Pa Rum Pa Pum Pum...

Hello everyone!

I know you weren't expecting a Christmas card on Halloween, right? I just couldn't resist! This little Cutie is part of FOUR BRAND NEW releases by Paper Pretties tomorrow!

This adorable image of the Little Drummer boy is just too cute, isn't he? In addition to the four new releases, our Angel Wings Sophia (see her in my blog post from yesterday HERE) is also being released. She was the Stamp of the Month for October.

It's not too late to join the Stamp of the Month club, actually! You can still sign up today to receive November's release, Trim the Tree Sophia. You can see a sample of her HERE. All you need to do is go to the Paper Pretties Website for more details and it's a super easy process!

Make sure you stop by the other Prettie Girl's blogs to check out their sneak peeks for tomorrow, too! They can all be found on my sidebar to the right :)

Sooooooo, after all the excitement of trick or treating wears down, don't forget to relax the next day by Stampin' in your Jammies with Paper Pretties! On Saturday, November 1st, Paper Pretties will be having their monthly Stampin In Your Jammies party!! The party starts at 7pm CST and will last until 10. We will be issuing a challenge every hour so be sure to come and play along!! Besides the challenges, chatter, and all around fun, we will be releasing 4 new sets and the Angel Wings Sophia stamp. Hope to see you there!

Want to be a Cutie Pie?

How would you like to be Paper Pretties Cutie Pie? I thought you would!! I was the October Cutie Pie before I joined the Prettie Girls and let me tell you...the prizes ROCK!!!
All you have to do is make a card using your Paper Pretties stamps and upload it to the Cutie Pie Contest gallery on the Paper Pretties forum, and Christie will chose a winner from the entries. Besides being able to call yourself a Cutie Pie, you will also win the entire release!! You have until October 31st at 8pmCST to get your entries in!! If you need any assistance w/ the gallery process just send me a shout out! I want you all to enter and have fun! Good luck!!

Halloween Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Bazzill baby Blue, Heidi Grace Winter DP, Whisper white

Stamps: Nativity by Paper Pretties

Ink: Black StazOn

Accessories: Baja Breeze ribbon by SU, pearls, Copics

Isn't she Prettie?

Hey everyone!

I couldn't resist and am back for another post today...I am just SO excited about the new November releases for Paper Pretties!

We have so much going on this weekend, you won't want to miss it! Before i get into all the details, here is a card I made using the Angel Wings Sophia, one of the new releases THIS SATURDAY, November 1st! Isn't she the sweetest?

Angel Wings Sophia was the October Stamp of the Month. What is that, you ask? Well, it's a really fun and awesome way to get your hands on some SERIOUS cuteness a whole month before they get released! This month's stamp will be Trim the Tree Sophia, and you have until TOMORROW to get signed up! All the details for the SOTM club can be seen HERE.

What's more? This adorable Merry and Bright sentiment is from one of FOUR new releases coming out Nov. 1st! AMAAAAAAAZING!!!

I really hope you'll come and join us this Saturday...I'll be there with bells on! Stop on by my blog today or tomorrow and let me know you'll be there so I can make sure to say hello on the Pretties Forum! There will be prizes, stamping, and tons of fun!

Here are the details:

Don't forget to enter the Cutie Pie Contest!!

How would you like to be Paper Pretties Cutie Pie? I thought you would!! I was the October Cutie Pie before I joined the Prettie Girls and let me tell you...the prizes ROCK!!!

All you have to do is make a card using your Paper Pretties stamps and upload it to the Cutie Pie Contest gallery on the Paper Pretties forum, and Christie will chose a winner from the entries. Besides being able to call yourself a Cutie Pie, you will also win the entire release!! You have until October 31st at 8pmCST to get your entries in!! If you need any assistance w/ the gallery process just send me a shout out! I want you all to enter and have fun! Good luck!!

Pretties PAJAMA PARTY!!!

On Saturday, November 1st, Paper Pretties will be having their monthly Stampin In Your Jammies party!! The party starts at 7pm CST and will last until 10. We will be issuing a challenge every hour so be sure to come and play along!! Besides the challenges, chatter, and all around fun, we will be releasing 4 new sets and the Angel Wings Sophia stamp. Hope to see you there!! Hugs,

Double-Take Thursday...

Hi all! Happy Thursday! I am tired but am looking forward to my morning coffee...and a bit warmer weather, so I'm told!!!

I'm excited about sharing today's posts with you. I used this sketch from Jen del Muro's Sketch for You to Try (SFYTT) from a few weeks ago. I must have missed it but then when I saw a few cards I liked on other blogs made using the sketch I went back and found it and had to try my hand at it!

I was so excited when my new stamps came that I ordered from Close to My Heart. I've never really ordered from there before, but my SIL got me some adorable sets for my bday last July and so when she told me she'd be attending a workshop last month, I browsed the catty to see if there was anything I wanted...and there was TOO much! LOL. I got two sets, and the first one I pulled right out of the package is their "Treasure Life" set which I absolutely LOVE.

I made two cards using this set and can't wait to make more! Using my new shimmer White paper from Papertrey Ink, I decided to experiment w/ the whole shimmery look so I just made two cards, almost identical, only on one I used Stickles to give it some extra sparkle.

