Sweet Lily Saturday...

Hey everyone!

So, let me hear it...HOW many of you went shopping yesterday???

I did go to the mall, but only to work my p/t job, not to shop with the masses. Actually, I missed it believe it or not. It's something I've done every year for the past 4 or so years and although I always knocked it during the years prior to going, I have to say it was really fun. I lived vicariously through a few friends though, who started texting me at 5am! Needless to say i didnt' start responding til about 7 LOL! Anyway, yes, the trip to the mall was work-only. I work once a week for an all-natural soap/bath/body company and yesterday was my day! Eek!

Well, onto the fun stuff! I have another card for you today using the ever so sweet "Lily-Fun Kitty" stamp from Rachelle Anne Miller stamps. Have I MENTIONED how much I love these stamps? I'm really glad this sweet little image caught my eye a few weeks ago on Jodi's blog. Since then, I found Stampavie, where all the Rachelle Anne Miller stamps are available. They also have Sarah Kay stamps which I love, too, but don't have any yet :(

This card was made for Stampavie's FIRST sketch challenge on PaperCraft Planet. How fun is that? I was SO excited that my Oval Nestabilities came in just a DAY before the challenge was due, so I could play along the way I wanted to :)

There were a bunch of talented ladies participating in last week's sketch challenge and I hope that there's another one soon...they are too much fun!

I am really loving these stamps and cannot WAIT to order more of them. There are a TON of cute Christmas ones, too and I'm wondering if I get my act together if I can have them here in time to knock out some holiday cards! Wouldn't that be awesome? Have a great weekend and thanks for reading!

Hugs,
Jessica :)

Pretties Friday: Sending lots of love!

Hey everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We had a great one and it was nice to just have a laid back, fun filled day at my Mom and Dad's house. We were missing some family this year, but we still had a good time and enjoyed GREAT food! Thanks so much, Mom for all that you do for us and for being an awesome cook!

I have another Prettie creation for you today :) Have you heard of Paper Pretties Stamp of the Month club? This little Cutie Pie is SENDING YOU LOVE Sophia, and she's our December Stamp of the month! What does that mean? Well, if you sign up for the SOTM club by November 30th, you'll receive this amazingly cute little stamp an ENTIRE month before it's released to the public! For more information on the SOTM club click HERE.

I was very excited to use this cute stamp for my card today! Last week, Danielle issued a sketch challenge on the forum and I was happy to play along! I LOVE sketch challenges. I posted the sketch and my card so you can see :)

Stay tuned this week to the Forum for another great challenge...they are every Thursday so we hope to see you playing along! In other Pretties news:

It's ALMOST HERE: Our Cutie Pie Contest!!

How would you like to be Paper Pretties Cutie Pie? I thought you would!! 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 November 30th at 8pmCDT to get your entries in!! Good luck!!

Wanna stamp in your Jammies?

On Monday December 1st, Paper Pretties will be having their monthly Stampin In Your Jammies party!! The party starts at 6pm CDT and will last until 9pm. 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 also be releasing Trim the Tree to the public as well as re-releasing Snowflake Kisses in RUBBAH. Hope to see you there!! Hugs,

Pretties Wednesday: A Pearl of a Challenge!

Hey you guys! I'm back with a Prettie post this morning!

Today is Pretties Wednesday, which means the DT gals have been busy working on this week's challenge! A few weeks ago, the amazing Jessie issued the Prettie Girls a challenge: to create a card using pearls.

Now THAT's a challenge I definitely have experience with! Pearls have been my thing for some time now, so this was great fun for me! I chose to use the adorable Trim the Tree Sophia for today's card. I couldn't wait to use the new Basic Grey Wassail paper either, so that came out without question! I added a few pearls into the circles on the paper, which worked well, as well as blinging out Sophia's belt with a beaded strand. After coloring with my Copics and adding some $1 Michael's ribbon, we were good to go!

Be sure to stop on by ALL the Prettie Girls' blogs today to check out their beautiful takes on this week's challenge! Links on my sidebar ------>>

Now that you've seen today's card, it's time to talk about the Cutie Pie Contest!!

How would you like to be Paper Pretties Cutie Pie? I thought you would!! 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 November 30th at 8pmCDT to get your entries in!! Good luck!!

Want to stamp....in your JAMMIES???

On Monday December 1st, Paper Pretties will be having their monthly Stampin In Your Jammies party!! The party starts at 6pm CDT (also CST) and will last until 9pm. 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 also be releasing Trim the Tree to the public as well as re-releasing Snowflake Kisses in RUBBAH. Hope to see you there!!

Don't forget that you have until November 30th at midnight to get signed up for the Stamp of the Month Club and get the Sending You Love Sophia stamp (preview here Friday!) before it is officially released in January.

Whew! What an awesome end of the month we have planned! I can't wait to see you guys here on my blog tomorrow and DEFINITELY at Paper Pretties soon! Hugs,

Pink Papery Studios Challenge: Giving Thanks!

Hey everyone...it's Wednesday and I will have a few cards for you today.

