Sisterhood of the Blogging Stampers- 26

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!

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

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!

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

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

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!

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..

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...

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!!

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!

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!!