Create Embellish Adore

Chocolate Kisses

2012-02-01T10:20:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love Chocolate?

I am a fan! A big fan.

If you are a follower, you may remember, I did a Chocolate Covered February last year for 14 days. I got the idea from Hershey, who does Chocolate Covered February for an entire month.

May this is why I love Chocolate so much??? Who knows.. but I contain myself. I do sometimes have to stop the BLT (bite, lick, taste) of all the chocolate I see, but the temptation!!! OH MAN!!

Nonetheless, I have put together a little chocolate card - that is 'heading' places with some chocolate.. homemade candies actually, but they have chocolate on them, so I am certain they will be a hit!

The light really does stink, my apologizes. I wanted to get the boxes out, for enjoyment, so I am sorry I didn't take more time with the photos.

The colors are Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette and Crumb Cake. I used some of the glitter paper leftover from Christmas, which fits perfect for something like this. I used the Decorative label punch, and the Blossoms Petal builder punch. I added some bling on the label, it went too well along with the glitter paper.

Concept of Kisses was byLaura Lipe at Smiles, Laura. This is where I got the concept from... I just covered them with "wrapper". Thank you Laura!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Two for Tuesday...

2012-01-31T15:53:00.002-05:00

Whew... Its 60 degrees out here in Central PA, and I am stuck inside making the benjamins {that my teens lingo).. but look what I have for you!!!

TWO CARDS!

Each is with the same sketch challenge but two different Color Challenges! Yes, they are both Colour Q, but I didn't enter them - since they are not current. So without further adue.

Grunge Rock! Again! Though you cannot see some of its beauty, believe me, the Rich Razzleberry makes this card pop!

Then I used for the first time {that I can remember!}, Precious Butterflies. This card is in a more recent color combo challenge but I didn't get to post in the time allowance. For two reasons, 1) I wasn't so electronically attached this weekend, due to quality time with the teens. 2) I forgot until today, I didn't post it!

I love the Colour Q gals! They really help move things along when I am in crisis mode!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Sweet Monday!

2012-01-30T09:49:00.000-05:00

"NEVER BE AFRAID TO TRY SOMETHING NEW! "

Friday Mash Up!

So I did... I got out my new Sweet Cake stamps and attempted the sketch from Friday MashUp! Haven't been there before either!... Boy oh boy what a treat!

I used the colors from Colour Q (dated 1/05/2010), as my inspriration. I didn't locate my Orchid Opulence so I swapped out and used Wisteria (new In Color) as well as the Kiwi Kiss - I used Lucky Limeade (also new InColor).

Extremely happy with my Birthday card! I hope that you enjoy it too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Its still time to play with Friday Mashup HERE..!!!

{{XO}}lent

2012-01-27T10:35:00.001-05:00

Remember when I told you I wouldn't stick with you a lot of Valentines..?? And now its the next day, and guess what? I have a card with a heart on it... so I didn't really fib, I just knew I had to get this out there before Saturday! It shouldn't be that painful for you! ... ok.

I used my favorite Melon Mambo DSP, as the focus of the card. Cut by free hand {{o please be kind}}, the Melon heart, sponging the edges. I made an arrow with the sentiment from PS I LOVE YOUon whisper white. I tied some bakers twine and secured with a clear button.

I snuck this into 1SG's overnight bag, since he is out of town for the weekend - so I knew I could post today, while hes travelling.

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!
Have a great day!

Hanging Heart

2012-01-26T10:33:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday!

Its an interesting day in the household. {{sigh}}

The snow has melted, we are left with mud. {{uck}}

1SG received positive feedback regarding future employment. {{smiles}}

We didn't get the freezing rain that was in the forecast {{hooray! }}

Most of all, I got some new goods to play with and share.

In the meantime, I have some nontraditional valentine cards I put get together.

The hanging heart:

I used an embossed folder that is "wood grain" in the Big Shot, on Natural White. I put dimensionals on the piece. I used a very old clothes pin that I had in light purple and used the Heart to Heart punch in Perfect Plum to hang off it. I used a small bit of the hemp thread, and made a triple bow and attached it to the rear of the pin.

I like the simplicity of the card. I like that it speaks volumes, even though its just three items! I am making a great attempt not show too many Valentine cards over the next few weeks. However bear with me - you never know what each day has to offer.

What non-traditional colors do you like for Valentines day?

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Heartfelt Thanks

2012-01-25T09:42:00.001-05:00

When I am stuck on color combinations, I have a variety of places I seek colors... putting any color challenges aside - I reach for my SU! Color Coach or My Create Ink. When I have scraps laying around this is highly recommended to get you "out of the box" ... and I love it!

This color comb actually comes from the SU! Color Coach, and though I hesitated for a moment - I do like the way it came together!

I have always been a fan of Rich Razzleberry and Tempting Turquoise - but never really thought to put them together. Then add a splash of Pear Pizzazz.. WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT?

I pulled out the new Framlets, from Stampin Up!, and then used the Elements of Style blooms in Pear. I used the Hodgepodge Happiness for the sentiment - since I never used them before. I must have punched a million {{insert exaggeration here}} flowers to find one that I liked best. Then I needed to match a circle punch, for the sentiment - which was 1 1/2 inch worked great!

Maybe I should have put more turquoise on the front, but I made up for it in the middle. This still allows writing of sorts, just not really a full sentiment - and I am trying to be better at inside sentiments! Slowly ladies.. slowly!

Where do you go when you need some color inspiration? Do you depend on color challenges on the web? Do you have favorites that you never step away from? Tell me... I want to hear from you!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Coffee with an old friend

2012-01-24T08:50:00.002-05:00

I recently was given the chance to have coffee with an old friend... no coffee shop needed... we had coffee "virtually"... it was fun! It was amazing! I will do it again and again!!! I didn't have to get out of my jammies, or start a cold car... I only had to brush my hair!

Isn't that the best?

It left me thinking... I know there was coffee cup and Koozee (?) craze about a year or two ago, and I didn't jump on the bandwagon- but now I wanted one!

I knew that Lorri Heiling was the master mine (or one that I knew about) so I located her blog. (HERE) She even gives a great video of directions - so check it out.

The only difference from mine to hers was that I made my lide slightly different. She used two pieces of white paper to make the "lip" of the lid, and I scored my lid to make the "lip" - and mine is double sided. She is great and talented - so grab a cup of joe (or tea) and visit her!

A gift card fits perfect, as would the little singles from your favorite shop. Turn it into a 'tea' cup with a packet of tea. I made three of them, I love them and wanted some on hand for the reason that they are perfect little treats! I will reconfigure to fit into an envelope for mailing purposes (maybe Lorri already does?)

Have a great day!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Eskimo kiss

2012-01-23T09:10:00.001-05:00

I have two teens... two totally different people. I have a passionate one and one that gives it to me straight. Yes, I have a daughter and a son. Though my son is the oldest, my daughter pulls a close second with her mature personality and adult nature.

We had some snow this weekend. Which meant I had an assignment - to take take pictures of my daughter for her portfolio... what a "fun" job! .. however it was 22 degrees out - and tromping around in the 4 inches of snow wasn't as much fun!

I got 65 pictures snapped - in which she like 15 of them... figures... though I love her - she drives me crazy! She owes me...{wink wink}

Her payment ..?? She gave me cold Eskimo Kisses!

The punch art was totally CASEd from Ellen Kemper. I have been holding on to this for a long long time! I finally could use it - and I love it! Using all sorts of circle punches, oval punches, heart punches it all came together with only a few redos! I used Marina Mist and Wild Wasabi, with Very Vanilla. They cardbase is spritzed with Vanilla Smooch.

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Rockin' Out!

2012-01-21T07:30:00.000-05:00

If you didn't know I had teens, you would just believe I was totally still a kid myself! ... both of those are true {{wink wink}}. I love the Grunge Rock set... as a matter of fact, since the Extreme Sports have retired, this one has taken the place of many of the cards that I would have made. ... but I digress..

Not too long ago, I made a simple little valentine card with this same DSP, and I knew that I could use it again - maybe a birthday card, maybe something else.

Cutting the guitars out isn't my favorite but I love the effect it gave the card! I popped them up with dimensionals.

I used the Perfect Words for the "U ROCK", which I must keep out for more Valentines... right? Plus, I am limited on those little fun Valentine sentiments!

I was a professional photographer I would have seen this before I took the pictures... had to share... my guitar fell .. guess I am not as much of a rockstar as I had hoped!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day! Hug the ones you love!

Stamp sets: Grunge Rock, Perfect Words

Punches: Decorative label, oval punch, heart from owl punch

Otheres: Clear itty bitty buttons, twine, Cherry Cobbler seam ribbon

TGIF!

2012-01-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

Create with Connie & Mary Challenge

Thank heavens the week is closing up on us! I need the weekend... or even just a day for some me time... escape the reality of responsiblities and have some fun. This weekend doesn't look too promising but I will sneak in what I can -where I can. However I hear we have some "white winter mix" coming our way- so there is still hope!

