Scrapbooks, Stamps and Crafts - OH MY!

Enjoying the little things!

2009-12-02T16:00:00.000-08:00

HI Divas & Dukes,

I'm sitting looking at my Christmas tree trimmed with all the ornaments given to us by dear freinds over the years and I'm feeling truly blessed.

This has been a tough year for so many families ALL over the world.I'm finding myself enjoying the little things. A handnmade gift given to a dear friend,a cup of tea with homemade goodies given to us by someone special. Sitting gazing at our tree with Buddy the cat sitting on my lap or him lounging under the tree where he thinks he's invisable!

These are the moments I wish for you and your family this year. The Christmas madness starts so early and I just want us all to take a moment and breathe in the smell pine cones, cinnamon, or the fragrence of your favorite candle.

I hope you find the time to share with us some on your Favorite Christmas traditions.

Happy Holidays!

Diva Danielle

The Diva Doctrine

2009-09-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

HI Divas And Dukes,

It's Monday and I love to see what all my friends are up to thru Twitter. I feel like I'm connected to them thru the "Crafting Cosmos"(tm) even though we live all over the globe.

So, I'm reading Cathy Murillo"s (The Crafty Chica) tweets and on them I see the infamous word "Judging" and I look at her Blog. OMG! I was so upset for her. She's one of the most sweetest,talented,ladies you'll ever have the great pleasure to meet.

She tells the story of her helping and encouraging someone in the "Art' community and then being snubbed by this individual and her friends. They felt she wasn't worthy! Being the Leo that I am and fiercely loyal, I just wanted to jump on a plane and find out who this sad person was and tell them they're NUTS!

Instead, I've decided to write my frustrations out on our Blog. Rayme and I try to keep it our Blog Creative and positive but we always have the conversation of "Why are people so judgmental & why are women so hurtful to each other?" This is something I've puzzled over for decades(since I was 7).

Being in the theatre you're always judged. You know "Life is a constant audition" but you learn to accept that as part of the process to get another gig! One of the most challenging and rewarding adventures was jumping head first into the crafting world 10 years ago! I think it helped that I wore a ball gown and my tiara!

It always floors me when I hear about the mean things people say and do to each other. Like "La Chica" said, She just blesses and releases them! But really! Why do we need to go there in the first place!

So, you're asking yourself "where is she going with this?" The Diva Doctrine of course! "Dare to be BOLD , Different,and always KIND" Every week I sign off the show with that little saying for a reason. I want you all to go out there and do something that you wouldn't normally do. I want you to experience something different and wonderful and I REALLY want you to be KIND to yourself and others.

Here's our challenge....This is for me too! We're going to stop ourselves from saying and doing things that we'll regret later. We're sending loving, positive things out into the universe to spread happiness and joy! Pollyanna? maybe, but what a great world it would be if we all did this. One Diva & Duke at a time!

Love & positive thoughts,

Diva Danielle

September Already?????

2009-09-02T17:47:00.001-07:00

September! It didn't hit me until Danielle and I were talking on our radio show today about the date....September!!! Wow!
I know I say it a lot, but as we all get busier in our lives, hanging on to and recognizing every moment as a precious seems to be more vital now than ever. For me, I'm keeping that consciousness going....and going....and going....;-)

There's been a lot of creative opportunities going on and I so look forward to the fall. I'm looking forward to creating new greeting card designs using more things around the house and of course, the things I happen upon in my garage. It is stuffed with all kinds of boxes of craft stuff, yard stuff, you name it, it's there. And if you happen to have a garage and you have the slightest bit of creativity (which we ALL do), then you know exactly what my garage looks like....YOURS!!!

It's fun to go shopping in there! AND, I've already purchased it! Time to pull out those old living room paintings in their out-dated frames and have some fun with them! I love taking things like that and making them into cards. This means taking the canvas and tearing it up...so be EXTREMELY careful that you're not unwittingly tearing up an early Picasso!

But this time I want to take the same idea and re-arrange the small squares that I have torn up and make a colorful collage out of it. Re-dress the picture frame, perhaps spray paint it jet black or maybe a smooth silver, and put the new work back in the new frame. I'm playing more with arranging the squares to give it more of a mosaic look and I sure do love the process as much as I like the final out-come. And with the mosaic theme, (although I haven't done this yet and it is popping into my mind as I write this), it might be really cool to fill in all of the cracks between the squares with a fine glitter! Talk about an added POP!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you!

Keep it JOY-FULL!!!!

RAYME ROYALE

CHA Summer & Carol Duvall!

2009-08-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas & Dukes!

I've just returned form CHA Summer in Orlando, Fla. I have to say it's not my favorite time of the year to be visiting Fla. You know it's humid when you walk outside with your sin glasses on and they fog up in 1 second! But I'm SO HAPPY I went to the show!

I had the honor and privilege to hang out and chat with Carol Duvall on Monday evening! I have to say I was so thrilled to be able to talk with THE crafting Icon. She's so gracious and very witty! Just like her show. Boy, I miss her show. Maybe we can talk her into coming on for a chat!

I loved the products I saw & the companies that attended . It gave me a chance to really check out the products and chat with the great people who are heading up some wonderful products to keep us really inspired!

As always we broadcast Diva Craft Lounge "Live from CHA". This time it was a little challenging because I had to scope out all the companies in less than 8 hours. Thank goodness for comfy shoes! A big thanks to Rayme Royale & our producer for making that possible!

A special thanks to Richard Wilk from Mark Richards for hosting us in their booth! I loved being surrounded by all the Bling!

AS promised Here are the companies we chatted about! Here we go!

Mark Richards www.markrichardsusa.com
Provo Craft www.provocraft.com
Graphic 45 www.g45papers.com
Shirley's 2 Girls www.shirleys2girls.com
Jill-e Designs www.jill-e.com
Doodles-n-Art www.DoodlesnArt.com
International Arrivals www.intlarrifvals.com
Clear Snap www.clearsnap.com
Nikki Sivils www.nikkisivils.com
My Little Shoebox www.mylittleshoebox.com
Pink Paislee www.pinkpailee.com
Hambly Studios www.HamblyScreeenprints.com
Stamping Station www.stampingstation.com
Bella BLVD www.bellablvd.net
Glitz Designs www.glitzitnow.com
Kaisercraft www.Kaisercraft.com
Crafters Companion www.CraftersCompanion.com
Maya Road www.mayaroad.com
Judikins www.judikins.com
Ta Da www.tadacreativestudios.com
Buttons Galore www.buttonsgaloreandmore.com
Tattered Angels www.mytatteresangels.com
DCWV www.dcwv.com
Spellbinders www.SpellbinderPaperArts.com
Sparkle N Sprinkle www.sparklensprinkle.com
Snowy Lane Crafts www.snowylanecrafts.com
Clover Needlecraft www.clover.usa.com
Plaid Enerprises www.plaidonline.com
Clear Scraps www.clearscraps.com
Harmonie Loisirs Creatifs www.loisirsharmonie.ca
Viva Decor www.vivadecor.us

OK That's it! Oh my Gosh, I'm ready to create/play just thinking about all those great companies with wonderful products. Can't wait to bring some of these Diva-lish companies on Diva Craft Lounge Radio.

Have a Diva Day!

Diva Danielle

Warm Days, Warm Things To Do!

2009-07-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes ~

Not like the rest of the country at the moment, San Diego is in a heat spell as well. I know I can't complain because we are at least 90 percent of the time in Paradise weather. So when it gets to the high 80's or more, we tend to be a bit of a 'wilting lilies' here. Such as we are!

But with the hot weather there is always new things to do and try. I don't know what it is this summer but almost every home or food magazine I have picked up this season has been talking about making your own ICE CREAM SANDWICHES!!!! What could be a better combo for summer anyway?

Tonight, my mom, (Mama Royale) is in town visiting and we just finished making a set of delicious ice cream sandwiches for a birthday dinner tonight. SUPER EASY! Okay, if we went through the trouble of making our own cookies and our own ice cream, like so many of the magazine articles I have read say to do, then, yes, I too would be a rival of Martha Stewarts. But since the warm weather calls for quick and easy, I will give you my EASY recipe for ice cream sandwiches.

Are you ready?

Get cookies of your choice at the store. Larger ones work better.
Get ice cream of your choice at the store.
Leave the ice cream out to soften.
Turn a cookie upside down on a large plate, place a generous scoop of ice cream on top of it, place the other cookie on top of that, smash it down a bit, trim the excess ice cream off the sides with a knife, wrap in a piece of plastic wrap and freeze for a couple of hours.

SERVE! Thank you very much!!! (We're going to put them on a plate drizzled with chocolate sauce and then pour a jigger of Bailey's Irish Cream on top....just because we CAN!)

Instant gratification is what the hot summer months calls for, and I invite you all to take part in an easy and quite impressive dessert for you and your friends.

When you do make them, write to me on this blog and tell me what combinations or embellishments YOU did to make the traditional sandwich cookies uniquely your own!

Keep it JOY-FULL!!!

Big Duke HUGS,

RAYMe

"Daycations!"

2009-07-16T10:49:00.000-07:00

HI Divas & Dukes!

One of my favorite things about summer is spending more time with my twin nephews. They're going into the 3rd grade and they have very busy schedules during the school year. So summer time is a great time for spontaneous get togethers. And with the economy the way it is we're taking "Daycations" Mini trips around San Diego.

Tues we decided to take a quick trip to the San Diego Zoo. It's the 2nd largest in the world. We have member passes so we can pop in and spend a few hours and leave. My sis and I have been taking them to the zoo since they were babies. It was fun for them and great exercise for us. I still cringe thinking about pushing a double stroller up those steep hills and laughing all the way!

Now that they're older they like to pick out where we go. We always have to see the snakes first! NOT my favorite! I always have the image in first the Harry Potter movie where the glass disappears and the HUGE snake is free.

I decided it would be fun to give my nephews throw away cameras and see the zoo thru their eyes. It's always fun to see what they find interesting enough to take pictures of. It's also fun to see things at their height. We're going to make a mini book with the pictures we develop. Then they'll tell their story! They love to write. It's going to be an ongoing project for the summer. Lots of great memories they can look back on with their favorite Auntie!

