Cristi's Creations

I'mmmmm baaaaack!

2011-11-09T00:19:00.003-07:00

Hello blogging world! It's me. Yes, ME. Cristi. THE Cristi of Cristi's Creations. It seems as though I have taken a bit of a leave of absence, doesn't it? Um, yeah ... that wasn't really planned. It's called life. It has happened. And happened. AND HAPPENED! I can't believe it's been OVER A YEAR since I've created any blog backgrounds or posted anything here (at all) for that matter! I just had a baby, so life is definitely not slowing down any. :) But I am going to try and keep up with this site. I really enjoy creating free blog backgrounds. Let's just see if I can remember how to do it. Ha! :) I'll also post other creative outlets of mine here. I appreciate those who have kept up with the site, even in my absence. You are GREAT fans! :)

And ... I think it was a year and a half ago that I promised "getting around to" those wider background templates. So let me work on that! :)

In the meantime, feel free to browse the site and continue to use all the free backgrounds your little heart desires! :)

Lots of love,

Cristi

Help Me Decide!

2010-07-24T22:49:00.002-06:00

Which of the following collages should I use as my profile picture in my Facebook fan group?

Option A:

or ...

Option B:

Which do you prefer? To see my Facebook site, click HERE

Wider Templates Coming Soon!

2010-06-21T23:12:00.003-06:00

I have had so (SO!) many requests for wider blog templates. It's one of those things that I've been "meaning to get around to" for months. My excuse has been that I like to "test run" each of my backgrounds on my own personal blog before I post them here. And my blog is normal width. But I will figure out how to make the wider backgrounds and be posting those soon. Promise! If I don't get to it in a month or so, bug me. Nag. Whatever it takes. :)

Oh, Say Can you See

2010-06-21T22:28:00.011-06:00

Here are those festive 4th of July backgrounds that were promised earlier! There may be more coming in the following weeks too. Just depends on the amount of time that I have. I can not BELIEVE that it's almost July! WOW! Hope you enjoy!

http://i49.tinypic.com/2i1z3n4.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/j0lgs4.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2d0cmc2.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/c5891.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/wiq78i.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/rvvwbc.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/2uhxxm8.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/a5ahsg.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/20qxiwz.jpg

Figuring it Out ...

2010-06-21T22:24:00.002-06:00

... okay, so I just went into the "new post" link in the top right and then clicked on the "design" tab in the top left and from there it took me to the good ol' trusty page I'm familiar with and used to. Phew! Now I'll have to update my instructions, though. Anyway ... will get to work posting the new bg's now! :)

Ack! Blogger has changed!

2010-06-21T22:21:00.002-06:00

Yikes! I just created some new blog backgrounds, but I went in to try and change mine on my personal blog and all of the blogger controls and settings are different! I have NO idea how to change it now! Hmph. Guess I'll have to figure it out and then update all my instructions!

Sorry - was going to post the new backgrounds tonight, (there are some really cute 4th of July bg's I created!) but have to get this figured out first. Dang technology - just keeps changing on me. I'm getting too old for this :)

Stay tuned ...

We have a WINNER!!

2010-06-09T18:11:00.005-06:00

Hiya, all!

After a much anticipated wait, we have a WINNER of the blog contest/drawing/giveaway!

I took the number of comments and put them into a random number generator.

and ...

...the lucky winner ...

... is commenter #20!

Rebecca @ Belle Blog!!

Congratulations, Rebecca!!

I must say a HUGE thank you to EVERYONE who participated in this giveaway. I have had so much support in making my creations and keeping up with my blog. Now that the giveaway is over, I can get back to making and posting some new blogger backgrounds. I think my next ones will be 4th of July themed.

Rebecca - contact me at cristisblogcreations@gmail.com with your mailing address and which item you'd like from my Etsy shop.

Thanks again, everyone!

Loves,

Cristi :)

And ... it's closed!

2010-06-09T17:11:00.001-06:00

Alright, everyone! The contest entries are officially closed now. THANK YOU so much to all who participated!! I will work on the drawing and have the WINNER posted within the next HOUR ... so stay tuned :)

HOORAY!

2010-06-09T14:22:00.002-06:00

WOW!! I am amazed! My giveaway has finally reached 100 comments! Thank you SO much, everyone!! I will extend the entries until 5:00 pm today (Mountain Time). Until then, you can still continue to enter by clicking HERE and leaving a comment. I will announce the winner of the drawing later tonight so STAY TUNED! :)

50,000!!!

2010-05-22T13:39:00.006-06:00

WOW!!

Sometime today, my blog reached 50,000 hits on the site meter counter!

THANK YOU, all, for being supportive and for enjoying my creations!! :)

To celebrate, I'm going to give away one item from my Etsy shop! If I get 100 comments on this post, I'll do a random drawing and the winner can choose any item that they like!

Sound fun? Ready, set, comment!!

(And truly, thanks again - MAHALO - for all the love!!)

