Conrad Creations

♥ Happy Mothers Day ♥

2010-05-08T16:50:00.005-06:00

Hello Dear Friends and Family,

I hope this Mothers day finds you happy and healthy.
Just thought I'd share a beautiful photo of my daughter and
then share the frames I made for the photo.
May you have blessed Sunday.

Click the image to download full size (right click to save)
PNG format

Love and ((HUGS))
Mechelle

Conrad Creations

Git R Done ... LOL

2010-04-01T18:04:00.007-06:00

I can't believe it's already the first of April! Where is the year going and why is it in such a Hurry?! Will someone who has some pull with the Man Upstairs ask Him to slow things down?
When we moved in a year ago there were several large piles of rock and dirt that had been left after the Church parking lot was put in. We knew immediately that it was one of the things we wanted to take care of. Unfortunately the rental of the Front End Loader was going to be more than the Church could afford, so we left it. Then Several months ago we met a man who has a business and a Front End Loader and not only was he willing to help us but he was willing to do it for a very discounted price. What a blessing! Here are some pictures of before and after ~

~ Now all we need is some sod and a bit of rock ~ Part of this will be a parking area so people can come to my Front door instead of the back ~ The rest will be more lawn for the house. :)
It's nice to see some progress ... Now who wants to come weed and clean out the Raspberry patch?! Did I ever mention I don't garden? So Mom if you read this.... feel free to come visit and
do all the gardening you like!
Spring is officially here and there will soon be more work than we know what to do with but we are blessed to have a place to live and 2 jobs. (Well 3 counting my graphic design)
Hope you all have a beautiful day!
((HUGS)) Mechelle

Life, or something like it ...

2010-03-28T21:12:00.014-06:00

Hi dear friends and family~ I'm afraid I have to apologize once again. I have not been good at keeping things up to date lately. I'd say things have been hectic but that would be a lie as they've actually been pretty quiet. I'm struggling with my creativity lately and wishing I could magically conjure it up. Not sure where it's hiding out but I hope it comes back soon!
On the Home Front, things are going well. Ali is excelling in school this year. We were talking just the other day and realized she hadn't asked us for help with her math in months ~ And she still passed with flying colors. She's a smart kid even if she always has her head in the clouds. She is still very much into writing and has several books started... now if only we can get her to finish one.
Cory's job is going well although we're still stuck with the Graveyard shift ~ things could be worse. Working for Juvenile corrections is so much different than working in Adult corrections~ makes for some interesting vent sessions around our house. We are still Care-taking the church property and it's picking up now that it's Spring. Keeping up with the weeds is a full time job and before long the mowing will start for the year. As for me well I got a new car and am enjoying the freedom that comes with being able to just get out of the house now and then. I've lost around 20 lbs this year and am feeling so much better. I am hoping to go back to college either this fall or next spring ~ I would like to get my degree in Graphic Design. My Mom moved back to Twin Falls from Indiana and I'm hoping to take her over to Walla Walla, WA this year to see my sisters kids. We haven't seen them in so long and they've grown up so much. As for my sister, all I can say is please pray for her. ~ Well that's pretty much it on the updates... Gonna have to show you my sweet ride now though~ LOL Hope to have better one's soon ~ These were taken before the summer wheels were on and the lighting wasn't great ~ It's really a gorgeous car. I thought (ahem) That it was a 96 Chevy Camaro but it's actually a 94. It's in pristine shape other than a few scratches that we should be able to buff out. The paint is an original from a shop up in Lewiston, ID. and my back window has their logo plastered across it which makes me laugh every time I see it ~ Hot Bodz and Custom Rods. We've got the custom Rod alright... the hot bodz part well, maybe when I lose a bit more weight. LOL
OK so here are the photo's I was able to get before we bought it. I'll update with the summer wheels as soon as I get sunny day.

Thought I'd toss in some pictures of Ali too ~ she's getting to be so grown up.
Every now and then I miss the little girl who needed me so much ;)

Oh and before I forget ~ Maxwell is now a year old and still as naughty as the day we brought him home, but he's a lover so all is forgiven. LOL Here's a recent picture of him telling me to get back to work ~ ;)

Have a wonderful week ~
((hugs)) Mechelle

Valentines Day Freebie

2010-02-12T22:50:00.004-07:00

Hi Friends,

Just a quick note to wish you all a very happy Valentines Day.
I have a little freebie gift for you in the store ~
Cards without Text are included so you get a total of 8 pieces.
Click here to go to the shop

Blessings and ((hugs))
Mechelle

Conradcreations@gmail.com

Sneak Peek 2 :)

2009-12-14T22:43:00.003-07:00

Hey friends ~ Just dropping by to show you another sneak peek for my latest graphic kit.
Keep an eye out there will be more soon. I still have a bit of shading to do ~ But she's mostly done. :)
((Hugs)) Mechelle

~ Artist Block ~ New kit on the way

2009-12-11T08:45:00.003-07:00

Hi Friends ~ Just wanted to stop by and let you know that I haven't dropped off the face of the planet. Been having a very frustrating & Unproductive time lately. But the good news is that I'm pretty sure that's over. I'm working on a new kit and hope to have it out very soon.
I have a little sneak peek for you, It's not even closed to finished yet and this poor little guy still needs some shading done... but he's coming along nicely and I'll have some friends joining him soon.~

Thanks for your patience. Keep an eye out because I'm going to have a freebie or 2 to share when I'm all done.
Blessings!
Mechelle

Sharing ~

2009-08-23T00:52:00.004-06:00

Hi Friends ~ I just had to stop by and post this adorable card that Wendy made with my new kit.
She used my stamps and paper. I absolutely love this little card.
Make sure you "hop" on over and tell Wendy how much you love it too.
just Click Here to go to her blog.
The Papers and stamps can be found at my Shop ~Just click Here
Thanks for stopping by and I hope you all have a beautiful weekend.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Bloomin Fun Freebie

2009-08-16T22:55:00.002-06:00

Hey Friends ~ Just wanted to share a little freebie with you. I hope you enjoy it.
It matches my Bloomin Fun kit which can be found HERE.
Click HERE to get the Freebie.
Thanks for stopping by

((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

New Kit ~ Bloomin Fun ~

2009-08-15T21:52:00.005-06:00

Hi Friends,
I finally finished my latest kit and am so excited to show it off. I think this kit is so cute.
You'll have fun creating away with these.
I also have made my very first set of Digital Stamps and they were so fun I'm sure I'll make more.
Thanks for stopping by and make sure you stop by the store.
Click images to view larger ~ The Clipz you can get them HERE

The Papers ~ you can get them HERE

The Digital Stamps ~ you can get them HERE

Thanks so much for viewing ~ I hope you enjoy these as much as I do.
((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

Sharing Another Card

2009-07-28T23:43:00.002-06:00

Just sharing another beautiful card by Wendy over at Wendy's Little Blog
I just love this one because the paper is one of my all time favorites.
This paper is from my Spring Garden Kit you can get it HERE.
Stop by and let Wendy know how much you love her card.

((hugs)) Mechelle

A Sale and a Share ~

2009-07-22T13:06:00.009-06:00

Hi Friends,
Just wanted to take a minute to catch up with everyone and let you know I'm having a 20% off sale on all my winter and Christmas kits. You'll see the price change when you put them in your cart.
Click HERE for my winter sales and HERE for my Christmas sales.

I also just had to show these adorable Cards by Wendy over at Wendy's Little Blog. I'm always just tickled Pink to see how she uses my papers.
I'm a little behind so I'm posting several at once. Make sure you stop by her blog and tell her how much you love her cards. (Click on the cards to go leave Wendy a comment)
This first one is using my Comfort Kit Papers.
That owl is so adorable. I love the soft pretty colors.

This next one is uses my Country Girl Paper I love Forever Friend bears.

This one is using my newest papers from my Spring Garden Kit
And that stamp goes so well. Here coloring is perfect!
And her latest card is using the Spring Garden Kit as well
I love this the adorable stamp on this one as well. Too cute!

I'm so happy to see my papers being used for hybrid projects. It's really great to know that they can be used so many ways. When I think back to all the money I spent on papers I could only use once it makes me want to cry~ LOL Much better to be able to print papers any time you want don't you agree?
I'm working on a couple of new kits, but still trying to get my office in order. You know how hard it is to not have things where you need them? I have this perfect idea in my head as to how I want to do my office but it's going to take a lot of work to get it there. That's ok though because I'm definitely up to the challenge. I found these awesome sign boards at the dollar store the other day that are so cute. They have ribbon hangers and are ready to be decorated. I am hoping they still have them because I didn't buy them when I should have and I've had a million idea's for them ever since.
School is coming up fast~ She is going to a Classical Academy Charter school this year and the uniforms are going to be expensive. We are hoping that we'll be able to be more involved with her schooling this way. She's going to be 14 next month ~ I just can't believe how fast they grow up.
On a final note, I am so dissapointed. We had bought tickets to go to the Kutless, Chasen, Disciple and Esterlyn concert and just found out today that they had to cancel. I was looking forward to going and Esterlyn is from Boise so it would have been great to see them come back and play their home state. It was also going to be my daughters first concert (besides the God and Country rally where she got to see Brandon Heath.) If I could I'd be heading off to Creation Fest in George, Washington. What an amazing time that would be.
Well I'm off to get something productive done. I hope everyone is having a great summer.
Take Care and please stop by Wendy's blog and leave her some love.
((hugs)) Mechelle C

Check out this great Card

2009-07-08T03:05:00.004-06:00

Hi Friends,
I was browsing along the internet the other day and I came across a lovely blog and as I was looking around I found this adorable card that she made using some of my paper. I just had to share the blog and card with you~
Thank you Wendy for using my papers and letting me post your adorable card.
Make sure you stop by and visit her blog she has some beautiful cards.
Wendy's Little Blog

((Hugs)) Mechelle C

Random Blogging...