One of my 12 things to do in 2012, was to "Ink stamps that rarely have seen the light of day". So I have dusted off the Array of Sunshine for the Create with Connie & Mary Challenge. I love the new In colors of the challenge so I didn't think it would be too difficult to complete. I cut the flower apart and I used dimensionals, then I put a rhinestone in the center.

I used the Sweetly Said for the sentimient since I have a few people I want to send "thinking of you" cards without them being "thinking of you" card... if that makes sense. So this is a good start! Can I tell you that I really love Calypso Coral ?.. and Lucky Limeade... and the Peach Parfait ?? !!!

Now its your turn to head over and Create with Connie and Mary and the rest of the Team!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Cake for a Princess

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

This inspiration ran like fire in my head!

I love the flowers.

Colors.

Mix of shapes.

I was inpired to keep the diagonal pattern and the roses.

So I went as far as to duplicate then.

I like the rosettes. I like the clean look. What I do not like, is that the "texture" on the card doesn't like it stay close nicely... my little OCD I guess...

Have a great day!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Fancy Flower Thanks.

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Shamelessly, I have been making cards, that I need to send immediately. Nothing really in my "stash" - but I am trying! I had 4 thank you cards I needed to get out and most would have just duplicated the card. I tried. I used the same colors, but made them all different. I love the Lucky Limeade with Early Espresso, of course the pop of Daffodil helps too!

I flipped the sketch, and with that, I am not sure if it meets the qualifications.

You can join too! You have until Thursday, January19 - so do it today!

Stamping 411 = SSC238

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Simple Valentine

2012-01-16T09:28:00.002-05:00

Square punch.

Scallop circle punch.

Hearts.

Glitter paper.

Valentine.

That is how my sketch book read. And I like it! It was that easy! Its not too mushy. Its not too femine. Its just as I thought! I have some texture, and I have bling, what more would I need?

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

KA POW!

2012-01-13T10:28:00.001-05:00

KAPOW Challenge

I have to admit, I really **love** Carrie Gaskin - I admire her work, and honestly, if we ever got to meet and share a coffee, I believe we would be friends instantly for life!

Just my opinion - however, I sense her personality in her work, and I believe we would get along beautifully!

In great attempts to put Regal Rose with Cajun, that was my biggest challenge! I could handle the other colors, but a splash of Regal Rose goes along way with me. I am **trying** to get better with some of my colors! I used the Aint love Grand! set, for a birthday card. I rolled the Sandy speckles wheel in the Regal Rose, behind him, but that wasn't enough. I put the little pennants in Rose, but I think that overwhelms it. However it completes the challenge! I water colored the guys outfit, Cajun hat & suit, and Rose megaphone.

KAPOW Challenge complete - now its your turn!

You have until Janaury 16, to enter HERE

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Owl remember your birthday

2012-01-11T09:20:00.002-05:00

Simple.

Sweet.

Girly.

Achieved!

There are many times I am stumped when it comes to birthday cards. Doesn't matter how many times I 'try', something gets lost in the shuffle... but this time.. I like!

I am not sure why I chose the Pretty In Pink with Pear Parfait color combo, but, its pretty! I didn't add the sentiment to the front, since I thought it might be busy enough. I used the Owl Punch, which is fun to use! I added a 2 1/2 inch pinwheel, since my balloons weren't quite working for me!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Melon Mambo Monday

2012-01-09T08:28:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, Melon Mambo was my absolute favorite pinks for a long time.. I know its isn't too new to the SU Color Family, but it seems like when I need pink, I go with Melon. Weird, because, I really am not a pink gal. I like it every once in a while, but I am trying to use it more... like 5 other colors I continue to stare at and never use!

So, I kept it simple.

I used the Melon Mambo along with Crumb Cake DSP, then punched the large scallop circle in Melon. I used Melon ribbon along the bottom. I stamped the En Francais background stamp on Crumb Cake then cut 4 layers of the Big Shot Island Floral die, crumbled them and then cut them in half. I used the itty bitty flower punch for the center and attached all with a brad. I am trying to make sure when I make cards, I do the envelop as well, so I ran the Crumb cake envelope thru the polka dot embossing folder for the Big Shot.

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Paisley Petals

2012-01-05T14:19:00.000-05:00

First, I have to apologize for my delay - I have been down with the flu since December 31, and finally can get back into the game of life... without a misery throbbing headache.

So, while I was in the best of attempts of cleaning up my craft cave after the Thanksgiving holiday, I ran across Paisley Petals DSP - which I didn't really touch too much of. I shifted through the package and was loving the designs, made a note and moved it to the table to touch again on when I was creating.

Tah duh, its time. I didn't know, but was quite excited when I noticed it was Bravo Burgundy in color... really? WHO USES THIS COLOR? ... its one that I think I have had since beginning of time, but barely use. So it was meant that I use it- RIGHT? New Year, new things... right? Of course!

I used the Ovals die from the Big Shot, and layers the two largest.I love the embossing folder Vintage Wallpaper, so of course it was close at hand. On the edges of the River Rock, I used my scallop trim border, which sometimes I have a love hate relationship with! I used the itty bitty punch for the small flowers, and then the 5 petal punch for the large one. I formed the flower with distressing the cardstock with my bone folder. I used a few rhinestones for the centers too. The bow from Lucky Limeade was an added bonus, since it was the perfect size.

Well, its a new year, a new angle of design for me.... I thought it might be on the vurge of out of my league, what do you think?

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

2011-12-31T11:27:00.002-05:00

Just a quick little post to wish you and yours a healthy, happy safe 2012.

I look forward to 365 more days of all exciting walks of life...

going places we haven't been,

meeting ppl that are blog names online,

learning tricks I never thought possible.

.. adding a new one this year...

finding an career that brings me pleasure!

So have a wonderful day/night/and new Year. I will be back in 2012,

hopefully with some great stuff up my sleeve!!

OWL see you later!

Thank you!

2011-12-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

Just a quick little thank you for all your support, comments and visits over the last year.

Its been a trying year for us.

Lots of activities happened.

Some special endings too.

We cannot forget about lifes surprises either!

I hope that 2012 brings lots of happiness, joy and

positive energy to everyone!

From our house to yours....

2011-12-25T05:30:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

May you enjoy time with

your loved ones!

May you fill your day with happiness and too many sweets!

Merry Christmas!!

Thank you for stopping by!

Merry Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T17:02:00.001-05:00

Its Christmas Eve.

There are many traditions that are followed.

Church service.

Caroling in the neighborhood.

We do not have many traditions, except for my kids visiting with their paternal grandparents for a few hours. In the past it gave me one last chance to check gifts, wrapping, cards, and cookies... however this year all that is in check.WHEW!!! However, I did do a bit of cleaning, organizing and went thru some old stuff. What a sense of accompishment - in the meantime I forgot I could have posted some of my last creations!

So - here we are....

My little pinecones

They need some work, but I am happy with them. I could have googled them but I tried via memory!

I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday!

New Gift Card...

2011-12-21T10:13:00.002-05:00

I got to thinking about the pointsettia I showed you yesterday.

I decided to make it into a pin. For a card & gift in one...

Cool ... Right?

I made the flowers with my Big Shot, smooched them with spray.

Attached them to the pins, in a way they are be unclipped and got off, without incident.

And finally attached them to the card base. My GIFT CARD...!!!

I made four for the coworkers who have been so good to me over the last few years. I am sure they will "ahhhhh " all over them... and then I will be relieved better late then never on their cards! In which I think this year is the first they all will essentially receive the same card!

Thank you for stopping by!

Leave me some love - I love to hear from you all!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Pointsettia

2011-12-20T08:48:00.000-05:00

While in midst of the holiday clean up, I noticed this paper.. it was Christmas paper, which I had trimmed to two sizes, and then obviously didn't use it in the means in which I wanted at that time. It didn't take me long to gather up the pieces, some Crumb Cake cardstock and through a ribbon together and get that Island Floral die out and rip out a flower!

I cut out four Cherry Cobbler Floral flowers, spritzed and mashed them. Along with a Artichoke leave. That I sponged with Chocolate Chip before smashing. While waiting for that to dry, I used the 5 petal punch and then the owl punch for the yellow center. This card was almost together and it wasn't more than 15 minutes from finding my already cut pieces. I reached for the Four the Seasons stamp, used the Espresso ink and then cute the ends with a square punch. I used my bone scorer to loosen the fibers and then attached the sentiment near the bottom of the card. I used my Tombow glue to connect the flowers, alternating the leaves, and poofed it up. Crunched the flowers accordingly.

I love it ! Its my favorite, and I made three more!!! Of course, I used different sides of the paper for different effect. I will just have to figure out how to get these little big guys in an envelope!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Limey Holidays

2011-12-19T12:19:00.001-05:00

I wanted some untraditional colors for some cards... and Lucky Limeade was staring at me... so I took advantage of it, and really like the outcome!

Its simple and not over bearing! I do wish I would have moved the snowflakes up - but I like the bling on the pop up of the center one!

I made a handful of these for mailing, but haven't got to the mailing part... OOPS!!!!

Take care!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Contempo Christmas Poppy Bright

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

I wanted SO BAD! To get these colors for my Christmas cards this year. I mean Its not traditional by any means, and it will totally rock the mantel in others houses... so why not?