Fruity Pebbles

2010-05-15T14:27:00.006-06:00

It's about time for some new free blog backgrounds, right? :)

A couple of weeks back, I had a request for some more springy/summer, bright, cheerful designs. Here's what I came up with today.

I'm loving the sunshine! Hope you are too!

Loves!

Cristi

http://i44.tinypic.com/k2215t.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/mbmwp3.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/b3tyso.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/347jh9c.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/s45g12.jpg

Welcome to the Country!

2010-05-15T14:07:00.004-06:00

http://i39.tinypic.com/2q8ngn4.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/9jeubq.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/1z5syux.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/28sa52v.jpg

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T13:59:00.002-06:00

I know this isn't a "creative" post. But I wanted to pay tribute to my amazing mother today. Here's one of my favorite pictures of all time - taken in 1980. I love you, momma!

And HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all you beautiful, amazing and creative women out there!! Hope your day is fabulous. (This is my first Mother's Day as a mother, so it's an extra special one for me!)

Zebra By Request

2010-04-30T16:17:00.007-06:00

You asked, I listened! I've had a few requests for more colored-zebra backgrounds. People have asked me for black, white and turquoise. So here you go! :)

You can find the original colors HERE

http://i42.tinypic.com/wmcz2p.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2vwaek8.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/be7ivs.jpg

New Hair Clips

2010-04-29T18:51:00.005-06:00

NEW! Just in time for Spring and Summer! I'm expanding my Etsy shop to include items made from other recycled items - curtains, shirts, skirts, etc. They're fun, light weight, and just right for the season!! And still keeping with my theme of using only recycled materials.

Here are some of the newest hair clips.

( And you can see more by visiting my shop at:)

hiyapapaya.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45634356/charlize-recycled-shirt-hair-clip-with

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45633612/gemma-recycled-curtain-hair-clip-with

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45634894/genevieve-hair-clip-made-from-recycled

Owl Always Love Spring!

2010-04-12T17:47:00.011-06:00

Here are some new spring backgrounds inspired by Summer at Summertime Design's new kit "OWL Always Love Spring"

http://i43.tinypic.com/ic4uvr.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/kt6ad.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/10rvho4.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/n2lsso.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2l2ntc.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/mj3gbt.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2zq9amo.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/a3poja.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/1222jiq.jpg

Backgrounds for Spring!

2010-04-09T10:50:00.008-06:00

I don't know about you, but I am SO excited to FINALLY see some SPRING weather!! I can't wait for the blossoms to come out and all the grass to turn green! I love me some spring colors!

Here are a few new backgrounds to commemorate :)

http://i42.tinypic.com/wsjw9z.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2v2jgqh.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/zvuc7o.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2gvttat.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/15mmn36.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/254zqd2.jpg

Just 'Cause

2010-03-17T23:19:00.008-06:00

Every time a holiday ends, I feel the urge to get some new, fresh backgrounds posted on here. So, here you go ... "just because."

http://i40.tinypic.com/2q8q0ko.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/347v91h.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/33bzpj7.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/4iocvp.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2qar503.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/10ifn6w.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/5bu4d4.jpg

Knock Knock

2010-03-17T15:39:00.003-06:00

Knock Knock

Who's There?

Irish

Irish Who?

Irish YOU a Happy St. Patty's Day!

Hiya, Papaya!

2010-03-15T16:14:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to announce that my good friend Jessi and I have started a NEW photography business called Hiya Papaya! (Cute, huh?!) We're SUPER stoked about this! (Long story, but something was incorrect with our CJPhotography business license, and we needed to start over and re-file, so we thought it would be the perfect time for a fun, fresh new name.)

You can check out our brand new blog here:

http://hiyapapaya.com/blog/

And make sure to enter the contest/drawing for a FREE photo shoot!!

Also, you can become a fan on Facebook (and receive another entry into the free photo shoot drawing) by clicking here:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/hiya-papaya/365235213994?ref=nf

St. Patty's 2010

2010-02-27T23:52:00.000-07:00

Is it really almost March already?!! Wow! I guess that means it's time for some "luck o' the Irish" backgrounds, eh? Since I love green, I love this holiday. I hope you enjoy these bg's - whether you're Irish or not, lassies! :)

http://i45.tinypic.com/2jflkwi.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/34xrnz5.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/15nrfxz.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/ehwwoz.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/2qwpw1h.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/33f845l.jpg

The Three Bears

2010-02-19T14:04:00.005-07:00

http://i48.tinypic.com/ev0shc.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2psoya0.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2rrm6as.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/11j6ib8.jpg

Because it's February

2010-02-15T19:30:00.012-07:00

http://i48.tinypic.com/16kos51.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/20feyiq.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/egabur.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/2eqgen5.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/2a7fnls.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/1hi11.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/25a6oux.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/124ablh.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/4tlmjd.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/5n7oed.jpg

Yet Another Creative Outlet

2010-02-10T22:54:00.002-07:00

I'm trying to expand my creativity :)

