Just For Fun!

Hip Hip Hooray....

2011-11-06T06:00:00.000-09:00

I made this card this past summer for Dave's Granny and have yet to get it in the mail!!! How bad is that!!! I don't know what is wrong with me! Anyway, figured I'd share it here at least and hopefully, it will give me the motivation to walk it to the mailbox! ;O)

Paper: Key To My Heart

Cardstock: White Daisy and Tulip

Stamps: Card Chatter-Happy Birthday and Happy Forever

Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black, Juniper, and Tulip (Sponged around cardstock)

Other: Copic Markers, Stickles, Recollections Adhesive Sparkles, CTMH Hollyhock brads, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, Crop-a-Dile Corner punch, and Celebrate It White Ric Rac Ribbon

My Work In Progress...

2011-11-05T14:46:00.002-08:00

So, we found out this week what we are having...it's a healthy baby GIRL!!! She's about the only thing I've managed to work on lately!! ;O) She was less than cooperative during the sonogram, so our pictures aren't exactly stellar. This was our first experience with a 3-D sonogram, kind of disappointing I have to say!

I have one card I will share with you tomorrow that I completed forever ago and never posted. I also have a couple layouts in the works I'm hoping to share soon. Sorry for my lack of productivity! I have a feeling I won't be very consistent until after our little trouble maker makes her appearance this spring!!

Happy Birthday to Me...

2011-11-05T14:39:00.002-08:00

Hey everybody!! I'm finally starting to feel more like myself, o.k., well, less nauseous anyway...still extremely exhausted! Anyone who says they "Loved being pregnant" didn't have to work!!

I photographed these beautiful cards, that I received for my birthday ages ago, but, am just now getting them posted. Aren't they gorgeous!!

The first one is from my friend Barbara, isn't the background paper great? She totally did that with embossing powder and a fancy tool....I need to ask her how, I've never seen anything like it! How great is it!! She also did a great job on the ice cream cone from the stamp set with the Fanfare Workshop on the Go with embossing powder again...I never think to stamp tone on tone. I love how it looks! If you want to see more of her work and read her creative take on life, check out her blog here at "Grammy's Place"!

The second one is from my mother-in-law, Diana. How great is it! I just love the colors!! She used the Splendor paper pack. Can you tell they are great customers! ;O)

I'm Still Alive...

2011-09-17T10:54:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been FOREVER since I posted last. Its an understatement to say the last few months have been a roller coaster for us! First off, July was a reporting month for me at work, which by default, means a nightmare of long days and legal "help"!!

My reports were submitted on time with less drama than has been the case recently, but, it was hard to celebrate because my little man had a tonsillectomy looming. I was an absolute disaster in the days leading up to the surgery and barely held it together by clinging to the thought that the worst of it would be over as soon as Owen was out of the hospital. Unfortunately, although the surgery went well, the aftermath was worse than our worst nightmare. I'll spare you the bloody details, but, we ended up back in the emergency room and Owen's recovery took more like a month than the week we were promised. My faith in the medical profession could not be lower at this point and I am so thankful to have gained some knowledge over the past couple years about all the alternative medicine and treatments available to us. I have no doubt that Owen would not be where he is today without the help of naturopathic medicine. I'm happy to report he's fully recovered and does seem to be better off without those giant tonsils closing off his throat! His ear infections persist however, and we'll have to figure that out. But, we're able to keep them from flaring up with some ear drops.

Here's my brave little man just after his surgery in his dad's arms.

This is my little dude back in the Emergency Room just 4 days later. You'd be surprised how fast they'll see you when you're covered in blood with a little one in your arms! I was really proud of this guy, even in the ER, they had to poke him 3 times to get an IV going. He wasn't happy, but, took it like a man!

So, thats not the end to our drama. I had an idea before Owen's surgery, but, was able to confirm it just recently with a doctor. Owen's going to have a little brother or sister soon! We're all excited, but, a little overwhelmed. This little buggar is making me SO sick!! It's not smells this time, but, instead, movement. I have trouble watching t.v. or using the computer...especially, when you have to scroll through stuff and FORGET about using my Iphone or Dave's Ipad!! Even writing about it is making me nauseous!!! Needless to say, I am not spending too much unnecessary time on the computer looking at blogs and scrapbooking doesn't seem to be an option either. But, I'm into my second trimester now and have my fingers crossed that things will improve shortly!!

Thanks for sticking in there with me!! I have a few things I hope to post in the upcoming days and hope to get back to my craft table this weekend too...wish me luck!! ;O)

A Way Late Birthday...

2011-07-03T08:00:00.003-08:00

In the race to get my example cards done for the senior card club flyer, I had to come up with one for my aunt who's birthday was way back in April...oops! I haven't done real well this year getting anyone's card to them on time...I have really good intentions and its not like I forget...I just can't seem to get it together and life/time seems to blow right past me. Anyway, this is obviously very similar to the Cranberry/Moonstruck card scraplifted from Katy Lyn that I posted earlier. I tried to girly this one up though.

Cardstock: Blush and White Daisy

Stamps: Birthday Celebration (retired), Nursery Bash (confetti; retired), and Card Chatter-Birthday

Ink: Blush, Sunset, and Black

Other: Crop-a-Dial Corner Punch, Stickles, and Zig pen

Card Club for Seniors...

2011-07-03T06:00:00.095-08:00

So, I've been trying to find painting classes in the Valley that my grandmother and I could do together. Mostly just as an excuse to spend some creative time with her. She's an amazing painter and I keep hoping some of that artistic vibe will rub off on me!! Anyway, I haven't had much luck finding any classes close enough, so, I decided to start a card class at the Senior Center and ask her to be my assistant instead. My thinking was that this way, she'll get some social time, I get a little creative time with her, and best of all, I get to give back to the community in a small way. Well, it was a great idea in theory, but, now I'm SO nervous. I'm not sure what to expect from the ladies that attend, if I get any to come at all!! Normally when I do a scrapbooking party, we stick to one project and I have an idea of what skill level to expect. This is definitely out of my comfort zone, so, we'll see how it goes...here's what I come up with for the first class...

The first card is loosely based on Mojo Monday Sketch #195 posted on June 13th. This one was the toughest for me and I especially don't love the inside. I think I'm going to improve it by swapping out the ribbon for some white ricrac I just picked up this weekend. Part of my plan for this card club was to take the opportunity to use up my ridiculous stash and not buy anything additional, but, this ribbon just has to be upgraded!

Paper: More to Adore

Cardstock: Chocolate, Blush, Hollyhock, and Colonial White

Stamps: Say it in Style

Other: Nestibilities Circle and Scalloped Circle dies, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, Martha Stewart Corner Punch (on the inside), Wild Card Cricut Cartridge, Hollyhock Brad, Stickles, and Casa Collection Ribbon

The next one was totally and completely scraplifted from fellow consultant Katy Lin. You can see her amazing cards here. I don't have the stamp sets she used, but, compromised by using this old retired set called Birthday Celebration. I also don't know how she gets such clean border lines, I'm going to have to keep practicing I guess! Be sure and tell Katy congratulations when you stop by her blog...she just got married this past weekend!! You should take a look at the invitations and decorations she made for the wedding, absolutely A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!

Cardstock: Cranberry and White Daisy

Stamps: Birthday Celebration (retired), Nursery Bash (confetti; retired), and Card Chatter-Birthday

Ink: Cranberry, Moonstruck, and Black

Other: Crop-a-Dial Corner Punch and Zig pen

The last card is similar to the one I made for all the grandmothers in our family for Mother's Day which you can see here and also the one that inspired them both that Bryan at Scrap Guy posted here. This time however, I took a cue from Bryan and cut the flowers and leaves using my Cricut instead of hand cutting stamped images. Wow, SO much easier and SO much cleaner looking!! I noticed the August issue of Scrapbooks Etc. has one of these cards featured on the front cover...they've been around for years, but, are apparently making a come back! Who knew I was on top of a trend! ;O) If you're interested in making your own flower pot pocket cards, you can find the directions here on the Splitcoast Stampers website.

Paper: Key To My Heart, Boom-Di-Ada, and Animal Cookies Creative Basics

Cardstock: Tulip, Craft, and Colonial White

Stamps: Say It in Style and Flutter

Ink: Creme Brulee, Tulip, and Cocoa (for shading)

Other: Adhesive Gems (dollar bins at Michaels), Martha Stewart border punch, Twill Ribbon, and Cricut Cartridges (Wild Card, Accent Essentials, Designer Calendar, and Plantin Schoolbook)

I'm hoping to start the card club out slow by giving them a little taste of some simple paper crafting and stamping tools. I'll have everything cut and ready to assemble when they arrive, so this time it will be mostly just gluing with minimal stamping and maybe using some punches. If they're up to card making every month, I'll incorporate a new technique each time we meet. Anyway, any suggestions are greatly appreciated!! The club won't meet until the end of July, but, I'll be sure to share with you how it goes!!

Celebrate with Heart 2 Heart and Clean and Simple...

2011-07-02T17:50:00.003-08:00

I haven't played along with a Heart 2 Heart challenge in FOREVER! When I saw this week's color combo challenge, I just couldn't resisist...I think I'm getting this in just in the last minute though! The color challenge is below, I chose Twighlight as my blue and used this weeks Clean and Simple Stamping Sketch #147.

I just love this color combo, it would be great with fall pictures. I love Barn Red, but, never think to use it on my own. I also never remember to use my background stamps, but, I was inspired by Vicki Wizniuk's entry in the Heart 2 Heart challenge which you can see here. She's amazing with the background stamps and it always seems to add that certain touch that makes her cards. I'm going to try and remember to incorporate the stamps as often as possible too!!

Paper: Tinkerin' and Boom-Di-Ada

Cardstock: Barn Red, Twighlight, Bamboo, and Colonial White

Ink: Bamboo, Twighlight, and Cocoa

Stamps: Simple Beauty, Say it in Style, and Universal Backgrounds

Other: EKSuccess border punch and corner rounder, Stickles, Bamboo brads, Crop-a-Dial Big Bite hole punch, Plantin Schoolbook Cricut Cartridge (flowers), and Twill Ribbon

Enjoy The Ride...

2011-06-30T06:55:00.002-08:00

I apologize for this card being posted without any explanation!! Blogger crashed right in the middle of it, but, for whatever reason, the pictures still posted. So frustrating!!

Anyway, I have seen other bloggers using the Clean and Simple Stamping sketches for quite some time and was finally able to check out their blog for myself. It's not my typical style, but, I just fell in love with their sketches!! This is my first card using their blog as inspiration, but, I know it won't be my last!! ;O)

Paper: Paper Loft-Cosmic

Cardstock: Olive, Kraft, and White Daisy

Stamps: Horizon, Happy Birthday, Enjoy Life, and Vintage USA

Ink: Olive, Outdoor Denim, and Cocoa

Other: CTMH Rubons and EK Success Corner Rounder

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T08:00:00.002-08:00

I feel like I haven't done anything crafty in FOREVER!! We had amazing weather the last week of May when my son was out of school and I got to spend it all at home. Unfortunately, I felt obligated to work in the yard until every muscle in my body hurt and I had blisters everywhere!!! I spent the next week trying to recover from that and then got hit with a cold that knocked me on my rear!! I'm still not 100%, but, I am much better.

Anyway, thanks to the help of a "Thank You" card by Kimberly Crawford published in the May/June 2011 Paper Crafts magazine (which I noticed she also posted on her blog here), I was able to come up with my Father's Day cards for this year.

I wanted either "Happy" or "Father's" day in the stars...but, I couldn't make it work with so many letters regardless of how big the card was. I don't know how Kimberly got "Thank" in stars on hers...the magazine says its the same size as my card 5.5"x4.25"!! All I can figure is that her letters are super small. Anyway, I loved the colors and all the layering, so I went with it anyway.

Hope you all have a wonderful day spoiling the dad's in your lives!! I'm off to make my husband filled pancakes for breakfast...he's the best dad I've ever known! ;O)

Paper: Martha Stewart Valentine (not really named...Red with White polka dots)

Cardstock: Craft, Cranberry, Black, and Colonial White

Ink: Tsukineko Memento Black Tuxedo and Rich Cocoa, Cocoa, Bamboo, and Cranberry

Stamps: Say it In Style, Wish Upon a Star, Universal Backgrounds, Small Friendship Alpha, and Pennant Alpha

Other: Spellbinders (circles), Cricut Plantin Schoolbook Cartridge (Stars), Black embossing powder and brads from JoAnn Essentials, and hemp.

Sassy Lil' Sketches...Those Eyes

2011-05-25T14:17:00.003-08:00

I've had these pictures printed for a couple of months now and intended to use a Sketchy Thursdays sketch to scrap them. But, it just wasn't doing it for me, that's when I came across this sketch from Sassy Lil' Sketches. It was perfect and so was this kit from CTMH for National Scrapbooking Month called You and Me! I SO LOVE these colors!

I love these pictures too. I took these while he was getting ready for his bath. I don't know what it is about the light in that bathroom in the evening, but, it really makes his eyes stand out. I used Photoshop to do some Selective/Spot Resolution for his eyes and made the rest of the photo sepia tones. I think its probably more obvious in person.

All this little boy has to do is look at me with those big brown eyes and it makes it nearly impossible (note I said nearly!) for me to be mad at him!! ;O)

Paper: You and Me Kit
Cardstock: Cocoa and Colonial White
Stamps: You and Me, Charm Uppercase Alpha, and Take a Picture (camera)
Ink: Cocoa, Olive, and Bamboo
Other: Irresistables Chip Board from You and Me Kit, Mocha Opaques adhesive pearls, Tim Holtz Idea-Ology Film Strip Ribbon and Tissue Tape, Zig Pen, and Photoshop CS5

Lasting Memories...Chill Out

2011-05-21T13:37:00.006-08:00

The challenge this week at Lasting Memories is to use the sketch below and to be sure to incorporate circles. Circles are SO hard for me! It's the engineer in me, I like right angles! ;O) So, I kind of cheated and used Photoshop to manipulate my picture. I made a circle around Owen and left that portion in color and then used the Hue/Saturation level to take the background of the photo down to almost black and white. I think it would have been more profound had I reduced the size of the photo and therefore the colored portion and left more black and white background. But, I kind of like the results anyway and I learned a lot in the process. So, it was a win-win I think! ;O) I need to get back to my online courses and get a better handle on Photoshop.

I combined the basics of the Lasting Memories sketch with some elements of the "On with the Show" sketch in CTMH's latest book Magic. I LOVE when you can take the best of two sketches and make it even better (or at least I hope its even better)!

I didn't have any paper that was especially ideal for this photo and I'm trying to use up my ridiculous stash before I spend any more money. But, I didn't want to lose Owen's rosy cheeks by making the whole photo Sepia or B&W. So, instead, I attempted to grunge up the Aspen paper with lots of Cocoa ink to tie-in his brown coat. Hopefully, it was enough to do the trick!

Paper: Aspen (retired)
Cardstock: Bamboo and Colonial White

Ink: Cocoa and Twighlight
Stamps: Winter Reflections (retired) and Journaling Jots
Other: Snowflake Ribbon (by the yard from LSS not sure what brand), CTMH Irresistables Chip Board Alpha, Maya Road (small) and CTMH (large) chip board snowflakes, Recollections adhesive pearls, Delta Creative Ceramcoat acrylic paint (comes in CTMH distressing kit), Martha Stewart glitter, Zig Pen, and Photoshop CS5

Pagemaps...My Everything

2011-05-14T09:48:00.005-08:00

I was over at Pagemaps.com this week to check out Becky Fleck's latest sketches and was SUPER excited to see that she's started a challenge blog!! As an engineer, I LOVE deadlines! ;O) Her blog challenge this month just happens to be the sketch I'd been eyeing on her website, so, what more did I need to get motivated! ;O) I always love all the layering Becky puts into her layouts. I have trouble with that when I'm on my own.

