Radical Crafts

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2011-05-03T14:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you all so much for your encouragement and support of me, but even more for your support of E3 Kids! Thanks to your generosity and God's grace we raised $400.50 that will go to help some of these kids in Mombasa, Kenya.

Above is a shot of some of the orders I sent out over the weekend. I have a few more to get together as well. It was great to be busy with this :).

I will keep the blog updated with plans for the future. I am praying about it and already have some ideas of how things might be done better and how I could streamline some of the parts that take more time. So we'll see.

Also, thanks to all who are praying about my heart. I actually received a call last night from my cardiologist with some great news about the most recent heart monitor test. I'll see him next week to go over results and have another ultrasound, but at this point it looks like maybe I just had some delayed positive results from the ablation procedure. So thanks to all who are praying. God is good all the time, and we're so blessed to be here at all to serve Him and bring Him glory.

Why I'm Closing Up Shop

2011-04-27T19:20:00.000-05:00

Well there's a long story for this, and a short one. The short reason is that I need to take a step back and focus on other things right now, with the hope that I can continue with Radical Crafts in the near future.

The long reason is actually several reasons:

Blogging - as someone who received her minor in Writing, you might think I'd enjoy the blogging process. And there are definitely parts of it I enjoy. However, the networking thing is just not for me. I'm so grateful for the bloggers and friends who have helped me along the way these past few months, but the truth is that it's a ton of work to write a blog that gets enough attention to drive business to your shop. And that's just not my passion. I like writing, but I don't have time to link up with party after party in the hopes that people will visit my blog and then visit my shop. I know that's the process, and I totally respect it. I just don't have time for that game right now. Speaking of which, reason #2 is:

Time - Erik and I both feel like I need to take some time off to plan and create and spend some hours praying about what Radical Crafts might be in the future. In the meantime, I need to get a lot more organized and intentional with my days. I'm currently reading Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider and it's amazingly helpful with this process. I highly recommend it. She speaks a lot about the need to be intentional about your family's purpose statement. Come up with one, and make sure everything in your home and all the ways you spend your time serve your family's purpose. So that's a process we're going through right now as well.

Health - a lot of this decision has come about as a result of some health issues I'm currently having. Two years ago (when our daughter was 1) I was told I had a heart condition. It's been a long process of determining what that means, and we were told we shouldn't have more children. But the Lord is so gracious and our doctor came back and said he thought it would be okay. So we have our son - an amazing blessing. But after he was born things went downhill a bit for my heart, so I had a catheter ablation in February to try to fix the problem. We thought it had been effective, but a recent report showed I'm still having problems and so I'm currently on a couple of medications. Hopefully these will help, but in the meantime they are causing some fatigue and dizziness. So I'm trying to simplify my schedule a bit in the hopes that I'll have more energy to devote to my family.

So that's it...in novel form. I am hopeful that God will reveal another ministry to support in a few months and that I can start building up stuff for the shop again. Or maybe He has another plan altogether. What a joy to be able to seek Him in His Word and know that He is sovereign in our lives.

Hopefully I'll be posting once or twice a week, but for now the shop will be closed starting this coming Sunday (May 1st).

Thank you all for your support, and I ask for your prayers while we wait and see what this ministry might be in the future.

Closing the shop isn't easy for me. I'm typically the kind of person with a plate piled miles high with commitments. And quitting one is so painful - mostly for my pride. Admitting I can't do it all...not great. But I'm confident this is the right thing for now. So we'll see what happens :)

4 More Days

2011-04-27T15:11:00.000-05:00

There are just FOUR days left to order from the shop before it closes for a yet-to-be-determined period of time.

Be sure to check it out daily - I'm adding new stuff all the time. And be sure to order when you see something you like to make sure someone else doesn't snatch it up first. There are some great items that have been donated by sweet sisters who are giving in order that others across the world might know the ultimate Giver of all good things.

Here's a little look at some of the stuff just added to the Radical Crafts shop.

Dream BIG

2011-04-25T21:07:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to do a quick post about an awesome joint-venture going on for a family who is adopting a precious boy named Sergey through an organization called Reece's Rainbow. Many bloggers and shop owners have come together to put on a massive fundraiser for this family and TONIGHT is the last night to give and enter a HUGE giveaway.

Even if you're not in time to participate in the giveaway, I encourage you to check out the organization and the journey this family is on. They love the Lord and believe adopting Sergey is something He wants them to do, so they're following in obedience. God is so good.

Shop Sale!

2011-04-24T20:59:00.000-05:00

Since this is the last week for Radical Crafts to benefit E3 Kids International in their ministry to orphans in Kenya, I'm having a HUGE sale.

Everything in the shop is 30% OFF.

Just be sure to enter the code E3KIDS to have 30% taken off your whole order.

I would love to have an empty shop in one week, but I need all of you to help me with that. Please pass the shop link along to your friends - there are some great things that have been donated that would make super Mother's Day gifts! Remember, ALL profits go to E3 Kids!

I'm also hoping to add a few more things this week - key fobs, hair clips, and some great jewelry that was just given to me today by a friend from church.

Next Sunday (May 1st) I'll be closing the shop indefinitely. I'm hoping to open it back up in a month or two, but right now my husband and I are just praying about what I need to do with it. More on that this week, but just know that if you've had your eye on something in the shop, don't wait! This could be your last chance to get it!

Thanks to all of you...hope you have a great week!

Waiting

2011-04-23T15:46:00.000-05:00

I was just in the kitchen glazing my ham for tomorrow (my first time making ham...seems pretty simple, but it wouldn't be the first "simple" thing I've managed to ruin. And there's no seam ripper for ham) and I was thinking about the disciples and friends and family members who were so crushed the day after Jesus died. I cannot imagine the anguish. To think that this Man you've spent 3 years of your life following had just died - and none of His promises had come to fruition (at least not the ones they cared about).

And here I am. Baking a ham and getting my home ready to welcome several friends for a lunch in celebration of the Resurrection.

I know what the disciples didn't know.

That the next day would change EVERYTHING.

Forever.

A few years ago my pastor preached a sermon in which he asked this question:

Is the only explanation for your life the Resurrection?

He went on to say, "We shouldn't be straining to explain and defend the resurrection; the world should be trying to explain us without the resurrection. Our lives shouldn't make sense without it."

Just something to think about as I glaze my ham, so blessed to know what came on the third day. And striving to live life in light of it.

There's Still Time...

2011-04-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

If you order by Tuesday, you will still be able to put a Radical Crafts item in your child's Easter basket!

There are fun crayons, blankets and onesies in the shop!

And of course don't forget that between now and Easter Sunday, you will receive a FREE Card Wallet for each item you purchase from the shop!

As always, all profits from the Radical Crafts shop benefit a ministry. Through the end of April that ministry is E3 Kids International.

Easter Week

2011-04-18T06:15:00.003-05:00

I thought I would share a little resource we're using for family devotions this week to teach our daughter more about Easter and our Savior. This was put together by my dad for his church:

Eight Days with Jesus: Palm Sunday to Easter

The crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus the Messiah, are central to our existence as the church. Jesus came to suffer and die for our sins. He arose from the grave as Lord over life and death. This outline is intended to be an encouragement for you, and your family, to contemplate day by day the last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, including His death and rising from the grave. Only one event and one Scripture passage are mentioned each day. There are passages regarding the same events in other gospel accounts, and there are other events on some days that also are recorded in the four gospels.

Day one: Sunday -- Jesus enters Jerusalem
Read Matthew 21:1-11: Jesus rides into Jerusalem in the fulfillment of prophecy and to the praises of the multitudes.

Day two: Monday – Jesus cleanses the temple
Read Mark 11:15-18: Jesus demonstrates zeal for His Father’s house. Jesus’ anger was a manifestation of His perfect righteousness.

