Wednesday, September 30, 2009

How cute is this? Cupcake toppers





Materials: Tape, adhesive of your choice, sucker stick, ribbon, and any paper shapes that you want to use (A scalloped punch was used here + a smaller circle punch, and a number "1" punch).


Steps:
Using adhesive, I stuck the "1" onto the small circle and then I stuck those onto the scalloped circle.
With a small piece of tape I taped the sucker stick to the back of the scalloped circle.
Then I tied a ribbon on the bottom. Easy Peasy. Now go find a cupcake.

Stickles! Ah Ha!


I was being a scrapbooking sleuth and found out what Stickles are: (of course this is just for beginners like me)


Here you go:

Blessing From Hooked on Stamping: Ribbon Knots

I got this tutorial from Hooked on Stamps. I wanted to know the correct way of doing this and I'm so grateful! Hope this helps you too!

Tutorial: Tying Ribbon Knots

Ribbon Knots are a fast, simple and easy way to add some pizzazz to a card or scrapbook layout. One of the most frequently asked questions I hear is, “How do you make that knot look so pretty?” Let’s take a look and see…

Tip: Working with the ribbon attached to the spool allows you to adjust the length of the ribbon as needed and then cut it when you’re done. This will save you ribbon in the long run!
Take the ribbon and wrap it around your finger. When you bring the ribbon to the front, cross it up and to the left making an “x” at the front.

/div>
Gently move the ribbon forward on your finger, leaving the circle of ribbon that it formed intact. Using your thumb, push the ribbon tail through that circle. Notice how I’ve folded the ribbon as it’s gone into the circle. This will give you a nice clean edge later on.


Now, you can grab the tail that’s free on the right side and gently pull, tightening the knot. As you pull the tail, you can guide the knot to where you want it, positioning it before you tighten the knot fully.

Here’s the finished ribbon knot.


Let’s see what the ribbon knot looks like from side. You can see that the front of the knot (at the bottom of the photo) is completely flat. The back of the knot has some dimension to it. I try to make this as flat as possible by not pulling too tightly on the knot.


Here’s what the back of the ribbon knot looks like.



I love grosgrain ribbon. It has a very distinct look. It’s a woven ribbon which can at times present a challenge, in that the ends of the ribbon tend to fray. With grosgrain ribbon, if you end up with a tiny hanging thread, and it gets pulled, your ribbon can start unraveling! Yikes! We wouldn’t want that to happen.

To prevent grosgrain ribbon from fraying, apply a tiny drop of Liquid Glass to the backside of the ribbon. Spread the Liquid Glass across the end. Allow the Liquid Glass to dry completely. Trim off any hanging threads or cut through the center of where the Liquid Glass was applied to have a completely sealed end.


Now to adhere the ribbon to the card! Liquid Glass yet again. I put on a liberal amount of Liquid Glass, then positioned the ribbon and press it down firmly to flatten out the backside of the knot and get the Liquid Glass up into the knot. I hold it in position for a minute or so.
Tip: You can place a book or acrylic block on top of the ribbon to hold it firmly in place while it dries completely.

And….voila….the finished card.

DS .Cut files and SVG files Here

I found this over on Imagine that and these were the sites listed incase anyone needs to have some cut files or svg. here they are! These are some of my favorite blogs with cut files:

http://everythingcricut.blogspot.com/ - yeah, yeah, you're actually on this blog. Just scroll down to the posts and you'll see cut files for lamps, tons & tons of borders & frames, a flower book, and some 4x6 perfed mats. I put this here so no one would forget to look at the cut files on this blog -- I promise I'm not that vain (OK, maybe a little). I'd sure appreciate comments especially if you decide to download a cut file. I'm sure those listed below would also appreciate a comment as well. THANKS!!!!

http://dscrapbookingroom.blogspot.com/ These are actually SVG fles for SCAL, and if you have SCAL you will want to visit this blog ASAP - there are SO MANY wonderful files to download!

http://mesharingwithu.blogspot.com/ The ribbon flower is one of the most beautiful, unique creations I've seen in a long time

http://christyscricutcreations.blogspot.com/ Cute mesh files and borders

http://livelaughscrap-leedle.blogspot.com/ Cute Under the Sea files using George

http://candyscreations.wordpress.com/ -- Elmo, Hello Kitty, photo tabs -- and you have to check out the pic of her kid in the toybox!

