Beautiful Things are everywhere...

Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday! Now that I've had time to let my fabulous position sink in w/ the Little Paper Shop, I am back! I am just so thrilled and want to thank everyone again for your wonderful show of support! You guys are SO great!

This quick and easy card was made with the Beautiful Things set from The Little Paper Shop. One of the things I love so much about their stamps is that they're just a bit different in design, font, and style from a lot of other mainstream designers. There is something truly elegant about them and I think we all know this, but the "quote girl" that I am is just in love...and wait til' you see what's coming! Stay tuned over the next few days and you'll be excited! I know I am!

Well, in other news, it's the first of October, can you believe it? You know what that means? It's time for the Paper Pretties Pajama Party this evening! I am happy to report this will be my first party and I'm beyond excited...especially about the hourly challenges. Basically, everyone gets together and virtually stamps together for a few hours and you have one hour to complete each challenge. There are also some fun chances to win stamps from what I've heard. See you there?

How fun does that sound? If that's not enough, Saturday is WORLD CARD MAKING DAY...did you guys know that? What are your plans? Let me know-I always love hearing from you!!!



Hugs,

Recipe: Bravo Burgundy CS from SU, DP from 29th Street Market

Inks: Bravo Burgundy and Chocolate Chip SU, Versamagic Dew Drop ink in Tea Leaves

Stamps: Beautiful Things by The Little Paper Shop

Accessories: Vintage brads, dimensionals

Mojo Monday Madness and an EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT!!

Hey everyone! It's definitely NOT just another "Manic Mojo Monday" here...as I have some VERY exciting news!

I am thrilled and honored to announce that I have been invited to serve as a Guest Design Team member for The Little Paper Shop!!!

The Little Paper Shop offers clear stamps in a wide array of images and themes. They are VERY well made and etched and provide beautifully stamped images every time you use them. Owner Julia Betemps has provided a wonderful assortment of stamps and really pretty fonts and sentiments that aren't like a lot of the "other" stamps out there on the market...seriously!

In addition to being OVER the moon that I have the privelege to work with Julia, wait until you check out the rest of the Design Team! I have to say, the only word that comes to mind when I first saw who I would be getting to work with was...SPEECHLESS! Ok, and we ALL know that Jess is rarely EVER speechless LOL! The wonderful women on this team are some of the most talented artists in the stamping "arena" and I am beyond honored to be among them on this team. This is a VERY exciting time for me and I thank Julia and all the girls at LPS for being so welcoming to me!!!

Well, in addition to this FAB news, I thought I'd incorporate Julee Tilman's Mojo Monday sketch for the week using some AWESOME stamps by The Little Paper Shop!

I decided to make these into a little gift set and box so I made four similar cards but w/ different sentiments and embellishments just to jazz it all up a bit.

Funny when I went to Julia's blog today I saw that SHE made four little square cards too w/ a cute box...which I had NO idea until I clicked on her blog this morning...isn't that a riot? Great minds, right??!! Too funny. You should check hers out..it's darling!

This is a super quick and easy project to use as a teacher gift, bday gift, or just because. I cut the cards into 4.5X4.5 inch squares, a really GREAT TIP that Julee Tilman had on her Mojo Monday blog post today..that way, the cards still fit in a standard size envie and you don't get whacked w/ international postage!!! Isn't that a great idea?

I then got out a clear card box (from Papertrey) and decided to do a really simple "belly band" with this cute little "handmade" stamp by The Little Paper Shop. It comes in their Floral Wishes set which is one of my favorites and one that I used primarily for these cards. The end result was a finished looking but VERY simple package for the cards and I just can't wait to give it to someone!

So, what are you guys working on this week? Make sure to stay tuned for more from the Little Paper Shop as I have only just begun!

It is raining again today so I think I will be getting some quality time in w/ my stamps today! How about you?

Hugs and thanks for all your support,

RECIPE: Baja Breeze CS by Stampin Up, Urban Garden DP by Stampin Up, Stamper's Select White from Papertrey

Inks: Baja Breeze, Bayou Blue by SU, Versamagic Dew drop in Tea Leaves

Stamps: Floral Wishes and Beautiful Things by the Little Paper Shop

Accessories: Pearls, Dimensionals, Baja Breeze Ribbon by SU, Martha Stewart Butterfly punch



I'VE BEEN TAGGED!
By JULIA at The Little Paper Shop!

Now, for the game portion of the program today LOL!

Here are the rules:
1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

7 Things about me:

1.) I am 32 years old.
2.) I wear flip-flops pretty much always from April-October and own over 20 pairs LOL
3.) I LOVE country music despite being ridiculed for it! ha ha
4.) I was chosen to sing a solo at my High School graduation which was pretty cool...
5.) My favorite vacation spot is Charleston, SC
6.) I cry all the time. In a good way, though, like when I first get to Disney and see the castle, when my kids sing for people in the car because I'm so proud, and when I see real dolphins. You should seen me when I got to swim with one! What a mess LOL!
7.) I am terrified of bugs, but obsessed with butterflies!

OK....YOU'RE IT!

Angie
Lynn
Liza
Lucy
Christi
Jillian
Katie


Have fun ladies...can't wait to see what your responses are! MUAH!

Have a Wonderful Day!

Hey all...and Happy Sunday! Sorry I'm a little late in posting today...we just returned from the football game where my daughter's Pom squad performs. We had lots of visitors today at the game so that was exciting for both my girl AND her coach (that's me, LOL)!!! It's beginning to look a lot like Fall now...real Fall football weather. Yesterday's game was 80 and Sunny and today was overcast and 65!

Anyway, I just wanted to share this card that I made with you using a SUPER cute stamp set from the Little Paper Shop. Have you heard of them? You should check them out! I did and I am HOOKED!