One one hand, I like the fact that the Stickles make it so bring and sparkly. On the other hand, it sort of mutes the different color inks I used to do the flower image and lessens the vibrance of the ink (I used a Brilliance pad in Peacock). Which one do you like best? For being nearly identical, they really do give off two totally different looks, don't they? Thanks for looking and I hope you all have a FANTASTIC Halloween! I'll be back tomorrow with a little trick...or treat....and some fabulous Paper Pretties happenings! See you then! Hugs,

Pretties Wednesday: To Bray or not to Bray?

Is that even a correct use of the word? I don't know, but I can tell you I'm not one to pick up my brayer. In fact, I'll let you in on a little secret: I don't even know where mine is!!! If not for my good friend Darla, I would have been up a creek for today's challenge LOL!

Today's card featuring the adorable Cooper was made for our Pretties Wednesday challenge! This week's challenge was by Jackie R. to use a brayer. Would you believe that I don't even own a spectrum pad? Out of the million things I seem to have in my craft area, these two things weren't included!

So, I took my Kiwi Kiss and Pumpkin Pie ink pads and inked up half each onto the brayer. I then stamped my image of Cooper in Brown StazOn (timber) onto Shimmer White cardstock (papertrey ink) and then rolled the brayer back and forth over him. You can't really see it that great in the picture, but the shimmer white paper gives it a really neat effect. The colors appear softer and the whole piece has a pearlescent look which I love.

I colored OVER the image already layered w/ the ink from the brayer with my Copics, and again, because of the Shimmer White paper I got a nice soft effect, even with the markers. For the finishing touches, I used my CropADile to add some big eyelets and tucked a little treat under my Kiwi Kiss ribbon...after all, it's trick-or-treat time!

I also got to play along with another week of Mojo Monday using this week's sketch that you can see HERE on Julee's blog. The best of both worlds when you can incorporate things such as these! LOVE it!

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to stop by and see what the other Prettie Girls did for today's challenge!

Jessie

Julie

Jana

Jackie R.

Jackie P.

Jillian

Jodi

Charmaine

Christie

Danielle

WANT TO BE THE NEXT CUTIE PIE? Each month, Paper Pretties has a Cutie Pie contest and ANYONE can enter! Submit a card to the Paper Pretties Gallery and enter it to be the November Cutie Pie! Not only do you get to have a SWEET title of Cutie Pie for the month of November, the winner will also receive ALL four November releases PLUS the new Angel Wings Sophia! They also get a little shout-out on the website, which is always fun :)

Get your entries into the Gallery under November Cutie Pie submissions by Friday, Oct. 31st at 8p.m. CST. The new Cutie Pie will be announced at the Paper Pretties monthly pajama party on Saturday, Nov. 1st. See you then? You WON'T want to miss all the fun, chit-chat, and prizes! Can't wait to see the next Cutie Pie!

Hugs and stuff,

Jess :)

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Haiku DP, Bazill green, Shimmer white by papertrey ink

Stamps: Pick of the Patch by Paper Pretties

Ink: Timber StazON

Accessories: Kiwi Kiss ribbon, Nestabilities, Copics, Brayer, Cropa Dile eyelets

LPS Monday-Peaceful Dove...

Good Monday morning to you all! Hope you had a wonderful weekend! Mine was busy as all get-out, but really fun.

I have a card for you today using the Flourished Dove set from The Little Paper Shop. I thought it was fitting since....well, have you heard? We got SNOW here last night in the Chicago 'burbs!!! Not enough to stick in most places, but the last I checked, it's still October!!! Yikes!

I am NOT a fan of the white stuff, but I am totally a fan of this set! So, even though I'd prefer to be in a warmer climate, this set really does get me in the holiday spirit!

For this card, I used some winter DP from Heidi Grace and used Beate's weekend sketch after seeing my friend and fellow LPS DT member Laura's card. I am always inspired by Laura's work. It is always so, so stunning. I am really loving the Baja Breeze color by Stampin Up, too...I'm sad that it's only an "in color" shade and am going to have to order it in droves so that I don't run out before I'm good and sick of it (if that even happens!) LOL.

I also really like the look of liquid pearls. I've been having a lot of fun using them and think they add such pretty detail, especially to a card such as this.

Be sure to check out the Little Paper Shop website and take advantage of a great promotion this week...you can earn the newly released Flyin' By stamp set w/ a $50 purchase. What's more? Free shipping w/only a $45 purchase, so stock up on this set and other awesome holiday ones so you can crank out those cards! Thanks for reading and enjoy your day! Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze by SU, Heidi Grace DP, SS white by Papertrey

Stamps: Flourished Dove by The Little Paper Shop

Ink: Baja Breeze by SU

Accessories: Baja Breeze ribbon by SU, Liquid Pearls, Nestabilities, Martha Stewart Doily Lace Punch

Potty Princess!

Hey all...Happy Sunday! We've had quite the busy week here! My latest "project" took a few days to complete (which is NO TIME in the grand scheme of things), and didn't involve ANY stamping....

