Happy Post Thanksgiving & Cyber Monday

I'm just jumping on quickly to say that I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and have enjoyed their Black Friday Sales! I was able to get some great deals this year and stay within my budget so Woo Hoo to me LOL!

This year we found a turkey farm near our home that we didn't know existed until we started researching online and after a lot of thought ended up buying a 19 lb turkey breast only....19 lbs! I brined it like I do every year and this time went with the slow roast method and all I can say is that after 12 people finished eating and after sending some home with my sister and mom, DH and I had enough leftovers for 2 meals only! We were really some turkey eating fools!

My mom was able to come over starting on Wednesday and helped me with all of the preparations. Since everyone brings something to the table, we were responsible for the turkey, potatos, stuffing, cranberry and pumpkin pie. My mom had seen a recipe that combined jello with whole canned cranberries, pinapples, apples and nuts. It was really tasty and really yummy (especially when I added a little whipped cream LOL!) My Sis brought a brocolli cheese casserole and salad and my Son and Girlfriend rounded it out with drinks and rolls....YuMmY!!!

After everyone left my Mom and I started looking at what was playing at the local theatre and ended up going to see Burlesque with Cher and Cristina Aguilara....My Mom liked it a lot while I thought it was very predictable...the positive thing I can say that really carried the movie was the Music and we both agreed that it made it fun to watch. Cher really sang well and as far as Cristina...well she has a heck of a voice and I do enjoy listening to her. In the end, I told my Mom I thought that it was like a cross between "A Chorus Line", "Chicago" and Bob Fosse's greatest moves. The real pleasure in the end was the company.

That's about it for now but I wanted to let you know that my Digi Moose have hit the store (woo hoo!). Also, all my files are on sale for this Cyber Monday for 45% off. I thank you in advance for your support!

Hugs,
Eddita

Birthday Blues, Shaker Cards and What a Great Ending!

Starting earlier this week I started to feel a little run down and though I was hoping to enjoy my birthday on Friday, those hopes were horribly dashed. I went into work at 6, had my annual review around 8 (which went well....paraphrasing Sally Fields, "they like me...they really like me" LOL!) and as much as I was sucking down cough meds and taking asprin etc, by 10 I was running a fever, my eyes were killing me from the light and all I wanted to do is crawl under my desk and sleep!

My daughter came and picked me up and tucked me into bed and continued working on her first ever cake contest entry (more on that below). I took a big swig of that night time sleepy med and passed out. When I awoke at 4 (6 hours later!) even though I still wasn't feeling well, I did sit down and open my birthday presents....sadly it still hurt to read so I just went back to the bedroom, took another swig and passed out....woo hoo....49 just started out with a bunch of coughing, blowing of nose and basically feeling horrible...I just hope it gets better!

Next morning I was able to enjoy pancakes (made by DD) and really look at my presents. Hubby bought me this great pressure cooker I had been looking at for awhile....A Futura which has received great reviews. I have really been wanting something to cut down cooking time and this just fit the bill perfectly! I received a gift card from JoAnne's from DH oldest son and family (I KNOW my DDIL was the one to pick it out as she always helps enable my crafy addiction) and then DD got me 2 boxes of card blanks with envelopes (how did she know I had run out?!) and this REALLY cool Fiskars punch with interchangable heads. I had seen it at the craft store but as it was way on the bottom shelf I never really looked at it...but Shazam!...it is nice! Here is a link. It is PEFECT for Shaker Cards as it will make the nicest confetti and has a little bit of everything from animals to holidays...I know I will get a lot of use out of it!

Speaking of Shaker Cards....I loaded a new file to the store which is a Shaker Box which you make and then attach to the front of any card! I am currently hosting Challenge 10 of 20 Christmas Card Challenge over at the Paperthreads Forum. If you haven't already signed up just click on this link to get to mine but make sure you also check out all of the other ones there. It's a great way to get all of your cards ready in time to mail out. Here is a picture of my sample (which includes a sneak peak of my latest Digi File - Christmas Moose with Gift)

I started sketching him a couple of weeks ago and playing with the placement of objects. I think he came out very cute and really enjoyed coloring him with my Copics as per Michelle's great class at the last Paperthreads Retreat.

I am slowly getting him ready to go up into the store...there will actually be a number of versions but more on that later once I actually finish!

Okay...so what about my Great Ending? As I said before my DD has been working on her very first cake competition. She found out about it just as the entry due date had closed but she was very happy to have been allowed to enter. She drew up the sketch and started baking the cakes and freezing them (all 5 of them) and then every day after work and between classes she was working on it in the basement where she had the quiet she needed. I would peek in every night and not because I'm her mom, but I was impressed. Luckily I was so much better on Sunday and it was a good thing to as I was her "assistant" and the one to ride in the car and hold onto to everything and then help her carry in. She took over the assembly though and final touches.

It was a nursery rhyme theme contest and she chose one that I used to read/sing to her and her brothers every night before bedtime...Wynken, Blynken & Nod. She used the KNK to cut out the names on the binding as well as the words that go around the edges of each book layer...each was a phrase from the nursery rhyme.

Everything you see either carved out of krispy treats and covered in fondant she made or just sculpted our to gumpaste she colored. She also did some great airbrushing (if I may say so myself LOL!)

Well, are you ready?! She Won First Place in her division! Woo Hoo! She was very happy! All of her hard work paid off! I was going to put up a bunch of pics but instead have this YouTube video to share with you. I think she did a FABULOUS job! As this was her first contest one of the nice things is that she was able to talk to crazy cake gals and get some good tips and techniques. I stood on the side listening to her talk and watch her excitment and see the sparkle in her eyes...it made my heart glow to see her so excited and happy.

Well I hope you all enjoy!

Hugs,

Eddita

Thank Goodness...Tomorrow is Friday!

This week seemed slow to me...maybe it's because it's been so nice out that all I can do when I'm at the office is keep looking out the window thinking it would be nice not to have to be at work...but oh well...bills to pay!

You know...we only have 3 more days and then it will be Halloween! We finally got out to the Big Box Store and picked up a couple of bags of candy which I told DH he was NOT to touch.

After work he tells me that the oddest thing happened...he had come home at lunch and he was sitting at his desk when he hears a rustling sound...when he goes to the kitchen he sees Guinness Pup on the counter and he had very carefully ripped a small hole in one of the bags and took a couple of pieces of candy.

