Just another Manic Monday!

Alright, so I have NO card to share with you YET! It's started, but I just can't craft at night. I'm a morning person and the sun inspires me. Having said that, I didn't get up very early today. We have a busy day of appts. I hope to be able to come home and finish my card.

However, I have some news to share with you today.

First, I am so happy that my card from yesterday was featured on the ABC Toys and Crafts design blog as Creative Customer of the Week. Now Justine was nice enough to share with me a CODE for 15% off my next order. The great thing....she said I can share it with you TOO! So here is the code: ABC15F. There is a link on my sidebar for their store. So have fun shopping. They carry lots of things, but the MY CUTE STAMPS are my favorites.

Now onto my next announcement. There is a NEW STORE IN TOWN....It's called Paper Maniac LLC and I have been anxiously awaiting their grand opening. It's tomorrow! WOOHOO! I think this store is going to be unlike any online store you have every visited. The link won't work until tomorrow though. Make sure you visit them though. They are also having a GRAND OPENING SALE AND DISCOUNT. Use the code GRAND15. This code can be used until Sept 6th. You can check out the store's blog HERE. They have a blog hop going on FULL of inspiration and information on the store. This store is gonna ROCK I can tell ya! I just can't wait to check it out tomorrow. They have some blog candy up for grabs too. So go HOP AROUND! It's fun. Check out ALL the companies they will be offering. Can you say "ONE STOP SHOP!"

Ok, I'm off to get ready for running around. Hopefully I will have another creation to post later.

SEE YA!

Sunflower Thanks

I have another late post for you today. I really have wanted to participate in the Traveler's Inspiration Challenge. Tonight is the deadline. So, here is a quick, simple card. I adore the pictures on her blog. To see the world through a lens. Fascinating!

Also, I used Taylor's Sketch...the TRUE sketch this time.LOL I did 2 challenges in one. Yippee!

The photos on Traveler's Inspiration inspired me with the lines and colors. I had a different thing in mind when I started. I guess that is what happens on the creative process. You start in one direction and just let it take you where it wants to go. At least that has been happening to me a lot lately. I have LOTS of people to thank so I will be posting a lot of thank you cards in the next few weeks. Remember, I have something BIG in the works. I can't tell you yet.

Come back tomorrow for a few fun announcements and hopefully a card. See you then!

What's In It:
Stamps: Stitched, A Flower for all Seasons (SU), Bundle of Bouquets (MFT),
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa, Choc Chip
Paper: Kraft DP, Kraft, White, DCWV Yellow, Choc Chip
Other: CM circle cutter, 1 3/8" circle punch, Copics, scalloped edge punch, white grosgrain (American Crafts), janome sew mini

Stamptacular Sunday Scallop Mania

Don't you just love scallops? I do...well,not the fishy kind. THOSE I'm not so fond of, but paper scallops I love. So what can you create this week using scallops? That is our challenge this week at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge. As always, you have a chance to win some goodies. Our sponsor this week is Hobby Compleet De Duif. I hope you can play along!

This card idea came from another SSC card I did HERE. My friend Kathie commented on all the possibilities using that template and I had an idea. Thanks Kathie for pointing out the "not so obvious." I decided to turn the template on it's side, alter the measurements a bit and VIOLA! A Gate covered with flowers! I used a cuttlebug embossing folder for the woodgrain and then sponged it with Going Gray ink before rubbing White Craft ink over the entire thing. The beams that go across are just leftover from what I cut off the right side. All those extra scallops became extra "planks" if you will. I used A Melissa Frances Vintage frame to resemble a sign that might be hanging on someone's front gate. The flowers are colored with Copics and were all cut out. Yes, this was not a quick card:) In the center of each pink flower I put a dollop of liquid pearl and then dumped dazzling diamonds over it. I used a Sizzix die to resemble the vine that is traveling up the side. That is from my mom's stash. Thanks MOM~....do you want that back:)?

The measurements of this card are a little different. The gate seemed too long leaving it the correct dimensions. So after scalloping the edges and cutting off a few on the right side it measures to about 4 5/8 x 4 1/8". I said ABOUT that. Just try it and play around to see how you can alter it. Think of how many MORE possibilities there are for this template now that it's a gate instead of bib overalls. FUN!

Are you all geared up to get your scallop punches out? What, you don't have any? Well, check out HERE to see how to use your SU corner rounder for circles or just use it straight across your paper by removing the guard and lining up each edge as you punch. Confused? Just check out the link for the scalloped circles tutorial. That should clarify it more.