This particular set is called Chirp! Don't you just LOVE this swirly tree? I think it's my favorite tree now! I just love the look of it and well, anything swirly is usually a favorite to begin with! Aren't the little birds super cute? I actually cut them out and popped them on a dimensional so they really look 3D...then of course I had to add a little sparkle ;)

I went to the store and found this GORGEOUS line of paper from My Mind's Eye called Laundry Line. This picture doesn't do it justice. It is SO beautifully textured and glittery. It was $2 a piece but don't you think this stamp set NEEDED it? LOL! Seriously, the glittery pattern looks so nice with the Tree from this stamp set. The nice thing about this Chirp set, too is that you can totally dress it up for spring, summer, fall, or even winter depending what colors you use, etc. Definitely a MUST HAVE stamp set for all occasions!

Well, I'll keep it short today, but as the card says, have a wonderful day! Hope you are all enjoying yourselves! I'll also leave you with one pic from my girl's game yesterday...isn't she precious?









Hugs,

Recipe: Dark Chocolate CS by PapertreyInk, My Mind's Eye Laundry Line DP, Basic Grey Peripheral DP

Stamps: Chirp by The Little Paper Shop

Inks: Dark Chocolate by PapertreyInk

Acessories: Copic markers, Stickles in Diamond, dimensionals, Circle and scallop Nestabilities, Papertrey Ribbon, glittered brads

Everything's Prettier in Pink...(even if it's poison! LOL)

Hey everyone! It's going to be whirlwind of a weekend, but I wanted to post a quick card to kick off the weekend...kick it off with Cupcakes! (yum!)

I really wanted to play this week's sketch challenge issued by Pink Poison. Have you heard of them? You should definitely head on over to their website and check them out! They have SUPER cute stamps and other acessories, not to mention they are SUPER nice, too!

Unfortunately I just discovered this little gem of a company so I don't have any of their stamps to play with yet, however, this week's sketch intrigued me... I am not too savvy in the triangle department, I have decided. So, this sketch really allowed me to push my limits a bit and come up with something that I would be happy with. Turns out I was indeed happy with the way this came out, and I was really glad I played along.

I decided that since they have such a cute Cupcake stamp set (you better believe I have my eye on it!), I'd use a cupcake set for this card. Hope it looks good enough to eat! You should definitely head on over to Pink Poison and play the challenge!

So, what are your weekend plans? I hope you have a great one and that it includes some stamping! Make sure you head on over to the Paper Pretties site when you're done with the Pink Poison challenge (that' a LOT of P's! LOL)....Christie has a sneak peek of their new stamps coming out next week...and OH MY! is all I can say... I am in BIG trouble, everyone! ;) Hugs,

Recipe: Baja Breeze CS by Stampin Up, Spring Blossom DP, Sweet Blush and SS White by PapertreyINK

Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes by SU, Hey there Cupcake by Stampendous

Ink: Baja Breeze by SU

Accessories: Sweet Blush Ribbon by PapertreyInk, Pearls, Stickles in stardust, Copic markers, Aquapainter by SU, dimensionals, Martha Stewart Doily lace punch

I JUST can't put her down!

Hey everyone! Happy FlutterBy Friday!

Thank goodness it is because I just can't put little Sophia here down! Today's card is serving two-actually THREE purposes...I think they call that "multi-tasking" LOL!

First, it's another challenge card I made for the Flower Challenge over at Paper Pretties. Be sure to check it out and play along! The challenge just involves using up all those pretty flowers we all have sitting around!

Second, I decided to try my hand at Cindy Haffner's sketch this week. I really loved this sketch so I wanted to give it a go. Thanks for the inspiration, Cindy!

Third...well...it's FlutterBy Friday! Be sure to post your card by noon if you want to be eligible for the little giveaway! I have a little bundle of flowers, wire, and some eyelets for the winner :)

So, what are your weekend plans, guys? I have a very special guest coming in to town just for an overnight but I am very excited about it! I'll be sure to post pics from my weekend! As my favorite comedienne Chelsea Handler would say, "WHAT a whirlwind..." LOL! Have loads of fun, everyone! Hugs,

Recipe: Lemon Tart, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise and SS White by PapertreyInk, "Baby Blessings"DP from PapertreyINK

Stamps: Flutterby by Paper Pretties

Ink: StazOn Timber, Spring moss by PapertreyInk

Accessories: Prima Flowers, Copic markers, Hero Arts rhinestones, Spring Moss Grosgrain ribbon from PapertreyINK, dimensionals

What a PRETTIE little Sophia!!!

Hey all...Happy Thursday! I am so excited to report that my ADORABLE Sophia stamp came in the mail yesterday from Paper Pretties and I had time to pull her right out of the package and play with her!!!

Isn't she just the cutest little thing? This particular stamp is called Flutter By. Um...HELLO??!?! A cute little girl to color in AND a Butterfly? Yep...a MUST have for sure! IN addition, Sophia comes in other images/stamps and there is a whole line of other stamps as well. They are all super cute!

So, I had the honor this week of being the "Guest-Challenge-issuer-of-sorts" on the Paper Pretties Forum. Head on over and check it out if you haven't already! Here is the challenge for the week:

Think about ALLLLLLL those flowers you have stocked up as embellishments! You know, the ones that multiply in your cabinet when you're not looking??? Get 'em out, and USE 'em! Yep! That's it! That's all you need to play! If you have a PP stamp, by all means use it because you KNOW it's cute! Be sure to leave a comment in the Forum and also Upload your picture to the Gallery so Christie can see your beautiful creations! I believe there is a little prize for these weekly challenges, too!