Colour Q Challenge

I tried two attempts on something that can be massed produced - and right in the middle of getting my goods all together... I suddenly realized, I do not have enough materials for mass production!

Oh, alright, I am back to the drawing board. I couldn't get them even posted for the challenge - so hey, I was stricking out left and right on this end of things!!!

I have no excuses.

I have no patience either.

I do have is all my Christmas shopping completed and now I have to get it wrapped!... and baking.. yeah I really need to get that completed too!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Chestnuts roasting

2011-12-14T09:04:00.000-05:00

on an open fire....

Jack frost nipping at your nose.

Yuletide carols being sung by a choir

Folks dressed up like eskimos...

I spent a day in New York City, Monday. Its an annual event (when hes home) the 1SGT and I do around this time of year. I want to see the city in lights, the big awesome tree and try something new from a restuarant I have see on the network somewhere. Usually its in the negatives temperature wise, which makes for lots of coffee, hot chocolate and longer visits in the shops. This year it was pleasantly warm, in the 40s. I didn't even have to put a hat on!!!

When we were in NYC, I got some roasted chestnuts from a street vendor... DELICIOUS!!!! They were slightly warm & really yummy!!! I hated to share - but I did!

THIS is the closest thing I am having to a fireplace in my house. I did make it and put it in the family room for effect... so I could snuggle up on the sofa with a good smut book, fuzzy blanket, glass of wine and the 1SG and watch the flicker of the fire! {{wink wink}}

The template was from Creations by AR, I punched out the flames from the two step bird punch, and made logs from the Word Window punch. I tried my best to put a mirror on the top of the fireplace. Its decorated simply, since that is my version.

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Fun Festive Feet

2011-12-06T10:28:00.001-05:00

Its hot this year! I jumped on the wagon too!

Why not?

I made elf feet, and used licorice as the legs ... aren't they cute?

I put the licorice in the 1x 8 cello bags, Adhered some DSP to the bag, and made a cute paid of shoes. Then I thought he needed pants. I just wrapped a small piece of cardstock around the legs, and wa- la - alittle pants for the elf!

Easy peasy and fun!

I have some more I will attach to gifts too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Starting to look like Christmas

2011-12-05T09:19:00.001-05:00

The tree is up - not fluffed or decorated.

The cookie ingredients are almost totally accounted for- but no cookies made.

The house smells of spiced apples.

Sometime soon, it will look like Christmas at the house! {LOL}

While the boys were out hunting, I tried to get some cards completed. I liked this color challenge, since its not too tradional. It worked well with a simple design.

Colour Q

And since someone was successful with a deer, I didn't get the opportunity to post on the challenge. I admit, I hardly ever to get post on end date! My luck!

Please enjoy anyways!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Skating Saturday

2011-12-03T16:58:00.001-05:00

It might be the 3 of December, and I look pretty good on my Christmas goodies to purchase, but I am way behind on my cards, cookies/baking and decorating. I decorate the tree like I imagined I would. I didn't even look to see if I have enough flour and sugar to start baking. I did however pull all my Christmas stamps out and look at them so I could begin the task.

I fell in love with the idea of ice skates. In my little world, I someday be able to skate without issue, however I know the hard truth .... its not likely to ever happen. Its my handicap! I do admit it!

I used the polkadot and the Northern Flurry embossing folder for the backgrounds. I sprayed some Vanilla Smooch Spritz on the Northern Flurry and skates.

I punched the skate blades out with half the Word Window punch, I used part of the Snowflake punch for the connectors on the blade. The Stocking punch in Crumb cake for the bottom of the skate and then the skate itself. I pierced the area where you tie up the laces.

Stamping 411

Go ahead, play along with the Color Inspiration at Stamping 411, you won't be disappointed!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Christmas Stocking

2011-12-02T08:32:00.001-05:00

The power of the Christmas stocking:

Christmas stocking tradition comes from Germany in the 16th century. German children would hang their socks by the fireplace to dry after washing them. On Christmas Eve, St. Nicholas would fill these stockings with five gifts designed to stimulate each of the five senses.

A typical stocking can be filled with:

Something to eat -- fruit, or candy
A toy or toys that make noise
An item that is visually pleasing like jewelry, cuff links, or a coloring book
An item with a good scent such as cologne or perfume
Something soft (modeling clay or a soft toy, mittens, socks,)

Due to my wild German side, you will find all 5 things in your stocking thought they aren't hung at a fireplace for a few reasons.

I do not have a fireplace, or even faux one.
1SGT is an Environment,Health & Safety professional
See Number 2.

I do know that people celebrate the tradition of stocking differently, many may not even know why they put stockings out... How do you celebrate?

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy December 2!

Hug the ones you love!

Silky sympathy

2011-12-01T10:11:00.001-05:00

Soft, silky sympathy ... this is what I wanted... this is what I achieved.

I took no longer then 20 minutes to get this together.

Maybe a clean room helped with this, and my sketch book {{alittle}}.

I was going to show you my FAIL of a advent calander, {{as the teens say}} but that might be too embarrassing. Soon I hope to spit out a few Christmas ideas! I have some things in the "works"!

Its WORLD AIDS DAY....prayers to all those effected by the disease, past and present!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

CHEERY Blossoms

2011-11-30T11:44:00.001-05:00

Its been quite a week! I know its only Wednesday! ... Lets just say COME ON WEEKEND!!!

Fortunately, these are not for family, but for colleagues at work the had some deaths in their families. Its nice to get off the holiday bandwagon, and get into another occasion card. Keeps me fresh!

I wanted cheery... so when I remembered I had this DSP, I just cut some up and made it simple. I added some little flowers and a sprig of greens from the two step bird punch. Then I added tiny little pearls to the centers.

Its a pretty card. I think I achieved CHEERY!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Many blessings

2011-11-23T08:59:00.001-05:00

today, I am truly blessed...

my son turns 16 today and all he wants for his birthday is

a homemade pumpkin pie.

no car.

no video game.

A pie.

He never has been a child of wants or needs.

For this I am truly blessed!

I know you are all growing tired of my Thanksgiving cards, so you will be happy to know that this is the last of the stack!

I used the "coffee filter" technique. Its really simple. You stamp on a coffee filter, crumb it up, and then spread it out and adhere it to cardstock. Sounds simple, right?

It really is that simple. There is a texture that stays, and its really cool. However, I did have someone tell me it looked like "wet toilet paper". So much for using a technique, I thought was simple and cool.

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Give Thanks This Day

For family. For friends. For good food.

For stories that get better with age.

And for the time we have to gather around a table

with the people we love.

Double the thanksgiving wishes....

2011-11-21T10:52:00.001-05:00

Clean and simple.

Fast and yet elegant.

I quickly needed to get some cards in the mail.

Usually, they accompany a sweet treat, but not this year.

I know {{I know}} too busy for the good stuff.

I will make it up to you. I swear!

In the meantime....

Outside of cutting these leaves out. I used white embossing powder then I used by daubers and 'stomped' the colors fron the ink pad, on the leaf. I like the look. Alot!

I used Cajun Craze, More Mustard, Tangerine Tango in the combination. Its sunburst. and I like it!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Silly scarecrow

2011-11-18T10:02:00.001-05:00

I may live in a rural area, but we never see too many scarecrows out. I know the old addage of "scaring the birds away from crops" but I have seen more faux owls out in gardens/ more than scarecrows. Further, why are they not out in the summer- but more fall? I mean, most of the crops are being harvested in the fall, which means they need protection in the summer? .... my thoughts...only my thoughts...

However, a few weekends ago I was at the World Championship Punkin Chunkin, in Delaware. This is nothing you could ever imagine! I mean seriously, you may "think" you know this but unless you experience it -its unimaginable! We had a fantastic time! While I was there - there were actual SCARECROWS in the fields! I mean, this farmer allowed this event to occur on his property and he still had crops in areas in which were yet to be harvested.

Needless to say, it got me thinking... I can so punch that!!!! ... so I did

I cannot tell you how fun this was... I mean, the punches got to me after a while but in the end, I liked it. There are circle punches, oval punches, 2 step bird, scraps cut out.. and that hair.. oh my gosh, I think it was more time involved than getting the punches right!

In the end I made two of them. They were fun. A huge hit at work, so now, its off to make caramel corn and a few more scarecrows to attach as tags. {{they are so spoiled!}}

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Thanksgiving night, on Discovery Channel, the Punkin Chunkin will be on, hosted by Kari, Grant & Tori of Mythbusters!!.. Check it out! Its been great fun!

With Gratitude and Appreciation

2011-11-16T07:30:00.000-05:00

Without a doubt, I am sure you are almost AUTUMN SPLENDOR'd out... I am too, however, still trying to find the perfect balance for the cards I have to get out for Thanksgiving... so bear with me. I did use the GENTLY FALLING as well!

I cut out maybe 15 leaves, in a sitting, colored then differently and let them sit, until I got inspired. Which eventually they just went into a scrap bowl, but never left the table.

I wanted simple. I wanted something different. I wanted something that I could mass produce and be within the Post Office mailing scale of things. I wanted texture. I like - but I am not thrilled...