The first one is for our Pink Papery Studios DT Challenge. This week, Cassie issued the DT a challenge: Create a Thank you card in honor of Thanksgiving!

Now, this may seem simple as anything, but for me, a new DT gal with only two stamps, one of which contains a Christmas tree, this was a bit daunting! LOL! I chose to work with the Simply Cocoa set which I love and used pretty Fall colors to color her in with my Copics. Doesn't this just make you want to cozy up near a fireplace and have a nice chat?

I've been really busy lately and have a TON of people to thank for being super generous w/ my son these last few weeks. I've been making a ton of cards and they're all ready to be sent out...hopefully today! I'm out of stamps, as usual, of course, so a trip to the PO is necessary...

Anyway, one of my awesome friends, Jillian, has been checking in on me lots and making sure that I'm not losing my mind being at home, not to mention pretty worried about the whole situation w/ my little guy. So, Jillabella, this one's for you. The girlie image made me think of you :) The only things missing in this image is my laptop and cell phone since my morning coffee's have been spent chatting with her via email or texting...but thanks for doing your part in keeping the smiles coming and the jokes rolling! You are an amazing friend and I look forward to continuing this crazy journey that life has partnered us together on! Mwah!

I am so thankful for the wonderful people I have met through this stamping world, and the opportunities that continue to come my way. There have been so many open doors to walk through these last few months and I'm grateful for all of it. Most of all, I can't be grateful enough for the beautiful family I have been blessed with. As we do every year, we seem to have more and more to be thankful for...I can't wait for Thursday. I can smell the Turkey and my mom's pumpkin pie right now!

I'll be back later with a Prettie post...til then, Thankful hugs! ~Jessica :)

I'm in Love...

...with Rachelle Anne Miller stamps!

Oh my gosh have you guys seen these? They are TOO cute and I cannot wait to order more! My sweet friend Jodi made THIS card a few days ago and I emailed her right away to ask her where she got that ADORABLE stamp! Well, she was kind enough to stamp some for me until I get my own in the mail, and I am so excited about today's card!

This is Lily. You will be seeing a lot more of her, I can tell you THAT! How cute is she? She is one of many adorable images available on Stamapvie.com!

My kids' parent/teacher conferences were yesterday and all three of them received glowing reviews and report cards reflected that. I am VERY proud of them, so I made all three of them congrats cards w/ a pack of gum inside. This card is going to my DD in 3rd grade and I think she will LOVE it!

Thanks for reading and hope you like today's image cuz you'll be seeing her again soon :o)!

Hugs,

LPS Monday: Twinkling Topiary

Hello everyone and Happy Monday!

We had a nice, relaxing weekend I must say. Those don't happen too often so I was very thankful for that...speaking of which, it's Thanksgiving week and the kiddos are off school all this week, so we are keeping busy doing lots of arts and crafts! That means you can expect a few cards from me this week LOL ;)

Today is Little Paper Shop Monday, and I have a card to show you that I made using the beautiful Topiary set. This set is so great-not only is it adorable and versatile for SO many uses, but it's extremely affordable too! It's a really great deal and perfect for year round use...including your holiday cards!

I dressed up today's card with a healthy dose of bling (aren't you surprised? LOL). After coloring with my Copics, I glazed the entire topiary with some Diamond Stickles and then after it dried I gave it the finishing touches with some tiny red pearls.

Well, I hope to be back later with the Mojo Monday card from this week. It's really rare that I've been able to get sketch cards done on the same day so that's my goal for today. Funny, I know...but I'm always in competition w/ myself, you know? Keeps me on my toes :)

Hope to see you back here later today! Hugs,

RECIPE: True Thyme and Bazzill Red, BG Wassail DP, Papertrey Vintage Cream CS

Stamps: Topiary by The Little Paper Shop, sentiment from Flourished Dove set by The Little Paper Shop

Ink: Always Artichoke, Dark Chocolate Palette

Accessories: Copics, Glitter Brads from DCWV, Pearls, Pure Poppy Twill by Papertrey

Some AMAZING RAK's...

Hey guys...happy Saturday!

I was SO surprised when I went to the mailbox these last few days I had to share!

Now, many of you know that when the Prettie Girls do their weekly challenges we send each other our cards, projects which keeps it really fun. I LOVE getting mail from people and seeing these beautiful creations firsthand is even better than seeing a picture, you know?

Well, last week, it was Julie's turn to send me hers. It was for Jessie's glitter challenge, and Jules came up with this SUPER cute mini pizza box! I was so excited to get it, and what's more? Tucked inside was the sweetest note from Julie and also a little dew drop ink pad for me in a beautiful purple color...you didn't have to do that Jules! THANK YOU!!! Isn't this box just amazing?

Then, today, totally out of the blue, I got the SWEETEST card from Jodi Collins, another Prettie girl. This DT is absolutely amazing, I tell you! Tucked inside this super cute card were some images she knew that I liked...I had left her a comment on her blog about a card she made with them a while ago and she remembered and was so thoughtful that she sent them to me...what a good friend! I was SOOO pleasantly surprised and I can't even tell you how that made my day today. Check out her card...isn't it GORGEOUS?? The picture doesn't even do it justice w/ all the attention to detail and the coloring. Jodi, you're amazing! Thank you SO MUCH!!!