Good luck to all of you who play and hey, leave a comment here too so I can hop on over and admire your hard work! Have an awesome day!

Recipe: PapertreyINK CS in Dark Chocolate and Stamper's Select White, Creative Memories "Cherish" DP

Stamps: FlutterBy by Paper Pretties

Ink: Timber StazOn and Cat's Eye in Chestnut Roan (For distressing)

Accessories/Embellies: Copic Markers, Prima Flowers, Rhinestones/Pearls by Hero arts, Martha Stewart Ribbon, stickles

Tools: Marvy Oval punch

Now that's Kraftastic!...and a CHALLENGE has been issued at the end of this post ;)

Oh, my am I punny on this Wednesday morning! How are you guys today? I have some cards for you that were inspired by the Verve Stamps September Project Parade! This month's theme? Yep..."getting Krafty". Isn't that Kraftastic? (oh, my, somebody STOP me!)

There are so many things you can do with kraft paper and natural fibers. I also think that this challenge was PERFECT for Fall! For my first card, I used a sketch that was actually an old Mojo Monday sketch from months ago. LOVE the way this card turned out using it. Julee really does have some great sketches, doesn't she?

I particularly like the way the two different colored flowers came out, using the Upsy Daisy stamp set from Stampin' Up!...one of my definitely new faves this year. The set is SO versatile and the image is just gorgeous, especially when shadowed. I also got to use my new Martha Stewart Doily Lace punch which pleases me to no end. I really had fun with this punch and it's definitely up there on the list of favorite tools/techniques already...as are...

...my Copic Markers! Isn't this little owl just a Hoot (yeah, I went there...)? I had such a fun time coloring him in with the Copics. I had to wait a while for this little guy when Papertrey ran out of him the first month because-well...just look at him! He's so stinkin' cute!

I definitely think the Twill adds a nice, natural touch to these cards as well. I haven't used natural twill in a while so this was nice for me as well. To finish up this bad boy, I found these GREAT Vintage inspired brads by Making Memories. I will post general recipes for both cards but if you have any questions, please feel free to email me or leave a comment. The Verve Project Parade is going on now through the end of this month.

In addition today, make sure you head on over to the Paper Pretties website and forum! I am super excited to be this week's "mystery hostess" of sorts...LOL... For those of you who haven't heard of Paper Pretties, WHAT are you waiting for??? Owner Christie Ortman has a TON of super-cute stamp designs and I can't WAIT for my first order to come!!! Not to mention, she's SUPER sweet! You definitely need to check them out!

If you go to the forum, you'll be able to hear all about this week's challenge: using flowers! We all have SOOOO many flower embellishments, don't we? I know I do...so HERE is a great challenge to get you using them! Stop back tomorrow for more info. about the challenge and I'll be posting my card sample as well. Here's a hint...you've seen this "magical" little stamp set recently ;)

Thanks to everyone for looking and have a great day! Hugs,

Recipe: SU Kraft, PapertreyINK White CS, SU "Urban Garden" DP, PapertreyINK Dark Chocolate CS
Stamps: Upsy Daisy by SU, Happy Harmony by SU, Wise Owl by PapertreyINK

Inks: Timber StazON, PapertreyINK Dark Chocolate, Cat's EYE Chestnut Roan, PapertreyINK Spring Moss

Accessories: Twill tape by SU, Copic Markers, Vintage brads, Jumbo vintage brad, Doily Lace punch, dimensionals

Last dose of Summer "Mojo"...

Hi everyone on this terrific Tuesday! I know, I know, yesterday was the first day of Fall...but isn't this little Hula Pengy SOOOOO cute? I just HAD to play with this set one last time and get Summer outta my system!

In addition, this is again an example of what you can do with your scraps! I had a bunch of this coordinating DP that matched my stamps and had cut into it little by little since I got it back in May. So, now that the leaves are going to be a-changin, it was time for me to use up what I could!

I followed Julee's Mojo Monday sketch this week pretty much to the tee, and this is what I came up with. I really love playing along with her challenges because she really does have some of the best sketches doesn't she? Of course, I pride myself on creating my own card layouts when I can, but hey, you gotta share the wealth sometimes right? That's the coolest thing about sketches, in my opinion. It's basically a blank canvas with directions! LOL! I absolutely LOVE going around to see every participants take on a certain sketch...in the end they are all totally different looking cards which is just so cool to me.

Thanks everyone for stopping by and sharing in my last little tribute to summer's "Mojo-liciousness", as Julee would say. See you next week for another Mojo Monday sketch...and see you tomorrow for a KRAFTY little set of ideas ;) Hugs,

Recipe: Bazzill Cornflower Blue CS, Imaginisce "Feel the Burn" double-sided DP, Papertrey Stamper's Select White CS, Archiver's dark brown textured CS

Stamps: Hula Penguin from Imaginisce, Hugs and Kisses sentiment from SU

Ink: Timber StazOn

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Satin Ribbon in Dark Chocolate, Hero Arts flower embellishments, Stickles in Fruit Punch and Waterfall

Card for a Cause...Heart2Heart Monday

Hi everyone! Hope you are all having a smooth Monday morning so far... I had an interesting weekend...wasn't feeling well still but had lots of time to stamp which was nice.

Anyway, enough about me... I have to tell you about the SUPER DUPER AMAZING BLOG CANDY on Carolyn King's blog...You HAVE to see this! It's like nothing I've never seen before...it's HUGE. I mean...GIGANTERRIFIC...yeah..I know...that may or may not be a word, but you just have to pop on over to see this. I've definitely never seen anything like it before and doubt you guys have, either.

