What a Typical Creative Day Looks Like for Me

 What a Typical Creative Day Looks Like for Me

Hey friends! Ever wonder what a normal creative day looks like living in Wildebeest? Today I’m giving a peek behind the scenes of balancing crafting, blogging, photographing, and daily life on the road.

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Living and creating in a 1990 Ford E350 shuttle bus isn’t exactly the same as having a craft room—but honestly, I wouldn’t trade it. My creative days are a mix of planning, making, photographing, and squeezing inspiration into a small but cozy space.

Here’s what a pretty typical creative day looks like for me.

Morning: Coffee, Planning, and Inspiration

I’m not one of those people who springs out of bed instantly productive. First comes coffee. Always coffee.

While I sip, I usually check messages and comments from the Craftin’ Wife’s Creations community. Talking with you all is one of my favorite parts of blogging, and it helps me see what people are excited about or wanting to learn.

After that, I open my notebook or planner and sketch out the day:

• What blog post am I working on?

• What craft needs to be finished or photographed?

• Do I need to cut anything with my Cricut Joy?

• Is this a filming or photography day?

Having a plan helps a lot when space is limited and everything needs to be put away after I’m done.

Late Morning: Craft Time

This is when the fun really begins.

Since I don’t have a dedicated craft room, I set up my workspace at the table. Supplies come out in small batches—tools, cardstock, adhesives, or whatever the day’s project needs.

I tend to focus on crafts that:

• Travel well

• Store easily

• Don’t create huge messes

• And definitely… no loose glitter

Some days I’m making cards, other days vinyl decals, paper crafts, or seasonal decorations. I’ve learned to work efficiently in a small space, and honestly, it’s made me more creative.

Afternoon: Photography and Blogging

Once a project is finished, it’s time to photograph it. Lighting is everything, so I usually take photos near the windows or outside when the weather cooperates.

I take:

• Styled photos for the blog

• Step-by-step shots if it’s a tutorial

• A few extra pictures just in case

After photos are done and everything is cleaned up (a must in a tiny living space), I sit down to write. Blog writing is where I slow down and really think about how to explain a project clearly so others can recreate it.

Late Afternoon: Daily Life Stuff

Living on the road means regular life still happens in between the creative moments:

• Tidying the bus

• Planning meals

• Reading for a bit

• Talking with Chris about videos, blogs, or travel plans

Sometimes we explore wherever we’re parked, and inspiration often shows up in the most unexpected places—colors, textures, or little details that spark ideas for future crafts.

Evening: Relaxing and Idea Time

Evenings are usually quieter. I might read, sketch ideas in my notebook, or browse craft inspiration online.

This is often when I jot down blog ideas or project concepts that pop into my head. I’ve learned that if I don’t write ideas down immediately, they disappear into the void.

Creative life in Wildebeest may be small-space crafting, but it’s full of heart, creativity, and a whole lot of coffee. I love sharing this journey with all of you, and I hope this little peek behind the scenes was fun.

Tell me in the comments—are you a morning crafter, a night crafter, or somewhere in between?

Thanks for following along! I hope this gives a little insight into small-space creative life. I’d love to hear what a creative day looks like for you too!

5 Easy Steps To A Soft Valentine’s Makeup Look

 Soft Valentine’s Makeup Look

Hello friends! Today I’m sharing a soft, wearable Valentine’s look that’s romantic but realistic—perfect for everyday life on the road.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to mean bold red lips and dramatic glam. Sometimes the prettiest looks are soft, glowy, and romantic—perfect for a cozy dinner, a coffee date, or even just treating yourself while parked somewhere peaceful. Today I’m sharing one of my favorite easy, travel-friendly makeup looks that gives a soft Valentine’s vibe without needing a full vanity setup.

Living and creating in a bus means I keep things simple, portable, and practical—but that doesn’t mean we can’t feel pretty.

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Step 1: Fresh, Glowy Base

For a soft look, the key is skin that looks natural and healthy.

• Start with moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

• Use a light foundation, BB cream, or tinted moisturizer instead of a heavy base.

• Spot conceal where needed rather than covering everything.

If you like a glow, a tiny bit of liquid or cream highlighter on the tops of the cheeks goes a long way.

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Step 2: Soft Pink or Peach Eyes

Valentine’s looks don’t need complicated palettes.

• Sweep a soft pink, rose, or peach shade across the lid.

• Add a slightly deeper shade to the outer corner for gentle depth.

• Blend well—soft edges make all the difference in this look.

If you want a little sparkle, use a shimmer shade in the center of the lid or inner corner for that romantic glow.

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Step 3: Light Definition

Instead of heavy liner:

• Use a brown eyeliner or a dark shadow close to the lash line.