2009-07-07T19:23:00.003-06:00

Just thought I'd drop by and say Hi. I hope you are all having a great summer.
Things are going well here, busy but we're enjoying our summer. Went to the
drive in theater on Sunday night... it was the first time my daughter has ever been
to a Drive-In. It's so nostalgic for me. We didn't go to movies often when I was a kid but I do
remember my first drive-in theater movie. It was "The Cat From Outer-Space" and "The Shaggy D.A." We stopped by A&W for floats before we went and my dad was with us. It was one of those stick with you forever kind of nights.
I've got the paint for my office picked out and hope to start painting this weekend. I can't wait to get started... I have some great idea's for it.
Here's the colors I'm using... The green will be used for accent pieces only.

These are Ralph Lauren Paint colors.
Well I'm off to work some more ~
((hugs)) Mechelle

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T01:30:00.007-06:00

Hi Friends ~ Well I told you I would have a freebie... I was hoping to have this out a little sooner but was having trouble with my computer. Hope you can still find a use for it. I am now addicted to banners~ They are so perfect and add such a homey touch to the room.
You'll need to print extra's of the scallop edge if you want to add them to the tops of the pennants.
Hope you and yours have a very happy and safe 4th.
Click the graphic to get the full size image then right click and save.

Here's a couple of pictures of what the the banner can look like when it's all put together. If you have any questions on how I did anything just shoot me an e mail.

that's Max Enjoying the stars.

And for those of you who scrapbook you can grab this quick Page ~
(click on it to enlarge then right click to save.)
I would love to see any projects you make with these. If you share them with me I'll post them
on my blog.
If you like these projects you can grab the matching kit HERE

((hugs)) Mechelle

4th Of July Kit

2009-07-02T07:05:00.004-06:00

Hi Friends,
I have a new kit available at the shoppe~ Just in time for all those 4th of July photos and crafts.
I hope you all have a wonderful 4th~ CLICK HERE to get it.
Scrapbook Max Version available too CLICK HERE

Here's what is in the kit:

12 Beautiful Papers
1 Full upper case Alpha
1 Full Lower Case Alpha
1 Full Number Set
2 Bows
3 Ribbons
1 Tied Ribbon
3 Rectangle frames (1 with drop shadow)
1 Star Frame
1 Circle Frame
3 Round Tags (1 folded and one with July 4th on it)
1 Journal Tag
3 Decorative Elements
5 Flowers
2 Brads
3 Staples
2 Word Elements "Independence Day" one with Shadow

So anyone have any big plans for the Holiday? We wanted to go camping but that's not working out.
Some new's on the home front for you. We have a new family member. He's too cute and naughty for his own good. This is Max (as in Maxwell Smart), he's my daughters new kitty.

I'm sure you'll see lot's more of him.
I know I need to visit a few blogs and say Hi... so if I haven't stopped by yet please forgive me.
I've been busy here at the new place. Oh and keep an eye out because I have a freebie coming up very soon!
((hugs)) Mechelle

Check out these Goodies!

2009-06-08T16:02:00.005-06:00

** EDITED**
(I can't believe I forgot the link!) CLICK HERE to See more about the contest!
Hey Everyone,
My friend Kat is celebrating the one year birthday of her blog! Stop by and check out the
goodies she's giving away ~ take a few minutes to check out her gorgeous crafts too. You'll fall in love with them.
Gosh ~ Who wouldn't want to win this adorable pack of goodies?
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Scrapbook Max Kit Available Now

2009-06-05T10:00:00.001-06:00

Ok Scrapbook Max fans, Run over to the shop and get the new Spring Garden Kit.
((hugs)) Mechelle

Back Online & New Kit

2009-06-04T20:53:00.005-06:00

Wow ~ Feels like it's been forever! A month is a long time to be offline. I've got a ton of things
going on all at once but wanted to take a few minutes to let you know I have my Spring Kit up finally. Things are going well here, lots of work to do at the new house but it's a fun challenge.
So on to the Previews. ~ I just love this kit, it was so fun and whimsical. I hope you'll enjoy it too. I'll have the Scrapbook Max version up soon so check back.
Click for a larger view then GO HERE to get it.

Not everything is shown on the elements preview so make sure you check out what's included
in the description.
Thanks for waiting around for me ~ I'm so glad to be back online.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Here We Go Again

2009-04-24T01:18:00.003-06:00

Things have been so upside down in our lives lately. This move has been hard and to top it off.... we are moving again. Yes you read that right. My husband applied for a maintenance job with our Aunt's church and we found out last week that we got it. The job is just care taking the church property and in return we get to live rent and utility free in their caretakers home. The home is decent. It's a double wide manufactured home and though it has some issues (dark paneling in some of the rooms) they are more than willing to let us paint. The home has a ton of room. We downsized to move to this house we're in now and wouldn't you know that some of those things we got rid of would have come in handy at the new house. LOL
We really prayed about this job and so we feel that it's Gods will for us for now. The second thing is that my husband also got hired at the Juvenile Corrections Department. He's working graveyard shift which is no fun but hopefully in a few months or so we'll be able to get a better shift.
So we will be getting a steady paycheck and not having to pay rent or utilities at all. Isn't God good? I can say I'm really not looking forward to moving again but I have most things packed up here already and we are living on the basics. I can't wait for the moving part to be over! LOL
Working for the State we also get insurance which we've been without for way too long now so praise the Lord! I'll be able to get my daughter those braces she needs.
One bad thing we found out is that we are not considered in the city limits and there is no cable out the house. Cable has been the only thing I've found that was fast enough to upload my kit files to the store so I don't know what we will do... we'll just have to wait and see what comes available. Hang on with me a little while long please. I am so busy I feel like I'm about to crash all the time. We will be moving on May 2nd so I'll be pretty quiet. I will try to update as I can.
I hope you all are having a beautiful spring. It's been very warm and pretty here this week.
I updated my blog and hope to have the matching kit in the store soon.
~ Blessings and ((hugs)) Mechelle

Moving

2009-03-13T08:28:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends,

Ok so I tried to find a photo of people moving to "spice" up this post but the only photos I could find were of very happy people moving and well we are not happy about it....
It is official, we've reached the end of our landlords mercy. We have been asked to move out and we only have 1 week as of today to find a new place to go. I will be honest... when we moved here I said I didn't want to move again until we were able to buy. This house for the past 2 years has been a haven and I don't want to leave but it seems that God has other plans for us.
For almost 10 years now we have had to move almost every 2 years ~ No we aren't horrible renters! It's always something ~ The first rental we had the owner needed to move back into it. The second rental we had to move because the downstairs neighbor smoked (even though she was asked time and again not to and the lease stated the property was non-smoking) and finally I couldn't handle the horrible allergies I was having related to the smoke. The house before this one our landlord needed us to move because he wanted a place for his grandmother to live... so you see, I'm just plain sick and tired of moving. I hate leaving behind this beautiful home, with it's sunny rooms and quiet neighborhood. I hate the uncertainty of where we are going... but I do know that God is going before us to prepare the perfect home.
Anyway ~ I will probably be offline for at least a week or two... we're not sure how long because we don't know where we are going yet. We may end up having to pack everything into storage and camp at a relatives for a while.
Please bear with me during this trying time~ I should be online until around Thursday of next week but I'll be busy packing so I probably won't post much. I'll try to update everyone as soon as I know what is going on, but if it's quiet for a while you'll know why.

Thank you all so much for sticking with me through this. If you could send up some prayers for us I would really appreciate it.
((hugs)) Mechelle

Big Anniversary Prize at Craft Critique!

2009-03-09T01:58:00.003-06:00

Craft Critique is having a huge giveaway! Join in the fun and tell all your friends.
Jump on board by going to Http://www.CraftCritique.com and while you're there
sign up for their newsletter or their RSS feed because you won't want to miss a single post!
((hugs)) Mechelle

25% off at my store

2009-03-05T16:23:00.004-07:00

Hi Friends,

Just a quick little heads up that I have a sale going on. You can get 25% off every product in my store. I will be running the sale for at least a week.
You won't see the discount until you add the product to the cart.

Thanks for stopping by!