I asked Guinness and he told me to look at the bag and measure the slit against the width of the blade of the swiss army knife located in his dear old dads pocket....guess what? Can you believe DH was fibbing?! He finally confessed after I told him I was calling in the autorities for that specialized testing I see on tv shows! That's it...he's grounded LOL!

OK...so I'm sure you guys are looking at the pics and thinking what is up with that? Well, there's a town close by that every year holds a contest every year where people sign up decorate scarecrows and then they line both sides of the street with them. We went by the other day and I thought I would share some of the winners with you.

The First Prize went to the Abominable Snowman. It was really cute and reminded me of the old claymation Christmas Classics of years gone by...Rudolph and the land of the MisFiT toys.

Now to understand the Second Prize winner you have to know that in our area ALL summer long we have been having quite an infestation of STinK BuGS! If you don't have them in your area count yourself lucky! They really don't do much other than eat, play tootsies with each other MULTIPLY and just plain get into everything. Who knows how they do it but they even get in your houses and if you try to squash them you find out pretty quickly why they are named the way they are.

In any case, the winner was a Scary Looking Guy covered in Stink Bugs! Made me laugh :)

Third Place was a Crab Fisherman and the Runner up was a Ballerina. All were cute and there were oh so many along the road. We didn't come back the same way or I would have a picture of a Lady Gaga Scarcrow that I found very funny as well.

Little things like this make me laugh! On top of that I love to see everyone's creativity!

In OTHER news....Michelle is going to be hosting a brand new challenge on the forum. If you aren't already a member what are you waiting for. Come on over and sign up...TONS of great information for all of you who own cutters. It doesn't matter the kind...KNK, CraftRobo, Cricut, Pazzles, ETC! Everyone is welcome!

It is a Christmas Card challenge that is going to be starting on November 1 - the 20th. All you will need to do is make ONE CARD a day, but as she said some will be easy enough so you can make more than 2 in a sitting! There's going to be prizes as well! Just click on this link for all of the info !

Well I'm getting tired so I guess that means it's time to get ready for bed.

Til next time!

Eddita

Beautiful Fall Day!

Well I hope everyone has had a nice week! Busy weekend as always but that's ok. Hubby and I went for a motorcycle ride today and once we got up in the mountains I asked him to pull over so I could take the above picture. It was REALLY pretty up there. The air is getting a little crisper and all of the leaves are finally starting to change.

This really is my favorite time of year. When the air starts to get a little chill, when you see all of the Halloween Treats and Costumes showing up in the stores and starting to think about all the cute little Trick or Treaters that come to the door.

Remind me sometime and I will share a story about my daughter around 3 years old and her WAY too large bunny suit I made her one year. It was one of the worst (although cutest) things I ever concocted. She'll tell you how I traumatized her and forced her to go out in it with rubber bands to hold the legs and arms up, but you know...she was able to wear it for the next 4 years LOL!

Well enough of that! While we were riding I also had the camera in my hand and did a really quick video to share with you. This is my perfect day! The sound you hear in the background is the wind...you really don't get to hear the motorcycle much.

Well I hope you enjoyed it and on another note, just want to remind you all that my 40% off sale ends today! Don't miss out...next sale won't be for a bit!

'Til Next Time!
Eddita

Woo Hoo a SALE!!!

Wow 2 posts in 2 days?! Amazing LOL!

Well as promised, since it has been awhile, I just want to let you know that the cute little Cat in Pumpkin Digi is my featured item of the month and available at 50% Off!

Also as an added bonus ALL of my other files are on sale for 1 week Only for 40% Off!

If you haven't perused lately I have a number of new files up as well as some wonderful ones that are perfect for the fall season like Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart, Horse and Wagon with Title, and many more! Don't miss out!


OK, so I think I have mentioned in the past how I like to save money when it comes to food. We grow tomatoes, herbs and veggies in the summer and then can them at the end of the season so we have yummy food during the winter. I will admit that the added benefit to canning is that I know exactly what is going into our sauces, etc and don't have to worry about things I can't pronounce ending up in our meals.




Now Hubby and I have always enjoyed yogurt and even with "no inflation" it just seemed to be getting a little pricey. On top of that there are a lot of ingredients in the product that really have nothing to do with the yogurt itself. So, for his birthday, I bought him a Yogurt Maker from Amazon. Now yogurt is something that in itself is super easy to make. All you need is Milk (2% and up since you really need a little fat in it) and some starter. You can either purchase it or buy a small 6 oz. container of Plain (that's unflavored people) Yogurt at the grocery store but you have to make sure that the ingredients show "Live Cultures".

While I had never made yogurt before, hubby had and basically used wide mouth canning jars and the oven or just the hot outdoors in the summer (when it is above 105 degrees out) but I really liked the idea that the machine came with cups and lids so we could take them to work.


There are a lot of great videos on You Tube but basically all you do is heat your milk in a pan over medium heat (stirring occasionally of course) until it hits 185 degrees. Electronic thermometers with alarm are perfect for keeping track of this. Once it hits temperature, at this point you have killed anything that might be in your milk and have made it sterile. You then let it cool down to 105 degrees, add your starter, stir and then maintain the 105 temperature for a period of 4-5 hours. Then you refrigerate and you are done!




Super simple! Another great advantage of the machine is that I just turn it on and set the timer and walk away. What is basically happening over the time is that the culture is growing and incubating away. Once it has thickened up you know you're done. So at this point from 1 gallon of Hormone Free Milk, we can make about 24+ cups of yogurt for about $ 3.00. We then add some homemade jelly or fresh fruit to the mix along with granola and can you say very economical, healthy, yummy breakfast?! In addition to tasting great it's also very good for your tummy as it naturally contains the "prebiotics" your body needs :)


Okay...so I guess that's enough rambling for today! I have to get things picked up and work on some new files!


Hugs,
Eddita

Tell Me It's NOT SO!!!

Has it really been almost 2 months since my last posting?! I sit here trying to think of what I have been doing and I guess with family things as well as home and work, I have been pretty much non-stop.

I did go to the Paperthreads Retreat held recently in Baltimore and can I say what a Wonderful time I had. A few of the gals from the SC retreat were able to come and I got to meet and put faces together with the names on the forum! What a whirlwind, I could have used a couple more days just to be able to finish everything I wanted to!