Also in today's mail was my monthly DT assignment from Queen Kat designs. When I opened up the envelope, I was so surprised to find this BEAUTIFUL altered notepad and pen that Vicki, the owner, had made me as a Christmas present. Vicki and I have only known each other through QKD for a little over a month and yet she knew to make it pink and uh, HELLO?!?!? The Butterfly?!?!? I can't even tell you how touching that was to know that she went out of her way to use a stamp and color scheme that was totally for me. isn't it BEAUTIFUL? Thank you SO much, Vicki! I LOVE it!

You guys are so good to me, I swear. I really appreciate it and it really made my week to get these awesome things in the mail. How fun is that?

I'll be back tomorrow with a card or two...I stamped for about 4 hours today...can you believe it? We're off to enjoy some Chinese and catch up on Grey's, Brothers and Sisters...and SLEEP!

Ciao Bellas!

Pretties Friday...Keeping Watch...

Hi everyone!

Sorry I'm a bit late with posting today...I was keeping watch over a few things that needed to be done at home and also with my lil' guy who I took to the doctor this morning when I noticed his splint didn't look quite right. Turns out I was right to go in because it did shift a bit, so the doctor got him all fixed up and did an x-ray while we were there. The xray shows that the healing is already beginning and he was actually able to get his stitches out which was unexepected and a relief. My little dude was a bit apprehensive, but it was nothing a sucker couldn't fix!

So, now we go back in a few weeks to determine when the rods will come out. No school all next week either w/ Thanksgiving break so we will continue to heal and keep him busy in his little chair. He is being SO good through all of this and the doctors and nurses are just wonderful. LOTS to be thankful for this year!!!

With Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, I decided to use this adorable Nativity set from Paper Pretties today. Isn't this little shepherd boy just the cutest? I love these new sets. Head on over to check them out! I was also able to incorporate this week's Mojo challenge which always makes me happy :) Speaking of challenges....

Have you seen? Have you heard? The new Paper Pretties blog, The Paper Clip, is in full swing! With lots of cute card ideas, news, and a great Challenge this week, we'd love for you to stop by and say hello!

Don't forget too, that the fantastic SALE is still going on this week! EVERYTHING in the Pretties boutique *(only exceptions are Pretties stamps and swarovski crystals) is 75% OFF! Make sure to grab a little or a LOT before the sale ends! See you there!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Hugs,

Jess :)

ONLY ONE MORE DAY!!!

Ok, this is a non-stamping post but in a way it SORT OF is b/c had it not been for my good friend and long time SU demo/enabler/supplier Darla I would never have stumbled upon the best book series ever...

TWILIGHT!

Yes, yes I am.

I am going to stand in line with a bunch of teenagers, with a bunch of my grown-up girlfriends, all of us probably acting like teenagers, clutching my ticket for the 7:45 show and for approximately two hours, go somewhere else...

I am going to sit back, big bucket o' popcorn in hand and dive right into remembering the thousands of pages I read this summer that I just couldn't put down...

I am going to oooh, ahhh, compare, critique, boo, applaud....you name it, the accuracy between movie and book and talk about it with my girlfriends for days....heck ,WEEKS to come....

I am going to see....

TWILIGHT....The MOVIE! Coming to a theatre near me tomorrow night!

Although I am not looking forward to competing with little teeny boppers for my moment in time with Edward, I guess when you go to opening night, that's par for the course... besides, REAL vampires prefer older, more sophisticated women, right? LOL.

I am going to go stamp now as it is ever apparent that I "don't get out much". Can you TELL?

QKD BIRTHDAY BUTTERFLY Challenge...Read all about it!

Hello again! Thanks for hoppin' on over!

I'm back this time to ask....ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?

It's my hour to issue the Queen Kat Designs Birthday challenge! Woo hoo!

Ok, here's the scoop:

Create a card using......using......drums....rolling........ba dum bum bum.....A BUTTERFLY STAMP!

Yep..that's all you have to do! Just make your most fan-freakin-tabulous card using a butterfly image and you're good to go!

Make sure you leave a comment here on my blog to let me know you entered here and on the Queen Kat blog so that your challenges completed all can qualify for a prize!

You have until the 21st at MIDNIGHT to enter this and the other challenges from today's hop to get your project submitted. How fun will this be?!?!?

Be sure to head on over to Lara's blog after this hour is up for the next rockin' challenge! Can't wait to see what she has in store for us! Too fun!

Can't wait to see what you come up with and be sure to upload to the QKD Gallery so we can see all your whimsical creations in one place!

Good luck and enjoy! Hugs,

RECIPE: Kiwi Kiss CS by SU, Stampers Select CS by papertrey, Urban Garden DP by SU

Stamps: Friends by Queen Kat Designs

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Accessories: Stickles in Diamond, Hero Arts Baubles, dimensionals, Pebbles Inc. Chalks, Nestabilities

Pretties Wednesday: On the move!