You can check out my newest venture here...

http://www.etsy.com/shop/hiyapapaya

Love Bandit

2010-01-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

http://i50.tinypic.com/2rnap7l.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/1562xkk.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/fuc3ti.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/fne4w6.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/68hij8.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2rpei4g.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2wggmt2.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/25r2tsp.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/1zq38yv.jpg

Be Mine 2010

2010-01-16T23:42:00.000-07:00

http://i47.tinypic.com/i2rdav.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/5mwite.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/ddpe12.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/kdn5eh.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/15n6b6d.jpg

Is it too early for Valentine's Day backgrounds? :)

2010-01-14T19:26:00.004-07:00

http://i50.tinypic.com/xbfy1l.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/fmm7o2.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/99khza.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2qsmqdt.jpg

Just Because it's January

2010-01-13T21:11:00.005-07:00

http://i47.tinypic.com/302564y.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2pt4h2x.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/vobomx.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2vadz45.jpg

The Wintertime Blues?

2010-01-11T20:23:00.005-07:00

http://i47.tinypic.com/1e9hs3.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2nb4q3c.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/rrk2uh.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2irazjd.jpg

A New Year!

2010-01-11T12:25:00.005-07:00

I apologize profusely for my lack of new background posts. The holidays happened and ... well ... you get the picture, I'm sure! Anyway, it's a new decade and I'm back! Enjoy these backgrounds with papers courtesy of designer digitals. And happy 2010!

http://i45.tinypic.com/f2ixdy.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/167t6pf.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/22kxuo.jpg

Christmas Candies

2009-12-11T17:45:00.006-07:00

http://i45.tinypic.com/303cklv.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/295zd6x.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/vexf0k.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/ohjr6g.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/b80320.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/9gycma.jpg

Cheer

2009-12-08T16:05:00.005-07:00

http://i47.tinypic.com/2i6pcfc.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2092ioo.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/23vao9u.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/72zrlj.jpg

Holly Jolly

2009-12-08T15:02:00.006-07:00

http://i50.tinypic.com/2jbqx6r.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/nw0hs3.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/v5a6h4.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/313gh9u.jpg

Colorful Christmas

2009-12-08T13:29:00.005-07:00

http://i50.tinypic.com/nqe7tg.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/ehgq4g.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2s1kn6x.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/33oit7q.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/ncfsww.jpg

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-08T12:57:00.004-07:00

http://i46.tinypic.com/33ejvvs.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/9k1qtk.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/1qlj0k.jpg

Mele Kalikimaka!

2009-12-08T12:38:00.006-07:00

One Christmas I lived in Hawaii, so the tropics are very near and dear to my heart. Enjoy these "sunshine-filled" Christmas backgrounds, for a switch!

http://i49.tinypic.com/rhn1xk.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2wf8m1j.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/23ihutf.jpg

Retro Christmas

2009-12-08T12:23:00.006-07:00

http://i46.tinypic.com/slmzrd.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/2dkihra.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/wrc5qd.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/jfaeqr.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/9h0sbr.jpg

Snow Day

2009-12-07T22:27:00.005-07:00

http://i48.tinypic.com/2s00dfs.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2ekhc05.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/29db5vs.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/xc0ubl.jpg

Polar Escape

2009-12-07T22:04:00.003-07:00

http://i46.tinypic.com/2u9ivle.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/dlj6mq.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/1zw0qp4.jpg

Krafty Kristmas

2009-12-07T21:46:00.005-07:00

I thought these paper bag-inspired holiday papers from Designer Digitals were so fun! Enjoy!

http://i45.tinypic.com/jaumur.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/27xnkvl.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2hyjocm.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/1583x4n.jpg

Christmas Memories

2009-12-07T20:47:00.010-07:00

I'm in the process of creating a bunch of new holiday backgrounds. So stay tuned! :) For now, enjoy these "vintage" Christmas backgrounds. My husband walked in as I was making one and said, "Oh - look at you, making wrapping paper!"

http://i50.tinypic.com/mh4wud.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/w18a5z.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/2mr62aa.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2cfuvbd.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/iwq88l.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/21crujb.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/e15mas.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/9k84ya.jpg

'Tis the Season!

2009-11-26T08:55:00.010-07:00

http://i48.tinypic.com/2qxqbls.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2zykhea.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/9r3k7p.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/spyqf7.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/2vjanmr.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2co5ut2.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/s6hwue.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/nqcmmb.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2v3ltg3.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/jijrlx.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2ujl75t.jpg

Thanks For Giving!

