Let’s Scrap “Leap Around the World” Blog Hop

Let’s Scrap “Leap Around the World” Blog Hop

Let’s Scrap is sponsoring a “Leap Around the World” blog hop that runs from February 1 – February 29, 2012.  There are 50 (yes 50) blogs to hop with opportunities to win some great prizes and the Creativity Bugs blog is the 5^th stop on the tour.

Here is what you need to do to win:

• Make sure you are signed up as a follower on this blog.  Just scroll up to the right-hand corner and click on JOIN THIS SITE.  
• Click here to join the Let's Scrap website.  It's free, simple and quick!
• Find all those scraps of paper you have been setting aside for the last 5 years.  You will need them because the blog hop is all about making CARDS!
• Clean off your scrap table  
• Get ready to make a massive amounts of cards or layouts, each from a different sketch, so lots of variety!

OK, a few more details.  You did read correctly: there are 50 blog hosts!  Once you have joined Let's Scrap, at each blog, you will get two chances to win some blog candy (aka: booty, prizes)!  Do the math!  You will have 100 chances to win free stuff...and good stuff, too!  This is also the perfect opportunity to restock your card stash!  

• The first chance comes when you join/follow each blog and leave a comment.  
• The second chance comes when you use the card sketch on each blog to create a card, layout or other project based upon the card sketch appearing on each blog--they are all different! You then must post your creation in the Let's Scrap website gallery, then go back to each blog and leave a second comment linking back to your gallery post.

Don't be overwhelmed...you are doing only one card at a time!  Our hope is that you will visit every blog, but, remember, you have the whole month of February to do this.

Stay tuned tomorrow for the blog hop to begin!

Creativity Bug ~ Sue

1st annual scrappin’ & craftin’ the day away fundraiser

1st Annual Scrappin’ & Craftin’ the Day Away Fundraiser

Calling all crafters! The Antioch Junior Woman’s Club is proud to announce its 1st Annual Scrappin’ & Craftin’ the Day Away Fundraiser!  Proceeds from this event will help fund 3 community scholarships as well as other local charitable organizations.

Crafters of all varieties are invited to scrapbook and craft the day away along with socialize and make new friends.

Click here for additional information!

AJWC: Vendors needed

Vendors Needed

The Antioch Junior Woman’s Club is proud to announce its 1st Annual Scrappin’ & Craftin’ the Day Away Fundraiser!  Proceeds from this event will help fund 3 community scholarships as well as other local charitable organizations.

AJWC is looking for vendors (of all varieties) to sell their wares during the event. If you are interested in being a vendor for this event, click here for additional details.

Simkus recreation center: Crocheted flowers class

Crocheted Flowers Class

Simkus Recreation Center in Carol Stream invites you to attend their “Crocheted Flowers” class.

Learn to crochet or improve your skills with this new workshop! Choose from several floral designs and make a versatile pin to spice up your wardrobe.

Click here for more information!

CLC: Cooking classes

CLC: Cooking Classes

The College of Lake County is proud to announce its new Spring 2012 non-credit cooking classes with Chef Yin Stoller.

These classes are designed to feed your creative side and aid in the learning of cooking Asian. Learn step-by-step how to make delicious wonton soup, steamed dumplings, sesame sticking rice bowls, and a tasty Chinese meal for the family. 

Click here for more information!

Mini Oreo stuffed cookies

Mini Oreo Stuffed Cookies

Oh yum, what do I see on that fancy party plate? It looks like a chocolate chip cookie, but one bite into this treat shows me a secret ingredient inside; a mini Oreo cookie.

Serve your guess at the next party event these tasty Mini Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies and then stand back. You will see a smile come across their face as they bite into the hidden Oreo cookie and then come back for just one more. Plan on making lots of these treats as they disappear in the blink of an eye.

Click here for the recipe!

Asian inspired mini burgers

Asian Inspired Mini Burgers

Are you tired of the same old burger and fries takeout meals and looking for a change of pace? Maybe you are looking to create an original party spread for your next Super Bowl party or potluck dinner.

Why not consider making these Asian Inspired Mini Burgers as an surprise appetizer on the table. This tasty appetizer takes the usual ground sirloin beef used in traditional burgers but have the added ingredients of water chestnuts and stir-fry marinade to give it the Asian flavoring.