((hugs))

Oh Hoppy Day

2009-02-27T01:51:00.010-07:00

I have my Spring/Easter kit finished finally and uploaded in the store. I think you'll really enjoy this cute kit. It's huge! 46 Elements and 11 Papers. It's available for Scrapbook Max users as well.
Here's the pictures~ You can find it in my store HERE and Scrapbook Max Version HERE
Click images to view larger~

As a side note: I'm sorry If I'm more quiet than normal, please bear with me as we are dealing with some very stressful things at the moment. God is faithful though and I know He'll carry us through this trying time. Please keep us in prayer ~ that God would open doors and lead us in the right direction.
Thank you all for sticking with me.
((hugs)) Mechelle

Scrabook Max ~ Review

2009-02-06T17:39:00.005-07:00

I recently had the chance to try the Scrapbook Max program. I had heard many good things about the program but never tried it myself. When I received the program and tried it out I was overall very happy with it. First off this program is so easy to use that a first time digital scrapbooker can use it following the simple "how to" video included. The tools are very easy to use and when you purchase Scrapbook Max files they are very simple to install. Everything is organized so that you have easy and quick access to all of your files without searching your hard drive for the proper folder. I loved that you can add music to your albums, add many fun effects to your photos or graphics, and create full albums that can be uploaded to the web, cd or DVD or printed out for a traditional scrapbook.
I was able to create a page using one of my kits in just a few short minutes. It really is that simple.
Here's how the page turned out. You can click on it to see it larger. (This kit is available for Scrapbook Max and Non Scrapbook Max users at my store get the kit HERE)
The cost of the program is very affordable. One of the first things people will notice about digital scrapbooking is the cost of a lot of the programs ~ And I can guarantee you that they are not even close to simple to learn. How many people do you know that spent the money of Photoshop Elements only to leave it sitting on their desktop unused? You won't have that problem with Scrapbook Max. Not only do they give you the training video but you can sign up for their forum and gain access to all the information and help you need.
It's a great deal and I know that you'll be off and creating scrapbook layouts in no time at all.
Interested?! I bet you are ~ So click on the Scrapbook Max banner to the right to get started.
Let me know what you think!
((hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

Sanity? Where is it?

2009-01-28T00:19:00.003-07:00

Ok So I'm stopping by with a quick hello~ Life has been hectic and we've just returned home from the Laundromat. (Well at 10 o'clock we did anyway)
My biggest frustration lately is the Laundry. My washing machine broke~ (I think I mentioned this before) and I'm so frustrated with the amount of money that we spend every week to go to the Laundromat. I've calculated what we've spent in the last 3 months and it makes me ill knowing that we could have bought a new washer already with the money we've spent. But we have to spend the money every week because we have to have clean clothes to wear and sheets and towels... you get the point. The only good thing that has come of it has been that the Laundry attendant is so nice. She is always cleaning out the washers and dryers and mopping the floor. This is really the cleanest laundromat I've ever been too. She's amazing and I truly hope the owners appreciate her hard work. I have been to laundromats where everything is falling apart, there is no attendant in site and the washers/dryers steal your money. So, as much as I would like a new washer, I know we cannot afford one at the moment and I am thankful that we found the better laundromat in town.
Now about my trip to Michael's! First off let me just say that I rarely ever go shopping and I never go to craft stores anymore. I just can't afford all the things I want to buy there. The other day I had a few dollars to spend and since my daughter needed some craft supplies for a school project we headed off to Michael's. It is the only craft store in town. So we get there and I'm thrilled to find out that they have marked all of their Christmas stuff to 90% off. Almost everything had been picked through but as I was checking out with a couple of dollar bin items I saw some Christmas center pieces marked down as well. Can you believe I paid just a little over $3.00 for this?
Amazing when you consider the price it was selling for originally~ $29.99
There is something that boosts the spirits when you find a really good deal on something. If I'd had more money they had some prelit / predecorated Christmas trees (3ft) marked down to $15.99 and 90% off of that.
So you might want to check out your local Michaels if you haven't already~ The deals are too good to pass up. I know I'll be watching them after Valentines day for sure! :)
On to other news. Tonight I read a book that just blew me away. My daughter is doing a study of Germany and she had to write several articles about World War II. So we picked up some books from the Library and one really just kept calling to me. I read several of the books through and was literally heartbroken. I have read about the Holocaust many times and thought I had a good grip on what happened. Today I read a book titled "Surviving Hitler, a boy in the Nazi death camps." It is a true story of a boy during the Holocaust. I highly recommend it~ Though it will break your heart the cruelty, pain and sickness they endured. As long as I live I will never understand the cruelty of mankind. The book is by Andrea Warren. If you ever get the chance you should also read the Corrie Ten Boom book~ Her book is called "The Hiding Place."
Anyway ~ I've chatted your ear off. I've heard tell there is an award waiting for me and a challenge~ Ladies I promise I will get to those as soon as life slows down a little here.
~Here's hoping that God will bless you greatly today!

((Hugs)) Mechelle

Scrapbook Max

2009-01-21T00:41:00.004-07:00

I have great news for you all ~ I was approached recently and asked to make my kits compatible with Scrapbook Max. If you have never heard of this program, click on the banner to the right and you'll find out all about it. It's a great program, especially for beginners. I will be giving it a review here soon so keep your eye's peeled. If you use the program I will now be making all future kits and some of my old kits compatible. Click on my shop button above and look for the gold Scrapbook Max label.
Let me know if you see anything in my store you would like to have compatible with Scrapbook Max and I will put it up for you.

~Thanks for stopping by.

((hugs)) Mechelle

Giving Thanks

2009-01-17T12:41:00.006-07:00

I just wanted to thank those of you who stopped by and said a prayer for us. All I can say is that God is good and He's continuing to answer our prayers. Secondly, I won an award!! :) Thanks so much Sharron! Stop by and visit her beautiful blog ~ Sharrahug's Sweet Blessi ngs Blog
Here's my beautiful Award:

The rules are that I tell you 7 things about me and then share this award with 7 other people who have I feel are deserving.

1. I love reading
2. I don't watch much TV but the 2 shows I watch I don't want to miss.
3. I'm a total night owl
4. I'm over protective of my computer.
5. I love playing practical jokes on my family.
6. I would love to own horses someday and offer free riding lessons to kids who can't afford them.
7. I can be a bit of a perfectionist and it's not a good thing.

Now the 7 people I feel deserve this award? Well I've got so many I couldn't narrow it down and I hate to make anyone feel left out! So for this time I will be giving this one out privately.
Thank you so much to all my treasured friends~ You know who you are!

((hugs)) Mechelle

Finally !!

2009-01-16T17:17:00.005-07:00

Ok so I'm a huge fan of 24 and I've been waiting a whole year to see this new season. If you're a 24 fan let me know what you think so far. I'm loving it and I think it will bring it's usual twists and turns. All I can say is I can't wait for Monday's. LOL Never heard of it?? Where have you been hiding? Just click the little icon above and you'll find out all you need to know.
And now I'll return to my normal blog posting....
((Hugs)) Mechelle

New Projects

2009-01-07T23:28:00.005-07:00

Well I'm finally getting blogger to work today so I thought I'd post my new projects while I can.
I made the birthday tag above for a Tag exchange at Aimee Asher. We had 12 people participate and I got 11 of the most gorgeous tags I've ever seen. What fun! I used my Soda Shop kit you can find it HERE

The second one I made for the Treasure hunt over at Aimee Asher... It's staying up over the weekend so jump on over and find out what you need to do to find all the goodies! Here's a link to the main page ~ CLICK HERE There are a ton of awesome freebies to find. I used my Wings Of Love Kit You can find it HERE

~ I've got a ton to do- I'm trying to get my Valentine kit going and not having much luck.
My Mom is dropping by tomorrow for a few days so I'll be a little busy but I'll try to drop by and maybe I'll have a little freebie to offer. :)
Hope you are all having a wonderful start to the New year.... ours has been a little squeaky but I know that by the Grace of God we will make it through this rough patch. I have to say that the doom and gloom of the economy definitely affects Cab drivers (what my Hubby does for a living) and when it rains it pours. My washing machine broke and we've been having to go to the laundromat that is not fun at all nor is it cheap! Seems like everyone I talk too is going through something similar so here's hoping and praying that things will get better soon.

Blessings and ((hugs)) Mechelle

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-07T23:22:00.003-07:00

A mothers love can't be beat it's so precious~ This is a friends horse with her hours old colt.
((hugs)) Mechelle

Because I want to win

2009-01-06T15:03:00.002-07:00

When I saw this I just knew I was going to come here and tell you all about it~ So many of us crafty people would love to own this so here's your chance to win!
Over at Simple Finds Blog they are giving away a Silhouette
http://www.quickutz.com/qk2/silhouette/
Yep that's right ~ The amazing new cutting tool. Just think of all the time you will save if you won this!
So jump on over there and enter !! Hurry it's closing on the 13th of January!
Here's a link http://www.simple-finds.com/2009/01/starting-year-off-right.html
Now what are you waiting for?!!

((hugs)) Mechelle

Happy New Year !

2008-12-31T18:32:00.004-07:00

Well it's that time when we get to ring in the new Year with much joy and celebration.
We have decided to stay home this year because I've managed to catch a cold ~ But we have a couple of good movies and what better way to ring in the New Year, than with those you love. Here's wishing you all a wonderful and safe New Year's Eve. May the year ahead bring you much joy and peace.
PS~I've got my Valentine Kit well underway and hope to be able to show it off soon.
Blessings!

((Hugs)) Mechelle

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-24T03:37:00.005-07:00

Playing Wordless Wednesday again~ Feel free to add your info below and join in~
You can find more information about it at : http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/

~Merry Christmas!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-17T02:47:00.003-07:00

~ Naughty or Nice? I'm thinking he's been naughty....