Let me show you the beginnings of my little project:


Uh, NO, I didn't MAKE that! LOL. This is the (TOTALLY FAB) ridiculously cute potty "throne" that Grandma and Grandpa bought my DD last year for her 2nd Bday. She was SO excited, that she sat on it...ONCE. During the weeks that followed her 2nd bday, we'd give it a whirl every once in a while and she'd sit on it...ONCE. Absolutely NO interest.

Thankfully, my 5 years of experience working in Pediatrics and also many, many hours reading child development books (oh, and the "little" detail that I've done this 3 times before LOL...even w/ twin boys!) taught me not to push her....ESPECIALLY her...my strong willed wee one. I didn't want to make it a negative experience in any way. So, we waited a few months...NAH, not ready. Ok, no problem.

She will be 3 next month. My parents were starting to get nervous, and well, pull ups are $$$$! Still, I didn't sweat it. After all, she misses the school cut off so it's one more year before preschool anyway..when she'd HAVE to be potty-trained. I figured it would come long before then, anyway. I have faith in my lil' sweet pea :)

Well....this past Wednesday, she said "I think I want to go potty". OKAY!!! Soooo, we sat...for about an hour (she wanted to stay LOL)...nothing to report. We got up, and went about our day. After her nap, I noticed she was dry. I said "honey, you stayed dry during your nap! Do you think you need to go potty now?" She said "Sure, mom" (her exact words :) We sat...and VOILA! The tape recorder in my head will NEVER forget that smile. "I DID IT!"

We called Daddy, Grandma and Grandpa and they were all thrilled. I couldn't imagine it'd be so easy the next time, but about an hour later, she had NO problems telling me it was time again. That night? DRY! The NEXT night? DRY! It's so funny how these kids just decide to do it and they DO IT. No accidents, no night time stuff...just DONE!

Proud Mommy moments like these make me happier than anything else :)

Daddy, too! He went out and bought her this "Baby Alive" doll (creepy!) that pees, too! She even comes w/ her own potty LOL. It's a little scary to me, the way she opens her eyes "blinks", and talks (not to mention goes to the bathroom?), but, my sweet pea has been seeing this on TV and telling us she wants it for a while and well...have I MENTIONED she's a bit wrapped around our fingers? Daddy's twice ;)

Well, I'll be back tomorrow with a project that involves PAPER! I have a lot coming up this week and can't wait to share it with you! Thanks for reading and hope your Sunday is fantastic! Hugs, Jess :)

Pretties Friday-Trim the Tree...

Happy Friday, everyone! We are gearing up for another fun filled Pommies weekend! Two football games, a Family Performance/Awards night...all should be fun!

It's Pretties Friday here at The Whimiscal Butterfly. For today's card, I played along with another fantastic sketch Challenge by our Prettie Girl and Challenger Extraordinaire, Danielle! Here's the sketch:

I decided to use my new Trim the Tree Sophia stamp for this card. This is one of my new favorites, that's for sure! What's more? She just so happens to be the November Stamp of the Month over at Paper Pretties! If you haven't checked out this opportunity, you can see all the details HERE! The exclusive SOTM is always released an entire month prior to the release on the website, so you can get a head start on all those Holiday cards! How fun will that be?

I found the little snowflake embellishments and thought they added the perfect touch to this snowy blue card! As busy as I've been and as much as I NEVER look forward to the cold winter weather, this cutie pie really puts me in the Christmas spirit! Hope it does the same for you!

Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze by SU, Papertrey Stamper's Select White, Heidi Grace DP

Stamps: Trim the Tree by Paper Pretties

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Accessories: Hero Arts Snowflake Sequins, Stardust Stickles, Copics, Pearl by Kaisercraft, Martha Stewart Doily Lace punch, American Crafts ribbon

My VERY first Blog Award! Woo hoo!

Hey everyone! This is a fun and exciting little tidbit to add onto today's post:

My new blogging friend Shirley of Card Art, Etc.(check out her awesome blog!) has given me an "I Love Your Blog" award! Isn't that sweet? I've seen these little awards circulating for a while now...there are a few different ones floating about cyber-space. Within this VAST sea of amazing talent, I have to say it felt really nice that she thought enough of me to give me this little token! THANK YOU, SHIRLEY!!!
Another really fun part of this award is that I get to pass it on to 6 more people! Here are the rules:

*Awarded blogs will pass the award onto 6 people of their choice, notify them on their blogs or by email, and link to the person who gave them the award, too :)

I have to agree with Shirley that it is VERY hard to choose only 6...there are dozens upon dozens that I visit everyday... however, here are just a few of my favorites; some stamping, some not (we all need a little variety, right?):

1.) Darla Wilson-Wilson Family's Excellent Adventures. Read about the excellent adventures of one of my bestest buds and check out her great photos!

2.) Christi Thorsen-Story About a Girl. Christi is an awesome stamper and has joined us as a Guest Prettie over at Paper Pretties. Love her work and she's SUCH a sweetheart!

3.) Lynn Reaney-Pens and Needles. My friend and fellow DT member at A Walk Down Memory Lane, and scrapper extraordinaire!

