Graceful Designs

Thanks!

2010-03-21T21:11:00.001-04:00

I’ve had this card for quite some time. So long, in fact, I don’t remember where I got the inspiration, the colors used, etc. What I do remember was how quick and easy it was to create multiples of this card.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Daisy Dash Jumbo Wheel, not sure which set the “Thanks” was from Ink: Soft Sky Paper: Soft Sky CS, Taken with Teal CS, Whisper White CS Accessories: Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon, Flower Ribbon Slide, Pumpkin Pie Blooms

I’m back!!!

2010-03-21T11:31:00.001-04:00

It has been almost a full year since my last blog post. I have missed the time I used to have to make cards and browse the internet for new ideas and techniques. Now what we create for GNO is usually decided upon less than a week in advance and limited to supplies on hand. That’s OK! I still love creating and savor the time I do get to do what I love – create!

I’m preparing for a GNO (Girl’s Night Out) and GAO (Girl’s Afternoon Out). In doing the preparation, I’ve been cleaning up and clearing out! It feels so good!

Sorry to not be posting a picture right now, but I’ll be back later this afternoon with a project post. The girls and I are headed to see Alice in Wonderland. Enjoy your Sunday.

March GNO Projects

2009-04-05T20:33:00.001-04:00

We had a great time making our GNO projects, meeting new friends, and reconnecting with old ones. We used several new products and focused on using blender pens.

HELLO THERE!

This card was inspired by Renee Van Stralen’s card here on her blog Stamping for Sanity.

I changed a couple of things and left out several others, but in general the card is pretty much the same and I like it.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Cheep Talk Paper: Pacific Point CS, Kiwi Kiss CS, Tangerine Tango CS, Whisper White CS, Good Morning Sunshine DSP Ink: Pacific Point, Tangerine Tango, Kiwi Kiss Accessories: Blender Pens, Scallop Punch, Circle Punch, Word Window Punch, Whisper White Organza Ribbon

WELCOME LITTLE ONE

I just had to put some ink on my Goody-Goody Gumdrops Level 3 Hostess Set. This card by Jen Sannes was Goody-Goody Good!!! I’m not one for square cards so I altered it to fit a standard size using what I had. My ladies always get stuck making the cards I need, a baby boy welcome card in this instance.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Goody-Goody Gumdrops, Sweet Little Sentiments Paper: So Saffron CS, Bashful Blue CS, Whisper White CS, Delicate Dots DSP Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, So Saffron, Bashful Blue, Pumpkin Pie, Sahara Sand Accessories: Blender Pens, Square Punch, Curly Label Punch, So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon

EASTER TREATS

Couldn’t have a GNO without doing one thing 3-D. It is always a challenge to come up with something I can send the ladies home with that they’ll want to re-create for their children’s classmates. With Spring and Easter around the corner I broke out my #2 box and got to work.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: A Good Egg Paper: Pink Pirouette 12x12 Textured CS, Whisper White CS, Certainly Celery CS, Bella Rose DSP, Delicate Dots DSP Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, Certainly Celery, Barely Banana, Pumpkin Pie Accessories: Scallop Punch, Scallop Edge Punch, Certainly Celery Grosgrain Ribbon

SPECIAL TREAT

And for those attending I made a special treat using Andrea Walford’s Matchbook pattern. These were so fun and easy to make (and yummy to eat).

SUPPLIES: Paper: Kiwi Kiss 12x12 Textured CS Accessories: Real Red Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, white brad, Blooms die cuts. staples/stapler, Dove Truffle Eggs

March GNO

2009-03-13T19:33:00.001-04:00

A date has been set for the March GNO at my house. It will be held Friday, March 27. Stamping will commence at 6:30 p.m., but feel free to come a little earlier for some social time.

We will make a card and a couple of 3-D items that will be perfect for upcoming spring occasions (Easter, Mother’s Day, Teacher Appreciation, etc).

Please email me to let me know if you are attending so that I can be sure to prepare enough sets.

February GNO - It was a Sale-A-Bration

2009-02-24T11:18:00.008-05:00

It was short notice, but we pulled together a quick GNO for February. There are just so many things up in the air right now, I don't feel as if I can plan for anything. So, here is what we created.

CONGRATS

Supplies

Paper: Riding Hood Red CS, So Saffron CS, Washington Apple DSP Ink: Riding Hood Red Stamps: Congrats Accessories: Bashful Blue Sriped Ribbon, Earth Elements Buttons, Button Bouquet, Top Note Die

POLKA DOT PUNCHES

Supplies

Paper: Bashful Blue CS, So Saffron CS, Sahara Sand CS, Delicate Dots DSP Ink: Whisper White Craft Ink Stamps: Polka Dot Punches Accessories: White Stampin' Emboss Powder, So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon, Crop-a-dile, Jumbo Eyelets

YUMMY

Supplies

Paper: Cameo Coral CS, Whisper White CS

Ink: Cameo Coral, Certainly Celery Stamps: Yummy, Botanical Blooms Accessories: Certainly Celery poly-twill ribbon, Certainly Celery brads, Earth Elements Watercolor Wonder Crayons (Cameo Coral, Old Olive), CD envelopes

A Color Challenge Card

2009-02-02T13:27:00.005-05:00

Last month I asked my GNO ladies to give me a color combo. I needed something to take me out of my box. Only two ladies sent ideas. This is the card I created for Melanie's challenge. She wanted Paprika, Chocolate, and Gun Metal. The idea came to her via a drink she had seen, Spicy Chocolate Martini.

Not so much out of my box (that is because Mel and I share the same tastes) but it was a challenge. But I did have to change one item. I just couldn't get myself to fit in her request for Gray (cocktail shaker). I just couldn't get it to work, so I substituted Kraft, of which she approved.

So, Melanie, here is your card. I got a padded envelope for you so you could actually mail it some day.

SUPPLIES Paper: Really Rust CS, Chocolate Chip CS, Very Vanilla CS, Kraft CS Ink: Really Rust, Chocolate Chip Stamps: Organic Outlines, Best Yet Accessories: Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware, Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon, Half-back Pearls (not SU)

January 2009 GNO

2009-02-02T12:52:00.009-05:00

It is snowing outside as I type, too bad it won't stick to the ground. I'll just keep my eyes skyward and let my imagination run wild.

I'm finally posting my January GNO pics and links. We had a great time as usual. Love you guys, you make GNO so much fun. I love planning with you guys in mind!

Candy-Bar Slider

I've seen these online since I started blog hopping, but never tried making one of my own until now. They are so quick and easy. I'm not loving them so much anymore, as I have made over 40 of them. Hummm, wonder what the girl's valentines are going to be this year... Check out here for Beate's great tutorial for creating this project.

SUPPLIES Paper: Pink Pirouette CS, Whisper White CS, Baja Breeze DSP Ink: Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze Stamps: Love you Much Accessories: Scallop Circle Punch, Signo White Gel Pen, Baja Breeze Striped Ribbon, Sticky Strip, Stampin' Dimensionals

Quick and Easy Thank You

I'm sure I found this online somewhere, but it has been so long, I can't remember who or where. You could do so many other things to kick it up a notch, i.e. patterned paper, embossing, texture plates, etc.

SUPPLIES

Paper: Whisper White CS, Basic Gray CS, Barely Banan CS Ink: Basic Gray, Barely Banana Stamps: Say It With Scallops Accessories: Scallop Square Punch, Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon

Happy Valentine's Day

Love the Love you Much bundle. This card using many of the items included in the bundle.

SUPPLIES Paper: Riding Hood Red CS, Very Vanilla CS, Pink Pirouette CS, Candy Lane DSP Ink: Very Vanilla Craft Ink, Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette Stamps: Love You Much, A Happy Heart Accessories: Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon, Heart to Heart Punch, Scallop Edge Punch

I {heart} i{heart}to stamp

2009-01-23T11:49:00.003-05:00

I'm a blog hopper. Hours can go by as I go from one blog to another learning new techniques and getting great ideas. One blog that I frequent is i{heart}to stamp. Jen del Muro is talented and one dedicated blogger. She just debuted a new look and layout for her blog and it is awesome! But even better, she's offering a "blog tart." Even better than that she's helping out a friend! You must go check out all that is included in the blog tart for one lucky recipient. There are so many companies participating: ALL THAT SCRAPS, STAMPING BELLA, IMPRESS RUBBER STAMPS, VERVE STAMPS, GLUE ART & PAPER STUDIO, SCOR-PAL, PEZ-A-DOODLE DESIGNS, THERE SHE GOES, FLOURISHES, GINA K. DESIGNS, MY FAVORITE THINGS, THE CAT’S PAJAMAS, UNITY STAMP COMPANY, CORNISH HERITAGE FARMS, STORAGE UNITS, INK & MORE, ECLECTIC PAPERIE, and JUST RITE STAMPERS. Over $450 worth of products, any one of which would be amazing all by itself. Check out this post for all the deets on how to participate and this post for the official entry. I was motivated to participate last night. Here is my card for Dallas Baptist University: I used a 5.5"x4.25" single layer Pink Pirouette base. The Baja Breeze layer was folded and run through the Big Shot using the Bigz Top Note die. I also ran the flower paper from the Holiday Collection paper (retired Hostess level 3) through using the same die and trimmed the edge off. The striped paper is also from the retired Holiday Collection DSP. THe Kiwi Kiss ribbon wraps all the way around the base and ties to the side. Buttons are from Button Bouquet and sentiment is from All Holidays and stamped using Chocolate Chip Ink. I did use white DMC floss to dress my buttons - can't have naked buttons! I love this card and the layout, so I went ahead and made three. One I gave to Darlene - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! and the other two will be heading to Dallas this afternoon. Ladies - this will be a card for February GNO, I'm already trying to figure out what paper to use. Stay tuned for what we did at the January GNO. I know I was going to post Saturday, once again, life got in the way.