Day three: Tuesday – Jesus teaches
Read Matthew 22:34-40: On a day filled with teaching, Jesus concisely states the two great commandments on which the “whole law and the prophets” depend.

Day four: Wednesday – Jesus forecasts His death
Read Matthew 26:1-5: Jesus predicts His crucifixion in only a few days, even as the Jewish leaders plot to kill Him. (This event may have occurred on Tuesday evening.)

Day five: Thursday – Jesus inaugurates the Lord’s Supper
Read Luke 22:17-20: Jesus shares the bread and the cup, as well as their meaning, with His disciples, instituting a memorial we observe to this day. Later, he entered the Garden of Gethsemane to pray and to be betrayed.

Day six: Friday – Jesus dies on the cross
Read Luke 23:33-49: Jesus – mocked, beaten, tried and sentenced – suffers and dies as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world.

Day seven: Saturday – Jesus awaits the resurrection
Read Matthew 27:62-66: The body of Jesus is in the tomb on the Jewish Sabbath even as the Pharisees work to keep it from being taken away.

Day eight: Sunday – Jesus rises from the dead
Read John 20:1-20: He is risen! He is risen indeed!

(Resources used are A Harmony of the Gospels by A.T. Robertson; The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah by Alfred Edersheim, and Thompson Chain-Reference Bible.)

Easter Promotion

2011-04-14T14:30:00.000-05:00

We just have a couple more weeks to benefit E3 Kids International with the proceeds from the Radical Crafts shop, so I'm offering a little promotion from now through Easter Sunday.

For each item ordered from the Radical Crafts shop, I will include a FREE Card Wallet.

These make GREAT gifts, and you can always stick a little gift card in to seal the deal. I've been using one for over 3 years to carry my driver's license, debit card, and cash around. It fits in my jeans pocket, or I can throw it in whatever purse or diaper bag I'm carrying.

You don't have to let me know that you want one - it's automatically included in your order. There are a couple of styles pictured, but I have lots more and will choose one at random.

And remember - you get one for EACH item you order...so the more purchases, the more Card Wallets.

And, as always, all profits from the sale of items in the Radical Crafts shop go to E3 Kids International in their efforts to provide a Christian education for orphans in Kenya.

Giveaway Winner

2011-04-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! It was great to read what you all love about Spring, and I got a great April Fools idea from Kimberly, who played a little joke on her husband:

So clever! I'm thinking there are a lot of possibilities with that same theme. Thanks for sharing!

Okay, so the giveaway winner...

...was comment #20 -

Congrats Michelle! Thanks so much. Let me know which color blanket you'd like (pink or blue) and send me your address and I'll get your gift set in the mail (radicalcrafts(at)gmail(dot)com).

Thanks again to all who entered.

Stay tuned this week because I'll be announcing a special promotion for the Rad Crafts shop!

And as always remember that ALL profits from the shop benefit a Radical Crafts mission (currently E3 Kids International).

Worship Note

2011-04-09T08:20:00.000-05:00

"Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21).

We will join together this Sunday as part of our worship to ask God to do things we cannot do, to do things we have no hope of being done apart from His mighty and gracious intervention.

He can do even more than "we ask or think."

To this One who has all authority and uses it graciously, we should give all glory.
May it be so as we pray, sing, read, confess, submit and serve.

(Written by my Dad, a pastor in VA)

Wall Art & Picnik Tutorial

2011-04-08T06:00:00.011-05:00

First off, today (Friday) is the last day to enter the GIVEAWAY, so make sure you're entered.

I have seen so many great child silhouette projects lately and decided to try my hand at one.

The silhouettes themselves were super simple. I just took a profile photo of each kid, enlarged it on the computer, printed it out, traced it onto black scrapbook paper and cut it out. So easy.

But I felt like it was still missing something, so I did a little word art...the cheater's way.

(Unfortunately the reflection of a window makes it hard to get a good picture...but you get the idea. Also, don't blow your candles out too hard...does anyone have a tip for getting a wax stain off a wall?)

We have Photoshop Elements, but it isn't currently working. So I learned how to cheat your way to some cute word art on Picnik.com (a free site with lots of fun photo-editing features, although you can upgrade and pay for more options).

Picnik Word Art Tutorial:

First, you need to have a picture for your background. I just found a white background via Google, but you could use fabric, scrapbook paper, etc.

Upload the background to Picnik.

Click on "Edit" and then "Crop"

Choose your photo size from the drop down options. I used 5x7.

Then click on "Create" and choose the "Text" option.

This is where it gets fun. Picnik actually has a great selection of free fonts to use. Choose a font, then enter your text into the box at the top left.

Since I was using several colors, I actually went through the text process 4 times. Each time you type your text, then choose a color from the text toolbox that appears. You can then change the size and several other features.

My art is very simple, but there are practically limitless options for creativity. You don't have to be a Photoshop pro - you just need a little imagination and some time to play around. It's incredible user-friendly and super fun to play with!

Have a great weekend!

Linking up at:

Preschooler Playtime (or How to Stay Sane w/ a 3-yr-old & a Newborn)

2011-04-06T10:44:00.001-05:00

Before our second child ("Mookie") was born I decided to stock up on some quiet projects for "Hootie" to be able to do w/o me while I was nursing (or "thinking" on the couch...very quietly...with my eyes closed).

So I found these two projects on a couple of awesome blogs and went to work. They are super-easy and we've had a lot of fun with them.

These cute alphabet letters are from Happy Together. Check out the tutorial HERE.

I also made these number beanbags. We've used them a lot for our "school time." There are SO many activities you can do with bean bags (most of which are fairly non-violent).

These are from "a pretty cool life." Tutorial HERE.

Then I made a couple of quick drawstring bags to keep them in.

These would make great birthday presents, or even something fun for an older sibling when their little brother or sister is born. A quiet activity is invaluable during those early weeks.

Don't forget to enter the GIVEAWAY by this Friday pm!

Ministry Update - One Month Left

2011-04-05T10:02:00.001-05:00

We have just one more month for the funds raised in the shop to benefit E3 Kids International. As you see on the sidebar, we've raised a bit, but I know we could definitely raise quite a lot more for this amazing ministry.

For those who might be new to the blog, E3 Kids is a ministry that currently supports Royal Kids School in Mombasa, Kenya. This school gives a Christian education to students who otherwise might not get an education at all. The funds we raise will go toward their dormitory fund. They are in the process of building new dorms for the kids who live at the school, some of whom are orphans.

As a reminder, ALL profits from the Radical Crafts shop go directly to this effort.

I just listed some "Good Egg Onesies" in the shop - just in time for Easter:

There are also some fun shaped crayons (perfect for an Easter basket) and don't forget the great bags donated by Better Life Bags!

Please help me support E3 Kids and pass the shop along to some friends!

Thanks - you guys are great!

Eat Your Veggies & Spring Giveaway

2011-04-04T13:46:00.003-05:00

I wanted to do something fun with Hootie on April Fool's Day, but couldn't think of what would be enjoyable, not too confusing (and not too much work). I had thought of decorating the house like it was Christmas the night before, so when she woke up she would be totally confused. But then I considered the fact that I might spend the rest of the day explaining that it wasn't really Christmas and decided that wasn't the best plan. So I ran across these cupcakes in the book "Hello Cupcake" by Karen Tack and thought they were just the thing.

(Don't worry - the chicken is real)

No problem getting this girl to eat her veggies!

I look happy - but this was pretty gross. I used honey for the "gravy" on the "mashed potatoes." Kind of sick.

This expression captures our true feelings...there is nothing appetizing about a slice of Starburst "butter." But it was a fun one-time thing.