Hey, I'm back with another card to show you and it's a Prettie cool idea!

It's Pretties Wednesday, and a few weeks ago, the wonderfully talented Charmaine issued a challenge to the Prettie Girls: Create a card where something on it must MOVE!

I was a bit stumped at first, since I don't make many interactive cards, but as I was creating something TOTALLY different last week, I came across these cute snowflakes from Hero Arts and, well...an idea was born! Gotta LOVE when that happens!

I used my Angel Wings Sophia, now available at Paper Pretties! She was the October stamp of the month and was oooh'ed and ahhh'ed over but is now available! Isn't she prettie? I just love her. I glittered and flocked her wings and then decided to create a "Shaker Card" using the snowflakes that I had.

This card is on it's way to Jules this week...hope you like it! Speaking of which, be sure to head on over to all the Prettie Girls' blogs today to see what their takes were on the challenge. I can't wait to see what these lovely and talented ladies came up with...I can only imagine there will be TONS of cuteness!

Christie

Charmaine

Danielle

Jules

Jessie

Jackie P.

Jackie R.

Jillian

Jana

Jodi

Last but not least, have you scooped up your goodies yet from the UNHEARD of 75% off sale at Paper Pretties?!?!? If not, head on over! EVERYTHING in the store (with the exception of the Pretties brand stamps and swarovski crystals) is 75% off! The store is moving so the sale won't last too much longer, but while you have the time, check it out!

While you're there, be sure to check out The Paper Clip, our new Pretties Blog! Lots to see and do so let's get started! Hugs,

I'm seein' Red...and a TEENY bit of grey :)

Hey everyone, it's a "TRIPLE WHAMMY WEDNESDAY" here as I'm calling it on The Whimsical Butterfly blog...

I have TONS to show you today, but before I do, HAPPY THIRD BIRTHDAY AVA!!! I can't believe my little baby is three. It's amazing to me and I can't wait to celebrate the day with her...I'm off to start that now!

Before I step out for a while, though, I want to show you this card I made using the Pink Papery Studios stamp "All Wrapped Up". I just LOVE this girlie image and it really puts me in the mood to start buying (and MAKING!) and wrapping some amazing gifts!

This was my first DT challenge as a guest with Pink Papery Studios! The challenge was issued by the lovely and talented Cassie and the rules are to use RED and GREY in the color scheme, in honor of it being National Diabetes month. Her Grandfather had it and also her Mother was diagnosed a few years ago. I unfortunately didnt' have ANY Grey cardstock, or even ribbon...wah! I did manage to find this pretty pewter brad though, so I hope it does the challenge justice!

It was fun playing and make sure you check out the Pink Papery Studios website! Amy is still loading up the website with tons of cute stamps, embellishments, and the new "Shimmer IT!" Paints coming soon! I can't wait for those...who doesn't need MORE bling?

Have a great day and I'll see you soon with something prettie...any guesses?!?!? Hugs,

RECIPE: Bazzill CS, Shimmery White by Papertrey

Stamps: All Wrapped Up by Pink Papery Studios (digistamp)

Accessories: Copics, Imaginisce flower and Holly, Red pearls by Craft Studio, Making Memories Vintage Brad

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO QKD! Are you up for the CHALLENGE?

Hey everyone...I just want to give you a quick heads up for tomorrow!

Not ONLY is it my amazing DD's 3rd birthday, but it's also Queen Kat Design's SECOND BIRTHDAY!!!

There will be an ALL-DAY blog hop with challenges on the hour and fun prizes, too!

Be sure to check out all the fun at the Queen Kat blog and check back here, too for my whimsical challenge! It will be a fun one, so stay tuned!!!

You will have until midnight PST tonight (that's 2AM here!) to enter all games/questions... and you will have until midnight PST on November 21st to enter all creative challenges that you actually have to make something for.

How do you win? Everyone who enters one of your Royal Court blog hop games or challenges will have their name entered into a drawing for a prize. We have several prizes to give out. All winners will be announced right here at the QKD blog on November 22nd. Winners will have until November 26th to claim their prizes.Have fun! and remember each hour we will have something new for you to enter!

Have fun and see you back here tomorrow at 7pm CST for my challenge!!!

My Little Mermaid...

Hey everyone!

Ok, I'm going to cut right to the chase today because seriously, HOW cute is this mermaid Anya stamp from Pink Poison?

My little princess's THIRD birthday is tomorrow...I can't believe it! This card is for her. She is VERY into Mermaids this year. When we went to Disney, her favorite show was the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Her wish list for birthday (and Christmas for that matter!) consists of many Mermaid Barbies and Mermaid playsets. She is often found playing dress up as the "Mermaid Princess". QUITE a phase we are going through and I LOVE it!

So, when I decided it was time to make her birthday card this year, Mermaid Anya was the one and ONLY choice!!!

