepared this pasta salad after I came in from my walk. I had to cut my walk a little short because it was just too sunny and I didn't have on sunblock.
This recipe is for a cold pasta salad. You get an earthy, Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
Dressing Ingredients:
1/2 c. olive oil (I added a bit more)
1/2 c. red wine vinegar
1.5 tsp EACH garlic powder, dried basil, & dried oregano (I also tossed in some thyme)
3/4 tsp EACH ground black pepper and white sugar
Salad Ingredients:
2.5 c. cooked elbow macaroni (any noodles will do - I like to use spirals, and the whole box - note that this is part of the "twist" in my pasta salad... tee he he)
3 c. fresh sliced mushrooms
3/4 c. crumbled feta cheese (I use a little extra)
1/2 c. chopped onions (I use red)
3/4 c. sliced pepperoni sausage, cut (I use pizza topping pepperoni, cut into fourths)
* any fresh veggies will do - think Greek (cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumbers, etc.) - whatever you have or really like. I put tomatoes in Eric's and gave him the option of olives. I also like to include red, green, or yellow bell peppers - we were just out when I made this. They add a bit of color, in addition to a little more zesty taste.
WHAT YOU DO:
In a large pot of boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Rinse it under cold water and drain.
While pasta is cooking, cut the vegetables and make the dressing.
To make the dressing - whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, basil, oregano, black pepper, sugar, and thyme. Set it aside until you finish the pasta.
In a large bowl - pour the dressing over the pasta, adding the vegetables and pepperoni. Toss until evenly coated. (I add the cheese last and then mix one more time.)
Cover, chill at least 2 hours (overnight is even better, if you can get it to last that long without anyone eating it all), serve it cold, and ENJOY.
FOR DINNER:
I cooked up some chicken breasts with a little butter, sliced mushrooms, and chopped onions. (salt & pepper to taste) I served the chicken with the above pasta salad, fresh purple grapes, and steamed broccoli. This was a delicious dinner!
Note: I'd post a picture... but this food was so delicious it all seemed to "disappear" too quickly...
Challenge: Try my new fav. pasta salad recipe sometime this week... OR let me know how you play with the basic pasta salad recipe... How do you make it your own?
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