Precocious Crafter

Unity Hip Hop Hangover for 7/10!

2009-07-10T09:00:00.001-04:00

Hey all! This is my second week participating in the Hip Hop Hangover! I hoped to have more for you guys but I've had a major headache tonight. If I get one done early tomorrow, I will add it! Anyway, this was my submission for one of the Hip Hop Challenges to use black and white and make DP using Unity stamps.

Wherever You Go...

Supplies

Stamps- Unity Confessions, Everyday Adorable and Bevy of Butterflies
CS- SU Whisper White and Pretty in Pink
Ink- Palette Noir
Other- SU Pretty in Pink Ribbon, Pop Dots

I hope you enjoy this! Keep looking through the other wonderful ladies' blogs!

SCS Challenges featuring Unity Stamps!

2009-07-08T21:18:00.002-04:00

Happy Humpday, ya'll! I had to go into work for a little bit today but I managed to get 2 cards done this evening.

This first is for this week's Inspiration Challenge at splitcoast. We were challenged to find a print at posters.com that inspired us. I found this cute Owl print. Here is what I created:

Free Bird

Supplies

Stamps- Unity Confessions and Unity June KOTM
CS- CTMH Cranberry, SU Whisper White and Black
DP- BG Junebug
Other- SU Scalloped punch, primas, stickles

I also completed the sketch challenge. I hadn't yet opened my Razzleberry Lemonade Paper yet but I went ahead and did so and came up with this:

Razzleberry Moments

Supplies

Stamps: Unity June KOTM
CS- SU Whisper White, Rich Razzleberry, and Crushed Curry
DSP- Razzleberry Lemonade
Ink- Palette Noir, SU rich razzleberry and crushed curry
Coloring Medium- Copics

This is a more simple card but it turned out cute! Hope you enjoyed these creations and have a fab rest of the week! Now if I can only get the invites done for Nate's 3rd Birthday next week.. OY!

AMYRFTS3- Thinking of Pixies!

2009-07-05T20:07:00.002-04:00

Happy almost Monday everyone! I am enjoying not having to get up early on Monday for the remainder of the summer.. sorry to all of you without the break! We had a great 4th of July. It was Sam's birthday. We had 2 cookouts, one with my parents (ribs and cheesecake!!) and one with my friend Jen and her DH (yummy hamburgers, etc.) We kept Nate up and went to see the fireworks which were HORRIBLE! We waited for 1.5 hrs... and got a 10 min. show!! I was not happy. Nate just started paying attention when they ended!

Today was a very blah day. It rained all day and all of us napped at some point. I did find time to complete Amy R and Tammy Fielder's sketch challenge (Tammy is a Guest Designer). This also doubles as a card for a color challenge from my RL Friends' card swap.

Thinking of Pixies

Supplies

Stamp- CC Designs Swiss Pixie; sentiment from Unity
CS- PTI Whisper White, CTMH Cranberry
DP- CTMH
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medium- Copics
Accessories- Primas, So Saffron Ribbon, CTMH ribbon, white brads, coluzzle

I had to use my other swiss pixie for this card. They're so gorgeous!! I am excited to see all the new releases tomorrow at All That Scraps!!

Unity KOTM Guest Designer Challenge

2009-07-03T21:17:00.003-04:00

My second post for today!

Unity has monthly challenges for their Kit of the Month Guest Designer. This is my first time trying it but I enjoyed it. This was a sketch challenge.

Tea for Two

I went for a vintage/mod look and think I achieved it! All paper and embellies are from the Sassafras Jungle Bungle collection which I won from the Moxie Fab blog! This is a very fun line!
Images are from the Unity June KOTM. Which brings me to my next card...

Cherry Lemonade

I just received my order of Basic Grey Lemonade and June Bug papers from All that Scraps (super quick shipping!!). The colors in this particular sheet, cherry cobbler, match SU former in color purely pomegranate and the new SU in color rich razzleberry. I used my blossom nestabilities. I really want to use more of this paper line!

Wish me luck!

Hip Hop Hangover with Unity Stamps!

2009-07-03T06:01:00.000-04:00

I am sure many of you have seen the Hip Hop and Hip Hop Hangover threads on Unity or even participate in them yourself. It's basically just Unity Stamps way of having a weekly party! So here is my creation for this weeks Hip Hop Hangover! This also fits the SCS Unity Addicts Challenge for 7/2. We had to use yellow somewhere on this card! I wish the picture was better but click on it to enlarge. I used a lot of detail!

Supplies

CS- SU Whisper White and Pretty in Pink
DSP- SU Tea Party
Stamps- Unity June KOTM; Branch from Bevy of Butterflies
Ink- Palette Noir, SU Certainly Celery
Other- Primas, Brads, Nestabilities, Cuttlebug, Cropadile

I hope you enjoy this creation and continue Hip Hopping through the other Addicts Blogs! I will have another post of some other Unity Creations Tonight! Happy Friday!

Amy R Friday Sketch- 4- Sweet Swiss Pixie

2009-07-01T20:40:00.000-04:00

Hi all-

I know I promised to be back more regularly but I ended up having severe muscle spasms that have never completely went away so I haven't created much. However, I wanted to share what I did get done this weekend! These are the cutest images I've seen in awhile! CC Designs released these in June- the Swiss Pixies. I love them!

Supplies

Stamps- CC Designs Swiss Pixies
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medium- Copics
CS- PTI, SU Whisper White and Pumpkin Pie
DSP- Sweet Always
Other- SU Ribbon, primas, nestabilities

Here is another I created for the Unity Addicts Challenge to use Red, White and Blue. This uses images from the Unity Kit of the Month- April. If you haven't checked Unity Stamps out yet, you're really missing out!

Supplies

Stamps- Unity Stamp Co.
Paper- SU Whisper White, Riding Hood Red, Pacific Point
Ink- SU, Palette Noir
Accessories- Nestabilities, cb embossing folders, buttons

Hope everyone has a fab 4th of July!

CC Designs Sugarplums and DT Challenge- stickles

2009-05-31T18:43:00.001-04:00

This was from the DT Challenge a couple of weeks ago- better late than never, huh?

I love this little boy and am so excited that I will have another image of Trevor here soon! I used stickles on his swim suit and on the sand and ocean, per the DT challenge. I used some twine and buttons to make it a little more beach-y. Sentiment is from the coordinating set, Amy R's Beach Sentiments. Paper is CTMH. I added a lil sun under his eyes and on his shoulders :)

I love this image of Emma!! And the sentiment.. too perfect. Paper is from Basic Grey. The panel with the sentiment was made by using a stamp from an SU lvl 1 set dashing dots and summer sun ink. I used the reverse of the dots cuttlebug folder to look more like polka dots :)

Enjoy- I know I love these images a whole lot!!

Long time no post- Amy R's Saturday Sketch

2009-05-31T18:34:00.001-04:00

Hey all-

It's been over a month since I posted!! We've been super busy with dr appts, testing, work, and some illness in between. I had a killer bout of viral bronchitis followed by a scare from an insect bite that looked like Lyme's Disease. I'm still on antibiotics for that but the rash/bite has gotten a lot better!

Anyway, without further adieu, here is my return to Amy R's Sketch Challenge!

This is for this week's challenge and features CC Designs' Sugarplums Beachies and Beach Sentiments from Amy R. Paper used is SU Tea Party and ribbon is from the SAB Bundle. I love these Beach images and sentiments. I ordered the beachies II set and should have them soon.. I can't wait for the new release tomorrow to buy some of THOSE goodies!

This cutie is from last week's sketch. I ordered a few Kettos during the free shipping sale at Stamping Bella. I used pacific point ink to sponge and line the paper. Sentiment is from Unity Apr. KOTM. I adore their stamps- sigh, another company to kill my budget :) Paper is Magnolia from MME. Ribbon is by MS.

I have a lot more cards to share that I have made throughout the month. I will have another post on Wednesday so ENJOY!! Happy almost summer!

Quick posts and swap cards

2009-04-24T15:00:00.000-04:00

I am still super exhausted.. I wish I could figure it out! In the mean time, here are the last 2 cards from the swap I do with my 2 local stampin friends. Ignore any bad grammar, spelling, as I am nodding off currently :)

Supplies

Stamps- Unity KOTM April; Sentiment from CTMH
Ink- Palette Burnt Umber
CS- Kraft, su kiwi kiss and baja breeze
DP- Basic Grey Mellow
Coloring Medium- Copics
Other- Epoxy chipboard

Supplies

CS- Whisper White; Bazill Chocolate
DP- AC Play collection
Stamps- Images from SU Forest Friends; Sentiments from SU Goody Goody Gumdrops
Other- Primas, twine, button brad, SU Top Note die

If you have any other questions, just leave a comment. Have a great weekend! We will be taking Nate to a local farm where he will receive horse riding therapy next Fall. Should be interesting :)

Amy R's Friday Sketch #57- Be Happy

2009-04-21T20:35:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd change things up this week and use some SU goodies on Amy R's Friday Sketch. I've had the set for a little while and just got the yummy ribbon so I figured I needed to put them to use!
Supplies

DP- Sweet Always SU
CS- SU Pretty in Pink; Whisper White
Ink- SU Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin, and Chocolate Chip
Other- SU stripped grosgrain ribbon, SU eyelet punch, CB Swiss Dots Folder

I've been super exhausted so I never got around to making another card. This one is cuter in person- seems very bright and too pink in the photo :)

Magnolia fab cards!

2009-04-17T15:00:00.000-04:00

Two of my Real life stampin sisters and I do a monthly swap where we have a couple of challenges but also have to use items we haven't used yet. I used these images from the Magnolia Easter Collection I bought at the end of March. I used Amy R's tutorial on cutting to help my cutting become cleaner.

Supplies

Stamps- Magnolia; sentiment and flower from Stampin Up
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medium- Copic Ciaos
CS- PaperTrey Ink WhitePaper- Magnolia Urban Prairie
Other- distresser, coluzzle, clear embelly

Supplies

Stamps- Magnolia; sentiment CTMH Say it in Style
CS- Bazzill, PTI White
Designer Paper- American Crafts
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medium- Copic Ciaos
Other- nestabilities label 2, cardboard buttons, primas

Hope you enjoy these! I will be back later with Amy R's Friday sketch challenge!

ATS DT Wed Challenge- Buttons!

2009-04-15T21:06:00.000-04:00

WOW! It has been a long time since I last posted.. I didn't anticipate it taking a week! I didn't craft over the weekend. Amy R took a week off for sketch challenges and then I spent time with family. Most of all, I've just been super exhausted. Hormones are a lovely thing!

Today, the ATS DT issued their new challenge to use buttons! I didn't get to complete last weeks challenge because I couldn't find my microbeads. Anyway, I've been wanting to use more buttons so this is cool! I also got to use my new most favorite set EVA.. Tweeties!! You'll have to get them as soon as you see this card :)

Supplies

Stamps- Birdie from ATS Tweetie Collection; Sentiment from SU Goody Goody Gumdrops
Designer Paper- American Crafts and MME
CS- PTI White; Bazzil Red
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medim- Copic Ciaos
Other- SU Eyelet Border Punch; Primas; MME Buttons; Nestabilities Labels One

I love the use of buttons with flowers although I didn't sew mine. I used glue dots because me and a needle are not easily compatible. I still have the celebrate! gingersnaps set to use and will definitely be using that this week. I also am expecting my Ladybug Friends set which I won from winning the Anniversary Challenge. I was so excited :) I've never won anything and honestly, winning for CC Designs is just the best since they are absolutely without a doubt my favorite independent stamp company and the customer service is great!

On an unrelated note, check out these pics from Nate today. Getting out of the bath, he looks like Edward Cullen/Robert Pattinson because of his hair! :P

I also have to share this one because Nate was angry that we wouldn't give him his juice so he looks like Edward Cullen the Vampire is trying to get him

LOL- Have a great rest of the week. I'll be back Friday!

Amy R's Friday Sketch #56- Sweet Chick

2009-04-05T21:00:00.000-04:00

It literally took me all day yesterday to make my ATS Anniversary Challenge project and after running out to Michael's to use my coupons and laying down new mulch in the flower beds, I finally got to do a little more crafting. I didn't get much done but I did get to do Amy R's challenge, as usual :)

Sweet Chick

Supplies

CS- PTI White
DP- Basic Grey Urban Prairie
Stamps- Cookie Crumbs' Cupcake Occassions; sentiment from CC Designs Spring Fling
Ink- Palette Noir
Coloring Medium-Copic Ciaos
Other- Nestabilities; easter basket filler (for "bow); stickles; MM Polo Brads

I can't wait to get my craft room done so I can have a good photo set up! This card is very pretty in person! I used my coupon on the BG Urban Prairie Paper... love this paper and I was excited that Mike's had it!! I wanted a cute little image for Easter and since I already had used spring fling a lot, I decided to pull back out Cupcake Occasions for this cutie! I love Diane's sets... she's killing me because she released another gorgeous one I have to have.. argh!

I probably won't post again until this weekend so have a great week! It's the week before Spring Break here which means lots of antsy, hyper kids to deal with (and I have Spring Fever myself!)

ATS 2nd Anniversary Challenge!

2009-04-04T21:33:00.000-04:00

Edit- I changed some of the pictures since the old ones were so dark!!

Well it's no secret that I love ATS. If I could be a demo for them, I'd totally sell their products! CC Designs Stamps are so cute and whimsical- they're just my style. Add Cookie Crumbs Designs and Amy R Stamps to it and wow, it's a triptych of cuteness!!

This month marks their 2nd Anniversary so they are hosting a challenge to use their stamps and possibly win a prize! I already had this table setting planned so it was perfect for this challenge! Unfortunately, the pictures just don't do it justice!

Spring Fling Table Setting

StairStep Card, Egg tree in a pot, styrofoam eggs

Close up of My Egg Tree pot with GingerSnap sitting on the side. Pot was painted Charteuse Green with MM paints. Ribbon is MM. Styrofoam eggs was painted with sweet potato MM paint and covered with primas.

Stair Step Card- First level is the gate which opens to reveal the lamb on the second level. Butterfly is suspended on ribbon on the second level.. Gingersnap is sitting on the third level with her tulips! Paper is by American Crafts. All images were stamped in Palette Noir and colored with copics.

Another front view of the card

View of the card from the top.

My bonus "egg box" with the Hunny Bunny!

I hope my artwork does CC Designs justice! I absolutely adore this company and hope it enables you :)

More $1 stamps!

2009-04-03T15:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday! Just wanted to share this quick card with ya'll. This uses one of my SU papers, Raspberry Tart. And to think I almost didn't order it- HA!