http://scrappincricut.blogspot.com/ -- her Christmas stockings are just adorable

http://spartansusscraper.blogspot.com/ She has the most adorable house warming invitation!

http://cindyscreations-cinmfoster.blogspot.com/ Elegant taste, to say the least - check out her version of the felt ribbon you've seen around.

http://www.cdsts.blogspot.com/ - click on this one, trust me!

http://turins.blogspot.com/ CS files - she is amazingly talented; check out the Statue of Liberty!

http://handmadebyjade.blogspot.com/ Her cards are stunning - and she decorates cakes too!

http://capadiadesigns.blogspot.com/ CDS Files - love her style

http://froggysfroggaritaville.blogspot.com/ - food designs, an absolutely adorable Tigger ticket book; wonderful Aladdin file

http://cricutbutterflies.blogspot.com/ CDS Files - great with the instructional

http://alices1derland.blogspot.com/ -cute mug, great cardmaker

http://megascraper.blogspot.com/ She's got a cut file for the cutest onesie!

http://www.jackiescraftroom.blogspot.com/ Her borders are gorgeous

http://just-a-scrappin.blogspot.com/ She's a spectacular scrapper, check out her fancy edge "word" book.

http://hipmonkeylisa.spaces.live.com/ Here's your Elmo cut file

http://cricutsoftcuts.blogspot.com/ - CDS Files - the lace doily is a work of art, and that's only the beginning

http://amkscrap.blogspot.com/ - CDS Files- teddy bear, beehive, bandaid, etc., etc.

http://wyattsscrappingmommy.blogspot.com/ - Wonder Pets and Harold the Helicopter

http://okieladybugsscrapnmore.blogspot.com/ -CDS cut files mainly with the George cartridge. Love her slider card! Check out her recipes as well...

http://www.pbase.com/bugsafe/cricut_cuts&page=all Vehicles made with CDS

http://invinciblesummer.typepad.com/my_weblog/cricut_design_studio_cut_files/index.htmlWord Books made with CDS

http://www.flickr.com/groups/cricutdesignstudio/ -CDS files from a Flickr group

http://ruelysicreativecards.blogspot.com/ cute Russian doll file; cute purse, adorable graduation card...she's got the magic touch!!

http://myfaqcricutds.blogspot.com/- another awesome DS blog

http://www.hookedonstamping.com/index.php/cricut/cricut-cut-files/ flourish cut files

http://www.paperscissorsinc.com/ She loves borders like me

http://samm-l.blogspot.com/ -a great cardmaker from the UK

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cricutcutter/files/DSS%20.cut%20Files/ -direct link to Cricut Cutter Yahoo Group's folder of cut files. You may have to be a member of the group to peak in to the folder.

http://susanbluerobot.blogspot.com/ Very popular site for cut files

http://www.fun2cricut.com/photo.htm Nice because you click on one link for all designs

http://www.esnips.com/_t_/cricut beautiful cards

http://mardenz.blogspot.com/ Pokemon, flipflops, glasses...

http://smoothiesspot.blogspot.com/ New Blogger, cute firetruck with the file to go with it

http://mariabrownsblog.blogspot.com/ Another new blogger, has some word books posted--I love how she put them together

http://www.creatingkeepsakes.com/mag/article.ihtml?index_field=2083 Has several cut files from Erin Lincoln

http://www.cricut.com/messageboard/tm.aspx?m=2763755 Many word book files are posted to this thread

http://www.wishingstardesign.com/cricuts/ Cup cake wrapper, kleenex box, gorgeous borders...

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Saying Goodnight Early

Well, I'm not staying online long tonight. I was messing with my Design Studio almost all day and did some cuts from various .cut files. I'll post them maybe tomorrow. But at least I'm using it!

A special thanks for everyone who is visiting my blog! Please comment or say hello at least! Makes you feel loved you know!!

Be blessed my friends!
God Bless

Good Morning!

Well I wanted to sign up for one of the contests, but it just seems all too complicated. I think I followed the directions correctly. I really need some cartridges, but I may just have to do it the old fashioned way. Buying them!

I've heard they should be going on sale for the holidays. And that's all I'm asking for! Cartridges!! Hee Hee! :O)

Have a great day everyone! I'll be back a little later on..