Now that it's NOT April Fool's, I can post the giveaway and not worry about people thinking it's not legit. It's totally legit :)

We have one month left of Radical Crafts benefitting E3 Kids, so in honor of that I'm giving away a little baby/mommy gift set:

Giveaway includes:

Here are 4 ways to enter (for up to 4 entries):

1. Leave me a comment telling me one of your favorite things about spring or a favorite April Fool's prank.

2. Become a public follower of Radical Crafts (see sidebar) or subscribe via RSS

3. "Like" Radical Crafts on Facebook (see sidebar)

4. Blog, Tweet, or post on Facebook about Radical Crafts & our mission to support various ministries with all the profits from the Etsy shop

Just leave a separate comment letting me know each way you're entering.

Giveaway is now closed - thanks for entering!

Have a great week!

Good Egg Onesies

2011-04-01T05:29:00.004-05:00

So a while back I bought a few pastel-colored onesies at Target and they have just been sitting in my craft stash while I waited for inspiration. So this week I thought I'd make something Easter-themed and try to sell them in the shop.

Hence, the "Good Egg Onesie" was born.

Unfortunately after I'd made them I asked my husband if he knew what a "good egg" was and I got a cute, sarcastic response, cluing me in that, indeed, he did not know. Apparently this term dates to the 1920's, so it would seem I'm 27 going on 90. But, just in case others are younger than my aged self, here's the definition:

good egg - a person who is pleasant, agreeable, or trustworthy.

So there you have it. And what baby doesn't fit this description (at least some of the time)?

I don't exactly have a tutorial for this, because it's not really a hard one to figure out.

But here's what I did:

Trace words (in reverse) and egg shape onto Wonder Under or Heat & Bond.

Iron said bonding material to felt.

Cut out letters (pain - unless you have one of those fancy cutters...I'm assuming they would make this much easier) and egg.

Iron to onesie (follow directions on bonding material).

If you so desire, you can now hand-stitch (or machine-stitch...if you're crazy good with top-stitching tiny letters, which I am not) around your egg & letters.

And you're done!

I had originally planned to add some decorations to the eggs to make them more Easter-themed, but in the end I didn't because I think they could probably work even after Easter. But if you wanted to make them "Eastery," it would be super easy to add decorations using more felt or embroidery floss.

If you don't want to make your own, I'll be listing a few in the shop over the weekend.
(Remember - all profits go to e3kids as they help educate orphans in Kenya)

AND, be sure to come back Monday for a chance to WIN one in a little baby gift set I'm putting together!

Generous & Ready to Share

2011-03-31T21:17:00.002-05:00

Modern-day slave trade. Child prostitution. AIDS orphans. Children living in literal dumps, waiting for their next meal to arrive in a garbage truck. Disease. Starvation. Homelessness. The list goes on.

Millions of people who have yet to hear the name "Jesus" or have the gospel preached to them.

And here I sit, thinking of a way to save enough money for an espresso machine.

I wrestle daily with questions of, "Is it wrong to buy this?" or "How can I justify this desire?"

The truth I'm learning is this: God blesses us with things. Things aren't inherently bad.

But as with everything else He gives me - my things are really HIS.

As I write this I look around my home - the home I've worked hard to make into a haven for my family. I love that about being a wife and a mother. But what are my children learning? That life is about having a nice house, lots of toys, and thanking God for them? That's not necessarily wrong. But are the Scriptures on my walls just that - verses on the wall so I'll think we're living the right way? And so others will think that too?

Lately our 3-yr-old has been complaining. A lot. And telling me about all the things she "needs." So I show her videos and pictures of kids across the world living in a trash heap. And I tell her to be grateful for what she has and to eat her peas because "those kids would love to have your peas."

And she says, "Let's go get those kids and bring them to our house."

That's not really what I was aiming for. Gratitude would have been just fine. But action is too much work.

"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share" - I Timothy 6:17,18.

This is my heart for Radical Crafts. We are so rich. We have gifts and the means to do something good with them. There are so many layers of possibility for God to use us in this - as a witness, as an encouragement to others, as a means of providing for those around the world who have great needs - the greatest of which is know Him.

I pray it's about Him. I'm a selfish, proud person. This cannot be of me, or it will fail. And it should fail.

It has to be His. For His glory and His name's sake.

Join me...pray about what your involvement can be.

In his book, Radical, David Platt shares this quote from a man in his congregation:

"I realize there is never going to come a day when I stand before God and he looks at me and says, 'I wish you would have kept more for yourself.' I'm confident God will take care of me."

I've needed to write this for a long time, but the challenge to do so came as a result of reading what some other women have written as part of a She Speaks conference contest. The She Speaks Conference is about women connecting the hearts of women to the heart of our Father God. Really, Radical Crafts is about my own obedience to the Lord, but I would love it if He chooses to use it in others' lives as well.

Education in Kenya

2011-03-29T07:21:00.001-05:00

Until I started researching e3kids (the ministry Radical Crafts is currently supporting) I was unaware of the way the education system works in much of the developing world. In Kenya, education for the first 8 years (primary school) is all that students are guaranteed, and in many situations it's a very poor one.

In order to attend 4 years of secondary school, students must achieve a high enough score on the national exam at the end of primary school. Those who do pass go to either a private or a government-funded boarding school. In the case of e3kids students, secondary education must be paid for, and many of these students are unable to pay.

Those students who don't pass the national exam must end their formal education and will hopefully learn a trade. Right now there are some wooden bowls and paper bead necklaces in the Radical Crafts shop made by Kenyan youth who are learning these trades in order to provide for their families.

This is where e3kids comes in - they support Royal Kids School in Mombasa as they seek to provide a quality, Christian-based education for both those who can pay and those who cannot. These efforts extend beyond their own preschool & 8-year primary school program to finding schools and sponsors for those who go on to secondary school.

Remember, each purchase you make in the Radical Crafts shop goes directly to e3kids in their efforts to extend a quality education to these Kenyan children.

Thank you so much for your support!

Obstacles

2011-03-28T09:47:00.000-05:00

One of the things my husband is great at is playing with our kids. Ever since Hootie was a baby he's been such a champ about coming home at the end of his work day and immediately playing with her. I love hearing them giggle (and scream like girls) while I finish dinner.

The thing is, he's just a great example to me. I'm often so busy that I forget to have fun with my kids.

So last night Erik made up an obstacle course for her to run around in and we timed her attempts. She had so much fun (and we did too).

It's amazing how something so simple can be so fun...forget all the toys, movies, etc. What she really loves is fun time with her parents - being wild and acting crazy.

I need to remember to ENJOY being a mommy, and help them enjoy being KIDS!

Worship Note

2011-03-25T19:35:00.000-05:00

Considering the attributes of the God we have come to worship is not only appropriate but vitally important when we gather corporately each Sunday.

In Exodus 34:6-7, God passed before Moses and declared to His servant some of those traits:

“The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin;
yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished . . . ”

We will gather together this Sunday as worshipers of the one true God because
He punished the Guiltless in place of the guilty.

May we express deep reverence and abundant joy as we do so.

(written by my dad, Tom Strode)

Ministry Update - Bihaji

2011-03-23T07:15:00.001-05:00

This is the Feb. 1st entry from the E3Kids blog:

Bihaji, to the far right, starts her high school career on Monday. She’s one of our eight upcoming high school students. And she’ll be the first in her family to go to a boarding high school.

Today’s picture was taken during the school’s eighth grade graduation celebration a few weekends ago. And Bihaji and her father receive her certificate and award for receiving a high score on the national exam from the school’s founder, Grace, and the guest speaker. But, Bihaji stopped by for a visit today because she’s so thrilled over her acceptance at a boarding high school.

Bihaji is the youngest daughter in her family. Her father, although uneducated, is very wise and highly values education. After a family tragedy many years ago, he was unable to give his children the education he wanted for them. His other daughters were able to attend day high schools. While both day and boarding high schools are subsidized by the government, day schools typically provide an inferior education and the daily commute is perilous for young girls.

