Nothing compares to you Lord!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Lessons from a leaflet!
A business acquaintance has offered to promote me along side her own business and it is a great opportunity. The promotion will be done at a wedding event and when I looked at my existing leaflet I was shamed at it craft fair quality, hardly fitting for the wedding event.
I spent several hours selecting my best photos and passing them on the publisher windows. I was careful to select border colours in keeping with the wedding trends for summer 2009.
In the end I was pleased with the results.
I decided to print a test copy and pressed print on the printer.
After the whirring and flutterings had stopped, there was my leaflet lying in front on me.
But this perfect leaflet was not perfect. It was lying there in all it's printed glory on a cheap and bog standard piece of paper that did nothing for the presentation at all.
This made me think.
God makes us perfect in the death and resurrection of his son and yet we are all tatty bits of paper that don't always act that way. We become tatty by the words that leave our mouths and by the actions that are not as God would want.
Today will involve a trip to the shops for some best quality paper to display the leaflet at its best.
May we too aim to be perfect paper with words and actions that show God to others.
Friday, February 27, 2009
So I very nearly got in the garden today, there is plenty to be getting on with at this time of year,I say very nearly due to the fact I chickenend out at the last minute due to it feeling still slightly chilly!
I did however bring a little bit of the outdoors in, I set to work on this plant bucket which was originally steel, very plain & sad looking,
In need of love basically.
I embellished and varnished it...
A new creation!
Just like me, here in the grace of God I stand.
Sarah xx
This is the air I breathe ~ Marie Barnett sung by Kathryn Scott
And I'm desperate for you
And I'm lost with out you
You are my daily bread
You are the air I breathe
Your holy presence is living in me.
This gentle worship song holds deep truths.
Tiaras ~ Crystal Velvet
One of the agravating things about writing three blogs a day, is that sometimes I write for one blog, publish it and then find I am actually on another blog. That happened to me this morning and so not knowing how to shove the post onto the right blog, I am now retyping it.
I've been having fun this last week just creating. There has been no client to actually create these tiaras for and so the creative juices are just allowed to flow.
I gather together wires, beads, crystals, gems etc and then sit down and see what happens.
Thes side feature tiaras are a result of that process. They can also be worn as fasinators.
I've been having fun this last week just creating. There has been no client to actually create these tiaras for and so the creative juices are just allowed to flow.I gather together wires, beads, crystals, gems etc and then sit down and see what happens.
Thes side feature tiaras are a result of that process. They can also be worn as fasinators.Available through www.crystalvelvet.co.uk
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Praise Is Rising - writen by Paul Baloche
A great worship song:
cause when we see you we find strength to face the day
in your precence all our fears are washed away, washed away..
We welcome you here Lord Jesus.
Christian Crafters ~ Progress!
Christian crafters is a new internet community where Christians who are also crafters can meat up, share teir creations, their websites and their faith, all in one place. Started up earlier this week I'm so pleased to see people coming for a look around. So far there are four signed up members and that is very encouraging. If you'd like to be part of it then please click here or on the link at the side of the page.
At the moments it's very early days so if there is anything you'd like to see as part of the community then do shout.
At the moments it's very early days so if there is anything you'd like to see as part of the community then do shout.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
He is exalted ~ Twila Paris
Philipians 2 v 9 -11
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above all names. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Scrips and Scraps Bags
Here are a couple of bags I've created using scrap fabrics. The bag above is created with velvet and other "luxury" fabrics whilst the bag below was a little bit of an experiment with old jeans.
The bag has a small front pocket with freestyle embroidery on it.This bag was also my first attempt at using eyelets. (and I like them so I'm sure you'll see some more in the future!)
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Christian Crafter's Community
It's very early days at the moment, but I have set up a new social network group called Christian Crafters. I hope it will become a place where those of us who are crafters and Christians can share our creations and our faith.
Why not pop in and say hi!
