House of Cards August Challenge

Hola!!

Wow, look at me!  Posting on time this month. lol  I have scaled back some of my hours at the part time job, and I've rearranged my priorities.  I'm thankful for the Lord, and his guidance.  This has allowed me to take a step back, and look at the "big picture".  I now see that I was wasting valuable time, doing unnecessary things, and stressing myself out.  So glad, and relieved, to be back on track with how I'm supposed to be doing things.  Funny how He has a way of reminding us that he's in control, huh? :)

It's the first of the month (can you believe it's AUGUST already?!), which means there is a new House of Cards challenge posted.  This month we are challenged to use at least three of the colors below, and/or include twine.

And here is my card.

I really struggled with the colors this month.  I know I've said this before, but I'm not a huge fan of pink.  There wasn't enough purple to go that route, so I did some digging and found these beautiful My Mind's Eye papers, in my neglected stash.  They coordinate beautifully.  I have a friend who absolutely loves pink, so I'm sure she'll love this card.  I was excited to get to join a few challenges this time.  It's been a while since I've participated in any of them.  I'm going to submit this card for the following ones:

Alphabet Challenge:  K is for Kindness
Freshly Made Sketches #247:  Sketch
Simon's Wednesday Challenge:  Anything Goes
Just Us Girls Challenge #354: Girly

I'm off to get ready and head out, for another crazy work week.  Fortunately, we are done with all of our month end closing stuff, so this week should be less hectic, and calm.  Fingers crossed anyway. lol  I hope you'll head over to the HOC blog and check out the other beautiful cards that are posted.  The girls never cease to amaze me at their gorgeous submissions each month.  *happy sigh*

Stay crafty my friends!

Just Us Grls Challenge #335: Color Week

Greetings my friends!

I apologize, but this post is going to be short and sweet.  Working about 80 hours this week, plus inventory this weekend, makes for very limited personal time.  Hopefully, I will get some rest on Sunday.

I'm back with my next guest card for Just Us Girls.  This week is a Color Week: Pink, Yellow and Purple.  Here is the card I created.

Again, I'm attempting to keep it CAS here.  I wanted to incorporate the colors in a non Easter kind of card.  I inked up the background panel and then added the top panel, that was cut with my circle dies, with foam adhesive.  I then added some purple splatters, and some Pretty Pink Posh sequins.  After that, I embossed my sentiment on black cardstock for a contrast of color, and added it to my card.  This is my take on Sunday Stamps Challenge #122, which is a sketch.  I'm excited to get this in the mail to a great friend, who has been very helpful recently. 

That's all for me today.  I'm off to get some sleep, and start another day of work in the morning.  I'm hoping you'll head over to the Just Us Girls blog to see the other gorgeous projects that are posted today.  Hopefully you'll get to join us for this challenge also. :-)

Have a wonderful weekend!

      

Pile It On Challenge #99

Hey ya'll!

It's been a chilly, rainy weekend here in East Texas, which made it perfect for staying indoors.  I had to work for a bit yesterday, but afterwards, I cleaned my place up and then got my craft on.  I have to admit, I did have issues trying to figure out what to make.  I've been on hiatus for long enough that my mojo was missing for a bit.  Since I had been itching to make something, I was disappointed that my card didn't come together that easily.  Hopefully, I'll get to make stuff more often, so that I get back into the swing of things.  I'm sure it's just like riding a bike, right? :-)

Since today is Sunday, there is a new Pile It On challenge posted.  There is a slight change this year, as we will now be posting every two weeks, instead of every week.  We're hoping that gives people more time to join us.  The challenge this week is to use something on your card that begins with the first letter of your first name.  I chose sequins.  Here is my card.

I am trying to tap into more of my CAS side this year.  Lots of white space with small pops of color seem to appeal to me more and more these days.  I'm hoping that with practice, I'll be able to get better at it.  I'm sure the recipient of this card will be thrilled, as one of her favorite colors is red.  I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges...

Inkspirational Challenge #99:  Thank you & Use Something New (the thanks die and hearts die are new)
Simon's Monday Challenge: Something New
The ABC Challenge: Y Is For Your Choice (anything goes) 
The Card Concept #46: Inspiration Photo
Fab & Funky Challenge #286: Something New
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Something New
Aud Sentiments Challenge #146: Thank You
CAS(E) This Sketch #154: Sketch
Just Us Girls Challenge #325: Metallics (the silver panel and my red hearts are metallic)

I do hope you'll head over to see the other cards that are posted.  They're fantastic!  Since our challenge is now two weeks, I'm also hopeful you'll be able to join us.