• Smudge slightly for a softer effect.

• Finish with mascara to open up the eyes.

This keeps the look romantic rather than dramatic.

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Step 4: Soft Flush of Color

A cream blush works beautifully for this style and travels well.

• Apply to the apples of your cheeks and blend upward.

• Shades like soft rose, dusty pink, or peach look especially flattering.

A little across the bridge of the nose can add that sweet, fresh-air glow.

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Step 5: Easy Lips

Skip the bold matte reds for this look.

• Tinted balm

• Gloss

• Sheer lipstick in pink or mauve

Comfortable lips are perfect for long days, coffee stops, and campfire conversations.

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Travel-Friendly Tips

Doing makeup in a small space has taught me a few things:

• Multi-use products save space (lip & cheek sticks are amazing).

• Small brushes and travel mirrors make life easier.

• Good lighting—usually by a window—is better than any vanity bulb.

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Final Thoughts

Makeup doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. A soft Valentine’s look is really about feeling cozy, confident, and a little bit glowy—whether you’re going out, staying in, or just enjoying a quiet evening with a good book.

And honestly, sometimes the best Valentine’s tradition is just taking a little time for yourself.

I’d love to hear if you try this look! Share your thoughts, tweaks, or favorite Valentine’s makeup with me—I love seeing your creativity shine.

linktr.ee/craftinwife

Handmade Valentine Cards That Travel Well (Cricut Joy)

 

Handmade Valentine Cards That Travel Well

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and even though I love all the glittery, over-the-top craft projects, sometimes you need something simple, sturdy, and perfect for sending through the mail—especially when you’re on the road like we are! Today, I’m sharing a few ideas for handmade Valentine cards that are both charming and travel-friendly, all made with my trusty Cricut Joy and a few helpful tools.

Why Travel-Friendly Matters

When you’re RVing, space is tight, and flat, lightweight projects are a lifesaver. These cards won’t get bent in a bag or crushed in a mailbox, and they’re easy to make in batches. Plus, the Cricut Joy is perfect for quick, precise cuts without taking over your entire living space.

Tools & Materials I Used

• Cricut Joy – compact but mighty!

• Smart Vinyl & Cardstock – perfect for crisp designs that stick or layer easily.

• Joy Pen Set – add handwritten-style messages without any smudges.

• Transfer Tape – for precise placement of vinyl cut-outs.

• Cricut Joy StandardGrip &/or Card Mat – small, easy to store, and perfect for detailed cuts.

• Envelopes – make sure they’re snug enough to protect your card but not too bulky for mailing.

Card Ideas That Travel Well

1. Layered Heart Cards – Cut several cardstock hearts in different sizes and colors. Use adhesive dots to stack them slightly, giving a subtle 3D effect without adding bulk.

2. Vinyl Cut-Out Cards – Use your Cricut Joy to cut intricate heart shapes or romantic quotes from vinyl, then transfer them onto cardstock. Flat, elegant, and totally mail-friendly.

3. Folded Pop-Up Accents – Keep it simple with one pop-up element inside the card. A small heart or banner folds flat when closed but “pops” when opened.

4. Handwritten Joy Pen Messages – Use your Cricut Joy pens to write inside your cards. You get the perfect font every time, with no risk of smearing while traveling.

Tips for Mail-Ready Cards

• Keep embellishments minimal – Stick to lightweight layers or vinyl instead of heavy ribbons or buttons.

• Use stiff cardstock – Adds structure and protects delicate designs.

• Consider mailing tubes for pop-ups – If your design is taller than a standard envelope, a tube ensures it won’t get squished.

These cards are a sweet way to send love, even if you’re living life on the road. I love combining the precision of the Cricut Joy with creative layering and vinyl designs—it makes every Valentine feel thoughtful, personal, and easy to send.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you found a card idea that inspires you. I’d love to see your creations—tag me online or leave a comment. Keep crafting, wherever you are!

If you need more of a How To let me know!

 

Five Little Things Making Me Happy Right Now

Hey friends! Settled into Wildebeest with a cup of cocoa, I wanted to share a few small things that have been bringing me joy lately.

Sometimes, happiness isn’t about the big events or grand gestures—it’s about those small, everyday things that make life a little brighter. Lately, I’ve been noticing and savoring five little things that are bringing me joy, and I thought I’d share them with you.

1. Books That Transport Me

There’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book and letting yourself get lost in another world. Lately, I’ve been diving into stories that inspire my creativity and spark my imagination. Whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a cozy romance, or a crafty DIY guide, books are my little escape and a big source of happiness.

2. Time with Friends

Even if it’s just a quick coffee date or a long phone call, catching up with friends always leaves me feeling lighter and more connected. Laughter, support, and shared stories—these little moments remind me of the importance of nurturing relationships.