CAN YOU HELP? WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

You mean the world to me...

2011-11-15T10:38:00.001-05:00

It wasn't but a few days ago that I was able to get back into my craft cave. It was a mess... not because I left it that way {{wink wink}} but someone thought decided to use it as their temporary man cave... with hunting gear, camo clothing, and things I do not know what they are but I didn't want to touch.

Its funny since he is an artist as well. I know how he gets about his charcoals, pencils, paints, and heck his drawing table - so I did snap a few cell phone pictures of his mess on my crafting area, and then had my teens photoshop my stuff on his desk... talk about FREAK OUT! ... so eventually he was able to get his gear back into places and I had atleast a table to use again.

In the meantime, I grab the scraps and put together this little card ... that ended up in his briefcase for his business trip this week.

The little Make a Monster set is one of my go to's with him, since he sketches out little ugly guys all the time. It was just alittle fitting for me to add this guy - and pretty him up into a her!

I used the colors from the Colour Q. I had the best intentions of getting it linked before closing but that didn't happen. It happens to all of us I know!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Blooming flower

2011-11-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

I cannot stay too far away from punching out flowers when its comes to embellishments.. something just overcomes me, and I reach for the punches. I really had no 'idea' when putting this card together - except that I needed to use up some scraps. I had to really think about the flower center, since it will be mailed, I couldn't have too many layers.

Using the Expresso as my card base, it gave me the blend of autumn colors I love! Of course, it helped that most of the other stuff was laying nearby to grab and put together. The ribbon is alittle thicker than I like, but the texture completes the look.

I added some Garden Green in the inside and then cut out the same leaf and added it to the front. Something tells me that I should dig around and make a few more of these.

WHO WOULDN'T LOVE A CARD LIKE THIS FOR THANKSGIVING?

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Giving Thanks!

2011-11-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Create with Connie & Mary

Yesterday was Veteran's day, and in a miltary family we definately "give thanks" to all the service members, current or past for what they have given us.. FREEDOM, which we do not take lightly.

Many Veteran's days, we still have to work our full time jobs, but still want to give back to those that have given to us. At work, we are hosting a drive for the VA, in which you bring in new or gently used DVD's, current or up to 3 years old, and they distribute them to soldiers that are in the hospital, recovering, or those they are assisting in getting settled back in to world. Its a movie, we all love our movies... but when I brought this up to my teens, they headed to the DVD collection and gathered 15 DVD's for the drive {{insert proud moment here}}! Even more so when my son volunteered to assist in delivering them!!!

I used the colors in the Create with Connie & Mary Color Challenge to make a few cards for the local VA. I paired the colors with the Gentle Falling leaves set, and then cut it out. I used the Handpenned Sentiments to complete the card.

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Orange ya glad I am back???

2011-11-11T08:20:00.001-05:00

Its been way to long since I have blogged! Its been an interesting few weeks!

Lets recap, August rains, September flooding, October snow... need I say more? I have been busy doing some clean up from all of the above, which left little time for crafting. My beloved hobby took backseat as life raced by. The teens sports are slowing down, the 1SG officially retired after 24 years of service on November 1,and I recently freaked out that Christmas is only 6 weeks away!!!! 6 weeks!!!

So I settled into my vacation day with some really cool challenges to get my fingers inky!

First up, Playdate Cafe:

I used Confetti White, Basic Black, and just a splash of Tangerine Tango!

I dusted off the Autumn Splendor stamp set and paired with the Seasonal Sentiments. Its perfect for this time of year!

I have lots more to do! So, stay tuned! In the meantime, go over and play with the Playdate Cafe!!!

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!!!!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a fabulous day!

Thanks for stopping by!

Timeless Portrait Purses

2011-10-19T09:51:00.002-04:00

I wanted to have something fun to give to my "girls" when I saw them tonight for a dinner/drinks. I am hosting, which means I can spoil them with great little treats, and good eats!

These little purses were a perfect fit for them! They are simple, elegant... or maybe even.. TIMELESS... lol. {{thats the name of the designer paper... Timeless Portrait}}

Its about a 6 inch circle, cutting the bottom off, to make flat. I used the wide oval punch for the handle. On the bottom, I used a few different edge punches for decoration.

Then I made some flowers, from punches and/or different flower Big Shot dies, as my embellishment for the front. Each of the six is different! I thought about adding alittle charm, or their Initial as a tag... but then it would mean I would have to decide who got what purse... and I would rather it be up to them!

I then used the Big Shot #2 Box, for the center, in Very Vanilla, cutting off what would have been the closure. I did pinch the sides in alittle bit so I could tie the handles together with ribbon, once their goodies were inside.

I couldn't decide what to put in them... chocolates are an obvious choice {wink wink}, but it fits travel size lotion, chapstick, little sewing kit, Gift cards... its almost endless! {{I decided on chocolates}}

WHO DOESN'T LOVE THESE?

I have two favorites! ... I love the Black design with Cherry Cobbler and also with the Indigo!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Loopy bows

2011-10-17T09:27:00.004-04:00

At Christmas time, I am so facinated with the ribbons that are loopy... one inside another. I never by them to use. I just look at them and try to figure out WHO even thought of this? Then curiousity struck and I attempted to make my own! I couldn't just make bows. I had other things to complete.. so I put a loopy bow on a box that is part of a birthday present!

I kept everything simple...

I ran my bone folder over the cardstock to break the fibers in the paper - however didn't th ink of this until I was starting to adhere my loops!

I made a belly band, that I attached the tag to ... it was fun. I will try more again. I used the #2Box, from SU! in as my base. I think its adorable!

Create with Connie & Mary

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

I need time to play...

2011-10-08T07:57:00.000-04:00

I needed craft time- we all have these moments... I have been busted some major &$$ at the office and I needed some tmie for ME... I first headed to the Playdate Cafe because these girls keep my mojo thinking! And I put together this...

Bring on the Cake was to be the focus of the card, but I wanted something to POP out at you and putting a cake on wasn't doing it for me. Then I thought.. why not paper candles... I have seen these done different ways - but I just wanted simple little tubes to represent my candles and QTip tops. This was a great look - but it just wasn't enough for me...

Part me really needs to get a hold on some halloween treats! Goody bags for my girls weekend, and I haven't made a 3D item in a while.. then I thought ruffles.... pin tuckles... and with the colors I was using it just wasn't happening... then I remembered these flowers! .. well we call them stick flowers ... who knows what they are called???

So then it was just finishing touches... like black leaves? I liked the look as creepy as what it may sound. I had no idea about sentiment.. so I went simple... My Friend gave the little touch I wanted. and then it was complete. It felt good to get in the craft cave and get some inky fingers. Of course, I did have a glass of wine- so that maybe helped alittle too!

How do you decompress from a long week at work?

Here's my top three {in no particular order}:

1. Head massage by the 1SGT {nothing like a good old rubbing!}

2. Bake - from cookies to breads, to just a recipe that I haven't ever used

3. Get inky! {you know there is nothing like the satisfaction of completing a challenge or two}

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

GO AHEAD AND HEAD OVER TO PLAY...

with the PLAYDATE CAFE!!!

Bouncing Baby... boy...

2011-10-06T10:17:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine, who move lives in Michigan, recently had a baby boy! HORRAY!!!!

At 38 weeks, it was obvious that this child she was caring was reaching 10 lb! TEN POUNDS!!!!

I would love to say I was shocked however this is child number 2 for her, and her first child was merely that same weight... so no surprise, however this child was busting out where ever it could... creating bodily harm to her.. so out comes baby boy!

Welcome to the world Thomas Joseph - aka TJ!

CONGRATS to Jolene & Rick!!!

Before I knew she was having a boy, I was in the midst of baby cards with this little fun stamp, Elebration...

I made few of the same cards changing out the colors - with the new In Colors from SU! I kept it clean and simple, just adding some brads, DSP and lightly shading in the elephant.

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Big Journeys begin with a single step

2011-10-03T12:14:00.000-04:00

"Big Journeys begin with a single step" ... this is what my Chinese fortune was recently. I laughed and then later figured I better keep hold to this - just incase, something BIG comes along...

Colour Q 104

Bloggers Challenge

jour•ney

[jur-nee] noun, plural -neys, verb, -neyed, -ney•ing.

noun

1. a traveling from one place to another, usually taking a rather long time; trip: a six-day journey across the desert.

2. a distance, course, or area traveled or suitable for traveling: a desert journey.

3. a period of travel: a week's journey.

4. passage or progress from one stage to another: the journey to success.

JOURNEY: Passage or Progress from one stage to another - journey to success...

In my full time corporate life, I deal with those that are gearing up for retirement, or attempting to move up the ladder in the corporate world..sounds like both sides of the coin - right? Yes, it really is but there is happy moments along the way.

So very fitting that a single step can make the big Journey happen! RIGHT?

Well no matter where in the world your journey may take you - I am here for you! ... see I did have a point here!

I used two challenges: Bloggers Sketch Challenge & Colour Q Challenge -

I used the rickrack (olive) from the Tasteful Trim (BIG SHOT) on a crumbled strip (rose). I spritzed the cardbase with Vanilla Smootch Spritz. Then punched a large circle (espresso) to layer on the scalloped circle (pool). I colored the Simply Soft then used the Beautiful Wings (BIG SHOT) . I really love the way it came about! I finished it by adding the tiny pearls on the butterfly.