January GNO

2009-01-13T11:23:00.002-05:00

I know, I know. Long time to post. Since Thanksgiving my life has been out of sorts. I was able to stamp Saturday and boy did it feel good. I was making samples for Friday's GNO trying to see what would be best for the girls to create. Loving the 3-D project and the quick and easy card, still working the kinks out of one card. Not to worry, I'll be ready for Friday (that is if the UPS delivers before then). Another awesome thing, I got my new SU Spring-Summer 2009 Idea Book and Catalogs. You guys are gonna love what SU has to offer. I've had to start a new wish list. Hope to see you Friday. Call or email to let me know if you will be attending so I can get your materials cut. I'll post cards and projects Saturday. TTFN! (Ta Ta For Now - a Tigger saying)

Warm Holiday Wishes

2008-12-24T08:21:00.002-05:00

May your holidays be filled with

love,

family

and friends.

May the new year bring

health

and happiness

that has no end.

I'm wishing we were on a warm beach this week. This cold and windy weather is not for me. But, no traveling this holiday break for the Tyson family. We are dedicating our time off to prepping and painting our master bathroom. (Christmas Card created using the following digital elements: A Month at a Time January by Tracy Reed & Kristin Cronin-Barrow and Pure Imagination font by 2Peas)

Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T16:04:00.007-05:00

Greetings from Marriott's SurfWatch in sunny Hilton Head Island, SC. We are giving thanks here on a little mini vacation.

We've enjoyed chocolate covered doughnuts, apples, veggies and dip, and popcorn. For dinner we enjoyed a pizza - a tradition we started last year.

This afternoon we took a nice beach walk down to our other favorite Marriott, Barony Beach. When we returned from our 2 mile walk the girls enjoyed swimming in the pool. Robby and I soaked up some rays. It was a little too cool for the ladies, so we ventured back to the room.

From my family to yours - Happy Thanksgiving. Take a moment to let some one know that they are appreciated. I am so thankful for my family (immediate and extended as well as my family of friends).

November GNO

2008-11-26T19:55:00.004-05:00

Greetings from Hilton Head Island, SC. We returned to celebrate Thanksgiving again this year since we enjoyed it so much last year. No stamping for me though. This year it is all about spending time with Robby and the girls. I've been blogging for a year now. Not always the faithful blogger, but I have enjoyed sharing my life and crafts with you. This pic is of all the neat things we created at the last GNO. It was crammed full of holiday related items. I had to get them all in since I'm taking December off from GNO. There is just too much to do and never enough time to fit it all in. The "NOEL" card was a complete and total case of this card by AJ Otto, Willosmama on SCS. I love how easy the Big on Christmas set is to use, it is so cute, it hardly needs anything. We used Dazzling Diamonds on the ornament to give it a little sparkle. I made a "Wish List" for all the ladies that attended. Thanks to Nancy Riley for her instructions. They made creating this little gem a breeze. Not only are these perfect to keep all the lists that I have going, but they are great to use as gifts for others. The Star Bright Designer Series Paper Ornaments kit is great to add some handmade ornaments to your tree as well as decoration to your gifts. I added a 3-D star as a gift tag to a mug filled with hot chocolate mix. The verbiage is a rub-on from the Chit Chat rub-on set. I made the hole using my Crop-a-Dile (and added an eyelet, just so I wouldn't worry that I'd tear the paper) and ran Riding Hood Red Striped Grosgrain Ribbon to tie it to the mug. You can create the cute little ornament frame using the Country Living Christmas Kit. It was so easy to make and very impressive to hang on your tree. We made the Paper-Strip Globe and Paper Circle Globe using the other items in the Star Bright Designer Series Paper Ornaments kit. The strip globe was so super easy. The circles required a little thought, we got them done, eventually. Using the Big Shot and the Top Note Bigz Die we created the cute treat bag. Other items used are Riding Hood Red cs, Whisper White cs, Baja Blue cs, Chocolate Chip cs, Ski Slope Designer Series Paper, Deer Friends hostess set, Riding Hood Red Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Riding Hood Red and Chocolate Chip ink. And last, but not least is the gift card holder. The directions were easy to follow. Thanks Julie Buhler for sharing. It uses Kraft cs, Frosty Day dsp, Tangerine Tango cs, Whisper White cs, Tangerine Tango and Kiwi Kiss ink, Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon, Punches Three hostess set, Square Scallop Punch. Have a great evening!!!

October GNO

2008-11-14T10:45:00.006-05:00

October's GNO was a fun night for the girls. We completed 3 projects and had a great time doing it!!! We are looking forward to the next GNO which will be full of Holiday items. Crazy for Cupcakes I have fallen into the trend of loving cupcake stamps, and cupcakes in general. This is such a sweet set.

Gratitude With Thanksgiving approaching, we need a way to let others know how much they are appreciated, thus this card. October was Pastor (Clergy) Appreciation Month, so I used my cards to let our pastors know how much we appreciate the role they've played in our lives.

Grateful for You I always try to throw in a 3-D item and I loved the Diaper Pouch Fold. It would be perfect to use as a party favor for a class party. Just fill with a celo bag full of treats.

If you want to know what I used, just send me an email. That was a month ago, and my brain is not working well today.

Long Time No Post

2008-11-14T10:26:00.003-05:00

Good Morning!!! I'm sorry that I've been gone so long.

Quick Update: Fall Break was beautiful on Hilton Head Island, SC. The weather was great. We are looking forward to going back for Thanksgiving. We will have our traditional Thanksgiving Pizza again this year. YUM!

We had the best intentions to be a bridal party for Halloween, but that went bust. Instead Gracie was the bride and McKinley was a bunny (everyone kept calling her a ballerina bunny and she hated it). Everything else is good. We hate the time change. It is just too dark too early.

September GNO

2008-09-26T10:49:00.005-04:00

We had a fun time this month at our Girl's Night Out. We made new friends and tried out some new SU products.

My next GNO is scheduled for October 10. So mark your calendar and let me know if you plan to attend.

Catalog Case

I wanted to show everyone how to get past that creative block we all so often have. What I did was picked a stamp set that I had and then took a look at the SU Fall/Winter Idea Book and Catalog. Check out page 118, center card. I am not a square card person. I do not own square envelopes, and don't want to bother with taking them to the post offfice to mail. So, I used the same layout but placed it on a regular sized card. There is no paper piercing or color splattering as well. If you ever see a card that you want to case but are not sure what to use, check out the back of the catty (pages 199-207). The "stampin' supplies" are listed for each project showcased.

The center flower and the sentiment are embossed with Crystal Clear Embossing Powder. SUPPLIES: Stamps: True Friend Paper: Kraft CS, Very Vanilla CS, Old Olive CS Ink: Chocolate Chip, Versamark

Accessories: antique brads, Always Artichoke Grosgrain Ribbon, Linen Thread, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, 1" circle punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

Pocket Card

You might have seen them before, but a pocket card is always a nice treat for the recipient. I wanted to showcase some of the new designer paper and I liked how Melissa85 on SCS did her card using the Always stamp set, so it was a match made in heaven.

I wish the stick strip was a little skinnier, but since it isn't, the card fits in a little tight. If it is too tight for you, you can trim the insert card down a bit.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Always Paper: Regal Rose CS, Pink Pirouette CS, Pumpkin Pie CS, Sweet Always DSP Ink: Pink Pirouette, Regal Rose Accessories: Regal Rose Grosgrain Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie 1/2" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon Pumpkin Pie, Crop-a-dile, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, 1 1/8" circle punch, Sticky Strip, Stampin' Dimensionals

It's Halloween

You can start ordering from the new Holiday Mini beginning October 1st. I wanted to give my guests the opportunity to see and try some of the new items showcased in this year's Mini.

Once again, I totally CASEd (Copy and Steal Everything) the projects from the Holiday Mini. We only made the "eat, drink and be scary" pillow box (I have listed the supplies for the project we completed).

