29.6.10

Make Twilight Badges with your i-Top Tool

For all my peeps that love Twilight and own an i-top tool. here's a fun download for you today. Team Edward and Team Jacob badge/button copy. You can make a whole bunch for your friends and let them pick which team they're rooting for!!


Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

Favorite "Twilight Inspired" Finds

How could I possibly resist posting about Twilight on this special day? You see for those of you have been dead or simply don't care, this is the day I get to go see Eclipse. It's the 3rd movie in the Twilight Saga. Of course having read the book all twice I already know what happens, but I have to say this is on of my favorite ones out of the entire series and I'm very thrilled for it. I was even more thrilled when I scored tickets for me, a friend, my daughter and her friend for a private premier showing at 6:00pm rather then having to go see it at midnight. Did you know here in Utah that we sell more tickets the first day/night then anywhere else?? Go figure?!!


Custom Twilight T-Shirts & More
I thought this was so clever. You can pick Jacob or Edward and then the CafePress site customizes your t-shirts, bags and etc with your NAME on them. Loved the idea, but didn't find it until just now...so I won't be showing up wearing my new Jacob...I mean Edward shirt (wink).

Edward Necklace by Margie
This beauty was created by my friend Margie Romney-Aslett and like all things Margie, this girl knows how to bling out a piece of jewelry. Regretfully I would have much preferred to take her class on this then buy a kit...and I found out about it too late. Wouldn't this have rocked to have for the movie premier.

Twilight on Etsy
I had no idea that there was so much Twilight inspired things on ETSY. Holy cow these women are either spending way too much time making things about the movies or actually making money off those women that are so obsessed they buy it. This particular shop made me laugh the most.

Twilight Inspired Cupcakes
A co-worker sent me a link to a local business called So Cupcake. He was telling me that his wife and some friends from the neighborhood are going to see the new Eclipse movie, but before they're stopping by So Cupcakes to try out one of their new cupcakes.Regretfully they didn't have pictures of their cupcakes on their website (sniffle), but the descriptions were so worth posting here (see below). You have to read through them and if you have a chance to stop by their shop, eat one for me!!

"BITE BACK cupcakes"Take advantage of this tasty opportunity to take a "bite" out of your favorite vampire or wolf. In cupcake form of course! These custom created cupcakes were inspried by these yummy characters in the Twilight saga. Who do you want to take a bite out of? No need to choose just one, these fantastic gourmet cupcakes come in six packs.

The Edward - Vanilla cupcake with white butter cream frosting and a shimmery sparkle on top. After all,"real cupcakes sparkle"!


The Bella - Red Velvet Cake with Butter Cream Frosting.. A mouth watering cupcake, just ask Edward.


The Alice - Vanilla Cake with Tiffany Blue Butter Cream Frosting Sprinkled with exquisite edible pearls. Only the best for Alice!


The Jasper - Will comfort and calm you as you sink your teeth in to this cozy Cinnamon & Sugar Cake with Warm Brown Cinnamon Butter Cream Frosting Sprinkled with Brown Sanding Sugar.


The Rosalie - She may be bitter but this luscious lemon cupcake is sweet! Lemon cake with Lemon Butter Cream Frosting Sprinkled with Yellow Sanding Sugar. A real blond bomb shell!


The Emmett - A real "stud muffin" has inspired a blueberry cake with Violet Vanilla Butter Cream Frosting "studded" with a fresh blueberry on top.


The Jacob - This delicious wolf is tempting in Brownie Cake with Milk Chocolate Butter Cream Frosting. Get a whole box of these so you can enjoy Jacob's "Six Pack"!


The Victoria - Try this Strawberry Cake with Fuchsia Strawberry Butter Cream Frosting Sprinkled with Hot Pink Sanding Sugar. Evil never tasted so good!


The Laurent - Dark Chocolate Cake with Dark Chocolate Butter Cream Frosting Sprinkled with Mini Chocolate Chips. A fantastic combo, vampires & chocolate!
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

28.6.10

Blinging it On! i-rock bling on my Cricut Card Creations

I had so much fun playing with my Gypsy & Cricut this weekend. Oh and my yummy i-rock tool and bling from Imaginisce. Here's a couple of elegant cards, but you need to click on them to see the gorgeous detail on them.
The wreath and border were cut from the Cricut Holiday Cakes Cartridge. I couldn't pass blinging them up with my i-rock tool. I also used one of the Cuttlebug Embossing Folders (polka dots) to create the dotted pattern on the black core'dinations cardstock and then sanded off the tops of the dots and edges of the paper to reveal the white core of the paper. 
I believe the straight pin with the crystal at the end is from Maya Road and the ribbon from Creative Impressions (but I've had this for a while and it's not marked).
A lot of you have asked me more about the i-rock heat set gem setting tool from Imaginisce and I thought a short video from my friend Erin Bassett would explain it better.



