Man...

Who knew walking with a walker would be soooo freaking hard?!?!?

Then my dear friend and fellow military wife Amanda pointed out to me today that life must be crappy right now for me - I mean I am fixing to turn ** gasp ** FORTY and I am having to use a walker!!! NICE.... NOT!!! (Now let me tell you Amanda is a baby - I am actually old enough to be her mother!!!! Sigh....)

I also realized I am getting old as I have decided it is just toooo much trouble to actually go out for New Years Eve. Now I am blaming it on the cast, and the walker and what have you... but the truth of the matter is... I am just don't feel like extending the effort to actually go anywhere!!!

Man... when did I get old?!?!?

My friend (hmmm should I really call her that?!?!) Amanda also said that while I am dealing with the walker and the pain and such - at least it is better than be paralyzed... and you know....

She is so right! In the big scheme of things - no one is shooting at me, no one has died, and hey "It is what it is!"

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

On to the NEW YEAR!!!

I hope everyone had a VERY Merry Christmas... Now we head on into the New Year! And with the new year... ah so many things....

First up - my 40th <<>> birthday! Ugh - the sound of that makes my tummy hurt!! But my misery will cause you delight! I will be having a 40% off sale on all my cutter designs! So you will not want to miss that!!!! (More information to come!)

Then after the big 40 birthday comes my 8th Wedding Anniversary (wow.. EIGHT YEARS!!)... followed by Valentine's Day and then HOPEFULLY Hubby's Homecoming!!!!!

Yep looks like a full New Year in the making!!!!

So come on back and join me for a Very Happy New Year!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Merry Christmas Everyone.....

Hope you all have a WONDERFUL Christmas. Take time to remember the season! Take time to spend with your family and loved ones... and please take time out to pray for those in the military that are far away protecting and defending our rights to celebrate!

My hubby is going to "TRY" and call me tonight (my time) Christmas day (his time) and hopefully he will be able to get through.... (there will be over 100,000 troops who are deployed to some place or another that are trying to get though the DOD phone system).

I am soo sooo super excited - as I purchase him a 5th Generation Ipod that I had custom engraved (see below)...

And I uploaded this special Christmas Video to the Ipod for him to watch! (Watch it all the way to the end PAST the credits!!! This is some of our family and friends, including some he hasn't seen or heard from in years!!!)

He is also getting the Nike + Ipod system so I customized and had made these personalize Nike Tennis Shoes!!!

I am sooo sooo sooooo excited!!! (I LOVE LOVE LOVE giving gifts!!!! It's my love language!!)

(PLEASE NOTE - IF YOU KNOW MY HUSBAND - PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL HIM OR TELL HIM ABOUT THIS GIFT!! HE HAS NOT OPENED IT YET!!)

While I am sad he isn't home and I missing him something TERRIBLE!!! I am very very happy that we only have about 66 days (give or take a few) until he will be home for good!!!! Whooo Hoooo!!!

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas! I'll catch you on Monday!

Until Next Time.

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Happy Christmas Eve, Eve....

Just letting you know I am still around! Trying to deal with the healing and the pain!

Sick of sitting on the sofa or laying in the bed... nothing very exciting to report there...

Hope you are all well and spending time with family and friends!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

The Good... then Bad!

The Good - I was so so so very excited - the Dr took out my stitches, took off the neon pink cast, put me back in a boot cast (again), told me I could try to walk and bear weight on my foot as long as I used a walker AND he released me to drive!!!! (Churn the butter baby, Churn the butter!!)

The Bad - Then this evening the pain started... and it is bad, bad, bad... I mean really bad! This is the worst pain I have had since I had the surgery. On a scale from 1 to 10 I would rate it a NINE!!!

I took the boot cast off and it dropped to about a five - now it is about a three but I am not so sure I should actually have the cast off!!! (Going to call them in the morning first thing!!!)

I want my hubby!!!!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Off to see the DR....

I am hoping beyond hoping that he will take my stitches out and release me to drive again!!! I miss my car!!!

Hope to catch up with you later! I have a few more "cool" gift idea's to share!!!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Last Min Christmas Rush?!?!