Click here for the recipe!

Cheddar bacon ranch pull bread

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pull Bread

When I discovered this recipe for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pull Bread, I honestly thought I died and went to bakers heaven. This bread has everything – cheddar, bacon, melted butter, and ranch flavoring dripping from pieces of crusty sour dough bread.

This bread is unbelievable, highly addictive, and will be the most requested item at any potluck or party. Don’t take my word for it, just try it for yourself.

Click here for the recipe!

Rolo pretzel treats

Rolo Pretzel Treats

The first time I had Rolo Pretzel Treats were at my cousin’s first communion. The combination of salty pretzel, gooey caramel, and chocolate mixed together was pure delight.

These treats are great to bring plated up for potluck dinners or any time you need to bring a dessert for a party. They also make nice thank you gifts for teachers or hostesses. Just purchase cellophane bags, fill with pretzel treats, and tie off with curly ribbons. The recipient will truly love this gift!  

Click here for this easy recipe!

Pretzel bites

Pretzel Bites

My niece and I try to get together every few months to have an “auntie & me” overnight which includes crafting, movies, baking, and getting pizza from the local pizzeria.

Our favorite pizzeria has a variety of bread bites including pretzel, cinnamon sugar, and garlic that we often splurge on. Recently while looking at recipes online, I was happy to discover that Bobby Flay had a recipe for soft pretzels that closely matched our favorite treat.

I was able to change up the recipe a bit and come up with a version that reminds us of the ones from our favorite pizzeria. The best part is that instead of buying them, we can make them together in the kitchen and create different versions to satisfy our culinary curiosity.

Click here for the recipe!

Crescent roll chicken bites

Crescent Roll Chicken Bites

You can create a party any time with Pillsbury Crescent Rolls!

This versatile refrigerator crescent is not just for rolls anymore. All you need is a little imagination and some refrigerator and pantry staples to create bite sized appetizer treats.

These crescent roll chicken bites use a combination of chicken, cream cheese, and seasoning which is wrapped in the crescents to create bite sized goodness.

Click here for the recipe!

Call for artists – Tall grass arts

Call for Artist: Tall Glass Arts

Tall Grass Arts Association is now accepting applications to become a juried artist.  Juried artists are invited to participate in the annual art fair held in September in Downtown Park Forest.  

Juried artists have the opportunity to display their creations in the gallery at least once a year and to include their work in the Tall Grass Gift Shop.

Click here for more information!

Super bowl foods: Blitz burgers

Blitz Burgers

Are you getting ready for the Super Bowl? It is just around the corner and now is the time to start planning your party menu.

These crowd pleasing bite sized burgers are a great combination of ground beef and black beans wrapped in a mini pita round.  It goes perfect with other game day appetizers and a vegetable tray.

Click here for the recipe!

Winter Indie Wedding Show and Market 2012

Winter Indie Wedding Show and Market 2012

The Ravenswood Event Center presents its 3rd Annual Winter Indie Wed Show this Saturday.

Indie Wed is a THE alternative to the traditional bridal expo. For those in the midst of wedding planning, Indie Wed offers a one stop shop for all the best wedding artisans and professionals from the Midwest and beyond.

Click here for more information!

Bean and cheese filled jalapeño poppers

Bean and cheese filled jalapeño poppers

Have you been invited to a party or event and asked to bring an appetizer? Instead of the traditional spread with crackers, think spicy finger foods by bringing Bean and Cheese Filled Jalapeno Poppers.

Spicy peppers get a cool down from the creamy bean-and-cheese filling in Eating Well Magazines healthier version of jalapeno poppers.

Click here for the recipe!

BBQ ranch chicken and cheddar pizza rollups

BBQ ranch chicken and cheddar pizza rollups

What’s a party without pizza? These BBQ Ranch Chicken and Cheddar Pizza Rollups are easy to create and they make a great appetizer dish for any party.

Some shredded store bought rotisserie chicken with a homemade BBQ sauce, smoked cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and Pillsbury pizza dough is all you really need to prepare this tasty treat.

Click here for the recipe!