2009-11-19T15:45:00.009-07:00

Summer at Summertime designs always has some of my very favorite papers and elements! She recently came out with these ... the Thanks For Giving set. I LOVE them. L-O-V-E! I was super excited to have one more opportunity to create some festive Thanksgiving backgrounds before really starting into winter and Christmas themes. I hope you enjoy them too! And Happy Thanksgiving to all!

http://i50.tinypic.com/14mtahz.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/1z4ifrn.jpg

http://i50.tinypic.com/206h3cy.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/ojjfpc.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2eb64qo.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2lauh5l.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2055dll.jpg

Winter Bella

2009-11-17T18:31:00.010-07:00

I'm personally not in favor of putting Christmas before Thanksgiving. BUT ... I know that I need to cater to my fans and followers and not to my own ideas! :) So ... I hereby give you the very first wintry backgrounds of the year ... presenting Winter Bella ...

(Okay, they're not so much Christmas, per say, as they are just plain winter. But hey - it's snowed, so it's okay, right?!)

http://i49.tinypic.com/w05pie.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/11sld9z.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2pob6gp.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/52gnlz.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2yoaa77.jpg

Giving Thanks

2009-11-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few more backgrounds for Fall and Thanksgiving. I'm thankful for all of you who support my creations and use my designs! Happy November!

http://i35.tinypic.com/2h72vs2.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/24nlnrr.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/20rv3v7.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/10x8w9v.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/15ph095.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/25f6nwx.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/33p4i1e.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/jb4t45.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/zvsb2h.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/1zf7hvn.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/zj9bht.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/9lek9j.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/2efl5xz.jpg

And the WINNER is ...

2009-11-04T23:52:00.003-07:00

'Tis 5 minutes until midnight and the blog contest has now been closed. I just randomly drew a winner and that winner is ...

drum roll please ...

CHRISTAL!!

(Interesting how the random winner was the VERY LAST comment!!)

AND ... actually ... since I'm feeling generous and the holidays are coming up, I decided to draw a SECOND winner too!!!

Woo hoo!!!

And the second winner is ...

Torri P!!

Christal and Torri, contact me at cristisblogcreations@gmail.com to let me know which prize you would like! I'm so excited for you!!

And thank you to EVERYONE for participating! This was really fun for me! :)

Love,

Cristi

Extra, Extra!

2009-11-02T10:03:00.003-07:00

The CCC (blog giveaway) will be extended for TWO MORE days! And, what's more? If the comments/entries reach 75 or more, I will increase the size of the print that you choose, AND I will mount it and spray it and sign it! Great for yourself or for a holiday gift.

So, click HERE to enter the contest (there are four ways to enter, four chances to win) simply by leaving a comment at the bottom of the post.

Thanks for all of the participation so far ... and GOOD LUCK! :)

A CCC - Cristi's Creations Contest!!

2009-10-26T20:06:00.019-06:00

With nearly 23,000 hits to my site in less than a year, and with Thanksgiving and the Holidays coming up, I decided it was about time that I do my very first ever blog giveaway! As for the prize, I thought it would be appropriate that you win something that I have made, since this is, after all, Cristi's Creations. However, I am not a very crafty girl - like so many others out there in cyberspace. Pretty much the only things that I can do (besides creating blog backgrounds) are take pictures and sing (and I'm only amateurish at those). So, if you win, you will have to be stuck with something created by yours truly as your prize. You have been warned. Now enter at your own risk ...

Here's how it works: You will receive one entry simply for leaving your name in a comment here. A second entry will be received by looking through the following 10 backgrounds and telling me which is your favorite that I have created so far. A third entry for mentioning this giveaway on your own blog. And a fourth entry if you actually use one of my backgrounds and then let me know (include a link so I can see).

Four ways to enter, four ways to win!

Tell me which of the following backgrounds you like best:

Option 1 - "Easy Breezy"

Option 2: "Sun Porch"

Option 3: "Zebra"

Option 4: "Floral Smoothie"

Option 5: "Seaside"

Option 6: "Little Garden"

Option 7: "Cristi's Photography"

Option 8: "Sweet Rainbow"

Option 9: "Just Breath"

Option 10: "Top of the World"

Or feel free to peruse my designs and tell me your very own favorite, even if it's not posted here as one of the 10 to choose from.

Now ...

The prize: an 8x12 digital fine art print of your choice (from the following 7 images taken by moi)

OR ... the following CD that I had the opportunity to record a solo on a few years back:

OR ... if none of these prizes suit you, I can surely think up something else that you WILL like! So play anyway! :)

You will have until next Monday, November 2nd to enter. That gives you only ONE WEEK. On your mark, get set, play!

Give Thanks (For Fall)!

2009-10-26T17:20:00.015-06:00

I know it might seem odd for me to be adding some Thanksgiving backgrounds before Halloween is even over. But some folks don't like Halloween as much and many of these can be used for general autumn as well. Also, I have to create while I can, now that I have a baby! These were actually made while Leo was attached to me ... thanks to the Moby wrap! (One of the best inventions ever, in my opinion!) So ... if you're looking for Halloween bg's, you can check out my two posts below this one. But if you're wanting Thanksgiving, I now present to you ... the Give Thanks collection :)

http://i34.tinypic.com/dnbkvk.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/2z4lchx.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/f09smg.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/f53mer.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/jgh62v.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/2envjpz.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/23j075h.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/2u7ubz8.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/dpelw1.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/2rm15wi.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/ngdnpe.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/2ealcn7.jpg

Halloween, Round 2

2009-10-15T14:48:00.009-06:00

http://i38.tinypic.com/14avn2h.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/sxekya.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/jl00tw.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/qrckmt.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/o73re9.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/2ufvfd4.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/t9ukxv.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/sbjvk0.jpg

Happy Haunting!