Are you in the throws of the last minute Christmas rush? Do you still have gifts to buy and you just don't know what to get?!?! Well... Do I have a solution for you and it is an EASY CHEAP solution at that!!!

As most of you know my dear friend, and a fellow electronic file designer Jen Adkins came to visit me last month! And while she was here she introduced to vinyl!!! Now I need to tell you I WAS a vinyl scaried cat! I really don't know why I was scared maybe because it was a medium that had a backing, you had to weed it, and then on top of that you had to transfer it!!! Ugh! It made me get chills just thinking about it!

But then...

My friend Jen gave me this AWESOME stone tile with our Montogram and our last name.... and if you know me - I am a sucker not only for pink but for anything with my name on it!!!!

Jen assured me there was NO reason to scared of vinyl, I mean hey that IS what our cutter machine were actually made to cut! So with her help I set off to make my own Monogram tiles for all of those I knew for Christmas!

And you know what - they turned out AWESOME!!! Seriously!!! AWESOME!!! And everyone who has gotten one has ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!!! I even had the women at the Pak Mail place ask me if I could make some for her!!!

Here are just a few of the ones I have made! (And let me tell you I made ten of these in one night!!!!)

Now let me tell you how easy it really was. I went to Lowes and I purchased ten ceramic floor tiles in the 12 x 12 size. (Each tile was $1.20 for the ones I picked out but they actually range from price from 97 cents up to about $3 each. They also sell the tiles in 6 x 6 if you are looking for a smaller sized present!)

I then purchased two rolls of contact cork paper as I wanted to give my tiles a "clean" sharp finish to the backsides.

And then purchased 10 plate stands. Now the plate stand came from a bunch of difference places. Several of them I got from Michael's using my 50% off coupons. I picked up one or two at Wal-Mart and one or two at Targets. So I spent somewhere between $6 to $8 for each stand.

Then I purchased my vinyl. We will get more into vinyl in a later post but I decided to use a permanent vinyl and not a repositionable one. I also tried two different brands to see which I liked better!! (The vinyl I purchased cost me about $1 per sheet! The transfer tape even less!)

I laid out my cutter files, cut and transferred! I am telling you it was EASY!!!! And if you were keeping up with my cost - you will see that I paid around $14 for each tile including the plate stand!!!

Now.... if you want to make these SAME awesome Monogram Tiles... well you CAN!!!! My friend Jen (who I was talking about above) actually SELLS this cutter file collection!!! And not only that - but it is currently (as of today 12/20/09) on SALE for $14.96!!!! To get it go HERE!!!

I am soooo loving these!!!!

A huge thanks to My Friend Jen for getting me over my fears of cutting vinyl! You will be hearing a lot more about vinyl, cutting vinyl and even transferring vinyl from me in the future!

Now what are you waiting for - get on over to purchase you cutter file and get busy knocking out your last minute gifts! Trust me you recipients will LOVE YOU!!!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

I'm Alive.....

Really I am!!! I am happy to report that surgery was a success.... well if you call being sewn up like a character on "The Nightmare Before Christmas" a success....


But the good note is I was able to get a PINK cast!!! And ya'll all know how much I love love love pink!

Of course the bad news is I went in the cast about ten days earlier that I should have because on Friday after surgery I almost fell and in an attempt to keep from falling I put my foot down. When I did that I shifted the splint that was on my foot and I had to make an "emergency" visit to the Dr's office. Hence the pink cast!!!

I am also happy to report that not only am I alive and well but so is hubby!!! Check this way cool article and photo out!!! (That is my hubby in the bottom photo). Who knew he was soooo important!!!

(You can click on the photo to get a large view to read the article!)

I love love love that man!!!

Hope you have all been well and I hope you are all ready for a VERY VERY Merry Christmas!!! I am off to the Dr's office on Monday where I am hoping and praying he will remove the stitches and release me to drive again!!

Thus I'll be hit and miss for the next week! But prepare for a HUGE kick off for the new year!!! (More details to come!!)

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

One little piggy two little piggy...