Crispy southwest chicken wontons

Crispy Southwest Chicken Wontons

I found a package of wonton wrappers in my fridge, but couldn’t remember what recipe I bought them for.  With Super Bowl coming up along with a few other get together events, I thought I would search online for a tasty appetizer recipe that would make a great party starter.

As soon as I discovered Picky Palate’s Crispy Southwest Chicken Wonton recipe, I knew I found a winner.  This appetizer features wonton wrappers filled with chicken, vegetables, and salsa Verde for a little kick.

Click here for the recipe!

Family fun: It’s for the birds

It's for the Birds

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum invites the entire family to have Thursday morning fun at a special workshop.

Join in on the “It’s for the Birds” presentation and workshop. If you want to learn how to attract more birds to your yard, stop on by and make a bird feeder out of natural and repurposed materials such as pinecones and milk jugs.

Click here for more information!

Asian chicken rollups

Asian Chicken Rollups

Looking for an untraditional way to eat your favorite Asian food? Consider making Asian Chicken Rollups for a quick and tasty lunch.

Click here for the recipe!

Funtastic family fair

FUNtastic Family Fair

The Infinity Foundation presents its 8th annual FUNtastic Family Fair: Healthy Choices for Healthy Families.  Great entertainment and hands-on activities at each exhibit make for a unique way for parents and kids to find out about the latest information for improved health and wellness.


Click here for more information!

Copycat PF Changs lettuce wraps

Copycat PF Chang's Lettuce Wraps

P.F. Chang's Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a favorite among famous restaurant recipes, and now you can make this delicious copycat appetizer at home. All you need is lettuce and some fixings; you'll impress your family or your guests!

Click here for the recipe!

Cooking 1950s style with Ellie Carlson

Cooking 1950s Style with Ellie Carlson

The Lake Villa District Library invites you to “Cooking 1950s Style” with presenter Ellie Carlson.

Learn to create the fare that every 1950's hostess eagerly shared with her guests.  The menu includes canapés, stuffed celery rings, lucky salad and everyone's favorite beverage---Shirley Temples!

Click here for more information!

ARC taste of Galena

ART Taste of Galena

In Galena, it’s hard to choose just one place to be; one favorite thing. So they’ve made it easy and brought all of their favorites together in one place all just for you. 

Experience the Taste of Galena with unique tastes, fun samplings,  wine tasting, beer, and desserts including chocolate and cheesecake. Sumptuous temptations of award-winning main dishes are prepared by respected chefs. Dine on soups, salads, house specialties, and an evening of delectable delights. 

Click here for more information!

CraftFancy: Japanese paper quilting

Japanese Paper Quilting Class

CraftFancy, the paper crafting store, has lined up a fun new paper crafting class this week just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Come join Diane once again to create unique and sweet Valentine's Day themed Japanese Paper Quilting Cards. This popular technique can be used to decorate cards and create interesting and totally unique embellishments for your scrapbook pages!

Click here for more information!

Homemade Sugar Cubes

Homemade Sugar Cubes

Are you having a special Valentine dinner party or ladies luncheon? Then consider serving these homemade heart shaped sugar cubes alongside china cups filled with specialty teas and coffees.

They are super easy to make and add such a nice detail to a party or just make daily tea drinking extra special.

Click here for the recipe!

Hot artichoke and spinach dip

Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip

Are you looking for an appetizer dip that tastes just like the one you share at your favorite restaurant?

This great Applebee's copycat recipe for hot artichoke and spinach dip is the perfect treat for any party. Restaurant copycat recipes are a great way to enjoy the taste of your favorite restaurant right at home!

Click here for the recipe!

Victorian Valentines

Victorian Valentines

Roses are red, violets are blue. The Arlington Heights Historical Museum has lots of lace for valentines and to make your class box too!

Make cards and your valentines box for your classroom holiday celebration. They provide the inspiration and materials, and you use your own creativity to make one of a kind cards for your friends.

Click here for more information!

The Chocolate Expo

The Chocolate Expo

The Morton Arboretum invites you to its third annual Chocolate Expo which kicks off February's "Celebrating Chocolate" activities.

Chocolate all around you! The “Chocolate Expo” showcases more than 20 Chicago-area chocolatiers. Stop in to sample and purchase unique sweets and chocolate-themed gifts.