As I said, it is early days .....
http://christiancrafters.ning.com/
keep popping in so that as more people join up, they'll be warmly welcomed!
Why not pop in and say hi!
As I said, it is early days .....
http://christiancrafters.ning.com/
keep popping in so that as more people join up, they'll be warmly welcomed!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Celebrity
Just looking at the newspapers or racks of magazines in your local shop or turning on the home page for your internet, you cannot fail to see the awe with which "celebrity" is seen.
But just what have many of these modern celebrities actually done? For many of them it's been a five minute exposure to the TV camera's and then many trips to clubs, clinging onto their "celebrity status" whilst falling over under the influence! and yet a famous face on the front of a magazine can instantly sell a huge pile of them.
Footballers, pop stars, reality TV and beautiful stars all court this excessive publicity.
Looking in the Bible at the story of the choosing of a king we see Samuel arrive at the home of Jesse a shepherd, a father of seven sons. Samuel knew he was there to select the king that God had in mind.
When he saw the eldest son Eliab a man of stature and good looks, Samuel thought surely this is the one.
But God said to him
"Do not consider his appearance or his height,
for I have rejected him.
The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.
Man looks at the outward appearance,
But God looks at the heart" (1Samuel 16 v 7)
Jesse continued to bring out his sons and they were all rejected until the youngest, David came out. David was selected.
A small scrawney boy, nearly an oversight and not expected by anyone. And yet God had plans (very big plans) for him.
We often over look those around us whose heart would please God. Those who's service to friends or their family shows Gods love.
This morning I challenge you to and encourage them. Send a Text, an email, a card or give them a huge hug!! Tell them how they inspire you.
But just what have many of these modern celebrities actually done? For many of them it's been a five minute exposure to the TV camera's and then many trips to clubs, clinging onto their "celebrity status" whilst falling over under the influence! and yet a famous face on the front of a magazine can instantly sell a huge pile of them.
Footballers, pop stars, reality TV and beautiful stars all court this excessive publicity.
Looking in the Bible at the story of the choosing of a king we see Samuel arrive at the home of Jesse a shepherd, a father of seven sons. Samuel knew he was there to select the king that God had in mind.
When he saw the eldest son Eliab a man of stature and good looks, Samuel thought surely this is the one.
But God said to him
"Do not consider his appearance or his height,
for I have rejected him.
The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.
Man looks at the outward appearance,
But God looks at the heart" (1Samuel 16 v 7)
Jesse continued to bring out his sons and they were all rejected until the youngest, David came out. David was selected.
A small scrawney boy, nearly an oversight and not expected by anyone. And yet God had plans (very big plans) for him.
We often over look those around us whose heart would please God. Those who's service to friends or their family shows Gods love.
This morning I challenge you to and encourage them. Send a Text, an email, a card or give them a huge hug!! Tell them how they inspire you.
Footprints in the Sand- Leona Lewis
This is a version of the footprints in the sand peom that was written in 1936 by Mary Stevenson. She would hand it out on scarps of paper to encourage her friends who were going through tough times.
The words are so comforting. Our God picks us up and carries us when we struggle.
get the tissues out!!
I have also featured this today on the blog hallelujah Joy (link to the side) I feel reallly led to share this great song.
"My God will meet all your needs, according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus"
(philippians 4:19)
His resources are unlimited it matters not we havnt any!!
I recieve a daily lesson (in modern day english!) from Ron Hutchcraft, a ministry in America .
Today this was a part of it, I needed to hear this and Im sure others do too.
I created this wooden heart (above) prayerfully, enjoying the quiet time and my passion.
Yesterday was a a day that was very unusual for me, questioning, I started to think along the lines of ... Is it all worth it? Will I ever succeed in business? Ok, I love what I do but the bills have to be paid!
I am hoping to extend my Christian collection, I found comfort in the words that I read today! I hope you will too.
If its the Lords will ... you will succeed.