The good news is she can move her little toes today!! Woohoo! That's the Lori update from me to you today!
I have a wonderful day!
Enjoy!
Chris




Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Lori is through surgery.

Just spoke with Lori's Mother-in-Law and Lori is out of surgery and Andrew's Mom could go back and see her shortly (it is 6:41 a.m. Arizona time). The docs said she came through very well and thought she would be pleased with the results. Although the next two weeks for Lori will be very long so finding her here on her blog will probably be hit or miss. Can't wait to have her back.

Have a wonderful day!
Enjoy!
Chris




Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Surgery.....

Hey everyone - just want to let you know my surgery is tomorrow and thus I will be out of the loop for a while.....

Chris Durnan my dear friend will give you an update on how I am doing....

I am scheduled to have my surgery at 7 AM so that means I have a 4:30 AM wake up......

See you in a week or so.... Hopefully!!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Camouflage and Christmas Lights...

This song made me think of all the Christmas's Andrew and I have spent apart.... But the great thing about that is - no matter where he is and no matter where I am we both truly know "THE reason for the season".

Hope you enjoy this song....

Before I go - I thought I would share a "Christmas Card Photo" that hubby sent me from Iraq in 2005....


I am just praying it is a "Silent Night with Camouflage and Christmas Lights" where ever my husband is tonight.

Until Next Time.

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

All I want for Christmas.....

As we get closer and closer to the 25th, I have to say that there is only one thing that I can really think of I want for Christmas... and well... this video pretty much sums it up.....




Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

My new ride....

So check out my new ride.... Seems like this is going to be my main mode of transportation come this time next week!!! You know it actually looks kind of fun if you didn't know why you were going to need it!!!

As my hubby said, "Razor Scooter, move on over"... met the knee scooter!!!!

I am happy to report that at my Pre-Op appointment they have decided that I will be coming home with a pain pump! In some ways that makes me feel much, much much better - but in others.... well if I am going to need a pain pump and oral pain meds - how freaking bad is the pain actually going to be?!!?!?

Ugh....

Meanwhile I have SOOOO SOOOO SOOO Much to get done before Wed... so....

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

How cool is this......

Well it seems like my hubby is famous!!! Who knew!!!! He was actually written up in an article about the war in Afghanistan - you can see the article HERE !!

How amazing is it that "MY" husband is making history!!! I can't tell you how incredible proud I am of him and all our military serving overseas!!!!

Please stop over and read the article - it is really kind of cool (oh and for the record on the photo next to the article on the left hand side - that is my hubby with the bright red hair shinning in the candle light!!! LOL)

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

I may be MIA....

Yep- I just wanted to let you all know I may be Missing in Action (MIA) for the next well, few weeks.

As most of my blog readers know - I have an inch and 1/4 long bone spur that is growing through my Achilles Tendon - I have actually been in a boot cast since Sept. (Remember this photo)


But it is getting bigger (as if an inch and 1/4 isn't big enough) and since it is growing though the Achilles Tendon they are going to have to cut open my heel and the bottom of my foot,detach the tendon, shave the spur off, but I also have a deformity called Haglunds where my heel bone is not shaped correctly - so they will go in and shave it to the correct shape. THEN they have to scrap and de burr the tendon and then they have to reattach the tendon back to my foot.

I will be in a knee walker for several (two to four weeks at least), I have to have someone stay with me for at least a week (Thank goodness for family! Especially since hubby is soo soo soo far away!!), I will not be able to drive for two to three weeks (once again, thank goodness for family and friends!!!), I will go through three stages of casts and the WHOLE healing process is going to take four to six months!!!!

How Crazy is that?!!?

Pre-op is in the morning at 8 AM - and surgery is next Wed. My mother in law is flying in on Monday so I will have to pick her up from the airport - and if that isn't bad enough... I have to get all my Christmas/Holiday stuff done before Tue. Holly cow!!!!!

Needless to say I have a ton of stuff to get done, a short time to get it done in and then a recovery that sounds like it might be a little tough! So if I am not around for the next two weeks, or I am hit and miss - well....... now you know why!!!!