Click here for more information!

Auntie Ann’s copycat pretzels

Auntie Ann's Copycat Pretzel Recipe

Restaurant recipes like this one for Auntie Ann's Copycat Pretzels are fun to make and fun to eat. These savory, salty pretzels will transport you back to the mall without leaving your house!

Click here for the recipe!

Brownie cheesecake dessert

Brownie Cheesecake Dessert

Is it a brownie or is it cheesecake? Who cares as it is a delectable combination of two favorite desserts. Bring them to your next social gathering or bake sale and watch them disappear.

Just image the rich cream cheese flavor enhanced with the intense chocolaty goodness of a brownie all swirled into a pretty little muffin cup.

Click here for the recipe!

Slow Cooker: Asian pork stew

Asian Pork Stew

What’s for dinner tonight? How about taking out your slow cooker and making Asian Pork Stew.

Take slow cooker pork stew far east with Asian ingredients including water chestnuts, bamboo shoots and hoisin sauce. Ladled over rice, it's a complete meal.

Click here for the recipe!

Shredded Thai chicken salad

Shredded Thai Chicken Salad

Looking for a light, yet satisfying lunch? Consider making this Shredded Thai Chicken Salad for an Asian flavor.

It is easy to recreate this Thai restaurant favorite with quick short-cut ingredients, including deli rotisserie chicken and packaged broccoli slaw.

Click here for the recipe!

Seven layer Chinese chicken salad

Seven Layer Chinese Chicken Salad

Looking for a tasty salad to bring to the next book club, potluck, ladies luncheon, or shower? This recipe for Seven Layer Chinese Chicken Salad is not only quick to make, but is extremely tasty

Just 15 minutes is needed to layer ingredients that toss into a delicious chicken salad with a gingery dressing. Guests will ask for more!

Click here for the recipe!

Asian style chicken salad

Asian Style Chicken Salad

Dive into this salad made with crispy chicken, crunchy veggies, sweet oranges and a tangy Asian dressing. Easy to make and is on the table in less than 25 minutes.

Click here for the recipe!

Featured Freebies for the Week of January 23, 2012

Hello and Happy Monday to Everyone!

Here are this week's free digital images or printables found on websites, blogs, or submitted to us from friends and followers:

Patty Wraps has a few free candy wrappers and downloadables: Valentine Girl, Valentine Girl 2, All Star Treat Bag, and Birthday Elephant Treat Bag.

Netty’s Cards shares a sentiment free digital image.

Craftionary shares 75 Valentine’s Day free printables.

Vintage Digitals Stamps shares a Be Mine digital image

That’s all for this week!  Happy Crafting!

Creativity Bug ~ Sue

Water street studios: Illuminate

Illuminate

Water Street Studio announces its first themed showIlluminate in which all pieces reflect the theme of “light”

Illuminate explores light in all of its forms and is open to conceptual interpretation. This will be a dimly lit show, with the gallery's house lights off and sporadic track lights on.

Click here for more information!

Appetizer: Thai chicken salad

Thai Chicken Salad

Have you been invited over to a potluck, game night, or book club meeting and need to bring an appetizer? Think Asian fair with this Thai Chicken Salad appetizer.

Creamy peanut sauce, cooked chicken, and seasonings blend perfectly in this Asian-inspired appetizer. Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, melba toast, Triscuit crackers, or buttery type crackers.

Click here for the recipe!

Capturing the spirit of land and nature

Capturing the Spirit of Land and Nature

The McHenry County Plein Air Painters, local “plein air” (in the open air) artists, capture the spirit of land and nature, and transform it into expressive paintings and drawings.

Enjoy the beauty of McHenry County Conservation District sites through the eyes of an artist. Works on display were completed over the last year. Participating artists include Dee Abbate, Lucy Dellapina, Johanna Gullick, Julie Jansen, Karyl Shields, Barbara Sistak-Baur, and Alice Schank.

Click here for more information!

Chili mac soup

Chili Mac Soup

A friend of mine wanted to serve her kids a hot and tasty meal on a tight budget. While playing around in the kitchen with a few freezer items and whatever was in the pantry, she created a tasty soup that the kids love.