"Not that we are competent ourseves but our competence comes from GOD, He has made us competent"
2 Corinthians 3:5
Sarah xx
Thursday, February 19, 2009
He Reigns ~ Kirk franklin ~ (with Awesome god)
This mix featuring a version of the late Rich Mullins Awesome God gave me such a shock the first time I heard it. The dance troupe in our church do a fabulous dance to it.
Enjoy!!!!!!!!
Trash or Treasure?
My workroom is, for part of the day (namely morning and evening) the families dining room. But from the moment the children leave for school until they return at the end of the school day, it is mine..... all mine.
I'm very lucky that no-one in my house is "house proud" to the extent that my storage areas are offensive. (yes I do wash up, hoover and tidy) but you know how it is when you craft, evey thing seems to have potential.
My room is set up so that I have floor to ceiling shelveing (great big ikea utility wooden shelves)
One of the units is neat. It is used to house the tiara and bridal jewellery collection. The other four units are not. They house huge polythene tubs full of beads from my bead store. Then there are all the paperwork files, paints, fabrics, resources and then of course there are my treasures.
The treasures consist of the things I've hoarded, the bits of drift wood, stones and rocks and sea glass from beach walks. Twigs, leaves and things from the woods, packaging and other items from everday life that I think will come in useful or might have potential.
I know that my mum thinks it's an apauling mess and I guess to the non crafter it is ...... but to the crafter it's an Aladin den.
I really think its time for a tidy up ......... but nothing will be thrown away, just stacked a little neater until each item finds its very own creation!
I'm very lucky that no-one in my house is "house proud" to the extent that my storage areas are offensive. (yes I do wash up, hoover and tidy) but you know how it is when you craft, evey thing seems to have potential.
My room is set up so that I have floor to ceiling shelveing (great big ikea utility wooden shelves)
One of the units is neat. It is used to house the tiara and bridal jewellery collection. The other four units are not. They house huge polythene tubs full of beads from my bead store. Then there are all the paperwork files, paints, fabrics, resources and then of course there are my treasures.
The treasures consist of the things I've hoarded, the bits of drift wood, stones and rocks and sea glass from beach walks. Twigs, leaves and things from the woods, packaging and other items from everday life that I think will come in useful or might have potential.
I know that my mum thinks it's an apauling mess and I guess to the non crafter it is ...... but to the crafter it's an Aladin den.
I really think its time for a tidy up ......... but nothing will be thrown away, just stacked a little neater until each item finds its very own creation!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
El shaddai ~ Michael Card ~ sung by Amy Grant
Another song that has withstood the decades changing tastes.
El shaddai : God Almighty
El-elyona adonai: God in the highest, oh Lord
Erkamka na : We love you
Recycling Memories ~ Memory necklace
Last year whilst tidying together all sorts of bits and pieces, I was struck by the fact that I had so many odd earrings and little trinkets like a button off my daughters first cardigan etc and they were all just cluttering up my jewellery box. I decided to place them all together and added some chains, broken necklaces and other items to create my memory necklace.Just like the quilts made by victorian women to hold memories connected with different fabrics, my necklace holds a lot of special memories. ,
I have made several of these up for other people using their own memories.Monday, February 16, 2009
United Christian Broadcasting
Hello All,
I first came across UCB whilst Ironing!!
There was no one in the house, only me and a huge pile of clean linen awaiting thier press, I put the portable T.V on and flicked through...up through the channels I searched...one by one... I stopped in my tracks when one of my favourite tunes of all time started blasting out of the T.V ..
Be still.. for the presence of the Lord... I did stand still, very still as this sound was bringing me back, I hadnt realised how far away I had gone from my God... praying everyday of course, but there is just something about music, the Lord really lets me know and understand the words what he wants me to hear, I had just been trundling on, keeping God to myself, praying for the ones I love and others naturally, But never really talking outwardly about him... so from then on we prayed as a family, worshipped as a family... And I will keep talking about him..to anyone he wants me to. And the journey from that day led to my hubby coming to Christ, So thats why I love UCB. oops sorry I have gone off track slightly!! lol
Anyway UCB have a wonderful array of DJ's, Faboulous guests, readings & teachings For all ages... and the music is awesome too! Something for all tastes & genres. ( even jokes and funny stories) Through computer, Digital radio or TV (sky digital 0136)
If you contact them you can receive a free booklet from Bob Gass, a wonderful way to bible study in this modern day! "The word for today".