Monday, September 28, 2009

Moving Forward by Israel Houghton

I love this song and the anointing that follows! Be blessed!

Oh oh oh yeah yeah....

What a moment You have brought me to.
Such a freedom I have found in You.
You're the healer who makes all things new.
Yeah, yeah, yeah!

I'm not going back, I'm moving ahead.
I'm here to declare to you my past is over.
In You all things are made new. Surrendered
My Life to Christ. I'm Moving, Moving Forward.

oh oh oh....

You have risen with all power in Your hand.
You have given me a second chance.
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I'm not going back, I'm moving ahead.
I'm here to declare to you my past is over.
In You all things are made new. Surrendered
My Life to Christ. I'm Moving, Moving Forward. ( 2x )

You make all Things new.
Yes, you make all things new and I will Follow You forward. (4x)

I will follow you forward.....

Some Layouts of Mine











These are some of my layouts made with my baby bug! Enjoy! More to come. I think I'll head to bed now....:O)

My Craft Room







This is part of my craft area. I still have a ways to go, but these are just some of the things I have. Enjoy peeking into my world!!

My Handbook





This is my notebook. My Cricut notebook that is still a work in progress, but you get the idea. I altered my own notebook. Hee Hee! :O)

Ok some Personals




This is some of the things I've made with my bug and Expression. Bookmarks for my daughters. They loved them and they were in high school and actually used them today. The other pic is of my little knick knack holders, they have buttons and scraps in them right now. More to come!!

Treat bags:




On my next project list: These are treat bags I found online. How cute are they. when I do get around to doing them, I'll show you the outcome.




taking a break :O)

I'll be back later on today! I've got to get some work done around here. I love the cricut main board so much! I'm addicted!! I'm preparing for our vacation coming up in December. I can't wait.


Hope everyone has a great day!

Master Questionnaire for Cricut MB

Here it goes! I'll fill it out here and then post it there!


MB Name: Pink Ladybug Scrapper

First Name: Raquelle

Your birthday: January 28

Do you have any Children or Pets: Children (3) Pets (2)

What do you and/or a spouse do for a living (If you don’t mind sharing):
I am a Domestic Engineer and my dh is a Network Operations Engineer

Children’s Name & Fur Babies Names & Ages (if you don’t mind sharing, if you do that is okay):
Children: (Janee, Jerome, Shanelle) Fur-babies: (Shadow & Simba)

Birthdays &/or Anniversaries or momentous occasions of Family Members (Just in case your
Partner would like to send cards):
Wedding Anniversary: December 21, 2002

Anything your Partner should know that is going to happen in the upcoming year (birth, graduation, promotion, launch of new business, marriage, etc…):
2010 will be our 9th year wedding anniversary!

What is your Favorite Holiday: Thanksgiving

What is your Favorite Season: Holiday (Fall)

Do you like to Read? Who is your Favorite Author or What kind of books do you like:
I love to read! My favorite book is the Bible.

Favorite Disney Character: Minnie Mouse

Favorite Movie: The Sound of Music

Top 10 Favorite Brands: I'm not really a brand person except for Provocraft!!

Favorite Paper: pretty ones!

Favorite Colors: pretty ones (pink of course!)

Do you scrapbook, make cards, or both: both!

List top 10 Favorite Embellishments: brads, eyelets, ribbons, glitter, stickers

What color stickles do you like or use a lot: don't know what stickles are?? Sorry!

What are your current projects that you are working on: Family Calendar and Christmas cards.

What are your goals when it comes to scrapbooking next year (Please List All):
have a display at a craft show
host a scrap/crop session
start a scrapbooking class in our town.
scrapbook our cruise!

Do you Stamp? If so, what brand of stamps do you like: Stamping Up! (I don't have any yet, but would love some!)

What Cricut cuts would you like (List 10): all of them.

Is there any product you are looking for but can't find: The goo punch from Martha Stewart.

Do you like glitter, what brand: any brand

Favorite candy: kit kats!

Favorite snack: seedless red grapes and cheese cubes

List 10 things you would like to find in a paint can:
money
$150 gift card from a craft store
$150 gift card for a book store
buttons
silk flowers

Do you use stickers? If so, what brand of stickers do you prefer: Jolee? Very cute.

Do you own the Baby Bug or the Expression or the Create: I own the Expression.

