Shopping Fun

I made a stop at my local craft store this afternoon to pick up my tried and true Canson Mix Media notebook for the new year.  The good news is they had them in stock.  The bad news is they went up $1.  I really need to keep a closer eye on the sales.

Of course, you know I couldn't just walk in and out with just that, right?  After all, I'm all about trying something new!

I enjoy using the Reeves Watersoluble Wax Pastels in my journals, so I thought I would give their brand of watercolors a try. I figured for $5, I can't go wrong.  I also found this Royal & Langnickel Keep N' Carry Watercolor Set for $5.

The kit includes 6 watercolor paints with a watercolor pad, Taklon brush, pencil, eraser & sharpener in a zippered carrying case.  Even if the paints are horrible, I thought the case was worth the price.  I haven't tried it out yet, but I do think my moleskin journal will fit inside.

I found quite a few other assorted goodies, but I'm afraid I can't show them to you.  I bought some items to share with my Secret Santa in my journaling class, and I have very good students who read this blog!  I hope you're having a wonderful week as you "Celebrate, LOVE, and Create!"

Don't forget to leave a comment on today's post to be entered into my Birthday Giveaway!  The more you comment, the more chances you have to win.  See yesterday's post for details.

TODAY'S PHOTO

What's a birthday without a little bling!  Hubby surprised me by, as he said, "changing it up a little bit".  In lieu of art related supplies, he gave me this great charm bracelet.  Hey, every princess needs a little bling!

Playing with Watercolors

I spent some time looking at old Christmas photos this morning, and my favorites were of the boys making cookies.  There would be flour and sprinkles from one end of the kitchen to the other, and our dog, Roxy, and our tiger cat, Jake, would be nearby waiting for the opportunity to scarf down whatever hit the floor.

Those were good times, and viewing those photos triggered the memory of the one and only gingerbread house I ever made for the boys.  One or both of them wanted a gingerbread house "really bad".  I had the presence of mind to purchase the ready made gingerbread pieces from a local bakery, and I remember presenting the finished house to them on Christmas morning to their delight and amazement. The only other thing I remember about that house is royal frosting.  Royal frosting. Royal pain. Just sayin'!

I still love the look of a gingerbread house dripping in candy, so I decided to make one today.  This one was much easier because I made it out of paper and watercolors.  It was the most fun I ever had building a gingerbread house, and my gingerbread people seem to approve.

If you've never made a gingerbread house, I think you'll find this method to be a pleasing alternative.  If you do decide on an edible version, I'd get one already made and skip on making the royal frosting!  Either way, "Happy Creating!"