What are some of the places in your town you like to share with your family?

Have a Diva Day/Summer!

Diva Danielle

Full Swing Summer!

2009-07-08T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes!

Now that mid-July is here (and leaving FAST), I find myself in a place of wanting to purge a lot of my household items and make things neater, easier, etc. For the last few years I have gently swayed my friends to avoid giving me lovely 'coffee table' items, etc., as much as, let's go out for a special cupcake and enjoy each other's company. This is always a bigger gift for me.

So with the items that I finally start looking at seriously to decide if I still want, I am in a great place to look at them in a new light and see if they can indeed be made into something else! Thus, the creative, 'crafty' mind comes into play.

Having spoken with Jenny Doh, the editor-in-chief of Somerset Magazines on our radio show today, we tapped into the fact that our upbringings lead us to learn to be creative without a lot of supplies. In other words, make do with what you have. And from that basic thought, I love turning things into new and wonderful objects either for myself or as gifts for loved ones.

I just received some very cool vintage restaurant china dishes from a great aunt who recently passed away. I am so thrilled to have them, but alas, with the move, one of the dinner plates cracked all the way through. Not enough to get actually broken, but the crack lines are there. I gave it to Danielle who is starting to collect such items for a project she's working on and with the full permission for her to 'bust it up' if she wanted. Instead, she liked the pattern on the china so much, (lovely little cherry blossoms in pink with black stems) that she has decided to turn it into a cake plate on a stand! Finding the right piece of pink depression glass vase or candle holder will make that plate so beautiful and give it a brand new life.

So look around your own surroundings dear ones and re-invent those "I should get rid of that" items! The possibilities are ENDLESS!!

Keep it Joy-FULL!!!

RAYME

Which Box Media is Out of the Box!

2009-07-02T11:51:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

I'm excited to announce that Diva Craft Lounge is part of an exciting new on line community! it's called Which Box Media. It's a place to tell your story, shop, socialize and share. It's like Flikr,Bing,YouTube,and Blogger all rolled into one! They have an ecobox, flavorbox, parentbox, travelbox, and creativebox.That's where you'll find us!

We started working with the great people at WBM last October. We were very honored to be one of the fist companies to be asked to participate in this revolutionary new site.

The hardest thing about this process was that Rayme and I had to keep it a secret! We're a little challenged that way. When we find something we love we HAVE to share it with everyone we know! And now we have an opportunity to do just that! We're really looking forward to creating & sharing new projects, new Diva-Sodes, Diva Road Trips, and interviews with the multitudes of creative talent out in the world. You'll even find some projects from our book "Designing with the Divas and Friends" on there. If you share your own stories, you can enter to win some really cool prizes! How great it that!

So, Guess what? You get a special invitation from DCL and WBM to take part in this very exclusive test market. Just go to www.DivaCraftLounge.com and click on the cute Which Box banner, sign in and you can check it out. Just remember.... this is a trial run or a dress rehearsal,so to speak. They're making a ton of changes and they would appreciate your constructive opinions. So please log on and check it out. Rayme and I think you're going to love it.

We'd love it if you let us know what you think. As always we're so grateful for your support and friendship over the last 5 years! Here's to ,many,many more.

Have a Diva Day,

Diva Danielle

The Diva and Duke take a road trip!

2009-06-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Divas and Dukes!

I wanted to share with you a quick road trip we took last week up to Laguna Hills to visit a dear friend and recent radio guest on The Diva Craft Lounge, Jenny Doh at Stampington & Company. She is the editor at large for over 31 magazine publications per year! 'Somerset' may be the most popular brand you may recognize. There is 'Somerset Studio', 'Somerset Apprentice', 'Belle Armoire', 'Stuffed' (WAY too cute!), and The Best of Stampington & Company, 'HandCrafted', just to name a very few.

Needless to say, walking into the 'corporate' looking building and suddenly being hit with tables of art and craft projects was the best kind of sensory over-load that Danielle and I could have ever hoped for! She introduced us to some of her wonderful editors who are all busy heading up different magazine deadlines. All of this was so new to me, so it was fun to see each of their offices full of creative color, texture, projects and ideas in the making hanging on the walls, sticking out of corners, displayed on shelves above the windows, posted on bulletin boards, it went on and on! We could have spent hours in just one room alone!

The tour continued to where all of the art projects that are submitted to them through out the world are brought in, catalogued and then discussed for possible publication. We saw where they do their lay outs, talk about their themes, color choices for each periodical, etc.

We even discussed the intricacies of dealing with everybody's ideas, some that may not make it into a particular publication and how they have learned to interact with each other, respect each other's ideas and move on to the next project. Time obviously cannot be wasted and one learns very quickly that it is not about anybody's ego when presenting an idea as much as it is contributing to a much larger organism that makes each magazine the unique gem that it is. They do have to move FAST with that many magazines to get out! You can see they truly have it down to a quick paced science that is one of the most impressive 'well oiled machines' that I have ever seen.

Most of their photography is 'in-house' and it was fun to walk down the aisles of props that they collect and use to help embellish the pictures that will ultimately be published. I could have spent the rest of the day in there alone! There was even a cello sitting there!

Afterwards, Jenny was gracious enough to take the time and have lunch with us where we got to really talk about the art of creativity, the business end of crafting, all of which inspired Danielle and myself to continue to do MORE of what we do!!!

Jenny is also a cellist herself, (so THAT'S where the cello came from!) and really enjoys doing her own crafting in all kinds of different mediums as well. So with Danielle and I in our singing/theatre/composing backgrounds, we were never short for conversation! The two hours went by like two minutes!

We can't wait to do it again!

Oh, and just between you and us, listen to www.divacraftlounge.com in July when we will be interviewing Jenny again about a NEW magazine that will be hitting the stands shortly. And all I can say is, YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS OUT ON WHAT THAT'S ABOUT!!!

KEEP IT JOY-FULL!

RAYME ROYALE

Purple Cows Design Team Call!

2009-03-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

HI Divas And Dukes!

Here's the info to apply for a position on the Purple Cows Design Team. They are such a great company you'll have a blast being part of the team. Good luck and have FUN!!!!

Diva Danielle and Rayme Royale

Purple Cows Design Team Call!

Purple Cows, the “udderly remarkable” manufacturer of trimmers, laminators and creative tools is having a Design Team (DT) Round up!

We have decided to ask YOU the consumers to join us and submit your innovative projects, creative design concepts for consideration. We will be selecting eleven of you be on our “udderly remarkable” Design Team!

No matter if you own all of our tools, or you have never even seen one, we want your submissions. We are looking for fresh and vibrant Designers who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and use a little creative elbow grease! If you are interested in becoming part of our Design Team, please read the contest rules below. Please follow these rules as we will be unable to consider submissions that do not follow the required format.

Submission Rules:

1. You DO NOT have to purchase a Purple Cows product to enter this contest.

2. We would like your projects to use Purple Cows, but we won’t let it get in the way of choosing you if your projects rock!

3. You have until 11:59 pm March 31, 2009 for us to receive your email or “Pony Express” mail entries (for Pony Express submissions, the address is listed below).

4. Your entries do not have to be new for this entry, just of great quality. We will announce the winners on April 17, 2009!

5. Please choose the category(s) below that you want to submit projects for. More is better! We want you to show us your creative talents! Don’t be bashful, if you want, you may submit something for every category. NOTE: You must include the project instructions for at least one of your entries. Since projects that are submitted will be available to crafters of all skill levels, it is very important that the designer be able to articulate in writing the instructions to complete the project.
a) Scrapbook Layouts – Provide Three layouts (a layout can be one or two pages). These can be any size layouts, but they must have photos (please make sure you have the rights to publish the photos).
b) Décor Project - This can be organizational or purely decorative, just as long as you made it.
c) “Off the Page” Craft - This category is a free for all. You may choose to use any medium, or mixed media combination. ATCs, fabric crafts, jewelry, the sky is the limit. Show us your creative style to its fullest!
d) Greeting Cards – Provide three cards, any style or type.
e) Mini Album - This album any be any size you choose, any type, but it must contain photos (please make sure you have the rights to publish the photos).
f) Other – We know that there are a lot of creative people out there. If there is a design category that we did not list, that’s OK. We want you to submit your unique project too. Just tell us the category and submit! We LOVE new creative ideas that you can create with a trimmer and/or laminator! Come-on, we dare you to surprise us!

6. Please send the name of each project, and a photo of each item submitted (if you are emailing your submission, please make the photo a high quality jpeg). Make sure each “name” of your photo contains the project name.).

7. Please also include a photo of just you and a short bio of 100 words or less (if you win, we will want something to post about you right away on all our blogs and Purple Cows website)! Included with your entry, we will need your full contact information, including daytime telephone number.

8. Send entries to the name and address listed below:
a) Email - vennita@purplecows.net, (List “DT Call” in the subject line).
b) Pony Express Mail - Vennita Wilson
Purple Cows DT Call
PO Box 60843
Boulder City, NV 89006

Design Team Benefits:

What you get if you selected to the Purple Cows Design Team:

• You will receive Purple Cows products to use in your designs.
• From time to time, you will receive additional product to use in your designs. We have some great partners in the industry that are very generous with our Design Team members.
• You will be published all over the place, and have new opportunities to show off your fabulous talents to the rest of the world!
• You get paid for your accepted projects! ($25.00-$75.00 per item)

Design Team Requirements:

• Project Request - Watch for our email requests for new, specific designs, and respond with a submission. These requests will come out once a month. We will provide you with a reasonable amount of time (3-4 weeks) to create your project.
• Submission – All project proposals must be submitted electronically. The submission must include hi-res photo(s) and our submission form.
• Accepted Projects – If you project is accepted you will be notified by email. You will then need to mail your finished project and instructions to Purple Cows. Any accepted project becomes the property of Purple Cows and cannot be used by the designer without written permission from Purple Cows.
• Fun – Having fun with our tools, and share them with your friends so they know how great our products are is what it is all about!
• Forms – Purple Cows will provide all required forms to you via email.

We are excited to see your creative talents! Time is short, so please get your submissions in early.