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Farewell Betty Lou

2011-09-30T11:52:00.000-04:00

She looked wickedly mean, but she was gentle.

She gruffed at those who didn't like what she had to say.

She reminisced about life as a pastor's wife.

She laughed at jokes, before the punchline.

She loved her stained glass art.

She loved people.

She was the one and only Betty.

From left to right: Chris, Chera (me) and Betty Urey

Betty Lou was not just a coworker, she was my mentor.

She was the one who made me who I am today.

She helped me understand the workplace politics.

She gave me reasons to laugh, when I was in the midst of crying.

She was a mother to me.

My life is richer for having her apart of it for the last 12 years.

She has not held my hand put pushed me into the sharktank, when I needed it most!

I can never thank her enough for everything she has done for me.

Betty Lou: I know you are with Bruce once again. I can hear you laughing and joking when I close my eyes.
May you be at peace now. Remember that I love you and please continue to guide me in the right direction as I continue in life. You will be greatly missed.

M. Longo (coworker) and Betty Urey

Just Add Ink 87

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

One cannot have too many birthdays...

2011-09-29T14:39:00.002-04:00

Its almost the end of September... yes, its another BIRTHDAY card.. I am sorry, I can say that there wont be many of them to start off OCTOBER.. OK? Deal..? instead .... I give you more JUST ADD CAKE designer style paper. Isn't it lovely? I used two different sheets, and man I love the colors and the designs.. it doesn't send me spinning!

I think I made four of these.. just because they were so fun ... ok maybe I needed them too! I love the bright colors, and I love the way it all makes you smile... or atleast me.. LOL

Besides making the pinwheel, I added a toothpick as the handle, button with twine on top. Then I used the Dotted embossing folder with four yellow brads. Like I said - they were fun!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Its the great pumpkin....

2011-09-28T08:48:00.002-04:00

I am a gardener. I pride myself in all the fruits of my labor... and when I do not have good crop, it breaks me down.. its alot like parenting! ... only I get to eat the end results.. {thats just bizarre}... anyways.. I digress... I have been planting pumpkins for about three years. Its been a joy! I can have my own great pumpkin - right in my own yard. {insert Charlie Brown theme here}.

This year however, we have had so much rain over the growing season, that NOT ONE of my jack-o-lanterns survived. NOT ONE!!! I have these really cute little pumpkins that we will eat {making dishes like Stuffed Pumpkin, or THIS }}.. mouth is watering now.. yes, I guess I am a foodie! I am sure if I had this difficulty, then so did many other farmers.

So in the meantime, I get to have pumpkins via paper, but my search for the great pumpkin is on... I will attend a few fall festivals in the next few weeks to see what I get to carve this year...

I used the Stocking punch for the leaves, go ahead -look at the punch - you will see it.. I know you will. Used my Oval punches for the pumpkins and my great attempt in the look of a old barn. I used cardstock in the colors of Soft Suede, Pumpkin Pie, More Mustard, Red Riding Hood, Cajun Craze.

Have a good day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Bright Birthday cake!

2011-09-26T09:41:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe I have more September birthdays! Just when I thought we were closing in on the end of the month.. another one pops up! Good grief! I can be glad that I have been able to hid from most of the cake eating- or I would be on a permanent sugar high!

I wanted fun and I wanted bright! I used the Utah Divas color challenge with the Card Patterns sketch. It all worked out perfect!

I used some DSP from the In Colors and then Just Add Cake and some Melon Mambo that was in my scrap bin. The ovals were cut with my Big Shot {love this guy}. I wasn't sure about the middle but I like the little sentiment with image from the Happiest Birthday Wishes stamp set. And I love the little tiny flower punch! I blinged it up with some rhinestones too!

Card Patterns

Utah Divas International

Don't wait! Go play with the Divas!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Little Fall Treats

2011-09-23T10:36:00.000-04:00

I made some Top Note treats.. with Hersheys Chocolate Nuggets... 3 chocolates fit in the treat holder. I made a few for the coworkers I work directly with.

The Designer Paper is now retired, but I barely used it - and these ladies do not mind.

I scored the Top Note at two spots - near the middle - and then just wrapped the chocolates - simple and fun..

Just alittle treat for the gals! Of course, one suggested I could do this same thing and put a gift card in under the chocolate... huh...what an idea!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

HAPPY FALL Y'ALL

Eve of Autumn

2011-09-22T09:07:00.002-04:00

We continue to have rain... every day... looks like the sun doesn't appear until next week sometime.. WOW! Well it feels liks FALL ... even if its just the eve of Autumn. Cooler temperatures are hear, but really its just the chill of the rain, because its still mid 70s. I like the Autumn season. I like to think that its my last chancen to get out with nature, before the 'white stuff' hits the ground.

I really am loving this new stamp set.. Gently Falling. Not only does it have a variety of leaves in it, but I love the two step.

I used Vanilla CS as my base. Then stamped the leave images from Gently Falling in Cajun Craze, Wasabi, Baja Breeze. The I layered it on Chocolate Chip and used dimensionals to give better effect. I cut out some leaves and adhered it on the Baja Breeze Seam Binding Ribbon. The Thinking of you is from Sincere Sentiments. I then punched it out with the Decorative Label punch. I did stamp two leaves on the label - after I stamped off the ink.

I used a Color Challenge by Rubber Rednecke -but as I was setting up my supplies I noticed the colors and words didn't mix.. but I used the words.. not the actual colors.. and then saw it was corrected.. OK, so I guess I do not enter!

Rubber Redneck

The correct colors are those that are shown... not the written words below! LOL GO FIGURE! OH WELL... I still have time to get it right!!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hand penned Thanks. ....

2011-09-19T09:39:00.000-04:00

Its come to my attention that some of the local Post Offices are not going to be delivering everyday- due to cut the financial drop they are dealing with.. I am aware of everyone going ELECTRONIC.. and silly me thought for a moment that maybe with their competitive edge with the package mail- they could compete with Brown, Yellow and the other - I guess I was wrong!

This really is heartbreaking - since I really try my best to keep in the mailing system. I mail cards.. from Thank you to Birthdays, silly holidays in between - not only for my love of cardmaking - but the excitement I get when the recipients acknowledges they have received it!

Sure, I am guilty of my electronic payments and when I shop online I select the USPS when I can.. so I am doing my part... I cannot save the post office myself but I figure every little bit matters.

I elected to make a 10 card bundle of these Give Thanks in fall colors not only for my postmaster but to mail out to a few other people. I used the Handpenned Sentiments in Espresso, on White. I have been waiting to use those Gently Falling two step stamps - in which I LOVE! I used the Pastels in More Mustard and Pumpkin Pie. The CS base is Expresso with Cajun Craze layered before the Lattice Embossing Folder in More Mustard. I cut out the leaves, used dimensions. Added an Espresso button with a sliver of Cajun craze laced thru it.

I stamped some leaves on the envelope in More Mustard and Cajun Craze - using the Rock n Roll technique! How fun!!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

MAIL OUT A CARD TODAY!!!

Dusting off the Pastels

2011-09-16T07:03:00.009-04:00

It dawned on me about a week ago - when Patty Bennett mentioned about getting your Pastels out - that I haven't looked at my pastels, since I let my daughter used them months ago! Heck, it may have been last school year... and before that who knows! I can honestly say I haven't made the best attempt in using them since I have received them! {YIKES!}.

I looked around the craft cave and pulled the 5th Avenue Floral out, to use. I figured the larger the area to try this technique the better it will be! I wasn't disappointed!

Technique: Stamp your imagine with Versamark, then grabe your Daubers, Pastel color of choice and stamp the imagine... use with some force for darker color ... its easy!

I cut the image and then popped it up on Dimensionals, for a better effect. I used BURGUNDY.. it doesnt look like it does it? I am not sure when I last used Burgundy color for anything! I love the look and the technique was very easy! Definately you must try!

Thank you Patty for your inspiration!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Indigo Girls ... Rock!

2011-09-15T07:44:00.014-04:00

Indigo Girls.. who even remembers them? I heard some bits of their new album on the World Cafe radio, and was like dang, they are still around? I must really have grown up... {that remains to be seen though! LOL}

Which brings us to this new In Color... Island Indigo! I {heart} this color! I mean, I could plan events around this color! Pairing it with Pool Party just makes the card even better in my eyes! Seriously.. two colors that represent water... tropics... warm weather.. where can you go wrong?

This is for a 14 yo... {gasp!} I hope she likes it - as I wasn't informed but the night of that we needed this card. There isn't alot of glitter, or glist to the card, but I still think it has a cool factor! I distressed the edges as well. The silver brad on the top is not retired, but I still like them!

The Grunge Rock set is going to get a lot of use in my {teenage} world, since the Extreme sets are gone. I used the really awesome Ruffled ribbon in Island Indigo to completely tie the look together. I managed to use the Extreme Elements for the envelope. The colors I used are Pool Party, Island Indigo and Tempting Turquoise - which I think together are just "cool".