All RIGHT! Now go to it. Can't wait to see all the lovely creations you guys can come up with. Remeber to link it back to the SSC blog. Also, make sure you check out all the design teams work and leave us some comments, ok. It makes our day.

As always, I hope you have a fabulous Sunday!

What's In It?
Stamps: Something to Celebrate (mycutestamps), All About You (verve)
Ink: Brilliance Black, Going Gray, White Craft
Paper: White
Other: Vintage Brads, MF vintage frames, Copics: B41, R85, RV34, B37, Crystal Effects, liquid pearl, dazzling diamonds, Sizzix decorative die cute

Pretty Flower Thank You

I love these flowers from Verve. They remind me of Black-Eyed Susans. I still haven't actually created anything using them that way. They went perfectly with this paper I got from the Digichick called "Sweetie Pie." I spent a lot of time on Thursday printing off various digital papers. I was so excited to find out at Office Max that I could buy Presentation Paper and get another pack for 2 cents. I figured Presentation Paper must be pretty close to Brochure Paper, which is what I wanted to buy. UH, NO! It is much thinner than I thought. So while it prints veryy nicely, it doesn't have the "substance" I was looking for. Another instance of "When A Deals Not A Deal."

This card also started out using Taylor's Sketch and then took a different turn. I hope to try and make another card actually USING the sketch this weekend. LOL. Go check out her blog for some inspiration.

I really miss the days of actually sitting here and "blogging." Telling you stories and sharing pictures of our life. It's just too busy right now. I'm off to a get ready for a football game. The first REAL game of the season.

I'll be back tomorrow with a Stamptacular Sunday Challenge card. I'm pretty proud of the idea so check back for that. Hopefully next week I can share some fun pictures and the projects I've started and have yet to finish. Stay tuned!

What's In It?
Stamps: Wishful Elegance, Wonderful Words (SU)
Ink: Brilliance Black
Paper: Sweetie Pie digital, DCWV yellow textured, white
Other: Pure Color Pencils, Copics, baby oil, corner rounder, Ric Rac, Soft Subltes Brads, Stickles, dimensionals

HAPPY friDAY!

I have a super quick card for you today. I just haven't gotten the mojo going yet. These color are Splitcoast's color combo this week. It's actually one of my favorite color combos. My "flower" was something I had leftover from another project and it looks a little too pink on this card. But, alas, it's all I've got. My first card of the morning just DID NOT want to cooperate.



I hope you have a happy Friday! With any luck I'll have something else for you later tonight or tomorrow. It's something I've started, but just didn't get to finish this week.

What's In It?
Stamps: August KOTM (Unity)
Ink: Real Red, Choc Chip, White Craft
Paper: Kraft, Choc Chip, White, Citrus Pack DCWV
Other: Sizzix Die (SU), Scalloped Edge punch, 1 3/8"circle punch, cuttlebug and EF, Inkssentials white pen, corduroy brad (TPS), dimensionals, sponge, ribbon from Hobby Lobby

Just an FYI

I know my posting hasn't been the greatest lately. I apologize. I really hope that in the next few weeks I can get on a schedule for creating more. We've had some things pop up along with the daily events called LIFE. Please just hang in there with me. I should have something for you tomorrow. I am working on something BIG and SPECIAL. I can't share the details right now, but I am so excited about what I'm planning. I promise I'll let you know in a few weeks. Just be patient with me, ok!

Rubber Baby Buggy Bumper

Here's a quick card I made for the CPS Sketch this week. Their sponsor is Jillibean Soup and I am in love with this line of products. Fun names, fun colors, fun patterns. I would LOVE to win the random pick.

I needed a card for a friend who was gracious enough to loan me all her baby things. That is going to save me a bunch of money. Now the little one I babysit will be comfortable and able to safely travel as I take my kids to school tomorrow.

I am still working on using those darn Copics. I hope to be able to watch a few more videos and just practice when the kids are in school on Wed. Imagine, them at school and me home practicing my coloring:)

My image is a digital from Digi Stamp Boutique. You can find a link for them on my left side bar. They are, by far, my favorite digital image company. You should really go check them out. Cute stuff!

I hope to show some pictures this week of our end of the year adventures. Off to get ready for the little ones this morning!

Thanks for stopping by today!