That's all for me.  I'm off to church, then lunch with friends, before I come home to make more stuff.  I hope you have a wonderful day!

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Whisper White Cardstock, DCWV Red Foil Cardstock, DCWV Silver Shimmer Cardstock, Simple Stories Snap Color Vibe Patterned Paper
Accessories: MFT Blueprints 20 Dies, Memory Box Thanks Word Die, Memory Box Mini Heart Collection Dies, Avery Elle Winter Collection Sequins

Pile It On #96 - Fancy Folds

Hi ya'll!

I hope you're having a great weekend, filled with lots of indoor crafty time.  It snowed here on Friday, and we got about 10 inches.  What a great time to stay indoors! lol  My mom made a huge pot of veggie beef soup, and some homemade apple dumplings, while I put together a couple of crafty projects.  My daughter had to work yesterday, but the snow was already melting, and the roads were pretty clear.  She made it with no issue.  I'm glad to be moving back to Texas, before this stuff becomes more frequent, and permanent.  Whataburger, here I come too! lol

Since it's Sunday, there is a new Pile It On challenge posted.  This challenge is to create a project with fancy folds.  Our sponsor this week is Fresh Brewed Designs, and the winner will receive 3 digi stamps of their choice. 

To be honest, I struggled a lot with this challenge.  None of the previous cards I created turned out well, at all.  After three attempts, here is the most decent of them all. 

And here are a couple more pics, so you can see the folds.

 

I know that the recipient of this card will enjoy it, but I think I need to create more cards with different folds, so that I'm more educated on making them.  I don't think I've ever made a card that wasn't traditional.  The addition of this adorable Fresh Brewed Designs digi, and those gorgeous Pretty Pink Posh gold sequins were perfect.  I also added some clear Wink of Stella to my pumpkin, for some additional sparkle.  In all, I think I did ok.  I'd like to submit my card for the following challenges.

Simon's Monday Challenge:  Thanks/Thanksgiving 

Addicted To Stamps #171:  Anything Goes

Color Throwdown #369:  Rusty Orange, Warm Burgundy & Pear-like Green (I tried to get as close as I could)

Aud Sentiments Challenge #145:  Anything Goes With A Sentiment

CAS-Ual Chic #5:  Precious Metals (I have gold sequins on my card)

The Friday Mashup #235:  Let's Be Thankful & Sketch (my loose interpretation)

I do hope you'll head over to the PIO blog, to see the other beautiful cards that are posted for you.  As always, they're pretty amazing!

Have a wonderful day!

 





What's In It?
Paper:  SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Green, Kraft & Orange Cardstock, Bo Bunny Apple Cider Patterned Paper
Stamps:  Fresh Brewed Designs The Great Pumpkin, Simon Says Stamp Handwritten Greetings
Ink:  Memento Tuxedo Black, Ranger Old Paper Distress Ink, Clear Wink of Stella, Copics: YR12, YR15, G40, G43 & E74
Accessories:  Pretty Pink Posh Gold Sequins, Spellbinders Large Smooth Circles & Large Big Scalloped Circles Dies, MFT Stitched Scalloped Edges Dies

House of Cards August Challenge: Metallics

Hello everyone!

I hope you've had a wonderful week, and are going to have a wonderful weekend.  As you read this, my daughter and I are currently in Dallas, Texas, touring two more colleges.  Yesterday we visited TCU (which was awesome) and today we are visiting University of Texas Arlington.  We visited Iowa State University, back on the 24th, and loved it too, but I've asked her not to make a decision until we've visited all of the colleges she's chosen to apply to.  We have two more to go, later this month, and then she'll start applying.  This whole process is overwhelming, for both of us.  To say I'm emotional, is an understatement.  I am so proud and excited for her though.  She'll do great, whatever and wherever she decides.  The one thing I think might be a factor for her is the heat.  It's in the 90's with high levels of humidity right now, and she's not enjoying it.  Being from Texas, I'm used to it, so it doesn't bother me as much.  It's still pretty uncomfortable though.  I think we're going to hit up Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor after our college visit this morning.  That should help.

Anyway, onto why you're here today.  It's the first of the month, which brings us to our next House of Cards challenge.  This month, the challenge is to use Metallics.

This challenge was a bit difficult for me, as I don't really have much in the form of metallics.  I dug through my crafty stuff, several times, trying to find something.  Finally, I found some metallic cardstock that I had forgotten about.  Here is the card I made with them.