I have a bunch of posts already lined up for tomorrow, her actual bday, so I thought I'd show you this today to get everyone in a celebratory mood! Thanks for looking and see you back not once, but a few times tomorrow! Stay tuned! Hugs,

P.S...Oh! Before I forget, make sure to head on over to THIS post on the Pink Poison blog to see my two little Best Mates stamping their heart out!

LPS Monday...Tryin' to slow down time...

Hey everyone...Happy Monday, folks!

Today is Little Paper Shop Monday and I thought this card I made over the weekend and I have a new gatefolded pocket card to share with you.

I LOVE this quote from the LPS "A Dream" stamp set. That is so true, isn't it? I guess I found it to be especially appropriate this week because of the fact that we've kind of slowed down these past few days to care for my little guy's injury and I have to say, I have enjoyed the slower pace.

Even though I wish he had never gotten hurt, as any parent would, of course, the fact that we've been home and spending more time together in the house rather than running around all day has really proven to be precious at times. Sure, the DH and I are gettin on each other's nerves (lol...only a little ;) and everyone gets a bit stir crazy but all in all, we are really enjoying each other's company.

I am just so thankful to have such a close family and to have such a great relationship with my kids. The quote is so true...time can pass by so quickly and we are so capable of getting caught up in our daily "stuff" and can miss these precious moments that are usually right under our nose....

...like the way my eldest daughter hums and sings so beautifully when she thinks no one is listening, the way my son looks up at me with a big grin and without a word spoken I can tell he gets the joke...like the way my 3 yr old almost bounces when she walks...so whimsical...and the way my other lil' guy will be sitting with me and we'll be coloring, talking, stamping, whatever...and out of thin air he'll just grab my hand and want to hold it for a while...these little moments (just like the Brad Paisley song!) are what I live for...and when things slow down a bit, it makes them all the sweeter.

I really just don't think my heart could be fuller right now as I write this...what a good feeling. So, hey, thanks for letting me share! Make sure you check out what the rest of our uber-talented DT girls came up with today, too! Links on my sidebare ----->>

Hugs,

RECIPE: Gatefolded piece of bazzill CS, Stamper Select White from PTI, Afternoon tea DP (SU)

Stamps: A Dream by the Little Paper Shop

Ink: Versamagic Celadon cube

Accessories: My mind's Eye diecut clock, Liquid pearls, Nestabilities

A VERY special Birthday Blog Hop!..Pretties style!

Hey everyone! Do you know what today is?

It's my awesome friend/sistah Jillian's birthday!!!!!! (insert those little paper-roll-out-blower-noises here!) I am so blessed to have met such an awesome person who not only shares my stamping obession, but is really somewhat of a long-lost twin as we say! Scary there could be two of me...or HER! LOL. We are also lucky enough to get to do DT stuff together for Paper Pretties...and we haven't even gotten into trouble yet! (the DT term is still young, mind you ha ha jk).

The Prettie Girls want to wish our girl Jillian the biggest and best birthday EVAH, so we are having a blog hop!

While you are here, I will show you that I was in charge of bringing party favors to this rockin' bash. Here are my treats, including some candy, lip gloss, lotion, and well, stickles, because let's face it, most of the party attendees are die-hard stampers like us! I made a Flutter By Sophia gift tag to wrap up our goodie bags, and to tell you THANKS for coming!!!

Head on over to Jessie's blog next to check out Jillian's "loot"....Jessie is in charge of bringing the presents! Dont' miss it!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JILLIAN....I LOVE YA, girlie! XOXOXO,

LPS DT Challenge: BLING IT ON!!!

Hey everyone! Well, it's Saturday and it's also the 15th of the month, so that means it's time for our Little Paper Shop Design Team Challenge! Woo hoo!

It's been a crazy week around here, but we have managed to get through it. Today my sweet lil' guy saw the orthopoedic surgeon and the dr. said he is already healing as well as can be. He said the xray looked beautiful in terms of the surgery and that we will follow up again in 3 weeks to evaluate taking the rods out. It's still going to be a long road, but we are getting in the groove with many fun activities to keep each other busy, and I really enjoy our cuddle time. Not that I didn't before, of course, but I'm just so thankful that he's going to be ok. My little dude has been through so much this week and to see him smiling has been the greatest joy through all of this. Anyway, I'll update as the days go by but want to say thank you to all who have sent well wishes and more importantly, prayers. It means so much.

With that in mind, I have a LOT of thank you's to send out so I kept that in mind for this month's challenge, issued by the lovely and talented Ely. The challenge was to use TWO LPS stamp sets and add glitter...how fun was that? Thanks Ely for this awesome challenge! I used the Chirp set for the sentiment and the Beautiful Things stamp set, one of my faves, to stamp the flowers on this card. I also added a bit of stickles in the center of each flower and hence, a challenge was completed!

Be sure to stop by the other Little Paper Shop Design Team Members' blogs today to see all the cuteness... There sure are some lovely and talented ladies on this team! Links to these awesome gals are on my sidebar !

----------->>>>>>>>>>>>>

Don't forget, too, that you can get FREE SHIPPING on any order over $45 and be sure to check out all of the adorable holiday sets that came out these past few months in case you're looking for inspiration to get moving on those cards!