I have been saving up money for awhile and yes...I broke down and purchased a KNK Maax! I love my 13 inch KNK but I have been coveting the Maax for awhile since it had a little more pressure and also had the laser to help with Print and Cuts.

I've decided to keep the 13" model as my daughter has expressed her desire for it so that she can use it for cutting gumpaste for her cake decorations. I know she will get some great use from it!

I have also been busy creating some new files which I have uploaded to the site. Keep an eye out for them as they will be hitting the store soon!

This first one is a Digi Stamp and I used a picture I have of Guinness Pup as my inspiration. I just thought that with the Fall Season upon us this would make a cute Halloween Card but it would look equally as nice on a layout. I made up a bunch of cards to send out to the family but pictures really don't convey how really cool they look in person.

I also created a BOO Pumpkin file and made it so you could use either horizontally or vertically. Since I am always trying to find cute ways to journal, I also included a single pumpkin in case you want to enlarge and use as a journaling block.

I also finally got around to finishing up my Robots Galore File. You may remember I did a Robbie/Roberta Robot Digi file awhile back. Well here are there friends in cut file format. I will

eventually make digitize these as well.

Also, as it has been FOREVER since I have had a sale, I just want to let you know that all my files will be on sale shortly. I will let you know when it starts, just check back to find out when it starts fo you can really SAVE!

Until tomorrow!

Eddita :)

The End is Near!

Every day brings us one day closer to the end of my very first ever Quarterly Membership! I just finished uploading the file pictured above (EC0145 - A Woodlands Party) so if you are already a member make sure you log into Paperthreads to download this cute file!

It's not too late to sign up! So far there have been 17 files uploaded along with 1 extra one (which you can look at in the upper left corner of the screen in my SLIDE show). I still have a few up my sleeve including a couple of cupcake wrappers for you animal lovers out there....want a sneek peek???

OK...here is the Kitty One

There is also a cute Doggy One as well but I won't bore you with a pic...at least not yet!

How can you get them along with all the rest for just $ 10? Simple...just click on this link to get started!

In other news...it is hotter than all get out right now! We are talking triple digits! DH was saying he could really use some cooler weather...I reminded him that in January when we had snow almost over his head that he was wondering where all the heat was....never happy LOL!

I must say I'm getting pretty tired of the head myself...today there is no way we are venturing out except to walk the dogs....right now Guinness is the perfect pet! Not only is he all about just chillin but he's toilet trained too! Got to love the CaDog!

Hope you all are well...I'll be sharing more a little later on!

Eddita :)

Time Flies and A Cute Little Scalloped Box!

Time really doesn't stand still for anyone does it? After a whirlwind week with the family, my DH fun Birthday Celebration and getting back to work, it really surprised me when I looked at the calendar and saw July sadly is soon coming to an end.

As such, it's almost the end of my Quarterly Membership and I want to thank all of you who have been with me from the beginning and those of you who have continued to join in! So far I have uploaded 16 files as well as 1 bonus one and still have a few more to put up before all is said and done!

If you want to see what has been shared, just watch the slide show in the top left corner of the blog which even includes the cute little DIGI Stamp Lizard I used in the original ad. If you are interested in joining in on the fun, just click here!

Nothing much exciting going on...oh wait! We did have something happen just yesterday! I was in the bathroom around 5 am getting ready to shower for work when all of a sudden I heard a rumble. Now at first I thought that the trash truck was being extra loud when I realized that it was a much deeper sound and I was actually vibrating a little. I stood there for a moment and then it all passed. It was only when I got out of the shower and turned on the TV that I learned I had experienced an EaRtHQuaKE!

Now for those of you who feel them more often than they care to think, it may not be a big deal, and in the great scheme of things, 3.6 may not sound like much, but when you NEVER have felt one before it was pretty interesting! DH of course was still in bed passed out, but I won't forget it for awhile. My mom who lives about an hour South of me called me and told me that they too felt it way over at her house...pretty impressive!

Ok...so beyond that nothing else exciting has happened LOL!

Off to get ready to go out...DH is inviting me for dinner...I will never say no to that offer LOL!

Until next time!

Eddita :)

Hubby's BDay - Medieval Times

It's been quite a whirlwind of activity around here this last week. As I mentioned before the family has been visiting and last night we went to a mall near BWI airport to take the GrandGirls to the Bass Pro Shop to do activities and see the fish in the big tank etc...actually that is the story we told DH.

Now you have to understand, he "HATES" going to malls, but he was a sport and came along. I thought the girls would take a lot longer to paint the birdhouses but it only took about 35-40 minutes which meant we still had another 1.5 hours to hang out before heading to our true final destination...Medieval Times! For those who have never been, it's a 2 hour dinner with show with the good vs. evil theme. All food is eaten with your hands while you watch the knights joust and do battle...but I digress.

So there we are trying to stretch the time out and DIL and I are hopping to one store while DH sits in a chair in the middle of the mall and then his boys have to go to Best Buy and then I remember I need something at Bed Bath and Beyond, etc...the whole time DH is starting to squirm and ask what time are we leaving...I told him 4 pm. At one point he looks over to me ans says that he swears he heard my Sister's voice but didn't see her...I looked around and didn't see her either (thank goodness because she and her family were meeting us at the castle along with the rest of the family for DH surprise party). Now he had been sitting staring into a shoe store for awhile and I knew he needed a new casual pair so we actually were able to do a little shopping for him as well.

FINALLY 4pm comes and we start to walk around and he sees the castle but says "what's that big stone wall thing" and me being quick on my toes says "its an arcade"...it wasn't until we were actually up at the doors and he sees people inside at tables and the horns blowing that he sees the WHOLE family lined up waiting to wish him a Happy Birthday! He was SURPRISED!!!

We went inside, I got him a drink, we mingled and talked and then we were the first group led inside and seated...all 20 of us! He really enjoyed it and we ALL had a good time. They even called out his name when they listed the celebrations that were occuring and the King wished him well on his "VERY BIG" Birthday LOL! I have posted a video snippet of the show for you below.

You may have noticed the picture at the top of this post. It is the latest file which I have just posted to the quarterly membership file No. 14. It's a cute Name Holder Place Card for those who go to crops. Even if you don't go you can always use the cute accents on any layout for that special touch. Special Thanks to Elizabeth (scramper75) for cutting it out in order to share with all of you!