Want to join in? You can find out more about it http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/
Just post your picture on your blog then come back here and enter the information in MR. Linky

Holiday Photo Cards

2008-12-16T20:09:00.004-07:00

Hello again~ Sorry for so many posts in one day~ I just finished up these little photo cards and thought they are now available in the store.
Check them out HERE
Click Image to view Larger ~
These are so cute printed on Glossy photo paper~
Just put your photo and text on them and print them out.

Thanks for looking~
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Want a Freebie?

2008-12-16T18:43:00.004-07:00

OK who wants a little freebie? This is an older freebie that I revamped and made into a quick page. You will actually get two pages ~ One with the Snow Angel text and one without.
Head on over to Aimee Asher and grab it ~ It's only up for one week. :)
I wasn't supposed to put it up until tomorrow but I wanted to get it posted tonight, since I'm not sure what my day will be like tomorrow.
Here's a Preview ~ This is a photo I took of my daughter a couple years ago and it's still one of my favorites~ She loves snow! (I know she didn't get that from me~ I love to look at snow, from the warmth of my house~ Wrapped in a warm blanket holding a nice hot cup of Coffee... now if only I had a fireplace! ~ ) BTW ~ You can re-size this to make an 8x8 photo to frame ~ it's beautiful that way ~ You can also re-size it and make holiday photos cards.

Click the photo to view larger ~
Leave me a comment and let me know what you think~
Ok so now that You've seen it CLICK HERE to go get it.
If you don't have a store membership you'll need to sign up but
after that's it an easy add to cart and check out~
Enjoy!
((hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

Busy Season

2008-12-16T15:04:00.005-07:00

Well it has been such a busy month. December is always a whirl around here, we have my hubby's Birthday on the 9th and my Birthday on the 17th (Yep I'm 1 year older tomorrow).
This year my daughter got the opportunity to learn the Bells and she really enjoyed it. On top of that she had her school Choir and this coming Friday her school choir Caroling event.
We've been bouncing from one thing to the next it seems ~ How do people with several kids do it?! LOL It's been so fun though watching her learn new things. I'm attaching the Bells Video so you can hear how they did. It was wonderful and for starting in September I think~ they did very well.
Ali is on the end next to Aunt Annette. This was the first time the girls had played in front of an audience and they did really well. Aunt Annette is filling in for Ali's cousin Daelyn ( I know I spelled that wrong ) wasn't able to make it that day. The Girl in red is Ali's cousin Devin (I'm sure I spelled that wrong too!) Aunt Annette is the one who made it possible for Ali to learn the Bells.
I'm sending huge Hugs and Kisses to all our Family in Arkansas, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Kentucky and Idaho~ We miss everyone and wish we could all be together for Christmas.
May you all have a blessed and beautiful Christmas and know that we are with you in our hearts.
And finally ~ The video.... (Later I'll share one of Ali's Choir singing and I have one more Bell Choir video as well. I'm apologizing in advance for my lack of Video skills~)

Thanks for stopping by~
((hugs)) Mechelle

New Kit ~ Urban Winter~

2008-12-06T19:48:00.005-07:00

Hi Friends,
I've finished my winter Kit and it is now available in my store.
It's very cute and huge! If you buy the whole kit you will
save $2.00 but it's also sold in pieces so you can choose.
Click on the images to View Larger

CLICK HERE To visit my shop ~ There just might be a little surprise
waiting there for you.
Thanks for stopping by~
((hugs)) Mechelle

Want it now? ~

Urban Winter Full Kit
$8.00

Aimee Asher Shop Hop

2008-12-06T01:39:00.003-07:00

It's Christmas and the artists and designers at Aimee Asher are having a wonderful
time giving away some fabulous freebies~ Run on over to the store and look through each artists
shop to find a fun freebie~ (You might find something else you can't live without while you're there.) Some of the freebies are only up for a limited time and some will be putting theirs up later in the month so keep checking back. Hope to see your there. Click on the present above to go ~
((hugs)) Mechelle

~Christmas Kit ~

2008-12-03T15:48:00.006-07:00

Just stopping by to show of my latest kit "Beauty of Christmas". It's full of beautiful papers and elements. Drop by the store and check it out~ CLICK HERE
Click the image to view larger ~

Hope you're having a beautiful Start to your Holiday Season.
Blessings~
((hugs)) Mechelle

I'm Honored!

2008-11-20T23:47:00.012-07:00

Oh Wow! My First award!!
I was given this award from my friend Char at ScrappyGma's Place
( http://scrappygmasplace.blogspot.com/ ) I'm So honored Char thank you so much.

So the rules for this award are that I name 7 things I'm thankful for and then bestow the award on 7 bloggers that I think deserve it.

7 things I'm Thankful for:

1. My loving Father in Heaven, without whom I wouldn't have much to be thankful for at all.
He's been there for me through the good and the bad and even the very bad. He is my breath, my heartbeat and my entire reason for living.

2. My Wonderful husband ~ Cory. 14 Years and still with me! What can I say the man is, if slightly insane now, a perfect match for me. I knew the very first time I saw him that he was "The One"
even if it took me a while to get the courage. He is my better half, my complete balance and my rock... so many times he's been there when all else has fallen apart. He truly is my best friend and biggest supporter.

3. My Beautiful Daughter ~ Ali. From the moment I knew I was pregnant I loved her. Yes I apologize for calling her it so long~ I had no idea the beautiful gift God would grant me when she was born. She is my joy and even my frustration but always my hearts delight.

4. My sweet Pup Buster~ We got his breed all wrong (Jack Russell Terror?!) and I worried we wouldn't make it past the puppy stage, but What a great joy he is to me. When no one else understands, his sweet little puppy nose makes my day brighter and he always seem to know when I'm not feeling well. He will snuggle with me all day long. When he gets crazy and runs around he makes me laugh so hard. Such a little guy with such a big heart. What would I do without him?

5. My Mom ~ I know she'll probably never even see this post but I want to say how much she's taught me in my life and how thankful I am that she gave me the foundation of Jesus Christ.
We don't always agree and I'm sure I disappoint her often but I have always been her biggest fan. When she could have taken the easy road, she stuck it out and raised us on her own. In a world that would so easily have given up on us she has stood through the frustrations, fears and tears with her prayers and love.

6. My Computer ~yes it's silly I know but there was a time I couldn't afford a computer and I now have this wonderful machine that allows me to create so many things. It has totally expanded my creativity. All the little gadgets and gizmo's that come with that are just a bonus
(well that Wacom tablet is really handy! ) It also has given me a place to hang out and meet people I would never have had the chance to meet before~ I mean who would have ever thought I'd have friends in every corner of the world?

7. Beauty from the Web ~ How many times I've had a morning where I'm feeling a little down and then I get on the internet and I log in to my Google Reader and I am blessed, blessed blessed! Whether it's a funny tale, a story that touches my heart, or a little piece of advice that makes a chore less of a bore~ LOL To be able to see the beauty that others create and be inspired. Well that's what this blogging thing is all about ~ Sharing a little piece of our life with others and hoping that just one person will be touched by what we share.
Thank you blogger and all those brave bloggers everywhere~

And on to those who deserve an award for inspiring so many!
There are so many of you who truly deserve this award~
I know I don't find a lot of time to comment on your beautiful blogs ~ But I read them
every day ~ How wonderful it is to be so surrounded by beauty every day.
Thank you!

1. Blissfull Elements Truly inspiring crafts! I'm always in awe of
2. ETScraps I love her little Doodles. Unfortunately she is currently having trouble posting them because she lives in China and they block so many upload sites. I still think she deserves this award and I hope to see her art again soon. I think her doodles would make the cutest rubber stamps!
3. For the Love of Paper What can I say this site is incredible and I am inspired every time I read it and want to make everything she makes.
4. I Love to Dream, live to Create and Hope to Inspire ~ This is such a wonderful blog~ She makes the most beautiful things with clay Especially her candle toppers~ I have to say that I am always inspired by the beautiful things she shares.
5. LilyBean's Paperie ~ Oh I just love this blog to pieces! I can only hope to someday have half of the talent this lady does. Amazed and always inspired!
6. Linda's Works of Heart ~ Another blogger I wish I had half her talent! Such beautiful card creations her eye for color and design is amazing.
7. Inspirational Tips, Techniques & Tutorials A site that is always making me ask myself "why didn't I think of that. Such amazing talent and willing to share how she does things.

Thank you ladies so much for all the inspiration you share and thank you Char for the wonderful
surprise of this award! :)
((hugs)) Mechelle

Bloggy Giveaway ~

2008-11-20T23:01:00.003-07:00

Nope not mine ~ But I found a beautiful blog today with some gorgeous cards and crafts.
You have to stop by and look around and while you're there enter to win some fun crafting
goodies! :)
Who doesn't love a fun giveaway? So Click HERE to check out the wonderful prize she's giving away and don't forget to check out the amazing cards she's created too.
Thank You to BlueRose at Kats Designs for the link to a wonderful new blog.

((Hugs)) Mechelle

Took a small break....