Have a great weekend everyone...lots of hugs! ~Jessica :)

RECIPE:

Tangerine Tango CS, Whisper White CS, Kiwi Kiss by SU, Haiku DP by SU

Stamps: Beautiful Things and Chirp by Little Paper Shop

Inks: Pumpkin Pie, Kiwi Kiss by SU

Accessories: Kiwi Kiss ribbon by SU, dimensionals, Diamond stickles

Pretties Friday: Lil' Love Bug...

Happy Friday, everyone! It's the end of another week and all is well considering my lil' guy is doing quite well keeping busy and doesn't seem to be hurting. He goes to the Orthopoedic surgeon today at 1 so I will let you know if there's any news... The prospect of him going back to school next week is a little scary b/c he won't be in my care, but I'm sure he'll be happy to get back.

Speaking of my lil' love bug, I've been making a few cards for him and with him. It's something very special we've been doing together. He really likes this Wade E. Bug stamp by Paper Pretties so I made this for him. I've been trying to give him a few cards here and there just as a surprise, even though we've been together all the time I want him to know what a special and brave little guy he is!!

Have you guys seen the Wade E. Bug stamps from Paper Pretties? There is a whole collection of them, actually. They are so cute and are such a nice complement to the Sophia and Cooper stamps...I think they're adorable..and I don't even LIKE bugs LOL!

So, what are your plans for the weekend? Doing anything exciting? Stamping? Working? Playing? Whatever it is, I hope you have a great weekend!

Don't forget, too, that the AWESOME Paper Pretties sale is still going on! Rush on over to grab EVERYTHING (only w/ the exception of the Paper Pretties brand stamps and swarovski's) at 75% off before it's all gone! Also, be sure to check out The Paper Clip, the new Paper Pretties blog! It's adorable and there are lots of fun ideas on there, and we're only getting started!

Hugs,

RECIPE: Cardstock: Dark Brown CS, DP from Love Elsie, Stampers Select White CS from PTI, REd Bazzill CS

Stamps: Wade E. Bug, Love Bug by Paper Pretties

Ink: Dark Chocolate by Papertrey

Accessories: Copics, Stickles in Cinnamon, Kaisercraft Pearls

Toasty-Warm Thursday...

Hi all...it's toasty warm in my house today...not outside of it though!!

Oh, if you don't know me very well, I do NOT like cold weather. Soooo, while I wait for my shot at a life in Charleston, SC..Nashville maybe...you MAY hear this from time to time. Sorry! LOL

What could be better though than a hot cup of coffee or cocoa on a comfy sofa as we're getting into these chilly months? This stamp from Pink Papery Studios really got me in that warm, cozy mood! It's called Simply Cocoa and is one of many adorable images in a ridiculously cute new line of stamps!

Have you guys heard of Pink Papery Studios? You really need to head on over! They have a ton of beautifully illustrated, fun, and girly stamps to offer and are also tapping into a newer realm of "digi-stamps", where you can download a file for a very reduced cost than the actual rubber/polymer set and print them out on cardstock! Kind of nice to have the option to do that, right? Personally, I still like to get my hands dirty, but this cozy chick was digitally downloaded and it was kind of fun! She was ready to color right from my printer...pretty cool!

In addition to really fun stamps, Pink Papery Studios is offering a new product called "Shimmer IT!", adorably fun pots of shimmer paint available in a wide array of colors! They also offer card "scents", a spray made especially for cardstock that you spray on before you send them in the mail...you will flip when you see how many scents are available! It's such a cool idea!

The website is brand new, so some of the products are still being loaded onto the site, but stay tuned to Amy's BLOG for the latest and greatest updates! Hope to see you guys inking up some of their awesome new stamps!!!

I am going to be doing some guest work for Pink Papery Studios in November and December so stay tuned for more cuteness! I can't wait to tell you/show you more!

Thanks for looking and stay warm! I'm gonna go grab another cup of coffee now... Hugs, Jess :)

Pretties Wednesday: Sparsely Scored!

Hey everyone,

How are you guys doing this chilly Wednesday? Today's card proved to be one of the most challenging I've ever done...NO LAYERS. Jules issued this somewhat cruel challenge (LOL) to the Prettie Girls last Wednesday and I've been stressed over it ever since! I am NOT one to leave out layers on a card, that's for sure. The only one who may have found this more painful that I did would definitely have to be Jessie...her layering FAR surpasses mine as it's own genre of art!

Anyway, I used a piece of White Cardstock to start with and used my Scor Pal to emboss a frame of sorts on the card. Using my Look Who's Perky set from Paper Pretties (one of my favorites, the coffee lover that I am!), I glammed up the sugar bowl and coffee mug just a bit and added some Martha Stewart Satin Ribbon for just a pinch of flair. I had to...I couldn't stand the way this card looked!

I STILL don't know that I like it, but you guys can let me know what you think.

Now...have you guys HEARD of the Paper Pretties new BLOG???? Well head on over to the Paper Clip and see the cuteness for yourself! The blog is brand new and will be an awesome place to get all the news, see sneak peeks of the cutest, newest stamps, and find out about sales sooner than anyone else! Head on over today to see how AMAZING it is...I know I'll be visiting often!