These fairy stamps were also in the $1 bin at Mike's. I mean, they don't stick to the acrylic very well but they're GORGEOUS, don't you think?! I love reading fantasy so it's right up my alley.. plus, who doesn't love fairies?!

The inlaws will be here today so I am sure I will have stampin time while they visit with Nate. Have a great weekend!

Worldwide Autism Awareness Day

2009-04-02T20:28:00.000-04:00

Nate at a birthday party in March

Just a quick note to all that today is Autism Awareness Day. As a special education teacher, Autism touches me many times each day. More importantly, it touches me as a parent. While it is difficult to hear that your child is on the Autism Spectrum, it is important that we remember it is a piece of the puzzle and that together, we can all find ways to overcome this disorder! We've come a long way since we began a year ago and I know that it has made us stronger and will continue to make Nate stronger throughout his whole life. No matter what, we are so blessed.

Cupcake Mania

2009-04-01T15:00:00.000-04:00

Can you believe it's April 1st already?!?
This weekend, I found the cutest cupcake stamps from Mike's for $1! Of course, I had to make a card.. and then I used my new CTMH Cupcake Sprinkles set as well.. add some stickles and it is a little bit of cupcake mania here :)

The background is made from a $1 stamp, as are the 2 cupcakes.. yummy!! The sketch is from Lauren Meader's My Time Saturday Sketches for this week.

Love this CTMH set.. uses the same sketch as above but a little lighter- paper is Candy Lane by SU.

Hope you like- if you have any more q's just leave a comment!

No blog candy yet but.. challenges!

2009-03-30T19:59:00.000-04:00

I promise some good blog candy soon- think SU goodies! But, I need to wait for my SU order to come in first! I'll also have some more samples of things from the Spring Occassions Mini- some cute stuff here (bambi anyone?!). Until then, here are my challenges for the week!

First up, Amy R's Friday Sketch # 55

Supplies: Stamps- Whiff of Joy bought at ATS. sentiment from "Embrace Life" by SU; CS- Bazzill Pink, SU Really Rust; DP- Raspberry Tart by SU; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- MM Brads; Nestabilities Scalloped Ovals, Ribbon;

I could not get a good picture of this card.. it's really pretty. I colored the image awhile ago and just finally used it. I turned Amy's sketch on it's side, which I love to do :) I had a hard time with getting the paper to match up but it turned out well!!

My second challenge was the ATS DT Challenge- White on White

This one was hard-the only color could be on or around the focal image. This is another image I had colored which I love but hadn't used. This is from Diane Zechman's Mushroom Friends set.. TOO CUTE!!

Supplies: Stamps- Cookie Crumbs Designs' Mushroom Friends; Ink- Palette Noir; CS- SU Whisper White and PTI white; Coloring Medium- Copics;Other- SU SAB ribbon; Nestabilities Scalloped Square; CB Swiss Dots and Floral Fantasy embossing folders.

I hope you enjoy these- I had a lot of fun making them!

Baja Breeze Bonanza and 100th post!

2009-03-23T15:00:00.000-04:00

Wow, I can't believe this is my 100th post! I will be posting blog candy later this week so keep your eyes open for it! It won't disappoint :)

I was reading my new Stamper's Sampler and there was an article on 12 from 1- about getting 12 pieces of paper to use for cards from 1 sheet. I decided to try it- I did mess up a little bit but still had plenty to choose from! I decided to use the new DP Walk in the Park from the upcoming SU Occasions Mini. I have fallen hard for baja breeze and unfortunately it will be gone at the end of June so I'm trying to use it alot! Here are two cards I whipped up today.

This uses the new mini set Great Friend and the flower from Thoughts and Prayers along with the beautiful stitched grosgrain ribbon.

This uses only images and sentiment from Great Friend. I stamped the sprig in Kiwi Kiss. Hope you like them!

ATSDTC 41- Ewe are the best!

2009-03-20T22:01:00.000-04:00

The ATS DT Challenge this week was to use ribbon. When perusing the SCS gallery I saw ribbon frames. Well, I decided this was the perfect time to try it! I used the baja breeze 1" ribbon which was not the best idea.. I definitely think it works better with smaller, like 1/2" or 5/8" ribbon.

Supplies: Stamps- Gingersnaps Spring Fling by CC Designs; CS- Baja Breeze, Bazzill Pink, PTI white and SU whisper white; Coloring Medium- Copics; Ink- Palette Noir and SU Regal Rose; Accessories: SU scalloped border punch, baja breeze ribbon.

Everyone should try this. I'm not sure I will do it often, but it is a fun and very neat way to spruce up a card. Hope you like this.. it's pretty clean and simple which is different for me :)

Amy R's Friday Sketch #54 Here for you

2009-03-20T21:30:00.000-04:00

Well my weekend started early- Nate has been back to NOT sleeping well. He was up all night last night and literally screaming for about 4 hours of it. I stayed up so Sam could sleep and have a break. I don't know what's wrong- all the tests look fine. We're thinking it's a yeast build up in his gut...

Anyway, this allowed me to get my cards done early! Maybe I'll get to create more this weekend.

Supplies: Stamps- Magnolia Fortune Collection, SU's Fifth Avenue Floral and Friends 24-7; Ink: Palette Noir; Coloring Medium: Copics; Paper- Amy Butler for K and Company; CS- CTMH; Other- SU ribbon, primas, stickles, nestabilities.

I received this Magnolia stamp just in time for St. Patrick's Day! I ordered this directly from Magnolia in Sweden and am super impressed with shipping prices and the time it took! I bought the DP last summer and hadn't used it but after I colored Tilda, she went perfectly!

I received some other new Magnolias, including some stamps from the new Easter Collection. Keep on the look out for them :)

ATSDT #40- Fun-"gal" Green

2009-03-15T19:57:00.000-04:00

The ATS DT Challenge this week was to use shades of green. Immediately, I was psyched! Plus, I could use Diane's Cookie Crumbs Designs new set Mushroom Friends. So I colored my images and then... I had no paper that matched the green copic I used exactly. In fact, I had no green copics to match any of my paper. How is this possible?! I love green. Green is my color. I think I *need* more green copics.

Anyway, I am not super duper happy with this card BUT it is cute. DH thought it was fun.. I love this stamp set and since it's for a "fun-gal".. I mean, these sentiments are so PUNNY and I luv me some punniness :) The whole card has kind of a trippy peace and love feel :)
Supplies: Stamps- Cookie Crumbs Designs' Mushroom Friends for CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Coloring Medium- Copics; DP- SU Good Morning Sunshine; CS- PTI White, SU Summer Sun and Kiwi Kiss; Other- Scalloped border punch; 1 and 1/4" punch, Prima mini folowers.

Hope you like this fun card! I hope to make more this week and get another post up- we'll see, depending on how busy life is this week!

Amy R's Friday Sketch #53- Rain, Rain, Go Away

2009-03-15T19:45:00.000-04:00

Hey there stampin and crafting friends!

Hope everyone had a good weekend. It was a rainy mess here in central VA. Lots of napping in my house :) I did get a couple of cards made but only because I had the images colored earlier in the week. I was lucky to get my new CC Designs stamps in this week! Also go the new Magnolia Easter Collection stamps and my fortune collection stamps (these were straight from Sweden!). I didn't use my new magnolias yet but I did get to play around some with my new CC designs.

Well, without delay, here is my Friday Sketch submission. Amy decided to rock it old skool and revamp her very first sketch! Circles.. i love circles!!

Supplies: Stamps- CC Designs' Gingersnaps Spring Fling; Ink- Palette Noir; DP- Magnolia by MME; CS- SU Whisper White and Pacific Point; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- border punch, coluzzle, baja breeze stitched grosgrain ribbon.

I accidently ordered the wrong size ribbon but I think it fit perfectly with this card! The paper from MME is gorgeous and the SU in colors matched perfectly! I cut the flowers out of the DP to accent the card. And of course the image.. isn't she gorgeous!? Hubby recommended I color the rain gear traditional red, yellow or orange. I chose to use buttercup and light orange to keep it more subtle. Loved this sketch.. and the border punch is wavy like water so perfect with the rain idea! I'll be back in a bit with the ATS DT Challenge- to use green!

Amy R's Friday Sketch 52- Happy Thoughts on the Farm

2009-03-09T20:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday to all those in blogland :) I know today was an okay day here- back to work, the kids were wild by the end of the day.. not much changes :) The only saving grace is a half day on Friday and I am getting my SU mini preorder sets on Thursday. Looking forward to it :) As usual, had to get my Amy R Friday Sketch done! I love this week's sketch. I did have to move my ribbon down since I can't tie a bow still to save my life. I also got rid of the scalloped circle behind the sentiment circle because it covered too much of my horsey.

Supplies: Stamps- McSplendid Farm by The Greeting Farm found at ATS; Paper- Urban Prarie by Basic Grey; CS- SU; Ink- Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Coloring Medium- Copic Ciaos; Ribbon- CTMH; Other- 1 1/4" punch, SU Scalloped Border Punch.

Aren't these images so cute?! They're kinda anime-ish. This is my second The Greeting Farm set. I was so happy ATS started carrying them(btw- the Magnolia Easter Collection stamps are now available too!). I colored the image last night while Nate was watching his nighttime Backyardigans. I finished the card up today. I hadn't used this paper before but it was perfectly farmy for me :) I masked the two characters as well- something I don't do much but I wanted them together!

I will def. be back soon for the ATS DT Challenge. I hope it's a color or sketch challenge :) Have a fantabulous week! I'll be getting an Ultrasound to check for anything wrong in the uterus/reproductive system and Nate has an appt. with a gastrointestinal doctor to check his tummy- yet another fun week. Wish us luck :)

Sock Monkey Birthday

2009-03-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

So one of my first purchases when I became a demo was the sock monkey. I've wanted this little guy so badly but never got around to ordering it! I just finally got to use it. My friend Sarah's little boy Garrett will be 5 this weekend and we're going to his party today! Here is what I came up with:

Supplies: Stamps- Sock Monkey and Sock Monkey Accessories from SU; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; CS- SU; DSP- SAB Dashing Dots Paper; Other- SU Scalloped Border Punch and EK Success Dots Border Punch.

I love that the Copic Ciao Marker, Champagne, is a perfect color for the sock monkey body! I am also loving the new EK Success Border Punches from Michael's. They have a huge variety. I'm glad I got this dots one.. it's very cute!

Hope you all enjoy this card! It's just right for a lil boy, don't you think?

ATS DT Challenge- Dry Embossing Birdies

2009-03-05T20:14:00.000-05:00

The ATS DT Challenge this week was to use Dry Embossing. I am always up for this kind of challenge- I heart my cuttlebug! :) Since I had a doctor's appt today, I had some time to get this card done for the challenge:

Supplies: Stamps- Olivia's Birdies by CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir and SU Certainly Celery; Coloring Medium- Copics; CS- SU and Bazzill; DP- Cut and Paste by K and Company; Other- CB Embossing Folder, SU scalloped border punch; SU ribbon; primas and brads.

This isn't the best picture but this card has the same theme I used on Amy R's last sketch challenge. I love these little birdies- they make a great scene! I also can't believe I had never used this CB folder before! I have a ton of CB folders.. some get used less than others. I will definitely try to use these more often. It's a great way to make an elegant card easily!

I will be back this weekend with Amy R's next Sketch Challenge and hopefully some other goodies. Happy Almost Friday, All!

Magnolia Mania!

2009-03-02T21:00:00.000-05:00

Another snow day tomorrow- woohoo! We got about 10 in. of snow here in Central VA though a lot has melted down cause of the sun :( However, the roads will still be slick in the AM so we're out again! Today was a great chance to use some of the Magnolia imaegs I already had colored and make them into cards! I wanted to share them with you.. and hopefully enable you! I get all my images at ATS!

Supplies: Stamps- Magnolia at ATS; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; Designer Paper- Cut and Paste by K and Company; Other- Ribbon.

My pictures were taken in real light so they're a little bright.. but I love this card. The words and butterflies came from the paper. Gorgeous!

Supplies- Stamps- Magnolia; Designer Paper- SU SAB Paper; Ink- Palette Noir and SU Certaintly Celery; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- primas, stickles, scalloped punch.

Supplies- Stamps- Magnolia; Paper- SU SAB; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- rub ons, SAB ribbon, scalloped punch.

I hope you enjoy these! They were quick but cute.. and a great use of some new paper :)

ATS Wed. Challenge- Got Snow? Faux Postage

2009-03-01T21:12:00.000-05:00

I am glad I could participate in this challenge. I've never done faux postage before the ATS DT challenge gave me a push!

Got Snow?

Supplies: Stamps- Sugarplums Snow Scene; CS- CTMH, PTI White; DP- CTMH Aspen Lvl 2; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copic Ciaos; Other- 1 1/4 punch, scalloped punch, scalloped scissors, ribbon.
As always, CC Designs Stamps are UBER cute and perfect for any card. Seriously. I have a major addiction. I am already missing being a guest designer. Maybe in the future I will have another chance with them! In the mean time, check out their blog for previews of the new sets and the new guest designer, Tori! Oh, btw, for all you Magnolia lovers, ATS will be getting the new Easter collection soon- YAHOO!!

Amy R's Friday Sketch #51- Birdie-ful Day

2009-03-01T20:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone! We're having a winter storm here in Central VA- our first of the year (and probably last) so no school tomorrow! SO EXCITED!!! I hope that temperatures stay low enough to get us out Tuesday as well :)

Anyway, I did get to create some this weekend though not as much as I would've liked. We had the inlaws in and I was pretty tired yesterday, which was a rainy nasty day so I napped a bit.

Amy R has another wonderful challenge this weekend. I am super happy with how this card turned out. My DH remarked that it seemed very springy for a card created in our only winter storm, lol.

Supplies: Stamps- Olivia's Birdies by CC Designs; CS- Bazzill Green and Pink; SU yellow, PTI White; DP- Cut and Paste by K and Company (vintage-y!); Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- SU Scallop Punch, CB Swiss Dots Folder, primas, and polo button brads.

I love this designer paper by K and Company I found at Michaels. There are lots of vintage images. It went well with the birdies. I can't believe I had never inked the birdies in this set! I've inked up Olivia plenty of times but never these cuties!

Last, but not least, I thought I'd share a couple of cute Nate pics with you :) It was his first time actually enjoying the snow!

Enjoy!I'll be back in a sec with the ATS DT Challenge!

5th Ave. Floral + Pink Flamingo = GORGEOUS!