Bihaji has been struggling ever since her last day at Royal Kids. She wasn’t sure where she’d be going for high school, and her mother is very opposed to girls receiving an education. Her mother believes marriage is more important. Bihaji had been crying frequently because her future was so uncertain. However, her enrollment at a boarding school was finalized this week and Bihaji has a guaranteed scholarship.

Knowing Bihaji’s situation, I’m so grateful for all our high school student sponsors. At such a young age, Bihaji has been mourning the end of a promising education. But now she can confidently continue her studies, and the school she’ll be going to gives her hope for an education beyond high school. Without the sponsors who have been pulling together to support these students, Bihaji would have been another girl with so much potential to fall through the cracks.

A Sweet Discount Offer

2011-03-21T09:21:00.001-05:00

Well we have survived whatever stomach bug is sweeping the nation - all four of us got it, but Erik definitely had it the worst. And, being the generous people we are, we decided to share it with my brother and sis-in-law last week when they were visiting from Oklahoma.

Now that things have returned to normal, I'm hoping to do a much better job of updating the blog.

And the first thing I need to post about is an amazing deal being offered by Rebecca at Better Life Bags! If you've followed the blog for even a short amount of time, you know who Rebecca is. She makes beautiful bags, has donated some to my shop (they're there now - check them out!) and is a huge cheerleader for Radical Crafts.

So when she emailed me a couple of weeks ago and said she wanted to offer her customers a discount for supporting Radical Crafts, I was so humbled and encouraged. The truth is that I've been a little discouraged about things with the shop - I had contacted some people about donating things and not heard back and just felt like I was on my own. Which is ridiculous and just reveals (once again) how horribly prideful I am.

Because it's not my shop. It's not for me to be proud.

It's God's.

So He can do whatever He wants with it, and I'm learning that if I would just pray and give it up to Him, that I will experience the freedom of knowing that it's not about me and will just be used for His glory.

So the deal is:

Rebecca will offer a 10% discount on one of her bags for each item donated to or purchased from the Radical Crafts shop (up to 5 items for a 50% discount!).

People, this is really amazing. She is totally sacrificing for this, and I'm just floored that she wants to do it.

So please - check out her Etsy shop. She just got some gorgeous new fabrics in, and all her bags are fully customizable.

And if you do want to donate anything to the Radical Crafts shop, click here for the donor guidelines.

Click here for details on the discount.

Ministry Update - Omar

2011-03-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Name: Omar

Gender: Male

Birthdate: 1996

Career Aspiration: Ship Captain

Omar is one of the most talkative and inquisitive students in his class. When he first came to Royal Kids School three years ago, he was very malnourished. He entered the school after his mother died from HIV. He never knew his father, and his grand mother cared for him as his mother’s health deteriorated.

He is fascinated by travel and far off places. Whenever E3 representatives visit the school, he peppers them with questions about the United States. When he grows up, he wants to become a ship captain so he can see the rest of the world.

New Stuff from Better Life Bags!

2011-03-14T15:54:00.002-05:00

Today a received a box from Rebecca at Better Life Bags and I just couldn't wait to get her donated items up in the shop.

You might remember her from my guest post over at her blog, Better Life Blog. She's an amazing crafter with a true heart to glorify God by serving others with her shop.

If you visit her shop you'll find lots of great bags - and the best part is that you get to design your own. She is currently taking orders for some new styles, which I totally love.

She was gracious to send me several things to list in the Radical Crafts shop, some of which are pictured below:

Adorable tissue cover

I LOVE the vintage feel of this clutch

And this is so cute and girly!

Another cute tissue holder

And this checkbook cover is cute and functional - we are always misplacing ours and it's a little harder to lose when it looks so good!

Be sure to check out the shop, and give Rebecca some love over at her blog!

Worship Note

2011-03-12T13:49:00.000-06:00

The God we will worship together this Sunday is jealous.

In Exodus, God tells Moses the Hebrews – when they reach the Promised Land -- are to destroy the altars and idols that are part of the false worship by those who live there. They were to do so, God said, “for you shall not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Ex. 34:14).

God had already commanded His people to “have no other gods before Me” (Ex. 20:3). His claim upon His people and their worship was absolute in Moses’ day, and it is in our day as well.

We will come together Sunday to worship the one true God and Him alone in the only way He can be worshiped: Through the sole Mediator between Him and us – His Son and our Savior, Christ Jesus.

May we dethrone and destroy all idols as we gather to worship our God.

(written by my dad, Tom Strode)

Shop Update - Finally

2011-03-11T15:29:00.001-06:00

So it's not quite the "beginning of the week," as I had planned. But, better late than never.

I have totally fallen in love with Moda's "It's a Hoot" fabric line, so I figured making some stuff for the shop was a good excuse to order some of it.

Thanks to my amazingly creative friend Angela I was able to make some of these crayon wallets. Angela is one of those people who comes up with original ideas (which I never have) and she's also one of those people who's analytical enough to look at something and say, "Hey, I could make that like this, only I'd change this and that and make it better." So she made her daughter a crayon wallet, then graciously made me a tutorial on how to make them.

And here they are:

Girl version

Boy version

They come with 5 Crayola crayons (but have room for 10) and a 4"x6" notepad.

And just so I could see ALL the fabric from the line, I ordered a charm pack and made 3 sets of quilted notecards

All of these are listed in the shop as of this afternoon.

Remember - ALL profits from the sale of these items (and everything else in the shop) goes to benefit e3 Kids as they raise funds for a dorm for kids at Royal Kids School in Kenya.

Have a great weekend!

Ministry Update - Irene

2011-03-07T21:52:00.001-06:00

Here is the latest in my series of Tuesday Ministry Update posts - this is another child sponsored by E3 Kids to attend Royal Kids School in Kenya:

Name: Irene

Gender: Female

Birthdate: 1998

Career Aspiration: Doctor

Irene has attended Royal Kids since it first started. After her parents divorced, she became a boarding student at the school. Her father shortly remarried and refuses to financially support Irene and her younger sister, who also boards at the school. Her mother now works as a clerk in a government office, however the pay was not high enough to pay Royal Kids school fees. The school offered Irene a scholarship, so that she and her sister could stay together in a stable environment while their parents were separating.

(Text from www.e3kids.com)

Don't forget - all purchases from the Radical Crafts Etsy shop benefit kids like Irene!

Worship Note

2011-03-05T09:30:00.002-06:00

No worship leader or music leader or preacher will bring us into God’s presence as we gather for corporate worship this Sunday.

The Bible says, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God . . . ” (I Peter 3:18).

We will come into God’s presence as His family because of the Lord Jesus and His totally satisfactory work in our place.

We will all come to God in adoration, thanksgiving, confession, and intercession through Jesus.

He is the sole Mediator between us and God.

May we recognize the centrality of Jesus and His sacrifice as we gather to worship the one true, holy God.

My Excuses

2011-03-02T20:28:00.001-06:00

I'm not doing a lot of blogging this week, but I have some pretty good excuses:

Excuse #1:

Excuse #2:

(And honestly, she's one super-hero you don't want to mess with)

Excuse #3:

I'm working on some new stuff for the shop - hope to have it up by the beginning of next week.

Hope you're having a great week and spending fun time with your "excuses."

Ministry Update - Amina

2011-03-01T15:41:00.001-06:00

This week's ministry update features a young girl named Amina who is currently a boarding student at Royal Kids School.

Name: Amina Juma

Gender: Female

Birthdate: 1997

Career Aspiration: Doctor

Amina boards at Royal Kids, but comes from the school’s neighborhood. She was one of the first young girls to visit Grace and Ngao’s (the school's founders) home, to learn the songs they were singing, before they turned it into a school.

She became a boarding student after her parents divorced. Her father was not interested in providing an education for his daughter, and her mother was unable to pay Amina’s school fees. She now lives at the school, and her mother visits her on weekends. Amina enjoys doing her school work and hopes to become a doctor one day.