2009-10-04T23:26:00.002-06:00

Like I said before, if I don't make backgrounds now, while Leo is still in the hospital, I may never get to them! So even though it's still the beginning of the month, I decided to go ahead and make a few Halloween-ies, since it's one of my favorite holidays to decorate for! Now, off to bed so I can get up early and go see my baby! :)

PS - can I tell you how HAPPY I am that PURPLE is now a Halloween color?! I don't recall when or who decided to officially add it, but my hat goes off to that person! ;)

http://i37.tinypic.com/2cgivr8.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/206k6cj.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/14djdr9.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/21npbvr.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/2jg2ry8.jpg

http://i37.tinypic.com/vfcg38.jpg

http://i37.tinypic.com/23sx0lg.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/fz7r0w.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/103cz9j.jpg

http://i37.tinypic.com/2pytav8.jpg

http://i38.tinypic.com/3515q1d.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/242vfc2.jpg

"Falling For Fall"

2009-10-03T18:47:00.008-06:00

Summer at Summertime Designs has put together some fun fall themed papers that I've used to make backgrounds. I've got to do all that I can while our baby is still in the hospital - because I'm sure that once he comes home, I won't be making backgrounds for a little while :) Thanks for all of the love, prayers and support! We still couldn't be more thrilled! :)

http://i36.tinypic.com/2cohcgo.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/14xc8s7.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/ic39xz.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/1zyh1jd.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/nxnaxi.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/33yqu4z.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/2wdrez4.jpg

Photo Backgrounds

2009-09-30T20:39:00.010-06:00

It dawned on me tonight that I've never made backgrounds from my own photographs that I've taken. So I thought I'd try and make a couple. I'm not sure how I feel about them, but I'll go ahead and post 'em anyway :)

http://i33.tinypic.com/2aais92.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/2mrwi1j.jpg

http://i36.tinypic.com/1585s0l.jpg

http://i37.tinypic.com/24461ar.jpg

Introducing...

2009-09-24T19:56:00.000-06:00

Well, what can I say? Miracles never cease! And God works in mysterious ways ...

At about 10:30 this morning, we got a phone call from our adoption agency saying that they had a baby boy that was born on Tuesday and the birth mother wanted to sign away her rights today.

We quickly went to our agency, signed some paperwork and then went to the hospital to meet the birth mother. She is a darling girl and we fell in love with her and her brave decision. She signed away her rights to us as this baby's parents at about 1:00 pm. We then drove to the hospital where the baby is in the NICU and held our little baby boy for the first time!

Little baby Leo :)

We are in absolute LOVE with him!!! He was born three weeks premature and so he has a few little problems breathing on his own. And he also has an infection. So he's in the NICU right now. It's so sad to see him all hooked up to the wires and cords. But he is a GORGEOUS little guy! Just 6 pounds, 4 oz!

Right now we couldn't be more shocked, excited, happy, grateful, grateful, grateful or GRATEFUL!!! Thanks for all the prayers, love and support!

Everything is a whirlwind right now - crazy emotions and we're really busy trying to notify people. So please don't mind me if I don't post new backgrounds for a couple of days. We'll be in the NICU for awhile too :)

Ahhhh!!! We have a baby boy!!! We are in love!!!

Prayers

2009-09-23T16:00:00.002-06:00

Please keep us in your prayers. The birth mother has changed her mind. So no baby for us in the near future. :( I'm having a rough time right now. I'll try to get back to creating backgrounds soon. Love, Cristi

Baby Girl

2009-09-22T18:42:00.008-06:00

For an explanation as to why I've been creating baby backgrounds lately, see the next post :)

And sorry it's taken me an extra week or so to create the girl ones. It's just that, well, we've been busy lately! Yay! :)

http://i33.tinypic.com/20awg0y.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/122ykcg.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/29gftzp.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/2581h5u.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/npml36.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/11wboqs.jpg

It's a Boy!

2009-09-07T21:37:00.012-06:00

Allow me to get personal for a moment ...

I am a truly blessed woman. My husband and I have been married for five years. Five glorious, beautiful, fantastic and fun-filled years that we've been truly grateful to celebrate together. For almost the same amount of time, we've been trying to start our family. After a year of trying, we were blessed with a pregnancy, only to have it end in a miscarriage six weeks later. Since that time, for one reason or another, we haven't been able to get pregnant again. That was four years and many infertility treatments ago. And we have longed to bring children into our home!