The best part is that it's for a great cause. So, today's card was made as my submission/entry for her blog candy...only there's a really cool catch. This card is getting mailed to some very special caretakers over at the Artman Home in Pennsylvania, the place where Carolyn's grandmother was taken excellent care of before she passed away this June from Alzheimer's. In addition to organizing this cardmaking cause, PLUS the Blog Candy, Carolyn has designed a VERY special stamp set, Whimsical Autumn, (LOVE the name ;) for which she has donated 100% of the profits to the Alzheimer's Association. So far she has donated $450 and the amount keeps on climbing!!!
Make sure to check out her stamp set and also, spend some time making a card and telling a stranger that you appreciate what they do! What a great way to get that warm, fuzzy feeling and connect with someone you might not have ever gotten the chance to? Not to mention getting entered to win the BIGGEST, most amazing Blog candy EVER! I know I can't wait for the drawing!!!

I chose to use Lisa Johnson's REMEMBER stamp set from PapertreyINK to make the card I'm going to send, and also knew right away that I'd use the quote "Where flowers bloom, so does hope", because I think that sends a great message of hope to finding a cure for not only Alzheimer's, but several other diseases that take over so many of our lives, either through family, friends, or other loved ones. What a great way to start off the week by doing something for others... Big hugs,

RECIPE: Aqua Mist CS, Spring Moss CS, and Stamper's Select White CS, all by PapertreyINK, Designer paper in "everyday blessings" from PapertreyINK

Stamps: Remember by PapertreyInk and Flower Garden Sentiments by PapertreyInk

Ink: Spring Moss and Aqua Mist by Papertrey Ink

Accessories: Aqua Mist Stitched Ribbon by PapertreyINK, Microbeads by SU, Stickles in Diamond, Pearls from Hero Arts

Tools: Nestabilities Circle and Scallop dies

Sparkly Sunday...

Hi everyone...Happy Sunday! It's been a pretty quiet morning/afternoon around here so I'm stampin' away! LOVE these kinds of days!!! What are all of you doing today?

I have a card for you today using two things I just got over the weekend...one that was planned, one that completely was NOT lol! I believe they call that an "impulse buy!" Not that it surprises me LOL...I think half of my stamping stash is due to "impulse".... I lack that whole moderation thing when it comes to all things pretty ;)

I have really been wanting that Martha Stewart doily lace punch for a while. I've seen so many pretty things made with it and just love the look of the scallops. So, I finally took the plunge and went over to my LSS and got one, planning on using a coupon, of course, only when I got there, the punch was already on sale...perfect, of course, only you can't use the coupons on sale items, obviously.

So there it was, a 40% off coupon in one hand and my new punch in the other...what was a girl to do? I wandered around, picked up a few essentials..i.e. adhesive, etc. to get me through the weekend LOL, and then I stumbled upon some new Inkadinkado stamps...UH OH. This is a term that my sister and I have established...an "UH OH" is something that you have to have, even though you know you shouldn't spend the $ on.

Yes, there it was, my latest "UH OH"...this Fairy Set that I just had to have. I know. Fairy set? Kinda not my usual...although I am trying to expand my styles, techniques, of course. I picked it up...put it down...picked it up...put it down...remembered I just got Copics...picked it up...put it in my basket...took it to the counter..yeah. Say no more. Although I will say, that 40% off bad boy came in handy!!! Totally justifiable, right? I know you guys know what I mean! LOL!

I finished off my creation with bling...LOTS and LOTS of BLING...Stardust Stickles, Lavender Stickles, and some Flower bling from Hero Arts that I forgot I had...I even put some purple rhinestones in the center of the flowers, also from Hero Arts. Definitely earned the praise of my two girls this morning..there was a lot of ooohing and ahhhing going on...and requests to use my new stamp set! We are all having a fine little dose of magic this afternoon ;) Have a great day you guys~! Hugs,

Recipe: Plum Pudding, Lavender Moon, and Stamper's Select White CS from papertrey ink, Chatterbox Patterned Paper

Stamps: Beautiful Fairies by Inkadinkado, Flower Garden sentiments by papertreyink

Inks: Black StazOn

Accessories: Lavender Moon Grosgrain ribbon by papertrey ink, Hero Arts flowers and rhinestones, Stickles in Lavender and Diamond, Copic Markers, Pebbles inc. chalks (for her hair color), dimensionals, glue dots

Tools: Doily Lace punch

HAPPY HARVEST CROP!

Hey guys! Good morning on this beautiful Saturday in September. Today is our Harvest Crop over at A Walk Down Memory Lane!

It's an online day of scrapbooking, challenges, prizes, and fun, also featuring tutorials and online 'Classes' that you can participate in. Head on over to check it out!

Today on the AWDML Forum, I've issued a challenge for any alterable item to be made using a Fall theme. This can be a Lunchbox/Tin, Journal, Binder, Datebook, Photo Frame, Canvas, Ceramic Tile or Trivet...you get the picture ;) Winners will be chosen in a few days on the forum as well and you can upload your beautiful creations to the AWDML gallery!

I chose to post my example using chipboard coasters. I took six of them, and covered them with Crate paper (LOOOOOVE it!) using Tacky glue, a sponge brush and a craft knife. After they dried, I punched holes in them using my Crop-A-Dile and got some cheap binder clasp/ringy thingys to turn my little project into a Mini-Album. I then embellished with pretty autumn-themed ribbons, flowers, and some other fun stuff inside. Lots of copper brads/eyelets, etc. Super fun and not to difficult to do. I also made one for my Mom and she adores it.

To finish off my little "Happy Fall" gift, I made her a set of notecards using the SCRAPS from the Crate Paper and made them into little personalized, monogrammed notecards. They are one-sided, like postcards...perfect for quick notes to your teachers, babysitters, DH's, etc...