Wait until I show you more of my vinyl ideas using  my Gypsy & Cricut! But tomorrow I'll be featuring some fun things all inspired by Twilight/Eclipse OF COURSE!!
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

24.6.10

Interesting Things I Learned from the Men in My Life

I thought I'd share a couple of things I've learned recently from the men in my life. You might totally relate!?

Interesting "Man" Fact #1
Did you know that there are mathematical formulas that you can use to solve a rubix cube?? Here's a picture of the cube and my 15 year old's notes on how to solve what  I always thought was an unsolvable puzzle. In fact, the only way I thought you could solve these toys from my youth was to either remove the stickers and replace them in together OR pop the pieces out and put them back in the correct order. Go figure! My son has solved it quite a few times...but not after writing up his notes, watching some YouTube videos and reading some websites. And I thought he wouldn't be using his brain now that it's summer!
Interesting "Man" Fact #2
Appearance really DOES matter...but not in the way you think it would. What I'm talking about is the vehicle your man drives. Years ago I was driving my husband's car to work and due to no fault of my own, I was sideswiped. When my husband arrived on the scene I wasn't sure if he was more worried about me, his wife of many years, or his car. I do think I saw him shed a tear. However, the car was still drivable and thanks to the wreck the other guys insurance paid for not only this car (because it totalled it), but it paid for my car loan. Love it when an accident works out for the best. And now a few years later the car still runs just fine...even with over 200,000 miles on it. But my husband is constantly warning me that it's going to die any day and we'll need to buy another car....he's been saying this for the past 2 years. I finally called him on it. I asked him why in the world he says that when the car is running fine...well he admitted to me, "I don't like driving it with the banged up side." Apparently it's bothered him ever since it happened and he constantly worries about what type of image he has when he gets out of a banged up car. Go figure!

I'd love to know what interesting "man facts" you've learned over the years!! Please share by leaving a comment, I could use a laugh!
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

23.6.10

Provo Craft Cricut: Vinyl Obsession!!

I was a bit intimidated at the idea of cutting my own vinyl with my Cricut Expressions. But I received some sample vinyl and thought I'd give it a try. HOLY COW...I am hooked.

It's super easy to cut out vinyl...just like cutting cardstock on your Cricut. But then you simply peel away the excess vinyl. Cut apart your words or images and then use the transfer paper to pull it off and reapply it on your walls, frames, mirrors, jars, windows, etc. If you want to remove it and it's stuck, simply heat it up with your hair dryer and peel it off. Oh now I need to go buy me EVERY color and you better all watch out...you're getting personalized gifts for your birthdays!! Check out a few things I made...I have more, but these are the ones that are photographed.

Acrylic Frame
"Unique" wordart is from the Wall Decor and More Cricut Cartridge. I then used my i-rock tool and clear rhinestones to add a little more unique bling to the acrylic frame.



Magical Frame
I used an old read leather frame that I'd had stashed away forever. I tied some cute To Love & Cherish ribbons from Imaginisce tied around the left side of the frame. Then I cut out of black vinyl the word "magical" is from the Once Upon a Princess Cricut cartridge. Then with the help of my i-rock tool and black rhinestones I added some little Mickey bling to finish off the frame.



Photo Album
This cute green photo album fits 4x6" photos and my daughter asked me to make her something to use. so with black vinyl I cute "friends" using my Cricut and the Create a Critter cartridge. And you know it, I had to add bling to this project with my i-rock tool too!


 I haven't had this much fun playing with my Cricut ever!! And vinyl...my husband already hated that I would order new vinyl things for my walls, but he's in trouble now that I can add vinyl to just about EVERYTHING in our house so easily!!


Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

22.6.10

Teresa's Gorgeous Rolled Fabric Flowers


Most of you that read my blog probably already know about the fabulous Teresa Collins...love her! Love her creative talents too. Well the other day she was on Good Things Utah and I missed it...so I went searching and found the segment on their website and thought I'd share it with you all here.

She's also posted some great step-by-step instructions on her blog for these flowers too (since they never zoom in close enough on the show to see up close...my opinion at least). I hope you try making some of these yourself...I am hoping to find a little free time this week to give it a try.

Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

21.6.10

Teaching at CK Scrap & Play Event


I am very excited to announce that I'll be teaching at Creating Keepsakes Scrap & Play event October 15th & 16th in Provo, Utah. They held this new event this spring and it was a huge hit! I'm thrilled to be part of this and teach all the great scrappers how to use the i-top and i-rock tools!! Oh and even more excited to be teaching along with Margie Romney-Aslett...we are going to have a ball! I'm even more thrilled that me and my cohorts will be staying to crop & party ALL NIGHT (and day) LONG too!! 

Registration for Scrap & Play opens this week (June 23rd to be exact) and personally I think it's a great deal for this event. You get to crop for 24 hours...there's free spa services, chocolate bar, classes and cropping!! LOVE IT!! Oh and it's only $125 (only $100 if you book a room at the Marriott Hotel). Here's a link to more information. Be sure to register soon...the awesome CK team is trying to keep this event small and more personal and you won't want to miss out. See you there! 
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

20.6.10

I Hate Fathers Day

Yes I admit it, out loud and for all the world to read...I really do hate Fathers Day.

All the advertisements, television shows and people in general constantly talk about Fathers Day. All this day reminds me of, is the failing hope and unrealistic expectations I have always had for my father and me.

Church...oh how I dread going to church on Father Day. Everyone talks about their fathers and the wonderful relationships they have with their fathers. The happy memories they've shared and made with their fathers. Actually if this isn't ironic... last Fathers Day my entire family was asked to talk in church....about the "roles of fathers." It was both of my teenagers first experience speaking in public and they were SO mad at me. They were ticked because we didn't tell them NO when they asked if we'd all speak. Personally I thought if I had to do it, everyone should have to. And of all weekends to have me speak...and about FATHERS of all things! To have to stand in front of everyone and profess the wonderful nature of "fathers" and how we should celebrate them on this day when inside I am sad and hate the relationship I have with my own dad!

However, I tried to focus on my husband and his own father. They have a great relationship and thankfully my husband is a GREAT dad. Actually, when I was dating my husband, I was so touched by the close relationship he had with his dad and his dad had with his dad. It was something I did not know personally and hoped my own children would have with my husband. I've often shared that this special example he had shown me was one of the reasons I married him.

But I could not talk in church about fathers without talking about my own experience with my dad. How very hard this was for me. Why? Because, our relationship for the past four years has pretty much sucked rocks! Oh it hasn't been roses over the years, but the past four years is what I'm focused on these days. Would you believe that four years ago, on Fathers Day in fact, I sent a short email to my dad wishing him a Happy Fathers Day...nothing overwhelmingly mushy or heartfelt...just short and to the point (I think). It was the response I received that set the following four years in motion. My dad responded with something to the affect of "I can't deal with the guilt anymore and I don't want anything to do with you any more."

Yes the response hurt and the fact that we haven't spoken in four years continues to be on my mind...even more today then ever! I of course disposed of the email after letting it eat me up for days, but the way I felt after reading it will forever be with me. But in retrospect I wasn't surprised and in a way, I was relieved. I didn't have to work on a relationship with my father anymore...one that had always been strained. I could lower my expectations for who my father should be and stop worrying about how that very dysfunctional relationship could potentially affect my own children. But it still hurt.

A little background...my mother and father were divorced when I was in 5th grade. At the time I did not have any friends with divorced parents, in fact the only person I knew that I could talk to that would relate to what I was going through was my school teacher (the very cool Miss R). Like with all children from divorced parents, there were personal struggles and challenges. Don't worry though, I was not a VICTIM and if anything it made me a better person. I could think of much worse things to experience. And still to this day, I hate it when people label my family as broken... I know a lot of couples that have stayed together and I don't think they're any less broken then my family was. Stupid label anyway!

Over the years my dad was in and out of my life. I always figured he loved me, but I often times missed the man I thought he could be. Many times I wished so much to have the relationship with him that I "thought" daughters and fathers should have. I strived to be accepted by him and in turn, accept him for what he was willing and able to offer. That truly was the most difficult part and solely my responsibility. But even at 41 I struggle with accepting him and accepting our relationship (which I suppose is in a way  "broken").

Funny thing...I thought even though my dad never seemed to want to be with me, know me, love me. I thought for sure he'd want what I never had in our relationship with my own chilren. What grandparent wouldn't want to know and be with his grand kids? I was wrong. But they won't have to grow up "watching the door" for him to show up when he said he would and then he doesn't (happened so often to me and my brother...I lost count).

I was sure after becoming an adult that I would need years of therapy to cope with my daddy issues. But years ago after meeting with a therapist she was surprised how well adjusted I was and how good my attitude about my dad was. I would tell her about this broken relationship, about my dad and then I'd say, "my dad sucks at being my dad, but I love him." That got a stamp of approval from my therapist...go figure.