Remember all purchases from the shop go to directly help students like Amina at Royal Kids School in Mombasa, Kenya.

And, check out some new "lovies"- just listed today - made by my friend Amber:

Oscar Party

2011-02-28T14:02:00.002-06:00

My husband is a self-proclaimed movie nerd so Oscar season is kind of his "March Madness" (except it's in February...and is not anywhere near as fun as college basketball - but that's a subject for another post).

Anyway, so Erik loves old films, foreign films, and critically-acclaimed dramas (with the occasional "Nacho Libre" thrown in). Any time I happen to be out in the evening, I can almost always guarantee that I'll come home and get to hear about the latest foreign "masterpiece" he's just viewed. I love watching most of these with him, but there are a few where I just have to draw the line of boredom. Plus I'm one of those multi-tasking movie-watchers...I can't just sit and watch. And it's very hard to craft and read subtitles at the same time.

So this year we decided to have an Oscar party with some of our college/work friends. And to make it a bit more fun, we asked people to dress up like characters from any of the nominated films. We kind of thought we'd get a lot of Mark Zuckerbergs in jeans and a hoodie, but were pleasantly surprised at the awesome costumes people showed up in:

Adam & Tara as "Ken" & "Barbie" from TS3

Greta & Michael from "127 Hours" - Michael (as "Aron Ralston") sucked on some Mello Yello in his Camelback...just to keep it (almost) real

Amanda & Tim as "Queen Elizabeth" and "King George VI"

Our costume winners: Debbie as "Alice in Wonderland" (in a dress she made!) and Jake as "Rooster Cogburn"

Erik came as "Dicky Eklund" from The Fighter (which we haven't seen, but E thought he could pull off the emaciated Christian Bale character) and I was "Mol" from Inception

The kids (who were up just long enough for Hootie to be scared of Rooster Cogburn) were supposed to be dressed as "Big Baby" and "Bonnie" from TS3, but we had some tears over having to wear a tutu, so neither dressed up and both looked shocked and confused about all these weird-looking people in our home.

We actually did see several of the movies nominated this year, and were so pleased that "The King's Speech" won Best Picture. It's a fantastic movie & Colin Firth (a.k.a. the TRUE "Mr. Darcy") was amazing in it.

And just a little plug here, although he hasn't done a lot of recent reviews, my husband has a fantastic movie blog where he reviews films from a Christian perspective here. Check it out!

Worship Note

2011-02-26T14:08:00.000-06:00

We will gather this Sunday to worship the triune God -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Our worship is made possible by the Son, Jesus Christ, who through His sacrifice has brought us into the presence of God (I Peter 3:18, Heb. 10:19-20). It is on that basis we will enter into worship.

We also recognize Jesus is our great High Priest (Heb. 8:1-2, 10:21, and other verses in that letter). We worship God through Him.

Among the many other biblical testimonies to Christ and His role in our lives and worship:

He is “our life” (Col. 3:4);

He is our “all” (Col. 3:11);

He is the “author and perfecter of faith” (Heb. 12:2);

He is our “Advocate with the Father” (I John 2:1).

As we worship God and seek to practice God-centeredness in corporate worship this Sunday, we will do so only because of our perfect Savior and His perfect work for us.
(written by my father)

Baby Food Jar Recycling

2011-02-24T10:36:00.004-06:00

Now that Mookie is eating lots of baby food, I have all these cute little jars sitting on my counters because I just can't bear to throw them away. So I've been looking for some fun ideas to recycle and reuse the jars. At the bottom of this post are some different tutorials from around the web, but first I wanted to share a little project I made last night.

Personalized Tea Light Holders

These are so super easy, and I had all the supplies on hand.

You'll need:

small jar(s)

spray paint in desired color(s)

painter's tape

alphabet stickers

ribbon

tea light candles

First, put your stickers in the desire location on the jar. You could then paint the whole jar, or tape it off like I did so you just have one strip of paint in the middle.

Then spray jar with one or two coats of spray paint (thin coats - you don't want it to run & drip on the jar).

After it's very dry, remove tape and stickers. Super easy! If any paint got outside the lines under the tape, just scrape it w/ your fingernail.

I then put a little ribbon around the top and secured with double-sided tape (or you could use hot glue).

Insert tea light and you're done!

These would be fun for a luncheon or dinner party as place cards / favors.

Other Jar Ideas:

This is so adorable! I actually don't have a pin cushion, so this is definitely bookmarked in my "To Make" folder. Check out the tutorial at Craft Pudding.

These baby shower favors are so brilliant! They made their own cute labels to go on the jar - check it out at The Lacey Place.

I am totally in love with this Jar Light Strand by The Little Apartment. She painted the jars, then put them on a strand of lights. How do people think of this stuff? She also has a great Magnetic Spice Rack tutorial (also made from baby food jars).

Ashley at Make It and Love It made these sweet treat jars and has some great ideas & a tutorial here. Change the decor and candy a little and they would be great for any kind of party.

Rachel at Nest Full of Eggs made these cuties with a little chalkboard paint.

Rachel also made this super fun "I Spy Jar." This would be great for the Level 3 jars, and is a great way to use the many tiny toys you might find randomly lying around your house...I know it's not just me.

Finally, Janna and her daughter made these cute Teacher Vases. I love how she made a cute gift that also included a lot of hands-on involvement from the gift-giver.

Leave me a comment with other fun ideas for reusing jars!

Linking up at:

Crayons!

2011-02-23T10:33:00.002-06:00

When Hootie turned 3 last year I made some star-shaped crayons for her and her BFF and LOVED the process of melting down the crayons and seeing them become a fun shape.

Sooo I decided to make a few sets for the shop. I have such crafting ADD - I don't know how people make the same thing over and over again. I guess that's the secret to success, but I just can't do it. So I make a little of this, a little of that.

There are just a few sets, so be sure to check them out HERE.

Happy Wednesday!

Ministry Update - Evance

2011-02-22T05:30:00.002-06:00

Each Tuesday I'll be updating the blog with info from Royal Kids School, the school benefited by our support of E3 Kids International.

Today I wanted to highlight one of the students whose life has been changed by the opportunities afforded him at the school.

Name: Evance Otieno

Gender: Male

Career Aspiration: Surgeon

When you look at Evance, you see a miracle child! When he first arrived at Royal Kids School three years ago they were not sure they would be able to keep him due to many sickness issues. He didn’t look as if he would last another month, but after feeding him well, showering him with tons of love, we’ve seen God revive this young man. He is called “Professor” because of his glasses. His parents both died of HIV.

He is one of the eight upcoming high school students the school is sponsoring. Before leaving this month to go to high school, six of the eight were boarding at the school, and helped with its daily running. They helped the kitchen staff and also helped the current eighth grade students with their studies.

(Text from E3 Kids' website & blog)

Be sure to check out the shop - 100% of the profits go to benefit kids like Evance!

Make Your Own Calzone

2011-02-21T05:30:00.001-06:00

When I was growing up my family would occasionally have "French Bread Pizza Night" when we would each make our own pizza on a large slice of bread and bake it. I still remember loving the opportunity to put just what I wanted on my pizza, so we do that in our family now, only we do it with calzones.

My college volleyball coach did this with us once, and I've loved it ever since. It's a great recipe for a large group - just have everyone bring a topping.

Unless you're totally awesome and make your own dough, you'll want to pick up a bag of frozen loaves. We normally get 2 and 1/2 calzones (enough for 2 adults, 1 preschooler) out of 1 loaf. Put your loaf/loaves in the fridge overnight to thaw (or do it in the microwave according to pkg directions - this is the method employed by forgetful people like me).

Prepare toppings. Luckily the "Cheese Fairy" (aka my mom) had been to our house the week before, so we had every possibly variety of cheese on hand. I also put out bacon, ham, pepperoni, spinach, peppers, pesto, spaghetti sauce and some spices (other options include: pineapple, sausage, onion, tomato, mushrooms, etc).