If you have questions, email them to vennita@purplecows.net, until March 5th. We will post both the questions and answers here on March 6th. Good luck to all of you future CowPals, we can’t wait to see your entries!

Our 5 year Anniversary!

2009-03-03T11:07:00.000-08:00

HI Diva's And Dukes,

I can't believe it but we're celebrating our 5th Anniversary tomorrow! Rayme and I want to thank all our listeners and friends in the Craft and Hobby Industry for your incredible support over the last 5 years. Who knew when we started this journey we'd be connecting the world thru our passion for crafting. It is such a joy to chat with you on a weekly basis. We LOVE hearing from you.

I also want to thank my dear friend Rayme, The Duke of Crafts, who hangs out with me at the Lounge every Wed. You are such a Joy and Inspiration in my life. I'm looking forward to the next 25 yrs of Crafty Chatting!

Thank you to our Producer Tom who through the magic of the internet keeps us "live" in 96 countries! You're the BEST!!!!

Here's to many more years of chatting around the globe! Thanks again, I'm truly blessed.

Have A Diva Day!
Diva Danielle

Best of at CHA 2009

2009-01-29T21:33:00.000-08:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

We're back from CHA 2009 and it was GREAT!!
Rayme and I had an amazing time. So many wonderful products and so little time to see it all. We want to thank The Paper Element, Core'dinations, Pentel, and The Purple Cows for hosting our "Designing with the Divas" Book signings. And thanks to everyone who stopped by to say HI.

A Special You Rock! to Sarah Hodsdon for her FLAWLESSlY GREEN booth in the License and Design section Check it out at www.sarah-n-dipitousdesigns.com. How blessed are we to have a project designed by her in our book.

As promised, here's a list of the companies we featured on the show and then our Top picks of the show.

The Paper Element www.thepaperelement.com
Core'dinations www.coredinations.com
Fancy That www.fancythatonline.com
Clear Snap www.clearsnap.com
Canon www.canon.com
Creative Options www.creativeoptionscrafts.com
Pentel Arts www.pentelarts.com
Duncan www.duncancrafts.com
Cookbookin www.cookbookin.com
Crafters Companion www.crafterscompanion.co.uk
bZoo www.bisous.biz
Piggy Tales www.piggytales.com
Scaperfect www.scraperfect.com
Walnut Hollow www.walnuthollow.com
Parallel Works www.handcraftedpapers.com
Center Enterprises www.centerenterprises.com
Spellbinders www.spellbinders.us
Chatterbox www.chatterboxinc.com
Diamond Tech www.diamondtechcrafts.com
Expo International Inc www.expointl.com
Cover Needlecraft Inc www.clover-usa.com
Magic Mesh www.magicmesh.com
Dove of the East www.doveoftheeast.com
Hambly Studios www.hamblystudios.com
The Tree of Life www.my-treeoflife.com
Spiral Eye www.Spiraleyeneedles.com
Earth Safe Finishes www.earthsafefinishes.com
Scrap FX www.scvrapfx.com.au
Diy Bangles www.diybangles.com

WOW!!! That's quite a List!!!!
I hope I listed every one.

Now for our Top Picks
for CHA!!! Drum roll please.......

Fuse Works www.diamondtechcrafts.com

The Ultimate www.crafterscompanion.co.uk

Spiral Eye www.spiraleyeneedles.com

Parallel Works www.handcraftedpapers.com

Scrap Fx www.scrapfx.com.au

Smooch www.clearsnap.com

Fancy That www.fancythatonline.net

White Wash www.coredinations.com

My Favorite Pieces www.thepaperelement.com

Have Fun checking out all these terrific products and companies. As always, we're always so grateful to our sponsors and listeners.

Diva Danielle & Rayme Royale

Vote for Rayme!!!

2009-01-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends ~

I submitted a music arrangement for a contest to accompany a small musical piece entitled, 'Dona Nobis Pacem' played by the famous cellist, Yo-Yo Ma.

He recorded the piece solo and has invited musicians to accompany his version of the song.

Now that the submission date is over, there is now an opportunity for visitors to go to the site and vote for their favorite submission.

I would like to respectfully ask you, if at all convenient, to please go to the site and vote for my submission if you like it enough to do so. It was a LOT of fun to do, and you are free to browse the hundreds of other submissions as well. Quite a diverse variety! I was honored to be a part of it!

Here's what to do:

Go to www.indabamusic.com

You will be asked to sign in and create a password for yourself.

Click on the 'Yo-Yo Ma' competition banner.

Click on "View All Random Submissions"

Then Click on "View All Submissions"

I am located on the 3rd page, my submission was entered on December 20th and you'll see my cute little picture next to my submission. (Me in blue shirt at the piano)

Listen to it if you so choose, (and you'll LOVE it) and then vote!
One vote per person signing in.

Thank YOU ALL! And a HUGE HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
I promise to keep you posted of how it turns out!

Big Blessings,

RAYME

Diva Craft Lounge #11 - Lain Ehmann and Scrapbook Royalty

2008-11-25T19:24:00.001-08:00

Diva Craft Lounge #11 - Lain Ehmann and Scrapbook Royalty

Our first segment guest is Lain Ehmann contributing editor for Simple Scrapbooks magazine, she entertains readers and classes with her unique brand of insight and humor. Her new book, Snippets: Mostly True Tales from the Lighter Side of Scrapbooking is shipping this December. With her love for words, paper, design, and glue sticks, she fell head-over-heels for scrapbooking when she created her first page over a decade ago (not counting the Shawn Cassidy tribute albums she made in junior high!). As a contributing editor for Simple Scrapbooks magazine, she loves writing about scrapbooking, designing projects, and traveling the country to share my enthusiasm and humor with her classes encouraging her students to "ScrapHappy!"

Our second segment guest is Elena Etcheverry the founder of Scrapbook Royalty a California Non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for Noble Causes through unique Scrapbooking and Crafting events. Since their inception in April of 2006 their 100% volunteer run organization has raised over $150,000, held 40 events, collected over 3600 handmade cards for the troops, make 65 albums for families coping with cancer, and made 150 frames for a prom for kids with cancer.

Diva Craft Lounge #10 - Simple Scrapbooks, Purple Cows and Chalk Ink

2008-11-19T14:08:00.001-08:00

Diva Craft Lounge #10 - Simple Scrapbooks, Purple Cows and Chalk Ink

Our first guest Is Cheryl Overton is a member of the editorial board at Simple Scrapbooks. She is a scrapbooker who teaches and works part-time at at her local scrapbook store. She and a friend recently started a home organizing business which keeps them busy when the kids are at school and feeds the obsessive compulsive who lives deep down inside of her. She also enjoys skiing, playing board games and relaxing with family and friends.

Our second guest is Paula Nelson-Hart, the new featured artist for Purple Cows. Paula’s right brained antics run the gamut and include: eclectic wearable art, costume design for Marie Osmond Doll Collection, and Hart of the Mountain featuring artistic creations by Paula and her daughters. Living high in the Rocky Mountains, her exile from retail stores has fueled her resourcefulness, motivating the use of materials beyond their original function. Her latest triumph: holiday decorations using recycled shopping bags, soda pop cartons, a dismantled chandelier, and an industrial heat gun.

Our final guest is Danielle Pruitt, owner and creator of Chalk Ink markers in Austin Texas. Danielle has led design for retail interiors and sign construction for over 89 Whole Foods Markets and assorted other retailers. She channeled her frustration with traditional chalkboard sign techniques to formulate and develop a prototype for a new chalkboard material as well as Chalk Ink™ Markers. Danielle was one of the finalists for Martha Stewart’s Apprentice—she’s the first to admit that not making the final cut turned into a blessing.

Sneak Peak of the Diva Book and Rayme's new CD

2008-10-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

I hope all is well in your "Diva World." I know we've been a little quiet on our Blog.
I've always considered the radio show our Blog but we'd also LOVE to hear back from all you Divas and Dukes in 87 countries! And this is a great way to do this!

We're excited to announce that the long awaited book "Designing with the Divas and Friends" from Bluegrass Publishing will be out Dec. 1st. Rayme and I are so excited we are having a tough time sleeping. I have to tell you that Linda LaTourelle and the staff at Bluegrass have done the most AMAZING job photographing and compiling this book. There are 57 projects and 25 incredibly talented designers associated with this book. We have all sorts of fun projects for all levels and ages of "Diva Crafters".

Our mission with this book was to get friends and families to sit around the table and have a wonderful time letting their creative juices flow. We also wanted to appeal to someone who has never thought of themselves as creative. If you'd like to check out the "Groovy" video you can go to www.DivaCraftLounge.com and click on the book cover.

If life isn't exciting enough, Rayme has just released his new CD "Paisley Piano." IT is 13 of the most BEAUTIFUL original piano solo's I've heard. I'm so excited for him. His inspiration was writing something that we could all craft to. I LOVE that! You can check out the CD and little excerpts on www.DivaCraftLounge.com, click on Raymemusic.com. If your in the San Diego area Mon. the 27th of Oct, he's having a CD release party. We're sending out the details. He'd love to see you. I'll be there buying the CD's for Christmas presents!

Let us know what you think of the book and CD. We always Love to hear form you! Thanks for listening and have a Diva Weekend!

Sassy Water Recipe!

2008-09-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes!

As promised , here's the recipe for Sassy Water!I found it in Prevention Magazine. It's really refreshing!
Be prepared to get hooked on it! here it is....

Sassy Water
In a pitcher add:
8.5 cups of water
Peel and slice 1 medium cucumber
Slice a lemon
Peel and grate 1 Tablespoon of fresh ginger
12 leaves of fresh mint

Mix together with the water and chill over night. Enjoy!

Rayme Royale says....

2008-04-13T23:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes~~~

A very BELATED HELLO to all! The creative juices have been flowing in several thousand directions all at once and I have been nothing but GREAT-FULL for it all! Needless to say, Diva Danielle and I are so thrilled and excited about our upcoming book, "Designing With the Divas". All projects are at the publishing house, photos and editing are now taking place like mad as we speak, and then to the printers, and then into your hot little hands! We can't wait! It is turning into a craft book extraordinaire like I have never seen before! We know you'll feel the same way about it!