Don't be mistaken, I do love my dad and yes I love the idea of having a dad (probably the root of all my issues). I did have some fun, beautiful childhood memories of my dad that I cling to tightly and that I'm very grateful for. I do believe my dad influenced me positively at times and his guidance did influence the person I am today. Sure I would love to hug my dad, see him, talk to him. But our relationship has always taken so much work and we have struggled over the years to make it work...one of us was bound to give up. I suppose it's easier to respect his desire to be left alone. But today it makes me sad and guilty all in once. So that's a very short reason why "I hate Fathers Day."

Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

16.6.10

Favorite Finds: Unique Fathers Day Gifts

My week is completely messed up so I decided to move things around a bit to better manage my time. So today you're getting my Favorite Finds post early...I tried to include as many unique Fathers Day gift ideas as I could round up!! And with Father's Day this weekend...I figured the more time I have you to try out any of these ideas the more you'd like me!! 

Retro Candy-Filled Soda Bottles
The very talented Kristine McKay has a great post with some very unique Fathers Day gift ideas on her website. There's even a television segment from when she showed off these ideas. The best part about Kristine is that she also gives you free downloads for all her printables!! 

Manly Way to Hang Pictures
Loved this creative idea that I saw over on Creative Home Arts Today's website. They actually are teaching how to make the cute canvas pictures wtih postcards but I liked the belts for the frames better. 


Ruffled Ribbon Tutorial 
Okay so this has nothing to do with unique Father's Day gifts...but I had to share. Just the other day I bought me a package from Pink Paislee of pre-ruffled ribbons. You received two colors that are about 12" long with an adhesive back. Only issue is they were almost $2 each ($3.99 a pack) and they were limited on colors. I thought it would be so much easier to create my own and just happened upon a fun tutorial for these yummy pleated ribbons on Little Birdie Secrets




BBQ Brownies
What guys wouldn't love you to make unique cupcakes for him for a unique Father's Day gift?? And you know me...I love creative cupcake ideas. I found this idea over on the Family Fun website. But wait, these aren't acutally cupcakes...they're brownies. personally I loved the toasted hot dogs (aka hot tamales)...to funny! 

Smore Cupcakes 
Crafty Chicks had some really fun projects, but of course this yummy cupcake picture caught my eye! They are Smore Cupcakes...how yummy. Now would someone make them for me?? 

How to Frost a Cupcake
I loved that the very talented creators of Little Birdie Secrets created a video tutorial on how to frost a cupcake. Sounds simple, but I admit that I don't know how to make my with the cute swirl of frosting goodness like this video shows. I think I'll be able to master doing them now,



I hope you enjoyed this weeks "Favorite Finds"! I post this once a week and I think there are some very fun ideas included. Hope to see you again soon!
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

14.6.10

Imaginisce's B-Day Bash Collection


You all know me, I love scrapbooking. But even more then the act of scrapbooking I LOVE collecting scrapbook products. In fact, I read somewhere about "collecting"...and I need to share that quote with you right now.

"One thing that I've noticed about purchasing anything in excess is that it becomes much more acceptable when it is something that you "collect". Basically, "collect" is a free pass to buy as much as you want of something and not get in trouble with your husband. So, I am hereby declaring myself a...collector scrapbook and paper crafting supplies!!!"

First I'm very excited to show you my first video here on my blog...of course I think I sound completely different when I play it back, but I've been told it's really me...so scroll down to the bottom of this post to check it out! And I thought today instead of rambling on and on about nothing in particular I would show you one of my favorite new collections from Imaginisce. It's the new B-Day Bash Collection and the colors and design are just my style!! I'm only going to show you a small sampling of these here, but you're welcome to jump over to Imaginisce's website and look at all the product. There are also some amazing projects in their online gallery with this collection that you MUST SEE!! 

Double-sided, Heavy-weight Papers: There are six designs and these three are my favorite...but honestly I love them all. They have spot glossy finish on one side of the paper and are still reasonably priced (MSRP $.99). 

Rub-ons: They have three delightful rub-ons and this one is my fav (MSRP $4.49)!!
Banner Ribbons: These fun banner ribbons come in three styles; "Happy Birthday," "Let's Celebrate" and "Birthday Cake". The darling ribbons include a yard of banners on string. You have to admit banner ribbonss are really HOT and TRENDY right now and trust me they are super cute in person (MSRP $4.49).
Springy Stickers: Love, love, love this idea. Each pack comes with three cardstock weight die cuts, each with a little touch of glossy finish and a SPRING on the back. You have to check out the video below to see how stinkin' cute these are. Each pack comes with three of the same die cut/springy sticker in it!! They have three different types available: "Make a Wish," "Piece of Cake," and "It's Party Time" (MSRP $1.99).
 