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Eat, Drink and Be Scary Paper: Tangerine Tango CS, Barely Banan CS, Kiwi Kiss CS Ink: Versamark Accessories: Sticky Strip, Winter White embossing powder, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Small Tag punch

Got Sketch 102

2008-09-24T21:41:00.008-04:00

I have been participating in an online "class" this month. Check it out at GotSketch. It is all scrapbooking related with layouts and tips. This has been the kick-start I was needing.

Have a look at the pages I have completed thus far. I'm a little behind, but no problem, I've got all the information downloaded and the site will be up for a while after the class (or at least it was after Got Sketch 101).

Pre-Class Challenge

Sketch 1

Sketch 2

Sketch 3

Sketch 4

Gearing up for Halloween

2008-09-15T19:41:00.005-04:00

Every year we host a Halloween Party at our house the night the kids go trick-or-treating. We live in the perfect neighborhood for t-o-t... sidewalks, street lights, flat, with lots of houses that are relatively close to one another.

The girls and I try to coordinate costumes. Last year we were all witches (purple witches at that) and even our friends joined in on the fun. This picture is of Gracie, Elizabeth and McKinley just waiting until we could leave to trick-or-treat.

In years past we have been cowgirls (McKinley was a cowgirl riding a pink pony), rock stars, etc. We have our theme for this year already set, but you'll have to wait until Halloween to find out what it will be (not to mention that the girls will most likely change their minds several times between now and then).

Someone (Kathleen?) caught me with their camera last year, and I had to scrapbook the pic of me and Melanie, "Twitches." OMG, I wore fake eyelashes for the first (and most likely last) time that night, and did my eyes ever hurt. That was way too much trouble for the small effect that they had. But, we had fun, the kids had fun and everyone stayed safe. I'm looking forward to another year of friends and food. This year will be even better since Halloween falls on a Friday night. Maybe someone will even stick around to help clean up afterwards.

GNO

2008-09-03T21:31:00.003-04:00

Here is a page documenting a female ritual - Girls Night Out! If I remember correctly, at this particular one we celebrated by 32nd birthday. What more could I ask for - good food and good friends, it doesn't get any better than that. I love the floral background paper that I'm sure I got at Hobby Lobby. It makes me think of an island vacation. I purchased for the girls' scrapbooks, but decided I needed it more. Ladies - we need another GNO - and soon. And for my stamping friends, mark September 19th on your calendars. That's when we are getting together again. Hope to see all my friends soon!

Who's that golfing?

2008-08-28T17:02:00.002-04:00

Is it so hard to believe that it is actually me golfing? Well, it was for some of my friends. This picture was another one discovered in an album that I had no clue existed. Obviously, Robby took the picture on the golf course, but I have no memory of it. I do remember the sound of my golf ball hitting metal and the gentleman yelling, "ouch" as he ran from behind the hedge holding his head. No worries, he was kidding, I only hit a garbage can. I also remember that we almost gave up because there was a water hazard and we only had a couple of balls left. As people watched from their balconies, my ball literally skipped across the pond and onto the green. I made par for the first, and only, time in my entire life. The on-lookers clapped for me. I was so excited. Robby wasn't too happy to have to go after me, but we finished up the course and headed in. I was wind burnt from the afternoon. I know none of that journaling is on the page. I'll have to do a 2-page layout to tell the whole story. Most likely the layout will mirror this one except the 4x6 pictures will be a text box. Thanks for visiting!

Star Night

2008-08-26T22:16:00.003-04:00

I love this picture of us. Robby doesn't have his goofy grin and I only have 1 chin. ;)

The keychain was a favor on the table. Since I probably would not put my keys on it, I decided to use it as a page embellishment. That is one heavy 8x8 page.

I know there is no journaling, names or dates (other than the year). Don't think I'll forget the details since it was also my hubby's birthday. But I do have pictures of all our friends around the table to book. I can add details to those pages. This page called for clean and simple.

Star Night was excellent this year. Sugarland performed and the event sold out. What a great thing for the Siskin Children's Institute.

Toe Socks

2008-08-25T14:34:00.002-04:00

I love toe socks. I have a pair for most ever occasion - Valentine's Day, Halloween, Christmas. We don't wear our shoes in the house, but I hate walking around with bare feet, so I love socks. Toe socks have their own personality. This is one of my Christmas pairs that I my mom photographed on my feet. They needed documented. Now this little pic will reside in my scrapbook - a reminder of a memory, of something I like(d) to do.

Something for Me

2008-08-24T16:48:00.008-04:00

Once I became a wife and mother, and probably even way before then, I quit doing things for me. Don't get me wrong, I love doing for others. I'd much rather give a gift than receive one. But every now and then you have to do something for yourself. So, I have. I started scrapbooking a couple of months after Gracie was born (over 7 years ago). It was a wonderful way to document the events in her life and was a perfect creative outlet for me. Since then I have compiled 5 albums for Gracie and 3 for McKinley.

Seldom do you find a picture of me among their pages, as I am usually the photographer. Lately I have been inspired to include more of me in their albums - to let them know who I am right now and who I was before them. But before I do that for them, I'm doing it for myself.

In cleaning out one of many containers this month, I ran across a photo album in which I had slid pictures into the slots, pictures I had not seen in ages. Pictures of me, Robby, friends and family - all pre-baby. They brought smiles to my face and fond memories ran through my head. I couldn't just throw them away. I wanted them somewhere, somewhere I could be reminded of those memories often. Somewhere I could share the stories with my girls. My solution? I created a scrapbook for me. And with it I am breaking all my usual rules. There is no sequence to the photos. I am not creating them in any particular order (I am a date order person in the girl's scrapbooks - which are, by the way, a year behind). I'm doing what makes me feel happy. If I want to journal, then I will, but I do not feel bound to do that. The photos are enough to spark my memory, which I can then pass on through story-telling to the girls, if I choose to, some stories are just for me. So, here a my first few pages. I decided to go with an 8x8 album so that I could use 4x6 photos without having to crop and I also don't feel overwhelmed by the 12x12 blank space to fill. Forgive my photog skills, as they are lacking. I'll post others this week. Heaven Sent Who really needs an explanation of two sleeping cuties? This picture is actually in both girl's scrapbook as well. I just love how still and sweet they look. Those are the moments I treasure most. Myers This is a small polaroid picture of me and Myers, my golden retreiver. He had just received his canine good citizen award at PetSmart after weeks and weeks and weeks of classes. Myers is still part of our family, quite often refered to as our first child. Both girls call him their "big brother." Hershey Don't kill me, Katie, for sharing this page. The picture doesn't actually show the car, but it evokes so many memories. I memorized every word to REM's "End of the World" in the backseat of this car on our trip to Orlando for Spring Break. Or how about the little diner we ate lunch at while waiting for Hershey's replacement to get ready? And what was it that everytime we had an adventure it required Hershey to break down in the middle of no-where?

Let's Stamp

2008-08-12T10:29:00.004-04:00

I had a wonderful time with everyone that stopped in to stamp and visit on Saturday. It was fun seeing you all. Hopefully you've had time to drool over the new catalog and get those wish lists ready. You can now order from the new catalog, so have fun!!!

Here are the three cards/projects we made. For those of you who get to put them together yourselves, I'll either give directions or forward you to a blog with directions. All supplies Stampin' Up, unless otherwise noted.

Baja Monkey

This card uses one of the new In Colors, Baja Breeze and the new set Sock Monkey. I got my inspiration from these cards by Michele Force. The banana peel is paper pieced. The monkey is watercolored with markers. We traced the to the inside of the line with our Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write marker. Then we used our aquapainter to bleed the marker throughout the body. I didn't use the marker on the light parts, just used ink from body to give them a little color. The Close to Cocoa panel is popped up with dimensionals.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Sock Monkey Ink: Timber Brown Staz-On, Barely Banana Paper: Baja Breeze CS, Barely Banana CS, Close to Cocoa CS, SU! Watercolor Paper Accessories: Scallop Border Punch (LOVE IT!!!), Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker, Aquapainter, Stampin' Dimensionals

Heard From the Heart

I am always looking for quick and easy cards to make for a birthday, thank you, and/or thinking of you. The Heard from the Heart set is perfect for just that. The sentiments are perfect for many occassions and pair nicely with designer paper to finish off simple card. I found my inspiration in these cards by SCS member redcb.

Here we stamped the sentiment on the bottom (or top half, whichever the stamper preferred) and added the new Bella Rose designer paper to the other half. We tied ribbon between the designer paper and the sentiment then adhered to the Kiwi Kiss card base. Viola!

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Heard from the Heart Ink: Kiwi Kiss Paper: Kiwi Kiss CS, Whisper White CS, Bella Rose DP Accessories: Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon

And last, but not least...