You'll also want a small dish of water and one egg, lightly beaten.

Put out some foil, spread flour on top, then take a section of dough and work it w/ your hands until it's a thin rectangle (try not to work it so much that it starts to get holes in it).

Once you have your rectangle, start placing toppings on one half. I like to spread a bit of sauce on both halves (don't overdo the sauce or it will make a mess).

Take a break to discuss with daughter why eating flour is not a good idea.

Take picture of crazy husband.

When you have your toppings on, spread a bit of water all around the edge of your dough, then fold one side over to meet edge of other side. Press down all around to seal edges. Then top with egg wash and spices. We make sure to be creative in topping ours so they are easily recognizable.

Bake for 20 minutes (or until a nice golden color) on 375 degrees.

Serve with warm spaghetti sauce.

Have any other fun recipes to share? I'd love to find more ideas that are hands-on for the whole family. Leave me a comment if you do!

Linking up at:

Saturday Worship Note

2011-02-19T08:56:00.004-06:00

Each week my dad, a pastor in VA, sends a "Worship Note" to his congregation and also to our family. They are such an encouragement to me in preparing my heart for worshiping with other believers on Sunday, so I thought I'd share them on Saturdays here:

We will gather for joy this Sunday.

Psalm 92:4 says, “For You, O Lord, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands.”

We will join together in worship because our joy is in Christ and without Him there is no true joy. The greatest thing that our great God has done is to bring glory to Himself by reconciling enemies to Himself through His Son.

Indeed, He has made us glad.

We will gather as the body of Christ to express our joy to God and to encourage one another in that joy.

We will worship as those who share with one another the joy of participating together in the gospel (Philippians 1:3-5).

May we come rejoicing, prepared to express our joy to God for His glory.

Better Life Blog

2011-02-18T07:20:00.001-06:00

Today I'm guest-posting over at Better Life Blog!

Rebecca runs an Etsy shop (Better Life Bags) and makes the cutest custom bags, bibs, etc. I've never met her in person, but she has quickly become a sweet friend and a huge encouragement and inspiration to me.

If you take a couple of minutes to check out her blog, you'll definitely see what I mean.

I first discovered her through her tutorial for Photo Flip Book using some prayer cards she made to pray for her husband. She offers these for free to followers of her blog. Even if you're not going to make the charts, the cards are so great - packed w/ truths from Scripture, each of the 31 days has a different emphasis. They would make a great gift for a new bride, but have also been a great encouragement to me and the women I gave the calendars to for Christmas.

She also makes some great bags:

More than any of these things, though, I just really love her heart for the Lord. It's so evident in her desire to help others through her shop and blog. And her Christmas post will blow you away - such humility and service.

She just had baby #2 a few weeks ago, so she isn't currently making bags, but will be starting up again soon. I encourage you to hop over there today, take a look around, and become a follower of Better Life Blog.

Thanks Rebecca!

The Uncalendar, or How to Overcome "Mommy Brain"

2011-02-17T12:49:00.004-06:00

After I had my first child 3+ years ago a midwife friend of mine told me that your brain shrinks during pregnancy and, although research indicates that you regain that lost brain function after a few months, I'm not so sure...

Now with 2 kids I feel like an important part of me is missing. Yes, my memory. It's virtually non-existent at times. And when talking to friends with young children, it's like a carousel of memory dysfunction.

With a busy schedule, blogging, crafting, running a shop, meal-planning, church activities, birthdays, etc. to keep track of, it's a recipe for a perfect storm.

Enter the Uncalendar.

This calendar has been one of my best friends since college. It's a perfect combo of right/left brain organization. It's undated, so no matter when you start you still get a full year's use out of it.

It doesn't have times already written in, so you can adapt it to your own needs and your schedule.

Each week has a page on the right for dates and events, and a page on the left for notes, graphs, lists, doodles, etc.

The middle section has a year's worth of blank monthly calendars.

And the back has several more note sections, with lists, graph paper, etc.

I go back and forth each year between the full-size version (pictured above) and the 1/2-size. I like that the 1/2-size is more portable, but the extra space in the larger one is great to have as life gets busier.

Let me assure you, I'm getting nothing from the company for this post and they have no idea I'm writing this. I just really love my Uncalendar and love to share things that help me organize my life, thereby freeing me up to do the things I want to do.

If you're interested, check them out here.

I'm linking up at:

My Sweet Valentines

2011-02-16T07:41:00.000-06:00

This was a special Valentine's Day because I now have 3 sweet family members to share the day with. It was also a lot of fun to celebrate the holiday with Hootie, who could enjoy it a lot more this year.

We started the day with a special breakfast - Nutella Croissants (we are HUGE Nutella fans around here).

The weather was gorgeous so Mookie sat in the doorway and watched his big sister play outside in the dirt (one of her favorite pastimes).

Then we got the house and ourselves ready for Daddy to come home and have a special family Valentine's dinner. Hootie wore her tutu and helped me pick out a pretty "ballerina dress" to wear for Daddy.

I'm still finding glitter all over the place, but she loved helping w/ the decorations.

At dinner we went around the table and told each other what we loved about each family member. The Mook mostly just smiled and gurgled, which we took as sounds of love. There are few things more precious than hearing a 3-yr-old tell you what she loves about her brother, her daddy, and you.

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us." - 1 John 3:16

Royal Kids School

2011-02-15T07:00:00.002-06:00

Every Tuesday I'll be updating the blog with information about the ministry we're currently supporting. Right now that is Royal Kids School in Mombasa, Kenya. All profits from the sales in the Radical Crafts shop through the end of April will go to the fund to build the boarding students a new dormitory.

In order to know exactly what you're supporting, here's a bit more info from E3 Kids' website:

"The Vision of Royal Schools is to assist families, regardless of their ability to pay, in equipping students to develop their individual gifts, academically, spiritually, physically and socially, and to do so in a manner that brings honor and glory to God."

School Stats:

Founded: January 2000

Enrolled Students: 400

Scholarship Students: 120

Full-Time Boarding Students: 22

High School Boarding Students: 16

Just a few months ago they finished raising money for a well and were able to complete the work so that the school could have clean water on the premises, instead of having to haul it. This has obviously made a huge difference in the operation of the school, and I'm confident that our work in raising money will also have a big impact.

In addition to the dorm, which I've already highlighted, the school is in need of finished classrooms. You can see the amazing difference between one of the old classrooms and a new one (both pictured below):

{old}

{new}

Please keep this school and their work in your prayers - the teachers and staff make huge sacrifices in order to be able to give these kids a chance at an education and to equip them to make a difference.

Living in Love

2011-02-14T06:19:00.001-06:00

It's Monday, which is normally a day for wailing and moaning, but I'm trying to take this day back and use it in my life and the life of my family. Mondays are a fresh start to a new week. We're equipped by being in fellowship with other believers and being taught the Word on Sunday and now we're ready to go out and be ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

But for some of us, that doesn't mean "going out" at all. Our "out" is really "in." In the laundry room. In the bathroom on our hands and knees. In the pre-schooler's room trying to get her to take a nap instead of jumping on the bed, which she somehow thinks I can't hear when I'm right under her room.

And sometimes, this work seems repetitive and fruitless.

But this morning I read this, which is even more appropriate on Valentine's Day:

"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men [which, in the Greek, means 'to act w/ courage and strength in obedience to the Lord and w/ confidence in his power' -ESV Study Bible], be strong. Let all that you do be done in LOVE." - I Corinthians 16:13,14

"ALL." Everything I do throughout my day...it should ALL be done in LOVE.

A great reminder for a Monday.

Sewing with Mom

2011-02-10T16:07:00.002-06:00

Another benefit of having my mom here (aside from the wonderful fellowship and encouragement) is being able to use her sewing expertise on some crafting.