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

** Special Birthday shout out to my sister - HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUTUMN.. may you have the best birth DAY ever - even though you think it needs to be celebrated all MONTH long... {wink wink}} **

Just Add Cake...

2011-09-14T07:21:00.020-04:00

WAHOOOOOOOOOOOO! Another birthday in the house... well actually, at work... and that means CAKE... Yes, even as someone who lives Gluten free, you can have cake! .. I have two options actually... make a chocolate cake (actually its made with black beans- but no one knows this or they wouldn't eat it- I gloat when they say THIS IS SOO GOOD and MOIST!), or go all out Julia Child style which is my fancy term for scratch... I have time to make this decision and it will not be taken lightly, since we take our goodies very seriously!!! LOL

Birthdays come but once a year, and we celebrate them as though its the last! It heightens morale at the office! It leaves a good feeling in everyone! Heck, even when its your own, you cannot help but smile all day! This is wonderful- we all need happy feeling days!

I used the Happiest Birthday Wishes set, for the sentiment. I punched circles and ovals for the balloons, using the Just Add Cake DSP. This was simple to put together and I wanted that. I added the brad to hold the balloon strings as an after effect. You do see alittle Tasteful Trims sticking up thru the Peach Parfait - in Poppy Parade (2011-2012 In Colors).

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

... NOW LETS EAT CAKE!

Array of Sunshine

2011-09-13T09:19:00.000-04:00

After what seems to have been 15 days of rain, we finally saw the sun yesterday... so how appropriate we have ARRAY OF SUNSHINE.... so much for my sense of humor. I guess its not 'flooding' all over the place.. Thank you Hurricane Lee for teaching me yet another life lesson on my valuable items - GET THEM INSURED! I now want tee shirts that say I survived Flood 2011! LOL.. but I digress....

ARRAY OF SUNSHINE.. I am today! ... I haven't used this set much. I thought I would break it out for some birthday cards... and then it sat there.. on my desk.. staring at me..

I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do with it. I love the way it alone makes fun Designer paper. I grabbed the colors from Playdate Cafe and the sketch from Sweet Sunday and went to work.

Actually I sat there and thought, "really?.. How am I to pull this off? " ... but its the point right? A challenge.. or two... LOL

The girls are great at the Play Date Cafe - head over and play!

I am so happy I found Karen at Sweetest Thing - it pays sometimes to step out of your zone. I did it! You can too!

I have research to do on dehumidfiers, ...mold removal, and ... maybe plan a vacation ... LOL.. At least my webbed feet have subsided. And I got really cute rainboots for my daughter .. incase there is a next time... UGH!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

BEAR HUGS

2011-09-12T09:30:00.000-04:00

WHEW!! I am really glad the weekend is over... who EVER says that? ... Well, I am. I am ready to conquoer another week... and make it a positive one!

I managed to get a few things out creatively, over the weekend. Which I think I need. Its really is my way of dealing with stress. I honestly believe it! Its no wonder NOT ONE CHILD bothered me when I went to the craft cave to get a few things accomplished!

Creative Sketches

HUGS! Everyone needs them! I think I have given out more hugs this weekend then I have in the last 5 months! It was all good! From the hugs for those that needed them due to the flooding, but also the 9/11 rememberance 10 years later! I did get sucked into some TV watching all the memorial services and such.

I haven't used the Bear Hugs set, so I brushed it off. I wanted to keep it simple. I used the Tasteful Trims die in Basic Grey for the scalloped edge and the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder on Peach Parfait. The Cherry Cobbler was spritzed with Vanilla Smooch, but you cannot see that from the photo. I colored the bear in with a Aquabrush and the ink pads.

He is such a cute guy! I think he can be used for either gender. I have noticed that lately my baby cards have been alittle less gender oriented, unless I know the outcome is.

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

U ROCK!

2011-09-09T09:18:00.000-04:00

Lets start with the bad news...

We have water! .... Its flooding like mad here in Central PA!

We will NOT be attending the Washington DC festivities for the Nations Tri!

Now the good news...

I have power!

I have my family!

..and my daughters mold allegeries are in check (fingers crossed it remains)!

So therefore I need a feeling of appreciation... like the world isn't crumbling around me... because its soggy enough that it definately feels that way!... So I put some scraps together...in the new cool Pool Party color!

I paired the Pool Party with River Rock, using the Grunge Rock stamp set- gives it the edge that I wanted, plus, it was cut and laying on the table.. LOL. I will definately be taking this to another level but at the moment this helps make me feel better!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Nations Tri

2011-09-08T09:13:00.000-04:00

I had hoped I could say I was going to be a player in the Nations Tri that is this weekend in Washington DC, however, with the recent injuries I have been attempting to heal, I will only get to be a volunteer and a big cheerleader for my other half. I am looking forward to the September 11 festivities as well. It will be quite emotional for me - with remberance of all the lives that have been lost during the last 10 years... friends... classmates.. loved ones. Heck, I get emotional during the star spangled banner any more... I know this will not be different!

SSSC133

I have been attempting to make thank you cards for the unit in which my 1SGT served with during his first tour in 2002-2003. Some of those have registered for the Nations Tri, but some will just attend that Army Ten Miler, in any way, they will get a card from their 1SGT, saying Thank you!

It was hard for me to make masculine thank you's that weren't too military like... since that was my orders! I was happy with the turn out. In mass production, I did change a few things up with them!

The stars are crimped for texture. The "thanks so much" label is actually bowed out, if that makes sense. I didn't get to capture too much of the glittery stars in the flag. The white portion is textured with a weave embossing folder. I stamped the Flag in grey and then used a silver glitter pen on the stars. Simple once you find a layout that works. Thankfully I ran across the Sweet Sunday Challenge and it put it all together for me!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

**Thank a service member when you can! **

Brighten your day...

2011-09-01T14:53:00.000-04:00

I really wanted to do something different for the ladies that I give "brighten your day" cards to at a local woman's shelter. These are ladies and children whom are in housed in what is called "safe" homes... depending on the severity of the domestic issues they are dealing with. I can count the number of times I have left after being there with a dry eye on one hand... exactly two fingers ...both times I was too ill to stay and make cards with them, so I dropped off the materials. They have such heart breaking stories - the ladies and their children too.

They make 4 cards.. simple cards. The mothers usually make birthday cards mainly for their children, and thank you cards for the community that helps them out - since technically they do not "mail out" cards.

I give the ladies at the receptionist desks, and the therapists their own Brighten you day cards... blank inside cards, so they can pass along alittle sunshine to those that come thru the door.

I loved being about to throw a tag on the front - so a special message could go in there - and something else on the inside. This works for the therapists as they usually put "encouragement" cards together (which I learned last month). So I incorporated that into the cards this month.

On another note:

I have volunteered to mail out their holiday cards to their relatives for Christmas. This doesn't really seem like a "task" in my world but seems just like a "gift" I can give back. The cards will be evaluated by the House master, so it doesn't break any rules, and then they will seal them, and give to me, with the postage paid for ... basically I get to act as their postmaster. I am looking forward to being able to do this for them.

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love! {tight}

Have a great day!

Sock Hop and more...

2011-08-31T09:21:00.000-04:00

A local Girl Scout Daisy group is having a SOCK HOP, and the assistant leader wanted some favors for the girls. I couldn't contain my excitement when I realized I had the Sizzix Stocking (Big Shot), arriving a few days after the request.

I only then had to figure out how to make it like a favor, meaning 3D... meaning I really needed to look at this in another direction. I had seen a few really cool things done with this die, but I wanted something simple since I could be making 25 of these.

Using the Sizzix Box#2 gave me just the little bit of wiggle room I neede for some treat of a sort! I was able to put in two Twix fun size bars and a PB cup. I am not sure what the leader has in mind, but I thought it was a good starting point.

Then I got to thinking.... I have a group that exchanges handcrafted Christmas gifts that we decide on a theme every year... and though we haven't decided on a theme, I could use this as a nice addition to the gifts.

Since the box is big enough for a gift card, its more fun than just an envelope ...
RIGHT? I just little bells around the bow for fun!

So why did I use the Lucky Limeade as my sock hop color sample? ... because I was hoping the fact that it was LUCKY, would help close the sale!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!

Its your day!

2011-08-30T10:56:00.000-04:00

I have been told I have great powers... the latest "power" I have is the ability to turn off alarm clocks for the teens... HA! If I had a power it would something more substantial then that! I love these years {wink wink}.

I should have known there was a birthday coming up- for my daughters bestest girlfriend, but I didn't, until the night before - so I rushed thru my scraps for some fun colors, and simple sentiments! ... I achieved it - even it if wasn't exactly what my daughter had in mind... OH WELL!... {{when will this stage end?}}

I got out the rhinestones and put a few on the left side of the solid paper. I love how the Wisteria, Limeade and Coral blend together on Sahara Sand cardstock. And I love the scalloped ribbon and tasteful trim from the Big Shot.

Simple and easy... wish my days lately were the same!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Bright and sunny

2011-08-29T10:01:00.000-04:00

With Hurrican Irene making her way up the coast, I had to clean up the craft cave alittle incase we needed to use it as shelter. So I had to make a few cards that have been lingering... for whatever reason.