Well that's about it for now...more updates later!

Eddita :)

Live, Laugh, Love...

Here is a quick peek at my latest upload to my quarterly membership. I love these phrases whether seperate or together as they serve as great reminders of how we should try to live.

The picture is that of the wall above my mantel and I resized the file so that each phrase measured approximately 12" high by 18 " long.

I'm going to add something (maybe decorative hearts or flourishes) above and below the Laugh phrase on the right hand side, but it's a work in progress. You may think is that a Nativity set Eddita has set up in the middle of July...well yes it is. We leave it up permanently year round as we enjoy looking at it and don't feel quite right that they get packed away and brought out only once a year.

We've been pretty busy around here which is why I'm not on much. We are enjoying visiting with DH sons and our lovely DIL and 2 grandgirls....it's been 2 years since we saw them last and are enjoying every moment.

Every day has been a new craft project! The first day they did foam pictures, then yesterday they made stick puppets (and put on a show behind the curtain with the help of my DD) and today it will be coloring wood drawings and then tshirt iron ons which they chose all by themselves at Joannes.

Weather has still been super hot so we have been sticking with indoor games but I'm thinking we may be able to take in some duckpin bowling.

Well, that's all for now, will try to post some of the kids creations later on.

Have a great day!

Eddita :)

I scream, You scream, we all.....

Before I start, I just wanted to show you the latest files that have been uploaded to my membership since last we chatted. First one for those who have upcoming baby showers or new baby events, there is my Stork Card. I designed this one to hold either a single bundle or multiple ones (I used it for triplets recently!) I really like this one and the cute bowtie on Mr. Stork's neck and tophat just gives him that air of distiction, don't you agree?

The next file uploaded is my Super Cute Bunny Frame/Overlay. This actually consists of 2 files so you can use it either way you want. I'm horrible at making decisions so I figured why now just include both? Even though Spring has come and gone I know that like myself, you all have some cute pics that are just waiting to be highlighted.

So a little time to catch up...right now where I am, the heat is at a record high! We hit 110 on our outdoor thermometer last week and there was only 5% humidity. Hubby pointed out that is what people call a "dry heat". I went outside under the shade of our porch and felt the breeze and thought to myself "THIS IS CRAZY HOT!!!" Hot is Hot! Friends of ours purchased a vacation home in Arizona and keep trying to get us to go down for a week in August with them and the answer for sure is now no way! I'm happy to go in the winter but can I just say, ugh! I am not a "hot weather" gal in any shape of the term LOL!

One of the things that makes me feel better is my fruit smoothies (I shared previously that I had purchased a VitaMix and I'm still loving it! They really are refreshing! I purchase the fruit when in season and go ahead and peel and cut up and then pop in the freezer. Super easy to just grab what I want and then make up a drink.

The other of course is the rest of the title of this posting....we all scream for Ice Cream! Yay!!! I have always enjoyed eating home made ice cream and really love when the churches in the area put on their Ice Cream Socials. For that reason I created this cute file which is being added to my Quarterly Membership Club today. A Ice Cream Maker! It not only includes the old fashioned machine but a title and a bowl of that sweet creamy treat ready to eat with a spoon! Remember, this isn't available in the store yet, only in my QMC as part of the 20+ files for only $ 10! Just click on this link to get started!

Ok, so when people talk about the lazy days of summer, I'm not sure exactly what they are talking about...I have been super busy and it just doesn't seem to be slowing down. I have so much to talk about (including my experience at the car dealer) but I need to go upload the ice cream file and finish up some things around the house...I'll try to get back on soon!

Hugs,
Eddita

Chore Day

Well, today is my chore day but for some reason I'm not that motivated. I think it's because I'm a bit tired and it's a little overcast outside. I did get the first batch of laundry in the washer so I guess that's a start!

I also posted a new file to my Quarterly Membership Club! Even though we still have a little time before (dare I say it) Christmas (there you go...I said it), since the gals voted and asked that the new file be a card, I uploaded my Joy Fold Out Card. I really like it because while it was designed as a holiday card, you can use the base and decorate in any way you like for any occasion with other files you already own, rubber stamps, flowers, etc.

The other nice thing about this file is that if you don't want to use it as a card, all of the elements would look great on a Scrapbook Layout either individually or grouped together. The only place you can get it right now is through the QMC. Just click on this link to get started. It's QUITE a deal!

I hope you all had a chance to watch my YouTube Video in my previous posting showing how easy it is to cut gumpaste with your KNK to make cake decorations. Don't forget to download the little daisy in case you want to try it yourself (or if you just want to cut it out of paper for a card LOL!)

Washer just beeped...got to move the clothes over and start the next load...I think when I'm done with everything I'll jump on Frankie and take a ride up to JoAnnes...now That's motivation! LOL!

Eddita :)

DD Graduated and New Video Tutorial!

It's hard to believe but things got pretty hectic around here and now is the first time I am able to actually sit down and play catch up!

Well my DD received her Associates of Arts, General Studies. We went to a Recognition and Awards Ceremony held at her school on 16 May where she received a cord for being recognized in the Who's Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges. That of course is the night that my camera decided to give up the ghost. Every time I took a picture, not only did they not turn out well, but a puff of smoke would come out of the top!!! DH went onto Amazon that night and found us a replacement so that the same thing wouldn't happen on the 25th of May when she actually walked and received her tassell!

All during this time we were getting ready for her Graduation/Birthday Party (invites which I shared with you all in an earlier post), I kept getting calls from people asking if there was a back up plan since the weather that week consisted of daily thunderstorms (DD had requested to have a big cookout at the park so everyone could come and relax and a playground for those with young children). I told everyone not to worry because DD and I had looked up the weather in the local almanac and we had chosen the date since it said the weather would be sunny and hot! It wasn't until Thursday though that we were sure we were going to be ok...it WAS 89 degrees and sunny...woo hoo....the power of positive thinking LOL!

We had family and friends come out and everyone had a fun time. Now some of you know my DD wants to go on and study to be a Pastry Chef. She has been making some wonderful cakes for friends and when I get her to send me the pics I'll share them with you.