I write to you the night before the big CRUISE!!! Wanted to let you know how excited we are, and sad at the same time that this may be the last cruise for a long while because of the re-location of the cruise ship. But, it's all okay. There is no doubt in our minds that the next BETTER trip, retreat, etc. will be showing it self to us within the near future!

I can't wait for this cruise (along with Mama Royale) because it will give me the time to catch up on some much needed card designing! Many of you e-mail me and have asked for some cards with specific images. I can't WAIT to get started on them to see what I come up with! I've decided that I'm not even going to bring a book to read on this cruise. It will be a wonderful time of creating, creating, CREATING!

When the cruise is over at the end of the week, Diva Danielle and I will have a lot more to share with you on our radio show, and then of course, extra tid-bits here on the blog.

Until then, Create and FLY!

Write back to us! We LOVE hearing from you!!!

RAYME ROYALE

One Week to go Cruising!!!

2008-04-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

HI Divas And Dukes!

Now we're getting excited. In one week we'll be boarding the Monarch of the Seas. Jan and I have been working on this cruise for 9 months. It seemed like it couldn't get here fast enough. Now we're less than 7 days to go.

Rayme, Jan and I gathered up all the goodies we're taking on board for our Diva Cruiser's . I hope they bring an extra suitcase!!!!

We're so blessed to have such great friends in the industry that I can ask to donate products for our Diva's to try out.

Here's a list of our very generous Sponsors:

Bam Pop! www.bampop.com

Blue Grass Publishing www.bluegrasspublishing.com

Close to my Heart www.closetomyheart.com

Cosmo Cricket www.cosmocricket.com

Creative Options www.creativeoptionscrafts.com

Cut-It-Up www.cut-it-up.com

Hambly Studios www.hamblystudios.com

Helmar www.helmarusa.com

Lasting Impressions www.lastingimpressions.com

Magic Mesh www.magicmesh.com

Pentel Arts www.pentelarts.com

Purple Cows www.purplecows.net

Scrapbook Diva www.scrapbookdiva.com

The Paper Element www.thepaperelement.com

Tinkering Ink www.tinkeringink.com

Unity Stamps www.unitystampco.com

And there will be more surprises!!!

We're going to Nordstrom on Tues when we dock in San Diego. They have been so awesome to put an event together for us. We're going to have facials and mini make over. We'll be all glam for our formal night.

The best thing about this cruise is the friends we're going to see form the previous Diva Cruises and the new friends we're going to make.We have Diva's flying in from all over the country. We're gathering on Sun for a little Soiree. We'll be doing a few Groovy projects before boarding the ship on Mon. Elizabeth Hernandez will be teaching a class. She owns a store called Memories by Liz.

We'll be doing our show LIVE form the Monarch on Wed. We'll be anchored off of Catalina Island. It should be lots of fun!!!!! There's no telling what we'll be up too!! I hope you'll join us.

Well, I must go and do some more packing. I'm still trying to figure out what I'm going to wear! I do know I'll be packing my tiara and boa. Of course all my projects are packed and ready to go.

I hope you're Having a Diva Day!!!!

Diva Danielle

HI Out There!!!!!

2008-03-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

We're back!!!!! Sorry we've been quiet on the Blog front. Rayme and I have been working furiously to finish the projects for our new book "Designing With the Divas."
It has been an awesome journey. This is something I've wanted to do for a long time and I just needed to sit and focus and START!!!

Rayme has been such a delight to work with on this book. I can't wait to do the next one!!!! Oh yes, we have an idea already. Once you start you can't stop... it's better than potato chips!!!!

One of the MOST exciting things about this book is all our wonderful friends have also created something "Diva-lish" to be added to this extravaganza in crafts. I can't go into details but Rayme and I are sooo excited and thankful to have some incredible artists involved. We have so many different ideas and techniques to share. Some new and some that you might not have thought about for a while. This is what it's about. We wanted to inspire people to take some time, sit down with some of your favorite things and just get creative. No pressure and no grades.

Linda laTourelle and her team at Bluegrass Publishing have been so incredible to work with. Kevin has come up with the most amazing cover .....That alone inspired us. Their attention to detail is absolutely wonderful. We are truly blessed.

We're also getting ready for our Cruise. 19 days to go!!! It's our last one ..... We'll do something else so if you didn't get to join us don't worry , we're working on something new. Jan Mollet-Evsns has been the best partner to work with and I'm soooo appreciative of her talents and friendship. We work for 9 months to prepare for this not so little soiree. I'm looking forward to seeing our "Alumni" Divas and meeting some new ones.

Ok, It's getting close to show time so I must go and prepare for our terrific Guests today. We're very excited to have Angie Lucas from Simple Scrapbooks, Margot Potter "The Impatient Beader" and our dear friend Karan Olson-Smith from Magic Mesh on the show today.

Hope you have a Diva Day today!

Diva Danielle

Calling All Divas and Dukes!

2008-01-10T13:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

Happy New Year!!

Rayme and I have been asked to compile a craft book which will be published by Bluegrass Publishing!!! The working title is "Creating with the Divas... Artsy Projects to Inspire the Groovy and Creative Diva in You!"

Because we've seen some of those wonderful things you can create, we thought it would be fun to invite our listeners to submit their own project for publication.

We're looking for Different, Groovy and Fun projects in all creative mediums, with one exception … sorry, no Scrapbook Layouts in this book (maybe we’ll tackle that one later!)

Here’s the procedure:

1. The Deadline is Feb. 1st...I know it’s short notice, but you can do it!

2. Submit photos of the finished project, a brief explanation of the technique and materials used, and your contact information (name, email, and phone number) by email to DR@DivaCraftLounge.com .

3. Submit only your original ideas, not ideas from store display samples, magazines, kits, or other designer's works. We’re looking forward to seeing your entries -- the more “out-of-the-box” the better.

4. When you receive the “Diva Stamp of Approval”, then you will get the official guidelines and release form for your project (All entrants must release the rights to Bluegrass Publishing for publication of your project.)

5. The guideline form will include: (a) a list of the products used and their manufacturers; (b) a description of the theme or technique featured, and; (c) step-by-step instructions for your individual project (you should take pictures during the creative process for any step that is easier to explain with a photo - 300 dpi, please, at least 4x6 inches).

6. After approval, you also will attach an address label to your project somewhere that can be identified, but not seen in the final picture, and send it to the address given in the entry form so we can professionally photograph it.

What's in it for you? Recognition for having a published design in a book with some of the biggest names in the Crafting World! You will receive a copy of the book when it is published, and your name will be mentioned on the Diva Craft Lounge radio show and blog. Unfortunately, we're not able to offer any other compensation, but, who knows where this may lead!?!?!

Can’t wait to see the photos of your project!

Scrapbook Diva Danielle and Rayme Royale – the Duke of Crafts

Danielle's Cookie Fest Recipe

2007-12-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

Hi Divas And Dukes,

Just a few days to go til Christmas Day. I hope you're all enjoying some of the Holliday. Here's my Cookie recipe for this years Cookie Fest. It was a big hit. It's great to do with the kids. It's much easier if you have 4 hands instead of 2. You'll use lots of cooking spray or butter to keep your hands from sticking to EVERYTHING. LOL. I hope you have time to try it or at least put it in your recipe file to try later.

Danielle's Kris Kringle Krispy Karamel Kookies

1 Stick of Butter or Margarine
1 Can Condensed Milk
1 Bag of Caramels

Mix and Microwave 3 Minutesin Pyrex(Spray 1st with Pam)

1 large Bag of Marshmellows
10oz. Box of Rice Krispies

(Spray hands and utensils)

Dip 1 Marshmellow into Caramel mix
Roll in Rice Krispies
Place on Wax Paper Covered Pan
Refridgerate to set.

Try not to eat them all at once!!!!!
Enjoy.

What will you Remember?

2007-12-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

Well, We're almost on the home stretch for another Christmas Season. I've finished my shopping and almost everything is wrapped. As I sit and look at my tree with all the twinkling lights and ornaments lovingly collected and received thru the years, this is what I want to remember about the Christmas Season.

I sit and reflect on the dear friends and family across the globe and hope they're having a wonderful Holiday.

I thank God that my friends and family are Safe and Healthy.( That's the biggest present of all!)

I'm so thankful to my dear friend Rayme who is such a blessing in my life. You are truly an inspiration.

I just want to wish all of you across the globe a Wonderful, Safe, Happy and of course Diva-lish Christmas.

Just remember to sit by your tree with your loved ones, some hot cocoa and homemade cookies and BREATHE and ENJOY!!!!

Merry Christmas and a Happy 2008!!

Rayme Royale says....

2007-11-30T18:04:00.000-08:00

Hey Divas and Dukes ~

Thanksgiving behind us, now full speed ahead to Christmas! Thank you Jan for getting us ORGANIZED! I haven't written since my New York trip which is now 3 weeks past. What a wonderful time I had! Those who listened to the Diva Craft Lounge radio show on the day I was in New York City knew that I was in a lovely little craft shop right in the heart of Manhattan talking from there.

I lived in New York for 18 years of my life before moving to San Diego almost 9 years ago. I hadn't been back until this last trip. How wonderful it was to catch up with old friends, still find my favorite restaurant and coffee house haunts in tact, and discovered many new buildings and stores that I'd never seen before. It was a blessed time. An easy trip to make without a hitch! Those are the best kind.

I was a bit hesitant about going back after all this time, fearing what longings I may have about truly missing the Big Apple and having a desire to return. After all, I remember walking those streets convinced that I was going to live there for the rest of my life because I loved it so much.

I remember when I left, knowing that it was truly time for me to leave, I still wondered if I had a hankering to go back.....no, I don't! It was wonderful to remember all of the wonderful times I had and the life that I had there at that time, but I was very sure that I had left at the right time for me, and even standing in one of my favorite areas....I KNEW I had made the right decision then, and now. I LOVED visiting, and have promised myself that I will go much more often, but I have no more desire to live there.

I can't thank the city enough for the life I had there, but now I am grateful and thanking San Diego for the life that I have here. Truly in this life time, the best of ALL worlds! What GIFT there is in THAT!