What's In It?
Stamps: digistamp boutique image, Happy Thoughts (SU)
Ink: Rose Red
Paper: SU paper pack, white, text rose red
Other: scalloped punch, circle punches, button (TPS), corner rounder, lace doily punch (MS), ribbon (walmart), dimensionals, Copics

Get Out Your 3-D Glasses

Do you like 3 dimensional movies? I do. This is a picture of our family at Disney last year before going into a 3D show. It was amazing and so FUN! Hard to believe that was almost a year ago. We had SUCH a good time!

Well, there will be no movie here today, but it's always a good time when you can join us on the Stamptacular Sunday Challenge blog. The challenge this week is to make your project 3 Dimensional. No glasses required! So I hope you can play along.

I'm your sponsor this week with a few goodies from Stampin UP.

When I saw the Recessed Window tutorial a few weeks ago I knew it's what I wanted to do for this challenge. Head on over to Splitcoast for the awesome tutorial. They even have it on video if you are more of a "visual" person. I would also like to add that if you are a bit MEASUREMENT CHALLENGED, "like MOI," (done in my best Miss Piggy voice) you may find it helpful to just cut a 3 1/2" square scrap of cardstock, place it where you would like your window to be and then trace around it. You can then measure in 1/4" from those lines. That will replace step 1. Another thing that worked better for me was just adhering my DP on the front of the card and then using an Exacto knife to cut out the square. I find it very hard to temporarily adhere things and then go back and line everything up again without messing up. Then I tear my paper. Is it just me?!?!

My particular card took me forever!! Not because it was that difficult to construct, but because I just couldn't figure out how I wanted to decorate it. You know how you have a idea and it just doesn't come out the way you pictured? That's what happened. So, many hours later I finally finished and my photo turned out like POO! The card really is prettier than it looks.

Here's another shot. I'm not sure this is any better though.


Let me point out some details. The flowers were embossed with Iridescent Ice on watercolor paper and then....well...watercolored:) My stems are embroidery floss. I just paper pierced holes and then sewed. I definitely need a smaller needle because my holes ended up sooo big. I also made that scalloped square backdrop by following Julie's tutorial HERE.

Please make sure you take some time to enjoy the Design Teams creations! They are located on my left side bar.

Thanks for stopping by today!

What's In It?
Stamps: Wishful Elelgance (Verve), Something to Celebrate (MyCuteStamps)
Ink: Soft Sky, Baja Breeze, Versamark
Paper: Afternoon Tea DP, Soft Sky, White, Watercolor
Other Embroidery floss, pretties kit, white satin ribbon (walmart), scalloped edge punch, exacto knife, paper piercer, dimensionals, lace doily punch (MS)

Saturday! Saturday! It's Saturday!

My husband came home singing that song by Elton John. It's an appropriate title for my post...since it IS Saturday. We have plans to do something fun today. It is our last weekend before the kids go back to school. We had NO football game today either. WOO HOO! That will quickly change. So what are we doing? We're not sure yet. Maybe heading to the Caverns or doing some rock climbing. Really...I'm not kidding. Then we plan to go out for dinner. THAT is the most exciting thing for me. I won't have to cook. Give me a double WOO HOO!

I did get to spend some time stamping this morning while everyone slept. It's my favorite time of the day. Sooo quiet and peaceful. I just love it. I am definitely a morning person. Last night I fell asleep while the kids were watching a movie. This morning I asked my son's friend if he was a morning person. I told him I definitely was and that's why I kept falling asleep last night during the movie. My son yells, "Hey! You said you were just resting your eyes!" Oops...BUSTED:)

I do have a card to share after all that chit chat. I did make another boy baby card. This one isn't as cute as my little bib overalls one. Still, I think this giraffe image is adorable.

I watercolored him and then added Crystal Effects to his spots. I used a sketch from Paper Craft Planet's Sketch Challenge. I like their sketches each week. Nothing to difficult about them so, I don't usually have a hard time whipping something up. I need quick, easy things lately. Time has not been on my side as of late. For those of you who do not know this about me, I STINK at Time Management. It's always one of my self improvement goals. I have many:)

I hope you have a fabulous weekend. Check back in tomorrow for a Stamptacular Sunday Challenge card. Speaking of school starting...my project tomorrow has the word Recess in it. Nope, it's not that kind. Guess you'll have to check back to see what I'm talking about:)

See YA!