I am off to finish wrapping hubby's gifts as they have to be mailed out TOMORROW to make sure they make it in time - and if that wasn't bad enough we are under a tornado warning and the weather is predicted to be so bad that all the schools were closed at 1 PM Today!

So hopefully I will see you soon!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Things I am thankful for...

Happy Holidays Everyone!!! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your friends and family!

You know I was thinking there are so many things I am so thankful for! I am thankful for my family.... The people who are always there for me. Who are willing to go over and beyond to help me when ever and how ever I need them to. (I'll be telling you more about this in the next few days).


I am thankful for my hubby! For the man he is, for the things he represent. The strength that he brings to our relationship. For the wonderful leader he is in our family. No women could ever ask for a better husband, a better best friend or a better person to spend their life with.

I'm thankful that there are men and women out there (like my hubby) who are willing to go into harms way to protect us as United States Citizens and our way of life. Men and women who ARE making a different in lands far away.


And I am very Thankful that I FINALLY got my swap pages complete and in the mail for the calendar swap over at VDBC!!!

Make sure as you hustle and bustle around this holiday season that you take time out to remember THE reason for the season and that you take time out to reflect on what you are thankful for.

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

And the sale....

Continues.....

I decided it was too much trouble to go in and change all my prices again! I guess I am feeling lazy from all the Turkey! So that means a REALLY GOOD DEAL for you - all my design continue to be 45% off until Sunday night!!!!

Happy Shopping!!!!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

BLACK FRIDAY SALE!!!

Yesterday we ATE!
Today we SHOP!!!

All Beloved Keepsakes Designs are 45% off until Midnight Friday, Nov 27th, (Eastern Time!)

This is my BIGGEST sale of the YEAR!!! Make sure you pick up your favorite designs now!!!

Hope you have a Wonderful Thanksgiving Weekend!

Happy shopping!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Happy Thanksgiving....

As you gather around your dinner table today with your family and friends, please take time to reflect on all the blessings you have in your lives.

Please remember to say a prayer for the men and women who daily defend and secure our freedoms, and make many of these blessings possible. The soldiers and their families who are not able to spend today togther....



Happy Thanksgiving....

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Fa La La La te La te La!

I'm still working away on my swap pages!! Sheesh!!! Then I have to start on my Christmas gifts!!!

And in between all that - I only took about, oh 80 photos to get this ONE good photo to send to my hubby in his Christmas Card!!!


Tis the Season....

Speaking of Season - I wanted to let you know I will be having a progressive sale THIS coming weekend!!

All Beloved Keepsakes designs will be 45% off on Friday Nov 27th, 40% off on Saturday Nov 28th, and 35% off on Sunday Nov 29th. (At 45% off it’s my biggest sale of the year!)

And I will see what else I can throw in there for the BIGGEST Shopping Days of the year!!!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Confession....

I have a confession to make.... Forgive me Scrapper's of old and new.... I TOTALLY forgot I signed up for a swap!! And my THIRTEEN two page calendar pages are due like FRIDAY!!!!!!! EEEEKKKSSSSSS!!!!!

I know, I know - how horrible is that!

So I am off to make 26 6 x6 pages!!! Hope to post photos tomorrow!

Hope everyone had a GREAT weekend - and is getting all GEARED up for Turkey day as well as BLACK FRIDAY!!! (I will be announcing my own BLACK FRIDAY sales tomorrow!!!!)

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

I am ALIVE....

I promise!!!!! Thank you so much for the comments and the emails checking on me!!! MAN!! This week was INSANE!!!! INSANE I tell you!!!!!

My friend and a fellow designer Jen Adkins came to visit on Monday and was here until Wed AM. Man did I have a great time with her!! We went and did the normal "Savannah Touristy" things... Like a carriage tour though Savannah and shopping on River Street!!!

We also had lunch at Paula Deens (YES I had the Banana Pudding Jan!!!)

While Jen was here - she got me hooked on Vinyl!!!! I MEAN hooked!!! We actually took a trip to the Oracal Factory that is actually RIGHT HERE in my county!!!! CRAZY!! Who knew!!!! But I sad to report they were not very friendly or helpful! (Don't think I am not writing a letter the President of the Company either!!!)