I love the bright, cheerful colors, and the card screams summer, to me.  I used a bit of metallic gold mist, for the background, but ultimately kept it fairly simple.  I know exactly who will receive this card, and I hope she enjoys it.  She's been my longtime friend, and never ceases to amaze, with her generosity.  I love her dearly.

There are so many inspiring cards today, created by my friends at House of Cards.  I do hope you'll head over to check them out.  You'll have until 11pm on August 31st to participate.  That's a whole month!  Hopefully, you'll get the chance to play along, so that I can visit your blogs, and see your beautiful creations.  I look forward to seeing them!

It's off to UT Arlington, then an afternoon of roller coasters and water slides for us.  I hope you have an awesome weekend!

Hugs!

What's In It?

Paper: Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Metallic Cardstock: Pink, Orange, Yellow & Aqua

Stamps: Reverse Confetti Fancy Word Coordinates

Ink: VersaMark, Mister Huey's Gold, Lemon Lemon Gelato

Accessories: Reverse Confetti Fancy Word Dies, Mama Elephant Polaroid Fun Dies, WPlus9 Sunshine Layers Dies, SU! Cloudy Day Embossing Folder, Detail White Embossing Powder

House of Cards July Challenge: Food and/or Inspiration Photo

Greetings my friends!

I have some exciting news to share!  I applied to be on the House of Cards design team again, and was lucky enough to be chosen to return.  I'm super excited!  I am hoping this will help me use up some of the crafty stuff I've been hoarding.  Lord knows I've got a TON of stuff. lol

This month there is an inspiration photo for you.  You can choose to use any kind of food items and/or the colors from the photo.  Here is your inspiration for July.

I love these bright, cheerful colors, and that fruit looks amazing too!  Makes me want to go make fruit salad right now. lol  Here is the card I created.

I was inspired by the colors this week, and I chose to keep it clean and simple.  I watercolored my main focal panel with my distress inks, and added some darker splatters with my Gelatos.  I then cut the butterfly out of vellum, and embossed the tips of the wings with some holographic embossing powder.  Here is a close up of the butterfly, so you can see it better.  I love how it turned out.  It's lovely!

I added the butterfly, some enamel dots, and the sentiment, and called it done.  In real life, the colors are a bit more vibrant.  I really think these butterfly dies are some of my new favorite items.  I will definitely put them to good use.  I'm going to submit this card for the following challenges too.

Freshly Made Sketches #192: Sketch (challenge is closed, but I liked the sketch)
Friday Mashup #215: It's All About 3 (I have three enamel dots)
Can You Case It #76:  Color Challenge (I got as close as I could to Mint Macaron, Watermelon Wonder & Delightful Dijon)
The Pink Elephant #305: Anything Goes
CASology Week 153:  Pop (I kept everything soft, with a pop of bold color)

The other designers have created some amazing cards for you today.  I hope you are able to check them out, and are inspired to join us this month.  You have until July 31st to play along, and I cannot wait to see what you create.  That's all for me today.  I'm off to work, and then another afternoon of softball.

Stay crafty my friends!

What's In It?
Paper:  SU! Very Vanilla Cardstock, SU! Watercolor Paper, Neenah Red Textured Cardstock, Vellum
Stamps:  Paper Smooches Graceful Beauties, MFT Garden Flourish Background
Ink:  Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Simon Says Stamp Fog Dye Ink, VersaMark, Mango Mango & Metallic Melon Gelatos, Distress Ink: Spun Sugar, Scattered Straw & Cracked Pistachio
Accessories:  MFT Flutter of Butterflies Lace Dies, Lawn Fawn Large Stitched Rectangles Dies, Freckled Fawn Enamel Dots

Thanks

Good day everyone!

I was up before daylight this morning, making sure my girl was fed and taken care of, before she was off to take her ACT's.  As the days go on, the more it's starting to sink in that I'll be an empty nester very soon.  I still stop to wonder where time has gone.  My baby is technically an adult, and headed into her last year of school, before moving on to college. *sigh*  I'm thankful that she's such a great person, with a good head and a big heart.  I know she'll go on to do great things.

Anyway, since I was up, I decided to participate in a few challenges.  I actually made two cards.  Here is the first.