Wish list of 5 cartridges:
Winter Woodland
Pink Journey
Tags Bags & More
Celebrations
Story Book
Christmas Solutions
Lyrical Letters

Do you have a bind it all: no.

Do you like chocolate? Dark or Milk Chocolate: Milk Chocolate

What is your favorite technique: don't have one yet.

What technique what you like to know more about: stamping, I guess. 3d embellishments.

Do you have design studio: Yep!

List 10 things that you would like to have created on Design Studio:
welding letters
pocket book
lacy scallops
treat boxes
word book
cute cards

Do you have a Cuttlebug: not yet. I do have a big kick, though.

List Top 10 Cuttlebug Folders on your wish List:
I don'tknow them all, but I'd like pretty scrolls and the winter embossing and happy birthday, I guess.

Is there anything that you don’t like that is related to scrapbooking: journaling by hand.

Is there anything else you want your Partner to know about you: Even though I just started, I'm grateful for any thing. Hoping my creative juices will kick in!!

Is there anything non scrapbooking that your Partner should know such as Collections, Hobbies, favorite past time: I love card making and giving little treats. I do have a tea pot collection too!

What is your favorite scent: Happy by Clinique or White Diamonds.

Is there anything you don’t like in general: not having enough scrapbook supplies.

Wish List:
Gypsy
more cartridges

What Size do you scrapbook most, 6x6, 8x8, or 12x12: 12x12 and 8x8.

Are you allergic to anything: nope.

Do you like to alter items, If so what do you like to alter: notebooks, binders.

List your Cartridges:
Home Decor
Doodlecharms
Tear Drop
Sans Sarif
Opposites Attract
Wedding Solutions
Life's a beach
George Basic Shapes

Do you subscribe to any scrapping magazines: no.

What is your favorite Scrapbook Store that is near you? Scrapdoodles

What is your favorite Scrapbook Website Store (other than Provocraft and Cricut.com, that is everyone's favorite.) not sure

Do you use stencils: no.

Top 5 favorite adhesive: Oooh, I want that ATG gun!! but I like glue dots.

Do you like paper punches: yes, I love them.

Do you have kids or grandchildren you scrap with: yes, my daughter.

If you own a Cuddlebug, List your folders: I have one of the scrolls folders.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Today's Sunday School Lesson

Today's lesson was taken from 2 Cor. 5:7. For we walk by faith and not by sight. We talked on the reasons why we as Christians need to always, in every situation walk by faith and not by sight.

Worry and Procrastination are enemies of our souls. We need to always pray and put God first in all we do.

Only God is our strentgh and our trust should be in Him alone.

Be blessed my friends :O)

Barely Ready

We live in a relativly small town and around Christmas time, they always have Bazaars and Craft shows. I've never been to one personally, but I think next year I want to have something to show for myself. I'm collecting ideas and praying one day I'll be good enough to have something to sell. So, I'm going to craft shows this year to see what people are doing. We don't have a scrapbooking club here in our county, but we do in the city. It would be great if it were closer. Oh, well.

So with christmas coming up, I really want to do some nice cards. I may post some inspiration soon.

Thanks for visiting. :O)
Be blessed!

From Cricut.com

Week 4 of Cricut's 100th Cartridge Celebration!

Winter Woodland is Cricut's 100th cartridge. If you have not seen it you must check it out!
Here is the link:
http://www.cricut.com/shopping/ProductDetails.aspx?id=361&s=1&sc=2

Help us celebrate. Cricut is giving away 100 cartridges!
Here are the details:
http://www.cricut.com/messageboard/tm.aspx?m=5362208

Ribbon steamer...AC Moore

This is a ribbon iron! Cute isn't it? You can flatten your ribbons that have those little wrinkles in it.

Craft Room Wish List!!


Wow, how nice is this room. (cont. from other post.) I love it! I'd be in scrapbook heaven all the time! My husband would say..."where is my wife?"

Craft Room Ideas



Here are some photos of Scrappin Cricut's craft room! She is so organized!






Storage Ideas!

Here are some storage ideas that I want to incorporate when I get more carts. So far I only have 4, but God shall suppy all my cricut needs. Oh that's so bad!! Forgive me Lord!


This is a room that has a lot of die cuts for cuttlebug and sizzix, which is next on my list.






I want a cuttle bug too! Oh, I want, I want!