So I have some plans in the work - and who knows you might just be surprised what you see popping up at Beloved Keepsakes in the next few months!!!

Then on Wed I had to finish my Toga outfit that I made for my dear friend Julie. She had a fund raiser that the PALS group holds every year to attend on Sat night - and the theme was "Toga". Additionally I had 24 page booklet to finish laying out for press for them.

On Thursday I spent the day running errands, getting my nails done and my eyebrows waxed! Yes I have to admit, even though I am almost 40 years old - I have never ever had my eyebrows waxed or pluck!!!!! (And that crap hurts!!!!!) Bahahhahaha!!!

On Friday my BFF Tracy came up from Florida. We went out to lunch and then we had hair and make up done and then we went to work on a "secret" project that we did for Christmas!!!!!! VERY VERY VERY exciting!!!!

Yesterday I spent the whole day trying to plan and book our Bahama vacation that we will be taking with Andrew's parents after he returns from Afghanistan!!!

Wheew - as you can see I was BUSY!!!!! (You should be tired from just reading this!!! LOL).... Oh and I need to say I also completed over 90% of my Christmas shopping as well!!!!

So I do apologize for not being around!! I promise I will TRY to do better this week!!!!

Hope you all had a GREAT weekend - and thanks again for all the comments and emails..... It is such a blessed feeling to know I was missed and loved!!!!

Until Next Time! (Hopefully sooner than later!!! Bahaha)

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

Ah....

My tired and achy feet!!!!

On Friday I spent the day with my BFF shopping! I left my house at 8 AM and I got home at 10:30 PM!!! What fun!!!!

Today I spent the day with my other dear friend.... doing... well wht else?!?! Shopping!!!! Ah
"Christmas in the South" - a woman's heaven... and a man's well you know what!! LOL

As a matter of fact I emailed my hubby to tell him I was going to "Christmas in the South" with my friend and I swear to you - I heard the sigh of relief that he didn't have to go all the way from Afghanistan!!! LOL (For those who don't know, my hubby actually told me one year he would rather poke his eye out with a sharp stick than to go to yet another arts and craft show!!!!) Bahahaha!!!

I did pick up well a few Christmas present for other people and I picked up a few things for myself as well!!! LOL



All in all a pretty successful and really fun two days.... but man... do my feet hurt!! (For the record a cast and shopping do not go hand in hand!) Thank goodness I am calling for a day of rest tomorrow!!!!

Hope you are having a GREAT weekend as well!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

the day after....

First I want to thank EACH and every one of you that took the Beloved Keepsakes "Thank a Veteran Challenge"! Being a wife of a Veteran it truly means more to me than you can possible know..... SO thank you, thank you, thank you if YOU thanked a Vet yesterday!

BUT...

I have to tell you I am terrible disappointed that so few people actually took the time out to thank a Vet. I am hoping and even praying that more people actually followed through with the challenge and just didn't comment here on my blog. (I really really really hope that is the case.)

The reason I say this...is well, in this day and age there is such a complacency about the war. About soldiers... Whether you agree with the war, whether you agree with the President - it really shouldn't matter. What SHOULD matter is that there are people who LOVE this country enough to risk their LIFE for it. To risk their life for you! Some of these people (like my husband) were not even born in this country yet they are risking their lives for it.

Maybe that's why. Maybe because my husband lived in a country where they were not free, where there was war on their streets, where they actually had to have ARMED guards take them to and from school - that he realizes what a GREAT thing we have here and thus, he is willing to defend it.

I worry about what our county is turning into, I really do..... Let me just throw out some numbers here.... and you tell me what you think.

I asked that everyone take the challenge to thank a Vet yesterday - I said I was hoping that I got 50 comments about how people took me up on that challenge... Needless to say I was VERY disappointed as I only had 17 people comment - NOT EVEN half what I had hoped for. I have to admit that was very very disappointing..... But..... What is even worse -

I had 247 visitors at my blog yesterday. 247 INDIVIDUAL visitors. Of those 247 visits..... The free file that was offered yesterday was downloaded a 154 times......

And I only got 17 comments from people who went out of their way to thank a Veteran.