2008-11-20T18:24:00.008-07:00

Hi friends,
I'm sorry~ I feel like I've left you all hanging. I didn't intend to be offline so long. Life has a way of catching up and overtaking you if you're not careful and I got bypassed.
I finished up a couple of craft projects, read 2 books and am halfway through a third, played "Little Big Planet"

with my daughter... can I say that you really should check out this game... it's totally cute and fun to play~ and rather challenging at times too. Plus when you are done playing the game you can create your own challenge levels and play them~ Or play them with friends. If you have a camera for your PSP you can take photos to use in your game ~ And then there's the online version (we aren't set to go online with our PSP at the moment but it sounded like fun.) We haven't bought the game yet but it's totally worth buying.
Anyway it was fun spending time with my daughter doing something she enjoys.
I Received a blog award! Thank you so much Char ~ I will be blogging with my list soon!
I also won a fabulous prize over at The Way I See It Woohoo! I won this earlier this month but haven't had the time to blog about it yet~ I won a Sonic Scrubber and it is such a great tool. I can't even tell you how many different uses there are for this and it's gentle enough to use on a ceramic stove without scratching it. I love it and will be using it often. Stop on over to Cathi's blog as she has a couple of giveaways going on right now... while your there take a look around shes' got some great down to earth idea's and fun photos~ you love it. Click Here to visit her blog.
Well I did some crafting for my Hubby's Aunt's birthday and I was so happy with how it turned out... well I have to admit I know it could have been better but I only had half an hour to make it. This is a little card I made to hold her gift card ~ Click images to see larger.
I know the photos aren't great but I was in a huge hurry so they are what I got~ LOL
For the papers I used my Country Girl Papers and the flower is one I made and recolored
from my Little Flowers Kit. You can find both by clicking on the kit names.

The card looks like it's not even in the photo but it is~
It was fun and easy to make.

Well thanks so much for looking~ I'll be back soon with another post.

((hugs)) Mechelle

~Hybrid Layout ~

2008-11-09T14:36:00.007-07:00

(click image to view larger)
I made some productive use of my time today while I was watching my poor Packer team lose... (Sigh) On the Upside my Boise State Bronco's are 9-0 on the season and hoping for a BCS bowl.

I just had to use my latest kit {Harvest Home} for a Hybrid layout... I knew it would look so pretty with this photo. ~ Yes we were much younger and (ahem) thinner. LOL

I didn't do the journaling yet because I wanted to get it photographed before the light is gone.
(looks like we may get some rain or snow tonight.)

I used Dimensions gel on the flowers, stem, brads and Heart Locket.
For the flowers I just rolled the leaves and pulled them up. For the Bow on the frame
I just made 2 copies of the bow (cut off everything but the actual bow for the second one.)
Then I Layered the cut out bow on top of the other and rolled the ears of the bow down.
For the 2 bows on the side border I just rolled them and pushed them in a little.

This is an 8 x 8 page.
If you have any questions about how to create a hybrid layout or card using digital scrap kits
just drop me a comment or e mail and I'll do my best to help.

Thanks for stopping by,
((hugs)) Mechelle

4 Things I love About You

2008-11-08T17:20:00.003-07:00

My Daughter was so precious in this little coat and hat my Mom made for her.
So vintage looking. She was 4 here and such a total sweet-heart.
Oh they grow up way too fast. I used my new Harves t Home Kit.
Thanks for dropping by ~
~Click image to view larger~
((Hugs)) Mechelle

New Kit (Harvest Home)

2008-11-08T17:15:00.003-07:00

Hi Friends,
Well I've finally finished my Autumn Kit... yes I'm behind again but starting on my Christmas kit this week. This time of year is so busy but I was inspired to make this kit.
Take a look below and then click HERE to visit my shop,
Click the image to view larger.
Thanks for looking~
((hugs)) Mechelle

~Great Giveaway~

2008-11-03T23:59:00.007-07:00

This is such a great giveaway I had to give it a shout out. Lands' End is such a great store and they have such quality products... Read about it here and then rush on over to This Full House Reviews to Enter.

This prettiful (yes, it's a word!) Half-zip Pullover is, according to Lands' End, the world's only anti-static fleece!

I mean, honestly, who doesn't hate having to deal with static electricity in the winter time (or, anytime) really - so, what else does it do?

Exclusive antistatic treatment resists static cling, static shock, lint and pet hair
Permanent antistatic finish never washes out
Famous ThermaCheck softness is still here
Lightweight ThermaCheck 100 Half-zip is ideal for layering and cool-weather exercising

Want one?

To read more and enter Click HERE to go to This Full House Reviews

((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Creative Team Call ~

2008-10-29T16:38:00.006-06:00

Hey Readers~ I am having a creative team call.
Read below for the details~ Yes hybrid/paper crafters
I'm calling you too! Click the image below to read about it.

~Looking forward to hearing from you~

((hugs)) Mechelle

Dusting off my Scissors...

2008-10-28T23:40:00.012-06:00

~ Have you ever lost something you enjoyed and then didn't have the energy to find it?
Lately I've been bit by the crafting bug so bad but I feel so out of sync. Don't get me wrong ~
I'm a "digi" girl @ ♥ , but I still love paper crafting too.
I lost my drive about 5 years ago, when I was living in constant pain and unable to really do much at all~ Then we moved and I lost my craft room and everything went to storage... in the meantime I was learning and enjoying Digital crafting. Then we moved again~ (hopefully we're here for a while! LOL) and everything was still boxed up ~ I did half heartedly drag some stuff out only to stack it neatly in the closet of my computer room~ thinking I would get to it someday. That was 2 years ago, but today I've finally decided I have to get my craft table back. I keep seeing all these wonderful Hybrid craft projects I just have to try. So I'm commited to trying to get my craft area set up and maybe I'll have some fun projects to share with you as I get myself more organized.
In the meantime~ I finally dusted off the ole scissors today and played around with some of my digital kits~ Now don't laugh this little guy is so simple and plain~ But I thought he was totally cute and I have an idea to dress him up once I find more of my supplies. (I plan to have him hold a little card with a ribbon in his beak eventually, and maybe some glitter) This is the bird from my [ Count Your Blessings clip art ] kit ~ I did have to size it up a little to make it bigger but it still printed nicely. I also started on a card project using this same kit and I should have that to show you soon.
So tell me have you ever lost your drive for crafting? If so what did you do to get back in the swing of things and are you an organized crafter or a messy one? ( If you aren't sure how to comment~ All you have to do is click on the word comments below and it will bring up the comment box.) You do not have to be a blogger to comment.
Would anyone be interested in a little bi-monthly or monthly challenge~ It would be open to both digital and Paper crafters and could be anything from color challenge, sketch challenge ect.
Let me know what you think ~
Ok now on to my cute easy peasy card :

To make him I just opened him in my graphic program,
made my canvas a little bigger than two birds
Duplicated the original bird and flipped it : It looked like
this when I was done...

Then I printed this out twice onto light weight cardstock.
I cut the wings out of on print and cut the birds out of the
other~ (I know I wasted paper & Ink that way, I'll try to remember
for future kits to add some portions seperate )
I then took the two birds~ Glued them together from about the beak up
and along the back to the tail ( Just a narrow strip on the back and tail)
Here's a side view...

(edited~can't believe I forgot to mention this) I then took the cut out wings and
used pop dots to attach them.
That's it~ I know he would look totally adorable holding a little tag in his beak~
For Thanksgiving you could even put the little tag in his mouth and make seat
markers. Cute, cute cute~ LOL I have a ton of ideas just need to write them all
down before I forget.
Anyway~ Thanks for stopping by.
((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Blinkie ~

2008-10-27T00:57:00.003-06:00

Tonight I did something I've been "meaning" to do for a long time~
I made a blinkie ~ :) Feel Free to grab it if you want... There are 2 different ones.
The second one doesn't have the star fade.
Hope you like them~ Now that I spent the evening playing around I am finally off
to bed.... 1 am and have to up at 6 am ~ I consider that a good nights sleep! LOL
Anyway ~ On to the blinkies. If you use one and link to me I'll link back so just let me know
by leaving a comment with your blog or website where you've linked me.

Sweet Dreams~
((hugs)) Mechelle

Fun Contest

2008-10-26T21:06:00.002-06:00

Well if any of you have kids with a DS then this is the perfect chance to
win a fun game over at This Full House Reviews.
Check it out HERE ~ Come on! What do you have to lose? Christmas
is just around the corner.
((hugs)) Mechelle

New Freebie

2008-10-24T13:31:00.004-06:00

Ok I've got the Metals for you today~ These are re-colorable.
You'll love these delicate Frames and metal elements.
CLICK HERE to download from Media Fire
And CLICK HERE to download from 4 Shared.

Enjoy and leave me a comment if you download.
((hugs)) Mechelle

SALE GOING ON

2008-10-24T12:49:00.002-06:00

Ok I know you all like a good sale huh? Well I have a sale going on for 30% off my entire store.
Stop by~ You're sure to find something fun you can't live without.
Click on my banner below to visit my shop.

You'll see the discount when you add your product to the shopping cart.

I'll work on getting the next freebie up today too so keep an eye out!
And in in support of our College football team {Boise State} who's playing tonight in San Jose~
Go Broncos! We want to go to a BCS Bowl!