Also, make sure you head on over to the other Prettie Girls' blogs today to see what they came up with for this No layers challenge! I'm headed there now! Links are on my sidebar --->>

Oh! I forgot to mention, too that today is my spotlight as the Silver Medalist over on the Pink Poison Blog! Check out my little 15 minutes if you feel like it and definitely stop by the Pink Poison website to see all the cute new stamps available...I got a little Happy mail over the weekend and am dying to dive in!

Last but not least, I wanted to thank you for your support and prayers for my little guy this week. I'm sorry that my last post seemed odd to some...I tried to cover all my bases, but since some of you don't know, my DH and one of my sons had an accident over the weekend and my brave little soldier suffered a broken leg and had to have surgery to repair it. It's been a long and exhausting few days and I've just been sick over watching him like this.

Today was a better day. His spirits were really up and with every smile on his face I was just so, extremely grateful. It will be a long road to recovery, but he's expected to make a full one. In addition, I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends and family who have come bearing coloring books, games, and lots of fun stuff to help keep him occupied...offering help, and just visiting with him. It's really such a blessing. I don't know how parents of sick or handicapped kids do it...I really don't. I have a whole new respect, not that I didn't before, but even moreso now, knowing that not only is it a ton of work, but it's also devastating...just heartbreaking to see your child in a wheelchair. I have to remind myself when I'm having a sobfest over this that this is temporary and I need to be grateful for that.

Thanks for all your prayers and I will definitely keep you posted...it's therapeutic in a way knowing you guys are reading and thinking of us. Thank you so much to all the great friends I've met through blogging. I cherish you all!!! Big Hugs to you all,

Enjoying the Little Things..like LPS Monday!

Hi all...Sorry for the late Monday am post...we've had quite a weekend. I will post about that a little later, actually, but wanted to show you this card.

I made this for the Verve Sketch Blitz but didnt' get to post it in time for the contest...oh well. Not a huge deal at all really in comparison to what matters.

I did love this sketch though...I think it was my favorite of the five. So I wanted to show it to you.

Thanks for looking and I hope you all had a great weekend! Lots of hugs,

RECIPE: Vintage Cream Cardstock by PTI, Vintage Violet, Really Rust by SU, Papyrus Wrapping Paper

Stamps: A Dream by The Little Paper Shop

Ink: Pumpkin Pie by SU

Accessories: Dew Drops, Papyrus Ribbon, MS Butterfly punch, Nestabilities

ENABLER ALERT! ENABLER ALERT! AGAIN!

Hey everyone!

There's no time like the present for shopping, I always say!

Want to score a sweet deal today? TODAY ONLY????

Then head on over to The Little Paper Shop!

EVERYTHING in the store is 15% off for TODAY ONLY!

Need to get a head start on holiday cards or have you just had your eye on something you've seen on my or one of the fab DT girls' blogs? Well...now's your chance! Remember, too you always get Free Shipping on orders over $45. See you over at LPS today!!! Thanks!

QKD RELEASE PARTY....TONIGHT!

Hey everyone!

I've got some exciting announcements to make today...sales....release parties...bears OH MY!

Have you guys heard of the new Paper Craft Planet? It's the latest meeting place for scrappers, stampers and the like! It literally blew up overnight and I absolutely LOVE it! On behalf of myself AND Queen Kat Designs, I'm inviting you to Paper Craft Planet. It's an online community with SOOOO much to offer!

We will be hosting a party in our group on that web site this Saturday, November 8th beginning at 7pm MST. (8pm Central QKD is having a SECOND stamp release this month! SURPRISE! It's our 2nd Birthday so we're doing TWO stamp releases this month. Don't miss it! There's going to be fun and prizes.. and there's even mention of a challenge... hmmm wonder what that's all about!!!!

See you there....and hey, if you register on Paper craft Planet, don't forget to add me so I know you're there! Can't wait to party with you guys tonight!!!

Pretties Friday: Get Well Mojo..

Hello my friends...happy Friday!

We are "bugged" with another cold/flu bug here in the house so today's card is very appropriate!Isn't this Bunny Slipper Sophia from Paper Pretties the cutest? I adore her...AND her slippers! I write this in my own jammies, as a matter of fact. It's one of those damp/cool mornings and I'll be hard pressed to change into real clothes! Gotta love that sometimes, though :)

I made this card for today's post, following the Mojo Monday sketch for this week, too. I love when I can play!!! I've been doing a lot of challenges lately and it's really keeping me on my toes! Gotta love that too when the mojo is flowin'! Pretty awesome when that happens...

Speaking of awesome, have you checked out the sale at Paper Pretties???!?!?!? I've had a few blogging friends already email me to thank me for letting them know, which I was happy about...but seriously, don't thank ME...thank Christie and Paper Pretties! Right now, EVERYTHING in the shop (except Paper Pretties stamps and swarovski's) is a WHOPPING 75% off!!!!! The store is moving and everything NON-Paper Pretties brand MUST GO! I'm not kidding you guys...head on over asap! You are NOT going to want to miss this!!! Be sure to head on over today and have a super Prettie day!