I absolutely love this photo Dave took of himself with Owen. They truly are my everything, I'm lucky to have such amazing guys in my life!

Paper: Reminisce Unwritten and Boom-Di-Ada (retired)
Cardstock: Colonial White and Craft
Stamps: You and Me (May Scrapbook Kit from CTMH)
Ink: Barn Red
Other: EKSuccess border punches, Making Memories Embroidery Floss, Clear Buttons and Liquid Glass, Designer Calendar and Plantin Schoolbook Cricut Cartridges, Funky Ribbon by the yard from LSS, and Zig Pen

Inspired Blueprints Meets Lasting Memories....Easter

2011-05-14T09:29:00.004-08:00

So, my kiddo has been recovering from a cold that knocked him on his rear this week and I took advantage of the situation to do nothing but goof off! The house is a disaster and he's not done much other than watch t.v., but, I did get two layouts done! ;O)

The first one is a combined challenge. Lasting Memories has a photo inspiration challenge this week. I'm so excited to finally be able to participate in one of their challenges and submit my layout on time! The colors of their photo were perfect for this paper by Best Creations Inc. and tulips always mean Easter/spring to me, so, this was an easy one!

I hadn't played with an Inspired Blueprints sketch in a while, but, came across this one from way back in February and knew it would be perfect.

I try really hard not to get caught up in the trends of the here and now because they seem to date your layouts faster. I was really good with the whole pennant craze until Close to My Heart came out with this stamp set...how cute are my little alphabet flags! ;O) Sorry about this photo, I can't seem to get a good one of this layout for some reason!

Paper: Best Creation Inc Bunny Love line
Cardstock: Sunkiss Yellow, Citrus Leaf, Sky, and White Daisy
Ink: Sky
Stamps: Pennant Alpha and Eastertime (texture on basket)
Other: Recollections Pearls, Stickles, Martha Stewart border and butterfly punch, Cricut Stretch Your Imagination (basket) and Plantin Schoolbook (grass) cartridges, and Zig Pen

Happy Mother's Day...A Little Late! ;O)

2011-05-10T08:49:00.001-08:00

So, every year, I try to find a card that's not just your average card to make for Mother's Day. Last year I did a tri-fold card that you can see here and the year prior I did a criss-cross card which you can view here. (Forgive the formatting of my older posts, when I redid my blog design, it messed up all the older posts.) This year, I was reminded by Bryan of Scrap Guy's PaperCrafting Adventure of the flower pot card that was all the rage a year or so ago. His is super cute and clean using the Cricut to cut his flowers. But, I decided to make things difficult on myself and cut all the flowers out by hand!! Brilliant decision on my part...I had 6 of these to make! These are all I accomplished on my scrapbooking weekend, but, I think it was worth it.

They were lots of fun and I think they turned out pretty cute...although, this wasn't a stellar example...I'm not sure why the flowers are all off to one side and I moved the butterflies up to the top of the big flower before I mailed them off. But, hopefully, you get the picture! ;O)

If you'd like to try making your own flower pot pocket card, you can find the tutorial here on SplitcoastStampers website. This would be a great one to stick a gift card to the back side of the insert!

Paper: Boom-di-ada (butterfly punch)

Cardstock: Colonial White and Craft

Stamps: Cottage Floral, Flutter, Promise of Spring (foliage) and Simple Beauty (sentiment

Ink: Sunset, Hollyhock, Blush, Honey, and Cocoa (shading on pot and sentiment)

Other: Hollyhock Twill ribbon, Sparkles from Recollections, Martha Stewart Border and Butterfly punches, Recollections Sparkles, Twine from my stash, and Blue Moon Bead

Happy 90th!

2011-05-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

My grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday this weekend. I'm so proud of her! She still lives on her own and is as feisty as ever. I wanted to make her an extra special card and fell in love with one that Betsy Veldman had published in Paper Crafts Special How To Issue...Winter 2011 Stamp It! Techniques magazine on page 54. I tried to find a picture of Betsy's card online without any luck and I'm not sure scanning the magazine photo would technically be legal. So, I guess, you'll just have to take my word for it that they're similar...besides, I probably wouldn't want to have mine right beside hers! ;O)

I wish I had made the chip board flower a different color now, but, all in all, I was happy with the results. This was way outside my box, so, it was a lot of fun to try!

I've got a sick kiddo at home today, so, I'm hoping to sneak in some scrapbooking time while he's resting. It is after all National Scrapbooking Month! ;O)

Paper: Emporium, Tickled Pink, and Best Friends Forever (all retired)

Cardstock: Colonial White

Ink: Hollyhock, Blush, Goldrush, Sweet Leaf, Olive, Sky, and Sunset

Stamps: Tickled Pink, Smiles, Friendship Blessings, Heartthrob, Cottage Floral, and Say It in Style

Other: Recollections sparkles, CTMH Just Blooms Summer Posies, Twinkle Brad, and Dimensional Elements Flower, Favorite Findings Button (JoAnns), EKSuccess Corner Rounder, and Crop a Dile Corner Chomper

Sketchy Thursdays...Man With a Plan

2011-04-29T10:44:00.004-08:00

I printed this picture with a different sketch in mind, but, decided it worked better for this week's Sketchy Thursdays sketch if I rotated it. The challenge at Lasting Memories was to do a spring layout. We don't really get spring here, we have winter, break-up, and then summer...but, with spring does come dirt, so, I thought this was still fitting! I just went to link up my layouts to Lasting Memories and realized the DT challenge closed at noon, not midnight! Oops!! Next time I guess, I should pay closer attention next time! ;O)

Paper: Cosmo Cricket-Early Bird
Cardstock: Sweet Leaf, Juniper, Goldrush, and Colonial White
Ink: Goldrush, Sweet Leaf, Juniper, and Tsukineko Memento in Rich Cocoa
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha, Friendship Alpha, Grown with Love, and Journaling Jots
Other: Martha Stewart border punch, CTMH twill ribbon, Owl sticker from Recollections, and Zig pen

Sketchy Thursdays..."Egg"sperts

2011-04-28T09:51:00.003-08:00

My first layout in FOREVER! Yaay! I had so much fun with this one, although, I did struggle to get it started. I printed my pictures too big, or cut my paper too small...I'm not sure which way it went. I'm happy with the final outcome though which is what counts! I'm a day late to submit it on the Sketchy Thursdays blog, but, thought I'd post it anyway!

Leisa Hubley of Big Red Scraps is on the design team for Lasting Memories, a fun scrapbook challenge blog which I had just barely had the chance to check out prior to the madness that was the first part of my year. Now that I am back, I noticed that they are looking for new Design Team members and all you have to do is submit a layout for each of their four challenges this month by the 29th. I'm not sure I have a shot, but, thought it would be a blast to try and get all 4 done in a week. I love that their challenges aren't just sketches, they make you stretch just a bit further...this layout is for Challenge #34, Easter Theme.

I stole the title from scrapbooks.com, how clever is that! I love it!!

Paper: Best Creation Inc Bunny Love line

Cardstock: Citrus Leaf (retired), Sunkiss Yellow, and White Daisy

Stamps: Bohemian Alpha

Ink: Sky

Other: Martha Stewart border punch, CTMH chalk (ears and cheeks on bunny), Egg Brads from my stash, Heart Brad JoAnne Essentials, and Bitty Brads (bunny eyes) from CTMH, Cricut Plantin Schoolbook (grass) and Stretch your Imagination (Bunny), Zig pen, and cotton off of a Qtip (bunny tail)

My First Sympathy Card...

2011-04-28T09:27:00.000-08:00

O.k., so, this is my first and hopefully last Sympathy card I have to make! I panicked a little as I had waited until the night before I needed it to start and I didn't have a clue where to begin. So, I started blog surfing for ideas... and found this card that Lisa Stenz had created. I'd bought some orange and yellow tulips to take to her, so, I changed the colors up, but, the idea was the same.

I wrapped the card up pretty late that night and then took the photos. But, it wasn't until the next morning I realized how tippy the stripe on the inside was, don't worry, I fixed it before I gave it to her! ;O)

Cardstock: White Daisy, Gold Rush, and Sunkiss Yellow
Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black
Stamp: Say It in Style
Other: Cuttlebug and Sizzix embossing folder, Martha Stewart Score Board, Prima Daisy Doodles, and CTMH Splendor Brad

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T10:37:00.003-08:00

Yes, I'm still alive, although, it has been a rough start to the year!! My reports that I had spent every waking hour on during the first 3 months of the year were all submitted by 3/31 and then we took off for DISNEY WORLD immediately afterwards for 2 weeks! So much fun, but, turns out, the crowds were out in full force thanks to a much later Spring Break season for all of you in the Lower 48! That never crossed our minds, our spring break was all wrapped-up in mid-March here! Anyway, it was worth it. The weather was amazing and our little man had a blast.

I'd like to say the drama at work has ended for me, but, unfortunately, yesterday the news broke that my boss' husband has been working for the state using a stolen identity (he's here illegally from Mexico) and was arrested last Friday. We are bare bones staffed at the moment and if she ends up leaving, I have no idea what will happen...I definitely don't want that responsibility!! Anyway, I don't know what to think or hope for on that subject, I am absolutely blown away...I never would have guessed. Monday will be interesting needless to say...

Onto my first scrappy project since my return! I was having trouble getting back into the swing of things, so, I wandered over to the queen of card's blog, Vicki Wizniuk. If you haven't been to her blog, go! She's amazingly talented and her cards are always simple but, knock down breath taking. I'm not so sure I can say the same about this one, but, I do love how it turned out. You can see the card I stole the idea from on Vicki's blog here.

I'm sure everyone's getting sick of seeing this Happy Bird image from Doodle Pantry, but, I needed a Thank You for the couple that watched my bird while we were out of town...so obviously, what better image to use, don't you think? ;O)

Paper: Splendor (Clouds-Retired)
Cardstock: White Daisy, Gold Rush, and Sunkiss Yellow
Ink: Black, Gold Rush, and Sunkiss Yellow
Stamps: Digi Stamp-Happy Bird from Doodle Pantry, From Me To You (sentiment), Universal Backgrounds (music), and Playful Petals (polka-dot)
Other: CTMH Bitty Sparkles, Ribbon and Buttons from JoAnns, Making Memories embroidery floss, EKSuccess border punch, Cuttlebug and Spellbinders, Cricut Accent Essentials, Stickles, and Copic markers

Got Sketch 113 (Again)...Birthday Birdie!

2011-03-26T17:55:00.003-08:00

Because I was still so pressed for time, I used the same sketch as the cards in my previous post, but, used my new Doodle Pantry Birthday Birdie digi stamp for our neice's 4th Birthday card. Seriously, how cute is this bird!! I had planned to use the Twitterpated paper from Imaginisce that I've been hoarding for years when I colored this little bird orange. But, the patterns are kind of big and just not ideal for a card. So, I switched to Basic Grey's Lime Rickey...I seriously LOVE this paper which is not like me at all...I don't typically love bright colors!!

Paper: Basic Grey Lime Rickey

Stamps: Doodle Pantry Birthday Birdie with Hat and Card Chatter-Birthday

Cardstock: Citrus Leaf (retired), Sunny Yellow, and White Daisy

Ink: Citrus Leaf and Tsukineko Memento ink in Tuxedo Black

Other: Martha Stewart border punch, Cuttlebug and Nestabilities, Crop-a-dile corner punches, Copic Markers, and Recollections adhesive gems

Got Sketch 113...Happy Bird!

2011-03-26T07:57:00.001-08:00

I'm finally finished with the worst of my reports! Well, technically anyway, I still have lots to do. But, I won't be spending all weekend in the office, so, that's something I guess!! I need to catch up on what I've been up to now though!

In the meantime, I've been fighting with my blog design. Is anyone else having issues? I'm not sure if it's me, but, I'm trying to keep it simple until I figure it out!

I've been desperately trying to keep up with birthdays this month, it is just one after another!! These cards were done for my MIL and her friend Barbara. I sent them both the new Kraft Color Ready Borders from CTMH as part of their birthday gifts and wanted to demonstrate how great they were. I still love them, but, won't be adding any more color to them unless its black or a shade of brown!! I tried everything, but, the colors just don't come out right. But, how CUTE is this little Happy Bird digi stamp from Doodle Pantry!!!! And the best part is he's FREE!!! I loved him so much, I bought a birthday image of him as well and have a few more I plan to get in the near future, he reminds me of my little bird and you just can't help but smile when you see him!

I've been super short on time so I used the Got Sketch? 113 sketch for inspiration for both cards and used scraps from my "Family Ties" layout that were still on my desk....I'm still trying to "think spring" despite the daily forecast of snow! ;O)

Paper: My Mind's Eye Pretty Please

Cardstock: Juniper, Tulip, and Colonial White

Stamps: Doodle Pantry Happy Bird and Card Chatter-Birthday

Ink: Sunset, Juniper, and Tulip

Other: CTMH brads in Juniper and Tulip, EKSuccess Corner Rounder (Scalloped border inside card), CTMH Kraft Color Ready Borders, Crop-A-Dile Corner punch, Copics, and Cuttlebug/Nestabilities.

Sketchy Thursdays...Family Ties

2011-03-17T21:03:00.003-08:00

I follow a Russian blog that I really love, but, can't understand a thing that's said! Anyway, I have had the beautiful layouts shown in this post stuck in my head for a year now where each layout includes a picture within a picture. I loved the idea and was reminded of it when I saw this sketch at Sketchy Thursdays. I found this picture of Owen with his grandparents at the glacier in Valdez and attempted to make the 3 of them pop by making the background a little more monochrome. I actually printed two pictures with the intent of using foam tape to make the photo really stand out, but, changed my mind at the last minute and just glued it down. The difference in the photos is a little more obvious in person, but, I still liked it. I'm going to have to try this again and get out of the box a little more!!

I had so much fun with this one, it was SO nice to take a break from work...of course, it just set me back that much further!

I didn't think I'd ever use this paper from My Mind's Eye because there was so much pink, but, I think it worked well and the colors make me happy regardless!! I absolutely love these flowers too...they were on an example layout in the latest CTMH catalog and I thought they looked like "manly" flowers...;O).

Anyway, if you'd like to play along with this sketch, you have a couple more days!! Make sure you use spring colors for the extra challenge! I am dying for spring!! I think we got about 6 more inches of snow this morning...it makes the already 40 minute commute that much LONGER let me tell you!!

Paper: My Mind's Eye Pretty Please
Cardstock: Juniper and Colonial White
Stamps: Bohemian Alpha
Ink: Sunset, Juniper, and Tulip
Other: Fiskar Circle Punches (flower petals), CTMH brads in Colonial White, Juniper, and Tulip, Martha Stewart Border Punch, Zig Pen, and of course, lots of Photoshop!

Just Monkeying Around...

2011-03-12T11:23:00.001-09:00

It's been FOREVER since I got real time to play and even longer since I had time to post!! Work has totally got me down and I've even spent every waking free minute at home on it! I think I can see the light though. I'm hoping to be done with the bulk of my work by Monday or Tuesday. We'll see cross your fingers and say a little prayer for me!

Anyway, I started this layout weeks ago and finally wrapped it up last week some time. Sorry for the off-color pictures. The sun is just now out in full force and I don't have time to re-photograph these. Hopefully, you get the idea!

The sketch for this one is in Close To My Heart's new Magic book. Every time one of their new sketch books come out, I think, I don't need it and I tell myself I prefer pulling sketches off the web. But, there's always a few layouts I can't resist! This one is called Backstage.