What do ya think? Be sure to bop on over to the Harvest of Memories crop by A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE today! Look for me on the forum and say hi! Have fun, everyone!

Hugs,

Introducing...FlutterBy Fridays!

Hey, all! I'm not sure why this part of my post didn't work at first, sorry. Be sure to scroll down to see my take on the sketch challenge from Limelight AND OddBird Planet this morning-It's a Pirate's Life for me today times two! :) Check it out!

Well, as you may know, I love a Challenge! So, I've decided to introduce FlutterBy Fridays here at The Whimsical Butterfly! For now, there won't be sketches or requirements, just a chance for you to showcase your Butterfly Savvy and a chance to WIN A WEEKLY PRIZE! Yes, yes, there will be some tidbits of blog "candy" here and there, so make sure you stay tuned :)

Here's how it will work:

I named this challenge FlutterBy Fridays for two reasons:

1.)ok, duh...I LOOOOVE Butterflies! LOL.

2.) Your card will be due to be posted BY Friday. Get it? So really, you can play any time during the week, and then, by each Friday at NOON CST I will choose the winner by random.org. The first drawing will be Friday, September 26, 2008, a week from today!!! Yeah!!!

3.) So, to recap-no sketch requirements (yet!), no rules other than you have to use SOME sort of Butterfly SOMETHING on the card...sound good?

4.) Be sure to leave me a comment or post to SCS (or both!) using keyword TWB01, no spaces between the letters. The random winner's entry will be posted on the blog and they can email me to claim the prize!!! (this weeks' prize includes some Wire Works spools by SU (brand new), My Type word brads, and a few other embellies..pic coming soon ;)

Can't wait to see what you have in store...see you soon! Hugs,
Recipe: The Paper Co. Shimmering CS, Archiver's Spring Blossom Spec. edition DP, PTI Spring Moss CS, PTI Stampers Select White CS

Stamps/Ink: CTMH Fluttering Love, Stampabilities "between friends", SU Pink Passion Ink, PTI Spring Moss ink

Accessories: distressing sponge, Hero Arts rhinestones, Hero Arts pearls, heidi Grace paper flowers, Nestabilities circle and scallop dies

Excuse me...have you seen my safety net???

Hello all and HAPPY FRIDAY! I would love to chat, but I seem to have misplaced my safety net... LOL! Can you BELIEVE this card??? I can say without a shadow of a doubt that it's the first of it's kind that I've made...

For those of you who don't know, my son Jack LOVES pirates...they are his favorite thing, truly. I don't know WHY I immediately thought of these way-eclectic ribbons and twill I had from Rusty Pickle's A Pirate's Life when I saw this sketch over on Limelight Papercraft's blog yesterday, but I did and we all know how I LOVE, LOVE LOVE a challenge! Especially a stamping one!

Then, to make it even MORE fun, I saw ANOTHER Pirate challenge over on the SCS forum for OddBird Planet stamps. I just found this company about a week ago and oh my, are they innovative! Their challenge was to create a pirate card using something blingy/sparkly. Well, AHOY, MATEY! Check out that Chipboard letter! LOL! This was SOOOO much fun!

For the sketch challenge (Limelight) I was immediately reminded of these funky, fab ribbons I had that were just sitting in my scrapbooking bag, lonely and dark. They were calling...screaming...to get out! LOL. I'm not sure what I think about this style of cardmaking, but boy, oh, boy am I gonna have one happy lil' guy when he sees this!

Well, that's it for now...my safety net has returned to me and appears to be in tact ;) I leave you with this out-of-my-comfort-zone creation that is really growing on me the more I look at it LOL. What kind of techniques do YOU feel are out of your comfort zone? If you feel like it, show me! Post a link to this post in the comments section if you feel like playin' along. It's fun to challenge ourselves and each other to think outside the box, isn't it?

OK, SUPER FUNNY UPDATE: I JUST found out that today is, apparently, National Talk Like a Pirate Day....just a disclosure, I did NOT know that before I made this card...how funny is THAT??? AND...in case you were wondering...NO pirate clothing was harmed in the making of that card!!!

OK, EVEN WAYYYYYY FUNNIER UPDATE!: As I'm sitting here typing, after I shared with my son Jack (you know, the lover of pirates) that it was Nat'l Talk Like a Pirate day, he got all excited and pulled out his massive bin of pirate toys. So, all is well, and he's sitting here "roleplaying" the pirates, and I hear him yell "SHIMMERY TIMBERS!... I have NO plans of correcting him.... :D

Hugs,

Recipe: SU Black and Kraft CS, Distress ink in Black Soot (Ranger) and SU Basic Black for sentiment, Distress ink in Antique Linen (Ranger) for distressing circle

Stamps: EP Stampendous Hey there Cupcake (my little)

Accessories: Rusty Pickle Ribbon/Twill pack, Thickers glitter letter, Nestabilities circle and scallop dies, Pirate sticker by Sandylion

Paper Pretties Challenge...and some serious bling!

Hey all, how are you on this Thursday morning? I am cheery just thinking about how much fun I had making this card last night for the Paper Pretties monthly sketch challenge!

This little lady (AKA Cuppacakeabella by Stamping Bella) is quite a catch! I am new to Paper Pretties so I don't yet have their own line of stamps, but I loved the sketch and just had to play along! So, Bella got to come out and play :)

She is quite fabulous with her razzle dazzle and her bling, isn't she? I had SUCH a good time making this card. I will include the full recipe on the bottom of this post.

One thing I will say right now, is that I got to color tonight, not only using my beloved Pebbles Inc. shimmer chalks, but also my brand new COPIC MARKERS!! Did you HEAR me??? Yep, I finally took the plunge and boy, are they nice! So nice, in fact, that I'm gonna have to save my pennies and get some more! They definitely worthy of all the praise they've been getting on blogs all across the world!

