junk journal from junk

This one is made from a Rice a Roni box. I love recycling things into fun projects and this was not just a Rice a Roni box, but the pages are packing paper from an Amazon order, and you'll see a tea bag in there also. There are lots more blank pages for adding to or journaling on later as well. 

Tags and pocket

Journaling hearts in tucks

Our favorite flavor...remember when they used to add almonds? I have to add them when I make it at home. LOL

Birthday card

Masculine birthday card. This one is for my oldest grandson. 

Keep it cozy

Winter is cold and I don't like to be cold. Which is ok at the moment because we are in sunny (well, not as much right now as it usually is) San Diego. LOL Anyway, today's project is a little tag book I put together using the Simple Stories Vintage Fresh Snow collection. As my crafting supply is limited, you'll be seeing lots of things using only what I brought with me until they are all used up, and this collection is one of them. 

First project of 2026

UPDATED: I made a box for it. ETA pics.

A Valentine for my Valentine. I created this one from tags I cut by hand (of all things to forget to pack in my craft bag - TAG DIE! Good grief, I use tags ALL THE TIME!) This one is an accordion booklet, which I totally love. The cover is a separate piece from the booklet, a design I borrowed from Amity Bloom. Check out her adorable designs on her You Tube channel here.

I used the most beautiful collection by Simple Stories from a few years ago called My Valentine. If they were to re-release this one, I'd purchase it again in a heartbeat. Anyway, here's the cover. 

Front

Back

Inside front and back with ribbon hinges and twine closure

There are six two-sided tag pages, held together, accordion style, by ribbon hinges.

Last page will hold a special handwritten Valentine message.

2025 Favorites

Before I get to the faves, I want to thank everyone for visiting my blog, commenting, and leaving such sweet messages on my Facebook and Instagram accounts. I was so excited to finally reach 1 million visitors and the next thing I know it became a mill and a half!! My crafty heart is so happy sharing my creations, and it's so great to know I've been able to inspire you. Wishing you all the best in 2026!

Disclaimer: I've not included any of the Halloween projects, as I have yet to finish the journal cover and add everything to the book. Which I will do when I get home in March. But there are some faves included in that project for sure! 

Mixed media tags Not only are the tags favorites, but so are the faux metal enamel tags. (Each photo is linked back to the original post with more deets and pics.)

Distressed ephemera dangles - We did this with vintage photos as well and they turned out so very cool. Fun technique and the end result is stunning. 

Vintage ID cards

Vintage measuring tape tags

Birthday card for one of the grands

ABC April, letter Y - Yesteryear. This is my grandparents in 1940. 

Grungy goodness - my first experience using Infusions. I love them!!!

Mini folio, one sheet wonder I love making these.  

Charms - faux resin: made from jump rings and glossy accents 

Paper beads - such a fun project.

Round mini-book for Scraptember2025

It was hard to choose just twelve (I realize there are eleven shown, but I'm pretty sure the Halloween Every Day Journal is going to take up one space on my list! LOL), and there are others I call favorites as well that I didn't include here, but you've seen on the blog and probably Instagram too. Only a few of my faves made the Top Nine on IG. Did any of your favorites make my list? 

Happy Crafting in 2026!