Wow....... ponder on that one for a little..... pretty scary if you ask me.

(I'll be out of town tomorrow visiting my BFF - so no freebie Friday tomorrow! You'll have to come back next week for that!)

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!!!!

Wow... here it is... Veterans Day! A day where we have the chance to take time out to thank those who have served, who are serving and who will continue to serve so that we may enjoy the life and the freedom we have today. Today is a bitter sweet day for me. While I think there is nothing more important than taking the time to actually thank the people who allow me to live the life of freedom that I do. It is a day that makes me miss my husband even more!

But to celebrate today there are a couple of things I want to share with you...

First up - This whole week I have issued a plea to take the "Thank a Veteran" challenge. In this challenge I have asked that you find a Veteran, a service member who has served or who is serving and find a way to honor them. A way to thank them! I am hoping above all hope that you have done so!!! And not only that you have done so but my BIGGEST hope is that you will encourage others to do the same!

So to help you do so - I am offering a FREEBIE on my blog today... but here's the catch. If you download the freebie I would love it if you would post this website either on your blog, your own personal website or on a forum that allows you to post freebies. Tell everyone that there is a FREEBIE here at Beloved Keepsakes for today and today only - and ask them to take the "Thank a Vet" challenge while they are here downloading it! (For more information about the "Thank a Veteran" challenge you can click HERE to see Sunday's post!)

Then if you have followed through with Thanking a Veteran - I would LOVE LOVE LOVE for you to post a comment here on my blog how you met that challenge. It could be anything from you went up to your Grandfather and thanked him for his service in WW2 - to you went to the Veterans Day Parade and you shook as many Vet's hands as you could and you told them very sincerely "Thank You!".....

I would be ABSOLUTELY THRILLED, no BLOWN AWAY if I can get 50 comments of how YOU thanked a Service Member today!!!!

Additionally, as a thank you, all my military designs are 35% off today at VDBC! I have 25 designs that are dedicated to the different branches of the military! If you haven't ever seen them before I encourage you to go take a gander at them!!!

And lastly I want to share a tribute with you that I made for my own husband and shipped to him in Afghanistan to be opened and viewed on this special day!

But before I get to that - Here is today's FREEBIE!!!

Same rules as always apply: This design is covered by my TOU (terms of use). If you do not have a copy of these TOU please make sure you download it HERE before downloading the freebies!

This design is only available for a short period of time (24 hours) - once it is no longer available here it will be available in my section of the VDBC Store for purchase!

Please do not share this file. If you know someone who might like to have it, then send them HERE to get it!! (Thanks sooo much!)

Sorry this file is no longer available for free download.

I think this design would be PERFECT to document what YOU did today to THANK A VETERAN!!!

Now before I go, here is a very very very special tribute to my own dearly beloved husband who is currently serving somewhere in Afghanistan. All the photos in this slide show are of my husband an span a time period of the 20 years he has served in our military. From Mogadishu, Somalia, Iraq to Afghanistan - I can not tell you how incredible proud I am of my husband.

Happy Veterans Day Major Andrew Bruce McDonald! I love you and I am so proud of the man you are and your wiliness to keep me and the American people safe and free.

Thanks for stopping by - now get out there, spread the word and ABOVE ALL ELSE no matter what your opinions are on the war or what your thoughts are about the President - THANK A VETERAN TODAY!!! One small act of gratitude from you will provide a lifetime of encouragement for them!

Until Next Time!

Cya~


Lori McDonald, Designer

My cutter files work on many machines. Some examples are the: Klik-n-kut, Pazzle, Wishblade, Silhouette, Cricut, Craft Robo. Some of the most common softwares involved with these machines are: Funtime, Scrapbooking, WinPC/Signlab, Inkscape, Create and Cut, Illustrator, KNK Studio, and Robomaster. These file are available exclusively at: VDBC!!!

We also specialize in pre cut/ pre assembled scrapbooking titles, diecuts, embellishments and keepsakes (including our NEW photo Stars). Make sure to visit our Store!

Don't forget to check back often as we host our scrapbooking digital cutting file freebies at least once a week!!!