I bought this Reminisce Monkey Business paper years ago and at the time, a friend that was with me, asked what in the world I'd use it on. I remember telling her that I wasn't sure, but with this kid, I knew I needed it! Who knew I'd have such a literal use for it! ;O)

Paper: Reminisce Monkey Business

Cardstock: Cocoa and Buttercup

Ink: Cocoa and Grey Wool

Stamps: Field Trip, The Works, and Sans Alpha and Journaling Jots

Other: Reminisce Monkey Business Stickers, American Crafts glitter brads, CTMH Dimensional Elements On Target and Ribbon Accents (retired), CTMH Color Ready Kraft Boarders, Fiskars Circle Punch, Hemp from my stash, and Zig Pen

Sketchy Thursdays...Do Dragons Roar?

2011-02-26T22:17:00.000-09:00

I had this post ready to go and then decided I wasn't entirely happy with this layout. I made some adjustments and took a new photo. I'm still not entirely thrilled, I think I lost my mojo thanks to the 2 sick "boys" I've been taking care of!! I love these pictures of my little man in his "dragon" costume though! He's SO much fun lately and this particular day was no exception... I may be bias, but, I think he's the cutest thing ever...hehe...I know, every mom is obligated to think that about their munchkin...I guess the real test will be if I still think so in about 12 years! ;O) I'm working through the weekend again, so, no more layouts will be done any time soon. I'm hoping I can really get some reports knocked out this week and get my weekends back to myself!

Paper: My Mind's Eye Boo to You

Cardstock: White Daisy, Black, and Barn Red
Ink: Honey and Black
Stamps: Rustic Alpha, Fright Night, and Spellbound
Other: Martha Stewart Border Punch, CTMH Bitty Sparkles, Cricut Designer's Calendar (font) and Wild Card (bat) Cartridge, and Zig Pen

Sketchy Thursdays...My Funny Valentine

2011-02-19T18:56:00.000-09:00

I got SO tired of making cards during my last minute race to get my Valentine's done that I started not one, but THREE different layouts! I absolutely loved this sketch from Sketchy Thursdays along with this sketch they posted on 2/10. I missed the deadline for the 2/10 sketch, but, I'm managing to get this one entered at the last minute. The third layout is a 2-pager out of CTMHs Magic book, so, no deadline obligation there! I've had two sickos at home with me since Thursday and am supposed to be working from home as well as cleaning house for my dad's arrival next week....but, I'm hoping to finish up the other Sketchy Thursday layout tonight and get it posted tomorrow! Priorities, right? ;O)

In addition to the sketch, Heidi at Sketchy Thursdays, added three additional requirements to include on our layouts:
   -Pink/green or red/turquoise
   -Hearts
   -A list about something/someone you love

I don't often use bright colors, but, I was absolutely in LOVE with Basic Grey's Lime Rickey collection when it was first released and even pre-ordered the 12x12 collection pack. Of course, I love it so much, this is only the second layout I've managed to bring myself to use it on! Why do I get such an attachment to paper!! Anyway, where else was I going to find paper to create a Red and Turquoise layout! ;O)

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend and staying healthy!

Paper: Basic Grey Lime Rickey

Ink: Tsukineko Memento in Tuxedo Black, Cranberry, and Ocean (retired)

Cardstock: Cranberry and White Daisy

Stamps: Doodle and Bohemian Alphabet

Other: CTMH Clear Buttons, Copic Markers, Accent Essentials Cricut Cartridge, and Zig pen

Mojo Monday #158 and 176...Last of the V-Day Cards

2011-02-19T06:00:00.002-09:00

Alright, just a few more and I'm done! Whew! This is the one that started it all...I was flipping through my digi images and found this sentiment that was a freebie on the Meljens Design Blog. I love this little lamb from CTMHs A Birthday Wish set and never pass up an opportunity to use it!!

Paper: Cherry-O Creative Basics

Cardstock: Colonial White, Blush, Crystal Blue, and Sweet Leaf

Ink: Tsukineko Memento in Tuxedo Black, Crystal Blue, and Sweet Leaf

Stamps: CTMH A Birthday Wish and Key To My Heart, Meljens Designs I Love Ewe Freebie

Other: Martha Stewart Edge Punch, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, Crop-a-Dile Corner Punch, Robin's Nest Dew Drops, Liquid Applique, and Stickles

O.k., so by my last two cards and I was SO over the Cherry-O paper and decided to change it up!!

The paper from this one is from last years stack that Martha Stewart put out. I love the colors and the patterns, fortunately, I have TONS left! This was another rubber stamp I couldn't resist from Great Impressions (Owen's initials are OWL, so, thats where my love for owls began!).

Paper: Martha Stewarat Holidays Collection
Cardstock: Blush and Colonial White
Ink: Tsukinko Memento in Tuxedo Black, Cranberry, and Crystal Blue
Stamps: C411 from Great Impressions and CTMH Just The Ticket
Other: CTMH Hollyhock ribbon, Craft Essentials Heart Brads, Copic Markers, and Stickles

This one is a gift card holder for my brother. The idea came from a fellow CTMH consultant's blog, Brenda Frerichs, and is super easy to do! I think I'll change up the measurements in the future as this one was kind of an awkward size, but, it gets the job done! I was in a hurry to get this finished, so, it's not my best work. But, how much do you love the new Bohemian Alpha set!

Cardstock: Colonial White, Black, and Cranberry

Ink: Blush, Cranberry, Black

Stamps: Key To My Heart, Bohemian Alpha, and Freindship

Mojo Monday #172 and 173 and More V-Day Cards

2011-02-18T06:00:00.042-09:00

O.k., hang in there with me, I just have one more set of Valentines Day Cards to post after this and then I'm done. I spent so much time on them, I feel like I HAVE to share! ;O)

Whenever I go to start a card, I always take a look through Mojo Monday sketches. I truly love them and find so much inspiration on their site! Anyway, it was no different for my Valentine's Day cards.

This image was part of the Beary Busy stamp set from CTMH that I bought with Valentine's Day in mind. The "load" in her wheelbarrow is a pile of hearts! How cute is that! You can choose from a load of hearts, leaves, or flowers. So many possibilities! ;O)

Paper: CTMH Cherry-O Creative Basics

Cardstock: Colonial White, Sweet Leaf, and Blush

Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black and Crystal Blue

Stamps: Beary Busy

Other: Craft Essentials (small heart brads from JoAnns), Bigger heart brad from my stash don't know the brand, CTMH Paper flowers, Stickles, Nestabilities Circle and Scalloped Circle dies, and Offray ribbon

This is another image from the Beary Busy set and the one I like the most! It reminds me of a truck my sister wanted growing up, an old Ford!
I always forget to use my embossing folders, but, thought of them just in time to include on this card for my in-laws. My MIL got me started down this road with a Texture Boutique and tons of folders, so, I better prove I'm using it (and loving it by the way!), right? ;O)

I even used a little mini-strip embossing folder on the back of the card. So fun and I love how professional looking the embossing makes a card look! The only down side is that it kind of warped the whole card base, I think my plates were just a tad to thick. I'll have to try this again another time.

Paper: Cherry-O Creative Basics

Cardstock: Colonial White, Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf, Tulip, and Blush

Ink: Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf, Cranberry, and Blush

Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black, Sweet Leaf, Blusch, Cranberry, and Crystal Blue

Stamps: Michael's Dollar Bin (sentiment), CTMH Key To My Heart (hearts and vine flourish) and Beary Busy

Other: Cuttlebug Embossing Folders, Stickles, CTMH bitty sparkles and Velvet Ribbon in Tulip (comes with Creative Basics), Crop-a-Dile and EKSuccess Corner punch, and Cricut Wild Card and Designer's Calendar Cartridge

A second card with the Beary Busy truck. Again, I used the same sketch for this card as for my Hedgehog airplane cards, I have no idea where I came up with it. Also used some Nestabilities to cut the circles!

Paper: CTMH Cherry-O Creative Basics

Cardstock: Colonial White, Sweet Leaf, Blush and Crystal Blue

Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black, Sweet Leaf, Blusch, Cranberry, and Crystal Blue

Stamps: Michael's Dollar Bin (sentiment), CTMH Key To My Heart (hearts and vine flourish) and Beary Busy

Other: Craft Essentials (small heart brads from JoAnns), Bigger heart brad from my stash don't know the brand, CTMH Paper flowers, Stickles, CTMH bitty sparkles, Crop-a-Dile Corner punch, Nestabilities Circle and Scalloped Circle dies, and Martha Stewart Edge punch

More Valentine's Day Cards...

2011-02-17T12:40:00.002-09:00

I know I created this sketch with a Mojo Monday sketch in mind, but, it apparently didn't work out well, as I can't find any sketch that remotely resembles this card! Oops!! I know I had a little trouble incorporating this image into a card because it was so darn long. But, I thought it was worth it! I have a family full of pilots and I thought this little hedgehog called, Hedgehopper, from Penny Black, was too cute to pass up! I ordered this Cherry-O Creative Basics paper quite a while ago with Valentine's Day cards in mind. I loved that it had some pink and red (really Tulip) in it, while still having my favorite earthy colors! I think it worked out pretty good.

I could not find a clear stamp that said "Happy Valentines Day" anywhere!!! CTMH has just ONE out of all the V-day sets in this catalog and numerous sets I've bought in the past, but, I don't love the rest of the set and wasn't going to spend $20 for ONE sentiment! I looked all through the acrylics at Michael's and JoAnns before giving up and buying this rubber stamp from the dollar bin. I had a lot of trouble with it though and not one of my cards has a straight sentiment on it!! I'm spoiled having started out with acrylics!

Sorry for the lighting on these, I just couldn't get it right. These are just a couple additional cards I did with the same Penny Black image. I'm still working on my coloring with my Copics...these two could have been better, but, I think the first one came out pretty good at least!

Paper: CTMH Cherry-O Creative Basics
Cardstock: Colonial White, Sweet Leaf, Cranberry, Blush and Crystal Blue
Ink: Tsukineko Memento Ink in Tuxedo Black, Sweet Leaf, Blusch, Cranberry, and Crystal Blue
Stamps: Michael's Dollar Bin (sentiment), Penny Black Hedgehopper, CTMH Key To My Heart (hearts and vine flourish)
Other: American Crafts glitter brads, Paper flowers from CTMH and Kaiser Craft, Stickles, CTMH bitty sparkles, Crop-a-Dile Corner punch, and Cricut Wild Card Cartridge

Happy Valentine's Day....I Know I'm a Little Behind!

2011-02-17T12:03:00.000-09:00

So, in addition to this being my busiest time of year work-wise (I'm supposed to be working from home as we speak...but, I have a little one with sniffles here keeping me company instead!!), Owen's teacher decided to require the kids to make hand-made Valentine's Day cards for his class of 25!! Plus, each kiddo had to sign their name to every card...doesn't seem like such a big deal right? Not until you sit down and start doing it....to give you an idea, this is how it sounds when Owen signs his name, "Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo, Dubaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu", well, you get the picture! Asking 3 to 5 year old kiddos to do that 25 times is like a 3 hour ordeal! I was so glad his name wasn't Benjamin or something longer!! I think we worked on these at least a little each night for almost two weeks! Owen decorated a couple to begin with and was kind of pleased. When I told him we still had more to do, you should have seen the look on his face! It was like pulling teeth to get him to finish the rest!

Here's a picture of my little valentine...I know those are girly glasses, but, they don't make cute V-day stuff for boys!! Plus, he thought they were hilarious and we had fun taking photos with them! ;O)

Here's some of our handy work. I got the idea for these lollipop covers from Scrapbooks Etc.'s Craft it Forward project for February. I think their pattern (click here to get it) may be a little off, but, I can't remember which measurement I had trouble with.

To accommodate the Jolly Rancher Heart lollipops, I cut Owen's a little differently. I cut White Daisy cardstock in 2.5"x6" strips and scored at 2.5", 2.75", and 5.25". I cut a strip of Cranberry cardstock punched with a Martha Stewart border punch and glued the top of it down to the wrapper so that I could tuck the 3/4" flap up under the hearts to hold it closed. I finished my part by stamping "Happy Valentine's Day" on the inside using a dollar rubber stamp from Michael's and a "From" stamp that is included in the CTMH Share The Magic set.

Owen did the rest! He used foam heart stickers we bought at JoAnns (sorry, don't remember the brand) and glitter glue from the dollar bins at Michael's. Note...the dollar glitter glue is NOTHING like Stickles!! I was so upset when we finished, as I had Owen sign his name first and decorate afterwards. The glitter glue soaked through the cardstock and made his name run...I felt SO bad, but, I sure as heck wasn't going to make him re-do them!!

Owen feels no obligation to write the letters of his name in any particular order. I tried to explain to him that they couldn't read it, but in the end, I didn't argue as I knew it was already going to be a long process without him being upset. So, I went ahead and added his name legibly later myself. He's such a goofball...tell me they grow out of this stage! ;O)

We had a lot of fun together making these, but, with just a couple weeks notice and SO many to do, it was also a little on the painful side. We had fun going through all of the other kids' Valentines though. You can tell that the girls tend to have a little more patience and interest when it comes to the arts and crafts stuff, their cards were typically FAR more creative and involved. Almost every one of the boys stuck to a few stickers on a piece of paper their parents cut for them!! So funny!

Sketchy Thursdays...For The Bird

2011-01-29T14:04:00.000-09:00

I started this layout using yet another of Sketchy Thursdays sketches a couple weeks of ago and unfortunately, just finally wrapped it up last night. This is one of "those" papers for me. I've had it for a couple years now, just waiting for the right photos. But, when I started to cut into it, I started having a panic attack and beads of sweat were running down my face!! Haha, not really, but it WAS painful. I don't know why, but, I absolutely love it and the thought of making a wrong cut and rendering the paper useless, was more than I could bear (or is it bare?). Anyway, it was one of those moments when you realize this whole paper crafting biz isn't as much a hobby as it is an addiction!! ;O)

Despite the drama of cutting up the paper, I'm happy with the results and absolutely love these pictures. How cute are these two together!! This bird absolutely adores Owen and we have trouble keeping them apart! Owen's very gentle, but, with such a little bird, you just can't risk it!

Paper: Three Bugs In a Rug Happy Bird-day

Cardstock: Vineyard Berry, Creme Brulee, White Diasy

Ink: Vineyard Berry, Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Cocoa

Stamps: The Works Alpha, Small Chocolate Alpha, Your a Hoot (branch), Twitterpated Exclusive set (leaves), and Dream Wishes

Other: EKSuccess border punch, CTMH Ribbon, CTMH Spring Blossom Mini Medleys and brads, Making Memories Embroidery Floss and Bazzill Basics In Stitches Circle Guide, and Zig pen

Toot, toot!

2011-01-29T08:13:00.001-09:00

O.k., I don't normally do this, but, I was super excited and nobody here understands...I was in the top 5 at Sketchy Thursdays (for the second time) for my "Only Exception" layout!! The girls that enter the sketch challenges over there do AMAZING work, so, even though I didn't win the whole thing, I'm truly SO honored!!! The challenges over at Sketchy Thursdays are truly inspiring, I hope you can join me in the next one!!

Sketchy Thursdays...Rudolph On Ice

2011-01-19T18:22:00.005-09:00

I had so much fun with the last sketch from Sketchy Thursdays, I decided to keep the fun rolling with the current one! This one goes against the engineer in me...I do better with big pieces of square paper...strips of paper are outside my comfort box!! ;O) I'm sad, I know...I'm working on it!! This was a great way to use up some scraps though!