2009-02-25T11:00:00.000-05:00

As a demo, one of my first orders was Fifth Ave. Floral. I am not even a big flower person but I love this set... I also love how it coordinates with the bright and gorgeous Pink Flamingo Paper! These are 2 cards I created for a demo swap.

Time to Bloom

This card uses 5th Ave. Floral and Bella's Bloom. I used summer sun and real red. I am not a big brights fan usually but I just fell IN LOVE with these colors together!

Once is Enough

I love how you can just stamp the flowers and since their outlines, you don't have to worry about masking! I used summer sun, real red, and cameo coral here. Adding cameo coral made it a little less bright.

Hope you enjoy these cards- they were fun and easy to make. I do love the coordination of SU.. :)

ATS DT Challenge #37- Sweet Strawberry Tartcake

2009-02-22T20:24:00.000-05:00

The ATS DT challenge this week was a sketch challenge. I love this challenge! I did have to change the oval to a circle because I don't have the oval scalloped nestabilities. I am calling this the sweet strawberry tartcake because I used SU raspberry tart paper and Diane's delish Cupcake Occassions set with it's yummy strawberry cupcake!

Supplies: CS- SU Kiwi Kiss, Whisper White and Pink Pirouette; DSP- SU Raspberry Tart; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Copics; Stamps- Cookie Crumbs Designs for CC Designs Cupcake Occasions; Other- Word Window Punch, CB, Nestabilities, Primas

I hope you enjoy this card. I love how it turned out. I will be sharing more SU creations throughout the week!

Amy R's Friday Sketch #50- Magnolia Puppy Love

2009-02-22T20:04:00.000-05:00

WOW did I have a creative weekend.. in spite of the fact that I have been kicked out of my crafting area since we're getting ready to redo the basement! I brought most my necessities upstairs- my 2 paper carts, my CB, my markers, my ink, my CM desktop organizer. I put a lot of things in my large scrapbook roller. And basically, from Friday to Sunday I camped out on the dining room table. When I was done this afternoon, I just packed it all up and will bring it back out next weekend. Another thing I did, was color images during the week and then incorporated those images into the challenges. I do apologize for my pictures- I don't have the set up I had in my craft area.

So, here is my creation for Amy R's Friday Sketch 50-

Magnolia Puppy Love

Supplies: CS and DP- CTMH; Ink- Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Color Medium- Copics and Prismas; Other- Corner Rounder, CB and Swiss Dots Folder, 1 1/2 in circle punch, ribbon.

Not super happy with this card- the colors, etc, but LOVE my coloring. I have just been spending a lot of time coloring each image. And isn't this image GORGEOUS?! Magnolia's Tilda with Puppy. You can find it ATS! As a bonus, is my card from last week's Amy R sketch 49.

Supplies- DP and CS- CTMH; ink- Palette Noir and burnt umber; Coloring medium- Copics and prismas; Other- CB, Heart Nestabilities.

I will be back in a sec. with the ATS DT challenge sketch!

Sorry, MIA- croup, cards, and remodeling!

2009-02-17T21:02:00.000-05:00

I have so much to share but life has again been hectic- illness reared its ugly head here again. Nate has croup- he's been sick ALL weekend so I didn't get any stampin time. His poor little head, his throat- his voice is all messed up. His eyes look sick. It makes me sad!!

I do want to share a couple of cards I have made for my Guest Designer Spot at All That Scraps and let you know that posts may be a little erradic for the next couple of weeks- we're finishing the unfinished part of our basement. Well, my work area is in the finished part but so is all the stuff we were storing. I moved my paper up here and am started to create a mobile crafting unit to bring up here :) However, with all the commotion, I don't know what's going to happen!

This card uses Diane's Cookie Jar and Cookie Jargon sets- LOVE them!! I had a brief moment of genius and made the cabinetry using my CB embossing folder in distressed stripes! I used my prismacolors and copics to color in the images. Paper is bazzil and DP is K and Company. I also like my use of brads, hehe :)

I used one of my fave sets, Hey Cupid! here and paper from CTMH- That's Amore!! Simple and cute :)And finally, a picture of Nate on Valentine's day. This is the day before the snot began to flow copiously from his nose :( I love the shirt though- it says Happy Valentine's Day with Snoopy and Woodstock hugging.. aww!! Hopefully Nate will feel better soon!! Hugs to all!

New SU goodies!

2009-02-09T11:00:00.000-05:00

*Note- No one is paying me for my endorsement of products or stores, I just love to share my love of these things with others! :) Honest!

I got my HUGE order on Thursday Night but didn't get to mount them until Saturday. Mounting is a little more difficult for me because I am going the unmounted route and mounting die cut stamps on ez mount can be a sticky nightmare. However, Christine and Amy over at

have recommended the For Her Creative Hot Knife and I decided it would make my life easier! This hot knife (and it is super hot!) cuts like through like butter! It's awesome. Plus, I mounted 8 sets on 1 and a 1/2 sheets of ez mount because you can get so close!!

I'll be honest, I am having a hard time using all of my SU goodies :( I am having to battle the "you can only use SU stamps with SU paper and SU ink and..." I hate when I get like this. I can do the same thing with CTMH and TAC. Someone come over and help free me! :) I did break out the new stamps and paper though and made two quick cards.

The first is for SCS CC204A- old olive, creamy caramel, and cameo coral. These are all faves of mine!

Supplies- Stamps: Cheep Talk by SU; CS- SU Earth Elements; Ink- SU Choc. Chip, night of navy, creamy caramel, cameo coral, and old olive; Other- SU texture plate, CB, Top Note Die, sponge, dimensionals.

I also had to use one of my new fave sets, Sip by Sip. I love the vintage feel. It's gorgeous. I finally got the Sweet Always DP and knew these colors and the pattern went with my vintage feel :) Oh, the other great thing about mounting on ez mount is I could separate sentiments from images, and separate images- like the 3 cups were one that I made 3.

Supplies- Stamps- SU's Sip by Sip; CS- Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White; DP- Sweet Always; Ink- Choc Chip, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie; Other- CB, Nestabilities Label 2 Dies.

Again, I LOVE this set.. I can't wait to do more!!

Thanks for looking.. I am now at 87 posts, I think I'll have to have some blog candy at 100!

ATS DT Challenge #35- Hogs and Kisses Bag

2009-02-08T18:30:00.000-05:00

This week, the ATS DT Challenge was to make a valentine goody holder! I debated on a bucket, a mailbox, but FINALLY decided on a quick and easy cutie bag!

Supplies- Stamps- Kisses and Hugs by CC Designs, found at ATS; Coloring Medium- Copics; Paper- K and Company; CS- Bazzill; Ink- Palette Noir; Other- Cuttlebug, Top Note Die, Heart Nestabilities, K and Company Flowers, Stickles, Target Ribbon, decorative scissors.

This was super easy to make. I cut a bag a little taller than the top note die using decorative scissors. I cut a piece of 3x5 CS to put in the bottom to make it stiff. I punched a hole in the top and tied it with ribbon and voila! This could be used for birthday parties, class goodies.. anything! Mine will deliver baby booties and hats to the lil Valentine Baby about to be born next door :)

Here is a side picture and a glimpse of the other side with Mr. Bunny.. too cute!

Thanks for reading! I will post some SU cards shortly.

Amy R's Friday Sketch #48- Hugs and Kisses, Magnolia style!

2009-02-08T18:17:00.000-05:00

As I was typing, I almost wrote "Hugs and Kisses, Mongolian style" which evoked all kind of wonderful images in my head from wrestling to a spicy sauce covered chicken, lol. Anyway, this card is in MAGNOLIA style because guess what?! All That Scraps has Magnolia stamps in stock now! How awesome is that?! I have always wanted to buy some but I don't like to order from too many places. I am so happy ATS is carrying them- they have excellent customer service and super shipping!

Anyway, I used Amy R's sketch challenge for this week to make my first Magnolia card!!

Supplies: Stamps- Valentine Tilda by Magnolia stamps, purchased at ATS, sentiment from Warm and Cozy set by Amy R's stamps for CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Coloring Medium- Copic Ciaos-Champagne, baby skin pink, pale cherry pink, Prisma Markers; Paper and CS- CTMH That's Amore Lvl 2 Kit; Other- Fiskars heart border punch, buttons, ribbon, word window punch, corner rounder, brads, K and Company Flowers.

I feel the need to brag about my coloring on this image :) I am just proud of how well it turned out. I have been playing around- that's what the "experts" say to do and I think it is paying off! I will post again momentarily with the ATS DT Challenge and a couple of SU cards!

AMYRS56- Delicious Day of Cupcakes!

2009-02-01T15:18:00.000-05:00

Here's my entry for Amy R's Sketch Challenge. I LOVED this sketch. I didn't have any initial ideas but it came together really easily actually. I pulled out Diane's Cupcake Occassions set again.. the cupcakes in that set are so cute and so yummy looking. I wanted to eat the ones I put on my card .

Delicious Day of Cupcakes

Supplies: Stamps- Cookie Crumbs for CC Designs' Cupcake Occasions; Ink- Palette Noir and SU Real Red; CS-Bazzill Lilac and SU Whisper White; DP- MME Valentine's Paper; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other: Nestabilties Labels 1, cuttlebug paisley embossing border, ribbon from em giovanni's share, MM Polo button brads

I hope this makes you hungry.. for some CC Designs Stamps! Really, how can you deny these cupcakes?!! :) Have a great week! I will try to post mid week again but Nate has several Doctor's Appts so we'll see how things go!

All That Scraps DT Challenge- Gingersnaps and Brads!

2009-02-01T15:09:00.000-05:00

Well, this week's Wed. ATS DT Challenge was to use lots of brads. I actually used Brads in a very neat way on one of the samples for my Guest DT position this month but I didn't want to use it for the challenge to so I whipped up this quickie card with one of my fave sets, Gingersnaps Snow Angels!

Gingersnaps For You

Supplies: Stamps- CC Designs Gingersnaps Snow Angels and sentiment from Hey Cupid; CS- DCWV and Bazzil Gray; Ink- Palette Noir; DP- K and Company Love Notes mat stack; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- Nestabilities, MS Heart border punch, brads.

I positioned the brads to "fall" like snowflakes. This is a super simple card but I wanted the image to be the focal point- I liked the coloring so I wanted it to stand out on it's own!

Guess who's the Feb.Guest Designer for ATS?

2009-02-01T14:52:00.000-05:00

It's me!! How exciting is that?! I've been dying to tell everyone since I was asked by the DT Coordinator, Amy Rysavy. So excited here!! You can check the ATS Blog every Monday this month for samples from me! You can see my beautiful mug on the page right now.. oh wait, that's Nate's beautiful mug :)

I've been busy making samples with all the amazing releases coming out tomorrow here. Amy featured 2 of them in today's blog post announcing me. Here they are with the deets:

The first uses stamps from Diane Zechman's new stamp sets, Cookie Jar and Cookie Jargon.

No Calorie Cookies!

Supplies: Stamps- Cookie Crumbs' for CC Designs Cookie Jar and Cookie Jargon; CS- Wassau Naturals; Ink- Palette Noir; Other- Scallop Circle Nestabilities, Cuttlebug, ribbon from Emily Giovanni's share, plastic bag, key tag cutter.

This is my no calorie cookie! I used my nestabilities to make the card and cut the kisses from another stamp in set. I wrapped it in baggie because I forgot I didn't have saran wrap in the house :) I think it's a cool way to present these cards. The sentiment on the tag, no calorie cookies, isn't a complete sentiment. I colored in the words I needed from the sentiment "broken cookies have no calories" to make it :)

My next card uses Amy R for CC Designs new stamp set Warm and Cozy. If you're not familiar with Amy R's stamps, you need to be! Amy takes clothing images and makes them amazing and so versatile. Pair them up with her sentiments and you get a rockin card!

Warm and Cozy Pea Coats

Supplies: Stamps- Amy R for CC Designs Warm and Cozy; Ink- Palette Noir, CTMH Twilight; CS- CTMH (including Twilight and Tulip; DP- CTMH Scrapbooing Month Special Edition Kit ; papers; Other- MM Brads, Primas.

I just love this Pea Coat! It reminds me of one of my best friends, Rachel, who always has the neatest pea coats!

I will be back soon with the ATS DT Challenge and Amy R's Sketch Challenge. Hope you enjoy all my creations and that CC Designs and All That Scraps become one of your faves, like they are mine!

New stuff coming.. promise! and an update

2009-01-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you ALL for the well wishes. It's been a crazy week. I've been trying to fight off a bug- maybe what Nate has. Nate is doing better but still running a low grade fever and being very whiny/moody. He is sleeping better- the night after the ER visit he slept for 4 hrs in a 24 hr period, no lie. I've missed a lot of work this week which worries me but Sam and I are both sleep deprived and worried. In addition to an EEG and GI Dr. Visit this week, Nate has an MRI coming up. We're checking for something called Chiari Malformation. It's very rare but my niece actually had it. I saw a video on GMA about a little boy who had severe sleeping problems and developmental delays and after 3 yrs, they found this malformation where basically the brain gets squished. After surgery, he is fine. I'm torn. Not that you want your child to have a defect and need serious surgery, but we've had so many diagnoses and treatments that haven't helped. Sometimes I just want to get the one fixable diagnosis and treatment.. it's been an emotional week!

Anyway, there is some good paper crafting stuff coming your way :) I have something really fun to share tomorrow!! I also got my SU starter kit so I should theoretically be able to create.. but my craft room is a mess so I need to clean first! :)
Here's to great, relaxing weekend for all! HUGS!

Scary Night!

2009-01-27T21:18:00.000-05:00

Well, we were off today because of ice/freezing rain which was great because Nate had an awful night. Anyway, he was lethargic off and on all day.. lots of little naps. Around 4:00 we were laying on the floor near the fire. I realized that he felt warm.. but fever warm, which he never has. Then, I realized that his heart was beating extremely fast- I counted 65 beats in 30 seconds. We rushed to the drs and they couldn't count it was so fast. They thought it might be super ventricular tachycardia, which means the brain was sending the wrong signals. Anyway, to make a long story short, we ended up in the ER, consulting with a pediatric cardiologist. Nate had a fever of 102.5. We finally got the fever down and his heart rate went back down from 160 to 110 which is okay. Nate is feeling a lot better but has a virus. Wow. Thank you God for answering our prayers!

ATS DT Challenge #33- Snow Friends

2009-01-25T18:22:00.000-05:00

Once again, had to use another one of Diane Zeckman's beautiful Stamp Sets made exclusively for CC Designs. Snow Friends is definitely another of my favorite sets.. all these beautiful snowman images.. ooh.. just makes it hard not love it!