Mom tried to get me interested in sewing back when I was in school, but I just wasn't having it. But after I had my daughter I was anxious to make her some cute stuff, so Mom taught me to sew a pillow-case dress:

(Not sure why it looks like I'm modeling this...clearly not going to happen)

And after that I was hooked. I have never really sewn from a pattern, but have learned a lot from tutorials and books. BUT, having my mom around to help is awesome. So, w/ her help, I was able to put a few new things up in the shop:

Onesie/bib set

Mom made these great half aprons...I LOVE them

Boy flannel bib set

Girl flannel bib set

Set of 6 quilted cards

Radical Crafting together.

Thanks Mom!

Donut Day

2011-02-08T09:14:00.003-06:00

My mom is here for a couple of weeks and we have been having a great time. It's just so nice to have an extra set of hands and she has been so kind to help me with the kids, cooking, cleaning, shopping & I've dragged her into doing some crafting for the shop (more on that soon, hopefully).

Mom is an excellent cook. It used to drive me crazy because she's one of those "little of this, little of that" cooks. I just wanted specific directions to follow, and she doesn't cook that way. But she has humored me and adapted some things so I can be OCD about "following directions." But, when she's here, I don't have to worry about that. She does the cooking, we do the eating.

This past weekend I woke up one morning to "Hootie" (my 3-yr-old daughter) telling me Gran was making donuts. Now, this is one area where the "excellent cook" takes a few shortcuts, but these "homemade" donuts were one of my favorite things growing up and I still make them when I remember to buy canned biscuits. I'm sure we're not the only people to do this, but they are so good and so easy, I thought I'd share.

Ingredients:

1 can refrigerated biscuits (try not to get the flaky kind - they're weird as donuts)

Oil

1 cup Powdered Sugar

2 tablespoons Milk

2 tablespoons Butter

1/4 tsp Vanilla

2 tsp Cocoa Powder

Directions:

If you have any kind of small circle cookie cutter (or something that works like that), use it to cut out the middle of each biscuit. Save the small circles - these will become donut holes. If you don't have a cutter, you can use a knife.

Heat oil for frying in a skillet on the stove on medium heat (amount of oil varies according to pan...you want it to be high enough to cover 1/2 of the donut).

Fry donuts & donut holes until they're a nice golden brown. Place on paper towel-lined plate to cool a bit.

While frying, make your icing. Microwave butter and milk to bring to a boil. Then mix in powdered sugar to desired consistency (you're looking more for a thick glaze, not really frosting). Separate icing into two bowls. Add vanilla to one, cocoa to other. Glaze donuts as desired.

You can also add sprinkles, nuts, etc.

I know this doesn't have anything to do with crafting, but I'm reminded daily of how important it is to make sure my family is my priority (something I often fail at). Little, easy things like this mean the world to my daughter and it's a great project to have small children participate in (not so much the frying...).

Enjoy!

I'm joining up at:

The Dorm

2011-02-06T22:02:00.001-06:00

So in case you're wondering how your purchases will benefit these kids in Kenya, I thought I'd give a little glimpse into what we're raising funds for. I talked to Carol, the founder of E3 Kids and she said the greatest need at Royal Kids School is a new dormitory.

Currently the boarding students have to share mattresses in tight quarters. The dorms are former classrooms and lack adequate bathrooms.

However, the school has completed the structure for the new dormitory, which will have two spacious rooms to serve as the boys and girls dorms as well as toilets. But, the walls still need to be plastered, toilets added, and new bed frames and mattresses are needed.

The total needed for the dorms to be completed is $5000.

I'm praying that God will use us to help provide part of that money so these kids can have their own beds to sleep in. Education is so important for improving their lives and we all know how hard it is to focus on little sleep. I can't imagine sharing a tiny mattress with someone else. These kids are daily learning Scripture and being taught of God's love - here is our chance to show His love in a tangible way.

Thanks for the role you're playing in this process - by praying, buying, donating crafts, or spreading the word. I appreciate each of you and thank God for you!

Kenyan Jewelry

2011-02-04T10:04:00.002-06:00

I just posted some great Kenyan paper bead jewelry in the Etsy shop and I really love it. The beautiful, colorful beads are handmade by girls in Kenya who are mentored by an awesome woman named Sophia Kea. Here's her story, courtesy of the E3 Kids blog:

These paper bead necklaces are hanging from the tower that holds the water tank at Sophia Kea’s home. Sophia, along with the teenage girls and boys she employs, make all the paper bead jewelry e3Kids sells. Each of her paper bead creations are uniquely made, and it provides stable work for the young girls who would otherwise be married off at a young age and the boys who are unable to attend high school.

Sophia and her husband, Bakari, are standing in her showroom. Bakari is actually the brother of Ngao, Royal Kids School’s founder. Once a piece is finished, she hangs it on this canvas board, or from the roof’s rafters.

At first, Sophia only employed girls who were about to be married off at a young age, whose families were hoping to be supported by the dowry they’d receive. She’s just started employing boys who have finished eighth grade and whose families have no intention of supporting their education. She’s hopeful they’ll eventually get an opportunity to go to school, but in the mean time, they can come to a safe place to work and earn money.

And now for the bead making process. Mpate is in charge of cutting out the slips of recycled magazine paper that will be rolled into beads. Each slip is cut in the shape of a long, thin triangle.

The slips of paper are put into a central pile, and the rest gather around to roll them into beads. Mwanasiti is in the foreground, and Mwahindo’s hands are also rolling a bead.

Once the beads are finished, they organize beads that need to be varnished, and have other bowls with varnished beads that can be turned into necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or bags.

I have lots of other stuff from Kenya to post this week and will get it in the shop as soon as I can. In the meantime, be sure to check out this stuff and please pass the blog and shop info on to others!

Design Reveal

2011-02-01T06:30:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the NEW Radical Crafts site!

I'm so thrilled with the way everything turned out and so thankful to my BFF, Lark, for all her work on the design. She is a great graphic designer. I've worked with her on a few projects now (including some amazing birth announcements) and she does such a great job capturing her client's vision and taking it to another level. Her website is undergoing some updates, but you can see a little of her talent and her contact info here.

In addition to the new blog design, we're also making the switch over to Etsy. So from now on, the shop will be located here.

Today is the first day for the shop to benefit E3 Kids, and hopefully in coming days I'll be listing some great Kenyan jewelry and wood carvings in the shop.

Also, Lark made me a great blog button, so if you're interested in putting it on your blog, you can find it on the right.

Donor Info & Giveaway Winner

2011-01-31T07:47:00.001-06:00

At the bottom of this post I will announce the winner of the fabric note cards giveaway, but first I wanted to post a message to those who are interested in making and donating items to the Radical Crafts shop (or those who might not be interested yet, but hopefully soon will be!).

In the next week or two we'll be making the switch over to Etsy for the shop and I'd love to pack the shop with a wide variety of stuff from YOU!

For those who are interested (or maybe know someone else who might be) there are just a few things I need from you, so if you can shoot me an email w/ the following, that would be great!

Item to Sell – I’ll need a description of the item for Etsy as well as a proposed price, with the understanding that I may name a different price
License – If the design is not your own, you will need to have permission to sell an item based on someone else's design or tutorial. Sometimes these need to be purchased from the designer; other times you can simply ask for permission. Be sure to include the designer’s info in your item description.

Also, in order to offer customers the option of combining shipping, I require all donated items to be shipped to me at the donor’s cost. I will then handle all shipping to buyers. I would love for donors to be able to ship on their own directly to the buyers, but I really want to be able to offer customers the option to purchase items made from several people in one transaction for one shipping price.

{Please understand that I may have to refuse to sell an item after I receive it if the quality doesn't live up to the standards of the shop. I definitely don't anticipate this being the case, but want to ensure that every product for sale in the shop is of excellent quality.}

Finally, in return for your time, effort and expense, I will promote all donors with their own post on the Radical Crafts blog. This post will include info about you as well as a link to your blog and/or your shop. In addition, your name and info will appear in the description for each item you made that is listed in the Etsy shop.