What's In It?
Stamps: Bundle of Joy (SU), Hampton Art Baby
Ink: Memento Black, More Mustard, So Saffron
paper: Citrus Pack DCWV, Tango Tangerine, White, So Saffron
Other: Stars Sizzix die cut, cuttelbug, buttons, embroidery floss, white twill, dimensionals, Janome Sew Mini, crystal effects, distress tool

Celebrate The Little Stuff

Wow! It seems that my time is not my own right now. My posts seem to be farther apart. My time creating seems to be less and less. I know that in a few days that will change. My kids will be heading back to school. There are still so many things we didn't get to do that we wanted.

TIME....there's never enough...no matter how much you have.

I'm going to try and take the advice of my card today and "Celebrate.....the little stuff!"

Next Tuesday we will have a small Pizza Party with the kids before they head off to school the next day. Ice Cream will also be on the menu. I had this idea for this card while I slept. It woke me up at 5 am. Didn't get to finish it til a bit ago. It's my Work It Girl Wednesday on Thursday. I hope to get back into my stamping routine soon. Summer is always tough to follow any routine.

My challenge to you this weekend is to Celebrate something small. Find the good in your day and make it an occasion. Since all the kids are fighting, I think an ice cream cone may be as good as it gets today. That's good enough for ME:)

In case you hadn't guessed, the inside says "the little stuff."

The ice cream cone was stamped several times and layered with dimensionals. I added crystal effects to the cherry and around the edges of the ice cream. Dazzling diamonds was added to the edges too!

What's In It?
Stamps: Unity June KOTM, Technique Tuesday Everyday Words by Ali Edwards
Ink: baja breeze, so saffron, memento rich cocoa, riding hood red
Paper: Slumber Party DP, White
Other: Satin ribbon (walmart), corner rounder, Janome Sew Mini, dimensionals, dazzling diamonds, crystal effects, swiss dots EF, cuttlebug


I really hope to have something for you tomorrow. We'll cross our fingers;)

Sharing In Your Sorrow

I made this card for one of my husband's cousins from Canada. She recently lost her dad. We were very blessed to have this cousin and her family come stay with us last year for a brief visit.

I decided to combine the colors for a Simon Say Stamp contest on Paper Craft Planet. We were to use Close to Cocoa, Certainly Celery and either Blush or Cameo Coral.


I just got some new K&Company DP. I just love their line. This is called Classic. My rose is from an SU set called Roses In Winter (retired) and I stamped it several times before cutting it out and layering it. The edges were sponged with Close to Cocoa. I decided to add a bit of Micro Pearl to give just a touch of shimmer to it. Not sure I am very happy with it. I also layered lace on top of some Offray ribbon. The sentiment is a Sizzlet tag from SU called Lots of Tags. LOVE these. I cut out 2 so that I could raise the center panel.

That's it for today. It has taken me about 5 hours to finish writing this post since I got up late (6am:) I'm babysitting today and between feeding kids and checking on them outside every 5 minutes while taking care of an infant it's taken me awhile. So let me just give you the details.

What's In It?
Stamps: Roses In Winter, Thoughts and Prayers (SU)
Ink: Cameo Coral, Close to Cocoa, Certainly Celery
Paper: K&Co classic, Heidi Grace DP, Vanilla,
Other: Swirl..Lots of Tags...Leaf Sizzlets (all SU), Micro Pearl, sponge, dimensionals, lace (TPS), Lace Doily punch (MS)

Beary Special!

This is a long post. Grab a cuppa "whatever" and hang in there with me, ok?

Happy Sunday! This week Stamptacular Sunday Challenge would like you to use a BEAR somewhere on your project.

I did NOT have one single stamp of a bear or with a bear in it. I knew what I wanted to do for my card so the search began for the "perfect" bear to fill the bill or rather fill the pocket in this case. I'm so glad my friend Kathie introduced me to a local scrapbook/stamp store. It became a bit of an adventure for the kids and I to search the entire store for something with a bear. It's probably the first (and last) time they've ever enjoyed going into a craft store with me.

This card is not my original idea. A friend of mine had something similar to this from her upline...years ago. I have held onto the stamp set POCKET FUN just so I could make a card like this. I took her idea and embellished on it. Since my SIL keeps having babies every year, I figure I better stock up on baby cards. I made a girl one that I will show at the end of the post.

UPDATE TO SHARE: My sister in law called me THIS morning. She had her baby 3 weeks early. We now welcome Gabriel Richard into our family! Better get another boy card ready ...just in case.... for her next one:)

First, I thought I'd share how I made this one. I have some tips along the way. "Bear" with me on the photos. (Cheesy pun totally intended) My tutorial shots are always done under fluorescent lighting.