Well, I'm gonna get going for now and leave you with this pink, girlie card to hopefully make you smile. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you all have a cupcake for dessert today! LOL. Hugs,

Recipe:Bazzill Bubblegum paper, Scrapbook Walls 2sided DP in Villa Bouquet (Chatterbox), Papertrey Ink Stamper's Select CS in White, Papertrey Ink Spring Moss CS, SU Basic Brown ink, Papertrey Spring Moss ink for lightly sponging 2 pcs. of DP



Stamps: Cupcake Bella by Stamping Bella, Hey There Cupcake sent. by Stampendous



Accessories/Embellies/Tools: Papertrey Ink Sweet Blush Swiss Dot Ribbon, Hero Arts Pearls, Hero Arts rhinstones, The Paper Studio Jumbo Pearl brads and Med. Pearl brads, silk flowers by Imaginisce, Pebbles Inc. Shimmer Chalks, Copic Ciao markers

"Double-Whammy" Wednesday! Woo hoo!

Hey guys! I don't want to set any precedents here, LOL, but I've got a "Double Whammy" for you all this morning...a card AND a layout!

This card was inspired by Jen Del Muro's sketch this week, using Bella stamps. I really wanted to play with my Upsy Daisy set from Stampin' Up, so I did that instead.

I couldn't imagine what this card was going to end up looking like using the big, somewhat-ornamental-yet-somwhat-obnoxious brads from my (eh hem!) brand new Hodgepodge Hardware kit, but I really like how this card turned out. LOL for those of you who don't understand the "eh-hem"...I had challenged myself NOT to open the new hardware kit until the old one was all used up...and that happened to occur YESTERDAY! Ha ha I wasted NO time!

I really enjoyed using the two different colors to stamp the daisies in too...I think that adds a ton to the card. Try it sometime for a fun and easy technique! Recipe for this card below... and now...without futher adieu...my FIRST challenge from A Walk Down Memory Lane!

I didn't have to do this layout as my DT term doesn't officially start until October, but figured, hey, why not? This was a good chance for me to get to know the girls and also refueled my passion for scrapbooking since I'm doing DT work mostly for cards. This layout was done according to Kelly's September sketch Challenge.

I decided to work with some digital papers and embellisments I purchased from Weeds and Wildflowers, a really cute digital scrapbooking site. This particular line is called their "Breath of Fresh Air" line. Cute, right? Very doodly, sketchy, etc. Whimsical, if you will.

Anyway, I just thought I'd share :) I don't really post layouts that often but will plan to maybe once a month since I will hopefully play along w/ the DT girls' challenges and maybe get some pics done!!

Have a fantastic day, everybody! See you back tomorrow...ya never know what's in store! Hugs,

Card Recipe: Stampin Up! Baja Breeze CS, Urban Garden DP, Papertrey Ink Stamper's Select White CS, Baja Breeze ink, Blue Bayou Ink

Accessories/Embellies: SU Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon (ltd. edition), SU Hodgepodge Hardware Silver Jumbo Brads, Ribbon tape

A little bit of Eastern Influence...

Hello everyone on this (finally) sunny and CHILLY Tuesday!

I have a quick card for you today that was inspired by two things: Number one, I JUST got this Eastern Influences set by Stampin Up! and it's definitely the first I've gotten of it's kind. There are a lot of really pretty, Asian-inspired themes out there and I tend to not give them a second look. I think it's because I'm sort of "afraid" so to speak of what to do with them! LOL.

When I saw this Eastern Influences set, I was drawn to it by not only its beauty, but by the fact that I could COLOR with it! I'm definitely getting into coloring more and more these days now that I finally have a decent set of chalks and hope to expand my Copic collection soon...seems like it's ALL the rage, right? Well, and not only that but I've heard phenomenal feedback about them, so I'm anxious to try them although the cost does intimidate me!

Anyway, the second thing that really caught my eye about this set was the little square sentiment that says "beautiful". It's such a sweet and short sentiment, yet it can be used for SO many things/occasions. Also, it didn't take me long to realize that the ONLY pieces of my first Hodgepodge Hardware kit left were these pewter squares (do you remember my challenge to myself about this? I vowed to use up ALL the pcs. from the first pewter kit before I would let myself open the pretty new silver one!) !!!! YES! I DID IT! I used them ALL up :) Needless to say the completion of this card was victorious for a few reasons...the least of which being the hardware used. This was really a step "out of the box" for me in terms of style and stamps used, so I hope you like it :)

Have an awesome day and don't forget to check out A Walk Down Memory Lane's store! Watch for me in the coming days on the DT list w/ a short bio/pic and also make sure to sign up for the Message Board so we can chat that way, too! Hugs,

Recipe: Ruby Red CS by SU and Vintage Cream CS by Papertrey Ink, Ginger Blossoms Designer paper by SU, Eastern Influences Stamp set by SU, Hodgepodge Hardware by SU in Pewter, Groovy Guava double-stitched ribbon by SU, Basic Brown ink by SU, Ruby Red ink by SU for sponging edges

Accessories: Pebbles Inc. shimmer chalks, Groovy Guava Stitched ribbon by SU, Glue dots (for hardware to be held in place), dimensionals

Tools: Fiskars 12" personal rotary trimmer w/ scallop edged and straight blades

EXCITING NEWS!!!..and a Mojo Monday card for ya :)

Happy Monday everyone!

I am BURSTING with excitement this morning as I am able to announce to you that I have been chosen for a Design Team position with A Walk Down Memory Lane!
I will be designing monthly Card Kit samples, doing product reviews, writing for their newsletter and having a TON of fun! When Lisa called me last night I was about to jump through the roof. She has an excellent reputation to work for and she offers a ton of product through A Walk Down Memory Lane.

