Back to the Blog

I realize that I haven't been here for a very long time.  My daughter got married last July and I got caught up in all the plans and festivities.  The wedding was beautiful, though it rained.  (They say it's good luck.)  Weddings take a long time to plan and take a long time to recover from.  I got out of the habit of blogging, but I'm back.
The stuff I'll be blogging about are the items in my Artfire Shop and my class with senior citizens,  cooking (which I really enjoy), and my recent trip to Ireland.  I'm still in jet-lag mode and haven't done much of anything. 
I also need to quickly get back into shape for outdoor USTA tennis.  Just before my trip, I finished 6 weeks of physical therapy for my right hand.  Too much crafts and too much tennis.  I needed a break.

Decor for the Man Cave

Camo Print on Metal Switch Plates



Playing Cards and Poker Chips on Wood Switch Plate

 Here are some decorative Switch Plates which I have created especially for the Man Cave.  
All are available in My Artfire Shop:  http://clairemdesigns.artfire.com/

"My Ten Minute Sweep"

In order to keep ahead of everyday clutter, I do what I call "My Ten Minute Sweep".  I take ten minutes and go through every room of the house.  I empty waste baskets, get rid of junk mail, clear off surfaces of items that don't belong in that room.  I fluff pillows, staighten towels.  As I move from one room to the next, I carry the items that belong in that room and put them away.
Carry a bag for emptying waste baskets.  If you accumulate a lot of clutter, you might want to carry along a basket or tote to load up the items you're putting away. 
You can accomplish a lot in ten minutes, maybe even empty the dish washer.
If you have kids, get them involved!
                                                                                                      

New Cards on Artfire

Card Making Tip - Folding

A great handmade card needs a crisp, clean fold.   A bonefolder works best.

But, if you don't have one, an old credit card or even a small wallpaper seam roller are great alternatives.

New Cards from My Artfire Shop

Valentine's from Artfire