I debated about whether or not to actually post this card.  I had an idea in my head, but it didn't quite turn out how I wanted.  And, I still suck at masculine cards. lol  This paisley stencil from MFT though, is awesome!  I can see many uses for it in the future.  I was excited about using my new Abandoned Coral distress ink too.  That baby had been sitting on my desk, unopened, for months.  I guess this card isn't too terrible.  I think it needs a little "something" though.  Maybe I'll come back to it at a later date and figure it out.  At least I've got another card for my stash.  I'm going to submit this for the following challenges.

The Challenge #38:  Coral, Navy & Kraft
Freshly Made Sketches #190:  Sketch
Bloggers Challenge:  For The Boys
Crazy 4 Challenges #290:  Masculine Cards

Below is the second card I made.

This card was a bit over a week in process.  I colored the image with my Copics (I know, right?! lol) while on layover in Dallas, a bit over a week ago.  This is one of the better coloring jobs I've ever done, so I wanted to use it.  I added a vellum sentiment, embossed in gold and some Pretty Pink Posh sequins, and called it good.  I love how simple it is, and how the image stands out.  These colors together are lovely as well.  I'm going to enter this for the following challenges.

Word Art Wednesday #187:  Anything Goes
Just Add Ink #266:  Pink Pirouette, Night of Navy & Gold
YNS Challenge #16:  Sketch & Color Challenge (I only used the sketch, manipulating it a bit)
 
That's all for me today.  I'm going to attempt to take a nap, and catch up on some crafty YouTube videos.  I wish all of you a great day!

Hugs!

 

You're The Bestest

Hello friends!

Happy Mother's Day!  After a chaotic week at work, I was blessed to be pampered by my lovely daughter, with a pedicure at our favorite spa.  She also cleaned the house all on her own, and made my mother and I breakfast this morning.  Sure do love my girl!  After weeks of long hours, and tons of weekend events, I was happy to finally get some time to be craft today.  Here is the card I made.

I really love the simplicity of this card, even with the layered flower piece.  The distressed cover up, and the ombre ink leaves are gorgeous.  I'm excited to finally use some of the goodies I'd accumulated, but hadn't had the opportunity to use.  If all goes well, I hope to have another something crafty for you this week.  We'll see how things go though.  I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges.

The Pink Elephant #297:  Appreciation/Thank You
City Crafter Challenge #260:  Mood Board/Inspiration Photo (I was inspired by the colors)
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Let's Get Sentimental
Can You Case It #69:  Sketch (my loose interpretation)
The Paper Players #244:  Lost Lagoon, Sahara Sand & Pistachio Pudding (I tried to get as close as I could)

Stay crafty my friends!

 




What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White & Desert Sand Cardstock, Becky Higgins Project Life Grid Journaling Cards
Stamps: Reverse Confetti Love Blooms & Fancy Word Coordinates
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Ranger Distress Ink: Tumbled Glass, Mermaid Lagoon & Cracked Pistachio, Hero Arts Mint to Green Ombre Ink
Accessories: MFT Stripes Cover Up, Clearly Besotted Small Geometric Rose Die, Simple Stories Enamel Dots, DMC Silver Thread

With Gratitude

Hi y'all!

I had some errands to run, so I took this afternoon off.  I'm still technically working from my cell phone, but at least I get to spend a little bit of time at home, so I can post my card. :-)

I wanted to join in on a couple more challenges, so here is what I put together last night.  I like it!

I have to admit, it's hard not to want to put a shaker on everything these days. lol  I think it's fitting for this sketch though.  I love the embossed vellum too.  I think it adds just the right touch.  There are lots of new, to me, goodies on this card.  And I am thrilled that my WPlus9 flowers turned out as well as they did.  Not bad for my first attempt, eh?  I will be dropping this in the mail for a dear friend, who is always there for me.  I hope she likes it.  I will also be entering this for the following challenges.

The Challenge #29:  Sketch
Butterfly Reflections, Ink: April Mood Board (dark blue, light blue, green and gold - inspiration photo)
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge: April Shower and/or Spring Flowers (I went with flowers)

I'm off to get my taxes done (insert unhappy face), and then I'm going to take my daughter to dinner.  I will be back soon with another something crafty.  I hope you have a wonderful day!