How cute is my little man as Rudolph...he had to take beginning skating lessons over again this year...he was quite the pro by the end of the winter last year, but, we didn't stick with it over the summer and he informed us the ice was "too swippery" when we got him on skates this year. Anyway, the rink had a Christmas recital at the end of the lessons and we decided he might as well participate in it since we skipped out last year. Owen likes being in front of a crowd, but, didn't feel the need to do the dance moves. So, mostly, we went to watch him stand on the ice...I think we'll stick to hockey and avoid any possibility of another skate recital in the future! ;O)

Paper: BoBunny Tis the Season

Cardstock: Cranberry, Clover Meadow, and Colonial White

Stamps: True Friends and I Believe

Other: Cricut Plantin School Book Cartridge (title), MS Snowflake punch and border punch, Stickles, CTMH pearl colored red with Copic markers, Glitter Dome Crystal Stickers by Mark Richards, and Zig Pen

Sketchy Thursdays...Only Exception

2011-01-13T18:10:00.005-09:00

I don't know what it is about the Sketchy Thursday Sketches, but, they totally get me inspired and motivated!!! I've had a really hard time getting back into the swing of things since the holidays and I haven't loved my last few projects. But, I LOVE how this one turned out and it went together so fast!!

I've been wanting to document a special thing that Owen does and this was just the layout to do it! He and I were listening to Paramore's song "The Only Exception" in the truck one day and Owen started singing it with me. Ever since then, any time the song comes on the radio, Owen always says "It's our song mommy!" and stops whatever he's doing to sit with me and sing it. It's the sweetest thing EVER! He's such a little love bug, I don't know how we got so lucky!

I was so excited to get started with this sketch, it wasn't until I was looking at everyone else's entries that I realized this is a contest sketch! Not only will the winner get the prestigious honor of being a Guest DT member in February, but, there's also an AMAZING kit up for grabs from Artfuldelight. You have until the 22nd to post your take on the sketch!!

Paper: Kaiser Craft Shaken Not Stirred Collection
Cardstock: CTMH Black and White Daisy
Ink: CTMH Black and Cranberry
Stamps: Felicity Alpha
Other: CTMH Sparkle brads, Cricut Designer Calendars (heart), Making Memories Embroidery Floss, Ribbon was by the yard from LSS, Zig pen, and White Gelly Roll Pen from Sakura

The Scrappiest (Technically)...4 Years Old

2011-01-03T12:20:00.003-09:00

I started off with this super cute sketch from The Scrappiest, but, things deteriorated and below is the result...a little less from the sketch and a little more just randomly placed! ;O) Seems like that happens a lot to me...I start out with good intentions...oh well!!

I absolutely love this paper from BoBunny, seems like I've been more and more into their paper lately! Its hard to tell, but, there are tons of Stickles on this layout and even my Spica pen glitters...snow should sparkle even if it is purple and green! I can't believe my little man is 4, that just breaks my heart!! He's so thrilled about it too, I think his teacher has really talked-up the fact that turning 4 is when you become a "big boy". He tells me that constantly now...I don't need any reminders!! :O(

Paper: Bobunny
Cardstock: Hydrangea, Twighlight, Citrus Leaf, and White Daisy
Ink: Kiwi
Other: EKSuccess Edge punch, Stickles, Cricut Cartridges (Wild Card and When It's Cold Outside), Lavender Spica Pen

Gift Card Holder...

2011-01-03T09:35:00.000-09:00

Happy New Year everyone!! I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and are looking forward to a happy and healthy year in the coming months. I was thinking how thankful I was that none of our family ended up in the emergency room this past year...well, apart from Owen sticking part of his toy up his nose! ;O) I mean no real illness this year. I pretty much am just hoping for the same in 2011!

I had hoped to hit a 100 blog posts last year, but, things got crazy the last half of the year and productivity (at least scrapping productivity) went downhill!! :O) I have a couple last things to share though that I never got posted. Below is a gift card holder for my little brother that I have yet to get in the mail! How cute is this idea? I used the template from the Waltzing Mouse Blog that she posted HERE on SCS (just click on the pdf link). I love her stamps, she even makes them to go with Spellbinders Nestabilities...the only downside is that she's in Ireland, but, it looks like shipping is INCREDIBLY reasonable from there (only $3.60 to ship a stamp set to AK)!

Please excuse the color in the top photo...I'm taking an online course from Kelby Training (and loving it by the way) on how to use my camera...but, obviously, it's going to take some practice! ;O)

Paper: Mistletoe

Cardstock: Cranberry and Colonial White

Stamps: Small Chocolate Alpha and No Peeking

Ink: Cocoa

Other: Prima flower and leaves, American Crafts glitter brad, and Creative Memories Embroidery Floss

Sketchy Thursdays...Santa Visit!

2010-12-21T21:43:00.002-09:00

This layout was SO much fun! I absolutely loved the simplicity of the sketch from Sketchy Thursdays and this paper.... I have to tell you about this Christmas Mint paper from SEI. I actually saw it for the first time last year in a LSS, but, they only had 2 or 3 papers left from the collection. I tried to resist and finally gave up this fall and ordered it off Amazon when my husband asked if there was anything I wanted that would help meet the minimum total to earn free shipping...woohoo...couldn't ask for a better excuse! ;O) I absolutely love the color combo!!

These pictures turned out so great...this was the first year Owen agreed to sit with santa without ME being in the picture too!!! I was so relieved!!! All of the brads I used are glitter brads, but, they don't show up very well...bummer, I love the sparkle!

Paper: SEI Christmas Mint
Cardstock: Cocoa and White Daisy
Ink: Clover Meadow, Cranberry, and Cocoa
Stamps: Small Chocolate Alpha, Homestead Alpha, and I Believe
Other: Martha Stewart Snowflake Punch, EK Success Border Punch, American Crafts Glitter Brads, Cricut Cartridges, and Stickles

Celebration of Life....No, Nobody Died!

2010-12-21T18:26:00.003-09:00

Owen goes to a Montessori school and they tend to be a little more politically correct I guess. So, instead of a birthday party they told us about the "Celebration of Life" that they wanted to do for Owen. We had to be their by 11am on his birthday, provide a healthy snack complete with utensils/plates, read the class Owen's favorite story, give a "short presentation", and have a picture timeline as a visual prop. A bit much don't you think!! Anyway, we of course complied as we don't want our kid to be the only one whose parents don't show to celebrate with them!! Well, I should say, "I" complied...Dave would go, but, only if he didn't have to do anything...super beneficial right!

So, to start with they sat us down in a circle with Owen and I at the front. I had to give a brief description of the day Owen was born and then he picked up a small globe and walked around a picture of a sun that they had in the middle of the circle. As he walked, his teacher, Ms. Laurie, told the class how there are 365 days and 52 weeks in a year and that's how long it takes the Earth to circle the Sun. Then Owen sat down and I told about his first year and he repeated the walk around the sun...this was repeated until he turned 4. I thought it was a little creepy personally, but, Owen took it very seriously and you could tell how important it was to him and how proud he was to get to do it. I guess that makes it all worth it!

I had no idea what his teacher was looking for as far as a time line goes and ended up throwing this quick little layout together. The right side had his last name on it, but, I've blurred it out, so, you'll have to just envision it. The kids all liked the Stickles I put on the flames of the candles...they were all really cute and I actually enjoyed spending some time with all of them. I'm also glad I put this together...I left it in the classroom, so, it's definitely seen better days, but, it makes me realize how much he's changed to see the pictures side by side like this. How cute was he with that big red nose when he was born...our own personal Rudolph just in time for Christmas! ;O)

Cardstock: Sky, Outdoor Denim, White Daisy, Honey, and Sweet Leaf

Other: Cricut Cartridges-Stretch Your Imagination (cake) and Plantin School Book (Font), Stickles

Teachers Gifts

2010-12-16T18:45:00.000-09:00

Finally!! I got to play a little today after wrapping-up Owen's birthday last weekend!!! FYI, a birthday on a Sunday evening is not a good plan! I try not to have his parties on a Saturday because it always conflicts with office Christmas parties. But, I've got to come up with a new plan. It stinks to have to clean up after a party and then get up around 5 am the next morning!! He seemed to have a great time, so, that's the important part I suppose!

Vicki Wizniuk posted a coffee cup card on her blog here back in October. I knew then that I had to make those for Owen's teachers to hold a Starbuck's gift card...it seems to me that anyone that spends their days with 25 3-5 year olds NEEDS caffeine! ;O) Anyway, I of course waited until today to get these going...so, they were a little rushed. I had to get them done in time to drop-off today because Owen won't have class again until January 4th. But, I think they still turned out pretty cute.

Vicki used a template she purchased at My Creations, you also get a similar super cute cupcake template. But, I tried every which way and couldn't get my Paypal or Credit Card to go through. So, I had to wing it. I think I did o.k., but, I'm sure it would have been much cuter with an actual template. I'm going to have to keep trying. I HAVE to have the cupcake version!! I didn't take any pictures of the inside, but, it's glued to the lid and you just slide the lid off to pull it out.

I should tell you that I took this pictures around noon today, but, it was overcast and already kind of dark. I hate to tell you how much photoshopping I had to do!! I apologize for the poor pictures. I'll have to come up with a better idea until our sunshine returns this spring!

Paper: Bobunny, Basic Grey, and SEI

Cardstock: White Daisy and Cranberry

Ink: Cocoa and Tsukineko Memento Ink in Bamboo Leaves

Stamps: From Me to You

Other: MS Snowflake punch, Spellbinders Dies, CTMH Cranberry Ribbon

Basic Grey Maps...Stuffed With Love

2010-12-10T15:43:00.001-09:00

This will be my last post for today...I am going to get back to work on my latest layout. With just 5 hours and 39 minutes of daylight these days, I had to drop everything and jump on the opportunity to get pictures of these and figured I met as well post all of them while I was motivated!

I have been admiring the Basic Gray Maps on the Pagemaps website for quite a while and was excited to get to put one to use. I'm so glad that I took so many pictures of Owen with different toys when he was small, it really makes you realize how much he's grown and how small he actually was at one time!! He has always seemed so much older than he truly is, it's hard to remember him ever being a baby!

Paper: Twitterpated
Cardstock: Crystal Blue, Cocoa, and Colonial White
Ink: Cocoa, Cranberry, and Tsukineko Memento Ink in Rich Cocoa
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha, Soul Mates, Comments, and Beary Much
Other: Martha Stewart Border/Corner Punch, Stickles, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, and Zig Pen

The Scrappiest Sketch #90...Monkey Business

2010-12-10T15:24:00.001-09:00

I'm still struggling to get the last of the pages done for my son's "baby book" which now encompasses 3 scrapbooks!! I've created so many rules for myself and changed how I scrap so significantly since I started the books, I kind of feel like I've painted myself in a corner!! It makes it kind of miserable to work on the pages and leaves very little room for creativity!! Anyway, this was one more down and I was excited to use these rub-ons that I got a super great deal on as a clearance item at JoAnns. Cute aren't they!

I love the sketches Liz creates at The Scrappiest. They are always sweet and simple with lots of room for your own interpretation!!

Paper: Caprice
Cardstock: Indian Corn Blue, Honey, Cocoa, and Colonial White
Ink: Indian Corn Blue and Honey
Other: JoAnns Essentials Brads, EK Success Border Punch, Fiskars Circle Punch, Colorbok My Wild Life Monkey Biz Glitter Rub Ons, and Zig Pen

Boys Best Friend and Hippity Hop Blog...

2010-12-10T15:10:00.001-09:00

Believe it or not, I have been doing a little scrapping here and there even though I'm a terrible poster these days!!! I did this page back in November and had high hopes in posting it in time for this super fun Hippity Hop Blog Hop Challenge...it was unlike any I'd ever seen before! It involved 5 different blogs (Sassy Lil Sketches, Scrap Fit, Crop Suey, Scrap Tiffany, and The Cuttlebug Spot) and each blog added an additional component to the challenge. Sassy Lil' Sketches kicked things off with this sketch (1) and the rest of the requirements were: (2) use 3 of the same thing on the layout; (3) use some lace; (4) add some texture or embossing; and finally, (5) get messy and use ink, paint or mist.

I really struggled with this sketch. I don't love doing small pieces of B&T paper on a layout and despite the fact that it's all the rage, I'm not really into these banner things. I ended up completing it over a week late, but, it was definitely fun to try and made me think outside the box!!

Paper: Caprice

Cardstock: Crystal Blue and Colonial White

Ink: Cocoa

Stamps: Rustic Alpha, Wishing Star, and Shining Star

Other: Creative Memories Embroidery Floss, Me&My Big Ideas Soft Spoken Renee-Stars stickers, CTMH Mocha Adhesive Pearls, Fiskars Circle punch, EKSuccess Corner Rounder Punch, and Zig pen

Happy Birthday to You....

2010-11-23T18:21:00.000-09:00

I've been thinking about this card for quite a while and I'm not sure I got it exactly how I imagined. But, it was fun to do! For some reason, this Veranda paper pack just reminds me of my mother. She hates yellow, but, the Creme Brulee has such an earthy tone, I don't think it counts! ;O) Her birthday snuck up on me and I cannot believe Thanksgiving is in TWO days...where has this year gone!!

This was the first time in forever that I haven't used a sketch to put the card together. I'm not sure that's a surprise!! ;O) But, I was trying to keep it simple and I think I accomplished that at least!

Paper: Veranda
Cardstock: Olive, Juniper, Cocoa, and Colonial White
Stamp Sets: Happy Birthday and Follow Your Heart
Ink: Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Cocoa
Other: Creme Brulee Ribbon, Mocha Pearls, Martha Stewart punches, and Fiskars Circle Punch

Sketchy Thursdays...A Perfect Fall Day

2010-11-17T20:32:00.003-09:00

I heard about the Sketchy Thursdays blog a while back while on another scrappers blog, but, haven't had much time to stop and check out their sketches. I finally got around to taking a peek last week and absolutely couldn't resist this sketch!!! This was so out of the box for me, but, SO much fun!! It all just kind of fell in place...that never happens for me!

I had big plans to put the pictures in a circle using Photoshop, but, it turns out I'm not that good! I can't figure out how to do the wedges. So, I did what I could and opted for five pictures instead of six. I'm pretty happy with the results regardless and look forward to trying more Sketchy Thursday sketches!!

I've actually had this layout completed for almost a week now. But, with very little daylight these days, I'm having trouble getting a good picture. I will make another attempt tomorrow and see if I can improve it. In the meantime, I should mention that the leaves are edged with gold glitter (they came that way) and I added gold Stickles between the scallops on the circle for the "sparkle" part of the challenge.

Paper: Memory Box Blackbird and Basic Grey Ambrosia
Cardstock: CTMH Colonial White
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha and Many Thanks
Ink: Autumn Terracotta, Brown Bag, Honey, and Cocoa
Other: Recollections Mulberry Paper Holly Leaves (Michaels), Martha Stewart Punches, EKSuccess Corner Rounder (scallops), Champagne Stickles, Funky Ribbon from LSS (it was by the yard don't have manufacturer info), and Zig Pen

Happy Veteran's Day/Happy Marine Birthday...

2010-11-13T12:52:00.001-09:00

Thanks to all the men and women who serve in our military and keep us safe!!!

I had hoped to have this posted on Wednesday, but, it was a really long week. So, I'm just now getting around to it. My uncle is a retired Marine and we're all very proud of him. But, he prefers to celebrate the Marine Corps' Birthday rather than Veteran's Day. So, here's the card I did for him this year.

To be honest, I was not prepared and had to throw this together at the last minute. But, simple seems to make more sense in this case anyway. I got to use my Sizzix Texture Boutique again to add a little texture, so, it was worth it! The Marine Corps emblem is one that they had at the Wikipedia site of all things. I printed it on photo paper and cut it out.