Needless to say, I was camera ready...not so much for the usual sights that a typical New York tourist would take, but of patterns on buildings, or interesting architecture or details on older buildings....the entire city truly is one big piece of ART! And much to be inspired about at every corner! So I've got a SLEW of new ideas for greeting cards that I just can't wait to start executing and then sharing with you on my web-site! (www.raymecards.com)

Look for my new 'Card of the Month' in early December (a New Years Eve Party Horn!) along with a new recipe! And as soon as I can find a certain favorite cookie recipe that I just love, I'll be posting that on this blog.

Let's start NOW! Happy Holidays to all of you wonderful listeners that...for the most part, I don't really know all that well, but feel that I know you all VERY well because of our connection with our creative spirits! Thank you all for your in-put and your devoted listening to the Diva Craft Lounge. We really are one big FAMILY!

Let's continue the journey together!

BIG HUGS,

RAYME

Holiday Countdown!

2007-11-16T10:52:00.000-08:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

As promised, here's the Grand Duchess' Holiday Countdown that we discussed on The Diva Craft Lounge. She did an AMAZING job putting this together for us. I know this year I'm trying to make more homemade gifts. I LOVE recieving home made gifts. The love ,creativity ,and thoughtfulness that goes into each present is so special.
It's fun to get together with friends and work on your projects. That's part of the joy.

Last Sat. I spent the afternoon at the Grand Duchess' new art studio. It was sooo much fun. Her studio is INCREDIBLE!!! I'm thinking of renting out space. We ran out of the ornaments we were making , so we went out and bought more!!!! Very addictive.

Yesterday I spent the day with Rayme and I started on my Christmas Cards. of course he had already done half of his!!!! It was 4 of the fastest hours I've spent in a long time. I love bouncing off creative ideas form each other. What Bliss!!!!

So here it is........

CREATIVE CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
from the Grand Duchess of Kandu
Those of us who enjoy a handmade holiday can avoid a rushed and stressful season by just planning ahead. I’ve made a weekly calendar to assure you get everything done and can still have a wonderful holiday season.
Make changes and additions as necessary to adhere to your religious beliefs and to observe your own family traditions. If you are celebrating Hanukkah, of course, you’ll be creating a Menorah and decorating a Hanukkah bush, and you’ll have to condense this timeline because Hanukkah comes early this year, December 4 through December 12.
Starting November 1st
Halloween Décor: Pack up all the specifically Halloween decorations and store them, but leave your fall decorations up till after Thanksgiving.
Travel: Make holiday travel reservations as soon as possible--www.CornerTravelStore.com makes it easy. If you are planning to drive some distance, be sure that your car is all tuned up and has good tires, then decide on your route, making sure you have printed maps for all locales, in case your GPS fails you. Plan ahead: if you are taking presents with you, buy smaller, less fragile items which will travel well!
Show Tickets: Buy tickets for the family to attend a Christmas musical, ballet, or show--age appropriate. Nothing puts you in the spirit like a live stage presentation!
Letters to Santa: Help your kids write letters to Santa to determine their latest desires.
Gift List: Make a list of those you want to buy for in a small notebook—work colleagues, friends, and family members, including those new babies. Carry your notebook with you, so you can write down what you buy beside each person’s name. Set limits for your holiday spending by giving a cost range for each person on your list; making some gifts can keep costs low, yet let the recipient know you cared enough to create something especially for them.
Gift Purchases: Start buying presents now for better selection and to avoid disappointment. Ship gifts that go abroad as early as possible, especially to those in the service.
Unplanned Gifting: Don’t forget to have some generic gifts ready for unexpected guests--a bottle of wine with customized wrapping, a hand-decorated candle, homemade baked goods or chocolates in a decorated box or tin, etc. Everyone loves a gift with a special handmade touch!
Ideas: Look for ideas for holiday decorating, gifts to make, and recipes in magazines, books, and online. Make a file for reference through the holidays.

Week of November 5

Photo Op: Have your family Christmas photo taken as soon as possible. You can have it done professionally, but if you do, you are limited to using copies they make for you, unless you get a release from your photographer to reproduce it to use for your cards. With digital photography and inexpensive “fill” lights available, you can have a friend take the pictures; take lots of shots while you are at it and look at them on a computer screen before letting the family “escape.” Remember, you don’t have to dress everyone in red plaid and pose them around the fireplace; have your photo represent your life--take it at the beach in plain white shirts and jeans with bare feet, or in your ski gear, or with the kids in their current sports team uniforms or activity costumes (like a ballet tutu or gymnastics leotard)--that way you can display a framed enlargement in your home year ‘round
Mailing List: Check your address book to see who you want to send Christmas cards to, placing a star beside their name. As you go, add new friends, change addresses for those who have moved, and drop off those with whom you’ve lost contact.
Cards: Start making Christmas cards--kits or matched paper and embellishment sets let you create great cards quickly and easily. A little “partridge-in-a-pear-tree” told me that Rayme Royale has his website up featuring his exclusive card designs and kits--go to www.RaymeCards.com or from the Diva Craft Lounge site. While you are there, you can buy copies of his Christmas CD--they make great hostess gifts!
Calendar: Begin to put holiday events on your family calendar to be sure they don’t conflict. Don’t over-schedule—leave some time to relax and to enjoy spur-of-the-moment activities.
Week of November 12
Store Hours: Check the opening times of your favorite stores and post on the fridge for impromptu shopping trips. Most stores are open late in the month or so before Christmas; be sure to note extended hours.
Shopping Help for Clueless Men: Ask your local scrap or craft store when they are having a “Husband’s Night” for shopping. If they say, “What?”, tell them they should have their customers write their “Wish List” for tools and supplies on a card, along with contact information for that special man in her life. The store files those cards by customer’s name and notifies the hubby that their wife has her wish list on file and that he can come in and purchase the “perfect present.” They can have a special night just for that and/or have a continuous event through December. The Wish List file should remain at the cash/wrap desk at the store. Parents and friends can also be informed of this shopper’s helper if they are stuck for gift ideas; it’s like being registered for a wedding--you get just what you want and need, and the giver has a great time shopping for you.
Traditions: Start preparing for family traditions. If you don’t have any, now is the time to start. Maybe you want to donate some time, as a family, to a charity: serve meals to the homeless, do visits to the elderly who don’t have family nearby, buy items for a holiday toy drive--this is fulfilling personally and helps the kids see what the holiday season is all about. For fun with younger children, a new “tradition” I’ve seen is Santa’s Magic Elf--the elf comes to visit the family after Thanksgiving with a letter of introduction from Santa, explaining that this elf reports directly to Santa about the behavior of boys and girls and provides a list of things they want for Christmas. You can make your own Elf from stuffed toy patterns or buy one from Fiesta Toy, which makes Santa’s Secret Elf™ and provides all the written materials to accompany it--www.FiestaToy.com. Great fun!

Week of November 19 (this is a tricky week with Thanksgiving on Thursday)

Tableware: Since you may need them for Thanksgiving, as well, this is a good time check to make sure you have enough plates, silverware, and glasses, as well as special baking pans. Check you have enough serving dishes of the right size (for mashed potatoes, vegetables, stuffing, meat, gravy, etc.). Purchase extra items needed.
Give Thanks: Enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends.
Fall Décor: After Thanksgiving, pack up the fall decorations for storage.
Housekeeping: Give your house a good, thorough cleaning--once you’ve decorated for Christmas, it gets really hard to clean around everything. Enlist the help of your family, assigning rooms or tasks that are age appropriate.
Leftovers: Feed the family leftovers from Thanksgiving dinner while you are cleaning, so you don’t have to worry about meals. Or, do what Divas do best for dinner, order out!
Week of November 26
Clothing: Check your closets and buy new clothes and accessories, as needed, for parties, church, work parties, special events, etc. that you will be attending. For informal parties, you can decorate a shirt with iron-ons, paints, foam stamps, and of course, lots of bling. You can even stamp words on your jeans, like “JOY” or “HO HO HO,” down the leg.
Decorations: Get all your holiday decorations out of storage, separating indoor and outdoor lights and decorations. Open the boxes and make notes on any additional items you might need. Shop your local craft store to fill those needs.
Tabletop: Make table favors, napkin rings, and a centerpiece for your Christmas table. For favors, inexpensive glass balls with paint and glitter drizzled inside are a great project--write each person’s name and 2007 on with dimensional paint in gold or silver. The centerpiece should be low enough for everyone to see all the others at the table. It can be created easily with a block of floral foam, 3 candles, and some faux flowers and greenery. Closer to Christmas, you can substitute live flowers.
Contacts: Write out emergency contact numbers that you might need during the Christmas period such as doctors, drug store, babysitters, emergency numbers for service for your electricity and gas companies , emergency plumber and neighbors. Don’t just have them in your computer--you need to carry them with you.
Kitchen Cleanout: Clear out your fridge and pantry of out-of-date foods, so you can begin to buy and store your Christmas goodies--start now buying your non-perishable and frozen goods.
Week of December 3
Mail Cards: Address and mail your Christmas cards and letters.
Plan Food and Drinks for All Holiday Celebrations: Plan your food and drink shopping list. By this time you should know how many guests you are expecting for Christmas lunch or any other celebrations you're holding so you can plan accordingly. Consider the food and drink needs of your guests--vegetarians, food allergies, etc. Buy antacids for overeaters or to counteract the effects of too much “Christmas cheer”!
Special Orders: Order “party trays” for easy entertaining. Check with grocer on timing for special order items.
TV & Music: Set your Tivo or buy blank tapes or DVDs to record Christmas TV shows and films. Get out your favorite Christmas music and play it around the house to put you in the holiday mood.
Package and Ship: Ship presents to those you won’t see on Christmas. Note: heavy boxes may take longer, so be sure to allow enough time.
Celebrate: Buy chocolates and sample frequently.

Week of December 10

Decorate: Decorate your house and put up your tree, if you wish. If you put up tree now, be careful to get one with soft needles (indicating moisture content) so it will remain attractive through the entire holiday season. As a handy alternative, buy one of the new pre-lit faux trees. Your tree can go up anytime before Christmas Day, but you should take it down by January 6 (the 12th day of Christmas).
Shop & Wrap: Complete gift purchases this week and wrap presents. Don’t forget those small items for stocking stuffers.
Bake: Create those tasty cookies you and your family love. Involve the kids in the fun for some memorable moments--keep the camera close by.
Indulge: Buy chocolates and relax with a few choice pieces whenever you can.