The Template

This is just your standard 4 1/4"X 11" piece of card stock folded in half from top to bottom.
Measure in from each end 1 1/16" and then cut down 1 5/16". Do this on both sides and then cut across to remove that section. The bottom can be left straight or you can create the "illusion" of little legs by finding the middle of the card, marking a spot about a 1/2" up or so and then cutting on an angle up to that mark.

HERE'S THE TIP

I used the retired background stamp called Just Jeans. When using a background stamp it's always a good idea to use a brayer to get an even coverage of ink. Now if you've read my blog long enough you know that I am a "lazy" stamper. This takes extra time, effort and clean up. I am telling you... IT IS WORTH IT. Don't believe me?


SEE THE DIFFERENCE

The one on the left looks so much better and definitely more like actual denim.



Want to know how I made the straps? OK! Here's what you do. Stamp another piece of coordinating cardstock with the Jeans background stamp and cut a strip that is 1 1/16". You will use the rest of this stamped cardstock to make the pocket so just hang on to it.


Next take the large Oval punch and punch out a section. You should be able to make two of these from the one strip. You will also have to trim off on the one end to fit at the top of your card properly.

I decided after adding the brass buttons on the front that I wanted my straps to stand out a little. So, I did what I refer to as the "partial pop."

This just means that I put adhesive at the top and added a dimensional along the bottom. That way the whole thing isn't sticking up off the paper.

Now about those buttons. I think they are by Making Memories. I can't find them anymore. They aren't really a brad. I'm not sure what they are called. Five little prongs stick out the back and you have to pierce them through your paper and hammer down the backs. THAT could be why they don't make them anymore. They aren't the easiest to use. BUT they are so CUTE!

A little more about the card. I stamped the pocket using Night of Navy ink and then cut it out and popped it up with dimensionals. The entire card is faux stitched with a Night of Navy marker only(no piercing) and sponged. The bear and bottle are colored with Copics. I added Crystal Effects to the bottle to make it look more like glass. You can click on the picture to get a larger view if you like.

Here's the "GIRL" version

I decided to make the pocket from a heart template. See, you don't have to use a pocket stamp. Be creative. I also added scalloped "trim" to the bottom legs. Recognize the paper? It's that lovely Tiny Princess Pattern from The Digichick:)

On this one I didn't "partially pop" the straps either. I am less than thrilled with my coloring on that bunny. Still figuring out how to use these Copics with my minimal supply.

WOW! That was looonnngg. Thanks for hanging in there with me. Now here are the deets!

What's In It?
Stamps: Just Jeans (SU), Baby ( Hampton Art)

Ink: Not Quite Navy, Night of Navy, Versamark
Paper: White, Brocade Blue
Other: sponge, white EP, Copics, MM buttons, dimensionals, large Oval punch, brayer, SU Vintage brads

Stamps: Baby (Hampton Art)
Ink: Choc Chip
Paper: Tiny Princess Patterns digital
Other: The Paper Studio buttons, Pretty in Pink marker, heart template, Copics, Scalloped Edge punch, dimensionals

Hey, don't forget to check out some of the CUTE samples the design team has made. Go to their blogs located on the left side bar. Leave them some comments. Me too please. I love to read comments. Then dig out your bear stamps or get some digital bear stamps and get creating. My favorite digitals are The Digistamp Boutique. HERE is the link that will take you right to the bears. Can't wait to see what you make! Don't forget to link your creation to the Stamptacular Sunday Blog for a chance to win some goodies from our own design team member, Janneke.

Have a good one!

I ALMOST FORGOT!

Tomorrow is another STAMPTACULAR SUNDAY CHALLENGE. It's also the last week to submit any artwork to be considered for a spot on the design team. I'm telling you, it is soooo fun being with this challenge group. I absolutely LOVE it and Priscilla is THE BEST! So go check out the details on THE BLOG. You still have time.

Don't forget to check back here tomorrow. I am REALLY excited about my card. In fact, I have 2 to share. So, I'll see you Manana (MON-YON-AH).

Scroll down for my other post today, please!

A Question and A Card

Ok, so first, the question:

Does this mean I'm getting old?

Yes, I'm aware this is a loaded question. You don't have to answer. In fact, please don't answer:)

I decided to try these curlers that I've had in my closet for a while now and scared my kids. They thought I was weird. They're like, " You've got these things on your head."

It made me laugh because I remember one babysitter I had who always had curlers in her hair in the mornings. She would take them out and her head would be lined with these perfectly formed, shiny, blonde curls. It always amazed me as a child. Funny the things you remember.