The DT challenge was to use Faux Stitching. I love Faux Stitching- esp since I can't really sew. Anyway, here is my contribution:

Snow Bunny Buddy

Supplies- Stamps: Snow Friends by Cookie Crumbs for CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Coloring Medium- Copics and Prismas; CS- Wassau Neutrals and Bazzill Blue; DP- Figgy Pudding by Basic Grey; Other- MS Snowflake Punch, stickles, 1 1/2" circle punch, Labels 1 nestabilities.

This was a fun card to make...I can't wait to see what else Diane has in store for us!

Amy R's Sketch #46 (and 45!)

2009-01-25T18:05:00.000-05:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post some creative posts. But, expect a lot more once I get my HUGE SU order in mid-Feb as well as some goodies from my starter kit! I was able to pull out some stamps this weekend and catch up on my fave challenges!

Amy R's sketch challenge is always a must do- she does some really cute but sometimes some really different types of sketch that truly challenge you. This sketch, #46, is fairly simple but made a gorgeous card!

So Sweet LadyCake

Supplies: Stamps- Cupcake Occassions by Cookie Crumbs for CC Designs; Ink- Palette Black; Coloring Medium- Copics/Prismas; CS- Bazzill Pink; DP- Brenda Walton Love Notes; Ribbon- From Em Giovanni ribbon share; Other- AC Felt Flowers, 7 Gypsies Tags, MM Brads.

I just love how this turned out! Very simple yet gorgeous. I knew immediately from seeing the sketch I had to use Diane's Cupcake stamp set. So many cute cupcakes to choose from!

I also never got to post my card from Amy R's sketch #45. This cutie uses one of my fave sets, GingerSnaps Hey Cupid by CC Designs. If you haven't noticed by now, CC Designs is up there with TAC, SU, and CTMH for me.

Love is in the Air
Supplies: Stamps- Hey Cupid by CC Designs; CS- Bazzill Red, U/S White; DP- Retired SU (polka dots), MME (valentines); Ink- Palette Noir, SU Real Red; Coloring Medium- Copics; Other- CB Heart EF. buttons, target velvet

ribbon, MS Heart border punch.

I will be back shortly with my post for the CC Designs DT Challenge!

Technical Difficulties called LIFE!

2009-01-23T07:16:00.000-05:00

Hey all-
I've been neglecting my blog :( Last weekend was the freezing weekend that made it took cold to work downstairs! I did get Amy R's sketch challenge, but never got to post it. I will do that this weekend. I've got a ton of new supplies to use so I WILL get some creative postings this weekend- promise!
I also have left TAC and joined SU. I just wasn't happy with the sudden decisions TAC kept making. Plus SU still has the amazing cardstock and colors. I still love TAC stamps but I just couldn't keep justifying buying just for me!
We went to the doctor's for Nate yesterday. We are not set on the colonoscopy- we will talk to the GI specialist first. However, she wants to check for headaches and inflammation in the joints as possible reasons for night waking. Also, she wants an EEG to check for silent seizures that could be affecting speech. It's just been a long week and actually, we had Monday off!
Well hope to have some positive and creative postings asap!
Hugs,
Kelley

Quick Update

2009-01-16T14:59:00.000-05:00

Nothing crafty yet.. my craft room is in the basement (which IS finished) but still is cold as all get out! Therefore, I am not going to be down there because we're actually in the negatives here. They cancelled school today because of the chill (us southerners aren't used to it I suppose :). I'm also off Monday for MLK Jr. Day- yay for impromtu 4 day weekends!
On the Nate front, he started a new med to help with sleep- it is helping. Not thrilled but we're desparate! Doc suspects stomach issues causing him to wake so he may have to have an endoscopy (go down the throat and into stomach) and colonoscopy. Scary. We will speak with the GI dr on Feb 4 about this.
Keep us in your prayers! I will get some crafting done as soon as it's warm

Wonderful Day and an Award!

2009-01-12T21:08:00.001-05:00

This was supposed to be posted Monday night but due to technical difficulties, here it is now :)

Well after a not so wonderful night (Nate was up from 1 AM to 7 AM.. really!), I had a wonderful day! I received a couple of awesome emails and also got a blog award from Rachel at My Cardstock Creations! Rachel is also the ATS Guest Designer for January- how cool is that?

This award is given to a blog that invests and believes in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind of bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers!"The rule of the award is to now pass it on to another 8 people who demonstrate this spirit.

So, here are some of my fave, truly real people to visit. I would definitely be friends with these people in everyday life! Oh and did I mention they're really talented, too? :)

Vickie

Ikki

Kathryn

Traci

Amy R

Cambria

Shannon- is my RL friend :)

Diane

Will try and get something creative up before Friday- I will definitely be doing the ATSDT challenge tomorrow like I always do!

Weekend Wrap Up

2009-01-11T19:30:00.000-05:00

I also wanted to share with you some creations I made this weekend just for fun. It was a very relaxed, not busy weekend which was a change from the last.. month or so. Of course, tomorrow I am propelled back into a busy week filled with meetings, etc.

Anyways, as I said, I got some new rubbah from CC Designs in on Friday. YAY! Love it. This set is one of my fave snowmen sets eva- right up there with the other snowman sets CC Designs released this season. This set is by Diane, creator of Cookie Crumbs Designs. She is a new stamp designer and just amazing, as is evident by this set.

Flaky Snow Friends

Supplies: CS- SU Whisper White, Bazzill Blue; DP- SU retired Petals and Paisley Paper, DCWV Winter Mat Stack; Stamps- Cookie Crumbs from CC Designs; Coloring Medium- Copic Markers; Ink- Palette Noir; Other- Snowflake Border Punch, MS Snowflake Punch, Nestabilities Label one.

I love how this card turned out. I just wanted to use this image and it just came together with some scraps I had laying out. I love this image- I am a huge polar bear fan and snowman fan so this is the best of both worlds! This set is $20 and has 3 huge, adorable snowman images and a ton of sentiments and some snowflakes. It is a super great deal!

I also made this Valentine's Card using an inkadinkado stamp I picked up for a $1.00 at Big Lots.

Supplies: Stamps- Chocolates from Inkadinkado, Sentiment from SU Like it a Latte (ret.); Ink: Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Paper- SU whisper white and chocolate chip; DP- Retired Berry DP from SU. Coloring medium- Copics and prisma markers; Other- Labels 1 nestabilities, pink ribbon.
This is not my favorite card but take an up close look at my coloring- it turned out pretty dang well! I'm getting better.. sometimes.

And, what weekend would be complete without a picture of Nate? Here is Nate, again being puzzled by the camera, in his sock monkey pjs. Here's to a great week. ENJOY!

AMYRS 53 and ATSDT31- Oldies and some new Rubbah!!

2009-01-11T19:08:00.000-05:00

Hi all! I received some new rubbah this weekend from All That Scraps/CC Designs. Here's my problem. I am going on a budget of $75 a month for stamping. This is all companies. Well, I am part of a CTMH Hostess Club at $25 a month and a SU club for $25 a month.. this leaves $25 and CC Designs keeps releasing amazing stamp sets.. I need them all which means that $25 is NOT enough... oh the dilemma.

Anyway, I decided to use an oldie but goodie on Amy R's Sketch Challenge for this week.

Cat's Meow

Supplies: Stamps- CC Designs; Card Stock- SU Whisper White, Bazzill Watermelon; DP- My Mind's Eye Irresistible (from CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Kohrinor Pencils and OMS, Copic Ciao Markers; Other- CB EP, American Crafts Plastic Flowers, Target Ric Rak, Stickles in silver, nestabilities label one, corner rounder.

This was an easy card and I think it turned out cute. I have had the hardest time making Valentine's Day cards. It's been insane. I'm pretty happy with this one. Love the paper- I got another sheet with flying hearts that will be perfect for the new Gingersnaps Set Hey Cupid!

Next, ATS DT31- A color challenge to use Lovely Lilac, Pink Passion, and Kraft

XOXO

Supplies: Stamps- CC Designs Gingersnaps Hey Cupid!; CS- Bazzil Kraft and Lavendar; SU Whisper White, Watercolor paper; DP- K and Company; Coloring Medium- Faux Watercoloring with SU Markers, Copics used on wings, skin and hair; Other- MS Border Punch, 1 1/4 Circle Punch, nestabilities label one

I absolutely LOVE this set- GingerSnaps are almost replacing my love of Sugarplums.. ALMOST :) Psst.. Christine.. More Sugarplums please!! Anyway, I will be doing many more with this set. It's gorgeous. Stay tuned for another post with more new rubbah!

AMYRS 52- Mane Squeeze and ATS DT Special Challenge

2009-01-03T21:29:00.001-05:00

Okay, this is definitely not my favorite card in the world but hopefully I will have a chance to make another. I used Amy R's sketch for this week which is a neat sketch. I hadn't used this old CC Designs' Valentine's stamp set in awhile so I pulled it out too.

AMYRS52- Mane Squeeze

Supplies: DP- Sweet Stack by DCWV; Paper: Stampin Up whisper white, bazzill; Stamps: CC Designs; Ribbon: MS; Coloring: Kohrinor and OMS, copics; Ink: Palette Noir; Other: Stapler, heart brads, corner rounder, cuttlebug and embossing folder.

ATS DT Challenge: Snowy Olivia

Christine issued a special design challenge for her team to use snowflakes without Winter/Christmas paper. I decided to play along. This was my chance to use my new Snowflake Die complete with some MS Mica Chip Glitter. I also used my new Olivia which I colored with copics!

Supplies: DP: SU Petals and Paisley (retired); CS: Bazzill, SU whisper white; Ink: Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Stamps: CC Designs; Coloring: Copics; Other: Nestabilities Labels 1, embossing folder; sizzix snowflakes die, MS Mica Chip Glitter

Hope you enjoy!!

Moxie Fab World Challenge 5- All Dressed up and Fabulous!

2009-01-03T21:17:00.000-05:00

Cath over at Moxie Fab World has posted Challenge 5 which was to make a card inspired by 4 beautiful party dresses. I came up with the following card after being inspired by the square neck of one dress, the silver of the first sequined dress, and the flowers from the floral overlay cocktail gown.

All Dressed Up and Fabulous

Supplies: Paper: Stampin Up Whisper White and Bazzill Bling!; Stamps: Fabulous Flowers by Stampin Up; Ink: Versamark and Palette Noir; Other: Martha Stewart Border Punch, Black EP, American Crafts Silver Ribbon. Finished Size: 5 x 5

Because all the dresses were elegant yet simple, I kept the card simple. As soon as I saw these dresses, this stamp set came to mind and voila, this card was born!

I hope you enjoy it!!

Starving Artists/Doodle Factory Valentines' Stamps

2009-01-02T18:54:00.000-05:00

I needed to share this blog candy:

http://starvingartistamps.blogspot.com/2009/01/new-releases-and-some-blog-candy.html

I LOVE their stamps! They are so different- cute yet weird. Just my style sometimes :)

Check it out to enter!

AMYRS 51 Part Deux- I love Winter!

2008-12-30T20:57:00.000-05:00

I loved Amy's sketch so much, I had to make another! Plus, I am still using my copics etc to color images :)

I Love Winter!

Supplies: DP: Just Chillin Paper Pack, including CS from CTMH; Stamps: GingerSnaps Snow Angels and sentiment from Bear and Snowman set both by CC Designs; Ink: Palette Noir; Coloring Medium: Copic Ciaos, Prismacolor markers, and white gel pen for highlights; Other: sparkle ricrac from target, pink stickles, and American Crafts paper flowers, Cuttlebug embossing folder and scalloped circle nestabilities.

I love these girls- they're too cute!

2009 Word and goals: Believe

2008-12-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

Wow, I know, 3 posts in 2 days. I must be insane.. or bored... or just on a roll. I'll go with the latter of the three :) I was reading Ali Edwards' blog. She never ceases to amaze me with her creativity. Anyway, for the third year in a row, she is encouraging herself and others to pick a word to live and create by in 2009. Her word is vitality. I went through the lists of possibilities she put together in 2008 and 2009 and I am keeping it simple.

Believe

Believe is such a simple yet powerful word. It can encompass so many things in life. On my desk at work is a poem, something I picked up years ago after being diagnosed with Lupus.

Believe in yourself~in the power you haveto control your own life, day by day,

Believe in the strength that you have deep inside,and your faith will help show you the way,

Believe in tomorrow and what it will bring,let a hopeful heart carry you through,

For things will work out if you trust and believe~there's no limit to what you can do!

So, for 2009, I'm coming up with these goals based on the word "Believe":

I will

Believe in myself as a person
Believe in myself as a mother
Believe in myself as a teacher
Believe in myself as an artist
Believe in Nate's ability to overcome his obstacles
Believe in Sam's ability to finish school
Believe that all things are possible with God
Believe that I can become healthier, both physically and mentally
Believe that 2009 will be as good as I allow it to be

I hope I can remember these! I am going to create a mini album based on these goals and the word Believe. Not sure how or what I'm going to do this with but I will!

I encourage all of you to choose a word and live by it for 2009. Believing in something is a powerful tool! Have a fabulous day!

After Christmas UPDATE

2008-12-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great holiday! Christmas/Hanukkah went off without a hitch here. It has been a quiet holiday. I managed to get a Wii Fit and Jillian Michael's workout to go with it. Also got Shaun White Snowboarding for the balance board. Sam bought and wrote the most beautiful card for me :) I've been sick with headaches and nausea but hopefully will feel better soon. Here are a couple of cute pics of Nate on Christmas morning:

Looking at his new magnetic book.

Well, I also wanted to share a couple of altered items I made for Christmas.

Primitive Collage using Cornish Heritage Farm's Primitive Beginnings Set. My sister loves primitive items so I made this collage for her. I used crackle paint in peeled paint to make a messy border. I cut 3x3 squares and used the stamps to make various images. Also used a folk art star punch for some depth. My sheep has liquid applique on it.

I also made these 2 altered barn stars- first one is for my MIL, second for my parents. Paper is by Basic Grey and Cosmo Cricket. I used various rubons with family sentiments. Sorry the pics aren't great but short of hanging them up, it's hard to get a good pic of these!

I made this card for my parents. Uses the CTMH Evensong Creative Basics paper, TAC Mabelle RO limited edition vintage release Santa, and Scalloped greeting from SU Saleabration set last year.

This is a simple card using Sugarplum's Snowy Scene. I put my sparkling watercolors on the snowman and snowflakes.