About a year ago, we started working on the adoption process. There is a little boy at an orphanage in South Africa, named Charlie, that we have been trying to bring home to us. But the process is terribly long and painful. We're at a somewhat stagnant point right now and have been for some time. It could take up to a year, or even longer, before we are able to go through with his adoption.

While we're still hoping and praying to bring little Charlie into our family, we made the decision in the meantime, to move forward with our lives, and start the process of adopting an infant from a local agency here in the USA.

We just barely found out that we have been chosen by a birth mother! She is due in late October and is having a little boy! We couldn't be more ecstatic!!

In honor of this, I have created a few little baby boy backgrounds! I am hoping to get some little baby girl ones made soon too. But for now, I'm being selfish and only took the time to finish the boy ones! :)

Sorry for such a long explanation and for getting so personal. But I felt the need to express my emotions in creating these new backgrounds ...

It's a boy!!

http://i26.tinypic.com/35lup02.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/30mpa9u.jpg

http://i26.tinypic.com/r94xew.jpg

http://i29.tinypic.com/1e1f81.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/fejwus.jpg

http://i26.tinypic.com/1szktg.jpg

Holding on to Summer!

2009-08-21T08:17:00.001-06:00

Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am a lover of COLOR! The bolder, the brighter, the better! And to me, summertime epitomizes bright, fun color. I know that for most, school is already back in session. But I'm just going to hold on to summer for a wee bit longer :) Enjoy these backgrounds with papers and elements courtesy of Designer Digitals, Summertime Designs, and yours truly ...

http://i32.tinypic.com/55l4c2.jpg

http://i32.tinypic.com/2jcbr09.jpg

http://i30.tinypic.com/2u4r9j7.jpg

Seaside

2009-08-21T07:39:00.001-06:00

These are really simple, and even kind of plain (for my taste). But the papers SO reminded me of the trip my husband and I just took. One of our prizes on the Price is Right was a week long stay in the Hamptons. We had such a wonderful, relaxing time! And these papers took me right back there! So ... for my own nostalgic sake, I created a few backgrounds to remind me :)

(Papers courtesy of Designer Digitals)

http://i27.tinypic.com/35ar6n9.jpg

http://i26.tinypic.com/20z1udy.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/2hzsd3q.jpg

http://i27.tinypic.com/2vuk088.jpg

http://i30.tinypic.com/687bs6.jpg

http://i27.tinypic.com/29g1kxz.jpg

Smoothie Shop

2009-07-21T12:19:00.000-06:00

Enjoy these new backgrounds inspired by the "Smoothie Shop" paper collection at Designer Digitals!

http://i32.tinypic.com/2z8ayvo.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/15mfmdt.jpg

http://i26.tinypic.com/2lid5yv.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/2n6snt2.jpg

http://i32.tinypic.com/10e3cw1.jpg

Rainbow of Zebra

2009-07-04T23:52:00.012-06:00

Pretty much any color your little zebra stripe loving heart can desire! :)

http://i43.tinypic.com/2u7ue0l.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2mmwf0n.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/23sj6s0.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2lk2zhl.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/kcz5ag.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/dom36h.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/awdi1l.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/16lfhxz.jpg

Oh Say Can You See

2009-06-29T22:54:00.006-06:00

http://i39.tinypic.com/8weiqv.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2rxk58h.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/2uijfwj.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/k4ze3m.jpg

The 4th of July

2009-06-27T23:49:00.004-06:00

Here are a couple more 4th of July backgrounds I made with some papers I purchased over at Designer Digitals. Enjoy! Just a few more days! :)

http://i44.tinypic.com/nlu24h.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/1124qw0.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/2q82bnn.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/o85ste.jpg

Summer Fedoras

2009-06-27T22:46:00.008-06:00

So I was utterly inspired by Summer's (Summertime Designs) newest papers and elements - "Fathers and Fedoras." SO cute! They can be for guys OR girls. I love it!

http://i39.tinypic.com/20tl4y8.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/qzkxvt.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/11ju9l5.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2eqfd37.jpg

Let Freedom Ring!

2009-06-16T07:02:00.000-06:00

Okay, so it might be a little early to start posting Fourth of July backgrounds. (Although it's now less than a month away!) But this is one of my VERY favorite holidays and with how crazy my summer is going (it's the busy season with weddings), I am worried I won't get any created before the 4th if I don't do this now.

A few years ago, Shabby Princess had these papers and elements and I snatched them up, just waiting for the right time to use them. And, well, my friends - I think the time has come!

Enjoy! And God Bless America! :)

http://i41.tinypic.com/14ikd1d.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/153yc8g.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/zluefl.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2d83jmb.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/walmvq.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/5x74a9.jpg

Let the Sunshine In!

2009-06-15T16:13:00.010-06:00

I don't know about where you guys are living in the country, but we've had rain for almost 2 weeks straight here! I am READY for the sunshine and for my SUMMER!

Here are some fun new backgrounds inspired by Amy Teets "Sun Porch" designs over at Shabby Princess. Enjoy! :)

http://i44.tinypic.com/4jr7t.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/123oduo.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/vz7xpu.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2a68q6d.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2rrmhj4.jpg

Easy, Breezy, Beautiful SUMMER!