((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Count Your Blessings ~

2008-10-02T21:59:00.005-06:00

I Have a Brand New Kit up Aimee Asher Inc. It's so cute and though it's fall colors it is very versatile and can be used for many different pages and crafts.
Here's the Previews :
Hope you'll stop by and check it out! CLICK HERE 4 my shop
((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Freebie at Aimee Asher Inc ~

2008-10-02T21:54:00.002-06:00

~ Want another Freebie?! I am offering a free kit at Aimee Asher Inc. Stop by and pick it up.
While you're there stop by my shop HERE and see what's new.
Here's a Preview of the Freebie Kit :
CLICK HERE to get the Freebie.

~ Freebie and More ~

2008-10-02T21:47:00.003-06:00

Well it's about time I'm back with you all huh? So sorry I'm late getting the next freebie up. I'm finally feeling better and think I'm back on my game.
Here is the preview for the next Renaissance Freebie
Just some fun Elements and a Wax Seal Alphabet. Hope you enjoy these.
You can download them HERE (4 shared) and HERE (Media Fire).
Leave me a comment if you download~ I enjoy hearing from you.
Thanks so much~
((hugs)) Mechelle

Slight Delays....

2008-09-24T23:23:00.002-06:00

Hi Friends just wanted to take a quick minute to let you know that I have not forgotten about putting up a new freebie. I've had a slight delay as I have had a cold and now the flu. Please bear with me while I recoup. I hope to be back in the next couple of days~ I'm feeling much better but still too weak and dizzy to sit here very long. ~ Oh and now would be a good time to tell everyone to run to your nearest Dr.'s Office and get yourself that flu shot... you really won't regret it! I on the other hand am severely regretting waiting too long again.
Back with you soon!
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Freebie 4 You

2008-09-07T22:30:00.004-06:00

I know I've been promising a freebie for a while.
I have been meaning to get these up but time keeps getting away from me.
I'll be putting up several Renaissance themed pieces over the next few weeks.
This is from one of my very favorite retired kits so I hope you enjoy them.
Let me know if you have any problems with downloads... This is the first time I've used 4 shared.
CLICK HERE to download. In case that link doesn't work CLICK HERE
Please leave me a comment... I love comments and you could tell me what your favorite types of freebies are.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Brand New Kit(s)

2008-09-07T17:18:00.005-06:00

I've finally finished a brand new kit and I'm so proud of it. I really like the way this one turned out. Check it out and then hop by the store! CLICK HERE

The Papers:

The Elements:
(The elements pack has several items not shown ~ All the frames come in each kit color to see the frames go HERE)

The Clip Art:

2 Cups of Coffee and A Sigh

2008-08-20T08:24:00.005-06:00

Today was my daughters first day of school. I know many Mom's are excited and can't wait for school to start but I just get a lump in my stomach... no not because I'm worried about her so much as because she just turned 13 and it seems like just yesterday she was that tiny baby girl who weighed 2 lbs 13 oz. What can a mom do but feel nostalgic when you see your little girl growing up so fast. So in honor of my slightly melancholy mood I'll share some pictures. The first is one of her first few days in the NICU.
And here's one of my favorite photos of her and I when she was 2.
And finally today~

Sigh! :) See what I mean? How did she get this big so fast?
((hugs)) Mechelle

~Autumn Blessings

2008-08-17T17:34:00.007-06:00

I was just reading through my blogs and found a post by Monkey Giggles about Autumn...
Stop by to read and enter her contest to win an Autumn gift pack. Click HERE to visit her blog... if you get the chance look around because she's got a fun blog.
I love Fall and thought I'd take a few minutes to share some of my favorite fall photos. I didn't take these photos but I try to give the artist credit if I know who took them.
Enjoy!

((Hugs)) Mechelle

What Can I Say ...

2008-08-16T01:25:00.005-06:00

What Can I say? This guy impresses me every time. Just when I think he can't possibly get better he does. If only I had an ounce of his drive and devotion~
If you aren't a huge fan of the Olympics at least take a minute to read this article... it really just makes you realize how much you can achieve if you just want it bad enough.

Click HERE for the article.
Photo By Ezra Shaw/Getty images

~NEW STORE~

2008-08-15T03:23:00.002-06:00

Guess what?! I've finally got my new store opened at Aimee Asher Inc.
You'll have to stop by and see ~ It's a Hybrid/Digital and Printable store
so something for everyone. Stop by and see what's new.
In honor of my daughters 13th birthday I'm offering a coupon code for
20% off any items you purchase from my store. It's good until the 20th.
Just type this code BDGIFTALI when you are ready to check out.
Hope to see you there. Click HERE to Go.
((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

August contest win 300$+ worth of cash and domains!

2008-08-04T21:26:00.002-06:00

So while I was surfing around the web today I found another great giveaway
so I had to let you know about it.
I know you'll love this one... who doesn't like money and free domains? LOL
So here's what you can win: (there are 3 prizes )

1st prize.

125$ cash.

2 .COM/.NET/.ORG domain names of your choice.

2nd prize.

100$ cash.

2 .COM/.NET/.ORG domain names of your choice.

3rd prize.

75$ cash.

1 .COM/.NET/.ORG domain name of your choice.

Sounds good huh? I'm entering and I think you should too! So what are you waiting for Click HERE to go and enter and while you're there check out the rest of the blog Click HERE for the home page of imBlogger Some great advice for bloggers!

((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Check it Out ~

2008-08-04T20:35:00.003-06:00

So I found this great giveaway today~ if you are looking for some pretty organizational tools
feel free to stop by Life is Like Champagne and enter to win this wonderful tote by Galison
Ok so I was going to show you a picture but blogger is having none of that today~ Just trust me they are really pretty and will help you organize your life better.
While you're there take a look at the rest of the Life is Like Champagne site~ I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

((hugs)) Mechelle

I'm A Winner! :)

2008-08-03T22:19:00.002-06:00

I can't even tell you how much fun it was doing the blog carnival circuit. I'm already stockpiling some goodies so I can join in next time. So I have won 3 different giveaways and am so excited! LOL First off I won a Gift Card to Home Within Designs thank you so much to Lana at Bargain Hunting Mom's ~ It's a great blog you should stop by and check it out! I can't decide what to get yet though! LOL Gorgeous home decor so stop by the store and maybe you can help me decide what to get!
Secondly I won 5 great Organization and Time management books from Beverley Coggins at 1-2-3 Get Organized! You've got to stop over and read some of her tips. This couldn't have come at a better time for me as things are hectic at the moment while I'm juggling all the little things of life and a new school year is starting. You can check out what she offers for sale at her shop HERE
And thirdly I've won a Gift Certificate to one of my Favorite Digital Scrapbook store The Shabby Shoppe! I couldn't be more thrilled to win this because I love Shabby Princess' designs so much. Again though I'm having a hard time deciding what I want! LOL Feel free to stop by the store and tell me what you think I should get.
I hope you're all doing well. I'm going to be working on this blog because I really hate the template I'm using and it just keeps getting worse and worse~ LOL Sooooo Please bear with me during construction.
I will have some news for you soon on my new store but for now I'm keeping it under wraps.
Thank you again to all the wonderful blog sites who so generously gave gifts for the carnival. I can't wait to join you all next time.

((Hugs)) Mechelle

Great News!

2008-07-29T16:32:00.002-06:00

Well Friends I've finally got my computer back up and running and may I just send a great big word of thanks to Firedog ! You saved my files, my sanity
So I have an even bigger hard drive now plus my back-up drive and I was able to get my Windows reinstalled so all is good! I'm so happy to be back with you all... I've been busy adding all my programs back and that's taking a while ~ Well mostly because I got distracted by all the great prizes at Bloggy Giveaways I can't wait to join in next time I have some great idea's for prizes.

Hopefully I'll have a little news for you in the next few days about my new Store for my Digi/Hybrid kits... I can't wait to get back at it!

Thanks for dropping by and have a wonderful day!

((hugs)) Mechelle

Check it out !

2008-07-29T02:47:00.004-06:00

Ok So I was browsing the web today~ and I came across this awesome site! You just have to check it out and then go enter some amazing blog contests for all kinds of free things! Hurry though you only have until the 1st of August to sign up. You don't have to have a blog to enter.
I am going to jump in on this the next time around because it sounds like so much fun!
Click Here and good luck!

((hugs)) Mechelle

Some News!

2008-07-14T02:44:00.002-06:00

Hi Friends,

Just wanted to let you all know that I am no longer selling at D.A.I.S.I.E Company~
But Don't worry~ I'll let you know soon where you can find my things.
I hope to have my computer fixed this week or next. Feel free to e mail me if you have any questions.
I'll update you all soon.

((hugs)) Mechelle

Trying something New

2008-06-14T01:07:00.002-06:00

Hey Friends~ Since I'm still waiting on my hard drive I thought I'd play around with my blog.
Hubby's slow computer can handle that for the most part~ LOL
I found out that I had backed up my freebies before the drive died so I'll be sharing some of those soon. Hope you are all doing well and just pardon the mess of my blog while I try to figure out how to do some new things~ LOL
((Hugs)) Mechelle

~The Previews ~

2008-06-11T12:41:00.004-06:00

Hi Friends ~

I was able to get the previews for you of my latest Kit.