Box in a Bag

I've been seeing these on blogs for the past month. I absolutely love them. They are so cute and perfect for wrapping up a little gift (or gift card). The original idea is from Diana Gibbs. You can find her tutorial here. This will make the larger B-i-a-B. I didn't have enough paper for each of us to make a large one, so I used Valerie's size changes to make the smaller B-i-a-B. You can find those here. Let me know if you need help assembling your projects.

Once again I used the Bella Rose Designer Paper. And here you can see two more of the new In Colors, Pink Pirouette and Riding Hood Red.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Wow Flowers Ink: Riding Hood Red Paper: Pink Pirouette CS, Riding Hood Red CS, Chocolate Chip CS, Bella Rose DP Accessories: Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon, Scallop Circle Punch, Round Tab Punch, Scallop Edge Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, Riding Hood Red Button from Button Bouquet and 1 1/8" Circle Punch and DMC White embroidery floss (not SU).

I love my UPS man!!!

2008-08-05T14:57:00.002-04:00

Guess what!?! My shipment of Stampin' Up Fall-Winter Idea Book and Catalogs were just delivered. It is awesome. I've been blog hopping searching for spoilers, and found several that had me foaming at the mouth. Now I have my own catty in my hot little hands and love it. This truly is an Idea Book and Catalog. There are great tips and techniques throughout showcasing the wonderful SU products. Let me know if you need to get you hands on one now, I can hook you up! Have a wonderful afternoon, I'll be working on my wish list and project ideas. :)

Sock Monkey Thanks

2008-07-25T07:18:00.002-04:00

Good Morning! I wanted to share this card before I left for Vegas. It includes several new items from the upcoming SU catalog.

The stamp is Sock Monkey. Most people either love of hate this little guy. I like him. He is silly looking and brings images of my childhood, although I never owned a sock monkey.

I used the paper piecing technique for the monkey and bananas. My favorite thing is the scallop punch. No more tedious punching using the corner rounder or slot punch. Be prepared to purchase.

Enjoy the sneak peek. I'll be back late next week, ready to create away.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Sock Monkey, Ink: Timber Brown Staz-On, Paper: Pink Pirouette CS, Bella Rose DSP, Accessories: Scallop Punch, Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon

You are Unfrogettable

2008-07-03T13:36:00.006-04:00

Good bye, good bye, good bye. Good bye my friends to you. God bless you every where you go and all you say and do. Good bye. (Imagine a sweet little 4 year old singing.)

It is getting close to time for SU! sets to retire. A customer just ordered Unfroggetable (hi, Nichole!!!) and I thought I'd share a couple of things I had made using this set.

First, we have an anniversary card that I made for my husband. He's so sweet, he kept it and I don't think I even had to threaten him.

Next we have a gift card holder. I believe I got the directions from Cambria Turnbow, but I don't see it right now.

Both use the same general SUPPLIES: STAMPS: Unfrogettable PAPER: Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, Cool Caribbean, Whisper White INK: Certainly Celery, Staz-On Jet Black, Bashful Blue, Cool Caribbean ACCESSORIES: Black and White Gingham Ribbon, Stampin' Write markers in Certainly Celery, Barely Banana, Chocolate Chip, Crystal Effects

Welcome, Little One

2008-07-02T23:33:00.003-04:00

I miss stamping. I miss the top of my desk. But, tonight I took baby steps to remedy the situation.

Using minimal supplies and stamps I created a card to send to welcome a new baby into the family. It was quick and easy, I actually only used one stamp, the others I had already stamped, embossed and punched out. I used SplitCoastStampers Sketch Challenge 181 as a springboard, although it doesn't exactly follow the sketch all the way. Believe it or not, I didn't look in any of the galleries for inspiration.

SUPPLIES:

Stamps: One of a Kind, Nursery Necessities

Ink: Close to Cocoa, Purely Pomegrante, Pretty in Pink, VersaMark

Paper: Berry Bliss DP, Purely Pomegrante CS, Pretty in Pink CS

Accessories: Purely Pomegrante Double-Stitched Ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Boho Blossoms Punch, Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Tool

Bible Verse Challenge May

2008-05-29T22:19:00.004-04:00

OK, so I'm late, 21 days late. Better late than never.

I'm still doing my Beth Moore Bible Study,Living Beyond Yourself. And when I read Philippians 4:8 I saw it laid out like this. Now, the whatever in my head had explanation points and was in a funkier font, but that just didn't go well with my paper selection, so I compromised with myself.

Hopefully I won't be late for June. I already have my verse picked and printed, just need the inspiration to put it on paper, which I have picked as well.

Stamps: Live Your Dreams

Ink: Timber Brown Staz-on

Paper: Afternoon Tea DP, Chocolate Chip CS, Vellum

Accessories: Crop-a-dile and the eyelets that came with the storage case, computer and printer

Inspired Thanks

2008-05-29T22:10:00.003-04:00

So, as I was cleaning out Gracie's lunchbox a couple of weeks ago, I noticed a napkin in the front pocket. It was a nice napkin, one you would use for a party, and not a kid's party, more of an adult affair. The colors immediately screamed CARD at me. I asked permission to keep the napkin for card creating inspiration, and Gracie said it would be okay (she didn't use the napkin, as she too thought it was pretty). Thank you Laura for the inspiration, as I'm sure you found these napkins and had to have them. (I appreciate how you like to send your child with something other than a paper towel for lunch, too. Know that she brings extra to share with her friends, and then their mothers keep them for their own.) Thanks, this one is for you. I might actually get in the mail. Now don't fall over ladies, but this was the first time I used my Time Well Spent set. I had to cut it to ink it up. What took me so ling to use the free hostess set SU sent me!?! Don't know. I won't let it happen again. Stamps: Time Well Spent Paper: Certainly Celery CS, Chocolate Chip CS, Very Vanilla CS Ink: Certainly Celery, Cool Carrbbean Accessories: Certainly Celery Grosgrain Ribbon, Blender Pens, Certainly Celery Stampin' Write

Too Long Since...

2008-05-29T21:56:00.005-04:00

I am so sorry it had been so long since my last post. Once again, life got in the way. Without my upline monthly stamp club, I'm just not as inspired as I usually am. But this week I have had extra time to create, with my girls almost completely out of school. So without further ado, my latest creations... With Sympathy

I was, unfortunately, in need of several sympathy cards. I love this stamp set and love how the paper coordinates.

Stamps: Live Your Dreams

Paper: Wild Wasabi CS, Soft Sky CS, Whisper White CS, Afternoon Tea DP

Ink: Wild Wasabi, Groovy Guava, Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Wild Wasabi Double Stitched Ribbon, Crop-a-dile and the eyelets that came with the storage box, blender pens

Happy Father's Day

This is the card I CASED for Father's Day. I was looking for something to kick start my mojo, and no one better than Nancy Riley at iStamp. I picked a different pattern from the same DP, and decided not to color the stamp with the three different colors, for ease, but almost everything else is the same. Why mess with perfection?

Stamps: All Holidays

Paper: Wild Wasabi CS, Brilliant Blue CS, Bashful Blue CS, Whisper White CS, Pumpkin Pie CS, Jersey Shore DP

Ink: Brilliant Blue

Accessories: Pumpkin Pie Striped Ribbon, Brilliant Blue Brads, 1/2 inch circle punch, handheld hole punch

Starbucks Inspired

2008-04-28T10:40:00.003-04:00

Someone in design at Starbucks must be in love with Stampin' Up, too. When I saw this travel mug during a green tea run, I had to have it. It looks so much like Stampin' Up stamps and paper to me. The colors are so close to the In Colors.

The girls are out of school today for a teacher in-service, so I had time to let the creative mojo flow (it always flows better in my pjs). So I made a little "coffee", if you can consider International Foods French Vanilla Coffee coffee, and started creating.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Simply Said, Polka Dots and Paisley Ink: Versamark Paper: River Rock CS, Regal Rose CS, Wild Wasabi CS, Groovy Guava CS, Whisper White CS Accessories: Paper Piecing Punch, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder

Thanks!