2009-05-31T21:13:00.001-06:00

I apologize that it's been so long since I've created any backgrounds. I'll be honest. We've had a rough couple of weeks. My husband and I are currently working on an international adoption that is going painfully slow. And this week we had a pretty large set back. It's taking so long to bring our little boy home. So, if those of you using my backgrounds or who happen to stumble upon this page wouldn't mind throwing up a couple of extra prayers, we wouldn't object :)

On a much brighter note, summer time is finally here! YAY! The neighborhood children are out playing and laughing, sno-cones are the treat of choice, the birds are chirping and the sun is shining!

In honor of the season, please enjoy these creations, inspired by Summer at summertime designs (her latest kit - easy breezy)

And thanks for all the support and comments. It's been so fun to see people using what I have created!

Love,
Cristi :)

http://i39.tinypic.com/2hpn70k.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2zxz5ea.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/amqwcg.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/j67dqu.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/nmlz6s.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2wdar7b.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/5fptvn.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/fw64c4.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/sl419u.jpg

Angel Mother

2009-05-08T16:22:00.013-06:00

I know, I know - these are coming a weeee bit late. Mother's Day is just a couple of days away. I apologize profusely. But we've been out of town, so I wasn't able to make any new backgrounds. However, last night I saw that Summer at Summertime Designs had created these great papers and kits celebrating M-O-M, called "Angel Mother." I rushed to get some done in time for the big day :) Enjoy - and Happy Mother's Day to all!

http://i41.tinypic.com/30u4s5k.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/33wup76.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/egd8k1.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/mkhz6u.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/sbmsyr.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2qm0r5w.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/34zknmc.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2niskm.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/wu0wuc.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2u8l4ep.jpg

Happy Day!

2009-04-24T21:39:00.012-06:00

This paper kit over at Designer Digitals, called "Sweet Rainbow," made my day! I loved the bright, spring-like papers. And the backgrounds turned out cute. At least I think they're SO fun!

http://i42.tinypic.com/xqj6vd.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2dhctnc.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/jip8jo.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/157ljeu.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/14kguwm.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2ahxuf8.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/291gebo.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/dm6wox.jpg

Springy

2009-04-24T20:28:00.010-06:00

These are at least a LITTLE bit more "springy" than the last ones, right? :) Enjoy these designs with papers courtesy of Designer Digitals

http://i42.tinypic.com/25qxdns.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2u4inav.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/25a6dt2.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2l9qg43.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/30tjci9.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/301mrma.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/900gf6.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/260q1rt.jpg

Apples and Almonds

2009-04-24T19:02:00.009-06:00

Summer over at Summertime Designs has created a new kit called "Apples and Almonds." I love the color combo of red and brown! These aren't particularly "spring" oriented. But they're still fun! Enjoy!

http://i41.tinypic.com/6on7g2.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/9qlqno.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/j5xh0m.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/16a18gk.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/vg2blu.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/awdatv.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2hxrl0g.jpg

Spring Tide

2009-04-17T21:49:00.006-06:00

Springtide Silhouettes. Papers courtesy of Designer Digitals

http://i40.tinypic.com/357lsuq.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2wlylqt.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2cda7uh.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/ad2p2w.jpg

Spring Feast!

2009-04-13T14:04:00.009-06:00

http://i42.tinypic.com/b5o0hg.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2chl2eh.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2639amv.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/oggy03.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2n1hyix.jpg

(elements courtesy of designer digitals and myself)

In Honor of Today

2009-04-13T13:37:00.006-06:00

The sun is shining and it's a gorgeous spring day! WOO HOO!

http://i44.tinypic.com/35l9tom.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/dff6mh.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/sczyio.jpg

For a Good Cause

2009-04-09T15:58:00.008-06:00

When I came upon this blog with these amazing papers, I couldn't help but be compelled by the story of this child with Cystic Fibrosis. I decided to download the papers, as well as donate to the cause. To read more about it, click HERE. You can also donate at that link.

Enjoy the creations inspired by a beautiful little girl!

http://i41.tinypic.com/aua061.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/27xpb9x.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/16ie39v.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2w1tev4.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2a0jnd1.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/i4mpv6.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2642urc.jpg

On Top of the World!

2009-04-06T14:00:00.007-06:00

These backgrounds came about because of two things:

1) the cute, bright papers I found at Designer Digitals and

2) my sister's request that I make some more spring-y designs.