Love & Blessings
Sarah x
I first came across UCB whilst Ironing!!
There was no one in the house, only me and a huge pile of clean linen awaiting thier press, I put the portable T.V on and flicked through...up through the channels I searched...one by one... I stopped in my tracks when one of my favourite tunes of all time started blasting out of the T.V ..
Be still.. for the presence of the Lord... I did stand still, very still as this sound was bringing me back, I hadnt realised how far away I had gone from my God... praying everyday of course, but there is just something about music, the Lord really lets me know and understand the words what he wants me to hear, I had just been trundling on, keeping God to myself, praying for the ones I love and others naturally, But never really talking outwardly about him... so from then on we prayed as a family, worshipped as a family... And I will keep talking about him..to anyone he wants me to. And the journey from that day led to my hubby coming to Christ, So thats why I love UCB. oops sorry I have gone off track slightly!! lol
Anyway UCB have a wonderful array of DJ's, Faboulous guests, readings & teachings For all ages... and the music is awesome too! Something for all tastes & genres. ( even jokes and funny stories) Through computer, Digital radio or TV (sky digital 0136)
If you contact them you can receive a free booklet from Bob Gass, a wonderful way to bible study in this modern day! "The word for today".
Love & Blessings
Sarah x
Christian Media ~ Premier radio
I know sarah listens to a christian radio station and I believe it is different to the one I listen to. I'm sure she'll fill you in on it later.
When my boys were younger I lived in Surrey on the outskirts of London. My local church was very traditional and didn't entertain modern music at all. I was therefore thrilled when out of chance one day I was twiddling the radio knobs and heard "Majesty". From that moment on, my radio was bringing a whole christian community into my house. This was in the early days of computers and we were too poor to have one! I used to get up early to do the ironing at 6 in the morning to listen to some bible based teaching and then over lunch time I'd have the chance to join in with the worship hour.
With serious mixed emotions we left London for my home village back up in Yorkshire and Premier radio was counted very much among the friends I had left behind.
Many years passed by and one day I was sitting at my computer feeling bored and I happened to type in Premier radio. What a wonderful surprise to find I could listen to it up in Yorkshire!!!!!
I have premier radio on all day long. The teaching is excellent and intersperced with chistian music, laughter and great programming like woman to woman. The lunch hour is still the worship hour with wall to wall prayer and worship.
Premier can be listened to on the following settings:
London DAB
Sky digital 0123
Freeview 725
1305 - 1332 -1413MW
Virgin media 968
http://www.premierradio.org.uk/listen/live
Now come on Sarah and tell us about your station!
You cqa
When my boys were younger I lived in Surrey on the outskirts of London. My local church was very traditional and didn't entertain modern music at all. I was therefore thrilled when out of chance one day I was twiddling the radio knobs and heard "Majesty". From that moment on, my radio was bringing a whole christian community into my house. This was in the early days of computers and we were too poor to have one! I used to get up early to do the ironing at 6 in the morning to listen to some bible based teaching and then over lunch time I'd have the chance to join in with the worship hour.
With serious mixed emotions we left London for my home village back up in Yorkshire and Premier radio was counted very much among the friends I had left behind.
Many years passed by and one day I was sitting at my computer feeling bored and I happened to type in Premier radio. What a wonderful surprise to find I could listen to it up in Yorkshire!!!!!
I have premier radio on all day long. The teaching is excellent and intersperced with chistian music, laughter and great programming like woman to woman. The lunch hour is still the worship hour with wall to wall prayer and worship.