Cardstock: Cranberry, Black, and Colonial White

Ink: Black (Sponged around the inside)

Other: JoAnn's Essentials Gold Brads and Gold Glitter (Glitter is just pressed onto 2-sided tape), EKSuccess Corner Rounder, Sizzix Embossing Folder and Sizzix Texture Boutique

Owen was home sick with me the day I made the card, so, he made one too. I thought it was pretty cute. The circle on the lower left is a cake with a candle and just above that is his signature...it's quite elaborate! ;O) He also included a few birthday stickers. I think my uncle was far more excited to receive Owen's card then mine from the sounds of it!! I can't hardly blame him though! ;O)

Colonial White Cardstock, Roseart Markers, and EKSuccess Sticko Stickers-Party Favors

Pagemaps...I'm an Artist

2010-11-08T06:00:00.002-09:00

I really got good use out of July's Pagemaps Sketches!! It may be time to branch out some! ;O) This layout was super painful to do. Again, the embellishment part got the best of me!! I ended up giving up and going to Michael's and browsing through their stickers. To me, stickers are the easy way out...but, I NEEDED an easy way out and am actually pretty happy with the end results!

It just so happened that they had a couple of MS edge punches on clearance while I was there too...so, how cute is my little bubble punch down the side? I love it! ;O)

Paper: Twitterpated

Cardstock: Outdoor Denim, Cranberry Red, and Sweet Leaf

Ink: Cranberry Red

Stamps: Journaling Jots

Other: Stickles, MS and EK Success Punches, Stickers from Sticko/EK Succes (Hoot), Jolee's Boutique/EK Succes (Little Artist), and Soft Spoken/Me&My Big Ideas (I'm an Artist and Renee-Stars)

Card Maps...Whoo Loves You!

2010-11-07T15:15:00.004-09:00

I have organized a scrapbook day at one of the local churches for later this month and have offered to cut the cost in half for the girls that make and donate at least 2 cards to the Operation Write Home efforts. I've wanted to contribute to this amazing cause for some time and just haven't had the opportunity to take the time and do it.

Anyway, time is flying and I figured I better get on it! I happened to have this owl from the Greeting Farm already colored and decided to try one of Page Maps Card Maps for the first time. I chose the sketch above from the March 2010 Card Maps. I took the sketch pretty literally, but, that was just coincidence, I swear! ;O)

I'm surprised how nerve-wracking this was for me to do! I want to make sure it's just right for our men and women overseas who have sacrificed so much!! The least I can do is send them a decent looking card to write home with, right? ;O)

Paper: Life Delights and Magic Moments

Cardstock: Blush, Hollyhock, Cocoa, and Colonial White

Ink: Cocoa, Sweet Leaf, Olive, Blush, and Tsukineko Memento Rich Cocoa

Stamps: Greeting Farm Forest Friends, Whoo Loves You (branch), Exclusive Set from the Twitterpated Kit (leaves), Friendship Alpha Small, and Hugs & Kisses

Other: Hollyhock Brads, Copic Markers, EK Success Corner Rounder (scallops), and White Gelly Roll pen

July Pagemaps...Mischief Maker

2010-11-07T14:59:00.003-09:00

I've had this layout done for ages, but, just don't love it. I had hoped an epiphany would come over me and I'd think of something to add. But, I've decided to just let it go! I love the Pagemaps sketch (from July) I used and putting the layout together went really fast...it's just those dreaded embellishments that I can never pin down just right!

Paper: Twitterpated
Cardstock: Cocoa, Outdoor Denim, and Colonial White
Ink: Cocoa and Outdoor Denim
Stamps: Giggle Caps and Lowercase, Star Power, Code It, Childhood Boy, Girly Girl, Wedding, and Journaling Jots (most retired)
Other: EKSuccess Corner Rounder and Border Punch, JoAnn's Essentials Star Brads, Twill Ribbon, and Zig pen

Northern Lights Card...Inspired by Lorrinda

2010-10-30T20:37:00.002-08:00

I absolutely flipped when I saw Lorrinda's Northern Lights card last week for her guest DT project at the Heart 2 Heart Challenge blog. You can see her card here along with her tutorial detailing how she did it. My card looks a little plain next to Lorrinda's and this picture (below) that I used as inspiration. But, it was SO much fun and I look forward to trying it again.

We mainly get green Northern Lights up here in AK, so, I stuck with green and blue. But, the most amazing show I've ever seen, was while I was in school in Montana, they were bright red one night!!! Even knowing what they were, red lights in the sky was a little unnerving! ;O)

Cardstock: Black, Olive, and White Daisy
Stamps: The Beauty of Christmas (retired-trees) and Natures Gift
Other: CTMH Chalk and White Daisy Pigment Ink, Liquid Applique, Versa Mark, White Daisy embossing Powder, sponge brush, and Gelly Roll White Pen

Early Trick or Treaters....

2010-10-30T20:02:00.000-08:00

We have an annual family party that caters to my single sister who thinks she deserves an extra day because she has to buy gifts for 3 of us versus the one gift we get her each holiday. Not to mention, she's never had a wedding or a baby, and therefore she's already down by at least that many gifts.... Let me just say, it's easier to go along with her than to argue...kind of like you can't argue with crazy...besides, she's scary when she's mad!! Long story short, we started this tradition to do "Auntie Shawn Day" at our house with dinner, cake, and pumpkin carving every October.

This year, Dave and I each carved a pumpkin and set them out on the porch late Sunday night. By Thursday afternoon, they were gone!!! At first, I suspected foul play...but, that's never been an issue here and upon further investigation, I noticed just a few bits of pumpkin here and there in the yard. That's when it hit me, the moose are back...last year, it was December before they ate up our pumpkins!! I hadn't seen any in the neighborhood recently and quite frankly, it never crossed my mind they'd be by so early, let alone looking for pumpkins!!

This morning I was half awake stumbling down the stairs only to look up and see Momma moose filling the window on our stair landing!! Both Momma and baby had returned to the scene of the crime and were scouring the porch for more "treats"!! I guess we were the ones that got tricked this year!! ;O) At least the pumpkins went to a good cause...but, at $10+ a piece, it would have been nice if the moose had waited for Halloween night to get the munchies!!

This is baby...I'm not for positive, but I think these two were here in the spring when this one was practically brand new.

We happened to have one more pumpkin that I saved for Owen. We just carved it today and have it tucked away safe in the house!!! I'm hoping the twin girls that frequent our yard will get a chance at that one. We'll see, these two are persistent little buggars...

Unscripted Sketches Take 3....

2010-10-17T16:55:00.000-08:00

Alright, last one with this sketch, I swear! :O) When I went to link my card to the Unscripted website, I realized they were doing a piggy back challenge to use pink in your card for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I think everyone has someone in their life that's battled breast cancer and I thought the least I could do is make a pink card as a show of support!

Not to mention, it was a great excuse to use the most adorable digi pony stamp that I just realized is a FREEBIE on Meljens Designs blog!! Seriously, how cute is he!!!

Paper: More to Adore (Retired)
Cardstock: Colonial White, Hollyhock, and Blush
Stamps: Meljens Designs Digi Sweet Little Donkey and CTMH Now & Forever
Ink: Hollyhock, Chocolate, and Tsukineko Memento Rich Cocoa Ink
Other: CTMH Summer Posies, Stickles, Copic Markers, Making Memories Embroidery Floss, and Favorite Findings (JoAnns buttons)

Unscripted and Heart 2 Heart...Thank You Take Two

2010-10-16T17:08:00.001-08:00

I wasn't completely happy with my first card for the leaves and trees challenge at Heart 2 Heart today (see my last post), so, I tried again. I used the same sketch from Unscripted and am happier with the results. I just love these colors! Phew, o.k., I can move onto something else now!! Hope you have a great weekend!!

Paper: Felecity (special CTMH promotion kit)
Cardstock: Twighlight and Colonial White
Ink: Bamboo, Desert Sand, and Twighlight
Stamps: Many Thanks and Small Chocolate Alpha
Other: CTMH Opaques Adhesive Pearls in Mocha

Unscripted and Heart 2 Heart...Thank You...

2010-10-16T10:20:00.002-08:00

This weeks Heart 2 Heart Challenge was to use leaves and trees. I needed a thank you card and loved Unscripted's sketch, so, I thought I'd combine all three!!

I had so much fun putting this card together, but, I'm not entirely happy with it...the sentiment is too small for where I put it. I may try again and repost. I was super excited to get to use our new Opaques adhesive pearls in Mocha though!! I buy a lot of pearls from Michael's Recollections line, but, they don't hold a candle to ours. In fact, ours look so much more realistic, I can't even mix our white pearls with theirs...it makes the Recollections pearls look cheap!

Hope you are all having a great weekend...I'm still recovering from a nasty cold/ear infection, but, it looks like I'm being suckered into a trip to Lowe's...woohoo...makes my day. ;O)

Paper: Felicity (Special Promotion)
Cardstock: Twighlight and Colonial White
Ink: Bamboo, Desert Sand, and Twighlight
Stamps: Many Thanks
Other: Opaques Pearls in Mocha

Heart 2 Heart...It's Owl Good...

2010-10-03T12:38:00.003-08:00

SORRY Heart 2 Heart!! I just realized I managed to post my layout twice...I thought I had forgotten to hit "enter", so I did it again!! I'd remove if I knew how...it's been one of those days!

Heart 2 Heart had the greatest challenge this week...at least for me! It's an ABC challenge...we were to use an "A"lphabet stamp set, create a project for a "B"oy, and use "C"hocolate or another brown color... Since I tend to use earth tones and I typically only scrap pics of my little man, this "challenge" is pretty much my every day layout! ;O)

I used "Bottom Border-Overlap" (2i) from the Reflections book for this layout.

I started this on Thursday and am just now finished...how is it that other people can just whip stuff up! It takes me forever!! Of course, this little culprit didn't help the situation....I let him out to play and he ran right over to my layout and pooed in the middle of my main photo!!! It's lucky for him that I print my own photos!! With help like this, it's amazing I ever get anything accomplished!

Paper: Twitterpated
Cardstock: Indian Corn Blue, Cocoa, and Colonial White
Ink: Olive, Cocoa, Indian Corn Blue, and Tsukineko Memento Ink in Rich Cocoa
Stamps: Small Chocolate Alpha, Homestead Alpha, Whooo Loves You (branch), Exclusive set from Twitterpated (leaves), and Studio G i-clear Stamp
Other: Copic Markers, Clear Buttons, In Color Organic Dimensional Elements, Creative Memories Embroidery Floss, JoAnn's Essentials Brads, and Zig Pen

Pagemaps...Just Plane Cute

2010-09-27T06:00:00.001-08:00

Back to Pagemaps...their September sketches are just too cute! I really just love Becky's style. I guess I should break down and buy one of her books instead of just using all of her free ones that she shares so generously!

This layout actually came together pretty fast, for me, at least. I'm still working on Month 10 and wanted to stick with the Twitterpated paper, but, am totally losing steam there...it's just so tough to work with for baby boy pictures! I still have 4 or 5 layouts to do for this particular month...I may be getting very creative very soon!!!

Anyway, for this one, I incorporated paper from Let's Get Together to bring in some red and yellow. I still have a small strip of Twitterpated in there...so, technically, I'm not breaking my rules...yet anyway! I had so much fun with this one and used up some of my embellishments that have been sitting around here FOREVER!

Forgive the Stickles, I got a little carried away. I was going for a starry sky look, but, I'm not sure I love them. Not a lot I can do about it now though without redoing the whole layout...so, for sake of my sanity, I'm learning to love them! ;O)

Paper: Let's Get Together and Twitterpated
Cardstock: Crystal Blue, Garden Green, and Colonial White
Ink: Cranberry, Honey, Garden Green, and Crystal Blue
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha, Rustic Alpha, Flyin' High, Little Boys, and Journaling Jots
Other: Stickles, American Traditional Designs Airplane Tag, JoAnne Essentials Star Brads, Cardboard Stickers from Michaels (probably not acid free..just thought of that, oops!), Creative Memories Embroidery Floss, and Copic Multi Liner in Olive

The Scrappiest #77...You Made Me Love You

2010-09-26T17:46:00.002-08:00

A while back, I was on the hunt for new sketch sites and stumbled upon The Scrappiest blog created by Liz Chidester. The work on there is inspiringly beautiful, but, not over the top like some of the DTs you see out there. I hate looking at someone else's work and not being able to think about anything besides the cost of the embellishments that went into it...that just stresses the hoarder in me out! ;O)

This sketch was from way back on August 16th and sadly, I think I started this layout shortly after it was posted!! To be fair, we did have back to back visitors...of course, that only accounts for two weeks of the last month! I'm still working on the 10th month of Owen's baby book and I think the color combo of this Twitterpated Paper was partly to blame for my blockage! I love the paper in general, but, it works best for either fall or little girl pics and this one wasn't either. Actually, the picture itself makes Owen look kind of girly to begin with between his white pj's and little pink cheeks...so, that didn't exactly help. But, I decided to just go with it and I think I like how it turned out in the end...I know he's a little boy and that's all that matters, right. :O)

Paper: Twitterpated and Emporium Creative Basics (Green Striped)

Cardstock: Cocoa, Crystal Blue, and Colonial White

Ink: Crystal Blue and Cocoa

Stamps: Large Chocolate Alpha and Confidential

Other: CTMH Organic Dimensional Elements, Clear buttons, Sorbet Brads, and Splendor Designer Brads, Fiskars Circle Punches, Cricut Designer's Calendar Cartridge (circles and lettering), Martha Stewart Punch, Stickles, Creative Memories Embroidery Floss, Green Ribbon from LSS (by the yard, don't know manufacturer), and Zig pen.

Unscripted Sketches #70 and Meljens Designs Freebie

2010-09-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

I've been desperately trying to complete a 1-page layout for the last few weeks, but, it just isn't coming together!!! So, in the meantime, I decided to take a little mental break and whip up a card for my Uncle's birthday. I already had this super cute image called Triple Treat Cupcakes from Meljens Designs in mind and thought this weeks sketch at Unscripted was perfect for it! I tried to add colored glitter to look like sprinkles to the liquid applique. But, every time I attempted to "sprinkle" the glitter, it just ended up being a giant blob. So, I ended up just using clear glitter to sparkle up the icing.

Paper: CTMH Building Blocks (retired)
Cardstock: Sweet Leaf, Cranberry, Moonstruck, and Colonial White
Ink: Cranberry, Sweet Leaf, and Moonstruck
Stamps: Meljens Designs Digital Triple Treat Cupcakes, From Me to You, and Exclusive Stamp Set with Jingle Kit (not named)
Other: EKSuccess Corner rounder, Robin's Nest Dew Drops, Copic Markers, Liquid Applique, CTMH Mini Sparkles, Stickles, and Sizzix Dots, Circles, & Stars Embossing Cartridge

Unscripted Sketches #69 with a Piggy Back Challenge...

2010-08-24T20:49:00.003-08:00

I had just finished watching the latest CTMH TV episode (the main video below the row of 5 thumbnails and towards the very end of the episode they go over ribbon) called Eclectic Elegance when I opened Unscripted Sketches' website and saw this weeks challenge. We were to use non-traditional flowers to go with the sketch above. It was like they were made for one another! I very rarely watch the little episodes CTMH posts, but, another consultant had tried these flowers and posted on our bulletin board. I loved the fact that they were so flat and couldn't wait to try them for myself!! This challenge was the perfect excuse, I guess the card I was supposed to be making for my uncle will have to wait! ;O) I also tried the method described in the episode for ruffling up ribbon...why didn't I think of that!