I had to have my daughter take this picture just because of that memory. I also remember that I hated going to this sitter. Probably because I was getting older, but also because she made me eat that awful lunch spread. Do you know what I'm talking about? Bologna all mashed up with relish and God knows what else. BLEK! I always starved on those days. It's those memories that make me glad that I can stay home with my kids. It's also those memories that throttle me to make sure the kids I sit have fun.

Speaking of fun. Here is a card with this super fun paper from The Digichick. I LOVE this paper so much. It's called Tiny Princess. I don't love my card though. It's the second card this week that just did nothing for me. But, it's the better of the 2.

I used the Weekend Sketch Challenge as my start. It's a very simple card. I don't think I need to explain a thing. I'm hoping my Mojo comes back soon and that I get a bit more time to be creative. We're off to a football scrimmage today. It's supposed to be 88 and 94% humidity. Poor Kids:( I've already got the water bucket chilling. Hope your Saturday is great!

What's In It?

Stamps: Best Yet, Bevy of Buttterflies
Ink: Baja Breeze, Rose Romance, Versamark
Paper: Tiny Princess, Vanilla
Other: Lots of Tags SU sizzlet, clear EP, cuttlebug, walmart grosgrain (lemongrass), flower and button ( the paper studio), rose grosgrain SU, dimensionals, paper piercer

SpongeBALL Squarepants

His shorts kind of look square in this picture, don't they?

Well, this is some of the fun we have been having lately. SPONGEBALL! While I know this isn't card related, it is CRAFT related. Besides, I'm sharing all the things that I love. So my kids and anything that brings them big smiles counts. This was a great idea in the Family Fun magazine this month.

I couldn't find online directions so here is my quick version.

I took one sponge and cut it in half. Then cute each half into 3 strips. Each of my strips ended up being about 2-3 inches long. Now take all 6 pieces and gather them together with string or yarn. I moistened the sponges to make it easier to tie them tight. After pulling the sections apart a bit I wove another string throughout the center and tied it again just to prevent them from falling apart. So far so good. If I make more I may take pictures to show you what I mean. Sorry, I thought I could just provide a link.

It's a super easy project to make though. If you head to your local Dollar store you can probably get the sponges for pretty cheap. I got a whole bag for just a few dollars last year. They aren't perfectly shaped, but your just going to cut them up anyways. I highly recommend this game if you have kids. It's the "updated" version of water balloons. Make a bunch, though. I am planning on making more this weekend. Now in the magazine the directions are to try and toss this to the person standing across from you. Yeah, right! It's so much more fun to throw this at the person RUNNING from you. We made up rules...no throwing really hard, no throwing at the face, don't stand right next to someone and blast them...they are, however, sponges and probably hurt LESS than a water balloon. Have plenty of buckets around full of water and I turned the sprinkler on for the added affect.



We have played this twice this week with the kids I babysit. Yesterday we even invited over another friend. They played for over an hour only to be interrupted because of the dreaded "F" word.... FOOTBALL:(

So go get some sponges. You don't have to be a kid. I want to play next time. This would be such a great game for a party don't you think?

SpongeBALL, Squarepants! SpongeBALL Squarepants! SPONGEBAAALLL! SQUAREPAAANTSSS!

Sorry if you sing that song all day now:)

Tomorrow we will have a CARD!

We've Crossed Over To The Dark Side:)

Yes, it's official. We have entered that place where I swore I never wanted to go.

That place where you are gone every evening.

Where you no longer eat as a family.

Where everyone is crabby from lack of sleep.

Where you constantly run around making sure everything is somewhat clean, prepped and ready for action.

It's the dark side of football (or any organized sport, really). Especially in my area. My son started 2 hour practices/4 nights a week....at 8 yrs old. Do you sense my hostility? Sorry, not fond of this concept.

And so it goes.... we spend our evenings running around and our days filled with activities we need to do before school starts. We've been busy. We've been having fun too; don't get me wrong. I just haven't been able to stamp much. I can't believe school starts in 2 weeks. Not only are my kids not ready to go back, but I'M not ready for them to go back.

Yesterday we spent the entire day getting school supplies and trying to find a belt for football pants. We had just enough time to come home, unpack, grab a bowl of cereal for dinner (soooo healthy) and head to the field. It was picture day too. So that means taking the pads out of the practice pants and putting them into the game pants. Then we had to switch shirts. After lacing him up and getting his belt all cinched tight he says he wants his shirt tucked in. I'm lazy, ok. So I just try to stuff the shirt in around the cinched belt. After sweat and tears, I finally get it all tucked in nicely.