Week of December 17

Groceries: Buy perishable foods for your holiday meals. Check supplies of eggs, milk, butter, cream, lemons, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, onions, celery, potatoes, carrots, salad greens and garnishes, frozen vegetables, convenience foods for quick meal preparation leading up to “The Day”, and don’t forget lots of paper towels and toilet tissue.
Dinner Plan: Write out a time plan for Christmas Day, so that you won't be in a panic that day. Put recipes in a file for easy reference.
Camera: Make sure your video recorder and still camera are in good working order. Have lots of extra batteries, film, tape, and/or CDs.
Florals: Buy live flowers to decorate your home.
Cooking Utensils: Make sure you've got a pan big enough to hold the turkey, ham, goose, or roast you’ll be cooking. Make sure you can get the pan into the oven and that you have a lid or enough foil to cover it.
Thawing Meats: Compute how much time you need to thaw the turkey or other meat and mark calendar to move it from freezer to refrigerator.
Stress: Buy chocolates--eat lots of them!!!

On December 24 – Christmas Eve Day

Food Prep: Prepare any food you can and refrigerate. Check time needed for cooking turkey or other meat. Calculate when you will need to put it in the oven. If you are having a mid-day meal, set your alarm for 30 minutes to an hour before that time (disregard if you have children--they will be up at the crack of dawn!).
Christmas Cheer: Make egg nog, mulled wine, or Christmas punch.
Safety: Make sure you've got multiple pairs of oven mitts and trivets handy.
Table Prep: Set table for tomorrow’s dinner
Family Activities: Attend a service at your place of worship, invite friends in, or drive around the neighborhood to see all the holiday lights
And to All a Good Night: Put kids to bed. Relax with your hubby. Go to bed. Get up and put kids back to bed.

Christmas Day

Photo Op: Take a deep breath, then grab your camera and start capturing those great holiday moments.
Enjoy: Don’t forget to put down your camera occasionally and enjoy being “in the moment” with your family. Remember this is the day of peace and love and joyful celebration.
Entertain: Invite friends and neighbors to stop by later in the day.

Boxing Day (day after Christmas)
Toy Sorting: To make room for all those gifts, have kids sort through their old toys and decide which can be given to charity thrift stores.
Food: Create a plan to use holiday leftovers, so you can enjoy the time between Christmas and New Year’s.
Diet: Package remaining holiday cookies in zip-lock bags and freeze to avoid post-holiday binges. Get out a few at a time for lunch treats and dessert over the next month or two.
After the Holidays
Decorations: You can leave your decorations up till twelfth night or January 5th. When you do take them down, sort by indoor/outdoor or by room or use; mark the boxes, so you can identify what is in them more easily for the 2008 holiday.
After-Christmas Sales: Take advantage of the post-Christmas clearance sales to get decorations, wrapping papers, and craft supplies for next year’s holiday celebrations.
Relax: Put your feet up and relax—finish the remaining chocolate!

Rayme Royale says....

2007-11-02T17:55:00.001-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes~

Now that the smoke is clearing and the air is easier to breathe, we can begin to re-build, go back to what we know, but never forget the important lessons we have learned along the way.

For me, I'm soon to be in New York City for a week....speaking to you from my end at some scrapbook or craft store. I've got a good idea of where I'll be, and it'll be fun for my first venture as 'Duke on the Road'!

And I leave with my new web-site going full blast! On the divacraftlounge.com site, the upper left hand corner (THANK YOU TOM) is devoted to it. I couldn't be more thrilled about it. I so look forward to adding more stuff about all kinds of things with each passing month. Thank you to those who have all ready checked it out and given me your blessings!!!

Having finished and closed the show of "High School Musical" to much success, I walked away with a BIG SMILE on my face! Even though we had to cancel two productions due to the fire situation, (and one of my cast members losing her home) I truly learned once again the value of who we all are as human Beings and the way we ALWAYS manage to find ways to bring our creativity and joy into a chaotic situation! Our girl was there for every single performance afterwards singing and dancing like never before. Her family shared with me later how fortunate they felt that they had the show to look forward to, to watch their daughter express herself so joyfully on the stage in spite of the fact that her costume was practically the only thing she owned.

It is inherent in us to find, create and BE JOY! I have no doubts of this what so ever. How grateful I am to learn this lesson!
How grateful I am to all of you who continue listening to our show, or stumble on to our show and can find a reason to let yourself giggle for a little while.

It's all in the MAGIC.....US!

Fire can't destory everything!!!!

2007-10-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

Well, it's been a little crazy in our fine city of San Diego. Sun. afternoon I received a phone call from my sister saying her city of Ramona was on fire and she has to pack up the car and leave.

She lives in a beautiful rural area which is a great place to raise kids but very conducive to fires. She's surrounded by Mountains with huge boulders, oak trees that are 100s of years old, and lots of dry brush.

She packed up the kids, cat, bunny, pictures, and of course, her scrapbooks. Her husband stayed behind to wait til the last minute to evacuate and pack up paintings and all the things Dawn couldn't fit in the car. I met her at her Mom-in-laws , where she's staying and Frank didn't walk in the door until 4am. For a while it was touch and go if he was going to make it out!!!!!

The Big Blessing is that their house survived but with some of the winds getting up to 80 miles per hour and the temp. in the 90's many other homes in the area did not. It's a miracle that so far, only 6 people have perished. At one point it seemed when you turned on the news that most of our city and county was ablaze!!!!

I'm sooo proud of my city of San Diego. We've really come together as a Family. We have over 500,000 people that have been evacuated, over 1,200 homes are completely destroyed. 10,000 people are living at Qualcom stadium(where the Chargers play). Within 2 hours of the stadium opening up for families, the call went out that they needed all kinds of supplies and food. And then the next thing we knew we were being told that we can't bring anymore items because they were overloaded with all the generosity from the residents of San Diego. The lines to donate items and to volunteer have been up to 2 hours long. That's Generosity at it's best!!!!!!

We have a long road to recovery. Some families have just finished rebuilding from the fire from 4 years ago!!!! If you'd like to help you can Google The Salvation Army and make a donation to the San Diego Wild Fires. They also have a phone # that you can make a donation by phone. The # is 858-570-1001. I know any amount would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you sooo much for all your e-mails and phone calls inquiring how we are. We're fine and extremely grateful to be alive and living in this wonderful city. I'll keep you posted. We may have lost over 400,000 acres but we haven't lost out spirit of generosity.

Creativity at it's FULLEST!

2007-10-17T02:14:00.001-07:00

Hello Diva's and Dukes!

Fall is in the air. Creativity seems to be bursting out of me in all sorts of directions. Not only on the card making front, (which there will be a very long awaited surprise coming soon on the radio show about that) but in the music writing front, and the directing and musical directing front! This week will be the opening of the popular musical, "High School Musical" that I had the honor to direct and musical direct at a professional junior theatre company here in San Diego called, The J* Company.

I have an amazing cast of 70! Yes, 70 Beings from the ages of 12 through 17. An INCREDIBLE bright colored stage set in a beautiful 500 seat theatre, a six piece orchestra and every imaginable visual affect that they would let me have! Needless to say, it has been a joy to be creative at this kind of genre and I so enjoy working with young ones like this. To bring out their passion in what they love doing and being a part of that energetic joy is truly priceless and inspiring!

I am in a huge place of gratefulness connecting with creative Beings who are doing their thing and can help spark each other in our own avenues of creativity whether it be writing, poetry, music, art, dance, singing, scrap booking, card making, crafting, BRING IT ON!

And to share new products and new ideas with our faithful listeners through out the world is the icing on this out-rageously delicious cake! Thank you ALL!

Let's ALL strive to be multi-taskers in the CREATIVE ARENA! Lord knows, we do it on a daily basis with everything else we have to do! How hard can it be?

BIG GRATITUDE,

RAYME ROYALE

Fall Fun!!!!

2007-10-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

What a great weekend!!!

I was able to have a sleep over at my sister's house with my 2 nephews. She lives about an hour east of San Diego so I always say "I'm going to the country". My nephews are 6 and 1/2 and such a joy in my life. It's so much fun to spoil them and then I get to go home!!!!

We did our annual pumpkin patch adventure. I have a new camera so I was a picture taking fool! There's a button just for kids and animals so I can get some action shots. Those boy's move fast!!!!!

The boys ran around and visited the barnyard animals, traipsed thru the pumpkin patches, and this year we added "corn husk shooting." They loved it, but every time they pushed the button to shoot the corn, it made a horrible sound and it made us jump.

My nephew Cameron helped me pick out my pumpkin. It's a blue Pumpkin called a "Fairy Tale" pumpkin, but it's actually a light green color. Very Groovy!!!!

After dinner we went outside and decorated the house for Halloween. The "Boy Boy's" are into anything scary and bloody much to the dismay of their Mom. It's so much fun to watch them decorate. They really get into it!!!!! They take after their Auntie.

The following morning we decided to keep the adventure going and drive up to Julian. It's a little town 22 miles north east of where my sis lives. So it's Mt. and Country. Julian is known for apple picking which means some terrific apple pies. I think the whole of San Diego had the same idea. It was a little crowded.

The weather was a little rainy so it was "Very Fall Like" for San Diego. We stocked up on Apple pie,Fudge,and Honey Comb and drank hot apple cider. Yum!!! I'm getting hungry just thinking of it. It was so relaxing just get away and play tourist.

It really jump started my Fall to make this little trip. Let us know if you have a Fall Ritual you'd like to share.

Happy Fall Y'all!!!!!

Happy Sisters Day!

2007-10-08T16:11:00.001-07:00

Hi Divas And Dukes!

I just recieved the cutest e-mail form my sister wishing me "Happy Sisters Day" I opened it up and there was a big "I Love You" written in Red Bling, and a big "blingy"(is that a word?) red lips.