Hope you enjoy these little creative bits! If you need any more details, leave a comment :)

AMYRS 51- Got Snow?

2008-12-28T20:32:00.000-05:00

I am about to do a super update with some Christmas crafts but wanted to post Amy R's Sketch Challenge Separate. I enjoyed this challenge and finally used my new CC Designs SugarPlum Set!

Supplies: DP- Me and My Big Idea's Mittens (from Ellen Kraus' designs); CS- bazzill, stampin up white; Stamps: CC Designs Sugarplums; Coloring Medium: Copics and Prismacolors; Ink: Palette Noir; Accessories: Cuttlebug snowflake folder, nestabilities, MS snowflake punch, 1 1/2 in circle punch, Michael's ribbon.

I bought a 12 pack of Copic Ciaos- LOVE them!! I will definitely have to get more. I tried Copic Sketch before- Ciaos are more my style!

Hope you enjoy this cutie patootie card!

Mega Blog Candy!

2008-12-16T07:28:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share this opportunity for super dupa blog candy!
http://charmedcrafts.blogspot.com/2008/12/mega-mega-mega-christmas-blog-candy.html

AMYRS#50 AND ATSDT #30- More Winter Fun!

2008-12-14T20:47:00.000-05:00

Another busy weekend gearing up for the holiday. Also a weekend filled with bad news. Shannon, from the scrapbook bungalow, suffered the tragic unexpected loss of her stepmom and best friend Debbie. My friend Sarah's husband has been in the hospital with an unexplained illness. Fortunately, they finally think they have linked it to an illness contracted from a contaminated bird (not the bird flu! pstiticosis). I have just been praying constantly!

When not watching episodes of House , I did some crafting, ordered Christmas cards... yes, ordered, not made. I was running out of time and didn't want to come up with a witty way to make a photo card! Here are the two cards I made for this week's challenges:

Amy R's Sketch Challenge- AMYRS#50- Snow Buddies

Supplies- DP- K and Company Swell Noel; CS- Bazzill CS, TAC U/S White; Stamp- Rachelle Anne Miller for Stampavie (from ATS!), Sentiment from SugarPlum Snowmen by CC Designs; Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring- Prismacolor Markers; Tools- Cuttlebug EP folder, nestabilities; Other- Target $1 ribbon, eyelets.

I got in all my new CC Designs stamps but also had this Stampavie Rachelle Anne Miller stamp that I ordered from ATS as well. I had to use it on this card! I love how the image turned out after being colored- brillant!

Next Challenge:

ATSDT#30- Winter Bear Gift Card/Money Holder

Supplies: Designer Paper- MME Christmas Short Stack; CS- CTMH Cranberry, TAC U/S White; Ink- Palette Noir; Stamps: CC Designs Winter Bear, Holiday Greetings sentiment by TAC; Coloring- Kohrinor Colored Pencils, OMS, Prisma Markers; Tools- Cuttlebug, nestabilities, embossing folder, Coluzzle and library pocket template; Other- CTMH twill ribbon, dimensionals, retired stampin up notched corner punch.
I am super pleased with how this turned out! I was going to make a library pocket with pull out gift card so I used my coluzzle template... Well, I got going and realized it made a kind of wallet type holder. I cut another template out using the red paper to line the inside. It didn't line up perfectly but I like the little red edge showing :) Inside, I cut a piece of white and used the retired SU notch corner punch so that a gift card or cash (as shown) will fit in. BTW- isn't this just one of the cutest stamps EVA?! So glad I got it!

Opening the holder...

Inside, showing how money fits in. The little pocket edges also keep the money from falling out when closed. Great huh?!

I have a couple more items I will share this week, if time allows. It's the last week before 2 weeks of Christmas break, YAHOO!! Have a great one!

-

AMYRS #49 and ATSDT #29- Winter Weather!!

2008-12-07T20:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes. I am taking this situation as a wake up call to get my health together. I've gained a lot of weight in the last 2 yrs since having Nate and my cholesterol is high. At 26, this is insane :) So, I am going on the medifast diet and wii fit-ing my way to some weight loss. YAY!! My order will be in this week and I know starting around the holidays isn't easy but I have to. I think getting some of this weight off will also help get everything hormonally back in order. Once I get some weight off, we will start trying again.

I had a great weekend. I am finally NOT tired and nauseous anymore and I think my body is getting back to "normal". We put up some Christmas decorations and the ugliest little tree ever. Nate is definitely in his "terrible 2's" stage so I was not going to put up my big tree and all my nice ornaments so they could be pulled off and thrown around the house! I also took some pics of Nate to use in the Christmas Cards. Here is one of him and the "Grinch". Sam and I managed a theater when the live action movie came out and they sent us this huge Grinch stuffed animal that we still have.

My craft area is in definitely need of cleaning. However, I did get my 2 challenges done. I am working on taking better pics so here are some of them.

Amy R's Sketch Challenge- AMYRS49- Mittens for you.

Supplies- Stamps: CTMH; Paper: American Crafts, CTMH, K and Company; Ink: Palette Noir, Moulin Rouge; Coloring Medium- Kohrinoor and OMS; Other- Nestabilities.

This was a fun challenge- loved the sketch! I used my new nestabilities labels one dies and this fun CTMH retired set my TAC Secret Sister Sent. The mittens are cut from this cute mitten paper by American Crafts, It's Cold Outiside.

ATSDT#29- Winter Weather

Supplies- Stamps: CC Designs; Paper: Bazzill; DP: My Mind's Eye Christmas Short Stack; Coloring- Kohrinoor and OMS; Ink: Palette Noir; Other: Target Ribbon, MS Snowflake Punch, Stickles, 1 1/2 inch punch.

This color challenge is for a chance to be the Guest Designer for ATS and CC Designs. I am waiting on my new sets to come in but until them I pulled out an old but wonderful CC Designs set. The color challenge was for SU colors but I used bazzill coordinating colors with this My Minds Eye Paper. I love how this turned out!!

I hope you enjoy- I need to get cracking on Christmas cards and gifts!! I hope to share more this week!

Good and Bad News (RL update)

2008-12-02T13:29:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share with you guys:
Good News is: Most of the blood work came back ok. My Prolactin levels were a little high but they'll retest again soon. If it stays high, they will do a CT Scan on my brain to check for benign tumors on my pituitary gland. Yay.
Bad News: Well, it's 2 fold. It was kind of good.. because I was pregnant. However, I miscarried today. It was early. The good news is apparently my ovaries are working but this wasn't meant to be yet. We'll take some time off to get everything straightened and then hopefully, we'll be able to have baby 2.
Just wanted to share with you all. Please keep the prayers coming- I need them and am thankful for them!!

ATS DT #28 and AMYRS #48 and real life challenges...

2008-12-01T18:53:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a fab Thanksgiving Day and Weekend!

I am a little late with both of these challenges but this weekend was challenging in many ways, as I explain after my creations for those interested... There were some good things about this weekend:

1- Time with Family, esp. Nate and Sam

2- A delicious Turkey day dinner with both families

3- An early Christmas Shopping Spree at Michaels thanks to my MIL! (Can you say Cricut cartridges, OttLite, paper...!!)

Anyway, on to the challenges:

ATSDT #28- Christmas Ornament

This was a great challenge because I am going to make some paper ornaments for the small upstair Christmas tree. That way if Nate destroys them, I won't feel TOO bad.

Delicious Christmas

Stamps: Cupcake Occassions by Cookie Crumb Designs (distributed by CC Designs), Christmas by TAC; Paper: Christmas Short Stack by My Mind's Eye; Ink: Palette Noir; Coloring: Prismacolor Markers; Other: Giga Circle, Nestabilities Scalloped Circle, Liquid Applique, Eyelet, Target Ribbon

I absolutely love this stamp set- so versatile and hello, who doesn't LOVE cupcakes?!

AMYRS #48

Let it Snow

Supplies: Stamps: "Let it Snow" by Inkadinkado, Penguin by CC Designs; Paper: My Mind's Eye Christmas and matching Bazzill CS (found at Michaels!); Ink: Palette Noir and Burnt Umber; Coloring: Prisma H2O's; Other: 1 1/2 inch circle punch, MS 2008 Snowflake punch, Target Brad.

When I first saw this sketch I thought "There is NO WAY I can do this...it's too hard." I even told my husband I wouldn't do it.. BUT, after mulling with it all weekend, I decided I kind of liked it, lol. This is a super simple card but it's still very pretty. This sketch really allows you to put the focus on small elements and beautiful designer paper. Don't know if I can do many more with this sketch but it was fun!!

*****End Creative Stuff: Enter Personal, probably boring, Rant*****

As I alluded to in the beginning, I am possibly facing some health problems. For all who don't know, I was diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune disease at 14. I've been blessed with great doctors and good health in recent years. My pregnancy with Nate was high risk- I have a blood clotting issue that required blood thinner shots daily. However, it went really well. Since having Nate though, I don't feel like my hormones have ever been right again. We have been trying for number 2 and it hasn't happened. My doc is checking me for an imbalance and possibly Premature Ovarian Failure (POF). Apparently, it can happen to women with auto immune diseases. I know I have been beyond blessed with Nate but we really want another child- this could make it very difficult or even impossible in some cases. At 26, this is kind of a scary and shocking possibility. Just keep me in your prayers. I should hear about the initial bloodwork tomorrow and go from there.

Well have a great week! I need to get on the Christmas Decorating Band Wagon but I'm still feeling pretty ucky- been nauseous for two weeks and keeping headaches. Yay.

Sisterhood of the Blogging Stampers- 26

2008-11-29T16:26:00.001-05:00

This is my intro post for SBS 26. I am proud to join you!
My name is Kelley and I am a 26 yr old Wife/Mom/Special Education Teacher/Crafty Chick from Lynchburg, VA. I have been stamping for almost 2 yrs- since my son was 5 months old. My SIL introduced me (via stampin up) and I have been hooked! I am currently a demo for TAC but also love other companies such as CC Designs Stamps, Just Rite, Stampendous, CTMH, etc. I love to scrapbook but making cards is my fave. I am often short on time and I love being able to get something done quickly! I look forward to getting to know each of my sisters!!

AMYRS #47 and some Knifty Knitting!

2008-11-24T19:17:00.000-05:00

I did get some stamping done this past weekend! However, 3 of the items were for the Wingers so I can't share them. However, I did get time to create this cute card for Amy R's Sketch Challenge:

AMYRS#47- Very Merry Christmas Tree

Paper: K and Company; CS: Bazzill, TAC assortment; Stamps: CC Designs Sugarplums' Christmas, TAC Ornamental Snowflakes, TAC Merry Words (retired); Color Medium: kohrinoor pencils, OMS; Ink: Palette Noir, Versamark; Other: Corner Rounder, Giga Circle Punch, Ranger Ultra Fine Gold EP powder

I was an embossing fiend yesterday, lol. And I've been digging using my old TAC snowflakes set. Thanks Amy for getting me rehooked- I was inspired by her use of snowflakes last week in a similar retired SU set.

Now, Sam and I have caught the bug- the Knifty Knitter Bug! Provo Craft makes the knifty knitter (what don't they make- geniuses!). It's a loom that you can knit anything with! I am needle knitting challenged so this is PERFECT for me.. I am in love. Sam created more than I did this weekend but here are some pics:

My First scarf, Modeled by Chloe. It's super thick and roomy :)

My Washington Redskins slippers made my Sam... they weren't SUPPOSED to be redskin colors but so be it :) They're super comfy!

Finally, Nate (and Frankie and Sierra) in his hat Daddy knitted. It needs to be a little bigger but it's so cute!! Nate always gives the most DUH pics when he stares at the camera, lol.

So I guess now we'll have some knitting posted on this blog too.. Hope you enjoy all my creations. I truly am crafty now, huh?!

CTMH Creations

2008-11-19T16:32:00.003-05:00

I've been trying to use all my beautiful CTMH products lately (thanks Sarah!) since they truly are gorgeous and inspiring. Here are a couple CTMH exclusive cards I've created.

Whoo Loves you incorporates this fun owl set and the enchanted paper series.

Thinking of You uses my favorite, Perfect Day, papers and coordinating colors: Sorbet, Tulip, Creme Brulee and Juniper. This set was the September SOTM- GORGEOUS! I sent this to my aunt and her fam after the passing of her MIL.

Home For the Holidays uses the Aspen Paper collection, Twill ribbon, Homeward Bound Stamp Set and of course, some stickles! I thought you'd enjoy seeing this. If you need more deets, just leave a comment and I'll get back with ya!

ATSDT27- Lovely Winter Day!

2008-11-19T15:54:00.000-05:00

Well, who says having the stomach virus is no fun? Since I'm home and stopped um, having food exit my stomach, I got to do the ATS DT challenge on time. Woohoo! The challenge was to use acetate in some way.

Well, immediately I thought of this:

ATS DT- Lovely Winter Day

Supplies: Cardstock- CTMH Twilight, acetate; DP- Figgy Pudding (on inside of card); Stamps- CC Designs Wintertime Fun, TAC Ornamental Snowflakes; Ink- Staz On Black, Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- BIC Permanent Markers; Other- CB Embossing Folder, Xyron Create a Sticker, PeeWee Glitter, coluzzle, liquid applique.

I cut out a window with the rectangle coluzzle template and then cut a bigger size rectangle from the acetate. I ran the card through my CB folder and ran the acetate through my xyron. I attached the xyron so the sticky side was showing through the window and sprinkled glitter. After that, I used stazon to stamp snowflakes and the penguins on the inside of the acetate window. I colored the penguin in some with permanent markers. I used liquid applique on my cat with the snowman. The inside has the figgy pudding paper and I stamped happy winter. I am pleased with how it turned out, though it wasn't how I first conceptualized it.

Enjoy!

AMYRS #46 and ATSDT #26

2008-11-16T20:37:00.000-05:00

Hi all-

Created a lot this weekend but have been busy and am now exhausted! DH is watching Skins/Cowboys game and Nate just had a bath and is getting ready for bed. I thought I'd take a sec to get these challenges posted. I have a lot more to share anad will throughout the week.

First- AMYRS #46- Sketch Challenge and really limited supplies too. This was to be a single layer card. I typically do not do them but liked the simplicity and beauty of this one.

Peaceful Snowflakes Supplies: Ink: Versamark,,Palette Noir; Paper: Winter Mat Stack, Bazzill Blings; Stamps: TAC Ornamental Snowflakes and Whimsical Greetings; Other: Pebbles Shimmer Chalks, purple ribbon, MS scalloped embosed punch.