Click HERE to go to the store. I'll have some news for you soon~ and I think we've found
a work around the computer problem we were having. Talked to Geek Squad and they gave us some very useful information. Back with more soon.
((hugs)) Mechelle

~ NEW KIT ~

2008-06-02T01:39:00.001-06:00

~ I almost forgot~ LOL I did get a new kit uploaded before my Hard drive crashed... It's totally cute but I can't show you the previews for it because this computer doesn't have them on it and I'm not sure I can even get them off the old hard drive... run on over to Daisie and check it out. It's called Ruff & Tumble and it's totally cute. It's about puppies but has many fun uses.
CLICK HERE to take a peek... there are 3 pieces to the kit so make sure you scroll down to see everything.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

~Computer Woes ~

2008-06-02T00:48:00.002-06:00

Well Friends ~ Once again my hard drive has gone. I just got it replaced from HP in December ~ They seem to only have hard drives that last about 6 months tops. I have had 2 hard drives from them in the last year and there is a whole mess with how I got ripped off by HP with Windows Vista... It seems that because they don't give you back up disks for Windows when you buy their computers ~ It's all on the hard drive ~ well the windows copy on the hard drive and is linked to a chip on my motherboard that will not allow me to use any other windows on my computer except for the one that is sold with the computer... Ok so when we call them (HP) and tell them our hard drive crashed again after only 6 months they give us a couple of options all of which will cost us around 3 to 4 hundred dollars. Now the part that makes me mad is that I can not just go and buy a good hard drive for 100 dollars because I would have to also buy Windows Vista all over again and a new motherboard~ They will not send me disks for my Windows Vista product and will not give me the matching code so that I can verify with Windows that I am using a legitimate product. In order to make my 1 year old HP computer run again I will have to spend at least 300 dollars... A year ago I spent 11oo$ on this computer and it was already broken after 6 months.... Pardon the rant but I do hope if you are planning on buying an HP computer you are prepared for the frustration and disappointment I have had. I paid for a copy of windows vista with my computer and yet now in order to get my computer running again I have to buy a hard drive from HP for almost 400 $ because they have some weird thing where they have already installed the Windows onto the hard drive so I can't get a disk... then after spending the 400$ I will have to pray that the windows code they have on the new hard drive works with the windows code that is on my Motherboard.... since I no longer trust their hard drives I don't particularly want to spend 400$ for one. Such a total rip off !!! I can't believe they would blatantly rip people off like this. When you buy a computer with everything included make sure they are giving you disks for windows...other wise you'll be going through what I am. The other option they gave me was that I buy a new computer, that is just basically the tower with nothing but the basics and It's not even comparable to the one I have, for 300$ And again I would not be receiving any disks for my windows products it would only be on the hard drive so I'd be right back here in 6 months more than likely.
Anyway~~~ We are in the process of trying to decide what to do. I'm so disappointed in HP as I have always felt they were a trusted brand. Until I get back up and running I will not be able to share any new freebies... I have so much on the old hard drive that I doubt I'll ever get back. I was able to back a few things up before it went but I'm not sure how much. BTW... my old computer which is now hubby's is a Dell and it's been running amazingly for over 6 years ~ I've never replaced anything just upgraded a few things here and there. Unfortunately it doesn't have the power or speed that I need in order to work on the 300 DPI projects. Word to the wise... if your hard drive starts freezing up or you start hearing a clicking sound... back up everything and have your hard drive checked... more than likely it's getting ready to conk out on you.
Please hang in there with me for a couple more weeks until we figure out what we are going to do.
Thanks so much!
((hugs)) Mechelle

~ Freebie 4 You ~

2008-05-16T00:56:00.004-06:00

~ Hi Friends! Updated my blog and thought I'd share a little Pre-Made page
with you. I used the Wings of Love kit and you can download either size or both.
12 x 12 or 8 x 10.

Click HERE for the 12 x12
Click HERE for the 8 x 10

Here's a preview of what you're getting Click on it to view full size....
I didn't add journaling on my page yet but this is my friends baby born
last year ~ His name is Ace. Isn't he adorable?!

Hope you enjoy it. Back soon with even more Freebies for you.
((hugs)) Mechelle

~New Kit Wings Of Love 2 ~

2008-05-14T02:17:00.003-06:00

Back again to let you know I've got another new kit up at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company.
It's the girly version of the Wings Of Love Kit. I'm sure you'll love it.
I'm going to be uploading some little freebees here in the next week so keep checking
back. Hope you are all having beautiful weather were you are. We are having a little
bit of a cold front but it's supposed to be back to sunny and warm again on the weekend.
~Ok so here is a preview of the kit ~ Click on the picture to go to the Shop and see bigger
previews.
Don't forget to scroll down to find the little freebee I added earlier this week.

((Hugs)) Mechelle

~ A Little Freebee ~

2008-05-09T15:07:00.003-06:00

Since you've been so patient with me I'm uploading a little freebee for you.
It's not much but I have a few more things to share with you soon so keep
an eye out.
This little frame matches the Country Girl Kit.
Click on the frame to get the full size image... it's in PNG Format.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

~New Kit ~

2008-05-09T14:10:00.006-06:00

Wow~ sometimes I look at the date of my last post and can't believe how long it's been.
Spring has this bad habit of grabbing my attention and before I know it I just don't want
to sit here at my computer anymore. It's been so beautiful outside lately.
I finally kicked myself into gear and got this kit finished... I'm embarrassed to say how long it's been sitting on my hard drive waiting for those few finishing touches~ LOL
I've been getting inspired lately by all kinds of things lately~
Make sure you stop by D.A.I.S.I.E. Company and check out all the amazing new products.
Oh and don't forget to get the Friday Freebee I'm sure you'll love it!
Click Here to go to D.A.I.S.I.E. Company

Thanks for stopping by and for your patience!
I will be back soon with another update.
((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad
Conrad Creations.

Wings Of Love

2008-02-19T16:20:00.004-07:00

Well I did get a Valentine Kit done but had a sick kiddo last week and never got the chance to let you all know that It was up. So sorry~ It's a very versatile kit that you'll be able to use for many different things.
Below is the preview for the extra's~ They were fun to make and I used some vintage techniques and colors ~ Just wanted to stray away from the traditional.

And here are the papers~ Click on either image to go to D.A.I.S.I.E. Company and the kit.
I hope you'll enjoy these~ The papers include 2 scalloped edge papers.
Hope to be back soon with an Easter or Spring kit.
((hugs)) Mechelle

~Something New ~

2007-12-16T01:46:00.000-07:00

Well winter is definitely here and I have finally got my hard drive problems solved.
Sooooo....
I was able to whip up a great Christmas kit and finish off my Comfort Album.
Sometimes things get so busy that I wonder where the time goes~ I really can't believe that it's already December and a new year is upon us. Monday will mark my 35th birthday (Eeek!) and I'm making a resolution for this next year to lose some weight and get out of my house more.
If you want to make the same resolution you should check out Spark People ~ It's a free
site that has so many tools for helping you reach your weight goals. They give you meal plans, workout idea's, forums... Even a water tracker. Check it out~ I'm not getting paid anything to mention them... I found them through MyPoints.com and was so thrilled to see that they were not charging anything and the timing was just perfect for me.
I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas filled with much love and joy and that the New Year ahead will bring you much happiness and fulfillment.
God Bless~
Mechelle Conrad

Take a look at my latest kits at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company.
Christmas Kits are on sale right now so hurry over!

This is my Comfort Album.
All the pages are made for you ~ Drop in your photos,
add some journaling and your done.
Easy as 1, 2, 3 ~ These make great gifts for friends and family.

These are some extras that I made while creating the comfort album.
I learned how to make flowers (Thank you Tandika!) and
I really wanted to try and make a shaker box... I think it turned out really cute.
Click Here to Go to D.a.i.s.i.e. company

{New Fall and Back to School Kits}

2007-10-03T06:58:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends, ~ I have 2 new kits up at DAISIE Company.
The first one is A fall kit that I just love. There are so many elements
with this one I know you'll love it too.

Click On the images to get a closer look

The second kit I have up is a school kit~ It's soft colors are versatile and can
be used for many different projects.

Click on the images to take a closer look.

Hope you are having a wonderful week. Don't Forget ~ Christmas is just around the corner! Thanks for stopping by!
((hugs)) Mechelle Conrad
Conrad Creations

{ And Now For Something New}

2007-09-07T13:04:00.000-06:00

Ok I know I've been in a creative slump for a while but I've finally finished a kit!
I saw this amazing Comforter (Hence the name ~Comfort ~LOL) and just had to use the colors
from it. I'm also working on a quick page album from this kit and along with that I'm making add on of extras so keep an eye out for those... I'm hoping to finish them in the next week or so.
((Hugs)) Mechelle
Here's a few previews of the kit :

Click to view larger images

{Freebie Printable}

2007-07-25T02:42:00.000-06:00

Well I made this little Cocoa Packet a while back and since D.A.I.S.I.E. Company has got me in a celebrating mood I thought I'd share it ... it holds a regular size hot chocolate package.
I made this using my Holly Daze Kit.

I hope you like it!
Click on the image to get it full sized.