So, It occured to me that I should wish you all "Happy Sister's Day." I'm so blessed to have 2 great sister's and also my adotpted sisters. I can't imagine my life with out them and all of you!!!! Thanks for listening to Diva Craft Lounge, and for those of you have have sisters and adopted sisters, Go e-mail them and tell them how much they mean to you!

Rayme's Rice Torte Recipe

2007-10-03T10:38:00.002-07:00

As I promised on our Diva Craft Lounge Blog Talk Radio Show, here is Rayme's Rice Torte Recipe!
Make this dish, and you will be the envy of EVERYBODY who has the honor to taste it!
GAURANTEED!!!!

RAYME ROYALE

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~ Rayme’s Rice Torte Recipe ~

4 – 5 cups cooked rice
(1-1/2 cups raw rice cooked makes the perfect amount)
9 eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups parmesan cheese
1 cup milk
2/3 cup olive oil
1 pound cooked bacon
2 cups fresh steamed spinach
16 oz. chopped mushrooms, sautéed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, chopped & browned
Garlic powder – to taste
1 Tbsp dry Italian seasoning
Onion powder – to taste
Salt & Pepper ~ to taste

Pre-heat oven at 375 degrees.
In large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and pour in a 9 x 13 greased pan.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. (Until edges are brown)
Let sit for 20 – 30 minutes. Cut into squares and serve!

Rayme Royale's Christmas Card Agenda...

2007-10-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes...

FALL is HERE! I am all ready thrilled about the air getting crisp and the color of fall is starting to pick up momentum.
It's a wonderful time to find a time and place to make my favorite up of tea, sit down with all of my wonderful craft supplies that I have been meaning to get to for a long time and start thinking about new directions.

Since Diva Danielle has told you about making Christmas cards for the troops, (which I was honored to make a few of them myself to send off) it's not too late for all of US to start thinking about the Christmas cards that we're going to be sending out this year for our loved ones!

I've started playing with water colors and find that I don't have to be a 'true' artist (what ever THAT means) to paint the simplest of Christmas trees, or a Christmas wreath with just a few brush strokes and/or swirls on a light colored piece of card stock. Then dot the tree or wreath with other colors to make them look like they are 'aglow' with lights.
Add a little star at the top of the tree, or a ribbon at the top of the wreath, adhere it to a card stock, and you're done!

Since my Christmas Card list seems to get much longer every year with many more friends and acquaintances that I am blessed to receive in my life, it's something to start working on here and there so that I'm not bogged down at the last minute during the holiday rush. There are too many people that I want to spend my holidays with and getting my cards started early not only keeps me ahead of my schedule, but keeps me creative as well!

And I LOVE the fact that, no matter how many of the same card I make, NOBODY is getting an identical card! So I treasure the fact that I am giving little pieces of unique art to loved ones far and near.

Let me know any of YOUR quick Christmas Card tips! I'm always interested!

Creativity and Giving Back!

2007-10-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

I just spent a glorious Sunday afternoon with The Grand Duchess of Kandu (Jan Mollet-Evans) and Jane Carlson making about 60 cards for the troops. No matter what your politics are at the present, it's really important that the men and women in uniform know we support them .

Our friends at Scrapbook Royalty informed me about this card drive. We're making handmade cards to send to them so they can pick one out and send it home to their families for the Holidays.
They don't have a Hallmark in Iraq!!!!

We took all sorts of product that we'd collected and dumped it in the middle of the table and just started creating . It was a blast. We sat and chatted about family, Christmas traditions, snacked , drank tea and got really inspired by each others designs.

My Dad was in the Navy for 25 years and I remember getting letters and postcards from him. There wasn't any e-mail back then. Wow!!! That sounds like I've just dated myself!!!!!
It was great to get something in the mail from him and you would hold on to that for days. Sometimes it went under the pillow for safekeeping.

I know this time of year is really busy for everyone but just think if we could just sit down and create 5 cards each and send them in , we could make a family smile. They'd know that this was specially picked out by their Mommy or Daddy just for them!!!! I can see the smiles already.

We have till Oct 8th to send them in. Here's the address:

Scrapbook Royalty
P.O. Box 910665
San Diego, Ca. 92191

So lets get those cards sent in. It will make your heart Smile!!!!!

Memory Trends 'o7

2007-09-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Diva's And Dukes,

I just returned from a "Diva Road Trip" with The Grand Duchess of Kandu, Jan Mollet Evans. We spent 2 and 1/2 quick days at Memory Trends in Las Vegas. Jan and I drove for the sole purpose of stopping off in Baker, Ca. It's claim to fame is the World's Tallest Thermometer and the home of "The Mad Greek" Cafe.

I saw a show on Food Network called "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives" and I called Jan up and said we have to stop there. I'd always seen the signs and wondered what a Greek cafe is doing in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Lets just say we ate there on the way coming and going to MT. It was the best Shwarma I've ever tasted.

Ok,...Enough about the Mad Greek. Let's talk about Memory Trends. I loved the show. It was smaller than it had been in years. It reminded me of when MT first started. Manufacturers were able to spend quality time with store owners. Demonstrating and educating on some really great products. Store owners weren't rushing here and there to get thru the show and drop off orders. It was really nice to be able to have great conversations with different people in the industry.

We were able to do our show live from The Purple Cows Booth. They are the greatest group of people!!! We laughed and took pictures with Rick and Gary. Thanks for being such gracious hosts. Wait til you see what the Cow's are cooking up next for '08 .

Of Course all this wouldn't have happened if Rayme wasn't holding down the fort in The Lounge. You're the best Rayme!!!!

I know I promised to write down the Companies we spoke about. There were sooo many
other terrific products but we ran out of time. I promise Rayme and I will have them on the show ASAP.

So.... Here we go.....

Purple Cows www.purplecow.net
Glitz Design www.glitznow.com
Hambly Studio www.hamblystudios.com
Stanislaus Imports www.stanislausimports.com
Lasting Impressions www.lastingimpressions.com
Scribble Scrabble www.scribblescrabble.net
Be Blessed Scrapbooking www.beblessedscrapbooking.com
My Little Shoebox www.mylittleshoebox.com
Creative Impressions www.creativeimpressions.com
We R Memory Keepers www.weronthenet.com
Keller's Creations www.acidfree.com
Sparkle N Sprinkle www.sparklensprinkle.com
Impression Obsession www.impressio-obsession.com
Tilano Decorative Products www.Tilanofresco.com
Digital Scrapbook Place www.dspwholesale.com
Neatnix www.neatnix.com
Creative Options www.creativeoptionscrafts.com
Stone Creek Creations(Krafters Purse)www.stonecreekcreations.com
Brindy's Backyard www.brindysbackyard.com
Nicolette www.niclette-albums.com
Pazzles www.pazzles.com
Dezigns By Dezda www.dezignsbydezda.com

Wow......My fingers are exhausted!!!!!OK Divas And Dukes, have fun surfing the net. We'll be featuring some of these great companies soon. I'm going to make myself a cup of tea!!!! Typing is thirsty business!!!!!

Let me know you're favorites!!!!! Did I miss any Jan????

Rayme Royale says....

2007-09-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Divas and Dukes ~

Looks like I'm FINALLY caught up to the 21st Century! After changing computers and all of the stuff that goes with it....I've never been computer savvy so this HAS been a chore for me. But, at last, here I AM!

I just came back from Monterey and visited the Aquarium there for the first time in my life. I must say, no matter where you live in the world, if you haven't been there, make a point of doing so! Truly magical, extremely inspirational, and VERY good for the soul! I sat in front of 3 huge windows of water with a kelp garden in it and watched the live anchovies literally do dance formations that even the greatest choreographer couldn't come up with! That with the light hitting their silver bodies at times had me truly awe-struck! (And gave me a GREAT idea for another Rayme Card!)

As we always talk about, inspiration can be found anywhere....ANYWHERE...and I knew that the Aquarium would be that for me.
AND the walks on the beach, AND the incredible Clam Chowder on the wharf....it goes on and on....

So I'm back in San Diego and rejuvenated and so looking forward to sitting down with all of my craft stuff to CREATE, CREATE, CREATE!

I look forward to hearing from many more of you and thank you all for listening to the Diva Craft Lounge!

We are ALL BLESSED!

Diva And Duke Recipe Swap!!!!!!!

2007-09-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes,

OMG ! Where does the time go? I've been meaning to post and I can't believe it's been sooo long. For that I apologize.

Happy birthday to the Grand Duchess herself... Jan Mollet Evans... She told me "She's 29 again until she gets it right!!!!" I love that!!! I'm so blessed to have her as a friend.

I just returned from a great retreat in Dutch Flat, Ca. The town is as big as a postage stamp and a wonderful tribute to Americana. I met some amazing ladies and got to hang out with Miss Vicky which is always an added bonus.

We finally have our cruise dates which are April 14th-18th '08. I hope you can join us. We have a great time and get allot accomplished. We also learn many new techniques and love it when our Cruise Divas share some of there's.

Speaking of sharing. You know Rayme and I are always sharing recipes . So I thought it would be fun to start a Recipe Blog for all the Divas and Dukes out there. I hope you'll share some of your favorites with us.

Here's one of my favorites..... Don't count the fat grams on thjis one!!!!

Hot Artichoke Dip

2 cans of unmarinated artichoke hearts chopped
1/2 cup of sour cream
1 cup mayo
1/2 chopped white onion
1 clove of garlic chopped
1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese

mix all the ingredients together in a oven safe dish
cover with aluminium foil and bake in the oven at 350 for 1 hour
I usually double the recipe for a party. Serve with a sliced french baguette. Enjoy!!!!

Okay, now it's your turn ...... Rayme and I are looking forward to some great recipes!!!!

"Hanging out at the Expo"

2007-08-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

I just spent 3 days with my good Diva Buddy Miss Vicky at Scrapbook Expo. I was helping her with a little mini class in her booth. We did a cute little mini suitcase with an accordion book coming out of it. Don't worry , it will show up on a Divasode!

When I started "Scrapbook Diva" I used to attend 25 of these shows each year in various cities around the country. I'm wondering how I survived the physical grind of setting up a booth, standing on your feet for 8-10 hours a day, and then tearing it down at the end of the show. I'm still recovering and it was over on Sat. night!!!!!! Of course I was chatting so much I lost my voice. I do hope it will appear for tomorrows show.