Then he says, " Uh OH!"

"WHAT?" I ask wearily.

"I forgot to do up the straps on my shoulder pads." Yeah, you're right. They are UNDER the shirt.

"Do you hate me?" I asked as I yanked at the shirt tails. He giggled in reply. Dalton's giggle is one of the greatest sounds ever. Plus, he's just so cute. Besides, he uttered the words I've been secretly hoping to hear. Not right then, but later that night.

"I don't think I'm going to play football next year." A-LLE-LU-IA!


YEAH for tomorrow! It's "free" day. No football, no errands, no extra children, no plans, no worries. I'm just going to spend the day "chillaxin'" with my children. That may include some crafting in the basement. I may get to stamp a little after all. Hope you forgive me for being MIA. I'll be back with a few cards for the weekend.

Happy Monday! Enjoy The View!

Isn't this picture GORGEOUS! It's part of the Traveler's Inspiration Challenge. Such a beautiful picture of nature and architecture. My card was going to include the Monday Mojo Sketch as well, but it just didn't work out that way.

I will be back later today with more details. I have an appointment this morning and time is short. I may be back with another post today as well. See you later!

UPDATE: OK, so no other post today, but here are the details on this card.

I used my #2 scalloped die cut for the vellum circle that is behind the main image. This vellum was misted with water and then crumpled up and then flattened out again. I then let it dry. This technique looks really cool if you sponge color on it too. Just an idea for you to try.

Another thing to note is that I added a bit of texture to the grayish piece of cardstock by scoring every 1/2 inch on an angle. The edges are scalloped using a corner rounder. I added a bit of sparkle to the circle of the main image using my 2 way glue pen and dazzling diamonds.

What's In It?
Stamps: Of the Earth (SU), Floral Symphony (verve)
Ink: Chalk Ink (pink), Certainly Celery, Soft Suede
Paper: White, Papirloftet card stock, Vellum, DSWV gray
Other: Scallops #2 die cut, grosgrain ribbon, dazzling diamonds, 2 way glue pen, Kaiser pearls, TPS pear brads, flower TPS, corner rounder

It's The Final Countdown!

The Final Countdown was an 80's song. If you don't remember it you can watch it HERE. The countdown for today though is 3,2,1.....3 brads, 2 designer papers and 1 flower on your project. That's your challenge issued by Priscilla on Stamptacular Sunday Challenge blog. Go check out some cute samples of the design teams' work. They are on my left sidebar for your convenient viewing pleasure:)


I dug out some designer paper I have had for awhile now and kind of went out of my comfort zone. Not too much though. The black DP was a little BOLD and BUSY for me. So, I decided to cover it with vellum cardstock. That toned it down quite a bit. How did I attach it since they are the same size and all my glue would show? I stitched it together using embroidery floss. First, I pierced the holes through both layers. Here is a great tip on how to pierce circles. Go get a plastic canvas piece from the embroidering section of your local craft store in a circular shape.

Here is picture of mine and the piece I was sewing when I was almost finished ( and thought to take a picture.....lightbulb!)



Such a great investment...only about 50 cents. I layered my sewn project using dimensionals onto a scalloped circle. Both of my butterflies are embossed. One with Iridescent Ice and the other with Black EP. I freehand cut a black "mat" for the small butterfly. The large butterfly is was sprayed with water and then baja breeze ink was swirled around on top. Then I painted it with Shimmerz and added a bit of stickles. I think it would look better with watercolor paper instead of plain white. I'll try that technique again.

I think everything else is pretty self explanatory. Let me know if you have any questions. I hope you can join in the fun. There were some really cute projects from last week's challenge. Can't wait to see what you come up with this week.

What's In It:
Stamps: Bevy of Butterflies (Unity), Because of you (Verve)
Ink: Versamark, Versafine Black, Baja Breeze
Paper: We R Memory Keepers DP, Baja Breeze, Black, Vellum cardstock,
Other: plastic canvas circle, paper piercer, embroidery floss, black EP, Iridescent Ice, dimensionals, soft sky ribbon, velvet brads and black flower from The Paper Studio, jumbo brads (MM), scalloped circle nesties

BTW, if you like what you see, why not follow me. Sign up on my side bar. Thanks!


Have a great Sunday!

It's My Lucky Day!