Rolled Paper Candles: This was on my wish list for a birthday collection and Imaginisce listened when I suggested them. They are hand rolled candles with a string wick in them. Don't worry about putting them in your scrapbook...they're pretty sturdy and hold up well on layouts or cards. You get six candles and definitely a must have (MSRP $4.49).
My Video Debut: Showing Off the New B-Day Bash Collection

Be sure to check out Imaginisce's blog the week of June 28th...I'll be helping give out tons of FREEBIES!! Thanks for stopping by and let me know what you thought of this fun new B-Day Bash scrapbook collection!
Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts

13.6.10

Favorite Finds & Flashbacks

The Zoo Crew Digi Kit
The very creative Fayette Terlouw's from Ettes & Company created yet another DARLING collection now available in their online shop. How she has time to create so many great designs?? In fact, I think her son is leaving on his mission next week...so support the girl and go buy lots of her cute kits!! When I get something created with this digi kit I will post it here. 


Wildly Cherry M&M's
I haven't had time to cook up anything new in the food/recipe department...but I didn't want to leave you food-less on this post. That is why I'm featuring these yummy little chocolate sweets. They're the limited time Wildly Cherry M&Ms. I have to say, being a huge Dr. Pepper fan instantly made these taste a bit familiar and second, loved the RED package. Give them a try if you see them around...they're only here for a short time (sort of like the long lost carmel M&Ms...miss those!)


Vintage Pearl Necklace
I was so excited when I received this beautiful necklace from attending the Casual Bloggers Conference (first 100 people to register received one). First I was super excited because it is stamped with "Live, Laugh, Blog." And second because it's a "Vintage Pearl Necklace". I've often visited the website for them and wished that I had one of her necklaces. What stopped me from buying? I can never decide which one, especially if I want a custom necklace!!

The Vintage Pearl began in 2007 as a creative outlet for the owners while staying home to raise their kids. It quickly blossomed into a business and continues to grow! Vintage Pearl uses only the finest materials in their hand stamped jewelry, every piece is entirely made of sterling silver, from the chains to the jump rings. Be sure to check out their beautiful work. I've received TONS of compliments wearing this I will have to go buy me another! 



Bloomers Trim by Webster's Pages
2Peas just announced the arrival of these lovely Webster's Pages "Bloomers" trims in their online shop. As you may recall I posted a card I made with the yummy trims from American Crafts' Dear Lizzy just like these. I actually posted on Liz Kartchner's wall on facebook that my wish was that they make her yummy peach trim in a bunch of other colors. Regretfully (and thankfully) Webster's Pages beat her to it. YUMMM!! 


Metal Straws
Thanks to my son and his teenage friend I discovered these very cool new metal straws. Why is this cool? Because never have I enjoyed cool refreshment of an ice cold beverage coming from the end of a straw like I do with these....it's ingenious! However, we did try to figure out why there's an age restriction of 12+ years on them...if you have an idea, let me know. Oh we've spotted these at 7-elevens and Maverick gas stations. 


Sweet Boy Layout by Melinda Spinks
My very talented friend Melinda from Australia won a layout contest on Two Peas in a Bucket this week from the manufacturer My Little Shoebox. She always creates the most amazing layouts and are definitely among my favorites! But I wanted to share this with you specifically because only Melinda can make "quilling" cool! I think she will most likely be the one designer that brings quilling back to the masses...who knows by this time next year it could be all the rage again! 


Flashback to 1983: Flooding in Downtown Salt Lake City 
One of the pluses to living in Utah is the climate...and sometimes it ends up being one of the minuses instead. Lately between the snow melt and constant rain storms we've been having flooding in Salt Lake/Murray areas. This got me thinking about the flooding from my childhood. When I was about 13-14 years old Salt Lake had record breaking flooding. The youth group from my church spent an evening helping bag State Street to keep the man-made river on course and out of local businesses...the river ran right through downtown!! Well State Street was known for teenagers in cars "dragging state" on the weekends hoping to "pick up" a date (or whatever it was they were trying to get from driving up and down a street yelling out their windows at kids of the opposite sex). However, we always joked that we didn't drag state...we "bagged state" and it was amazing. The amazing part of this little trip down memory lane was that I realized that even Google is a huge help in finding popular news story images if you just enter in enough specifics for it to find them. These pictures were from that search...cool huh?? 


Allred Design, mommy blogger, scrapbook, paper crafts


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Inspired by Pinterest: Easter Project Round Up

I am so excited to share some of my favorite Easter craft ideas. I've linked to the original blog post that features the video that show...