We constantly had 5-9 women at our table in various stages of the project. We went from 9am -5 or 6pm. It was a blast to see all the different Divas AND Dukes, and have them add their individual touch to the project. Some people hung out with us for over an hour. It was like a 2 day party.

I loved touching base with all my other manufacturing friends in the industry. It's nice to see them doing well and Kicking it up a creative notch.

Miss Vicky at Cut-it-Up always has some cutting edge products in her booth. She was also showing Bees Wax collage techniques as well as doing some really cool collage with tins and alcohol inks. Each day I left their feeling like I needed to find more time to sit down and do more projects. I was hoping she and I could play a little at her demo table but we were so busy we never had a chance to.

Rayme came to walk the show with me but we were so slammed that he had to walk around without me. He was there for about 2 hours and I know he found some cool things.

if you ever have a chance to attend a consumer show they're lots of fun AND extremely dangerous!!!!! You Always leave their with many shopping bags.

Do you have a favorite Consumer show or a fun story about them? Let us know.

"Havin a Diva Birthday!!!"

2007-08-12T16:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas And Dukes,

Sorry I haven't posted for a while. Sat. was my 29th (again) birthday.

My celebrating started on Fri. when I took a few hours and had some creativity time with Divas Betty and Jen. I was working on a recipe album that I've been trying to finish since April. I'm finishing up the embellishments/bling. Jens 4 year old daughter was there and asked her mommy if "Diva Danielle was a teenager!!". My first thought was I LOVE this little "Diva in Training" and then I thought oh my gosh!!! ... I'm never going to act my age and I'm OK with that!!!! I love that children can see that and except it.

I was taken out to high tea by my favorite Grand Duchess Jan and Diva Jane. I love this B-day ritual we have.The tea shop is called The Aubry Rose in la Mesa ,Ca. When you walk in the door you feel like your in another world and your on vacation mode for an hour and a half. The owners Lorna and Dave are the perfect hosts and the high tea is to die for. Not only the usual cucumber and egg sandwiches but a savory sun dried tomato puff pastry, herb scone, bread pudding with chocolate sauce, and a lemon butter cookie with raspberry jam. Yes .... this was not a carb free high tea. but wait there's more!!! We finished it off with a lemon and lavender scone with the usual lemon curd, clotted cream and jam. So not only was I on a major caffeine high I was on a sugar rush!!!!! And this is only Fri.

Sat , I awoke to a mound of presents with a beautiful summer bouquet of flowers on top. Tom bought me a wonderful set of gourmet cookware. Smart man.... He knows I love to cook and of course instead of going to brunch, I wanted to use my new pans!!!!! They are Fab!!!!

The best part of my day was getting phone calls from all my dear friends all over.

Oh yeah.... and doing a kick boxing workout to get rid of the guilt of the high tea!

I paced myself the rest of the day because my nephews were coming over in the evening. I call them the Boy-Boyz. their 6 1/2. They have a tradition of baking me a cake and while they do this my sister takes the photos and puts them in a little flip book. This year the cake was chocolate with chocolate frosting and dinosaur sprinkles on top. I tell you .... it doesn't get any better than that!!!! We went to night zoo at the San Diego Zoo after that . We only spent an hour there but it was terrific.

We saw an artist who paints wild animals by splashing paint on the canvas. Totally amazing . You can't figure out what the animal is until he turns the canvas up side down for the big reveal!!!! Check him out at http://www.splashfacesofthewild.com/ What a gift he has. I'd love to own one of his pieces of art when I get more wall space!!!

To round out the B-day weekend we went to the local farmers market to hear our friends Betty and Pete Anderson perform . They were super. The crowd loved them. Pete's a pen and ink artist and Betty is a great singer and avid scrapbooker. She has a scrapbook room to die for. She's going to help me do a little organizing. I hope she knows what she's in for. I'm continuing my b-day for the rest of the month to spend some one on one time with all the people who are so dear to me. I am truly blessed.

Thank you all for being a part of my life.

"Tributes To Creativity"

2007-08-05T16:44:00.000-07:00

HI Divas and Dukes!!!

Rayme and I are always talking about "Creativity". So I thought I'd open it up to all of you to share your inspiration with the rest of us.

This past Thurs. Rayme invited Tom and I on a "Duke Road Trip" to see the Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach. It was their 75th anniversary.

I love driving up the coast so I can look at the Pacific Ocean and catch glimpses of the surfers out in the silvery blue. That reminded me of a project I'm working on for my sister . It's a tissue canvas with a mermaid motif. Note to self...... Finish the project.

Tom and I hadn't been to the POTM for many years. It was GLORIOUS!!!!!!. A double cast of over 200 men , women and children. They take famous art pieces and recreate them to life size.
We walked around The Festival of Arts first, to see all the local artists and what their up to. It's more exciting than it sounds. Some have been in this show for 26 years. We saw jewelry, sculptures, paintings, photographs, and some beautiful hand painted clothes. My favorite part was the art from children from Kindergarten to 12th grade. I wanted to take some of their art home and hang it on our walls. Note to Tom.....I need more wall space!!!

After the performance we were lucky enough to get a backstage tour. I have to tell you , because of my theatre background, I've seen many back stages and dressing rooms. This was the most well organized dressing rooms and makeup area I've ever seen. You would never have believed that they had just finished a performance with a 200 person cast just 15 min. prior to our tour. Everything was pristine and spotless. not a drop of powder on the floor.

Did I mention the cast and crew is ALL volunteer?

They had wig heads for every person for their makeup. In this show, to make the paintings come to life, every cast member has to have Very specific shading on their face. Almost airbrushed. The Disney makeup artists come in to show the volunteer makeup artists how to apply it perfectly. Then the cast member gets their costume fitted and they wait to be placed IN their painting. The cast member is then carefully placed in the painting and secured with a cable for safety. When the lights come up, the orchestra plays, and their frozen for a few minutes. Every Masterpiece, whether it was a painting, bronze sculpture ,a piece of fine porcelain or King Tuts Throne made you gasp when the lights came up.
I left there wanting to move to a town that is so committed to being Creative. If I lived their, I would be involved with this incredible tribute to Creativity.

Does your city do something to celebrate creativity? Let us know!!!!!

My Creative Weekend!!!!

2007-07-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas And Dukes!!!

What a terrific weekend. I attended the Scrapbook Royalty's Treasure Hunt from 8am til midnight. We were raising money for Families with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. It was a wonderful gathering of creative ladies.
Elena and her volunteers did an incredible job putting this together. There were 2 little girls there (from the same family) who had this challenge and they called themselves "The Guardian Angels." They were racing around in their wheelchairs . One of them had on a t-shirt that said"so NOT a Princess" but of course she was wearing a "Diva in Training " Tiara that I gave her. The other one was quite a scrapbooker. They sat next to their Mom and I and did my Make and Take , A "Diva" Artistic Trading Card. They had their own style and were determined to do it Their way!!!! I loved their spirit.
I was truly humbled by the parents of these girls They referred to their girls as their "2 Blessings" . I came away from that day thinking I have no problems and how Blessed my family is . If you'd like to find out more about this you can go to www.scrapbookroyalty.com .
Elena will be on the show this Wed. with the amount of $$$$$ that were raised for this worthwhile charity. She and her team donate 100% of the money raised. I don't know what her next event is but I do know that I'll be there with my tiara on!!!!!
What did you do this weekend to bring a little creativity into your life? Rayme and I would love to know.
Have A Diva Day!!!

Talk About Being Bold and Different!!!!!!

2007-07-27T12:19:00.001-07:00

HI Divas And Dukes!!!!!!!

This is one my favorite times of the year. Comic-Con is in San Diego!!!! It's the worlds largest convention for comic book enthusiasts. We live Downtown so we're right in the thick of it. When I go to the grocery store it's not unusual to see a couple of Darth Vaders standing in line with a hoard of Storm Troupers. And next to them are a bunch of Pirates. They've brought in a full size replica of The Black Pearl made entirely from Styrofoam. Now that's a Craft Project! I love their passion for their hobby. Like our hobby, it's also our lifestyle.

I'm planning on taking my nephews to the convention on Sun. It's kids day. And because I'm definitely still a kid at heart I'll be there with my tiara on!!!! Why not. When you wear a tiara people smile at you all day long. Sometimes I forget I have it on and I think to myself,"People are SOOOOOO Friendly. "

This afternoon I'm off to help set up for Scrapbook Royalty's "Royal Treasure Hunt." Elena and her team do an incredible job raising money for all types of charities. I look forward to spending the day tomorrow working on finishing up some of my projects and catching up with friends. I hope you have a terrific weekend and enjoy spending time with your family and friends. Whatever you're doing make sure you're Havin a Diva Day!!!!!!

Welcome to Our Diva Craft Lounge Blog

2007-07-25T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hi Divas and Dukes,

We want to welcome you to our Diva Craft Lounge Blog.

Rayme, Jan and I hope to be frequent contributors… but This Blog Is for You! (Sorry Budweiser.)

The purpose of our blog is to create a special place for the listeners of Diva Craft Lounge Radio from throughout the world to come together and share everything from their ideas to their lives. It can also be used to discuss those products and vendors that we cover weekly on the show or to let us know about your own discoveries. The rules of this blog are simple: Dare to Be Bold, Different and Always Kind!We always considered Diva Craft Lounge Radio Show as our weekly blog but here we're raising the creative stakes and jumping out of our comfort level because that's what we do. We're taking a deep breath and our fingers are flying.

I just returned from 4 days at CHA Summer show in Chicago. If you don't know what that is, it's an industry only show for manufacturers, designers, and retailers. Needless to say I was talking so much to friends in the industry from all over the globe that I left my voice in Chicago.

I was so inspired by the designers, manufacturers, and retailers, and what they're creating, that Jan, Rayme and I are devoting the whole show today to them.

Join us please! We want to know what inspires you and how you keep your creativity flowing.

That's all for now ..... Gotta go do our show!!!!!!

Have a Diva Day! ™

Danielle
Chief Executive Diva
Diva Craft Lounge Radio
http://www.divacraftlounge.com/