This hearty main dish Chili Mac Soup is made with a secret ingredient; Hamburger Helper Chili Macaroni.

Click here for the recipe!

Asian steak salad

Asian Steak Salad

Not too long ago, I went to a library book sale and purchased a bag of cookbooks. This included the Betty Crocker Heart Healthy Cookbook which drew me in by the colorful cover.

Written in partnership with one of America's most respected cardiologists and a nutritionist from the Bell Institute of Health & Nutrition, this complete resource is packed with over 140 tempting recipes plus information and advice that will do your heart—and your family—good.

Click here for the recipe!

Nature at night

Nature at Night

Do you ever wonder what is going on outside in the darkness? What animals are active? What is happening up in our sky? Join the Prairieview Education Center for educational activities about nocturnal animals and explore the night sky.

Click here for more information!

Whole Foods: Gluten-free baking class

Gluten-free Baking Class

Have you been diagnosed with Celiac disease or recently been placed on a gluten-free diet? Need to learn how to revise your kitchen to include gluten-free snacks? Then sign up for a special Gluten-Free Baking Class at Whole Foods in Northbrook.

Don't let a gluten-free diet hold you back from enjoying your favorite desserts. Come and learn how to make a variety of gluten-free tasty treats!

Click here for more information!

Appetizer: Taco dip

Taco Dip

Surprise your guests on Super Bowl Sunday with a platter filled with Taco dip and their favorite tortilla chips.

This dip has the right combination of seasoned meat, hot cheese, and tortilla chips to remind you of that crunchy taco shell experience.  It will be the highlight of game day with the only problem being how quickly it will disappear.

Click here for recipe!

Whole Foods: Chili cook-off

Chili Cook-off

At the Whole Foods Market - Northbrook team members from each department will be making chili that reflects their specialty. But it is up to you to determine the winner!

Click here for more information!

Cool family adventure

Cool Family Adventure

Step away from the TV and head to Lyman Woods in Downers Grove for some cool family fun!

Discover snowy adventures and the fun of the outdoors during the winter season. Explore the winter woods on a hike, play winter games, and cozy up to the campfire for a warm winter snack!

Click here for more information!

Declutter and organize your life in the new year

Declutter and Organize

January is “National Get Organized Month”, and getting organized is one of the most common New Year's resolutions.  

Come to the Vernon Area Public Library to learn the ins and outs of organizing any space in your home or office with Certified Professional Organizer Amy Trager.  Amy will teach you how to tackle spaces in a manageable way. She'll have examples of creative ideas for all your problem areas, too. Bring questions about your toughest organizing challenges to ask her!

Click here for more information!

Winterfest

Winterfest

Bundle up, lace up your skates, and join the Oak Brook Park District for Winterfest!

Families are invited to embrace the winter season and kick off the park district's 50th Anniversary with food, beverages and a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, games and contest.  Warm up with hot chocolate and a race across the ice rink!  Food and drink will be available for purchase.

Click here for more information!

Elmhurst park district: Sweetheart dance

Sweetheart Dance

Boys and girls ages 3-13 can enjoy a magical evening with dad or mom at the Sweetheart Dance presented by theElmhurst Park District. 

Sweatheart couples (daddies & daughters and mothers & sons) will start the evening with dinner and then enjoy dancing and fun! 

Click here for more information!

Paper Source: My sweet valentine

My Sweet Valentine Workshop

You don’t have to be Cupid to inspire romance. This Valentine’s Day let Paper Source help you create the perfect keepsake card that personifies your love.

Style your special keepsake using our cache of amazing materials and accents! Sip *beverages and nibble on light treats while you craft the night away. Arrow not included, but Paper Source thinks this class will hit the mark! Must be 21 to attend.

Click here for more information!

Arrowhead golf club: Painting and wine

Painting and Wine

Unwind and get creative during a night of painting with new friends at the Arrowhead Golf Club!

This special interest event is sponsored by the Carol Stream Park District. You will be guided through a unique acrylic painting, great for beginners and intermediate artists alike.

Click here for more information!

Daddy daughter date night

Daddy Daughter Date Night

Dads can enjoy a delicious meal and dance the night away with their special little girl (ages 4-11) sponsored by the Village of Lake in the Hills.

Click here for more information!