Even though she had told me she wanted to make her own cake, I knew that she was not going to be able to and told her that I would handle it. Well here is the picture of how it turned out. It's NOWHERE near the quality of what she makes, but I tried my best LOL!

Now you have to understand, since I had watched DD make fondant many times and cover a cake I thought "how hard could it be?"....BAHAHAHA...jokes on me....it's just that she makes it look super easy...I was ready to throw the whole thing out the window!

After watching a lot of YouTube videos on how to frost a cake, how to crumb coat a cake, how to make marshmallow fondant & how to cover a cake I was ready to start. It was actually going well until it came time to cover the cake. No matter what I did it wouldn't work. After a good half hour of frustration, I put the crumb coated cake back in the fridge, wrapped the fondant up tight in plastic wrap and put it in the fridge and sat down and vegged in front of the TV.

I then called DD up and ask her what I was doing wrong. She talked me through and gave me a bunch of helpful tips so that when I pulled everything out to start again, it was pefect! My fondant went on smoothly and it was ready to decorate!

Now DD's favorite flower is the the simple Daisy. I quickly designed one in my KNK Studio program and got out all of my supplies and got to it. I thought it would be helpful for those of you who are interested in doing it yourselves to make a quick video while I made it.

Note: I have one of the older KNK models which only allows the use of the silver blade holder (not the jaw of the newer Groov-e or Maxx models that allow for using the actual Cricut blade holder).

It is for that reason that I say you will need the "SLIVER LARGE HOLE CAP" if you are going to use the Cricut Blade with Silicone cover (which really rocked!). While the sliver large hole cap is no longer listed in the store, you can see a picture of it and Michelle said she can get it for you. Just go to Paperthreads.com and under the contact us section, just send her a quick note asking her and she will get back to you with pricing. Well, without any further ado, here is the video



In case any of you would like to try this cute and simple design I have attached the freebie file at the bottom. Now while I rolled little balls for the centers, if you prefer you can also cut it out of the colored gumpaste as well. Even if you aren't decorating a cake, you can add to the top of a frosted cupcake thekids loved eating them at the picnic LOL!

Well, enjoy everyone. Love to hear what you think!

Eddita :)

PS: Don't forget about the quarterly membship club....I have a slideshow above showing what has already been shared...over 20 files for only $ 10...what a deal!

Freebie Daisy File:

.GSD Version

.AI Version

.KNK Version

.WPC Version

.SVG Version

Not a Lazy Sunday!

Today is going to be a nice day and while I normally enjoy relaxing on Sundays, I have a big project in my basement LOL! Hubby purchased me a wonderful rolling shelving system so that I can "organize" my crafting area and find what I am looking for. He said it would make my life much easier but I really think he just doesn't like looking at the mess LOL! I agree but boy oh boy it's going to be a busy day!

The problem is that it's not just my crafty stuff in the area but boxes of "stuff" that I haven't looked at in years. I actually started on it last night and ended up with 1 big ol stuffed bag of trash (tell me why I had old joanne's flyers and junk I don't need saved?!) as well as boxes of good condition items to go to Goodwill on Monday. I would love to finish all by the end of the day, but this is going to be an ongoing project. My goal would be to get everything I don't need or use gone, and eventually have a nice crafting area set up. But FIRST I have to put the hard work in (yea!!!)

I also wanted to share with you a cute card that Jan (otherwise known as jlwclanfam) created with my Awards Ribbons File, currently available only in my QMC).

I think she really did a great job! This is what she says about this cute card:

"if you look closely, the back part of the ribbon is dark blue foil, then gold, then frosted blue, then the #1 is on gold vellum!! And I made the Father's day banner from Heritage Labels from Jen Adkins"

I really love the foil paper, but then again you all know I love anything glittery and shiny looking! LOL.

Thank you very much Jan for sharing this with me so I could share with everyone else!

Finally, just a quick note to let you all know that I have uploaded a new file to my QMC called "Funky Fish in Bowl".

This file would look cute on a layout or on the front of a 5"x7" card. The recipient is sure to smile. Here's just a few ideas if you are looking for cute phrases:

Tanks for your help!

You are so finny!

Without you I'm just swimming in circles

The castle's not quite the same without you here

Just want to fish you a Happy Birthday!

argh...just stop me now!

Well time to take the pups out and get back downstairs to the mess! Hope you all have a most wonderful day!

Eddita :)

Guess what arrived in my email at 3:26 am?!!

Ok, first of all...who is UP at 3:26 am??...Now if I had asked 4:30 am Tu-Fri then the answer would be me but 3:26am?

Any guesses? The answer is Sue (aka baracudasue)! She was dying from sinus issues and barely standing on her own to feet but she put all of that aside (the trooper that she is) and still managed to create 9 similar but distinctive card fronts in about an hour with my latest 9 patch shuffle file.

Here is a pic of her finished card fronts. It took her only about an hour to complete ALL 9 card fronts and I must say I really liked how it turned out as much as she did. Of course I'm partial to the colors LOL!

She admitted to a couple of small boo boos but as I'm not going to point them out to you, you will never know where they are LOL!

As I said before, this will probably end up being my Christmas Card fronts...just got to get out to the store and pick 9 pages of 12x12 holiday themed papers and I will be able to make a good number of cards!

I also just finished uploading my latest DIGI file called the Cheerful Little Whale Digi.

If you are interested in this cute file, which includes 3 separate sayings, just get over to the store as I have it on sale for 1 week only for 40% off.

It includes additional little pieces to help your final piece pop off the page and will be sure to bring a smile to the recipient.

Well, I'm off to get dinner going...Hope all is well with everyone and until next time!
Eddita :)

I'm not much for change!

If there is one thing to know about me, it's that I am not someone who likes change. I am very comfortable in my skin, my surroundings and especially my computer programs! I fear the unknown when it comes to learning new programs, which I know intellectually is silly, because once I play with them and use them enough I'm golden....it's just the initial problems and the time it takes to work through them that bothers me.

Where is this going? Well, DH has been working on getting all the computers here at home ready to convert to Windows 7. While I will begrudgingly admit that it looks way cool (especially how the media center works - where everything on the system in in one place so you don't have to hunt all over the computer for pictures, movies, music, etc), I'm worried about all of my "extra" programs and how hard it will be to get everything to work on the new system. When we upgraded last time to Windows XP, I had problems with a number of programs like my "PE-design" and the time it took to work it through and reload everything was quite a headache (and time down!)