3. Craft Time

This one is obvious for me, isn’t it? Spending time crafting—whether it’s painting, sewing, or working on a small DIY project—feels like pressing the reset button on my mind. There’s something magical about watching an idea turn into something tangible and beautiful.

4. Sunshine and Fresh Air

A little walk outside, a patch of sunlight streaming through the window, or even just standing on the porch and feeling the breeze—nature has a way of grounding me and reminding me to appreciate the simple pleasures.

5. Moments of Quiet

Between the chaos of life, finding a few minutes of peace—maybe while sipping tea, journaling, or just listening to my favorite music—feels like a tiny gift I give myself. These quiet moments help me recharge and focus on the things that truly matter.

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It’s amazing how these little things, when noticed and cherished, can make life feel brighter every single day. What are your little things that are making you happy right now? I’d love to hear them in the comments below!

Until next time, keep enjoying those tiny moments that make life brighter.

 

Winter Skin Prep in Dry Air: Keeping Your Glow All Season

Hello, crafty friends! ❄️

Winter is here, and with it comes dry, biting air that can leave even the most resilient skin feeling tight, flaky, and just plain unhappy. As someone who loves cozy crafting sessions, curling up with a good book, or taking photos of winter wonderlands, I know that having soft, hydrated skin makes all those moments feel even more luxurious. So, let’s talk winter skin prep and how to keep your skin glowing—even when the air outside is anything but!

Welcome back to Wildebeest. Cold weather can be rough on skin, especially in a bus. Today I’m sharing my steps and products that keep my face smooth and makeup-ready all winter long.

1. Hydrate Inside and Out

It might sound simple, but staying hydrated is step one. Cold air can sneakily dehydrate your skin, so keep a water bottle nearby while crafting or working from home. Pair this with a rich, nourishing moisturizer that locks in moisture. Ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides are winter skin heroes.

2. Gentle Cleansing

Switch to a mild, creamy cleanser instead of harsh soaps that strip natural oils. Over-cleansing can worsen dryness, leaving skin tight and irritated. Consider a hydrating face wash or even a cleansing balm for those extra chilly days.

3. Exfoliation – But Don’t Overdo It

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin, allowing moisturizers to sink in better. However, in winter, less is more. Opt for a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week. Avoid anything too abrasive, especially if your skin is sensitive.

4. Layering Moisture

Think of your skin care like crafting a layered project: start with a hydrating serum, then lock it in with a heavier cream. For extra dry spots (hands, elbows, knees), add a rich balm or ointment. Overnight treatments work wonders, too.

5. Don’t Forget SPF

Yes, even in winter! Sunlight reflects off snow, and UV rays still reach your skin. A daily SPF helps prevent damage and keeps your skin looking fresh for all your winter adventures.

6. Create a Cozy Routine

Winter is the perfect time to turn skin care into a ritual. Light a candle, play some cozy music, and give yourself a few extra minutes to massage moisturizer in—your hands and your mind will thank you!

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My Favorite Winter Skin Must-Haves:

• Rich Moisturizer: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

• Hydrating Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

• Gentle Cleanser: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

• Overnight Balm: Aquaphor Healing Ointment

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Keeping your skin soft and happy in dry winter air isn’t complicated—it just takes a little extra love, hydration, and layering. I hope these tips help you feel cozy, radiant, and ready to craft all season long! 💛

Happy winter, friends!
—Amanda

Thanks for stopping by! I hope these tips help your skin stay happy and makeup-friendly. Share your favorite winter skin tricks with me—I always love learning from you!

 

Small-Space Crafting: How I Set Up and Pack Away Projects in the Bus

Hey friends! Welcome back to Wildebeest and another cozy corner of Craftin’ Wife’s Creations. Living (and crafting) in a bus means getting creative with small spaces, and today I’m sharing how I turn a tiny table into a workable craft area—without taking over the whole bus!

Crafting in a small space like our Wildebeest RV can feel like a challenge at first, but over time, I’ve discovered a rhythm that lets me enjoy all my favorite projects without turning the bus into a permanent craft explosion. Here’s how I do it!

1. Designate a Craft Zone

Even though our bus isn’t huge, having a consistent spot for crafting makes a world of difference. For me, it’s our fold-out table by the window. It’s just the right size for cutting, gluing, and painting, and the natural light is perfect for details.

I keep a rolling craft cart nearby stocked with all the essentials—scissors, adhesives, brushes, markers, and my favorite papers. Everything has a home, so setting up is quick.

2. Organize Supplies in Bins and Pouches

Small-space living teaches you the value of vertical and contained storage. I use clear plastic bins for paints, beads, and embellishments, and labeled pouches for smaller items. This makes it easy to grab what I need and just as easy to pack it all away when we need space for other activities.