Hugs,

RECIPE: Cardstock: Aqua Mist and Stampers Select White by PapertreyInk, Afternoon Tea DP by SU Stamps: Bunny Slippers Sophia by Paper Pretties, Sincere Salutations by SU Ink: Dark Chocolate by PapertreyInk. Accessories: Kaisercraft Pearls, Marcella by K flowers, Copics

Gotta love the Craft...and the Critique!

Hey guys...

Just a quick reminder/shout out that tomorrow my first article with Craft Critique debuts at http://www.craftcritique.com/! I hope to see you there!

Hugs,

Sometimes...when you think no one's looking...

...a child does the cutest, funniest, and most heart-melting little thing!

I decided that NO card could be cute enough to compete with what I found last night before I went to bed! So, I bring you today's post w/ a little bit of background info...

My little princess (who happens to be BFF's with our dog, Doc) turns 3 later this month. She is still sleeping in a crib and has had no real interest in a big girl bed. However, now that we've got the potty thing down, we thought we'd experiment with letting her sleep in a bed vs. crib.

Well, last night, when I was cleaning up the kitchen, she must have wanted to be nearer to where the action was so VERY quietly snuck into the living room. I did see this briefly, and told her that it was time to go back to sleep.

She obliged, only on the couch this time. I could only see her little feet from the kitchen, but I knew she'd stay put so I decided she could stay there for a few more minutes while I'd finish up my stuff and then bring her back to her bedroom....

About ten minutes later...THIS is what I found....
Yep, BOTH of them...sound asleep... NEITHER of them woke up for the 5 pictures I took of them either LOL! Aren't kids the greatest???

Pretties Wednesday: What a SCORE!

...and WHAT a score it was as I watched history in the making last night...I will never forget the way it felt being enveloped in it... Enough about that for now, though...I've got a new (...and BLUE!) card to show you right now!

A few weeks ago the wonderful Jackie Pedro of our Paper Pretties Design Team issued a challenge to the rest of the Prettie Girls to make a card featuring scoring.

I chose to put my score-pal to work for this card by using it two ways:

I decided to make a gatefold card, so I scored it appropriately according to the gatefold lines which are oh-so-convenient right on the score-pal!

I then used it to "emboss" a frame around my adorable little Flutter By Sophia. I love this look. Just a simple raised frame can add so much to what you are making.

Thanks for stopping by today and for being so awesome!
Be sure to stop by the other Prettie Girls' blogs too to see what other tips you can "score" from this awesome challenge! The links to these fabulously talented ladies are right here on my sidebar...----->>

Last but not least, want to do some major shopping at 75% off??? Paper Pretties is moving and needs to clear out inventory...NOW! Almost everything in the Pretties Boutique is on sale for 75% off - yes that was 75% you read - below wholesale!!! The exceptions are the Pretties Stamps and the Swarovski crystals - but everything else is being cleared out! The prices have already been changed for you so you won't need a coupon code! Happy Shopping!! Hugs,

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm a Winner too on Election Day!!

Hey everyone!

I'm back with another post today...told ya I will be keeping busy! Soooooo yesterday you might have caught my little sneak peek to THIS post...

I am thrilled to have won the SILVER medal for most cards completed in the Pink Poison Olympics! I completed a total of 31 cards! I want to send a huge shout out to Marie at Pink Poison for having this awesome challenge and for offering such awesome prizes for winning! I am now the lucky winner of FOUR free stamp sets and another Guest Spotlight...thanks Marie...you ROCK!

Along with this amazing win, though, comes a decision I made early on while creating the cards.

A few years ago, a friend of mine lost her daughter to a terminal illess and the impact it had on me was life-altering. Throughout her struggle, they spent months at the Ronald McDonald house in Minnesota as they awaited treatment after treatment so far away from home.

Even with their precious one gone, this family is amazing and has committed to give back to the RMH each year with not only monetary donations, but all sorts of items-foods, supplies, coloring books for the kids, etc.

That being said, I have decided to donate all 31 of my cards to the RMH for siblings, family members, and volunteers at the RMH. I know 31 won't be enough, but I hope to do more. If you are interested in doing the same, please let me know. Even if it's not for the RMH, I would encourage you to do the same for another organization where it would really brighten someone's day.

Ihope you've enjoyed just a few cards here that I made for the challenge. I will plan to have them up on SCS soon and will also let you know when my Spotlight goes live on the Pink Poison blog so you can see them there too...she has QUITE the stamina for posting pics on Blogger!! I can't say the same for myself LOL!

You should really check out the new Nov. releases on the Pink Poison website, too...they are fabulous! I can't wait to get mine in the mail and will definitely be back to show you what I do with them!!

Last but not least, if you haven't gone out and voted yet...WHAT are you waiting for??? Starbucks is even giving away a free coffee when you show them you voted...how awesome is THAT? Hugs, Jessica :)