I had some flowers cut up and made, which paired great with this DSP! Then I just needed to search down some sentiments and put it all together! I think its a fun and bright card.

We did lose power, a few trees down- but most of was the quality time we had with each other... however if I do not have to play another board game within the next two years I will be ok with that!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Simpy Soft Calypso Coral

2011-08-26T07:25:00.027-04:00

Its often that I want to make a vintage card... and get lost in the process... why? (shake my head) because I want to keep it too clean. I continue to put forth the effort.

I want to make a collection of vintage looking cards for a card box set for a friend, and EVERYTIME I park my butt down to do it - I end up with something TOTALLY different than I wanted... seriously? why can it just cooperate!

It was a rainy night, which I thought maybe would help me pull in the vintage forces.... so I got the embossing folder out that is Vintage Wallpaper, and used Very Vanilla CS. I then sponged it with Crumb Cake. In my head I guess I think that makes it look "older". I tore a corner off and sponged it, then I wished I didn't, but I couldn't stop.... well I could .. but I didn't!..

I used the Simply Soft (Hostess) stamp set, in Early Espresso, then colored the flowers with Calypso Coral using a Blender pen. I added Wild Wasabi to the stems. Then used a white gel pen to the little stems in the center of the flowers.

I layered it up with Crumb Cake, and Calypso Coral CS. I did sponged the edges before adhering them together. I added Pearls to the ripped corner after I put some Crumb Cake seam binding across the middle.

I didn't add a sentiment, because I truly thought it might be pulled apart... So what do you think? Is this vintage? What do you do to make a vintage looking card? Maybe I will stick to clean.. ?

Have a great day!

Thank you for stoppin by!

Hug the ones you love!

Strength

2011-08-25T09:25:00.000-04:00

Yesterday school started, and for whatever reason, I had this illusion that the paperwork I would have to sign/ approve/complete would decrease once you hit a certain school level... WHO WAS I KIDDING ?? Myself, apparently!

It was great to hear all the first day of school stories... like from my son whose in 10th grade... "Mom, if everything I needed to know, I learned in Kindergarten, why do you have to attend 12 grades afterwords?"... Hes the literal one in the family. ... I learned from my daughter, whose in 8th now, that there is a "spray zone" for the teacher that apparently spits when he talks, and he can cover two lab tables long and wide.. This is interesting stuff right? ... I love it! {wink wink}.

Just Add Ink

I made it through all the paperwork. I signed my name atleast 20 times, on documents that from what I glanced over, gives that school permission to do everything - well almost everything, including random drug testing..for each of the children. Do not forget about all the privacy acts that they have now... What a wake up call that was!!!... Reality at its best! I do not recall such forms when I was in school, but hey, its just a good thing they are past the Room mother stage, because at the rate I was going, I may have signed up for something like 72 cupcakes every other month! {wink wink}.

In the meantime, I didn't get to enter my card into the Just Add Ink challenge, but I still love it {I just hate my lighting!}. I love the Strength and Hope stamp set and I paired it with Sweetly Said. Its clean and simple - exactly what I needed after all that paperwork!

I hope that the rest of the school year days are as entertaining as the first! I love the stories that teens have, and I know that within a flash - there will be no more... WOW! ...

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Bubblegum thoughts...

2011-08-23T09:07:00.000-04:00

PlayDate Cafe

I spent the weekend camping with the family, and while it was great fun, I kept invisioning this color challenge .. from settin up the tent to the food we ate, and the activities we did... amazing right? I wanted to get this bubblegum color down... and then there was that navy strip... man I kept racking my brain... lots of scribbles on my notebook...

Navy...Bubblegum...Leaf Green

Then I get home, and unpack, and settle to the craft cave... and I cannot get anything down I like. I changed the stamp set, ... nope. I changed the cardstock colors... nope. I finally settled on this.. and though its not exactly what I wanted.. its fine.

I still need to change the bulbs in my lights... why can I know remember that?

GO PLAY AT THE PLAYDATE CAFE!!!!!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

CASE ... Mary Brown...

2011-08-16T08:48:00.000-04:00

The Challenge... CASE (copy and share everything)...HMMMMMMMM....
I adore quite a few people ... but I have been eyeing up this card for quite some time!

Mary Brown

I used Crumb cake as my base, with the Pumpkin Pie striped ribbon. The Espresso Bakers twine is wrapped at the top. I believe Miss Mary used the Perfect Pennant die - which I do not have - so I used the large scalloped circle, then punched tiny holes in the scallops. The Fabulous Florets cut out was actually in my stash for another project... WIN !!!!

Now if I can get her to share the secret of laying the ribbon down after its gathered - that would be fantastic!!! I love the way it came together... simple and easy! .. expect to see more of this later!

Thank you Mary Brown - for letting me CASE you! ... YOU ROCK!!!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!!!

Ain't Love Grand ?

2011-08-15T08:58:00.000-04:00

Remember when I mentioned I took a few supplies to my Cedar Point, Ohio vacation? Where there was four teenagers and I knew I could use some me time? Well I finally remembered I never showed them to you!

Today gets to be the day! HOORAY!!!!

Because I was limited on time to put a bag together, and space for a lot of supplies, I grabbed some of my precut Crumb Cake (since its a favorite card base color) and some In Color DSP, then I grabbed one stamp set that had a variety of stamps for All Occasions... AIN'T LOVE GRAND (Hostess). I was alittle disappointed that I didn't have any ribbon in my stash and limited on markers, but hey my little organized bag served dual purpose, I needed Rainy day goodies for the girls too!

This box was made when I got home, with the last of the DSP that I took. It just holds the 6 cards and envelopes! Easy peasy and ready to be a gift to someone!

Each of the cards is using some of the DSP that comes in the 6x6 pad. I love that pad, for reasons of the little tote! But it gives a glance of the colors and designs in smaller version! Oh, the Daffodil Delight was stuffed in there for the rainy day goodies for the girls but I couldn't resist it with the rocking horse!

I am still trying to get the lighting right on the photo box, with the area I have to use it, so please bare with me... Thanks!

One stamp set, 6 cards for different occasion, with In Colors (2010-2012) - not bad I say!

Have a great day!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Now your cookin!

2011-08-14T17:02:00.000-04:00

This makes great invitations... for dinner party, barbque, etc... dont you think? I was happy to use Now your cookin' in the Creative Sketches challenge (Poppy Parade, Basic Grey and Basic Black) and use the sketch from Create with Connie and Mary.

I am trying to get this photo box right, but truly think its my lighting- since its tinted - sorry!

I grabbed the sentiment from Partytime.

Go join the Girls at Creative Sketches and Create with Connie and Mary you have until Wednesday to join this week's challenge fun!

Creative Sketches Color Challenge 43

Create with Connie & Mary 162

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Just alittle blue...

2011-08-11T07:03:00.010-04:00

When you receive a call from a coworker stating that her mother passed away - its not the way anyone wants to start their week. I cannot imagine it myself! I mean her mother was her best friend, and the close bond they had ... whew.. I cannot even put words down.. but I stamp instead...

I used the En Francais background stamp, in Not Quite Navy, layering it on Baja Breeze - different huh? Its not really showing up on the photo.. sorry

Using the Elements of Style for was my main goal - and I do love the turn out. I added the pearls for some softness, as well as stamping the sentiment from Petite Pairs on Vellum. I then adhered the vellum on the Baja Breeze cardstock, before I punched it with the Oval punch. The Baja Breeze seam binder was a great addition too!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Tagtastic!

2011-08-10T07:22:00.000-04:00

While I was out, I had two friends water my vegetable garden, and am so glad I asked for their help! Now its time to show them how much I appreciated all their time with the hose, and the pickin of the ripe vegetables! Thank you girls!

I love the pillow box for the Big shot because its so versatile. I love it because I can slip a gift card in it, stash it in my purse and off I go when I need it. I love that I can decorate it all up -whether with flowers or with more masuline items. If you do not have this... get it, you will not be sorry!

SU! has a new stamp set that coordinates with punches, and I fell in love with them immediately! I knew it was my MUST have right from the start!

I used the Island Floral die for the Flowers - in the beautiful Pool color that is a 2011-2013 IN COLOR! I love it!!! Its just so summery!

Here the boxes are together! I did manage to make four of these just to have on hand for future needs. I try to be prepared like that... or I am just obsessed with the 3D items... I cannot imagine that!

Who wouldn't love this color combination? I of course, am keeping it for my stash! Thank you Color Throwdown!

Fabulous Birthday GG!

2011-08-09T07:39:00.001-04:00

It was my Grandmothers birthday recently... she's spending it at the beach... cannot blame her right? ... heck if we all could spend out birthdays there...I just wonder why I didn't offer to take her down myself???.

I thought this was cheery and special - just like Grandma herself!

I really had to hold back on not getting all crazy with popping flowers everywhere since they are so cute! Who doesn't like Fabulous Florets? I love the color Challenge that the Playdate Cafe gals put together... it actually made me hungry! I had to get a snack before I put this together !!!... and it was a delicious canteloupe... I may have ate some watermelon since I knew I couldn't have the sorbet... but how tempting is that inspiration photo!!! Goodness!!!