Tip: Use stackable containers or baskets that can double as décor. Functional and pretty!

3. Portable Tools Are a Must

In a small space, multipurpose tools are lifesavers. My favorite items are:

• Collapsible cutting mats – easy to fold and stash under the seat.

• Clip-on magnifying light – attaches to any table edge, giving extra illumination.

• Magnetic pin holders – keep pins, needles, and small metal embellishments in one spot.

These tools make crafting in tight quarters feel effortless.

4. Setup in Stages

I rarely pull out every project at once. Instead, I set up in stages. For example:

1. Lay out the project and tools.

2. Prepare materials (cut fabrics, papers, etc.).

3. Complete the assembly or decoration.

Breaking it down like this keeps the bus from becoming a permanent craft mess and makes cleanup much simpler.

5. Pack Away Efficiently

Cleanup is the key to happy small-space crafting. I always:

• Sort scraps into a bin for recycling or future use.

• Wipe down the workspace immediately.

• Return tools and supplies to their labeled bins or pouches.

Having a “home” for everything keeps the bus functional and keeps crafting stress-free.

6. Embrace Flexible Projects

Some of my favorite crafts are those that don’t require a huge footprint—journals, small décor items, and paper crafts. These are easy to start, stop, and store, which is perfect for life on the road.

Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope this gave you some inspiration for crafting in a small space. I’d love to hear how you make your creative nook work for you—drop a comment or tag me online! Until next time, keep crafting, keep exploring, and enjoy those little moments

February Blog Schedule: Craftin' Wife's Creations

 

February Blog Schedule

Hey friends! Welcome back to Wildebeest and another cozy corner of Craftin’ Wife’s Creations. Living (and crafting) in a bus means getting creative with small spaces, and today I’m excited to share this months schedule with you. 

Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s make this fun!

February Posting Schedule

Crafts on Mondays • Beauty on Wednesdays • Everything Else on Fridays

February is one of my favorite creative months. It’s still chilly in most places we land, which means more cozy evenings inside Wildebeest, more experimenting with small-space crafts, and more chances to play with makeup looks just for fun.

Living and crafting in a bus means I plan projects a little differently—everything has to be compact, practical, and not make a huge mess. (And as always… no glitter.)

Here’s what I’m planning for February:

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Week One

Monday – Craft
Small-Space Crafting: How I Set Up and Pack Away Projects in the Bus
I’ll show how I turn a tiny table into a workable craft space and how I store supplies so they don’t take over the whole living area.

Wednesday – Beauty
Winter Skin Prep in Dry Air
RV air, heaters, and cold weather can be rough on skin. I’ll share what’s been helping keep my makeup from looking dry or cakey.

Friday – Everything Else
Five Little Things Making Me Happy Right Now
A relaxed post about simple joys, favorite snacks, shows, and small wins lately.

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Week Two

Monday – Craft
Handmade Valentine Cards That Travel Well
Easy cards that don’t require bulky supplies and can be made right at the dinette.

Wednesday – Beauty
A Soft, Everyday Valentine’s Makeup Look
Something wearable, comfortable, and realistic—not over-the-top or fussy.

Friday – Everything Else
A Typical Creative Day Living in Wildebeest
What a normal day looks like balancing crafting, blogging, photography, and everyday life on the road.

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Week Three

Monday – Craft
Upcycling on the Road: Turning Packaging into Something Useful
When you live in a bus, you get creative with what you already have. I’ll share a few simple reuse ideas.

Wednesday – Beauty
My Go-To Drugstore Beauty Favorites
The products I keep repurchasing because they work and don’t take up a ton of space.

Friday – Everything Else
Cozy Night-In Ideas for RV Life
Low-key, relaxing ways to unwind when you’re parked for the night.

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Week Four

Monday – Craft
Planning Spring Crafts in a Small Space
How I plan ahead without storing piles of supplies.

Wednesday – Beauty
My 10-Minute Everyday Makeup Routine
Quick, simple, and realistic for travel days or busy mornings.

Friday – Everything Else
February Wrap-Up: Projects, Favorites, and What’s Next
Looking back at what I made this month and what I’m excited about heading into March.

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I’m really looking forward to this month of creating, experimenting, and sharing—bus life and all.

And as always, if there’s something you’d love to see on Craftin’ Wife’s Creations, let me know. I love hearing ideas from fellow makers.

Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope this gave you some inspiration for your own cozy bus, home, or creative nook. I’d love to hear what you’re making, trying, or loving lately—drop a comment, send me a message, or tag me online. Until next time, keep crafting, keep exploring, and keep enjoying those little moments.