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Baja Breeze, Pacific Point & Wild Wasabi Cardstock, MME Charmed Patterned Paper, Text Patterned Paper (sorry, I can't find who makes this), SSS Vellum
Stamps: WPlus9 Pretty Peonies, Clearly Besotted Say It In Style

Ink: MFT Berrylicious, After Midnight & Daffodil Hybrid Ink, VersaMark
Accessories: SU! Butterfly Punch, Freckled Fawn Blue Pearls, WPlus9 Chevron Texture Plate, Reverse Confetti Wonky Double Edge Scallop Die, SSS Stitched Rectangles Dies, Butterfly Reflections, Ink. Navy Blue & Mint Green Star Sequins, Pretty Pink Posh Marshmallow Seed Beads, Pretty Pink Posh Gold Sequins

Thanks...You're Amazing

Greetings friends!

I hope you're having a great day.  I am really enjoying the awesome weather we're having, and plan on going for a bike ride with my daughter after work today.  It's so nice to be able to get back outside and "play".  I hope everyone is having nice weather in their area as well.  I hope it lasts for a while. 

Anyway, here is the next card I have to share with you.

I LOVE the bright, cheerful colors here.  The yellow with the polka dots paper from my March SSS Card Kit is fabulous!  I really like the colors this month.  I decided to make this into a shaker card, so I could use some of my new Pretty Pink Posh seed beads.  They are also pretty fabulous.  I know exactly who I will be sending this to, and hope she enjoys it.  I'm going to submit this for the following challenges.

Sparkle & Shine Challenge #1: Photo Inspiration
Retro Sketches #156: Sketch (my loose interpretation)
Pile It On #59: Green

I'm off to work, and am hoping to be done early, so I can leave a bit early.  I'll be back soon with another something crafty.

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Wild Wasabi Cardstock, SSS March Card Kit Patterned Paper
Stamps: Simon Says Stamp Talk Bubbles 2
Ink: VersaFine Onyx Black
Accessories: Star Dust Stickles, Simon Says Stamp Stitched Rectangles & Thanks Dies, MFT Stitched Oval Dies, Simon Says Stamp Green Seed Beads, Pretty Pink Posh Clear and Marshmallow Seed Beads, Pretty Pink Posh Mossy Green Sequins

Thankful For You

Hello my friends!

I hope you're having a good weekend, and creating lots of crafty stuff.  It's freezing here, which is perfect for staying indoors, making a big pot of soup, watching movies, and making stuff.  I got some time in my craft room yesterday, which I was thankful for, and I'm hoping to spend more time in there today.

I'm excited to share my card today.  It's my very first shaker card!  Shaker cards continue to be more and more popular, so I thought I'd give it a try.  Here is how it turned out.

I am pretty excited, although I'm thinking that next time, I should not add glitter.  I rubbed my acetate with a dryer sheet to try to remove the static, but it didn't work.  And yep, you read correctly, I said glitter.  I finally broke down and bought a few different colors, so that I could use them in shaker cards.  I will handle it with great caution, and pray I don't get it everywhere. lol  The sketch I used for this just screamed shaker card to me, so I went with it.  I embossed the sentiment on vellum again, and added a bit of twine and a couple of tiny paper flowers that I inked in red.  I am totally loving this card, and I can see many more shaker cards being made, very soon.  I am going to submit this card for the following challenges.

CAS(E) This Sketch #105: Sketch
Card Concept #26: One Year Anniversary/Photo Inspiration (I chose the classy & elegant style, hope I understood correctly)
Word Art Wednesday #165: Anything Goes

Hopefully, I'll have more cards to share over the next few days.  I'm not planning on leaving the house, and am going to try to spend lots of time in my craft room today.  I do hope you'll stop by again soon.  Lots of fun stuff happening over the next few weeks.

Stay warm!

  





What's In It?
Paper: SU! Very Vanilla Cardstock, Dark Green Cardstock, Prima Stationers Desk Patterned Papers, SSS Acetate
Stamps: CASual Fridays Calm & Gentle
Ink: VersaMark, Simon Says Stamp Lipstick Red Dye Ink
Accessories: Silver Embossing Powder, Simon Says Stamp Stitched Rectangles Dies, Maya Road Natural Twine, I Am Roses Paper Flowers, Simon Says Stamp Seed Beads (red & clear), Pretty Pink Posh Sequins (gold & mossy green), Pretty Pink Posh Silver Confetti, Wow Red Glitter

Thank You

Hello everyone!

Happy New Year!!  I hope that all of you have a blessed, and prosperous year.  2015 is going to be a busy one for me, but I look forward to all of the excitement.  I'm hoping to be more crafty too.  You'll have to come back tomorrow, for the start of something new.  Then in February, I'm pretty excited to be guest designing for one of my favorite challenges.  Hopefully, you'll join me in some of my new crafty adventures. :-)

I have another card for you today.  Here is what I made.