The Playdate Cafe has a new design team ! Isn't that exciting? I love to see new artists! It keeps me on my toes! and my mojo flowing!! Go ahead- make a Date with the girls! You won't be sorry!

Thanks for visiting!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Simply Soft

2011-08-08T07:34:00.000-04:00

I was sucked into the Picture Perfect Creations challenge. Must have been that Concord Crush!!!

I am in need of some pretty Thank you cards. Of course, I never have them on hand when I need them, but using these colors, I whipped out a few in no time.

Can you see the smooch? Its Vanilla!

I used the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder on the Perfect Plum then added Vanilla Smooch spray to the cardstock. I think that took longer to dry then getting all the stuff together to make the card! LOL

Simple thanks... don't we love cards like that?

Inside images - I used the markers and then stamped off them before adding to inside!

With stamping the Simply Soft {Hostess dollars} on the inside, it pulls the simple card together very well! I like it!

Boy it's nice to get inky!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Pursuit of Happiness

2011-08-07T07:00:00.034-04:00

While at the lake, you cannot help but suck in some of the relax atmosphere... because when at the lake, act like those that live at the lake... and catching a few sun rises and sunsets were just a fantastic way to grasp the great world we live in. I actually had to take pictures when the storms rolled in- just because they are too awesome looking NOT to!

When I saw the opportunity to use the Pursuit of Happiness stamp set, I used the Colour Q challenge to keep me OUTSIDE the sunrise/sunset colors I was going to use!

I do apologize for the lack of sight on the sentiment! I guess I didn't catch it while I was taking pictures. {still in need of that new Nikon as you can see!} I added some chunky glitter to the butterflies, gives great shine!

"Everything will be okay in the end. If it isn't okay, it isn't the end."

I attemped some rock n roll technique here on the Precious Butterflies that are in the inside. I then cut them out and attached them with dimensionals. I used Confetti White paper for the inside too.

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Go play with the Colour Q girls!!!!

Put a smile on your face...

2011-08-06T15:31:00.000-04:00

I know its been a long while since I was here... I am sorry. I have thought about you while I was gone. .... that counts right? I left with the group {see below}} for a week of.. vacation...? I cannot classify it was vacation when there was 4 am wak up calls for the boys. They spent the first part of the week at Camp Perry, Ohio.

The ones that belong to me are 1SGT -Standing in rear; Son - first guy on the left with short; and Daughter is the third on the post, with black tee shirt. They were allowed to take a friend each... FOUR TEENAGERS... OH MY PATIENCE!!!!

The girls and I spend those days visiting some of the local sites... my favorite was the islands of Lake Erie...
I was so excited to learn that this was the southern most point of Canada - Pelee Island, Ontario... I told the girls that if they didn't behave they were off to Canada!!!

Put in Bay Island.. which I am not sure why someone recommended this for us.. its a small island with 57 liquor licenses on it... and some other stuff.. but like the two 14 yos cared about the bars and taverns.

Then the rest of the our week we were at Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio... .which I haven't laughed so much in my life... Roller Coaster Capital of the World... its was "crazy madness" {{teen age language}}

and my favorite of the week... The Top Thrill Dragster!

I did manage a few projects - we had a few hours of rain, twice... so I made some jewlery and some simple cards.. I will show those later this week.

In the meantime, I do have a card for you!!!!!! Its based of the Create with Connie and Mary Challenge and the Creative Sketches layout sketch

I smile when I see these Manly Mustaches. They do make me laugh. I have so many things I want to do with these.. aren't they fun?

I hope that todays post made up for some of my absence... I will have more later this week... I PROMISE!!!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Its a DATE! ..

2011-07-20T13:38:00.000-04:00

A PLAY DATE!!!!!

I love love love these colors together... I had such a difficult time attempting to put just one thing together!! It so rich it reminds me of the colors in sarongs... with the jewels at the end.. you know the kind... right?

I couldn't really decide, but time was running short... I made alittle centerpiece with flowers and chocolate nuggets (they are gold). I know the photo doesn't show the detail of the center of the flowers (on the picks) but they are shiny.

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

With Sympathy....

2011-07-18T09:17:00.000-04:00

Its never easy saying good bye to those that you love - or those people that come into your life and just fill you with happiness... whethers its illness or accident, saying good bye is difficult. A family friend was killed on Thursday evening, and though we didn't see him all that often, the memories we have are unforgetable!

I knew I needed to get those butterflies back out. I also thought I needed some help with colors. I used the sketch challenge from Stamp-A-Holics which was great and provided me with getting a card out fast and easy.

Using the Just Add Ink Inspiration photo- gave me great colors to work with as well... and boy I did drift off alittle daydreaming of being there on the balcony with some wine and looking out into the landscape! ... wow!

I am not sure if this will be the card the widow gets, however I know that its soft enough to say all the things that it needs to say. Though, I was reminded that she loved PURPLE... so there still is time for a card remake!

Thank you for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Have a great day!

Simple Birthday cards....

2011-07-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

We are talking S-I-M-P-L-E birthday cards... as in let the fancy paper speak volumes! ... and that is just what I wanted! What I failed at, was taking pictures of the inside, since that is where I stamped! .. but just imagine with me - if you will, some of these flowers stamped on the inside along the right side and bottom.

I tried to pick cardstock that would make the images POP. Like above the flowers had a Green background, and so I used a Green cardstock base. Below was lots of Melon, and I used Melon. I did try to embellish with the colors that needed to be pulled out...

Its quick and easy - just what I like!

Thank you for stopping by!

Have a good day!

Hug the ones you love!

{heart} U CeCe

2011-07-13T08:32:00.000-04:00

Remember the dangerous notebook I have near the bed?... that when I think of things I sketch down?... here is one of them. I chose these colors because I just love the Crumb Cake with Cherry Cobbler.. though for this recipient I should have used Daffodil Delight, since she is a YELLOW fan!

My daughter has been spending the last few weeks with my parents - Monday thru Thursday - since school completed in early June. I cannot blame her - they have a pool, kids in the neighborhood that are GIRLS and her age (and at 14 this is really important- wink wink), and though I chat with her everyday, we text and FB, I still miss her... but you cannot broadcast THAT... so I made a card...

I am not sure if the card is cool enough, or the fact that there are chocolate kisses surrounding it - but it got a "like" on Facebook, so in my book, I scored a home run!

She and her brother are going to see the Harry Potter movie at 1 am on Friday morning with my sister... thankfully, since I am not a fan.. so when she gets home, this will be waiting - maybe with some of these chocolates - on her pillow!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thank you for stopping by!

Poppy Breeze...

2011-07-12T07:14:00.031-04:00

The Paper Players

Its already Tuesday! I cannot seem to catch a break... well ok.. maybe...but seriously if I do not get back to a "normal" sleeping pattern, I will be another crazy over full moon.. which is Friday....oh thank you!
I guess it could be the heat... or this sleeping with less people in the house... one teen gone and other half is gone. Its a mom thing I am sure...or maybe just me?

I just need a few blank cards... and frankly I find them to be difficult- or maybe its the sudden realization that most of my favorite GO TO sets are now retired? That sucks but new ones will take those places too. I get that. I just better get my butt ordering the new stuff!

I really have no idea if I like this card... but I recently say something like this... and it stuck in my head... maybe it needs something more? I will work on it.. in the meantime... WHAT DO YOU THINK??

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!!

Have a great day!

Indigo moments...

2011-07-11T06:57:00.001-04:00

Its such a pretty color isn't it? That Island Indigo???... it mixes well with Limeade and Daffodil... right? Or have my eyes left me in a world where nobody knows my name?? {just kidding}}

LNS Challenge 129 - Inspiration

I put this together and right away I was like DANG, this color rocks! ... looking forward to using it more...

I have kept with my promise to make the inside "pretty" in the cards... just keep forget to show you most of the time! I have even made the envelope "pretty" as well.. "pretty" is the term used at the house when the teens want me to help with something... "make this pretty"...

I must really get working on my photo tent, some of these shots have a lot to be desired... how can I love the color if you cannot see it yourself!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hug the ones you love!

Little Friend Basket -SAH177

2011-07-10T05:11:00.007-04:00

I haven't made 3D items in forever... and now I need one... so I found this perfect basket... and it really is perfect! I have a co worker whose down with some really contagious virus and stuck at home - so I figure I put this together, drop it off at the front door - ring bell and run!!!! LOL, I will phone first!

It was simple to put together, but wasn't sure how to decorate it ... and then saw the Stampoholics challenge for colors... OH HOW PRETTY! ... I am still a Baja Breeze so why not?

FREE Basket Tutorial by Renee at Stamping for Sanity

I used some flower punch embellishments. This helps make it more feminine. I think flowers soften things up as well.

Its a perfect "GET WELL SOON" basket and "WELCOME BACK" to the office, just incase I am too scared to run it to her while she is out!

I hope your weekend was great! Its a Triathlon day for my other half, so I am off to be a cheerleader!

Have a great day!

Hug the ones you love!

Thanks for stopping by!