I'm definately going to put this in my Cricut Binder: Cuttlebug Sandwiches

Important Sandwiching Notes:
• Always err on the THIN side; you can pass the sandwich through the machine again, but if you start out too thick, you can potentially break a plate or otherwise hurt your new ‘bug!
• If a cardstock or chipboard shim is noted, always try the sandwich without first, then add cut-to-size (the size of the plates) cardstock or chipboard layers until the appropriate thickness of the sandwich is determined.
• Based on feedback, the space inside the Cuttlebugs differ from machine to machine, so be SURE to error on the THIN-STACK side!

Cardstock
Chipboard
Magnetic/ Metal Sheets & Thin cork (Media)

Cuttlebug Dies
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Die (cutting side up), Cardstock, Plate “B”
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Die (cutting side up), Chipboard, Plate “B”
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, die (cutting side up), Media, Plate “B”

Cuttlebug Embossing Folders
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Folder (with cardstock inside), Plate “B”
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Folder (with chipboard inside), Plate “B”
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Folder (with metal sheet inside), Plate “B”
Nestabilities
You will need Spellbinders Tan Embossing Mat to emboss in
Cuttlebug™ machine (or a plumbers gasket cut to size, or some use a mouse pad)
Cutting Sandwich - (Stack from bottom up)
1. A plate
2. C plate
3. Spellbinders Die (cutting side up) that means the side with the
ridges
4. paper or cardstock
5. B plate
6. Run through Cuttlebug™ machine.

Embossing Sandwich- (Stack from bottom up)
*Remove C Plate for embossing sandwich
1. Place A plate on bottom
2. Leave die face up on A plate with die cut still in the die.
3. Place one Spellbinders Tan Embossing Mat on top of the die.
4. Use 2 or 3 pieces of cardstock to shim.
*Cautionary Note: Using more than 3 pieces of cardstock to
shim Cuttlebug Embossing sandwich will result in B Plate
breakage. When using Spellbinders Edgeabilities card making
dies, shim with only 2 pieces of card stock.
5. Place two acrylic B plates on top of sandwich and run thru
Cuttlebug machine to emboss Spellbinders die cuts.
6. Turn die over and use like a stencil with inks and chalks for
added detail.


BigShot Embossing Folders
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Folder (with cardstock inside), Plate “B”, Cardstock shim

BigShot Large Dies
Plate “B”, Cardstock, Die (cutting side down), Plate “B”

Revolution Dies
Plate “A”, Plate “C”, Die, Cardstock, Plate “B”


Sizzlit Dies
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Die (cutting side up), Cardstock, Plate “B”
Note: Provocraft suggests using Plate” C” instead of the second Plate “B”, however, CB owners have cracked plates, so try with two “B” plates first.

Sizzix Original Dies & other Steel Rule Dies
Plate “B”, Cardstock, Die (cutting side down), Plate “B”
Plate “B”, Chipboard, Die (cutting side down), Plate “B”

Sizzix CutNFold Dies
Plate “A”, Die, Cardstock, Plate “B”, Chipboard shim
Also try:
Plate “B”, Cardstock, Die, Chipboard shim (maybe 6 layers)

Sizzix Embossing Folders aka Simple Impressions
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Folder (with cardstock inside), Plate “B”
Also try:
Plate “A”, Chipboard shims, Folder (with cardstock inside), Plate “B”

QuicKuts Dies (Regular)
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Die, Cardstock, Plate “C”
Plate “A”, Plate “C”, Die (cutting side up), Chipboard, Cardstock shim, Plate “B”

QuicKuts Dies (Grand)
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, Die, Cardstock, Plate “C”


Brass Embossing Stencils
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, , Brass stencil ,paper/cardstock,mouse pad (cut to size, rubber side down), Plate “B”
Sandwich may need to pass through several times based on cardstock thickness
Or use plumber’s black rubber plus red rubber gasket, instead of mouse, then add last plate B.