4.) Molly Joly- Check out the fun family follies and cute projects of my new friend who I met on the A Walk Down Memory Lane forum and now who I've drug into the mud w/ all my stamping addictions! LOL

5.) Jillian Winters-Ink, Stamp n Scrap. My SUPER talented, awesome friend and long-lost sistah!

6.) Charlene Austin-Willow and Paisley. Charlene is my first official "cyber friend" I can honestly say that I've made. She contacted me after I won the Mother's Day contest (you can read about it HERE) from PapertreyInk just to tell me how much my story meant to her. We became friends right away and have emailed each other, attended release parties, ATC swapped, etc. and she is VERY dear to me. She is doing DT work for Elzybells and is extremely talented. This one's for you, babe...love ya!

There are soooooooooo many more that I could have chosen...but these gals have a close spot in my little heart, for sure! Thank you again, Shirley and hugs to you all!!!

I've been Poisoned...Again! (oh, wait, no...it wasn't the muffins!)

Hey all...Happy Thursday! It's freezing as far as I'm concerned (44 today!), so it's a good week to stay in, set the Pirate ship up for the kiddos, and get some Pirate time in myself!

I SOOOOO love this Best Mates set from Pink Poison! I know I've told you that already, but every time I finish a card with it, I fall in love with the whole set all over again! It's just so darn cute!

Every time I look at it I am reminded of how cute my own lil' mates are, too! I know I already told you this, too but in case you're just tuning into my blogworld, being a Mommy of twin boys, well...you can't go wrong w/ this adorable little image!

For this card, I used a brown/gold color palette. I have this gold metallic paper from who-knows-where and I'm not really a gold kinda girl. My wedding rings are white gold and pretty much everything I own is either white gold or silver. However, it was out with old paper...gotta use it up, right? I also got a chance to use not only my Copic markers, but my new Copic Spica glitter pen, in what color? Yep, GOLD! These pens are super cool and totally sparkle...I love 'em! To top it off, albeit a bit OVER the top LOL, I used up some of these fun pompons from the Rusty Pickle line "A Pirate's Life" from last fall. Totally matched the paper and hey, it's CALLED A pirate's life, right?

Well, I hope you'll head on over to the Pink Poison blog...Marie always has such fun daily questions, weekly giveaways, and tons of cute samples...and that's just the start of it! She has some new releases this month and more fun planned for next month...I know I can't wait!

I just have to take time to say a HUGE, YUMMY Thank you to my awesome friend Darla for these amazing pumpkin muffins and sweet card she brought over today. I am lucky enough to have one of my best friends living right around the block from me, and when she bakes (which is often!), she shares! She is one of the most generous people I know, and a very talented stamper, too! Check out her SU page and also her fun family follies page...she has two crazy boys like me so we have a LOT of fun stories to share LOL! I just love her pumpkin muffins and they were still WARM when she brought them over...the plate pictured is missing one or three :D

Well, stay warm, everyone...I think Fall has a bite to it already...and I'm not talking about these yummy muffins! Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Archiver's Dark Bark, Papertrey Vintage Cream, Gold Metallic unknown sorry

Stamps: Best Mates by Pink Poison

Ink: Dark Chocolate by papertrey

Accessories: Copics, Copic Spica pen, Sponge for distressing, dimensionals, Rusty Pickle Pompon ribbon

A PRETTIE good feeling...and an even better Cause!

Hey everyone...it's PRETTIES Wednesday! I know I feel a little prettier just knowing that today! LOL. Actually, I'm feeling really good about this card I have for you today!

A few weeks ago, Jessie issued a Glitter Challenge to all the Prettie Girls. I got in on this JUST in time to play this week's challenge, which was to use glitter on a card. Isn't Sophia's dress fantabulous??? I love it! I also found these new flowers that are glittery white chipboard that can be sponged in any color which is pretty darn nifty, right? I also got to play this week's Mojo Monday sketch challenge when I made this card which is always something I look forward to!

I used the Cuddle Me Sophia to make this card. She's just the sweetest little thing! In addition, I found a sentiment that would work for someone battling a rough time, which brings me to the next part of my post:

The Prettie Girls decided to get in on this FANTASTIC cause through SplitCoast Stampers this week. We are all sending our cards to SCS and they will go directly to the Chemo Angels organization, which will allow the sending of hundreds, hopefully THOUSANDS of cards to cancer patients. Isn't that the greatest? You can read ALL the details of the cause HERE.

I decided in honor of October being Breast Cancer awareness month that I'd make my card pink and use the tranditional symbol of the pink ribbon right on it. I really like the way it turned out and if I can scrounge up some time I think I will make a pack of 10 or so and head over to my local hospital with them. I encourage you all to do the same! I will let you know if I end up doing it, and please let me know if you'd like to challenge yourself and do the same thing for an organization near you!!!

In addition to all the wonderful happenings this week at Paper Pretties, Christie has a HUGE sale going on, also in honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month! EVERYTHING PINK is 40% off through the end of the month! Be sure to take advantage of this amazing sale before it ends...it's an awesome one!

Thanks so much for stopping by today, and be sure to check out what the other Prettie Girls have created for this awesome challenge!