Paper: Magic Moments and Best Friends Forever

Cardstock: Colonial White and Sweet Leaf

Ink: Hollyhock, Sweet Leaf, Cocoa, and Creme Brulee

Stamps: Whoo Loves You and Exclusive Stamp Set for Twitterpated Kit (not named)

Other: CTMH Sweet Leaf and Hollyhock ribbon, leaves from Summer Posies, Antique Brads, Copic Markers (beak), and Adhesive pearls from Recollections

Page Maps Double...State Fair 2007

2010-08-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

One last layout from Pagemaps July sketches for Month 10 of Owen's baby book. I just had so much fun with Becky Fleck's sketches! I always think about buying her book, but, she makes it too convenient to just get the sketches off her website!! I am loving this Twitterpated paper more and more, but, trying to make peace with the fact that it's officially gone.

I absolutely love the cardboard buttons that compliment the paper. I don't normally use a whole lot of buttons, but, these were so much fun and so easy to include!! I had that little hedgehog colored already and couldn't resist sticking him in the layout as well. How cute is he!! I can't get enough of him and his other hedgehog friends...I like to think of them as porcupines though...it's more Alaskan that way! ;O)

Finally, the two pages together... Hope you are all having a great week. Owen's school is taking the week off, so I'm "forced" to stay home all but one day this week with him. I'm really looking forward to some extra time with him!! I think he's just as burnt out as I am!

Paper: Twitterpated

Cardstock: Crystal Blue, Desert Sand, and Colonial White (stamped images)

Ink: Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf, Olive, Dutch Blue, and Cocoa

Stamps: Happy Forever, Whoo Loves You, Exclusive Stamp Set from Twitterpated Kit, and Typewriter Keys

Other: Stickles, CTMH Organic Dimensional Elements (buttons), Dimensional Ribbon Accents (long since retired), Pewter Photo Hangers with Colonial White and Pewter brads, ribbon by the yard from LSS, Making Memories Embroidery Floss, Recollections adhesive pearls from Michaels, EKSuccess corner rounder, and Zig pen

Heart 2 Heart Sketch Challenge...Happy Birthday Aunt Lori

2010-08-15T17:39:00.003-08:00

Finally!! I was able to play with along (and complete!) this week's Heart 2 Heart challenges. It's been too long since I last got to participate. I hate when life and work gets in the way of fun! ;O) This was kind of a must and the sketch came along at just the right time. My aunt's birthday is today and of course, I needed a card! I had to pull out this little hedgehog one last time...for now anyway!!

I'm trying to learn how to properly color with Copics, but, am having a tough time with it. My instinct is to color from light to dark. But, since the dark colors are typically on the outer edges of an image, by the time you get to them you've got so much ink on the paper that it tends to bleed really bad outside the image lines. Anyway, this was my attempt at coloring from dark to light...I don't love how it turned out, but quite honestly, I was running out of ink by the time I finished this rendition!! ;O) He's still cute and at least, I have finally figured out how to put a little blush on his cheeks with the markers instead of having to dig out my chalk....that's some progress...right? ;O)

O.k., so, I have to admit my Happy Birthday is tippy...but, to be honest, I finished the inside this morning after shoveling the majority of a dump truck load of gravel with my husband yesterday and basically had no feeling left in my hands. You should have seen me trying to color those teeny weeny little butterflies!!! We had to finish the gravel this morning and then I worked the rest of the day prepping for hydroseed...that's why my card is so darn late!!!

O.k., so I have another excuse regarding the photos...we have had a record 28 days straight of rain...that's right and I believe today makes 29!! I am so tired of rain!!! Needless to say, it didn't help us get the yard work done and it sure hasn't provided good lighting for my photos. If you look close at both the front and inside of the card, you'll see I went nutty with pearls. I just love them! Alright, can you tell I've been trapped outside working my rear off and not able to really talk to anyone? ;O) My husband and I are so tired and sore that we basically didn't talk at all last night except to complain about our aches and pains!!! Hope you all have a great week!

Paper: CTMH Perfect Day

Cardstock: Orchid Bouquet (retired), Twighlight, and Colonial White

Ink: Orchid Bouquet (retired), Twighlight, Sweet Leaf, Creme Brulee, Tsukineko Memento in Rich Cocoa and Tuxedo Black

Stamps: Happy Forever and From Me to You (sentiment)

Other: Copic Markers, Recollections adhesive pearls from Michaels in white and a Twighlight Blue color, Martha Stewart Edge and Corner Punches, and Prima Flowers

Mojo Monday #150...Happy Birthday Uncle Bill!

2010-08-07T08:12:00.001-08:00

Do you ever have one of those days where time flies too fast to get anything accomplished? Yesterday was like that for me. I needed a card and cupcakes to take to my uncle's house to celebrate his belated birthday. But, I couldn't seem to get rolling and everything I did took longer than it should have. This was by far, the fastest card I've ever put together and I'm afraid, it kind of reflects the lack of time spent on it! But, I was so excited to finally use the hedgehog images from July's Stamp of the Month called Happy Forever. Isn't he adorable!!

I'll spare you everything that went wrong with this card, beginning with the fact that it started out manly, but, got really girly!!! Fortunately, my uncle's a manly man that isn't worried about that kind of thing and especially when it's from me....I'm really proud of him (he's a retired marine) and feel lucky to have gotten to spend some time with him for his birthday.

Hope you are all having a great weekend!

Paper: Cherry-O Creative Basics with Ribbon
Cardstock: Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf, and some sort of Copic paper from the LSS
Stamps: Happy Forever and From Me to You
Ink: Tsukineko Memento in Tuxedo Black and Rich Cocoa and Sweet Leaf (sponged around the stamped image)
Other: Scroll Lace Corner Punch from Martha Stewart, EKSuccess Corner Rounder punch, Adhesive Sparkles from the dollar bin at Michaels, lots of Copic Markers, and CTMH ribbon from the Cherry-O Creative Basics kit

One More Pagemaps Sketch....Fun in the Sun

2010-08-05T08:54:00.002-08:00

We've had a very busy couple of weeks between work and fun. We made it to the air show last weekend...actually, over 200,000 people made it to the air show last weekend. That's almost HALF the entire population of ALASKA!!! It was a good show, but, WAY too crowded!!! Owen loved every minute of it though and was very thrilled to get to tour the military aircraft. He's already talking about going again....I'm not sure I can say the same! ;O)

I have managed to do a little scrapbooking in the meantime though. I'm still working on Owen's first year. Month 10 uses Twitterpated paper which is officially all sold out...I'm a little upset about that! Although, I'm not a huge fan of sorbet, it's hard to blend that color with my photos, but, I think in this case, it worked out o.k..

Paper: Twitterpated
Cardstock: Crystal Blue and Sweet Leaf
Ink: Crystal Blue, Sweet Leaf, and Cocoa
Stamps: Cobblestone Alpha and Small Chocolate Alpha
Other: Colonial White Edge Anchors with Chocolate brads, Twitterpated Cardboard Buttons, Stickles, Making Memories Embroidery Floss, Fiskars and Marvy Circle Punches, EKSucces Corner Rounder, Martha Stewart Boarder Punch, Ribbon from LSS, and Zig pen

Page Maps....Relax

2010-07-25T06:00:00.001-08:00

I'm three months shy of having Owen's "Baby Book" done...well, the third scrapbook for his first year!!! Can you tell he's an only child! Anyway, I'm hoping to get it all wrapped-up so I can feel like I've finally accomplished something! I decided when I first started that I'd do each month with the same paper pack and just make it work. So, far, I think it's worked out...you've got to love how versatile CTMH paper packs are. This is the last page I had left to do for "Month 8" with Perfect Day. Don't you just love those little feet...I have such a weird fascination with those little chubby toes! ;O) Owen's crossed his feet like that since he was teeny tiny, people always ask me why I pose him like that...how in the world do they think I get him to sit still like that intentionally!

I used another great sketch from Pagemaps, I'm so glad I thought to check them out again! I've had a lot of fun with their sketches lately and look forward to doing more.

I had just gotten two new punches on clearance from Michaels and was excited to put them to use. The first is the Martha Stewart Scroll Lace punch and the other was EKSuccess notebook. I was surprised that despite the fact that EKSuccess technically makes both punches, I really preferred the Martha Stewart version. But, I did like that the EKSuccess punch locks...anyway, just surprised at the differences.

Paper: Perfect Day
Cardstock: Twighlight, Olive, and Colonial White
Ink: Twighlight, Olive, Bamboo, and Cocoa
Stamps: Cobblestone Alpha
Other: Stickles, EKSuccess corner rounder and Notebook punch, Martha Stewart Scroll Lace Edge Punch

Pagemaps...Those Big Brown Eyes

2010-07-24T21:16:00.002-08:00

O.k., my husband and I were debating if the way I photoshopped this photo of Owen is creepy or not. But, I think I like it and if nothing else, it definitely makes the point that I wanted it to! ;O) I used one of the PageMaps sketches posted this month. I haven't used their sketches in a while and had forgotten how much fun they are! I wish I had put the title a little bit lower, but, its too late...I tried to move it, but it tore the paper and I don't have another of the flourish rub-ons...so, I guess I like it where it's at! ;O) For those that don't know already, Owen's initials are "O.W.L." and his nickname is "Hoot". So, I like to try and include owls into his pages wherever possible.

Paper: Caprice

Cardstock: Colonial White

Ink: Cocoa and Creme Brulee

Stamps: Large Friendship Alpha, Small Chocolate Alpha, You're a Hoot, Comments, and Dream Wishes

Other: K&Company Rub-Ons and Zig Pen

Fish-On Page 2...

2010-07-13T06:00:00.004-08:00

So, here's page 2 for my Fish-On layout. Not at all what I was envisioning and I may have to take a second stab at it later! These pictures are all of my little man on our road trip to Fairbanks last month. Fairbanks is between a 5 and 6 hour drive from here and nothing but two lanes and lots of trees between!! The drive is SO boring!! ;O) I hadn't been up there in ages, and it's been even longer since I went up for fun instead of work!! But, we made the most of it and tried to stop a couple times both directions to stretch our legs. Owen did an excellent job on the entire drive and even seemed to enjoy our "photo ops"!! ;O)

The layout for this second page was from CTMH's Reflections book. If you want to know more about the first page, see this post.

Paper: Animal Cookies Creative Basics

Cardstock: Honey, Black, and White Daisy

Ink: Desert Sand, Tulip, and Black

Stamps: Outdoor Trek and Hook, Line, and Sinker

Other: Stickles

Carving Memories....

2010-07-12T17:53:00.006-08:00

These days, I have two aspirations...the first, to use up this ridiculously huge stack of paper I've accumulated and secondly to get better at color challenges! It became glaringly apparent when I attempted Heart 2 Heart's last color challenge (Tulip, Buttercup, and Black) that I need work in this area!! So, while I was contemplating taking on another color challenge, I came across this entry at A Creative Life. Janine does amazing work and in my opinion, one of the best at color challenges!!

I loved the colors in this challenge and immediately thought of the last of my Halloween pictures from 2009. Plus, the color scheme was similar to the other page I'd already done (see details of first page here)...so, I kind of cheated. O.k., I really cheated, plus there's absolutely no grey in any of my paper, I'm easing into it! ;O)

I also used the Inspired Blueprint Sketch #28 to get started, but, rotated it to accommodate all of my landscape pictures.

My pumpkins look off in this picture, in real life they match the paper exactly. Weird huh! I absolutely love our Autumn Leaves and can't believe that CTMH retired them. I've never seen anything like them anywhere else and use these very sparingly!!

Paper: Felicity

Cardstock: Desert Sand, Cocoa, and Colonial White

Ink: Autumn Terracotta and Cocoa

Stamps: Homestead Alpha and Homestead Alpha

Other: Recollections Rhinestones, Stickles, Martha Stewart Punches, and Just Blooms Autumn Sunflower flowers and Fall Leaves (retired)

Heart 2 Heart Sketch Challenge...City Scape

2010-07-11T16:36:00.002-08:00

I've been pretty busy the last few weeks and haven't had much time for scrapping. In fact, I missed last two week's challenges over at Heart 2 Heart!! I was on such a roll before that! Oh well, I was excited to get back to it this week with my favorite kind of challenge, a sketch from the Close To My Heart Card Sketch Book, Wishes!!

Dave's Granny is celebrating a birthday in a few days and as usual, I'll be late getting the card to her. But, I don't think that comes as a surprise to anyone anymore!! I struggled to color this darn bear, I don't know why, but, I've never had much luck with him. I love him though!! ;O) I finally settled on watercolor paper and pencils. I'm still not 100% happy, but, if you knew how many renditions I went through...you'd understand why I settled!!!!

Hope you all have a wonderful week...mine's going to be a bit stressful. I'm looking forward to the end of July, things should get better at work for me then!

Paper: Veranda Level 2 and Creative Basics

Cardstock: Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Colonial White

Ink: Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Tsukineko Rich Cocoa

Stamps: From Me to You (sentiment), The Best Way (Bear-retired), and Flower Pot

Other: Martha Stewart Corner Punch, Strathmore Watercolor paper, CTMH Watercolor pencils, Spring Blossom Just Blooms, Creme Brulee Ribbon, and an old Connections Club Reward-Adhesive Pearls

Hatcher Pass...Page 2

2010-06-23T06:00:00.008-08:00

I initially thought I'd just do a one-pager (see original page here) for last fall's drive to Hatcher Pass, but, I kept looking at the pictures and felt like I needed to add a second page. That happens a lot lately for some reason. I used to stretch all of my photos into 2-pagers and then somewhere along the line, I decided it made more sense to focus on one page at a time. I guess, I've found a happy medium where I can always come back and add another page if I just can't resist! ;O) Technically, these don't necessarily "go" together, but, I'm still happy with how it turned out.

I absolutely love fall and all the colors that go with it. The Emporium paper pack seems to have been made to with fall photos in mind!! I've gotten a little obsessed with Stickles lately and ended up going back and adding some to the original page as well, to help make them match a little better.

We had so much fun driving around Hatcher Pass, I love that Dave and I have created traditions like this with Owen. My family never really got along well enough to do things together, let alone, plan to do them every year.

Paper: Emporium

Cardstock: Colonial White and Honey

Ink: Cocoa, Sweet Leaf, Honey,and Brown Bag

Stamp Sets: Large Friendship Alpha and Many Thanks

Other: Stickles, Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist in Suede and Yellow Daisy, and Zig Pen

Fish On!

2010-06-22T06:00:00.002-08:00

This was my first attempt at the Heart 2 Heart Color Challenge, but, Owen's vest was too much of a Honey color to get away with the Buttercup color in the challenge. I'm not completely happy with it, but, am doing a second page to go with it and hope that will make this one look better in the long run!!

I have to explain the title of this one as I think that the term "Fish-On" is probably an Alaskan thing. When fishing is good and tourists are thick up here, our rivers become the site of "combat fishing", the Russian River is the most famous for it. That's when you stand almost literally shoulder to shoulder with the guy fishing next to you. On top of that, there's usually two rows of fisherman on both sides of the river, one row with waders in the water and another row on the river bank. Therefore, if you hook a fish, you have to yell "Fish On" and everyone in hearing distance reels their hook in as quickly as possible to prevent getting wrapped-up in your line while you fight the fish...typically salmon up here. This is an unorganized group, but, you kind of get the idea (the photo is from our local NBC news station www.ktuu.com):

Paper: Animal Cookies Creative Basics

Cardstock: Honey, Black, Tulip, and White Daisy

Stamps: Rustic Alpha, Catch of the Day, Botanical Borders, and Comments

Other: CTMH Watercolor Pencils, Stickles, and Accent Essentials Cricut Cartridge

Heart 2 Heart Color Challenge...Buttercup, Tulip, and Black

2010-06-21T00:00:00.002-08:00

Happy Summer Solstice!!! ;O) I don't know if it's as big of a deal in the Lower 48 as it is for us up here in Alaska....we're maxing out on daylight today at 19 hours 22 minutes and 23 seconds!!! Of course, right now, it really doesn't ever get dark! ;O)

The Heart 2 Heart Challenge was brutal for me this week!!! ;O) I went through three different projects before I settled on this card. I was so excited to play because these happen to be some of my favorite colors, but, in this combination, I really struggled! It's good to actually be "challenged" every once in a while, otherwise, how do we grow!