Big Impressions Texture Plates
Plate “A”, BI texture Plate, Cardstock, Silicone Rubber pad (from BISK), Impressions Pad (from BISK)
*BISK-Big Impressions Starter Kit


Fiskars Texture Plates
Plate “A”, Fiskars texture Plate, Cardstock, tan Wizard pad, black or tan Wizard pad, (possible Cardstock shim,) Plate “B”
Also try:
Plate “A”, Fiskars texture Plate, Cardstock (lightly misted with water), 2 layers Fun Foam, Chipboard Shim, Plate “C”
Also try:
Plate “A”, Fiskars texture Plate, Cardstock (right side towards TP), Rubber Plate (made from Plumber’s rubber gasket), Plate “C”

Plastic thin stencils
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, , Brass stencil ,paper/cardstock,mouse pad (cut to size, rubber side down), Plate “B”
Here too- may try
Plate “A”, Plate “B”, , plastic stencil, ccrdstock, black rubber, red rubber, plate B



This will be my last post for the evening, but this is the cuttlebug. Yep, I want this too!

More Inspiration!



Aren't these just the cutest! I found them on BBTB's website! You know I just want to share!!


































Projects for Church (Sunday School)

I thought these were just too cute!! I want to make something like this soon. maybe for the kids at church. Also, these are some projects I want to try. I can't remember where I found these cuties online, but aren't they cute!





Best Carts to do my stuff?

I've been online looking to see which cartridges are the best ones for what I want to do: So far I've seen:

Tags, Bags, Boxes and More (for my little treats)

Wild Card (for my cards)

And all those other carts for everything else.

Of course I love them all. At some point I'll post them all! :O)

Saturday, September 26, 2009

How cute is this?


I found this on cricutcarts.com how cute!!




The New Gypsy! I want one!

Here is the latest from Provocraft/Cricut makers! The Gypsy. Looks spiffy huh? I'll find out more about it, but this is just to show what' new and exciting. I don't have one YET!! But then again, I just got my cricut so it will come in time. But here you go:


upclose shot:
With the Cricut Gypsy you can weld, stretch, rotate, slant, and all the other functions that come stock with the PC software Cricut Design Studio. It will also provide you with a central location to store all your designs, photos, and craft projects so you never have to worry about transporting your giant Cricut machine again to get what you want. The Gypsy also stores the manuals and overlays for all the cartridges, so you literally have everything to design and shape any art project you can imagine in the palm of your hand.

Features:
Size – 8” x 3” x 1.5”
Weight – 11 ounces
Screen Size - 4.7”, 16:9, 480 x 272
Stylus Length – 3.75”
Storage – ~4000 Cartridges, 10000+ Designs
Battery Life – 4 hrs cont. 18 hrs int.

Compatible with Cricut Machines and Cartridges Weld, size, slant, rotate, stretch, preview -->
2 Full content cartridges preloaded

Benefits:
No computer required
Design functionality on-the-go with no PC
Interfaces with CDS when connected to a PC
Stores content, overlays, and manuals
Stores All Overlays
Stores All ManualsStores design projects

ATG Gun


Here is a copy of the latest tool for scrapbooking. You will find it at the framing section of a craft store like Michaels or AC Moore. It's called the ATG Craft Gun. It's a must have for your scrapbooking and is Acid and Liglin free. Hope I spelled that right. But anywhoo it's on my Christmas list!


My Expression

This is my bug. I haven't done the front of her yet, but so far this is all I've done. Oh, I do have some smaller lady bugs. Pink ones of course.

The Exploding Box Project




Ever since I've heard about the cricut I've wanted to do the Exploding Box. I know I'm like 3 years behind, but I hope to get caught up one of these days. Anywhoo here is what I'm talking about. I want to do one after our cruise in December.




Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Origins of Faithbooking

Where did faithbooking originate?

I've been researching the topic of Faithbooking and I believe the term "faithbooking" originated from Rhonda Anderson, co-founder of Creative Memories and co-author of Creative Memories Way. In an article, she wrote: "I began doing what I call "faithbooking" — creating a photo album specifically with the stories of miraculous moments in my life. We are in essence recording history and helping ourselves remember the memorable times God has intervened, reached out and changed our lives. Now, as my family and I look at our faithbook albums, our faith grows as never before." To read this article, visit http://www.family.org/focusoverfifty/lifewise/a0022748.html
how do you incorporate your faith into your scrapbooking? Really, the ideas are limitless...