Jessie Jillian Julie Jackie P. Jana Danielle Charmaine Jodi Jackie R.

Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette and White by SU, Berry Sorbet by Papertrey

Stamps: Cuddle Me Sophia by Paper Pretties (sentiment by Pink Poison "best mates" set)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Accessories: Swiss Dot Embossing folder, Stickles in Stardust, Copics, Martha Stewart Doily Lace punch

Fancy Pants for a Queen...

Hey all...

Today's Tuesday post is the third featuring this amazing Fall DP from Fancy Pants...I thought I'd continue w/ my Fall theme for one more day while I focus on trying to keep myself warm during this cold and rainy October weather we've been having!!

That being said, I needed to add a bit of summer to my Fall card LOL! What better way to do this than with this swirly and fun (and definitely whimsical!) butterfly from Queen Kat Designs?

I used the "Friends" set to create this card. In addition to the fun butterfly and cute floral images, I really like the quote that comes with this set. Check out the ENTIRE QKD Store as there are some very good deals right now!

In addition to those good deals, make sure you remember that you can SAVE 10% EVERYDAY! All you have to do is enter my code "DE10" during your checkout and voila! Instant savings so that YOU can own this cute set (amongst many others!) and create something amazing w/ it!

Well, I'll be back soon with a prettie card for a GREAT cause, and I just got some other fun sets in the mail yesterday so stay tuned for some more projects. It is time to bid adieu to this Fancy Pants DP for now...thanks for stopping by and reading what I did w it over the past few days!

Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Kiwi Kiss and Really Rust by SU, Fancy Pants DP, Vintage Cream by PTI

Stamps: Friends by Queen Kat Designs

Ink: Dark chocolate by PTI

Accessories: Martha Stewart Butterfly punch, Pearls, dimensionals, Kiwi kiss satin ribbon by SU, Nestabilities, Pebbles Inc Chalks, Stickles in Stardust

HOOTIN' and Hollerin'...

HAPPY MONDAY, everyone!!! Well...thanks for all your well wishes and words of good luck...they worked! My little squad did an AMAZING job yesterday and Congrats to my Pommie's on your first place trophies!!! YOU ROCKED IT! I am the proudest Coach and Mom right now...what a fun day!

It always helps to have an AMAZING support system...and I have to say that our group of parents are fan-freakin'-tastic! We had the loudest cheering going on yesterday, for sure!

In the spirit of all the HOOTIN and Hollerin' going on yesterday, I thought I'd show you a few cards that I made with the Flyin' By set from The Little Paper Shop! This set is a new October Release and is available right now on the website...in fact, you can earn this set FREE w/ a $50 purchase!

Isn't this little guy just too funny? One of my favorite techniques to use w/ this set is to stamp the owl, then stamp another one on a scratch piece of paper and cut the eyes out.

Using a dimensional, I "pop" up the set of eyes on top of the stamped image of the owl and it really makes his eyes bug out which I think is too funny/cute! The owl also makes a really cute Fall card, I think. Super versatile. In addition, this set also comes with a cute little bird image.

I used both of these cutie pies to make a little set of 4 notecards the other day. This is a great little project that doesn't take long and makes a great gift...something to think about w/ the upcoming holidays, right? I will tell you though, that my Martha Stewart Doily Lace punch bit the dust this past weekend and I'm very upset about it...GRRRRR! I JUST got it, and the handle broke! I am going to try and exchange it but they seem to be sold out everywhere so wish me luck/ with that!

Last but not least, I leave you with a picture of my adorable girl who I couldn't be prouder of. (pay NO attention to the Mom/Coach in the background who is missing almost ALL of her makeup from crying it off LOL! I was moved to tears once or twenty times yesterday!!!) She is the apple of my eye, chip off the old block...put simply, there is no end to the adoration I feel by looking at her. What an awesome mother/daughter experience. I couldn't be happier right now and will have visions of sugar plums or poms or something in my head, I'm sure when it (finally!) hits the pillow tonight! GREAT JOB, CJT POMMIES! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!! WHOOT WHOOT!!!! (get it? lol)

A VERY Exciting Day!!!

Good morning all...by the time you read this, Coach Jess will have gotten up at 5:45am on a quiet Sunday morning and taken 16 girls to the big event they've worked so hard for...our 2008 Pom Competition!!! Yep, today's the day! Amidst the screaming, cheering, hairspray, and tights, there are 16 girls who have worked so hard for this moment and I can't even tell you how proud I am of them!

To honor their hard work and committment to my squad, they will be showered w/ lots of goodies, tshirts and trophies over the next few days. However, on Friday night we had our Dress Rehearsal and to kick off the weekend's festivities, I made 16 Good Luck cards for my awesome girlies!

This paper reminded me of Poms. Isn't that funny? As for the card, I had hardly any time, so they're nothing fancy, and it was hard to find stuff to use w/ our colors, which are navy, white and silver. To the girls, they were everything, though, and that's all that matters! You should have seen the looks on their faces when they saw I had a Pommie stamp! Kudos to Stamping Bella for making this awesome stamp! (LOL a funny sidenote...since my girls are 8 I decided that a two-piece uniform wasn't exactly age appropriate so I made it a one piece ha ha ha!)