Cardstock: Buttercup, Black, Tulip, and White Daisy
Ink: Black, Buttercup, and Tulip
Stamps: Small Chocolate Alpha, Rustic Flowers, and Simple Blossoms
Other: Just Blooms Spring Blossom (tulip flowers) and Autumn Daisy, Designer Pewter Brad, Black Diamond Stickles, Martha Stewart Punch, and Casa Collection Ribbon (JoAnns)

One More Got Sketch? 105 Class Sketch Done!!

2010-06-16T19:52:00.005-08:00

So, when I chose this layout from the sketches that we were given to us during the Got Sketch? 105 online class, I realized that although they gave us 8 sketches, I failed to save one of the two-pagers!! Bummer!!! But, on the upside, I guess I'm one more layout closer to having done them "all"! ;O) See there's two ways to "complete" something...you can always delete part of the requirements!! Kind of like the dog eating your homework idea! ;O)

I did this page as kind of a companion to the Maui page I used for my Heart 2 Heart submittal last week. But, I noticed as I was going through the pictures from our trip, we took hardly any of our last few days spent on Oahu and none of the group of us. My sister went to Hawaii with us and by the time we took the hopper to Oahu, we'd all had enough of each other!! ;O) Lesson learned the hard way!!

My husband had a shooting competition in Fairbanks last weekend so we made the 6 hour trek north. I'm so glad to be home and able to peek at everyone's blogs and scrapbook again!!! Nothing like a long rainy road trip to make you appreciate home! ;O)

Paper: Boom-Di-Ada

Cardstock: Buttercup, Autumn Terracotta, Hollyhock, Sweet Leaf, and Colonial White

Ink: Sweet Lear, Olive, Blush, Hollyhock, Buttercup, and Creme Brulee

Stamps: Extreme Happiness and Field Trip Alpha

Other: Hemp, Stickles, Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch, Dollar Butterfly Punch from Michael's, Zig Pen, and Cricut (Title Spot and Border around sunset pic)

Heart 2 Heart #10...Maui 2008

2010-06-06T21:11:00.003-08:00

This is my first project as a guest DT for the Heart 2 Heart Challenge!!! I was so shocked and honored to be asked, I couldn't be more excited!!! The work that I've seen posted by both the DT and the challenge participants has been amazing. Plus, to make it even better, the challenge this week is to complete a scrapbook page!

I have fun making cards, but, mostly because they give you some immediate satisfaction. The real reason I got into all this paper crafting and scrapping craziness was for the scrapbook pages...I love that they give you the opportunity to document more than just the date of the photos. It's so important to me to remember the little things about each photo and in the case of Owen's book, sneak in the things that the pictures don't show like what funny things he says now that I might forget in the years to come!

The layout for this page came from the Got Sketch? 105 online class I took, so I can't show the actual sketch. But, I thought it was a lot of fun. I love the Boom-Di-Ada paper for these Hawaii pictures, it's the perfect color combination. I also used my one and only creative idea (if you can call it that!) to punch one of my Martha Stewart corner punches all down both sides of a strip of paper to create this fun border! I like that I'm able to create something a little bit different than what you see on everyone else's work. It's fun to just use the regular border punch on both sides of the paper too!

Hope you all have a great week. We're up to just over 19 hours of official daylight here (it never really gets dark though right now), summer is officially in full swing and we are having some amazing weather to go with it!!!

Paper: Boom-Di-Ada

Cardstock: Buttercup, Autumn Terracotta, Hollyhock, Sweet Leaf, and Colonial White

Ink: Sweet Leaf, Olive, Blush, Hollyhock, Buttercup, and Creme Brulee

Stamps: Extreme Happiness, Comments, and Field Trip Alpha

Other: CTMH Bitty Sparkles, Hemp, Stickles, Martha Stewart Punch, Zig Pen, and Cricut (journal spot)

Unscripted Sketches #55...For You, Happy Birthday!

2010-05-31T21:02:00.001-08:00

I made up a card for my grandmother's 89th birthday and was sucked back into using the Emporium Creative Basics paper with the Butterfly Wings stamp set...I just love the combo!!! I thought I was stepping out of the box however by matting it with black cardstock. ;O) I used glue dots on the butterfly body and pop-dotted the wings, it looked pretty good in person! ;O) Hope you all have a great short week....Owen's daycare takes the first week and last week of summer off...must be nice!! I'll get to spend an extra couple of days with him though which is a bonus for me!

Paper: Emporium Creative Basics
Cardstock: Colonial White and Black cardstock
Ink: Vineyard Berry and Black
Stamps: Butterfly Wings and From Me to You
Other: Fiskars Circle Punch, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, Prima Flowers, and Recollections and Finishing Accents adhesive gems

Heart 2 Heart #8...Father's Day

2010-05-30T16:12:00.002-08:00

I really needed to get started on Father's Day cards and the Heart 2 Heart Challenge this week, "stamp your own background" was just the boost I needed! I flipped through the Close To My Heart catalog for ideas and kept coming back to the new Splendor paper....problem being, I haven't bought any yet! But, it was fun to make my own using the same colors: Autumn Terracotta, Heavenly Blue, Moonstruck, and Topiary.

Cards for men always stump me and if I don't use some goofy animal stamp, I always fall back on stars! I googled Father's Day Cards for some ideas and came across this card created by Darcy Ucily (I think that's her name). Anyway, I liked the simplicity of it and tried to do something similar. I really love this color combo and managed to dig up some Topiary cardstock I didn't realize I had, so that was exciting! ;O)

Hope you all have a safe Memorial Day. Please make sure to take some time to remember the men and women who have paid the ultimate price and those still sacrificing for us today. I'll be taking flowers out to the cemetery on base to remember my grandfathers, one of which gave his life for our freedom....

Cardstock: Heavenly Blue, Autumn Terracotta, Topiary, and White Daisy
Ink: Autumn Terracotta, Heavenly Blue, Moonstruck, and Topiary
Stamp Sets: Say It In Style, True Friends, Wish Upon a Star, Star Power, Shining Star, and Placement Guide (to place the brads)
Other: Martha Stewart border punch and CTMH Autumn Terracotta Bigger Brads

Ever Seen a Brown Flower???

2010-05-27T18:37:00.001-08:00

I mean one that isn't dead and dried out! ;O) I don't have anything crafty yet, I've been busy working and had the great pleasure of going on a field trip today to the planetarium at UAA with my little man's class! 25 three to five year olds were very quiet and respectful while they watched a movie on how telescopes were invented/made and a presentation on all the different planets in our solar system along with their corresponding moons. It was like a miracle!! ;O) Then we made up for it by running around outside in the amazing weather we had today....77 degrees in the shade!!!! For us that is SOOOO HOT!!! Anyway, needless to say, between the heat and exhaustion from the field trip, no scrapbooking got done. But, I did go out and take some photos of the Chocolate Lilies blooming in my flower bed to share!!

Chocolate Lilies grow wild up here and can be found growing in the marshy areas with the iris' on the Palmer Flats. My camera is not stellar at close-up pics, so the one below is a little bit blurry. But, you get the idea! Hope you are all having the same amazing weather we're having!!

Heart 2 Heart #7 and Mojo #137

2010-05-23T17:27:00.003-08:00

The challenge at Heart 2 Heart this week was a color combo which I tend to avoid normally! ;O) But, I thought I better suck it up and try it since I've had such a good time with the other challenges.

It took me right up to the last minute to finish and I wouldn't say it's my favorite card ever, but I'm pretty happy with it considering! I had SOOO much trouble with this one!!! I think it was a combination of the sketch being tough for me and the fact that I don't own any Ocean or Topiary cardstock and my Ocean ink pad was still shrink wrapped after at least 3 years!!!! ;O) I'm so glad I did it though, it turns out, I really love the Ocean color and plan to use it more in the future!

Paper: Discovery and Paper Garden (Both Retired)

Cardstock: White Daisy and Black

Ink: Ocean, Topiary, Desert Sand, and Black

Stamp Sets: Intrinsic Backgrounds, Spot On Backgrounds, Frogs, Say It In Style, A Birthday Wish (Inside Sentiment), Lazy Days

Other: CTMH Bitty Brads, Stickles, K&Company adhesive rhinestones, Fiskars Circle Punch, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, and Copic Marker

Do It Your Way!

2010-05-17T20:09:00.003-08:00

I follow this blog that I believe is written all in Russian, so I have no idea what they're saying, but, I guess that's what is great about scrapbooking...it speaks for itself! ;O) The layouts, that I believe belong to their DT, are absolutely amazing. I come across this post and had to try the layout, it was definitely a challenge!

These are not my colors and I had a really time wrapping-up this layout. But, I LOVE this Lime Rickey paper from Basic Grey for some reason!! In fact, I've been hoarding it for almost a year, or maybe, just avoiding actually using it! ;O) I also truly appreciate that it doesn't matter what crazy colors other scrapbook companies put out there, CTMH has a color that corresponds! The title is a bit muted in this photo, but matches the paper in real life. I had a really hard time embellishing this one and decided just to let it go and leave it as is.

Paper: Basic Grey Lime Rickey
Cardstock: Sunny Yellow and Citrus Lime
Ink: Citrus Lime and Crystal Blue
Stamps: The Works and Typewriter Alphas
Other: Basic Grey Brads and Chipboard Stickers and Zig Pen

I Was Chosen for the Friday Five at H2H!!!

2010-05-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited!! Do you see my shiny new badge on the right from Heart 2 Heart? I was picked as one of the Friday Five this week for my Mother's Day Card submittal!!!! I'm so excited. The quality of work and creativity of those that enter is just amazing and I never expected my card to be chosen!!! In fact, if it weren't for a couple really nice comments congratulating me, I probably wouldn't have looked to see who won!!! ;O) Thanks Heart 2 Heart!!! If you haven't checked out the H2H Challenge Blog, you really should. It's so great to see what others are doing with the CTMH supplies and it provides lots of inspiration!!

H2H Challenge #6 and Got Sketch! 105...Perfect Day

2010-05-15T22:00:00.001-08:00

The challenge over at Heart 2 Heart this week is to incorporate a technique into your project. Well, that's an easy one, I think everything papercrafty has a technique behind it! I can't wait to see what everyone used, I haven't had time to peek at the other submittals yet!

So, here's mine...I cheated a little as I created and posted this paper on here almost a year ago (see this post for a couple other examples), but am just now using it! I have hoarding issues! ;O) I used my absolute favorite technique (it's totally addicting), the Emboss Resist technique, in conjunction with the Random Stamping technique to create the B&T paper below!

Techniques used:

1. Emboss Resist (White Snowflakes)-Stamp 2-3 different images using Versamark on a light colored piece of cardstock (just a couple images at a time, its easy to lose them!). Use clear embossing powder over the top of the images and set with a heat gun. Using a sponge, dab your choice of ink over each embossed image starting in the center and working your way out. Wipe any excess off using a paper towel. Note: White embossing powder works too, but tends to absorb some of the color.

2. Random Stamping-Start with your largest image in one corner of the page making sure the image hangs off a little. Continue stamping in a triangular pattern, making sure to turn the image each time you stamp, until you have covered the whole sheet of paper. Move on to the next largest image and continue as before making sure to stamp some images off the side of the page so that you don't end up with a bunch of lined up images down each side of the paper.

I used Sketch #4 from the Got Sketch! 105 course I took way back in March to create this layout (I'm not allowed to show the actual sketch for copyright purposes). Can you believe I still have 4 of the 8 sketches left to complete!!! I have so not been productive lately!

I used the Versamark and White Daisy embossing powder on Vellum to create the title and snowflakes. I just love doing that, it makes everything light and whispy and doesn't require extremely precise cutting. I also covered EVERYTHING in silver and startdust Stickles, although, this picture makes it hard to see. I wanted to get this posted tonight, but will try for a better photo in the morning.

Paper: Aspen
Cardstock: Outdoor Denim, Twighlight, Creme Brulee, and Colonial White
Ink: Outdoor Denim, Twighlight, Creme Brulee, and Tuskineko Memento Tuxedo Black (snowman)
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha, Snow Friends, Warm Wishes, Snowflake Kisses, New Fallen Snow, Winter Reflection, and Feathery Flakes
Other: Martha Stewart Border Punch, Craft Essentials Clear Embossing Powerd (JoAnns), Stickles, Copics, and Zig Pen

Neighborhood Watch and Pencil Lines Sketch #183

2010-05-10T14:16:00.001-08:00

So, on top of all the other issues in life, now I have strep throat!! I was shocked, but glad to know there was a reason a little cold knocked me on my butt so hard! ;O) Anyway, I'm trying to recover and I managed to finish this layout in the process. I love this picture! Owen won't know until he's older how much this dog loves him, Max never leaves his side. It's quite a thing to see...

Paper: Cosmo Cricket Lil' Man
Cardstock: Colonial White
Ink: Olive, Autumn Terracotta, Juniper
Stamps: Cobblestone Alpha, Small Chocolate Alpha, Wish Upon a Star, Wishing Star, Shining Star, Comments, Spot on Backgrounds (emboss resist on large star)
Other: K&Company Wild Saffron Rub-Ons and Hambly Studios Kraft Stickers

Happy Mother's Day and H2H Challenge #5!

2010-05-08T12:39:00.002-08:00

For Mother's Day, I really try to come up with fun and different style cards to send to all of our mother's and grandmother's. Last year I did Criss Cross cards using the Emporium Creative Basics (LOVE that paper too!!!) and this year I decided to try out the Tri-Fold Shutter Cards I've seen all of the CTMH consultants posting on our bulletin board. I've noticed over the past couple weeks, lots of the ladies have had the same idea and tri-fold shutter Mother's Day cards have popped up everywhere! ;O) Although, I must say, this was really tough for me, I really struggled with the front, all the other girls made it look so easy!

Over at the Heart 2 Heart challenge this week, they made it super convenient, just a Mother's Day theme was the only requirement. The only non-CTMH products used in this card were the Recollections adhesive sparkles and Copic markers to color the birds!

I got in a hurry early this week to get these in the mail. So, all I have are pictures after we'd signed them. Sorry! But, how cute is my little munchkins signature on the right...his name is Owen...he started with an "O" at the bottom and then he continued up the page...I like to think he's just creative! ;O)

I mentioned before in my previous post with my first attempt at this card, that Tonya Sheridan was my inspiration with her beautiful baby invites. I believe she used a template posted on the Operation Write Home website, but I wanted a little bit easier measurements and to use all 12 inches of a piece of cardstock. So, here's what I used for my base (click on it for a bigger picture), just paper it up as you please after you've embossed and cut appropriately! I'm not sure my instructions will be much help to anyone else, but thought it would be nice to have them here for myself in case I decide to do one of these again in the future!

Hope you all have a wonderful Mother's Day!