As the sun is less and less available, it's harder for me to snap pictures of my cards.  I tried a light box, but it didn't work out for me.  I'm not sure what I did wrong, but my pictures were terrible.  I'm not sure what to do, but if anyone has any suggestions on taking better photos, I would appreciate the help!  So, I stamped the flower in VersaMark and embossed in silver, then colored it with my SU! Blendabilities.  This is a huge accomplishment for me, as you know I'm not one who colors much.  I love how it turned out though.  I'm going to submit this card for the following challenges...

Creative Card Crew #77: Anything Goes
Just Us Girls #273: Inspiration Photo
Mojo Monday #378: Sketch (tall and skinny this week, my card is 3 1/2 x 5 1/2)
 
I hope you'll stop by tomorrow, to check out my first new crafty adventure.  Have a wonderful day!
Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Silver Foil Cardstock, SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Authentique Classique: Pretty Patterned Paper
Stamps: Simon Says Stamp Friendship Messages, SU! Blended Bloom
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, VersaMark, SU! Melon Mambo Assortment Blendabilities
Accessories: Silver Embossing Powder, Memory Box Lorelai Leaf Outline Die, White Lace, Pretty Pink Posh Silver/White Twine, Pearl Hat Pins

Thanks For Being Awesome!

Hi y'all!

It's a gloomy, foggy, rainy Thursday here and I've got one of the worst sinus infections I think I've ever had.  I'm working from home today, but did get time to snap a quick pick of a card I made last night.  Here is what I created.

My friend Rochelle and I had been talking about all of the crafty stuff we own, but weren't using.  So, we decided we were going to challenge ourselves to make something last night, no matter what (operation #getchacrafton).  I have to say that even though this is simple, I love how it turned out.  I can't remember the last time I wet embossed anything, or if I've ever embossed on black cardstock. lol  I really think it looks pretty cool, as the white pops against the black.  I hope to try this again.  I will be entering this into the following challenges.

Cardabilities #109: Sketch (my loose interpretation)
Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge: Burlap Banner
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Use Kraft

I'm off to do some more work, and hopefully rest a bit.  I hope everyone is having a great week, so far, and will get lots of crafty time to make stuff this weekend.

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Papertrey Inc Kraft Cardstock, SU Basic Black Cardstock, MME Cut & Paste Flair Patterned Paper, MME Lost & Found Heirloom Patterned Paper
Stamps: Verve "Being Awesome"
Ink: Avery Elle Pure White Pigment Ink
Accessories:  SU White Embossing Powder, Simon Says Stamp String of Hearts Die, Freckled Fawn Blue Glitter Enamel Dew Drops

Thanks

Hello everyone!

How are y'all?  Things have been rather crazy around here over the last couple weeks, but I'm glad they're finally slowing down enough to get crafty again.  The weather has been chilly, so it's perfect for staying indoors and making stuff.  I've received several boxes of crafting goodies over the last couple weeks, so I'm excited to finally get to use them.

Chevrons seem to be super popular these days.  Winnie & Walter have this amazing stamp set called V is for Chevron, and I had to ink it up first.  Here is what I created.

I really like the bright colors on this one.  Set against the black, they really seem to pop.  I hadn't really used my Hero Arts Neon inks yet, so this was a great time for that as well.  I loved the Stitched Border die from Pretty Pink Posh too.  It added just the right touch of "something" I was looking for.  In all, I really like how this turned out.  I was excited to combine the following challenges in this card.

Virginia's View #7: Patterned Paper
The Friday Mashup #177: Sketch (my interpretation of it)
Pile It On #37: Flowers and/or Feathers (I used flowers)

Before I go, I will share a couple of photos from R's last visit.  He brought Hulk, and I have to admit, we all fell in love with him.  He's so beautiful, and such a sweet, sweet boy.  He's very smart too.  My daughter taught him how to sit and shake, just in the four days they were here.  He's going to be a very BIG boy though.  He just turned 3 months old on the 11th, and weighs 35 pounds already.  Full grown, we're told he'll be between 150 and 160 pounds. lol  We really miss them, and are happy they'll be returning for another visit soon.

 

 

I'm hoping to be back with something crafty, but different than cards or scrapbooks, in the next day or so.  It's something I've had fun participating in over the last couple weeks, and just realized that I could be posting pictures on my blog of each prompt. lol  I'm just waiting for the lighting outside to be good enough to get a decent photo.  I do hope you have a wonderful Sunday, filled with crafty goodness!