((hugs)) Mechelle

{Christmas & Winter Sale}

2007-07-25T00:41:00.000-06:00

Well I've got 2 kits up for sale at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company...
the winter kit you already know about but just in
the store today is my Christmas Kit filled
with Ginger-folk, Santa, Reindeer and more.
Click on the ad to view full size.
Drop on by the store and grab these while their still on sale.
It's a great price for them and just in time to start on all
those Christmas layouts and projects.
Http://www.daisiecompany.com

{A Sale and a Freebie}

2007-07-20T18:27:00.001-06:00

Well Friends D.A.I.S.I.E. Company is at it again! LOL It's Christmas in July so hop on by the store and take advantage of the Winter and Christmas kits that are on sale. You'll get an early start on all your Christmas crafts and layouts.
Now because you are all so nice and because I wanted to put a smile on your face today I've made you a little freebie using my Winter Kit "Cold Outside" which you can find at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company on sale right now.
Click on the image to view full size... Right click on the full size image to save it.
I hope you like it ~ It is so cute on winter party cups.
~Enjoy~
((hugs)) Mechelle

{New And Improved}

2007-07-04T00:39:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends~ I just wanted to let you all know I have the new and Improved
Cowboy Cool Kit up at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company....
Here's the paper preview
(click on it to view larger)

And Here's the Extra's Preview
(click on it to view larger)

If you've previously bought the older kit E mail me with proof and I will
send the the extra papers and elements for free~
Have a great week~ Happy 4th of July!
((hugs)) Mechelle

{Get Your Coupon Now!}

2007-06-29T01:41:00.001-06:00

D.A.I.S.I.E. Company is offering you this coupon good for 15% off your entire purchase~

It's good starting Friday (today) June 29th until July 14th.

All you have to do is put this code in when you check out.

Feel free to share this coupon with your family and friends.

Hope we'll see you there~

((hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

{Who Wants Freebies?}

2007-06-22T15:45:00.000-06:00

Well It's been a while since I offered some freebies so in honor of getting signed
on to D.A.I.S.I.E. Company I've decided to offer the Quick Page and the Polka_Dot
Alphabet that matches my Daisy Crazy kit that is now available at D.A.I.S.I.E. Company.
Here is what the Quick Page will look like only no photo or words.

And this is what the alphabet looks like :

They are in the same zip file so just click HERE
If you have any problems let me know.
Please leave me a comment and let me know you downloaded~
and most importantly have fun!
((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

{New Products}

2007-06-21T14:22:00.000-06:00

Ok well they aren't new to some of you but they are new to D.A.I.S.I.E. Company.
I'm going to try and spring a brand new one in the next couple of weeks.
I've been working on one that I think you're going to love.
It's got fun bright colors for Spring and Summer.
I'm also working on a Noah's Ark theme one but the animals are taking me a while.
I'm saving up for that Graphire Tablet which should help me quite a bit once I figure
out how to use it.
If you see the post below you'll be able to see everything that should be up in the
store before too long. I've also got something special coming up for those of you
who've stuck with me all this time.
Have a wonderful week
((hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-06-21T14:15:00.001-06:00

Kits 4 Sale @ D.A.I.S.I.E. Company

2007-06-16T02:43:00.001-06:00

A quick Note ....

2007-05-30T21:30:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to stop in and say that I will be updating very soon~ I have changed to a new store and will be getting some new kits up soon. I'm in the process of moving everything now and will update here when I get things more organized. Thanks for hanging around with me. If you want to check out the new store I will be selling out just hop on over to http://www.daisiecompany.com/ I'm sure you'll find many fun things you just have to have! LOL
Be back soon!
((hugs)) Mechelle

Holiday and Winter Kits :)

2006-12-13T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well my computer is finally trying to play nice. Shouldn't be much longer before I'm able to get the new one. :) It's my big Christmas/Birthday present if all works out. Yep I'm going to be 35 on the 17th. I hope you are all doing well and having a great start to the Holiday season... However you celebrate it I hope you will be blessed.
Here's the Preview

CLICK ON IMAGE TO VIEW LARGER
Click HERE to visit the store.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

{New Kits}

2006-11-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

Well friends my computer is trying to die on me so I've not been around as much as I'd like.
I hope you are doing well and ready for the holiday season ahead!
I have a couple of new kits available at the store ~ Stop by and check them out.
Here are the previews. This first kit I made in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.
Half of all proceeds will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Awareness Fund.
click on image

Click on image

This next kit is called Born Country and is perfect for all those baby books and country crafts.
Click on image

Click Image

I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season.
((Hugs)) Mechelle Conrad

{ NEW AUTUMN BLESSINGS}

2006-10-04T08:55:00.000-06:00

Well friends I know I have neglected this blog so much lately.
I can't explain why at the moment but hope to be able to very soon.
Thank you to everyone who gave me a shout out! I appreciate you stopping by and
leaving some love! :)
Margie!! I can't even leave you a comment on your blog now~ I'm so sad but
please know I do stop by and read! The beta version of blogger won't let me comment and
won't let others comment on my blog if they don't have the beta version.
Debbie~ you can get a shoutbox HERE fun huh?? You even get to make it
the colors you want!
Liz ~ I saw that I've been tagged and I'll try to get to it soon I promise!
Ok~ Now for the good news!! LOL I finally have a couple new
sets up in the store~ You can get the paper pack HERE

and the Extra's HERE

I absolutely love fall so this was a fun kit for me to make.
Everything is 300 DPI and There is a quick page in the
Extra's pack that isn't previewed. The previews definately do not
show the quality and detail of the product.
Have a wonderful day and thanks so much for stopping by.
I do appreciate your comments so much!
((Hugs)) Mechelle

Give Me A Shout ~ :)

2006-09-18T21:01:00.000-06:00

Ok so I now have a shoutbox if you would like to comment and can't you can just use the little message box under my photo on the right.
Thanks so much~
((hugs)) Mechelle

{New * School Daze*}

2006-09-18T20:25:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends~ I've been busy since I have my new monitor so I have finished up my school kit.
I think this is my favorite kit yet. Some really great elements and the papers are beautiful. Perfect for modern or vintage school layouts and yet versatile enough to be used in almost any layout.
Stop by and get them while you can~

Click image to view larger

Click image to view larger
Get them HERE

Thanks for looking. I guess some people have tried leaving me comments but since I had to go with the new beta it isn't allowing them to. I'll try to find a way around that soon. I didn't want to go with the beta yet but it would not let me log on unless I did. Sigh!
Thanks for you patience and you are always welcome to e mail me at conradcreations@gmail.com

((hugs)) Mechelle

{New~~ Home}

2006-09-17T22:48:00.000-06:00

Hi friends,
Well I finally got my new monitor and I'm happy to say that I can finally see well enough to work on some new projects so my first new scrap supplies are on sale now at Http://www.Oliviaandco.com
This is such a cute and homey kit~ The paper set is soft and pretty ginghams and patterns~ Beautifully textured to make it feel just right.
The elements kit is full of eyelet lace borders and frames, gingham bows and ribbons, Soft flower accents and much more~ See the previews below and then Click here to purchase them.
I will be adding some freebies soon for you so keep an eye out.

Click Image to View Larger~

Click Image to view larger~

((hugs)) Mechelle

{Sorry!} Bad Blogger

2006-09-04T16:27:00.000-06:00

(Click on image for detail)

Hi friends,
So sorry I've gone so long without posting. We've had such a
trying couple of months. We found out last week that our nephew
had a brain tumor. He is 2 1/2. He had surgery and is doing well.
They think they were able to get most of the tumor. I'll keep you posted
as we know more. As you know this is the third person in our family to be
diagnosed with cancer in the last 3 months. Grandma is going in for surgery on
the 22'nd of September.
As for me My monitor is going out so I'm waiting for a few more sells so I can
afford to buy a new one. I have a new set up at the store... the previews don't do
this set justice... it's really a pretty set. The flowers look just like they were punched
out of heavy cardstock. Fun!
Here's a preview of the papers

Click on image for detail
and here's a preview of the elements

Click image for detail
You can get them HERE and HERE
While your there check out all of my kits HERE
Thanks for stopping by ~ I have several more sets in the works but I can't finish them
on this monitor. Hopefully soon!
((hugs)) Mechelle

{A Fun Browse}

2006-08-19T00:39:00.000-06:00

I love it when I'm surfing around the web and I find a "perfect" site.
Here's one I found today~ Http://www.chicklingo.com
So many wonderful, unique items there~
Aren't these ice-cream dishes cute? They come packaged in that adorable container.
Hope you are all well.
((Hugs)) Mechelle

New Papers and Elements

2006-08-15T01:56:00.000-06:00

I have new papers and elements up at Http://www.Oliviaandco.com
(look me up under designers~ Mechelle Conrad)
Here is the paper preview~ Click on the images to view larger.
CLICK HERE to go directly to the papers in the store

Here is the preview for the Elements~
CLICK HERE to go directly to them in the store

For those of you waiting for an update on my sister~ I was
able to talk to her tonight.
She is in the hospital with a bad infection but she sounded pretty upbeat on the phone
considering all she's been through. Thank you for all the prayers going out for her and
please continue to pray for her healing.
I also wanted to let you all know that we found out a week ago that my husbands grandmother
has cancer as well. She goes in to talk to the surgeon tomorrow to figure out the best course of action ~ Her's is a lemon sized tumor and they feel they have caught it early as it was not showing in her blood. Please lift her up in prayer also.
Thank you all so much~
((hugs)) Mechelle