I'm keeping my fingers crossed this goes better!

I have been busy and just this week posted my latest file to the store as well as a You-Tube how to assemble video. It is called the Nine Patch Shuffle and I based it on quilts I have made in the past.

The neat thing about it is that while you can make 1 accent and use up some of your scraps, if you invest a little more time and shuffle the paper you will end up with 9 finished accents in no time!

Here is the link for the file in the store, and the video is right there too (so you don't have to go anywhere to watch it)!

This may be the way I'm going to make Christmas cards this year. Just by picking 9 holiday patterened paper, I will be able to make one of a kind cards that look involved but are in the end super fast and easy to make!

What else...oh yes...for those of you who are members of my QMC I have just uploaded the latest file. It is called "Award Ribbons".

When I designed this file I wanted to give everyone options and therefore made all of the pieces interchangeable.

These would look great on sports events and honor pages as well as accents for your "World's Greatest (you fill in the blank)" cards. What a great use for those photos your loved ones winning certificates and trophies,

While it will eventually get to the store, right now you can only find it in my QMC. Not a member? Just click on the picture in the left column and join up!

Well finally, tomorrow is Mother's Day and I want to wish every Mom out there a relaxing day!

Until next time!

Eddita :)

Strength

Last November, Shirley started a challenge on the Paperthreads forum called "Monthly Random Act of Kindness" . She noted at the time that Wikipedia defines a random act of kindness (RAK) as a selfless act performed by a person or person wishing to either assist or cheer up and individual.

The goal was to start a monthly challenge that would promote a RAK in the form of a card shower for a person who needed their spirits lifted, some cheering up show them that they are thought of and cared about.

Every month she has shared a story of a person who is having a difficult time with something in their lives and always, she shares stories of how happy the people receiving the cards were when they received them. The stories are bittersweet but always share the strength of the human spirit and the people themselves.

Here is the link so you can go see all of them and the stories if you are interested. If you would like to sign up for this month, just click on this link. No rules on how you create your card. It's all you.

In any case, I was working on a card for this months RAK which I just wanted to share with you. It's got lots of glitter (got to love that!) and the shading was done with colored pencils.

It is for a woman named Brandi Todd who was paralyzed after a mentally unstable man stabbed her in the back while she sat on a bench watching her children play.

I think what always impresses me, not only about Brandi but ALL of the people who are chosen (including a young child) is that they don't let whatever is happening to them stop them from going on and doing what they always have and enjoying life. Very similar to my friend Eveline who's story I shared previously; it's their Strength I admire.

That's why I chose the Oak tree which is a symbol of strength. Those roots are firmly planted and the arms of the trees stretch all the way out ready to take whatever blows it's way.

Thanks for listening to my rambling lol! It is such a blessing it is to have family and friends...it is what gives life it's meaning.

Night everyone!
Eddita :)

PS: Thanks Shirley for doing such a great job!

Matchbook Pocket Gift Card Holder (Mother's Day, Father's Day, Graduation!)

If you have trouble finding the perfect present, perhaps you have found yourself doing what I do, buying a gift card to the recipients’ favorite store instead!

Instead of just putting it in an envelope, this file is the perfect presentation for your gift!

It doesn't take too long to put together and with just a little glue and the addition of a couple of brads you will have the perfect holder.

Just in case you need a couple of helpful embellishments for the front, I have included a flower (for Mother’s Day or Any Occasion), a cute tie (for Father’s Day or any other Guy day) and a cute Graduation Cap with Tassel (for your Super Star Student, which you can match to the school colors!).

It closes simply by folding the top over and slipping into the front cover, just like a matchbook! There is a little area on the front of the pocket, as well as a little tabbed card that fits inside the pocket allowing plenty of room for you to write your own special message.

Speaking of the pocket, if you take a look at the picture you might be able to see that it is gusseted in order to fit one of those cute little square candy bars…you know the ones I mean!

Now how do you get it, well for right now it's only available in my Quarterly Membership Club as part of the 20+ files for only $ 10. I will be adding to the store later on but believe me, if you like to save money, the QMC is the way to go! Just click on the image in the top left corner of the page and sign up!

Take care!
Eddita :)

National Scrapbook Day Freebie!

Welcome to another National Scrap Book Day! To help you celebrate, all of Accents By Eddita Files (digi and cutter) are 50% off!

Since some of you will not be around this weekend (due to crops, parties, life...), my sale is running through 04 May 2010! Don't miss out as this will be my biggest sale for the whole month!

My plan today is to get my normal "chores" around the house done but instead of working on layouts or cards, I'm going to go check the tire pressure on "Frankie" as well as fluid levels to make sure I'm safe, and then add the hum of my engine to all those that I can already hear outside LOL!

I will have plenty enough time for projects tomorrow (since we are talking rain and yucky for the next few days!)

Well to help you all celebrate NSD, I created this quick and easy Tag which you can use in your albums, layouts and cards.

As usual they are all down below in all of the various formats (.GSD, .AI, .KNK, .WPC & .SVG)! Just leave me a comment if you download and if you use it, please send me a pic to share with you all here!

In addition to NSD, today marks the official start of my Quarterly Membership Club!

I shared with you last time the first of my "plus" files and today I want to share with you the Actual First File that has gone up!

It's called "Friends Happy Flower" and I can't help but smile when I look at it. I thought this was appropriate because I have made so many friends on here and in person and looking forward to the September Paperthreads Retreat to make some more!

I hope those who have already signed up enjoy this cute file and maybe for those of you who haven't had a chance will go over and sign up for yourselves.

Well I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Don't forget to get over to the store for my sale, download the freebie (and leave me a note!), Sign up for my QMC membership, and finally and most importantly, Enjoy the Day!

Until Next Time!

Eddita

For the free NSD Tag, simply click on the link you need below:

Free .GSD Tag

Free .AI Tag

Free .KNK Tag

Free .WPC Tag

Free .SVG Tag

Well I went to JoAnne's....

...today with my DMS (Darling Middle Son) who is looking for what they call "fashion" belt buckles for a leather project he is creating (though a lot smaller than what he has been able to locate) and on the way out we came across the "classroom" area in the back where I saw an associate unpacking a Cricut Cake machine and looking through the manual etc.