Paper: Veranda
Cardstock: Cocoa, Juniper, Creme Brulee
Ink: Cocoa, Sweet Leaf, Juniper and Tsukineko Memento Rich Cocoa
Stamps: Love You Forever, Simple Beauty (sentiment), Follow Your Heart (hummingbirds-exclusive stamp set with Veranda WOTG Kit), Whooo Loves You (branch), and leaves from the unnamed stamp set exclusive to the Twitterpated WOTG Kit
Other: CTMH Paper flowers from Summer Posies and Just Blooms, Pewter Designer Brad, Recollections adhesive sparkles (Michaels), Water Color Pencils (nest), Copic Markers (birds), and Buttercup, Sunflower, and Hollyhock chalk (background and bird cheeks)

Miracle Kit Layout #2

2010-04-22T06:00:00.006-08:00

So, I had no idea what to do with such a small section of the round die cut paper included in the Miracle Kit and came to the conclusion I'd be forced to follow the layout directions provided. I had to make a few changes here and there and even had to use part of the label that comes in the kit because I used up too much of the paper for my previous layout. But, all in all, I am pretty happy with the results. Almost everything I used for this layout was included in the kit. The only exceptions are the adhesive pearls I used to make the butterflies more dimensional (Recollections from Michaels) and the Buttercup, Sunflower, Sweet Leaf, and Olive ink I used to color the chipboard shapes. Oh, and the Zig pen to do the journaling of course.

The pics are of my sister's 30th birthday, the weekend before Easter. She wanted to go sledding and dye Easter eggs. Fortunately, (because I'm a woos and scared of our sled hill) we had quite a warm spell in February and the sled hill was bare in some places and glazed everywhere else by the time her birthday rolled around! It was an ER visit waiting to happen!! Had her party been a week or two later...we would have had plenty of snow!!! In fact, I took these pics on my back porch, it's a balmy 51 degrees, but we still have about 2 feet of snow....is spring ever going to get here!

Part 2 of Miracle Layout #1

2010-04-21T06:00:00.020-08:00

I had two more pictures to go with this page I made the other day from our 2008 Easter morning, but, Owen was wearing bright red jammies in these shots. So, I converted them to black and white and tried to allow both pages to kind of stand alone since the pictures were so inconsistent. This page in particular ended up being extremely simple, but I kind of like it. I tried to pull elements in from my first page and incorporate them here while kind of adapting to the layout sketch provided in the kit. The only parts of this page not already included in the kit are the Buttercup and Sunflower ink (used to color the butterfly chipboard die cut), the Recollections adhesive pearls (Michaels), the Martha Stewart daisy border punch, and the Zig pen for journaling.

Heart 2 Heart Challenge #3

2010-04-20T17:16:00.002-08:00

I've already completed my entry for the Heart 2 Heart Challenge this week!!! Woohoo for me!! Well, I guess it isn't that impressive, considering I am home sick from work with no kiddo....if only I had every day off from work and my little busy bee....oh, the things I could accomplish! ;O)

This week's challenge was a sketch which is my favorite type of challenge. They gave us a great sketch that was a good place to start, but then left a lot for your own interpretation. I love it!

The only items used for my card that weren't from CTMH were the ribbon and buttons (their from JoAnns) and the corner rounder from EKSuccess to make the scalloped border.

I wanted to use up the last of my paper from my Miracle Kit (that's right the LAST of my kit-woohoo again, I never am this on top of things!! I usually hoard it for months and then lose interest!!!) and it screamed baby boy to me. I tried using a different "baby" stamp, but was drawn back to this bear from the retired Beary Much stamp set. It's just the perfect size for a card. I'd make smaller cards, but, they charge extra in postage for "non-standard" sizes and quite frankly, here in Alaska, we don't need to make up reasons to spend more on postage!!! ;O)

I have a couple layouts completed with the Miracle Kit that I will be posting over the next couple of days. I love the colors in this kit and hope to see more like it in our future catalogs!

Paper: Miracle Kit and Sweet Pea
Cardstock: Sweet Leaf and Colonial White
Stamp Sets: Beary Much, Baby Steps, and Now & Forever
Ink: Tskuineko Memento Rich Cocoa and Tuxedo Black
Other: CTMH Blush chalk (bear's cheeks) and watercolor pencils, CTMH Waxy Flax (Miracle Kit), EKSuccess corner rounder, Favorite Findings buttons and Casa Collection ribbon

Mother's Day

2010-04-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

So, it's that time of year again!! I'm desperately trying to get my Mother's Day cards out on time since I was so late with the Valentine's Cards and didn't even bother for Easter!! I made up this really quick prototype...it's pretty rough, but I think I like where it's going.... How much do you love this Veranda paper, I just can't get enough of it lately. I think it's the whole earth tone thing it's got going.

A fellow CTMH consultant, Tonya Sheridan, posted the cutest baby shower invites using this trifold card and I have been dying to try it. You have to check out her card and blog, she does pretty awesome work! She made it look so easy, but I struggled with it a bit and am not 100% thrilled with mine, but, this is just a prototype, right? ;O) I still have to find envelopes to fit on top of everything else...I may regret this choice by the time I'm done making 6 of them (one for each grandma and great grandma!!!).

Tonya got the instructions from Operation Write Home, a great organization that collects blank cards for the military deployed overseas to use to write their families. However, I think there's a couple errors in their template, so I am going to try and come up with my own when I post my final product.

Happy Monday everyone, hope you are all enjoying your day. My little one is at preschool and I don't have to work, so I have the whole day to myself, yay!!! Hopefully, I'll get all of my card's done today as I have no intentions of cleaning!! ;O)

Paper: Veranda

Cardstock: Cocoa, Juniper, Creme Brulee, and Colonial White

Stamps: Love You Forever and Simple Beauty

Ink: Cocoa and Tsukineko Memento Rich Cocoa

Other: Just Blooms Spring Blossoms, Robin's Nest Dew Drops, Watercolor Pencils, Pewter Design Brads, and KandCompany Adhesive Rhinestones.

Mojo Monday #132

2010-04-18T06:00:00.004-08:00

I'm SOOOO tired of snow!!! On Wednesday, we got dumped on, I didn't look to see what the actual accumulation was, but it had to have been at least 6 inches in town. It was right at 32 degrees, so most of it melted as it hit the ground, so it makes it tough to estimate the actual total. Having been born and raised here, I enjoy the winter's more than the average dude. But, we keep having warm days in the 40s and then the next day it is in the 20s and snowing! I am so over it and ready for the yard work to begin!!! (I'll probably regret that statement in the next couple months!!!!)

Alright, so the point to my rant being I wanted to do something really sunny for my Aunt's birthday card. The Smiles stamp set was one of my favorite out of the Spring CTMH catalog, but this is the first time I've put it to use! I had so much fun coloring the flowers in...I love how the Copics can be blended and layerd. I wish my stems stood out a little more, but, what can you do! I used a Mojo sketch from a couple weeks back and tried out making a square card for the first time. Despite the fact that I have no envelope to put it in, I thought it was lots of fun to do.

Hope you are all enjoying your Sunday....today is the day for my husband's 29th birthday party....I may have to trade him in for a younger model next year!! ;O)

Paper: Paper Garden and Emporium

Cardstock: Buttercup, Blush, and Colonial White

Stamp Sets: Smiles, From Me to You, and With Love (vase)

Ink: Petal and Tsukineko Memento Tuxedo Black

Other: Offray ribbon, Hero Arts Sparkle Gems, Stickles, Copics, and Fiskars circle punch

Mojo Monday #134

2010-04-17T06:00:00.004-08:00

This was a second attempt at the Heart to Heart Challenge #2 and an attempt to keep with just CTMH products. Unfortunately, I think anyway you look at it, I didn't stick to just 3 embellishments, oh, and I snuck in more Robin's Nest Dew Drops and a Martha Stewart Punch! I absolutely love this Veranda Creative Basics paper and broke down and ordered the Level 2 version of Veranda as well today. I didn't think I would love it this much! Even the Juniper color is growing on me! ;O)

Paper: CTMH Veranda Creative Basics
Cardstock: Creme Brulee, Juniper, and Colonial White
Stamps: Birthday Invitation (retired)
Ink: Creme Brulee and Juniper
Other: Martha Stewart Punch border and corner punches, EKSuccess Corner Rounder, CTMH Just Blooms Spring Blossoms, Juniper brads, Filigree Charm, Creme Brulee ribbon, and Robin's Nest Dew Drops

Unscripted Sketches #50 and Heart to Heart Challenge #2

2010-04-16T21:20:00.004-08:00

I'm so excited to be able to sit down and get some play time in again!!! I've missed doing the Unscripted Sketches, their DT is so inspiring!

Of course, the rest of this weekend will be spent prepping for my husband's birthday party.....booo!! ;O) I swear everybody and their brother has had a birthday in the last two months and I am SO over it!! My son can't figure out why if everyone else has had a birthday, why he doesn't get to have one too. It's getting harder and harder to explain every time we go to a party that his is still over 8 months away!!

Anyway, enough whining, onto the card! ;O) I was so excited to get to sit down and do my first Heart to Heart Challenge until I realized how tough it was! The Unscripted Sketch this week was perfect for the rules though, 1 stamped image, 2 pieces of patterned paper, and 3 embellishments. I just struggled to meet the requirements!! I may get the boot anyway for using a digi stamp from Wink Wink Ink called Owlfie (how cute is he though-I couldn't resist!) instead of a CTMH image. I have not been using my Copic markers much lately and thought Owlfie was the perfect excuse I needed to dig them back out. I need lots of practice, but all in all, I thought it turned out o.k.. So, here's my qualifying components....Owlfie was the one stamped image, Veranda Creative Basics worked perfect for the two patterned papers, and for the three embellishments I used Robin's Nest Dew Drops, CTMH Creme Brulee ribbon, and clear Stickles on the branch for a little sparkle.

I also cheated and used two more stamps for the sentiment a third stamp set for fun on the insiden Oops! ;O) Hopefully, the next challenge will be easier for me...but, then what would be the point I suppose!!

Paper: CTMH Veranda Creative Basics

Cardstock: Creme Brulee, Juniper, and Colonial White

Stamps: Wink Wink Ink Owlfie, CTMH You're a Hoot, From Me to You, and Smiles

Ink: CTMH Creme Brulee, Grey Wool and Juniper and Tsukineko Memento Tuxedo Black

Other: Copic Markers, Stickles, Robin's Nest Dew Drops, EK Success Corner Rounder, and CTMH Creme Brulee Ribbon

Got Sketch? 105 Class Sketch #3...Hawaii 2008

2010-04-05T06:00:00.005-08:00

O.k., so this layout has kind of been the down turn of my motivation. It didn't turn out at all like I had envisioned and I don't think I love the colors at all. But, I decided it was just one of those that had to be what it is and I had to move on....although, I'm noticing now that my journal strips are looking a little tippy. I'll have to work on that at least!

I did have one moment of enlightenment...I always debate when buying the Martha Stewart border punches if it's worth buying the set that comes with the corner punch for $10-15 more. Well, wonder no more! ;O) This may be the only time I'm this creative, so listen closely, I used the double loop corner punch to create the border down the middle of the page! How pretty is it!!!! I love how it turned out. It took some practice, but I was able to punch down one side of my paper strip in a way that looked consistent and then I turned the paper over and punched down the opposite side matching the pattern as exactly as I could. I think it looks awesome and have tried it with a few others with a whole lot of success. For once, it was money well spent for me!

Paper: Discovery (retired)
Cardstock: Olive, Dutch Blue, Buttercup, and Colonial White
Ink: Hollyhock, Blush, Buttercup, and Dutch Blue
Stamps: Friendship Alpha Large, Small Chocolate Alpha, Extreme Happiness, and Adorable Backgrounds
Other: Stickles, Martha Stewart punch, Zig pen

Happy Easter, a Sneak Peek at the New Miracle Kit, and Inspired Blueprints #43!

2010-04-04T13:51:00.003-08:00

Happy Easter everyone!!! Hope you all had a great time celebrating with family. It's just about half over here and we still have Easter dinner to do, which I am looking forward to. Although, we're putting Easter on hold for a few hours while my husband is at a shooting competition...who schedules one of those for Easter????

I apologize for disappearing for so long. I've had a tough time work and health wise these past couple months. I'm hoping to focus more on both my health and my family's and get us all back on track this coming year. Recently, we've been very worried that we'd have to have Owen's tonsils removed after they suddenly swelled up last fall and with a $6,000 deductible, it was a huge financial decision, not just a health issue. We've worked with both our family physician and an alternative doctor trying to determine the cause and any other possible option. Fortunately, after we finally gave up with the understanding that we'd done all we could and saw an ENT specialist, he agreed that we were doing the right thing by watching him closely and for now, he doesn't think it's necessary or productive to remove them. I don't believe in surgery just for the heck of it and was thankful he wasn't one of those that force it on you. Anyway, so between that and the fact that we are having some major issues at work which requires me to jump through hoops to meet new shorter deadlines, I'm just mentally and physically drained!! Even scrapbooking isn't appealing at this point....that's how bad it's gotten! ;O)

Anyway, enough excuses and whining! The new Miracle kit is going to be available to customers in just 11 more days and I thought I'd share what I've created so far with the kit. I absolutely love the colors they chose (Sweet Leaf, Olive, Bamboo, Crystal Blue, and Colonial White) and thought it was perfect for Easter! The only down side to me about this kit is that the die cut paper comes pre-cut. I was kind of upset about that as I HATE to follow the pre-determined layouts they provide in the kits...I have an issue I know!!! Anyway, this particular die cut worked out to be absolutely perfect for the Inspired Blue Print Sketch that I didn't finish in time!! I love how it all went together! Now, I just need to figure out what to do with the corresponding page...hmmm....

Paper: Miracle Kit
Cardstock: Colonial White
Ink: Crystal Blue, Buttercup, and Sunflower
Stamps: Field Trip Alpha
Other: Miracle kit chipboard die cuts and corresponding Stickease (butterflies), Martha Stewart Daisy Border Punch, Recollections adhesive pearls in white and green (Michael's), Sandylion Essentials Bunny Sticker.

Got Sketch? 105 Class....1st Haircut By Dad

2010-03-10T06:00:00.005-09:00

Alright, rolling right along! I started my third layout for this class on Monday and hope to wrap-up a few more this week so that I'm not so far behind.

This one was kind of tough, just because embellishments are my week spot and they were kind of the focus for this layout. I always go with stars when all else fails and I thought it worked out pretty good here.

I truly am in love with the Got Sketch? sketches, they are so different and Valerie Salmon's work is so inspiring. I love that she incorporated three vertical photos in such a cute way. It's hard to use more than 2 of any one style of photo typically! It's not too late to sign up for the Got Sketch? 105 Class, the classroom will be available online through April 30th.

Paper: Felicity and Caprice (retired)
Cardstock: Autumn Terracotta
Ink: Autumn Terracotta andTsukineko Memento Ink in Rich Cocoa (so the Stickles wouldn't make the ink run)
Stamps: Journaling Jots, The Works Alpha, Wishing Star, and Star Power
Other: Stickles, 1.5" Fiskars Circle Punch, and a Zig Pen

Creative Scrappers #91....Best Friends

2010-03-09T06:00:00.005-09:00

I totally blew my goal of keeping up with the February Creative Scrappers sketches. I'll try again after my Got Sketch? 105 class is done...maybe start fresh in April. Anyway, this one just seemed perfect incorporated in with the Felicity papers. I absolutely love the Felicity kit and hope that it inspires some of the paper packs in upcoming catalogs!! These die cuts were honestly some of the prettiest I've ever seen and they really aren't my thing in all reality. But, I think these have changed me! This is probably one of the most simple layouts I've ever done, but I really love how it looks.

Paper: Felicity

Cardstock: Bamboo and Cocoa

Ink: Bamboo and Cocoa

Stamps: Felicity (swirls and alpha)

Other: Zig Pen and When It's Cold Outside Cricut Cartridge