I can't wait. I signed up for this because I, too was a Pom in HS and I wanted to be there for my girl. Somewhere in the process though, I have inherited a family of 15 extra girls and their awesome, supportive parents and I am just flooded w/ emotion! Wish us luck! GO GIRLS!!!! POMS KICK! Thanks for reading and have a great day!!! Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: American Crafts Navy CS, Urban Garden DP, Baja Breeze by SU, Stamper's Select White by PTI

Stamps: PomPom Bella by Stamping Bella

Ink: Tuxedo Black by Memento

Accesories: Baja Breeze Ribbon by SU, Hero Arts Pearls, dimensionals, Copics, Stickles in Silver

Just in CASE you were wondering...

...what the heck does CASE mean? Well, in the stamping world, it means "Copy and Share Everything" (or in some "cases" LOL! "Copied and STOLE everything!). When you see a good idea and want to copy it, that's okay! In the spirit of full disclosure, though, it's best to tell people when you've Cased a card, and of course..NEVER submit it for publication. Yes, those are the rules.

Honestly, I'm not a CASE-er. I don't know why...I'm just not much for it, although I am in awe by so many designers out there and love their work. Although I REALLY enjoy sketches and challenges, I rarely copy anyone's card or sketch entirely. However, in the case of THIS card by my friend and fellow Little Paper Shop DT member, Bonnie....I just had to CASE her layout! I loved it so much that I've been wanting to make it for a while now and yesterday, I finally got the chance! I did change the papers, etc., but copied the layout exactly. Don't you want to, too? It's such an awesome layout!

Make sure to check out ALL of Bonnie's blog, The Lucky Clucker when you get a chance! I fell in love with the name as soon as I saw it and she's just as nice and generous as can be! Not only is the card I CASE'd a work of art, but all of her work is awesome! Thanks for stopping by today and have a great weekend! Tomorrow I'll be back with a Bella card for a VERY special event! Stay Tuned! Hugs,

RECIPE:

Cardstock: Really Rust, More Mustard by SU, Dark Chocolate and Vintage Cream by Papertrey, Fancy Pants DP

Stamps: "true Friend" by Stampabilities (hobby Lobby), background flower from Beautiful You, by Verve Stamps

Ink: Dark Chocolate by Papertrey

Accessories: Felt swirl by Fancy Pants, sponge for distressing, $1 Flowers by Joann crafts

A VERY Prettie Birthday Wish...

Hey everyone...and a very Prettie Friday to all of you!

I have a VERY special Birthday surprise for my friend and fellow Prettie Girl Jessie today! It's A VIRTUAL Birthday party!!! HAPPY 30th to you!!! For her birthday party today, I am "bringing" her Flowers! I hope you will all help me wish her the best birthday EVER by visiting the other Prettie Girls' blogs and checking out what they are bringing to the party as well!

Jessie, I made this card with the intention of "bringing you flowers" because well, for one, you can never have too many flowers on a card LOL!...seriously though, this is to symbolize our "budding" friendship (get it?) and the beauty that I always see on your pretty cards!

In addition to wishing her a glorious 30th, CONGRATS are in order! Jessie was just chosen as the newest SCS Dirty Dozen member...what an accomplishment for her!!! She's a Prettie Girl AND a Dirty Girl! Woo hoo!

Well, I leave you for now with the other Prettie Girls Bday wishes to Jessie...check them out!

Jodi

Jackie P.

Jackie R.

Jillian

Julie (the J's rule at Paper Pretties LOL!)

Danielle

Charmaine

Christie

Thanks for coming to Jessie's virtual B-day Party! I'll be back soon with another card! Hugs,

Recipe:

Cardstock: Really Rust by SU, Vintage Cream and Dark Choc. by Papertrey, Fancy Pants DP

Inks: Dark Chocolate by Papertrey, Really Rust by SU

Stamps: Flutter By by Paper Pretties, Out on a Limb (birthday sentiment) by Papertrey

Accessories: Prima flowers, pearls by Kaisercraft, Summer Sunrise ribbon by Papertrey, Butterfly diecut by Fancy Pants, Nestabilities, dimensionals

Vintage, Timeless Mojo, a little inside peek at the CRAZY side of Jess, and 2 Challenges completed!

Hey guys! I'm so excited about my post today. I am sorry as I am posting my Little Paper Shop DT Team Challenge a day late...but I swear I had it done yesterday LOL!

Allison issued a challenge to the Design Team this month to create a Vintage card. I showed you one of them on this post for preview day, but wanted to make another one special for the challenge.

In addition, when I found out Mojo Monday was back, I looked at the sketch and thought well...I will get to that but I don't know how good I'll be at this week's challenge....yada yada yada.

Ok, so have you guys ever had that "lightbulb moment?" I SWEAR to you this is what happened. So, I was sitting at the table talking to the DH and making a stationery set for my Mom as a thank you for babysitting last week. Coffee was being sipped, politics and cars were being discussed (I know...), and I was working at a nice, relaxed pace and then....