One of the nice and exciting things about this company is that they carry items from ALL the best scrapping/stamping brands, as opposed to being brand-specific. It's literally ONE STOP SHOPPING for ALL of your scrapbooking/rubber stamping/papercrafting items! When I saw her store, I was saying to myself "oh boy...I'm in trouble!" LOL!

You really should head on over and check it out. Some really great stuff and the prices are great, too! You'll be seeing me a lot more over there now, too, so make sure you stop by and say hello to me and the other 4 new DT girls. We are going to be having some fun!

I will be designing for AWDML from October through March. Thanks to all for you support and can't wait to share my first assignments with you!!!

Now, for this week's Mojo Monday card....when I saw Julie's sketch for this week, I thought PERFECT! I can use up some BG Figgy Pudding and SU Kiwi Kiss scraps that I liked too much to just throw away.

I also used my LAST piece of True Thyme CS by Stampin' UP! (sniff sniff...RIP True Thyme)...would someone tell me WHY this got discontinued? LOL! Anyway, layering the papers the way the sketch was drawn, I then embellished using some ribbon from Hobby Lobby, Hero Arts baubles in the bottom right corner, and Hero Arts mini-rhinestones for the outer trim on the snowflake.

I LOVE the new set, Snow Swirled, by SU. It will definitely be VERY loved this season as I begin my Christmas Card frenzy! To finish off the card, I stamped the Season's Greetings Sentiment in the middle using Timber StazOn and used Stickles in the outer corners of the snowflake and also in the upper, smaller snowflake. Hope this gets you all in a cheerful mood! Thanks for looking as always!

See you soon back here and on the A Walk Down Memory Lane site!

Hugs,

Giving Thanks...and usin' up some flowers while doing it!

Hi everyone on this rainy, rainy Sunday. Well, I think I have a sinus infection so I'm pretty happy the hubster is able to help out with the kiddos today. I'm pretty congested and just blech... oh well, hopefully a few more days and I'll be back to "normal"...ha ha ha :)

So, today's card is a really nice and simple layout for anyone who wants to try. I made this card for Lisa's challenge over at A Walk Down Memory Lane. The challenge was to take all those flowers you have that are either multiplying (like I swear mine do!) or are just sitting around waiting to be used and do something with them...also highlighting the center of the flower differently than say, you normally would.

Using Kraft paper from SU, I distressed it with my Cat's Eye Chestnut Roan pigment ink and cut a few pieces of Wild Asparagus DP to use. The paper is two-sided so again, coordianates nicely w/out a lot of work involved.

I couldn't wait to use this new stamp I got from the new Stampology line by Autumn Leaves. This is a single stamp available and I just LOVE the swirls and detail along with the sentiment! After distressing all pieces of paper and stamping the image, I used my Nestabilities to cut out the circle and scalloped background. I finished it off with some Dark Chocolate Twill by Papertrey and grabbed some small silk flowers from Imaginisce to get to work on using them up! I'm four down, a gazillion to go! Yeah!

To dress up the flower centers, I used an orange and brown brad but then experimented w/ Stardust Stickles to see if it would adhere to the brad and it did, very nicely in fact! It's not something I normally do so I will definitely be trying that out more! Thanks Lisa for the inspiration!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! Thanks for stopping by!

Remembering to be Thankful...and a little tip for you today!

Hello everyone on this rainy, rainy Saturday!

It's just me and the girls this afternoon while my hubby is out erranding with the boys. I woke up with a terrible cold this morning so it's definitely nice to have the quiet! What are all of you doing this weekend?

I have a card for you today using the new Remember set designed by Lisa Johnson (Poppy Paperie) for Papertrey Ink. It's a beautiful, doodle-y (is that a word?) set with some really sweet sentiments and I've been itching to use it for a while now!

I used the new Poppy Cardstock from Papertrey and layered a piece of the new Bella Rose DP Collection from Stampin UP! Their new papers from the fall/winter catalog are really stunning, I must say. What was nice too is that I got all the paper cut and had just enough to cut the scalloped strips at the bottom from the other side of the same piece of 12X12 paper! So, that was cool.

Here's a TIP: To have enough paper to make SIX of these cards out of one piece of 12X12 paper here's what you can do: You should start using a DOUBLE-SIDED piece of paper, and just cut 3 strips size 12X 3.75 inches. Once cut in thirds, cut the 3.75 inch strips by 5 inches (you will get two 3.75X5 inch strips from each one). You will then have one 2"X3.75 in. strip left over from each of the thirds. Cut the 2 inch strips in half, and you'll end up with six 1"X3.75 strips that you can scallop if you wish or just leave them as is. See, it's fun AND it's saving scraps!

So, once I had the DP cut, I chose to sponge/distress all pieces with Kiwi Kiss ink from Stampin UP! I stamped a few Poppies from the Remember set using Pure Poppy Ink and also Sweet Blush ink and Kiwi Kiss for the stems and leaves. I matted it on a piece of Sweet Blush, also sponged to soften the effect.

I LOVE the "remembering to thank you" circle image from this set. It's so pretty and makes such a lovely focal point as well. I tried to enhance this by using my Nestabilities and popping this up on a dimension. Other finishing touches was a piece of Pure Poppy stitched ribbon and also some Stardust Stickles in the middle of each flower.

Well, I hope you like it, too! It's nice to have certain sentiments that remind us to be thankful every day. I am definitely thankful today for my beautiful, amazingly awesome children, the fact that even though I'm sick I get to stay home and cuddle up with my family and a movie or two, and even though I can't smell them (LOL!), I am thankful for pretty, bright flowers dancing across my paper creations today despite the ucky weather outside! What about you guys? Hugs,

Butterfly in Blue...