Ciao!

 

What's In It?

Paper: SU Whisper White & Basic Black Cardstock, Amy Tangerine Black & White Chevron Patterned Paper

Stamps: Winnie & Walter V Is For Chevron & You've Got Love Mail

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Hero Arts Neon Pink, Blue, Yellow, Green & Purple Dye Ink

Accessories: Maya Road Natural Twine, I Am Roses White Paper Flowers, Pretty Pink Posh Stitched Borders 1 & Stitched Film Strip Dies

Use Your Words - Sweet

Good day!

I hope you've had a good weekend, and are rested, before heading back to work tomorrow.  It was a nice weekend around here.  We went to the Clay County Fair yesterday, and boy did we have a great time.  We walked around and saw everything, then I let the girls do their thing.  They ate tons of fair food, and rode every ride on the midway, quite a few times.  To say that they were exhausted is an understatement.  Having that much fun is a lot of work, apparently! lol

Since today is the 15th, there is a new challenge posted at Use Your Words.  Our challenge this week is the word Sweet.  For all of the details, click HERE.  Here is what I came up with.

I needed a card for a friend, who doesn't speak English.  The word "dulce" in my sentiment, means sweet.  A direct translation of this sentiment is, you're so sweet.  I thought it worked perfectly, even if it was in a different language.  I received my Simon Says Stamp card kit not too long ago, and this is the first time I've had to play with it.  The colors and papers, and elements are beautiful!  Since I'll be mailing this card to my friend, I kept it simple.  Hopefully, she'll like it.

I do hope you'll head over to the Use Your Words blog, and check out the other projects posted today.  They're gorgeous!  I'll be back with my next project tomorrow.  Hope you'll check back then to see what I've got for ya.

Have a great day!
Hugs!

Thank You Tombow!

Hey y'all!

How's your holiday weekend going?  I did have to work a bit yesterday morning, but I'm glad that I did.  I will be ahead of the game when I get back to work tomorrow, and things are crazy, which they always are after a holiday.  I did, however, get time to make a card.  Yay!

Recently, the wonderful people at Tombow gifted me some of their awesome goodies, in celebration of their 100th birthday.  I received some lovely bright markers, some really nice colored pencils and some adhesive.  Check it out!



I wanted to use all of these items on the card I was going to make, but wasn't sure what to do.  Then, I saw the CAS-ual Fridays challenge (from two weeks ago...yep, I'm behind lol) and loved the color combo of aqua, green & orange.  So, here's what I made.

I stamped the large butterfly, twice, and colored them with the colored pencils.  I then stamped the small butterfly, and colored it with the markers.  I layered them together and added a pearl.  The dimension on this butterfly is SO awesome!  I love how it turned out.  I was excited that the colored pencils matched the background chevron paper almost perfectly.  I added a pop of yellow, teal and orange, and my card was good to go.  It's simple, and lovely. 

If you get the opportunity, check out the festivities at the Tombow blog.  In celebration, they're donating to the Council for Arts Education.  What a great thing to do!

I'll be back soon, with another something crafty. 

Have a wonderful day!
Hugs!

Two For One

Hello!

How's your day going?  I'm enjoying a bit of a break from the chaos that is 4 teenage girls sleeping over, while they're at the pool.  I can only imagine that they're going to come back sunburned and/or "crispy" from being there most of the afternoon. lol  In the nice, quiet, alone time I have had, I created two cards.  I usually only post one at a time, but I wanted to share both of these right now.  I was a bit impatient in sharing these. :-)

Here is the first.

A few weeks ago I saw a card posted using a crochet mat.  I did some investigating, and found that Jessi Fogan, makes AND sells them.  I was super excited to place my order, and was even more excited when they arrived so quickly at my house the other day (she's awesome!).  I've asked her to try to find some neon thread.  Wouldn't they be awesome?!  It had been a while since I'd created anything but a square card, so I went with round for this one.  My peach/white flourish panel is actually the emboss resist technique, which I really should do more often.  I matted it in a pale yellow, and added it to my sage green crochet mat.  I then added a wood veneer banner that came in one of my Simon Says Stamp card kits, a twine bow, a hand crocheted flower I ordered on Etsy, and a few sequins.  In all, I think this card took me 20 minutes to complete, and I love it!