Premier can be listened to on the following settings:
London DAB
Sky digital 0123
Freeview 725
1305 - 1332 -1413MW
Virgin media 968
http://www.premierradio.org.uk/listen/live
Now come on Sarah and tell us about your station!
You cqa
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Freezing cold!
Well I'm back from the market and I have to say that I am freezing. I've been home for an hour and a half and I'm still shivvering.
The market this morning was a very snowy afair with several stalls missing because of the weather.
I had so many layers of clothes on, that by the time I was ready I looked like the michelin man.
Anyway I'm back now and will probably head up for a nice warm bath soon.
The market this morning was a very snowy afair with several stalls missing because of the weather.
I had so many layers of clothes on, that by the time I was ready I looked like the michelin man.
Anyway I'm back now and will probably head up for a nice warm bath soon.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Getting Ready ~ South Cave Farmers Market
Looking out from my window this morning s a real pleasure. The snow is thicklly spread over the ground and the veg patches are just a blanket of white with the tips of fruit bushes poking through. The branches of the trees are white and there is a lovely sunshiney sky.
I'm lucky though, there is no school run (ok walk) today as the primary school are off on half term. My youngest is off out for the day to a friends and much as I'll miss her, it's great because tomorrow is the farmers market and I'll need to get everything ready.
It's a case of collecting the stock from the various shelves and cupboards and then assembling some display boards. another usual task is finishing off the mountain of half finished necklaces and earrings. They are all lacking a clasp or earring hook.
I am presuming the market will go ahead tomorrow, even though a lot of the traders come from the Yorkshire Wolds (a range of hills that start at the topend of my village) apparently there are lots of abandoned cars up there.
I shall of course be wrapped up warm with the thermals, double jumpers andcoats, gloves, hat and scarf.
The market is held on the second saturday of every month in the playgrounds at South Cave school from 9am until 1pm.
I'm lucky though, there is no school run (ok walk) today as the primary school are off on half term. My youngest is off out for the day to a friends and much as I'll miss her, it's great because tomorrow is the farmers market and I'll need to get everything ready.
It's a case of collecting the stock from the various shelves and cupboards and then assembling some display boards. another usual task is finishing off the mountain of half finished necklaces and earrings. They are all lacking a clasp or earring hook.
I am presuming the market will go ahead tomorrow, even though a lot of the traders come from the Yorkshire Wolds (a range of hills that start at the topend of my village) apparently there are lots of abandoned cars up there.
I shall of course be wrapped up warm with the thermals, double jumpers andcoats, gloves, hat and scarf.
The market is held on the second saturday of every month in the playgrounds at South Cave school from 9am until 1pm.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Beaded Bookmarks
I've had a lot of fun creating these beaded bookmarks. The ribbon, crystals, Bali beads and little charms can be created to match any colourscheme or needs.
They can be used as little gifts for friends. Each bookmark comes in an organza gift bag (coordinated of course!)
Available through www.crystalvelvet.co.uk
Introducing Karen
Hi
I'm Karen (aka Crystal Velvet)
I'm a 40 year old, happily married with three children aged 17, 15 and 9.
I live in East Yorkshire and attend my local village church. I'm a singer in the worship group and love Christian music.
My "work" is great fun. I'm a tiara and jewellery designer and creator and dabble in many other crafts.
My Christian background is mixed and varied. I grew up in the baptist church and made a committment to the Lord aged 10. He's always been central in my life. As I got older, my family moved churches into the local village church and since that time I've always felt it was important to worship within your local community (even when the local church isn't quite what you'd want ... and believe me, I've been in several) I have to say though that at the moment I'm very happy where we are. The church is a real mix church. Even though the "official" heading is Church of England, the church is officially joined with the methodist church and we've incorporated methodist elements into the services. We have a great childrens and youth ministry and are currently looking at getting a full time youth leader. Our congregation is made of of christians from all backgrounds. Musically, we enjoy a variety of modern and traditional music which is great for evryone.