BOOM! Idea. Must. Create. Now...

I don't think I've ever done this before, but in that moment, I literally, dropped EVERYTHING, left ALL the supplies out that I was using for my Mom's cards and began grabbing supplies, inks, and paper like a FREAK. I mean, a FREAK. My DH sat there, head shaking...I can only imagine what was being thought. I didn't care. Must. Create. Now.

So WHAT was the fuss about? The CLOCK! The CLOCK! I'm yelling, in my kitchen. "Am I supposed to pick up Jack now?" he asks me...I would have laughed, but I was too crazed. "NO, the CLOCK!" I'm flailing now, everywhere, ripping through my embellishment case looking for something that only I could know about and then...VOILA! There it was. The little vintage clock embellishment that I bought for a project LAST MAY and never used...


BOOM. An idea was born. I somehow, in all my madness, had this vision for the circle part of the Mojo Monday sketch and it was all in place from there. I then realized that the clock was distressed and that this would make the perfect vintage card as well. I got REALLY nutso when I was cutting out arrows for the hour and second hands and almost cut my finger LOL! Occupational hazard, right? I'm such a dork! I really loved the way the distress ink worked to make the hands really match the clock though. That was fun for me. What's more? Uh, did you SEE the quote from The Little Paper Shop's NEW RELEASE, A Dream? Could it be any more perfect for a clock card???

Even better was the fact that I got to use my favorite paper again, from the new Laundry Line from My Mind's Eye. My photo doesn't do it justice as it was dark and rainy today but this paper is absolutely amazing. I love it and I am going to have to stockpile it so I am never without it LOL. I'm a little obsessive at times, I admit it ;)

Well, I hope you enjoyed getting on board my creative roller coaster this morning! It was a wild ride, I guess...but fun to see how the process unfolds sometimes, huh? I will be back tomorrow with a much less frenzied post LOL...at least I hope so! WHAT....a whirlwind! Big hugs and thanks for stopping by...I really love it when you guys do! XOXO,
RECIPE:

Cardstock: Dark Chocolate by papertrey, Aqua Mist, Stampers Select White by Papertrey, Laundry Line Coastal DP by My Mind's Eye

Stamps: A Dream by The Little Paper Shop

Ink: Ranger Distress Ink in Old Paper, Dark Chocolate by Papertrey

Accessories: Clock die-cut by My Mind's Eye, Prima Fabric Fancies, Glittered brads, Kaisercraft Pearls, dimensionals, pearl brad by The paper Studio

I've ALWAYS wanted to be Prettie...

Hello everyone! I have been BURSTING with this news now for a few days and I am so excited that I can finally scream it from the rooftops...I AM A PRETTIE GIRL!!!

In case you're wondering why I spelled it that way (LOL!), it's because I am THRILLED...OVER THE MOON...to announce that I have been invited to join the Design Team for Paper Pretties!!! I have been in love with this company since I found it a while back and I couldn't have said YES! YES! YES! any faster!

Have you guys SEEN the Paper Pretties website and gallery? I know you've seen MANY cards now using my sweet Sophia stamp, Flutter By. I couldn't put her down when I got her and now that I have a few more, well...my addiction has deepened! LOL! Seriously, you need to head over and check them out. (Plus, you can see my bio and pic in the "powder room"...could that be ANY cuter???) Owner Christie Ortman, our "Prettie Mama" really offers some fantastic stamps! Right now they are being offered in clear acrylic polymer and also red rubber mounted on cling that are beautifully die-cut and ready to mount on acrylic blocks!

This second card was made for this week's challenge on the Prettie's forum. Each week, a challenge is issued, and there are weekly prizes! How fun is that? This week's challenge was an inspirational challenge. Danielle challenged us to use this photo from Pottery Barn to inspire a card....this was my FIRST inspirational challenge and it was a lot of fun!

Be sure to check out ALL the challenges in the forum. You have until tomorrow night to play along with this one, too...so have fun and show us what you can do!

One of the most exciting things about being a Prettie Girl is being among the ranks of some VERY talented Design Team Members. Without further adieu, please check out the PRETTIE GIRLS that I am so very, very privileged to be working with:

Christie Ortman

Julie Masse

Charmaine Ikach

Jillian Winters

Jessica Rone

Danielle Lounds

Jackie Pedro

Jackie Rakoski

Jana Weaver

Jodi Collins

Joni Stringfield

Also, our Guest/Visiting Pretties:

Christi Thorsen

Stephanie Hargis

Jenn Diaz

Frances Byrne

It's a treat every time I visit their blogs...these Prettie ladies are amazing and I am so happy to be a part of their family! Thanks to all for your excitement too! It really radiates and I appreciate it so much! Big Hugs to all! XOXO Jess :)

A Healthy Dose of (PiNk) POISON!

Hey guys! Happy Tuesday! I have an awesome stamp company to tell you about today... ENABLER ALERT! ENABLER ALERT! LOL!

I was asked to do a Guest Designer spotlight/featurette over at Pink Poison stamps and I couldn't have said YES! quicker! The owner, Marie, has not only got herself an AMAZING line of stamps, but she's as nice as can be, too! In addition to being super sweet, she's also really creative and asks daily questions to get to know her customers better, which I think is pretty cool. Check out her BLOG and see how much fun it is!