I've combined the following challenges in this card:

Stampin Royalty #189 - Photo Inspiration (hope I got close enough to the colors)
Drunken Stampers #137 - Twine (Hi Jessi!!)
Totally Gorjuss #197 - Die Cuts/Punches (my shaped card was made with dies)

And, here is the second card. 

If you know me, you know I LOVE blue.  I reminded myself about the need to continue my use of the emboss resist technique, and wound up with this beauty.  I made two identical panels, only one is embossed with snowflakes and has Mr. Huey's mist on it.  For a bit of added interest, I matted them in opposite directions.  The bottom layer starts with the darker colors at the top, and the focal panel starts with the lighter colors at the top.  I have to say, this turned out much better than I expected.  I added an MFT snowflake, a beautiful I Am Roses paper flower, and some cork paper leaves on top of my ribbon and sentiment, and was finished.  I think the emboss resist technique will be used again this afternoon, for some gift tags.  Or maybe a couple of bookmarks.  Ooooh, yeah...that would work!

I've combined the following challenges in this card:

Cards Galore August Challenge - Bingo (embossing/masks, sprays/inks, ribbon)
Cardabilities #81 - Sketch
Jingle Belles - Tic Tac Toe (embossing heat or dry, ribbon, stamping)
Just Add Ink #178 - Just Add Snowflakes
Just Us Girls #202 - Monochromatic Blues

Now that my long post is done, I've got a question to ask you awesome crafty people!  I recently started thinking that I might want to try my hand at getting published.  I've added it to my bucket list, but am in no hurry.  What advice would you give someone who's never tried this?  Any tips or hints at anything to help me out would be greatly appreciated. 

I'm off to try to create something else to share later in the week.  I'll be back on Monday with my next House of Cards project.  Hopefully, you'll get the chance to stop by and check out what I've made for that.  I do hope the rest of your weekend is fantastic!

Stay crafty my friends!

Thanks!

Hi y'all!

Happy Friday to everyone!!  I'm so thankful that today starts my weekend of relaxation. *happy sigh*  My daughter is headed to Minnesota, for vacation with her best friend, and won't be back until next Sunday.  I have no doubt that she'll have a blast, but I'm going to miss her.  I can't wait to hear all about it when she gets back though.

Anyway, I've been playing with my new Lawn Fawn goodies again, and made this card.

So, I'm not the best with Copics, but I did try to add a bit of shading.  These fun hot air balloons went perfectly with this cloud paper I've had in my stash for ages.  I also used the chevron stamps to create the banners, for some added interest.  I have no doubt that these stamps will be used again.  I am hopeful that the Lawn Cuts Blue Skies dies will be back in stock soon.  I really want to use them with this set.  This card will go into the card box for future use.  I'm slowly building up my stash of cards again, thankfully.

I've combined the following challenges in my card today:

Cardabilities #77 - Sketch
DRS Designs #76 - The Letter B (I have banners and balloons)
Charisma Cardz #25 - 3, 2, 1 Challenge (I used 3 banners, 2 balloons and 1sentiment stamp, hope this qualifies)
MilkCoffee Challenge - Summer Fun (I attended many, many hot air balloon races and events during the summer, while living in Colorado, hope this is ok)

That's all for me today.  I'm off to work in a few, and am glad it's Friday.  I hope everyone has a great day!

Hugs!

Thanks A Bunch

Hiya peeps!

It's Thursday, which means only one more day until the weekend.  The weekend could not arrive soon enough for me this week. lol  I'm going crazy with everything.  Thank goodness we're taking a small road trip to get away this weekend.  My daughter has done nothing but talk to the two friends who are going with us to the College World Series about how much fun she thinks we're going to have.  They all play softball, so it should be quite an enjoyable evening for everyone. 

Here's the next card I'd like to share with you.

I was trying to add texture, and I think I achieved my goal.  I've had this burlap stuff for a while, but never really knew what to do with it.  I am also quite smitten with the stamped wood veneer hearts in the top corner.  I got the idea from my friend Rochelle, and am now hooked.  I am sure I will be using this idea quite a bit now.

I've combined the following challenges in my card today:

Cardabilities #76 - Sketch
In The Pink Challenge #21 - Anything Goes
Brown Sugar Challenge #45 - Fabric or Felt (I hope my burlap qualifies)
Dynamic Duos #56 -Blushing Bride & Soft Suede

That's all for me this week.  I am hoping to create more stuff soon, but not sure when that will actually happen. lol  I guess that's just how it goes sometimes, right? :o)

Hope y'all have a great weekend!
Hugs!