I'm Karen (aka Crystal Velvet)
I'm a 40 year old, happily married with three children aged 17, 15 and 9.
I live in East Yorkshire and attend my local village church. I'm a singer in the worship group and love Christian music.
My "work" is great fun. I'm a tiara and jewellery designer and creator and dabble in many other crafts.
My Christian background is mixed and varied. I grew up in the baptist church and made a committment to the Lord aged 10. He's always been central in my life. As I got older, my family moved churches into the local village church and since that time I've always felt it was important to worship within your local community (even when the local church isn't quite what you'd want ... and believe me, I've been in several) I have to say though that at the moment I'm very happy where we are. The church is a real mix church. Even though the "official" heading is Church of England, the church is officially joined with the methodist church and we've incorporated methodist elements into the services. We have a great childrens and youth ministry and are currently looking at getting a full time youth leader. Our congregation is made of of christians from all backgrounds. Musically, we enjoy a variety of modern and traditional music which is great for evryone.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Shout to the Lord ~ Darlene Zschech -
Written by Darlene Zschech, this is a great anthem of praise. Known and loved by Christians all over the world.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Hello
Im Sarah and I was confirmed as a Christian back in 1993, I am a self employed crafter, I love to listen to my Christian music as I work ( any genre ). Its so relaxing and helps me to focus... and there is a lot of answers to questions in the lyrics... give it a go!
UCB have a digital radio station now and is full of good music, stories and friendly chat... just normal people.. you can listen to the station through the internet so that helps as I need the computer to stay on even though Im usually painting or sewing.
Well I just wanted to say Hi and I will speak to you soon I hope, Take care... God bless.
Sarah
info@autumnrosecrafts.co.uk
Im Sarah and I was confirmed as a Christian back in 1993, I am a self employed crafter, I love to listen to my Christian music as I work ( any genre ). Its so relaxing and helps me to focus... and there is a lot of answers to questions in the lyrics... give it a go!
UCB have a digital radio station now and is full of good music, stories and friendly chat... just normal people.. you can listen to the station through the internet so that helps as I need the computer to stay on even though Im usually painting or sewing.
Well I just wanted to say Hi and I will speak to you soon I hope, Take care... God bless.
Sarah
info@autumnrosecrafts.co.uk
Monday, February 9, 2009
INDESCRIBABLE ~ Chris Tomlin
Fantastic song by Chris Tomlin.
Video showing the Ultimate creators ultimate and amazing work
Creative and Faithful ~ An introduction
This blog is the result of some soul searching.
Last week TV presenter David Vine explained how he felt pressure to avoid talking about his Christian faith on his shows. He said "It's almost socially unacceptable to say you believe in God"
This was in a week where the head of the Ctholic church in England and Wales said "the nation is unfriendly to religious people" and then Tony Blair (ex Prime minister) admitted that he kept quiet about his faith while PM as he "didn't want to be labelled a nutter"
So this week I am starting this blog to say I am a Christian and a crafter and I'm proud of it!
I already write Crystal Velvet Wedding Blog and so would love to have some other Christian crafters to join me in writing this blog. Please contact me if you feel comitted and able to.
I'm also going to add some you tube videos of Christian music to help you worship as you work!
Last week TV presenter David Vine explained how he felt pressure to avoid talking about his Christian faith on his shows. He said "It's almost socially unacceptable to say you believe in God"
This was in a week where the head of the Ctholic church in England and Wales said "the nation is unfriendly to religious people" and then Tony Blair (ex Prime minister) admitted that he kept quiet about his faith while PM as he "didn't want to be labelled a nutter"
So this week I am starting this blog to say I am a Christian and a crafter and I'm proud of it!
I already write Crystal Velvet Wedding Blog and so would love to have some other Christian crafters to join me in writing this blog. Please contact me if you feel comitted and able to.
I'm also going to add some you tube videos of Christian music to help you worship as you work!
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