2008-04-27T23:02:00.002-04:00

This week many celebrated the administrative professionals in their lives. This card was especially created for a friend to appreciate the a.p. in her office. My inspiration was sparked by this card by Dawn McVey. I love her simple style. My card evolved several times, ending as you see it. Hope you have a great week. Take time each day to appreciate those people who make a difference in your life, don't just wait until an appointed day. SUPPLIES: Stamps: Much Appreciated Paper: Bali Breeze DP, Pumpkin Pie CS Ink: Versamark Accessories: Pumpkin Pie Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, White brads, Felt Fusion Flowers, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Gun

Catching Up

2008-04-15T22:13:00.004-04:00

After posting April's submission, I realized I never posted my March submission for the SCS Bible Verse Challenge. Oops. This verse was one I read while studying another Beth Moore Bible study. It is calming and comforting, just what I was needing at the time. SUPPLIES: Paper: Old Olive CS, Old Olive DP, Basic Black CS, Vellum Accessories: Love & Happiness Rub-ons, Black Brads, My computer and printer

April Bible Verse Challenge

2008-04-15T21:44:00.003-04:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23 Better late than never. This is my submisson for the SCS Bible Verse Challenge - April. The verse is the center of a Bible study I've just started by Beth Moore - Living Beyond Yourself. So far I've been inspired. You are encouraged to memorize (and learn to sign) this verse. I thought seeing it above my desk each and every day would help me memorize the verse. I love the One of a Kind stamp set. I've used it a lot this past week. This time I embossed the images instead of using chalk or ink. I also cut into my Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon, ouch, but it was worth it. The layout was inspired by Jen del Muro's Sketch for you to Try. SUPPLIES: Stamps: One of a Kind Ink: Versamark Paper: Close to Cocoa CS, Pretty in Pink CS, Purely Pomegrante CS, Vellum, Berry Bliss DP Accessories: Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, Pink Rhinestones by KAISERscrapbook, printer

Bride to Be

2008-04-10T13:40:00.002-04:00

Although I do not know anyone getting married this Spring/Summer, I know the bridal season is quickly approaching. I love using my blender pens on the sets from Big on Spring. I used the same layout I used on the Big on Christmas sets back in November, with a little extra Designer Paper.

SUPPLIES

Stamps: Big on Spring

Paper: Groovy Guava DP and CS, Purely Pomegranate DP & CS, Whisper White

Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, Groovy Guava, Purely Pomegranate, So Saffron, Wild Wasabi

Accessories: Blender Pens, Purely Pomegranate Double-Stitched Ribbon, Star Dust Stickles

100% True Stars

2008-04-10T13:35:00.004-04:00

Still working on Girl's Night Out cards. On this one I was wanting to use the star rub-ons from the Anchored Rub-ons. I also had some On Board Accents Stars (found in the Simon Upper pack). So, I came up with this - a bright and cheery card. Too bad I don't have a stamp that says "You Rock!" because that is what this card screams to me. Instead I settled with "100% true" from the Hostess Set Make it Count.

SUPPLIES Stamps: Make It Count, Spunky Spots Stampin' Around Paper: Basic Black, Yo Yo Yellow, Real Read Ink: Basic Black, Versamark Accessories: Large Star punch, 5/8 circle punch, 1/2 circle punch, Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Anchored Rub-ons, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, On Board Accents Star

One of a Kind Mother

2008-04-09T23:12:00.004-04:00

Mother's Day will be here before you know it. This year, I'll be ready. I am the world's worst to buy (now-a-days make) a card and NEVER mail it. I have sealed, addressed and sometimes even stamped envelopes that sit in my collection of cards. Sad, I know. Usually they are already late, so why mail, just wait until next year, right?

Any who. Mom, this will be your card. So, if come May 11 you haven't received it, ask for it!

I've been preparing for my next Girl's Night Out and wanted to show the Poppin' Pastels technique. Knowing I wanted to create a Mother's Day card, I looked for suitable flower stamps. I found my uncut One of a Kind begging to be used.

One of a Kind Mother SUPPLIES

Stamps: One of a Kind, All Holidays

Paper: Close to Cocoa CS, Pretty in Pink CS, Whisper White CS

Ink: Versamark

Accessories: Pink Brad, Stampin' Pastels, Sponge Daubers, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder, Heat gun, Boho Blossoms Punch

Monograms

2008-04-06T21:08:00.003-04:00

Long time no type, I know. I got a new toy. It's the Just Rite Stampers DIY C-45 Monogram Stamp. I love it!!! I've seen it on other's blogs and thought "that's neat." But when I ran across it at Scrapbook Heaven in Hixson, I had to buy it. Consider it a little gift to myself. Thanks mom for making it possible!

These cards are so quick and easy to make, but the outcome it elegant and expensive looking.

Monogram Cards

Stamps: SU Paisley Background, Just Rite Stampers DIY c-45 Monogram Stamp

Paper: SU Kraft CS, SU Basic Black CS

Ink: SU Basic Black Classic Ink, Versamark

Accessories: Black Ribbon, 2" circle punch, Creative Memories Cutting System

March GNO

2008-03-07T23:11:00.007-05:00

It is time once again for a Girl's Night Out. This month we will be making 3 projects that are cute and quick. Several items from the new Occasions Mini are showcased in our projects, so get ready to add to your wish list. We are getting together Thursday night. See you then!

ENVELOPE POUCH

The directions for this sweet little project were courtesy of Amanda Collins, aka tropicalichick over on SCS. The tutorial was very easy to follow (just click on tropicalichick and it will take you there, click on Amanda to see her awesome blog).

I love the new Summer Picnic paper and it went so well with the die cut blooms, I just had to pair them together.

SUPPLIES: Paper: Real Red CS, Summer Picnic DP, Die Cut Blooms Accessories: Flower Ribbon Slide, Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon, Tag Punch

HAPPY BIRD-DAY

This card was inspired by Heather, aka hsummers on SCS. You have to check out her blog Stamp With Heather! It is full of card ideas as well as great scrapbooking layouts and samples. Heather has motivated me to create.

I had tried a similar card but used Bali Breeze DP and Purely Pomegranate CS, but I like the Kraft CS. It makes for a more casual card and I like that. We water colored the bird using blender pens.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Pun Fun Paper: Kraft CS, Tempting Turquoise CS, Whisper White CS, East Coast Prep DP Ink: Jet Black Staz-On, Tempting Turquoise, More Mustard, Real Red Accessories: Striped Wild Wasabi Ribbon, Blender Pens

And last, but not least, a very cute card....

ORANGE YOU CUTE

Kudos to Jen Javorsky for the design here. The first time I saw this set I immediately thought it would be perfect for a scratch and sniff card. I've been wanting to try one for quite some time, but just didn't have a set worthy of sniffing. I loved Jen's use of the orange to make a scallop border and the dots in the back ground. The only scratch and sniff orange is the one in the center of the scallop.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Tart and Tangy, One Smart Cookie, Simply Circles Paper: Only Orange CS, Soft Sky CS, Whisper White CS Ink: Only Orange Classic and Craft ink, Basic Black, Soft Sky Accessories: Scallop Punch, 1 1/8 and 1 1/4 circle punches, Plaid Ribbon, White Gel pen, crystal clear embossing powder mixed 1:1.5 with sugar free orange Jell-o, embossing heat gun

A Graceful Design

2008-03-06T20:59:00.003-05:00

I love this wedding shower invitation. It is near and dear to my heart because it was my first official Graceful Design. I've done lots of other stuff, but this was a special order start to finish. These have been finished for a while, but I wanted to wait until after the shower to post it.

As always, this was not an original idea. When I was contacted about the job, I searched SplitCoast for ideas. Narrowing it down to 3 different concepts, I gave the customer the choice, and she picked my favorite. Thanks sarah_m for the inspiration!!!

This job was so fun to do. I love how it came togehter. The customer and reciepients liked them too, I've received many positive comments.

SUPPLIES: Paper: Whisper White CS, Pink Passion Accessories: Ribbon, 3 For You Flower Punch, Stickles, Computer and Printer

More Glitter

2008-02-28T23:24:00.004-05:00

I figured I might as well play while I had the glitter out, so I whipped this one out. The whole time I'm thinking there was a light pink in the SU Fine Cosmo Glitter. Nope, its Rose Pink. The light color was Light Blue. I would have picked a different pattern from the yummy Berry Bliss DP. Oh well. SUPPLIES Paper: Pretty in Pink CS, Whisper White CS, Close to Cocoa CS, Berry Bliss DP Accessories: Sticky Cuts Heart, Rose Pink Fine Cosmo Glitter, Chocolate Chip Polytwill Ribbon

Glitter Happy

2008-02-28T22:39:00.002-05:00

I just don't see myself as a glittery person, but I love the SU Sticky Cuts and SU Fine Cosmo Glitter together. They made using glitter easy. The card was inspired by this card by daisystampinator over on SCS. SUPPLIES Stamps: Polka Dots and Paisley Paper: Kraft CS, Old Olive CS, Whisper White CS, Bali Breeze DP Ink: Versamark Accessories: Sticky Cuts Letters, Turquoise Fine Cosmo Glitter, Crystal Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Old Olive Polytwill Ribbon

SCS Bible Verse Challenge

2008-02-21T00:20:00.004-05:00

I have been inspired to participate in a challenge over at SplitCoastStampers. This has been a very trying year for me. On a particularly rough day I ran across Taylor VanBruggen's post regarding the SCS Bible Verse Challenge. It lifted my spirits and started me thinking.

These two pieces are my January and February submissions. I will be keeping my verses in a Making Memories Flip Frame Album.

When I came across these verses I felt a need to write them down in my journal. I have turned back to them many times this year to help me focus on putting my trust in Christ and to stop with my constant anxiety. In these verse I find comfort and strength.

Hopefully I will post, as suggested in the guidelines, on the 8th of each month. Better late than never, but going forward I will try much harder to be on time. Take time to visit the BVC08 Gallery for inspiration.