And since we have SUNSHINE today (WOO HOO!) I'm obliging! :)

Enjoy!

http://i43.tinypic.com/9fxwrn.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2qtxyj8.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/29f3z9w.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/w177so.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2s7aryb.jpg

Popcorn Popping

2009-04-04T23:42:00.006-06:00

http://i43.tinypic.com/akbj1z.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/1z2ovnk.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2poqpsg.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/58sq9.jpg

Frills, The Finale ... (for now)

2009-04-02T22:42:00.002-06:00

http://i44.tinypic.com/314fimp.jpg

Frills, Round 3

2009-04-02T22:24:00.000-06:00

http://i39.tinypic.com/15i3qzr.jpg

Frills Round Two

2009-04-02T17:10:00.000-06:00

http://i42.tinypic.com/126dz45.jpg

Frills

2009-04-02T16:37:00.003-06:00

Summer at Summertime Designs just released a new set of papers called Bubblegum and Licorice - very cute! I made them just a bit more pink than what she had, so that it doesn't look so much like halloween. I really liked the result!

Stay tuned for more backgrounds from this fun theme :)

And for now, here's "frills"

http://i41.tinypic.com/9gjbc3.jpg

Just Because

2009-04-01T08:34:00.000-06:00

http://i43.tinypic.com/501o3o.jpg

Easter (3)

2009-03-23T23:51:00.007-06:00

http://i40.tinypic.com/2cz7b4k.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/1079xkh.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/14kb24p.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/fpcq5v.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/21eooxv.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2m6rhy1.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/15x7342.jpg

Easter (2)

2009-03-23T23:27:00.005-06:00

http://i44.tinypic.com/20hx737.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2dqsjyf.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/34652xz.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/1t7udc.jpg

Easter (1)

2009-03-23T17:56:00.005-06:00

http://i42.tinypic.com/2hwz6us.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/30ngnlc.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/ekntvp.jpg

New (and much EASIER!!) instructions on how to add one of my backgrounds to your blog ...

2009-03-21T23:48:00.001-06:00

Thanks to one of my blog followers for helping me figure out a much easier way to add one of my backgrounds!

To use one of my backgrounds for the first time, follow these steps:

1. The first time you use one of my backgrounds, you should set your blog background to 'minima.' To do this, log in to to your blog and click on 'customize' in the top right corner

2. Now that you're in the 'customize' screen, click on the 'Pick New Template' tab in the upper left part of the screen. Click on 'Minima.' (The first one there, not minima ochre, or blue, just plain white minima.) Then save that template choice. (You won't have to do this every time you use one of my backgrounds. Just the first time.)

3. Okay. Now click back onto the 'page elements' tab.

4. Click on 'add a gadget' (in the right column)

5. Then find the 'html/java script' option and click on that.

6. Copy and paste this code into the content:

<style type="text/css">
body {background-image: url(direct link);
background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat;
background-attachment: fixed; }
</style>

7. Now, find your favorite background from my site, and copy and paste the link below it between the parenthesis where it says (direct link) (make sure and leave the parentheses there. Just copy and paste the "direct link" text)

8. Click "save" and you're done!

If you're already using one of my backgrounds, it's even easier to change your background. Just 'edit' the html/java script gadget that you have one of my background codes pasted into and then change the direct link in the parentheses only. You don't have to start all over from scratch!

Peacock Garden

2009-03-19T08:57:00.001-06:00

Lynn over at Designer Digitals has created these fun and bright papers, inspired by the peacock! I fell head over heels in love with them!

http://i44.tinypic.com/2ns9vu0.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/10z0cur.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/349dljd.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2944fvt.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2h4f2px.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/2mhfs0i.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/hvuefm.jpg

Wishful Thinking

2009-03-18T22:00:00.008-06:00

I'm craving Hawaii - the islands! So here's to a little Aloha wishful thinking!

http://i43.tinypic.com/svkrch.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/xlbk83.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/346kscm.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2nimuc1.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/wlcgsg.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/212ti1i.jpg

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T00:58:00.003-06:00

http://i44.tinypic.com/28ldy00.jpg

Spring Thinking :)

2009-03-12T21:04:00.010-06:00

In CELEBRATION of our 5 Day Forecast looking like this ....

....AKA ... NO SNOW this week (WOO HOO!) and a HIGH of 65 (YESSS!!!), I decided to cave into my innermost desires and give in to the fact that spring is truly almost here! Truth be told, I've been THINKING Spring for months, but now that it's finally starting to actually feel (and smell and look) like springtime out there, I am excited to make some bright, sunny, flowery backgrounds! Thanks to these fun papers from Designer Digitals and Summertime Designs, I could let my creative juices flow. Enjoy! And HAPPY SPRING!

http://i40.tinypic.com/10omw4i.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/34soz94.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/xc3w38.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/2gy9e1v.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/1z6qix4.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/mjms1e.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/23rr1n6.jpg

More St. Patty's Day

2009-03-09T01:00:00.008-06:00

(Papers are from Shabby Princess. I just tinted them green. You'll notice these are actually a more "mossy" or yellowy green than the ones in the last post.)

http://i41.tinypic.com/28cmw60.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/14lna4n.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/ofjgn.jpg

And here's this one - a little less green, and without the St. Patty's Day wording - if anyone is interested in using it more than for just the holiday :)

http://i44.tinypic.com/2v920t4.jpg