Next is ATSDT Challenge. We were to make Christmas cards that would be easily reproduced. Though this looks detailed it isn't. You can color with markers quickly, cut out leaving and edge and tear a square for Lucky's mountain. I used SU scallop punch and a 1 1/2 circle punch. Very quick yet elegant. While it isn't Christmas specific, it is great for those who either don't celebrate a holiday or celebrate something other than Christmas because it is to wish for snow and a happy winter time!

Lucky's Wintertime Ride Supplies: Ink: Palette Noir; Paper: TAC US white, BG Figgy Pudding; Stamps: CC Designs Wintertime Fun; Coloring: Kohrinoor pencils and OMS; Misc: SU scallop punch, Marvy circle punch, K and Company felt white poinsetta sticker.

Well that's it for now but will post more, including CTMH creations, soon! Have a great week!

ATS DT#25 AND AMYRSC 36- Figgy Pudding

2008-11-09T21:04:00.000-05:00

Well, here is my creative post as promised. I had a horrible time creating anything last night and today. I wasn't happy with anything that I produced but I'll share it anyway! I received my figgy pudding paper from all that scraps. I am super happy with it! However, it is so beautiful, I am having a hard time using it. I want the paper to stand out and not cover it up.. I am having a hard time adding images! Anyway, first up

ATSDT #25- Sweet Thoughts

Supplies: DP- Basic Grey Figgy Pudding; CS- U/S White (TAC); Ink- Palette Noir, Ballet Blue and Moulin Rouge; Stamps- CC Designs Sugarplums Christmas Olivia, word from TAC GWP's Fall 08; Color Medium- Prisma Markers; Accessories- button, ribbon, liquid applique, MS border punch, eyelets.

This card is OK in my opinion. I love paper piecing Olivia's PJ's. I am super excited about the new set coming out from CC Designs with North Pole pieces to go with Olivia and Chris!

AMYRSC 36- Fluffles wishes

*NOTE- Can someone tell me why blogger will only post pics in the tall format?? I tried posting this repeatedly to no avail. HELP!!*

Supplies: DP- Brenda Walton Peppermint Twist; CS- U/S White, Red (TAC);Ink- Palette Noir; Coloring Medium- Prisma Markers; Stamps-Fluffles (Stampendous); Accessories- Cuttlebug Embossing Folder, Folk Star punch, stickles.

I bought this fluffles stamp from Michaels a couple of weeks ago when all stamps were 40% off. I love fluffles. I may have to go buy another one or two!~ :)

Oh, and just so you know I finished the third book in the Twilight saga, Eclipse. This is a really good series- even if you don't like fantasy/sci fi. Sam is going to pick up the fourth book tomorrow! Have a great week!

Teenagers, Vampires, and Werewolves, OH MY!

2008-11-08T22:22:00.001-05:00

Just a quick post to let yo know I haven't forgotten about stamping :) I have actually been entranced with the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. Yes, it's for "teens" but dang if this woman can't write! It's not like a typical fantasy series... I read fantasy. It's not a typical romance nor a typical suspense... it's just, plain ole good. I've sped through the first 2 books Twilight and New Moon and am on Eclipse. When I get done with the saga, I will go back and reread them since I've been hurrying through to find out what is happening!

I will have the ATS DT Challenge and Amy R's sketch challenge posted tomorrow. I finished them tonight but am too tired to take pics, load, etc.

Have a great night!

My one and only blog comment on the election..

2008-11-04T23:50:00.000-05:00

First off, I am super happy and excited by the results. Obama has inspired me and gives me the warm fuzzy safe feeling that Bush never did for me. I did get brought to tears when he won and during the concession speech when he urged us all to unite.

I was scared he wouldn't win. I was turning into one of those people that I hate- that can't stand to hear anyone elses point of view (Even though I never said anything to anyone but Sam). I was getting so frustrated and worried. BUT, yesterday I made a promise to myself and prayed that no matter who won, it would be the right person. I had nothing against McCain except getting tired of local supporters bad mouthing Obama as a traitor to our country and the "anti-Christ" (well and his financial plans :). I also did not necessarily think Palin was ready but I think she will do great things in the future, especially for families with children that have special needs. Anyway, I knew that whoever won would be the best person and part of God's plan.

Seeing him being elected gives me hope. I know this sounds cliche but I can look at my kids from low Socio-economic backgrounds, my kids that are mixed, my kids that are black, white, whatever color, and honestly feel like they will have a better future. I studied African American studies, my minor. I researched and read history and literature for 4 years of my life. To see what these people, black and white, suffered and sacrificed for come to fruition... it's amazing. I just know that this will break so many barriers.

I know he's only human and he will not be perfect. I will not agree with everything he says and does. But, I know that finally, all of my kids and so many of my families will feel as equals for the first time in their lives and I can't help but think the climate of our country will improve significantly in the next decade.

God Bless everyone- no matter who you voted for and no matter how you feel. I can only hope that our future President will embrace the talents of his former opponents in helping raise our country out of a desperate time.

**Edited to Add** The negativity surrounding his victory is not surprising, but still disgusting. I could go on for days about what I've read at foxnews... it disturbs me deeply. I sincerely hope that this is a new beginning in a new government where the talents of everyone, no matter their party, are used to bring us back together.

Surgery- check, Voting- check...

2008-11-04T16:28:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to let ya'll know about today. Nate had his adnoid surgery and is fine. Coming out from the anesthesia was rough BUT since grammy and poppy got him the kid tough dvd player, we had the backyardigans to calm him down. He did so well, that on the way home we stopped to vote. On the way in to surgery, there was a line but on the way home, things had calmed down significantly. Nate is somewhat grouchy but he's eaten well and been drinking. Of course, they gave him some good pain meds so who knows what will happen when that wears off! I am off tomorrow- took a personal day, just in case today was rough. Therefore, I'll be following the election closely. It was good to see so many people at the polls!

I will hopefully create and share tomorrow!

Happy Monday- don't forget to rock the vote!!

2008-11-03T07:03:00.000-05:00

Hi yall!

Happy Monday! I didn't get to do any paper crafting yesterday. Nate had a rough night the night before so Sam and I took turns napping :) My crafting area is downstairs and Nate constantly tries to go up and down the stairs. Yes, Nate should be able to do stairs okay but these stairs are steep and since we have a rancher and don't have stairs on the main floor, he isn't comfortable with them. Anyway, I did get to do some digiscrapping!

I have been trying NOT to digiscrap. I wanted to stick to traditional scrapping. But, time after time I have been so exhausted that I don't go downstairs at night. Scrapping takes a lot of work! Plus, I wanted to do scrap calendars for the grandparents for Christmas and I am running short on time. So, I've been playing around and this last weekend was digital scrapbooking day so there were lots of freebies!! I thought I'd share a sample with yall though they are hush hush from the grandparents whom I don't think read my blog anyway :)

Digielements and paper: Jen Wilson's The Merry Days of Christmas, number 6.

This is January's, obviously :) These were pics from our first and only snow of the year. I got this kit last year when it was offered as a freebie. I couldn't do anything with it until I got Adobe PSE on this computer. Anyway, it is a gorgeous kit and I'm excited to use it! I need to learn how to make drop shadows, etc. I'm still very basic, but I think this is a good thing. Maybe I'll get all of Nate's stuff scrapped now (though I am finishing up his second year album by hand.. I can't stand mixing both!)

In other news, PLEASE rock the vote tomorrow. I have a preferred candidate in mind BUT it's so important that no matter who you vote for, you vote. Make an informed decision about who you think is best for our country. I pray that no matter who wins, they can lead our country into the right direction. Just get out there and vote!

Finally, I probably won't be posting tomorrow or the next day since Nate has adnoid surgery tomorrow :( I've definitely been trying to post more and am loving it- plus I've gotten to see some other great blogs made by people leaving comments! Anyway, wish us luck and pray that this surgery isn't too painful for him... I'm a wreck either way!

Hugs and love- boy is election night going to be tense!

ATSDT#24 AND AMYRS#34: Swell Noel!

2008-11-01T23:37:00.000-04:00

So glad to finally catch up on the challenges! It has been a busy week. A lot of drama at work but nothing I can share (not that it would really apply to anyone but me anyway!). Halloween went off without a hitch. Of course, we did not go trick or treating as a) Nate doesn't get it and b) no candy for him. By his lack of sleeping last night, you'd never know he did NOT have a sugar high! He barely slept and was off the wall. It was insane. Anyway, I also completed 4 more projects for the TAC design call, bringing the grand total to 15! I am proud of myself. I started out planning projects that would be impressive but settled on doing what I was inspired to do with the paper and stamps I felt pulled to. I didn't do any project because I "had" to- I did them because I wanted to!

But on to the good stuff:

First, Amy R's Sketch Challenge #34

I loved this sketch! And perfect enough, I saw the new K and Company Christmas papers at AC Moore today! I have been dying to get my hands on Swell Noel. Gorgeous Paper. Unfortunately, they didn't have the 12x12 paper packs. But, I did get a mat pack. It worked well to make this card:

AMYRS#34: Mod Winter

Paper: K&Co. Swell Noel, Bazzill pink, TAC U/S white; Ink: Palette Noir; Stamps: Wintertime Fun from CC Designs; Coloring Medium: Prismacolor Markers; Die Cuts: Nestabilities Scalloped Rectangles; Other: White die cut shimmer flowers, white small eyelets, pink brad.

This is not the best pic, but it's hard to take pics at night :) I don't get the good sunlight!

Next, ATSDT#24:

Swell Olivia Mini Pizza Box

This challenge was to make a mini pizza box. I had not made one yet and I have to say, they're very easy which is great! I am not a stickler for folding and cutting and gluing into boxes, etc. I can see making these as treat boxes, card holders.. all kinds of things! Anyway, Olivia came out to play. I finally ordered the Sugarplums Christmas scene stamps and should be getting those by next Friday (along with the Basic Grey Figgy Pudding paper I put off buying last year...) so Olivia will have a Christmas scene to go with her Christmas pajamas!

Paper: K&Co Swell Noel, Bazzill Pink; Ink: Palette Noir, Versamark; Stamps: Sugarplums Christmas Olivia by CC Designs; Color Medium: Prismacolor markers; Die Cuts: Nestabilities scalloped square and circles; Other: Gold Embossing Powder and white ribbon.

I hope you enjoy these- I had so much fun creating them (After cleaning up my craft area... it was a paper explosion!) I hope to create more to share tomorrow!!

More samples..

2008-10-31T06:53:00.001-04:00

Finished a few more samples for the TAC catty but can't share em yet!! I didn't get to ATS mini pizza box challenge- but, I will definitely do it tonight.. while watching scary movies, muahahaha!!

Quick update

2008-10-29T21:21:00.001-04:00

I don't have anything to share today but the fact that it has been a long week, Nate is getting sick with sinusitis again, adnoids are out on Tuesday, and I plan to do the ATS pizza box challenge tomorrow! I've been exercising every night so it takes away from stamping time!

Oh, I also got an email that my submissions were received. YAY!!

Crafty Sunday

2008-10-26T20:06:00.000-04:00

Wow did I get a LOT done today! Unfortunately, I can't share them all with you :( I made 14 items and 11 of them are for the TAC Catalog Design Call. I am desperately hoping that at least one of my cards makes it to the catty! I am proud of my work.

I did make 2 other items that I can share. The first is for a TAC swap using our fall supplement stamps Artsy Owls and Owl words. I colored using Kohrinor pencils and OMS. Paper is from TAC Mimi SWIC.

This second card is using scraps from my table! This was left over from the ATS DT challenge from Wed. I used one of the cuttlebug fall release embossing folders on the background. The image is one of my faves- from the very first CC Designs set I ever bought, Wintertime fun. I love this set! I can't wait to see what Christine and the other gals at ATS have for the holidays!

Well, this is a busy week at work and then next Monday, we have a professional development day. Tuesday is a very dreaded day. Not only is it election day which means impossibly long lines, but Nate has to get his adnoids out :( I'm so nervous. This is much more invasive than ear tubes and the ear tubes kinda triggered severe sensory issues (ie. spinning, more rocking). I just hope it doesn't hurt too bad and it helps his sleep issues that have started since the fall!!

Hugs to everyone! I am eagerly awaiting the weekend and crossing my fingers as the new CC Designs design team members will be announced.. eek!!

Boo-hoo Boo Bash

2008-10-25T20:58:00.000-04:00

Well today was the boo bash. It went well.. except that Nate fell asleep and slept through almost all of it! As a result, I have NO pics of him and the kids! I do have some cute pics of him and the fam though :)

Some of the kiddos enjoying decorating gluten free sugar cookies!

Nate and I.. go figure the best pic of me isn't the best of him :)

Swamp Cider. I love these Martha Stewart labels- I put it on sparkling pear juice.

Hard to see but a glittery trick or treat sign by K and Company.

Nate's piratey pumpkin.

Nate the night before practicing to be a pirate. I got the hat at the dollar tree!

All in all a good day! I hope to have some creative items to share with you tomorrow :)

Countdown to Boo Bash..

2008-10-23T21:13:00.000-04:00

Only 2 days until Nate's inaugeral Boo Bash. I plan on doing this for years to come.. until he can understand that trick or treating is to get candy and he can do it even if he can't eat any of the candy. Oy, food allergies. Anyway, I got the goody bags done (with all NON-edible food!). I, like many people, fell in love with the martha stewart witch goody bags. Here are all six on my table with my "centerpiece". The tree is from a centerpiece kit by K and Company that I got on clearance at M's today!

I also got that cute wagon at M's today for $2. Great find.. in the future, I will fill it with either small gourds, etc. or fall flowers.

I will be making little place setting tags for the kiddos.. definitely going to use CC Designs Spooky, Spooky Spooky sets found at http://www.allthatscraps.com/. I love this set- it's spooky but still adorable, perfect for toddler/younger kids. I was going to put some images on tags for the goodie bags but I am definitely running out of time! I still need to make a pin the tail on the black cat or put the face on the jackolantern game. Unfortunately we're scheduled for rain Saturday so it looks as if most festivities will be in doors or on the car port.

I will post tomorrow with some more pics of boo bash preparations and will definitely post party pics soon!