We chatted a bit and she told me she is going to be doing a demo this weekend when they unveil it and I asked her if they had any of the accessories in, like the cutting mat. She got on her little intercom ear walkie talkie I'm connected to the store thingy and called and sure enough they were in...just not out to the public yet. I guess I looked disappointed because she told me to stay still and she went to the back and brought it out to me....so for $ 12.99 (I had forgotten my 40% off coupon...Darn!) I am now the proud owner of the 2 pack of mats.

They have the same feel as the regular mats(consistency and textured back) but have concentric circles on the front starting at 2" and going out to 12", 12" x 12" grid, but do not have any adhesive on the front (which makes sense...duh LOL!) It is also labeled as being made with "Food-Safe" materials. They also have an "odd" smell.

Cutting gumpaste is actually one of the things I want to work on doing to help my DD in case she needs any decorations for the cakes she has been making. Normally she cuts everything out by hand or using a fondant cutter, but this might also be a good option for her as well. I have a gumpaste recipe that is purported to work excellently with the Cricut machine so I'll give it a go and you know me, will share the outcome when I actually get it made.

Nothing much else going on...I'm really looking forward to Friday and getting some things done around the house, but mostly relaxing and maybe watching a movie or two. The 2 dogs and 1 CaDog are doing well. Maybe if the weather stays nice we'll get out for a ride but as always, it's one of those whim things.

Oh...just got a coupon from my Most Favorite Massage Guy in the mail....I think it's a hint....I might just have to call him and take him up on it ....now THAT really gives me something to look forward to LOL!

Anyway, stay safe everyone!

Eddita :)

Nope, Na-Ahhh, Not at All !!!

Patience really seems a bit over-rated to me....I HATE looking at Christmas presents under the tree and not be able to open or rattle them around, I don't like that my DH refuses to play 100 questions (truthfully) after he tells me he got me something, I never can wait and always pull brownies out of the pan before they are truly ready and I will admit it here and now...I sometimes can't wait to bake the chocolate chip cookies so I just go ahead and eat the dough raw!

::::Sounds of huge Gasps can now be heard in the background!:::::

So you may ask, what started all of this? Simple....I caved....I gave in....I did it....I uploaded a file to my Quarterly Membership Club which doesn't officially start for 3 more days!

Of course it doesn't help that I have no strength or fortitude and give in very easily to peer pressure (and can I tell you....the gals who have already signed up are pretty good at needling and breaking my resolve to wait!)

As they all expounded the virtues of NOT being patient, I thought about a lot of different images that convey the word and actually had one sketched, but somehow didn't think it was too appropriate...plus I couldn't imagine how anyone would use the file...Picture this, a man crawling through a desert while a vulture watches from a cactus, I mean it really doesn't say "Happy Birthday"...unless maybe its for an "over the hill" card??? Hmmmm....may have to rethink that one bahahahaha!

In any case, as I was staring at G-Pup it came to me! Cats are some of the most patient creatures I have seen. Dogs not so much....well mine at least. They see something they want and they start immediately jumping around and barking....Guinness...he will wait...and watch...and wait....for a lllloooonnnngggg time before pouncing!

So there you are...if you have joined the membership get on over to the forum and download the file....if you haven't joined, what are you waiting for? Just go to the pic in the top left column and click on it....it will take you right to the store.

You know...as I'm finishing this up I just realized....since this REALLY isn't the first file for the membership and merely a "PLUS" one, I AM Patient....oh yea...I am!

Night everyone

Eddita :)

Tornado Siren, Sneak Peek and New Quick & Dirty

This is going to be a long read, so make sure you're comfy and relaxed and enjoy :)

Every time we go to Sam's club they always have fresh great looking bags of mussells. My daughter commented how delicious they are and how she learned to make them in culinary and I told her I had never had them. I know my Mom loves them so we decided we would visit her and take along the makings. I thought about buying them in advance, but I wanted fresh......

So, after my daughter finished making her fondant (for the new cake she has been commissioned) we headed out to Sam's...guess what...No Mussells!

I said that's ok...we can drive down the hightway and get off at one of the exits where I know there is a big grocery store which is perfect because we also need crusty bread....well guess what....they were working on renovations and there was NO Seafood Dept which means NO MUSSELLS!!!

See my frantic little guy in my QMC ad? That's how I am feeling. Then I remember there is another big grocery store in a shopping center behind where we were and this time NO Grocery Store! Well there was one but ALL Indian food ALL the time....We were getting ready to get back on the highway when my daughter spied a Safeway and so we got in there and Finally....Mussells....she asked the doof (I mean young guy behind the counter) when they came in and he (the doof) told us that morning...it was hard to tell but we said we would take 2 bags. We finally got out of there and headed to my mom's. Got there...Amber started cleaning them only to find almost 1/2 were dead or had broken shells so were unusable....argh! Did I say doof??? I meant liar liar pants on fire!

Well, when all was said and done , she prepared what was left perfectly. I really enjoyed them and now wonder why I never have picked them when we go eat seafood...note to self...mussells are yummy! In any case, we enjoyed the wonderful food and helped organize a little around the house and then after visiting came home. With me I brought 2 boxes of family photos...I'm going to have to go through them (along with the others I have) and then DH is going to set up a table and I'm going to start scanning....but that will be for another day!

This is where the Tornado Siren comes in....

::::and now a word from our sponsors:::::

Just click on the membership club image on the top left column or on this link and it will take you right where you can purchase over 20 files for a mere $ 10 that is TEN dollars! That's right...you read right...all file types all the time...AI, .GSD, .WPC, .KNK and .SVG! Don't miss out or Delay!

:::::we now return you to your regularly posted blog::::::

So the ride home is pretty uneventful...I'm traveling about 65 and the roads and not backed up. I call my hubby and tell him we are on our way. He warns us to be careful because things have been dicey at home. Now understand, where we live it's pretty safe from harm as we have some small mountains surrounding us that keep most of the bad things away...it's not like we live in the Midwest where areas can be flat and susceptible.