If you have things to donate, but don’t have a blog or shop, I would still LOVE to have your stuff in the shop. Don’t hesitate to contact me!

Again, thank you so much for your desire to serve others in this way. I’m so excited to see how God uses your talents for His glory!

Okay, so it's fitting that this post is announcing the winner of the giveaway, since the winner is our first shop donor, Anna! Anna is one of my best friends from college and she sent some great stuff for the shop in support of Aaron and Laura's adoption.

Below are a couple of the things she made that are still in the shop. I'll be honest, that elephant card holder is a huge temptation for me right now. It is seriously so cute.

Anna, thanks so much for the great things you made! You'll be getting those note cards (and your baby present!) this week!

P.S. Don't forget that TODAY (Monday) is the LAST DAY to buy from the shop in support of Aaron & Laura's adoption! Starting tomorrow all profits go to E3 Kids.

Announcing the Next Radical Crafts Ministry

2011-01-25T16:24:00.001-06:00

I'm so excited to tell you about the next ministry we'll be supporting with all proceeds from the

Radical Crafts shop:

Equip + Empower + Educate

impoverished youth in developing countries

E3 Kids International's goal is to empower orphans and impoverished youth, focusing on education for orphans. They support schools in Africa started by locals with a desire to improve their community. As a U.S. based non-profit organization, they focus their efforts on partnering with local community members.

"We are committed to investing in the education of children, because once they are empowered and are equipped with the necessary skills, free from the physical and emotional trap of poverty, they will continue to positively impact their communities."

This organization was founded by Carol Turner, a dear friend of my family and a woman with a heart burdened for these African children. Carol and the other members of the E3 Kids Board of Directors seek to accomplish education goals by meeting children's needs while developing educational programs and building projects.

There are two main means of ministry and support needed: 1) Their child sponsorship program helps their school partners provide meals, clothes, and tuition to needy students. 2) Their project sponsors help E3 Kids provide supplemental education programs and finish building projects.

Right now E3 Kids is supporting the Mikindani Royal Kids School in Mombasa, Kenya. Since the school´s beginnings its founders and directors, Ngao and Grace Mazira, have envisioned showing children the love of God, with a view to raising up future leaders. Under the Maziras´ leadership, Royal Kids School is a living, vibrant example of God´s compassion to the surrounding community in Mombasa.

I will be posting regular updates and more information on this ministry in the coming days and weeks, and I would encourage you to take a couple of minutes to look around their website and subscribe to their blog. I am so blessed by the daily posts with pictures of the kids and staff, showing the vibrant ministry of the school.

The proceeds from the shop will support E3 Kids starting on February 1st.
Until then the shop will continue to benefit my brother and sister-in-law's adoption fund.

P.S. - Don't forget to enter the GIVEAWAY!

Giveaway!

2011-01-21T10:10:00.001-06:00

I haven't done a ton of crafting so far in 2011, but one thing I did make last week was a pack of fabric scrap cards. I thought these might be fun for a giveaway starting off the new year (I know - it's January 21st, but it still feels new to me).

There are 6 cards (4" x 5 1/2") and envelopes in the pack and they're made with some designer fabric scraps (that might just have been leftover from decorating my son's bedroom).

The giveaway starts today (Jan. 21st) and will go until next Friday (Jan. 28th) at 11:59pm. I'll announce the winner on Monday (31st).

To Enter:

1. Follow the blog (click link on right) or subscribe to the RSS feed and leave me a comment below letting me know you've done it.

AND/OR

2. For an extra entry, "Like" the Radical Crafts page on Facebook and leave me a separate comment below letting me know you've done it.

Make sure to also leave your email address in the comment so I can contact you if you win!

(If you're already a follower or a Facebook fan, just leave comments saying so).

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

New Key Fobs Here & Changes Coming!

2011-01-20T19:40:00.001-06:00

I just put a new batch of key fobs in the shop. It took me awhile to get them done - the snow has kind of made things a little strange around here. But it's been great to stay in with the kids for several days and just enjoy them.

There are less than two weeks left in January, so just a few more days to purchase items in the shop in support of Aaron and Laura's Ethiopian adoption. So make sure you don't wait!

I'm in the process of making several changes to the shop, and really to the whole Radical Crafts concept. My BFF, Lark, is working on some design stuff for me and I think we're going to end up making the switch over to Etsy for the shop - logistical issues seem to call for that as we go forward.

So stay tuned for updates in the next couple of weeks - and please pray with me as we do a full launch on this thing and see how God wants to use it in 2011!

Ornament Sale

2010-12-20T14:36:00.000-06:00

From now until Christmas the fabric ornaments will be on sale - $5 marked down from $8. Great stocking stuffer, or buy some now for next year! Remember to specify if you'd like a name or the date written on the back. Thanks!

Gifts from Anna

2010-12-13T15:37:00.001-06:00

Since the keychains sold out pretty quickly I've been wanting to get some more made, but December is a tough month to get stuff done, so I was so thrilled when my college friend, Anna, sent me a box of stuff to put up in the shop. She is an excellent seamstress - the perfect combination of creativity and perfectionism. Her stuff is super cute and she donated it all to help out w/ Aaron and Laura's adoption fund. She and Laura and I all played volleyball together in college and she has been a great friend. Thanks so much, Anna!

Take a look at the shop to see the great stuff she made.

P.S. - I apologize for the green background - it looks like it's straight out of a mid-80's Wal-Mart portrait studio. We had snow today and I didn't have a good surface outside to take pics on.

Aaron & Laura

2010-11-22T21:59:00.000-06:00

(Read post below first)

The proceeds from all the sales in the shop for November, December and January will go to my brother and sister-in-law's adoption fund. They are in the process of adopting from Ethiopia and are now waiting to hear whether they will adopt one or two children.

It's slightly selfish of me, I know, to test the project out by helping family, but if you knew them you would understand. Aaron and Laura will be amazing parents and I'm so excited to see who God chooses to put in their family under their care. And our daughter is super-excited to meet her cousin(s)!

Most importantly, I know with certainty that their child(ren) will be raised in the "fear and admonition of the Lord" and will have an excellent example of godliness in their parents.

For more information on their adoption journey, visit their blog - Strode Through the Journey. And to read specifically about the path God has brought them on to this point, read this post - "Adoption Thoughts."

What is it?

2010-11-17T14:11:00.002-06:00

"Radical Crafts" is the product of a couple of things coming together, and before I even mention them I have to give all the credit to God. This idea takes my gifts - and any gift I have is from Him - and my desire to spread the gospel - and any desire to do anything good is clearly from Him and not from myself - and merges them into a forum where hopefully many people can come together to raise money to assist those who are actively ministering in various parts of the world for the sake of Christ to the glory of God.

Practically speaking, it's a craft shop selling handmade items with 100% of the profits going to ministries and organizations.

This ministry was inspired in part by the book Radical by David Platt. After reading this book, my husband and I discussed ways we could save or make extra money in order to give more. But as a stay-at-home mom, it's hard for me to make extra money. I'd thought about selling crafts for a long time, but wasn't sure I'd be motivated. But when this idea came up, I knew it was all the motivation I needed. I may have limited resources, but I can take those and as others purchase items in the shop, my resources are multiplied greatly for the sake of the gospel.

My family is an amazing gift from the Lord. My husband, Erik, is a wonderful servant leader, and we are totally blessed by our two children, "Hootie" & "Mookie." Obviously these are not their real names. Or maybe it's not that obvious...there are some interesting names out there. Anyway, we prefer to use their nicknames on the blog.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. And if you're interested in donating anything, please let me know!

Click here to view the Donor Guidelines.

Click on the "Shop" link at the top to go to the store.

Thanks for visiting!

-Catherine