ATS DT #23: Olivia's Snow Day

2008-10-22T21:32:00.000-04:00

I think this is the first time I've ever gotten to play the challenge ON challenge day. How cool is that?! ATS is having a design team call and I was eager to get going and make something to hopefully WOW all the amazing ladies with ATS. This week was a color challenge for Bravo Burgundy, Old Olive and Sahara Sand. I only had Old Olive so I had to use an alternate for the burgundy and river rock for sahara sand. Anyway, here is what I came up with. It took me awhile but I think it was worth the wait :)

Here is an upclose image of the tree and snowman. I used decoart snow writer *ATS is carrying it!* and some liquid applique. I put a little liquid applique on the snowman and also Olivia's pajama feetsies because those one piece pjs always have the plastic bumps for traction! :)

I also came across this card I made awhile ago and forgot to post! This card uses a retired TAC set and I dared to use some untraditional Christmas/Holiday colors. I had forgotten all about it but I love this card.. the sentiment is so right for this sassy snow girl!

Well, we're almost at the end of the week! Nate's boo bash is on Saturday and I will be sure and post about it this weekend and have some pics for you. I will have more creative things soon too!

Hugs and keep your fingers crossed for me and the DT call :)

It's a sunny day..

2008-10-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

I am actually feeling MUCH better finally. I am still coughing some, and congested a little but after a scare on Thursday at work (wasn't breathing well), I went back to the Drs and they said I had bronchitis. They gave me an inhaler because my peak levels were low. However, I have a shrunken lung on the left side due to Lupus so I don't know if my peak levels were lower because of that or the bronchitis or both. Anyway, all in all, finally getting over this awful virus/infection.

So, since Fall seems to have hit here in Central Virginia FINALLY, we took Nate outside to get some pics. 72 pictures later, here are a couple of my favorites:

Nate sitting in the Wagon by his pumpkins.. he would barely sit still today!

Smiling in the Wagon..

Running Like a Madman

Stopping to stare at the camera

Standing near the pumpkins

During this whole time, Nate talked nonstop.. he was so happy to be outside. He also tried desperately to rid our yard of leaves lol and put them in our neighbor's yard (sorry Mark and Beth!!). It's amazing how much growth he's made. While he is still behind, he continues to be more alert, vocal, and happy each day. Well, until he gets his adnoids out on election day... yes, we're getting that done. It will be a rough week I'm sure but well worth it if we can stay healthier and with less sinus infections!!

Hope everyone has a great week and hope to have more to share soon!!

ATS DT Challenge- 22- A Gift for You and High Hopes Stamps

2008-10-19T20:48:00.000-04:00

This ATS design team challenge this week was to use ribbon. I have to say, I LOVE ribbon but I am not the best bow tier. I spent awhile online looking at tutorials. My new ATS sugarplums' Olivia and Chris came in on Tuesday so I had to use at least one of them on this challenge. Here is what I came up with:

This card really looks MUCH better in person. It looks like an actual present, which is what I was going for, and Olivia pops out (on dimensionals). Text stamps from Trendy Holiday Tags by TAC. The paper is from Daisy D's and is also more vivid IRL. I thought it was a great way to use the ribbon though...

I also ordered a couple of High Hopes Stamps. They have the cutest animal images! I ordered some dragon stamps because Nate's new bigboy bedroom is done in Dragons- reading, brushing teeth, etc. Here is a sample card made with my new stamp:

The coloring turned out great if I do say so myself :) I used Kohrinor colored pencils and OMS, and niji pearlescent watercolors on his wings and belly. I used my white gel pen to highlight his spikes and nails. This guy is just too cute!

I created 3 more things today but unfortunately, I can't post em. 2 are for Wingers projects and 1 is for the TAC design call. I am going to try and make one card/object a day for the next week to send to the TAC catalogue submission call. I hope to get something published.. esp. since it means FREE STAMPS!!

Another sick day...

2008-10-13T18:21:00.001-04:00

Well, I stayed home again today. This virus turned sinus infection has been brutal. Sam, Nate and I have all been sick- Nate probably the one with the most energy which means Sam and I are exhausted :) We've managed to get him outside everyday though.
I did get to create some today, but not a whole lot. Nothing I can share yet- it's for a swap at paperwings. I am using the new TAC Artsy Owls and What a Hoot sets... they're gorgeous!
Well, back to work tomorrow.

Things to do this week:

plan with other teachers/myself for the next 2 weeks
stay until 7:30 on Wednesday night for Parent/Teacher Conferences
Watch the debate on Wednesday- or atleast part of it! Nothing is more infuriating than mudslinging from either side.
Send out invites to Nate's party
Go to the pumpkin patch
Finish swaps
Work on Winger Projects

Wow- that's a lot of stuff to do, isn't it? Well, here's to a great week! I am enjoying watching horror movies and gearing up for Halloween. I am also expecting an order from ATS- some shimmer watercolors, the new Christopher and Olivia Stamps, and a velvet puff pen :)

Nate play day and my clean craft space!

2008-10-12T19:30:00.000-04:00

Nate in Grammy's Car, Chillin..

Well, my Mom came over and brought my nieces, Sadie and Maddie, and my cousin Taylor to play with Nate. Maddie and Taylor were down for the weekend visiting. Nate had fun playing outside (as usually). He spends at least 1-2 hrs each day outside just running around, picking up leaves from the driveway and throwing them in the grass. He is a nature buff already!

Nate being pulled by his cousin Taylor with Maddie behind him.
Nate being pulled by Maddie.

Nate hanging out on his play gym.

Nate enjoyed himself.. and showed his Redskin Pride! :) I also finished organizing my craft space yesterday and wanted to share some pics of it with you!

This is the view when you come down the basement stairs. I work primarily at the easel table and se the long table as well.

This is my new embelishment center and cd/stamp storage. I put my punches all across the top. Now that I cleaned up, I definitely feel more creative!

Hope you enjoy a peak into my life... we're busy all the time but I am so glad to have my crafting and my very happy son!! :) (and hubby and family too!)

ATS DT #21 Boo Bag and Nate's Boo Bash

2008-10-12T19:04:00.000-04:00

Well, one of the challenges on the All That Scraps DT blog was to create a treat box/bag for halloween. I had these templates I'd never used that I bought from Target last Christmas so I pulled them out. I used a magnetic enclosure, by basic grey.

Trick or Treat Boo Bag- Stamps from Spooky, Spooky, Spooky and Sugarplum's Halloween by CC Designs; Bazzill Purple and Orange Cardstock, DP by EK Success; Palette Noir Ink; Black Stickles; 1" Circle Punch

You can see this is a cute little bag- you can easily fit 2 or 3 mini size candy bars inside! I will be making these for Nate's Halloween Boo Bash! Since, as you may know, Nate is on the Autism Spectrum, we do a gluten, casein, corn, soy free diet. This means that trick or treating is out- he can't eat anything and he isn't old enough to understand why. Therefore, we're having a party with some of his friends- a Boo Bash! Everyone will dress up and enjoy some gfcfsfcf goodies including Rice Caramel Pears, GFCF Hot Dogs and Tater Tots, and gfcf "ice cream". I think Nate will like it :) We'll make some crafts, dress up (Nate will be a pirate this year!), and maybe watch the Halloween Episodes of the Backyardigans :)

To invite everyone to this party on October 25, I made these invitations using CC Designs Spooky, Spooky, Spooky and Sugarplum's Halloween sets!

I use scared Lucky on the invitations for the littlest invitees and Sugarplum images for my older invites. Paper is retired from TAC (I miss it!), and the boo bash on the inside is also from a retired TAC set. You're Invited circle from CTMH, and Boil Bubble... stamp is from the $1 bin at Michaels. I used my MS corner punch to add a little more spookiness!

I'll share more decorations as we get closer. Right now, all three of us are still sick!

ATS DT Challenge 20- Whoo's 2!

2008-10-11T19:24:00.000-04:00

I loved the sketch for this challenge. The ATS design team always keeps you on your toes! Anyway, my neighbor, Miss Megan, turned 2 today! I had to make a cutie patootie card since she is a cutie patootie! I hadn't inked this stamp set from Pink Cat Designs yet (you can purchase at ATS!) so now was the perfect time!

Whoo's 2

This was an A2 sized card that I turned into a bigger card because I ran out of a2 envelopes. I glittered up a plastic 2 from Heidi Grace Designs and used bazzill cardstock. Designer Paper is by K and Company Berry Sweet. I topped it off from a prima and some "dew drops". I hope Miss Megan likes it!

Sandpaper in my throat...

2008-10-10T21:04:00.001-04:00

Ugh. I hate sinuses. Lynchburg has some of the worst pollen and ragweed counts. It's no wonder Nate needs his adnoids out. My throat feels like sandpaper. I've been eating cough drops to keep my sanity. My nose is stuffy now too...

Anyway, the new long on my blog has invigorated me! I'm excited, it's so beautiful! I also got 2 more gig of RAM for my laptop so it's like having a new computer too! It feels like Christmas :)

Nothing created today, but I forgot to post this card I sent to my niece who got a 100 on a test in her second grade class!

You're a Star!

Stamp is by CC Designs- Olivia's Birdies; Paper- Bazzill cardstock, The Grade School Pack by Die Cut with a View (including the A+ and You're a Star images!"

Miss Olivia is one of my favorite stamps. Her and her friend, Chris are just too cute. They remind me of Magnolia stamps but, I like her better. Christine at CC Designs draws some of the cutest images! Olivia was colored with prismacolor markers. Her shirt was paper pieced with Bazzill cardstock and her pants were paper pieced with paper from the stack. I love the paper stack.. some gorgeous school themed paper which suits me fine considering I teach :)

I have some stamp sets I desperately need to use including the Artsy Owl set from the new TAC fall supplement, and a couple of retired sets I purchased. I've also got the new Olivia and Christopher stamps coming from CC Designs, and a couple dragon's from High Hopes. I've been spending too much :(

I will share more with you soon, including updates to my crafting area!

Do you like?!

2008-10-10T17:27:00.000-04:00

My great friend Holly who is a fantabulous artist made my new background and header for me. This is so me.. I love earthtones, sages, creams... it's awesome!!! THANKS HOLLY!! I will post a link to her blog later.

I will definitely post some crafting stuff this weekend. I am sick, Sam's sick and Nate's sick. All sinus/throat icky stuff. Nate will be getting his adnoids out soon too :( So we're in a busy place.

On top of all this, EI has cut services almost completely from being in the home. Plus, if you don't have insurance, you'd have to pay out of pocket for services. We're having a hard time advocated cause out of 200 families, only 3 are trying to pull together. These are tough times...

Hugs to all!

Major blog candy in honor of Alzheimer Awareness Day

2008-09-21T17:31:00.000-04:00

Cammie, SCS and Gina K Designs Designers, has an amazing blog candy opportunity going on.

http://myblogbycammie.blogspot.com/

You also get to give back by sending a card to someone who cares for a person with this disease. I sent one to my sister who took care of my grandfather.

I used CTMH silouhette paper and make it count stamp set. The butterfly is using my MS punch.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

Long live stamping!

2008-09-14T20:17:00.000-04:00

Life has been super hectic since going back to work. The school year has started out chaotic.. usually it waits a month or two to get that way :) But, since it has started out this way, I only hope it gets better! My schedule has changed.. oh... 4 times I think. Including one starting Monday. I think it'll be fine... just chaos again :)

I am so much less stressed since I am not taking classes!! I feel... not as burdened. I will try and finish the remaining two in the spring or in next fall though!

I've gotten some new rubbah lately and am ANXIOUSLY awaiting the arrival of my new CTMH order. Plus, TAC has released the new fall supplement with some super kewl new stamps!! *email me for deets!* More owls.. I can never get enough owls. So anyway, on to my creations...

This stampset is Delicious Autumn and retired TAC. I bought it before it retired last Jan. I just now used it for the first time, lol! I also used new CB embossing folder and highlighted the vines with chalk.This is a stamp from Impression Obsession, a stamp company located out Williamsburg, VA. I LOVE this image. I embossed and colored it in. Also used my spider web embossing folder!

I've done some other projects but they're super hush hush for the new Paper Wings Winger gallery!

Have a great week and here's to less stress :)

ATS DT Challenge 17

2008-09-14T20:14:00.000-04:00

I am having trouble uploading to the gallery at ATS so here is my card for the inchies blog challenge!

I had a lot of fun creating it... I love CC Designs Stamps. They're awesome!

PS WHY DOES BLOGGER KEEP TURNING MY PICS?!? If someone could help me, I'd appreciate it!! :)

We were on the news!

2008-08-15T08:40:00.000-04:00

Here is a link to the video- I look absolutely ugh, but it's for the kiddos! :)
http://www.wset.com/news/stories/0808/544370_video.html?ref=newsstory

EEK!

2008-08-14T15:08:00.001-04:00

I haven't posted in awhile because of life- vacation, doctor's appts, some crap where the local early interventiong group is trying to cut kids' services illegally.. anyway, I'll get some creative stuff posted this weekend!

Non-winning contest submissions

2008-07-18T21:27:00.001-04:00

Well, I didn't win the TAC contests... boo. But, I'll keep trying! Already made a submission to send in for this month.

Here are the two submissions from last month.

This first one is a rework of a project I did during Online Seminar:

I love it.. and am kind of bummed out that my pic of Nate is gone... ah well.

This was my submission for totally glam. It took me a long time and I thought it rocked!

I keep analyzing my work.. I think maybe it is TOO involved. I will submit my next items and be a little simpler. Who knows, maybe I'll win one day. Until then, my next order will come out of my pocket dang it :P

In other news, Nate's birthday party is tomorrow. 6 people are unable to come.. which sucks, but we'll still have a good time. I made 2 gfcf-soy, corn free cakes with choc and vanilla icing tonight. They're really not as bad as they sound. We'll also have hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, fruit... basic stuff. Should be fun!

Scrapbooking and more scrapbooking.. hurrah!

2008-07-12T22:41:00.000-04:00

I've kinda been in a rut this week. I've had a hard time sitting down and creating anything, particularly cards and since I've been putting off all the scrapbooking I need to do, I pulled those out! In the past 2 weeks I've done 6 pages which is GREAT for me!

*Warning- Real Life Rant!* Emotionally, I've been on a roller coaster. I guess sometimes it is harder than others to accept what is going on in your life and instead of conquering it, you feel conquered by it. But, I keep going. I think I've had quite a few obstacles in life to overcome or sometimes just work around and this is no exception. I just want Nate to be a healthy happy kid.

Plus, he's been so daddy-centric, it makes it hard for me sometimes.

Okay, enough of that, and on to the scrapbook pages!

These pics are from when Nate was having a lot of ear infections and other problems but he was still such a cute valentine! Paper is from Marcella by K. Lettering from Cricut Zooballoo cartridge.

This is from Nate's 3rd visit to a kid gym, Romp and Roll. We'll probably re-enroll him in the Winter. Paper is from Nana's Kids (DCWV), images from retired TAC SOTM Stand Tall.