Hello, all! Happy Friday! It's been such a busy week...I'm really looking forward to some much-needed down time after work this evening, and am happy to report that I am OFF this Saturday AND Sunday. Should be getting some stamp time in, for sure!

Today, as promised I share with you this card that I made from the leftover scraps after my Mojo Monday challenge this week. You can scroll down a few posts and check 'em out!

Afternoon Tea DP from Stampin' Up! once again made the beautiful backdrop for this card. I adhered my "scraps" of DP after distressing them with Old Paper ink (Ranger) to a piece of Baja Breeze CS, also from Stampin' Up! This is one of the prettiest blues I've seen in a long time. I just love it. I used a piece of Wild Wasabi ribbon between the two pieces of DP and matted another scrap from the Afternoon Tea paper (the blue floral pattern) on top of the first piece. That piece was distressed as well.

To give this quick and easy card the final touches, I used one of my favorite quotes from SU's Butterfly of Happiness stamp set and stamped it on a scrap of white CS from Papertrey. They have the BEST white card stock. It's thick, smooth and definitely my fave to work with. I used my Wild Wasabi ink pad to stamp the sentiment and then matted it and sponged it for a softer look.

I finished things off with this ADORABLE Butterfly image from the Fluttering Love set from Close to my Heart, stamped in Baja Breeze ink. The stamp set was a bday present (back in July!) and I've been chomping at the bit to use it! I embellished the b-fly along with the blue rectangle with pearl gemstones...they are one of my favorite embellie's to use! Using my scalloped and circle Nestabilities, I cut out the paper for the butterfly and raised it on dimensionals to really make it "pop". This card was so fun to make and such a great use of those leftover strips of paper I just couldn't resist!

Well, everyone, have a wonderful weekend and be sure to stop by next week for more whimsical fun! Thanks so much for reading!

A little Dose of Disney...in a VERY quick pinch!

Happy Thursday, everyone! Tonight is our monthly stamp and scrap night over at the church so I'm excited albeit lamenting over what I should pack?!?!

Anyway, I have a quick little card for you today that is simple and easy yet looks like you spent a lot of time on it!

My aunt is pretty darn cool. She's retired now-after working years as a VP of a stock brokerage firm, her and my uncle moved to Florida and are enjoying life...a very Disney life! Although techinically "retired", she doesn't really enjoy "downtime"...so, she went on over to WDW, the most magical place on earth, and works there part time. She couldn't be happier! We had the privilege of going down there to visit this summer and the kids had an absolute blast. There is truly something magical about that place...

Well, her birthday is this week so I decided to throw a super quick card together before I left for work last night. Using a sketch very similar to the post below (as it was still nice and fresh in my noggin), I used Plum Pudding and Lavender Moon CS from Papertrey and some Disney DP that I picked up from Archiver's yesterday in anticipation of making her a Disney card! I also grabbed this 3D sticker from EK Success. The sticker is such a cute focal point that it really steals the show...and who couldn't use some of that fairy dust???

To top it all off I added some Plum Pudding Ribbon from Papertrey Ink and used their Piece of Cake stamp set for the Happy Birthday sentiment. All signed, sealed, and delivered and complete with 4 cute kid signatures tucked inside! Voila!

Have a great night and be sure to stop back by tomorrow to see what I made with my "scraps" from this week's Mojo Monday challenge!!! Hugs,

Another dose of Mojo Madness...

Hello again and Happy Wednesday!



I actually got a good night's sleep last night and my, what a difference it makes in my productivity! I couldn't wait to sit down and get started this morning on Julee's Mojo Monday sketch from this week (number 52).


I decided to use the new Baja Breeze CS by Stampin Up! since it goes so well with the Afternoon Tea DP. I think Afternoon Tea is by far one of my favorite papers to work with. It's JUST so pretty. Layering the two sides of the paper and distressing it with Versamagic Tea Leaves ink made it an easy "palette" to work with.


This particular sketch was also an extraordinary excuse to work with my years-old Hodgepodge Hardware kit from SU! I purchased the new, pretty silver kit last year and made myself a promise that I wouldn't be tempted to open it until this version was all used up and gone...what a challenge it has been LOL! Thanks Julee, for the inspiration and for making me use my older supplies first ;) I attached the hardware with Wild Wasabi Ribbon and used the brads from the kit as well.


To finish up the card, I stamped one of my favorite verses from the Beautiful You set by Verve as the focal point. I decided it needed a little "somethin somethin" so I again turned to the absolutely amazing flower from the Beautiful You set to add to the focal point. I used the same chalk ink (Tea Leaves) with a dauber to color it in and then added a bit of Stardust Stickles in the middle for a bit of bling :)

I decided to make another card that definitely derives from the sketch although I did vary a bit from it. I really love the quotes from the Beautiful You set, and anything to do with butterflies is just SURE to make my little heart flutter!


Following the same pattern, I made another card. Oh, by the way, the butterflies in the oval are from a Hero Arts clear set and I'm sorry I don't remember the name! I added pearls this time instead of brads to the center quote.


My favorite part about this card was using the Butterfly punch from Martha Stewart crafts to add to the center and give it a dimensional effect. I used another paper from the Afternoon Tea set and distressed the edges of the b-flies with the same Tea Leaves ink. I then added a few more pearls, popped them up on a dimensional and gave them life by gently bending/curling the wings up...you only want to do this a tiny bit but it really adds something to the effect, I think.




Well, as always, thanks for visiting and I hope you enjoy the rest of your week! I'll be back later in the week, I'm sure but for now, I leave you with much mojo :) Hugs everyone!!!