I've been having issues with my internet service this morning so my post is a bit late. That's ok though because I opened my email to find out that I WON an assortment of stuff from Paper Crafts Magazine! You can see the link with my name at the end HERE. WOOHOO! Love random.org...today at least:) And to make my day even better my hubby is taking my son to the movies. I will get a good 2 1/2 hours to MYSELF. It will be spent doing a bit of cleaning, but still, the sound of SILENCE. Ohh, Ahh! Can you dig it? It will be short lived though. I promised we would go play tennis before football practice. I WISH I had this kid's energy! Especially since I'm sure we will just be chasing balls around the tennis courts. We don't REALLY know how to play. I just hope no one is on the court next to us. They will totally HATE us~

Well, I did make a few cards this morning. One I will have to wait to show you. The other is one I made "just for fun." You know, no sketches, color combos or any rules to follow. I used the new Bermuda Bay color from SU. I combined a bunch of different stamps to make this. Since I'm still getting used to the color I wasn't sure what other color to use with it. White is always good.


I really loved the way this turned out. I had this long white card "reject" from another project and I just couldn't let it go to waste. It's a bit hard to see, but it's scored in a half inch all the way around. I also embossed it with a stylus and my mat pack piercing template. The panel of bermuda bay is covered with some vellum cardstock. I used a technique and some supplies that I love, but haven't used in a long time.... Embossing and Vellum. The center heart was embossed with white EP onto glossy cardstock. Then just rub the Bermuda Bay ink all around it. That gives it a more subtle color.

Here's What's In It!

Stamps: Anniversary Birds (Verve), Always, Full of Life ( SU)
Ink: Versamark, White Craft, Bermuda Bay
Paper: White, Bermuda Bay, Vellum cardstock, Glossy
Other: Bermuda Bay ribbon, scalloped edge punch, white EP, mat pack, stylus, glue dots, flower, heart button, scalloped circle nesties, swiss dots EF, dimensionals


OOPS! Forgot to show the INSIDE:)

Thanks for checking in!

Introducing My Cute Stamps!

I really love this new line of stamps called MY CUTE STAMPS 'cause, well, they are CUTE! My card from yesterday uses one of the sets. Head on over to the ABC Toys and Crafts blog for a chance to win a set each day. Here are the details:

ATTENTION:"A Set a Day Giveaway"

Featuring the NEW sets from "MY CUTE STAMPS"

Starts August 3rd and ends August 7th.

Go and comment daily on the ABC Design Blog post and you could win the stamp set featured that day. Just go to ABC Design Blog for all the details.

Also, the store owner, Julie, has a $25 Shopping Spree to the STORE to give away this week. So check out the Store Blog and see how to win.

Just a little enabler for you:)

Love U A Latte

Still working on my family cards in which to enclose pictures. I used a sketch from Paper Craft Planet. It was meant to be very simple. I didn't do that. Are you getting sick of red yet. I seem to be on a kick. I broke out some SU textured designer paper and I'm having fun with it. I promise I'll switch to a different color combo here soon.

The sketch was supposed to be simple, but I really got going on the embellishments. I used some liquid applique for the cream and added glitter to it. I think that is hard to see. I also used some Making Memories heart epoxy stickers that I picked up after Valentine's Day last year. I added a small one onto the coffee cup heart that was already there. The "U" is a thicker sticker that I colored. I need to get more of those I think. They are much easier to use quickly than chipboard. This card has a lot of dimension to it. I popped almost everything up with dimensionals and also stamped the cup twice to create even more dimension.

I rounded the top corners. My punch always leaves the edges a little rough. Here's my simple TIP: Use a file or sanding block to smooth any rough edges.

I have to tell you the cutest thing that happened to me yesterday.

I went into the bathroom to help a little guy and found him sitting there "reading" my Creating Keepsakes magazine. SOOO adorable:) It makes me chuckle just thinking of it.

Hope you have a great day. We are off to the Orthodontist. Kid #1 is done for the moment...now on to Kid #2. As my husband would say, "Do you hear that swooshing sound? It's the funds being SUCKED right out of my account (insert sound effect here)."

Have a goodie!

What's In It?
Stamps: Sweet Chocolate (MCS), Short and Sweet, Polka Dot background (SU)
Ink: Craft Choc Chip, RHR, versamark
Paper: Kraft, RHR, Slumber Party DP
Other: scalloped circle nesties, 1 3/4" circle punch, scalloped edge punch, chocolate ric rac, MM epoxy stickers, clear EP, thickers stickers, liquid applique, dazzling diamonds, dimensionals