Isaiah 40:10 SUPPLIES:

Stamps: Embrace Life Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, Groovy Guava Paper: Groovy Guava CS, River Rock CS, Vellum, Ginger Blossom DP Accessories: Slit punch, Computer/Printer

Luke 10:27 SUPPLIES:

Stamps: Baroque Motifs Ink: Soft Sky, Basic Gray Paper: Soft Sky CS, Whisper White CS, Basic Gray CS, Vellum Accessories: Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, jewel brads, 2Peas Ballerina font

Let The CUTE Begin

2008-02-17T22:15:00.002-05:00

This set will be available for you to purchase from the Occasions Mini beginning March 1st.

Big On Spring has three stamps including this one. Perfect for a baby gift, which is my intended purpose for this card. I can't wait to ink the other images (bride to be and love you).

I followed the design of the cards I made using Big on Christmas. Once again I did a little paper piecing and used my stickles to add a little glitter glam.

SUPPLIES: Stamps: Big on Spring Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, Pretty in Pink Paper: Regal Rose CS, Pretty in Pink CS, Whisper White CS, Petals and Paisleys DP Accessories: Regal Rose Grosgrain Ribbon, Pretty in Pink Grosgrain Ribbon, Star Dust Stickles

Tuesday's GNO

2008-02-15T17:24:00.008-05:00

I just wanted to take a moment and post the cards we made a Tuesday's Girls Night Out. We had a great time and were able to crank out 3 cards and a Sour Cream packet - all before 8 pm. Go us! We had two new ladies join us Tuesday night. They were fun and talented! Hope you guys had as much fun as I did.

Now to the cards...

SWEET ONE

Totally CASED from this card by Dawn Olchefske aka dostamping on SCS. I loved it immediately and knew I wanted to recreate. I did not use as many dimensionals and I changed out the ribbon type, but other than that I copied to the T. This was my first time to try a matchbook card and I loved it!

So who is going to create the punch that can cut a piece of cardstock 5.5 inches long and make a scalloped edge like the one we make with our corner rounder? I love that the corner rounder is so versatile, but it is so time consuming and difficult to explain. Any who....

SWEET ONE SUPPLIES: Stamps: So Many Scallops, Nursery Necessities jumbo wheel Ink: Bashful Blue Paper: Whisper White CS, Barely Banana CS, Bashful Blue CS, Brocade Blue CS Accessories: Scallop Punch, Corner Rounder, Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon, Barely Banana Brads, Paper Piercer, mat & guide, dimensionals.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

I'll be the first to say "I do not have any original ideas." I thank all the talented ladies at SCS for the constant inspiration for my cards.

This card was CASED from this card by cinredsfan on SCS. I love the Groovy Guava with Chocolate Chip. I hadn't used my satin ribbon from the Holiday Mini, but this card was worth breaking into my stash. Instead of the Ginger Blossom DP, I used the Groovy Guava DP and I added another gift in the background. I was trying to use the masking technique, but couldn't get the gift image to show up on the area right around the mask. So we did as the inspiration card did and cut out the cake and all of its candles and attached with dimensionals.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUPPLIES: Stamps: Birthday Whimsy Ink: Chocolate Chip and Groovy Guava Paper: Groovy Guava CS, Whisper White CS, Chocolate Chip CS, Groovy Guava DP Accessories: Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

MANY THANKS I don't often grab the Very Vanilla cardstock, I use mainly Whisper White and I don't know why. So when planning this card I needed paper that was simple in color (3 or less) and had an elegant look. When I ran across the pack of Cerise paper it was just what I wanted!

MANY THANKS SUPPLIES Stamps: Lots of Thoughts Ink: Real Red Paper: Cerise DP, Very Vanilla CS, Real Red CS Accessories: 1 1/4" and 1 3/8" square punch, Real Red Ribbon

SOUR CREAM CONTAINER

I've enjoyed making these Sour Cream Containers for Valentine's day. Most of the ones I made contained Hershey Kisses, except for the last batch. We had eaten all of the Kisses (that is what happens when you leave a bag open at all times conveniently at your deck). We ran to Wal-Mart to buy more and they were out of the V-day ones, so we picked up Skittles and Starburst.

The containers the ladies made were not embellished. I just wanted to teach them how to assemble the container so that they could recreate themselves. I wasn't even sure we were going to have enough time to get to it, but we did!

SCC SUPPLIES: Stamps: Happy Heart Day Ink: Black Staz-on, Regal Rose and Ruby Red Paper: Ruby Red CS, Whisper White CS, Hobby Lobby DP and textured CS Accessories: Blender pens, Scallop Punch, Regal Rose Grosgrain Ribbon and other assorted circle punches.

Thank You Notes Gift

2008-02-09T19:41:00.001-05:00

These thank you notes were made to coordinate with the baby shower invites (which was today, so now I can post the picture of the gift). I loved how Lots of Thoughts fit perfectly in the 1 1/4" square punch. Since I don't have the 1 3/8" square punch I had to cut the background squares on my paper cutter. Not to worry, I have since ordered the punch.

With Girl's Night Out coming up, I think this will be one of the cards we make. It was so quick and easy and looks so cute! SUPPLIES Stamps: Lots of Thoughts Ink: Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue Paper: Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue CS, Whisper White CS, DP from Hobby Lobby Accessories: 1 1/4" square punch, Chocolate Chip Ribbon, Bashful Blue Ribbon

Diaper Shower Invites

2008-02-06T22:35:00.000-05:00

These are the cutest invitations, just perfect for a diaper shower! I used this template to create the diaper and just worked to get the insert the right size. The paper was from Hobby Lobby, and I love the paisley!!! Finished each invite off with ribbon and a safety pin.

Welcome, Little One

2008-01-29T20:48:00.000-05:00

I was asked to create a "Welcome Baby" card. The only baby set I have is Nursery Necessities, but it is so versatile. My inspiration came from this card by whoopsie daisy over at SCS. I love the color combo (CC142) Soft Sky, Certainly Celery, and Basic Gray. I kept the same basic layout except I decided not to do a background image, scallops, or paper piercing. I added a Basic Gray strip with Nursery Letters stamped in Basic Gray. SUPPLIES Stamps: Nursery Necessities, Nursery Letters Stampin' Around Ink: Basic Gray, Soft Sky, Certainly Celery Paper: Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Basic Gray, Soft Sky Accessories: Certainly Celery 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Soft Sky Double Stitched Ribbon, Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, 1 1/4" Square Punch, Large Star Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

Happy Birthday Gracie!!!

2008-01-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

Seven years ago I gave birth to the sweetest baby girl. Mary Grace, "Gracie", continues to bless our lives each and every day. I thank God for her and his continuous blessings upon our family.

Big Birthday Candle was the first set I had to have from the new catalog. I love it! I stamped the outlined candle and flame on the Petals & Paisley DP and cut them out. Three of the candles are popped up and the ribbon runs between the popped and non-popped candles.

Happy Birthday, Gracie! Your mommy and daddy love you and are very proud of you! SUPPLIES Stamps: Big Birthday Candle Ink: Jet Black Staz-on Paper: So Saffrom CS, Regal Rose CS, Petals & Paisley DP Accessories: Regal Rose Grosgrain Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

Treat Box

2008-01-23T21:23:00.000-05:00

So, I am always looking for something cute and unique for the girls to give out at class parties. This is what McKinley gave to her PK-4 classmates. Each box had Hershey Kisses in it. The girls had Lip Smackers and the boys had mini horse figurines. The box is from Wal-Mart - a wedding favor box. The ribbon and top tag were black/silver. They totally did not go with the Christmas theme. So I purchased red (for girls) and green (for boys) ribbon and went to work. I used the SU Scallop punch and several circle punches to finish the top tag. I popped up the center tree circle and added the white dots with my gel pen. The ribbon is held end to end with sticky strip and can slide right off. Quick, easy, cute, done! Supplies: Stamps: Riveting Ink: Garden Green Paper: Real Red CS, Garden Green CS, Whisper White CS Accessories: Ribbon, Scallop Punch, various Circle Punches, sticky strip, Stampin' Dimensionals

I'm so excited!!!

2008-01-23T21:17:00.001-05:00

No, I am not pregnant, so don't even go there!!! I am featured in the East Brainerd Community News Section of today's Times Free Press. If you don't live in East Brainerd, you might not see, so take a look at the link below. You'll have to scroll down to page nine. I've had a hard time seeing the far right column, don't know how to help you there. Click here: Events Chattanooga Times Free Press Thanks for all the well wishes. I'd appreciate your continued prayer and support as I move forward with "Graceful Designs." You never know "McKinley Creations" might be soon to follow.