I hang up and tell my daughter what he said and commented that it was odd as we were still about 30 minutes out and while overcast skies, I could see hints of blue in the sky and no rain....well, that should teach me to open my mouth...no sooner had the words left my lips that all of a sudden the skies started to go from overcast to medium gray, to dark gray, to almost black gray (reminded me of the various colormate paper hues!) and the winds started buffeting and the rain starts to pour! There is nothing I hate more than to drive in the dark IN the rain but there I was. When I say rain it's not a "Singing in the Rain" kind of rain...we are talking sheets. My daughter and I sat straight up, I turned on my flashers, downshifted and hit my brakes a couple of times so that the guy behind us would back off. We're cruising at a steady 10-15 mph and passing tons of cars that had pulled off on the shoulder. We were in it for 15-20 minutes when it finally let up. That's about the time I remembered to start breathing again. A little while later we pull in the driveway and are greated with hugs. I told hubby how worried I had been and he told me that had been the whole day here...and not only that, that the Tornado Sirens had been going off.

I said the what? and he reitereated the Tornado Sirens. I told him I didn't know we had any and he said that neither had he! They went on for a good 10 minutes and they were loud enough that he said you would think they were going on in the house! The dogs were freaked out, he was checking the weather and saw the boxes appear on the map. He tried to round them up to go to the basement and couldn't find the G-Pup who had bailed and was hiding somewhere. Then all of a sudden he said, the sirens stopped. Phew disaster averted though I keep hearing fire truck and ambulance sirens all around right now.

I guess if I had a choice I would much rather hear "sorry lady...no mussells" than Tornado Sirens!

OK....now for the Sneak Peak....

the other day Sue (aka baracudasue) sent a request on the forum for playground equipment. I just had to write her and give her not just a hint but a little more of one of the files that will be included in my QMC starting in May titled "Playground Fun".

She sent me not only a pic of the file she cut out but also shared her layout with me....are you ready???

I'm sure she will post her layout to the forum where you can get a better look, but I think she did a wonderful job! I love how she made the swings look like they were moving in mid air, and while it may be hard to see, she put glitter on the slide which made it sparkle in that way that tells you that you are about to burn the skin right off your legs LOL! Thank you Sue!!!

Now where I am...oh yea, that's right a New Quick and Dirty!

Not sure if you noticed, but in the left column you will see a picture of a file with the word "Love". If you click on the image it will take you to my latest YouTube video. It's a quick way to add shadows to your vinyl wall lettering. It's been such a long time since I created one that it took me a lot of trials and errors before getting it right. For those who like to have a file with a tutorial, right below is the sample I used for the video in all of the formats...maybe some of you will be able to use it....simple enough to enlarge, just make sure you do it all at the same time! Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Ok...it's almost 9pm, my fingers are about to fall off, I'm making big yawny noises and I'm about to turn into a pumpkin.

Until next time!

Eddita :)

Do you know how hard it was to not say anything??

Now however it's official and actually up in the store! Just click on the membership club image on the top left column or on this link and it will take you right where you need to go to purchase!

So now you can understand why it's been awhile since I actually uploaded a file to the store LOL! It really takes a lot of time to create 20 PLUS files but in the end I hope you are going to enjoy them and be able to use them.

Now I understand that not every file will be for everyone, but really, at less than 50 cents a file I'm sure you will be happy in the end LOL!

All my files will include ALL the cutting formats: .GSD, .AI, .KNK, .WPC and .SVG and there is also going to be a little bit of everything including cutting files, 3D objects, cards, vinyl and a sprinkling of digi stamp.

Now for a completely random thought...I really dislike when Easter is in the beginning of the month....I guess it's because I look forward to holidays and when too early it just throws me off. It makes the month seem really long. That's it...just my random thought LOL!

Looks like there may be a slim chance of sunshine before the rain sets in. Not sure what our plans are but I'm not really feeling yardwork! I really should dig and clean out the garden bed (and mind you it's NOT that hard to do I'm just being really lazy!) I think maybe its the odd temps that have been going on and knowing that rain's coming in soon doesn't make me want to just run outside...well that and the fact that my allergies have been killing me!

I've watched a few netflix movies lately but NONE that I could say "wow that was good let me recommend to you". Truth is that lately it seems that everything I watch that I think has potential basically just fizzles. I checked one out called "I Hate Valentines Day" because it was done by the gal who did "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and it starred her (Nia Vardalos) and brought back someone I enjoy watching (John Corbett). She also wrote and directed it....It was DREADFUL!!! Normally I can come up with something nice to say, but in this instance, all I can think is there went 98 minutes I will never get back. From the writing, acting and directing...just horrible. Ok....here is something nice...the concept was cute, there you go...that's all there is LOL!

When my firends and I talk movies and it comes to really bad ones they think I'm crazy to watch the whole thing through, as does my DH though he says he stays because he enjoys having me curled up with him on the couch. It comes down to this, if someone has taken the time to write something and actually gotten someone to buy into it and put money in it and then create the screenplay, hire the actors, film it etc and I pick it out, then I should watch it all the way through...good or bad. I feel the same way with books...I keep plodding through no matter how long it takes...I guess it's the small part in me that is rooting them on and hoping it's going to get better....sometimes it does but that is very rare these days LOL!

Also, it seems there is nothing new out there! I just saw a commercial the other day for a movie called "Death at a Funeral". Now unless you are one that enjoys foreign films you would read the synapsis and think...sounds funny. The truth is though this is a remake of a 2007 UK film by the same title, they just used American actors...why?!!! The original is funny! The preview for this newest bit of Hollywood, not so much.

This is the same for a number of other movies I really enjoyed that were butchered when remade here (because again Hollywood doesn't have any original ideas)

The first is "Shall We Dance". This is a very cute Japanese Film (with subtitles) from 1995. There was so much emotion and humor in this, it really made you fall in love with the characters and get a glimpse of life and the yearn for happiness. The remake years later with Jennifer Lopez and Richard Gere was horrible and flat.

Another I can think of is a wonderful German Film (again with subtitles) from 2001 called Mostly Martha or Bella Martha. This is a fantastic film and you FEEL how much this woman lives for cooking and are swept up in it as she becomes the ward of her neice and enjoy watching her life turn upside down. This is the original movie that the movie No Reservations with Catherine-Zeta-Jones was based on...again sub-par.

OK, that's my rant for the day...holidays that start early in the month (though that was really more just a random thought) and how bad a particular movie was and while I didn't think I had any movies to suggest to you, I found that in fact I have 3 very good ones!

Ok everyone, have a wonderful day!
Eddita