This is from the first snow fall of 08. Nate was sick and not happy about being bundled up and bombarded with cold stuff! Retired SU DP, used my coluzzle. Chipboard pieces from a pack by colorbok.

This was a piece I did to journal our beginning of the journey into the Autism Spectrum. PDD is on the spectrum. Paper is perfect (puzzle piece is the universal symbol for Autism) and by American Crafts, as are the chipboard pieces. Letters by Maya Road and painted with MM paints. Journaled on Just a Note (TAC) image.

Last, but not least, is a page of Nate not noticing a caterpillar while day dreamin on his play gym! I incorporated the caterpillar into the title. Paper by Scenic Route and colorbok. Chipboard pieces by colorbok. Alphabet set by Rusty Pickle.

I did another layout of Nate's first haircut but haven't taken pics yet. I'll post that and some cards later this week. Nate's 2nd birthday is on the 20th, so we're having the party on the 19th. Should be fun... or crazy.. or both :) Have a great weekend!

I'm goin Green baby!

2008-07-09T21:09:00.000-04:00

Well after 3 weeks of Toyota not being able to find out car, our 08 Prius is in! We sold our Acura MDX to get it...I will miss it but not the 16 mpg! It's a hybrid, it's silver, it's 48 mpg and it's cool! Sam is driving to Wheeling, WV which is 7 hrs away! tomorrow to get it. This is the closest we could get the car from. Crazy huh?! More and more dealerships are unable to get them AND they're jacking up the prices. We got ours for the normal MSRP though a dealership here promised the same car, two months later, for $2000 more. Yay for price gauging!!

Anyway, back to the creative stuff! I've been in a little bit of a rut. I'm just kinda moody and grouchy as it is and tired, which means when Nate goes to bed, I don't get to create! I did get a couple of cards done this week though.

This is Nate's sideways birthday card. Grr.. I have NO IDEA why blogger keeps turning my photos around. Help anyone?! Anyway, I used Nursery Bash stamp set from CTMH along with their paper. Ink is Palette Burnt Umber and I colored it using prisma markers and H2O pencils.

Next is a card I made for the Case It challenge over at PW. I cased Stampin Meg's card. I used Lillyanna paper, my nestabilities for the scallop and my marvy punch for the circle. The stamp set is the new TAC set build a flower. So versatile, I love it! If you only get one of the new TAC stamp sets, this could be the one! Ribbon is from Target. Ink is Palette Noir and Ballet Blue, and Versamagic Pixie Pink and Aloe Vera. I love using chalk ink on bold stamps. They turn out gorgeous!

Well, I better get to bed early. It's going to be a long day tomorrow and Nate has been very daddy-centric. Oh boy!

Me... an Artist!?!

2008-07-03T22:56:00.000-04:00

I think that alot.. can I really be an artist?! I suppose I am. Even if I can't draw, I have an eye for color combos, sketches, and design. I'm working on this coloring thing too!

I've been participating a lot at PW again which is great! I love completing the sketches and other challenges!

I also got my new rubbah in from the new TAC catty! I am loving celebration time, butterfly bits, just dream and the new paper. FABULOSO!

My newest experiments have been with more altered arts type stamps and alcohol inks. I used both tonight in a couple of projects.

The Keytag in the top says Happy Birthday as my DH Sam turns 35 tomorrow on the 4th. He loves this ship collage so I had to use it. I created a background with alcohol inks and embossed the ship. I used distressing ink on the cs, then stamped the map (a clearance find today!) with stazon on a transparency. I flipped it over and used alcohol ink to color in the oceans and mountain ranges. The Key is chipboard from Basic Gray colored with a pewter painters marker. I am digging the paint markers- so much easier than cleaning a brush everytime, lol!

Next is a matching tile. I used alcohol ink on the background and then stamped the map using stazon. Stazon isn't as bold on the alcohol ink. Then, I stamped the ship in black archivall ink. I actually tried to emboss first but learned that it doesn't work :) I edged it with my painter's marker.

Finally is this card- it says "It's just been one of those days" which is has lol. It's my first attempt at a masterboard using old TAC GWP stamps. I then used my cuttlebug to emboss the cream panel and used Palette nude ink over it. I watercolored my girl (BTW- DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT STAMP SET THIS IS?! I got the image in a TACBAG), added the prima flower, and the chipboard element once again from basic grey.

Well, that's it for now. I am still waiting on our Prius to come in. Grr... looks to be a pretty sedate 4th of July. Since we're gluten/casein/soy/corn free there won't be any cake for Sam :(

Happy 4th all!

Hurray for Summer!

2008-06-26T23:59:00.000-04:00

I've been able to stamp everyday this week. I love it!! I have been stamping during naptime and when Nate goes to bed at night. It's been great to just sit down and stamp in peace..

My 'peace' is typically while watching a horror movie on the Chiller channel. LOL. Either that, or watching my DVD of Copycat. You see, in my former life, I wanted to be a forensic psychologist. I am fascinated by the human mind. Well, being a special education teacher is similar I suppose... I still get to try and find out what the mind is doing and why :) Tonight I watched a movie about Ed Gein- he is real life inspiration behind Silence of the Lambs and Psycho. Very interesting movie.

Well on to the stamping!

First was for a challenge on PW using buttons. I sewed on buttons for the very first time!

I used the retired Hostess Set, In Bloom (one of my faves), cardstock from Amberley Grace, and the sentiment from Seeds of Friendship.

This next card was for a Color Combo Challenge on PW. It was to use dark purple, pink and white. Stamps are from Seeds of Friendship, Mini Occassions, and In Bloom.

Finally is a card made for the PW inspiration challenge. It was a picture of a little kiddie cottage. It screamed Mimi Collection to me! Stamps are from Fancy Curls, Bookoo Blessings, and the LE Big on Fun Roses Set. Once again I can't get this picture to show correctly. If anyone can help, just let me know!

Finally, is the project I made for Sam for Father's Day. I saw this in the Nov 07 Scrapbooks Etc magazine and had to make it! I was quite easy. It features papers from SEI, MME, and SU.

Below is a closer pic. I plan on making 2 more- one for the FIL, one for my Dad. I am proud of how it turned out! I used rubber cement to adhere the paper/pics, rather than modge podge.

I made all three cards today but the Star was a couple weeks ago, I just kept forgeting to post! I also submitted my first 2 contest entries to TAC. Winners get $75 gc for free stamps. I am super proud of my submissions and hope I win one. Wish me luck!

Until next time, happy stampin sistahs!

New Angel Company Catalog!

2008-06-21T23:30:00.000-04:00

After much anticipation, I received my new Fall/Winter TAC catty today! WOOHOO! There are some gorgeous new papers and some fun new stamps. There are many "trendy" stamp sets- some styles similar to papertrey ink and other companies. There are a few colorable images but not many, which is sad for those of us that like to color! I love one of the new Christmas sets, Christmas Joy. Many of the stamps from the spring supplement also made it in there which is good for those who didn't have a chance to order everything they wanted! If you want a catty, let me know and I can get it to you or ship it to you for the cost of shipping (to preexisting customers). Now the countdown begins for the fall supplement, lol :)

Over at the angels-only site, Paper Wings, we've been having our version of online seminar. I've created some cards for some contests. It's been fun!

This card was created for a limited supply type challenge. I am very happy with how it came out! Bird is from All Things Nature stamp set and the sentiment is a GWP from the spring catalog. Paper is from Sands of Time and Amberley Grace.

This project is a mini photo holder. I used a template provided for a mini purse and changed it around. I stamped Nate's initials on the outside. Sentiment is a spring GWP. Swirls are from butterbees and more. Paper is one of my all time favorite lines, Amberley Grace.

This is a picture of the inside. I made a little pocket on the left that holds 3 tags with sentiments on them. Heart stamp is a former GWP. It also holds 3 pics of Nate from the Fall (the main one is a close up of him on Halloween :). Inside flap is stamped "what makes us happy, makes us rich" spring catty GWP.

This card is one of 6 I made for "gallery bingo". We were given various sets per round to make a card and upload to our gallery. When we had accumulated 6 cards, we won bingo. It took me all day to do it too! This uses the lvl B hostess set, now retired, In Bloom. I love this set and am sad they retired it! Sentiment is from tag tidbits. Paper is Miss Moxie.

This card uses Spring Dream and the sentiment is from Just Because. Both made it into the current catalog. Inks are Palette Toile Pink and Starry Night. Flower is embossed with ranger "puffs" powder.

Finally is this preggers card which I plan on giving to my neighbor who just found out she is expecting her 3rd! It uses How Swell and paper from Uptown Girl.

I hope to create more and share more with you guys tomorrow or Monday. Have a fabulous rest of the weekend!!

What's in a name?

2008-06-17T22:12:00.000-04:00

I don't have any "Creative" stuff to share today. I was rather tired and yesterday was a long day, so I napped when Nate napped and used my other ounce of free time to exercise since I am way slacking.
However, I was thinking of posting and updating on Nate, etc. when this quote popped in my head:
What’s in a name? That which we call a rose / By any other name would smell as sweet- Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

This started when I was thinking about them giving Nate a diagnosis. Well, I'm a SPED teacher- I use a diagnosis as a guidepost, not a label per say. I also am one of those people that feel comforted by having a "name" for something. I don't do well floating in limbo. Nate can still be considered Speech/Language Impaired or developmental delay. However, he also meets the criteria for Pervasive Developmental Disorder- Not Otherwise Specified. PDD-NOS, as it is called, is on the Autism Spectrum. It's basically what a kid is when they have some Autistic tendencies but not enough to be labeled as having Autism.

I have known it for awhile. Especially after the ear tubes and he went "zombie" on us for awhile. He has responded so well to the gluten/casein/soy/corn free diet and low phenols (thing no colored fruits, veggies, etc). He is responding to mb12 shots and all the other supplements. I want to smack any doctor that hasn't recommended kids with similar characteristics try these types of things. If we had stayed at our regular pediatrician, he wouldn't have even gotten him a speech eval until he was 2. That's 1 month from now~ Because I know what I know and have friends that a speech therapists, he began services at 18 months.

Anyway, the point is, that no matter the name, it is what it is and Nate is Nate. He's a happy very intelligent child, that is stubborn and can look "different' at times. In the end though, I know he'll be fine. No matter how much a pain in the butt all this is, the results have already been worth it. Our next endeavor is to rid his body of excess yeast. His yeast indicator should've been lower than 16 mmol but instead is was 398!! That's a HUGE deal!!

I've also had some health setbacks. I'm thinking sheer exhaustion, stress. We thought it was the beginning of a Lupus flare but not so sure. I go to the rheumatologist tomorrow either way. I am also being strict about the diet as it is beneficial for me. I will try some of the other supplements as well. There is so many similarities between autoimmune diseases and the problems that kids with 'Autistic" like behaviors...

Anyway, I hope to be able to share some cards, etc. Tomorrow! Hope everyone is having a fab week!

Busy bee!

2008-06-16T22:47:00.000-04:00

Life has been extremely busy. Unfortunately, I've had some health issues and dealing with all of Nate's stuff has been hard. Good thing is school is out for the summer so I have had creative time. Several projects are hush hush for the paper wings online seminar! I am going to share to small things with you though :)

First- For a SCS swap with an ocean theme: I can NOT get it to post the right way, argh! I will work on it. Anyway, used TAC something's fishy and Just Because. Inside says "we're friends!". Fish were stamped on twinkling H20 covered paper and colored with stickles and sparkly gel pens. Paper is from SEI. It's simple but cute!

Next is a quickie card. I used TAC Little Friends and In Bloom (lvl B hostess set). I watercolored both the flowers and the chickie. I stamped sentiment from Little Friends on this great american crafts felt tag I found at big lots for 2 bucks!! I love these tags and they're easy to stamp on! Paper is from DCWV Nana's Kids. Ric Rac is also AC.

I hope to have lots more this week! and I'll try to get that pic fixed! Happy Monday!

Hello, Goodbye

2008-06-08T21:27:00.000-04:00

I almost forgot that this week is the last week I will be working with my dear friend, Foxy. Foxy is a phenomonal teacher and has turned around 3 hard groups of kids. She is an amazing reading teacher and has taught ME everything I know. We started our jobs at our elem. school the same year. She was right across the hall from me for the last 3 yrs. We've gone through some tough years and also had fun. She'll be going to a new school as a 3rd grade teacher where I hope she is appreciated as much as I know I appreciate her. Love ya Foxy!

Well, here is a goodbye, hello gift for her: things she can hopefully display in her new classroom and remember her old buddy from across the hall :)

I broke out the ole cuttlebug to emboss the background. I used Wasau CS- new find at Target. Not too bad actually. Patterned paper is from K and Company Wild Saffron. Stamps from the old Gnome set from SU. Drawing a blank on the name.

I used some SU wood blocks I didn't use to mount stamps to make these name blocks for her. Paper is from CTMH Silouhette collection. American Crafts rub ons. The other side has coordinating paper and the edges are lined with rickrack since they're thin blocks.

Finally, is another collage using the silouhette paper and stamps from Happy Harmony (SU, 07 saleabration). I embossed the dandelions in gold on the transparency. I am also entering this in a martha stewart contest since the shadow box is by MSC.

I also made some items for Paper Wings but they're hush hush until the reveal! I know MFT, H and M stamps, Treehouse Stamps and Pink Cat Studio all have reveals soon- can't wait to see what they have in store!

Since this is the last week of school, I probably won't post until next weekend. Until then, hope everyone has a fantabulous week!!

Mother's Day Collages

2008-06-05T21:44:00.000-04:00

Well, third post in a row. WOW! I am pushing it! But, I am behind in sharing my creations. I just want to get them out there.

Our Michael's has Martha Stewart Shadow Boxes on clearance for $3.00. They're heavy duty chipboard that is fabric covered. I loaded up on these babies. Well, I came up with an idea on a whim and am happy with how they turned out.

I made a collage for my mom and my MIL for mother's day. I used an old retired SU set I bought off ebay last year along with a stampabilities french script background my SIL gave me. I masked the image to get the background around it in Palette Noir. I used a heat tool to try it. I cut various sizes of coordinating paper and attached them using 3D glue dots. I adhered the transparency to the paper using crystal glaze- it dries clear! I embellished using primas, paper flowers, and tags.

This is my MIL's using CTMH Silouhette Paper.

This is my Mom's, using TAC Amberley Grace Paper. Sorry for the glare, I am not a professional photographer :)

Here is the matching card for Mom.

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!