Church Life
Regular events at church:
•Sunday School
•Vacation Bible School
•Church Camps
•Outreach events
•Special dinners
•Dedications, Baptisms
•Your Pastor
•Your church (the building)
•Church Missionaries
•Your closest church friends?
Church Traditions
Looking at why you do these things:
•Communion
•Baptisms
•First Communion, Confirmation
•Priestly garb
•Order of Service
My Personal Faith
Recording your personal beliefs and struggles:
•How did you become a Christian? Your personal testimony
•My typical Quiet Time - how I get alone with God
•My favourite Bible passage or verse
•My favourite Bible character
•My favourite hymn or song
•My favourite spiritual book/author
•Spiritual retreats
•Ministry opportunities - What ministries are you regularly involved in?
•Your spiritual "parent" - a page about the person who led you to the Lord
•What are your spiritual gifts or talents?
•What are you thankful for?
•What are your biggest struggles in life?
•What do you hope your children will learn from your life?
•How do you see God in nature?
•Who do you pray for?
•What is your favourite Christian holiday, holy day, festival or celebration?
•Who is your "angel"?
•Your baptism
•Your life verse
Family Life
•My childhood - What was your family's spiritual gauge?
•My childhood church
•How do you keep Christ in Christmas in your family?
•How do you keep Christ in Easter in your family?
•What are your parents' testimonies?
•What are your grandparents' testimonies?
•What is your spouse's testimony?
•How did your children come to know Christ as their personal saviour?
•What other celebrations or holy days do you celebrate and how do you celebrate them?

Scrapbooking and Personal Bible Study
You can use your scrapbooking as a way to enhance your own personal Bible study by creating an album about what you are learning. Here are some ideas:
•The Attributes of God
•ABC Bible story/character book (This is really good to do with kids! A is for Adam, D is for Daniel, and so on.)
•The Fruit of the Spirit
•ABC Bible Verses (Select a word that comes to mind for each letter and use a corresponding Bible verse.)
•Proverbs 31

Saturday, September 5, 2009

10 Fingerprints to God

I found this online at the CM site. Enjoy and I hope it helps you with your album.

Find your 10 Fingerprints
Your life is brimming with stories, and this process will help you find what we call the “fingerprints of God.” So what are these fingerprints? They are important events that may have seemed insignificant at the time, but turned out to be pivotal in setting the direction of your life. Follow the steps below to help identify your fingerprints:

Answer the 10 Questions
These questions will help you think chronologically about your life and how your faith has grown and developed. As you read each question, jot down a few thoughts on index cards or on the computer.
1.What was religion/faith like in your childhood home? Was church going or other faith-based events part of your life? Did anything memorable (good or bad) happen as a child/teen, and how did your faith in the Lord play a part in it?
2.Who most influenced your beliefs? How did family, friends, teachers, school (i.e., parents, grandparents, relatives, pastors, youth group leaders, etc) affect your beliefs?
3.How did you come to know Jesus Christ as your Savior? Did you have a re-dedication of your life? What other significant experiences have you had when you felt the Lord moving you closer to Him?
4.How did you see the Lord leading, protecting and guiding you through your dating experiences? If you are married, how did you meet your spouse? How has the Lord grown your faith through your marriage victories and struggles? Are you re-married? What happened? If you are single or single again? What significance does the Lord’s presence have in your life?
5.If you are a parent, or if you interact with children on a regular basis, how has your faith been affected by them? Have you adopted a child? How did the Lord lead you in that process?
6.How did you start on the path that led you to the career path you are on today? How did the Lord use circumstances, people, etc., to get you here? How has your faith affected the people with whom you work? Have you been on a mission trip? How did that affect you?
7.What faith lessons have you learned through an adversity? Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom and, by God’s grace, you bounced back? Has the Lord “bailed you out” of a mistake?
8.How has music or other forms of artistic expression influenced your faith? Do you have favorite songs or hymns? Perhaps you’ve been influenced by sacred dance, beautiful art, drama, Christian radio, certain music groups, etc. What happened to encourage or convict you?
9.What scripture verses have been especially meaningful in your life? Do you have a favorite scripture(s)? Why is this passage meaningful? How has the Lord used His word in your life?
10.How has the Lord provided for your needs or answered a specific prayer? How has He healed you or sustained (protected) you physically or emotionally?

Journal your memories
With your thoughts and photos organized, write down more detailed accounts of your faith memories and the impact they had on your life.

Look at your pictures
Now look through your photo albums to find pictures that go with each question. Your photos may spark new memories and new answers to some of the 10 Questions.

When you have completed these steps, click Choose Your Album Style on the right navigation bar.