Have you guys heard of Pink Poison Stamps? I love them. I stumbled upon this company a month or two ago and the releases just keep getting cuter and cuter! Can you STAND this Pirate set??? It's called Best Mates. It's totally my fave right now...

...Do you SEE this image crying out to me as Mommy Pirate w/ her two twin boy pirates? You KNOW how much my son loves pirates, too...I can't even tell you who was more excited when this set came in the mail...him or I! I had so much fun that as soon as they came in the mail I plopped down and the boys watched me make these two cards. There was a LOT of giggling going on...it was awesome!

Pink Poison stamps come in sets of high quality, deeply etched rubber that are mounted on cling foam. BIG plus cuz after you cut them out, they are totally ready to go on acrylic blocks!

They are super affordable, too, seeing

as you get a nice amount of images mixed with sentiments per set. There is so much attention to detail in the artistry that they are AMAZINGLY fun to color in...with Copics, chalks, you name it!

The other set I had the privilege of working with is called Fancy Fleurs. This set is one of the prettiest I've seen lately and has such an amazing artistry to the flowers...you NEED it! LOL!

I had such a great time coloring these beautiful sunflowers. For those of you who don't know, sunflowers are probably my favorite flower...so when I saw this set, I kind of gasped a little :) There is such a beauty in the detail of these flowers and I really loved working with them. The sentiments make it perfect for all occasions and I guarantee you'll be reaching for this set again and again!

I really love what Pink Poison has to offer and hope you guys will, too! If you have some time, I'd definitely check them out and see all the cuteness! You'll definitely be seeing more posts from me with more of their sets...I'm in love!

Have an awesome day and hope this inspires you to pick up a block and get to stampin'!!! Hugs,

Preview Day #4-Beauty of Nature by The Little Paper Shop!

Hey all...it's Monday, Columbus Day and I have another preview card to show you from The Little Paper Shop! It's been a pretty exciting week of previews, hasn't it? I've had a lot of fun with these sets and can't wait until tomorrow when you can have fun with them too! FOUR new sets are being released TOMORROW, so make sure you head over to the website for all the details!

The fourth preview card is using a set called Beauty of Nature. Have you guys noticed that bird images are really hot right now? Seems to me, they are, anyway. I really like what Julia has put together with this set. It's very natural looking and the sentiments are just so pretty. The other nice thing about this set is that it's super versatile for all seasons...and can even be used as a holiday set!

Make sure you check out The Little Paper Shop's Blog for more beautiful previews from this set. The entire DT has done such awesome things with all four of the releases and yet they are all so different...it's really cool to see everyone's unique take on the same set of stamps, isn't it?

Thanks for looking and as always, for you kind and heartfelt comments. I read them every day and I really enjoy hearing from all of you!!! Big hugs,

Recipe Card 1: Baja Breeze CS, Urban Garden DP by SU, Stamper's Select White CS by Papertrey

Stamps: Beauty of Nature by The Little Paper Shop

Ink: Dark Chocolate by Papertrey, Blue Bayou by SU

Accessories: pearls, stickles in stardust, Copic markers, dimensionals, Baja Breeze ribbon

Recipe Card 2: Plum Pudding CS by Papertrey, Chatterbox DP, Spring Moss CS by Papertrey

Stamps: Beauty of Nature by The Little Paper Shop

Inks: Dark Chocolate by Papertrey

Accessories: prima flowers, Copics, dimensionals, pearls, Lavender Moon ribbon by Papertrey

Preview Day #3-Make a Wish...and Blog Candy ALERT!

Hey everyone! I am so glad that Sunday is here and that I have a day to relax with my family...maybe even stamp a bit! I have a few projects that I would love to work on and got some cute new stamps...as you all know, it never ends, right? LOL... We'll see where the day leads, right?

I have a few cards for you today from a new release called Make a Wish from The Little Paper Shop! This beautiful new set consists of TEN birthday sentiment in a beautiful scripted font. I really love this set and am so glad I have it, as I know I will be using it for tons of cards...in addition to the several I've already made! You'll love it, too!

Be sure to check out the other DT girls' blogs today too (accessible on the sidebar) to see more of Make A Wish and the other two previews from yesterday and the day before. It's really fun working with such a talented group of ladies!

I'm not used to working with quotes as the focal point for cards. I usually use some type of image, as I think most of us do. Although I didn't have to do that for these samples, I ended up doing it on both which I thought was sort of funny. I think that the sayings, along with the font are just so pretty that they deserve to be showcased on the front as opposed to the inside! Don't you agree?

You can learn more about Make A Wish by visiting the Little Paper Shop's Blog today. Stay tuned for the sketch contest winners, as they will also be announced soon!

Don't forget about the BLOG CANDY that you can win, too, over at the LPS blog...the Flourished Dove Stamp set being released on the 14th! Be sure to leave a comment on THIS POST by Sunday night to be entered to win!

Have a wonderful holiday weekend and Happy Stamping, everyone! Hugs,