Pop a Top

2008-01-18T09:35:00.000-05:00

This was our "secret" project at Girl's Night Out last night. We made a pop-top can with a Valentine's flair. I can't believe how easy they are to make. You can whip one up for any occassion. Love them! I followed the tutorial found here. Used my handy, dandy ruler and went to town. This picture is my sample. I wish I would have taken pictures of all the different ones we made. The Pampered Chef can opener worked wonderfully. The bottom fit right back on. If you need one, let me know. I can give you the name and number of my favorite Papmered Chef Consultant. Supplies: Stamps: SU Forever in My Heart Paper: DP from Hobby Lobby Ink: Real Red Accessories: Del Monte brand can of fruit (the size that comes in packs of 4), SU Grosgrain ribbon in Real Red and Regal Rose, SU Tag Punches, Crop-a-Dile, Creative Memories cutting system, scissors, and a ruler

Happy Birthday, Candy!

2008-01-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday dear Candy, Happy birthday to you! Here is your card in a digital format. I hope to see you on your birthday, but just in case. Enjoy your day, you deserve everything your heart desires. Supplies: Stamps: So Many Scallops, Small Sayings Ink: Rose Red, Apricot Appeal Paper: Rose Red CS, Apricot Appeal CS, Sage Shadow CS, Whisper White CS Accessories: Scallop punch, 1 3/8 circle punch, 1 1/4 circle punch

Thanks, I needed that!

2008-01-16T23:30:00.000-05:00

I was inspired by Katherine Werner to create this card. I had the image stamped , colored and just sitting there watching me. When blog surfing I ran across this card and knew what I had to do. This card is dedicated to all of you who have been so supportive this week. I appreciate my friends and feel blessed to have you in my life. Thanks for being there for me. Supplies: Stamps: Fun & Fast Notes Paper: So Saffron CS, Rose Red CS, Bashful Blue CS, Whisper White CS, Cutie Pie DP Ink: Jet Black Staz-On, Rose Red, Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, So Saffron Accessories: Blender Pen, Certainly Celery, Embossing Tool, Paper Piercing Guide, Word Window Punch, Silver Brad

GNO Preview

2008-01-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

This month when we get together for our Girl's Night we are going to do two cards and a project. Here is a sneak peak at the cards, but you will have to wait and see on the project. I still have a little work to do on those.

I think my favorite holiday is Valentine's Day. As a child, and even into college, I loved making my box to hold my Valentines. (As a student worker in college, I had the entire office make their own Valentine boxes. I covered mine with red, pink and white M&Ms. Yummy!)

So this card is to get us in the mood for the upcoming holiday. I wanted to do a technique I had never tried - paper piecing and this elephant from "Happy Heart Day" was perfect for the job. Thanks to Sharon Johnson for the inspiration with this card.

Supplies - Stamps: Happy Heart Day Ink: Staz-On Jet Black, Pretty in Pink and Old Olive Paper: Rose Red CS, Pretty in Pink CS, Old Olive CS, Whisper White CS, Old Olive DP, Bali Breeze DP Accessories: Blender pens, Pretty in Pink Grosgrain Ribbon, White gel pen, Scissors, Scallop Punch, 1 1/4 circle punch and 1 3/8 circle punch

This card uses a household item to stamp - bleach! Boy, did my house ever smell clean. In making this sample I learned a few things that I will pass along to the ladies next Thursday. I like to effect, there was just too much bleach on my paper towel.

Supplies - Stamps: Embrace Life Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, Wild Wasabi, Barely Banana Paper: River Rock CS, Barely Banana CS, Wild Wasabi CS, Whisper White CS, Wild Wasabi Textured CS Accessories: Blender pens, stamp-a-ma-jig, black brads scallop punch, 1 1/4 circle punch and 1 3/8 circle punch

There's no place like home

2008-01-07T02:30:00.000-05:00

I'm so glad to be home. If only my red ruby slippers could have magically brought me here without the 8+ hour drive. After unpacking I had to stamp. I've been blog surfing all week and just couldn't wait to get creative. Of course, I took inspiration from a talented stamper. Check it out here. Thanks llevans for sharing your beautiful card. I had to make do with what I own, and I don't have the nestabilites. Thought I might be able to do without, but it keeps getting harder and harder after seeing everyone's beautiful creations. This card is for my daughter's best friend. She celebrated her birthday this weekend. Happy Birthday, Elizabeth!!! Supplies Used - Paper: Petals & Paisleys DP, Certainly Celery, Taken with Teal, Rose Red, Whisper White Ink: Jet Black Staz-On, Taken with Teal Accessories: Certainly Celery Ribbon, Regal Rose Ribbon, Whisper White Ribbon, Paper Piercer and Mat, White gel pen, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Marvy Giga Scallop Punch, Creative Memories Cutting System, Star Dust Stickles

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T01:46:00.000-05:00

We are celebrating the New Year in Orlando, and had the thought that it would be fun to celebrate New Year's Eve in Disney. We got a late start with the idea that we would be out late. You know it is going to be a bad day when the Magic Kingdom parking lots are full at noon. We drove on to MGM (Hollywood) Studios. I have never seen Disney so packed, not even on Spring Break. The family had fun and we saw many shows. Gracie even rode the Tower of Terror for the first (and last) time with me. There were fireworks going off as we drove into the Marriott Resort where we are staying. McKinley was convinced that they were celebrating her return home. It was sweet. She is still all wound up. I wish you all health and happiness in the New Year. See you in 2008.

Gift Set

2007-12-29T02:10:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a very merry Christmas. Our family enjoyed the time spent together. There hasn't been much time for stamping, but I did churn out these cards for a gift set to be given tomorrow. I admit that I cheated by printing the circle and initial from the computer. My inspiration came from this set by Dawn McVey. I needed something that was quick to reproduce in quantity (as I have made/will make sets for 6 people) and that all the supplies were on hand. It was fun using the designer paper. To create a different look, all I had to do was flip the paper. Supplies Used - Paper: Soft Sky, Old Olive, Groovy Guava, Purely Pomegranate, So Saffron, Whisper White, Old Olive DP, So Saffron DP, Fall Flowers DP, Ginger Blossom DP, Bali Breeze DP Accessories: Scallop Punch, 1 1/4 " circle punch, Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon, Soft Sky Double-Stitched Ribbon, Purely Pomegranate Double-Stitched Ribbon, Groovy Guava Double-Stitched Ribbon

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T16:06:00.000-05:00

May happy times decorate your holiday season.

May special memories brighten your new year.

May the wonder of Christmas be with you forever.

All our love,

Robby, Jamie, Gracie and McKinley

Desk Ensemble

2007-12-14T02:57:00.000-05:00

Hello, my name is Jamie and I am addicted to Mod Podge. I love the stuff. It is so easy to use and works for some many different things. Here I have altered several items using Mod Podge, paper and ribbon.

One thing I have learned is not to use the Mod Podge as a sealant. I've messed up one clipboard that way (paper stuck to the clipboard). Now I just use clear acrylic spray to seal. Quick and easy.

All items are covered with the Grandpa's Attic paper by SEI. The stamps are SU Polka Dots and Paisley. Can't remember the SU ink colors used. I was amazed at how well the paisley from the stamp matches the ones in the paper.

Criss Cross Card

2007-12-08T20:47:00.000-05:00

This is my first criss cross card. Surprisingly it was very simple following the tutorial off SCS. There was so much room for embellishing and such. Here is what I made.

Supplies

Stamps: Polka Dots & Paisley and Polka Dots & Petals

Paper: Rose Red, Old Olive, Regal Rose, Whisper WhitePetals and Paisley DP

Ink: Old Olive, Rose Red

Accessories: Rose Red Ribbon, Scallop Punch, tab punch, Circle Punches, jeweled brad

Big and Little Pieces

2007-12-06T00:05:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the poor picture quality, but I wanted to share this card. I love it! It is so versatile and masculine. It is even fun to put together with all of the layers and brads, etc.

Thanks to scrapperaddict for the inspiration with this card.

Supplies

Stamps: Little Pieces, Big Pieces, Warmest Regards

Paper: Soft Sky, Blue Bayou, Whisper White, Basic Black

Ink: Staz-on Jet Black, Blue Bayou

Accessories: brads, paper piercer, various circle punches

Card Bag Topper

2007-12-03T19:27:00.000-05:00

So I needed to package the all occassion cards together. I didn't want to do a tin, nor did I want to make the pouches like the Christmas card set. So this is what I came up with. It is a 4"x6.25" piece of cardstock scored at 2". I decorated the front, put sticky strip on the back side of topper and a couple of velcro dots on the front to hold it closed.

Fun & Fast Notes Set

2007-12-03T19:26:00.000-05:00

Andrea Walford did it again. She inspired me to create (CASE) these cute all occassion cards. I love how well the SU Cutie Pie goes with the stamp set.

I used my watercolor wonder crayons for the first time on these cards. I love them. Using the crayons with the blender pens was so quick and easy.

Check out Andrea's cards here.

True Friend

2007-12-02T19:30:00.000-05:00

This was a birthday card for a friend. I had just received the True Friend set from my upline as a bonus and was itching to use it. I had also been hoarding the rhinestone brads, so... Supplies Stamps: True Friend; Paper: Petals & Paisleys DP, Old Olive, Rose Red; Ink: Rose Red, Old Olive; Accessories: Rhinestone brads, Always Artichoke Grosgrain Ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig

Wondrous Gift

2007-12-01T23:07:00.000-05:00

I love this card! My friend brought over her sets and we picked one and challenged ourselves to make a card. SCS provided the inspiration via this card by mcrastamper. We used the same layout and set, just different colors and papers. What an easy card to mass produce. It was a stretch for me not to use typical Christmas colors, I'm so traditional. Supplies Stamps: Wondrous Gift; Paper: Whisper White, Basic Gray, Scrap Patterend Paper; Ink: Basic Gray; Accessories: Stickles, Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig

Big on Christmas Set

2007-12-01T12:30:00.000-05:00

These are three Christmas Card creations that I completed in Hilton Head. My inspiration was this card by tarheelstamper. I used what I had available and I like how they turned out. Happy Holidays Supplies Stamps: Big on Christmas; Paper: Holiday Harmony DP, Always Artichoke, River Rock, Whisper White; Ink: Jet Black Staz-on, River Rock, Always Artichoke, Purely Pomegrante; Accessories: River Rock Double-Stitch Ribbon, Watercolor Wonder Crayons, blender pens

Noel Supplies Stamps: Big on Christmas; Paper: River Rock DP, Blue Bayou, River Rock, Whisper White; Ink: Blue Bayou, Jet Black Staz-on, Purely Pomegrante, Soft Sky, River Rock; Accessories: Blue Bayou Double-Stitch Ribbon, blender pens

Let it Snow Supplies

Stamps: Big on Christmas; Paper: Soft Sky, Purely Pomegrante, Whisper White, Happy Harmony DP; Ink: Soft Sky; Accessories: Soft Sky Double-stitch ribbon, watercolor pencils, blender pens.

Christmas Can

2007-11-29T19:56:00.000-05:00

I love making altered items!!! Thanks to Beth White for showing me how to use Mod Podge. Decorating cans is such a great stress reliever. Not only do I enjoy the process, I enjoy peeling the dried Mod Podge off my fingers - call me crazy. This project was made for an silent auction at my daughters' school. I never found out who won the bid. Hope they liked it and that it earned some money for BCA. I'm participating in a vendor fair at a local children's center and have made several of these type cans to show/sell. They are really meant to be personalized - you pick colors/theme, have an initial, etc. so I'm hoping to take lots of orders.

Belated Thankful Thoughts

2007-11-28T22:56:00.000-05:00

I couldn't get this posted on Thanksgiving due to temperamental photo editing software. But the thoughts are true and sincere, all the same. My wonderful upline, Pam Varnell, taught how to make these cool pumpkins using oval punches at club. I just loved them. Since I didn't have the stamp set she used, the DP or the SU oval punches, I made due. This is my creation. (I used Fiskars squeeze punches and felt like they were about to break apart with each squeeze. The SU punches are the best I've used by far!) Pam - This is a virtual card to express my gratitude to you for your excitement and enthusiasm for stamping. You get me hyped for SU! Thanks! Laura and Sierra - Thanks for putting up with me and listening to me ramble about nothing, loose my train of thought and then ramble about something else. You are the greatest! All my stamping buddies - Thanks for giving me a reason to stamp more often. Also, thanks for watching Grey's Anatomy with me. For some reason my husband doesn't find McDreamy and Meredith a hot topic of conversation. I miss you on the other 3 Thursday nights of the month.

Merry & Bright Tags

2007-11-27T23:46:00.000-05:00

Once again, kudos to Andrea Walford for sharing her talent with others. She provided the tutorial on how to create these super cute Gift Tags on her blog. Check it out here.

The pouch is my favorite and the tags were so easy to create. See, I made 9 sets! You probably have scraps to do the same. Use what ever holiday set you have as the background. This set could easily be altered to be used year-round, just choose a generic background, for example, dots, balloons, flowers, etc.

Supplies Paper: Always Artichoke, Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Soft Sky and Wintergreen DP; Stamps: Merry & Bright; Ink: Always Artichoke, Chocolate Chip Marker; Punches: 1 1/4″ circle, 1 3/8″ circle, scallop circle, corner rounder; Other tools & accesories: Artichoke grosgrain ribbon, sticky strip, silver elastic cord, small cello bag, paper piercing tool

Let Your Light Shine

2007-11-27T02:48:00.000-05:00

This set was commissioned by my mother, God bless my mother for always thinking of me, to be used as a door prize. She challenged me to create a set of cards around the theme "Let Your Light Shine." She talked about light bulbs, flash lights, sunshines, etc. Well, I didn't have any stamps with those images, but I do have the super adaptable SU set "Fun & Fast Notes." Again, no sentiment stamps to meet her challenge, so I created the sentiment on the computer and printed directly on the SU cardstock. I love the effect. The idea is inspired from the SU hostess set "Word on Word," but I've seen this effect used on posters, cards and online. I decided not to make the star a traditional yellow/golden star, as everyone's light shines differently. In picking colors, I used the In Colors to keep it simple for me, and I had all the supplies. All six In Colors were used in the set, maybe not all six on each card, but close. Hopefully my mother will be pleased, as will the winner of the door prize. I liked the set so much, I made one for myself. Oh, more cards I will never send...

Naughty or Nice

2007-11-26T02:40:00.000-05:00

I brought the "Naughty or Nice" set in hopes I'd create something original. Well, there is nothing original to me. People say how creative I am, but I'm not. I take inspiration from other people's work, if not CASE it completely.

I made due with what paper and ribbon I had with me. All credit goes to Photobug on SCS. I loved the simplicity of her card. Take a look at Photobug's card here.

Goodbye HHI

2007-11-24T23:25:00.001-05:00

Tonight is our last night on HHI. We leave around 10 tomorrow morning. I just finished packing my Rubbermaid bucket of stamping supplies. Before I could put all my stuff away, I had to take a group shot of all the projects I worked on while we've been here. Not all my projects got completed. Like I mentioned in the previous post, I left some supplies at home. I got a really good start and most projects just need something punched out and then adhered. Thanks to all those who inspired me and to all those whose work I totally CASEd. You make what I love doing so much more enjoyable by taking away the anxiety to create something beautiful, by already creating the beauty and sharing with others on your blogs. So here is a grocery list of what I completed and/or worked on: 40 Christmas cards with 10 gift pouches using "Festive Favorites" created by Andrea Walford 30 all occasion cards using "Fun and Fast Notes" created by Andrea Walford 6 cards using "Big on Christmas" inspired by tarhellstamper who was inspired by papermoon 2 cards using "Naughty or Nice" totally CASED from photobug 2 pouches for "Let Your Light Shine" cards Cut out materials for 2 altered notebooks Cut out materials and prepared pockets for 7 altered DVD tins 9 pouches with 6 gift tags each inspired by Andrea Walford 1 ABC bitty board book with holder CASEd from llrandolph 4 "Joy Fold" cards left over from stamp club which were CASEd from Beate Johns tutorial Did I mention I follow directions well? Thanks again to all the talented ladies who provide me inspiration and cards to CASE daily. It just wouldn't be as fun, for me atleast.

Stamping the Night Away

2007-11-22T18:27:00.000-05:00

In preparation for our trip, I packed lots of projects to complete during our time on HHI. One of which was this super cool set designed by Andrea Walford over at Sunny Stampin'. She is constantly inspiring me creatively and when I saw this Festive Favorites set, I HAD to have the directions. The gift pouch had me, but then the rest of the cards were so nice and it made a perfect gift set, so.... I purchased the instructions.

It couldn't have been easier. Andrea had it all laid out - how much you needed of what - down to how to cut the paper to get the most out of each sheet. Talk about EASY! So last night I put it all together and almost totally completed 10 4-card gift sets in pouches. (I did not bring my corner rounder so I couldn't finish the pouches and somehow left 2 pieces of the desinger paper at home, oops!). Contact Andrea Walford for directions. She has other stamp camp porject kits available. I highly recommend her. The documents were very professional, accurate and detailed!

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T13:04:00.000-05:00

Greetings all! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. My family (just the four of us) are enjoying a peaceful week in Hilton Head Island, SC. Kinda funny to go swimming outdoors in November. We've walked the beach, gone on a bike ride and getting ready to make these cool turkey cookies as part of our Thanksgiving celebration. We will enjoy them after the pizza but before the Thanksgiving Day ham sandwiches. Don't feel bad for us, this is soooo what we wanted, and needed at that, simply time together. Well, I've been putting off starting a blog for quite some time now. But after working on cards all last night, I've been inspired to share. So, stay tuned. I have to put the pizza in the oven right now, but will post my projects in just a little bit. TTFN!